Goguryeo

This episode focuses on Goguryeo, one of Korea's most powerful ancient kingdoms, which lasted from 37 BCE to 668 CE. It traces the kingdom's origins and foundation myth centered on Jumong, then follows its growth, centralization, and major wars - including the Goguryeo-Wei and Goguryeo-Sui conflicts. At its height under Kings Gwanggaeto and Jangsu, Goguryeo dominated much of Northeast Asia. The episode also covers its government, military system, religion, and culture, highlighting influences of Buddhism and shamanism as well as its distinctive tomb art. It concludes with the kingdom's fall to the Silla-Tang alliance, later revival movements, and its lasting legacy in Korean identity - including how 'Korea' derives from Goryeo, Goguryeo's successor - and the modern disputes with China over its historical classification.