By Honorary Reporter Martina Marrandino from Italy
Photos = Martina Marrandino

In Korea, people who make a wish while watching the sunrise on the first day of a new year believe that this is a good way to start the year. From midnight on Dec. 31, many people go to places such as beaches or mountains to catch the year's first sunrise, usually mountains or sea shores to also see the horizon.

To welcome 2023, I decided to follow this Korean tradition by traveling from Seoul to Naksansa Temple, which is halfway between Sokcho and Yangyang-gun County in Gangwon-do Province. 

This temple is atop a cliff overlooking the East Sea. Because of its unique location, Naksansa as well as its surroundings provide breathtaking vistas and natural scenery not found anywhere else. Its beautiful view of the East Sea earned a place on the list of "Eight Sights of Gwandong," referring to the Yeongdong region of Gangwon-do that is often mentioned in classic Korean literature and poetry. The temple is a must-see as one of the region's historical landmarks.

 Naksansa Temple is atop a cliff overlooking the East Sea and provides a breathtaking view of the sunrise at sea.

Early on Jan. 1, I left Seoul shortly after 1 a.m. and got to the temple at 4 a.m. According to the Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute, the sun was expected to rise between 7:26 a.m. and 7:40 a.m. that morning, so I had enough time to enjoy the sights around the temple before sunrise and find the perfect spot to see the sunrise. Naksansa is home to a historical site, Uisangdae Pavilion, which is located on a cliff overlooking the coast, and three Korean treasures including a seven-story stone pagoda from the early Joseon Dynasty designated National Treasure No. 499 and a dry-lacquered Geonchil Gwaneumbosal Seated Statue (Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva) designated National Treasure No. 1362.

Dawn at Naksansa Temple is a sight to behold.

I chose to watch the dawn at Sinseong Peak, the highest point at the temple, where Haesu-Gwaneum Statue, a 15-meter-tall statue of Gwaneum, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, stands in the middle of an altar overlooking a spectacular view of the East Sea. The many people there were all staring at the horizon and waiting for the sun to rise. 

The sunrise at 7:42 a.m. was indescribably beautiful thanks to its vibrant colors. The light that slowly rose from the horizon was dazzling and colored the sea magnificently. Everyone also voiced their wishes for 2023, which is the Year of Gyemyo (Black Rabbit) under the Asian zodiac.

The towering statue of Gwaneum (left) overlooks the East Sea and the first sunrise of 2023 (middle and right) is seen from Naksansa Temple.

Getting up before dawn on New Year's Day might be tiring for some but watching a beautiful sunrise is worth the effort. The Korean tradition of making a wish while seeing the year's first sunrise was an emotional experience that filled my heart with joy and optimism. I start this new year with many resolutions and hope for a happier year for everyone.

kalhong617@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.