Each of the Three Kingdoms built different kinds of tombs. Royal and aristocratic families living in the Koguryŏ kingdom were buried in large pyramid-shaped tombs. The interiors were modelled after palaces and the walls and ceilings were covered with paintings. The paintings are important sources of information about early Korean society as they show the deceased, his family and his life. Cosmological scenes (images of stars and planets) were also painted, as it was believed they would protect against evil.

In the Paekche region several types of tombs were used, ranging from jar-coffins to pyramid tombs. Jar-coffins were usually formed of a large and small jar placed mouth to mouth and containing a whole body. The most significant Paekche burial is the brick chamber tomb of King Muryŏng (reigned AD 501-523) and his wife. The tomb is important as it contained many burial goods made of precious materials as well as plaques identifying the king and the date of his burial.

In Silla tombs the deceased was placed in a wooden chamber which was then covered with a huge pile of stones and earth. When the chamber decayed the stones and earth would collapse into the tomb and seal it against robbers. A large number of burial objects of precious materials have been found inside these tombs.