Daegiri Village in Gangneung is a lush highland village surrounded by green forests. It is far more than a typical mountain village—its vivid greenery is truly dazzling.
Located at an elevation of over 700 meters along the Baekdudaegan mountain range that divides Gangwon State into east and west, the village is home to a rich ecosystem of alpine plants and seasonal wildflowers. Clear streams flow through deep valleys, preserving the grandeur and pristine nature of ancient forests, making it one of the finest forested highland villages in Korea.
In the past, Daegiri was known as one of the most remote mountain villages. However, with the expansion of road networks including Local Routes 415 and 410 and National Route 35, access to Gangneung, Jeongseon, Donghae, Taebaek, and Pyeongchang has greatly improved. Today, it is easily accessible and visited year-round.

Daegiri is a typical mountain village where residents rely on agriculture, particularly highland vegetables and seed potato production, supplying about 25% of Korea’s seed potatoes. The villagers also collect forest products such as wild greens and mushrooms.
To the south of the village are Nocheusan and Sadalsan Mountains, where the scholars Seol Chong and Yulgok Yi I once studied. The village also features several former school sites, including Daegi Elementary School and its branches, which have been repurposed. The former Daegi Elementary School is now used as a meeting hall and camping accommodation for visitors.
Water flowing from different valleys converges and eventually joins Songcheon Stream, flowing toward Gujeol-ri in Jeongseon.

Daegiri is known for its warm-hearted residents who reflect the purity of the surrounding nature. Their spirit has helped create a unique mountain village culture.
Visitors can enjoy the Wangsan Valley Music Concert and observe various development projects that attract officials from across the country for study tours.
There are pensions and mountain experience schools offering various rural experiences, as well as opportunities for hiking in the surrounding mountains. Nocheusan Mountain, located in Daegi 1-ri, rises to 1,322 meters. Its name is said to combine characters from ancient Chinese states. Midway up the mountain stands Iseongdae Pavilion, a two-story wooden structure honoring Seol Chong and Yulgok Yi I, where visitors can feel inspired toward learning.
Heading toward Gujeol-ri in Daegi 3-ri, visitors will find the Nocheusan Forest Bathing Area. About 400 meters down the valley lies the Balwangsan Trail, where pristine waterfalls and diverse wildflowers such as Korean mint and monkshood can be seen. Hiking times vary from 1 to 4 hours depending on the route.
The area features dense forests of pine, oak, ash, and birch trees, along with a wide variety of wildflowers. With its forest bathing facilities and natural interpretation boards, it is an ideal destination for relaxation and healing.
Nearby is “Anbandegi,” known as the highest village under the sky, where vast highland fields stretch along mountain slopes, creating a stunning landscape shaped by both nature and human effort.
Daegiri also has lily cultivation areas, offering visitors the chance to enjoy the delicate fragrance of lilies. Visiting Daegiri Village feels like receiving a complete gift set of nature and experiences.