Seoraksan National Park

Do you know the third-highest mountain in South Korea after Hallasan Mountain and Jirisan Mountain? It’s Seoraksan Mountain, located within Seoraksan National Park. The “Seol” (雪) in Seoraksan means “snow,” and it’s said that snow falling around Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) doesn’t melt until June. Another explanation is that the mountain’s white rocks resemble snow.

Jirisan Mountain is praised for its majestic, earthy ridges; Juwangsan Mountain for its dramatic rock formations and sheer cliffs. Odaesan’s Sogeumgang River for its beautiful valleys with flowing streams. Seoraksan Mountain is said to be a renowned mountain that embodies the distinct features of all these three mountains. For this reason, people often refer to Seoraksan Mountain as the most scenic among mountains.

Designated as the fifth national park in Korea, Seoraksan Mountain is beloved for its beauty in all four seasons. In spring, azaleas and royal azaleas are in full bloom, painting the entire mountain pink. In summer, the lush green foliage and the cool canyons create a breathtaking view. In autumn, fiery red fall foliage glows between the boulders, in winter, snow covers the mountain, creating a fairytale-like scene.

In addition to its vibrant flora, Seoraksan National Park features numerous valleys like Cheonbuldong Valley and Baekdamgyegok Valley, along with twenty-eight waterfalls, including Biryong Falls and Daeseung Falls. The park also features uniquely shaped rock formations such as Ulsanbawi Rock and Gongnyong Ridge as well as cultural and historical sites like Sinheungsa Temple and Baekdamsa Temple. These elements give Seoraksan Mountain both geographic and cultural significance.