Sadae Policy – A Reflection of Joseon’s Understanding of Ming–Dai Viet Relation in the Early 15th Century

Abstract

In the early 15th century, the Ming Dynasty’s expansion to the South, especially with its invasion of Dai Viet, caused danger to other nations in East Asia. In this situation, Joseon used the knowledge of the Ming - Dai Viet relation to construct and implement the Sadae policy in their relation with China. Joseon’s efforts in maintaining the stable relationship with the Ming Dynasty by expressing both its submission and legitimacy, revealed Joseon’s reaction toward the changes in the Ming – Dai Viet relation. As Joseon’s strategies to maintain the independence, Sadae policy reflected the impacts of the Ming – Dai Viet relation in the East Asia history in the early 15th century.

Keywords: Sadae policy, Ming – Dai Viet relation, diplomatics, East Asia.