Palmido
Overview
Palmido is a small island belonging to Ongjin County, Incheon Metropolitan City, located approximately 14 km southwest of Incheon Port. Although its area is only about 0.25 km², it is famous as the first attack target of the Incheon Landing Operation during the Korean War and as the site of Palmido Lighthouse, Korea's first modern lighthouse. Currently designated as a military protection zone, free access by the general public is restricted, but it receives much attention due to its historical and military significance.
Main Content
Geographical Features
Palmido belongs to Yeongheung-myeon, Ongjin County, Incheon Metropolitan City, and is located about 14 km southwest of Incheon Port and about 6 km northwest of Yeongheungdo Island. The island has an elongated oval shape running north-south, with a maximum elevation of 68 meters above sea level. The surrounding waters have large tidal ranges and many reefs, requiring caution for navigation. The entire island is composed of rock, with some pine trees and scrub vegetation.
Historical Significance
Palmido was one of the most important military strategic points during the Korean War. On September 15, 1950, in the Incheon Landing Operation commanded by UN forces commander General Douglas MacArthur, Palmido was the first attack target. At that time, North Korean forces were using the lighthouse on Palmido as a military facility, and UN forces needed to capture it to secure the route into Incheon Port. On the night of September 14, 1950, UN special forces landed on Palmido, subdued the North Korean forces, and occupied the lighthouse. This operation was a decisive factor in the success of the Incheon Landing Operation and contributed to changing the course of the war.
Palmido Lighthouse
Palmido Lighthouse is Korea's first modern lighthouse. It was first lit on June 1, 1903, with a height of 12 meters; the tower is a circular reinforced concrete structure painted white. The lighthouse was designed and constructed by a French engineer from 1903 to 1907, and underwent several repairs and expansions afterward. The lighthouse beam reaches up to 24 nautical miles (approximately 44 km), aiding the safe navigation of ships entering Incheon Port. During the Korean War, the lighthouse was used as a military facility, and after the war, it was restored and remains in operation to this day. In 2003, a centennial ceremony was held to mark the 100th anniversary of the lighthouse's installation.
Military Protection Zone
Palmido is designated as a military protection zone, strictly restricting access by the general public. The island hosts military facilities of the Navy and Marine Corps, and training exercises are frequently conducted. Civilians wishing to visit must obtain prior permission from military authorities; approaching without permission may result in legal penalties. However, due to its historical importance, it is occasionally opened to the public on a limited basis during certain anniversaries or special events.
Ecological Environment
Although a small island, Palmido is a habitat for various marine organisms. The surrounding waters feature tidal flats and reefs, rich in crabs, shellfish, octopus, and more. It is also known as a stopover for migratory birds, with many species passing through in spring and autumn. However, military facilities and human activities have partially damaged the ecosystem.
Latest Trends
As of 2024, Palmido remains a military protection zone, but Incheon City and the Cultural Heritage Administration are promoting projects to reexamine the island's historical value. In 2023, Palmido Lighthouse was designated as a National Registered Cultural Heritage, and in 2024, plans to renovate facilities around the lighthouse and develop them as tourism resources are being discussed. Additionally, a special opening event is planned for 2025 to mark the 75th anniversary of the Incheon Landing Operation. Recently, drone aerial photography of Palmido has been permitted and is being used for historical documentary production. Environmental groups are conducting surveys to protect the marine ecosystem around Palmido and strengthening ecological monitoring in cooperation with military authorities.
Related Topics
- [[Incheon Landing Operation]]
- [[Palmido Lighthouse]]
- [[Korean War]]
- [[Ongjin County]]
- [[Douglas MacArthur]]
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