A Study of Tonggu Tomb No. 12 of Koguryo

A comparative analysis of tomb murals from the mid-5th century Koguryo dynasty reveals divergent interpretations of Buddhist afterlife beliefs. While the Jangcheon Tomb No. 1 depicts a refined vision of reincarnation through lotus blossoms, symbolizing a Pure Land paradise, Tonggu Tomb No. 12's murals reflect a more traditional view of the afterlife, emphasizing everyday life rather than Buddhist concepts. This suggests that while Buddhism was widely accepted in Guknaeseong, its deeper theological understandings varied among individuals or social groups. The study examines these differences through detailed analysis of mural motifs and their symbolic meanings, highlighting the complexity of religious assimilation during this period.

Jeon, H.-T. (2021). A Study of Tonggu Tomb No. 12 of Koguryo. The Journal of Korean History, 195, 49–78. https://doi.org/10.31791/jkh.2021.12.195.49