Gojoseon, the first Korean kingdom, was founded by the legendary king Dangun. It marked an advanced culture on the Korean Peninsula, paving the way for later centralized states. The 'Go' (ancient) prefix distinguishes it from the Joseon dynasty established in 1392 CE. According to legend, Dangun, born from Hwanung and Ungnyeo, established Gojoseon in 2333 BCE. Though Dangun's existence lacks concrete evidence, his legend influences Korean identity. Gojoseon's founding date is celebrated as National Foundation Day in North and South Korea. In the 12th century BCE, Jizi or Gija, a Shang dynasty sage, is believed to have founded Gija Joseon, sparking debates about its existence. Gojoseon's ruling dynasty fell in 194 BCE to Wi Man, leading to Wiman Joseon. In 108 BCE, Han dynasty's Emperor Wu conquered Wiman Joseon, administering the territory through four commanderies. After Goguryeo's conquest in 313 CE, Gojoseon's capital moved to Wanggeom (modern Pyongyang), while the Jin state emerged in the southern Korean Peninsula by the 3rd century BCE.

Gojoseon - Wikipedia