Seoul: The Historical Journey from Wiryeseong to the Modern Metropolis
Seoul, the bustling capital of South Korea, has a rich and complex history that spans over two millennia. Its origin traces back to the founding of Wiryeseong, the first city located in the area of today's Seoul, by the Baekje kingdom in the 1st century BC. This article explores the historical evolution of Seoul from Wiryeseong to its modern incarnation, touching upon key periods such as the establishment of Goryeo, the transition to Joseon, and the present-day metropolis.
The Early Founding of Wiryeseong (1st Century BC)
The first city founded in the area that is now Seoul is Wiryeseong, the capital of the Baekje kingdom. According to historical records, Onjo, the founder of Baekje, established Wiryeseong in the 1st century BC. Onjo was the son of Dongmyeongseongwang, the founder of the Goguryeo kingdom, and had fled to the south to avoid conflict with his brother Yuri, the crown prince of Goguryeo. Onjo and his brother Biryu founded the new kingdom of Baekje and its capital Wiryeseong in 18 BC.
The location of Wiryeseong is believed to be at Pungnaptoseong, an archaeological site located about 15km east of the modern city center. Initially thought to be a small Baekje fort, Pungnaptoseong was discovered in the 1990s to be a large ancient city with numerous Baekje artifacts. It is now acknowledged as the first capital of Baekje.
The Fates of Wiryeseong and Its Successors (5th Century - 1067 AD)
Wiryeseong was captured by the Goguryeo in the 5th century, which forced the Baekje to move its capital to the south. The Goguryeo built a fort across the river to secure strategic defense, a testament to the city's significance even in the face of Mongol invasions and Goguryeo's eventual decline. Although Wiryeseong was abandoned, the Goguryeo fort and surrounding area remained strategically important.
The Founding of What Would Become Seoul (1067 AD)
The modern city center of Seoul was established in 1067. At this time, the kingdom of Goryeo had its capital at Kaesong, a location too close to the northern border. King Munjong envisioned a new capital for Goryeo, and he founded the city of Namgyeong, which translates to 'Southern Capital,' near the current city center. Plans to move the capital were eventually canceled, and the palace he built was later used as a summer palace by later Goryeo kings and was named Hanyang in 1308.
The Transition to Joseon and Modern Seoul
The modern name of Seoul is derived from these early historical roots. 'Seoueul' is a shortened form of 'Seorabeoul,' which originally referred to Gyeongju, the capital of Silla. The kingdom of Joseon was founded in 1392 in Kaesong and later moved its capital to Hanyang (now Seoul) in 1395. From this point, Seoul became the capital of Joseon and, later, South Korea.
Over the centuries, Seoul has evolved from a small capital to a bustling metropolis, enduring war and political turmoil. However, its rich history continues to be a prominent feature that sets it apart from other cities, attracting numerous tourists and scholars eager to explore its centuries-old heritage.
Overall, Seoul's history from Wiryeseong to the present day is a testament to its resilience and cultural significance. This rich tapestry of historical events continues to shape the city's identity and attracts millions of visitors every year who are drawn to its fascinating past and vibrant present.