Gaya National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage
KIM Jiyeon
The objective of the “Research on the Landscape Restoration of the Gaya Central Sphere” is to unveil the historical and cultural significance of the Gaya confederacy by conducting meticulous excavations at the presumed royal palace site. Through this project, we aspire to illuminate the history and culture of Gaya, while also fostering greater awareness through the insights gained from our findings.
Investigation of the Presumed Royal Palace Site for Validating the Stature and Significance of Gaya’s Cultural Heritage
Initially, we conducted a trial excavation at Gaya-ri, Haman, the presumed royal palace site of Ara Gaya. Employing techniques like airborne LiDAR surveys and meticulous topographic analysis, we determined the survey area by tracing the presumed outline of the fortress wall. Subsequently, our investigation entailed digging 34 trial trenches(Tr), ultimately confirming that this area boasts the largest fortress within the Gaya culture circle, spanning approximately 2.4 kilometers. This measurement is comparable to the dimensions of Silla’s Wolseong Fortress in Gyeongju(2.34km) and Baekje’s Busosanseong Fortress in Buyeo(approx. 2.5km). Notably, this location hosts vital facilities of national importance, substantiating our discovery that the Gaya- ri site, previously believed to be the royal palace site of Ara Gaya, indeed served as a royal capital.
Interdisciplinary Research for Strengthening Survey and Research Capabilities for Gaya’s Cultural Heritage
To restore the landscape of the Gaya central sphere, we combined archaeological investigations with scientific analysis, topographical studies, and environmental restoration research. Drilling and sedimentary environment analysis at the Bonghwang-dong site in Gimhae produced 3D computer graphics to enhance public understanding. Furthermore, we scrutinized 950 animal skeletal remains representing 41 species unearthed from the Bonghwang-dong site to determine the timeframe of hunting activities, utilization methods, breeding conditions, and burying patterns to uncover insights into the conditions associated with Gaya’s historical livelihood.
Sharing of Research Findings Aimed at Conveying the Value of Gaya’s Cultural Heritage to the Public
To vividly convey the progress and outcomes of our on-site research, we organized public events at excavation sites and showcased recovered artifacts. Additionally, we hosted nocturnal cultural gatherings, inviting local residents to partake in and foster a communal appreciation for cultural heritage in the area. This initiative aimed to elevate awareness of site conservation and management. For scholars and experts, the Expert Forum on the Gaya-ri Site, Haman facilitated swift sharing of the latest findings and provided a platform for scholarly discussions.
Major accomplishments
[Notes] Published Works and Academic Presentations
1. Research paper publication(1)
➀ Considerations on ground preparation for the Gimhae Bonghwang-dong Ruins(Annual Riview in Cultural Heriage Studies Vol. 55, No. 4, KCI)
2. Academic presentations(6)
① A study on the process of construction the capital of Ara Gaya(Ninth Worldwide Conference of the Society for East Asian Archaeology)
② Fortress construction technology in Geumgwan Gaya and Ara Gaya(Engineering technology of Silla and Gaya, Gyeongju National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage)
③ Excavation achievements and future tasks of the Gaya-ri Site, Haman(Gaya in the international relations of Northeast Asia, 2022 Special Academic Conference on Gaya’s history by the Society for Korean Ancient History)
④ Historical Remains at Gaya-ri, Haman(Excavation and Future Tasks of Gaya-ri Ruins, Haman, Gaya National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage)
⑤ Review of the fortress construction method in Gaya-ri, Haman(Excavation and Future Tasks of Gaya-ri Ruins, Haman, Gaya National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage)
⑥ Chronological review of the ruins and artifacts at Gaya-ri, Haman(Excavation and Future Tasks of Gaya-ri Ruins, Haman, Gaya National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage)
3. Public Relations: Column and articles(2 cases)
① Discovery of a building site dedicated to cooking at the presumed royal palace site of Ara Gaya in Haman / 2021 Journal of Korean Archeology, National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage
② Achievements of the excavation at Bonghwang-dong Archaeological Site, Gimhae / Gimhae Culture(Vol.37), Gimhae Cultural Center