Byeokgolje, which is the oldest ancient reservoir in Korea, is located in Wolseung-ri, Buryang-myeon Gimje-si. The 3§°-long embankments (including the two floodgates; Jangsaenggeo and Gyeongjanggeo), along with the monument (built in 1415), were designated as the Historic Site No.111 on January 21, 1963.
Of the 463 Historic Sites designated by the Cultural Heritage Administration, Byeokgolje is 'the only site that served an actually purpose as an industrial structure'. Therefore, it has a great significance in the 5,000 years of agricultural history. There are still a ton of questions that need to be answered on Byeokgolje, including aspects such as ancient history & politics, civil engineering & construction, water engineering, East Asian ancient history, and society.
Thus, to inspect the historical and cultural significance of Byeokgolje and the surrounding Manggyeong fields, the city of Gimje has carried out numerous projects. Starting with the partial excavation of Beokgolje in 1975, the city has also proceeded with the repairing of the remains in 1980, and construction of the cultural complex after organizing a development committee in 1990.
Various museums, art galleries, and other cultural facilities are currently located within the Byeokgolje complex. The Byeokgolje Agricultural Museum exhibits numerous artifacts related to Byeokgolje and agriculture, and is also involved in the collection and research of historical materials. The Arirang Literary Hall exhibits artifacts related to the novel Arirang, while the Byeokjcheon Art Gallery displays the artwork of the well-known-figure, Sangmok Na. The Gimje Udo Nongakgwan, and various outdoor exhibitions are also located within the complex. As can be seen, the Byeokgolje complex represents the cultural identity of the Gimje region and also serves as a resting place for the people.
