GANGNEUNG CITY ENG - 솔향강릉

-Wave upon wave, on the sheer cliffs, white foam blossoms flourish-

​There’s a way to connect with the sea without taking a plunge—from the closest point on land and, at times, directly above the water. This uniqueness is the essence of coastal trails.

Gangneung’s Jeongdongsimgok Badabuchae Trail is unparalleled nationwide. The name “Jeongdong” derives from its position directly east of Hanyang, where ancient kings resided, signifying “directly east.” Meanwhile, “Simgok” refers to “a village in a deep valley.” Historically, Simgok Village was so isolated from the mainland that its residents were unaware of the Korean War until roads were constructed. Today, the seaweed from this area, once presented as a tribute to kings, is nationally renowned for its superior quality.

The trail, named after its landscape resembling a fan spread out toward the sea, echoes the “tip of a fan” topography of Jeongdongjin. Thus, describing it merely as “a trail along a stunning natural marine terrace” somehow feels injustice to express its grandeur.

The term “terrace” refers to a stepped landform, but it is identified as a coastal terrace when adjacent to the sea and as a river terrace along a river. Designated as Natural Monument No. 437, this site is the only coastal terrace in Korea, allowing observation of geological shifts dating back 2 million to 2.5 million years, revealing the origins of the East Sea. The 3.01 km trail from Jeongdonghang Harbor (Jeongdong Ticket Office) to Simgokhang Harbor (Simgok Ticket Office) offers breathtaking views of the vibrant blue waves of the East Sea and dramatic rock formations. Historically utilized solely for military reconnaissance and coastal patrols, this path now gives the public pristine views of nature’s unspoiled beauty.

Many tourists have already visited the Jeongdongsimgok Badabuchae Trail in Gangneung, but a recent extension offers a fresh reason to return. This recent extension of the trail, adding a new 640 m segment reaching Jeongdonghang Harbor, enhances accessibility for all visitors. Notably, the stretch from Jeongdonghang Harbor to Mongdol Beach is free of stairs, making it accessible for the older people, people with disabilities, and families with young children, thus reinforcing Gangneung’s dedication to accessible tourism. This section of the trail includes several picturesque spots, such as the coastal walkway, sea plaza, and “Sky Stairs,” particularly appealing to Generation MZ. The trail has been designed for bidirectional travel, spanning from the Jeongdong Ticket Office through the Sea Plaza, Mongdol Beach Plaza, Turtle Rock, Helmet Rock, Fan Rock, Mongdol Beach, to the Viewing Tower, and ends at the Simgok Ticket Office. The Jeongdong Ticket Office has moved to a new location at 50-13 Jeongdongjin-ri, while the Simgok Ticket Office remains at 114-3 Simgok-ri in Gangdong-myeon of Gangneung, located at Simgokhang Harbor.

Visitors are encouraged to use nearby public parking facilities, ranging from the Morae Sigye Park Sunrise Bridge parking lot to the Jeongdong 4th parking lot. Officials from Gangneung expect that the recent extension of the trail will not only attract new visitors but also encourage repeat visits, positively impacting the local economy.

The Gangneung Tourism Development Corporation, which manages the trail, is diversifying tourism resources with initiatives such as a car camping site and the Sky Forest Viewing Platform. As these initiatives are underway, they are expected to transform the tourism landscape of southern Gangneung significantly. As we celebrate the “month of families” this May, consider a leisurely walk along the coast to engage in quiet conversations with loved ones and immerse yourself in the area’s natural beauty.

Main Attractions of the Trail

△ Mongdol Beach Plaza: Discover a beach uniquely made up of pebbles that have been smoothed and polished by the relentless erosive action of the waves. Renowned for its stunning coastline and expansive views, this spot is where the crystal-clear waters of the East Sea merge with the pebbly shore, creating a pristine natural setting. The mesmerizing sound of waves cascading over these pebbles lends a mystical ambience, and as the waves recede, the pebbles, glistening under the sunlight, sparkle like scattered jewels.

△ Helmet Rock: This rock formation resembles a helmet facing the sea, emanates a sense of solemnity. The area is rich with legends, including one from the Goryeo Dynasty about General Gang Gam-chan and the “Six-Toed Tiger,” a formidable tiger reputed to have six toes. This myth adds a layer of historical mystique to the site.

△ Fan Rock Observatory: Positioned right in front of Fan Rock, this observatory offers panoramic views of both sides of the Jeongdongsimgok Badabuchae Trail. From here, visitors can gaze out over the vast East Sea and the majestic rocky cliffs that frame it. The sea feels so close that it seems almost touchable, providing a breathtaking experience of nature’s grandeur.

△ Simgok Viewing Tower: Ascending this tower reveals sweeping views of the surrounding area. To the right, you’ll find Simgok Port and the floral tribute road; to the left, the towering cliffs along the Jeongdongsimgok Badabuchae Trail dominate the landscape; directly ahead, the expansive East Sea stretches to the horizon. Noteworthy is a lone pine tree, dramatically clinging to the cliffside, offering a striking and memorable visual accent to this scenic overlook.

*Provided by ​Jung Ick-gi, a reporter at Kangwon Ilbo

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