Seorak Waterpia – Sokcho, South Korea

Sokcho is home to Seorak Waterpia, one of the biggest theme parks in Korea, where visitors may enjoy a broad range of water-based attractions and natural hot springs. The park is set at the Seorak Hanwha Resort on Mt. Seoraksan and is supplied with naturally sourced mineral water.

At this destination, visitors can enjoy the beauty of the East Sea and the surrounding mountains all year. This is not a clothing-optional park; swimsuits are required.

Mineral Thermal Water

Giant slides at Seorak Waterpia South Korea — Giant slides at Seorak Waterpia, South Korea. Photo by: Dushan Hanuska

The resort only uses water from an on-site hot spring for all its needs. Taking a bath in geothermal water has many benefits, one of which is that it helps your skin stay hydrated. The revitalizing effects of a day spent swimming and splashing around are immediate.

This geothermal water helps treat stress, neuralgia, arthritis, and geriatric disorders due to the high concentrations of cations (sodium, calcium, and magnesium) and anions (chlorine, carbonic acid, and sulfuric acid) found in it.

Seorak Waterpia Wood Spa Hot Springs — Wood spa at Waterpia – Polynesian Water Park. Photo by: Dushan Hanuska

The Ministry of Security and Public Administration in Korea is the first to recognize this alkaline mineral water as a spring for healing. The layer of granite that the hot spring water comes out of is about 180 million years old.

The source was formed during the Jurassic Period of the Mesozoic Era. Today it pumps about 3000 metric tons/350 gallons daily. Before being piped into the park, the thermal spring water is cooled.

Park Attractions

Wave pool at Waterpia - Polynesian Water Park South Korea — Wave pool at Waterpia – Polynesian Water Park. Photo by: Dushan Hanuska

On its 80,000 square meters (or 24,000 square feet) (20 acres) of land, it has many water-based attractions that are located in five separate “lands”: Spa Dong, Aqua Dong, Adventure Island, Spa Valley, and Extreme Valley.

The top attractions include:

An indoor spa system
An indoor wave pool
Indoor water playground for kids
A lazy river
Three thrilling water slides
A hot water therapy pool
A standard lap swimming pool
An outdoor wave pool
A fast-current swimming river
A splash pad with water features
Kids and tots poo

Other Amenities

Seorak Waterpia South Korea Spa — Spa at Waterpia – Polynesian Water Park. Photo by: Dushan Hanuska

Besides swimming, splashing, or soaking, visitors can use the saunas, sunbathing zone, and a zipline course. There is also an area for private soaking, which can be rented out by groups who want a hot tub to themselves.

An on-site spa offers a variety of treatments to unwind or boost overall wellness. After playing hard in the park, grab a bite to eat at one of the property’s many snack stands, coffee carts, or sit-down eateries.

For visitors’ convenience, there are also locker rooms, ATMs, and a medical center to help with any health concerns or injuries. Guests can also rent sunbathing lounge chairs, swimming attire and accessories, and life jackets.