The Essential Guide to Sokcho 2024

Summary: Discover the charm of Sokcho with our guide to the city's top attractions, culinary hotspots, and vibrant nightlife. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, we'll also help you find the best recreational activities to enjoy, and offer advice on making lasting connections with the friendly locals.

Welcome to Sokcho! If you're planning to move to Sokcho, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Sokcho has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Sokcho.

Sokcho, a city located in the far northeast of Gangwon-do province, South Korea, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage. One of the most popular attractions is Seoraksan National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Protection Site. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna, and offers stunning views of the mountains, especially during autumn when the leaves change color. The park also features the ancient Sinheungsa Temple and a giant bronze Buddha statue.

Another must-visit site is Sokcho Beach, known for its fine sand and clear waters. It's a great place to relax, swim, or enjoy water sports. Nearby, there's the Sokcho Lighthouse Observatory, offering panoramic views of the East Sea and the city. For a taste of local culture, tourists can visit the Sokcho City Traditional Market, where they can buy fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Korean snacks.

Abai Village is another interesting site. This small village, inhabited by North Korean refugees during the Korean War, has become famous through the Korean drama "Autumn in My Heart". Visitors can take a short boat ride, called Gaetbae, to reach the village and try the famous Abai Sundae (Korean sausage).

The restaurant and nightlife scene in Sokcho is vibrant and diverse. One of the most popular restaurants is the Snow Crab Restaurant, known for its fresh and delicious snow crab dishes. Another favorite is Dong-Mun, a traditional Korean restaurant that serves a variety of local dishes, including the famous Sokcho Sundae and Dakgangjeong (sweet crispy chicken).

For a unique dining experience, visitors can head to the Sokcho Jungang Market, where they can try street food like hotteok (sweet pancakes) and eomuk (fish cakes). The market also turns into a lively night market, with food stalls, live music, and performances.

As for bars and clubs, The House is a popular choice among locals and tourists. It offers a wide selection of drinks, great music, and a cozy atmosphere. Another popular spot is the Sky Lounge at the Hanwha Resort, which offers stunning views of the city and the sea, along with a variety of cocktails and beverages.

Recreational activities in Sokcho are largely centered around its natural attractions. Hiking is a popular activity, with numerous trails available in Seoraksan National Park. The park also offers cable car rides for those who want to enjoy the scenic views without the strenuous hike.

Water sports are popular at Sokcho Beach, with options for jet skiing, banana boating, and fishing. For those interested in golf, there's the 18-hole Sokcho Country Club, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and sea.

For a more relaxed activity, visitors can enjoy a spa day at the Seorak Waterpia, a hot spring resort that uses natural mineral water from Seoraksan Mountain. The resort offers various pools, saunas, and spa treatments.

Lastly, bird watching is another popular activity, with the Cheongchoho Lake being a favorite spot among bird enthusiasts. The lake is home to various species of migratory birds, making it a great place for nature photography as well.

SJB Global
Connect

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB Global

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.