The Breath of Sobaeksan Mountain: Encountering the Poetic Landscape of Nine Bends at Jukgyegugok Valley, Yeongju

The Embrace of Sobaeksan(Mountain), Clear Memories Flowing Through Nine Bends

While planning my trip to Yeongju, the place I looked forward to most was Jukgyegugok(Valley), which originates from Gungmangbong(Peak) of Sobaeksan(Mountain). As I slightly rolled down the car window, the scent of the forest rushed in. The sound of water flowing like scattered jade beads over the Geumdangbanseok(Rock) instantly erased the noise of the city. Located in Baejeom-ri, Sunheung-myeon, Yeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, this was not just a valley; it was a space where time seemed to have stopped.

Walking along the path, I found myself nodding in understanding as to why the scholars of the past stayed here to recite poetry. From 'Jukgyebyeolgok' by Master An Chuk in the Goryeo Dynasty to Master Toegye Yi Hwang, I imagined what emotions these legendary writers felt as they picked up their brushes while gazing at this scenery. The 2km path, spanning from the 1st to the 9th bend, is more of a leisurely walk than a strenuous hike. Simply staring blankly at the clear stream winding around the strange rocks and bizarre stones felt like enough of a consolation.

Choamsa(Temple), Following the Footsteps of Uisang Daesa

Following the end of Jukgyegugok(Valley), one encounters a small and simple temple, Choamsa(Temple). It is said that in the Silla Dynasty, Uisang Daesa built a temporary hut here to practice before establishing Buseoksa(Temple). Although it once declined due to the hardships of war, it is now welcoming hikers again in a neat and tidy state.

Looking up at the ridge of Sobaeksan(Mountain) while standing in the temple courtyard felt as if someone had painted it with a soft brush. Every time the wind blew, the sound of the wind chimes rang clearly, and the trees surrounding the temple each held a deep shade of green. Is there any other place where the word 'serene' fits better than any grandiose adjective?

A Record of the Journey, Small Tips for Memories

Jukgyegugok(Valley) has a different face throughout the four seasons, but personally, I recommend visiting in early summer when the forest is at its freshest or in autumn when the autumn foliage settles in. If you visit early in the morning, before the mist has cleared, you can enjoy a much more dreamlike atmosphere as the fog flows along the valley.

As for nearby attractions, I recommend also visiting Sosuseowon(Academy), which is embraced and flowed around by Jukgyecheon(Stream) at its end. A course that captures the calm scholarly spirit of Sosuseowon(Academy), Korea's first sowaek seowon (a royal-chartered academy), and the nature of Jukgyegugok(Valley) all in one day is the perfect way to experience the essence of Yeongju. Please bring comfortable sneakers and a heart ready to set aside the burdens of daily life for a while.