Seoraksan National Park (Oeseorak)

Seoraksan is a famous natural attraction spanning Sokcho-si, Goseong, Inje, and Yangyang-gun in Gangwon Province. It became the fifth national park in 1970, following Hallyeohaesang National Park, and in 1982 it was designated as the first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Korea. It is also listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Green List, a roster of internationally well-managed protected areas. Seoraksan National Park boasts a vast area of approximately 398 km². Based on the main peak, Daecheongbong, the eastern side adjacent to Sokcho-si is called Oeseorak, the western side Naeseorak, and the area toward Hangyeryeong and Osaek is Namseorak. Daecheongbong, the third highest peak after Hallasan and Jirisan, is covered in snow for 5 to 6 months of the year, which is the origin of the name 'Seorak' (meaning 'snowy mountain'). Climbing Daecheongbong offers a view of the splendid natural scenery of Seoraksan and the East Sea, with particularly renowned sunrises and sunsets. Besides Daecheongbong, about 30 other peaks such as Socheongbong, Hwachaebong, and Jungcheongbong create a majestic panorama. Additionally, hidden scenic spots like Biryong Falls, Ulsanbawi Rock, Heundeulbawi Rock, and Geumganggul Cave abound. Using the cable car operating near Seoraksan Small Park allows the elderly and disabled to enjoy the Seoraksan landscape without difficulty.