Live Your Best Lives
Sokcho, located in northeastern South Korea, is a city rich in scenic attractions, including mountains, rivers, and hot springs. After the Korean War, people born in North Korea settled in Sokcho, close to their homeland, leading to a rapid population growth. The city's name is said to be derived from the wild grass "soksae," which thrives in the fields.
Sokcho is a coastal city in northeastern Gangwon Province, South Korea. Bounded by the East Sea to the east and Mount Seorak to the west, it is a popular tourist destination. Focusing on the aquaculture and tourism industries, the city offers a variety of accommodations, including home-style guesthouses. Mount Seorak is renowned for its autumn foliage, while the East Sea is known for its beaches. Following the Korean War, the area became a hub for displaced North Koreans.
Blessed with natural beauty, Sokcho is a popular tourist destination year-round. Spring brings the vibrant natural beauty of nature to life; summer brings sunbathing and marine sports at Sokcho Beach; autumn brings the beauty of crimson maple leaves to the summit of Seoraksan Mountain; and winter brings a breathtaking spectacle of snow-capped Seoraksan Mountain, complete with warming hot springs.
With a temperate monsoon climate, Sokcho City is a city rich in tourist resources such as mountains, water, and hot springs, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.
Seoraksan National Park, Donghae, Sinheungsa Temple, Sokcho Lighthouse Observatory, Cheongho-dong, Teddy Bear Museum, Cheongcho Lake, etc.
It is recommended to visit for 1-2 days
Free and open
Open all day
Sokcho is a coastal city located in the northeastern part of South Korea. It has a rich history as a fishing port and has grown into a popular tourist destination due to its proximity to Seoraksan National Park and the beautiful beaches along the East Sea.
Sokcho is located in Gangwon-do, South Korea, about 180 kilometers from Seoul. You can reach Sokcho by bus from the Seoul Express Bus Terminal (about 2.5 to 3 hours), or by car via the Gwandong Expressway. There are also taxis available from nearby cities.
Sokcho is an all-year-round destination. The best times to visit are during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. Summer is ideal for beach activities, while winter offers snow-covered landscapes, especially in Seoraksan.
Entrance fees vary depending on the attraction. For Seoraksan National Park, the entrance fee is around 3,000 KRW for adults. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the park or at the entrance of other major attractions. Some attractions may offer online booking options for special events or tours.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for most attractions, but it is recommended for guided tours, especially during peak seasons. Booking 1-2 days in advance should be sufficient for most activities.
To fully explore Sokcho, 2-3 days are ideal. One day can be dedicated to hiking Seoraksan, another for beach activities and exploring the markets, and a third for cultural visits like Abai Village or local temples.
Guided tours are available for Seoraksan National Park and other key attractions. Tours are typically offered in Korean, but English-speaking guides can be arranged upon request.
Start your visit with a hike in Seoraksan National Park, then relax at Sokcho Beach. In the afternoon, visit the Sokcho Fish Market and Abai Village. This route provides a good balance of nature, culture, and local cuisine.
There are no specific night tours or light shows in Sokcho, but Sokcho Beach and the city center are lively at night, with street food and cafes to enjoy after sunset. Some attractions like Seoraksan may have evening programs during festivals.
Sokcho is generally less crowded than other tourist cities in South Korea, but it can get busy during weekends, especially in the summer and autumn months. Weekdays, particularly in the morning, tend to be quieter.
Sokcho offers ample facilities, including clean toilets, rest areas, food stalls, and souvenir shops at most major attractions. There are also cafes and restaurants in the city serving local dishes like seafood and Abai Village specialties.
Many areas in Sokcho, including the beaches and parts of Seoraksan, are accessible for elderly and disabled visitors. However, some hiking trails in Seoraksan may be challenging for those with mobility issues. The city is generally family-friendly with parks and accessible walking paths.
While cash is accepted, mobile payments (e.g., KakaoPay, Naver Pay) and credit cards are widely accepted in most shops, restaurants, and attractions in Sokcho.
Vegetarian options are available at many local restaurants, particularly in traditional Korean dishes. Halal food options are limited, but there are some international restaurants offering halal-friendly meals.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in Sokcho selling local crafts, sea products, and traditional Korean items such as hanbok and pottery. Popular souvenirs include dried fish, seafood snacks, and traditional Korean sweets.
You can take a bus or taxi to nearby cities like Yangyang or Seoul. The Sokcho Bus Terminal offers regular bus services to major destinations in South Korea. Alternatively, renting a car is a good option for exploring nearby areas at your own pace.
