Inwangsan

Why is Inwangsan called the Mountain of the Benevolent King? We’re standing before Inwangsan, a mountain steeped in history and legend. Inwangsan dominates the Seoul skyline with its granite peaks. Its name, translating to “Benevolent King Mountain,” hints at its regal connections. Inwangsan’s significance dates back to the Joseon Dynasty. It was considered the protective White Tiger of the royal palace. Legend claims that every tiger in Joseon knew its way around Inwangsan, underscoring its prominent presence. The mountain’s unique granite formations inspire awe. Names like Gichabawi (Train Rock) and Chimabawi (Skirt Rock) capture their distinctive shapes. Inwangsan is not just a geological wonder, it’s an artistic muse. Painters like Jeong Seon immortalized its beauty in works like “Inwang jesaekdo” (“Scene of Inwangsan Mountain after Rain”). This painting captures the mountain’s ethereal beauty after a rainfall. Interestingly, Jeong Seon’s painting doesn’t perfectly replicate the mountain’s physical form. He employed a “true-view” technique, incorporating his own interpretation. This style, unique to Joseon, adds a layer of artistic expression to the natural landscape. Inwangsan also carries a scar from history. A message carved into Chimabawi by the Japanese Government-General of Chōsen in 1939 serves as a reminder of a turbulent past. While attempts were made to erase it, the inscription remains partially visible. At its foot lies Inwangsa Temple. Founded during the early Joseon Dynasty, it served as a guardian of Gyeongbokgung Palace. The temple houses eleven shrines and the Guksadang, a shamanist shrine still used for rituals today. Inwangsan’s presence connects the past with the present. It reminds us of Seoul’s rich history, artistic inspiration, and spiritual significance. As you gaze upon Inwangsan, imagine the countless stories etched into its rocks and whispered by the wind.