Gyungpodae

Gyungpodae

Gyungpodae is located about 6 km north of downtown Gangneung and is famous for moon viewing on the fifteenth night of the Lunar New Year. It is a tall and grand pavilion with a roof in the “paljak” style, the most common roof design in traditional Korean houses. Designated as Local Cultural Heritage No. 6, the front of the pavilion has six bays and the sides have five, totaling 28 pillars.

Inside, there is the “Gyungpodae Fu,” which is said to have been written by Yi I (1536–1574) when he was just 10 years old. Its content reads: “The sky becomes more distant due to leisurely ease, and the moon shines more brilliantly because of its clarity and brightness.” In addition, a renowned poem personally composed by King Sejo (reigned 1095–1105), the 15th king of the Goryeo Dynasty, and the “Seungnyangmun” (a congratulatory plaque for a new building) by Jo Ha-wang (1682–1747) are also displayed inside the pavilion, among other notable inscriptions and poetry boards. Surrounding Gyungpodae are 12 other pavilions, including Kimranjeong, Gyunghojeong, Banghaejeong, and Haunjeong. The relatively tranquil surroundings make it feel like a natural art museum. You can appreciate nature and Gyungpodae within it with a calm mind and eyes, much like admiring paintings in an art gallery. For the most beautiful views, visit between March and October.

Inside, there is the “Gyungpodae Fu,” which is said to have been written by Yi I (1536–1574) when he was just 10 years old. Its content reads: “The sky becomes more distant due to leisurely ease, and the moon shines more brilliantly because of its clarity and brightness.”

In addition, a renowned poem personally composed by King Sejo (reigned 1095–1105), the 15th king of the Goryeo Dynasty, and the “Seungnyangmun” (a congratulatory plaque for a new building) by Jo Ha-wang (1682–1747) are also displayed inside the pavilion, among other notable inscriptions and poetry boards.

Transportation: Take city bus No. 202 bound for Gyungpodae Provincial Park from Gangneung City, or it takes only 10 minutes by taxi.

Ticket Information: Adults (19+): 600 KRW; Teens (13–18): 300 KRW; Children (7–12): 200 KRW. Group rates (30+ people): Adults – 400 KRW; Teens – 200 KRW; Children – 100 KRW. Preschool children, seniors aged 65+ with ID, people with disabilities, national merit recipients, and veterans are all admitted free of charge.

Notes: Open year-round (closed only on Lunar New Year’s Day and Chuseok)

Gangneung, South Korea