Hwaseong City Recommends 4 Must-Visit Winter Coastal Destinations

Hwaseong City has announced recommendations for four winter coastal destinations where visitors can reflect on the year and prepare for the new season with leisure and relaxation.

On the 25th, the city recommended Gungpyeong Harbor, where one can be captivated by a mesmerizing sunset, Gukhwa Island where both sunrise and sunset can be viewed together, Jeoungok Harbor with its exotic landscape dotted with yachts, and Jebudo, famous for the "Moses Miracle," as must-visit winter coastal destinations.

◇Gungpyeong Harbor: Captivated by a Mesmerizing Sunset
The sunset at Gungpyeong Harbor in Gungpyeong-ri, Seosin-myeon, is considered the finest of Hwaseong's Eight Scenic Wonders selected by the city. The moment of sunset, when the red sun appears to plunge into the sea, draws admiration from all who witness it.

Gungpyeong Coastal Area is a naturally blessed tourist destination where pine groves and sandy beaches harmonize. It features a white sand beach 2km long and 50m wide, with 5,000 pine trees over 100 years old behind the beach, evoking the imagery of an oriental painting.

When fishing boats with flags indicating a full catch enter Gungpyeong Harbor, the sunset over the West Sea becomes a spectacular sight.

Fresh sashimi and abundant food offerings add another layer of happiness to the experience.

South of Gungpyeong Harbor, a 10km-long Hwaseong Lake embankment has been constructed and is popular as a scenic driving route. (Inquiry: 031-356-7339, 1577-4200)

◇Gukhwa Island: Where Both Sunrise and Sunset Can Be Viewed Together
Gukhwa Island received its name because wild chrysanthemums bloom abundantly on the island.

Located in Gukhwa-ri, Ujeong-eup, Gukhwa Island covers an area of 0.39 square kilometers and can be toured entirely on foot in about 4-5 hours. It is a rare location on the West Coast where both sunrise and sunset can be viewed together.

Gukhwa Island, a very small island inhabited by about 50 people in 41 households, has two smaller islands—Maebak Island (Rabbit Island) and Doji Island—500 meters away, orbiting it like satellites around a planet.

While sea routes typically open in only one direction, between Gukhwa Island, Maebak Island, and Doji Island, two sea routes open simultaneously, creating a landscape where three islands become one.

Maebak Island, located in the northeast, is uninhabited by people but home to dozens of rabbits, earning it the alternative name "Rabbit Island."

Doji Island, located in the southwest, has become a sanctuary for many migratory birds thanks to its untouched natural environment.

Both islands are uninhabited, and the sea routes open twice daily. (Inquiry: 011-216-0312, Guesthouse Information)

◇Jeoungok Harbor: Exotic Landscape with Yachts
Jeoungok Harbor in Jeoungok-ri, Seosin-myeon, aspires to be the Gold Coast of the West Coast and hosts the annual "Gyeonggi International Boat Show."

A breakwater connecting to Daebu Island in Ansan City has been constructed right next to the harbor, allowing vessels to enter and exit 24 hours a day regardless of tides.

The harbor features marina facilities capable of accommodating yachts and boats and maintains water depths of over 3 meters with minimal waves, making it an ideal location for water sports.

As a result, the harbor presents a distinctive landscape quite different from typical seascapes, with dozens of fishing boats and yachts moored in the harbor.

Wind turbines visible far along the horizon further enhance the charm of Jeoungok Harbor. (Inquiry: 031-357-7088, 1577-4200)

◇Jebudo: Renowned for the "Moses Miracle"
Jebudo is known to many as a mysterious island where a sea road opens twice daily due to tidal fluctuations.

The 2.3km sea road leading to Jebudo is accessible by vehicle. The salty sea breeze wafting over the car hood and the refreshing sensation of an open vista invigorate the spirits of passersby.

This creates an illusion of driving across the surface of the sea.

Upon arriving at Jebudo, Maebawi Rock, composed of three boulders and the symbol of Jebudo, stands at the southern tip of the island. Its name is said to derive from its resemblance to a hawk in appearance.

A modest white sand beach where one can walk alongside seagulls, a row of raw fish restaurants lining one side, and the sight of women digging for clams in the tidal flats all enhance the romance of Jebudo. (Inquiry: 031-369-1673)