Sangnim Park

Overview

Sangrim Park is a historical forest created during the Unified Silla period. It was designed to prevent flooding from the Wicheon Stream, which used to damage the center of Hamyang. Spanning about 1.6km in length and covering 21 hectares, it is home to over 120 species of broadleaf trees. It is designated as Natural Monument No. 154 and serves as a vital ecological and recreational space for both locals and tourists.

History

The forest was established by Choi Chi-won, a renowned scholar and official, when he served as the governor of Hamyang (then known as Cheonnyeong-gun). To stop the frequent flooding, he built an embankment and planted a dense forest along it. Originally, the forest was much larger and was called "Daerim" (Great Forest). Over time, a part of it was destroyed, splitting it into "Sangrim" (Upper Forest) and "Harim" (Lower Forest), but only Sangrim survives in its majestic form today.

Things to see

Historic monuments and seasonal flora:

• **Lotus Pond**: One of the largest lotus fields in the region, blooming vibrantly with various species of lotus and water lilies every summer (July-August).

• **Historic Pavilions**: The park houses several traditional structures, including the Saho-jeong and Hamhwa-ru, where visitors can rest and admire the scenery.

• **Statue of Choi Chi-won**: A monument dedicated to the founder of the forest, honoring his wisdom and contribution to the community.

• **Wildflower Garden**: A vast field that changes colors with the seasons, particularly famous for its crimson Red Spider Lilies (Lycoris radiata) in September.

Things to do

Cultural festivals and healing walks:

• **Barefoot Walking Path**: A well-maintained path designed for earthing (barefoot walking) that allows visitors to feel the natural texture of the forest floor.

• **Hamyang Wild Ginseng Expo/Festival**: Typically held in the fall, this major event takes place in and around Sangrim Park, offering various experiences related to Hamyang's famous wild ginseng.

• **Photography**: The forest is a paradise for photographers, offering different moods from the light green of spring and deep canopy of summer to the golden hues of autumn and snowy serenity of winter.