Gangwons

Gangwons may refer to residents of Gangwon Province, Korea, or to the provinces themselves in the two Koreas. The name refers to a historic region that, after the division of Korea following World War II, exists as two separate provincial entities: Gangwon-do in South Korea and Kangwon-do in North Korea. Both provinces lie in the northeast part of the Korean Peninsula and are characterized by a predominantly mountainous interior portion, formed by the Taebaek mountain range, and a coastline along the East Sea (Sea of Japan). The landscape supports tourism, forestry, and agriculture, with notable national parks and winter-sports venues.

In South Korea, Gangwon-do includes several major cities, such as Chuncheon (the provincial capital), Wonju, Gangneung, and Sokcho. It is known for Seoraksan National Park, coastal towns, and inland valleys. The region experiences cold winters and heavy snowfall, which contributed to its selection as a site for the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang and related venues at Yongpyong and Alpensia. Tourism, ecological conservation, and traditional crafts form important parts of the local economy.

Culturally, the Gangwon region has distinct dialects and culinary specialties, including Chuncheon-style dakgalbi, a stir-fried chicken dish. In North Korea, Kangwon-do shares similar geography but is administered separately and its development is tied to the country’s broader planning and border considerations. The two provinces reflect a shared historical identity within a divided peninsula.