🐉 Korean Folktale Series 31
“The Legend of the Dragon Horse”
(용마 이야기 · Yongma Iyagi)
🕰️ 1. The Story
Long ago, during the days of ancient kings, there lived a noble warhorse said to be born from the union of a dragon and a mare. The horse, with scales shimmering beneath its mane and eyes bright like morning stars, was known as Yongma, the Dragon Horse.
Yongma belonged to a brave general who served his king with unwavering loyalty. Together, they defended the kingdom from countless invasions, galloping across battlefields like wind and thunder. When Yongma charged, enemies trembled—the ground shook as if heaven itself had descended.
But as peace returned, the general grew old, and so did his faithful companion. One night, the king ordered the general to lead one final campaign against a sudden rebellion. The old general hesitated, but Yongma neighed loudly, as if saying,
“Once more, let us protect the land we love.”
They rode into battle together and fought fiercely until victory was secured—but both were gravely wounded. As dawn broke, the general fell from his horse, whispering, “My duty is done.” At that moment, Yongma lifted its head toward the sky, released a mighty cry, and leapt into the clouds.
The people later said they saw a streak of light rising from the battlefield—a dragon ascending with a horse’s silhouette within it. The king, deeply moved, ordered a monument built in their honor and declared:
“The Dragon Horse shall forever guard this realm as the spirit of loyalty and courage.”
From then on, Koreans believed that when thunder rolls and clouds swirl like galloping hooves, it is Yongma returning to watch over the land and those who serve with true hearts.
🪄 2. Meaning & Lessons
- Loyalty and devotion give life a strength that even death cannot diminish.
- True courage lies not in power, but in faithfulness to one’s purpose.
- Honor binds heaven and earth—those who live with sincerity become eternal.
👀 3. Reflections in Life
- Devotion to duty, like the Dragon Horse’s spirit, inspires generations beyond one’s lifetime.
- The strongest bonds are forged through loyalty and sacrifice.
- When we act with integrity, our deeds echo long after we are gone.
🌏 4. Similar Tales Around the World
- China — The Legend of Longma (Dragon Horse of the Yellow River)
A divine creature symbolizing wisdom, courage, and heavenly mandate. - Japan — The Story of Tenma (Heavenly Horse)
A sacred horse that descends from the clouds to aid righteous warriors. - Greece — Pegasus
A winged horse born from divine origins, symbolizing honor and inspiration.
💬 A Warm Saying
“Loyal hearts never die—they rise again on the wings of faith.”
📌 Note
This is creative cultural content from the Misojieum Story Blog (kor-telling.com).
Please do not copy without permission. Sharing is welcome with proper source citation.