In the historic city of Gyeongju, South Korea, archaeologists have discovered a set of electrum-threaded ritual masks within a Silla Dynasty tomb. The masks, made of fine silk reinforced with a gold-silver alloy, feature stylized eyes aligned with the constellation of Ursa Major. Experts believe these were worn by high-ranking shamans during the "Star-Greeting" festivals, which marked the transition from winter to spring in the 7th century.
The tomb also contained miniature bronze bells and celestial charts painted on lacquered wood, detailing the specific timing of the rituals. This find provides a rare look into the early aristocratic festival traditions of the Silla Kingdom, emphasizing the role of the elite in mediating between the cosmic order and the agricultural success of the state through performative masked rites.