• Korean Journal of Heritage: History & Science
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• v.55 no.2
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• pp.132-144
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• 2022

The representative cultural heritage showing relatively clearly the growth and development of the Mahan culture in Jeollabuk-do is the tombs in Sangun-ri, Wanju. The tombs were excavated in the early 2000s; however, little effort has since been made to investigate or preserve the wider area around the tombs. Thus, only the status quo has been maintained except for the conservation of a few relic parks. In recent years, active cultural management has become necessary to maintain the historic areas in the Mahan cultural region, so these tombs are once again receiving attention. To further the preservation efforts in the area, it is important to actively discuss budget adjustments, consider additional investigation, and re-examine the academic value of the historic site. Practical limitations mean that it is necessary to approach the conservation strategy in stages. The first step is to have the areas of cultural interest and any adjacent lands urgently designated as provincially protected cultural heritage. Consequently, historically important areas on private land should be identified and purchased. Thereafter, a preservation plan should be established to reinforce the historical value of the sites as nationally designated historic sites. This can be achieved through the restoration of the landscape adjacent to the historic sites, as well as additional investigations and designation of sites in surrounding areas. These goals can only be achieved with the active interest and support of relevant institutions.