Kaesong was once the capital during the Goryeo dynasty and was called Koryo. This dynasty established itself in 918 and ruled until it was overthrown by the Joseon dynasty in 1392. The city was once part of South Korea and changed hands 3 times during the Korean War and is viewed as being either occupied or liberated (depending on how your perspective). It is near the De-Militarised Zone and today is a predominantly modern city with wide streets although there is an older quarter with traditional tile-roofed houses.

The Koryo Museum is housed in the Confucian University and has a range of artefacts and Buddhist relics. Outside town is the Tomb of King Kongmin who reigned between 1352 and 1374. It is richly decorated and there are splendid views over the surrounding hills. Also not far is Sinchon where a museum has been built depicting US war crimes.