The village is called “Simgok,” meaning “deep valley,” as it is located within a deep valley. It was also once referred to as “Jipil (紙筆)” because the village appears flat like paper laid on the ground, with the shape of a brush placed beside it. However, the name was officially established as Simgok in 1916 following administrative district reorganization. As a remote village nestled between mountain ranges on both sides, it is said that during the Korean War, the residents were unaware that a war had even broken out. Today, with the rise in popularity of Jeongdongjin as a sunrise destination, Simgok Port has gained attention. Surrounded by both mountains and the sea, it boasts exceptionally beautiful scenery.

Most residents are engaged in fishing, with representative catches including flounder, abalone, and saury. The naturally harvested rock laver (seaweed) from this area is of outstanding quality and was historically presented to the king. The port is also famous for flounder fishing using fishing boats in the nearby waters. From the sea, the view of the coastal cliffs facing the harbor is remarkably beautiful. Recently, a coastal road has been constructed connecting Geumjin Port in Okgye-myeon, passing through this area, and extending to Jeongdongjin Port, making it an emerging tourist attraction.

As you descend from Jeongdongjin Sculpture Park, you will encounter Simgok Port, which reveals a tranquil and secluded atmosphere befitting a harbor nestled deep in a valley. With rocky cliffs on both sides and the sea embraced by mountains, it is well known as a scenic driving course. It is an ideal place to relax your mind when feeling stressed or to enjoy a weekend drive with family. Although it may be easy to pass by, it is one of the three most beautiful ports in Gangwon State. The three most beautiful ports in Gangwon State include Simgok Port, Namae Port located about 6 km from Jumunjin, and Chogok Port in Samcheok. At Simgok Port, the deep blue waves of the East Sea crash against rocks scattered across the water, creating a refreshing and awe-inspiring view. It gives the sensation of driving over the sea. Driving along the road of Simgok Port, a favorite course for couples, makes you truly realize why it is said to be the closest road to the sea on the Korean Peninsula. As you navigate the winding coastal road, it feels as though you are driving directly over the ocean. While the sea here is beautiful in summer, it is even more stunning in winter. When snow covers the mountains beside the road and the sea glows in deep cobalt blue, the entire landscape becomes like a painting.

Around Simgok Port, you can find restaurants serving spicy fish stew made with “mangchi” fish, a local specialty caught year-round regardless of season, making it a representative fish of the area. A spoonful of this spicy stew, combined with the dramatic rocky scenery and deep blue sea, creates an unforgettable experience. Taking a motorboat ride from Jeongdongjin offers another perspective of the coastal reefs and cliffs. As the boat passes between the rocks, it feels as though it might collide with them, creating a thrilling sensation. It is also a great spot for sea fishing, with people enjoying fishing from the breakwater or venturing out by boat to fish near offshore reefs. However, fishing should be avoided on days with strong waves or swells.

On clear days, the deep blue sea is vivid and beautiful, but rainy days add even more charm and atmosphere. Visiting on a rainy day may make you feel like the main character in a movie. While the sunrise along the East Coast is beautiful everywhere, the sunrise viewed from Simgok Port is particularly stunning as it rises between mountains, rocky cliffs, and reefs.