Kukje-ri site

Definition

The kukje-ri site is an archaeological location in Korea known for its significant findings from the Neolithic period, particularly evidence of early human settlements and their cultural practices. It showcases the development of pottery and tools, reflecting the social and economic advancements of the time, as well as burial practices that give insights into the beliefs of early Koreans.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The kukje-ri site is located in South Korea and dates back to approximately 4000-2000 BCE, making it a crucial site for understanding Neolithic life.
2. Archaeological excavations at the kukje-ri site have uncovered various artifacts, including pottery, stone tools, and remnants of ancient dwellings.
3. The pottery found at kukje-ri often features distinctive designs that reflect the artistic expressions and daily lives of its inhabitants.
4. Evidence of burial sites discovered at kukje-ri suggests that early Koreans practiced ritualistic burials, indicating complex belief systems surrounding death.
5. The findings at kukje-ri contribute to the understanding of the transition from a hunter-gatherer lifestyle to more settled agricultural communities in Korea.

Review Questions

• How does the kukje-ri site provide insights into the social structures of Neolithic Koreans?
  • The kukje-ri site offers valuable insights into Neolithic social structures through its archaeological findings. The presence of pottery and tools suggests a degree of specialization in craft production, indicating that individuals may have had specific roles within their communities. Additionally, burial practices uncovered at the site hint at social hierarchies, as some graves contain more elaborate artifacts than others, reflecting varying status among individuals.
• What role did pottery play in the cultural development observed at the kukje-ri site?
  • Pottery played a crucial role in the cultural development observed at the kukje-ri site by serving not only practical functions but also reflecting artistic expression. The distinct designs and techniques seen in the pottery indicate a level of sophistication and creativity among the Neolithic people. Furthermore, these pottery artifacts suggest advancements in food storage and preparation methods, highlighting changes in lifestyle as communities transitioned towards more settled agricultural practices.
• Evaluate how the discoveries at the kukje-ri site contribute to our understanding of the transition from nomadic lifestyles to settled agriculture in early Korea.
  • The discoveries at the kukje-ri site significantly contribute to our understanding of the transition from nomadic lifestyles to settled agriculture by providing evidence of permanent structures and community organization. Artifacts such as domesticated plant remains alongside sophisticated pottery suggest that these communities were beginning to cultivate crops and form stable food sources. This shift indicates a fundamental change in how early Koreans interacted with their environment and each other, leading to more complex societal structures and cultural practices.

Related terms

Neolithic Revolution: A period marked by the transition from nomadic hunter-gatherer societies to settled agricultural communities, which led to the development of more complex social structures.

Chulmun Culture: An ancient culture in Korea during the Neolithic era, characterized by its distinctive comb-patterned pottery and reliance on hunting, fishing, and gathering.

Dolmen: A type of megalithic tomb that was common in Korea during the prehistoric period, often associated with burial rituals and indicating social stratification.