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Which Three Kingdoms of Korea shaped the earliest surviving Korean architectural traditions?
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Korean architecture
Five-story stone pagoda of Jeongrimsa Temple, first half of the 7th century, Baekje period; in Buyeo, South Korea. Height 8.33 meters (27.3 feet).
The earliest surviving Korean architectural traditions were shaped by the three kingdoms of Goguryeo (also spelled Koguryŏ), Baekje (also spelled Paekche), and Silla.12
During this period, these kingdoms developed sophisticated architectural practices, particularly in the construction of Buddhist temples and pagodas. Key developments included:12
- Temple Planning: The earliest known Buddhist temple plan, consisting of a central octagonal wooden pagoda surrounded by three halls, was utilized by both Goguryeo and Baekje. Silla later modified this into a one-pagoda, one-chapel system, as seen at the Hwangnyong Temple.1
- Transition to Stone: While early Korean architecture relied on wooden structures—which have since been destroyed—the kingdoms began transitioning to stone to create more durable monuments. Baekje architects were pioneers in this shift, attempting to replicate the appearance of wooden pagodas in stone, such as at the Mireuk Temple.1
- Cultural Exchange: These traditions were influenced by and shared with neighboring regions, including China and Japan, reflecting the highly developed culture of the Three Kingdoms period.12