culture

Kaesong was the capital of Koryo, the first unified state of Korea which existed from 918 to 1392 by succeeding Koguryo (277 BC-AD 668) which had survived for about a thousand years as a powerful state. 

In the city with more than a 1 000-year urban history, there are many historical relics and remains showcasing the aspects of economic, cultural and scientific development of Koryo which existed for about 500 years. 

It also has many historical sites including the Mausoleum of King Wang Kon, the founder king of Koryo, the Mausoleum of King Kyonghyo, the 31st king of Koryo, and remains of the walled city of Kaesong, a castle site.

Other sites include Manwoldae, royal palace site of Koryo, Koryo Songgyungwan(highest educational institution in the period of Koryo and the feudal Joson dynasty) which was built in 992, Sungyang Confucian School, Sonjuk Bridge and Kaesong Chomsongdae Observatory. They attract the attention of the world.

As precious national treasures, these cultural heritage elements were inscribed on the list of world cultural heritage. Kaesong City has directed big efforts to the work of taking good care of national cultural heritage.

Relevant officials and workers of the city carried out routine protection for historical relics, while undertaking the repair of different historical relics and remains on the occasion of the autumn national heritage protection month.

As a result, old historical sites have been restored to their original state and the repairs of different sites and sightseeing routes have been carried out, including Pomsa Pavilion in the Pagyon Falls scenic spot, thereby adding more beauty to the scenic attraction.

The completion of the repair project for the Myongryun Hall in the Koryo Museum has also contributed to boosting the national pride of working people.