First conflict of the Goguryeo–Tang War
| First conflict of the Goguryeo–Tang War | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Part of the Goguryeo–Tang War | |||||||
Map of the first conflict of the Goguryeo–Tang War in 645. | |||||||
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| Belligerents | |||||||
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Tang Eastern Göktürks Silla |
Goguryeo Mohe | ||||||
| Commanders and leaders | |||||||
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Emperor Taizong Li Shiji Li Daozong (WIA) Zhangsun Wuji Zhang Liang Yuchi Jingde Qibi Heli (WIA) Xue Wanbei Ashina She'er (WIA) Ashina Simo (WIA) Ashina Mishe Zhishi Sili Cen Wenben Liu Hongji Zhang Jian Yang Shidao Xue Rengui |
Yeon Gaesomun Yang Manchun Go Jeong-ui Go Yeonsu (POW) Go Hyejin (POW) Go Jug-li Sun Dae-eum | ||||||
| Strength | |||||||
| 113,000 | At least 200,000 | ||||||
The first conflict of the Goguryeo–Tang War started when Emperor Taizong (r. 626–649) of the Tang dynasty led a military campaign against Goguryeo in 645 to protect Silla and punish Generalissimo Yeon Gaesomun for the killing of King Yeongnyu. The Tang forces were commanded by Emperor Taizong himself, and generals Li Shiji, Li Daozong, and Zhangsun Wuji.
In 645, after capturing multiple Goguryeo fortresses and defeating large armies in his path, Emperor Taizong appeared poised to march on the capital Pyongyang and conquer Goguryeo, but could not overcome the strong defenses at Ansi Fortress, which was commanded by Yang Manchun at the time. Emperor Taizong withdrew after more than 60 days of battle and unsuccessful siege.