Sunrise at Hamwolru: A New Year's Experience
울산광역시 중구 성안동 산152-3
함월루

For the first article of the lunar new year, I set out before dawn to capture the sunrise at Hamwolru in Ulsan Jung-gu.
What began as a simple plan turned into an unexpected journey, filled with crowds, missed chances, and a deeper realization that welcoming the new year matters more than the exact place.
This is a quiet and honest story about chasing the sunrise, adapting in the moment, and greeting the year with hope.
Setting Out Before Dawn on New Year’s Day
Hello, this is Kim Soon-jeom from Ulsan Nuri.
For the first article of the lunar new year, I decided to write about the sunrise.
From the sun’s perspective, it may seem like unnecessary fuss, but for us, the sunrise on January 1st is a meaningful annual event.
I left early in the morning to cover the sunrise, not expecting what awaited me on the road.
Unexpected Traffic on the Way to Hamwolru
As I crossed Samil Bridge connecting Jinjang-dong and Jung-gu, I was surprised to see a long line of cars.
For a moment, I wondered if everyone was heading to watch the sunrise.
I was planning to go to Hamwolru, a well-known sunrise spot in Jung-gu, so the traffic coming from Buk-gu felt confusing.
Having little experience with sunrise events, I relied mostly on what I had heard from others.
Why I Couldn’t See the Sunrise at Hamwolru
Expecting large crowds, I parked my car farther away.
To get straight to the point, I couldn’t actually see the sunrise from Hamwolru.
The reason lies in the structure of the pavilion itself.
Limited Access to the Pavilion
To view the sunrise properly, you need to climb up to the pavilion.
However, due to weight limits, only a limited number of people are allowed at one time.
While this is necessary for safety, it was disappointing for someone who visits only once a year.
Blocked Views Below the Pavilion
You can still try to see the sunrise from below, but it is not the same.
Trees block the view of the rising sun, making it hard to fully experience the moment.
At that point, I felt a sense of urgency.
A Quick Decision and an Unexpected Detour
Should I take unclear photos here, or rush to another spot?
While deciding, I quickly took a photo of the library and café located beneath the pavilion.
Normally, this space doesn’t operate early in the morning or late at night.
It seemed to be open today to welcome sunrise visitors.
If I had more time, I would have loved to step inside that warm space filled with books.
Finding the Sunrise at Another Spot
On my way to a location I had previously marked, I noticed a line of people gathered by a railing.
At that moment, I realized I could still catch the sunrise.
I hurried up to join them.
More people than at Hamwolru stood there, facing the sun with open hearts.
In the end, welcoming the new year holds meaning no matter where you stand.
The Moment the Sun Appeared
With my short legs planted firmly, I anxiously watched the horizon.
The red sun slowly emerged, tinting the world with a rosy glow.
I found myself wondering how much paint an artist would need to recreate that shade of red.
As the sun fully rose, it felt like clouds were being drawn back like a curtain.
Songs, Wishes, and New Year Hopes
While taking photos, I heard people singing.
When I looked over, I noticed Baegyangsa Temple nearby.
Curious, I went to take a closer look.
The long line I saw earlier turned out to be for rice cake soup, especially welcome on such a cold morning.
Colorful paper knots hung from wish strings, swaying gently.
What would you write on those wish strings?
Welcoming the Year of the Red Horse
This year is said to be the Year of the Red Horse.
I hope that our nation, Ulsan, and everyone reading this can ride forward smoothly, achieving what they set out to do.
For those struggling with health, I wish a quick recovery.
For those feeling down, may you soak in the sunlight and feel brighter.
This has been my story of the sunrise near Hamwolru in Ulsan Jung-gu.
Looking Ahead to the Next Sunrise
I hope that next year, I can watch the sunrise at Hamwolru without any regrets.
Until then, I wish everyone a healthy and prosperous new year.
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