Welcome to Dongducheon-si, a city located in the northern part of Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. Situated in the eastern part of the city is Pocheon-si, while it borders Yeoncheon-gun to the west and north, and Yangju-si to the west and south. Dongducheon-si is positioned at a longitude of 127°00 to 127°09 and a latitude of 37°50 to 37°58, covering an area of 95.66 square kilometers. As of 2015, the population stands at approximately 97,974 residents.
Dongducheon-si consists of eight administrative districts (12 legal districts), with the city hall located in Saengyeon-dong. Being located at the northernmost point of Gyeonggi Province, Dongducheon-si is not widely known for its historical and cultural attractions, and tourism development is relatively modest, primarily due to its role as a military city with a significant U.S. military base presence.
However, according to the Dongducheon Comprehensive Development Plan, the city aims to enhance its tourism value by developing attractions such as Soyosan, often referred to as Gyeonggis small Geumgangsan (Geumgang Mountain), and Tapdong Valley in Gwangam-dong. Soyosan, known as the Salt Creek of Gyeonggi, is a picturesque mountain with its overall beauty comparable to that of Seoraksan (Seorak Mountain). While it may not be as high or grand, the scenic rock formations and cliffs, along with waterfalls, create a harmonious landscape reminiscent of a part of the Seoraksan region.
Dongducheon-si is renowned not only as a summer vacation destination but also for its vibrant autumn foliage, making it a designated national tourist site. Thanks to its excellent transportation connections to Seoul, it is conveniently accessible for tourists. However, due to the narrowness of the valleys, overcrowding can occur during peak seasons.
Why Visit Dongducheon-si:
- Experience the unique blend of military and local culture
- Explore the serene natural beauty of Soyosan and Tapdong Valley
- Enjoy breathtaking views of the autumn foliage
- Discover local traditions and customs
Plan your Visit:
- Best Time to Visit: Autumn offers the best opportunity to witness the vibrant fall colors, while summer is ideal for a refreshing getaway.
- Transportation: Dongducheon-si is well-connected to Seoul by various transportation options, including train and bus services.
- Language: Korean is the primary language spoken in Dongducheon-si, and English may not be widely spoken.
- Currency: The official currency is the Korean Won (KRW).
- Safety: Dongducheon-si is generally a safe city, but its always advisable to take necessary precautions and adhere to local laws and regulations.
Come and explore Dongducheon-si, where you can immerse yourself in a unique blend of military and local culture, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.