SEOCHEON, South Chungcheong Province -- Nestled in the heart of South Chungcheong Province, Seocheon is a charming destination where natural beauty and unique experiences come together. From the ages-old brewing techniques of Hansan Sogokju to the tranquil beauty of the Seocheon Maryang-ri Camellia Forest, this region offers a wealth of opportunities for adventure, relaxation and cultural immersion.
Hansan, a small town in Seocheon, is renowned for its brewing tradition. For over 1,500 years, locals have crafted Hansan Sogokju, a traditional Korean liquor with a rich history and a distinctive flavor. Known as “Anjeun-baengi-sul,” or the “Sit Down Drink,” this liquor has earned its name due to its irresistibly smooth and sweet taste, which often leaves drinkers in a state of relaxed stupor. Hansan Sogokju is a naturally fermented drink made from glutinous rice, yeast and water, fermented for 100 days at low temperatures. The process creates a smooth, slightly sweet liquor with an alcohol content of 16 percent. It was a drink fit for royalty, historically consumed by the Baekje kings and still enjoyed today.
Visitors to Seocheon can dive deep into this rich tradition with a visit to local breweries such as Samwha Brewery. Here, visitors can participate in a one-hour tasting session where they’ll sample not only the famous Hansan Sogokju but also local varieties like Moshi Makgeolli, a refined and aromatic rice wine made with ramie, and a high-alcohol distilled liquor perfect for mixing into cocktails. The brewery tour also showcases the intricate brewing process, where participants can experience firsthand how the brew is made, from adding nuruk (traditional Korean yeast) to mixing in the rice and water. The artistry of brewing is evident in the delicate care that goes into every batch, and locals swear that the hands of those who brew are exceptionally smooth and beautiful — a result of constant contact with the nourishing liquor. To complement your tastings, enjoy traditional Korean snacks like moshi songpyeon (half-moon rice cakes) and various cookies.
After indulging in the local flavors, become immersed in Seocheon’s natural beauty. A visit to the Seocheon Maryang-ri Camellia Forest is a must. This lush, 8,265-square-meter forest is home to nearly 500-year-old camellia trees, which bloom in vibrant colors from late March to early May. It offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can wander through the forest, taking in the sweet fragrance of the camellias while admiring the stunning views of Oryeokdo, an island in the distance. Be sure to stop at Dongbaekjeong, a pavilion perched on a hilltop with breathtaking views and the perfect spot to catch the sunset. A souvenir shop located near the forest offers a variety of camellia-themed merchandise, including bags, handkerchiefs, cups and umbrellas — ideal mementos for visitors looking to take home a piece of Seocheon.
For nature lovers, Janghang Songlim Pine Forest offers another tranquil escape. This 1.5-kilometer stretch of coastal pine forest provides the perfect environment for a peaceful stroll, with lush trees and diverse flora all around. From August to September, the forest comes alive with vibrant purple flowers of the Maengmundong. For those seeking a bird's-eye view, take a walk along the 236-meter Skywalk, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the forest and the West Sea, particularly stunning during sunset. And for those in need of a cozy break, Brown Hands cafe, with its large windows overlooking the pine forest, is the ideal place to relax and sip coffee while taking in the serene surroundings.
For a deeper understanding of Korea's diverse ecosystems, a visit to the National Institute of Ecology is highly recommended. Situated in Seocheon, this cutting-edge research and exhibition center showcases plants and animals from five global climate regions -- the tropics, desert, Mediterranean, temperate climate and the polar regions. Spanning 21,000 square meters, the Ecorium houses over 1,900 plant species and 280 animal species, providing a fascinating look at the delicate relationships between climate and ecology. Visitors can explore a range of exhibits that bring Korea’s ecosystems to life, from wetlands and mountain plants to rare species of deer and aquatic life.
Seocheon offers a perfect blend of nature and cultural exploration. Whether you're sipping on a glass of Hansan Sogokju, strolling through a centuries-old camellia forest or learning about ecology at the National Institute of Ecology, visitors find a place to relax and recharge.
yoohong@heraldcorp.com
