History of Go

In this episode, we delve into the long and storied history of Go, tracing its origins in ancient China and its spread across East Asia to Korea and Japan, where it developed into a refined scholarly art and later a structured professional sport with formal schools and ranking systems. We explore how regional traditions and cultural values shaped the game’s evolution, from its spiritual and strategic significance in various societies to its introduction in the West during the late 19th and 20th centuries through dedicated enthusiasts and international organizations. Along the way, we examine how centuries of intellectual tradition laid the foundation for Go’s modern global presence, culminating in a new era defined by technological advancements and the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on competitive play.