Cheonghaejin

Welcome to Wando, a pristine coastal region in Jeollanamdo province, celebrated for its deeply restorative environment and its designation as a Slow City. As you stand here breathing in the clean, unpolluted air, surrounded by…

Before we set foot on the island of Jangdo itself, we must traverse the space that separates it from the Wando mainland. This crossing is not merely a physical transition, but a symbolic journey into the past. …

Having arrived on the shores of Jangdo, I direct your attention to the right side of the coastline. You will notice a series of yellow flags fluttering energetically in the coastal wind. …

Moving inland from the shoreline, we are greeted by the first major architectural structure of the fortress, the Oeseongmun, which translates to the Outer Gate. This gate stands as the formal entrance to the Cheonghaejin military…

Just a few steps past the magnificent Outer Gate, we encounter a feature that is arguably the most crucial survival component of the entire island fortress. Situated prominently before you is the Umul, the grand well of…

As we proceed deeper into the heart of the island, following the upward trajectory of the terrain, we arrive at the Naeseongmun, the Inner Gate of the fortress. In any sophisticated military installation of the ancient world,…

Having passed through the fortified gates, we now ascend to the Toseong, the magnificent earthen fortress wall that encircles the entire upper portion of the island. This continuous rampart boasts a remarkable perimeter of seven…

Leaving the defensive perimeter of the earthen wall, we make our way toward the highest elevations of the island, navigating the steep slopes that characterize the central topography of Jangdo. This climb demands a bit of…

Our final stop within the physical boundaries of the Cheonghaejin fortress brings us to the Sadang, the designated shrine of Jangbogo. As you approach the structure, prepare yourself for a profound sense of contrast. …

As our exploration of Cheonghaejin comes to a close, and we prepare to make our way back across the sea path toward the mainland, it is time to gather our thoughts and reflect upon the incredible journey we have just undertaken.…