Korean Enlightment

Synopsis

Ancient Korean education changed in different periods.  In prehistoric times people were educated on fishing, hunting, fighting, and crafting tools.  Prehistoric education helped create the religion in Korea.

In the Gojoseon period, the Samgungnyusa was written. Samgungnyusa is a book about farming, morality, medicine, and other subjects.  A phrase Koreans came up with during this period was life and work for the benefit of all humanity.

In the Goguryeo Kingdom had its own form of writing.  2 colleges were created in this kingdom. Confucianism, Buddhism, humanities, and martial arts.

The Baekje Kingdom had several colleges.  This kingdom had a lot of interaction with Japan. Koreans from this kingdom gave the Japanese Confucian books.  

The Silla Kingdom had a college called Hwarang.  Buddhism, archery, and martial arts were taught there.  5 principles were taught at this college.  They are as followed: Show allegiance to your sovereign.  Treat your parents with respect and devotion.  Show trust and sincerity to friends.  Never retreat in battle.  Exercise discretion when taking life.  After Silla conquered the other kingdoms a student exchange program with China was created.

During Goryeo dynasty (935-1392), the examination system was improved because of Confucianism. Buddhism became the state religion.   Rural people were educated during this time.  In 1127 CE a public school was created. Confucian ideas were taught in the public schools.  Governmental schools and public libraries created during the Goryeo dynasty.  A university was created in Seoul.  It was called Sungkyunkwan.  Confucian ideas were taught there.                    

During Joseon dynasty (1392-1910),  Confucianism became the state religion.  Education became more private and less public.  Scholars got more education than commoners during this dynasty. This dynasty educational policy was opposite Goryeo dynasty.  Humanities were valued more vocational education.

References
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_education_in_Korea
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hwarang
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sungkyunkwan
Korean History