Gimhae Astronomical Observatory (김해천문대)

Explanation

Gimhae Astronomical Observatory opened on February 1, 2002 as part of the Millennium Commemorative Project that started in December 1998. It was built to satisfy the general public’s curiosity about the universe and celestial bodies, inspire young people, and give everyone a unique, memorable experience. The observatory is shaped like an egg, in memory of the legend of King Kim Suro, the founder of the Garak Kingdom, according to which the king was born from an egg.

It is said that the queen of King Suro, Heo Hwang-ok, was a princess from the Indian country of Ayuta. Since sophisticated navigation equipment had yet to be invented, it can be assumed that she found her way to the Garak Kingdom by following the stars. It is also said that a prince of the Garak Kingdom built an observatory on the highest point of a mud fortress in Jinrye in order to make astronomical observations. The place is still referred to as Bibidan, which means a place to watch the stars.

These historical facts indicate the stars were very important to the Gaya, an ancient kingdom established mainly in the Gimhae area. The peak of Bunseongsan Mountain, where the observatory is located, offers sweeping views of the entire area of Gimhae. The night sky of Gimhae offers a breathtaking sight.

Inquiry

+82-55-337-3785

Homepage

www.ghast.or.kr (Korean only)

Information Use

Experience Guide : Constellation Program / Astronomical Observation Program / Telescope Handling Program

Contact and Information : • 1330 Travel Hotline: +82-2-1330
(Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)
• For more info: +82-55-337-3785

Parking facilities : Available

Day off : Mondays (or the following day, if Monday is a holiday), New Year's Day

Hours : 14:00-22:00 (Last admission is 30 minutes before closing)

More information

Admission Fees
Free

Available Facilities
[Exhibition Building]
Exhibition hall, planetarium, administrative office

[Observatory Building]
Observation room 1 & 2, subsidiary observation room

Reservation Info. for Natives
Online reservation (same-day reservation not accepted).

Location

254, Gaya thema-gil, Gimhae-si, Gyeongsangnam-do

Directions