Deokpung Valley

Deokpung Valley, located in Gagok-myeon, Samcheok-si, is a pristine natural area with dense Geumgang pine forests, offering clean air and tranquility away from urban fine dust and congestion. Around 650 AD, during the reign of Queen Jindeok of Silla, Master Uisang is said to have arrived here and crafted three wooden geese, which he released. One landed at Bulyeongsa Temple in Uljin, another at Hongjeam Hermitage in Andong, and the last at Deokpung Valley. According to legend, as soon as the goose landed, the heavens and earth shook, the ground split, and a dragon soared from a dragon pool into the sky, forming the current topography of Deokpung Valley. For this reason, the valley is divided into 1 Yongso, 2 Yongso, and 3 Yongso, adding a mysterious atmosphere to the legend. The valley, surrounded by scenic mountains like a folding screen, features several waterfalls scattered throughout, making it ideal for family summer outings or hiking courses. The entrance can be accessed via Local Road 416 up to Punggok 1-ri, and from the valley entrance to the deep interior, the distance is approximately 8 km. In the clear waters of Deokpung Valley, schools of fish swim about, and Deokpung Valley and Yongso-gol are popular trekking courses, attracting many visitors.