A place where history breathes with every step, the great traces you encounter on Chodaegil in Gangbuk-gu.
Have you ever dreamed of a path where you can feel the breath of your ancestors with every step, and where the fervent passion for independence and democracy lives on? If you want to escape the stuffy city and travel back in time, even for a moment, please pay attention to a special trail located in Gangbuk-gu, none other than Chodaegil.
Chodaegil, which is also part of Sullerye-gil, Section 2 of the Bukhansan Dulle-gil, is, as its name suggests, a course created along the burial sites of great individuals who held ‘first’ positions in modern and contemporary Korean history. With a total length of 1.3km, a short distance, and gentle slopes, it is an attractive place where people of all ages can walk without burden and experience history and nature Simultaneous.
Stories Engraved with Every Step, What Kind of Place is Chodaegil?
Beyond simply being a walking path, Chodaegil is a special educational site where one can fully experience our nation’s spirit of independence and the history of democracy. This trail, newly created in Gangbuk-gu, harmonizes with the outstanding natural scenery of Bukhansan, offering a tranquil time for reflection. With a relatively short distance of 1.3km and a low difficulty level, it can be comfortably enjoyed by those who usually exercise little, as well as families with young children.
Great Figures Asleep on the Path, Yet Forever Awake

This path becomes even more meaningful as it passes through the burial sites of those who left a significant mark on the modern and contemporary history of the Republic of Korea. The stories of the ‘first’ great figures who laid the foundation of the nation, such as Lee Jun, the first prosecutor; Sin Ik-hui, the first speaker of the National Assembly; Kim Byeong-ro, the first chief justice; and Yi Si-yeong, the first vice president, are imbued throughout the area.
Historical Stories Walking Along the Chodaegil Course
- Starting Point: Begin your journey at the Museum of Modern and Contemporary History, which embodies the spirit of independence and the history of democracy.
- Burial Site of Sin Ik-hui: Take a moment of silent tribute to commemorate the life of Sin Ik-hui, an independence activist and the first speaker of the National Assembly after the nation’s founding.
- Burial Site of Sin Ha-gyun: As the eldest son of Sin Ik-hui, you can glimpse the father-son spirit of patriotism.
- Burial Site of Patriot Lee Jun: Reflect on the noble sacrifice of Patriot Lee Jun, who strived to expose the atrocities of imperial Japan by attending the Hague Convention.
- Burial Site of Yi Si-yeong: The dedication of Yi Si-yeong, who moved to Manchuria after the Japan-Korea Annexation to devote himself to the independence movement, marks the end of Chodaegil.
Deeper Realization with Every Footstep, Why Should You Walk Chodaegil?
Klook.comValue Beyond a Simple Walk
- A Place for Historical Education: You can experience vivid history by directly visiting the burial sites of great figures previously only seen in textbooks. It will be a living education for children and a precious time for adults to reflect on the past.
- Healing for Body and Mind: You can relieve stress and find peace of mind amidst the clean air and beautiful scenery at the foot of Bukhansan. Walking the forest path itself provides ample rejuvenation.
- Accessible Trekking: Located close to the city center, it is easily reachable by public transportation, and thanks to its short course and gentle slopes, anyone can enjoy it comfortably.
- Four Seasons of Charm: From budding sprouts and flowers in spring, cool greenery in summer, autumn foliage, to snowy landscapes in winter, it offers different scenery each season, making it a great visit anytime.
Chodaegil, Tips for Smart Enjoyment
- Attire: Although it’s a gentle path, it’s best to wear comfortable shoes and easy-to-move-in clothes.
- Drinks: Carry a simple water bottle to stay hydrated frequently.
- Etiquette: As you pass through burial sites, it is important to maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
- Photography: It’s good to capture historical moments with photos, but be careful not to cause excessive noise or disturbance within the burial sites.
Getting to Chodaegil & Completing Your Historical Outing
Comfortable Steps Towards Chodaegil
Chodaegil is located in Gangbuk-gu, Seoul, offering excellent accessibility via public transportation. It’s not far from subway stations or bus stops, making it easy to find. For the exact location, please refer to the map below for an easier visit.
Nearby Attractions to Enhance Your Historical Exploration
- Bukhansan Dulle-gil: Chodaegil is part of the Bukhansan Dulle-gil, so if you have time, try walking other sections to enjoy the beautiful nature.
- Museum of Modern and Contemporary History: At this museum, which is also the starting point of Chodaegil, you can gain a deeper understanding of the flow of modern and contemporary Korean history. Visiting before or after your walk will make it even more meaningful.
- Sullerye-gil: Sullerye-gil, which is Section 2 of the Bukhansan Dulle-gil and includes Chodaegil, embraces the burial sites of many great figures, as its name suggests, making it a good place to explore together.
A Path that Resonates with the Heart, Your Own History Found on Chodaegil
Living in a complex world, you can once again encounter our history and the noble spirit of our ancestors, which you may have sometimes forgotten, on Chodaegil. Through this short journey, gain deep insights and take time to recharge your life’s energy. A light-hearted historical exploration will infuse new vitality into your daily life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What kind of path is Chodaegil?
Chodaegil is a trail course located in Gangbuk-gu, Seoul, and is part of Sullerye-gil, Section 2 of the Bukhansan Dulle-gil. It is a historical path that passes through the burial sites of great figures who held ‘first’ positions in modern and contemporary Korean history, including Lee Jun, Sin Ik-hui, Kim Byeong-ro, and Yi Si-yeong.
Q2. How long is Chodaegil, and what is its difficulty level?
The total length is approximately 1.3km, making it a relatively short course. The difficulty level is not high, so it is a gentle path that people of all ages, from young children to seniors, can walk without burden.
Q3. Is there anything special to prepare when visiting Chodaegil?
No special preparations are needed, but it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and attire. If you bring a water bottle or a light snack, you can enjoy the path more comfortably. As it passes through burial sites, it is important to maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
Q4. Are there any other places worth visiting near Chodaegil?
Visiting the Museum of Modern and Contemporary History, which is the starting point of Chodaegil, will greatly help in understanding history. Additionally, since Chodaegil is part of the Bukhansan Dulle-gil, if you have time, it is also good to walk other sections of the Bukhansan Dulle-gil.
Q5. Can Chodaegil be accessed by bicycle?
Chodaegil is primarily designed for walking exploration. It is a historical space passing through burial sites, and there are narrow and uneven sections, so it is recommended to use it on foot rather than by bicycle.
