[Anchor] This week on Jeju: A to Z, Todd Thacker takes a brief look at a hidden gem right here in Jeju City. Yongyeon Pond in Yongdam-dong has a well-earned reputation as a picture-perfect setting for young and old.

[Report] Jeju has its fair share of dragon myths. Interestingly, a number are within Jeju City itself -- nestled along the picturesque coastline directly east of the airport in the neighborhood of Yongdam.

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Yongdam-dong, Jeju City

Yongyeon (용연) Pond is a part of a freshwater stream which runs from the upper elevations of Hallasan Mountain down to the ocean. It passes through a 10-meter-tall ravine which over the years it has cut into the rock.

The pond gets its name from a myth that a dragon once flew down to the site to bathe. Densely forested cliffs flank this beautiful oasis -- the walls themselves actually resemble traditional folding screens.

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52-meter bridge built in 2005

In 2005, a 52-meter-long, 5-meter-high bridge was built across the near-end of the pond. It has a beautiful view of breadth of the pond and stream, and to the north, the ocean itself. There is a also small gazebo to the east which accessible by a steep set of stairs built into the cliff.

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‘Yongyeon Yabeom’: Viewing full moon’s reflection on pond

Another reason to visit the pond at night, apart from the colorful lighting of the cliffs themselves, is what is known as “Yongyeon Yabeom”. This is when the full moon is reflected on the pond, sandwiched between the rocky cliffs.

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Todd Thacker

It’s said that centuries ago one of Jeju’s governors loved this particular spot so much that he asked locals to stage music and dance events there under the starry summer skies. When you experience it for yourself, it’s easy to see why.

Todd Thacker KCTV