Bangudae Petroglyphs

Bronze Age rock carvings of whales and animals — a UNESCO World Heritage candidate

The Bangudae Petroglyphs are the most significant prehistoric site in the Ulsan area and among the most important in Korea. Carved into a flat granite face above the Daegok Stream during the Bronze Age (roughly 6,000–3,500 years ago), they depict around 300 animals — whales, tigers, boars, deer, and fish — along with hunting scenes and human figures. The images are extraordinary in their naturalism and energy, particularly the whale carvings.

The site is a UNESCO World Heritage candidate and is managed carefully. Access is via a short walk from the parking area. The carvings can be difficult to make out in harsh midday light — a overcast day or morning visit shows them to better advantage. A small museum at the site provides context. The surrounding valley is attractive regardless of the petroglyphs, with walking paths along the stream. Take local bus 807 or 802 from Ulsan to reach the site.

things to do sight museum
A story
The carvings at Bangudae include the world's oldest known depictions of whales being hunted — images made when whale hunting was a dangerous necessity for coastal communities, not a conservation controversy. They were discovered only in 1970, when drought lowered the Daegok Stream enough to expose the carved face.