Initiation of the Academic Investigation and Research on the Gochang Dolmen Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
A new ambitious research project, undertaken by Wanju National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage, plans to complete an
academic investigation of the Gochang Dolmen Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, over the following three years.
Points Extended to Lines and Then to Planes
The landscape formed by multiple monoliths, not just one, laid out
on an expansive field provides a sense of both stability and drama
as distinct points extend to lines and then ultimately planes. In
ancient times, dolmens must have represented the aspiration to
accompany the deceased to the very last moment and create a
string between life and death by those left behind. The dolmens
have stood the test of time and still remain in their positions as
a steadfast part of the local community, conveying stories dating
back to the ancient era
Discovering Long-Hidden Vitality from Stone
It has been more than 20 years since the Gochang Dolmen Site
was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in December
It is time for us to take a new leap forward. Our aim is
to redefine the Gochang Dolmen Site’s universality in terms
of world history as well as its unique traits. The continued
discovery of additional dolmens following the site’s inscription
has also required a new dimension of research. In this context,
our institute released a plan for the comprehensive academic
study of the Gochang Dolmen Site to enhance its value as a
World Heritage Site.
Uncovering Long-Hidden Vitality in Stone
Four Investigation Goals
The project to be initiated this year has the following four goals.
First, this project is a paleo-topographical study of the
dolmen site using aviation lidar under the goals of searching for unidentified dolmens, analyzing the site’s geographical
conditions, and highlighting the site’s connection to surrounding
heritage sites.
Second, this project is a scientific study of the quarry that aims
to identify the entire dolmen-making process, from quarrying to
stone transportation and dolmen creation, and thereby uncover
the ancient techniques used.
Third, this project is an investigation of the distribution of
identified dolmens and a full-scale excavation of the sections yet
to be investigated in an attempt to reorganize the distribution of
already identified dolmens and uncover unidentified dolmens.
Fourth, this project involves comparing dolmens of Gochang – gun and megalithic monuments of other countries to define
their commonly shared points and distinctive characteristics.
It will be initiated with an on-site investigation of megalithic
monuments in Kitakyushu, Japan, and the conclusion of MOUs
with major related government institutions in Japan.
Although excitement about the dolmen, which heated up in
2000, may have cooled down over time, the embers remain
alive deep within. We aim to add the warmth of renewed
interest to spark the cold stone aflame with excitement once
again. Your continued interest and encouragement will be much
appreciated.
01 Bird’s eye view of dolmens
02 Gochang Dolmen Site (from the western front) (Group 2 of District 2)
03 Dolmen 2202 04 Examination using aviation lidar
05 Quarry (Point K)
06 MOU signing with Gochang-gun 07 Gochang Dolmen Site (from the southern front) and investigation zone (marked in red)
08 Gochang Dolmen Site (from the eastern front) and investigation zone (marked in red)