King Suro and Queen Hur HwangOk
The legend of
King Suro and Queen Hur HwangOk (also known as Heo
HwangOk) is a captivating tale that combines history, mythology, and
romance. Let’s dive deeper into their story:
King Suro (Kim Suro):
King Suro (also known as Kim Suro) is considered the legendary founder and
Hero King of Geumgwan Gaya, an ancient Korean kingdom.
He is believed to have lived from approximately 42 AD to 199 AD.
Geumgwan Gaya was one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea, along with Silla and
Baekje.
King Suro’s posthumous name is Sureung .
His reign is marked by his contributions to the development of Geumgwan
Gaya, including its culture, governance, and prosperity.
Queen Hur
HwangOk:
Queen Hur HwangOk is a legendary queen mentioned in the Samguk Yusa, a
13th-century Korean chronicle.
According to the legend, she arrived in Korea by boat from a distant kingdom
called Ayuta (also spelled as Ayodhya).
Her native kingdom, Ayuta, is believed to be located in India. However, the
exact location remains a mystery.
Queen Hur HwangOk married King Suro at the age of 16.
She is said to have been greatly loved by all her subjects in Geumgwan Gaya.
The Mysterious Origin:
Scholars have debated the true origin of Queen
Hur HwangOk:
Some believe that Ayuta refers to Ayodhya in India due to phonetic
similarities.
Others suggest that it might be related to the Ay Kingdom in ancient
Tamilakam (southern India).
Regardless, her arrival in Korea and subsequent marriage to King Suro are
central to the legend.
Their Legacy:
Queen Hur HwangOk lived until the age of about 157(32-189).
She passed away in 189 AD (on the first day of the third month in the lunar
calendar) in Gimhae, South Gyeongsang Province, Korea.
Their story continues to capture imaginations, and Queen
Hur HwangOk is
remembered as a symbol of cultural exchange and unity.
Remember that these accounts are part of Korean mythology, and historical
accuracy may vary. Nevertheless, the legend of King Suro and Queen Hur
HwangOk remains a cherished part of Korean heritage!
