These are three Koguryo tombs located in Sammyo-ri, Kangso County, Nampho City, DPRK.
A picture of four deities is the theme of the murals in three tombs.
The picture depicts four deities defending four directions. Chongryong(blue dragon) is a symbol of the deity defending the east and Paekho(white tiger) is a symbol of the deity in charge of the west. Jujak(red phoenix) is a symbol of the deity defending the south and Hyonmu(turtle-serpent)is a symbol of the deity defending the north. Chongryong and Paekho were portrayed impressively: Chongryong is located in a diagonal line in the given picture, to portray as if it were just running out with its four stretching legs while raising its head with glaring eyes. Paekho has glaring eyes and agape mouth, sharp claws and elastic and stylish body. Hyonmu were drawn in fine composition and with seasoned stroke as if the turtle and serpent were wriggling alive. Jujak was depicted with ideal and beautiful different colours and lines as a phoenix which takes a cint amani(a legendary magic stone that bestows omnipotence on him who acquires it.) in mouth with its wings spread wide.
In addition, other various decorations, fairies and animals were drawn to be true to nature.
Three tombs of Kangso prove high phase of Koguryo architecture, and their murals drawn in powerful, beautiful and elegant stroke vividly demonstrate a long tradition of the Korean painting.
