Doksanseong, Korean fortress in Sema-dong, South Korea.

Doksanseong is a stone fortress with a perimeter wall and four entrance gates aligned to the cardinal directions, which structure the layout of the site. The walls and gate structures form a system typical of Korean military fortifications.

Doksanseong was probably first built by Baekje and was used as a military stronghold in later periods. In December 1592, during the Imjin War, General Gwon Yul led about 20,000 soldiers from Jeolla Province and held the fortress against tens of thousands of Japanese troops. In 1602, after the war, magistrate Byeon Eung-seong rebuilt the walls in stone; further repairs followed in 1792 and 1796.

The fortress holds a Buddhist temple and a monument that show how military defense and religious life were connected in Korean society. Walking through the site, you can see how both purposes shaped the space together.

The fortress is reachable by public transportation and you can explore the walls and gates at your own pace. The site is accessible for visitors who want to see the old military structures.

Historical records tell of a general who once washed a white horse in water to show the enemy that water was plentiful. This clever deception during the attack aimed to strengthen the morale of those defending the fortress.