Discovery Learning 1
Evidence of Dokdo’s sovereignty dates to the sixth century. Ulleungdo and Dokdo were in Usan prior to the Three Kingdoms period.
Usan was a mountainous region with very little flat land, and the majority of its citizens were farmers or fishermen. Although the level of culture among Usan people was low compared to that of people residing on the mainland, they frequently exchanged culture with Silla people. After conquering Usan, General Isabu of Silla annexed the area in 512.
Ulleungdo and Dokdo as recorded in History of the Three Kingdoms
Usan, also known as Ulleungdo, was an island country in the East Sea and extended 50 kilometers in each direction from its center. In 512, the people of Usan relied on the island’s harsh environment for defense and refused to submit to Silla. General Isabu stated upon becoming the monarch of Hassla, “The people of Usan are foolish and stubborn, and they will not willfully surrender. Therefore, a scheme must be devised to force their submission.” Thus, General Isabu ordered the construction of wooden lions to carry aboard his ships and entered the waters of Usan. He proclaimed, “If you do not surrender, I will release these wild beasts upon your land for you to be trampled to your deaths.” Usan surrendered immediately.
Ulleungdo and Dokdo as recorded in History of Goryeo
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- Material 1
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The northeastern Jurchens (from a northeastern area downstream of the Duman River, now known as Primorsky Krai and Jiandao) invaded and plundered Usan in 1018. This devastated Usan’s agriculture. The government supported Usan with food, farm equipment, and seeds during this period.
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- Figure 2
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In 1157, King Uijong learned of an island called Ureungdo in the East Sea that was known to have much fertile land for habitation. He dispatched Kim Yurip to verify the claim.
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- Discovery Learning 1
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1. See Material 1 and state the reason for the government sending food and farming equipment to the State of Usan.
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2. See Figure 2 and state why the Goryeo government dispatched an official to Ulleungdo.