Cheongnyeongpo Meandering Stream (영월 청령포)

Overview

Cheongnyeongpo Meandering Stream, located in the upper reaches of the Namhangang River in Gwangcheon-ri, Nam-myeon, Yeongwol-gun, is the place where King Danjong stayed after being dethroned and exiled to Yeongwol. Danjong, the 6th king of the Joseon dynasty, abdicated the throne to his uncle, who became King Sejo. However, in 1456, the following year, there was a movement by six court officials to restore King Danjong to the throne, resulting in his demotion and exile to Cheongnyeongpo area. Cheongnyeongpo was surrounded by water on three sides—east, south, and north—and a rugged cliff known as Yukyukbong Peak rose to the west, making it impossible to enter or leave without using a boat. King Danjong lived a life of exile cut off from the outside world in this secluded place; it is said that at the time, there was a house available for him to stay in, and the local official, Eom Heung-do, would secretly visit at night to pay his respects. (Information courtesy of Yeongwol Cultural Tourism)