Archaeological Site in Wanggung-ri, Iksan

Site details

The Wanggung-ri Ruins are one of the largest Baekje heritage sites alongside Mireuksa Temple Site. Initially, a royal palace was constructed during the reign of King Mu of Baekje. Subsequent investigations revealed that major buildings were later dismantled and replaced by a temple. Excavations have uncovered the foundations of palace buildings, garden facilities, toilet sites, and outer walls, indicating that Wanggung-ri was either the capital or closely related to the royal capital. This site is invaluable as it is the only relic that confirms the structure of a Baekje royal palace, supporting theories of Iksan as either the capital or a secondary capital of Baekje. The vast palace grounds, now mostly ruins, also feature the Wanggung-ri Five-story Stone Pagoda, believed to be constructed in the early Goryeo period, and the Wanggung-ri Ruins Exhibition Hall. The exhibition hall offers models, current maps, videos, and artifacts that provide a vivid reconstruction of the Baekje royal palace.