Why do wooden guardians stand at village entrances?
Wide eyes, exaggerated mouths and striking expressions make jangseung instantly memorable. Traditionally placed near villages and along roads, they could mark a settlement and symbolize protection. Chilgapsan Jangseung Park in Cheongyang, Chungcheongnam-do, brings this folk tradition together in one public place.
Hundreds of different expressions
Cheongyang County describes about 350 recreated jangseung from Korea and abroad, including the 11.5-metre-tall Chilgapsan Daejanggun and Yeojanggun figures. The county connects the park's establishment to the Jangseung Culture Festival held in May 1999. These figures are more than curious carvings: they reflect wishes for community safety and belonging.
Plan your visit carefully
The county lists the address as 119-17 Janggok-gil, Daechi-myeon, Cheongyang-gun, with telephone +82-41-940-2192. A festival or craft programme mentioned in historical accounts is not proof that it is operating today. Current opening times, fees, activities, parking and transit still need checking.