The Background and Patterns in the Acceptance of Koguryo Mural Tombs in the 4th–5th Centuries

Koguryo mural tombs, unique to the 4th–5th centuries, emerged as a distinct funerary art form through a selective adoption and adaptation of foreign cultural elements. These tombs, originating from China’s Han Dynasty, were initially introduced via corridor-type stone chamber tombs in western North Korea and transitional forms in Gungnaeseong (present-day Ji’an). Tomb No. 3319 at Usanha exemplifies this evolution, blending external stone-mound features with internal brick chamber structures. The study reveals that the adoption of mural tombs was driven by Chinese immigrants seeking refuge in Koguryeo, yet their integration into local practices occurred through diverse attempts rather than a uniform process. This selective adaptation highlights the dynamic interplay between foreign influence and indigenous innovation, shaping Koguryo’s funerary art. Research leveraged inscriptions, tomb structures, and excavated artifacts to reconstruct historical contexts and cultural narratives.

Yang, S. (2025). The Background and Patterns in the Acceptance of Koguryo Mural Tombs in the 4th–5th Centuries. The Korean Archaeological Society, 137, 1001–1030. https://doi.org/10.47439/jkras.2025.4.1001