Seoraksan & Sokcho: Korea’s Wild Northeast Coast

If you only leave Seoul once, make it for Gangwon. Korea’s rugged northeast is where granite mountains crash down to the East Sea, and it delivers the country’s best hiking and some of its freshest seafood — often on the same day.

Seoraksan National Park

Seoraksan is Korea’s most beloved mountain, and you don’t need to be a serious hiker to enjoy it. An easy trail leads to Biryong Falls, a cable car climbs to the Gwongeumseong ridge, and the giant bronze Buddha at Sinheungsa temple sits right by the entrance. Fit hikers can tackle the steep stairs up Ulsanbawi, a wall of granite domes with a jaw-dropping summit view.

Sokcho: coast & comfort food

Base yourself in Sokcho, a laid-back coastal city minutes from the park. Cross to Abai Village — settled by North Korean refugees — on a hand-pulled raft ferry, and try its signature abai sundae (stuffed squid). Then eat your way through the seafood stalls at Daepohang port.

Good to know

• Getting there: about 2–2.5 hours from Seoul by express bus to Sokcho.
• Best season: October, when Seoraksan’s autumn colors are legendary (go early to beat crowds).
• Tip: check the weather — mountain conditions change fast, and clear days are worth chasing.