Prehistoric Korea refers to the time before written records, spanning from the Paleolithic to the Bronze Age. Early inhabitants used stone tools and lived as hunter-gatherers, relying on the rich natural resources of the region. Archaeological sites, such as those in the Korean Peninsula, reveal evidence of their daily lives, including cave paintings and tools made from flint. During the Neolithic period, around 8000 BCE, communities began to settle and practice agriculture. They cultivated crops like rice and millet, leading to the development of more complex societies. The Mumun pottery culture emerged, showcasing advancements in pottery and social organization, marking a significant transition in prehistoric Korean life.