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The sun of the new year is rising beyond the horizon!
Many people begin the year by watching the first sunrise.
It's a significant process of preparing for a new beginning by making a wish or pledge to the sun.
We'll introduce you to the most stunning sunrise viewing spots in Korea,
where you can witness the first sunrise of the new year!
Let's begin😎
Jeongdongjin is a renowned sunrise destination for Koreans. When you gaze toward the horizon from Jeongdongjin Beach, you'll be treated to a stunning view featuring ship sculptures. The expansive beach allows you to enjoy the sunrise at a leisurely pace with your group, even amidst a crowd. Capture a variety of photographs as the sun ascends! After witnessing the sunrise, you can spend time admiring the azure waters of Jeongdongjin Beach or taking pictures at the designated photo zones. Each year, Jeongdongjin attracts visitors eager to witness the first sunrise of the new year rising over the blue waters of Gangneung, framed by the ship sculptures, solidifying its popularity.
Address: Jeongdongjin-ri, Gangdong-myeon, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do
Dokdo can be quite challenging to visit, but it's the easternmost island in Korea and offers a breathtaking view of the sunrise. The journey to Dokdo is often complicated due to weather conditions, and it takes approximately two hours to reach the island by boat from Ulleungdo. To witness the sun rising with Dokdo as a stunning backdrop, you can take a boat to the island and enjoy the beautiful ocean scenery surrounding it. Alternatively, you can ascend to the Dokdo Sunrise Observatory on Ulleungdo to watch the sunrise over Dokdo. The observatory is easily accessible by cable car, and you can also explore the Dokdo Museum, which showcases the island's rich history!
Address: 3 Dokdoanyongbok-gil Ulleung-eup, Ulleung-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Among the many Sol Beach resorts, Sol Beach Hotel&Resort in Samcheok is particularly renowned for its stunning sunrises in its Santorini-themed garden. Many visitors come here on New Year’s Day to witness the sun rising behind the Wishing Bell in the Santorini Garden. The enchanting Wishing Bell is set against a backdrop of shallow water, creating the illusion of being connected to the sea beyond, while the red hues of the rising sun reflect beautifully on the surface. As Sol Beach Hotel&Resort’s designated photo zone, the Wishing Bell offers an excellent opportunity to capture breathtaking images of the blue sky, sea, and the white Wishing Bell after sunrise, provided the weather is favorable. We highly recommend spending your first day of the New Year at Sol Beach Resort to create unforgettable memories!
Address: 453 Surobuin-gil, Samcheok-si, Gangwon-do
Manghaesa Temple, located in Gimje, is a small Korean temple designated as a national natural heritage site. Despite its modest size, the temple boasts a history spanning over a thousand years, and its scenery harmoniously blends with nature, creating the unique beauty of Manghaesa Temple. The zelkova tree at the temple is estimated to be over 400 years old, standing as a testament to its rich history. While Manghaesa Temple is primarily renowned for its breathtaking sunsets, many visitors flock to the site on New Year's Day to experience the enchanting sunrise over the West Sea. For an even more immersive experience, hike up to the Jinbongsan Observatory located behind the temple. Additionally, Manghaesa Temple features a large bell known as the Wind Bell; be sure to ring it yourself and make a wish for the new year while listening to its resonant chime!
Address: 94 Simpo 10-gil Jinbong-myeon, Gimje-si, Jeonbuk-do
Seonyudo Park is a place where you can enjoy the sunrise along with the wide open Han River. There're many sunrise viewing points in Seonyudo Park, but the most popular one is the one facing Yeouido from Seonyu Bridge. The sun rising between the twin buildings rises high and illuminates the 63 Building and the National Assembly Building. When you think of sunrise spots, you usually think of the seaside or a place where you can see the moment when the sun rises over the horizon, but you can feel the same beauty in Seoul. Additionally, it's enjoyable to view iconic Korean structures from afar, such as the 63 Building and the National Assembly Building!
Address: 343 Seonyu-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul
Work: 6 – 12AM
Sodeungseom Island is a small uninhabited island renowned for its stunning sunrises, particularly among photography enthusiasts. The name from the story that a local legend in which people prayed for the safe return of their family members who ventured out to sea for fishing, guided by the sight of small lights. Sculptures symbolizing this hope and wish adorn the island, providing inspiration to those who seek to make a wish for the new year. Visitors can witness the sunrise behind the small island, which is surrounded by trees in Nampo Village. Additionally, during low tide, the sea route from the village to the island becomes accessible, allowing a short 5-minute walk to the island twice a day. Many people take advantage of this opportunity to reach the island during low tide, eagerly awaiting the sunrise for a closer and more immediate experience.
Address: San225 Sangbal-ri, Yongsan-myeon, Jangheung-gun, Jeollanam-do