What is Pyeongchang Wild Ginseng?

Pyeongchang, located along Korea’s Baekdudaegan mountain range, is surrounded by some of the country’s highest peaks—Odaesan (1,563 m), Gyebangsan (1,577 m), Baegunsan (1,259 m), Bangtaesan (1,407 m), Gariwangsan (1,562 m), and Bongpyeong’s Hwangbyeongsan (1,255 m). These lofty mountains provide ideal conditions for wild ginseng to thrive.

More than 65 % of the area lies above 700 m in elevation and is covered with pristine forests rich in humus and pure water. Since the Joseon dynasty, this region has been renowned as one of the best sources of wild ginseng, and historical records confirm its reputation. With the cool, misty climate of 1,000 m-class highlands—conditions that wild ginseng especially favors—Pyeongchang wild ginseng is recognized as the finest in Korea.

The Special Qualities of Pyeongchang Wild Ginseng

Pyeongchang Wild-cultivated Ginseng Zone

In 2014, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs designated, for the first time in Korea, a “Pyeongchang Wild-cultivated Ginseng Zone” spanning 428 hectares (about 1.29 million pyeong). This designation protects and systematically manages the native environment.

Thanks to its high altitude, clean water, and fertile soil, the zone closely replicates the natural habitat of true wild ginseng, producing roots with nearly the same medicinal potency and characteristics.

Because of this carefully preserved environment and the region’s systematic cultivation methods, Pyeongchang wild ginseng is recognized nationwide as a top-quality product.