Gaegyeong

Gaegyeong, also known as Kaesong, was the capital of the Korean Goryeo Dynasty for nearly 500 years, from 918 to 1392. The city is located in present-day North Korea, just north of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating it from South Korea. Its strategic location on the Taedong River played a significant role in its development as a major economic and political center.

During the Goryeo period, Gaegyeong was a thriving metropolis, renowned for its sophisticated urban planning and grand palaces. The city was fortified with impressive walls and housed numerous temples, monasteries, and government buildings. It was also a center of trade and craftsmanship, producing high-quality celadon pottery that is still highly prized today. The dynasty's eventual fall and the relocation of the capital to Hanyang (modern-day Seoul) by the Joseon Dynasty marked the end of Gaegyeong's era as the primary seat of power.

Despite losing its capital status, Gaegyeong retained its historical and cultural importance. Many of its ancient structures and artifacts have been preserved, offering a glimpse into Korea's rich past. The city is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its outstanding universal value as a historical capital. Today, Gaegyeong remains a significant city in North Korea, though its accessibility is limited.