Things to Do in Sokcho

A lively traditional market selling fresh seafood, dried fish, local snacks, and souvenirs. Watch squid drying on racks and sample street food like hotteok or eomuk.

🕐 07:00-21:00 daily

💡 Best value for dinner: grab a bowl of hoe (raw fish) at the back stalls from about 10,000 won. Go around 5pm when the day's catch is still fresh.

A former North Korean refugee settlement with narrow alleys, murals, and a retro ferry. The village's distinct style and street food (like abai sundae) make it a cultural stop.

🕐 Always open; cable car 09:00-18:00

💡 Take the mini cable car (4,000 won return) across the harbour for a brilliant view of the village and mountains. Try the dak-kkochi (skewered chicken) from street vendors.

A hexagonal pavilion perched on rocks overlooking the East Sea, part of Seoraksan's eastern foothills. Offers dramatic sunrise views over the water.

🕐 Always open

💡 Arrive by 6am for sunrise in summer; bring a windbreaker even in warm months as it gets gusty. Free parking nearby if you drive.

A working lighthouse on a rocky promontory with an observation deck giving 360-degree views of the city, harbour, and Seoraksan peaks. The short coastal walk from the harbour is pleasant.

🕐 24h

💡 Go just before sunset—the light makes the mountains glow orange. The deck gets busy at golden hour, so arrive 20 minutes early. No climb required, it's ground-level.

A stunning mountain national park with granite peaks, clear streams, and easy walking trails like the 2.6km Biryong Falls Walk. The main visitor centre and cable car base are free to access.

🕐 Park open 24h; visitor centre 09:00-17:00

💡 Skip the cable car (18,000 won return) and walk the free Biryong Falls trail instead—it's quieter and ends at a pretty waterfall pool you can dip your feet in. Arrive by 8am to avoid crowds.