Hamel Monument

A monument honoring the man who first introduced Korea to the West — this is the Hamel Monument.

In 1653, the fourth year of King Hyojong's reign, the Dutch East India Company trading ship Sperwer was wrecked by a severe storm off the coast of what is now Sagye-ri, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo. Among those aboard was Hendrick Hamel, who spent the next 13 years in Joseon before finally returning home. In 1668, he published an account of his experience, known as "Hamel's Journal" (also called the "Sperwer Shipwreck Account"), widely regarded as the first detailed account to introduce Joseon Korea to the Western world.

To honor Hamel's contribution and mark the friendship between Korea and the Netherlands, the Korea International Cultural Association and the Dutch Embassy in Korea jointly erected this monument in April 1980. Set on a coastal hillside right in front of Sanbanggulsa, it features a striking design shaped like a shipwreck.

Located near Sanbangsan and Yongmeori Coast, it makes for a good stop to pair with those sites — and a fitting spot for a quiet walk while reflecting on Hamel's story.

Open at all times, with no admission fee.