Research Article
Current Status and Challenges of Mountain fortress in Okcheon Area
충북대학교
Published: January 2023 · Vol. 31 · pp. 85-122
Full Text
Abstract
The Okcheon region served as a battleground between ancient Baekje(百濟) and Silla(新羅), hosting an estimated 46 mountain fortresses believed to have been constructed between the Three Kingdoms period and the Goryeo dynasty.
Thus, this study examined the current status, distribution, location, size, and construction techniques of these mountain fortresses in the Okcheon region.
Through an analysis of the status and construction techniques of these fortresses, it was observed that the mountain fortresses in the Okcheon region show differences between the eastern and western areas, divided by the Seohwacheon stream. Particularly, GIS-based visibility analysis also indicates a confrontational pattern, where mountain fortresses on either side of the Seohwacheon stream seemingly confront each other, suggesting the possibility of Baekje and Silla facing off across this boundary.
Furthermore, considering the chronology of artifacts excavated from sites like Iseong-mountain fortresse(已城⼭ 城) and Okcheon Geumguli-old burial mounds, it is deduced that Silla had already expanded into the Okcheon region by the late 5th century.
However, the mountain fortresses in the Okcheon region are currently heavily damaged. To accurately understand the reality and history of Okcheon's mountain fortresses, it is necessary to establish conservation measures, conduct academic investigations, and plan research for the major mountain fortresses. Additionally, efforts should be made towards the restoration, maintenance, and exploration of utilization methods for these mountain fortresses.
Archaeological studies conducted thus far have provided an opportunity to reevaluate the significance and historical value of the mountain fortresses in the Okcheon region. I believe they've paved the way for a renewed recognition of the importance of these mountain fortresses. I hope that through future efforts in conservation, scholarly investigation, and research, we can further elucidate the historical reality.
Moreover, I aspire that through initiatives aimed at restoration and utilization, Okcheon can emerge as a city steeped in history and culture.
Thus, this study examined the current status, distribution, location, size, and construction techniques of these mountain fortresses in the Okcheon region.
Through an analysis of the status and construction techniques of these fortresses, it was observed that the mountain fortresses in the Okcheon region show differences between the eastern and western areas, divided by the Seohwacheon stream. Particularly, GIS-based visibility analysis also indicates a confrontational pattern, where mountain fortresses on either side of the Seohwacheon stream seemingly confront each other, suggesting the possibility of Baekje and Silla facing off across this boundary.
Furthermore, considering the chronology of artifacts excavated from sites like Iseong-mountain fortresse(已城⼭ 城) and Okcheon Geumguli-old burial mounds, it is deduced that Silla had already expanded into the Okcheon region by the late 5th century.
However, the mountain fortresses in the Okcheon region are currently heavily damaged. To accurately understand the reality and history of Okcheon's mountain fortresses, it is necessary to establish conservation measures, conduct academic investigations, and plan research for the major mountain fortresses. Additionally, efforts should be made towards the restoration, maintenance, and exploration of utilization methods for these mountain fortresses.
Archaeological studies conducted thus far have provided an opportunity to reevaluate the significance and historical value of the mountain fortresses in the Okcheon region. I believe they've paved the way for a renewed recognition of the importance of these mountain fortresses. I hope that through future efforts in conservation, scholarly investigation, and research, we can further elucidate the historical reality.
Moreover, I aspire that through initiatives aimed at restoration and utilization, Okcheon can emerge as a city steeped in history and culture.