Overview
Goryeo (918-1392) was a Korean dynasty founded by Wang Geon in 918, succeeding the Silla Kingdom. It lasted approximately 474 years and constitutes an important period in Korean history. The English name "Korea" is derived from Goryeo.
Foundation and Unification
Establishment
In 918, Wang Geon overthrew Gung Ye and established Goryeo, making Gaegyeong (present-day Kaesong) the capital.
Unification of Later Three Kingdoms
In 935, the last Silla king, Gyeongsun, surrendered, and in 936, Goryeo conquered Later Baekje, unifying the Later Three Kingdoms.
Major Historical Events
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 918 | Wang Geon founds Goryeo |
| 936 | Unification of Later Three Kingdoms |
| 958 | Civil service examination system introduced |
| 993-1019 | Wars with Khitan |
| 1231-1270 | Mongol invasions and resistance |
| 1392 | Fall of Goryeo, founding of Joseon |
Political System
- Central Government - Three Departments and Six Ministries system
- Civil Examination - Introduced in 958 under King Gwangjong for official recruitment
- Local Administration - Five Provinces and Two Border Regions system
Culture and Achievements
Buddhist Culture
Goryeo adopted Buddhism as the state religion, fostering a brilliant Buddhist culture.
- Tripitaka Koreana - Buddhist scriptures carved to repel Mongol invasion through Buddhist power, UNESCO Memory of the World
- Buddhist Paintings - Goryeo Buddhist art is internationally recognized
Goryeo Celadon
Goryeo celadon holds a unique position in world ceramic history. Especially famous are the jade-green celadon and inlaid celadon (sanggam).
Metal Movable Type
Around 1234, Goryeo invented the worlds first metal movable type. The Jikji is the oldest extant book printed with metal movable type.
Foreign Invasions
Khitan Invasions
The Khitan (Liao Dynasty) invaded three times in 993, 1010, and 1018. General Gang Gam-chan achieved a decisive victory at the Battle of Gwiju in 1019, ending the conflict.
Mongol Invasions
From 1231, Goryeo resisted Mongol invasions for about 40 years. The court moved to Ganghwa Island for resistance, and the Sambyeolcho forces fought to the end.
Fall
In the late 14th century, Goryeo weakened due to internal conflicts and external pressures. In 1392, Yi Seong-gye seized power after the Wihwado Retreat and founded Joseon, ending Goryeo.