Horse Riding—Traditional Custom of Korean Nation

Korea has a long history of taming a horse.

The Korean ancestors broke horses to the copper bridle and decorated them with outfittings.

Horse riding was all the rage in the period of Koguryo (BC 277- AD 668).

Koguryo people were fond of riding since childhood and set horsemanship as one of yardsticks to select talents.

In the early period of Koryo (918-1392), the state set it as the law to pick up brave, strong and agile young men and teach them archery and horsemanship. In addition, warriors good at archery and riding gathered frequently to hold competitions.

The feudal Joson dynasty (1392-1910), too, developed the horsemanship.

Horse riding, one of traditional customs of the Korean nation, is being carried forward still today.

A wave of enthusiasm for horse riding is sweeping the riding grounds and clubs built in different parts of the country. The national amateur riders’ competition takes place every year.