Petroglyphs along the Bangucheon Stream in Ulsan have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as a single property, becoming Korea’s 17th UNESCO World Heritage Site and the first Stone Age heritage in the country to be inscribed. Of the 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Korea, 15 are cultural heritage sites and 2 are natural heritage sites.

Petroglyphs along the Bangucheon Stream encompass the area of Petroglyphs of Bangudae Terrace in Daegok-ri and Petroglyphs of Cheonjeon-ri. The term “Petroglyphs” refers to carvings and drawings on rocks and caves depicting the life of the time, carrying a significant historical value.

Both petroglyph sites illustrate the history of Korea through vivid carvings, giving a glimpse into the lives of people from that era. In particular, Petroglyphs of Bangudae Terrace stand out for their vivid and detailed depiction of hunting a whale. The petroglyphs of Cheonjeon-ri depicts the life and thoughts of people from prehistoric times to the Silla dynasty.

The UNESCO World Heritage Committee described them as a masterpiece of creative genius that serves as a proof of the rock-carving tradition that dates back 6,000 years.

This newly inscribed UNESCO World Heritage Site makes an attractive destination with so much history and culture to explore in the area, including attractions like Ulsan Petroglyph Museum and Ulsan Daegok Museum. A city tour program is also under discussion, which will highlight the rich history and culture of the area.

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Petroglyphs along the Bangucheon Stream

Petroglyphs of Bangudae Terrace in Daegok-ri
Address: San 234-1, Daegok-ri, Eongyang-eup, Ulju-gun, Ulsan (울산광역시 울주군 언양읍 대곡리 산234-1)

Petroglyphs of Cheonjeon-ri
Address: San 210-2, Cheonjeon-ri, Dudong-myeon, Ulju-gun, Ulsan (울산광역시 울주군 두동면 천전리 산210-2)

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