Songhakdong Tumuli , Goseong

Site details

The Songhakdong Ancient Tumuli in Goseong is a cluster of approximately seven tombs from the Gaya period, located in the Mugisan area north of Goseong-eup. This site is known as the old grounds of Sogaya in Goseong County. All the mounds were artificially constructed using a technique that involved compacting layers of soil on leveled ground, indicating the use of sophisticated earthwork methods. Artifacts such as pottery, gilt-bronze earrings, horse trappings, a large gilt-bronze decorated sword, a tall bronze cup, and glass beads have been unearthed. These tombs, believed to have been built between the late 5th and early 6th centuries, are considered central burial sites of Sogaya, likely belonging to the ruling class or royal family, reflecting the characteristics of Sogaya royal tombs. On September 24, 2023, during the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the Songhak-dong Tumuli, along with six other Gaya Tumuli (in Goseong, Goryeong, Gimhae, Haman, Changnyeong, Hapcheon, and Namwon), were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.