Haeguemgang
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Located in the southeast of Korea, Geoje-si is the second largest island in Korea made of 10 inhabited and 53 uninhabited islands. The rock formations and coastal erosion along the winding coast between Waryong Peninsular and Ungot Peninsular make Haegeumgang. Haegeumgang was originally called Galdo. The present name dates back to 1934 when Tongyeong county magazine put its picture by a unknown painter of the mid-Joseon Dynasty and named it the scenic masterpiece of Haegeumgang. |
Haegeumgang was designated as Korea's Scenic spot No.2 on March 23,
1971. It looks like three peaks floating on the sea. It is in the Haegeungang
area designated as Hallyeo Maritime National Park on December 31, 1968.
The coast form Geoje Bridge to Deokho, Dundeok, Seojeong, Sanyang offers
a wonderful drive course. Haegeungang covers islands and islets around
Galgotdo Island as well as Geoje-si. The cruise tour is recommended
to see Cross Cave, Candlestick Rock and Lion Rock. Galgotdo Island was
once called Herb Island as medicinal herbs grow here. There is a record
that Seobul, a subject of Chinese king, Jinsihwang, visited this island
with 3,000 beautiful boys and girls to find a herb for eternal youth.
In the center of the island is Cross Cave, which reveals its mysterious
shape in the low tide. The north and east entrance of the cave stands
Stone Gate of all shaped sculptures. The south entrance permits people
to walk 100m long in the low tide. There are many more mysterious rock
formations to be found on the island such as Lion Rock, Toad Rock, Twin
Candle Stick Rock, Jodoryeong Rock, Maitreya Rock, Skeleton Rock, Bear
Rock, Goat Rock, General Rock and Phoenix Rock. Ilwol-bong Peak which
is well known for the sunrise and sunset view is another attraction.
A small old pine tree has stood on the mud-less rock of the cliff for
over a thousand years against the waves and winds, being a guardian
deity of Haegeungang. They run a cruise going round Haegeumgang from
Dojangpo, Hakdong, Gujora, and Wahyeon nearby.
