Muju County Uncovers 'Three Kingdoms Period Remains' at Bonghwasan Summit

A New Opportunity to Reexamine the Ancient History and Historical Significance of the Region

Muju County in North Jeolla Province has uncovered beacon mound remains from the Three Kingdoms period at the summit of Bonghwasan Mountain (885 meters) in Anseong-myeon.

According to the county on August 25, this excavation is expected to serve as an opportunity to shed new light on the ancient history and historical significance of the Muju region.

Exterior view of Muju County Office. Provided by Muju County.

Through this excavation, the county revealed that the summit area of the Bonghwasan beacon mound remains is surrounded by stone walls, and a row of stone structures presumed to be fortress walls was also discovered on the southern slope.

This suggests that Bonghwasan Mountain functioned not only as a signaling facility but also had defensive capabilities. Evidence supporting the actual operation of the beacon mound, such as burnt soil, charcoal, and stones, was found at the summit.

In addition, numerous household vessels from the Three Kingdoms period, including jars and steamers, as well as hard pottery engraved with decorative patterns, were unearthed, confirming that the construction and operation of the beacon mound date back to the Three Kingdoms period.

County Governor Hwang Inhong stated, "During last year's detailed surface survey and trial excavation, the discovery of stone structures (fortress walls) for the defense of the beacon mound and fragments of Three Kingdoms period pottery highlighted the need for a full-scale excavation. We expect this investigation, following the Dangsan-ri beacon mound remains, to provide crucial clues for understanding the military and transportation network of the Muju region during the Three Kingdoms period." He added, "We will continue to do our utmost to uncover and preserve the historical value of Muju."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.