Anin Harbor Lighthouse

The Anin Harbor Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on Yulgok-ro in Gangneung-si, South Korea.

History

• Its construction began in 1904 and was completed by 1906.

Architecture and Construction

The tower of the Anin Harbor Lighthouse stands at a height of 32 meters (105 feet) above sea level. The focal height is 40 meters (131 feet), allowing for a powerful beam to be projected out to sea. The lighthouse's architecture is characterized by its distinctive cylindrical shape, typical of many Korean lighthouses.

The lighthouse was built using traditional materials such as stone and brick, with a reinforced concrete foundation.

Light Characteristics

The Anin Harbor Lighthouse emits a fixed red light, visible from a distance of 20 nautical miles (37 kilometers).

The light is powered by an oil lamp and rotates every 4 seconds to indicate the time of day.

Current Status

The Anin Harbor Lighthouse was decommissioned in 2001 and converted into a museum. Today, it serves as a popular tourist attraction and educational center for visitors to Gangneung-si.

Location and Accessibility

The lighthouse is situated on Yulgok-ro, near the coast of Gangneung Bay.

Visitors can access the lighthouse by car or public transportation, with several parking areas available nearby.

Heritage Status

The Anin Harbor Lighthouse was designated as a National Historic Site in 2004, recognizing its importance as a cultural and historical landmark in South Korea.

Notable Historical Events

• During World War II, the Anin Harbor Lighthouse played an important role as a navigation aid for Allied ships entering Gangneung Bay. The lighthouse's beam helped guide vessels safely into harbor, reducing the risk of accidents and damage to nearby infrastructure.