Goryeo vs. North Korea: They Share the Same Name, “Korea”—So Why Did Their Political Systems Become So Different?
The name “Korea” traces its origins to Goryeo, a kingdom that developed a brilliant and sophisticated culture. Interestingly, North Korea has also frequently used the name “Goryeo” in political contexts. The official name of the confederation plan once proposed by North Korea for Korean reunification was the Democratic Confederal Republic of Koryo. So, how similar are medieval Goryeo and modern-day North Korea, despite sharing the same historical name? And more importantly, how different are they? 1. Openness vs. Isolation: An Open Gateway to the World vs. a Closed Curtain ① Goryeo: A Remarkably Open Society Goryeo was an internationally connected kingdom, with Byeongnando serving as its major port for overseas trade. Merchants and travelers arrived from Song China, the Liao dynasty, Japan, and even the Arab and broader Islamic world. Goryeo society was also relatively open to foreigners. Talented immigrants could become naturalized subjects, enter government service, and in some cases...