Choongju, South Korea - A significant archaeological discovery has been made in Choongju, South Korea, with the unearthing of 95 ancient tombs dating back to the Baekje Kingdom (18 BC - 660 AD). The tomb complex, located near the Tappyeongri Seven-Story Stone Pagoda (National Treasure No. 6), marks the first time Baekje tombs have been discovered in the Choongju region.

The excavation, conducted by the Jungwon Cultural Heritage Research Institute at the request of the Choongju city government, revealed a variety of tomb types, including stone chamber tombs, stone coffin tombs, and pit tombs. Artifacts found within the tombs, such as ring-pommel swords, iron swords, and earthenware, suggest that the burial site was used by the Baekje elite.

Choongju, historically a strategic location where the cultures of the Three Kingdoms of Korea intersected, has had limited historical records and artifacts related to the Baekje Kingdom. This discovery is considered a crucial piece of evidence that sheds light on the influence of Baekje in this historically important region.

A Choongju city official stated, “The discovery of the Tappyeongri Hwangsaemori Tomb Complex, along with the Tappyeongri ruins and Jangmi Mountain Fortress, demonstrates the strength of the Baekje Kingdom in the Namhan River area during the 5th century.” The city government plans to further investigate the tomb complex and develop it into a historical and cultural tourism resource.