Homigot Sunrise Square is one of Korea’s most iconic sunrise viewing spots, located in Pohang, North Gyeongsang Province.
Famous for its giant “Hands of Harmony” sculpture reaching out of the sea, this coastal destination attracts millions of visitors hoping to witness the first sunrise of the new year and experience the powerful symbolism of Korea’s easternmost point.
What is Homigot Sunrise Square?
Homigot (호미곶) literally means “tiger’s tail cape” – representing Korea’s easternmost point where the peninsula resembles a tiger. The sunrise square is a coastal park featuring iconic sculptures, a lighthouse, and stunning ocean views, making it one of Korea’s most significant cultural and natural landmarks.
Location: Homigot-myeon, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Significance: Korea’s easternmost point where the sun rises first over the Korean peninsula
Best known for: Hand of Harmony sculpture and spectacular sunrises
Hands of Harmony (Hand of Harmony) South Korea
The “Hands of Harmony” is the most famous feature of Homigot Sunrise Square and one of Korea’s most photographed monuments.
The Sculpture Details
Two hands reaching toward each other:
- Left hand: Located on land, rising from the shore
- Right hand: Emerging from the sea about 150 meters offshore
- Symbolism: Unity, harmony, and hope for reunification
- Height: Each hand is approximately 10 meters tall
- Material: Bronze
- Creator: Sculptor Sohn In-hwan
- Installed: December 2000
What It Represents
National unity: The hands symbolize hope for peaceful reunification of North and South Korea
Human connection: Represents people reaching across divides to connect
New beginnings: Associated with sunrise and fresh starts
Harmony: Between land and sea, past and future, division and unity
Here are what best things to do in Pohang, Busan, Jeju Island and must visit places in Seoul.
Homigot Sunrise Festival
The Homigot Sunrise Festival is one of Korea’s largest New Year celebrations, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors.
Festival Details
When: December 31st – January 1st annually
Main event: First sunrise viewing of the new year
Duration: Evening programs, countdown, and sunrise viewing
Festival activities include:
Countdown ceremony: Midnight celebration on December 31st
Traditional performances: Korean music and dance
Fireworks display: Spectacular pyrotechnics at midnight
Cultural events: Art exhibitions and local performances
Food stalls: Traditional Korean street food
Prayer ceremonies: New Year wishes and blessings
Homigot Lighthouse
The Homigot Lighthouse is another iconic feature of the area, offering panoramic ocean views.
Lighthouse Information
Official name: Homigot Lighthouse (호미곶 등대)
Height: 26.4 meters tall
Built: 1908 (one of Korea’s oldest lighthouses)
Status: Still operational, guiding ships
Location: Adjacent to Sunrise Square
Hwanho Park Space Walk
Hwanho Park is located very close to Homigot and features the unique “Space Walk” experience.
Space Walk Details
What it is: Elevated glass-bottom walkway extending over the ocean
Length: Approximately 150 meters
Height: 25 meters above the sea
Experience: Walking on transparent floor with ocean below
Similarity to: Similar concept to Songdo Skywalk in Busan
Things to Do in Pohang
While visiting Homigot, explore other Pohang attractions:
Natural Attractions
Bogyeongsa Temple: Beautiful mountain temple, 30 minutes from Homigot
Jukdo Market: Large traditional seafood market, authentic local experience
Yeongildae Beach: Popular swimming beach with clean sand
Hwanho Park: Besides Space Walk, offers coastal walking trails
Najeong Beach: Quieter alternative to main beaches
Cultural Experiences
Pohang Steel Art Festival: Annual art event featuring steel sculptures
POSCO Steel Museum: Learn about Korea’s steel industry history
Oeosa Temple: Scenic seaside temple
Traditional markets: Experience local food culture
Getting to Homigot from Major Cities
From Seoul:
- KTX to Pohang: 2.5-3 hours, 40,000-60,000 KRW
- Bus from Pohang Station to Homigot: 50 minutes, 2,500 KRW
- Total time: 4-4.5 hours
From Busan:
- Bus to Pohang: 1.5 hours, 8,000-12,000 KRW
- Local bus to Homigot: 50 minutes
- Total time: 2.5-3 hours
By car:
- Most convenient option if visiting multiple locations
- Free parking at Homigot (crowded during festivals)
- GPS: Search “호미곶 해맞이광장”
Last Opinion
Homigot Sunrise Square offers a uniquely Korean experience combining natural beauty, cultural symbolism, and spiritual significance. While it requires some travel effort to reach, the iconic Hands of Harmony sculpture and spectacular sunrise views make it a worthwhile destination for travelers wanting to experience Korea beyond the major cities.
Whether you visit during the massive New Year festival or on a quiet weekday morning, Homigot provides a memorable encounter with Korea’s easternmost point and its hopeful message of unity and new beginnings.