Taebaek (Korean: 태백; Korean pronunciation: [tʰɛ̝.bɛ̝k̚]) is a city in Gangwon province, South Korea. Its name is shared with that of the Taebaek Mountains. Situated at an elevation of 650 to 700 m (2,130 to 2,300 ft), Taebaek is the second highest city in South Korea, after Yongin.
A local specialty is the Taebaek Hanu beef, from Taebaek cattle. You can find many restaurants with Hanu beef on the menu by exiting the main terminal and cross the roundabout. Most taxi drivers, if asked in Korean, will be able to direct you to their personal choice.
Another local specialty is Taebaek Dalkgalbi also known as Water Dalkgalbi (물닭갈비). Taebaek Dalkgalbi is more of a soup version of the more common Chuncheon Dalkgalbi, hence the name 'water'. It is marinated chicken in a gochujang sauce served with ramyeon or udon noodles. There are many places that serve dalkgalbi, but the original restaurant is simply called "Taebaek Dalkgalbi".
A traditional Korean home specializing in mountain vegetable bibimbap can be found within the city. To reach it: travel to the Il-ju-gong building complex, go down the alleyway which is on the left hand side of Paris Baguette and turn right at the intersection. It is the third restaurant on your right, located in a wooden shingled Korean home.
Many restaurants offer traditional mountain herbs in their side dishes as well.
There are several Korean hof, one dancing establishment and one Korean/Western bar in Taebaek.
*Pine Nut Juice: With abundant pine forests surrounding Taebaek, pine nut juice is a popular and healthy local beverage. It offers a unique flavor and is known for its nutritional benefits. *Cornelian Cherry Juice: Cornelian cherries, commonly found in Taebaek, produce a juice with a slightly tart taste. Especially refreshing during the summer, this beverage is favored for its crisp and invigorating flavor. *Taebaek Makgeolli (Korean Rice Wine): Makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine, is produced in various regions, each with its own unique characteristics. Taebaek's makgeolli reflects the local flair and can be enjoyed at local establishments. In Taebaek, there are unique and cozy cafes that make for great places to spend some time. During your travels, consider exploring local cafes where you can enjoy beverages and desserts made with regional specialties. Here are some recommended cafes in Taebaek
These cafes each offer a unique atmosphere and flavors, providing an opportunity to have a special experience during your travels.
Traditional foods and oils can be found in the main city market.
Taebaek is located in the southern interior of Gangwon State. The east-west length is 27.1 km and the north-south length is 33.8 km, and the area is 303.47 ㎢, which is 1.8% of Gangwon State's total area. As of 2016, the population was 47,333, which is 3% of Gangwon State's total population.
