Baekje as a Bridge of East Asia’s Exchange Network

A life-sized envoy ship of Baekje has been replicated and is on display at the end of the Exhibition Hall 2. Baekje’s envoys enjoyed travelling by this ship. Baekje played a pivotal role in connecting the exchange networks of China, the Korean Peninsula, and Japan.

Let’s take a look at the process by which Baekje expanded its network with China through the West Sea of Korea. Baekje competed with Goguryeo to obtain Nakrang and Daebanggun in the territory of old Gojoseon. After their victory in the Battle of Pyeongyang in 371, they seized control over this region. Subsequently, Baekje emerged as the central hub of trade in East Asia. It carried out trade by using Hangang River as the focal point, connecting routes from Hwanghae-do to Yeongjong-do and Deokjeok-do.

On the other hand, Baekje expanded its influence in Jeolla-do region and engaged in trades with the neighboring Gaya confederacy to obtain the route to the South Sea, enabling them to reach Japan.

By mid-4th century, Baekje had established marine footholds in various parts of China, the Korean Peninsula, and Japan. Developing with this infrastructure, it became a powerful maritime nation that led East Asia’s maritime trade.

Many artifacts showing Baekje’s exchange network were excavated from Pungnaptoseong Fortress and Mongchontoseong Fortress, including Chinese ceramics and Japanese earthenware.