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

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The national park system in Korea celebrated its 40 anniversary, and the 20th anniversary of the Korea National Park Service (KNPS) in 2007. <ref>[http://english.knps.or.kr/ Korea National Park]</ref> 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% 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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[[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 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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{{toc}}
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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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*'''[[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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==Land-based parks==
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==Marine Parks==
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===[[Jirisan]] National Park===
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[[Image:Mother with Child by water.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Mother holding infant near ocean]]
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[[Jirisan]] National Park, in [[Jeollanam-do]], [[Jeollabuk-do]] and [[Gyeongsangnam-do]], 471.75 km². Jirisan is home to a number of sacred historical sites in Korea.  
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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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'''Hwaeomsa'''. One of the ten most famous temples in Korea, established in the fifth year (544) of Silla, Hwaeomsa holds four national treasures, including Gakhwangjoen (National Treasure no. 67), a three-story stone pagoda propping up four lions, and Gakwhangjoen seokdeung, one of the largest existing stone lights. Six treasures, including Daeungjeon, the Dongseo five-story stone pagoda, Wontongjoen, and Hwaeomseokgyeong are preserved on the grounds. '''Ssanggyesa [Temple]:''' Built by renown monk Jingamseonsa southern Jirisan about 1,100 years ago. The temple maintains a number of cultural treasures, including Jingamseonsa-daegongtapbi (National Treasure no. 47) written by Choi Chiwon, Silla Confucian scholar. A five-story stone pagoda, Iljumun, as well as Palsangjoen, and Maaeyerae-jwasang, also have their homes there.
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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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'''Naewonsa [Temple]''': Built during the reign of King Taejong Muyeol, Naewonsa had the name Deoksansa originally. Two treasures reside at Naewonsa: a Silla dynasty three-story stone pagoda, and 'Seongnamamsu Seokjo Birojana Buljwasang', (stone built statue of Buddha) designated as National Treasure No. 1,021. '''Beopgyesa [Temple]''': Yeongijosa built this temple high in the mountains in 548. The walk to the temple takes two hours. '''Silsangsa [Temple]'''. Silsangsa, built by the monk Hongcheok in 828. Baekjangam, a three-story pagoda, and many other national treasures represent the importance of the temple. '''Yeongwonsa [Temple]''': Monk Yeongwon ten years in a cave practicing, attained Nirvana, and built Yeongwonsa Palace. <ref>[http://jiri.knps.or.kr/Jirisan_eng/info/history.html]</ref>
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: Hallyeo Haesang National Marine Park
  
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===[[Gyeongju National Park]]===
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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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[[Gyeongju National Park]], in [[Gyeongsangbuk-do]], 138.72 km².
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: Taeanhaean National Park
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[http://www.gyeongju.go.kr/eng/main/]
 
  
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===[[Gyeryongsan]] National Park===
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==Gallery==
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[[Gyeryongsan]] National Park,in [[Chungcheongnam-do]] and  [[Daejeon]], 64.68 km².
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<gallery>
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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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'''Donghaksa [Temple]''': The college of the Buddhist priesthood for Buddhist nuns sits east of Donghaksa(Temple) established in 724. '''Nammaetap''': On the path from Donghaksa to Gapsa, two pagodas stand,  Treasure No. 1284 and 1285, called Onuitap (brother and sister). '''Gapsa [Temple]''', built more than a thousand years ago, sits on the northwestern edge of Gyeryonsang.
 
  
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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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</gallery>
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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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[http://gyeryong.knps.or.kr/Gyerongsan_eng/info/history.html]
 
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end import. —[[User:Dan Davies|Daniel]] 19:13, 6 August 2007 (UTC)
 
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--------begin import National Park Service
 
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[http://seorak.knps.or.kr/Seoraksan_eng/info/history.html]
 
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===[[Seoraksan]] National Park===
 
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[[Seoraksan]] National Park, in [[Gangwon-do]], 398.53 km².
 
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Sinheungsa[temple]. A monk named Jajangyulsa built Sinheungsa to the east of Norumok in the 6th year of Queen Jindeok (652)of Silla Dynasty. He also built the nine-story pagoda to enshrine the sarira of Buddha - he called it "Hyangseongsa." Later, Hyangseongsa was moved to the present site, and given the new name, "Sinheungsa" during the reign of King Injo of the Joseon Dynasty. In the precincts, Geugnakbojeon, Bojeru, Gyeongpan, Myeongbujeon, and Hyangseongsaji three-story pagoda have been preserved. Visitors can also see the attached temples, Gyejoam, Naewonam, Anyangam and Geumganggul(cave). This temple has 40 branch temples in the northern part of Gangwondo province.
 
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Gwongeumseong. There are high rocks, called Gwongeum-seong, to the south of Sogongwon. It takes 8 minutes to travel to Gwongeumseong (12km), by cable car. On the cable station, you will see the magnificent Ulsanbawi (rock). At the top, East Sea and Sokcho city can be seen at a glance. Looking west, you will see an exquisite cliffs, such as Gongnyongneungseon (Dragon Ridgeline), Cheonhwadae, Madeungnyeong, and Jeohangnyeong. Gwongeumseong is named after two men, Mr. Kim and Kwon, who built it to hide themselves from war.
 
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Baekdamsa [Temple]. A monk named Jajangyulsa built Baekdamsa, one of the representative temples of Nae(Inner) Seorak. It was named "Hangyesa" during the reign of Queen Jindeok (647) of Silla. However, its name was changed several times, and it was rebuilt after being destroyed by fire. Baekdamsa was named during the rein of King Sejo of the Joseon Dynasty. The temple gained widespread fame because Han Yongun, a prominent poet, decided to enter the Buddhist priesthood in this temple.
 
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----------- end import National Park Service
 
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===[[Songnisan]] National Park===
 
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[[Songnisan]] National Park,in [[Chungcheongbuk-do]] and [[Gyeongsangbuk-do]], 274.54 km².
 
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--------begin National Park Servic paste. —[[User:Dan Davies|Daniel]] 19:48, 6 August 2007 (UTC)
 
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[http://songni.knps.or.kr/Songnisan_eng/info/history.html]
 
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Beopjusa [Temple]
 
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Uisinjosa, a celebrated monk, built Beopjusa in the 14th year of King Jinheung of Silla (553), 24 years after Buddhism was first introduced to the Silla Kingdom.Beopjusa has been repaired and remodeled several times since then. Numerous cultural assets remain within Beopjusa (Temple). Among them is the only five-story wooden pagoda in Korea, Palsang-jeon Hall until now. Other assets include Ssangsajaseokdeung(stone lantern), Seongnyeonji(Pond), Sacheonwang-mun(Gate), Sacheonwangseokdeung (stone lantern), as well as some natural monuments. The highest Buddha statue (33m) in the world, Cheongdongmireukbul (Buddha's statue made of bronze), was built in April 1990, with 160 tons of bronze and 80kg of gold. Buddhist sculptuers are carved inside the basement under the statue.
 
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Bokcheonam
 
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King Injo of Joseon Dynasty had built Bokcheonam temple as a place where he could pray for the country's prosperity. There are two pagodas that preserve relics of Buddha nearby. They are known as Suamhwasangtap (local cultural property No.12) and Hakjodeunggokhwasangtap (No. 13).
 
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Daeungbojeon
 
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Daeungbojeon is one of the three famous Buddhist praying halls in Korea along with Muryangsa in Buyeo and Hwaeomsa in Gurye. It covers about 562m2, and is consisted of 120 rooms and 315 pillars 12m in height. Priest Byeogamdaesa built the highest sitting Buddha in Korea, Samjonbulsang. It is 5.5m high and 6.6m wide.
 
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Jeongipumsong [pine tree]
 
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In the Beopjusa district is a famous red pine tree, roughly 800 years old. It is a bestowed natural monument (No. 103), which is famed for a legend that relates to King Sejo of the Joseon Dynasty. There is a following legend, while King Sejo was riding a palanquin on his way to Beopjusa, the branches of a huge tree hung so low that the palanquin could not pass. Suddenly, the branches magically rose to clear the way. King Sejo bestowed the tree a minister rank, Jeongipum(second grade), as a token of his appreciation.
 
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Seogyeonji 
 
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Seogyeonji was built in the 19th year of King Seondeok of Silla (720), and is a designated national treasure (No. 64). It was built 1.96m high, and 6.65m wide on an octagonal foundation stone. It is said to comprise three elements: clouds for the bottom; lotus flowers for the middle; and Yeonhwadae which stands for paradise.
 
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-------end National Park Service past —[[User:Dan Davies|Daniel]] 19:48, 6 August 2007 (UTC)
 
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===[[Hallasan]] National Park===
 
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[[Hallasan]] National Park, in [[Jeju-do]], 153.39  km².
 
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[http://www.hallasan.go.kr/]
 
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===[[Naejangsan]] National Park===
 
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[[Naejangsan]] National Park, in [[Jeollanam-do]] and [[Jeollabuk-do]], 81.72  km².
 
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------------National Park Service paste begin. —[[User:Dan Davies|Daniel]] 19:55, 6 August 2007 (UTC)
 
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[http://naejang.knps.or.kr/Naejangsan_eng/info/history.html]
 
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Naejangsa [Temple]
 
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A monk named Yeongeunjosa built Naejangsa during the 37th year of King Mu of Baekje Dynasty (636). However, it was originally built as Budojeon, near Naejangsa, which also has 50 Buddhist temples named Yeongeunsa.
 
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It was remodeled during the reign of King Sukjong of the Goryeo Dynasty and also during King Myeongjong of Joseon. It was rebuilt again during the period of King Jeongjo of Joseon after being destroyed by fire during the war, Jeongyoujaeran.
 
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The main temple was moved to Baengnyeonam, (renamed Baengnyeonsa) in 1925, and Yeongeunam was moved to the old site of the temple. Naejangsa (Temple) was built on its current site in 1938.
 
−
 
−
Baegyangsa [Temple]
 
−
 
−
Baegyangsa(temple) is situated under Baekhak-bong peak where there are mysterious rocky cliffs rising high like cranes ascending to the skies. A monk named Yeohwanseonsa ('seonsa' stands for Buddhist priest) built the temple named Baegamsa during the 33rd year of King Mu of Baekje Dynasty. Later, Jungyeon-seonsa remodeled it and named it Jeongtosa, but it changed to Baegyangsa again in 1034.
 
−
 
 
−
According to the legend, Hwanyang-seonsa held Buddhist ceremonies, and many people gathered to hear his preaches. On the third day, a white sheep came down from the mountain. On the last day of the ceremony, the sheep showed up in the monk's dream and said, "Lee sinned in heaven and became a sheep, but I can return to heaven after listening to your sermon." That night, the monk found a dead sheep under the Yeongcheonam(temple), and finally its name to Baegyangsa(white sheep temple).
 
−
 
 
−
Gukgidan, behind Baegyangsa, was used for the performance of religious services to pray for the country's safety and welfare, during the 36th year of King Seonjo(1063) and the 3rd year of Hyeonjong (1662).
 
−
 
 
−
Walking up the right hand road from Ssanggyeru of Baegyangsa, you can see a small Cheonjinam(Temple) where Buddhist nuns cultivate themselves.
 
−
 
−
Wonjeogam [Temple]
 
−
 
−
Passing through the Bija tree forest, to the northwest of Naejangsa, there is a small Buddhist temple built during the 3rd year of King Seonjong of Goryeo(1086).
 
−
 
 
−
In Wonjeogam, situated under Bulchulbong(Peak), there was a small laid down ivory statue of Buddha, the only such statue in Korea. It is by no means inferior to the one in Wabulsa(Temple) in Beijing, China. Unfortunately, it was stolen during Japanese invasion.
 
−
 
 
−
The current statue is also made of ivory, and has engravings of the figure of Buddha entering nirvana.
 
−
 
 
−
The section of Bija forest in front of Wonjeogam has been designated as a Natural Treasure. Visitors also love this place, along with its autumn foliage.
 
−
 
−
Byeongnyeonam [Temple]
 
−
 
−
Byeongnyeonam is designated Local Treasure No. 73, and it is said that this temple was original Naejangsa. It is located at the top of Seoraebong Jungbong (330m). Recently, Yeongeunam(Naejangsa for now) is changed its name to Naejangsa, and this place was called as Baengnyeonam, and it is changed again to Byengnyeonam later.
 
−
Hwanhaeseonsa began to build the temple during the 20th year of King Uija of Baekje Dynasty (660). Baekhakseonsa later remodeled the main temple Geungnakbojeon, Yosi and built Seon-dang(Hosangseorim) in 1925. This was destroyed, however, during the Korean War in 1951.
 
−
 
 
−
A noted calligrapher of the Joseon Dynasty, a man by the pen name of Chusa, Kim Jeonghui stayed here to cultivate himself, and suggested the change of name from Baengnyeonam to Byeong-nyeonam. He placed some of his writing on the wall, but along with the temple, it was destroyed during the war. On the western side, there are Seokjongbudo (age unknown), and Seongranjeong created by a woman calligrapher, Mongryeondang, Kim Jinmin.
 
−
 
 
−
It is interesting that, according to legend, a monk named Himukdaesa threw rocks from the top of Seoraebong, and one of his disciples caught them and piled them up. Reconstruction of this structure began in 1986, in accordance with the restoration plans of the government authority.
 
−
 
−
Ibamsan Fortress
 
−
 
−
According to the historical book "Donggukjeollansa(records of wars)", building began of the fortress in the Baekje period and was used to defeat the Mongo, during Goryeo. It is assumed that the fortress was also used for defending Baekje from Silla and Goguryeo. The fortress is 5,208m long, and features a tombstone of General Yoon Jin, who fought against Japanese soldiers and died.
 
−
---------National Park Service paste end. —[[User:Dan Davies|Daniel]] 19:55, 6 August 2007 (UTC)
 
−
 
 
−
===[[Mt. Gayasan|Gayasan]] National Park===
 
−
[[Mt. Gayasan|Gayasan]] National Park, in [[Gyeongsangnam-do]] and [[Gyeongsangbuk-do]], 77.07 km².
 
−
 
 
−
 
 
−
 
 
−
===[[Deogyusan]] National Park===
 
−
[[Deogyusan]] National Park, in [[Jeollabuk-do]] and [[Gyeongsangnam-do]], 231.65 km².
 
−
 
 
−
 
 
−
===[[Odaesan]] National Park===
 
−
[[Odaesan]] National Park, in [[Gangwon-do]], 303.93 km².
 
−
 
 
−
 
 
−
===[[Juwangsan National Park]]===
 
−
[[Juwangsan National Park]], , in [[Gyeongsangbuk-do]], 107.43  km².
 
−
 
 
−
 
 
−
===[[Bukhansan National Park]]===
 
−
[[Bukhansan National Park]], , in [[Seoul]] and [[Gyeonggi]], 79.92 km².
 
−
 
 
−
 
 
−
===[[Chiaksan]] National Park===
 
−
[[Chiaksan]] National Park, in [[Gangwon-do]], 181.63 km².
 
−
 
 
−
 
 
−
===[[Woraksan]] National Park===
 
−
[[Woraksan]] National Park, [[Chungcheongbuk-do]] and [[Gyeongsangbuk-do]], 287.98 km².
 
−
 
 
−
 
 
−
===[[Sobaeksan]] National Park===
 
−
[[Sobaeksan]] National Park, [[Chungcheongbuk-do]] and [[Gyeongsangbuk-do]], 322.38 km².
 
−
 
 
−
===[[Wolchulsan National Park]]===
 
−
[[Wolchulsan National Park]], [[Jeollanam-do]], 56.1 km².
 
−
 
 
−
 
 
−
===[[Byeonsanban-do]] National Park===
 
−
[[Byeonsanban-do]] National Park, [[Jeollabuk-do]], 154.72 (9.2 km² water).
 
−
 
 
−
==Marine parks==
 
−
*[[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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