Northeast Asian History Network

Western Wall of the Main Chamber - Wheel Juggler

This is a detailed view of the wheel juggler depicted on the western wall of the main chamber in Susahn-ri Tomb. The figure in the image is leaning back and looking up while juggling what appears to be a carriage wheel.
This juggler is also wearing a black Geon (a type of ancient headwear that wraps around the entire head and tied in the back, similar to a bandanna) around his head. His Jeogori and trousers are identical to the other performers. His Jeogori features Seons (accents on garments mimicking the black feathers on a crane’s neck or wingtips, influenced by Siberian shamanism) on the neckline, sleeves, and bottom hemline. Seons were essential elements of Koguryo-era attire applied to all upper garments such as the Jeogori regardless of gender, age, or social status. He is wearing form-fitting trousers known as Gung-go, usually worn by lower-class men. He is wearing long boots, and his trousers are securely tied below the knees to prevent any loose fabric from interfering with the performance.
There is a distinct lack of tension in this juggler as he simply throws a spoked wheel into the air and waits for it to fall. Nonetheless, this image is a valuable resource for understanding Koguryo-era entertainment culture.