Lady Suro Flower Tribute Park in Samcheok is based on the story of Lady Suro, who was dragged into the sea by a dragon. She was known as the queen to King Seon Jeonggong of Silla, and for asking her servants to climb a thousand feet high atop a cliff to pick her royal azaleas.
At this tribute park, you get to immerse yourself in nature as well as the intriguing history behind Lady Suro.
Image credit: 센루크 via Naver
The trail of the park is filled with beautiful sights and treats that will make the hike feel way more enjoyable as you make your way to the top, where the famous sculpture of Lady Suro is located.
Image adapted from: 리니 via Naver, 리니 via Naver
When you first arrive at the park, you’ll be greeted with the lift and bridge that leads you to the hiking trail. Entry to the lift and hiking trail is KRW3,000 (~USD2.10) for adults, KRW2,000 (~USD1.40) for students and soldiers, and free-of-charge for children and elderly.
Image adapted from: 삼척시청 via Naver, 삼척시청 via Naver
Hike along a wooden bridge that’s lined with beautiful flora and fauna on both sides, with endless greenery of the surrounding forests in the background. It’s stunning all year round at Lady Suro Flower Tribute Park.
Image adapted from: 리니 via Naver, 호호바 via Naver
Along the way, you’ll also get to see Turtle Rock, a, well, rock that resembles a turtle. It is said that during a typhoon in 2020, this Turtle Rock appeared on the destroyed path, and has been there since.
Image adapted from: 센루크 via Naver
There are also infographics and signs along the trail for you to learn more about Lady Suro and the Turtle Rock.
Image credit: 리니 via Naver
There are some stairs along the way, so those coming with the elderly or young kids might want to take extra note on the accessibility of the park.
Image credit: 삼척시청 via Naver
Once you’re greeted by a sprawling field, you’ll know you’ve made it to the top.
Image credit: Samcheok City Hall
Once you make it to the summit, you’ll notice many sculptures and exhibits. But the towering statue of Lady Suro and the dragon is the one you’re here for.
The dragon that Lady Suro is sitting on is supposedly the one that dragged her into the sea, and later brought her back after the villages paid tribute.
Image adapted from: 찌니사랑 via Naver, 찌니사랑 via Naver
There are also other sculptures and photo zones, such as one giant bust of Lady Suro and another sculpture that’s like an artsy shelter.
Image adapted from: 삼척시청 via Naver, 삼척시청 via Naver
Find various other sculptures depicting zodiac animals that bring a certain unique flavour of history to this already-beautiful plaza.
Image adapted from: 삼척시청 via Naver, 삼척시청 via Naver
There’s also a pagoda and soldier statues reminiscent of China’s terracotta soldiers, and you’ll be reminded of how closely tied ancient Korean history is to China.
Image adapted from: 호호바 via Naver
From far, the set up looks like the soldiers are lining up to pay respects to Lady Suro, with the sea as a backdrop.
Image adapted from: 호호바 via Naver, 센루크 via Naver
The last tidbit we have of this amazing location is that you should definitely drop by the Ulleungdo observatory point to look at Ulleungdo Island through the binoculars. On clear day, you’ll be able to see the island in all its glory, but when it’s foggy, you’ll sadly miss out on this awesome view. .
Image adapted from: 호호바 via Naver
There is a cafe on the summit, which is the perfect spot to rest your weary post-trek bodies and grab drinks for around KRW3,000-4,000 (~USD2.10 – 2.80) each. However, don’t expect much from the cafe in terms of aesthetics, as it’s nowhere comparable to the cafes in the trendy neighbourhoods of Seoul.
Image credit: 호호바 via Naver
That said, you can still appreciate the sculptures and scenic views of the sea from the cafe.
If you’re in the Samcheok area and Korean history is something you’d be interested in, Lady Suro Flower Tribute Park is definitely worth a visit. Plus, the hike might help you burn off some holiday calories so you can eat more after.
We recommend taking a private taxi to the area, as it is not near any public transportation.
Address: 401 Surobuin-gil, Samcheok-si,Gangwon
For more activities and attractions that allow you to reconnect with nature, check out Sumsei Terrarium, Little Prince Tangerine Field, and Odaesan Woljeongsa Temple. Alternatively, you can read up on our Han River Park guide and things to do in Jeju.
Cover image adapted from: 삼척시청 via Naver, Samcheok City Hall, 삼척시청 via Naver
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