This game is one of many traditional “Gonu” or “Kono” - small board games from Korea. Pat Gonu is often referred to as “Hobak Gonu” which means “Pumpkin Game.” This is probably due to the round shape in the center of the board.
The origins of the game are unknown, but there are artifacts that go back to the tenth century in North Korea, and further references from the 14th century in the southern part of the peninsula. The name “Pumpkin Gonu” is a more recent name for the game - only about 500 years old.
The Components and Setup —
In addition to the board, each player gets three pegs of a unique color. Our version includes black and yellow pegs. These three pegs begin the game on the straight lines nearest the player.
The Objective:
By moving your pegs around the pattern of holes on the board, you attempt to trap your opponent so they cannot move.
Choose a first player any way you like.
Each peg moves one space per turn following the lines.
Once a piece has left the starting row - the straight line of three spaces - the peg cannot return to that row.
NOTE 1: Some rules do not include this rule. Players should agree on this before the game starts.
NOTE 2: Some also prohibit entering your opponent’s starting row, which is generally pointless anyway except to prolong the game.
The last player to move a peg is the winner!