Which Korean dynasty lasted from 1392 to 1910 and was established by the Yi clan?

• A. Koryo Dynasty
• B. Joseon Dynasty
• C. Silla Dynasty
• D. Balhae Dynasty

Answer: (B)

This question is testing your recall of a Korean dynasty founded by the Yi clan that lasted for several centuries. The dynasty that fits is Joseon. It began in 1392 when Yi Seong-gye, a prominent military leader from the Yi clan, overthrew the previous Goryeo dynasty and established Joseon, with Taejo as its founder. Joseon ruled Korea all the way until 1910, when Korea was annexed by Japan, marking the end of that dynasty. This period is known for a strong centralized bureaucracy, the promotion of Confucian state ideology, and cultural developments like Hangul’s creation under King Sejong. It’s distinct from other Korean states in terms of its founding by the Yi clan and its long span from the late 14th century to the early 20th century. The other dynasties listed before Joseon—like Koryo (Goryeo), Silla, and Balhae—existed earlier and did not span the 1392–1910 timeframe or were not established by the Yi clan.