Gangwon

Gangwon is a regional designation on the Korean Peninsula. In modern usage it refers to two provinces: Gangwon-do in South Korea and Kangwon Province in North Korea. The name is commonly linked to two major cities in the area, Gangneung and Wonju.

Geographically, Gangwon lies in the northeast, extending along the eastern coast. The Taebaek Mountain Range runs north–south through the region, and the East Sea (Sea of Japan) bounds it to the east. Seoraksan National Park is a notable feature in the southeast. The area experiences a cool climate with heavy winter snowfall in the mountains.

Historically, Gangwon was a single province before Korea’s division after World War II. After 1945, the peninsula was divided along the 38th parallel, creating separate administrations: Gangwon-do in the South and Kangwon Province in the North. The South Korean province has Chuncheon as its capital.

Economy in Gangwon emphasizes tourism, forestry, and agriculture. The South Korean side is renowned for winter sports and natural scenery, hosting venues such as PyeongChang and Gangneung, and Seoraksan’s landscapes. In the North, economic activity is more state-planned, with mining, agriculture, and limited tourism in border and mountain areas.

Notable sites include Seoraksan National Park, Sokcho, Gangneung, Wonju, and Hwacheon, which hosts the annual Sancheoneo Ice Festival. The two Koreas maintain distinct cultural traditions and dialects within the Gangwon region.