Gwongeumseong Fortress in Seoraksan

Gwongeumseong Fortress is a mountain fortress from the Goryeo Dynasty located in Seorak-dong, Sokcho-si, Gangwon-do. With a circumference of about 3,500 meters, it is also known as Seoraksanseong Fortress. Climbing up here, one can enjoy the spectacular views of the outer Seoraksan and the endless sea of the East Sea. Currently, most of the fortress walls have collapsed, leaving only traces. This fortress is a natural rocky stronghold that surrounds the summit of Hwacheaebong Ridge, which stretches north from Daecheongbong Peak, the main peak of Seoraksan, and the northern end of the mountain. The exact date of construction is unknown due to lack of records, but a legend says that during the Silla Dynasty, two strong men named Gwon and Kim built it to avoid a rebellion, hence the name Gwongeumseong. According to Naksansa Temple records, when the Mongols invaded at the end of the Goryeo Dynasty, nearby residents built a fortress here and took refuge, indicating that the fortress existed before the late Goryeo period. Most of the fortress uses natural rock faces, with some parts built with split stones. It is located in a high place with small valleys on both sides where water flows, making it difficult to ascend and descend. Since the Joseon Dynasty, it gradually fell into ruin, leaving only traces today.