5 Things to Do & See in Gangneung, South Korea
Gangneung is one of South Korea’s most scenic coastal cities, where long beaches, oceanfront cafés, and iconic filming locations come together along the East Sea. From walking the Haeparang coastal trails to visiting the famous BTS bus stop, these are five of the best things to see and do in Gangneung.
Located along the East Sea, this coastal city is known for its relaxed beach vibes, legendary coffee culture, historic hanok homes, and unexpected pop-culture landmarks—including a famous BTS filming location. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway from Seoul or a longer East Coast road trip, these are the best things to do and see in Gangneung, South Korea.
1. Haeparang Dulle Gil (Courses 35-41)
After a day of hiking the haeparang dulle gil in Gangneung.
The Haeparang Dulle-gil is a long-distance coastal trail that follows South Korea’s East Sea, and Courses 35 through 41 run through and around Gangneung. These sections connect beaches, seaside paths, fishing villages, and ocean viewpoints, making Gangneung one of the best places in Korea to experience the trail.
Courses 35–41 offer a mix of easy coastal walks and longer stretches suitable for biking, passing highlights like Gyeongpo Beach, Anmok Coffee Street, and Jumunjin. The well-marked paths and frequent access points make it easy to explore one section or combine multiple courses into a full day outdoors. For hikers and cyclists alike, the Haeparang Dulle gil courses in Gangneung are a must-see and a big reason why this coastal city is such a favorite for active travelers.
Durunubi is the official trail platform supported by the Korea Tourism Organization and maps Dulle-gil routes across South Korea with detailed course information. I also documented my experience hiking these routes on the 2024 Korea Dulle-gil Expedition - Gangneung’s coastal sections were some of my absolute favorites.
2. Gyeongpo Beach & Gyeongpo Lake
Gangmun Sotdaedari Bridge, which connects Gyeongpo Beach and Gangmun Beach.
Gyeongpo Beach is Gangneung’s most famous beach and a must-visit for first timers. With soft sand, calm waters, and a long walking path, it’s perfect for swimming in summer and scenic strolls year-round.
Right next to the beach, Gyeongpo Lake offers a peaceful pine tree lined loop trail ideal for walking or biking. In spring, the cherry blossoms here are especially beautiful, making it one of the most photographed spots in Gangneung. There’s so much nightlife happening on this strip, that this beach is beautiful during the day and the night.
Sunrise view from the top of Sky Bay Hotel in Gangneung, South Korea.
If you’re looking to stay one night in Gangneung, I highly recommend Sky Bay Hotel! It was built by the same architects that did the Marina Bay Sands Hotel in Singapore and has an amazing view from the rooftop pool and it situated right on Gyeongpo Beach and Gyeongpo Lake.
3. Anmok Coffee Street
Gangneung is often called Korea’s coffee capital, and Anmok Coffee Street proves why. Oceanfront cafés line the street, offering stunning sea views and excellent coffee.
☕ Tip: Sunset is peak time, but early mornings are quieter and just as scenic.
4. Jumunjin Beach & Port
If you’re already there to recreate BTS’ album cover, take time to explore Jumunjin Beach and the nearby fishing port. Jumunjin Port is the main port on Korea’s eastern coast and it’s a spot where warm and cold currents meet. You’ll see colorful boats, seafood restaurants, and a more local, lived-in side of Gangneung. Locally caught seafood and raw fish are also reasonably priced here.
5. BTS Bus Stop (Spring Day Filming Location)
The famous BTS Bus Stop. (Not kidding, there was a constant flow of visitors here to take pictures with it.)
This seaside bus stop, where BTS shot their album cover, is located just north of Gangneung near Jumunjin Beach and Hyangho Beach. Fans from around the world visit to recreate the iconic photo and enjoy the nearby beach. Even if you’re not ARMY, it’s a fun pop-culture stop with coastal views.
I loved how quiet this beach was in the off season - September - however, most of the shops and cafes right along the beach here were also closed.
Gangneung offers the perfect balance of beach town, cultural hub, and scenic escape. You can sip coffee by the sea, walk through centuries-old hanok homes, visit BTS landmarks, and end the day in the mountains—all in one trip. Whether you’re visiting from Seoul for the weekend or exploring Korea’s East Coast, Gangneung is absolutely worth the stop.
Planning more travel in South Korea? Be sure to check out my other blogs around the country!
