[One Day Walk] Following King Jeongjo's Filial Piety Toward Sado Seja... 'Baebongsan Dapsimni Nadeulgil'

Baebongsan Dapsimni Nadeulgil is a 3.51km, 2-hour walking course reorganized by Dongdaemun-gu to make the green circular walking trail more accessible to residents. It allows walking centered around Baebongsan.

Baebongsan has a deep connection with King Jeongjo. At the foot of Baebongsan are the royal tombs 'Yeonguwon' of Crown Prince Sado, Jeongjo's father, and 'Hwikyungwon,' the tomb of Royal Consort Su-bin Park, Jeongjo's concubine and the mother of King Sunjo. It is said that Jeongjo, mourning his father Crown Prince Sado who died trapped in a rice chest during King Yeongjo’s reign, bowed daily toward his father’s tomb as an act of atonement for his filial impiety during his lifetime. This is the background behind the name Baebongsan (拜峰山).

Additionally, there is a theory that the mountain was called 'Baebong' because travelers bowed their heads while passing by the royal tombs such as Yeonguwon and Hwikyungwon established on the mountain slopes. Another theory suggests that the mountain’s shape resembles a person bowing toward the capital, which is the origin of its name.

Understanding this background, let’s begin the walk in earnest. You can enter the trail by taking a village bus from the Sillipdae Entrance bus stop or a bus from Dapsimni 2-dong Hanyang Apartments or in front of Baebong Elementary School. It is also possible to walk from the entrance of Samyook Medical Center.

The first place you will encounter is Baebongsan Neighborhood Park. Baebongsan Neighborhood Park is the only park developed on a mountain in Dongdaemun-gu, where mountains are extremely scarce, and is known as the district’s 'auxiliary oxygen tank.' Well-maintained walking paths run along the ridges and mid-slopes, and various convenience facilities are available, receiving positive feedback from residents. In particular, a fence that had spoiled the park’s scenery for over 50 years was removed, and in its place, a wildflower garden, ecological pond, and acupressure walkway were installed, creating a natural learning center and a resting space for residents. There are also a children’s playground, outdoor performance hall, and various exercise facilities, making it a venue for residents’ leisure activities. Every May, a district walking competition is held, along with cultural music events and Baebongsan forest trail travel programs.

Continuing past the azalea forest and Baebongsan spring, the path leads to Dapsimni Neighborhood Park. Facilities such as a golf practice range and badminton courts are installed. The forest walking trail connected by a sky bridge provides a comfortable resting place for residents.