Korea

===Out of all the regions that were influenced by China, Korea was the most heavily influenced. In 109 B.C.E was when it really started. At that time, the earliest known Korean kingdom called “Choson was conquered by the Han emperor Wudi. Then in that region, many many Chinese people settled and remained there for nearly 4 centuries. This place became a channel for Chinese influence!===

===Soon however, Chinese power weakened through the resistance of the Korean kingdom of Koguryo. Although they tried to reestablish the examination system, the plan failed. But once again, the Tang emperors conquered Korea. Eventually however, the Chinese in 668 made a compromise with the Kingdom of Silla, making Silla the monarch of the country in return for tribute. (Part of China’s tributary system.)===

===During the rule of the Silla kingdom and even the succeeding Koryo dynasty, signification was completely thorough. Korea purposely modeled their government and life after the Tang Dynasty. Even the tribute system was very significant in the cultural exchange. These exchanges gave access to Chinese learning, art, and even manufactured goods.( Even Buddhism helped to spread the Chinese culture throughout Culture during this time period.) – How?===

===Although there was a lot of cultural exchange, this exchange was mainly in the Korean elite. However, even in the Korean elite, there was retention of the Korean culture. Some examples are that the Korean elite preferred Buddhism to Confucianism and Korean artisans preferred and produced works of art and pottery that contrasted to their Chinese-influenced teachers. (in what way?)===

===Over in social ranks, artisans remained in the lower class in Korea, and Korea also failed to have a Merchant class just like the Chinese. Basically, the lower class in Korea “existed” to serve the elite Koreans.===

===Towards the end of this exchange-of-culture time period, the Silla and Koryo dynasties began to lose power due to rebellions and social unrest. Ultimately, they completely lost political power when the Mongols invaded Korea in 1231. The Koryo dynasty was replaced by the Yi dynasty, which lasted until about the 1900’s.===