Balhae (698–926): An Ancient Korean Kingdom of Northeast Asia

 Balhae was an ancient Korean kingdom that flourished in the regions of Manchuria and Primorsky Krai, playing a significant role in Northeast Asia during its time.

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Foundation and History

1. Background of Foundation

   • Established by the remnants of Goguryeo people.
   • Founded by Dae Joyeong in 698.
   • Known as “Haedong Seongguk” (Flourishing Country of the East) for its strength and prosperity.

2. Political System

   • Administrative structure of 3 Capitals, 15 Provinces, and 62 Counties.
   • Centralized governance structure.
   • A sophisticated ruling system inspired by the Tang Dynasty.
     

     
     
     
     

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Cultural Characteristics

1. A Multiethnic State

   • Diverse ethnic groups, including the Mohe, Han, and descendants of Goguryeo, coexisted within the kingdom.
   • Demonstrated remarkable cultural diversity and inclusivity.

2. Foreign Relations

   • Maintained active diplomatic ties with Tang China and Silla.
   • Served as a central hub for international trade in Northeast Asia.
   • Pioneered the development of maritime trade routes.

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Civilizational Achievements

1. Science and Technology

   • Progress in astronomy and agricultural techniques.
   • Expertise in metal casting and ceramic production.

2. Arts and Culture

   

   
   
   
   
   • Flourished in Buddhist culture.
     
     
     
   • Developed unique architectural styles.
   • Achieved high levels of craftsmanship.
     
     
     

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Economy

• Thriving agriculture and livestock farming.
• Economic prosperity through foreign trade.
• Utilized trade routes connected to the Silk Road.

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Decline and Fall

• Balhae was destroyed by the Khitan (Liao) in 926.
• Many Balhae people migrated to Goryeo.
• The last prince, Dae Gwang-hyeon, surrendered to Goryeo.

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Historical Significance

• Inherited the culture of Goguryeo.
• A successful model of a multiethnic state.
• Contributed to the civilization of Northeast Asia.

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Modern Assessment

• A vital part of Korean history.
• A pioneer of international relations and cultural exchange.
• An exemplary case of multiculturalism.

Balhae was not merely a kingdom but a pivotal entity in the history of Northeast Asian civilization.

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Cultural Legacy of Goguryeo in Balhae

Political Culture and Governance

1. Administrative System

   • Continued Goguryeo’s three-capital system.
   • Maintained a centralized governance structure.
   • Modeled its administrative system on Tang China, while preserving unique characteristics.

2. Strengthening Royal Authority

   • Early kings, including Dae Joyeong, descended from Goguryeo royalty.
   • Emphasized Goguryeo’s monarch-centered governance philosophy.

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Cultural Elements

1. Architectural Style

   • Inherited Goguryeo’s techniques for building mountain fortresses.
   • Adapted architectural methods suitable for mountainous terrains.
   • Continued a tradition of defensive construction.

2. Art and Craftsmanship

   • Preserved the artistic sophistication of Goguryeo murals.
   • Advanced metalworking skills.
   • Continued pottery-making traditions from Goguryeo.

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Religion and Spiritual Culture

1. Buddhist Culture

   • Actively inherited Goguryeo’s Buddhist traditions.
   • Expanded Buddhist temples and arts.
   • Maintained Buddhism as the state religion.

2. Shamanism

   • Continued the indigenous spiritual practices of Goguryeo.
   • Emphasized harmony with nature in spiritual culture.

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Military Culture

• Inherited the military traditions of nomadic horse-riding peoples.
• Demonstrated exceptional mobility and combat capability.
• Employed a defensive and offensive military strategy.

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Foreign Relations

1. Diplomatic Strategy

   • Modeled after Goguryeo’s approach to international relations.
   • Maintained complex relations with neighboring powers.
   • Balanced diplomacy and military strength.

2. Trade and Cultural Exchange

   • Expanded international trade through the Silk Road.
   • Maintained openness to multicultural influences.

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Language and Writing

• Continued the linguistic traditions of Goguryeo.
• Developed a distinctive writing system.
• Combined Chinese characters with indigenous scripts.

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Lifestyle and Culture

1. Cuisine

   • Preserved Goguryeo’s culinary traditions.
   • Integrated nomadic and agricultural food cultures.
   • Made use of diverse ingredients.

2. Clothing

   • Continued the clothing styles of Goguryeo.
   • Designed garments suitable for the climate and lifestyle.

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Science and Technology

• Inherited Goguryeo’s knowledge in astronomy and agriculture.
• Advanced metal processing technologies.
• Promoted practical and innovative technological culture.

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Cultural Identity

• Spiritually continued the legacy of Goguryeo culture.
• Maintained an independent yet open cultural identity.
• Fostered a tradition of multiethnic coexistence.