The Korean Joseon dynasty (1392–1897) sent numerous diplomatic missions to the Chinese Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1644–1912) dynasties.
Joseon diplomacy.
A series diplomatic ventures illustrate the persistence of Joseon's "sadae" (serving the great) diplomacy in dealings with China. The chronology of one side in a bilateral relationship stands on its own.
This long-term, strategic policy contrasts with the "gyorin" ("kyorin") (neighborly relations) diplomacy in dealings with Jurchen, Japan, Ryukyu Kingdom, Siam and Java. Gyorin was applied to a multi-national foreign policy. The unique nature of these bilateral diplomatic exchanges evolved from a conceptual framework developed by the Chinese. Gradually, the theoretical models would be modified, mirroring the evolution of a unique relationship.
Envoys to the Ming court.
Although the Joseon Dynasty considered 1392 as the foundation of the Joseon kingdom, Imperial China did not immediately acknowledge the new government on the Korean peninsula. In 1401, the Ming court recognized Joseon as a tributary state in its sino-centric schema of foreign relations. In 1403, the Yongle Emperor conveyed a patent and a gold seal to Taejong of Joseon, thus confirming his status and that of his dynasty.
Despite the label "tributary state", China did not interfere in Joseon domestic affairs and diplomacy. Between 1392 and 1450, the Joseon court sent 351 missions to China.
Envoys to the Qing court.
In this period, Joseon merchants of Gaeseong and Hanyang competed for profits; and they even accompanied the envoy missions to China in their search for new opportunities for financial gain.
Korean Empire.
In 1897, the Chinese and Korean Empire agreed that the latter would established a permanent embassy in Beijing. The Korean legation was short-lived and only existed from 1903 to 1905, when it was terminated by effect of the Japan–Korea Treaty of 1905.
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