Choose from 77 Fun Things to Do in Seoul
ShowingFilter 41-60 of 77 listings.
National Museum of Korea
Not only is the National Museum of Korea the best in the country, it’s also free. In a sweeping introduction to Korean art, culture and history, the museum houses more than 150,000 artifacts with around 11,000 on display, so you’ll have plenty to see, even if you’ve been to the museum before.
The three floors are divided into six total exhibit areas. On the first floor, you’ll find the Prehistory and Ancient History section and the Medieval and Early Modern History section, each displaying artifacts from the beginnings of Korean civilization through the Joseon Dynasty. The second floor houses the Calligraphy and Paintings section as well as an area designated for pieces donated by private collectors. The third floor contains a Sculptures and Crafts section and an Asian Arts section with cultural and artistic artifacts from various Asian countries.
If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to visit the onsite Children’s Museum, filled with interactive exhibits on traditional life in Korea. To enhance your experience, rent an audio guide from the museum’s information desk.
The three floors are divided into six total exhibit areas. On the first floor, you’ll find the Prehistory and Ancient History section and the Medieval and Early Modern History section, each displaying artifacts from the beginnings of Korean civilization through the Joseon Dynasty. The second floor houses the Calligraphy and Paintings section as well as an area designated for pieces donated by private collectors. The third floor contains a Sculptures and Crafts section and an Asian Arts section with cultural and artistic artifacts from various Asian countries.
If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to visit the onsite Children’s Museum, filled with interactive exhibits on traditional life in Korea. To enhance your experience, rent an audio guide from the museum’s information desk.
Address: 137 Seobinggo-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Tue, Thu, Fri: 9am - 6pm
Wed, Sat: 9am - 9pm
Sun, Holidays: 9am - 7pm
From $ 18
Olympic Park
In 1988, Seoul hosted the Summer Olympics, and the Olympic Park has since been transformed into a massive green space where locals come to relax. Located on the site of the ancient Mongchon Toseong Fort, the park contains grassy lawns, sculpture gardens, pavilions, and walking paths, making it a popular picnic spot on the weekends.
The Basics
The Olympic Park is divided into four sections. In the Culture Art Park, you’ll find the Olympic Museum and the Seoul Olympics Museum of Art. Locals come to the Leisure Sports Park for skating, walking, jogging, and socializing, while the Environmental Eco-Park offers a bit more solitude as well as bird watching opportunities. If you want to see the Mongchon Toseong Fort, you’ll find it in the History Experience Park. The Gangnam circuit of the Seoul hop-on hop-off bus stops at the park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Olympic Park is a must-visit for families and anyone looking for some fresh air.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, or rent a bike to cycle through the grounds.
- Set aside at least three hours to explore the park’s attractions, particularly if you’re touring on foot.
- Don’t forget to bring sun protection and plenty of water.
- Strollers are available to rent at the East Gate and World Peace Gate information centers.
How to Get There
Seoul’s Olympic Park is well-connected by public transportation. Several public buses stop at Olympic Park, Olympic Park Peace Plaza, and Olympic Center bus stops, or you can ride the Seoul subway to Olympic Park Station (Line 5) or Mongchon Toseong Station (Line 8).
When to Get There
While the park is open daily year-round, it tends to be more lively on the weekends, when locals come to stretch their legs and enjoy the fresh air. Plan to visit during the spring or autumn when the weather is cool and comfortable for exploring Seoul’s outdoor attractions.
Save Your Feet, Ride the Road Train
The Olympic Park is so large that there’s a tourist tram running through the grounds to take visitors from one point of interest to the next. The Road Train (Hodori Train) departs from the playground in front of Peace Square. The train runs hourly on weekdays, and every 40 minutes on weekends and holidays.
Address: 88 Bangi-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 12
Petite France
Petite France is a French-style cultural village set in the middle of the Korean countryside. It features a cluster of 16 French-style buildings on the hillside. The village can accommodate up to 200 guests overnight, and features an array of other attractions so that visitors can experience French food, culture, and daily life.
Ideal for those interested in French literature and film, Petite France has a memorial hall dedicated to the author of the French novel, Le Petit Prince, as well as a gallery showcasing various paintings and sculptures of the French national symbol. It features a number of shops and other places to enjoy various types of performances, including Guignol – the traditional French hand puppet performance.
Petite France is also home to the Goseong Youth Training Center.
Practical Info
To reach Petite France by subway, alight at Cheongpyeong station on the Gyeongchun line. From there, head to Cheongpyeong Bus Terminal (10-minute walk) and catch the bus to Goseong-ri.
Address: 1063 Hoban-ro, Cheongpyeong, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: 9am-6pm
Admission: 8000won / Teens: 6000won / Children: 5000won
From $ 11
Noryangjin Fish Market
The Noryangjin Fish Market, one of the largest seafood markets in Korea, has been in operation since 1927. On any given day, you’ll see vendors selling more than 800 varieties of seafood, both retail and wholesale. It’s the place to go, to sample the freshest Korean seafood, prepared traditionally right in the market.
The Basics
Visiting the market is almost like a trip to an aquarium, but the best part is sampling the wares. After you’ve made your purchase of clams, fish, squid octopus, sea cucumber, shrimp, or crabs, to name a few, you can take your choice to a restaurant stall, where the cooks will chop it up for you to eat sashimi-style, or prepare it grilled or in a spicy stew.
Market and culinary tours of Seoul often stop at Noryangjin, but it’s also worthwhile to take a guided tour of the market itself, to get insider tips from a local on where to buy the freshest seafood and which on-site restaurants will cook up the most delicious dishes. A fish market tour can be combined with a bike tour along the Han River or a traditional Korean barbecue dinner.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Noryangjin is a must-visit for foodies and families traveling with kids.
- Come hungry; market restaurants will cook up your seafood purchases for you.
- Most market vendors accept credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash just in case.
- Be sure to wear sturdy shoes with a good grip; the wet floor of the market can get slippery.
How to Get There
It’s easy to reach the market via public transportation. Dozens of buses stop at Noryangjin Market Station, as does Seoul subway Line 1; take Exit 1 and you’ll find the market just over the bridge.
When to Get There
If you can get yourself out of bed and to the market in the wee hours of the morning—or really, really late at night—you can witness the daily seafood auction. This is the market at its best, as fishmongers fight to get the best price on bulk items. Otherwise, visit for lunch or dinner to enjoy the fresh seafood.
Sannakji, a Korean Delicacy
Adventurous seafood lovers should be sure to sample some sannakji during a visit to the market. This Korean delicacy is made from a small species of octopus that is purchased live, chopped up, and served raw, sashimi-style with sesame oil for dipping. Nerves in the tentacles cause them to move even after the octopus is dead.
Address: 13-8 Noryangjin 1(il)-dong, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 54
Mt Bukhan
Mt Bukhan, also called Bukhansan, is a mountain just north of Seoul with three distinct peaks. It is not only an easily recognizable landmark overlooking the city, but also part of the Bukhansan National Park and a popular hiking, bird watching and rock climbing destination. Climbing Mt Bukhan is one of the more popular day trips from Seoul and every Saturday and Sunday morning, Seoul’s air-conditioned metro cars are crowded with hikers decked out in colorful hiking equipment heading in that direction. At the base of the mountain, spicy fragrances saturate the air where countless food stalls are selling everything from dumplings and bulgogi to hardboiled eggs and kimchi. Sustenance for the steep climb to the main peak Beagunbong and refreshments for the returning hikers.
The South Koreans not only visit Mt Bukhan for the nature and a breath of fresh air, but also for the many temples and shrines spread throughout the national park. They visit partly due to religious conviction, partly to stop and catch a break surrounded by incredible scenery. Also popular are the Bukhansanseong Fortress, a fortification built along the mountain’s ridges to stop foreign invasions and Seungasa Temple on Bibong Peak with its Buddhas carved in rock.
Practical Info
To get to Bukhansan National Park take subway line 4 to Gireum Station, then take bus 110B or 143 and get off at the last stop. Be aware that the trails are very steep, the popular Baegundae Course is 1.9 kilometers long and takes one and a half hours to hike, the trail to Bukhansanseong Fortress is 3.4 kilometers long and roughly three hours to complete. Getting around Mt Bukhan can be a bit difficult, as most signs are in Korean, but don’t hesitate to ask the local hikers for help.
Address: Bukhansan National Park, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 85
Nagan Eupseong Folk Village
Nagan Eupseong Folk Village, located in Jeollanam-do Province, encompasses one of the best preserved walled fortress town of the Chosun period. While there were 96 town fortresses in more than 330 of these towns at the height of the Chosun Dynasty, many of them were destroyed during the Japanese occupation. The village was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2011.
More than 100 families still live within the historic structures, going about their day-to-day tasks much like people indigenous to the area have been doing for centuries. Over 200 of Nagan Eupseong’s houses remain in their original condition, complete with thatched roofs and stonework without the use of mortar. A few of these have been converted to guesthouses for travelers who wish to stay the night.
Practical Info
To reach Nagan Eupseong Folk Village, take bus 61, 63 or 68 from the bus stop near Suncheon Bus Terminal. The ride takes about 50 minutes.
Address: Jeollanam-do Province, South Korea
Hours: Dec - Jan: 9 am-5:00; Feb - Apr & Nov: 9 am -6 pm; May - Oct: 8:30 am - 6:30 pm
Admission: Adults: 2,000 won; Youths (ages 13-18): 1,500 won; Children (ages 7-12): 1,000 won
From $ 780
Namsan Cable Car
The Namsan Cable Car in Seoul runs from the Hoehyeon-dong platform at the base of Mount Namsan up to the Yejang-dong platform near the Namsan Tower. Naturally, it’s a scenic journey, offering 360-degree views of Seoul and the mountain by both day and night.
New cable cars were put in place in 2008, which have increased the capacity of the cars and improved them so that they feature glass on all four sides, giving visitors more of a panoramic vantage point.
This is a popular attraction, with around 50,000 people riding the Namsan Cable Car every month, and it tends to get particularly busy in the evenings. Those looking for a quieter time to ride are advised to visit in the morning. As an alternative to the cable car, active types can instead opt to reach the top of the mountain and the tower by walking up.
Practical Info
To reach the Namsan Cable Car, take Exit 3 out of Myeong-dong Station and follow the street to the right of the Pacific Hotel. It’s around a 20-minute walk, mainly uphill. Alternatively the Namsan Oreumi opened in 2009 to transport those less able (or willing) to walk to easily access the cable car station. This is the first outdoor elevator of its kind in Korea, operating from near the Namsan Tunnel entrance and transporting visitors to the Namsan Cable Car station in just a few minutes. The Namsan Cable Car is open daily from 10am until 11pm.
Address: San 1-19, Hoehyeon-dong 1-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Daily 10am-11pm
Admission: 6,000 won
From $ 119
National Folk Museum of Korea
This national museum is an impressive collection of Korean culture and history as displayed in nearly 100,000 artifacts. It’s housed in the beautiful Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Its halls and exhibits tell the stories of daily life in Korea across time and occupation. In this way, many of the Korean traditions that have existed for centuries come to life and continue to be preserved. The museum has been open since 1945, expanding the breadth of its collection when it merged with the National Museum of Korea in 1975.
In addition to exhibitions dedicated to history, way of life, and life cycles of the Korean people, there is an open-air exhibit featuring replicas of important items from village life. The exhibits range from prehistory to the end of the Joseon Dynasty. Korean arts and crafts, performance art, and a children’s museum supplement the excellent efforts to showcase Korean life and culture.
Practical Info
The museum is open daily (closed Tuesdays) from 9 am to 6 pm. Admission is free, but tickets to visit the Gyeongbokgung Palace must be purchased. The nearest metro station is either Anguk or Gyeongbokgung Station.
Address: 37 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Korea, South Korea
Hours: Open daily (closed Tuesdays) from 9 am to 6 pm
From $ 18
Leeum Samsung Museum of Art
The Leeum Samsung Museum of Art, tucked away on the hills of Namsan, celebrates Korean and Western art and architecture from the past, present and future. The three buildings, each designed by a world-renowned architect, house works from the Samsung Foundation’s extensive art collection, ranging from ancient Buddhist artifacts to modern works of art.
The first building, designed by Mario Botta, houses a collection of Buddhist artifacts and Korean ceramics, calligraphy and paintings. The second, designed by Jean Nouvel, covers Korean an international works of art from 1910 to the present. The third building, designed by Rem Koolhaas, is where you’ll find the Child Education and Culture Center.
Make sure to visit the top floor of Museum 1 to see the family’s private collection of Korean celadon pottery. To learn more about what you’ll be seeing, pick up an audio guide as you enter the museum or come on Saturday or Sunday afternoons for free English tours of the museum at 3pm.
The first building, designed by Mario Botta, houses a collection of Buddhist artifacts and Korean ceramics, calligraphy and paintings. The second, designed by Jean Nouvel, covers Korean an international works of art from 1910 to the present. The third building, designed by Rem Koolhaas, is where you’ll find the Child Education and Culture Center.
Make sure to visit the top floor of Museum 1 to see the family’s private collection of Korean celadon pottery. To learn more about what you’ll be seeing, pick up an audio guide as you enter the museum or come on Saturday or Sunday afternoons for free English tours of the museum at 3pm.
Address: 747-18, Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Open Tue-Sun 10:30 am - 6:00 pm.
Admission: Permanent Exhibition: Adult 10,000won,Child/Senior 6,000won.
From $ 73
Paju Premium Outlets
The Paju Premium Outlets is a luxury shopping complex in Paju to the northwest of Seoul. This three-storey building is home to 220 outlet stores, with a mixture of international and designer brand names, plus local retailers.
The complex is known for its discounted products, with everything from designer clothing and accessories to homeware and gifts offered at a reduced cost – sometimes with up to 70% off the usual retail price. There is also a large food court on the top level, along with a number of restaurants and cafes scattered across the two remaining floors.
Practical Info
The Paju Premium Outlets is located at 200 Philseung-ro in Paju City. It’s open from Monday to Thursday from 10:30am to 8:30pm, and Friday to Sunday from 10:30am to 9pm. From May to October it’s open from 10:30am to 9pm every day.
Address: 200 Pilseung-ro, Tanhyeon-myeon, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Hours: Nov-Apr: Mon-Thur 10:30am-8:30pm, Fri-Sun 10:30am-9pm; May-Oct: Open Daily 10:30am-9pm
From $ 54
Jongno
The district of Jongno constitutes the northern half of Seoul’s main historic area. As the cultural and financial heart of the city, the area is home to a wealth of shrines, temples, parks and historic sites, including four of the five Grand Palaces of Seoul, including Changdeokgung and Gyeongbokgung.
Travelers shouldn't miss the Jongmyo Shrine, the Jogyesa Temple, the Presidential Palace of Cheongwadae or Hyehwa—a neighborhood filled with small, independent theaters. Also worth a visit is the historic Bukchon Hanok Village, where many of Seoul’s socialites and politically important families live among 900 traditional Korean hanok houses. Meanwhile, the Samcheongdong neighborhood is comparable to New York City's Soho with its cafes, boutique shops and numerous art galleries.
The best way to experience Jongno is by taking an organized walking tour, which may include visiting Gyeonghuigung Palace, witnessing the changing of the guard at Daehamun or strolling along the Cheonggyecheon stream. Foodies can indulge while also seeing the district on a dedicated food tour, available by day or night. Those more interested in Seoul’s royal and political history can learn about the area as part of a historical city tour, taking in the sights with an informative guide.
Insider's Tip: The district's 33-story Jongno Tower features a top-floor bar and restaurant, from where travelers can take in sweeping views of the city through floor-to-ceiling windows. The tower is located near Jonggak Station on Line 1 of the subway.
Practical Info
Jongno is a large area served by several subway stations—Jongno 3-ga Station is serviced by lines 1, 3 and 5, while the western end of the district can be reached via Gwanghwamun Station on Line 5.
Address: Seoul, South Korea
From $ 35
Odongdo
Odongdo, once an island but now connected by a walkable breakwater to Yeosu Port, is considered one of the most beautiful islands in Hallyeo Marine National Park. While the island gets its name from the Odong trees growing throughout, it’s the camellia flowers that steal the show. Beginning in January and continuing through March, some 3,000 camellia trees paint the island in shades of pink. Some 70 species of wildflowers grow on the island, so there’s usually something in bloom.
A path leads to the top of the island where a lighthouse dating back to 1952 still stands, and a path circling the island takes visitors through several dense bamboo forests. A large fountain on the island performs dancing water shows synchronized to the latest pop tunes. The island is a popular place to watch the sunrise.
Practical Info
Odongdo Island charges no admission.
Address: Yeosu, South Korea
Hours: 9.30am to 5.30pm
From $ 780
Mt Seorak
Seoraksan National Park, one of the most scenic parks on the Korean peninsula and a UNESCO Biosphere Protected site, is home to Mt. Seorak, South Korea’s third tallest mountain at 5,604 feet (1,708 meters). Since it became a national monument in 1965, Mt. Seorak (Snowy Peak Mountain) has been a popular destination for weekend hikers from Seoul.
In springtime, the mountain gets blanketed with the colorful blossoms of dogwoods, azaleas and forsythia, while autumn’s show of yellows, oranges and reds is no less spectacular, and arguably more popular with locals. Of the three sections of the park, Outer Seorak is the most accessible, and therefore the most crowded. Visitors hoping to escape the crowds should heat to Inner Seorak, the least developed section on the western edge of the park. Southern Seorak is famous for its mineral springs.
Practical Info
Visitors wanting to overnight at the park can rent a camping site or find accommodation the village of Seorak-dong in the Outer Seorak portion of the park.
Address: Seorak-dong, Sokcho-si, Kangwon, South Korea
From $ 350
Namsan Tower (N Seoul Tower)
Head to the top of Namsan Tower (N Seoul Tower) in hilly Namsan Park, the largest in Seoul, for some of the best panoramic views over the South Korean capital. The 777-foot (237-meter) tower offers three observation decks and half a dozen restaurants where you can soak in the views, day or night.
The Basics
As one of Seoul’s most enduring landmarks, Namsan Tower is featured on many sightseeing tours of the city, along with attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Blue House, Jogyesa Temple, and Namsangol Hanok Village. Access to the observation tower requires an admission ticket, though admission is free for diners at the n.GRILL restaurant, where advance reservations are recommended.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding park.
- Book your observatory entrance ticket online to avoid lines at the ticket office.
- Remember to pick up an audio guide in the observation area for commentary on attractions you can see through the windows.
- Both Namsan Tower and the cable car are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Cars are not allowed within Namsan Park, so to reach the tower you’ll have to walk up the hill or ride the cable car. The nearest subway station is in Myeongdong, a 10-minute walk from the cable car station. It’s also possible to ride the Namsan Sunhwan Shuttle Bus, which stops at several subway stations throughout Seoul.
When to Get There
Namsan Tower is open 365 days a year, with extended hours Saturday. Each restaurant has its own operating hours, so it’s a good idea to call ahead if you’re planning to eat. Though the views from the tower are excellent no matter when you visit, they’re particularly stunning at night when the city is illuminated.
Namsan Tower Love Locks
The tower has long been a popular date spot for Koreans, and you’ll notice the railings around the tower are covered in colorful padlocks. These locks are often decorated with names of couples who left them at the tower as a symbol of eternal love.
Address: Seoul, South Korea
Admission: Varies
From $ 6
Nagwon Arcade
Nagwon Arcade is a vast collection of tiny shops selling musical instruments that range from petite woodwinds to massive bass drums. Travelers can wander the stalls lined with pianos, electric guitars and other items. Chat with locals who repair and build these incredible pieces and learn about the history of what is arguably one of the largest collections of instrument shops in the world. Whether you’re a beginner, an expert, or simply a lover of music, there’s bound to be something that catches your eye while exploring Nagwon Arcade’s three stories of stores, shops and dealers.
Practical Info
Nagwon Arcade is located at Samil-daero, Jongno-gu in Seoul, near the Korea Soongsil Cyber University. It is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m.
Address: 428 Samil-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-8pm
From $ 35
Namdaemun Market
Whether you’re looking for street food, ginseng, jewelry, housewares, clothes, or souvenirs, you’ll find these (and just about everything else under the sun) in the stalls of Namdaemun Market. South Korea’s largest market is busy around the clock as locals and tourists rub elbows in search of the best deals.
The Basics
Namdaemun ranks among Seoul’s most popular shopping destinations. The market is often a stop on sightseeing tours of the city, but dedicated shopping tours dig deepest into the market, giving travelers local insight into how and where to find the best bargains. Foodies can treat themselves to a market tasting tour, to sample some of the best bites from among the market’s 10,000 stalls.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Namdaemun Market is a must-visit for shoppers, foodies, and first time visitors.
- Mild haggling is expected, so don’t feel that you must pay the initial asking price.
- It’s easy to get turned around in the market; join a guided tour to ensure you won’t get lost.
- While credit cards are accepted at some stores, it’s a good idea to bring some cash in small denominations.
How to Get There
Numerous public buses stop at Namdaemun Market, but the easiest and most convenient way to get there is by taking the Seoul subway to Hoehyeon Station (Line 4) and leaving through Exit 5.
When to Get There
Namdaemun Market is almost always open. Most of the market activity takes place during daytime hours, though wholesalers stay open through the night. Some vendors close Sunday.
Restaurant Alley
Although most visitors come to Namdaemun Market to shop, it’s also an excellent place to eat. Street food vendors sell a range of dishes; local favorites include dumpling soup, sujebi (shellfish soup), kalguksu noodles, bibimbap (Korean rice), and bindae duk (mung bean pancakes).
Address: 49-1 Namchang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 18
Myeongdong Shopping Street
Seoul’s answer to Fifth Avenue in New York, Myeongdong Shopping Street teems with affordable brand name shops and department stores selling all varieties of clothing, shoes, and accessories. This retail mecca stretches from Myeongdong Subway Station to the Lotte Department Store and encompasses many of the surrounding streets and alleyways as well. For shoppers who’ve worked up an appetite, the area’s restaurants specialize in Korean pork cutlet (dongaseu) and noodle soup (kalguksu).
The Basics
The daytime population of this commercial hub in the heart of Seoul swells to near 2 million people who come to shop, eat, work, and play. While many Seoul sightseeing tours include Myeongdong, you could easily dedicate an entire day to this vibrant neighborhood, either independently or with the help of a tour guide. Travelers in need of some retail therapy can opt for a shopping tour of the city, with time to browse in Myeongdong, Namdaemun Market, Gangnam, or Dongdaemun depending on the option chosen.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This street is a must-visit for shoppers and fashionistas.
- Lockers for storing purchases are available in Myeongdong Station.
- Most retailers in Myeongdong accept major credit cards, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash on you as well.
- If you’re making big purchases, ask for a tax-free receipt at checkout.
How to Get There
The most convenient way to get to Myeongdong Shopping Street is to take the subway to Euljiro 1-ga Station (Exits 5–7) or Myeongdong Station (Exits 5–8). Numerous buses also stop in the area at either the Lotte Department bus stop or Euljiro 1-ga Station.
When to Get There
Depending on the experience you’re looking for, Myeongdong is worth visiting before or after dark. At night, a street market takes over with bargain prices on clothes, accessories, and handbags. Try to avoid visiting during China’s Golden Week holiday in spring, as many Chinese tourists come to Seoul to shop during this time, and the street can get very crowded.
Things to Do Around Myeongdong
If you need a break from the shopping, there’s plenty more to do in the Myeongdong area. Visit the Myeongdong Cathedral; strike a pose at the 3D Black Art Museum; brush up on your civic trivia at the Korean Postage Stamp Museum or Bank of Korea Museum; take aim at the Korea Shooting Club; or laugh it up with some non-verbal comedy at the NANTA Theatre.
Address: Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Daily
From $ 54
Namsangol Hanok Village
This well-preserved village is home to five restored traditional Korean houses, as well as a quiet pond and a picturesque pavilion. Though some consider this destination a bit too touristy, others say the rebuilt homes from the Joseon Dynasty perfectly illustrate the daily lives of locals during ancient times.
Travelers can wander through the homes of both peasants and kings while they explore typical life. A traditional craftwork shop offers travelers the chance to pick up traditional games and historic replicas. On weekends visitors can take part in a traditional wedding ceremony and sometimes catch other performances, like kite flying and the five-colored experience that showcase local dance and culture.
Practical Info
The village is open from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. Wednesday through Monday. It is accessible via public transit using the Chungmuro Subway Station.
Address: 28, Toegye-ro 34-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Open from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. Wednesday through Monday
From $ 18
Lotte World
Easily accessible from Jamsil Station on the Seoul subway, this extraordinary recreational complex is the world’s largest indoor theme park, according to the Guinness Book of World Records.
The Lotte complex also includes an outdoor amusement park (Magic Island), folk museum, shopping centers, an artificial island within an artificial lake, and a luxury hotel (all linked by monorail), and it receives an average of eight million visitors a year.
Housed largely in glass to permit natural light, the complex offers country-themed districts, complete with full-scale parades, feature films, laser light shows, souvenir shops, terrifying rides, and an astonishing variety of international cuisine, snacks, and foodstuffs.
Among the most popular rides within the grounds are a Spanish pirate ship that swings a full 75 degrees, the so-called “Gyro Drop” and “Gyro Swing”, the latter of which replicates the sensation of being inside a hurricane. Also noteworthy is the “Flume Ride” which floats atop steep waves.
There is a skating rink complete with a snack bar, a sports shop, skate rental service, and a changing area. At the Folk Museum, cultural items are displayed that date back thousands of years, highlighting key moments in Korean history, as well as several miniature villages and a playground.
The Lotte complex also includes an outdoor amusement park (Magic Island), folk museum, shopping centers, an artificial island within an artificial lake, and a luxury hotel (all linked by monorail), and it receives an average of eight million visitors a year.
Housed largely in glass to permit natural light, the complex offers country-themed districts, complete with full-scale parades, feature films, laser light shows, souvenir shops, terrifying rides, and an astonishing variety of international cuisine, snacks, and foodstuffs.
Among the most popular rides within the grounds are a Spanish pirate ship that swings a full 75 degrees, the so-called “Gyro Drop” and “Gyro Swing”, the latter of which replicates the sensation of being inside a hurricane. Also noteworthy is the “Flume Ride” which floats atop steep waves.
There is a skating rink complete with a snack bar, a sports shop, skate rental service, and a changing area. At the Folk Museum, cultural items are displayed that date back thousands of years, highlighting key moments in Korean history, as well as several miniature villages and a playground.
Address: Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Lotte World is open daily from 9:30am to 10pm (11pm on weekends).
Admission: Admission: 26,000 won for adults / 20,000 won for children, discounts for everyone after 4pm
From $ 12
Korean Folk Village
Travelers to Korean Folk Village can wander some 250 acres of natural South Korean landscape dotted with 260 replica houses from the Joseon Dynasty. A trip to this remote destination offers visitors a colorful and lively look into the nation’s rich history, unique culture and lengthy past.
Learn more about local foods and traditional clothing while exploring the workshops and open-air attractions at Korean Folk Village. Then stop by the Folk Museum and Art Museum where guests get an up-close and informative look at the handmade baskets, brass wares, musical instruments and embroidery the Joseon Dynasty was known for. Daily traditional dance and live music performances are worth checking out and rustic scenery is worthy of a photo album all its own.
Practical Info
Korean Folk Village is open daily from 9:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. from March through April and from October through November. From May to September travelers can visit from 9:30 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. From December through February Korean Folk Village is open from 9:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Weekend hours vary. Entry fee for adults is 15,000 won. Youth and children can enter for 12,000 or 10,000 won.
Address: Korean Folk Village, South Korea
Hours: Daily March-April & Oct-Nov 9:30am-6pm, May-Sep 9:30am-6:30pm, Dec-Feb 9:30am-5:30pm
Admission: Adult: 15,000 won, Youth: 12,000 won, Child: 10,000 won
From $ 11