On the Diplomacy and Alliance among three States in the 4th and 6th Centuries surrounding the Han River Basin

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the diplomacy and alliance among three states in the 4th and 6th centuries, surrounding the Han River basin. Its gist is as follows.<BR> Three states border to the Han River basin toward the end of 4th Century, not in 475. Around the 5th century, Gwanggaeto the Great of Goguryeo aggressively attacked Baekje and advanced into the Han Rive basin. Three states sought an alliance through diplomatic negotiations in the late fourth century. It was Silla that Goguryeo and Baekje made a target of alliance.<BR> Silla also tried to ally with one of the two states. As a result, Silla allied with Goguryeo, because Goguryo was a powerhouse on the international relations of East Asia. As Goguryo saved Silla that had been in a crisis by the invasion of Japan, Silla"s judgment was accurate. Even though Baekje had signed an alliance with Gaya and Wa, they were defeated by Goguryo.<BR> But Goguryeo were threatening Baekje interfering in internal affairs of Silla.<BR> Baekje approached Silla and sought to overcome the crisis. Silla accepted the offer of Baekje for breakthrough of the crisis in 433. Eventually three countries in the Han peninsula were allies, Wa was left out becauce of hostile relations with Silla. Namely this was the offensive and defensive alliance against Goguryeo. They fought mainly surrounding the Han River.<BR> Goguryo was in the face of crisis by the threat of the northern nomadic country as well as infighting in 540"s. So three states battled in earnest around the Han River. King Seong of Baekje was united with Silla. They attacked Goguryeo and had to share the Han River. Finally Silla were occupying the Han River basin.<BR> In the past, when Baekje introduced Silla as their tributaries to Ryang in south China, but the lies were laid bare. King Seong"s deception policy encountered disbelief, and even Wa"s diplomacy failed. Baekje was forced to give up the Han River. On the other hand, Silla was against the deception of Baekje and became the owner of the end of the Han River.