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Ulsan’s Bangucheon Stream Petroglyphs Inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Site

The government will install floodgates at Sayeon Dam to prevent annual submergence of the prehistoric carvings.

This photo taken on July 3, 2025, shows the Bangudae petroglyphs in Daegok-ri, Ulsan, some 360 kilometers southeast of Seoul. (Yonhap)
Image
This file photo shows petroglyphs along the Bangucheon Stream, inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage list on July 12, 2025. (Yonhap)
This aerial file photo taken May 27, 2025, shows petroglyphs in Cheonjeon-ri, Ulsan, some 360 kilometers southeast of Seoul. (Yonhap)

Overview

  • UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee granted formal inscription during its 47th session in Paris on July 12 after ICOMOS recommended listing in May.
  • The site comprises two panels—Bangudae in Daegok-ri (National Treasure No. 285) and Cheonjeon-ri (National Treasure No. 147)—with over 900 engravings of animals, hunting scenes and abstract symbols.
  • The Bangudae panel includes the world’s oldest known depiction of whale hunting, while Cheonjeon-ri features more than 620 figures spanning prehistoric to Bronze Age artistry.
  • With this addition, South Korea’s UNESCO World Heritage entries rise to 17, underscoring its growing global heritage portfolio.
  • Officials will report progress on dam modifications to the World Heritage Centre as recommended by the committee.