'5th Century Daegaya Center' Gyeongbuk Goryeong Designated as Korea's Fifth 'Godu'

Goryeong Designated as Korea's Fifth Ancient Capital
Following Gyeongju, Buyeo, Gongju, and Iksan

The Cultural Heritage Administration announced on the 18th that Goryeong-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, which was the activity stage of Daegaya in the 5th to 6th centuries, has been designated as an ancient capital. It is the fifth such designation in Korea, following Gyeongju, Buyeo, Gongju, and Iksan.

The current appearance of Goryeong-gun, which holds the traces of the ancient Daegaya. Provided by the Cultural Heritage Administration

An ancient capital is designated as a region of historical significance that served as the political and cultural center of our nation. Once designated as an ancient capital, government support is provided for residential environment and streetscape improvement projects, resident participation programs, and community organizations. Projects such as the establishment of exploration base centers and the creation of historical and cultural spaces utilizing relics are also carried out.

According to historical records, Daegaya was a state in ancient Korea that developed to a level comparable to Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla. The activity range of Daegaya is estimated to have encompassed Goryeong in the late 5th century, as well as Hapcheon, Geochang, Hamyang, Sancheong, Hadong, Namwon, Suncheon, and Gwangyang. Among these, Goryeong was the political and cultural center of Daegaya.

In the Goryeong area, there are well-preserved remains that demonstrate Daegaya’s capital city system, including the palace site, the royal palace defense fortress (Jusanseong), waterway transportation relics, golden crowns, pottery inscribed with the title ‘Daewang (Great King)’, and pottery kilns. The Jisandong Tumuli Cluster, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site, along with other tangible and intangible cultural heritages, are well preserved, holding high historical and academic value.

The Cultural Heritage Administration stated, “With this ancient capital designation, we will widely promote the historical value of Goryeong Daegaya both domestically and internationally, and revitalize tourism and cultural industries,” adding, “We expect it to contribute to the development of the local economy.”