Best Sport Crags in Korea - Yongseo Pokpo

If you're looking for a place with amazing camping, beautiful scenery, and wonderful sport climbing, look no further than Yongseo Pokpo. A crag north of Suncheon by the Jirisan Mountain range. The short approach makes comfortable camping easy, while its seemlingly isolated location makes you feel like you're camping in the wilderness. And did I mention that Pokpo in Korean means waterfall? That's right, a waterfall divides the crag and adds to the natural beauty and the noise will help you fall asleep at night. It's also not so heavy that you can't stand under it if you'd like a shower.

Camping - One of the best places to camp peacefully in the country. It's not a national or provincial park so a ton of other people won't spoil your fun. If they are there, they're climbers. It isn't a high traffic area (except for Sunday's) so there is always a spot for your tent. There aren't any shops or stores around so make sure you hike up there with everything you need. If you have a car, Gurye town isnt too far away to grab some supplies. Buy some meat for your group and get ready to cook delicious samgyeopsal or moksal over your fire. This location has been the spot for the annual Thanksgiving roast for the last few years. It can accomodate a lot of people, especially if you work together to make spaces for your tents. I've never had an issue finding a spot. Camping here has always been a great experience. The best thing about camping here is when you wake up there is no approach to the crag. You're already there!

Climbing - Littered with routes. Everything from hard 12's to intro 5.9's, even on the same wall. And speaking of walls, there are 3 main walls and some scattered routes in between. There are single pitch as well as some adventorous 2 pitch climbs. Everything for your whole crew can be found here. All routes have grades written at the bottom and one of the most classic climbs has permadraws hanging from it. Some harderroutes also have permadraws hanging from the cruxes of the climb just in case you need to lower and retrieve your gear. I have done two routes here that have been wonderful journeys. The first is the classic _______. An overhung crack full of crimps and pumpy moves with a hard crux below the anchor, graded 11C. There is also a 2nd pitch 11C climb that involves face climbing, finger locks, and balancy technical moves. A great climb for the willing. Rockfall is occasional so wear a helmet and be aware of other climbers.

Thanksgiving - This has been the spot for the Annual Dirtbag Thanksgiving Extravaganza. Foreigners brave the cool November temperatures to enjoy each others company and enjoy a potluck meal. Mulled wine and whole chickens are often enjoyed by the fire with friends. It's an enjoyable experience and a great spot to meet new climbing partners.

For it's size, amount of routes, natural beauty, and ease of access, this crag is definitely one of the best Korea has to offer.

#Korea #RockClimbing