Gwangseongbo Fort
광성보
A Joseon-era coastal fortress on Ganghwa's east coast, where Korean defenders fought fiercely against American forces during the 1871 Sinmi Western Incursion. The pine-lined coastal trail is scenic.
Gwangseongbo sits on Ganghwa's east coast, guarding the narrow strait between Ganghwa Island and Gimpo, known as Salt River. It was one of the twelve garrison forts the Joseon dynasty built to protect the entrance to the Han River. During the 1871 Sinmi Western Incursion, Korean troops under Eo Jae-yeon fought the American fleet here, and nearly all of them died. The site preserves the Anhaeru gate tower, the Gwangseong Dondae and Yongdu Dondae watch platforms, the Ssangchung Monument and a grave for the unnamed soldiers. A pine-lined coastal trail leads to Yongdu Dondae, which juts into the strait, where you can watch the swift tides and look across to Gimpo. Admission is about 1,100 won, and a visit takes about an hour. Getting there: take a bus from Ganghwa Bus Terminal for about 30 minutes, or drive. It can be combined in a single day with Chojijin and Jeondeungsa, both about 4 km to the south.
Opening hours
09:00–18:00 (until 17:00 in winter)
Nearby sights
- Chojijin Fort
- Jeondeungsa Temple
- Ganghwa Seaside Resort Luge
- Goryeo Palace Site, Ganghwa
- Manisan & Chamseongdan Altar
- Ganghwa Dolmen Sites
- Ganghwa Peace Observatory
- Wolmido