Distribution characteristics of dolmens in Bugokri, Gochang and the Big Dipper

A groundbreaking analysis of dolmen distribution at Bugokri, Gochang, reveals that prehistoric societies encoded astronomical knowledge into their megalithic structures. Researchers discovered that dolmens and dolmen clusters were deliberately arranged to mirror the Big Dipper constellation, with a central peak (Sirubong) serving as an alignment marker for the North Star. This finding challenges the conventional view of dolmens solely as burial sites, instead presenting them as sophisticated celestial records reflecting ancient astronomical observation and cosmological beliefs. By comparing dolmen stone holes with star maps and solar calendars, the study demonstrates a sophisticated integration of natural science and humanities in prehistoric life, suggesting that dolmen complexes functioned as tangible representations of the night sky on Earth.

Lee, B.-Y. (2021). Distribution characteristics of dolmens in Bugokri, Gochang and the Big Dipper. The Journal of Honam Studies, 70, 259–285. https://doi.org/10.37996/hs.70.9