Goguryeo tombs

The Goguryeo tombs are an archaeological burial complex containing 63 individual chambers constructed from stone, earthen mounds, and limestone blocks arranged in pyramidal and rectangular forms. Horizontal passageways lead into main chambers, some of which have additional rooms divided by stone columns.

The Goguryeo kingdom built these burial monuments between the 1st century BCE and the 7th century CE as final resting places for rulers and nobility. They represent a burial tradition that persisted for centuries across the region.

The inner chambers display painted walls showing everyday life, ceremonies, and hunting scenes rendered in bright colors and flowing brushwork. These artworks reveal how the ruling class lived and what they valued most.

The structures can be entered through horizontal passageways that open into interior spaces with decorated surfaces. Visitors should be prepared for narrow corridors and limited natural light inside the chambers.

Builders mixed earth with lime and pebbles, then added charcoal layers to waterproof the interior and protect the painted walls. This engineering approach kept the colorful artwork intact for more than 1,500 years.