This is the first book to explore the trade relations between the Chinese Empire and its vassal state, Korea. Korea provided a bridge for Sino-Japanese mercantile routes and represented a major hub for East Asian trade. North Korean tribute missions facilitated trade throughout the Sino-Korean border (rather than only offering tribute at court), especially private smuggling that went unreported. Thus formed the predecessors to border trade towns. An examination of goods on both sides indicates the disparity in economic development between the two nations, and Koreans’ dependence on exporting ginseng. This is a book that guides readers to understand traditional Chinese economic and trade circles.