A Study on the Damage of the Three Storied Stone Pagoda of Bulguksa Temple in GyeongJu

A comprehensive analysis of the three-storied stone pagoda at Bulguksa Temple reveals that its structural damage stems from multiple interacting factors, including compressive stress, shear stress, bending stress, and lateral pressure. While the stereobate stones exhibit sufficient strength to support upper structures, other critical contributors include construction flaws, the inherent weakness of soft rock materials, environmental soil changes (such as subsidence and degradation), and natural disasters like earthquakes, lightning, and heavy rainfall. Ultrasonic examinations provided key data on stone material integrity, highlighting that while compressive stress leads to cracks and exfoliation, shear, bending, and lateral pressures primarily drive the shearing of stereobate stones. This study underscores the complex interplay between material properties, construction techniques, environmental conditions, and natural forces in the degradation of historic structures.

Ji, Sung-Jin. (2013). A Study on the Damage of the Three Storied Stone Pagoda of Bulguksa Temple in GyeongJu. Journal of Architectural History, 22(6), 47–58. https://doi.org/10.7738/JAH.2013.22.6.047