Ganghwa Island in South Korea, the Historical Cradle of the Country

Did you know? The Korean peninsula was populated at the same time as the rest of the world, that is, a little more than 8,000 years before BC, in the Neolithic era and more specifically on the small island of Ganghwa in South Korea located at the northwestern border between the two Koreas.

An island of about 305 km² where archaeologists have found dolmens identical to those you can find in Armorica, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000. Discover this island during a trip to South Korea that will transport you into the country's history.

The Land of the Morning Calm from the Neolithic to Present Day

The island of Ganghwa in South Korea, or Kanghwa, is not only an island with Neolithic remains, but it has been a strategic island for the peninsula's kingdoms for hundreds of years.
This island is a key point due to its location at the mouth of the Han River, a river that crosses the capital: Seoul. It is therefore a perfect outpost for the security of the city and, as such, numerous fortifications have been built there over the centuries.

Dolmen of GanghwaDuring the period of the Goryeo kingdom (12th and 13th centuries), Ganghwa Island even served as a refuge for the inhabitants of the capital and the governments of the kingdom during attacks by people from Mongolia.
During the era of the Joseon kingdom (late 13th – early 20th century), the island once again served as a refuge against foreign invaders from Manchuria.

In the 19th century, Western nations attempted several times to enter Korea via the Han River but were always blocked by fortresses and protective barriers on Ganghwa Island.

Even today, although the island seems to live in peace like the rest of the southern Korean peninsula, it is a strategic high point. Indeed, the north of the island is only 1.8 kilometers away from the border with North Korea

Why Visit Ganghwa Island During a Trip to South Korea

The History of the Country

On this island, you can explore all of Korean peninsula's history from prehistory to the current era and better understand this strange situation of "fragile peace" with its North Korean neighbor. You can admire the Dolmens of "Bugen-ni Dolmen", the Ganghwa History Museum, but also military fortresses like "Gapgot Battery" which enabled Koreans to resist French and American armies.

Buddhist Temples and Royal Palaces

Temples symbolizing Buddhist presence in the region such as "Jeongduksa Temple" or "Bomunsa Temple". The royal palaces with "Goryeogungji Palace" (the Goryeogung Palace) which was built on the island during the Goryeo kingdom era.

Not to mention Ganghwa Fortress, and Ganghwa Anglican Church which resembles a Buddhist temple!

Understanding Asia's Geopolitical World

By visiting "Ganghwa Peace Observatory" you will better understand the geopolitical and military situation with North Korea.

Visiting Traditional Korean Markets

Azaleas cover the island in springYou can also visit traditional markets where Kimchi (fermented cabbage with chili) loved by Koreans is sold, ginseng with multiple medicinal virtues, as well as spices and ingredients that make Korean cuisine so fragrant, spicy and unique.

During the Azalea Festival in April, Mount Goryeosan is covered with flowers and a festive atmosphere reigns over the park.

Easy Access

Ganghwa BridgeTo get there takes about two hours by public transport and just under an hour by car (depending on road traffic). The distance allows for a simple excursion to the island if you spend a week in Seoul or more. This outing from the megalopolis is a pleasant breath of fresh air that helps you better understand the history of the country.