Historic Sites of Kaesong

Historic Sites of Kaesong

The Historic Sites of Kaesong are located in Kaesong and consist of relics that represent the ruling base of the Goryeo Dynasty. They were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013 due to the spiritual values reflected in their feng shui-based urban planning, defensive systems including palaces and city walls, and educational institutions.

In 2004, the Complex of Goguryeo Tombs became North Korea’s first World Heritage Site, and the Historic Sites of Kaesong became the second. North Korea first applied to have the Kaesong area listed as a World Heritage Site with the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) in 2007, but the application was deferred. It reapplied in 2012, and the site was finally inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List during the 37th session of the World Heritage Committee in 2013. The Historic Sites of Kaesong include the Kaesong Fortress, Manwoldae, Kaesong Namdaemun Gate, Sungkyunkwan, Songgyungwan, the Tomb of King Wanggon, and the Tomb of King Kongmin.

Historic Monuments and Sites in Kaesong

Reason to visit: One of the newest World Heritage Sites, designated in 2013

Continent: Asia

Country/Region: North Korea

Province/State: North Hwanghae Province

City: Kaesong