Overlooking the bustling cityscape, behold Naksan Mountain’s peak: Naksan. Naksan, sometimes called Yongsan (Dragon Mountain), stands proudly between Seoul’s Imunwon-dong and Ihwa-dong. This prominent peak offers captivating views and has served as a strategic point throughout history. Naksan is more than just a geographical feature. It’s a place steeped in history and woven into the fabric of Seoul.
Naksan’s significance dates back to the Joseon Dynasty, during King Taejo’s reign. The area served as the location for the eastern administrative district. The mountain’s name, however, has a bit of a mysterious past. While some believe it refers to a deer’s ears, a more likely explanation relates to the former presence of a wide field, called Bongjeon (Bong Field), on Naksan’s slopes. This field likely led to the area being called Nakjeon (Nak Field).
Adding to the intrigue, the name Naksan (or sometimes Nakjibong) appears to be a combination of words meaning mountain, peak, hill, or mountain pass. These multiple interpretations create a puzzle around Naksan’s true meaning. Further complicating matters, four villages located on Naksan have similarly structured names. These villages, Dae, Jae, Sae, and Jeongja, had names ending in -dong (village) or -gol (valley). This naming convention hints at a shared connection, making Naksan an even more intriguing puzzle.
During the 19th century, Naksan transitioned from a royal hunting ground to a public park. The construction of the fortress wall on Naksan changed the landscape dramatically. Initially, the area around the wall was considered a dangerous spot. Later, it became a popular site for shamanistic rituals. The Japanese colonial era brought further changes. In 1906, the name Yongsan was replaced by Naksan, solidifying its modern identity.
Naksan holds a unique position in Seoul’s history. The mountain appears in various historical records under different names, highlighting its enduring presence. The Sejong Sillok Jiriji (Geographical Records of King Sejong’s Reign) mentions “Nakjibong” among other names. This reinforces Naksan’s importance not only as a geographical landmark but also as a place with deep historical and cultural roots. Today, Naksan Park offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views, explore historic remnants of the fortress wall, and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Seoul’s past.