A Study on the Formation and Development Process of the 3rd~6rd Century Settlements in the downstream of Dong-cheon, Gwangyang

Recent archaeological excavations in the downstream of Dong-cheon, Gwangyang, South Korea, reveal that this region served as a pivotal settlement and transitional zone between the political entities of Mahan, Sogaya, and Baekje from the 3rd to 6th centuries. The study identifies three distinct developmental phases: initial expansion into flatlands and integration with foreign cultural influences (3rd–mid-4th century), increased Sogaya dominance and square-shaped habitation patterns (early 5th century onward), and eventual incorporation into Baekje's administrative system (late 5th–6th century). The presence of diverse foreign artifacts suggests this area acted as a bridge in maritime trade routes connecting Baekje, Mahan, Gaya, and Wae. Analysis of indigenous production and regional head tombs indicates rising local power during the late 5th to early 6th centuries, culminating in centralization under Baekje's rule.

Lee, G.-G. (2024). A Study on the Formation and Development Process of the 3rd~6rd Century Settlements in the downstream of Dong-cheon, Gwangyang. Central Institute of Cultural Heritage, 43, 33–69. https://doi.org/10.20292/jcich.2024.43.33