ABSTRACT
The rise of Wang Kon (877-943), known by his regnal name as T'aejo, was a reflection of the increased strength of the local landholders and the mercantile class in contrast to the decline of the aristocracy. Under King T'aejo the boundaries of the state were secured and expanded. The importance of P'yongyang as a strategic centre was re-emphasized with the placement of a major garrison there. Defensive preparations were made against a possible invasion by the Khitan tribes to the north, and plans were laid to seize the northern territories which had belonged to the Kingdom of Koguryo. These plans indicate the importance of the former state of Koguryo to Koryo, which saw itself as the successor of both Koguryo and Parhae as well as the successor of Silla. This attitude resulted in a northward emphasis in foreign policy. Upon T'aejo's death in 943, the king left a testament, the Hunyo sipcho (Ten Injunctions), in which he set out ten guide-lines for his successors. These guide-lines reflected both the king's Buddhist piety and his shrewd understanding of politics and human nature.
