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A City in the Mountains Above the Korean Plain

Rising above the green plain of South Korea and seeing a range of green mountains with cities on their peaks is a special feeling. Where the air becomes thinner, views inaccessible from the plain open up. One such urban area is located high above the sea, in a region where the country's great rivers begin. This mountain city historically served as a gateway to the mountainous country, connecting coastal territories with eastern passes. Trade routes passed through the city, and today it is a center of mining and tourism. The city's atmosphere invites quiet contemplation, and mountain peaks become an invisible backdrop to urban life. At an altitude of 650–700 meters above sea level, the city looks like a small settlement that has blended into the landscape. Taebaek is the second highest city in South Korea after Pyeongchang.

The Origins of the Country's Great Rivers

Physical geography determines how this region looks and lives. Taebaek is the origin of two of South Korea's four main rivers — the Han and Nakdong. These water bodies nourish the plain and surrounding territories, forming the landscape and creating picturesque valleys. The rivers here are often narrow and winding, flowing down from the mountains. The city stretches along these valleys, like a snake crawling between the mountains. This location makes the city a vibrant hub connecting different parts of the region. The city is often called linear-nodal — it stretches along valleys, forming a chain of former mining settlements. The history of miners lives in the area of old mines and miners' houses, and today this area is part of the city's walking zone. Taebaek is called a linear-nodal city, stretched along narrow valleys and rivers.

Temple at the Very Peak

An attraction that draws travelers from different parts of the country is located at the highest point in the area. The temple was built by monk Jajang to house a statue of the Bodhisattva of Wisdom. This place is considered sacred, and the water source at the temple is believed to be the origin of the Nakdong River. Mangyeongsa Temple was built by monk Jajang from the Silla Dynasty in the 8th century. The spring at Mangyeongsa Temple (Yeongwakkak) is considered the origin of the Nakdong River and is among the 100 famous waters of Korea. The temple is located at an altitude of 1460 meters, making it the highest mountain temple in the country. It can be reached by a winding trail among rocks and forest. Some travelers climb to the monastery at dawn to meet the sun at the peak, when the city below is still shrouded in fog. Here you can also find the sacred shamanic altar Cheonjedan, a popular pilgrimage site. Mangyeongsa Temple is located at 1460 m and is the highest mountain temple in South Korea.

Mount Taebaeksan and the Extensive Park

The high mountains around the city form an extensive natural area where you can walk along trails of varying difficulty. One peak, named after the city, has an altitude of about 1567 meters, making it one of the high mountains in the region. Next to it is a provincial park created to preserve the unique landscape. The park includes forests, rocks, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna. Along the mountain trails you can encounter wild boars, roe deer, and many species of birds. There is also a ski resort where winter sports enthusiasts come from early winter to late spring. Ski runs are laid through pine forests, creating a unique winter resort atmosphere. Mount Taebaeksan is considered the 7th highest mountain in South Korea. The highest peak of the Taebaeksan mountain range — Mount Seoraksan — reaches a height of 1708 meters and is located in a neighboring national park, which covers an area of over 400 sq. km across four administrative districts. Mount Seoraksan is the highest peak of the Taebaeksan mountain range. The park is a popular place for walks, rock climbing, and nature observation.

Names and Legends

Geographical names in Korea have deep historical roots, and the name of this city is no exception. The name "Taebaek" is associated with the ancient name of Mount Paektu, where according to legend the Korean mythological ancestor Dangun founded the nation about 4300 years ago. This legend permeates Korean culture and is traced in the names of many natural objects. Historically, this area was an important trade route connecting eastern territories with the center of the state. Today it has become an attractive tourist destination with a combination of natural attractions and cultural heritage. The name "Taebaek" is associated with the ancient name of Mount Paektu, where according to legend Dangun founded the nation about 4300 years ago.

What the Cameras Show in the City

With webcams installed in the vicinity of the city, you can follow urban life in real time. One camera shows a panorama of the city and surrounding mountains, especially in clear weather the difference in altitude is visible. Another camera broadcasts a street in the district where cafes, shops, and old houses are concentrated. Another point is located on a mountainside and shows the forest landscape depending on the season. The cameras provide an opportunity to assess the city's atmosphere and weather conditions without leaving home. The city looks especially beautiful from a bird's eye view when the camera focuses on the architecture and layout of the district. You can also observe the movement on ski slopes if the camera is installed on the slope. For those who cannot personally visit this mountainous area, webcams become a virtual window into the world of mountains and forests. Cheonjedan on Taebaeksan — a sacred shamanic altar, a popular pilgrimage site.