Bogildo, the island that captivated the heart of Gosan Yun Seondo: Hidden stories of the four seasons
In the middle of the distant South Sea, there is a place where Go-san Yun Seon-do’s boat, which had been battling rough waves, stopped as if captivated. What kind of scenery could have captivated him and made him stay for over ten years? It is none other than Bogildo, Jeollanam-do.
A place where he briefly stopped to avoid a typhoon, became captivated by the exceptionally beautiful mountains and waters, named it ‘Buyong-dong’, and made his life and literary spirit flourish. Bogildo is not just an island, but like a living museum imbued with the poet’s inspiration.
This island, which dresses differently in each of the four seasons, always offers the unchanging embrace of abundant nature. Shall we explore its mysterious charm together?
Bogildo, the Island of Elegance Loved by Go-san Yun Seon-do
Go-san Yun Seon-do, on his way to Jeju Island, briefly set foot on Bogildo to escape a severe typhoon. However, what unfolded before his eyes was not merely a refuge. Completely captivated by the beautiful mountains, waters, and hidden scenery, he named this place ‘Buyong-dong’ and spent over ten years building his life there.
Why did he stay for ten years?
During his stay here, Yun Seon-do built twenty-five structures, including Seyeonjeong and Nakseojae, and enjoyed a rural life. His representative work, ‘Eobusasisa’, also originated from the inspiration he found in the island’s nature. His timeless literary sensibility shone even brighter amidst the beautiful scenery of Bogildo.
- Seyeonjeong It is Go-san’s garden where he enjoyed elegance by drawing in water channels without going against nature.
- Nakseojae It is Go-san’s residence where he devoted himself to scholarship with an antique charm and spent his quiet remaining years.
- Eobusasisa An immortal masterpiece born from the beautiful nature of Bogildo, it sang of the changes of the four seasons and the life of a fisherman.
The Mystery of Yesong-ri Beach: Silver Pebbles and Green Evergreen Forest
Bogildo has three beaches with silver sand or pebble fields, making them popular summer resorts. Among them, Yesong-ri Beach, located on the south side of the island, boasts a unique charm rarely seen elsewhere.
Specialness Felt at Your Toes, Yesong-ri Beach
Yesong-ri Beach is composed of a pebble field stretching an impressive 1.4km. The sound of small pebbles clashing with the waves instead of sand is quiet and peaceful, like nature’s lullaby. This place, harmonized with the Yesong-ri evergreen forest designated as a natural monument, offers an even more beautiful landscape. Lush subtropical plants grow, creating a mysterious harmony with the transparent sea and adding an exotic atmosphere.
Bogildo’s Hidden Gem-like Beaches
- Yesong-ri Beach Boasts a unique landscape with a 1.4km long silver pebble field instead of sand.
- Tong-ri Beach A quaint beach perfect for enjoying a relaxed rest in a secluded and tranquil atmosphere.
- Jeongdong-ri Beach A charming beach popular with families for its beautiful sunsets.
Stunning Scenery Along the Sea Route, and Hidden History
Bogildo not only holds the relics of Go-san Yun Seon-do but also traces of other intriguing history. It’s also enjoyable to discover the old stories imbued throughout the island.
The Allure of Islands on the Blue Sea
The South Sea sea route to Bogildo is a picture in itself. Large and small islands are dotted across the blue sea, offering a mysterious experience as if passing through a fairy tale landscape. It’s a special journey that purifies the eyes and mind even before arriving at the island.
Furthermore, during the reign of King Sukjong of Joseon, Uam Song Si-yeol passed by this island on his way to exile on Jeju Island, having incurred the king’s wrath after presenting a petition regarding the crown prince’s investiture. The rock inscribed with his calligraphy, left at that time, shows another page of history and adds depth to Bogildo.
The Smartest Way to Meet Bogildo (Visitor Tips)
Bogildo is a place where nature and history breathe. Here are some tips to make your time here richer and more enjoyable.
Practical Advice for Unforgettable Memories
- Check Transportation in Advance You can reach this island by ferry from Wando Hwahungpo Port or Haenam Ttangkkeut Port. Departure times may vary depending on the season or weather conditions, so be sure to check before your visit to travel leisurely.
- Plan Ample Time There are many places to visit, such as the Go-san Yun Seon-do historic site, Yesong-ri Beach, and Dinosaur Egg Beach. Planning at least a 2-day, 1-night itinerary will allow you to fully enjoy the island’s charm.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes You will often use walking tours or trekking courses when moving around the island. It’s recommended to prepare comfortable shoes.
- Participate in Nature Conservation To pass on the beautiful nature of this island to future generations, please actively participate in environmental protection, such as taking your trash with you and prohibiting cooking outside designated areas.
Recommended Activities on Bogildo by Season
| Season | Recommended Activities |
|---|---|
| Spring | Stroll through Go-san Yun Seon-do’s historic site under warm sunshine, enjoy wild flowers |
| Summer | Pebble water play at Yesong-ri Beach, boat ride on the blue sea |
| Autumn | Trekking with colorful autumn leaves, clear and refreshing island scenery |
| Winter | Contemplation amidst the tranquil island scenery, a relaxing cup of warm tea |
Please refer to the map below for detailed location information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How do I get to Bogildo?
Bogildo can be reached by ferry from Wando Hwahungpo Port or Haenam Ttangkkeut Port in Jeollanam-do. Ferry schedules vary by season, so it is best to check in advance.
Q2. What are the must-visit places on Bogildo?
Go-san Yun Seon-do’s historic site (Seyeonjeong, Nakseojae), Yesong-ri Beach, and the Song Si-yeol Inscribed Rock are among the main attractions. Don’t miss the scenery visible along the sea route either.
Q3. How many days are appropriate for a trip to Bogildo?
To explore Bogildo’s main attractions leisurely, a minimum of a 2-day, 1-night itinerary is recommended. If you wish to fully experience the island’s nature and history, 3 days and 2 nights is also good.
Q4. Are there any special sights unique to Bogildo?
The unique silver pebble field of Yesong-ri Beach and its harmony with the natural monument evergreen forest is a special sight that can only be seen on Bogildo. The literary traces of Go-san Yun Seon-do are also a unique charm of this place.
Q5. How do I arrange accommodation and meals on Bogildo?
Bogildo has accommodations such as guesthouses and pensions, and restaurants where you can taste fresh seafood. It is advisable to make reservations in advance during peak season.
