Ijangui

Ijangui is a traditional Korean board game, similar to chess or checkers in complexity and strategy. The name can be translated as "general's game" or "commander's game." It is one of the most popular board games in Korea, alongside Baduk (Go) and Janggi.

History: While the exact origins of Ijangui are debated, it is generally believed to have evolved from Chinese Xiangqi (Chinese chess) sometime during the Goguryeo period (37 BCE – 668 CE). Over centuries, Ijangui developed its own distinct rules, piece movements, and strategic approaches, setting it apart from its Chinese ancestor.

Game Components: The game is played on a board with 90 intersections formed by 9 vertical lines (files) and 10 horizontal lines (ranks). Key elements include:

• Pieces: Each player controls 16 pieces, typically made of wood or plastic and marked with Hanja (Chinese characters used in Korean). These pieces are of varying ranks and functions.
• Fortresses (宮): Each side has a fortress delineated by diagonal lines, providing protection for the King (Han). The King and Advisors (Sa) are generally restricted to movement within their fortress.
• River (江): A gap dividing the board horizontally, considered strategically significant. Soldiers gain increased movement capabilities upon crossing the river.

Objective: The primary objective of Ijangui is to checkmate the opponent's King (Han). Checkmate occurs when the King is under immediate attack (in "check") and there is no possible move to remove the King from attack. Alternatively, a player may win if the opponent resigns.

Piece Movement: The pieces have distinct movement patterns:

• King (Han/Cho): Moves one point along lines within the fortress, or along the diagonal lines within the fortress.
• Advisors (Sa): Move one point along lines within the fortress, or along the diagonal lines within the fortress.
• Horses (Ma): Move one point orthogonally and then one point diagonally outwards, but cannot jump over intervening pieces.
• Elephants (Sang): Move one point orthogonally and then two points diagonally outwards, but cannot jump over intervening pieces.
• Chariots (Cha): Move any number of points orthogonally along lines until blocked or capturing an enemy piece.
• Cannons (Po): Move by jumping over another piece, and can only capture by jumping over a piece.
• Soldiers (Byeong/Jol): Move one point forward. Once they cross the river, they also move one point horizontally.

Gameplay: Players alternate turns, moving one piece per turn. Capturing opponent's pieces is done by moving one's piece to the square occupied by the opponent's piece. The game emphasizes strategic positioning, tactical calculation, and defensive planning to protect the King while simultaneously attacking the opponent's forces.

Variations: While the core rules of Ijangui are generally consistent, minor regional variations may exist.

Cultural Significance: Ijangui remains a significant part of Korean culture, appreciated for its intellectual challenge and strategic depth. It is often played in parks, community centers, and homes across Korea. Tournaments are held both domestically and internationally, showcasing the game's enduring appeal.