Debated issues in the typology of tombs from the Han commandery of Lelang: history of study and new evidence

Tombs represent the primary source for studying the population composition of the Han commandery of Lelang (2nd century BC – 4th century AD) on the Korean Peninsula, as well as cultural influences in the region. This article undertakes a critical review of existing typol-ogies of Lelang tombs. To this end, the author systematically examines the history of re-search on these sites by Japanese, North Korean, and South Korean specialists, with partic-ular attention to the most detailed and influential typology proposed by Takaku Kenji. A comparison of this typology with specific field data reveals its limitations: the square-shaped tomb Seokam-ri 9, containing a single coffin, does not fit into any of the identified types, while the tombs of Jeonodong-10 and Jeonodong-11, not covered by the typology, possess unaccounted structural features (stone lining, drainage systems). Furthermore, exist-ing typologies completely ignore the methods of corner joinery in wooden log chambers, which are documented in only a few sources. The author concludes that even the most de-tailed typology requires refinement, and its use without taking into account anomalous tombs and structural details may lead to unjustified historical reconstructions.