Sokcho, Coastal city in Gangwon State, South Korea
Sokcho is a coastal city on the northeast coast of Gangwon Province that sits at a low elevation beside the East Sea, with mountains rising behind and lakes within its boundaries. The layout mixes seaside areas with water bodies and forested ridges that shape the overall character of the settlement.
Sokcho came under South Korean control during the Korean War, when fighting in the region displaced many people and created waves of migration from the north. This period shaped who settled there and left lasting marks on the community.
The Sokcho Tourist & Fishery Market shows how the community depends on the sea, selling fresh catches and local dishes that people have prepared for generations. Walking through reveals the daily rhythm of fishing families and how food connects them to their work on the water.
The city is reachable by train from Seoul in roughly ninety minutes, making it accessible for day trips or longer stays. The coastal setting means that most attractions are walkable or near local transportation.
Abai Village preserves the story of North Korean refugees who settled after the war and built traditional houses and a fishing community that still functions today. The area reveals how these newcomers maintained their customs and ways of life through the decades.
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