By Honorary Reporter Preeti Rawat from India

Graphics = Korea.net Flickr, Preeti Rawat

Like in many countries, catching the last sunset of the outgoing year and the first sunrise of the new year holds special meaning in Korea. Koreans often hit prime spots to watch the year's first sunrise with friends and family, often making a wish while watching the spectacle. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to most sunrise-watching events being canceled, but check out the following seven spots if you don't want to miss out.

Three seas
Among the best places to catch the glory of the year's first morning are along the coastlines of the East Sea, Namhae, or waters south of the Korean Peninsula, and the Yellow Sea. Seaside towns and villages hold festivals to celebrate the new year with activities like flying kites and paper lanterns, fishing for snow crabs and octopuses, and eating a variety of winter delicacies.

Haneul Park
Haneul (Sky) Park in Seoul attracts lots of visitors. Formed like a hill, it offers a majestic view of the capital bathed in striking deep blue and crimson shades. Catching the sunrise requires walking up the stairs at dawn.

Maebongsan Mountain
Maebongsan Mountain in Seoul is another popular place to watch both the sunset and sunrise. Palgakjeong Pavilion, located on the mountain's peak, is a colorful and octagonal structure with a wonderful view of the capital. People flock to this place to see the beauty of the city and the Hangang River.

Namhansanseong Fortress
This UNESCO World Heritage Site from the Joseon Dynasty is a popular winter spot for hikers. The fortress's four gates in the east, west, north and south are lit before the sun rises, and the scenic view of Seoul at night is a crowd pleaser.

Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site is Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone on Jeju Island. Situated on the island's eastern side, the peak is considered to have the best view of the sunrise on Jeju. The annual Seongsan Sunrise Festival held on Jan. 1 has exciting events.

Sorae Marsh Ecological Park
This park in Incheon offers an exotic view of the sunrise. The field is covered with windmills and a blanket of soft mist in bringing visitors to a mystical land while watching the sunrise.

Gyeongpo Beach
Gyeongpo Beach in Gangneung, Gangwon-do Province, is probably the nation's most famous spot for watching the sunrise. Every year on Jan. 1, crowds gather here to see the sun's orange glow blend with the deep blue water on the horizon.

enny0611@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.