Geumgangsan Mountain sits in the middle of the Baekdudaegan Mountain Range that runs the full length of the Korean Peninsula. It covers 530 square kilometers, spreading over Goseong-gun, Tongcheon-gun and Geumgang-gun counties in northern Gangwon-do Province. The highest point, Birobong Peak, is 1,639 meters above sea level. Due to the changing scenery each season, it was called Geumgangsan in the spring, Bongnaesan in the summer, Pungaksan in the autumn and Gaegolsan in the winter.

There are many animals and plants living on the mountain, including Hanabusaya asiatica, Pentactina rupicola Nakai, the Asiatic black bear and the Manchurian weasel.

At Geumgangsan Mountain, the west side of the Naemujaeryeong Pass is called Naegeumgang, or "Inner Geumgang," and the east, or ocean side, is called Oegeumgang, or "Outer Geumgang." Outer Geumgang is known for its grandeur and "masculine" natural scenery, due to the high peaks with steep slopes, a series of strange-looking rocks and vertical cliffs. In addition, there are many waterfalls of various sizes and clear blue pools. All together, they produce a magnificent view. Oak trees and semitropical plants can be easily spotted there.

Korea Post's stamps issued in 2008 include the Oegeumgang (left) and Sangpaldam ponds.

There are many ponds of various sizes along the different layers of granite valleys. A series of eight large ponds is collectively referred to as the Paldam or Sangpaldam. The Sangpaldam sits above the Guryong Pokpo Waterfall in Outer Geumgang and encircles the huge Satgatbong Peak. When there are low-level stratus clouds overhead, visitors can see strings of thin mist and fog surrounding the eight ponds and the peak itself. The water from the ponds forms the Guryong Pokpo and the Biryong Pokpo waterfalls and flows through the Oknyudong Valley and finally into the East Sea. One myth says that eight heavenly maidens came down from the sky and bathed in the ponds. Indigo water in the ponds and the clouds around them create a wonderful view.

The fifth set of 'Celebrated Mountains of Korea' stamps shows scenic spots on Geumgangsan Mountain.

By Limb Jae-un
Korea.net Staff Writer
Photos: Korea Post
jun2@korea.kr