← Back to Daily Brief
✈️ Travel
August 2, 2026

Ancient Goryeo Capital Kaesong: History Carved in Stone

Kaesong, North Korea's present-day city, was once Kaegyong—the grand imperial capital of the Goryeo dynasty with 25 protective gates welcoming diplomats and merchants across Asia. The iconic Namdaemun gate still stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, though ground levels have risen 3 meters, making it appear shorter than originally built. A journalist recently walked through the massive granite foundations of Manwoldae palace, experiencing the physical remnants of this medieval Asian hub.
Why It Matters
Understanding Korea's pre-modern history helps expats grasp the cultural roots and heritage significance that modern Koreans deeply respect today.
Read Source ← Back to Daily Brief