Plizio Visual Lab
Daecheong Lake
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Lake
Daecheong Lake is a massive artificial reservoir created by the completion of the Daecheong Dam in 1980 on the Geum River. It ranks as the third-largest lake in South Korea, covering an area of approximately 72.8 square kilometers, and serves as a critical source of drinking water and hydroelectric power for Daejeon and Cheongju. The lake is characterized by its highly irregular shoreline and numerous small islands, creating a scenic landscape that attracts nature lovers. The 'Daecheongho Obaengni-gil' is a famous 200-kilometer hiking trail divided into 21 sections that encircle the lake, offering diverse views of the water and surrounding forests. Due to its status as a protected water source, environmental regulations are strict, which has helped maintain a pristine natural habitat for various migratory birds and freshwater fish. It is a popular spot for scenic drives and peaceful lakeside recreation.
- Location: South Korea
- Top sights: Gjeyok Mountain Eco-Healing Barefoot Walking Course Entrance · Cheongwon Art Museum · Daecheongmunhwa Exhibition Hall
- Nearby: Daejeon (13 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -4 | -1 | 4 | 10 | 17 | 22 | 24 | 25 | 20 | 13 | 6 | -2 |
| Rain mm | 24 | 34 | 46 | 81 | 80 | 134 | 316 | 255 | 134 | 54 | 41 | 26 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Located on the border of Daejeon and Chungcheongbuk-do, this large man-made lake is easily accessible by car or local bus routes.
Best season
Spring is particularly popular for cherry blossoms along the shore, while autumn gives beautiful foliage reflecting on the water.
Terrain & paths
The area around the lake features well-maintained wooden boardwalks, paved paths, and gentle dirt trails suitable for walking.
What to bring
Standard casual clothing and comfortable walking shoes are generally enough to enjoy the lakeside promenades and viewing decks.
Parking
Several public parking lots are usually situated around the lake's perimeter, especially near parks, observatories, and dam facilities.
Safety
As a major water source, swimming is typically restricted; visitors should adhere to posted signs and stay on the designated paths.
Time needed
Visitors usually spend two to three hours walking the trails, enjoying a picnic, or visiting the nearby observation points.
Geography
Facts
- Formed in 1980 upon the completion of the Daecheong Dam.
- It is the third-largest lake in South Korea by surface area.
- The lake covers an area of approximately 72.8 square kilometers.
- Storage capacity is roughly 1.49 billion tons of water.
- Features the 200-km long Obaengni-gil hiking circuit.
- Major source of water for the city of Daejeon.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Daecheong Lake (8)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Daecheong Lake?
Swimming is generally prohibited in the lake as it serves as a major drinking water reservoir for the region.
Are there boat trips on the lake?
Yes, excursion boats are available, offering visitors great views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
What is the Daecheong-Ho Obaek-ri path?
It is an extensive hiking and walking trail around the lake, famous for its scenic views.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring for the cherry blossoms and autumn with its colorful foliage are the most beautiful times at the lake.
Are there observation points accessible by car?
Yes, there are several parking areas and platforms with panoramic views of the reservoir along the coastal road.
Daecheong Lake: where is it located?
Daecheong Lake is located in South Korea.
Daecheong Lake: what is there to see?
Highlights include Gjeyok Mountain Eco-Healing Barefoot Walking Course Entrance, Cheongwon Art Museum, Daecheongmunhwa Exhibition Hall.
Daecheong Lake: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Daecheong Lake: why is it worth visiting?
Daecheong Lake is a massive artificial reservoir created by the completion of the Daecheong Dam in 1980 on the Geum River.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in South Korea →
Nearby cities
Daejeon
Daejeon is Korea's hub for science and technology, famous for its research institutes and the Expo Park.
Boeun
Home to the historic Beopjusa Temple and the majestic peaks of Songnisan National Park.
Muju
A premier destination for outdoor sports, known for its ski resort, the Taekwondowon, and the annual firefly festival.
Goesan
A nature-centric destination known for the Hwayang 9 Valleys and its leadership in organic farming.
Icheon
A city renowned for its ceramics, rice fields, and hot springs, recognized as a UNESCO City of Crafts and Folk Art.
Jangsu
A highland region celebrated for its clean air, premium beef, and the Jangsu Horse Leisure Park.
Onyang
Onyang is home to Korea's oldest hot springs and has been a popular retreat for relaxation and health for centuries.
Yongin
Yongin is a major tourist hub known for Everland, Korea's largest theme park, and the immersive Korean Folk Village.
Chungju
A city on the banks of the Namhan River, known for Chungju Lake and the annual World Martial Arts Festival.
🗺️
Asan
A city renowned for its healing thermal springs and well-preserved historical heritage.
Yangpyeong
A scenic riverside destination popular for Dumulmeori, cycling paths, and the ancient Ginkgo tree of Yongmunsa Temple.
🗺️
Geochang
Geochang is a scenic mountain city known for its international theater festival and the stunning landscape of Suseungdae.
Gimcheon
A major inland transportation hub where several major highways and railway lines intersect.
Hanam
A city along the Han River that has evolved from an agricultural community to a popular residential suburb of Seoul.
History & landmarks
Gongju
A historical city on the Geumgang River, serving as the ancient capital of the Baekje Kingdom, famous for its fortresses and royal tombs.
Jeonju Hanok Village
Located in the city of Jeonju, it has over 800 traditional Korean hanok houses.
Yeoju
A cultural hub famous for its royal tombs, ancient riverside temples, and a rich ceramic tradition.
Buyeo
The final capital of the ancient Baekje Kingdom, preserving elegant royal history and lotus-filled ponds.
Namwon
Known as the "City of Love," Namwon is the setting of the famous Chunhyang legend and a major gateway to Jirisan National Park.
More places
Gyeryongsan Mountain
A mountain considered a spiritual center, located on the border of several cities.
Independence Hall of Korea
A huge complex dedicated to the Korean independence movement against Japanese rule.
Songnisan Mountain
A mountain in Songnisan National Park, its name meaning 'mountain that leaves the secular world'.
🗺️
Muju Gucheondong Valley
A scenic valley within Deogyusan National Park, stretching for 25 kilometers and known for its clear water and lush vegetation.
SK Hynix Icheon Plant
A major production facility for SK Hynix, one of the world's leading semiconductor memory manufacturers.
Mireuksa Temple Site
The ruins of the largest Buddhist temple of the ancient Baekje Kingdom.
Everland Resort
South Korea's largest theme park, featuring rides, a zoo called Zootopia, and a water park called Caribbean Bay.
Samsung Digital City
The headquarters and R&D hub of Samsung Electronics in Suwon, serving as the brain of the global tech giant.