Researchers publish book on Silla history after 40 years of study

For over four decades, a dedicated group of historical researchers in Daegu has meticulously studied ancient Korean historical materials, culminating in the recent publication of their collective work, "Reading Silla Stories Through Epigraphy." This book represents the scholarly output of the "Mokyo Yoon-dokhoe" (Thursday Reading Group), which has convened weekly since April 1984.

Founded by scholars including Professor Emeritus Roh Jung-guk of Keimyung University and Professor Emeritus Choi Kwang-sik of Korea University, the group has consistently gathered every Thursday evening for in-depth readings and discussions of historical texts. The newly published volume showcases the culmination of this sustained academic effort, featuring contributions from 17 researchers, ranging from founding members to younger scholars.

The book delves into the analysis of epigraphy, inscriptions found on stone and metal artifacts, related to the Silla Kingdom. Divided into two parts, "The Three Kingdoms Period" and "Unified Silla Period," it examines well-known inscriptions such as the "Uljin Bongpyeong-ri Stele" and the "Pohang Jungseong-ri Stele," which shed light on Silla's administrative and legal systems. It also analyzes famous artifacts like the "Bell Inscription of King Seongdeok" and the "Imshin Oath Stones," alongside lesser-known materials like the "Galhangsa Stone Pagoda Inscription" and the tomb inscription of Lady Kim I-gu from mainland China.

One notable contribution is the detailed interpretation of the inscription on the back of the "Cheorwon Dopeiansa Iron Buddha" and the iconographic significance of Seon Buddhism during the late Silla period, written by Professor Emeritus Bae Hyun-sook of Keimyung College University. Tragically, this was her final academic paper, as she passed away unexpectedly shortly after its completion. The book aims to provide a comprehensive and accessible understanding of Silla's history through the lens of its surviving written records.