The map of the Province of Hamgyeongbuk-do depicts Musan, Hoeryeong, Jongseong, Onseong, Gyeongwon and Gyeongheung, surrounded by the fortresses along the Dumangang, originating at the Baekdusan. It also includes Nokdundo. The map further shows Buryeong, Bukbyeongyeong, Myeongcheon and Gilju along the east coast. The area around the round-shaped snow-covered crater on the top of Baekdusan was painted over with white to express its magnificence. Wave patterns are added to the Cheonji crater lake for a more realistic depiction. This map depicts elaborately both natural elements, such as mountains, streams and islands, as well as cultural elements, such as place names, stations, warehouses and palaces. These maps are essential for the understanding of the historical development of maps during the Joseon Dynasty. They are very accurate and because they are scarce, have a high cultural value. Maps of similar quality have not been found yet.

History of the Object

This map is presumed to be the colored manuscript of the Map of the Eight Provinces (Paldodo), which was produced under the supervision of Kyeong-Joon Shin and by order from King Yeongjo of the Joseon Dynasty in 1770.