Korea

The Koreans like to say that they are descended from a single race, and, indeed, they are primarily Mongolian, slightly more stocky than the N. Chinese, but taller than the Japanese. Around the time of Christ, there were three kingdoms in ancient Korea, Koguryo to the north, Paekche and Silla in the south. These kingdoms were culturally advanced and boasted royal courts, nobility, class systems, and centralized governments. It was around this time also that Buddhism was introduced to the area, becoming the preserve of royalty, while Confucianism flourished among the minor aristocracy. With the aid of the Chinese, Silla conquered the other two kingdoms and established a unified country with elaborate palaces and imposing monuments.