Sunrise at Korea’s Tallest Lighthouse

If your family loves lighthouses, especially ones with history, coastal views, and a hint of adventure, Homigot Lighthouse in Pohang deserves a spot on your travel bucket list. This historic lighthouse is now featured in the Duckwyn Lighthouse Series.

A Lighthouse With a Story

Homigot Lighthouse stands on the easternmost cape of the Korean peninsula, on a part of land called Homigot Cape. Its name means “tiger’s-tail cape,” because some imagine the shape of the Korean peninsula as a tiger. 

The tower is 26.4 meters tall, making it the tallest lighthouse in South Korea. It is constructed from bricks without reinforcing steel rods, a historic architectural technique that has helped it withstand more than a century of sea breezes and storms. Its six-story, octagonal shape includes decorative elements that reflect older styles, and each floor reportedly features a ceiling with pear-blossom motifs, a nod to tradition. 

Homigot Lighthouse first opened on December 20, 1908. Since then it has remained active as a real navigational aid guiding ships along Korea’s east coast. 

Next to the lighthouse, families can visit the National Lighthouse Museum. The museum tells the story of Korea’s lighthouses and maritime heritage, with exhibits on navigation, lighthouse technology, and the lives of lighthouse keepers past and present. 

Visiting Homigot: What Families Can Expect

Sunrise and Coastal Beauty

Homigot is famous for its sunrise views. Because it is located on the easternmost tip of the peninsula, it is one of the first places in Korea to see the sun each morning. Many families plan early-morning visits so they can watch the dawn over the East Sea from near the lighthouse. 

Nearby a memorable attraction awaits: the Hands of Harmony — a pair of large bronze hands rising from sea and land, symbolizing unity and hope. Kids often love this dramatic sculpture, and it’s a great spot for photos. 

Learn & Explore at the Museum

Visiting the lighthouse museum offers a hands-on way to learn about maritime navigation, coastal history, and lighthouse technology. It’s a welcome mix of education and fun — perfect for school-age kids. The museum is free and generally open daily. 

Simple Access & Family-Friendly Logistics

From the city of Pohang, you can reach Homigot by bus. Once there, the lighthouse area and museum have parking and easy access. Visiting at sunrise or sunset gives you the most magical light and the quietest atmosphere. Because the coast can be breezy, a light jacket or windbreaker is a good idea.

Why Homigot Lighthouse Stands Out

Its historic brick architecture, role as the tallest lighthouse in Korea, and ongoing service as a navigational aid make it a rare mix of heritage and living maritime tradition. Combine that with its location on the eastern tip, perfect for sunrise views, and the nearby museum and sculpture, and you have a travel destination that offers history, beauty, and adventure all in one.

For families traveling in Korea, Homigot offers a memorable experience far from the usual city itinerary. It’s a place where kids and adults can learn about navigation, see a real working lighthouse, and enjoy sunrise over the sea.

Collect its sticker in the Duckwyn Passport.