The Joseon court split into rival eastern and western factions whose competition shaped what King Seonjo chose to believe. Envoys returned from Japan with conflicting assessments, and the court accepted the reassuring report while military spending had already been reduced for years. Border fighting in the north absorbed much of the remaining army, naval forces lacked investment despite persistent piracy, and Japanese demands for passage to invade Ming China amounted to a warning of war. The result was a state with brave personnel but weak preparation, coordination, and resourcing.
Chapter · 19:32-30:09
Factional politics left Joseon unready for invasion
Court factionalism, ignored warnings, and long-term cuts to forts, armies, and fleets explain why Joseon reacted so poorly to an invasion that had been clearly signaled.