The Second Manchu invasion of Korea in 1636 marked a critical juncture in East Asian history, as the Qing dynasty sought to supplant the Ming dynasty's influence in the region, resulting in a direct confrontation with the Ming-aligned Joseon Korea. The invasion was precipitated by a complex interplay of escalating tensions and misunderstandings. Key events included the fierce battles and sieges, particularly the significant siege of Namhan Mountain Fortress, which culminated in the humiliating surrender of King Injo and the imposition of stringent demands on Joseon, such as the taking of royal hostages.

The invasion's aftermath had profound implications for Joseon, affecting its domestic and foreign policies. There was an overt establishment of a tributary relationship with the Qing, coupled with a covert sense of resentment and a determination to maintain the cultural legacy of the Ming dynasty. This complex sentiment led to a dual policy of official submission and private defiance. The trauma of the invasion significantly influenced Joseon's subsequent military and diplomatic efforts, including King Hyojong's ambitious but unexecuted plan to launch a northern expedition against the Qing, reflecting a lingering desire for sovereignty and autonomy.

The ramifications of the Qing conquest extended far beyond Korea's borders. The Qing's success against Joseon symbolized the dynasty's ascendancy to become the dominant power in East Asia, conclusively diminishing the Ming dynasty's hold on the region. This shift had enduring consequences, reshaping the political landscape of East Asia and setting the stage for the region's power dynamics that would persist for centuries, significantly impacting the course of Korean history and its strategic posture in the region.