Experts in China are speculating that the largest and most advanced tomb from the Warring States period, dating back 2,200 years, may belong to King So Khae Liet. Gong Xicheng, a researcher at Anhui Provincial Institute of Cultural Heritage and Archaeology, has reported that experts are working on excavating the tomb, known as Wuwangdun, which is located in Anhui province. The tomb is considered to be the largest and most prestigious tomb from the Chu state during its peak.
King So Khae Liet ruled over large areas along the Yangtze River for about 800 years before being invaded by Emperor Qin Shi Huang in 223 BC. Researchers have long debated about the identity of the tomb’s owner, with King So Khae Liet being a leading candidate. He ruled as king of Chu for more than 20 years during the Warring States period. King So Khae Liet, also known as Hung Hoan, was sent as a hostage to the powerful Qin state as a crown prince at a young age, later returning to Chu to claim the throne.
The ongoing excavation and research at Wuwangdun has shed light on the history and cultural richness of the Chu state during the Warring States period. The artifacts unearthed provide valuable information about the lifestyle and customs of people who lived during that era. The identity of King So Khae Liet continues to be explored by experts, offering a glimpse into his life and rule in ancient China.
