발해(渤海)-거란(契丹) 전쟁의 발생배경과 전개과정

Abstract

At the time of the foundation, Balhae established friendly relations with Khitan, because these two peoples had a common goal that broke away from the pressure of the Tang Dynasty. In the 8th century, Balhae maintained no hostile relations with Khitan; but the situation was changed in the 9th century when Khitan extended its power. Balhae had the defense system against Khitan as stationing troops in Buyeo Province.<BR> Yelü Abaoji who accomplished the unification of groups in Khitan and put down the rebellion raised by his brothers became the emperor in 916. For him, it was a prerequisite to weaken the power of neighboring countries to achieve his aim to occupy Zhongyuan(中原) in China. Therefore, he made an elaborate plan to attack political groups in the western area and Balhae.<BR> In order to establish a foothold to conquer Balhae, Khitan advanced into Liaoning Province. Khitan built a defensive wall along the estuary of the Liaoning River, and seized Yoyanggoseong Fortress to prepare for attack of Balhae troops from Jangryeong and Amrok Provinces. After the establishment of the defense system against Balhae, Khitan concentrated its efforts to occupy Hebei Province and the western area by the early 920s.<BR> In 924, Khitan completed the conquest of the western area, and then went to a total war with Balhae in December 925. It seems that Balhae was collapsed in January 926. The Khitan forces aimed to attract the main forces of Balhae in Liaodong Province. Under these circumstances, the defense system of Balhae that laid stress on Buyeo Province was weaken; and the Khitan forces attacked Buyeo Province. These resulted in the collapse of Balhae.