Seosan Rock-carved Buddha Triad

Seosan City Government · CC BY-SA 4.0

A 7th-century triad carved into a cliff, famous for a smile that changes with the angle of the sun.

Three figures carved into a granite face in a narrow gorge at Seosan, dating from about the 7th century under Baekje. What made them famous is the smile: the faces are cut at such fine angles that the changing light through the day alters the expression — gentle in the morning, almost stern at noon, plainly smiling in late afternoon. It is called the Baekje smile. The carvings were rediscovered in 1959 after centuries forgotten in the woods. There is nothing here but the three figures and a shelter over them, yet very few places give you the sense of standing before a face this alive.

Visitor information

When is the best time to visit Seosan Rock-carved Buddha Triad?

Year-round; late afternoon on a sunny day

How long do you need at Seosan Rock-carved Buddha Triad?

1 hour

What are the opening hours of Seosan Rock-carved Buddha Triad?

09:00–18:00

Did you know

Carved around the 7th century under Baekje; National Treasure No. 84.
The expressions shift with the angle of sunlight through the day.
Rediscovered in 1959 after centuries of neglect.
Known as the embodiment of the 'Baekje smile'.

Travel tips

Come in late afternoon — that is when the smile reads most clearly.
It is about a 10-minute walk up steps from the car park.
Very few visitors, even at weekends.

Source: https://ko.wikipedia.org/wiki/서산_용현리_마애여래삼존상

Updated: 2026-08-04