Old willows guarding a town
The first thing you notice in Seongbaksup Forest, in Gyeongsan-ri, Seongju-eup, is the thick trunks and spreading crowns of its king willows. Seongju County's tourism guide describes 52 venerable king willows, some centuries old. This is more than an avenue of trees: it is a village protection grove, traditionally associated with shielding the settlement and its well-being. Purple lilyturf flowers are a summer attraction beneath the trees, not something to promise a November visitor.
A village traced in earthen walls
In Wolhang-myeon, Hangae Village has been home to the Seongsan Yi clan for generations. Its stone-and-earth walls, courtyards and narrow lanes are best experienced as a living settlement rather than a row of museum houses. The county guide describes roughly 600 years of history and about 60 traditional homes. People still live here: respect closed gates, do not enter private houses, and ask before photographing residents.
Make them two deliberate stops
The forest is around 446-1 Gyeongsan-ri, Seongju-eup; the village's listed address is 8 Hangae 2-gil, Wolhang-myeon. They are not one continuous pedestrian lane. Search for the original Korean names '성주 성밖숲' and '성주 한개마을' on a local map, and independently check transport, parking and entrances. No verified journey duration or regular access hours are available here.
Before you go
A one-day evening event at Seongbaksup on October 10, 2026, is over; do not interpret it as permanent night lighting. Village homes and experience spaces do not necessarily admit visitors indoors. Enjoy both landscapes quietly and with care for their residents and heritage.