It is the oldest artificial forest in Korea, created over 1,100 years ago.
The forest was specifically planted to mitigate annual flooding of the Hamyang-eup village area.
Local folklore attributes the creation of the forest to the Silla scholar Choe Chi-won using his supernatural powers.
The park contains a variety of trees that have survived for centuries, providing a unique look into pre-modern forest composition in the region.
The name 'Sangnim' translates to 'Upper Forest', referencing its position relative to the stream.
The site acts as a cooling island, often maintaining temperatures several degrees lower than the surrounding city center.
Sangnim Park is a historic artificial forest in Hamyang, South Korea, dating back to the 9th century during the Silla Dynasty. Originally created by Choe Chi-won, a prominent scholar and official, the forest was engineered as a riverbank protection project to prevent flood damage from the nearby Wi-cheon Stream. It covers approximately 20 hectares and contains over 20,000 trees of diverse species, including hornbeams, oaks, and zelkovas. The park is designated as Natural Monument No. 154 due to its ecological and historical significance. It features walking paths, a lotus pond, and various memorial structures honoring its creator. The site serves as both a flood control mechanism and a recreational woodland area for the local community. It remains one of the oldest and best-preserved examples of traditional Korean human-made forests.
The wooden bridge overlooking the lotus pond with the backdrop of the dense, old-growth forest.
Bring insect repellent, as the dense forest environment can be prone to mosquitoes during humid months.
Walk the full perimeter to see how the forest transitions from the riparian bank into the structured park zones.
Visit the visitor center near the entrance for a map highlighting the specific tree species labeled throughout the park.
Do not attempt to swim in the Wi-cheon Stream bordering the park, as currents and depths can be unpredictable.
Maintain silence, stay on designated walking paths, and do not forage for plants or collect forest debris.
