Welcome to Buyeo, the heart of Baekje culture! Here, you’ll discover a rich tradition and stunning heritage that will captivate you.
Overview of Buyeo District
Buyeo District, located in South Chungcheong Province, South Korea, lies in the lower Geum Valley amidst a hilly region south of the Charyeong Mountain range. The central hills include Seongtaesan (631 m), Wolmyeongsan (544 m), and Mansusan (432 m). Buyeo is situated 60 km west of Daejeon City and 40 km east of the Yellow Sea. Since 2009, Highway 151 has connected Gongju to Seocheon, facilitating travel through the district, which is also served by a bus network that allows for a two-hour journey from Seoul. Unfortunately, there are no train services available.
The district’s population has been in rapid decline, dropping from 95,213 inhabitants in 2000 to 71,809 in 2014, down from 195,843 in 1964. Buyeo comprises the capital, along with 15 communes (myeon).
Climate
Buyeo experiences a humid continental climate (Dwa according to the Köppen classification), with most rainfall occurring in the summer months and dry winters. Average temperatures range from -1.9 °C in January to 25.5 °C in August. The area is part of the Central Korea Deciduous Forests ecoregion.
Symbol of Buyeo
The emblem of Buyeo, a phoenix atop the Gilt-Bronze Incense Burner of Baekje, represents the resilient spirit of Buyeo’s residents, embodying their aspirations to flourish on a global scale in the 21st century.
Historical Significance
In the village of Songguk-ri, archaeological remains from the Mumun period (850 to 300 BC) have been discovered. During the Three Kingdoms period, Buyeo served as the capital of the Baekje Kingdom from 538 to 660, known then as Sabi. Various archaeological sites, including the Busosanseong Fortress, Gwanbuk-ri Administrative Buildings, Jeongnimsa Temple, Neungsan-ri Royal Tombs, and Naseong City Walls, have been designated as World Heritage Sites within the Historic Areas Group of Baekje. Additionally, Gungnamji Pond was created during the royal gardens of that era. Since 1954, Buyeo has celebrated its history every autumn through the Baekje Cultural Festival. The Buyeo National Museum and the Baekje Cultural Park also pay tribute to this rich heritage.
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Must-See Attractions in Buyeo
Nakhwaam Rock at Mt. Buso
Mt. Buso, with an elevation of 106 m, is prominent in the Buyeo-eup area, surrounded by flatlands. The steep northern and eastern slopes lead down to the Baengmagang River. The name “Mt. Buso,” mentioned in King Sejong’s Treatise on Geography, translates to “pine tree” in the Baekje language, and it is believed that it refers to ‘Solmoe.’
Historically, Mt. Buso served as the backdrop for the Baekje palace and sheltered the remnants of Sabi during wartime. Notable sites include Sajaru Pavilion, Baekhwajeong, Samchungsa Temple, and Nakhwaam Rock, renowned for both their beauty and historical significance.
Samgukyusa recounts that Nakhwaam is the site where royal court women leaped to their deaths following the defeat of Baekje by the Silla-Tang Alliance during the invasion of Sabiseong Fortress. Subsequently, the rock became known as Nakhwaam, meaning “the cliff of falling flowers.” Scholar Song Siyeol inscribed the name on the cliff, which is still visible today.
Gungnamji
Gungnamji Lake is steeped in the legend of Princess Seonhwa of Silla and King Mu. Historical texts reveal that during King Mu’s reign, a pond was built south of the palace, drawing fresh water through a 20-li-long pipeline. Surrounded by willow trees and featuring an island with a pavilion, Gungnamji exemplifies royal gardens influenced by Taoist beliefs and displays Baekje’s talent for garden design.
Each season reveals Gungnamji’s beauty, but July is particularly special with thousands of lotus flowers blooming during the Seodong Lotus Flower Festival. In October and November, the Goodtrae Chrysanthemum Festival showcases various artworks.
Cheonjeongdae Baekjebo
Cheonjeongdae represents a unique aspect of mountain spirit worship in Baekje. According to Samgukyusa, potential prime minister candidates would have their names written and placed here, awaiting divine confirmation. The appointment of a prime minister was significant, reflecting the ancient political ideology of seeking divine guidance in important decisions.
Nearby, the Baengma River flows, offering views of Joojangsan Fortress and Busosanseong Fortress. The surrounding area features uniquely shaped rocks such as Imgeum Rock and Sinha Rock.
Baekjebo, with an elevation of 311 m on the Geum River, depicts the theme “Return of General Gyebaek,” portraying the general looking over the river on horseback.
Baekje Cultural Heritage Complex
Designated as a key area for Baekje culture in 1993, the Baekje Cultural Heritage Complex was developed over 17 years (1994-2010) and showcases Korea’s first full-scale reproduction of a Baekje palace from the Three Kingdoms period. The complex features structures reflective of Baekje’s artistic style and gives visitors an insightful understanding of Baekje’s cultural legacy.
In addition to the Baekje Historical Cultural Center, which opened in 2006 and is the only museum dedicated to Baekje’s history, the complex includes the Sabi palace, Neungsa Temple, a residential village displaying various housing styles, and tombs that illustrate life in Baekje 1,400 years ago.
Seodongyo Theme Park
Seodongyo Theme Park is the site of Korea’s first drama set during the Baekje period. Spanning 10,000 pyeong, the park features replicas of the Baekje and Silla palaces, a palace village, and scenic spots perfect for photography. Renowned dramas such as The Great Seer, The Legend, and Gyebaek were filmed in this picturesque location. The Deokyong Reservoir surrounding the set offers a lovely spot for morning walks accessible to all.
Jeongnimsa Temple Site
The storied stone pagoda at the Jeongnimsa Temple site dates back to the early 6th century, coinciding with Baekje’s move of the capital to Buyeo. With a low foundation and elegant roof design, it beautifully reflects the aesthetics of Baekje’s wooden architecture while displaying the artisanship of the era. This pagoda, along with Iksan Mireuksaji Temple’s Stone Pagoda, characterizes early Baekje architecture.
General So Jeongbang of Tang, who aided Silla in the destruction of Baekje, left records of this pagoda, which are invaluable historical artifacts.
Baekje Royal Tombs Park in Neungsan-ri
This site comprises royal tombs from the Sabi period (538-660) and is located just outside eastern Naseong. The area features a cluster of seven tombs, with central burials likely belonging to kings from that time, situated according to geographical features that align with traditional Feng Shui principles. Investigations since the Japanese colonial era have revealed that precious grave goods were scarce; however, notable finds include a gilt-bronze incense burner and a stone sarira case, both of which highlight Baekje’s cultural achievements.
Baengma River Water Tour
The Geum River, known for its silk-like flow, stretches through Buyeo, also referred to as the Baengma River. It covers a distance of 16 km from Cheonjeongdae to Banjowon-ri, offering serene scenery ideal for canoeing and yachting from June to October, making for a relaxing outdoor experience.
Muryangsa Temple in Mt. Mansoo
Muryangsa Temple, believed to have been founded by Beomilguksa in late Silla, has undergone several reconstructions over the years. This temple holds significance as the retreat of the renowned poet Kim Siseup, who lived in seclusion and condemned the actions of Grand Prince Suyang. Despite the destruction that occurred during the Japanese Invasion of 1592, remnants of its historical artifacts include several treasures that exemplify the temple’s rich heritage.
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Mt. Seongheung Love Tree
The 400-year-old zelkova tree at Mt. Seongheung is designated as Buyeo-gun Local Relic No. 88. Surrounded by the historic Seongheungsan Fortress, this tree stands 22 m tall and boasts a circumference of 125 cm. It serves as a symbol of Mt. Seongheung and was prominently featured in the drama Seodongyo, marking significant romantic moments between characters. It has become a well-known location for filming various dramas, including Great King Sejong.
Local Festivals
Baekje Cultural Festival
Location: Gudurae in Buyeo-up and the surrounding area
Period: Early to mid-October annually
The Baekje Cultural Festival began in 1955 shortly after the Korean War, initiated by Buyeo residents who established a steering committee. Initially, the festival focused on rituals to honor loyal subjects and the spirits of women who perished during the kingdom’s downfall. Over the years, it has evolved to include various cultural events, attracting visitors from near and far.
Eunsan Byeolsinje
Location: Entire Eunsan-myeon, Buyeo-gun
Period: Every March
Eunsan Byeolsinje is recognized as Chungcheongnam-do’s first Important Intangible Cultural Property of Korea, designated in 1966. Rooted in traditional shamanism, the event also features military ceremony elements, making it unique. Although simplified, it includes significant rituals over six days, attracting visitors who wish to experience traditional practices.
Mt. Yuwang memorial service
Mt. Yuwang Memorial Service
Location: Mt. Yuwang, Amsoo-ri, Yanghwa-myeon, Buyeo-gun
Period: August 16th and 17th of the lunar calendar (2 days)
Host: Mt. Yuwang Memorial Service Steering Committee
This event commemorates King Uija and the 12,800 Baekje people taken captive in 660 by the Tang Dynasty. It originally involved gatherings for socializing and enjoyment and has since transformed into a new version of that tradition, revived in 1997.
Imcheon Chunghonje
Location: Seongheungsanseong Fortress, Gunsa-ri, Imcheon-myeon
Period: End of April (2 days annually)
This ceremony honors the unknown soldiers who fought against the Silla-Tang coalition at Seongheungsanseong Fortress in 700. It includes a lotus light parade, rituals for loyal subjects, and cultural performances, providing a lively experience of Buyeo’s heritage and history.
Conclusion
A visit to Buyeo offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in Korean history and traditions. From explorations of the ancient Busosanseong Fortress to scenic walks in nature, as well as a delightful boat trip on the Geum River, Buyeo presents a serene and uncrowded environment perfect for travelers.
While less famous than Gyeongju, the former capital of the Silla Kingdom, Buyeo is rich in cultural assets, many of which are designated World Heritage Sites. Don’t miss the Seodong Lotus Festival at Gungnamji Pond in July and the Baekje Cultural Festival in September and October for unique celebrations of the region’s heritage. For those unable to visit Buyeo, the Seoul Baekje Museum in Olympic Park provides an excellent alternative to experience Baekje’s history.
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Article updated on 22 October 2024
