The Earliest Capitals of Korea

Before the unification of Korea in 936 AD, the land now known as the Republic of Korea was made up of multiple kingdoms, each with its own capital. During the Later Three Kingdoms period (57 AD - 668 AD), each kingdom had its own capital: the Silla Kingdom, with its capital in Seorabeol (now Gyeongju); the Baekje Kingdom, with its capital in Wansanju (now Jeonju); and Goguryeo, which had its first capital at Songak (now Kaesong), and later shifted its capital to Cheorwon.

The Goryeo Dynasty and Gaegyeong

The Goryeo Empire, which ruled from 918 to 1392, established its capital at Gaegyeong, which is now more commonly known as Kaesong. This city is located in what is now North Korea. Prior to Goryeo, the unified Silla Kingdom also had its capital at Gaegyeong before the Silla Kingdom itself was divided into various principalities and followed by the Unified Silla and Balhae periods.

The Joseon Dynasty and Hanyang

The Joseon Dynasty, which ruled from 1392 to 1897, shifted its capital to Hanyang, which is now called Seoul. Taejo of Joseon, the founder and first ruler of the Joseon Dynasty, made Hanyang the capital in 1394. Hanyang remained the capital throughout the Joseon Dynasty and the Korean Empire (1897-1910).

The Japanese Occupation and Annexation

During the Japanese occupation of Korea (1910-1945), Hanyang continued to be the capital. However, the 1905 Treaty of Portsmouth between Japan and Russia, followed by the 1910 Japan-Korea Annexation Treaty, led to a period of Japanese colonial rule. Despite the occupation, Hanyang maintained its status as the capital of Korea.

Post-War and the Division of Korea

After World War II (1945), both the North and South Korean forces laid claim to Seoul, the capital. In 1948, the forces in Southern Korea established the Republic of Korea, and Seoul became the capital of the Republic of Korea, renaming itself from Hanyang. In 1972, North Korea used Pyongyang as its temporary capital until it could reclaim Seoul.

Conclusion

The journey of capital cities through Korean history is a fascinating tale of dynasties, conquests, and political shifts. Seoul, Hanyang, and other historical capitals like Kaesong, Gyeongju, and Pyongyang, each have rich histories that are integral to understanding Korea's past and present.