As a historian with a focus on East Asian studies, I find the question of who influenced Korea to be a rich and complex topic. Korea, situated between China and Japan, has been influenced by various cultures and nations throughout its history. It is important to note that the influence on Korea was not one-directional but rather a result of a complex web of cultural exchanges, political interactions, and military engagements.

China's Influence
China has been one of the most significant influences on Korea, particularly during the ancient period. The Goguryeo kingdom, one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea, was heavily influenced by China. This influence was evident in various aspects of Korean society, including political systems, cultural practices, and religious beliefs. The adoption of Buddhism and later Confucianism from China had a profound impact on Korean thought and society. Buddhism was introduced to Korea in the 4th century and became a dominant religion, shaping art, literature, and philosophy. Confucianism, introduced in the 5th century, influenced Korean social structure, education, and governance.

Japan's Influence
Japan also played a role in shaping Korean history, particularly through military conflicts and cultural exchanges. The Japanese invasions, known as the Mongol invasions of Japan, indirectly impacted Korea as it was often a battleground or a staging ground for these invasions. The cultural exchanges between Japan and Korea were also significant, with elements of Japanese art, architecture, and martial traditions influencing Korea.

Mongol Influence
The Mongol Empire had a brief but significant impact on Korea. The Mongols conquered the Korean Peninsula in the 13th century, leading to a period of Mongol rule. This period saw the introduction of Mongol administrative practices and military techniques, which influenced Korean governance and warfare.

Western Influence
In more recent history, Western powers have also influenced Korea, particularly during the period of Japanese colonization and the subsequent division of the peninsula. The introduction of Western ideas, technologies, and political systems has shaped modern Korea's development.

Internal Developments
It is also crucial to consider the internal developments within Korea that have shaped its history. The unification of the Three Kingdoms into a single kingdom, the rise and fall of dynasties, and the establishment of the Joseon Dynasty all played significant roles in shaping Korea's unique cultural identity and social structure.

Cultural Synthesis
Korean culture is a result of a rich synthesis of various influences. While external influences have been significant, it is the way in which Korea has absorbed, adapted, and integrated these influences that has created a unique cultural identity. The Korean language, for example, has borrowed elements from Chinese characters but has developed its own unique script, Hangul.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the influence on Korea is multifaceted, involving a complex interplay of cultural, political, and military factors. China, Japan, the Mongols, and Western powers have all left their mark on Korea, but it is the internal developments and the way Korea has synthesized these influences that have truly shaped its history and culture.

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One of Korea's original three kingdoms, the Goguryeo, was itself heavily influenced by China. And another, the Silla, openly allied with the Tang against its foes. Korea also adopted new philosophies via China: first, Buddhism and later, Confucianism.read more >>