Power of Goguryeo

Goguryeo, Kingdom of Wars

The Goguryeo Kingdom (B.C. 37 to 668) was a chaotic time.
Surrounded by fearsome tribes, the the Goguryeo people battled marauding Chinese dynasties but lasted 700 years, earning the enduring respect of modern-day Koreans.
In “Goguryeo, Kingdom of Wars” (Geulhangari), Seo Yeong-gyo argues that the Goguryeo’s power stemmed from its tribal heritage.
To survive, Goguryeo people had to plunder from foreign tribes, always pushing their borders into enemy territory.
An expert in war, the author discusses the special features of weapons and different types of soldiers and offers a pictorial narration of the ensuing wars.
Although many books about Goguryeo have been published, Seo Yeong-gyo’s book stands out because it is so well referenced.
As a specialist in ancient history and wars, the author researched ancient world literature, including Chinese, Japanese and even Byzantine to pack the book with historical credibility.
Written in Korean, the chapters are organized in a timely order and outline the rise and fall of the Goguryeo Kingdom. With specific description of historical events, readers will learn about the Gogurye’s wisdom and strength.
By Lee Man-hoon