Seoraksan National Park
Sokcho, Gangwon State, South Korea
Seoraksan National Park sprawls across 163.6 square kilometres of the east-central Korean peninsula near Sokcho, crowned by dramatic granite peaks and dense, ancient forests. Designated Korea's…
What it's like here
Seoraksan National Park sprawls across 163.6 square kilometres of the east-central Korean peninsula near Sokcho, crowned by dramatic granite peaks and dense, ancient forests. Designated Korea's first national park in 1970 and recognised by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve since 1982, it stands as one of the country's most treasured natural sanctuaries. The landscape is sculptured by towering peaks—the highest, Daecheongbong, rises to 1,708 metres—carved from granite and gneiss and carved further by streams that tumble through forested valleys.
The park's ecological richness is extraordinary. Over 1,000 plant species flourish across its slopes: Siberian pines dominate the southern faces, while oaks and deciduous forests clothe the northern ranges; rare specimens like Hanabusaya asiatica persist in sheltered corners. Fauna is equally diverse—otters, Siberian flying squirrels, and kestrels move through the canopy, while endangered species such as the Korean goral and Korean musk deer inhabit the deeper ranges. In total, nearly 1,600 animal species have been recorded here, making every hike a potential encounter with wild Korea.
Visiting means walking through living cathedral: forest trails wind past Buddhist temples (Sinheungsa and Baekdamsa stand as cultural anchors), alongside rushing streams, and over ridges that open to sweeping vistas. The park caters to all visitors—those who wish to hike challenging peaks, families strolling gentle valley floors, and those taking the cable car to elevated viewpoints without exertion. Autumn transforms the mountainsides into a tapestry of maple reds and golds, drawing visitors worldwide; spring brings wildflowers and mild air; summer offers lush greenery despite occasional heavy rains and typhoons. The park remains free to enter, with facilities including parking, toilets, cafés, and picnic areas scattered throughout.
Whether you come for a half-day ramble or a weekend immersion, Seoraksan rewards with scenery that feels both monumental and intimate—the granite faces imposing, the forest floor intimate, the air itself a tonic of pine and earth. Photography is welcome, and the dramatic interplay of rock, water, and forest means nearly every step offers a compelling frame.
Highlights
- Granite peaks including Ulsanbawi Rock with panoramic summit views
- Forest terrain with over 1,000 plant species, including rare flora and ancient pines
- Cascading waterfalls and clear streams through forested valleys
- Historic Buddhist temples Sinheungsa and Baekdamsa within the park
- Autumn maple foliage display across 163.6 square kilometres
Good to know
The park is open daily and free to enter. Facilities include parking, toilets, cafés, and picnic areas. A cable car offers access to elevated views without hiking. Trails range from gentle valley walks to strenuous peak climbs, so choose according to your fitness and time available. The area receives significant summer rainfall and occasional typhoons; spring and autumn offer the most stable weather. Autumn weekends draw large crowds. Proper hiking shoes and adequate water are essential.
You might also like
.avif)
Questions people ask
What wildlife might I encounter at Seoraksan?
The park is home to nearly 1,600 animal species including otters, Siberian flying squirrels, kestrels, and various fish species in the streams. Endangered species such as Korean goral, Korean musk deer, and Tristram's woodpecker inhabit the deeper ranges, though they are rarely seen by casual visitors.
What is the best season to visit?
Autumn (October–November) is renowned for spectacular maple foliage. Spring offers wildflowers and mild weather. Summer is lush but brings heavy rains. Winter provides snowy landscapes for experienced hikers.
Can I visit if I don't want to hike challenging trails?
Yes. The park includes gentle forest walks through valleys and around Buddhist temples. A cable car also provides access to elevated viewpoints without requiring a hike.
Is there food and water available in the park?
Yes, cafés are located within the park, and picnic areas are available. Bringing your own water and snacks is still recommended, especially for longer hikes.
Attributes & facilities
Facilities
Features
Accessibility
Last verified: August 15, 2026