Yuch’ŏn-ni

The Yuch’ın-ni archaeological site in Korea is significant because it has yielded evidence of early Korean pottery production, particularly during the Koryŏ dynasty (918–1392 CE). Excavations at Yuch’ın-ni have uncovered shards of both celadon glaze and white porcelain, indicating that white porcelain, similar to Chinese styles, was produced there. This site provides insights into the development of Korean pottery, showing early vessels that were close copies of Chinese styles, with a distinctive Korean style emerging later. Characteristic features of Korean pottery found at sites like Yuch’ın-ni include a crazed glaze, stilt or spur marks on the base, and lobed forms. The site also offers evidence of inlaid decoration beneath the glaze, a technique sometimes referred to as punchong pottery.1