Gangwon Province Selects 'Geomryongso in Taebaek,' the Source of the Han River, as January's Geological and Ecological Landmark

The Mystique of a Karst Spring Amidst Winter's Snowy Scenery
Boosting Tourism in Connection with the Taebaeksan Snow Festival

Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province (Governor Kim Jin-tae) has selected 'Geomryongso' in Taebaek City as the 'Geological and Ecological Landmark of the Month' for January 2026, the Year of Byeongo.

Geological and Ecological Attraction of January, Taebaek City 'Geomryongso'. Provided by Gangwon Province

The 'Geological and Ecological Landmark of the Month' project, which has been ongoing since last year, aims to promote the excellence of the province's natural ecological resources and revitalize local tourism. Geomryongso, the featured site for January, is the official source of the Han River and a representative sacred mountain resource of Taebaek, renowned for its unparalleled snowy scenery in winter.

Geomryongso in Taebaek is a 'karst spring' where groundwater emerges from a limestone area, giving it significant geological value. The clear streams that continuously well up from the deep, dark blue abyss, combined with the legend that a 'black dragon (Imugi)' lives there, create a mystical atmosphere.

In recognition of its value, Geomryongso was designated as Scenic Site No. 73 in 2010 and is currently managed as a key attraction of Taebaeksan National Park and the Gangwon Paleozoic National Geopark.

In winter, Geomryongso offers a perfect setting for contemplation, with tranquil forest trails and white snow blossoms blending harmoniously. The well-maintained trails allow families to safely enjoy the snowy landscape, which is a major advantage during the winter season.

This selection is drawing even more attention as it coincides with the 33rd Taebaeksan Snow Festival, which will be held starting from the 31st. Visitors to the festival can experience the symbolic origin of the Han River at Geomryongso and enjoy a multidimensional travel course by exploring the history of Korea's industrial heritage at the nearby Taebaek Coal Museum.

An official from Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province stated, "Geomryongso in Taebaek is a symbolic site marking the beginning of the Han River and an impressive geological landmark with its deep and tranquil scenery shaped by nature. We hope visitors will experience rest and reflection provided by nature as they explore Geomryongso and the surrounding geological and ecological resources amidst the winter landscape of Taebaek."