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Nango Kim Satgat Archaeological Site
Nango Gimsatgat Historical Site is located in Norumok, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon Province. Nestled at the northern and southern ends of the Joryeong and Sobaksan mountain ranges, this area is called Norumok because the shape of the surrounding mountains resembles a reclining deer. The Gokdongcheon stream flows through the Gimsatgat Historical Site, offering a picturesque landscape with clear, abundant water running over rocky formations and vibrant autumn foliage.
This historical site includes the tomb and former residence of Kim Satgat, also known as Nango Kim Byeong-yeon, a wandering poet and genius of the late Joseon Dynasty. His tomb was first discovered by a local historian in Yeongwol in 1982. To honor Kim Satgat’s spirit and his cultural and artistic legacy, the Nango Gimsatgat Cultural Festival has been held annually since 1998 in early October at Kim Satgat Valley.
As part of a regional development project by Gangwon Province, landscaping and road improvements were carried out at the historical site from 2001 to 2003, transforming it into a pleasant tourist destination. In October 2003, the Nango Gimsatgat Literature Museum opened, allowing visitors to explore Kim Satgat’s literary world.
Within the Gimsatgat Historical Site, visitors can also find the Joseon Folk Painting Museum and the Mooksan Art Museum. The Joseon Folk Painting Museum displays over 500 folk paintings from the Joseon era, reflecting the aspirations and satirical humor of ordinary people. The Mooksan Art Museum features traditional Korean ink paintings by the renowned artist Mooksan Im Sang-bin.
Well-maintained hiking trails along the Baekdudaegan, such as the Madesan and Gombong trails, allow visitors to enjoy waterfalls and clear streams while exploring the region’s cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Address:
Nango Gimsatgat Literature Institute, 216-22 Kimsatgat-ro, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon Province
Hours:
09:00–18:00
Seogokjeongsa Buddha Statue
The Yaksa Buddha Statue is a standing Buddha figure holding a medicine bowl, accompanied by a radiant halo and a pedestal. Originally located at the Ssangyongsa Temple site, the statue was relocated to Seogokjeongsa Temple around 1980 due to mining development in the area. Both the statue and its pedestal are carved from a single stone.
Although the neck is somewhat short, the overall proportions of the statue are well-balanced. At the top of the head, there is a small head ornament, known as a six-bead crown, resembling a traditional headdress. The round face is expressive, and despite some wear on the eyes and mouth, the features remain recognizable. The statue is boldly carved, highlighting the roundness of the shoulders.
The thick garment draped over the shoulders conceals the contours of the body. The robe, which forms a U-shape from the neck down to the ankles, is marked by coarse and rugged folds that are spaced at regular intervals. The left hand holds a large medicine bowl in front of the abdomen, while the right hand rests on the thigh with the palm facing inward.
The halo and pedestal are both larger than the statue itself, contributing to a sense of stability. The pointed top of the halo behind the statue and the two-tiered pedestal are intricately decorated with lotus flower motifs. The statue’s balanced composition, detailed carving, and stable posture suggest it was likely created during the Goryeo period. Although the exact date is unknown, the statue’s excellent state of preservation and rarity in Gangwon Province make it an important cultural artifact, known as the Yaksa Buddha Statue.
Address:
86-17 Yongjeongwon-gil, Hanbando-myeon, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
Hours:
Open all year round
Yeongmojeon: Honoring King Danjong and the Legend of the Mountain Spirit
Yeongmojeon is a sacred shrine located on the southern slope of Maebongsan in Yeongwol, dedicated to King Danjong, who reigned from 1452 to 1455. After King Danjong was exiled and tragically murdered, the people of Yeongwol raised funds to build this shrine in 1517 to honor his memory. Lee Yong-ha, the magistrate of Yeongwol at the time, established the shrine, which houses a portrait of King Danjong depicted riding a white horse and offering a persimmon.
The structure of Yeongmojeon consists of three sections at the front and two on the sides, topped with an octagonal-shaped roof. The front section contains a room for the king’s portrait, while the sides and rear are enclosed by walls. The front is brightly illuminated by a large window, and the remaining areas are either open or covered with traditional wooden lattice windows.
The Legend of King Danjong as a Mountain Spirit
According to local legend, the artist Choo Ik-han was traveling to Yeongwol to present a persimmon to King Danjong when he encountered the king riding a white horse, dressed in royal attire, heading east. Startled, Choo Ik-han knelt and asked, “Where is Your Majesty headed?” King Danjong replied, “I am going to Mount Taebaek. Please take this there for me,” before disappearing. When Choo Ik-han arrived at Mount Taebaek, he learned that King Danjong had already passed away. Believing he had seen the king’s spirit, Choo Ik-han ended his own life in grief. This story gave rise to the legend of King Danjong becoming a mountain spirit.
Over time, this belief evolved into a form of worship. Shrines dedicated to King Danjong can be found at Yeongmojeon, Nokjeon Sungwangdang, Jungseongak, and Chilseonggak at Bodeoksa Temple. Even today, the people of Yeongwol honor King Danjong as if he were still alive, holding annual cultural festivals and conducting ancestral rites on the 24th day of the 10th lunar month, the anniversary of his passing.
Address:
148 Yeongmojeon-gil, Yeongwol-eup, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon Province
Hours:
Open all year round
Ma-ae Yeoraebuddha Statue: A Serene Goryeo-Era Treasure in Yeongwol
The Ma-ae Yeoraebuddha Statue, designated as a Cultural Heritage Site in Gangwon Province, is a magnificent Buddha figure carved in high relief on a massive rock beside Yeoseonjeong. Standing at 3.5 meters tall, this impressive statue is believed to have been created by a local artisan during the Goryeo Dynasty. Its rarity and cultural significance make it a valuable find in Gangwon Province.
The Ma-ae Yeoraebuddha Statue is renowned for its serene beauty, offering visitors a peaceful and contemplative experience. Set against the stunning backdrop of Yeongwol’s picturesque valley, the site provides an ideal setting for appreciating both the statue and the surrounding natural scenery.
Next to the Ma-ae Yeoraebuddha Statue is Yeoseonjeong, a perfect vantage point for admiring the view and the statue itself. From here, a path leads down to Yeoseonam, where visitors can enjoy unique rock formations and refreshing streams, adding to the tranquil atmosphere of the area.
Address:
13-39 Doweonunhak-ro, Mureungdowon-myeon, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon Province
Hours:
Open all day
Jangneung: The Royal Tomb of King Danjong
![영월 장릉(단종) [유네스코 세계유산]](http://tong.visitkorea.or.kr/cms/resource/70/1692370_image2_1.jpg)
Jangneung is the tomb of King Danjong, the sixth king of the Joseon Dynasty. King Danjong was dethroned by his uncle, King Sejo, and exiled to Cheongnyeongpo, where he met a tragic end at the young age of 17. After his death, his body was left in the Donggang River, but Eom Heung-do, the local official of Yeongwol, retrieved his remains and enshrined them at the present site of Jangneung.
In 1698, during the reign of King Sukjong, King Danjong was posthumously restored to the throne, and his tomb was officially named Jangneung. At the entrance to Jangneung, visitors will find the Danjong History Museum, which displays historical documents and artifacts related to King Danjong and the history of Jangneung, offering valuable insights into this poignant chapter of Korean history.
Unlike other royal tombs, Jangneung does not feature screen stones or railing stones, and the stone structures are notably simple. Beneath the hill where the tomb is located, there are memorial stones for 264 loyal subjects who served King Danjong, Eom Heung-do’s stele commemorating the recovery of the king’s body, the Nakchon Monument depicting Park Chung-won’s achievements in finding the tomb, as well as Jeongjagak, Hongsalmun, Jaesil, and Jeongja pavilions.
Jangneung is unique among royal tombs for having shrines, steles, and monuments, all connected to the unfortunate fate of King Danjong, who lost his throne at such a young age. The pine trees surrounding Jangneung bend toward the tomb as if paying their respects, creating a solemn and awe-inspiring atmosphere for visitors.
Every last weekend of April, the Danjong Cultural Festival is held at Jangneung. The festival features a grand reenactment of royal ancestral rites from the Joseon era, involving over a thousand participants and 275 different ritual tools. In June 2009, Jangneung, along with 40 other Joseon royal tombs, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Address:
190 Danjong-ro, Yeongwol-eup, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon Province
Hours:
09:00–18:00 (Last admission at 17:30)
Yoseonjeong: A Riverside Pavilion Steeped in Buddhist Heritage
Yoseonjeong is a picturesque pavilion located in Mureung-ri, Suju-myeon, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon Province. In front of the pavilion flows a crystal-clear stream, and on a large riverside rock stands Yoseonam, where carved Chinese characters give the site its name.
During the flourishing period of Buddhism in the Unified Silla era, the monk Cheolgam-guksa Doyun and the Great Master Jinghyo established the Heungnyeong Seonwon not far from Sasan Mountain and often visited Yoseonjeong to teach. According to tradition, a small hermitage once stood here, and when Great Master Jinghyo passed away at this site, over a thousand sariras (Buddhist relics) are said to have appeared, further deepening its connection to Buddhist history.
Today, visitors can still find a statue of a seated Buddha and a small stone pagoda near the pavilion. In front of Yoseonjeong, the waters from Chiaksan Mountain merge with Beopheungcheon Stream, creating a clear and beautiful valley. Large rocks, smoothed by the deep water, cover the riverbed and add to the scenic beauty of the area.
The name Yoseonjeong comes from the characters “Yoseonam” (邀僊 or 邀仙), meaning “welcoming the divine,” which are carved into the rock above the riverbank. It is said that during the Joseon Dynasty, the poet and calligrapher Yang Bongnae visited this place, enjoyed the enchanting scenery with fairies, and inscribed the characters on the rock.
Address:
13-39 Dowon Unhak-ro, Suju-myeon, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon Province
Hours:
Open all year round
Manggyeongsa Temple: A Highland Sanctuary and Natural Botanical Garden
Manggyeongsa Temple, affiliated with the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, is nestled on the pristine mountainside of Manggyeongsan in Gimsatgat-myeon, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon Province, at an elevation of 800 meters above sea level. The temple is renowned for its impressive collection of over 200 different species of mountain plants and herbs. With its remarkable variety and abundance, Manggyeongsa Temple is often described as a natural botanical garden, resembling a specialized farm dedicated to mountain flora.
Set in a clean highland environment with breathtaking scenery, Manggyeongsa Temple offers a peaceful retreat for visitors. The temple is especially popular for its temple stay programs, where guests can immerse themselves in traditional Korean Buddhist culture. These programs provide opportunities to experience spiritual practices, explore the temple’s cultural and natural heritage, and participate in daily temple life.
Whether you are seeking spiritual enrichment, a connection with nature, or a unique cultural experience, Manggyeongsa Temple provides a serene and memorable destination in the heart of Gangwon’s mountains.
Address:
135-6 Manggyeongdaesan-gil, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
Hours:
09:00–18:00
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Bojeoksa Temple: A Historic Sanctuary Honoring King Danjong
Bojeoksa Temple, originally founded as “Jideoksa” in the 8th year of King Munmu of Silla (668), is a temple with a rich and storied history. In 1161 (the 15th year of King Uijong), the monk Unheo began its construction, followed by the establishment of various halls and pavilions by Ven. Wonyeong, including Geuknakbojeon, Yeombuldang, Gobeopdang, and Chimunru.
When King Danjong was exiled as Prince Nosan in 1457 (the 3rd year of King Sejo), the temple was renamed “Noreungsa.” Later, in 1705 (the 31st year of King Sukjong), monks Hanui and Cheonmil constructed Daegumdang. The temple was eventually designated as the main hall for memorial rites to King Danjong, and in 1726 (the 2nd year of King Yeongjo), it was renamed Bojeoksa.
Among the remaining structures, Geuknakbojeon stands out as a notable hall and is designated as a cultural heritage site of Gangwon Province. Other buildings include the now deteriorated Daehyeonjeon, Mokwusil, Sansingak, Simgamdang, Chilseonggak, Sasunggak, and Gakbang. The current Geuknakbojeon reflects the architectural style of the late Joseon period. Inside Geuknakbojeon, visitors will find a wooden statue of Amitabha Buddha, designated as a tangible cultural heritage of Gangwon Province. This statue was created in 1687 (the 26th year of King Gyeongjong) by the sculptor Takmilbigu.
A unique feature of Bojeoksa is its restroom, known as “Haeuso.” Unlike typical restrooms, Haeuso in a temple means “a place to resolve worries.” The traditional-style Haeuso at Bojeoksa is divided into two rows, each with six stalls, distinguishing between male and female users and accommodating up to 12 people at once. The main entrance inscription indicates that this restroom was built in 1882 (the 19th year of King Gojong), and it has preserved its original circular design over the years.
Address:
34 Bodeoksa-gil, Yeongwol-eup, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon Province
Hours:
Open all year round
High Healing One: Yeongwol’s Premier Wellness Destination
High Healing One is a wellness institution operated by the Kangwon Land Social Contribution Foundation, established in 2019 to promote public health and enhance quality of life. By integrating the healing power of nature with elements of the humanities and the arts, High Healing One offers a range of high-quality programs, including life detox, forest education and therapy, and unique healing experiences.
Notably, High Healing One has been selected as one of the “Recommended 64 Wellness Tourism Sites” by the Korea Tourism Organization and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. It is recognized as the first wellness tourism site in Yeongwol County, Korea.
Address:
113 Seomjigol-gil, Sangdong-eup, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon Province
Hours:
09:00–22:00 (Break time: 12:00–13:00)
※ Reservation required for entry.
Geumgang Park Eco Studio: Where Nature, History, and Music Meet
Geumgang Park, perched on a hill overlooking the Dong River in Yeongwol, was transformed into the Geumgang Park Eco Studio in 2020. This vibrant park brings together a variety of historical and cultural resources, featuring an outdoor stage, a tree garden, an eco playground, and the Radio Star Museum.
The highlight of the park is the Sound Hug, located at its center. More than just a sculpture, the Sound Hug is a giant speaker where visitors can actually listen to music. It plays six carefully selected popular songs, ranging from K-pop to ballads and trot, ensuring enjoyment for all generations. Stepping inside this massive speaker and experiencing music resonating throughout the park is a unique and memorable experience exclusive to Geumgang Park Eco Studio.
Visitors can also climb up to the Nujeong, a pavilion with a traditional Paljak roof structure from the Joseon period, located on Geumgangjeong. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Dong River below and the beautiful scenery of Gyejoeksan and Taehwasan mountains in front.
Address:
80 Yeongheung-ri, Yeongwol-eup, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
Hours:
Open all year round
Donggang Dunchi Park: Yeongwol’s Vibrant Riverside Recreation Area
Donggang Dunchi Park is a scenic riverside park located along the Donggang River in Yeongwol-eup, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province. The park was established by revitalizing the area surrounding the Donggang River, transforming it into a relaxing and enjoyable space for local residents and visitors alike.
Created in 2008 as part of flood control efforts in the Hasong District, the aging embankment was renovated to form Donggang Dunchi Park—a leisure spot that preserves the original purpose of the river embankment while serving as a popular relaxation and cultural venue for the community.
Donggang Dunchi Park offers a variety of sports facilities, including soccer and baseball fields, and regularly hosts local cultural events such as traditional music festivals, river rafting festivals, and winter celebrations. The camping site beneath Donggang Bridge has long been a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, and a spacious riverside park stretches about 700 meters south, providing ample space for camping and recreation.
Visitors can conveniently access the nearby Yeongwol Central Market, renowned for its delicious buckwheat pancakes and other local delicacies. In December 2021, Yeongwol-gun completed the construction of a multi-purpose sports facility at Donggang Dunchi, upgrading the existing track and adding two basketball courts, as well as courts for badminton and volleyball. These enhancements further expand the recreational options available for both residents and tourists.
Address:
61-19 Hasong-ri, Yeongwol-eup, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province
Hours:
Open 24 hours