A Study on the Cultural Exchange between Koguryo and Murong Xianbei through Tombs and Artifacts

Research reveals that while the Koguryo and Murong Xianbei (Three Xianbei) engaged in sustained cultural exchange during the 4th–5th centuries, their material cultures remained distinct. Analysis of tomb artifacts—including mural paintings, horse fittings (magu), boyo decorations, gold crowns (daegeumgu), and pottery—showed that Koguryo selectively absorbed foreign elements via Xianbei intermediation, particularly from Central Plain traditions, rather than direct influence. Though some motifs (e.g., boyo) were absent in Koguryo, others like horse fittings demonstrated clear relationships. The study used comparative archaeology to trace these exchanges, confirming that Koguryo adapted and refined external influences through a process of 'Koguryo-ization.' Historical records corroborated demographic shifts (e.g., post-342 CE captives, 436 CE northern Xianbei migrations) as key drivers. Findings underscore the resilience of Koguryo’s cultural identity amid cross-border interactions.

Yang, S.-E. (2022). A Study on the Cultural Exchange between Koguryo and Murong Xianbei through Tombs and Artifacts. The Jungbu Archaeological Society, 21(2), 111–142. https://doi.org/10.46760/jbgogo.2022.21.2.111