Goguryeo, ‘The Nation of the Continent’

This room exhibits relics from Goguryeo, an ancient kingdom that was located in the north of the Korean peninsula. About 1,300 years ago, there were three kingdoms in ancient Korea. Goguryeo occupied northern Korea and north-eastern China and Baekje occupied the south-western part of the peninsula. Silla occupied the south-east. The 700-year history of conflicts and alliances between these countries is known as the Three Kingdom Period.

Goguryeo was founded in 37 B.C. and fell in 668 A.D. During the golden age of Goguryeo in the fifth century, it extended its territory over the northern part of the peninsula and even into Manchuria. Thus, Goguryeo is also known as the ‘continental nation’.

Goguryeo was able to expand its territory thanks to its well equipped and highly skilled cavalry. Equestrian relics and the murals found on the walls of ancient tombs demonstrate the courage of the Goguryeo people. Even today, Goguryeo is remembered by Koreans as a courageous and adventurous kingdom.

Goguryeo also protected the Korean peninsula from invasion by neighboring tribes. Whilst the Baekje and Silla kingdoms in the south strengthened and developed themselves, Goguryeo defended the peninsula from marauding neighbors. Additionally, Goguryeo became a powerful trade intermediary in northeast Asia and exercised a degree of international influence.

Now let’s move on to learn some more about Goguryeo.