This book investigates the cultural, social, and political landscape of Korea during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as observed by a Western traveler. Arnold Henry Savage Landor, an explorer and artist, presents his firsthand accounts and observations of a nation on the cusp of significant change, offering insights into its traditions, people, and the geopolitical forces impacting it.

The book is likely regarded as a historical travelogue, offering a valuable, albeit potentially biased, perspective from a foreign observer during a pivotal period in Korean history. Its value lies in its detailed descriptions and the author's unique viewpoint as an artist and explorer. The reception would likely focus on its ethnographic and historical insights, providing a snapshot of Korea before its annexation by Japan.