Historical places #3 in Wando-gun

장보고동상

4.2 · 470 reviews
A quiet and solemn memorial site with expansive coastal views.
South Korea, Jeollanam-do, Wando-gun, Wando-eup, Jukcheong-ri, 장보고동상
Interesting facts
1

The statue is positioned to face toward the sea, symbolizing Jang Bogo’s historical influence over maritime trade routes.

2

Jang Bogo is also known in historical texts as Kung-Bok, a merchant-warrior who rose from humble origins to become a powerful maritime power broker.

3

The surrounding park area is integrated into the larger Wando waterfront promenade system, which connects to the Jangbogo Memorial Hall.

4

The location was chosen specifically for its proximity to the original site of the Cheonghaejin garrison on Jang-do Island.

Overview

The Jang Bogo Statue commemorates the Unified Silla period maritime hero who established the Cheonghaejin garrison in Wando to dominate maritime trade in East Asia. Located on a hill overlooking the southern coast, the monument features a colossal bronze statue of the historical figure alongside historical reliefs detailing his life. The site serves as a symbolic gate to the Wando islands and the historic Cheonghaejin site. It provides an elevated vantage point with views of the Wando harbor and the surrounding archipelago. The sculpture honors his role in suppressing piracy and securing safe trade routes between Korea, China, and Japan in the 9th century.

Photo spot

From the lower plaza looking upward, allowing the statue to be framed against the blue sky and ocean horizon.

Insider tips

Visit during the golden hour to capture the statue against the backdrop of the sunset over the Wando archipelago.

Bring comfortable walking shoes to navigate the stairs leading up to the statue's plinth.

Combine this visit with a trip to the nearby Jangbogo Memorial Hall for a complete historical context.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to climb the statue base itself, as it is a protected monument.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
30-45 minutes
Best time to visit
Late afternoon or spring, when the coastal breeze is mild and the visibility of the surrounding islands is high.
Address
South Korea, Jeollanam-do, Wando-gun, Wando-eup, Jukcheong-ri, 장보고동상
34.343, 126.732
Get directions
Details
Historical SignificanceCommemorates the 9th-century Cheonghaejin garrison leader.
Key FeatureColossal bronze statue overlooking the South Sea.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 30-45 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late afternoon or spring, when the coastal breeze is mild and the visibility of the surrounding islands is high..

From the lower plaza looking upward, allowing the statue to be framed against the blue sky and ocean horizon.

Close by you'll find Wando Cheonghaejin Historical Site, 완도타워, 완도해변공원.

South Korea

About Wando-gun