Ullim Waterfall

Ullim Waterfall (울림폭포/울림瀑布), a 75-meter cascade tucked into the valleys of Kangwon Province, is one of those local gems that Koreans are proud to show visitors. Its name, Ullim (echo), comes from the roar of water that bounces through the cliffs and can reportedly be heard up to 4 kilometers away.

Background

Though long known to locals, the falls gained recognition throughout the country in the 1990s when they began appearing on stamps, TV, and even as one of the many backdrops of the Mass Games formed by thousands of students holding up colored cards. In 2001, General Kim Jong Il visited and ordered road access to be built, making the site much more accessible. The number 2001 remains carved into the cliff face as a marker of this event.

The falls are located in about 35 km inland from Wonsan, just off the Pyongyang–Wonsan Highway. The road continues to Chonnae County and toward Wonsan, making the area a pleasant stop for those traveling from Pyongyang to the east coast.

Visiting

From the parking area, it's a short and easy walk to the base of the waterfall. The sound of rushing water grows steadily louder until the cascade comes into view. The pool below is calm and scenic, and although swimming is not officially permitted, locals can sometimes be seen cooling off during the summer months.

Foreign visitors join a group of Koreans at Ullim for an impromptu song and dance.

What makes Ullim especially lively is the social atmosphere. On weekends or holidays, you will more likely than not stumble across local enjoying picnics, singing with portable speakers, or setting up a volleyball game. Foreign visitors are often invited to join in, making Ullim not just a scenic stop, but also a place of genuine, spontaneous exchange.

For anyone traveling along the east coast, Ullim Waterfall offers both natural beauty and a glimpse into how Koreans enjoy their leisure time.