Sokcho

속초

A picturesque northeastern coastal town serving as the gateway to Seoraksan National Park and featuring a vibrant fish market and pleasant beaches. Known for fresh seafood and mountain-meets-sea scenery.

Things to do

• Seoraksan National Park hiking — Trek through Korea's most visited national park featuring dramatic granite peaks, pristine waterfalls, and autumn foliage just 30 minutes from central Sokcho.
• Sokcho Beach stroll and swimming — Walk along the sandy northeast-facing beach with views of the East Sea and local fishing boats, especially pleasant in summer and during the sunset.
• Abai Village exploration — Wander through this traditional waterfront village filled with old wooden houses, local cafes, and galleries overlooking the harbor in a nostalgic 1950s atmosphere.
• Sokcho Jungang Market (Central Fish Market) — Experience Korea's second-largest fish market where you can buy fresh seafood, observe the lively auction process, and sample street food from vendors.
• Naksan Beach and Naksan Temple visit — Head south to this scenic beach with a historic cliff-side Buddhist temple offering serene views and a popular sunset spot about 15 kilometers away.
• Cheongchoho Lake bike ride — Cycle around this freshwater lake nestled in the mountains north of Sokcho, offering peaceful water views and mountain backdrop scenery.

Food to try

• Nakji-bokkeum (stir-fried octopus) — Tender pieces of fresh octopus stir-fried with vegetables and gochugaru in a spicy sauce, a Sokcho specialty best enjoyed at market restaurants.
• Jjukumi (baby octopus) — Tiny tender octopuses grilled whole or stir-fried, prized for their sweet meat and commonly served as banchan or main dish throughout coastal Sokcho.
• Sashimi and raw fish platters — Ultra-fresh sashimi and hoe served moments after the morning catch, featuring local varieties like flounder, squid, and sea urchin at waterfront restaurants.
• Sokcho's spicy fish stew (Saengseon-jjim) — A steaming broth-based dish loaded with fresh fish, clams, and vegetables seasoned with gochugaru and served piping hot at humble market stalls.
• Grilled fish (Saengseon-gui) — Whole fresh fish butterflied and grilled over charcoal with salt and doenjang, a simple preparation that highlights the day's best catch.

Local customs & good to know

• Early morning market visits — Arrive at Sokcho Jungang Market before 7 AM to see the energetic fish auction and enjoy breakfast deals as fishermen offload their overnight catch.
• Respect for seafood sourcing — Ask vendors and restaurant owners about the origin of fish—locals take pride in identifying which fishing boats and regions provided that day's haul.
• Casual beach and mountain dress code — Dress comfortably and casually for beach walks and hiking; Sokcho residents favor practical outdoor wear rather than formal city attire.
• Off-season tranquility preference — Visit in late autumn or early spring when Korean tourists thin out, allowing locals to reclaim their beaches and restaurants for a more authentic, relaxed atmosphere.