Maintenance and Utilization of Pasaseong Fortress, Yeoju

Yeoju Pasaseong Fortress is a mountain fortress from the Three Kingdoms period, located along the NamhangangRiver and constructed along the ridgeline centered on the summit of Pasasan Mountain. At present, projects for its maintenance and utilization are ongoing, based on the comprehensive maintenance plan established in 2021. This study reviews historical documents, materials from the Japanese colonial period, and the results of archaeological excavations that have been consistently carried out for approximately 25 years since 1999. In line with the comprehensive maintenance plan, the results of this study propose the following directions for conservation and utilization: First, the cultural heritage area of Yeoju Pasaseong Fortress must be precisely surveyed and designated along the line of the fortress walls, and a buffer zone should be established, extending 20 meters beyond the wall. Land acquisition should be carried out according to this designation of the heritage area and buffer zones, with priority given to privately owned land designated for the construction of the visitor center and parking lots. For research and investigation, vegetation surveys should be conducted in combination with the current vegetation management plan outside the fortress walls to identify areas requiring maintenance. An investigation into the types of fortress stones should also be implemented to support future restoration and conservation. Additional archaeological investigations will prioritize the southeastern wall section to clarify the overall scale of the fortress. Regarding site maintenance, restoration of the South Gate should be based on historical authenticity research. The water reservoir, well, and building sites identified through excavations should be exposed and repaired, with integration into visitor pathways as well as informational and amenity facilities. Moreover, vegetation maintenance is proposed to secure visibility and improve scenic views from both inside and outside the fortress. Lastly, to enhance the utilization of Pasaseong Fortress, this study suggests organizing content as foundational data, establishing connections with local schools, holding drone performances as promotional events, and producing and applying 3D content based on excavated remains.