Abai Village

A Time-Travel Experience with Your Kids at Abai Village in Sokcho

What kind of place is Abai Village?

Abai Village is a community of displaced people located at 122 Cheongho-ro, Sokcho-si, Gangwon State. It was formed by displaced residents from Hamgyeong-do during the Korean War, and it is one of the most representative resettlement villages for displaced people in Korea. The word "Abai" means "grandfather" or "elder" in the Hamgyeong-do dialect, and the village name carries a sense of longing and warmth.

Here, you can get a close look at the lives and history of displaced people, and throughout the alleys you will find murals and old houses that reflect homesickness for their hometowns. You can also discover a variety of North Korean foods and a unique culture.

What makes Abai Village fun with kids

1. A fun gaetbae boat ride

   • The most special way to get to Abai Village is by riding the "gaetbae." It is a unique ferry boat moved by passengers pulling an iron cable by hand. Even though the crossing is short, your kids can enjoy the unusual experience of helping move the boat across the water themselves. The gaetbae fare is also inexpensive, so it is easy on the budget.

2. Alley walks that are great for families

   • Around the village, you will see murals and wall paintings that reflect the joys and sorrows of displaced people. As you stroll through the alleys, you can take photos with your kids and enjoy the village's old-fashioned atmosphere.

3. North Korean traditional food and local dining

   • At Abai Village, you can try Abai sundae and squid sundae. Warm sundae soup is also a popular menu item that families can enjoy comfortably.

4. Pair your visit with Sokcho Tourist and Fishery Market

   • If you walk a little farther from the grilled fish alley toward the main alley, you will reach the famous "Sokcho Tourist and Fishery Market," making it a nice place to visit together. There is a wide variety of food, and the alleys are free from passing cars, so it is a nice place to wander around with your kids.

Amenities and accessibility

• Parking: There is a free parking lot in front of the dock, but it can get crowded on weekends, so you may need to park along the roadside. There is also a small beach by the parking lot, so it can be nice to take a look there as well.
• Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, elevators, and tactile voice guidance boards are available, so you can visit comfortably with a stroller or wheelchair.

Things to keep in mind

• This is a popular tourist attraction, so it can get crowded on weekends or during vacation periods.
• The main walking routes are well maintained.
• Restaurants in the village may have waiting times depending on local conditions.

Fees and programs

• Gaetbae fare
  • Adults: 500 won
  • Children: 300 won

Closing

"Abai Village is a perfect place in Sokcho to enjoy the history and culture of displaced people with your kids, while also experiencing something special and trying delicious Hamgyeong-do food. It is a great choice for a day trip, and with a gaetbae ride, alley walks, and all kinds of local food to try, you can make even more meaningful memories together with your kids."