A Journey Through the Haeparang Trail: Discovering Homigot’s “Hands of Harmony”
In the summer of 2020, on August 5th to be precise, I set out on an incredible adventure to walk South Korea’s longest hiking trail, the Haeparang Trail. Spanning an impressive 772 kilometers, this coastal path begins in Busan and winds its way along the eastern coast to Goseong. My journey began at Section 1, Trail No. 1, in Busan. Each step along this trail was a mix of excitement, exhaustion, and discovery.
By the sixth day of walking, I found myself in Pohang, specifically at Homigot Sunrise Square (호미곶 해맞이광장). It was around 4 PM when I arrived, and it was my first visit to this iconic spot. I’d heard so much about Homigot and its famous “Hands of Harmony”, but experiencing it in person was something else entirely.
The Significance of Homigot
Homigot, meaning “Tiger’s Tail Cape,” is located on the southeastern tip of Korea, within the port city of Pohang. It’s famed for its unique sculptures known as the “Hands of Harmony”, which are a pair of massive hands symbolizing unity and togetherness.
One of the hands rises dramatically from the sea, while the other is situated on land. These sculptures, built in 1999, were designed to represent the idea of moving forward as a community by metaphorically “joining hands.” Pohang itself is home to over half a million people, and these hands have become an emblem of the city’s spirit and resilience.
A Sunrise Like No Other
Homigot is renowned for being the first place in Korea to witness the sunrise. Every day, visitors flock here in the early hours to catch the mesmerizing view of the sun rising over the East Sea. It’s an experience that has become a tradition for many, especially on New Year’s Day, when Homigot hosts a grand sunrise festival. People gather to welcome the new year with fireworks, cultural performances, and a collective sense of hope.
When I arrived, though it was late afternoon, the square was still bustling with tourists and locals enjoying the scenic beauty. The atmosphere was calm yet vibrant, with the vast sea stretching out before me and the iconic hand rising from the waves, creating a sight that felt both serene and powerful.
Exploring the “Hands of Harmony”
The sea hand, reaching out from the water, was particularly striking. It felt like a silent guardian of the sea, welcoming visitors and offering a connection to the natural beauty surrounding it. On land, the second hand stands equally tall, inviting people to stand beneath it, touch it, and feel its symbolic strength.
These hands have become a social media favorite, with countless visitors snapping pictures and sharing their moments online. As I stood there, gazing at the hands, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of connection—not just with the place but with the people who’d visited before me. It was as if the sculptures had a way of bringing everyone together, just as their creators intended.
Beyond the Hands
While the “Hands of Harmony” are the main attraction, Homigot offers much more to explore. Right in the square, you’ll find the Lighthouse Museum, a hidden gem that many visitors overlook. This museum is dedicated to Korea’s maritime heritage and the history of lighthouses. It’s the only museum of its kind in the country, and it provides a fascinating glimpse into the role of lighthouses in guiding sailors and ensuring safe journeys.
The museum features exhibits on lighthouse construction, maritime equipment, and the lives of those who worked in these coastal beacons. If you’re someone who loves history and learning about unique aspects of a place, this museum is a must-visit.
Haeparang Trail’s Connection to Homigot
Homigot is an integral part of the Haeparang Trail, specifically Course 14 of the Pohang section. For hikers like me, it’s a significant milestone. Upon arriving, I found the stamp box for Course 14, which was a rewarding moment in my journey. The Haeparang Trail is known for its stunning coastal views, challenging paths, and cultural landmarks, and Homigot stands out as one of its most iconic spots.
Nearby Delights: Guryongpo Market
If you have time to spare, a short 20-minute trip from Homigot will take you to Guryongpo Market. This bustling market is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly crabs and squid, which are a must-try if you’re a seafood lover. The market offers a glimpse into the local culinary culture, with vendors enthusiastically showcasing their catches of the day.
Practical Information
How to Get There
- From your city, take a train to Pohang Station.
- From the Pohang Station Bus Stop, hop on Bus No. 9000, which will take you directly to Homigot.
- If you’re traveling from Seoul, the journey takes approximately 6 hours.
Addresses and Links
- Homigot Sunrise Square Address:
20 Haemaji-ro 150beon-gil, Homigot-myeon, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea- Homigot Official Website:
http://homigot.invil.org/index - Lighthouse Museum Website:
https://www.lighthouse-museum.or.kr/en/
- Homigot Official Website:
Reflections on the Journey
Walking the Haeparang Trail has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. Each day brought new challenges and rewards, and reaching Homigot felt like a moment of triumph. It’s a place where nature, art, and culture come together to create something truly special.
As I stood by the “Hands of Harmony,” reflecting on my journey so far, I felt a deep sense of gratitude. This trail had shown me not just the beauty of Korea’s eastern coast but also the resilience of its people and the stories embedded in its landscapes.
I’ll be sharing my complete story about walking the 772-kilometer Haeparang Trail very soon, and I can’t wait to take you along on this incredible journey. Stay tuned!
