Ureuk's Music Passed down to Silla and Became Tradition

Gayageum is the most representative musical instrument of Dae Gaya. Ureuk and the king of Dae Gaya attempted to unify the Gaya confederacy through music. But the political situation was exacerbated due to attacks by neighboring kingdoms, and the political factions were split. After the king died, Ureuk decided that there was no hope in Dae Gaya and so he exiled himself to the neighboring Silla kingdom.

The king of Silla acknowledged Ureuk’s value and suggested that he move to Silla.

Later, the king of Silla assigned Ureuk as a "Daeak," which means "the representative musician of the kingdom." Ureuk taught gayageum, singing, and dancing to Silla’s musicians, making ensembles and performances possible.

Ureuk’s gayageum was later spread to China, and greatly influenced the traditional instrument and music of Japan. Unfortunately, the actual gayageum from Silla was lost. But there are three still remaining in the royal storage of Japan.