SOAS has a series of East Asian Art and Archaeology Research Seminars. The next one is of relevance to Koreanists, and will be held in the Brunei Gallery, room B111 on Friday, 4 March, at 3 pm. All are welcome.
Koryo and Liao Relations in the 10th-11th century – Impact on Buddhist Culture –
Youngsook PakThe geographical divisions between Xixia, Liao, Jin, Song, Japan and Koryŏ in East Asia from the 10th to the 12th century created a dilemma for the Koryŏ kingdom (918-1392), which had to negotiate with her powerful northern neighbours, especially with Liao (907-1125). Through diplomacy, trade and cultural exchanges Koryŏ and Liao each gained substantially. The most significant cultural exchanges were through Buddhism, which was promoted by the rulers of both Koryŏ and Liao. The lecture will investigate Koryŏ and Liao relationships through Buddhism and cultural goods.
Youngsook Pak established and taught Korean art history at SOAS. After her retirement, she was invited to Yale University as Korea Foundation Distinguished Visiting Professor, and taught there for three semesters in 2007 and 2008. She is working on various research projects including Esoteric Buddhism and Buddhist Art in East Asia (Yale conference volume), on Koryŏ Paintings, the Silk Road and ancient Korea.