Tongyeong to Gangneung: Best Stops & Coastal Drive

Tongyeong and Gangneung sit on opposite coasts of South Korea's southern and eastern shores, linked by a roughly 350-kilometer route that crosses the country's mountainous spine. The drive typically takes 5 to 6 hours without stops, but the journey is best stretched over two days to absorb the full range of landscapes. The route begins on the southern coastline with its ria coasts and islands, then climbs through the Sobaeksan range, and finally descends to the Sea of Japan (East Sea) on Gangneung's white sand beaches.

This guide covers the key stops, driving logistics, safety, and practical considerations to help you decide if the trip is worth your time.

The southern segment offers the Hallyeohaesang National Park, with its emerald waters and pine-covered islands. A short detour to the Geoje Cable Car or a ferry from Tongyeong to Somaemuldo provides panoramic views. As you head north, the terrain transitions to highland valleys and the Sobaeksan National Park, known for its deciduous forests and clear streams.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites lie slightly off the main route: the Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju require a 40-kilometer detour from the Jungbu Inland Expressway. Also reachable is the Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon, but that is far west; for this route, Gyeongju is the most accessible.

Local commerce thrives in the rest stops and exit towns. Consider sampling the local delicacies: in Tongyeong, try the honey bread (tteok) and the famous dormant volcano Bibimbap; in Gangneung, the Chodang sundubu (soft tofu) and coffee shops along the beach. Markets in Andong, a potential stop for the Hahoe Village, offer traditional crafts and soju.

Climate plays a role in the route's aesthetics. The southern coast enjoys a subtropical climate with mild winters and humid summers; the central highlands have a continental climate with hotter summers and colder winters, bringing vibrant autumn foliage. The east coast around Gangneung experiences cooler summers due to sea breezes and heavy snowfall in winter.

Road quality is consistently high, but watch for fog in the mountain sections, especially in the morning hours. Wildlife crossings are not uncommon; be alert for deer signs. Cell phone coverage is excellent along the entire route.

For families, the route offers several kid-friendly attractions. The Hallyeo Waterway Observatory in Tongyeong has a glass floor; the Central Inland Expressway has rest areas with playgrounds; and near Gangneung, the National Gangneung Science Museum is a hit. Plan for rest breaks every 2 hours to keep children comfortable.

Pet-friendly facilities are sparse but existent. Many rest areas have designated pet relief areas. Some accommodations in Gangneung are pet-friendly, but off-route accommodations may be limited, so book ahead.

Fatigue management is critical on this long drive. Use the rest areas (휴게소) not just for fuel but for short power naps. The highways have emergency call boxes every 500 meters, and patrol services run 24/7. If driving at night, be aware of reduced visibility in the mountains.

Hidden off-route spots include the Seomjingang Rail Bike near Gokseong, a bit west of the route, and the Taebaek Mountains' fossilized dinosaur tracks near Yeongwol, accessible via a short detour. These offer nature and history beyond the typical rest stop.

The main highways are the Namhae Expressway (10) from Tongyeong to near Jinju, then the Jungbu Inland Expressway (45) north to Yeoju, and finally the Yeongdong Expressway (50) east to Gangneung. These are well-maintained, with speed limits of 100–110 km/h. Toll costs for the entire route amount to roughly 15,000–20,000 KRW for a standard car.

Fuel stations are abundant along the highways, but prices can vary significantly by region. Expect to pay around 1,600–1,800 KRW per liter of gasoline in urban areas, but remote stretches may be 100–200 KRW higher. A fuel-efficient car might use about 35 liters for this trip, so budget ~60,000 KRW.

Rest areas (휴게소) are spaced every 30–40 minutes along the expressways, offering clean restrooms, convenience stores, and local specialty foods. Many have EV charging stations, with rapid chargers typically available. For a longer stop, consider the how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities guide.

One key logistical note: the route passes through several major cities, including Daegu and Wonju, where traffic can add 30 minutes during rush hours. Plan to depart Tongyeong early morning or late morning to avoid midday congestion in Daegu.