Whispers of tigers and ancient envoys echo around us here at Muakjae Sky Bridge. This isn’t just a bridge. It is a link between mountains and a pathway through history.
Muakjae Sky Bridge connects Inwangsan to Ansan. It offers a stunning panoramic view of Seoul. The bridge restores a connection severed in 1972. Tongillo Road’s construction had split these mountains.
Let’s journey back. Monk Muhak and Yi Seong-gye surveyed this land. They sought to establish Hanyang as the capital. This area was first called Muhakjae after the monk. Later, it became Muakjae.
Legend says Bukhansan’s Insubong Peak looked like a running child. Monk Muhak feared Hanyang’s spiritual energy escaping. So, he named the inner mountain Moak or Muak. This pass became Muakjae.
Imagine residents traveling together. They beat gongs. Why? Tigers. Muakjae was notorious for tiger appearances during the Joseon period. It was also a route for Ming and Qing dynasty envoys. Shelters offered refuge at the mountain’s base. People crossed only in groups. Envoys rested at Hongjewon before continuing to Mohwagwan. Independence Gate stands nearby. It was built in 1895.
Look closely. Can you picture tiger hunters called Chakhogun? They were specialized. The last five tigers in Seoul were caught near Bukaksan Mountain in 1868. During the Japanese colonial period, tigers became extinct. Extensive hunting was part of resource development policies.
This area also marks a final battle site. It was during Yi Gwal’s Rebellion during King Injo’s reign. Now, consider the Muakjae Sky Bridge that opened in 2017. It offers a space to experience nature. It’s not just a road. It will be remembered as a beautiful bridge. It connects people with nature.
From Muakjae, Uiju-daero begins. This was a main road in Joseon Dynasty Korea. It connected Hanyang to Uiju. Hongjewon was the first state-operated inn. It was located after crossing Muakjae. It was popular for farewell banquets for missions to China. Byeokjegwan was the first overnight stop.
Uiju-daero led to the Imjin River. This was a strategic point. Government officials crossed near Hwaseok Pavilion. Merchants crossed further north at Gorangpo. The Imjin Ferry Crossing was located to the left of Hwaseok Pavilion.
So, as you stand on the Muakjae Sky Bridge. Remember tigers. Remember envoys. Remember the capital’s careful planning. This bridge is more than just steel and concrete. It is a link to Seoul’s vibrant past and hopeful future.