Northeast Asian History Network

Mounted archer on the western wall of the main chamber 02

This is a detailed view of the equestrian figure participating in mounted archery on the western wall of the main chamber in Tokhung-ri Tomb. The figure in the image is wearing a high-mobility Geon, narrow-sleeved Jeogori (traditional Korean upper garment), and form-fitting trousers. This type of attire is typical for northern nomadic tribes and is suitable for mounted archery. Even the waistband serves to prevent the clothes from flapping and interfering with such activities.
This mounted archer can be seen drawing his bow while riding and aiming directly at the middle target. The first two targets (from the right) have fallen on the ground. It's unclear if this archer hit said targets, however. The horse may be small in size, but its thick neck enhances its healthy, sturdy appearance. According to historical records, Koguryo horses were so small that they were often facetiously referred to as Gwahama, or “horse below fruit [tree]”, as they were ostensibly able to easily pass underneath fruit trees. However, as such small horses are much more effective in climbing mountains, they likely played key roles in battles that took place in the mountainous regions of Koguryo.