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Gang Gam-chan and the Battle of Gwiju: A Historic Victory That Preserved the Dignity of Goryeo

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It is unclear whether the Khitan cavalry actually looked exactly like this. However, in ancient warfare, resisting an assault by such a mounted force would have been extraordinarily difficult—much like modern infantry attempting to defend against armored vehicles and tanks. By successfully repelling the attack of 100,000 northern cavalrymen, Goryeo ultimately compelled the Liao dynasty to abandon further invasions for the next hundred years. Gang Gam-chan and the Battle of Gwiju: A Victory That Preserved Goryeo’s Dignity and Reshaped the East Asian Order The Battle of Gwiju was a decisive confrontation in which the Goryeo army, led by General Gang Gam-chan, defeated the Khitan cavalry—the most powerful mounted force of its time. This victory elevated the international standing of Goryeo, founded by Wang Geon, and marked a historic turning point in the East Asian geopolitical order. Introduction: Why the Battle of Gwiju Is Still Remembered Today Dear readers, welcome. In a previous post...

Why the Tiger Remains Korea’s National Mascot: A Lost Predator and a Living Symbol

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A Siberian tiger with a 100% genetic match to the Korean tiger                                   Introduction: A Land Without Tigers, Yet Defined by Them Dear readers, greetings! Today, I’d like to share a story about the tiger — the animal that best represents Korea and its people South Korea no longer has wild tigers roaming its mountains. Yet, the tiger remains one of the country's most iconic national symbols. From Olympic mascots to folk tales, the tiger is deeply embedded in Korean identity. This enduring presence raises a compelling question: Why does a nation without tigers continue to revere them as a central cultural emblem? To understand this, we must delve into Korea's geography, ecology, history, and cultural consciousness. The Korean Peninsula: Once a Tiger’s Paradise Historically, the Korean Peninsula was a prime habitat for tigers. Its mountainous terrain, rich biodiversity, an...