Jeongdongjin, named for its location east of Gwanghwamun in Seoul during the Joseon Dynasty, should ideally align with the same longitude as Gwanghwamun. However, due to the limited surveying technology in the Joseon era, it has been revealed in modern times that this location isn’t precisely east of Gwanghwamun. Nevertheless, it is still referred to as “Jeongdongjin.”
Situated to the east is “389-1 Ilsul-ro, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do,” located about 15 kilometers south in a straight line from Jeongdongjin.
“Jeongdongjin Hourglass Park”
One of the famous spots in Jeongdongjin is the Hourglass Park. It features a large hourglass as its centerpiece.
In the 1990s, it gained popularity as a filming location for movies and dramas, with Jeongdongjin being a representative location. In 1995, SBS aired the drama “Hourglass” to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Korea’s liberation. At the time, the drama garnered very high viewership ratings, creating quite a sensation.
As a result, Jeongdongjin, one of the filming locations for the hourglass, started to receive attention. In 1999, it was developed into a tourist attraction to commemorate the drama “Hourglass.” They installed the hourglass and it became known as Hourglass Park.
“What You Can See in Hourglass Park”
Since Hourglass Park is located by the seaside, you can naturally enjoy the East Sea coastline. Additionally, you can see a giant hourglass in the center of the park.
Moreover, the park offers experiences like the Time Museum and Rail Bike. At the Time Museum, you can learn about the concept of time, and view various clocks collected from around the world. The admission fee, at 9,000 KRW per adult, is not particularly cheap, but once you start the tour, you’ll find it well worth it as you can appreciate a variety of rare items.
“A Sunrise Destination: Korea’s Top 100 Tourist Spots”
Jeongdongjin is not only famous for the drama “Hourglass” but also renowned as a sunrise destination. Thanks to this, Jeongdongjin was selected as one of Korea’s Top 100 Tourist Spots in 2015.
If you visit Jeongdongjin to leisurely enjoy the East Sea while taking in the sights, this is a must-visit spot. Even if you choose not to use the attractions like the Time Museum or Rail Bike at Hourglass Park, simply strolling through the park and admiring the sea is enough to feel its charm. Additionally, from Hourglass Park, you can also catch a glimpse of one of Jeongdongjin’s landmarks, the “Sun Cruise Hotel & Resort.”
“Jeongdongjin: Hourglass Park”
- Address: 6-4 Jeongdongjin-ri, Gangdong-myeon, Gangneung, Gangwon-do