The Gaya Confederacy was an ancient alliance of city-states located in the southern part of the Korean Peninsula, primarily during the early centuries CE. It consisted of several kingdoms, including Daegaya, Silla, and Goryeong, which were known for their advanced metallurgy, particularly in iron production. The confederacy played a significant role in trade and cultural exchange in the region. The Gaya Confederacy was influential in the development of early Korean history and culture. It engaged in trade with neighboring states, including China and Japan, and contributed to the spread of Buddhism and other cultural practices. The confederacy eventually fell under the influence of the rising Silla kingdom in the 6th century.