Establishment of Goryeo Dynasty in Korea

The establishment of the Goryeo Dynasty in 918 CE marked the beginning of a new ruling era on the Korean Peninsula and the origin of the name “Korea.” Founded by Wang Geon, later known as King Taejo, Goryeo emerged during the Later Three Kingdoms period, a time of fragmentation that followed the decline of Unified Silla. The new dynasty would go on to unify the peninsula and rule until 1392. The founding of Goryeo was closely tied to the internal instability of Later Goguryeo, also known as Taebong, under the rule of Gung Ye. Historical records describe Gung Ye’s leadership as increasingly harsh, leading to dissatisfaction among his senior military commanders and officials. In 918, four leading generals organized a coup to remove him from power. They selected Wang Geon, a prominent military leader and political figure, to assume control. After taking the throne, Wang Geon established a new state named Goryeo, drawing the name from Goguryeo, one of the ancient Three Kingdoms. This choice reflected an effort to present the new dynasty as the successor to Goguryeo’s legacy and authority. Wang Geon set his capital at Songak (modern-day Kaesong) and began strengthening central control through a combination of military action and alliances with regional leaders. The establishment of Goryeo in 918 laid the foundation for the eventual unification of the Korean Peninsula in 936, when the remaining rival states were brought under its rule. The dynasty maintained a centralized system of governance and played a central role in shaping the historical identity of Korea.