<남도의 섬> 완도 소안도
As one of the "Holy Lands" of the anti-Japanese colonialism movement, Soando is a beautiful island located in the southern part of Korea. The name of the island that means ‘a place where you can feel relieved’ has an interesting story. In the Joseon Dynasty, provincial governors and envoys that traveled through the sea got seasickness because the waves were very rough between the mainland and Jeju Island. People trembled with fear due to the heavy winds and waves. However, right after their ship reached Soando, their fear turned into comfort. The Chonnam Tribune reporters became very interested in the island through this old story, thus took a visit to this peaceful island to introduce it to everyone who lives a busy life.
The Memorial Hall of Anti-Japanese Movement and Soan Private School
On the island, there is a memorial hall for Korean independence fighters. It exhibits the history of our independence from Japan. A Soando resident working at a ticket office mentioned proudly, “This island has produced 69 independent fighters and 20 patriots who have been officially recognized. They had also raised funds for armies for national independence and staged a peasant movement.” According to his explanations, Japanese police oppressed them, but they developed silent vigils without raising the national flag of Japan and refused to celebrate Japanese national holidays. Due to such past achievements, Soando was selected as one of the hallowed grounds of the independence movement with Bukcheong, South Hamkyoung Province and Dongrae, Busan. However, the anti-Japanese movement on the island had been forgotten for a long time. After being emancipated from Japan, a number of anti-Japanese activists who participated in the Korean independence movement had to hold their breath in the homeland, whereas pro-Japanese groups had gained the power in the country. The history of the island was rehabilitated after a 60-year hiatus by establishing the memorial hall.
Next to this structure, there is a magnificent and delicate monument to commemorate the spirits of those patriots who gave up their lives for our country. It is said that about 800 out of 6000 residents had carried on the independence movement in defiance of Japanese coercion in 1920. A stone statue that imitated them is located on both sides of the monument. Tribune Reporters felt respect and gratitude to them.
How could this small island have carried out the revolt that marked a milestone in the history of the independent movement? A secluded and lonely island could take a strong anti-Japanese route because of Soan Private School. At that time, the school took an important role as a school for students from Haenam and Jejudo. Currently, the school preserves its small and old appearance but it is used as an accommodation facility for visitors. However, a local resident said, “The Soan Private School shows the spirit and high education of Soando.” Additionally, Soando is practicing patriotism by raising the national flag of Korea, “Taegeukgi” everyday. All the residents on the island are voluntarily joining this act.
Eight Famous Spots
In 1981, Soando was designated as a National Park. The coast of the island has a superb natural landscape. The eight famous spots on the island are Daebong Mountain of moon, Bidong of brook, Gwamok of waves, sunset of sailing ship, shepherd boy’s sound of flute, Gahaksan Mountain of clouds, fishing boat of Mira’s harbor, and a pine of grove. Taking a drive around the island by the help of a resident, we enjoyed beautiful scenery.
Among them, the most famous place for Soando is Mirari and Maengseonri Evergreen Forests and beaches. With an explanation from the resident, the Tribune reporters chose to go to Mirari beach. Mirari Evergreen Forest is Natural Treasure No. 339. With no doubt to be a treasure, the forest boasts stunning surroundings and evoked an exclamation from the tourists around. The evergreen broad-leaved forest of the silver magnolia in lengths of 400 meters seemed to be the most beautiful place. The beach also looks gorgeous. Instead of a sand beach that you might expect, the Mirari beach is a rock beach. It is covered with small rounded rocks that are neutral and weak. Therefore, you can feel free from your fatigue by walking around the beach. When this coast with evergreen glitters with the sunlight you will be completely enchanted in the blue sea.
Reasons to Visit Soando
You can also view Dangsado and a lighthouse from Soando. The resident who guided us said, “In 1876, the lighthouse was established on Soando and Dangsado to guide Japanese merchant ships. In 1909, five brave men attacked four Japanese and took their ship. This affair was a resistance trigger that shows the spirit of Soan for Korean independence.” Soando is also famous for abalone and sea mustard. Fishermen often visit this place. You can see many fishermen enjoying fishing on the seacoast. They even go into the sea for fishing. Hikers visit this island too. The Trail of Gahaksan Mountain is popular among mountain climbers.
You can see a turtle-shaped island near Soando. Tribune reporters would not have seen it without the resident’s help. It was like a great turtle relaxing in the deep blue sea. It was absolutely amazing. The historical meaning of Soando is just enough to take you to the island. But Soando carries more than that. Why don’t you take a visit to Soando and be reminded of the spirit of independence movement and find the turtle-shaped island? Value the patriotic martyrs and cherish your memories of Soando. You can enjoy a journey healing your body and mind. If you plan a trip to Soando, it will be a safe and marvelous journey.
By Kim Yu-na, Tribune Reporter