Janggi Rules

Janggi descends from Chinese Xiangqi but evolved its own rules in Korea — the jumping Cannon, the absence of a dividing river, the 9-square Palace, and the King's restricted movement give it a distinct feel.

9x10 grid (pieces sit on intersections, not squares). Cho 16 + Han 16 = 32 pieces. Each side: 1 King / 2 Chariots / 2 Cannons / 2 Horses / 2 Elephants / 2 Advisors / 5 Soldiers.

• King / Advisor — Move 1 step along marked lines, restricted to the 3x3 Palace. The King must never be captured.
• Chariot — Slides any distance in straight lines, blocked by other pieces. Like a chess rook.
• Cannon — Slides in a straight line but must jump exactly one intermediate piece. Cannons cannot jump or capture other Cannons.
• Horse — Moves one step straight then one step diagonal (L-shape). Blocked if the straight step is occupied.
• Elephant — Moves one step straight then two steps diagonal. Blocked at any point along the path.
• Soldier — Moves one step forward or sideways. Cannot retreat. Inside the enemy Palace, can also move diagonally forward.

Checkmate the opponent's King — leave them in check with no legal escape. If neither side has any productive move, the game may be drawn.