Gyebangsan 1,579m

Why it is one of the 100 famous mountains

Selected as the fifth-highest mountain in South Korea following Hallasan, Jirisan, Seoraksan, and Deogyusan, it is designated as an ecological conservation area for harboring abundant medicinal herbs and wild flowers as well as rare tree colonies like yew and royal azaleas. It offers a panoramic view of the Baekdudaegan ridge and boasts superb winter snowscapes. It features Unduryeong Pass, the highest vehicle-accessible pass in Korea, and serves as the headwaters of Gyebangcheon Stream flowing into Naerincheon Stream.

About Gyebangsan

Branching off from Odaesan on the Baekdudaegan ridge, Gyebangsan is the highest peak on the branch ridge separating the Namhangang and Bukhangang rivers.

Taller than Birobong Peak of Odaesan—the mother mountain of Pyeongchang's famous Gariwangsan—Gyebangsan offers the best observatory overlooking the Baekdudaegan ridge. It is the fifth-highest peak in South Korea, following Hallasan, Jirisan, Seoraksan, and Deogyusan. Aside from its rank, Gyebangsan holds many other appeals.

One is Unduryeong Pass, the highest paved road pass for vehicles in South Korea. The elevation gain from Unduryeong Pass to the summit is only 488 meters, allowing even beginners to reach the top easily while fully enjoying the high-altitude atmosphere, which adds to its popularity. The southern foot of the mountain cradles the Lee Seung-bok Birthplace Site and the nationally renowned Bangadari Mineral Spring. Clashing sea winds from the Yeongdong region and continental northwesterlies produce heavy snowfall. Thus, creating beautiful snowy landscapes, Gyebangsan proves its true worth and is widely regarded as one of the best winter hiking destinations.

However, hiking times vary greatly depending on snow conditions. Whether on the ridge or in the valley, hikers should expect it to take more than double the time required in normal conditions.

Ranked the fifth-highest mountain in South Korea after Hallasan (1,947.3 m), Jirisan (1,915.4 m), Seoraksan (1,708.1 m), and Deogyusan (1,614.2 m), Gyebangsan is famous as a winter snow-hiking destination.

It commands a vast mountain range spanning Nae-myeon in Hongcheon-gun and Jinbu-myeon in Pyeongchang-gun, though it was once overshadowed by nearby Odaesan connected to the northeast. Despite its high elevation, it features gentle mountain slopes and ridges, glowing with autumn foliage in fall and attracting many hikers in winter with knee-deep snow. Bangadari Mineral Spring at the foot of the mountain is known for aiding gastrointestinal and skin ailments, traditionally said to be especially effective when buckwheat flowers bloom.

Public transport

The starting point is Jinbu.

Take a direct bus bound for Gangneung from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal or Sangbong Terminal (twice daily each) and get off at Jinbu.

Jinbu → Unduryeong Pass: 8 times daily

Jinbu → Bangadari Mineral Spring: 5 times daily