Mansongjeong pine forest is home to approximately ten thousand pine trees and holds the designation as a Natural Monument of Korea.
The deliberate creation of the forest traces back to the time of King Seonjo of Joseon, when Ryu Un-ryong, brother of Ryu Seong-ryong, spearheaded the planting of ten thousand pine trees. This initiative aimed to mitigate the harsh energy emanating from the stone cliff, Buyongdae Cliff, and counterbalance the void from the northwest. As a result, the village now enjoys protection against flooding in summer and bitter cold winds in winter, thanks to the forest. The community continues the tradition of regularly planting young pine trees, further enriching the forest.
An ancient tale recounts how this forest became the savior of Hahoe Village. During the Japanese invasion of Korea in 1592, approaching Japanese troops sought an opportunity to attack the village. Suddenly, they encountered a dense, verdant pine forest. However, upon seeing pine cones strewn around the trees, they mistook them for soldiers' helmets, causing them to flee in fear. At that time, the forest was much denser, and the sight of the cones alarmed the troops.
On the opposite side of the forest lies the Buyongdae cliff, a prominent landmark of Hahoe Village. At the cliff's base stands Ogyeonjeongsa House, a house that encapsulates the narrative of Ryu Seong-ryong and Ryu Un-ryong, the village's most renowned brothers.
Pinewoods of Mansongjeong Pavilion
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