Capital of Korea facts for kids
This article is about the Korean national capital in general. For the current capital, see Seoul or Pyongyang.
The Capital of Korea has been in many different places throughout history. Today, there are two Koreas, and each has its own capital city:
- Seoul is the capital of Republic of Korea, also known as South Korea.
- Pyongyang is the capital of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, also known as North Korea.
Since the end of World War II, Korea has been divided into these two countries. If they were to reunite someday, other cities like Sejong City in South Korea and Kaesong in North Korea might also be considered as a future capital, along with Seoul and Pyongyang.
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A Journey Through Korea's Capitals
Korea has a very long and interesting history. Over thousands of years, different kingdoms and dynasties ruled the land. As leaders changed, so did the capital cities. This section will take you on a journey through some of Korea's most important past capitals.
Ancient Capitals: Gojoseon to the Three Kingdoms
The earliest known Korean kingdom was Gojoseon. It existed from 2333 BC to 108 BC. Its first capital is unknown, but later, the city of Pyongyang became its second capital.
After Gojoseon, the Three Kingdoms of Korea period began (57 BC to AD 676). During this time, three powerful kingdoms – Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla – competed for control. Each kingdom had its own capital:
- Goguryeo started with Jolbon as its capital, then moved to Gungnae-seong, and finally to Pyongyang.
- Baekje had Wiryeseong as its first capital, followed by Ungjin, and then Sabi.
- Silla kept Gyeongju as its capital for a very long time.
Later Kingdoms and Dynasties
After the Three Kingdoms, came the North-South States Period. During this time, Silla continued to rule in the south, keeping Gyeongju as its capital. In the north, the kingdom of Balhae emerged. Balhae had several capitals, including Dongmo Mountain, Junggyeong, and Sanggyeong.
Next was the short Later Three Kingdoms period. During this time, Silla was still in Gyeongju. Two new kingdoms appeared: Hubaekje with its capital at Wansanju, and Taebong which had capitals at Songak and Cheorwon.
The Goryeo Dynasty ruled Korea from 918 to 1392. Its capital was Gaegyeong. This dynasty gave Korea its modern name.
The Joseon Dynasty followed, lasting from 1392 to 1910. Its capital was Hanseong, which is the old name for today's Seoul.
From 1910 to 1945, Korea was under Japanese rule. During this Japanese colonial period, Seoul remained the main administrative center.
Modern Capitals of Korea
After World War II in 1945, Korea was divided. This led to the creation of two separate countries, each with its own capital:
