Uljin-gun: A summer escape where forest, valley and sea meet

Uljin-gun in North Gyeongsang Province, where mountains, valleys and the sea converge, is drawing attention this summer as a three-in-one natural destination.

Uljin-gun says the area's appeal lies in offering three distinct natural settings in a single trip: the deep blue of the East Sea, the lush green of its pine forests and the crystal-clear waters of its mountain valleys.

The Geumgangsong pine grove stands as one of Uljin's defining natural assets. Centuries-old trees form a majestic forest, and visitors can experience the woodland up close along the Geumgangsong Forest Trail and at the Geumgangsong Ecorium.

Eungbongsan and Baegamsan mountains, along with Gusugyok Natural Recreation Forest, are also popular summer forest destinations, offering dense shade and cool relief from the heat.

Uljin's valleys offer yet another dimension of the county's natural charm.

Buryeong Valley stretches roughly 15 kilometers and is renowned for its striking scenery — oddly shaped rocks including Buddha Rock and Love Rock rise alongside clear, flowing water.

Deokgu Valley invites visitors to stroll along a suspension bridge to the sound of rushing water, while Sinseon Valley on the slopes of Baegamsan — where thick forest meets clear streams — is equally well suited as a summer retreat.

The beaches stretching along the East Sea coast are another highlight.

Hupo, Gusan, Mangyangjeong, Hujeong and Nagok beaches represent Uljin's pristine coastline. At Hupo Marina, visitors can take a yacht excursion to enjoy the open sea and dramatic coastal scenery.

Gusan and Gisung fishing villages, along with Georil and Haetbittdeul fishing villages, offer sea fishing and hands-on experiences of traditional coastal life.

Uljin's strength is that its forests, valleys and sea can all be woven into a single journey. Visitors can walk the Geumgangsong forest trail in the morning, cool off in a valley and then meet the blue horizon of the East Sea in the afternoon.

"We hope visitors will come to Uljin — a place that holds forest, valley and sea all at once — and enjoy the special rest that nature has to offer this summer," a Uljin-gun official said.