South Korea's 'Moses Miracle': A Natural Phenomenon Reveals a Sea Path

Edited by: Tetiana Martynovska 17

South Korea experiences a remarkable natural event known as the Jindo Sea Parting, often compared to the biblical parting of the Red Sea. This phenomenon occurs around the spring and autumn equinoxes, when the sea dramatically recedes to reveal a sandy pathway approximately 2.8 kilometers long and 40 to 60 meters wide. This temporary land bridge connects Jindo Island to the smaller island of Modo, allowing thousands of visitors to walk across the exposed seabed for about an hour.

The Jindo Sea Parting is scientifically attributed to tidal harmonics, a complex interplay of gravitational forces from the moon and sun, the Earth's rotation, and the specific geographical features of the islands and the Myeongnyang Strait. Geoscientists explain this as a synchronization of distinct harmonic factors that create exceptionally low tides, thus revealing the path.

Local folklore enriches this natural wonder with the legend of an elderly woman named Byong, who was left behind by villagers fleeing tigers. Her prayers to the sea god were answered when the sea parted, creating a path for her reunion with her family. A bronze statue of Byong and a tiger stands on the Jindo shore, symbolizing faith and perseverance.

The event is celebrated annually with the Jindo Sea Path Miracle Festival, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors globally. The festival features traditional performances like Jindo Arirang and Ganggangsullae, alongside modern entertainment such as Jindo dog shows and EDM concerts. Visitors can also collect seafood like abalone and octopus from the exposed seabed.

While the exact timing of the sea parting varies, the festival often takes place in late April, with specific sea parting events occurring around the spring and autumn equinoxes. The 2025 Jindo Sea Parting Festival is scheduled to occur from March 29 to April 1, with specific times for the sea parting expected around March 30 and March 31. This event is a significant cultural phenomenon, blending scientific understanding with ancient storytelling and offering an unforgettable experience of nature's cycles and human faith.

Sources

  • Nezavisne novine

  • BL Portal

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