In Korea, the Bronze Age began about the 15th century B.C. In this period, mumun pottery, ground stone tools and wooden tools were used in everyday life, while bronze tools were owned only by a few as they were either a symbol of authority or ritual instruments. As

agriculture such as rice farming developed, large villages that are similar to today’s rural villages were formed and social class was established in the group. The first Korean nation, Gojoseon appeared against the backdrop of the Bronze Age culture. Gojoseon continued

on to the Iron Age culture and flourished mainly in the northwest area of the Korean peninsula and rivaled Yan, Qin, and Han Dynasty of China. In particular, Gojoseon was the powerful country to win a victory in the first war with Han Dynasty and withstood it for a year.

Nevertheless, it collapsed in 108 BC due to internal conflicts triggered by the prolonged war. Around the time when Gojoseon fell, other countries such as Buyeo, Goguryeo, Okjeo, Dongye, Samhan had been gaining ground in different regions.