Sokcho-si is one of 18 cities, counties and districts in Gangwon. It has 8 neighborhoods (8 dong) and 78,735 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Joyang-dong with 28,347.
8neighborhoods
78,735residents
Landmark stamp: Yeonggeumjeong Pavilion
Standing over rocky shores along the coastline of Sokcho, this seaside pavilion provides scenic vantage points for listening to crashing waves and watching sunrise.
Legends & stories
Legend says that crashing waves hitting the coastal rocks produced resonant melodies resembling the traditional Korean zither geomungo.
What to see
Walking across the sea bridge brings you straight to an ocean pavilion offering refreshing panoramic views of deep blue waters.
Visitor tip
Early mornings for watching ocean sunrises and late evenings illuminated by soft pavilion lanterns are wonderful times to visit.
Food, festivals and stories of Sokcho-si
Local food
Stuffed squid sundae, crispy sweet-and-spicy dakgangjeong, and chilled raw fish soup mulhoe are beloved signature foods in Sokcho.
Local story
Wartime refugees who fled during the Korean War settled along the coast and built Abai Village to preserve their hometown traditions.
On screen
Riding the hand-pulled Gaetbae ferry to Abai Village became an iconic romantic memory featured in the classic drama Autumn in My Heart.
Did you know?
Majestic rocky peaks of Mount Seorak and the calm waters of Yeongnangho Lagoon create breathtaking natural scenery throughout Sokcho.
Neighborhoods of Sokcho-si (8)
Every neighborhood has its own stamp in Random Passport. Tap “Land here” to fly straight to one.
Yeongnang-dong영랑동dong · 4,304 residents
Story: Legend says the Silla Hwarang warrior Yeongnang was so mesmerized by the beautiful lake scenery that he lingered here for a long time.
Photo spot: Climbing up Beombawi Rock beside the lake offers a panoramic view of calm Yeongnangho Lake and the majestic Seoraksan ridge for great photos.
Story: Legend tells that waves striking the rocks sounded like a geomungo zither at Yeonggeumjeong Pavilion, where visitors enjoy views of the East Sea.
Photo spot: Climbing up to Sokcho Lighthouse Observatory rewards you with scenic photo opportunities overlooking the deep blue East Sea and the bustling harbor.
Food: At Dongmyeonghang Port live fish center, you can savor fresh seafood brought in daily by local fishers along with spicy stew.
Food: Wandering through the alleys of Sokcho Tourist & Fishery Market allows you to enjoy crispy seasoned fried chicken and freshly made squid sundae.
Fun fact: Boarding the non-motorized Gaetbae ferry operated by manually pulling steel cables offers a unique hands-on experience crossing the waterway.
Name: This neighborhood derived its name from the presence of Hyanggyo, a local Confucian government school founded during the Joseon Dynasty.
Photo spot: Sokcho Hyanggyo, featuring historic Confucian lecture halls, provides a serene and elegant setting for taking photos of traditional Korean architecture.
Story: During the Korean War, displaced refugees from Hamgyeong-do settled on the barren sandy beach, establishing Abai Village with enduring community resilience.
Food: Steamed Abai sundae stuffed with sticky rice and pig blood alongside spicy pollack cold noodles represents the neighborhood's beloved regional cuisine.
Photo spot: Walking along the Oeongchi Bada Hyanggi-ro coastal trail offers ideal spots for capturing photos against dramatic rocks and breaking waves.
Food: At the bustling Daepohang Port fish market and snack alley, visitors can savor crispy jumbo fried shrimp and fresh raw seafood.
Local notes were drafted with the help of AI from public information. Population: Ministry of the Interior and Safety resident registration, September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.