A National Treasure in Korea, the Cheju is a small but remarkable horse that is often said to have built the country. In appearance, the large head tapers to a small muzzle and gives an almost perfectly straight profile. The large eyes are bright and intelligent and the neck is short, but muscled. The croup, the line from the top of the tail to the highest point of the hindquarters, is sloped and the tail is set high. Though petite, the Cheju is a well-formed and refined horse.

The Cheju is the all-purpose horse of Korea. It is designed for riding and light draft work, but it exhibits great strength and hardiness. Because of the drastic climate differences in the region, the horse has evolved to be conditioned to harsh winters and blazing summers. The Cheju is also known as a healthy and disease resistant breed.

Though not confirmed, the breed is believed to have come to Korea from China, and originating in the Cheju Province. The horse would also have been influenced by the injection of Mongolian stock during the Mongolian occupation in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries.

Because of mechanization, the number of Chejus has decreased dramatically. From an estimated peak of twenty thousand to an approximate twenty-five hundred in existence today, the Cheju is now considered in danger. It was declared a protected National Treasure in Korea in 1987.

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Cheju - Horses for Sale