[1][2][3] It was established by the Han dynasty after its conquest of Gojoseon to keep the tribes of Goguryeo in check.

[3] According to Gardiner, from 75 BC to 12 AD, the Goguryeo people were under administration of Gaogouli County and were clients of the Han dynasty that were recruited to fight the steppe nomads.

[5][full citation needed] During the reign of Wang Mang, a "Marquis Zou of Koguryō" was executed for refusing to send forces to fight against the Xiongnu.

The policies of Wang Mang caused Goguryeo people and other ethnic groups to resist their influence.

The Marquis of Goguryeo was a relatively independent authority within the territory of Xuantu and occupied a similar rank to a county magistrate.