What is China Targeting by Focusing on Engineering?

 

Korea's Medical School Frenzy vs. China's Engineering Craze

Doctors, who save lives, undergo long and rigorous training. Since mistakes can cost lives, the barriers to becoming a doctor are high, and the profession's prestige continues to rise. Doctors are well-respected in developed countries, and in Korea, they are often at the political center. As the government attempts to increase the number of doctors in response to future shortages, there has been ongoing conflict with the Korean Medical Association (KMA), leading to situations where people in emergencies die due to a lack of surgeries. As the public becomes more aware of doctors' significantly higher incomes compared to other professions, a frenzy for medical schools has swept through Korea's education system.
In contrast, China is experiencing a craze not for medical schools, but for engineering. As China aggressively invests in the technologies that will shape the future, it seems to believe that its future lies in innovation and technology. Let's take a look at how China's deep commitment to technology might shape its future through a glance at history.

In China, many parents are rushing to enroll their children in engineering schools (left) while in Korea, parents are crowding into medical school admissions (right).

The Lead-Silver Separation Method Created by Joseon, Later Used by Japan

An excerpt from the Annals of the Joseon Dynasty describes the lead-silver separation process: "Kim Gambul and the slave Kim Geomdong reported that one pound of lead could produce two coins' worth of silver. They explained how, using an iron furnace, they would encase the lead in hot ash, place it into the furnace, and then cover it with broken clay while burning charcoal from above and below to melt the lead." The king then ordered a trial of the method.
This method marked a technological breakthrough in silver production. Before its invention, ancient techniques required significant labor, time, and firewood, leading to low silver output. After the development of this lead-silver separation method, Joseon’s silver production increased dramatically. However, King Yeonsangun, instead of utilizing this newfound silver wealth for the country's benefit, indulged in luxury and debauchery, eventually losing his throne. His successor, King Injo, neglected the technology, deeming it a symbol of excess.

 

Ultimately, the lead-silver separation method was leaked to Japan by an official, Yu Seo-jong, who collaborated with Japanese individuals. Japan mastered the technique and used it at the Iwami Silver Mine in Shimane Prefecture, producing large amounts of silver. In the 16th century, silver became a currency substitute across East Asia, centered around Ming China. With its vast silver reserves, Japan acquired considerable wealth and, under Toyotomi Hideyoshi, used this wealth to purchase firearms and other weaponry from Portuguese traders. With control of the Iwami Silver Mine, Hideyoshi amassed enough resources to unify Japan and eventually launch an invasion of Joseon and even contemplate expanding into China with an army of 300,000 troops. The lead-silver separation method, initially developed in Joseon, ended up contributing to Japan’s rise as a military power.

Mongols: Conquering through Technology Learned from Invasions

Genghis Khan unified the divided Mongol tribes and went on to conquer the Jin Dynasty, Western Xia, Khwarezm, and more. His grandson, Kublai Khan, eventually defeated the Song Dynasty, completing the Mongol Empire. However, even the formidable Mongol army struggled to conquer the Song. Despite being considered the weakest of the Chinese dynasties, the Song developed remarkable technologies, including the invention of gunpowder, which posed a significant threat to the Mongol forces.

The Mongols found it difficult to breach the well-fortified Song cities, where gunpowder was used in defense. However, when internal conflicts weakened the Song, the Mongols took over and adopted gunpowder for use in warfare. Although known for their brutal tactics, the Mongols treated skilled craftsmen with care. They valued their knowledge and applied their techniques in warfare. For instance, during their conquests in Central Asia, they utilized trebuchets built by captured engineers to break through fortified cities. The Mongol army, known for its mobility and efficiency, quickly adapted new technologies, turning them into the most advanced military force of their time.

The Mongols' ability to integrate cutting-edge technologies into their campaigns was a key factor in their unprecedented conquests. Their willingness to apply new innovations in warfare allowed them to be regarded as the most technologically advanced military force of their era.

 

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