Kang Gam Chang

Born 948; died 1031. Korean general and organizer of the struggle against the Khitan invaders in the 11th century.

In 1010, when the Khitan captured the capital of Koryo, Kaesong, Kang Gam Chang was able to unite the nation despite capitulatory sentiments in the court circles; under his directionthe national forces expelled the aggressors. In late 1018, with therenewed Khitan invasion, Kang Gam Chang prepared the Korean troops for defense in advance, and in a decisive battle nearthe city of Kusong he crushed the enemy; out of 100, 000 Khitantroops only a few thousand survived.