Chapter 370
Coal was discovered by chance during these investigations.
Prospectors were dispatched to Daeseoldo to determine if there were any economically viable sulfur hot springs or sulfur mines other than Hell Valley.
The prospectors, accompanied by a considerable escort force to guard against predators and hostile Ainu tribes, began to search various parts of Daeseoldo.
Among these, a coal vein was discovered near a place called Otaornai (Otaru) in the Ainu language.
‘The quality is excellent, and coal extraction is somewhat easier compared to Gangwon Province.’
Upon receiving the report, Sejong immediately summoned his ministers to gather opinions.
“As more and more coal is needed for various industries, including iron manufacturing, and coal is used in large quantities for heating homes, I think it’s right to mine it.”
As the ministers’ opinions converged on development, Sejong ordered the development of the mine.
Consequently, many miners began crossing the sea to Daeseoldo. Although the perception was poor due to most serious criminals serving labor in mines, the salary that properly employed miners received was quite high, so the number of people who left for Daeseoldo was considerable.