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Goryeo Tributary System

Type Object Region Korean Peninsula Time 1221–1230

The Goryeo tributary system was a vassalage order in which Goryeo sent regular envoys and tribute to its suzerains (Song, Jin, and later the Mongols)…

Timeline

  1. 1221–1223Gaeseong · GaeseongDuring King Huijong's reign, Goryeo continued paying tribute to the Jin, including ginseng, sable pelts, horses, and local products, in exchange for investiture of the royal title and border security. The Gaeseong court regularly prepared envoys to pay court at the Jin Central Capital.
  2. 1224–1228Hamgyeong Province frontier · Hamgyeong ProvinceAs a Jin vassal, Goryeo was required to send princes or noble youths as hostages and to help defend its northeastern frontier against raids by Jurchen and Mongol mounted troops. The tributary system and military obligations were intertwined, allowing Goryeo limited autonomy within the vassal framework.
  3. 1229–1230Gaeseong · GaeseongAs the Mongol Empire expanded into Northeast Asia, it repeatedly sent envoys demanding Goryeo's submission. While maintaining tribute to the Jin, the Goryeo court cautiously responded to the Mongols; the tributary system stood on the eve of a change of suzerain, foreshadowing the diplomatic shift after the Mongol invasion of 1231.

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