Haemi Eupseong (해미 읍성)
One of the youngest Korean fortifications we’ve visited, Haemi Upseong was constructed late in the Joseon Era. Completed during Great King Sejong’s reign in 1421, it was originally intended to protect against coastal raids by Japanese pirates. The site played a pivotal role in Korean history as scene of the Donghak Peasant Revolution beween January 1894 and December 1895. This rebellion led directly to Qing Dynasty military assistance which in turn became one cause of the First Sino-Japanese War (1894-95). Today it’s a beautiful park with carefully maintained historical buildings highlighted by evocative use of local flora. Well worth a visit!
The main gate to Haemi Upseong.
The lone sentry tower standing at Haemi Upseong.
The fortress commander’s offices, as viewed from the pavilion hill behind. The view from that hill is stunning this time of year with the red spider lillies in full bloom!
Love old Joseon architecture!!
The steps leading up to Cheongheojeong pavilion.
Cheongheojeong Pavilion at Haemi Upseong.
More views from the hill, this one looking back toward the gate into the commander’s compound.
…of course, any fortress with a collection of Joseon Era weaponry is an instant favorite! This one is the now famous Hwacha, basically a mobile multiple rocket launcher.
A Joseon Era cannon complete with sabot-style projectile of the type used by Admiral Yi to destroy Japanese vessels during the Imjin War (1592-98).
A Joseon Era mortar, complete with exploding metal ammunition. Quite ahead of its time!
The main gate of Haemi Upseong once more…couldn’t resist including this pic as the guard dressed in period attire was actually prohibiting the lady and her child from exiting—due to the danger posed by an incoming vehicle.