Locations and Occupants of Royal Tombs of Goguryeo in the Pyeongyang Area

Archaeological research identifies eight royal tombs of the Goguryeo kingdom (37 BC–668 AD) in the Pyeongyang area, with seven attributed to kings from the 20th to 28th dynasties. The study highlights Gyeongsinnuli No. 1 Tomb as the earliest, dating back to King Jangsu's reign (r. 37 BC–4 AD), based on its scale, stone foundation, and unique tile decorations resembling those found in domestic tombs like Taewangneung. These features suggest a transitional phase blending Goguryeo’s traditional stepped stone chamber tombs with regional burial practices. Other notable tombs include Jeon Dongmyeongneung (associated with King Munjamyeong) and Tonpori Daechong, the latter possibly belonging to King Anjang, whose death was linked to political turmoil. The research uses architectural analysis, artifact dating, and comparative studies to attribute occupants, offering insights into Goguryeo’s burial traditions and political history.

Ki, K.-R. (2017). Locations and Occupants of Royal Tombs of Goguryeo in the Pyeongyang Area. The Journal of Korean Ancient History, 88, 5–45. https://doi.org/10.37331/jkah.2017.12.88.5