Birthplace of the traditional Korean folk song "Jeongseon Arirang”, Jeongseon is a picturesque town set amidst rugged mountain landscapes. It’s a popular skiing destination in the winter months, with natural springs and underground caves to explore throughout the year.

Things to do

Enjoy a soak in the Hwaam Mineral Spring, where therapeutic waters rise up through a rock crater in nearby Dong-myeon. Impressive rock formations dot the forest surrounding the natural spring and a scenic walking trail connects to Hwaam Cave.

Hwaan Cave is the largest limestone cave in Asia and once functioned as one of Korea’s most productive gold mines. Mannequins depicting gold miners at work are displayed in its caverns, together with striking stalagmites and stalactites interspersed with religious iconography.

Need a little bit of good luck? Visit the aptly-named Turtle Rock, which serves as the guardian of Jeongseon. It’s believed to bring good health and peace of mind to those who visit with a pure heart while ensuring any bad fortune is deterred.

Skiers can hit the trails of High Resort 1, which sprawls across three mountain peaks in Jeongseon province. In addition to 18 downhill ski runs, it also boasts two 18-hole golf courses, a luxurious outdoor spa and its own casino.

Getting around

Jeongseon is under three hours’ drive from Seoul and around 4.5 hours from Incheon International Airport. Buses connect the town with destinations across Jeongseon province, while rental cars are convenient for exploring the natural attractions.