Third conflict in the Goryeo–Khitan War in the context of Military history of Korea

⭐ Core Definition: Third conflict in the Goryeo–Khitan War

The Third Goryeo–Khitan War (Chinese: 第三次高麗契丹戰爭; Korean: 제3차 고려-거란 전쟁) was an 11th-century conflict between the Goryeo dynasty of Korea and the Khitan-led Liao dynasty of China near what is now the border between China and North Korea. The Goryeo–Khitan Wars began in 993 with the first campaign and continued with the second campaign.

After the second Liao campaign against Goryeo, the two sides fought indecisively until 1018, when a large expeditionary army was mobilized by the Liao under the command of Xiao Paiya. The army crossed the Yalu in late 1018 but was ambushed by a superior Goryeo force and suffered severe losses. However the Goryeo army had cut their line of retreat, so Xiao Paiya marched south with the intent of taking Kaesong. They were constantly harried by Korean attacks and forced to retreat. At the Battle of Gwiju, they were encircled and attacked by the Goryeo army, which almost annihilated the Khitan army. According to Korean sources, only a few thousand men managed to retreat to the Liao border.

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👉 Third conflict in the Goryeo–Khitan War in the context of Military history of Korea

Korea's military history spans thousands of years, beginning with the ancient nation of Gojoseon and continuing into the present day with the countries of North Korea and South Korea, and is notable for its many successful triumphs over invaders.

Throughout its history, Korea has boasted numerous exceptional leaders who gained outstanding victories against numerically superior enemies. Famed leaders credited with defending Korea against foreign invasions include: Ŭlchi Mundŏk of Goguryeo, who defeated Sui China during the Goguryeo–Sui War; Yŏn Kaesomun of Goguryeo, who defeated Emperor Taizong of Tang China during the Goguryeo–Tang War; Kang Kam-ch'an of Goryeo, who defeated the Khitan Empire during the Goryeo-Khitan War; Ch'oe Yŏng and Yi Sŏnggye of Goryeo, who defeated the Red Turbans during the Red Turban Invasions; and Yi Sun-shin of Joseon, who defeated the Japanese at sea during the Imjin War.

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