Chungju Lake
Chungcheongbuk-do
Chungju Lake, located in Chungcheongbuk-do, South Korea, is an expansive artificial lake created by the Chungju Dam in 1985. Spanning an area of approximately 67.5 square kilometers with an average depth of 97.5 meters, the lake extends across the regions of Danyang County, Jecheon City, and Chungju City. It serves as a significant water reservoir with a capacity of 2.75 billion tons. The lake is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, bordered by mountains such as Gye-myeong Mountain, and offers various recreational facilities including Jungangtap Park and Keum Sports Park. Each August, Chungju Lake becomes a vibrant hub for water sports competitions and cultural performances held at the Riverside Stage, complemented by attractions like the River Fountain and bird-watching spots. The lake has hosted prominent international rowing events, including the 2013 World Rowing Championships and the 2019 Asian Rowing Championships. Chungju Lake is also known by regional names such as Tangeum Lake, Cheongpung Lake, and Danyang Lake, reflecting local naming preferences and historical nuances.
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Tip: The best time to visit Chungju Lake is during the summer months, especially August, when water sports events and cultural performances take place. Visitors are advised to check event schedules in advance and consider purchasing tickets ahead of time for major competitions. Bird watchers should bring binoculars for optimal viewing. Exploring the surrounding parks and scenic roads offers excellent photo opportunities. Local transport options and well-maintained roads make the lake easily accessible.
Interesting facts
- •Chungju Lake is the largest artificial lake in South Korea by surface area.
- •The lake has a storage capacity of approximately 2.75 billion tons of water.
- •It hosted the 2013 World Rowing Championships, a major international sporting event.
- •The lake is also known regionally as Cheongpung Lake and Danyang Lake, reflecting local naming disputes.
- •Annual cultural performances and water sports events are held at the Riverside Stage every August near the lake.
History
Chungju Lake was formed in 1985 by damming a valley between Jongmin-dong and Dongryang-myeon, creating the Chungju Dam reservoir.
Over time, it expanded to cover parts of Danyang County, Jecheon City, and Chungju City.
The lake's creation led to the submergence of several local areas, sparking regional debates over its naming.
Jecheon City has advocated renaming the lake to Cheongpung Lake, reflecting local identity, while Chungju City maintains the original name based on the dam.
The lake has since become an important water resource and recreational site, hosting international rowing championships in 2013 and 2019.
Place Guide
Jungangtap Park
A leisure park located near Chungju Lake offering scenic views, walking paths, and recreational facilities for visitors.
Keum Sports Park
A sports complex adjacent to Chungju Lake that hosts various water sports activities and events, including rowing competitions.
Riverside Stage and River Fountain
An outdoor stage near Chungju Lake where cultural performances take place, accompanied by the nearby River Fountain, a notable attraction for visitors.
Bird Watching Facilities
Designated areas around Chungju Lake equipped for bird watchers to observe local and migratory bird species in their natural habitat.
