고구려의 對후연관계와 요동 확보의 의미

Abstract

This text purposes to examine the expansion of Goguryeo(高句麗) into Liaodong(遼 東) through the relationship between Goguryeo and Later Yan(後燕), which unfolded from the late 4th century to the early 5th century. Moreover it seeks to understand the strategic value of Liaodong and further clarify the implications of Goguryeo's securing of Liaodong in the context of international relations. The records of King Gwanggaeto's tour to Liaodong in 395, found in the “The Stele of King Gwanggaeto(廣開土王碑)”, and the accounts of Goguryeo's military activities in Liaodong in the “Liangshu(梁書)” are essential sources for gauging the timing of Goguryeo's expansion into Liaodong. By re-evaluating these two historical sources, this article reaffirms the existing theory that Goguryeo expanded into the Liaodong region before 395. Additionally, it explores the possibility that Goguryeo ventured into Liaodong in the late 4th century by utilizing records from the “Shiliu guo chunqiu(十六 國春秋)” which had not been previously emphasized. Until the late 4th century, the Later Yan did not show any significant response to Goguryeo's advance into Liaodong. However, the situation changed with the ascension of Murongsheng(慕容盛) in 400. In a context where recovering the Zhongyuan(中 原) became difficult, he sought to seek revival Later Yan by reclaiming Liaodong. He dreamed of recovering the Zhongyuan by linking the Liaoxi(遼西) and Liaodong regions, similar to the past with Former Yan(前燕). As a result, the conflict between Goguryeo and Later Yan over Liaodong intensified. In short, Liaodong was a stepping stone for Later Yan's national revival. Liaodong was also an important area for Goguryeo. In fact, after securing Liaodong, Goguryeo reorganized the region according to its own needs. Notably, the reconstruction of transportation routes stands out. The issue of transportation routes is also useful for examining Goguryeo's international relations in the 5th century. Through various transportation routes connected to Liaodong, Goguryeo engaged with various powers active in North China(華北), Shandong(山東), the Jiangnan(江南), and the steppe. Unlike the previous periods, the negotiations between Goguryeo and these powers in the 5th century took on a long-term nature, influenced by Liaodong's characteristic as a hub of connectivity. In summary, securing Liaodong became the cornerstone of the multi-faceted diplomacy that characterized Goguryeo's international relations in the 5th century.