Mt. Soraksan Nature Reserve
Republic of KoreaOffice of Cultural Properties
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Description
Located in the eastern part of the central Korean peninsula, Mt. Soraksan Nature Reserve covers an area of 163.6 square kilometers. This region includes many high peaks measuring over 1,200 meters above sea level including Taech'ongbong, the highest peak (1,708 meters). It is part of a complicated mountain ranges of strongly dissected granite and gneiss and is characterized by spectacular rocky hills and ridges. The magnificent natural beauty of Mt. Soraksan is due to these geographical features. Mt. Soraksan Nature Reserve region is considered to be a floristically diverse area. More than 822 vascular plant species have been recorded in the region, including rare plants such as Hanabusaya Asiatic and Abios nephrolepis. The fauna includes 49~5 species of birds and mammals. In particular, endangered species such as the Dryocopos javensis richardsi, Naemorheudus goral raddeanus, and Moschus moschiferus parvipes are considered to be of major conservation significance. In addition to the plants and animals, biologically important and rare fish such as Brachmystax lenok and Moroco oxycephalus are also desere to be protected and preserved. Famous for its beautiful landscape and valuable cultural properties including Paektamsa (Buddhist temple) and Shinhungsa (Buddhist temple), Mt. Soraksan Nature Reserve is considered to be one of the most popular tourist resorts which attracts a great number of people every year.