Lee Sol-eon
Researcher, Jungwon National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage
Chungju, historically known as “Jungwon-gyeong,” has long been recognized as one of Korea’s three major iron-producing regions. Here in Chungju stands the Jungwon NRICH, offering a window into the rich history and legacy of Jungwon culture. The institute features a permanent exhibition on “ironworking technology,” offering a glimpse into the long history of “iron,”from ancient times to the modern era, as well as a hands-on excavation experience area—providing rare access to cultural heritage fieldwork.
A Place Where Jungwon’s History and Heritage Converge
Chungju, often called the center of both waterways and mountain routes—and by extension, the heart of the Korean Peninsula—has long been known as “Jungwon-gyeong.” It is a region that embodies the spirit of Goguryeo, which once dominated the Manchurian plains, the brilliant culture of Baekje that flourished in defiance of great powers, and the proud legacy of Silla, which unified the Three Kingdoms. Chungju has also been recognized as one of Korea’s top three iron-producing regions, with iron playing a pivotal role in the mass production of weapons and farming tools. This strategic advantage has long been a source of pride and identity for the region.
Situated on land where a brilliant history lives on, Jungwon NRICH has served since its establishment in December 2007 as a central research institution for the Jungwon Historical and Cultural Region, encompassing Chungcheongbuk-do and Gangwon-do. Through academic investigations and research on cultural heritage, it sheds light on the historical significance of the region’s culture. Particularly active are its studies of “ironworking technologies” and “transportation routes,” both key aspects of Jungwon culture.
The exhibition hall is one of the institute’s most notable spaces. Designed as an open venue for public engagement, it conveys the message of “connecting the past to the present.” Under the theme “In Search of Jungwon Culture at the Crossroads of the Three Kingdoms,” the exhibition showcases the cultural characteristics of Mahan, Baekje, Goguryeo, and Silla, as well as Chungju’s signature ironworking technologies and results from a five-year excavation of the Gulsansa Temple Site in Gangneung.
All About “Iron” — From Antiquity to Modern Times
One of the most notable features of the exhibition is the “Ironworking Technology” section, which offers a vivid glimpse into Chungju’s rich legacy as one of “Korea’s three major iron-producing regions.” Abundant in iron since ancient times, Chungju has long been a key site for iron mining, with iron regarded as one of the most essential materials from antiquity to the modern era.
To produce the iron we use today, several key steps—mining, smelting, casting, and forging—must be undertaken. These processes are brought to life through a carefully designed diorama that welcomes visitors.
Artifacts such as tuyères (air-blowing pipes) and hammers, excavated from actual sites, are also on display, offering deeper insight into ancient iron production.
In the institute’s outdoor exhibition space, visitors can view full-scale models of smelting furnaces relocated from archaeological sites, along with furnaces used in experimental research on ancient ironworking—adding depth and realism to the experience. At the heart of this exhibition is the institute’s focus on accessibility. “The public often perceives cultural heritage as difficult and distant,” said Lee Sol-eon. “That’s why the primary goal of this space is to communicate its value in a way that’s easy to understand.” He added, “We hope the exhibition will spark greater interest in Jungwon culture and the heritage of the Chungju region.”
How Children Can Discover Cultural Heritage at Their Level
n addition to its permanent exhibition hall, Jungwon NRICH offers several handson learning spaces, including a Children’s Excavation Experience Zone. Notably, “the Children’s Excavation Experience Zone,” designed for children under the age of 11, features a full program—from 3D video screenings to excavation activities and artifact restoration. The excavation area, in particular, is a popular educational play space where children can learn about history by unearthing mock artifacts buried in hinoki cypress cubes. During the artifact restoration activity, children get to touch real artifacts or piece together broken ones, experiencing the process of bringing cultural artifacts back to their original form.
Lastly, the model-building activity of “the Seven-Story Stone Pagoda of Tappyeong-ri”—one of Chungju’s most iconic heritage sites—has received an enthusiastic response from children.
Lee Sol-eon remarked, “The Children’s Excavation Experience Zone offers a valuable opportunity for future generations to appreciate the value of cultural heritage and gain a hands-on sense of what a career in archaeology entails.
I hope that programs like this help naturally convey the institute’s role and significance to the public.”
“I want to share the culture of Jungwon—simply and engagingly.”
Q. Please briefly introduce yourself.
A. Hello, I’m Lee Sol-eon from Jungwon NRICH. I’ve been
working here since September 2021, now in my fourth year.
My main responsibilities include conducting archaeological
excavations, publishing research reports, and supporting
cultural heritage policies in the Jungwon Historical and
Cultural Region. I focus especially on highlighting the
historical importance of Jungwon as a hub of inland
transportation, and I’m involved in studies across various
areas such as fortress sites, Buddhist temples, and relay
stations.
Q. What advice would you give to visitors to enhance their
experience of the exhibition?
A. Rather than just “viewing” the displays, I recommend
approaching the exhibit with a mindset of understanding
the broader context of Jungwon culture—it makes the
experience much more engaging. For instance, asking
questions like “Why did the Three Kingdoms vie for control
of this region?” or “How did their cultures differ?” can help you
gain a deeper appreciation of the historical significance of
Jungwon culture.
Q. Could you recommend some nearby attractions or places
worth visiting around the institute?
A. The institute is located within Tangeum Park in Chungju.
The park features family-friendly spots like “Chungju Larva
Land,” a maze garden, playgrounds, and open lawns for
picnicking. Nearby are the Han River and the Tangeumdae
Scenic Site, historically significant as the place where Ureuk,
the legendary gayageum master, once played, and where
General Shin Rip fought a major battle during the Imjin War.
A visit here offers a well-rounded experience of Chungju’s
cultural richness and natural beauty.