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Seoraksan National Park

By Text by Cultural Heritage Administration Photos by Clipartkorea

Seoraksan Mountain

Located in Gangwon-do Province, Mt. Seoraksan is the third highest mountain in South Korea. It is part of the chain of mountain peaks running the length of the Korean Peninsula. The name seorak, or “snowy mountain,” is derived from how often its highest peak, Daecheongbong, is covered in snow. Rising 1,708 meters above sea level, Daecheongbong Peak first collects snow around Chuseok (the Korean Thanksgiving Day), and it often only melts deep into the next year. Running north from Daecheongbong, the mountain peaks toward the sea and the land are respectively known as Outer and Inner Seoraksan. The line of mountain peaks dividing the “outer” and “inner” portions of the area is known as the Gongnyong Range, or “Dinosaur Range.” The areas to the north and south of Daecheongbong are accordingly called North Seoraksan and South Seoraksan, with a chain of ridges linking two peaks known as Hwachaebong and Gwittaegicheongbong running in between. Mt. Seoraksan is renowned for scenic views such as breathtaking rock formations, deep valleys, and picturesque waterfalls. Seoraksan National Park was established in 1970, the fifth such park in South Korea, after obtaining Natural Monument status in 1965. The natural significance of this rocky mountain was internationally recognized as well with its entry onto the UNESCO list of Biosphere Reserves in 1982.

Ulsanbawi Rock
This towering granite formation is composed of six peaks. At its top are five potholes. Along with the astonishing vista from its summit, Ulsanbawi Rock is also renowned for its fierce winds. This explains why it has been traditionally known as Cheonhusan, or “Mountain of Heavens’ Cries.”

Gongnyong Ridge
This main ridge of Mt. Seoraksan divides the sea-facing Outer Seoraksan from Inner Seoraksan, which is oriented inland. It offers a breathtaking vista of many of the scenic sites of Mt. Seoraksan as well as a good view of the sea off the east coast of the Korean Peninsula. Gongnyong Ridge, literally meaning “Dinosaur Ridge,” was given its name for its resemblance to a dynamically climbing dinosaur.

Mangyeongdae Cliff
This peak rising 922.2 meters above sea level is a good place for hikers to enjoy a panoramic view of astonishing scenery. It is located in front of Oseam Hermitage.

Jujeongol Valley
The various rock formations and waterfalls around this area amplify the beauty of Jujeongol Valley.

Five-story Stone Pagoda at Bongjeongam Hermitage Bongjeongam Hermitage is located 11 meters up from Baekdamsa Temple at an elevation of 1,244 meters. At this hermitage is a five-story stone pagoda enshrining relics of Shakyamuni Buddha. It is designated a Treasure at the national level.

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