Northeast Asian History Network

Western Wall of the Western Auxiliary Chamber - Portrait of the Deceased - Baek-ragwan

This is a detailed view of the official hat worn by the central figure in the portrait of the deceased in the western auxiliary chamber. The see-through, white silk Waegwan (literally “outer hat”) sits over a black Naegwan (literally “inner hat”). The Waegwan hangs below the ears and is tied at the chin.
This type of official hat was known as a ragwan (literally “silk hat”). Another type was referred to as a Mugwan (literally “military hat”), worn by high-ranking military attachés in ancient China. Ragwans were hats worn only by the highest-ranking officials in Koguryo. Royal Attendants wore Cheong-ragwans (literally ‘blue silk hat’), and the Baek-ragwan (literally “white silk hat”) was worn only by the King. The official hat seen in the image is a white Baek-ragwan, and thus scholars contend that this figure was a Koguryo-era king. Others who contend that this figure is Dong-su claim that this official hat is not a Baek-ragwan but rather a Mugwan worn by high-ranking military attaché. In particular, Dong-su's government position is claimed to be the Third General, a position that normally wore a Mugwan. Thus, the central figure in Anak Tomb No. 3 is wearing an official hat that corresponds to his position.