Bongsudae: Korea's Ancient Mountain Communication Network

Long before telephones, radios and the internet, Korea used fire and smoke to send urgent news across the country. The places where these signals were made were called bongsudae, or beacon stations.

Usually built on mountain peaks and other high points, bongsudae formed one of Korea's earliest long-distance communication networks.

Smoke by Day, Fire by Night

During the day, beacon guards used smoke to send signals. At night, they lit fires that could be seen from distant mountains.

The number of smoke columns or fires indicated the seriousness of the situation. One signal generally meant that everything was peaceful, while additional signals warned that an enemy had appeared, was approaching or had crossed the border.

Each beacon station observed the next station and repeated the signal. In this way, important military information could travel from coastal and border areas to the capital.

Namsan Bongsudae in Seoul

One of Korea's most important beacon stations was located on Namsan Mountain in Seoul.

Known historically as Mongmyeoksan Bongsudae, it received signals sent from different regions of the country. Because it was located close to the royal palace, the government could quickly learn about emergencies occurring far from the capital.

The beacon station operated for approximately 500 years, from the early Joseon period until the late 19th century.

Today, visitors can see a reconstructed beacon station near N Seoul Tower while enjoying panoramic views of the city.

Hwangnyeongsan Bongsudae in Busan

Hwangnyeongsan Bongsudae once played an important role in monitoring Korea's southeastern coast and passing military information inland.

The mountain's high location provided a clear view of the sea and surrounding region. This made it an ideal place to watch for approaching ships and communicate with nearby beacon stations.

Today, Hwangnyeongsan is one of Busan's most popular viewpoints. Visitors can see the city skyline, Gwangandaegyo Bridge, Haeundae and Busan Port. It is especially beautiful after sunset.

Sarabong Bongsudae in Jeju

Sarabong Bongsudae was used to observe the sea around Jeju and send warnings to other stations on the island.

Located on a small volcanic hill near Jeju Port, the beacon station is relatively well preserved. Sarabong is now a popular walking and sunset destination where visitors can enjoy views of the sea, harbor and Jeju City.

Other Bongsudae to Visit

Other interesting beacon stations can be found throughout Korea.

• Muaksan Bongsudae in Seoul – A restored beacon station with excellent views of central Seoul and Namsan.
• Mangjinsan Bongsudae in Jinju – A historic station overlooking the Namgang River, Jinju Fortress and the city.
• Eodalsan Bongsudae in Donghae – An important coastal beacon site once connected to other stations along Korea's eastern shoreline.

More Than a Scenic Viewpoint

Today, many bongsudae are visited for hiking, sunsets and beautiful city views. However, they were once essential parts of Korea's national defense system.

Standing beside a beacon station offers more than a panoramic view. It is also an opportunity to imagine guards watching distant mountain peaks and waiting for the next column of smoke or flash of fire.

Korea's bongsudae remind us that, centuries before modern technology, mountains themselves formed a nationwide communication network.