Located on South Korea's northeastern coast, this fishing port sits between Seoraksan National Park and the Sea of Japan, with a 1,400-year-old temple, fresh seafood markets, and North Korean-influenced cuisine.
Sokcho-si sits along South Korea's northeastern coast, between Seoraksan National Park and the Sea of Japan. Walk through pine forests to reach the 1,400-year-old Sinheungsa temple, cross the water on a hand-pulled ferry to taste North Korean-influenced cuisine in Abai Village, or join locals at Sokcho Beach. Stop by the city's fish markets to try fresh raw fish (hoe) and squid, or visit during October when the Seorak Cultural Festival brings music and traditional performances to the streets.
Getting to Sokcho
Take the KTX Gyeonggang Line from Seoul for an 86-minute journey to Sokcho. Intercity buses also run from Seoul's Express Bus Terminal, with travel times around 2.5 hours depending on traffic. Within Sokcho, you'll need to use local buses or taxis since there's no subway system. The bus routes connect most major attractions, including Seoraksan National Park and the beach areas.
Exploring Seoraksan National Park
South Korea's third-highest mountain has multiple hiking trails leading to waterfalls and viewpoints. The Seoraksan Cable Car takes you to the Gwongeumseong Fortress ruins, where you can see the surrounding peaks. Look for native wildlife like the long-tailed goral and Korean goral while hiking through the UNESCO Biosphere Protection site. The three-tiered Towangseong Falls drop 320 meters through the mountain landscape.
Water Activities
On calm days, Mt. Seorak and Ulsanbawi rock formations create mirror images on Yeongrangho Lake's surface. Take a boat tour from Marina Yacht at Cheongchoho Lake to see Seorakdaegyo Bridge and circle Jodo island. Bring your boat license if you want to rent a vessel and explore on your own.
Discovering Abai Village
Cross the water to Abai Village on a hand-pulled ferry that departs from Gaetbae Dock every few minutes. The village's North Korean roots show in its cuisine, particularly in abai-sundae - a dish of minced meat, glass noodles, and vegetables in a natural casing. Many current residents trace their family history to North Korea's Hemgyeong province, where their ancestors lived before the Korean War.
Local Food Scene
Walk through Sokcho Tourist & Fishery Market, operating since 1953, to find vendors selling ojingeo (squid), myeongtae (pollack), and fresh raw fish. Many restaurants near the market will cook your purchases, adding traditional Korean seasonings and cooking methods. Head to the two-block "Foodtown" district to try Korean barbecue with local beef, pork, and chicken, served with traditional side dishes and marinades.
The Beach
Wade into the shallow waters of Sokcho Beach, which slopes gently into the sea. Take a walk on the pine forest trail behind the beach or find the shoreline sculptures, including a large compass pointing to countries worldwide and a dolphin statue. July and August bring crowds to the beach, while other months draw photographers to the "Stairway to Heaven" spot and large picture frame installations along the shore.
