Around Korea: Haesindang Park 해신당공원 (NSFW)
Mildly NSFW Disclaimer:
Heads up (pun intended!): If you’re reading this at work or in a room full of kids, you might want to save it for later. This post dives into one of South Korea’s quirkiest adult-themed attractions—Haesindang Park, lovingly (and accurately) nicknamed “Penis Park.” Yep, it’s full of phallic statues, sea views, and some folklore. It’s weird, it’s wonderful, and it’s definitely not your average sightseeing stop. This post keeps things respectful but doesn’t shy away from the cheeky charm—so proceed with curiosity and a sense of humor! You’ve been warned!
Overlooking the sea at Haesindang Park in South Korea.
South Korea is home to some of the most oddball attractions—think a museum dedicated to poop, or a theme park inspired entirely by toilets, but nestled along the east coast in the town of Sinnam, there’s a coastal park that takes quirky tourism to a whole new level.
Rocky beach at Haesindang Park
Welcome to Haesindang Park, affectionately known as Penis Park, where larger-than-life phallic sculptures meet crashing waves, forest trails, and local legend. It’s a place where mythology, art, and awkward giggles collide—and somehow, it works.
Sitting on one of the many benches at Haesindang Park
The Legend of Auebawi and Haesindang
The story goes that a young woman was left on a rock by her fisherman fiancé and drowned when a storm hit. After her death, the fish in the surrounding waters vanished. No matter how hard the fishermen tried, they returned to shore empty-handed. The villagers believed her spirit had become angry or unsettled—and that she was somehow causing the sea to turn against them.
Then, one day, a fisherman reportedly relieved himself into the ocean, and like magic, the fish returned. The villagers interpreted this as a sign: phallic symbols were somehow pleasing or comforting to her spirit. Believing her spirit needed to be appeased, villagers began erecting phallic symbols in her honor. Thus, the tradition—and eventually the park—was born.
Over time, the story evolved from simple superstitions to a full-blown cultural site. The park was officially developed in the early 2000s, not just as a humorous curiosity, but as a celebration of local traditions, fertility symbolism, and the enduring power of myth.
Today, the spirit of the drowned woman is still honored at a small shrine within the park, and many visitors—especially locals—approach it with genuine reverence.
Trails, Views, and Unexpected Art
Despite what the name might lead you to expect, Haesindang Park isn’t some raucous adult-themed amusement park. In fact, it’s surprisingly serene. The moment you step through the entrance, you're greeted by beautifully maintained paths, coastal pine trees, and the sound of waves crashing below. Birds chirp. The sea breeze is fresh. And then—yep, that’s a giant carved penis in the middle of a flower garden.
Haesindang Park is more of an outdoor sculpture garden meets coastal nature reserve. It’s whimsical without being crude, and just irreverent enough to make you smile every few steps. The sculptures range from artistic and symbolic to downright hilarious (yes, there’s a cannon… shaped like you’re probably imagining).
The park stretches across a forested hill overlooking the East Sea, with paved walking trails that loop through different themed areas. As you explore you’ll find:
The Sculpture Garden: The heart of the park, dotted with dozens of wooden, bronze, and stone phallic statues—some abstract, some cartoony, and some eerily lifelike.
Lookout Points: Several scenic spots offer panoramic views of the coastline and nearby coves, perfect for photos or a break with a snack.
The Folk Museum: A small indoor museum that explains the folklore behind the park, plus displays of fishing gear, traditional tools, and marine artifacts.
Miniature Shrines & Offerings: These spots tie back to the original legend, adding a spiritual layer to the park’s cheeky exterior.
Interactive Sculptures: Some pieces invite you to move the pieces or pose for funny photos.
Whether you're there to soak in the scenery, learn about local mythology, or just take some truly unforgettable vacation pics, the park balances silliness and serenity in a way that’s uniquely Korean.
Travel Information
Location: https://naver.me/GoD7DN4l
Sinnam, Samcheok, Gangwon Province.
Getting There: Buses run from Seoul to Samcheok, and taxis can take you to the park, however, the drive is easy from Pyeongtaek
Admission Fee: There is a small entrance fee (~3,000 KRW and less).
Hours: Summer 0900-1800 ; Winter 0900- 1700 ; The park is closed the 18th of each month.
Etiquette: While the park is humorous, it’s also sacred to some—be respectful.
Grab your girlfriends and make a day of it—because let’s face it, Haesindang Park is way more fun with friends. Laughs, photos, and a whole lot of awkwardness guaranteed!
This is an interactive piece that you can move up and down - you can sit on it if you can get yourself up there, too!
Whether you're interested in folklore, photography, or just a good story, it’s a place that leaves a lasting impression. Let me know your favorite unique Korean theme park or museum in the comments!
