Seoul South Korea Video

Local Myths and Legends of Seoul, South Korea

Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, is rich in history and culture. Amidst its bustling streets and modern skyscrapers, there are numerous myths and legends that have been passed down through generations. These tales offer a glimpse into the city’s folklore and provide a deeper understanding of its heritage. In this article, we will explore ten intriguing myths and legends of Seoul, South Korea.

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1. The Legend of King Munmu

• Underwater Tomb: King Munmu, the 30th ruler of the Silla Kingdom, is said to have requested to be buried underwater to protect the kingdom from invasion. His underwater tomb, known as Munmu’s Underwater Tomb, can still be seen today off the coast of Gangwon Province.
• Guardian Dragon: According to the legend, King Munmu transformed into a dragon after his death to protect the country. It is believed that his spirit resides in the East Sea as a guardian.
• Keywords: King Munmu, Silla Kingdom, underwater tomb, guardian dragon, East Sea

2. The Haunted House of Pildamun

• Ghostly Apparitions: Pildamun, a historic house in Seoul, is rumored to be haunted. Visitors have reported seeing ghostly apparitions and experiencing eerie phenomena within its walls.
• Tragic Love Story: The house is associated with a tragic love story between a noblewoman and a servant. It is believed that their spirits still linger in the house, unable to find peace.
• Keywords: Pildamun, haunted house, ghostly apparitions, tragic love story

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3. The Legend of Namsan’s Magic Well

• Wishing Well: Namsan Mountain in Seoul is home to a legendary well known as the Magic Well. It is believed that if you make a wish and throw a coin into the well, your wish will come true.
• Magical Healing Powers: The water from the Magic Well is said to have healing properties. People often visit the well to collect its water for various ailments.
• Keywords: Namsan Mountain, Magic Well, wishing well, healing powers

4. The Tale of Banpo’s Rainbow Fountain

• Spectacular Water Show: Banpo Bridge in Seoul is famous for its Rainbow Fountain, a water show that mesmerizes visitors with its vibrant colors and synchronized music.
• World’s Longest Bridge Fountain: The Rainbow Fountain holds the Guinness World Record for being the longest bridge fountain in the world, spanning over 1,140 meters.
• Keywords: Banpo Bridge, Rainbow Fountain, water show, Guinness World Record

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5. The Legend of Bukhansan’s Guardian Spirit

• Mountain Guardian: Bukhansan National Park is believed to be protected by a guardian spirit known as Dokkaebi. Dokkaebi is a mischievous creature from Korean folklore that can shape-shift and bring both blessings and curses.
• Enchanting Trails: Hikers often claim to have encountered the guardian spirit while trekking through the park’s enchanting trails.
• Keywords: Bukhansan National Park, guardian spirit, Dokkaebi, enchanting trails

6. The Mystery of Inwangsan’s “Blue House”

• Presidential Residence: Inwangsan Mountain is home to the iconic Blue House, the official residence of the President of South Korea. The Blue House is known for its unique blue-tiled roof.
• Supernatural Encounters: There have been reports of supernatural encounters and ghostly apparitions near the Blue House, adding to its mysterious aura.
• Keywords: Inwangsan Mountain, Blue House, presidential residence, supernatural encounters

7. The Legend of Cheonggyecheon Stream’s Guardian Dragon

• Revitalized Waterway: Cheonggyecheon Stream is a picturesque urban stream in Seoul that was restored in 2005. According to the legend, a guardian dragon resides in the depths of the stream, protecting the city from harm.
• Annual Dragon Festival: The Dragon Festival is held annually along the Cheonggyecheon Stream to celebrate the mythological creature and the stream’s cultural significance.
• Keywords: Cheonggyecheon Stream, guardian dragon, revitalized waterway, Dragon Festival

8. The Myth of Gyeongbokgung Palace’s Hidden Treasure

• Lost Treasure: Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest palace in Seoul, is said to hold a hidden treasure that was lost during the Japanese invasion in the late 16th century.
• Mysterious Disappearance: Legends claim that the treasure remains hidden within the palace walls, waiting to be discovered by those with pure intentions.
• Keywords: Gyeongbokgung Palace, hidden treasure, Japanese invasion, mysterious disappearance

9. The Legend of Changdeokgung Palace’s Secret Garden

• Tranquil Escape: Changdeokgung Palace’s Secret Garden is a serene oasis in the heart of Seoul. It is believed to have been a private retreat for the royal family.
• Hidden Beauty: The Secret Garden is known for its stunning landscapes, pavilions, and ponds. It is said that the garden’s beauty is even more captivating during the autumn season.
• Keywords: Changdeokgung Palace, Secret Garden, tranquil escape, hidden beauty

10. The Curse of Seodaemun Prison

• Dark History: Seodaemun Prison, a former prison in Seoul, holds a dark history from the Japanese colonial era. It is said to be haunted by the spirits of those who suffered and died within its walls.
• Ghostly Manifestations: Visitors have reported witnessing ghostly manifestations and feeling a heavy presence while exploring the prison.
• Keywords: Seodaemun Prison, dark history, haunted, ghostly manifestations

Conclusion

Exploring the local myths and legends of Seoul, South Korea, adds a layer of mystery and enchantment to the vibrant city. These stories provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and offer visitors and locals alike a deeper appreciation for the city’s history. Whether it’s encountering guardian spirits on mountain trails or making wishes at magical wells, Seoul’s myths and legends continue to captivate and intrigue.

References

1. Visit Seoul – www.visitseoul.net

2. Korea Tourism Organization – www.kto.visitkorea.or.kr

3. National Geographic – www.nationalgeographic.com

4. Korea.net – www.korea.net

5. Seoul Metropolitan Government – www.seoul.go.kr