A Trip to Buyeo: Gungnamji Pond, Filled with the Scent of Lotuses
 |
| Buyeo Gungnamji Pond |
While traveling through Buyeo, Chungnam, there is one place that makes you want to linger just a little longer. It is Gungnamji, the oldest artificial pond in Korea. Legend has it that King Mu of the Baekje Kingdom carefully crafted this pond over 1,400 years ago for the woman he loved.
Behind the simple name, which literally means 'a pond to the south of the palace,' lies the remarkable landscaping artistry and the tender heart of the Baekje people.
Gungnamji
Gungnamji is a grand artificial pond built during the reign of King Mu of the Baekje Kingdom. There is a famous legend that the King created this pond with great devotion for the woman he loved. Perhaps that’s why, from the moment you step inside, you can feel a warm and elegant atmosphere.
It’s more than just a pond filled with water. It was thoughtfully designed to blend perfectly with nature, featuring a small artificial island in the center with a beautiful pavilion called Poryongjeong. It is the perfect place to experience the incredible landscaping artistry of the Baekje people from 1,400 years ago.
✨ Location & Information
- Address: 52 Gungnam-ro, Buyeo-eup, Buyeo-gun, Chungcheongnam-do
National Designation: Historic Site No. 135
Inquiries: +82-41-830-2880
Admission & Parking: Free
Website : Click Here
✨ Directions
A Tender Story Told by History
Gungnamji was created during the reign of King Mu (600–641 AD), a time when the Baekje Kingdom was at the height of its cultural glory. Located near Sabi (modern-day Buyeo), the capital of Baekje, it served as a peaceful sanctuary for the royal family.
Excavations began in 1965, revealing the pond’s ancient form. The roof tiles and pottery fragments discovered at the site show just how exquisitely the Baekje people decorated this space. It wasn’t simply a hole dug into the ground; it was a masterpiece of wisdom, designed to harmonize nature and architecture as one.
 |
| Elegant Lotuses in Full Bloom: Gungnamji Pond |
 |
| Elegant Lotuses in Full Bloom: Gungnamji Pond |
The Garden of Baekje : Experience the serenity of Korea’s very first man-made pond.
The Many Faces of the Seasons : A beautiful trail for all seasons, from summer lotuses to pristine snowy landscapes.
Summer Night Festival : The 'Buyeo Seodong Lotus Festival,' where dazzling lights and blooming lotuses create a magical atmosphere.
Seodong and Princess Seonhwa : A romantic love story that has transcended a thousand years.
A Scenic Path for a Leisurely Stroll
At the heart of Gungnamji’s vast rectangular pond sits a charming small island, graced by an elegant pavilion called Poryongjeong. As you walk slowly across the wooden bridge that stretches over the water, the worries of everyday life seem to drift away with the gentle ripples.
 |
| The Serene Poryongjeong Resting on the Lake |
Each season brings a new face to the pond: vibrant lotuses in summer, cherry blossoms in spring, fiery autumn leaves, and a pristine white blanket of snow in winter. When the sun sets and the soft ambient lights flicker on, Gungnamji transforms into a truly magical place. Is there any better spot to enjoy a moonlit stroll while holding hands with someone you love?
 |
| The Lotus Blossoms of Gungnamji, Buyeo |
3 Ways to Fully Enjoy Gungnamji Pond
✨ Cross the Wooden Bridge to Poryongjeong Pavilion
The wooden bridge stretching across the pond to the pavilion is the most iconic photo spot in Gungnamji. Feeling the cool breeze as you look out over the water from the bridge will make you feel completely refreshed and clear-headed.
✨ The Summer Highlight: ‘Buyeo Seodong Lotus Festival’
Every summer, Gungnamji becomes even more vibrant as it hosts the Buyeo Seodong Lotus Festival, commemorating the touching love story of Prince Seodong and Princess Seonhwa. In 2024, the festival will be held for three days, from July 5th to July 7th.
Among tens of thousands of swaying lotuses, visitors can enjoy various performances and hands-on activities. At night, the lotuses look even more mystical under the sparkling lights, and combined with the beautiful music, it creates an unforgettable summer night memory.
✨ Take a Walk Along the Seasonal Trails
Gungnamji changes its "outfit" with every season. Whether it’s the cherry blossoms in spring, the colorful leaves in autumn, or the pavilion covered in white snow in winter, every view is like a scene from a painting. The well-maintained trails are perfect for a gentle stroll with children or elderly parents.
 |
| The Walking Paths of Gungnamji, Buyeo |
Must-visit Places in Buyeo
✨ Buyeo National Museum
This is where you can witness the actual Great Gilt-bronze Incense Burner of Baekje. Staring at this masterpiece, which represents the pinnacle of ancient craftsmanship, you’ll instantly understand why Baekje was considered a cultural powerhouse. Don’t miss the immersive digital gallery at the entrance!
✨ Jeongrimsaji Temple Site
The star of this site is the Five-story Stone Pagoda, standing serenely in the heart of the village. With no tall buildings around, the area offers a sense of openness. The sight of the evening glow reflecting off the pagoda is exceptionally elegant and beautiful.
✨ Busosanseong Fortress & Gudu-rae Ferry
Enjoy a light trek up to Nakhwaam Rock. On your way back, instead of taking the mountain trail, I highly recommend boarding a Hwangpodotbae (traditional ferry) at the dock to cross the Baekma River. The view of the Nakhwaam cliffs from the water is absolutely breathtaking.
✨ Baekje Cultural Land
This is a massive theme park that recreates Sabi Palace, the royal palace of Baekje. Due to its size, you can explore the grounds via electric trams. It also offers a night opening, showcasing a magnificent grandeur that differs from its daytime charm.
✨ Muryangsa Temple
Located a bit away from the city center, this temple is the perfect place to experience the tranquility of the deep mountains. The overwhelming atmosphere of Geungnakjeon, a massive two-story Buddha hall designated as a national treasure, is truly remarkable. It’s also a famous healing spot for Temple Stay programs.
※ Click on the image map to view a detailed map.
 |
| Buyeo Tourist Map: Must-Visit Spots |
Gungnamji is more than just a pretty park; it reflects the Baekje people's deep respect for nature and their quest for harmony. Pair your visit with the nearby Buyeo National Museum or the Baekje Cultural Complex for an even richer historical journey. This weekend, why not recharge your soul at Gungnamji, surrounded by the scent of lotus blossoms and the company of someone special?
