Sinju Congress

The Sinju Congress, historically known as the Congress of Nations, was a formalized system of delineating rank, granting investiture, and which lasted from the late 13th century to the mid-19th (early 20th?) century. The Sinju Congress provided a major source of legitimacy and prestige to the nations which participated in it. It was an attempt by states to recreate the system of international relations in Sinju which existed prior to the collapse of Cheonje.

Origins
For several hundred years, international relations in Sinju was defined by the predominance of Cheonje and centered around its tributary system.

Rank delineation
One of the primary purposes of the Sinju Congress was rank delineation based upon power and the degree of one's adoption of Sinju culture and institutions. At each congress, significant time would be dedicated towards debate as to whether a nation and its ruler were worthy of possessing a certain rank. There were several ranks within the tributary system. Chief among them was the rank of emperor. Throughout the system's existence there were X nations with an emperor.
 * Cengue (X - end)
 * Fusen (X - X)
 * Jeongmi (start - end)
 * Meisaan (start? - end)
 * Nukigurun (1634 - end)

Congressess
A Congress was held regularly, usually at an interval of every ten years. However, conflicts and emergencies often meant that congresses were either called early or not held at all. Host countries would be chosen at the previous congress and could only be hosted by emperors. If a country was incapable of holding a congress, it would be hosted by the previous host.



Tribute would be presented to the host emperor by all states whose rulers had a rank below that of emperor. The host emperor would then lavish gifts upon their delegations worth several times the gifts received.

Participation
Invitation was required for participation in the congress. For a significant period, this meant an invitation from at least two emperors or an emperor and five kings before attendance. However, there were times when the numbers were different. Several nations tried to participate but were rejected by the system.