Prehistory and Ancient History::NATIONAL MUSEUM OF KOREA

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Prehistory and Ancient History

The Prehistory and Ancient History section displays artifacts that represent some of the earliest evidence of Korean civilization and culture, from stone tools of the Paleolithic age to gold jewelry of the Silla Kingdom and stone monoliths of the Balhae era, with each room documenting those aspects that uniquely define each of Korea's different periods of ancient history.

Prehistory and Ancient History Gaya Confederacy
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Showroom
Horn Cup

Mounted Dish with Lid

Jar with Hole and Deer-shaped Figurines

Flat Iron Axe

Iron Ingot

Iron Miniature Object

Helmet and Plate Armor

Saw Knife

Sword with Ring Pommel

Horse Helmet

Jar with Two Lugs

Vessel Stand

Vessel Stand

Gilt-bronze Crown

Bronze Ornament with Pinwheel Design

Glass Cup
More
Introduction
- - The Gaya Confederacy (42-562 CE) developed thanks to the abundant iron resources available in the mid- to lower regions of the Nakdonggang, formerly Byeonhan territory. In its early stages, Gaya was centered around Geumgwan Gaya in the Gimhae area of Gyeongsangnam-do, which became a hub of international trade, providing iron to Nangnang and ancient Japan via sea routes. In the late 3rd century CE, the region increased its power by embracing northern civilization, causing the center of activity to move northward to Dae Gaya in the Goryeong area of Gyeongsangbuk-do. Excavations of Gaya sites have yielded pottery inscribed with the “Great King” (大王), as well as flamboyant gold crowns, demonstrating that the state was strong enough to compete against Silla and Baekje.
  - Gaya culture is characterized by stone chamber tombs that were dug vertically, various pottery with smooth curves, a proliferation of iron objects and weapons, and gold and silver inlay techniques. In particular, artifacts excavated from Gaya tombs in Daeseong-dong (Gimhae, Gyeongsangnam-do); Dohang-ri (Haman, Gyeongsangnam-do); Okjeon (Hapcheon, Gyeongsangnam-do); and Jisan-ri (Goryeong, Gyeongsangbuk-do) illustrate the magnificence of Gaya culture.
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