An Examination of the Significance of Group Burials of Human Remains from the Unified Silla Period Excavated at the Beonseong-dong Site in Jinju

Research on human remains excavated from archaeological sites has primarily focused on the Three Kingdoms period and the Joseon dynasty. These studies are centered around reconstructing the life histories and burial processes of the individuals whose remains are recovered. However, such research has often been limited to cases where remains were found in isolation, with clear causes of death. In contrast, when multiple human remains are discovered, the reasons for burial can be diverse. The archaeological site investigated in this study is located in the eastern historical preservation area of Jinju Castle, specifically in Zone 3 of Beonseong-dong, Jinju. During excavation undertaken before the maintenance of the sewage system in Jinju, more than 20 human remains were identified within a grave structure dating to the late 9th to early 10th century. The dating was estimated to be around 800-900 CE based on associated pottery and radiocarbon dating. The remains were found in a disarticulated state, and an analysis of the cranial and postcranial elements revealed that the majority were women and children. The remains featured traces of sharp force trauma on the cranium and mandible, suggesting that the cause of death may have been due to external factors such as decapitation. By comparing and analyzing the signs of trauma on the remains, and by utilizing the results of radiocarbon dating, associated artifacts, and contemporary historical texts, it can be concluded that Jinju was a significant site during the political turmoil of the late Unified Silla period, particularly in relation to events such as the Rebellion of Kim Heon-chang and the geopolitical tensions between Later Baekje and Goryeo. Considering the burial date, age composition, and traces left on the remains, it is highly likely that these individuals were associated with the Rebellion of Kim Heon-chang. In conclusion, the human remains excavated from Beonseong-dong in Jinju are believed to be victims of the chaotic circumstances of the late Unified Silla period.