Goguryeo tomb mural - Egypt

Goguryeo was an ancient kingdom located in what is now north-eastern China and North Korea. It was one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea, along with Baekje and Silla. Goguryeo was founded in 37 BC by Jumong, a legendary figure in Korean history. The kingdom reached its peak during the reign of King Gwanggaeto the Great (391-413 AD), who expanded his territory to include parts of Manchuria, Mongolia and Russia. Goguryeo was known for its military prowess and strong culture, which included art, literature and religion. The kingdom was also famous for its defensive fortifications, including the Great Wall of China, which it helped to build. However, Goguryeo faced many challenges, including invasions from neighbouring kingdoms and internal political strife. It eventually fell to the Silla-Tang alliance in 668 AD, marking the end of the Three Kingdoms period in Korean history. Despite its demise, Goguryeo left a lasting legacy on Korean culture and history.

Goguryeo (Koguryo) ruled northern Korea during the Three Kingdoms period from the 1st century BCE to 7th century CE, and the best evidence of the kingdom's prosperity and artistry can be found in the many surviving tombs of the period. The murals inside many of the tombs are an invaluable insight into the ceremonies, warfare, architecture, and daily life of ancient Korea. The tombs are designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.