▲ This image, provided by the National Research Institute of Maritime Cultural Heritage, shows tobacco pipes unearthed from Seonyudo waters. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

 

SEOUL, Nov. 29 (Yonhap) -- A significant underwater excavation near Seonyudo, Gunsan, has uncovered over 220 artifacts, the National Research Institute of Maritime Cultural Heritage announced on Friday.

 

From April to October this year, the institute carried out an extensive survey of the Seonyudo waters, uncovering approximately 190 ceramics, including celadon, buncheong ware, and white porcelain, alongside 20 metal artifacts such as Joseon-era coins (Sangpyeong Tongbo) and bronze spoons. 

 

These waters are found vital maritime route since ancient times, the state-run agency added. 

 

Among the artifacts, clusters of buncheong ware, white porcelain, and tobacco pipes (gombangdae), likely from the Joseon period, were found in identical forms and quantities. This suggests they were cargo transported by ship rather than items used by sailors.

 

Such findings contrast with other Joseon-era underwater discoveries, such as at Taean’s Mado No. 4 wreck site, which mostly consist of personal belongings or lost items.

 

▲ This image, provided by the National Research Institute of Maritime Cultural Heritage, shows Buncheong ware and white porcelain discovered in Seonyudo waters. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

 

The team also unearthed a wooden anchor component (dalgaji), reinforcing historical records. A late Joseon map, Gogunsanjin Jido, described the area as a harbor where merchant ships and government grain vessels (joseon) waited out storms or prepared for voyages.

 

Seonyudo’s strategic importance as a trade and transportation hub in the Yellow Sea is well-documented. Since excavation efforts began in 2021, over 660 artifacts have been uncovered, spanning eras from prehistory to the Joseon Dynasty.

 

Past discoveries include prehistoric stone daggers, Goryeo celadon, and various Joseon-era buncheong and porcelain items.

 

▲ This image, provided by the National Research Institute of Maritime Cultural Heritage, shows Sangpyeong Tongbo coins recovered from the Seonyudo waters. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

 

Evidence of shipwrecks, including bundles of celadon cargo and ship components like oars and anchors, suggests the area may conceal additional wrecks awaiting exploration.

 

The institute plans to consolidate its findings in a comprehensive report scheduled for release in 2025. These discoveries provide tangible evidence of Seonyudo’s historical role in Korean and international maritime trade.

 

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