Chinese Coins, Wu-shu

[Narration]
The artifacts exhibited here are "Wu-shu" coins from the Liang Dynasty of China. A bag of coins was found on top of the stone tomb steles which stood in front of King Muryeong’s coffin. The money was a payment made to the god of the earth for the use of the site of the tomb.

[Tourist]
Are you saying that there was a monetary transaction made with a god?

[Narration]
Yes. The King was the ruler of the land above. When he died, he paid the god of the earth in order to use the plot for his tomb. It was a symbolic ritual to show respect to the underworld.

The "Wu-shu" coins were used to buy land from the god of the earth, but also more importantly, they indicate the relations that existed between Baekje and the Liang Dynasty.

The "Wu-shu" coins were sent to Baekje, a neighboring kingdom, from the Chinese imperial family.

[Tourist]
So, Baekje and China enjoyed a close relationship?

[Narration]
Yes. They had an especially close relationship with the Liang Dynasty and there was frequent cultural exchange between the two countries. Pottery or bronze crafts made in the Liang Dynasty were imported directly into Baekje. The lamp that was found in the wall of the Royal Tomb of King Muryeong was also from the Liang Dynasty. Baekje was an international country that actively exchanged and traded with its neighbors.