Kangso Three Tombs

Kangso Three Tombs is an ancient burial complex in South Pyongan Province containing three mausoleums with interior walls decorated with detailed paintings depicting daily life and mythology of ancient Korea. The structures vary in size and reveal the funeral practices of the period.

These mausoleums date to the Goguryeo kingdom, which ruled the Korean Peninsula from 37 BCE to 668 CE. The tombs reflect the advanced burial practices and architectural knowledge of this ancient state.

The wall paintings inside each tomb show four guardian deities, including blue dragons, white tigers, red phoenixes, and black serpent-tortoises. These symbols reflect the religious beliefs of the time and remain visible to visitors today.

Plan your visit during warmer months, as the site is located away from the capital and paths to the tombs can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended to navigate the terrain safely.

Japanese archaeologist Imanishi Ryū discovered these burial structures in 1911, initiating decades of research into Goguryeo funeral traditions. His findings helped scholars understand the social hierarchy and religious practices of this ancient civilization.