Why Taebaek
Taebaek is a city situated in Gangwon Province, South Korea. Its name is shared with the surrounding Taebaek Mountains and originates from Taebaeksan, a term meaning "very bright." Set at an elevation between 650 and 700 meters (2,130 to 2,300 feet), it is the second highest city in South Korea after Pyeongchang. With a total population of 36,823 residents, it is recognized as the least populous city in the nation.
The demographic distribution of the city includes 50.7 percent male and 49.3 percent female residents. Minors account for 9.9 percent of the total population, seniors make up 32.7 percent, and foreign residents represent 1.7 percent. Regarding religious belief as recorded in 2015, roughly 60.7 percent of residents are irreligious. Buddhism is followed by 20.6 percent of the population, while 18.1 percent identify with Christianity, broken down into 13.7 percent Protestant and 4.5 percent Catholic, with an additional 0.6 percent adhering to other religions.
A notable destination within the region is Manggyeongsa Temple, positioned in Hyeol-dong at an altitude of 1,460 meters in the Taebaek Mountains. Constructed by Jajang, a monk of the Silla Dynasty, the temple was established to enshrine a statue of the Bodhisattva of wisdom. At the entrance to the temple lies the Dragon Spring, which is acknowledged as the highest spring in South Korea.
Additional attractions in the area include the Taebaek Coal Museum, the Taebaek Paleozoic Museum, and 365 Safe Town. Gumunso stands as a well-known natural landmark in Taebaek. Transportation into and out of the municipality is facilitated through Taebaek station.
Taebaek also maintains international municipal relationships through several twin towns and sister cities. These international affiliations include partnerships with Helong, Suzhou, Gao'an, and Changchun in China, along with Baguio and Bauang in the Philippines.
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