Ulsan: Korea's Industrial Coast

Daewangam Park on Ulsan's east coast is spectacular. A wooden boardwalk follows the rocky coastline to Daewangam Rock, connected by a steel suspension bridge. According to legend, a dragon transformed from a Silla dynasty queen protects this coast. The park has over 100,000 pine trees twisted by coastal winds into dramatic shapes. Walking the full trail takes about an hour. Dawn is particularly beautiful; the park is famous for sunrise viewing. Gangdong Mongdol Beach nearby features round pebbles (mongdol) instead of sand. The stones click rhythmically as waves retreat. It's a meditative, unusual beach experience. Slipway Beach (Jinha Beach) is Ulsan's summer beach destination—white sand, clear water, and family-friendly facilities. Less famous than east coast alternatives but less crowded too. The coastal drive between these points passes fishing villages, small ports, and constant ocean views. Renting a car maximizes coastal exploration.

Jangsaengpo was Korea's whaling center until commercial whaling ended in 1986. The Whale Museum preserves this history with skeletons, artifacts, and exhibits on whale biology and Korean whaling culture. The adjacent Whale Culture Village recreates the 1970s-80s whaling village. Traditional houses, restaurants serving whale meat (legally obtained from accidental catches), and atmospheric streets transport visitors to recent past. Winter whale watching cruises run from Jangsaengpo port (December-March). Gray whales migrate along this coast. Sightings aren't guaranteed but are increasingly common as whale populations recover. Whale meat remains legal to sell if from accidental catches in fishing nets. The specialty restaurants here serve goraebap (whale rice) and whale sashimi. The ethics are debatable; the cultural significance is genuine. The area feels authentically working-class coastal Korea—fishing boats, weathered buildings, functional rather than scenic. This rawness appeals to travelers tired of polished tourist zones.

Bangudae Petroglyphs (National Treasure No. 285) are Korea's most important prehistoric rock art, depicting whales, deer, tigers, and hunting scenes carved 7,000-3,500 years ago. They're located in Daegok-ri, about 30 minutes from central Ulsan. The site overlooks Daegokcheon stream. Viewing platforms provide perspectives on the carvings, though some are difficult to see without binoculars. An on-site museum explains the context. The whale depictions suggest organized whale hunting in the Neolithic period—remarkable evidence for prehistoric maritime capability. Different whale species are distinguishable in the carvings. Nearby Cheonjeon-ri also has rock carvings, including geometric patterns and what may be astronomical symbols. The Ulsan Petroglyph Museum covers both sites comprehensively. This area transforms the understanding of Ulsan—the industrial powerhouse sits atop 7,000 years of continuous human activity, with whaling connecting past and present.

KTX from Seoul to Ulsan takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. Ulsan Station is outside the city center; connecting buses and taxis reach downtown. Driving is recommended for exploring Ulsan's spread-out attractions. Coastal sites, petroglyphs, and the whale village aren't well-connected by public transit. Accommodation clusters near Ulsan Station (convenient for transit) and in the old downtown/industrial areas (more authentic, fewer amenities). International hotels are limited—this isn't a tourist city. English signage is minimal. Having Naver Map and translation apps ready helps. Taxi drivers may not speak English; show written addresses. Two days allows coverage of main attractions. Combine with Gyeongju (30 minutes away) for a historical contrast to industrial Ulsan. Seafood is excellent here, benefiting from the active fishing industry. Hwangeong-dong seafood market and waterfront restaurants offer fresh catches without tourist markup.