Donghae Hyanggyo was established following the formation of Donghae City in 1980 by merging Mukho-ri of Myeongju-gun and Bukpyeong-ri of Samcheok-gun, which led to the union of local Confucian scholars in 1990. It was founded to serve as a focal point for promoting Confucianism and regional cultural development and to explore an independent path for the Donghae Confucian community. As the newest hyanggyo among 234 nationwide, founded last in 1994, Donghae Hyanggyo features a Daeseongjeon enshrining 39 Confucian sages in the Jeonhak-Hu-myo layout, along with a Myeongnyundang and fortress-like walls reminiscent of the Great Wall. The walls are adorned with dense black bamboo symbolizing scholarly integrity, blending traditional structure and modern elements. Enthusiastic Confucian groups convened the founding assembly on September 11, 1993, officially began construction thereafter, received approval from the Sungkyunkwan chief on February 28, 1994, and school authorization on June 29, 1995. After five years of construction, it was completed on July 9, 1999. In 2006, Donghae Confucian University was established to promote the philosophy of humanity, righteousness, propriety, and wisdom, providing 20 to 40 weeks annually of quality education on Confucianism, rituals, classics, policies, and health. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism honored it as a national model hyanggyo for 2006–2007, marking a first-time distinction.
22, Ilchul-ro, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do
Mukho Port in Donghae-si, Gangwon-do, opened in 1937. It began as the first trade port on the East Coast and has since transformed into a fishing base. If you arrive early in the morning when fishing boats return, you can buy fresh sashimi right at the fish market, and watching auctions for freshly caught fish is a unique experience. There are also shops where you can buy dried seafood and other goods. On Dongmunsan near Mukho Port stands the Mukho Lighthouse, a staffed lighthouse built in June 1963. It is a 12-meter-high circular reinforced concrete structure with two internal floors, its pure white color blending with the blue sea to create a clear and clean image. Around the lighthouse is a small park with a panoramic view of the sea, and right at the park's entrance lies a wide sculpture engraved with the words 'From the Sun to the Boy.'
A waterfront park created along the breakwater of Mukho Port, famous as a sunrise viewing spot. It is connected to Mukho Port, allowing visitors to enjoy the East Sea, and many tourists watch the sunrise from the stone steps. Sculptures are installed throughout the park, making it a popular photo zone. On the opposite side of the breakwater is the Dojjaebigol Haerang Observatory, where visitors can take photos looking closer at the sea. From the waterfront park observatory, you can look around 360 degrees and enjoy views of Mukho Port area, Nongoldam-gil, and the waterfront park scenery.
Upon arriving at Mukho Port, the first thing that catches the eye is the observatory tower rising beside the waterfront park amidst the vibrant harbor scenery. It is the tallest structure around the harbor, making it easy to find. The building’s first floor houses a seafood distribution center where various fresh fish and seafood are actively traded, offering another point of interest. Ascending to the top floor reveals the observatory where visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the vast East Sea shimmering in silver. With a 360-degree wide viewing area, one can take in not only the East Sea but also the expansive Mukho Port with its small boats coming and going, as well as the cityscape of Donghae. Visitors can also enjoy a panoramic view of the Mukho lighthouse, the waterfront park, and Non-gol Dam-gil below the lighthouse. This spot remains a beloved destination for tourists visiting Mukho Port. Especially notable are its clean exterior and interior facilities, as the building has been completed relatively recently. Seafood caught at Mukho Port can be purchased through the first-floor Fresh Fish Market Center and enjoyed at the scenic restaurant on the second floor. The third floor features an outdoor performance hall where various cultural and artistic events are held periodically. After taking in the scenery from the observatory, it is pleasant to stroll through the waterfront park or explore the Non-gol Dam-gil and Mukho Port’s well-known eateries.
Dojjaebi is a dialect for dokkaebi, a mythical goblin in Korean folklore. Dojjaebigol Haerang Observatory, a 85-meter pedestian overpass, is designed to take the shape of a club known to be used dokkaebi. The word "haerang" means "the space where the sun, the sea, and you are all together." The entrance to the obsertory overpass is designed to give a sense as if one is warping into the realm of dokkaebi. The bridge floor is built using glass and mesh so that visitors can see the ocean water under their feet.
