Yeongwol Donggang River (동강(영월))

Yeongwol Donggang is the upper section of the Han River as it cuts through limestone country in Yeongwol, Gangwon, considered one of Korea's most ecologically pristine river stretches. Sharp meanders carve into white limestone cliffs, exposing fossil beds visible from the water, and the canyon is home to one of Korea's last otter populations alongside endangered fish species. The river has been protected as an Ecosystem Conservation Area since 1999, which has shaped tourism toward low-impact rafting trips, lookout-point hikes, and traditional 'tteok' raft cruises rather than mass infrastructure. The summer rafting season runs roughly May through September. Pair the river with Cheongnyeongpo riverbend, the Joseon-era boy-king's exile site.