Over 600 Prehistoric Rock Cavities Discovered at Obongsan, Sangju, Gyeongbuk

Large-scale prehistoric cave dwelling site discovered in the Obongsan area of Hamchang-myeon, Sangju-si, Gyeongbuk. [Image source=Sangju-si]

[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Yeo Jong-gu] A large-scale rock cave (암혈, rock hole) presumed to be from the prehistoric era has been discovered in the Obongsan area of Hambang-eup, Sangju-si, Gyeongbuk.

The rock cave was reported by local residents in December last year, and a detailed survey by a cultural heritage specialist institution confirmed about 600 holes.

According to the Sejong Cultural Heritage Research Institute, the Obongsan rock cave is evaluated to have a very unique character compared to domestic sacred cave sites known so far, in terms of location, scale, density, arrangement structure, and functional aspects.

While most domestic sacred cave sites have been found along riversides, mountain foothills, low valley rocks, dolmens, and ancient tombs, the Obongsan rock cave was investigated to be distributed in large clusters on ridge tops and valleys.

The research institute explained, “The Obongsan rock cave has a structure where water fills holes located high along the natural rock curves, flows downward, gathers in large holes or grooves, and then flows out to the ground.”

Kang Young-seok, mayor of Sangju-si, said, “We will preserve the cultural heritage value of the Obongsan rock cave, create a heritage park in the long term, promote designation as a national historic site, and prepare systematic utilization plans.”

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