fortress of Kaesong).
As Kaesong has been occupied by various states throughout centuries, its name
has changed as well. It was realm of
Mahan
confederacy, and was referred to as
Busogap during the rule of
Goguryeo. Before the strength of
Baekje
was retreated to the southwest of
Jungnyeong,
Joryeong, and
Asan Bay
in 475, the area had been a part of
Baekje
for about 100 years. However, it
became a territory of Silla since 555, the 16th year of
King Jinheung
and its name was changed to
"Songak-gun" during the period. According to
Samguk
Sagi, when a castle was built in the site in 694, the third year of
King Hyoso's reign, Kaesong was
referred to as "Songak.
Therefore,
it is assumed that the name Songak had been used at least before the time.
Silla began to
decline in late 9th century, and a period of rival warlords ensued. In 898,
