I'm an expert in historical studies with a focus on East Asian history. In the context of your question, it is important to note that the invasion of Korea around 1592 was a significant event in the region's history. This invasion is commonly referred to as the Imjin War, also known as the Seven-Year War. It was a conflict that involved multiple parties, but the primary aggressor was Japan under the leadership of Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

The invasion was part of Hideyoshi's ambitious plan to conquer not just Korea, but also China and other parts of Asia. He sought to establish a unified Asian empire under Japanese rule. The first phase of the invasion, which you've correctly identified as starting in 1592, was characterized by rapid Japanese advances into Korean territory. The Korean kingdom, known as the Joseon Dynasty, was ill-prepared for the invasion and quickly found itself overwhelmed.

The Ming Dynasty of China, recognizing the threat that the Japanese invasion posed to its own interests and regional stability, decided to intervene. The Ming forces entered the conflict to support their Korean allies, marking a significant escalation in the war. The first phase of the invasion lasted from 1592 until 1596, and during this time, there were several battles and skirmishes, with varying degrees of success for both sides.

The period between 1596 and 1597 was marked by unsuccessful peace negotiations between Japan and the Ming Dynasty. These negotiations were an attempt to bring an end to the conflict, but they ultimately failed to produce a lasting peace. The failure of these negotiations led to a resumption of hostilities.

In 1597, Japan launched a second invasion of Korea. This second phase of the war was also marked by significant battles and further attempts at negotiations. However, just as with the first phase, the second invasion did not result in a clear victory for Japan. The war continued to be a drain on resources for all parties involved, and it became increasingly clear that a prolonged conflict was not sustainable.

The Imjin War had profound effects on the region. It led to significant loss of life and destruction, and it also had long-term political and cultural impacts. The war highlighted the military capabilities of the parties involved and the strategic importance of the Korean Peninsula as a gateway to mainland Asia.

In conclusion, the country that invaded Korea around 1592 was Japan. This invasion, led by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, was part of a larger plan to establish a Japanese-dominated empire in Asia. The conflict involved multiple phases and was characterized by a complex interplay of military, political, and diplomatic efforts. The war had lasting consequences for the region and remains a significant event in East Asian history.

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The first phase of the invasion lasted from 1592 until 1596, and was followed by ultimately unsuccessful peace negotiations between Japan and the Ming between 1596 and 1597. In 1597, Japan renewed its offensive by invading Korea a second time.read more >>