The Uiwang Local History Museum, the sole public museum in Uiwang, is currently hosting an exhibition titled Excavation: Unearthed Artifacts, featuring relics uncovered from the Paleolithic period through the historic era. The exhibition highlights the cultural and historical significance of artifacts discovered within the region.
The showcased artifacts were unearthed during rescue excavations conducted in the Poil District 2 and the I-dong Inland Container Depot (ICD) construction sites. These rescue excavations are carried out during construction projects, such as apartment complexes or roads, to prevent the destruction of any discovered artifacts or sites of historical importance.
Visitors to the exhibition will encounter a diverse range of artifacts, including Paleolithic stone tools such as choppers, scrapers, and awls, as well as Bronze Age polished stone tools like arrowheads, axes, and stone knives. Various pottery pieces spanning different historical periods are also on display, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of early Uiwang inhabitants.
The exhibition delves into the intricate process of excavation, illustrating how buried relics are carefully uncovered and brought to light. It also sheds light on the efforts and stories of those involved in the painstaking process of preserving history.
A museum representative emphasized the importance of the exhibition, stating, “This collection of artifacts is not just a series of historical objects but a vital key to understanding the rich history and culture of Uiwang. We hope visitors will leave with a deeper appreciation of the region’s past.”
The exhibition will run until November 14, 2025, and is open to the public free of charge. Visitors can explore the artifacts from 9 AM to 6 PM, every day except Mondays and legal holidays.
Through this exhibition, the Uiwang Local History Museum aims to bridge the past and present, providing a meaningful educational experience that underscores the importance of preserving cultural heritage. It also highlights how modern development and historical preservation can coexist when efforts are made to rescue and study archaeological finds.
As Uiwang continues to grow, exhibitions like Excavation: Unearthed Artifacts serve as a reminder of the region’s rich and layered history, fostering a sense of connection and pride among its residents.
Sayart / Jack Lee, wangjb77@gmail.com
