Cycling the Exile Route of King Danjong: From Cheonggyecheon to Yeongwol

This cycling pilgrimage offers a unique way to connect with the poignant history of King Danjong, whose tragic exile is etched into the Korean landscape.

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The bridge, originally Wangsimpyeongdaegyo, became 'Yeongdo Bridge' with the sad meaning of 'the bridge of eternal crossing,' but there is no trace of the separation from that time around the modern bridge built with the same name near the Dongmyo market.

Our journey began at the Cheonggyecheon Stream's Yeongdo Bridge in Seoul, a spot forever marked by Danjong's sorrowful farewell to his queen. Though the modern bridge bears the same name, the historical significance of the 'Bridge of Eternal Crossing' is palpable, a stark contrast to the bustling market nearby.

The route follows the path Danjong likely took, from the outskirts of Seoul through ancient resting places like Hwayangjeong, marked by a centuries-old zelkova tree. These remnants serve as silent witnesses to a king's forced march into oblivion.

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There is a legend that the common people bowed down towards the tail of the boat carrying Danjong in Baealmi-dong, Hanam-si, about 20 km by water from Gwangnaru.

Further along, at Yeoju's Ipo Naru, the lingering presence of local rituals and the juxtaposition of a simple memorial stone with modern water sports create a surreal, almost dreamlike atmosphere. It's a place where the past and present coexist, often in unexpected ways.

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The only remaining trace, a marker stone, was hidden by a building, and the path along the riverbank was a narrow unpaved alley, so outsiders without prior information would pass by without knowing.

This journey is more than just a physical ride; it's an immersion into the stories and legends that shape our understanding of Joseon's history. For us in Korea, these routes are not just paths on a map but living testaments to our heritage, offering a deeply personal connection to figures like Danjong, whose fate continues to resonate.

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There are several place names called 'Haengchigogae' in the mountain valleys of Yeoju's Daesin-myeon and Gangcheon-myeon, meaning 'the pass where the king passed,' and they are related to Danjong's exile.