Destination briefing
Why travelers stop here
Gangju Pond is said to have originally been the site of Gangju's military camp. According to the Jinyangji (Jinju Gazetteer), Ha Ryun (1347–1416) wrote in his record of Chokseokseong Fortress's gate: 'In the autumn of the year of Gi-mi (1379), Vice Minister Bae Gong (Bae Geuk-ryeom, 1325–1392) came as the commander of Gangju and reported to the local magistrate, ordering that Chokseokseong Fortress, which was made of earth, be rebuilt with stone. However, before the work was even half completed, it fell to Japanese pirates.' This makes it clear that this was the site of the military camp where Bae Geuk-ryeom was stationed in the 5th year of King U of the late Goryeo Dynasty (1379), and it is the origin of today's Jinjuseong Fortress, which was built with stone.
It is unknown when Gangju Pond was constructed, but the pond embankment is lined with old trees estimated to be 500–600 years old, and the retusa fringetrees here are said to have been brought from China, indicating that this area is historically significant. The pond embankment is covered with dense old trees, and in summer, lotus flowers bloom in abundance, creating a beautiful landscape that attracts many tourists year-round. It is also used as a picnic spot for students. With the creation of an ecological park in 2004, it has become a place where environment, education, and relaxation harmonize, beloved by citizens.
OTA-ready stop
Built into inbound routes and day-tour planning.
Local context
경상남도 진주시 정촌면 예하리 911-11
Travel fit
Attraction · Gyeongsangnam-do

