Difference between revisions of "National parks of South Korea" - New World Encyclopedia

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The '''national parks of South Korea''' are preserved parcels of [[public land]] in [[South Korea]], on which most forms of development are prohibited.  They cover a total of 6.6% of the country's area, and are typically located in mountainous or coastal regions.  The country's largest mountain park is [[Jirisan]] National Park in the southwest; this was also the first national park to be designated, in 1967.  The largest marine park is [[Dadohae]]; it has an area of more than 2,200 km², but almost all of this is water.  The smallest park is [[Wolchulsan]], with an area of only 56.1 km².
 
  
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The parks are overseen by the [[Korea National Parks Authority]], established in 1987. The Authority operates its own police force, and since 1998 has been under the jurisdiction of the [[Ministry of Environment (South Korea)|Ministry of Environment]]. It was previously under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Construction.
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[[Image:Baengnokdam on top of Hallasan.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Crater Kake Baengnokdam on top of Hallasan]]The Korean National Parks, like the [[National treasures of South Korea|National Treasures]], provide a look at the heart and soul of [[Korea]]. The Parks host and protect many of [[South Korea]]'s sacred, historical, and beautiful sites. From each of those perspectives, the Parks reveal the diversity of Korea. The Parks protect and present to the public the spirituality of ancient [[Korean Buddhist temples|Buddhist sites]] throughout the nation. The natural beauty, the beauty of nation with much of the land in a mountainous and/or sea setting, has been protected and opened to the public. Although the National Park service has a short history of 40 years, already tremendous strides have been taken open [[Korean history]], [[Korean Culture|culture]], and beauty to all.
  
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:The year 2007 marks the 40th anniversary of the introduction of a national park system in Korea and the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Korea National park Service (KNPS). The symposium held 203 July 2007 at Press Center in Seould invited Korean and international expers in the field of national park management to review and discuss the park management strategies of the past 40 years, as well as explore measures of more effective management of Korea's national parks for the future. <ref>[http://english.knps.or.kr/ Korea National Park]</ref>
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The national park system in Korea celebrated its fortieth anniversary, and the twentieth anniversary of the Korea National Park Service (KNPS) in 2007. [http://english.knps.or.kr/ Korea National Park] The KNPS operates its own police force, and since 1998 has been under the jurisdiction of the [[Ministry of Environment (South Korea)|Ministry of Environment]].
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The Park Service prohibits most forms of development in the system, cover a total of 6.6 percent of the country's area, typically located in mountainous or coastal regions.  [[Jirisan]] National Park in the southwest, the country's largest mountain park, also holds the distinction of the first designated national park in 1967. [[Dadohae]], the largest marine park, measures more than 2,200 km², almost all water. [[Wolchulsan]] sits at the bottom of the list for size with only 56.1 km².
  
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==Land-based parks==
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==Land-based Parks==
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*[[Jirisan]] National Park, in [[Jeollanam-do]], [[Jeollabuk-do]] and [[Gyeongsangnam-do]], 471.75 km². Hwaeomsa, the signature location of Jirisan, is situated in the middle of Nogodan peak. It is one of the ten most famous temples in Korea . A great Buddhist priest, Yeongidaesa, built this historical temple, named after Hwaeomkyeong's (one of the Buddhist scriptures) first two letters, during the reign of King Jinheung, in the fifth year (544) of Silla. Destroyed during the Japanese invasion, the temple was restored by Byeokamseonsa, an esteemed priest, during the reign of King Injo, in the 8th year of Silla(1630). Over the next 25 years, Iljumun, Cheonwangmun, Geumgangmun, Daeungjeon were built, and later on, the esteemed priest, Gyepa, built Wontongjeon and Gakhwangjeon. He therefore, obtained the position of Seongyo Yangjong Daegaram(great temple).  
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*'''[[Jirisan]] National Park''', in [[Jeollanam-do]], [[Jeollabuk-do]] and [[Gyeongsangnam-do]], 471.75 km², designated as the first national park on Dec. 29, 1967. Jirisan, considered the founding place of Buddhism in Korea, hosts a number of sacred historical sites in Korea including ''Hwaeomsa,'' one of the ten most famous temples in Korea, ''Naewonsa (Temple),'' ''Beopgyesa (Temple),'' ''Silsangsa (Temple),'' and ''Yeongwonsa (Temple).'' Known as on of the three mountains where [[God]] dwells (Samsinsan), Jirisan ranks with Geungangsan and Hallasan. The site has been referred to as Duryusan or Bangjangsan, indicating a place of the highest state of enlightenment. Cheonwangbong is the second highest mountain in Korea at 1,915 meters.
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: Jirisan National Park Site
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*'''[[Gyeongju National Park]]''' in [[Gyeongsangbuk-do]], 138.72 km². [[Gyeongju]] is an important historical site during the Silla and Unified Silla dynasties. Historical sites abound including [[Bulguksa]], [[Seokguram]], the Emily Bell, tombs of Silla kings and queens. Gyeongju may stand alone in the world as a modern city, historical site, and national park all combined in one. [http://www.gyeongju.go.kr/eng/main/ Gyeongju National Park Site]
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[[Image:Brother and Sister Pagodas Nammaetap.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Brother and Sister Pagodas]]
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*'''[[Gyeryongsan]] National Park''' in [[Chungcheongnam-do]] and  [Daejeon]], 64.68 km², designated as a national park on December 31, 1968. Gyeryongsan achieved fame in China during the Three Kingdoms period as a mountain area of exceptional beauty. Koreans considered the site holy, conducting important rituals on the peaks. Gyeryongsan had been a candidate for capital of Joseon, Several renown temples reside in Gyeryongsan National Park including ''Donghaksa (Temple),'' the college of the Buddhist priesthood for Buddhist nuns, ''Nammaetap'' pagodas, ''Gapsa (Temple)'' (considered one of the three great ones - Tongdosa, Songgwangsa, and Hwaeomsa).
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: Gyeryongsan National Park
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*'''[[Seoraksan]] National Park''' in [[Gangwon-do]], 398.53 km², designated as National Park in March 1970, is divided into Oe (Outer) Seorak, Nae (Inner) Seorak, and South Seorak. has Buddhist temples tucked away in the mountains including ''Sinheungsa (temple),'' ''Gwongeumseong'' (high in the rocks), ''Baekdamsa'' (Temple) (the retreat of famed poet monk Han Yongun).
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: Seoraksan National Park
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[[Image:Soraksan People Walking.jpg|thumb|right|200px|People on an outing at Seoraksan]]
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* '''[[Songnisan]] National Park''', in [[Chungcheongbuk-do]] and [[Gyeongsangbuk-do]], 274.54 km², designated as a national park on March 24, 1970. ''Songnisan,'' meaning "renouncing the world," considered by many as one of the eight most beautiful places in Korea. ''Beopjusa (Temple),'' considered the greatest temple in Korea, sits tucked away inside Songnisan. Smaller temples like Sujeongam, Jungsajaam, Bokcheonam, also grace Songnisan. The park is the site for the immensely popular made for TV drama, ''"Taejo Wanggon,"'' the first King of Goryeo Dynasty.
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: Songnisan National Park
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*'''[[Hallasan]] National Park''' at the center of [[Jeju-do]], 153.39 km² in size. The dormant volcano Hallason, or Mount Halla, numbers among the "three mountains where God lives" (Samshinsan) in Korea. Hallasan stands as the tallest mountain in Korea, rising 1950 meters. ''Baengnokdam,'' or White Deer Lake, crater has a depth of 110 meters.
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:[http://www.hallasan.go.kr/ Hallasan National Park]
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[[Image:Songgwangsa Temple Complex.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Songgwangsa Temple]]
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*'''[[Naejangsan]] National Park,''' designated as a National Park on November 17, 1971, in [[Jeollanam-do]] and [[Jeollabuk-do]], 81.72 km². Considered one of the eight most beautiful places in Korea. ''Gulgeori'' trees (Natural Treasure No. 91) and ''Bija'' trees (Natural Treasure No. 153) grow in the park. ''Naejangsa'' (Temple), ''Baegyangsa'' (Temple), ''Wonjeogam'' (Temple), ''Byeongnyeonam'' (Temple) (A noted calligrapher of the Joseon Dynasty, Kim Jeonghui resided here), ''Ibamsan Fortress.''
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: Naejangsan National Park
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*'''[[Mt. Gayasan|Gayasan]] National Park''', in [[Gyeongsangnam-do]] and [[Gyeongsangbuk-do]], 77.07 km², designated the ninth National Park of Korea on October 13, 1972. ''Gayasan'' received its name from the shape of the mountain, resembling the head of a cow ''(Udusan).'' [[Haeinsa]](Temple) and ''Palmandaejanggyeong,'' housing the Tripitaka Koreana carved on over 80,000 wood blocks sit secluded in the mountains. The renown monk Samyeongdaesa resided in Hongjeam Temple in the 1600s. Other sacred Buddhist sites include ''Hirangdae,'' the retreat of monk Hirang, and'' Cheongnyangsa'' (temple).
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: Gayasan National Park
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*'''[[Deogyusan]] National Park''' in [[Jeollabuk-do]] and [[Gyeongsangnam-do]], 231.65 km², designated as the tenth National Park on February 1, 1975. Joseon Dynasty Jeoksangsanseong(Fortress), Anguksa (Temple), Rajetongmun (Gate), the ancient border between Silla and Baekje, Baengnyeonsa (Temple), Wontongsa (Temple), and Songgyesa (Temple) rest within the park.
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: Deogyusan National Park
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[[Image:Soraksan Mountain Top.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Seoraksan Mountain Top]]
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*'''[[Odaesan]] National Park''', designated a National Park on February 1, 1975, in [[Gangwon-do]], 303.93 km². Odaesan is considered one of the four greatest mountains in Korea along with Geumgangsan, Hallasan, and Jirisan. Four National Treasures Sangwonsa Dongjong (bronze bell), Sangwonsa Munsudongja Jwasang (seated statue of child monk), Woljeongsa palgakgucheung seoktap (octagonal nine-story stone pagoda in Woljeongsa temple), Sangwonsa Jungchanggwonseon-mun(book) along with two treasures and local treasures. Woljeongsa(temple) and Sangwonsa (temple) nestle in the park.
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: Odaesan National Park
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*'''[[Juwangsan National Park]]''' in [[Gyeongsangbuk-do]], 107.43 km², designated as the twelfth National Park on March 30, 1976. A rocky refuge, kings have hidden during a rebellion in the mountains. Daejeonsa [Temple], with Bogwangjeon, a royal palace, designated Tangible Treasure No. 202 of Gyeongsangbuk-do(Province). The renown monk, Samyeongdaesa, who recruited soldiers and trained them during the Japanese invasion, resided there. Two temples, Juwangam and Baengnyeonam in Daejeonam, stand nearby. Juwangam [Temple] and Juwangul [Cliff and Cave] sit the the park.
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: Juwangsan National Park
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*'''[[Bukhansan National Park]]''' in [[Seoul]] and [[Gyeonggi]], 79.92 km², designated as fifteenth national park in Korea on April 2, 1983,. At Bukhansan, you can see the 500-year-old fortress wall (Bukhansanseong), many temples including fifteen traditional temples and over 100 small attached temples including the old temple Doseonsa, Hwagyesa (Temple), Seunggasa (Temple), Jinwansan (Temple), Mangwolsa (Temple), and Taegosa (Temple).
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: Bukhansan National Park
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[[Image:Buddhist Shrine on Cliff.jpg|thumb|left|20
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0px|Buddhist temple on cliff]]
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*'''[[Chiaksan]] National Park''' in [[Gangwon-do]], 181.63 km², designated as the sixteenth national park in Korea on December 31, 1984. The north ridgeline from Guryongsa(Temple) to Birobong(Peak) is especially famous for its steepness. Sangwonsa(Temple)sits at the highest place in Korea, Namdaebong Peak (1,181m). Other temples include Guryongsa (Temple), Ipseoksa(Temple), YeongWonsa (Temple), and Gukhyangsa (Temple). Yeongwonsanseong (Mountain Fortress Wall), Ipseoksa Pagoda and Mireuktap(Pagoda) also stand in the park.
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: Chiaksan National Park
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*'''[[Woraksan]] National Park''', in [[Chungcheongbuk-do]] and [[Gyeongsangbuk-do]], 287.98 km², designated the seventeenth national park on December 31, 1984. Mireungnisaji (Temple Site), Deokjusa (Temple), and Deokjusanseong (Fortress Walls) lay within the park.
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: Woraksan National Park
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*'''[[Sobaeksan]] National Park''' in [[Chungcheongbuk-do]] and [[Gyeongsangbuk-do]], 322.38 km², designated a national park on December 14, 1987. Meaning "small mountain" in Korean, the mountain is actually gigantic, third only to Jirisan and Seoraksan. Buseoka (Temple) and Sosuseowon have served to nurture Buddhism and Confucianism in Korea for about 1,000 years. Huibangsa (Temple), built around 500 C.E., has a long history fostering monastic Buddhism in Sobaeksan refuge.
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: Sobaeksan National Park 
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*'''[[Wolchulsan National Park]]''' in [[Jeollanam-do]], 56.1 km², became Korea's twentieth national park on June 11, 1988. Legend maintains that 99 small and large temples have resided in the Wolchulsan area. Koreans have bestowed spiritual qualities to "female" and "male" rocks, "Yeongam" numbering among them.
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:[http://wolchul.knps.or.kr/Wolchulsan_eng/ Wolchulsan National Park]
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*'''[[Byeonsanban-do]] National Park''' in [Jeollabuk-do]], 154.72 (9.2 km² water), designated the nineteenth National Park on June 11, 1988. Byeonsanban hosts ancient temples including Gaeamsa, Naesosa, and Wolmyeongam. The Yucheolli ancient ceramic ware remains, the Guamni dolmen site, Hobeolchi, and Ugeumsanseong mountain fortress wall are situated in this national park.
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: Byeonsanbando National Park
  
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In Hwaeomsa, there are many precious cultural assets. There are four national treasures, including Gakhwangjoen (National Treasure no. 67), which is given its name by King Sukjong, a three-story stone pagoda propping up four lions, and remarkable Gakwhangjoen seokdeung, one of the largest existing stone lights. In addition, there are other six treasures including Daeungjeon, the Dongseo five-story stone pagoda, Wontongjoen, and Hwaeomseokgyeong
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==Marine Parks==
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[[Image:Mother with Child by water.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Mother holding infant near ocean]]
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*[[Dadohae Haesang]] National Park, in Jeollanam-do, 2,321.51 km² (1,986.68 km² water), designated as Korea's fourteenth National Park on December 23, 1981. Dadohaehaesang has the distinction of being Korea's largest national park. Jang Bogo defeated Tang (China) and Japanese invaders in Dadohaehaesang. During the Goeryeo dynasty, Song and Won dynasty China, as well as Japan, traded through the area.
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: Dadohaehaesang National Marine Park
  
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Ssanggyesa [Temple]
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*[[Hallyeo Haesang]] National Park is the first National Sea Park, in Jeollanam-do and Gyeongsangnam-do, 545.63 km² (395.48 km² water), designated on December 31, 1968. Designated second place for scenic beauty in Korea with three legendary gods residing there. Yi Sunshin fought famous naval battles in Hansandaecheop (battle field) against the Japanese in the late sixteenth century among the islands of the park. Jeseungdang (Historical Site No. 113)commemorates Yi Sunshin's victory over Japan, serving as the naval headquarters for three provinces. Yi Sunshin's remains lay buried in the Namhae Chungyeolsa shrine. Boriam (Temple), established by the renown monk Wonhyo in 683 C.E..  
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: Hallyeo Haesang National Marine Park
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This old temple located in the middle of southern Jirisan was built by the esteemed priest Jingamseonsa on his return from the Dang Dynasty during the 2nd year (840) of King Munseong's reign about 1,100 years ago. It was then destroyed by Japanese invasion but rebuilt by Jingamseonsa together with Songgwangsa and Hwaeomsa.  
 
  
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There are many valuable cultural assets inside the temple. One such treasure is Jingamseonsa-daegongtapbi (National Treasure no. 47) which was written by Choi Chiwon, a great writer in Silla. There is also a five-story stone pagoda, Iljumun, as well as Palsangjoen, and Maaeyerae-jwasang. Not far from the temple, is the beautiful Buril waterfall.
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*[[Taean-haean]] National Park, in [[Chungcheongnam-do]], 326.57 km² (289.54 km² water), designated as a national park in 1978. Taeanhaean stewards several significant Buddhist temples. Beopjusa(Temple) hosts the tallest Buddhist statue in the world (33m), Cheongdongmireukbul; Bokcheonam temple, built by King Injo of Joseon to pray for the kingdom; and Daeungbojeon, a famous Buddhist prayer hall.  
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: Taeanhaean National Park
  
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Naewonsa [Temple]
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==Gallery==
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<gallery>
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Naewonsa was built during the period of King Taejong Muyeol and was called Deoksansa during that time. It once prospered with ten small Buddhist temples but was completely destroyed by fire 500 years ago. In 1959 a monk named Houng Wonjong rebuilt the temple and named it Naewonsa.  
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Image:Bukhansan National Park 2006-03-28.JPG|Bukhansan National Park
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Image:Halasan.jpg|The top of the Halla-san on the jeju-island in south-korea
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Image:Baengnokdam on top of Hallasan.jpg|Crater Kake Baengnokdam on top of Hallasan
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Image:Insoo peak.jpg|Insoo Peak in Bukhan Mountain, Seoul, Korea
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Image:Gwaneum Peak at Songnisan.jpg|Gwaneum Peak at Songnisan, taken from Munjandae
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Image:Deogyusan from Hyangjeok Peak.jpg|Deogyusan in the South Jeolla province of South Korea, taken from Hyangjeok Peak.
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Image:Khitai2.jpg|Seoraksan.
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Image:Mount Gyeryong from Jang-gun peak.jpg|Mount Gyeryong near Daejeon in South Korea taken from Jang-gun peak.
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Image:Seoraksan1.jpg|Seoraksan
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Image:Seoraksan4.jpg|Seoraksan.
  
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In Naewonsa, two treasures are left: a three-story stone pagoda, the work of Silla; and 'Seongnamamsu Seokjo Birojana Buljwasang', (stone built statue of Buddha) designated as National Treasure No. 1,021. 
 
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Beopgyesa [Temple]
 
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Yeongijosa built this temple at the highest known altitude 1,450 meters in the Korean Buddhism era during the 9th year of King Jinheung (548). It takes two hours to reach the temple on foot.
 
  
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Along with Korean history, Beopgyesa has had its ups and downs. Its very first ordeal was delivered by Japanese soldiers. Upon their defeat at the hands of General Lee Seonggye the Japanese soldiers set Jirisan on fire as they fled. In 1908, the Japanese delivered the second ordeal and burned it down again, because it was a region renowned for its anti-Japanese protestors. In October of 1948, Jirisan was occupied by a rebel army. A punitive Japanese force was sent to set fire to the region to expel the rebels. This incident became known as the third ordeal. Therefore, there is saying that when Beopgyesa rises, the Japanese fail, and vice versa. In spite of the three sufferings, the temple is rebuilt and an endless line of believers visit the temple of Beopgyesa . 
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</gallery>
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Silsangsa [Temple]
 
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Silsangsa, situated in Sannaemyeon of Namwon at the lower edge of Jirisan, was first opened among the Gusanseonmun of Silla, and considered a temple of defense of the fatherland. Facing the Cheonwangbong peak of Jirisan , it was built by the monk Hongcheok during the 3rd year of King Heungdeok of Silla (828). It was burned to the ground during a great fire in Jeongyujaeran, and subsequently rebuilt 36 buildings during King Sukjong. However, another fire broke in the period of King Gojong, and the area was later restored to normal, albeit in a smaller scale.
 
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Baekjangam, a three-story pagoda, and many other national treasures are left, representing the meaning and dignity of the temple. Starting from Cheonwangbong, the lower edge of the mountain spreads out like a folding screen in front of the temple, embracing it with the merciful heart of Buddha. The crystal clean waters of Banseon Valley originating from Jirisan run along the temple as if washing away the agonies of the world. The leader monk of the nation, Doseon, worried that the essence of the land might have run to Japan through Cheonwang-bong. He therefore put his Japanese map under the floor of Silsangsa Bokwangjeon, and hit it whenever he worshipped in front of Buddha. In so doing, he unwittingly created the saying 'when Silsangsa got excited Japan got ruined'. Within Silsangsa there is one national treasure, eleven treasures, and one local treasure. When looking at Cheonwangmun you can see the highest top of Cheonwangbong at the front. 
 
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Yeongwonsa [Temple]
 
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A great Buddhist priest built Yeongwonsa with 100 rooms in nine buildings before it was destroyed by fire. According to legend, a monk named Yeongwon cultivated himself for eight years in a cave. Despite this, he learned nothing and decided to leave. On the way down he saw an old man fishing in the woods. However, there was no water where he was fishing. The old man said to Yeongwon, "I've been fishing here for eight years and I will catch a big fish in two years." He then disappeared. Watching this mysterious scene, Yeongwon decided to return to the cave for two more years. He attained Nirvana and built Yeongwonsa Palace. <ref>[http://jiri.knps.or.kr/Jirisan_eng/info/history.html]</ref>
 
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*[[Gyeongju National Park]], in [[Gyeongsangbuk-do]], 138.72 km².
 
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*[[Gyeryongsan]] National Park, in [[Chungcheongnam-do]] and  [[Daejeon]], 64.68 km².
 
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imported from National Park Service —[[User:Dan Davies|Daniel]] 19:13, 6 August 2007 (UTC)
 
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[http://gyeryong.knps.or.kr/Gyerongsan_eng/info/history.html]
 
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Donghaksa [Temple]
 
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The college of the Buddhist priesthood for Buddhist nuns is situated in the east of Donghaksa(Temple). Since it is 1km from the entrance of Yuseong of Daejeon to Donghaksa many people come and go.
 
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Donghaksa was named as 'Sangwonsa' originated by priest Sangwonjosa. It has been a place for Buddhist nuns since the time of Silla, the 23rd year of King Seongdeok(724). In the period of Goryeo a patriot Doseon, remodeled it and King Taejo prayed for safety of his people. The college was later remodeled extensively by King Sunjo and Gojong (1864).
 
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The name of Donghaksa orginated from the rock like a crane near the temple. Another theory is that this was the place to perform rituals to commemorate Jeong mongju, the famous scholar of the end of Goryeo. Inside the temple area there are Daeung-jeon, Sukmojeon, Sameungak, Budo, and a graceful three-storied stone pagoda. Munsuam, Gilsangam, and Mitaam are three temples that are attached to Donghaksa.
 
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There are three shrines which are rare to see in other places before going up to the Daeungjeon. The Sameun shrine enshrines the spirits of three men (Jeong mongju - pen name Poeun, Lee saek - pen name Mogeun, and Giljae - pen name Yaeun). Donggyesa enshrines the patriot Park Jesang of Silla. And Sukmojeon enshrines the spirits of Danjong and Sayuksin, who suffered undue treatment and died while Sejo contended for the throne. Sambulbong can be seen from Daeungjeon and is surrounded by mountains, creating a cozy atmosphere.
 
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Donghaksa valley, 4 km long, is very beautiful. We can appreciate it walking along the streams from Donghaksa to Gwaneumbong by way of Euseon falls. A small waterfall and a swarm welcome people and the forest is so dense that sunlight cannot penetrate through the treetops. There is an old saying, "Donghaksa for Spring, Gapsa for autumn", illustrating the beauty of the temple. 
 
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Nammaetap
 
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On the way from Donghaksa to Gapsa, two pagodas stand abreast; Treasure No. 1284 and 1285, also called Onuitap (brother and sister). They sit one hour from Donghaksa on foot, roughly 1.7km.
 
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The site is also called Cheongnyangsaji-ssangtap since there was Cheongnyangsa ( Temple ).
 
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According to legend, one man from the royal family dug into a cave and cultivated himself in the 23rd year of Queen Seondeok during the period of Silla. One day he saved a tiger suffering from a bone in its throat. The tiger brought a lady to express its gratitude. The man discovered that the woman was recently married in Sangju, Gyeongsang-do. On the first night of her wedding, she was out to get some fresh air. She did not remember what happened next. Since the season was a very cold winter they had no choice but to stay together in the cave. Later she asked him to marry her but the man concretely rejected it. Instead, he promised to remain brother and sister.
 
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They cultivated themselves together and died at the same time on the same day. This is where their sarisas were preserved - underneath the seven-story pagoda for the brother, and the five-story pagoda for the sister. 
 
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Gapsa [Temple]
 
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Passing through Nammaetap to Yongmun falls you are led to Gapsa, one of the representative temples of Gyeryongsan. It takes 3 hours from Donghaksa( Temple ) and many people love this place to hike.
 
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Often the beauty of Chungcheong district is called 'Chunmagok, Chugapsa' meaning Magoksa is beautiful in spring, and Gapsa is beautiful in autumn.
 
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Gapsa, located on the northwestern edge of Gyeryonsang with dense old pinewoods and zelkova trees boasts beautiful autumn maples.
 
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Its valleys are tinged with Sansuyu with yellow flowers and royal azalea in spring. The beautiful Yongmun falls runs through the dense forest in the summer. However, Gapsa boasts the best of its splendor in the autumn. Numerous varieties of graceful maples together with reddish persimmons, old walls and pictures, many colors, and Gapsa-originated designs create a rare picture.
 
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Gapsa was built more than a thousand years ago. According to the legend, the old Buddhist priest Adohwasang put a foundation stone on Baeseokdae and recommanded to build a temple here on his way back home from Silla. This happened in the 1st year of King Guisin in the Baekje period (420).
 
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Later the great Buddhist priest Uisangdaesa remodeled Gapsa, for seeking truth of Hwaeom. It was considered a most graceful temple and one of the three great ones - Tongdosa, Songgwangsa, and Hwaeomsa. During the Japanese invasion(A.D 16) more than 800 monk soldiers stayed in this temple, however it was destroyed by fire during the war. The present temple was rebuilt later on.
 
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There are about ten buildings including Daeungjeon(main praying hall) and Daejeokjeon, and precious cultural assets like Budo, Cheoldanggan, Jiju, and Wolinseokbo-panbon (21 books, 46 pages) Gapsa Valley that reaches from Gapsa to the Geumjandi valley boasts of the most graceful maples in Gyeryongsan. This region is considered one of the eight most beautiful landscapes of Gyeryongsan National Park . 
 
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Gapsabudo
 
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Gapsabudo (Treasure No. 257) stands in front of the antique-looking Daejeokjeon where the Gapsa valley runs along the front. Gapsabudo, the work of the beginning of Goryeo, is an octagon-shaped, 2.05m high distinguished by the stylobate which is shaped like a blooming lotus flower. Lions, Sacheonwang Ipsang, and Juakcheoninsang are carved into the structure, and its jade lid is shaped like a tiled roof. This very precious remnant is not to be missed.
 
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Cheoldanggan
 
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Danggan (a banner pole made of stone, steel or wood which is used for fluttering during the performance of rituals) was made by the great Buddhist Euisangdaesa in the 19th year of King Munmu in the Tongilsilla period (680). Originally there were 28 banners but four of them were destroyed in the 35th year of King Gojong (1899), and now 24 of them remains. It was designated as Treasure No. 256. It stands 15m tall and is made of iron.
 
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Sinwonsa [Temple]
 
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Sinwonsa, an old temple rebuilt by the Buddhist priest Bodeokhwasang in the 11th year of King Uija (651) is located at the southern outskirt of Gyeryongsan, Yeoncheonbong - roughly 50ri (20km) from the south of Gongju. It has been remodeled several times and is famous for its lotus flower patterned tile. Inside Sinwonsa there are Daeungjeon, Dokseonggak, Yeongsanjeon, and many other small temples as well as Jungakdan (an altar to perform religious services). There are also other cultural assets including a five-story pagoda (Local Tangible Cultural Asset No. 31) and octagonal Budo.
 
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Eunsun Falls
 
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Climbing up along the valley from Donghaksa, one is led to Eunseonpokpo (Falls). It stands 50m tall and falls directly down from the cliff. It is considered the coolest place in the forest during summer to make forget hot weather.
 
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Donghaksa Valley
 
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A 2km-long stream runs into the entrance of Donghaksa ( Temple ). The hundred-year-old trees and fantastic rocks are seen as a graceful oriental painting that attracts visitors.
 
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end import. —[[User:Dan Davies|Daniel]] 19:13, 6 August 2007 (UTC)
 
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----------
 
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*[[Seoraksan]] National Park, in [[Gangwon-do]], 398.53 km².
 
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*[[Songnisan]] National Park, in [[Chungcheongbuk-do]] and [[Gyeongsangbuk-do]], 274.54 km².
 
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*[[Hallasan]] National Park, in [[Jeju-do]], 153.39  km².
 
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*[[Naejangsan]] National Park, in [[Jeollanam-do]] and [[Jeollabuk-do]], 81.72  km².
 
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*[[Mt. Gayasan|Gayasan]] National Park, in [[Gyeongsangnam-do]] and [[Gyeongsangbuk-do]], 77.07 km².
 
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*[[Deogyusan]] National Park, in [[Jeollabuk-do]] and [[Gyeongsangnam-do]], 231.65 km².
 
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*[[Odaesan]] National Park, in [[Gangwon-do]], 303.93 km².
 
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*[[Juwangsan National Park]], in [[Gyeongsangbuk-do]], 107.43  km².
 
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*[[Bukhansan National Park]], in [[Seoul]] and [[Gyeonggi]], 79.92 km².
 
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*[[Chiaksan]] National Park, in [[Gangwon-do]], 181.63 km².
 
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*[[Woraksan]] National Park, [[Chungcheongbuk-do]] and [[Gyeongsangbuk-do]], 287.98 km².
 
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*[[Sobaeksan]] National Park, [[Chungcheongbuk-do]] and [[Gyeongsangbuk-do]], 322.38 km².
 
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*[[Wolchulsan National Park]], [[Jeollanam-do]], 56.1 km².
 
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*[[Byeonsanban-do]] National Park, [[Jeollabuk-do]], 154.72 (9.2 km² water).
 
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==Marine parks==
 
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*[[Dadohae Haesang]] National Park, Jeollanam-do, 2,321.51 km² (1,986.68 km² water).
 
−
*[[Hallyeo Haesang]] National Park, Jeollanam-do and Gyeongsangnam-do, 545.63 km² (395.48  km² water).
 
−
*[[Taean-haean]] National Park, [[Chungcheongnam-do]], 326.57 km² (289.54 km² water).
 
  
 
==See also==
 
==See also==
−
*[[List of Korea-related topics]]
 
 
*[[Geography of South Korea]]
 
*[[Geography of South Korea]]
 
*[[Environment of South Korea]]
 
*[[Environment of South Korea]]
 
*[[Government of South Korea]]
 
*[[Government of South Korea]]
 +
 +
==References==
 +
 +
* ''Korea: national parks.'' 1995. Seoul, Korea: Hoyoung Publishing. ISBN 9788985772112
 +
* Kungnip Kongwŏn Kwalli Kongdan (Korea). 2003. ''National parks of Korea.'' [Korea]: Korea National Parks Authority. OCLC: 70706989 
 +
* Mun, Sun-hwa. 1987. Kungnip kongwŏn ''National parks in Korea.'' Seoul, Korea: Hoyŏng. OCLC: 19394717
  
 
==External links==
 
==External links==
−
*[http://www.npa.or.kr/ National Parks Authority website, in English and Korean]
+
All links retrieved November 11, 2022.
 +
 
 +
*[http://www.lifeinkorea.com/travel2/nparks National and Provincial Parks] ''Life in Korea''.
  
 +
[[Category:Geography]]
 +
[[Category:Korea]]
 
{{credits|108514757}}
 
{{credits|108514757}}

Latest revision as of 04:16, 11 March 2023


Crater Kake Baengnokdam on top of Hallasan

The Korean National Parks, like the National Treasures, provide a look at the heart and soul of Korea. The Parks host and protect many of South Korea's sacred, historical, and beautiful sites. From each of those perspectives, the Parks reveal the diversity of Korea. The Parks protect and present to the public the spirituality of ancient Buddhist sites throughout the nation. The natural beauty, the beauty of nation with much of the land in a mountainous and/or sea setting, has been protected and opened to the public. Although the National Park service has a short history of 40 years, already tremendous strides have been taken open Korean history, culture, and beauty to all.

The national park system in Korea celebrated its fortieth anniversary, and the twentieth anniversary of the Korea National Park Service (KNPS) in 2007. Korea National Park The KNPS operates its own police force, and since 1998 has been under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Environment.

The Park Service prohibits most forms of development in the system, cover a total of 6.6 percent of the country's area, typically located in mountainous or coastal regions. Jirisan National Park in the southwest, the country's largest mountain park, also holds the distinction of the first designated national park in 1967. Dadohae, the largest marine park, measures more than 2,200 km², almost all water. Wolchulsan sits at the bottom of the list for size with only 56.1 km².

Land-based Parks

  • Jirisan National Park, in Jeollanam-do, Jeollabuk-do and Gyeongsangnam-do, 471.75 km², designated as the first national park on Dec. 29, 1967. Jirisan, considered the founding place of Buddhism in Korea, hosts a number of sacred historical sites in Korea including Hwaeomsa, one of the ten most famous temples in Korea, Naewonsa (Temple), Beopgyesa (Temple), Silsangsa (Temple), and Yeongwonsa (Temple). Known as on of the three mountains where God dwells (Samsinsan), Jirisan ranks with Geungangsan and Hallasan. The site has been referred to as Duryusan or Bangjangsan, indicating a place of the highest state of enlightenment. Cheonwangbong is the second highest mountain in Korea at 1,915 meters.
Jirisan National Park Site
  • Gyeongju National Park in Gyeongsangbuk-do, 138.72 km². Gyeongju is an important historical site during the Silla and Unified Silla dynasties. Historical sites abound including Bulguksa, Seokguram, the Emily Bell, tombs of Silla kings and queens. Gyeongju may stand alone in the world as a modern city, historical site, and national park all combined in one. Gyeongju National Park Site
Brother and Sister Pagodas
  • Gyeryongsan National Park in Chungcheongnam-do and [Daejeon]], 64.68 km², designated as a national park on December 31, 1968. Gyeryongsan achieved fame in China during the Three Kingdoms period as a mountain area of exceptional beauty. Koreans considered the site holy, conducting important rituals on the peaks. Gyeryongsan had been a candidate for capital of Joseon, Several renown temples reside in Gyeryongsan National Park including Donghaksa (Temple), the college of the Buddhist priesthood for Buddhist nuns, Nammaetap pagodas, Gapsa (Temple) (considered one of the three great ones - Tongdosa, Songgwangsa, and Hwaeomsa).
Gyeryongsan National Park
  • Seoraksan National Park in Gangwon-do, 398.53 km², designated as National Park in March 1970, is divided into Oe (Outer) Seorak, Nae (Inner) Seorak, and South Seorak. has Buddhist temples tucked away in the mountains including Sinheungsa (temple), Gwongeumseong (high in the rocks), Baekdamsa (Temple) (the retreat of famed poet monk Han Yongun).
Seoraksan National Park
People on an outing at Seoraksan
  • Songnisan National Park, in Chungcheongbuk-do and Gyeongsangbuk-do, 274.54 km², designated as a national park on March 24, 1970. Songnisan, meaning "renouncing the world," considered by many as one of the eight most beautiful places in Korea. Beopjusa (Temple), considered the greatest temple in Korea, sits tucked away inside Songnisan. Smaller temples like Sujeongam, Jungsajaam, Bokcheonam, also grace Songnisan. The park is the site for the immensely popular made for TV drama, "Taejo Wanggon," the first King of Goryeo Dynasty.
Songnisan National Park
  • Hallasan National Park at the center of Jeju-do, 153.39 km² in size. The dormant volcano Hallason, or Mount Halla, numbers among the "three mountains where God lives" (Samshinsan) in Korea. Hallasan stands as the tallest mountain in Korea, rising 1950 meters. Baengnokdam, or White Deer Lake, crater has a depth of 110 meters.
Hallasan National Park
Songgwangsa Temple
  • Naejangsan National Park, designated as a National Park on November 17, 1971, in Jeollanam-do and Jeollabuk-do, 81.72 km². Considered one of the eight most beautiful places in Korea. Gulgeori trees (Natural Treasure No. 91) and Bija trees (Natural Treasure No. 153) grow in the park. Naejangsa (Temple), Baegyangsa (Temple), Wonjeogam (Temple), Byeongnyeonam (Temple) (A noted calligrapher of the Joseon Dynasty, Kim Jeonghui resided here), Ibamsan Fortress.
Naejangsan National Park
  • Gayasan National Park, in Gyeongsangnam-do and Gyeongsangbuk-do, 77.07 km², designated the ninth National Park of Korea on October 13, 1972. Gayasan received its name from the shape of the mountain, resembling the head of a cow (Udusan). Haeinsa(Temple) and Palmandaejanggyeong, housing the Tripitaka Koreana carved on over 80,000 wood blocks sit secluded in the mountains. The renown monk Samyeongdaesa resided in Hongjeam Temple in the 1600s. Other sacred Buddhist sites include Hirangdae, the retreat of monk Hirang, and Cheongnyangsa (temple).
Gayasan National Park
  • Deogyusan National Park in Jeollabuk-do and Gyeongsangnam-do, 231.65 km², designated as the tenth National Park on February 1, 1975. Joseon Dynasty Jeoksangsanseong(Fortress), Anguksa (Temple), Rajetongmun (Gate), the ancient border between Silla and Baekje, Baengnyeonsa (Temple), Wontongsa (Temple), and Songgyesa (Temple) rest within the park.
Deogyusan National Park
Seoraksan Mountain Top
  • Odaesan National Park, designated a National Park on February 1, 1975, in Gangwon-do, 303.93 km². Odaesan is considered one of the four greatest mountains in Korea along with Geumgangsan, Hallasan, and Jirisan. Four National Treasures Sangwonsa Dongjong (bronze bell), Sangwonsa Munsudongja Jwasang (seated statue of child monk), Woljeongsa palgakgucheung seoktap (octagonal nine-story stone pagoda in Woljeongsa temple), Sangwonsa Jungchanggwonseon-mun(book) along with two treasures and local treasures. Woljeongsa(temple) and Sangwonsa (temple) nestle in the park.
Odaesan National Park
  • Juwangsan National Park in Gyeongsangbuk-do, 107.43 km², designated as the twelfth National Park on March 30, 1976. A rocky refuge, kings have hidden during a rebellion in the mountains. Daejeonsa [Temple], with Bogwangjeon, a royal palace, designated Tangible Treasure No. 202 of Gyeongsangbuk-do(Province). The renown monk, Samyeongdaesa, who recruited soldiers and trained them during the Japanese invasion, resided there. Two temples, Juwangam and Baengnyeonam in Daejeonam, stand nearby. Juwangam [Temple] and Juwangul [Cliff and Cave] sit the the park.
Juwangsan National Park
  • Bukhansan National Park in Seoul and Gyeonggi, 79.92 km², designated as fifteenth national park in Korea on April 2, 1983,. At Bukhansan, you can see the 500-year-old fortress wall (Bukhansanseong), many temples including fifteen traditional temples and over 100 small attached temples including the old temple Doseonsa, Hwagyesa (Temple), Seunggasa (Temple), Jinwansan (Temple), Mangwolsa (Temple), and Taegosa (Temple).
Bukhansan National Park
Buddhist temple on cliff
  • Chiaksan National Park in Gangwon-do, 181.63 km², designated as the sixteenth national park in Korea on December 31, 1984. The north ridgeline from Guryongsa(Temple) to Birobong(Peak) is especially famous for its steepness. Sangwonsa(Temple)sits at the highest place in Korea, Namdaebong Peak (1,181m). Other temples include Guryongsa (Temple), Ipseoksa(Temple), YeongWonsa (Temple), and Gukhyangsa (Temple). Yeongwonsanseong (Mountain Fortress Wall), Ipseoksa Pagoda and Mireuktap(Pagoda) also stand in the park.
Chiaksan National Park
  • Woraksan National Park, in Chungcheongbuk-do and Gyeongsangbuk-do, 287.98 km², designated the seventeenth national park on December 31, 1984. Mireungnisaji (Temple Site), Deokjusa (Temple), and Deokjusanseong (Fortress Walls) lay within the park.
Woraksan National Park
  • Sobaeksan National Park in Chungcheongbuk-do and Gyeongsangbuk-do, 322.38 km², designated a national park on December 14, 1987. Meaning "small mountain" in Korean, the mountain is actually gigantic, third only to Jirisan and Seoraksan. Buseoka (Temple) and Sosuseowon have served to nurture Buddhism and Confucianism in Korea for about 1,000 years. Huibangsa (Temple), built around 500 C.E., has a long history fostering monastic Buddhism in Sobaeksan refuge.
Sobaeksan National Park
  • Wolchulsan National Park in Jeollanam-do, 56.1 km², became Korea's twentieth national park on June 11, 1988. Legend maintains that 99 small and large temples have resided in the Wolchulsan area. Koreans have bestowed spiritual qualities to "female" and "male" rocks, "Yeongam" numbering among them.
Wolchulsan National Park
  • Byeonsanban-do National Park in [Jeollabuk-do]], 154.72 (9.2 km² water), designated the nineteenth National Park on June 11, 1988. Byeonsanban hosts ancient temples including Gaeamsa, Naesosa, and Wolmyeongam. The Yucheolli ancient ceramic ware remains, the Guamni dolmen site, Hobeolchi, and Ugeumsanseong mountain fortress wall are situated in this national park.
Byeonsanbando National Park

Marine Parks

Mother holding infant near ocean
  • Dadohae Haesang National Park, in Jeollanam-do, 2,321.51 km² (1,986.68 km² water), designated as Korea's fourteenth National Park on December 23, 1981. Dadohaehaesang has the distinction of being Korea's largest national park. Jang Bogo defeated Tang (China) and Japanese invaders in Dadohaehaesang. During the Goeryeo dynasty, Song and Won dynasty China, as well as Japan, traded through the area.
Dadohaehaesang National Marine Park
  • Hallyeo Haesang National Park is the first National Sea Park, in Jeollanam-do and Gyeongsangnam-do, 545.63 km² (395.48 km² water), designated on December 31, 1968. Designated second place for scenic beauty in Korea with three legendary gods residing there. Yi Sunshin fought famous naval battles in Hansandaecheop (battle field) against the Japanese in the late sixteenth century among the islands of the park. Jeseungdang (Historical Site No. 113)commemorates Yi Sunshin's victory over Japan, serving as the naval headquarters for three provinces. Yi Sunshin's remains lay buried in the Namhae Chungyeolsa shrine. Boriam (Temple), established by the renown monk Wonhyo in 683 C.E.
Hallyeo Haesang National Marine Park
  • Taean-haean National Park, in Chungcheongnam-do, 326.57 km² (289.54 km² water), designated as a national park in 1978. Taeanhaean stewards several significant Buddhist temples. Beopjusa(Temple) hosts the tallest Buddhist statue in the world (33m), Cheongdongmireukbul; Bokcheonam temple, built by King Injo of Joseon to pray for the kingdom; and Daeungbojeon, a famous Buddhist prayer hall.
Taeanhaean National Park

Gallery

  • Bukhansan National Park

  • The top of the Halla-san on the jeju-island in south-korea

  • Crater Kake Baengnokdam on top of Hallasan

  • Insoo Peak in Bukhan Mountain, Seoul, Korea

  • Gwaneum Peak at Songnisan, taken from Munjandae

  • Deogyusan in the South Jeolla province of South Korea, taken from Hyangjeok Peak.

  • Seoraksan.

  • Mount Gyeryong near Daejeon in South Korea taken from Jang-gun peak.

  • Seoraksan

  • Seoraksan.

See also

References
ISBN links support NWE through referral fees

  • Korea: national parks. 1995. Seoul, Korea: Hoyoung Publishing. ISBN 9788985772112
  • Kungnip Kongwŏn Kwalli Kongdan (Korea). 2003. National parks of Korea. [Korea]: Korea National Parks Authority. OCLC: 70706989
  • Mun, Sun-hwa. 1987. Kungnip kongwŏn National parks in Korea. Seoul, Korea: Hoyŏng. OCLC: 19394717

External links

All links retrieved November 11, 2022.

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