Gaya Tumuli inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage

The Gaya Tumuli, seven tomb clusters of Korea's ancient Gaya Kingdom, were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List on Sunday. The decision was made during the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee, which took place in Saudi Arabia. The Gaya Tumuli built between the first and mid-sixth centuries in the southeastern and southwestern parts of the country.

The Committee said the Gaya Tumuli is a rare political structure that maintained autonomy and a horizontal relationship with neighboring countries. The tombs are also important evidence that shows the diversity of ancient civilizations in East Asia, possessing outstanding universal value. South Korea has a total of 16 UNESCO World Heritage sites, 14 cultural heritage sites and two natural heritage sites.