Southeast Asia and the Korean peninsula contained powerful kingdoms in the early centuries AD. Southeast Asia lies between the Indian and Pacific oceans and includes mainland and island countries. India influenced the culture of Southeast Asia through Hindu and Buddhist missionaries beginning around 100 CE. Powerful kingdoms arose, including the Khmer Empire in Cambodia and the Srivijaya trading empire based in Sumatra. Vietnam was influenced by China but maintained independence. Korea's early history included Chinese domination and the development of its own writing system and three rival kingdoms, which were united by the Silla kingdom in the 600s CE. The Koryu Dynasty ruled Korea from 935-1392 CE and established a central government and civil service while also

1. By A.E.,I. G., and A.L.