Gangneung Dae Gong Fortress

Gangneung Dae Gong Fortress is a mountain fortress located on the peak of Dae Gong Mountain, which stands at an elevation of 1,153m, between Bogwang-ri in Seongsan-myeon, Sagimak-ri in Sacheon-myeon, and Hoenggye-ri in Doam-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun. Its circumference is approximately 4km. Built using the natural topography of the mountain range connected to Daegwallyeong, it is also linked to Geumgang Fortress in Sogeumgang. The northern wall was constructed using steep cliffs but has largely collapsed; currently, a wall about 2m high remains on the southern side. The southern wall was built with unhewn stones, and the remains of gates are preserved on the east, west, and north sides. Inside the fortress, there is a well site said to have been built about 1,000 years ago. According to legend, Onjo, the founder of Baekje, established his capital here and built the fortress to train soldiers. Another legend claims it was built by the Dae clan, a royal family of Balhae. During the 32nd year of King Gojong's reign (1895), in the so-called Eulmi Righteous Army uprising, the righteous army led by Min Yong-ho fought fierce battles against Japanese forces centered around this fortress.