Following the Footsteps of History
Gongju Gongsanseong Fortress is a mountain fortress built to defend Ungjin, the capital of the Baekje Kingdom, and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you walk along the fortress walls, you'll discover artifacts from the Baekje, Goryeo, and Joseon periods, making you feel like you're traveling through time. The view of Gongju city from the top of the fortress is truly spectacular. The majestic Geumgang River and the charming buildings all come into view, and just looking at this scenery makes you feel refreshed.
As you explore the inside of the fortress, you'll find various remains that offer a glimpse into the lives of people from that time. The palace site of Ungjin Baekje, pit houses, stone walls, stone towers, and wells have been discovered, giving us an idea of how people lived during the Ungjin period. Standing on the palace grounds where Baekje royalty once walked and gazing at the Geumgang River was a new experience for me.
Gongsanseong Fortress played an important role during the Goryeo and Joseon periods as well. It is said that at the end of the Goryeo period, King Gongmin visited this place to prevent the invasion of Japanese pirates. During the Japanese invasions of Korea in 1592, it was also the site where the militia leader Go Gyeong-myeong fought against the Japanese army. The bullet marks and arrowheads left throughout the fortress vividly convey the fierce battles that took place. I felt deeply moved by the thought that this space encapsulates the history of our country.
Becoming One with Nature
Gongsanseong Fortress is a Pogok-type mountain fortress built along the 110m above sea level ridgeline and valleys using earth, taking advantage of the natural terrain. Enjoying the surrounding scenery while walking along the fortress walls is one of the charms of Gongsanseong Fortress. The sunset over the Geumgang River is especially beautiful, turning the river a deep red. When the night lighting illuminates Gongsanseong Fortress, it exudes a different charm, with the fortress walls glowing more gracefully under the soft light. I highly recommend taking a walk along the fortress walls at night and enjoying the night view!
The path up to the fortress retains its natural appearance. As you walk along the beautiful mountain trail lined with lush forests and rocks, breathing in the fresh air, you'll find yourself healing naturally. There are pavilions and rest areas along the way where you can take a break, making it comfortable to enjoy a leisurely walk.
At Gongsanseong Fortress, you can enjoy beautiful scenery all year round. In spring, the bright pink cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and in summer, the green forests provide a cool shade. In autumn, the trees surrounding the fortress walls turn into a riot of colorful autumn leaves, and in winter, the snow-covered landscape creates a spectacular view. Looking at Gongsanseong Fortress, which greets us with a different appearance each season, makes you feel at one with nature.
Plenty to See
Inside Gongsanseong Fortress, there are various attractions such as Ssangsujeong Pavilion, Yeongeunsa Temple, Yeonji Pond, Immyugakji, and Manharuji. Among them, I recommend watching the 'Ungjinseong Sumunbyeong Geunmugyo Daesik' (Changing of the Guard Ceremony) held at Geumseru Pavilion. It was truly impressive to see the magnificent appearance of the Baekje soldiers vividly. During the Baekje Cultural Festival, a temporary bridge is set up from the front of Gongsanseong Fortress to Geumgang Singwan Park, and crossing this bridge will be a special experience. You can enjoy the feeling of becoming a Baekje person from long ago!
Among the many cultural properties of Gongsanseong Fortress, Ssangsujeong Pavilion is a must-see spot. Located next to Yeongeunsa Temple, Ssangsujeong Pavilion is said to have been built by King Gongmin at the end of the Goryeo period to watch over the water path of the Geumgang River to prevent the invasion of Japanese pirates. Sitting in Ssangsujeong Pavilion and gazing at the wide expanse of the Geumgang River, you may suddenly find yourself immersed in history.
In addition, there are many hidden attractions within Gongsanseong Fortress. Yeonji Pond is the largest pond in Gongsanseong Fortress, surrounded by pine trees and willows, creating a picturesque landscape. Immyugakji and Manharuji are also places where history quietly rests, so I recommend stopping by while taking a walk. Wherever you go in Gongsanseong Fortress, you can feel the traces of long years, so why not take a moment to stroll through history?
My time at Gongju Gongsanseong Fortress has become an unforgettable memory for me. It was a satisfying trip with a grand history, beautiful nature, and various attractions. Touring Gongsanseong Fortress while listening to the guide's interesting explanations was also great. If you're interested in history and culture, I highly recommend visiting Gongsanseong Fortress at least once. Feel the breath of Baekje at Gongsanseong Fortress!
