This city and countryside in the northeastern corner of South Korea offer natural beauty and historic significance.
The city of Sokcho lies in a peaceful setting between mountains and ocean, yet it is less than 30 miles (50 kilometers) from the heavily armed border between North and South Korea. These two extremes draw many visitors to the region.
Others visit Seoraksan to enjoy the beauty and challenges of the outdoor location. Numerous mountain trails, from easy to very difficult, allow hikers and climbers to view mountains, waterfalls, diverse plant and animal life, dense forests, and even the East Sea (Sea of Japan). Autumn is a particularly beautiful time, with pleasant weather and colorful views as the leaves of the hardwood forest change to hues of yellow and red.