Paekche

Paekche, also written Baekje, was an ancient Korean kingdom that lasted roughly from 18 BCE to 660 CE. It was one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea, located in the southwestern part of the Korean Peninsula, with major centers along the Han River valley and the Yellow Sea coast. The kingdom’s early capital was Wiryeseong, near present-day Seoul, and in later periods the seat shifted to Ungjin (modern Gongju) and then to Sabi (modern Buyeo).

Paekche was established by Onjo, a descendant of Jumong, founder of Goguryeo, and grew into a significant regional power competing with its northern neighbor Goguryeo and the eastern rival Silla. It developed strong maritime and overland trade, cultivated relations with China, and maintained cultural and political exchanges with Japan. The kingdom endured periods of alliance and conflict with its neighbors, culminating in its destruction in 660 CE by an alliance of Silla and Tang Dynasty China, after which its territories were absorbed into Unified Silla.

Cultural achievements of Baekje include the introduction of Buddhism to the Korean peninsula, the promotion of Buddhist art, and a distinctive tradition of sculpture, lacquerware, and architecture that influenced neighboring regions and Japan. Baekje artisans and scholars contributed to the spread of Chinese writing and bureaucratic models in the peninsula and beyond. Archaeological remains, including royal tombs and fortress sites, illustrate its urban planning and artistic traditions.

Today Baekje is remembered for its role in shaping early Korean state formation and its cultural exchanges across the Korean Strait. The Baekje Historic Areas, including sites at Gongju and Buyeo, are recognized by UNESCO for their historical value.