Excavations at Seokjang-ri revealed 12 distinct cultural layers, confirming long-term human occupation at the site.
The site provided the first clear evidence in Korea that human ancestors occupied the peninsula during the Paleolithic Age.
Archaeologists recovered over 1,000 stone artifacts and various charcoal remains used for dating the site.
The Geumgang River's flooding patterns played a crucial role in preserving the site by covering artifacts with thick layers of sediment.
The site layout includes a reconstruction of a semi-subterranean pit house based on archaeological findings of post-hole patterns.
The Gongju Seokjang-ri Paleolithic Remains is a significant archaeological site located on the banks of the Geumgang River, marking the first site in South Korea where Paleolithic culture was systematically excavated. Discovered in 1964 by Professor Son Pow-key, the site revealed evidence of human habitation dating back to the Middle and Upper Paleolithic periods. The facility features an on-site museum that displays stone tools, reconstructed huts, and diorama exhibits illustrating the lifestyle of early humans in the Korean peninsula. Outdoor installations include life-sized replicas of Paleolithic dwellings and prehistoric figures situated in a park-like setting. The site is recognized for its stratigraphic integrity, which provided vital evidence for the chronology of human development in East Asia. Archaeological finds here include hundreds of stone artifacts such as scrapers, choppers, and points that demonstrate sophisticated tool-making techniques of the era.
The grassy hillside featuring the life-sized Paleolithic human statues and reconstructed huts with the Geumgang River in the background.
Bring a hat and sunscreen as the outdoor park area has minimal shade.
Walk the full length of the riverside trail to see the outdoor dioramas and reconstructed dwellings.
Check the official website for the annual Paleolithic Festival dates, which offer interactive prehistoric-themed experiences.
Do not mistake this for a standard art museum; the focus is strictly on prehistoric archaeology and early human history.
Closed on Mondays and the morning of New Year's Day.
Respect the archaeological park signage; do not touch or climb on outdoor exhibits.
