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Maemiseong (Korean: 매미성, lit. Maemi Fortress) is a privately built stone fortress in Jangmok-myeon. It was created by a local resident, Park Myeong-jong, who began stacking stones after Typhoon Maemi struck the southern coast in 2003 and caused severe damage. The name of the structure derives from the typhoon itself.
The fortress is notable for its resemblance to a medieval European castle, featuring stone walls, towers, and ramparts. It was constructed without professional equipment or architectural expertise, relying solely on individual effort over many years. Perched on a hillside, Maemiseong offers panoramic views of the sea and has become a distinctive attraction in Geoje. Visitors are drawn to the site not only for its unusual architecture but also for its scenic setting, particularly at sunrise and sunset.
Maemiseong is open to the public year-round without fixed opening hours or admission fees. It is especially popular among photographers and tourists seeking a unique backdrop, and it is often visited together with other nearby destinations such as Geoga Bridge, Windy Hill, and Oedo Botania.
The fortress is open year-round, 24 hours a day, with no admission fee, making it an accessible destination at any time.
Beyond its role as a sightseeing spot, Maemiseong carries symbolic meaning. It represents resilience and determination in the aftermath of natural disaster, standing as a local landmark that embodies perseverance and hope.
해금강
Designated "Korean National Scenic Site #2, this is a must-see location. Essentially just a locally famed island consisting of tall cliffs. However, the ferry cruise around the island will thread its way through the extremely thin cliffs leading into the island into a sea cave before backing out and departing through different route. Spectacular. Round-trip 3-hour cruises including both Haegeumgang and a 3½-hour stopover on Oedo from Jangseungpo.
외도
Typically included in cruises to Haegumgang, this is Korea's first privately owned island and host to the Oedo Botanica. It's somewhat of a cross between a botanical garden and one of East Asia's infamous "country-themed theme parks" and designed to make you think you're somewhere in the Mediterranean. Beautifully landscaped and covered with Greco-Roman statues. It's a bit prettier than the brochure describes as the gardens follow a tight valley surrounded by sheer cliffs. Take a detour to the bathroom as the off-the-path views from outside a couple of them are among the best on the island. Conceived by a couple that crossed the 38th parallel after the war quite literally penniless. Worth the trip and has a restaurant and coffee shop at the highest point that mostly only serves tea (Udon ₩4000, coffee ₩4000, tea ₩2500).