During a security sweep on Mount Geumseong in Naju, South Korea, conducted prior to the construction of a hiking trail, soldiers made one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in modern history. Following a signal from mine detectors, an excavation at a depth of approximately 10 centimeters revealed a bronze cannon estimated to be over 600 years old.
This portable weapon, known as a Hwangja Hwatong, measures 23.75 centimeters in length and weighs approximately one kilogram. The most remarkable feature of the artifact is the 28-character inscription meticulously engraved on its body. This epigraphic record not only specifies the weapon's name and weight but also identifies the official responsible for its production, 'An Hyu-bo,' and the master craftsman named 'Seok' [1]. Such inscribed bronze artifacts serve as critical primary sources for understanding state organization and technological standards in antiquity [3].
Debates on Production Chronology
Based on the calendrical information within the inscription, researchers are evaluating two possible production dates. If manufactured in 1377, the weapon would belong to the late Goryeo Dynasty and the formative years of the Hwatong Dogam, Korea's first gunpowder production unit. The alternative date of 1437 points to the reign of King Sejong the Great. In either case, the artifact is recognized as one of the earliest extant examples of Korean military history.
Microscopic analysis of the weapon's internal structure revealed a rounded design for the powder chamber. This configuration is considered evidence of early engineering from a period before the invention of wooden wads used to propel projectiles; instead, the gunpowder and projectile were placed within the same tube. Similarly, impurities such as sulfur and silver in the bronze alloy reflect the limitations of metallurgical refining techniques of the era [4].
This rare artifact has been taken under protection by the Korea Heritage Service (KHS). Combining historical records with physical technology, this significant find will be exhibited to the public at the National Palace Museum of Korea in Seoul in the autumn of 2026. For additional resources and further reading strengthening this context, see [2].
Sources and further reading
- [1] bronze cannon - Arkeonews
- [2] Spain archaeology - Arkeonews
- [3] bronze inscription - Arkeonews
- [4] ‘Mysterious’ inscription on ancient Dacia sphinx is deciphered - Arkeonews
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