Kangwon Province

Kangwon Province is located in eastern North Korea along the East Sea, encompassing the northern section of the Taebaek Mountains with deep valleys throughout its terrain. The region features mountainous landscapes and numerous natural geological formations.

The province was established in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty, taking its name from the cities of Gangneung and Wonju. After the peninsula's division in 1945, it was split between North and South Korea.

The region contains more than a hundred Buddhist temples, including Changan, Mahayon, and Singye, which remain central to its spiritual heritage. These sacred structures shape how people connect with the area's religious traditions.

Wonsan serves as the economic center with shipbuilding, automobile manufacturing, and processing facilities throughout the province. The mountainous terrain means visitors should be prepared for varying elevations and changing weather conditions.

The mountain range in the region contains thousands of differently shaped rock peaks created through natural erosion processes, offering hikers varied landscapes. This geological diversity makes the area visually striking with its contrasting formations.