Preserving cultural and historical artifacts requires skill and sensitivity, along with the know-how and attention to detail required to adhere to the many regulations pertaining to this often-painstaking work.
That’s certainly the case at Camp Humphreys, located in the Republic of Korea, approximately 40 km south of Seoul. U.S. Army Garrison Humphreys Environmental staff not only follow all Army regulations including the Status of Forces Agreement between the Korean Government and U.S. Government, but also work closely to adhere to Korean Cultural Heritage Administration regulations, all the while keeping a sharp eye on not hindering military missions in the critically strategic Asian post.
“It is very important to honor the sites that we occupy and understand how to best protect and preserve the cultural artifacts we may come across,” said Mr. John Ghim, DPW Director at USAG Humphreys. “We also must ensure our military mission is not impeded.”
While working with CHA to identify culturally significant sites on Camp Humphreys, four areas were identified by CHA archeologists, as potentially having buried cultural resources, and one of the sites was reviewed further with an archeological survey.
During the archeological survey, a total of 24 remains were identified by CHA archeologists as buried at the site, including two residences, 21 tombs and one kiln. In the residences, experts identified yarn spinning materials and earthenware pieces from the Late Bronze Age In addition, bronze spoons from the Goryeo Dynasty (918 to 1392) to the Joseon Dynasty (1392 to 1910) were also identified in the dig.
In addition to the household artifacts, multiple stone tools and relics were uncovered including hammerstones, sawtooth blades and other types of stones used in daily life.
All culturally significant materials uncovered during the archeological survey were transferred to Korean museums in accordance with the SOFA and CHA regulations.
“To be able to identify the potential site, uncover these artifacts and remains, and then ensure they are sent to Korean museums where they can be used to further understand and celebrate the cultural past of the nation is very gratifying,” said Mr. Kim, Chin Song, the Conservation chief with USAG Humphreys Environmental Division.
The USAG Humphreys Environmental Office is responsible for developing and implementing an Integrated Cultural Resources Management Plan for the eight USAG Humphreys installations, which along with Camp Humphreys include Camp Yongin, Bayonne Site, Camp Ames, CPX Area, High Point Site, Richmond Site and Beason Site.
“This ICRMP provides a tool for managing cultural resources at USAG Humphreys installations and for integrating cultural resources management,” said Mr. Scott Weber, USAG Humphreys’ Environmental Division chief.
“Under the SOFA agreement, which commits the United States and Republic of Korea to respect and protect Korean cultural resources, this archeological survey project and our ongoing work truly embody the commitment to support the military mission.”
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