Hamyang Sangnim Park

Hamyang Sangnim Park — A forest planted a thousand years ago, its face changes with the seasons

Sangnim in Hamyang, Gyeongnam, is the oldest artificial forest in Korea. It began when Choe Chiwon, who came as the governor of Cheonnyeong-gun (present-day Hamyang) during the Unified Silla period under Queen Jinseong (887-897), planted trees along the Wicheon stream to prevent frequent flooding. This practical forest, having existed for over a thousand years, is now designated Natural Monument 'Hamyang Sangnim' (designated 1962, former No. 154).

Because it was planted along the embankment, the forest runs parallel to the waterway in an elongated, belt-like shape. This is why it is narrow and long, rather than circular. The walking path is approximately 1.6km, and a leisurely stroll takes 40 minutes to 1 hour to complete a full circuit.

Always Open

It is a rare place where early morning or late evening walks are possible due to no opening hour restrictions. However, during the Kkotmurut and Ginseng Festival seasons, which will be mentioned later, parking fills up quickly.

Varies completely depending on when you visit

Sangnim offers different sights each season. You can't go wrong if you set your dates.

Mid-September ~ Early October — Kkotmurut This is the busiest time. Kkotmurut (seoksan) begins to bloom in mid-September, reaches its peak in late September to early October, and its full bloom period is short, just over two weeks. If you think "I'll go in autumn" and visit in late October, they will have already withered. As it often overlaps with the Chuseok holiday, be prepared for parking congestion during this period.

Summer — Lotus Flowers and Shade The lotus garden next to the forest blooms, and the deep shade of broad-leaved trees makes it suitable as a walking path to escape the heat.

Spring — Four Seasons Flower Garden Ornamental plants like corn poppies are introduced.

Many people only see the main forest, but you only truly experience Sangnim by walking through the adjacent lotus garden and Four Seasons Flower Garden as well. The feeling of walking through these three, with their shaded paths and open flower beds, is entirely different.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is there an admission fee or parking? Both are free.
• What are the operating hours? Open 24 hours a day, all year round.
• When exactly are the Kkotmurut in bloom? They bloom in mid-September, peaking in late September to early October for about two weeks. Late October is too late.
• Why is it famous? It is Korea's oldest artificial forest, created by Choe Chiwon of Unified Silla to prevent floods.

During the autumn Kkotmurut season, it's good to combine a visit here with other famous flower spots nationwide.