The Catholic heritage site in Namgye-ri, Iseo-myeon, Wanju County, North Jeolla Province has been notified for national historic-site designation, opening a new chapter for preserving Korea's Catholic history and developing pilgrimage tourism.
The National Heritage Administration announced the pending designation of the 'Wanju Namgye-ri Ruins' as a national historic site. The ruins are where the remains of Yun Ji-chung, Kwon Sang-yeon, and Yun Ji-heon—recorded as Korea's earliest official Catholic martyrs—were unearthed, making it a vivid testimony to the persecution of Catholics in late Joseon. The Union Times and Newsro reported.
광고 문의 · 300×250The Chonam-i sacred site and excavation findings
A March 2021 excavation uncovered the remains of Yun Ji-chung and Kwon Sang-yeon, martyred during the 1791 Sinhai Persecution, along with a white-porcelain bowl marker; the remains of Yun Ji-heon, martyred in the 1801 Sinyu Persecution, were also found. The site was an important hub of Catholic faith in the Honam region during the late Joseon period, a historical venue where the faith community persisted despite persecution.
If the designation is confirmed, systematic conservation and development work will follow, and the site's status as a Catholic pilgrimage destination is expected to rise. Local communities are growing their expectations for economic revitalization drawing on historical and cultural assets.
A Wanju County official welcomed the pending designation and said the county plans to actively pursue sacred-site infrastructure development and linked tourism programs.
