Cheonghaejin, Military garrison in Wando County, South Korea
Cheonghaejin is an ancient garrison on Chang-do Island near Wando that features stone walls, wooden structures, and defensive gates from the Silla Dynasty period. The entire complex still shows the layout of what was once a major military settlement.
An admiral named Jang Bogo founded this place in 828 as a naval base with around 10,000 soldiers to protect trade routes from pirates. The site played a key role in securing maritime activity in the region for several centuries.
The name Cheonghaejin refers to a historic naval center, and visitors can still see traces of ancient buildings in the landscape today. The artifacts found here show this was once an important meeting point for people who traded across the sea.
Visitors can reach the island using a wooden bridge, and guided tours are available at the Chang Po Go Memorial Center. Plan time for a full walk around the site, and be aware that access can vary depending on tides and weather conditions.
At low tide, around 1,000 wooden fence posts become visible along the southern shore, with some measuring up to 80 centimeters across. This remarkable arrangement was likely part of coastal defenses and gives a rare look at ancient engineering techniques.
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