Balhae: The Great Jin Kingdom – Stronger Than Goryeo?
When we think of the powerful dynasties in Korean history, the names Goryeo and Joseon often take center stage. Yet, nestled in the historical shadows lies Balhae (also known as the Great Jin Kingdom, 大震國), a formidable kingdom that once ruled vast northern territories of the Korean Peninsula and Manchuria.
Some scholars and enthusiasts have even dared to ask: Was Balhae stronger than Goryeo?
To answer this, we must delve into Balhae’s foundation, geopolitical influence, cultural achievements, and military power, and compare them against the legacy of Goryeo. What emerges is a fascinating portrait of a kingdom that deserves far more recognition than it has often been given in mainstream narratives.
1. Origins: Born From the Ashes of Goguryeo
Balhae was founded in 698 CE by Dae Joyeong, a former general of Goguryeo, after its collapse at the hands of the Tang-Silla alliance. He established Balhae in what is now the border region of Northeast China and North Korea, claiming succession from Goguryeo.
This foundation story is vital. While Goryeo (established in 918 CE by Wang Geon) is often considered the successor to Goguryeo, Balhae actually arose much closer in time and geography. Its founders—ethnic Goguryeo elites and Malgal tribes—quickly built a state that rivaled its neighbors in both size and ambition.
By the early 8th century, Balhae had expanded to control territories as far north as the Amur River and eastward to the Sea of Japan. At its height, Balhae was arguably one of the largest Korean kingdoms in terms of landmass.
2. Geopolitical Reach and International Recognition
Balhae’s diplomatic activities reflect its stature in East Asia. It maintained active relations with Tang China, Japan, and even the Khitans. While initial conflicts with the Tang dynasty occurred, later rulers pursued diplomacy and trade, sending dozens of tribute missions to the Tang court.
Japan, in particular, treated Balhae as an equal. In multiple correspondences, Balhae rulers referred to themselves as emperors (황제), a term reserved for equals to the Chinese Son of Heaven. Japanese emissaries recognized this claim, suggesting that Balhae was viewed not as a peripheral state, but as a regional power.
In contrast, Goryeo’s diplomacy was more cautious and centered around consolidating the Korean Peninsula. While Goryeo maintained international relations—especially with the Song and Liao dynasties—it did not project power across such a vast region as Balhae did during its peak.
3. Cultural and Technological Advancements
Balhae is often praised for its fusion of Goguryeo traditions and Tang influences. The capital, Sanggyeong (modern-day Ning’an in China), was built with Tang-style city planning and architecture. Archaeological discoveries—such as Buddhist temples, intricate bronze mirrors, and royal tombs—showcase Balhae's sophistication.
Education and civil administration were highly developed. Balhae implemented a structured bureaucratic system and had its own script, although records of it are limited today.
Goryeo, however, is widely renowned for cultural achievements like the invention of movable metal type (before Gutenberg), exquisite celadon ceramics, and a flourishing Buddhist tradition. Goryeo also compiled the Tripitaka Koreana, one of the most complete collections of Buddhist scriptures in existence.
In this area, Goryeo may have had a greater cultural legacy. But it’s important to recognize that Balhae’s accomplishments were significant for its time—especially considering its shorter lifespan and geographical challenges.
4. Military Power and Defense Capabilities
Was Balhae militarily stronger than Goryeo? It's difficult to say definitively, but Balhae certainly commanded a powerful army.
Balhae’s military successfully resisted early Tang invasions and expanded its territory rapidly. Its control over Manchurian highlands gave it strategic advantages. Fortresses built across its borders indicate a focus on defense and resilience. The combination of cavalry-based warfare and mountainous terrain made Balhae a hard target to subdue.
Goryeo, on the other hand, is well known for defeating multiple Khitan invasions and establishing a strong navy. The Goryeo military’s ability to repel external threats for centuries speaks to its robust structure and adaptability.
While Balhae may have had more territory and initial strength, Goryeo demonstrated greater longevity and stability in military affairs.
5. Legacy and Historical Recognition
Unfortunately, Balhae’s legacy was largely forgotten after it was destroyed by the Khitans in 926 CE. Many Balhae aristocrats fled south and were integrated into Goryeo, which then ruled the unified Korean Peninsula.
Modern historiography—especially during the Joseon dynasty—focused on the legitimacy of Goryeo and Silla lineages. As a result, Balhae was often excluded from the narrative of Korean history.
In recent decades, however, historians have worked to reclaim Balhae’s legacy. In both South and North Korea, school textbooks now acknowledge Balhae as a rightful part of Korean heritage. Some scholars even argue for viewing Korean history as a dual line: Silla in the south and Balhae in the north, until Goryeo unified them.
Q&A
Q1: Was Balhae larger than Goryeo in terms of territory?
Yes. At its peak, Balhae’s territory extended from northern Korea into modern-day Manchuria and parts of the Russian Far East—much larger than Goryeo’s.
Q2: Did Balhae consider itself a continuation of Goguryeo?
Absolutely. Balhae rulers often referred to themselves as successors to Goguryeo and aimed to revive its former glory.
Q3: Why is Balhae less known than Goryeo?
After Balhae’s fall, its history was overshadowed by Silla and Goryeo narratives. The lack of surviving written records also contributed to this marginalization.
Q4: Did Balhae and Goryeo ever coexist?
No. Balhae fell in 926 CE, and Goryeo was founded in 918 CE. However, there was no direct political or military interaction between them.
Q5: Was Balhae stronger than Goryeo overall?
It depends on the criteria. In terms of early expansion and territorial control, Balhae was impressive. But in terms of cultural legacy, continuity, and national unification, Goryeo had the longer-lasting impact.
