Holding the title of highest city in South Korea, Taebaek is nestled in the Taebaek Mountains that stretch north to south along the Korean peninsula. It’s renowned for its snow-blanketed temple, breathtaking sunrise views and coal mining museum.
Things to do in Taebaek
Watch a beautiful sunrise over the East Sea from the Cheonjedan lookout, which features a series of ancient Shamanist altars at the peak of Taebaek Mountain. It’s considered one of the three sacred mountains in South Korea and ignites with azaleas and ancient yew trees during the spring months.
Make a pilgrimage to the Manggyeongsa Temple, which sits at an altitude of 1,460 metres on Taebaek Mountain and was built to enshrine a statue of the Bodhisattva of wisdom. At its entrance lies the “Dragon Spring”, the highest spring in South Korea. The temple is at its most photogenic when blanketed in white snow during winter.
Gain insight into the region’s industrial heritage at the Taebaek Coal Museum, which details the historic excavation of coal and its role in the local economy. See life-size mannequins illustrating a range of coal-collecting techniques and learn why coal mining is in decline as South Korea looks towards renewable energies.
See the artistic talents of Taebaek’s residents at the Taebaek Sangjang-dong Mural Village. Also known as “Nambu Village”, its streets and alleyways have been decorated with colourful murals depicting themes of social and cultural importance.
Getting around Taebaek
Taebaek is around 3.5 hours by train from Seoul and five hours from Incheon International Airport. Buses connect to the surrounding towns and cities, while central Taebaek is easily explored on foot.