Okjeo and Dongye

Okjeo and Dongye lay along the east coast of Hamgyeong and Gangwon. Ruled by chiefs without kings, both fell under Goguryeo.

Okjeo, rich in seafood, raised future brides in the groom’s household from childhood and gathered the bones of each family into one shared wooden coffin. King Taejo of Goguryeo conquered it in 56.

Dongye was known for its short bows, small horses and seal skins. It held the Mucheon sky festival in the tenth month, made trespassers on another clan’s land pay in slaves or cattle (chaekhwa) and forbade marriage within the clan.