Missing the blue East Sea, I took a day trip to Hwajinpo in Goseong, Gangwon-do. Hwajinpo is the largest
lagoon on the east coast, a special place where lake and sea meet and traces of modern Korean history remain intact.
Here’s my guide to Hwajinpo, where history and nature live side by side!
Recommended Hwajinpo Day Trip Route
Sherwood Hall Cultural Space, the Kim Il-sung Villa (Hwajinpo Castle), the Lee Ki-poong Villa, the Syngman Rhee Villa and Hwajinpo Beach.
The three villas share a combined ticket, which is convenient.
First Stop: Sherwood Hall Cultural Space
The trip began at Sherwood Hall Cultural Space, a meaningful place that marks the beginning
of the familiar Christmas seals in Korea.
It tells the story of Dr. Sherwood Hall’s family, who devoted themselves to fighting tuberculosis and medical missions in Korea, and beyond the museum,
the view of Hwajinpo Lake from the 3rd-floor window cafe and the rooftop was outstanding.
Resting in the cool East Sea breeze in this place of sharing and service was lovely. It’s a perfect spot to start the day on an emotional note.
Second Stop: Three Villas Full of History
Hwajinpo Castle (Kim Il-sung Villa)
A European-style building perched on a coastal hill caught my eye first. Once used by Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il, it serves as a place for learning about division and reunification.
The view of Hwajinpo Beach and the lake from the observation deck was breathtakingly
beautiful. The weight of history against the beauty of nature stirred a strange feeling.
Lee Ki-poong Villa
The villa used by former Vice President Lee Ki-poong’s family felt relatively simple and tidy. Originally built by foreign missionaries
for their holidays, it has impressive windows facing the lake.
I could almost feel how people sought calm in turbulent times.
Syngman Rhee Villa (check before visiting)
Next to Hwajinpo Lake, in a dense pine forest, is the villa of Korea’s first president, Syngman Rhee. The view with the calm lake was very soothing.
Renovations began on October 13, 2025, and interior viewing may be limited, so check before you go. Walking the pine trail around the villa alone was meaningful.
Third stop: The emerald wonder of Hwajinpo Beach
Setting history aside, my last stop was Hwajinpo Beach. Fine sand, formed over tens of thousands of years from crushed shells and rocks, spread softly underfoot.
Famous for its clear water, the emerald East Sea before me was fantastic. Jukdo Island, seemingly floating on the sea, looked like a painting.
Walking slowly along the sand, I felt cool waves at my toes and the refreshing openness of the East Sea. The beauty of the Goseong coast, more than photos can capture, ended the day perfectly.
Hwajinpo in Goseong is more than a sightseeing spot; it’s like time travel, offering a glimpse into Korean history and comfort from nature’s grandeur.
Make unforgettable memories at this blue lake and sea that clear the soul. It’s an easy day trip from Seoul, too!
Prices, hours and details in this post are from our visit in October 2025 and may have changed, so check the latest information before you go.