Gongsanseong Fortress in South Korea

Korea boasts of historic sites, forts, palaces, temples, national parks, valleys, waterfalls, beaches, lakes, hot springs and cultural villages. Forts, palaces and castles are huge draws for tourists. Castles and fortresses embody the turbulent history of Korea. The historical richness of Korea brings in travelers from far and wide. The Korean countryside is punctuated by several castles and fortresses, most of which are in ruins now. The existing ones are found in Seoul, the chief gateway to the Korean peninsula. Korea has suffered almost 900 invasions. The fortresses were constructed to protect the people against foreign invasions. The first fortifications were made of mud and timber in 2B.C. With technological advancement, modern techniques were used in the building of castles and fortresses. Gongsanseong Fortress in South Korea embodies historical and cultural richness and is a fine example of a mountain castle of the Baekje period (234-678) located in Gongju-si.

Features of Gongsanseong Fortress in South Korea:

  -   You can start exploring this 2.5 kilometers castle from the parking area. Move along the west gate and walk past the cement road.

  -   You can also tour the castle from the left side at the beginning of the cement road and take quiet trails atop the castle which is known as the Sanseong road.

  -   The cement road has been planned for your utmost convenience.

  -   Sanseong road takes a winding turn and is narrower. But it is ideally built along the Geumgang riverside.

  -   Gongbukru is the first major attraction you come across in front of the Sanseong village.

  -   From Gongbukru, you move along the Sanseong road which leads to the Yeongeunsa, a small temple constructed during the time of King Se-Jo's.

  -   Manharu and Yeonji are major attractions in front of the temple. This is the most magnificent place in Gongsan castle. This place offers a spectacular view of the the Geumgang riverside.

  -   The Imryugak pavilion is the largest in the Gongsan castle. You can catch amazing sights of Geumgang River from this place.

How to reach Gongsanseong Fortress in South Korea:

Board a bus from Gongju city to reach Gongseonseong Fortress. Regular buses ply between Gongju city and Gongseonseong Fortress.

Fast Facts of Gongsanseong Fortress in South Korea:

Address: Ongnyong-dong District/ Geumseong-dong / Sanseong-dong, Gongju-si, Chungcheongnam-do

Telephone Number (Administration office): (041)856-0333(Kor)
Gongju City Hall Culture and Tourism Department: (041-853-0101) (Kor)

Admission Fee: Yes

Special Features: Parking facility available