“Dad, the advantage of a mountain is that it has no disadvantages”: Park Joon-hyung’s backpacking with his son

The article chronicles a heartwarming father-son backpacking adventure to Dalmasan, a scenic mountain in Haenam, South Jeolla Province. Park Joon-hyung, the author and father, shares his experience of reaching this 'Geumgangsan of the South' with his son, Seojin. The journey was inspired by a documentary and a striking photograph, highlighting the allure of Dalmasan's dramatic rock formations.

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Dad! The sky has cleared up!

Their trek was not just about conquering the peaks; it was a sensory exploration. They savored a delicious crab soybean paste stew at a local restaurant, an experience that led Park to realize his son's adventurous palate, contrasting with his own routine. The hike along the Dalmagodo trail offered a chance to connect with nature, identifying various trees and appreciating the subtle scents of cedar and the vibrant red camellias, a clear sign of their southern locale.

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Dad! What do you think is the charm of a mountain?

The ascent involved navigating steep rock faces, fostering encouragement between father and son. Reaching the summit offered breathtaking panoramic views of the Dadohae sea. The highlight, however, was a profound conversation where Seojin articulated his view on mountains: "The advantage of a mountain is that it has no disadvantages." This simple yet insightful observation resonated deeply with Park, underscoring the unique joy and fulfillment found in nature, free from the complexities and drawbacks often associated with other pursuits. The trip concluded with setting up camp amidst the striking rock formations, enjoying a simple meal, and engaging in a board game, creating lasting memories.

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Charm? You mean the advantages, right? The advantage of a mountain is that it has no disadvantages. It's not like there's something particularly good... there's nothing to dislike. Having no disadvantages is the charm of a mountain.