Choose from 99 Fun Things to Do in South Korea
ShowingFilter 1-20 of 99 listings.
63 City
63 City, sometimes also called “the golden tower” or 63 Building, is one of the tallest buildings in Korea and sits on Yeouido Island. One part of the name is true - due to the gold tinted glass, the whole structure tends to glitter in a beautiful rose gold hue during the day. However, the skyscraper only has 60 floors above ground, the remaining three are an underground restricted area. 63 City is anything but an ordinary skyscraper though. Apart from the dazzling views that can be had from the observation deck on the 60th floor, locals and tourists alike will find the inside of the building filled to the brim by a big selection of fun activities and attractions.
There are several main attractions inside the buildings, including Sea World, a wax museum, an IMAX theatre, Sky Art and the Fanta-Stick performance. The latter is a Korean music show that takes elements of traditional Korean performance arts and gives them a modern twist. The result is a fantasy-like percussion performance mixing martial arts, break dancing and Samullori with heavy drums. At Sea World, visitors can discover over 400 marine species, including adorable African penguins and electric eels able to power lights. Sky Art is an art gallery that was named highest art gallery in the world and a place where visitors can enjoy various exhibitions with a great view. The wax museum isn’t your ordinary wax museum either and instead, the venue hands out costumes so you can pose with your favorite celebrities adequately dressed. It also hosts a terrifying chamber of horror. The final attraction promises “walking on a cloud” and a top class dining experience in Korea’s highest restaurant.
Practical Info
63 City is located in Yeouido right by the Hangang River. To get there, take subway line 5 to Yeouinaru station and take exit number 4. From there you can either walk the remaining 15 minutes or take one of the free shuttle busses.
Address: 50 63-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 9
Cheongwadae Sarangchae
Cheongwadae Sarangchae is a two-story historical museum where visitors can learn about Korea’s political and cultural history. Originally the home of the public information hall of Cheongwadae and known as Hyojadong Sarangbang, the building underwent extensive renovations and reopened under its present name in January 2010.
On the first floor, the Korea Exhibition Center features displays depicting the country’s culture and tourism, including significant historical figures as well as its UNESCO World Heritage sites. There’s also a cafe and a gift shop on this level. The second floor is home to the Presidential Center, with photographs depicting scenes from Korea’s major political events from the past 60 years, along with information on past and present political leaders.
Practical Info
Cheongwadae Sarangchae can be reached via Seoul Subway Line 3; alight at Gyeongbokgung Station using exit 4, head towards Gyeongbokgung Palace, and turn left onto Hyojaro. Cheongwadae Sarangchae is around 800 meters along the road, just across from the fountain.
Address: 45, Hyojaro 13gil, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Opening hours: 9am6pm, Tuesday to Sunday
From $ 28
Bulguksa Temple
Just outside Gyeongju, South Korea’s Bulguksa Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s known for its beautiful gardens and pagodas. Completed in 774, during the golden age of Silla architecture, the huge temple complex is said to have been commissioned by chief minister Kim Daeseong as a way of pacifying the spirits of his parents.
Bulguksa Temple is home to seven national treasures, including the original Dabotap and Seokgatap stone pagodas and bronze Buddhas.
Korean for Temple of the Buddha Land, Bulguksa still acts as a working temple for the 11th district of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, and you’re likely to see monks performing ceremonies on your visit. Look out for the patio covered with stone stacks, too. It’s said that if you can add a stone to the top of a stack without it toppling over, your wish will come true. Keep a lookout for the local chipmunks who hang out on the patio, too.
The temple’s ornamental gardens are especially beautiful in spring, when the cherry blossoms peak. And as you walk through the gardens from Bulguksa’s parking lot to the temple, you’ll see vendors offering all sorts of foods, from silkworm larvae to candyfloss.
Practical Info
Bulguksa Temple is open daily, and entry costs 4,000 W for adults. To get to the temple from Gyeongju, take the 40-minute bus ride on no 10 or 11 from either the intercity or express bus terminals, or the train station. You can also hail a taxi, which’ll take around 20-25 minutes to reach Bulguksa from downtown.
Address: 15-1 Jinhyeon-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
Hours: Daily 7am-6pm
Admission: Adults 4,000 W, Youth 3,000 W, Children 2,000 W, Children Under 7 Free
From $ 62
Blue House (Cheong Wa Dae)
Known for the blue tiles that cover its roof, Seoul’s Blue House (Cheong Wa Dae or Cheongwadae) sits at the foot of Mount Bugaksan and is the official residence of South Korea’s president. The house was built in the traditional Korean architectural style within a Joseon Dynasty–era royal garden.
The Basics
The Blue House is an ideal spot to appreciate traditional Korean architecture and learn about South Korea’s tumultuous history. Seoul sightseeing tours often stop by the Blue House, allowing you to see the structure from the outside. City tours typically visit the Blue House along with other local attractions such as Gyeonbokgung Palace, Jogyesa Temple, and the National Folk Museum. Small-group and private tour options are available, and it’s also possible to visit the Blue House independently on a hop-on, hop-off tour.
To see the interior, a formal application must be sent via mail or email at least three weeks in advance. If you gain permission, you can stroll through the gardens, visit the main building where the president lives and conducts business, and see the Main Office Hall (Bon-gwan), the State Reception House (Yeongbin-gwan), the Press Hall (Chunchu-gwan), and the Secretariat Buildings.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Blue House is a must-see for history buffs and architecture lovers.
- Bring a camera to capture the Blue House with Bugaksan Mountain in the background.
- Tours of the grounds must be approved by a formal application sent via mail or email; applications must be submitted at least three weeks in advance.
- A passport is required to tour the grounds.
How to Get There
The Blue House is located in the Jongno-gu area of Seoul, adjacent to the Gyeongbokgung Palace grounds. It is accessible by guided tour, taxi, and public transportation. To get there on the subway, take Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station and leave via Exit 5. Then, head to Gwanghwamun Gate parking lot (east gate).
When to Get There
You can see the house’s exterior year-round. Guided tours of the grounds take place Tuesday through Friday and every second and fourth Saturday of the month. Visit at 10am on Saturdays to see the Military Honor Guard and Band perform outside the Blue House. The presidential residence is closed on Saturday, Monday, and national holidays.
The Blue House’s Auspicious Location
The Blue House was deliberately located at the foot of Mount Bukhansan. It is flanked by two other mountains—Naksan (symbolizing the azure dragon), and Inwangsan (symbolizing the white tiger). To the south is Namsan, said to be the capital’s protective mountain, while the Cheonggyecheon stream and Han River flow in front of the building.
Address: 1 Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 18
Bosingak Belfry
The Bosingak Belfry refers to an ornate pavilion in central Seoul that houses a bell with a history that dates all the way back to the 14th century. Located opposite the modern Jongno Tower, the original bell was constructed in 1396 and used during the Joseon Dynasty to keep time and act as an alarm to alert people of fires and other emergencies.
Back then, the bell rang out 33 times (for the 33 Buddhist heavens) every morning at 4am, and the gates to the city were opened for the day. Each night at 10pm, they rang out 28 times (representing the location of the stars of constellations), to signal the closure of the gates and the start of the nightly curfew.
The original bell melted in a fire and was replaced in 1468. For preservation purposes, this bell now sits in the gardens of the National Museum of Korea, and the current bell you can see today is a replacement made with contributions from the public that was mounted in the same spot in 1985.
In a ceremony that starts at 11am, the guardsmen who patrol the tower ring the bell 12 times at noon from Tuesday through Sunday. A small-group walking tour is a great way to visit Bosingak Belfry, allowing you to take in other attractions in Seoul, such as Gyeonghuigung Palace, Daehamun, Cheonggyecheon Plaza, and the various landmarks of Jongno.
Insider’s Tip: If you happen to be in Seoul over New Year’s Eve, head down to the Bosingak Belfry, where a huge event is organized and the bell is rung 33 times at midnight.
Practical Info
The Bosingak Belfry is located along Jongno, the major financial and cultural center of Seoul, and is easily walkable from Gwanghwamun Square. Alternatively, take subway Line 1 to Jonggak Station and use exit 4.
Address: 54 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: 24 hours
From $ 47
Cheonmachong
Capital of the Silla Dynasty for nearly a thousand years, one of Gyeongju’s most impressive remnants from the Silla Kingdom is its otherwordly royal burial grounds that are scattered around Daereungwon Tumuli Park in the historic center. The manicured park contains 23 grassy mounds where Silla royalty were buried over a millennium ago, along with all their earthly treasures.
Cheonmachong tumuli is the only royal burial ground in South Korea that is open to the public. Built in honor of an unknown king from the 5th century, head inside to see some of the 11,000 treasures which were discovered when the mound was excavated in 1974. Cheonmachong is Korean for Heavenly Horse, and the tomb gets its name from the first pre-Silla painting to be found in Korea -- a galloping white horse with wings on its feet, found in Cheonmachong during excavations.
Inside the tomb, you can see many of the ancient king’s treasures, from his gold crown, now a national treasure, to girdles decorated with jade, lavish swords, pottery, and gold rings for every one of the king’s fingers.
How were these surreal tumuli made? Servants of the Silla Dynasty would pile stones and dirt atop the king’s wooden coffin until a huge grass mound was created, over which grass would grow. A peaceful park to wander through, in the early evening, classical music plays from speakers dotted around the park.
Practical Info
Admission to Daereungwon Tumuli Park costs 1,500 W for adults. There is no extra fee to enter Cheonmachong tomb. The park is open in summer daily 9am - 6pm, and in winter daily from 9am - 5pm. Local buses 10, 11 or 70 will bring you to the park’s front entrance. No photos are allowed inside Cheonmachong tomb. Even though it may be tempting, it’s disrespectful to climb the tumuli.
Address: 53 Hwangnam-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
Hours: Summer 9am-6pm, Winter 9am-5pm
Admission: 1,500 W Park Entrance Fee
From $ 120
Changdeokgung Palace (Changdeok Palace)
The star of Seoul’s five Joseon Dynasty palaces, Changdeokgung Palace (Changdeok Palace) was built by King Taejong in 1405 and designed to blend harmoniously with its natural surroundings. Today, the palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and famous for its ornate royal residence buildings and extensive tree-filled gardens.
The Basics
As a well-preserved example of ancient Korean architecture, Changdeokgung Palace provides insight into the country’s history, culture, and values. The site can only be visted by guided tour—explore the complex, which was designed in accordance to Confucian pungsu principles; admire the colorful palace interior; and stroll past terraced lawns, flowering trees, and serene pavilions in the Huwon Secret Garden (separate ticket required).
Many city tours include a visit to Changdeokgung Palace, whether you want to explore Seoul on foot, by bike, or by bus. Some cultural tours include a stop at the palace along with historic sites such as Jongmyo Shrine, Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, or Gyeongbokgung Palace. Private and small-group tours are available for a personalized experience, and it’s also possible to visit the palace independently on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Changdeokgung Palace is a must-see for history buffs and culture lovers.
- Palace visits are by organized tour only, and separate tickets are required for the Huwon Secret Garden. Several English-language tour options are available throughout the day.
- Bring comfortable shoes for exploring the sprawling palace and gardens.
- Visitor facilities include onsite parking and restrooms.
- Wheelchair and stroller rentals are available.
How to Get There
Changdeokgung Palace is set in the Jongno-gu area of Seoul. It’s possible to get there via guided tour, taxi, or public transportation. To arrive by subway, take Line 3 to Anguk Station. From there, the palace is roughly five minutes away on foot.
When to Get There
The Korean palace is open year-round and closed Mondays. The secret garden is especially beautiful in fall, when the trees’ leaves turn shades of gold and red. In late June, the lotus pond is surrounded by colorful flowers.
The Pungsu-Jiri Principle of Korean Palaces
Like other Joseon palaces, a stream runs in front of and a mountain sits behind the buildings of Changdeokgung Palace for good pungsu-jiri—the Korean version of Chinese feng shui. This concept layers spiritual importance on the topography of land, water, and mountains, and has been an important aspect of Korean architecture for more than 1,000 years.
Address: South Korea
From $ 18
Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village is a lovely residential neighborhood located
between Gyeongbok and Changdeok Palaces, and is full of traditional hanok homes. It is a
place that perfectly embodies the heritage and culture of South Korea.
Famous for once being the residences of high-ranking government officials, the village is now a peaceful destination for visitors looking to taking a stroll through its comforting alleyways and calm, picturesque scenery. Boasting more than 600 years of history, the village reflects that of the tranquil views and nature of neo-Confucianism.
It currently houses a museum and various craft shops tucked away in its back alleys, built in a uniform way where gardens meeting on adjacent properties seem to make the whole idea of property go away. Located just at the mouth of the village, the Bukchon Traditional Culture Center is a great place to get the low-down on not only the village itself, but its history and artist integrity, providing audiovisual materials and a shop.
Just a few steps away, the charming neighborhood of Samcheong-dong is the perfect place to stroll through while enjoying its unique shops, galleries and cafes.
Famous for once being the residences of high-ranking government officials, the village is now a peaceful destination for visitors looking to taking a stroll through its comforting alleyways and calm, picturesque scenery. Boasting more than 600 years of history, the village reflects that of the tranquil views and nature of neo-Confucianism.
It currently houses a museum and various craft shops tucked away in its back alleys, built in a uniform way where gardens meeting on adjacent properties seem to make the whole idea of property go away. Located just at the mouth of the village, the Bukchon Traditional Culture Center is a great place to get the low-down on not only the village itself, but its history and artist integrity, providing audiovisual materials and a shop.
Just a few steps away, the charming neighborhood of Samcheong-dong is the perfect place to stroll through while enjoying its unique shops, galleries and cafes.
Practical Info
You can get to the village by taking subway line number 3 to
Anguk Station. Business hours for the cultural center exist throughout
the entire week, year-round, from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday through
Friday, and 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Saturday and Sunday. For a good place to
eat some local cuisine or just enjoy the atmosphere of a nice bar,
Samcheonggak offers both lunch and dinner menus from 12:00 until 10 pm.
The venue is also known for its performance hall where you can check out
some local acts.
Address: Seoul, South Korea
From $ 25
Camp Bonifas
Camp Bonifas is a Republic of Korea Army base located approximately 400 meters from the southern boundary of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating North Korea and South Korea. Although security is tight, and certain clearances and rules need to be strictly adhered to, it is possible to explore the military camp as part of an organized tour.
Camp Bonifas is home to the United Nations Command Security Battalion for the Joint Security Area (JSA), who are responsible for enforcing the 1953 armistice agreement between the two countries. Previously known as Camp Kitty Hawk, the base was renamed Camp Bonifas in 1986, 10 years after JSA officer Captain Arthur G. Bonifas was murdered by North Korean guards in an event known as the ‘Axe Murder Incident.’ 1st Lt. Mark T. Barrett (posthumously promoted to Captain) was also killed in the attack.
While touring the site, visitors will notice that Camp Bonifas is home to a one-hole golf course. Being surrounded on three sides by unexploded minefields, this is quite rightly referred to as the most dangerous golf course in the world.
Practical Info
Visitors will need their passports to enter the base, and official clearance is required ahead of time as part of an organized tour. Upon entering Camp Bonifas, guests board designated military buses and are assigned a military guide.
Address: Camp Bonifas, Paju, South Korea
Admission: Pricing is dependent on tour
From $ 90
Busan Tower
Busan Tower stands 120 m tall from the center of the city’s Yongdusan Park. Built in 1973 and modelled on Bulguksa Temple’s Dabotap Pagoda, the tower is a popular visit day and night. Head to the viewing deck via high-speed elevator, and enjoy panoramic views of Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city. Come at sunset to see the city lights start to twinkle under the night sky. On the lower deck of Busan Tower, there’s a souvenir shop and a cafe where you can while away the hours and enjoy the views of busy Busan port.
All loved up? Do as thousands of young Korean couples do, and tie a padlock with a note of your everlasting love to one of the fences by the tower. The mountain’s feng shui is said to bring you good luck.
Korean for Dragon Head Mountain because of its shape, Yongdusan Park hosts lots of lively cultural performances in summer and on weekends, and on Buddha’s Birthday, paper lamps shaped like tigers and dragons float throughout the park.
Practical Info
Busan Tower is open all year round, from 9am - 10pm. Entry costs 4,000 W for adults. Inside there is a World Musical Instruments Museum (10 - 6pm), which is open Tuesday - Sunday. To get to the park, take the subway to Nampo station (Exit 7). 20 meters away is the escalator that’ll take you up to the park. Tour buses can park right at the entrance to Busan Tower.
Address: Busan, South Korea
Admission: 4,000 W
From $ 100
Beomeosa Temple
Beomeosa Temple has a history that dates back to its founding in 678 CE by Buddhist monk Ui Sang, long before the original temple was destroyed during a Japanese invasion in the late 16th century. Perched on Geumjeongsan Mountain, the current temple complex was built in 1713 and includes a pagoda, several pavilions, three ornate gates and 11 hermitages.
While many visitors to the temple come to enjoy the verdant grounds for only a few hours, Beomeosa Temple is one of several in Korea that allows temple stays, where visitors both foreign and Korean can experience firsthand Korean Buddhist monastic life. The main temple stay program here includes meditation sessions, tea ceremonies, traditional monastic meals and several hands-on cultural clinics.
Practical Info
If possible, plan your visit to Beomeosa Temple during the month of May, when the wisteria surrounding the grounds are usually in full bloom.
Address: 546 Cheongnyong-dong, Geumjeong-gu, Busan, South Korea
Hours: Daily 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
From $ 100
Bongeunsa Temple
Situated in Seoul’s stylish Gangnam district, Bongeunsa Temple was founded in 794. Though it has been rebuilt many times, the temple remains an important center of Seon (Zen) Buddhism in South Korea. Panjeon, the oldest hall in the complex, is home to some 3,000 woodblocks carved with Buddhist scriptures and religious art.
The Basics
Though it’s not the most famous temple in Seoul—that distinction belongs to Jogyesa Temple—Bongeunsa Temple is featured on many tours of the city’s ritzy Gangnam district, along with Garosu-gil Road, COEX Mall, and the Seolleung and Jeongneung Royal Tombs. Visitors can also opt to book an overnight temple stay, which typically includes monastic meals, a traditional tea ceremony, a temple tour, and guided meditation. Overnight stays must be booked in advance.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The temple is worth a trip for spiritual travelers or those visiting the Gangnam District.
- Wear comfortable shoes that are suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Remember to dress respectfully, as the temple serves an active Buddhist community.
- Restrooms are available on the temple grounds.
How to Get There
Bongeunsa is centrally located in Samseong-dong, Gangnam, and is easily accessible either on foot or by public transportation. Take Seoul subway line 9 to Bongeunsa Temple Station and leave through Exit 1.
When to Get There
The temple is open daily year-round, but the best time to visit is Thursday when the complex hosts a Temple Life program for visitors. Visit during the Lotus Lantern Festival in April to see the temple fully decorated for the celebration of Buddha’s birthday.
Jeongdaebulsa, A Celebration of Scripture
Each September, Bongeunsa Temple plays host to a Buddhist ceremony called Jeongdaebulsa. Visitors to the temple complex during this single-day event can see monks marching through the grounds carrying scriptures on their heads and reciting the Buddhist rites.
Address: Seoul, South Korea
From $ 81
Cheonggyecheon
Set 16 feet (5 meters) below street level, the pedestrianized Cheonggyecheon stream runs east-west through the South Korean capital and ranks among the city’s best spots for walking and people watching. The 3.6-mile (5.8-kilometer) route through Seoul passes 22 bridges and several art installations and fountains (illuminated at night) along the way.
The Basics
It’s hard to miss Cheonggyecheon if you’re spending time in Seoul. It’s centrally located and close to numerous attractions, including Deoksugung, Changgyeonggung, and Changdeokgung Palaces; the Insa-dong neighborhood; and Seoul Plaza. Nighttime tours of Seoul often include a stroll along Cheonggyecheon for a chance to see the revitalized stream and cityscape illuminated in colorful lights. If you’re walking on your own, start near Cheonggye Plaza at the western end of the stream.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cheonggyecheon stream is a must-visit for active travelers, families, and those looking for an escape from the busy city streets.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Don’t forget to bring sun protection; depending on the time of day, there’s not always much shade along the walkways.
- Strollers are available for rent at the Chenggye Plaza Information Center.
How to Get There
Cheonggyecheon stream is easy to reach on the Seoul subway. Take line 5 to Gwanghwamun Station, or line 1 or 2 to City Hall Station to access Cheonggye Plaza, the western terminus of the stream.
When to Get There
The pathways lining the stream offer a convenient way to explore downtown Seoul on foot, and it’s best to take advantage of spring or autumn weather if you can. In summer, visit the stream in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat, and remember to bundle up in the winter months. Plan to visit at night to see the stream illuminated.
History of Cheonggyecheon
Until its restoration in 2005, Cheonggyecheon was just a neglected waterway hidden beneath an overpass. The regeneration project cost a total of 386 billion won (about 281 million US dollars). The nearby (and free) Cheonggyecheon Museum chronicles the history of the stream and the restoration process with a scale model and period photographs.
Address: Cheonggyecheon-ro, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 35
Banpo Bridge
Banpo Bridge passes over the Han River in downtown Seoul, connecting the Yongsan and Seocho neighborhoods. This girder bridge, completed in 1982, entered the Guinness Book of World Records in 2009 for installing the longest bridge fountain in the world, the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain, which puts on a nightly water-and-light show.
The Basics
Some 380 water jets on both sides of Banpo Bridge pump water from the Han River to a fountain display meant to resemble willow branches in the wind. When the sun goes down, the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain lights up, and 20-minute shows add music to the spectacle. Many guided nighttime tours via bus or bike, or on foot, include a stop at the bridge.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Banpo Bridge at night is a must-see for couples and families traveling with children.
- Dress in layers; the temperature can drop once the sun goes down.
- The best views of the fountain are from Banpo Hangang Park.
How to Get There
To get to Banpo Bridge, take Seoul Subway Line 3, 7, or 9 to the Express Bus Terminal Station and leave through Exit 8-1. It’s a short walk to the bridge from there.
When to Get There
The Banpo Bridge fountain only operates from April to October, and showtimes change from month to month. When the weather is nice, the park at the base of the bridge makes a pleasant spot for an evening picnic dinner while you wait for the fountains to come to life. Fountain shows are canceled in the event of rain.
Banpo Hangang Park
Situated on the southern side of the Han River at the end of Banpo Bridge, Banpo Hangang Park is not only a popular spot for watching the fountain show, but also it attracts visitors and locals to its playgrounds, sports facilities, and riverside café. Nearby Seoraeseom Island is a popular spot for picnics during the spring and summer months.
Address: Seobinggo-dong Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 40
Daemyung Vivaldi Park Ski World
Whether you’re a seasoned snow bunny or new to the slopes Daemyung Vivaldi Ski World has the perfect run for every level. Some 20,000 visitors a day ride the 10 lifts to zip down some 13 runs that make this frozen wonderland a destination for skiers and snowboarders.
This frozen chateau caters to more than just powder heads with a world-class resort at the bottom of the mountain complete with a well-stocked food court, plenty of shopping, spa services, karaoke and even a 3D cinema. Daemyung Vivaldi Park Ski World is the perfect place for outdoor adventurers to spend a day exploring the slopes. But travelers agree that there are enough activities and options to keep hot chocolate lovers happy indoors, too.
Practical Info
Daemyung Vivaldi Park Ski World is open daily from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. During peak season lifts and runs are open 24-hours. Ski lessons are available for all skill levels, including experts. The website is updated regularly with details about open runs and weather, too.
Address: 250-751 Seo-myeon, Gangwon, South Korea
Hours: Open daily from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. During peak season lifts and runs are open 24-hours.
From $ 85
COEX Aquarium
Set in the huge underground COEX Mall, the COEX Aquarium features nearly 100 exhibit tanks, spread across 16 themed zones, including the Deep Blue Sea Tunnel, Garden of Jellyfish, and Penguin’s Playground. The Marine Touch zone offers visitors of all ages the chance to make personal contact with baby sea creatures.
bThe COEX Aquarium is one of Seoul’s top wildlife attractions, as it is home to the most diverse aquarium collection in the country. Admission to the aquarium includes access to all 16 themed areas, as well as the Mermaid Performance in Deep Blue Square. Manatee, shark, seal, penguin, and otter feedings let visitors observe animal behavior and learn from aquarium keepers. Book tickets online to save time; online discounts may also be available.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The aquarium is a must-see for animal lovers and families traveling with kids.
- Give yourself about 90 minutes to explore the aquarium.
- The aquarium is wheelchair accessible, and strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent at the COEX Mall service counter.
How to Get There
The COEX Mall is located along subway line 2, underneath the COEX Convention and Exhibition Centre and near the greater South Korean World Trade Center complex. The easiest way to get there is to take the subway to Bongeunsa Station (line 9) or Samsung Station (line 2). Several public buses also stop nearby.
When to Get There
The COEX Aquarium is open year-round, with extended hours on Saturday and holidays. Because the aquarium is indoors and climate-controlled, it’s a good option for a hot summer afternoon or cold winter day. Plan to arrive early on a weekday to avoid crowds.
COEX Mall
Situated in the heart of Seoul’s Gangnam district, the COEX Mall underwent a large-scale renovation in 2014 to make it one of the largest shopping centers in Asia. Besides the aquarium, the mall is also home to SMTOWN and its hologram theater, a 17-screen cinema, and the Kimchi Museum.
Address: Seoul, South Korea
From $ 21
Andong Hahoe Folk Village
Hahoe means “enveloped by water,” the name given Andong Hahoe Folk
Village due to its position at the bend of the Nakdong River in the
foothills of the Hwasan Mountains. Far from the modern skyscrapers of
Seoul or Busan, the village offers visitors a glimpse at a Korea of old.
The
village, one of several that comprise the UNESCO-listed Historic
Villages of Korea, dates back to the 10th century, when members of the
Ryu clan began settling there; descendants of the clan still live in the
historic homes today. The village is unique in that commoners and the
upperclass coexisted there, and you’ll notice that the tile-roofed
houses of the elite toward the village center gradually give way to
thatched homes toward the outskirts.
Practical Info
To experience the village at its best, plan your visit for a weekday morning. On weekends, the village gets overrun with visitors and loses a bit of its charm.
Address: Andong Hahoe Folk Village, South Korea
Hours: Daily
From $ 130
Alive Museum Insadong
Be sure to pack a fully charged camera when visiting the Alive Museum in Seoul, since the collection of “trick art” will have you snapping away for hours at the creative optical illusions. Watch as a waterfall spills off the wall and Spiderman dangles from the ceiling, or stroll the red carpet with your favorite celebrities before playing tennis against Marilyn Monroe. Laugh as a giraffe tickles your hand with its tongue, or you gallop away on a horse, but not before climbing into a huge mug of beer and swimming inside the foam. This is definitely a place for fun-loving travelers, and the level of creativity inside this museum is as fascinating as the pieces themselves. This type of art, called object art, creates a 4D experience that lets you place yourself in the middle of the pictures, and is a fun excursion for travelers of all ages—particularly families and couples.
Insider Tip: Try to visit early in the morning before the museum is too crowded, so you don’t have to deal with as many people when trying to frame your photos.
Practical Info
The Alive Museum is located on the basement level of the Ssamziegil shopping complex in Insa-dong. It’s best accessed by riding the metro, and expect to spend between 1-2 hours.
Address: 12 Insadong, Jongno, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: 9am-10:30pm daily. Last admission is 9:30pm.
Admission: About $10 for adults and $8 for children
From $ 8
Andong Folk Museum
Andong Folk Museum is the perfect place to get acquainted with Andong’s ancient culture and traditions. Next door to Andong Folk Village, the museum contains over 3,700 artifacts. From traditional clothing to pottery dating back to the Joseon Dynasty (1392 - 1897), as you wander two floors of exhibits you’ll get to learn the traditions that Koreans go through from birth to childhood, in adulthood, and in death. From Korean child rearing to ancient cooking methods, wedding ceremonies to spiritual practices, there are lots of interesting facts to learn about. Did you know that, in the past, when pregnant Korean women wanted a boy they would pray to phallic rocks?
After seeing the indoor exhibits, head to the outdoor park to see the thatched-roof houses that were saved when nearby Andong Dam was erected in 1976. In the garden you’ll also get to see and learn about Korea’s giant totems, traditionally built with fierce faces to ward away evil spirits.
Practical Info
Admission to Andong Folk Museum is W 1,000. It is open from 9am to 6pm in March through October, and until 5pm from November to February. Signs are in English, as well as Korean, Japanese, and Chinese, and there’s an onsite snack bar, restaurant, and souvenir shop. To get to the museum from Andong Bus Terminal, take Bus 3, which runs every 20 minutes.
Address: 13, Minsokchon-gil, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do 760-360, South Korea
Hours: Nov-Feb 9am-5pm; March-Oct 9am-6pm
Admission: W 1,000
From $ 130
Bukhansan National Park
Bukhansan National Park is an urban oasis within the boundaries of Seoul. The park covers nearly 50 square miles (129 square kilometers) and contains hiking trails, sweeping mountaintop views, and streams rushing between gorges and granite peaks. Bukhansanseong Fortress and many Buddhist temples are also set here.
The Basics
Bukhansan National Park is a haven for hikers, climbers, and anyone looking to escape the bustle of South Korea’s capital city. Explore the park’s many hiking trails, climb Baegundae (Bukhansan’s highest peak), or visit the centuries-old Bukhansanseong Fortress.
Tours of Bukhansan National Park typically leave from Seoul and include a guided hike of Mt. Bukhan, plus a relaxing visit to a Korean-style spa or sauna (jjimjilbang). It’s also possible to visit the park on a contemporary art tour of Seoul, which usually includes a drive up Bukhansan Mountain to Gana Art Gallery.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bukhansan National Park is a must-see for nature lovers.
- Bring sun protection, plenty of water, and shoes suitable for hiking; much of the park is unsuitable for wheelchairs.
- The granite mountains can be slippery when wet; be careful if it has rained recently.
- Fans of rock climbing should check out Insubong peak, which has climbing routes for various skill levels.
How to Get There
Bukhansan National Park is located in northern Seoul and is easily accessible via public transportation. Take Seoul Subway Line 1 to Dobongsan Station right at the park.
When to Get There
The park is open year-round but is especially beautiful in fall when the plentiful maple trees’ leaves turn shades of gold and red. Opt for a weekday visit to avoid crowds.
Trails in Bukhansan National Park
The park’s most popular hiking routes include the trail to the 2,746-foot (837-meter) Baegundae peak, the Insu-bong trail, the Mt. Bukhan hike, and the 43-mile (70-kilometer) Dulle Gil Trail, which connects forested paths along foothills and local villages and contains 21 sections.
Address: Seoul, South Korea
From $ 55