
Daecheong Dam
Daecheong Dam (대청댐; map), located between Daejeon and Cheongju, spans the Geum River and plays a vital role in South Korea’s water management infrastructure.
Completed in 1980, it ranks as the nation’s third-largest artificial reservoir by storage capacity, following Soyang Lake and Chungju Lake. The dam’s primary purposes include flood control, water supply, and hydroelectric power generation.
In addition to its function, Daecheong Dam has become a regional landmark and a key attraction for outdoor enthusiasts. It serves as the starting point for the Geumgang Bike Path, one of Korea’s premier cycling routes that winds through historic, cultural, and ecological sites along the Geum River.
The serene Daecheong Lake formed by the dam enhances the area’s recreational appeal, offering opportunities for boating, hiking, and photography.
History and Construction
Daecheong Dam was built as part of the Four Rivers Water Resource Development Plan, initiated in the 1970s to address water management challenges in the face of rapid industrialization and population growth. Construction began in March 1975 and was completed by June 1981.
The dam was designed as a hybrid structure, combining a gravity concrete dam and a rock-fill dam, enabling it to withstand significant hydrological pressures. Its specifications include:
- Height: 72 meters
- Length: 495 meters
- Reservoir area: 72.8 km²
- Total storage capacity: 1.49 billion cubic meters
However, the construction also displaced over 4,000 households. These families were relocated to various areas, including nearby cities such as Daejeon and distant settlements. The legacy of these displaced communities is preserved in part at the Daecheong Lake Natural Ecology Center, where their artifacts and stories are displayed.
The project not only addressed flooding but also introduced innovative solutions for water storage and redistribution. The dam includes auxiliary structures such as diversion tunnels for Daejeon and Cheongju, and a balancing reservoir downstream to regulate fluctuations in water release.
Features and Functions
Daecheong Dam is a multifunctional facility designed to address both immediate and long-term water management needs:
- Flood Control: With a flood control capacity of 250 million cubic meters, the dam mitigates the impact of heavy rainfall by regulating water flow into downstream areas. This reduced the frequency and severity of floods along the Geum River.
- Water Supply: The dam provides an annual supply of 1.3 billion cubic meters of water to nearby cities, including Daejeon, Cheongju, Gunsan, and Jeonju. This ensures a stable source of residential and industrial water.
- Hydropower Generation: The dam’s 90 MW hydroelectric plant supplies approximately 240 GWh of electricity per year, contributing to the region’s energy grid and supporting sustainable energy goals.
- Irrigation: Daecheong Dam supplies 350 million cubic meters of water annually to irrigate over 66,000 hectares of farmland, primarily in the Miho Stream and Mangyeong River basins.
The dam also features a range of auxiliary structures, including:
- Auxiliary Dams: Three smaller dams prevent overflow into adjacent areas.
- Spillways: Six floodgates manage a maximum discharge of 9,500 cubic meters per second.
Surrounding Attractions
Let’s explore some attractions that surround Daecheong Dam.
Daecheong Park
Located near Daecheong Dam, Daecheong Park (대청공원; map) serves as a retreat for city residents and visitors.
Spanning 143,386 square meters, this ecological park was developed between 1998 and 2011 to promote leisure, education, and community engagement. The park’s proximity to Daecheong Lake and the Geum River makes it an ideal location for nature enthusiasts and families. Its design incorporates natural elements and educational facilities.
Features
- Waterfront Deck: A 470-meter boardwalk along the lake and river provides views of herons and willow tree groves.
- Daecheong Culture and Exhibition Hall: Hosts local art exhibits and community events.
- Rock and Botanical Gardens: These feature over 50 species of plants and a display of rocks salvaged from a local construction project, creating a unique educational environment.
- Forested Trails: Enjoy a leisurely walk through metasequoia trees and shaded picnic areas.
- Play and Learning Spaces: The park includes a large grassy plaza, a forest experience zone for children, and areas for group gatherings.
Cheongnamdae
Cheongnamdae (청남대; map), meaning “Blue House in the South,” is a former presidential villa located near Daecheong Dam. Used as a retreat by South Korea’s presidents from 1983 to 2003, Cheongnamdae is now a public park and cultural site, attracting over 800,000 visitors annually.
History
- Presidential Retreat: Built in 1983 during the Chun Doo-hwan administration, Cheongnamdae was a private escape for five successive presidents, serving as a venue for policy planning and leisure.
- Public Opening: In 2003, President Roh Moo-hyun transferred ownership to North Chungcheong Province and opened it to the public, transforming it into a tourist destination.
Features
- The Main Building: A two-story structure that once served as the presidential residence, now preserved with original furnishings and exhibits on the villa’s history.
- Presidential History Museum: A separate facility displaying artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia from past presidents.
- Scenic Highlights: Visitors can explore metasequoia-lined paths, lotus ponds, and observation decks overlooking Daecheong Lake and the surrounding mountains.
- Recreational Areas: The grounds feature a golf course, fishponds, and a former swimming pool turned rest area.
- Walking Trails: Several themed paths, such as the “Path of Democracy” and “Path of Unity,” offer visitors routes through forests and along the lakeCity-to-City Example.
Accessibility and Tips
- Admission and Hours:
- Open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM (closed Mondays)
- Admission fees are 6,000 KRW for adults, with discounts for children and seniors. Guided tours are available for the main building.
- Transportation: Cheongnamdae is primarily accessible by car. Public transportation options are limited.
- Cheongnamdae is not easily accessible directly from the Geumgang Bike Path. Visitors must navigate a longer detour to reach the site.
Daecheong Lake
Daecheong Lake, formed by the dam, is one of the most picturesque reservoirs in South Korea. Encompassing 72.8 km², its waters are encircled by mountains, creating a great setting for outdoor activities. The lake is a haven for:
- Hiking: Trails around the lake range from gentle paths to more challenging climbs, offering views of the reservoir and surrounding woodlands.
- Picnicking: Designated areas along the lakeshore provide shaded spots with facilities, making it a favorite for families and weekend outings.
- Photography: The lake’s still waters, especially during sunrise or sunset, mirror the surrounding peaks, offering spectacular photo opportunities.
Daecheong Lake Natural Ecology Center
The Daecheong Lake Natural Ecology Center (대청호자연생태관; map) sheds light on the ecological importance of Daecheong Lake and its history. Highlights include:
- Flora and Fauna Exhibits: Displays of plant and animal species native to the reservoir and its surroundings.
- Displaced Community Artifacts: Exhibits that commemorate the over 4,000 households displaced during the dam’s construction, offering a glimpse into their lives before relocation.
- Interactive Learning: Visitors can explore 3D models, multimedia presentations, and hands-on activities focusing on water conservation and biodiversity.
Cherry Blossom Road
Encircling the lake is a 26.6-kilometer road lined with cherry trees, often called one of Korea’s most beautiful blossom routes. Each spring, the trees burst into bloom, attracting visitors to the Cherry Blossom Festival, where:
- Visitors enjoy walking or driving under the canopy of pink flowers.
- Local vendors sell seasonal treats and crafts.
- Cycling enthusiasts ride through the floral archways, combining natural beauty with exercise.
Cycling and Accessibility
Daecheong Dam is the starting point for the Geumgang Bike Path, a 146-kilometer route that takes cyclists through historic towns, cultural landmarks, and natural wonders along the Geum River.
- Daecheong Dam Certification Center (대청댐인증센터; map): Located near the dam, the red booth allows riders to collect their first stamp for completing Geumgang Bike Path.
- Cycling Challenges: The roads leading to the dam are steep and winding, testing endurance while rewarding cyclists with panoramic views of the reservoir.
Visiting Tips
- Transportation: Public transit options are limited. Visitors traveling from Daejeon can take buses (72 or 73), which run intermittently. Driving is recommended, with parking available at the dam and nearby attractions.
- Hours and Admission: The dam and its attractions, including the Water Culture Center, are open year-round. Most areas, including the Ecology Center, offer free admission, making them accessible to all.
- Peak Times: Spring (cherry blossoms) and fall (vivid foliage) are the most popular seasons to visit. Plan for early arrivals to secure parking and avoid crowds.