Maguryeong Pass / Gochiryeong Pass (마구령/고치령)

Overview

Maguryeong Pass and Gochiryeong Pass stand as iconic hills of Sobaeksan Mountain. They are known for their historical significance as rugged pathways where people and goods traversed during the Goryeo and Joseon dynasties. Situated on the easternmost edge of Sobaeksan Mountain, Maguryeong Pass derives its name from its function: "Magu" meaning "harness" and "Ryeong" meaning "pass" in Korean, highlighting its past as a route where merchants commonly traveled on horseback. Meanwhile, Gochiryeong Pass served as a vital transport link to the Gwandong and Hoseo regions. In the Silla dynasty, this pass was earmarked for palace construction at the base of the hill, which led to its name "Gochiryeong" – "Go" indicating "old", "Chi" representing "hill", and "Ryeong" meaning "pass" in Korean – effectively translating to "old hill pass".

Location