Seokjangni Museum
The Seokjangni Museum (석장리박물관; map), located along the Geum River in Gongju City, offers a glimpse into Korea’s Paleolithic era.
Built to commemorate the discovery of the Seokjangni Paleolithic site, the museum brings to life the culture, tools, and daily activities of ancient humans who lived in the region up to 300,000 years ago.
The Legacy of Seokjangni
In 1964, Professor Son Bok-gi, along with his research team, unearthed evidence that changed the narrative of Korean history. Stone tools and artifacts found here confirmed the existence of Paleolithic humans on the Korean Peninsula.
This discovery not only established the foundation for prehistoric studies in Korea but also debunked earlier assumptions that the region lacked such ancient heritage. The Seokjangni Museum, which opened in 2006, preserves and presents these significant findings.
Exhibitions and Facilities
The museum’s architecture, designed by Lee Eung-mook, is as striking as the artifacts it holds. Outside, visitors are greeted by sculptures of Paleolithic humans, including depictions of tool-making and hunting scenes.
Inside, the museum’s permanent exhibitions are divided into thematic sections:
- Human Evolution: The first gallery explores the journey of human evolution, from bipedal movement to the development of tools. Interactive exhibits help visitors visualize the slow yet transformative changes that shaped early humans.
- The Seokjangni Excavation: The second gallery focuses on the discoveries made at the Seokjangni site. Detailed records, photographs, and tools such as hand axes and scrapers are displayed.
- Paleolithic Life: The third gallery recreates the daily lives of ancient humans, with reconstructed dwellings and a look at their social structures and survival strategies.
- Interactive Displays: The fourth section, popular with children, combines hands-on learning and technology. Visitors can engage with digital projections of ancient villages and see how their interactions bring these scenes to life.
Outdoor Features
Beyond the museum’s walls, the site extends into a prehistoric park. Visitors can walk among replicas of Paleolithic dwellings and immerse themselves in scenes of ancient life. These reconstructions allow guests to visualize how early humans adapted to their environment.
The park also offers opportunities for hands-on learning through activities like stone tool crafting and fire-making demonstrations, making it an engaging experience for families and school groups.
Events and Programs
The museum is a hub for cultural events. Each year, it hosts the World Paleolithic Festival to celebrate the 1964 discovery. This festival features hands-on activities, live demonstrations of prehistoric skills, and discussions with archaeologists. Seasonal programs, such as guided tours and workshops, offer deeper insights into Paleolithic culture and archaeology.
Visitor Information
The Seokjangni Museum is open year-round, with slightly reduced hours in the winter months. Admission fees are modest, with discounts available for groups and Gongju residents. The museum is fully accessible, offering wheelchair and stroller rentals and barrier-free facilities. Ample parking and public transportation options make it easy to reach.
