신비로운 암봉-바위가 열리는 숨겨진 명산을 찾아서…

Hidden in the eastern part of Byeonsan Peninsula National Park in Buan, Jeonbuk, Mt. Ugeum (330m) and Ugeumam (Ulgeum Rock), a massive rocky peak soaring majestically at its summit, are "hidden masterpieces" that preserve deep historical stories and mysterious scenery. Compared to the flashy and crowded central hiking trails of Naebyeonsan (such as Jikso Falls or Gwanneumbong Peak), it is a relatively tranquil spot where one can encounter breathtaking rock formations and a poignant history. ■ A Place Where History and Legends Live and Breathe More than just natural scenery, Mt. Ugeum and Ugeumam are sites deeply imbued with the history of the Korean Peninsula, which has continued since the Three Kingdoms period. - The Last Spark of the Baekje Restoration Movement (The Juruseong Theory): A leading theory suggests that this very place, Ugeumsanseong Fortress, is the site of ‘Juruseong,’ the center of the Baekje restoration movement where General Boksin, the monk Dochim, and Prince Buyeo Pung (who returned from Japan) rallied refugees to resist to the very end following Baekje's fall to the Silla-Tang allied forces. Beneath Ugeumam Rock, ‘Boksin Cave’ remains, bearing witness to this heartbreaking history as it is said General Boksin used it as a command post and trained his troops. Origin of Ugeumsanseong Fortress: Surrounding the summit is Ugeumsanseong Fortress, a stone-built structure approximately 3.9 km long. According to records such as the *Dongguk Yeoji Seungnam*, a legend tells that the fortress was named after two generals named ‘Woo’ and ‘Geum’ of Byeonhan during the Samhan period, who built the fortress and stationed their troops there. Ugeumgul Cave as a Buddhist Holy Site: The cave located beneath Ugeumam Rock is also known as a sacred space where the Great Monk Wonhyo and the Great Monk Uisang once entered to practice asceticism. ■ Heart-Pounding Scenery and Charm The Overwhelming Majesty of Ugeumam (Ulgeumbawi): Whether at the foot of the mountain or within the grounds of the thousand-year-old Gaeamsa Temple, a massive white rock peak rising from the mountaintop like a colossal fortress wall or a crown comes into view at a glance. This rock is Ugeumam, boasting a magnificent presence that seems to gather and radiate the surrounding energy in one place. Gaeamsa Temple on Mt. Neungga (Byeonsan): Embraced by the foothills of Mt. Ugeum like a folding screen, Gaeamsa Temple is a historic temple founded during the reign of King Mu of Baekje. Passing through a cozy fir forest path into the temple grounds, you can admire a breathtaking view resembling a landscape painting, with Ugeumam towering behind the Daeungjeon Hall, which is designated as a national treasure. ■ Recommended Hiking and Exploration Courses Mt. Ugeum is not very high above sea level and has relatively gentle slopes, making it suitable for beginners and intermediate hikers to enjoy without any burden. - Light Round-trip Course (Approx. 5–6 km, Duration 2 hours 30 minutes) Course: Gaeamsa Temple Parking Lot ➔ Fir Forest Path ➔ Gaeamsa Temple ➔ Fortress Path Below Ugeumam (Ulgeumbawi) ➔ Forest Road ➔ Gaeamsa Temple Parking Lot Features: This is the most popular healing course where you explore Gaeamsa Temple, climb up to just below Ugeumam to experience its immense scale firsthand, and then descend along a comfortable forest road. Slightly Longer Traverse Course (Approx. 9 km, Duration 3–4 hours) Course: Manjeoksa Temple (Jiseok-ri, Sangseo-myeon) or Gambul ➔ Ugeumsan Ridge Path ➔ Ugeumam ➔ Gaeam Mineral Spring ➔ Gaeamsa Temple Parking Lot Features: This course allows you to fully enjoy the hidden scenic beauty of Naebyeonsan while walking along a tranquil forest path that follows a secluded mountain ridge with few foot traffic. ※Caution: Currently, many sections of the very top (summit) of Ugeumam Rock are closed on the official trail due to the risk of falling. Therefore, it is recommended to walk safely along the path below the rock and the site of Ugeumsanseong Fortress. ■ Hiking Tips Water Preparation: Many springs along the trail, such as 'Gaeam Mineral Spring,' are currently unsuitable for drinking. It is advisable to prepare plenty of water before hiking. Views: On clear days, standing on the ridge near Ugeumam Rock offers a refreshing panoramic view of the plains and reservoirs of the Buan area, along with the unique rock formations of Naebyeonsan Mountain, such as Soebbulbawibong Peak and Biryongsangcheonbong Peak, in the distance. Connecting Trips: After completing the hike, a short drive will take you to the beautiful West Sea of ​​the Byeonsan Peninsula (including Chaeseokgang and Byeonsan Beach) and the sunset, making it a perfect day trip itinerary. If you wish to escape crowded famous tourist spots, quietly contemplate, and experience the grandeur of history and nature simultaneously, I highly recommend visiting Mt. Ugeum and Ugeumam, hidden gems of Byeonsan. #Ugeumam #MtUgeum #HiddenMou...