Homigot Sunrise Plaza

Overview

Homigot ("Tiger Tail Cape") is the most easterly point on the Korean mainland peninsula, making it the first place on the continent to see the sun rise each morning. The headland is dominated by the Hand of Harmony — a pair of giant bronze hands, one rising from the sea and the other from the shore — symbolising peace and reunion.

Highlights

• Hand of Harmony: Two 6-metre bronze hand sculptures by artist Kim Gak-han, installed in 1999 and now one of Korea's most photographed public artworks.
• New Year Sunrise Festival: Over 100,000 people gather every January 1st to watch the year's first sunrise through the hand sculptures.
• Homigot Square: A large waterfront plaza with maritime monuments, a compass rose in the pavement, and views along the coast.

History

Homigot has been celebrated as Korea's premier sunrise point since at least the Joseon dynasty. The Hand of Harmony was commissioned for the 1999–2000 millennium celebration. The name refers to the peninsula's resemblance to a tiger's tail when viewed on a map of the Korean peninsula.

Visitor Tips

• Sunrise visit: Arrive 30 minutes before sunrise for the best light through the hand sculptures.
• Combine with: The Lighthouse Museum is a 5-minute walk.
• Duration: 30–60 minutes.