Sambyeolcho Rebellion

The Sambyeolcho Rebellion (1270-1273) was a Korean rebellion against the Goryeo Dynasty during the Mongol invasion.

Related Topics:
1270 - 1273 - Korea - Goryeo Dynasty - Mongol

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Unlike other rebels, Sambyeolcho had assumed the reins of Goryeo government before the rebellion.

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They were private armies of the Choe family, who had maintained a military dictatorship.

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When the Mongols invaded Goryeo, Choes' military government under the nominal king fled to Ganghwado Island in 1232 and resisted the Mongol invasion.

Related Topics:
Ganghwado - 1232

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Unfortunately because of its fragile foundation Goryeo faced frequent rebellions.

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Some of them were crushed by the government, but the rebels in the northern area defected to the Mongols and their areas were annexed to the Mongol Empire.

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Eventually the military government was overthrown in a coup and Goryeo surrendered.

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Regaining power from military officials with the support of the Mongols, the king decided to abolish Sambyeolcho in 1270.

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However Sambyeolcho, led by Bae Jungson, revolted against the government.

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They set up their own king and government on Jindo Island, located in the southwestern region.

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In 1271 the leader Bae asked Khubilai Khan to place his land under the direct rule of the Empire as other rebels did, but was refused.

Related Topics:
1271 - Khubilai Khan

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After several months Jindo fell to combined Goryeo and Mongol armies.

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At the end of the year the remnants led by Gim Tongjeong invaded Tamna Kingdom on Jeju Island and banished the Tamna king.

Related Topics:
Gim Tongjeong - Tamna - Jeju

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In 1274 they were crushed by Goryeo and Mongols.

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As a result the Mongols directly controlled Tamna until 1294.

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Today the Sambyeolcho insurgents are often praised as national heroes who made stubborn resistance to foreign invasions. In 1978 a monument to honor the Sambyeolcho Rebellion was built on Jeju. Other relics such as the Yongjang fortress on Jindo island are also maintained as tourist attractions http://cybertour.mokpo.go.kr/english_new/sub2_2_d.html.

Related Topics:
1978 - Yongjang fortress

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