Haemieupseong Walled Town, Seosan

History of Haemieupseong: A Fortress of Defense and Faith

Haemieupseong is one of the best-preserved representative walled towns (Eupseong) from the Joseon Dynasty. It served as a strategic military hub and a witness to poignant historical events.

• Military Stronghold: Constructed between 1417 (King Taejong) and 1421 (King Sejong), it was built to defend the west coast against Japanese pirates (Wae-gu). It functioned as the military headquarters for the Chungcheong-do province for over 200 years.
• Legacy of Admiral Yi Sun-sin: The legendary Admiral Yi Sun-sin served here as a junior military officer for about 10 months in 1579, long before his famous naval victories.
• Catholic Martyrdom Site: During the late Joseon Dynasty (notably the Byeongin Persecution), thousands of Catholics were imprisoned and executed here. The Hoeya Tree (Sophora japonica) inside the fortress still bears the scars of wire marks used to torture believers, making it a sacred pilgrimage site.

Key Attractions

1. Jinnammon (South Gate): The main entrance of the fortress, featuring beautiful traditional stonework and a grand arched gate.
2. The Hoeya Tree: A 300-year-old tree that stands as a silent witness to the religious persecutions of the past.
3. Restored Government Offices (Gwana): Inside the walls, you can see restored administrative buildings and traditional houses that show how people lived centuries ago.
4. Fortress Wall Walk: You can walk along the 1.8km perimeter of the stone walls, which offers a panoramic view of the town and the peaceful surrounding landscape.

How to Get There

Haemieupseong is easily accessible from Seoul and other major cities, making it a popular day-trip destination.

1. By Car

• Via Highway: Take the Seohaean Expressway and exit at Haemi IC. The fortress is only about 5 minutes away from the exit.
• Navigation: Search for “Haemieupseong Walled Town.” Parking is generally free and spacious.

2. By Public Transportation

• Express/Intercity Bus: * Take a bus from Seoul Central City Terminal (Honam Line) or Seoul Nambu Terminal bound for Haemi. (Travel time: approx. 1.5 to 2 hours).
  • The fortress is a short 5-minute walk from the Haemi Bus Stop.
• From Seosan Terminal: If you are already in Seosan, take a local bus heading to Haemi. Buses run frequently and take about 20–30 minutes.