20 Around Korea
From Seaside to Mountainside
Sokcho and Seoraksan
TRAVEL
By Adam Nash
Gwangju News, June 2022
gwangjunewsgic.com
▲ The mountains of Seoraksan National Park.
W
ith all the natural beauty and cultural gems right on Gwangju’s doorstep, traveling to the opposite side of the country for a vacation might sound a tad unnecessary. However, those that make the 470km trip to Sokcho will not be disappointed. The unique history, geography and culinary heritage of this bustling port town is well worth the journey.
the flat, white sands with the family crowds. Still, I was able to doze off in the fresh sea air and wake up refreshed and rejuvenated.
Located in the northeastern part of Gangwon Province, Sokcho is so far north that it was briefly under the control of North Korea after World War II, before finally changing hands following the Korean Armistice Agreement. These days, it is a popular getaway for those wanting to swap the stifling, summer streets of Seoul for the cool sea breeze of the coast.
Despite the obvious delights of the seaside, I had my eyes set slightly more inland and about 873 meters up to the top of Ulsanbawi (울산바위) or Ulsan Rock.
Lounging under a parasol on Sokcho Beach, watching the waves wash onto the shore, is the perfect way to unwind after the long trip. The beach is not exactly a well-kept secret, so I had to share
2022�06��.indd 20
Sokcho Beach is also said to be an excellent spot to watch the ocean sunrise. Just check the weather forecast before setting your alarm. I learned that the hard way.
Seoraksan National Park (설악산국립공원) is known for having one of the most picturesque mountain ranges in the whole of Korea, and for good reason. The striking, six jagged peaks of Ulsan Rock can be seen from the city streets below. The park is also steeped in history, as it was the first area designated as a national park in 1970, and it later received UNESCO recognition as a Biosphere Reserve due to its diverse and colorful ecosystem.
2022-05-26 �� 3:06:03
