Jeokbyeokgang River
Another name for Geumgang River, Geumgang River originates from the Tteunbongsaem Spring in Subun-ri, Jangsu-gun, Jeollabuk-do Province and flows through Muju and Jinan of Jeollabuk-do and across Chungcheongnam-do and Chungcheongbuk-do provinces. It is a long and wide river, spanning 402km from its origin to the Geumgang Estuary in Seocheon, Chungcheongnam-do Province.
Address : 697 Jeokbyeokgang-ro (Sutong-ri), Buri-myeon, Geumsan-gun, Chungcheongnam-do Province
Introduction
Geumgang River is known by two different names as it flows through Chungcheong-do Province. It is called ‘Jeokbyeokgang’ as it flows through Jeokbyeok of Geumsan, and ‘Baengmagang’ as it flows through Busosan Mountain in Buyeo, Chungcheongnam-do Province. Traversing the province of Chungcheong-do, it bore witness to the rich history and culture of the region. Past Muju, Jeollabuk-do Province, Geumgang River meanders through the heart of Buri-myeon of Geumsan and is called ‘Jeokbyeokgang’ when it reaches Sutong-ri of Muri-myeon. Jeokbyeok literally means ‘red cliff’. The river flowing under it was named ‘Jeokbyeokgang’ long ago, providing scenic beauty to all who visit. The river flows under a towering 30m cliff with a rugged rocky terrain along stretches of pebble fields, which makes it a perfect place for a swim- one reason for many summertime visitors. One can enjoy the stunning scenery of Jeokbyeok created by the ridge between Seongjusan Mountain (624m), the highest peak in Buri-myeon, and Yanggaksan (566m) on its southwest side. The massive Jeokbyeok on the riverside of Sutong-ri, situated southwest of the mountains, as well as a nameless rocky cliff and ‘Hanbawi’ of Yanggaksan Mountain blend harmoniously with Geumgang River to present breathtaking scenery.
Travel tips
Sutongmaeul, situated in the heart of the mountains by the Jeokbyeokgang River, is a village blooming with a natural ecosystem where you can rest and heal-body and soul. The river is teeming with aquatic life-mandarin fish, Coreoperca herzi, Korean bullhead, goby minnow, buguri, slender shinner, and marsh snail, (known for only living in clean waters) -and the riverside offers a grand view of tall wild grass fields. Nature getaways for those city bound include recreational and camping facilities, village parks, a ginseng herb enzyme experience center, ginseng herb baths, and Jeokbyeokgang River rafting. Accommodation is also available.
