Chuncheon, South Korea

Chuncheon (Chuncheon-si) is the capital of Gangwon Province, South Korea. The city lies in the northeast of the country, located in a basin formed by the Soyang River and Han River. There are some large lakes around the city, most notably Lake Soyang and Lake Uiam. The area is renowned for its small river islands, such as Sangjungdo, Ha-Jungdo, Bungeo Island, or Wido.It is now a popular destination among East Asian tourists as it was featured in the popular Korean drama Winter Sonata.The area now occupied by the city was first settled about 1000 years ago by tribal communities. In 637 the city was called Usooju. In 757 it was renamed Saku and again in 940 as Chunju before receiving its current name in 1413. In 1896, Chuncheon became the capital city of Gangwon province. The city was largely destroyed during the Korean War, but has since been reconstructed. In 1995 Chuncheon city merged politically with the government of the surrounding Chuncheon county. the spring, the Chuncheon International Mime Festival is organized, as well as the Spring Season Art Festival. In the summer, the Chuncheon Puppet Festival takes place. There is also a festival for Makguksu, a food that Chuncheon is famous for. Also celebrated in the summer, is the International Animation Festival. Every autumn, Chuncheon Marathontakes place. In winter, snow and ice festivals are organized.