Korean Goryeo

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A merchant and military vessels used during the Goryeo Dynasty (918–1392) in Korea. These ships played a significant role in maritime trade, defense, and diplomacy during the dynasty, which was a critical period for Korean naval development.

Here are some key points about the Goryeo ship:

1. Design and Structure

• Goryeo ships were known for their durability, designed to withstand rough waters and long voyages. Their construction used pine wood, which was abundant in Korea, and the ships were built using a technique called shell-first construction (constructing the outer hull first and then adding the internal structure).
• These ships had curved hulls, which helped improve stability and maneuverability in rough seas.
• They were equipped with large masts and sails, making them suitable for long-distance trade with neighboring countries like China and Japan.

2. Trade and Diplomacy

• The Goryeo ships were heavily involved in trade with China’s Song and Yuan Dynasties, exporting products such as ceramics (notably Goryeo celadon), silk, paper, and other goods.
• Goryeo vessels also traveled to Japan, facilitating both trade and diplomatic missions. These ships were instrumental in the Korean Wave of Culture (influencing other East Asian regions with Korean products and ideas).
• The design of these ships also contributed to the expansion of Goryeo’s economic and cultural exchange networks across East Asia.

3. Military Uses

• While less famous than the Joseon Dynasty’s Turtle Ships (Geobukseon), the Goryeo Dynasty had its own formidable military vessels. These ships were used to protect the peninsula from pirate attacks, including frequent raids from the Japanese Wokou pirates.
• Goryeo’s naval forces had some notable victories using their warships, most famously in 1270 when they defended the Korean coast during the Mongol invasions. They built and used warships to resist the Mongols before eventually becoming a vassal state under the Yuan Dynasty.

4. Discovery of Wrecks

• The most famous discovery of a Goryeo shipwreck was in 2007, when a ship dating back to the 14th century was found off the coast of Mado Island. This shipwreck provided invaluable insights into the construction techniques, trade routes, and goods that the Goryeo ships carried. It was found to contain thousands of celadon pieces and other goods intended for trade, showing how advanced and widespread Goryeo maritime commerce had become.