GGSS 2025 : Fieldwork to Ganghwa for border experiences

 Ganghwa Island: Border Significance and Educational Tourism Potential

Ganghwa Island holds exceptional importance from a geographical and border perspective. Strategically located at the mouth of the Han River and close to the North Korean border, it has long served as a buffer zone between rival powers. Historically, Ganghwa was the site of critical confrontations, such as the 19th-century clashes with Western navies, and it played a central role in Korea’s defense and diplomacy. Its position exemplifies how islands can function as geopolitical frontiers—simultaneously vulnerable outposts and gateways for cultural and economic exchange.

From an educational tourism perspective, Ganghwa offers remarkable potential. The island is a living classroom where geography, history, culture, and ecology intersect. Visitors can learn about border dynamics, observe tidal flats designated as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, and explore fortresses, dolmens, and temples that illustrate Korea’s layered history. Because of its proximity to Seoul, Ganghwa is highly accessible for fieldwork and experiential learning. Students and travelers alike can gain first-hand insights into borderland geographies, environmental sustainability, and cultural heritage—making Ganghwa a unique hub for educational tourism that bridges the past and present.

📖 Why the National Goryeo Museum Should Be Built on Ganghwa Island

Ganghwa Island is the most appropriate site for establishing the National Goryeo Museum. Historically, Ganghwa served as the capital of the Goryeo dynasty during the Mongol invasions in the 13th century, leaving behind fortresses, palaces, temples, and cultural relics directly tied to Goryeo heritage. Few other locations in Korea embody such concentrated layers of Goryeo history and symbolism.

Geographically, Ganghwa represents a frontier space that reflects both resilience and cultural creativity. Its unique role as a capital-in-exile demonstrates how geography shapes political decisions and cultural survival. A National Goryeo Museum here would not only preserve invaluable artifacts but also bring to life the story of Korea’s perseverance and innovation during one of its most challenging periods.

From an educational and tourism perspective, Ganghwa is also highly accessible from Seoul, making it an ideal location for school field trips, international visitors, and cultural diplomacy. By situating the museum on Ganghwa Island, Korea can revitalize local communities, enhance cultural tourism, and highlight the island as a living classroom for history, geography, and heritage education.

📢 Call to Action: Support the National Goryeo Museum on Ganghwa

Let us bring Goryeo’s legacy back to its rightful home—Ganghwa Island.
This is more than a museum: it is a cultural landmark that will connect past and future, Korea and the world.

✍️ Sign your name today to support the establishment of the National Goryeo Museum in Ganghwa.
Together, we can ensure that the history of resilience, diplomacy, and creativity shines for generations to come.