Ulsan Bawi, Mountain summit in Seoraksan National Park, South Korea
Ulsan Bawi is a cluster of jagged granite peaks inside Seoraksan National Park, in the Toseong-myeon area of South Korea. The formation rises sharply above the surrounding forest and ridgelines, making it one of the most recognizable rock groups in the park.
The name Ulsan Bawi comes from a local legend saying the rocks originally traveled from the city of Ulsan in the south, heading toward Geumgangsan, before stopping here. The area became part of Seoraksan National Park in 1970.
The trail starts near Sinheungsa Temple and follows stone steps and rocky passages up to the peaks, with the steepest section running along a granite wall near the top. Shoes with good grip are important, and a windbreaker helps since the summit can be cold and windy.
After the hike, many visitors drink makgeolli, a local rice wine sold at small restaurants near the park entrance, sometimes in bottles printed with the image of the rocks. The park also allows hikers to set off as early as three in the morning in some seasons, making a sunrise over the East Sea a real possibility.
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