Diplomacy with Tang and the Establishmentof a Confucian Political Order during the Reignof King Seongdeok of Silla

This paper explores the reign of King Seongdeok of Silla, focusing on his diplomatic efforts with Tang and the establishment of a Confucian political order. Amid internal unrest and unresolved tensions with Tang following the Silla-Tang War, Seongdeok sought to restore legitimacy and stabilize the state. By reestablishing diplomatic ties with Tang and promoting confucian governance, he laid the groundwork for institutional reform and political control. As new challenges emerged, including succession issues and the rise of Balhae, Seongdeok further deepened ties with Tang to maintain order and elevate Silla’s status. His reign marked a transition in Silla-Tang relations－from hierarchical subordination to mutual political engagement under confucian ideals. Although these reforms temporarily strengthened royal authority, their effects were short-lived.