Choose from 99 Fun Things to Do in South Korea
ShowingFilter 21-40 of 99 listings.
DMZ
Nowhere is the tension between North and South Korea more palpable than in the no-man's-land known as the Korean Demilitarized Zone, or DMZ. As a divided nation, only 2.5 miles (4 km) separate the North from the South at what is the most heavily armed border on earth. The 150-mile (241-km) zone has served as a buffer since the 1953 cease-fire agreement between the United Nations and North Korea that put the Korean War on hold.
The Basics
Even with its past, the area is quite safe for travelers and is one of the most fascinating day trip options from Seoul. The DMZ can only be visited as part of an organized, guided tour, during which travelers get the chance to see the Joint Security Area (JSA), also known as Panmunjom, where the North and South met for peace talks during the war. Visitors can also see both North Korean and South Korean soldiers each guarding their respective sides of the DMZ. Other common stops on the tour include Imjingak Park, the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, Freedom Bridge, and the Dora Observatory, where it's possible to look across the border into North Korea.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The DMZ is a must-see for history buffs.
- Choose a full- or half-day tour, lasting between 6 and 10 hours.
- The DMZ can only be visited on a guided tour; no independent visits are permitted.
- Don't forget your passport, as you'll need it for security check.
- Dress conservatively and avoid wearing any "commercial" military clothing.
How to Get to the DMZ
Travelers wanting to go to the DMZ must visit with a guide, and tours need to be booked at least a few days ahead of time for security reasons. Tours typically include pickup and drop-off from either your hotel in Seoul or a central meeting point, so there's no hassle with transportation to and from the various points of interest.
When to Get There
Tours to the DMZ can be canceled on short notice, so it's a good idea to book for your first full day in Seoul so you have time to reschedule as needed. For the best weather, plan to visit in spring or fall. Expect high humidity and more frequent rainfall during the summer months, and dress for chilly weather in winter—temperatures tend to hover in the 20s and 30s F.
Dress to Impress at the DMZ
The DMZ has a strictly enforced dress code, partly because North Korean soldiers have been known to take photos of poorly dressed tourists to use in propaganda "proving" that other nations are too poor to afford proper clothing. Leave the ripped jeans, sandals, and halter tops at the hotel.
Address: South Korea
From $ 40
Dora Observatory
Located at the top of Mt Dora on the South Korean side of the 38th parallel, the Dora Observatory sits as close to North Korea as one can get from the south. Looking out over the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the observatory is close to the huge Third Tunnel, which was originally created by the North Koreans with the intention to use it as a secret pathway to invade South Korea if war ever broke out again.
Because the area is restricted, the Dora Observatory can only be visited via the DMZ Peace and Security Tourist Program. Once at the observatory, binoculars can be rented, but photography is restricted and banned beyond a certain point.
Practical Info
The Dora Observatory is open from 10am until 5pm Tuesday to Sunday. All visitors must show photographic identification at the checkpoint just beyond the Unification Bridge.
Address: 310 Je3(sam) ttanggul-ro, Jangdan-myeon, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Hours: Tue-Sun 10am-5pm, Closed Mon
Admission: 500 won; prices vary
From $ 40
Gyeongbokgung Palace
The royal palace grounds stretch for 100 acres (40.5 hectares) and offer a number of sights to see, including the Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, Hyangwonjeong Pond, and the National Folk Museum of Korea, which features more than 98,000 artifacts that detail Korean history and culture. Other highlights are the Third Inner Gate (Geunjeongmun), the Throne Hall (Geunjeongjeon), the Executive Office (Sajeongjeon), and, of course, the king's and queen's quarters. If you can time your visit right, you'll get to see the twice-daily royal guard-changing ceremony at Gwanghwamun Gate, the imposing main gate that separates the palace from one of the busiest parts of the city. Get ready to see full Joseon-era regalia in all its glory.
A stop at Gyeongbokgung Palace is included in most of Seoul city tours and on just about every royalty-themed tour of Seoul. Visit on a bus or walking tour that includes entry and you can explore all parts of the complex while also stopping at other cultural sites such as Jogyesa Temple, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Namsangol Hanok Village.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the complex's vast grounds.
- Some areas of the palace complex offer limited access for wheelchairs.
- Last admission is offered one hour before closing. The palace is closed on Tuesdays.
- Restrooms are available onsite.
- Pets are not allowed at the palace.
How to Get There
The closest metro station is the aptly named Gyeongbokgung Station (Seoul Subway Line 3). Get out at Exit 5 and you'll emerge right at the palace grounds. A parking lot sits to the left of the palace.
When to Get There
Gyeongbokgung Palace is open from Wednesday to Monday year-round, and on weekdays, it’s often full of touring Korean schoolchildren. Fall is a popular time to visit thanks to the autumn foliage that turns a deep red, while springtime brings cherry blossoms. If you want to see Gyeongbokgung Palace at its quietest, come early in the morning. (The Korean palace complex opens at 9am throughout the year but has varying closing hours.) The site is huge, though, so you should be able to find some peace and quiet no matter the time of day.
Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Admission: Varies
From $ 7
Dongdaemun Market and Gate
Once the easternmost of four main gates to the capital city, Seoul, the Dongdaemun Gate functions today as a tourist attraction and an iconic beacon for shoppers seeking the wares available at the nearby market and shopping complexes.
There have been imposing structures serving as gates on the site as far back as 1396. The current structure was built by King Gojong in 1869. The gate and connecting city wall weren't built for ornamental purposes only, as the lowland site of the main palace wasn't easy to defend from invaders. This is not to say that the structure is anything less than handsome. Despite the varying hues of stone used during numerous renovations over the years, the gate's facade is imposing. Joseon Period Japsang statues of animals adorn the eaves in an attempt to ward off evil spirits. Whether they are effective or not is questionable, but their aesthetic value is considerable. Guided tours of the structure and surrounding area come highly recommended.
The aforementioned market and shopping complexes are booming destinations popular with both Koreans and tourists. Situated along the famous Cheonggyecheon Stream and the Hwanghakgyo Bridge, the market is home to stalls offering standard wares, kitschy souvenirs, traditional Korean goods, folk items, and a wide array of traditional Korean and fusion cuisine. Cross the main street to the Dongdaemun shopping complexes to go shopping for clothing, accessories, and shoes until the wee hours of the night.
A stimulating mix of old and new, the Dongdaemun Gate and accompanying market are definitely worth a late afternoon or early evening, whether you live in and around Seoul or are just passing through.
There have been imposing structures serving as gates on the site as far back as 1396. The current structure was built by King Gojong in 1869. The gate and connecting city wall weren't built for ornamental purposes only, as the lowland site of the main palace wasn't easy to defend from invaders. This is not to say that the structure is anything less than handsome. Despite the varying hues of stone used during numerous renovations over the years, the gate's facade is imposing. Joseon Period Japsang statues of animals adorn the eaves in an attempt to ward off evil spirits. Whether they are effective or not is questionable, but their aesthetic value is considerable. Guided tours of the structure and surrounding area come highly recommended.
The aforementioned market and shopping complexes are booming destinations popular with both Koreans and tourists. Situated along the famous Cheonggyecheon Stream and the Hwanghakgyo Bridge, the market is home to stalls offering standard wares, kitschy souvenirs, traditional Korean goods, folk items, and a wide array of traditional Korean and fusion cuisine. Cross the main street to the Dongdaemun shopping complexes to go shopping for clothing, accessories, and shoes until the wee hours of the night.
A stimulating mix of old and new, the Dongdaemun Gate and accompanying market are definitely worth a late afternoon or early evening, whether you live in and around Seoul or are just passing through.
Address: Seoul, South Korea
From $ 47
Gate Gwanghwamun
Originally built in 1395 by the first Joseon king, Gwanghwamun is the main gate to Seoul’s Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the five Joseon Dynasty palaces. After being destroyed twice by fire and war, the gate that stands today was rebuilt in 1968 using concrete and steel instead of the original granite.
The Basics
As one of Seoul’s most prominent landmarks, Gwanghwamun Gate is featured on most sightseeing tours of the city, along with Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Blue House, Insadong, Bukchon Hanok Village, Myeongdong, and Jogyesa Temple. Korean and foreign visitors alike come to Gwanghwamun Square to see the gate with Inwangsan Mountain in the backdrop, as well as the imposing statue of King Sejong the Great, inventor of the Hangul alphabet, seated on his throne.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Gwanghwamun is a must-see for history buffs, families, and first-time visitors.
- Both the gate and the changing of the guard are free, but Gyeongbokgung Palace charges an entrance fee.
- The gate and palace are wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available for rent.
How to Get There
The gate’s central location in the heart of Seoul makes it easy to reach via public transportation. The most convenient way to get there is to take the metro to City Hall Station (Lines 1 and 2), Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3), or Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5). Several public buses also stop nearby.
When to Get There
Plan your visit to Gwanghwamun to coincide with the changing of the guard, a ceremony that occurs hourly from midmorning until mid-afternoon. If you’re visiting during the summer, plan to visit early in the day to avoid the heat.
Gwanghwamun Gate and the Japanese Occupation
For many Koreans, Gwanghwamun represents a tragic chapter in Korean history. In 1926, during the Japanese occupation of South Korea, the gate was destroyed to make way for a Japanese government building. The gate was rebuilt in a different location in 1968, then moved to its original spot as part of a $24 million renovation in 2006.
Address: South Korea
From $ 18
Gangnam District
For better or worse, Korean rapper PSY's 2012 hit song "Gangnam Style" has drawn the world's attention to Seoul and the district of Gangnam. Long before the K-pop hit rocketed to the top of the charts, Gangnam was already one of Seoul's hippest neighborhoods—a spot in the southern part of the city where the young come to see and be seen.
The Basics
Gangnam bustles by day and after dark. Besides being one of Seoul’s biggest commercial districts, it’s also home to several top attractions, including the sprawling COEX Mall (home of the Kimchi Museum and COEX Aquarium) and Bongeunsa Temple. Once the sun goes down, Gangnam transforms into one of Seoul’s hottest nightlife spots, particularly around Gangnam Station and the posh clubs of Apgujeong.
Just about every K-pop and shopping tour of Seoul will stop in Gangnam, but those who want to learn more about Gangnam can join a guided walking tour of the neighborhood for a day of shopping and exploring top attractions, including the COEX Aquarium, Bongeunsa Temple, and the Seolleung and Jeongneung Royal Tombs.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Gangnam is a must-visit for shoppers and music lovers.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes; the neighborhood is quite large, so prepare to spend some time on your feet.
- Walking tours of Gangnam can last four to seven hours, depending on the activities.
How to Get There
The best way to reach Gangnam is to take the Seoul Subway to Gangnam Station (Line 2).
When to Get There
The best time to visit Gangnam depends on the experience you prefer. Shoppers should visit during the day when the boutiques and shops of COEX Mall are open for business. After the sun goes down, the neighborhood comes alive as a nightlife spot full of clubs and restaurants.
Samsung D’light
Samsung, the popular phone brand, is a Korean company, and the Gangnam District is home to a unique Samsung attraction. Samsung D’light is a museum and exhibition space where electronics aficionados can check out the latest Samsung technology and play around with the latest gadgets.
Address: Seoul, South Korea
From $ 54
Gyeonghuigung Palace (Gyeonghui Palace)
Overview
One of Seoul’s five Joseon Dynasty-era palaces, Gyeonghuigung Palace (Gyeonghui Palace) was built in 1623 by King Gwanghaegun. Portions of the structure were rebuilt after a 19th-century fire, and today, you can visit several reconstructed living and meeting halls. The Seoul Museum of History and SeMA Museum of Art are also located on site.
The Basics
Admire the ornately carved Heunghwamun Gate, see the king’s living quarters at Jajeongjeon Hall, and visit Taeryeongjeon Hall—the compound’s main reception area, where formal banquets and meetings were once held. For insight into South Korea’s storied past, stroll across Geumcheongyo Bridge to visit the site’s Seoul Museum of History.
Gyeonghuigung Palace is included as a stop on some Seoul walking tours, and it’s also possible to see the palace on a private city tour. To explore at your own pace, visit independently on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Gyeonghuigung Palace is a must-see for history buffs and culture lovers.
- Wear shoes suitable for walking through the palace grounds.
- Some structures may not be accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- Parking is available at the Seoul Museum of History.
How to Get There
Gyeonghuigung Palace is located in central Seoul, roughly 10 minutes by road from City Hall. Public transportation is a good way to travel in this Korean city—to get to the palace, take the subway to Seodaemun Station in the Jongno-gu District.
When to Get There
You can visit the palace year-round, as this historic site sees fewer crowds than Seoul’s larger Joseon palaces. Spring and fall are good times to visit, when the weather is typically sunny and mild.
What to See Near Gyeonghuigung Palace
You could easily spend your whole day in the Gyeonghuigung Palace area. The SeMA Gyeonghuigung Museum of Art—a branch of the Seoul Museum of Art—is set on the palace grounds along with the Seoul Museum of History, which explains the capital’s history and culture through various exhibits.
Address: 45 Saemunan-ro, Sajik-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 84
Gwangan Bridge
The cover star of just about every city tourism poster since it opened in 2003, Gwangan Bridge is the Golden Gate of Busan. Beautiful day or night, Gwangan Bridge is best viewed from popular Gwangalli Beach, where lots of families and couples come to enjoy the sea air and to watch Gwangan Bridge’s nightly light show, when colorful lights are set to the tune of famous songs like Offenbach’s Can-Can, or K-pop girl group Crayon Pop’s Pa Pa Pa.
South Korea’s second-longest suspension bridge, Gwangan Bridge links the ritzy Haeundae district with Suyeong. Also known as Diamond Bridge, another good spot to see the bridge’s pretty lights is from the astronomical observatory on Geumnyeonsan Mountain, and on the popular coastal walk around Dongbaek Island. This route will take you to ritzy Marine City, where you can see the bridge shimmer on the Pacific while enjoying a drink at one of the restaurants lining the water.
Come in October to see Busan International Fireworks Festival make full use of Gwangan Bridge as a backdrop.
Practical Info
Gwangan Bridge’s light shows run for five minutes, at 8 and 10 pm from Sunday to Thursday, and at 8, 9 and 10 pm from Friday to Saturday. To get to Gwangalli Beach, take subway line 2 to Gwangan Station (exit 3 or 5) and walk for 5 minutes. Dongbaek Island begins on the Westin Chosun end of Haeundae Beach, while a short taxi ride from Geumnyeonsan subway station will take you to the mountain of the same name.
Address: Busan, South Korea
From $ 65
Everland Resort
South Korea’s largest theme park is like the DisneyWorld of Asia, a massive complex filled with rides, food, fairy tales characters, animal shows and the country’s largest waterpark. One of the highlights of Everland is the T-Express, the first and largest wooden rollercoaster in South Korea. It’s also the sixth largest wooden coaster in the world with more than a mile of hair-raising drops, curves and climbs.
An African Safari bus at Everland takes visitors through an animal park filled with lions, giraffes and elephants, while the Caribbean Bay water park offers a beach-like experience, along with a wave pool and water slides of every shape and size. And Everland Speedway is South Korea's first racing track, holding occasional racing events and also offering visitors the unique opportunity to drive on the track.
Practical Info
Everland Resort sits less than an hour southeast of Seoul. Visitors can get there by public bus or join a group tour to the park. Everland Resort also offers accommodations in the Home Bridge section of the park, which has hotel rooms and cabins designed like an alpine village.
Address: 199 Everland-ro, Pogog-eup, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea, Yongin, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Daily, 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Admission: Adults 46,000 Won; Children 36,000 Won
From $ 52
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
Built during the Goryeo Dynasty in 1376, historic Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is one of only a few Korean temples on the coast, and it honors Haesu Gwaneum Daebul (Seawater Great Goddess Buddha), a goddess believed to live in the ocean where she rides atop a dragon.
Legends aside, the east-facing temple offers a spectacular view of the rising sun – a site that’s especially popular on the morning of the Lunar New Year when Buddhist devotees come to make a wish for a prosperous new year. At the heart of the temple sits a three-level pagoda with four lion statues that symbolize joy, sadness, happiness and anger.
Practical Info
The temple is free to enter and is open throughout the year, though one of the best times is from mid-April through May, when the cherry blossoms are peaking.
Address: 416-3, Sirang-ri, Gijang-eup, Gijang-gun, Busan, South Korea
Hours: Daily, year round
From $ 11
Gyeongju National Museum
Travelers can gain incredible insight into the history of this ancient city on a visit to Gyeongiu National Museum—one of Korea’s top attractions. Well-curated displays showcase Buddhist artwork, artifacts uncovered at Anpji Pond and items unearthed during incredible archeological digs. Visitors can wander halls full of ceremonial items from long lost dynasties, golden crowns, pottery and hand-made bells.
Most of the displays are well-marked with English descriptions and audio tours are available for visitors who prefer even more information. After learning about the rich history and traditions of Gyeongiu and the Shilla Kingdom, visitors can explore the outdoor gardens and relax in the shade of towering trees before making their way back into the city streets.
Practical Info
The museum is located at 186 Iljeong-ro in Gyeongju-si, near the east side of Wolseong-gongwon. It is open Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. ad Sundays from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. It is closed on Mondays. It is accessible via the 10 or 11 bus from the town Centre.
Address: 186 Iljeong-ro, Gyeongju-si, South Korea
Hours: Open Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. ad Sundays from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. It is closed on Mondays.
From $ 120
Garosu-gil
Garosu-gil, meaning “tree-lined street” in Korean, is a 700-meter-long street in the trendy Gangnam neighborhood of Seoul. Just like the name suggests, the street is lined with gingko trees, whose leaves offer shade in the summer and make for a colorful display in fall. Whether you are shopping for haute couture and international brands or hunting for unique pieces by local independent designers, the artfully built and landscaped fashion promenade is the place to be for fashionistas and up-and-coming artists. Shoppers are drawn into the chic stores with elaborately designed storefronts, many of which are an attraction of their own.
Seoul is a mecca for coffee lovers and along Garosu-gil, there are lots of little bakeries, coffee shops and bistros that serve beautifully arranged meals and drinks. One of them is the enchanting Café Oui, which is renowned the cozy interior and the cool coffee art they create. Another is the famous Garosu Mansion Café. Run by four interior designers, the place doesn’t only fascinate with vintage furniture but also with delicious homemade cookies. Apart from the many cafés and stores, Garosu-gil is also known for hosting lots of fusion restaurants where Asian meets European cuisine as well as a selection of art galleries, studios and ateliers.
Practical Info
Garosu-gil is a street located in the center of Seoul and runs from Sinsa Station to Hyeondae High School. To get to Garosu-gil, take subway line 3 to Sinsa Station, exit via gate number 8 and walk the remaining three blocks.
Address: Garosu-gil, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 12
Gana Art Gallery
The Gana Art Gallery is located in the residential area of Pyeongchang-dong, in the foothills of Mount Bukhansan. It’s the largest exhibition space in South Korea, featuring three halls showcasing over 400 exhibitions. The first exhibition hall features international works from throughout history, displaying many pieces by artists that are now deceased. The other two vast halls are used for temporary exhibitions, plus a range of plays, concerts, and other special events. There is also a restaurant, a shop, and a seminar room on-site, making the Gana Art Gallery a multi-functional cultural center.
Both the exterior and interior of the center blend a sleek, modern design alongside more natural styles. The building is the work of architect, Jean-Michel Wilmotte, who also designed Incheon International Airport.
Practical Info
The Gana Art Gallery is open Monday to Sunday, from 10am until 7pm. To reach the Kana Art Gallery by public transport from Seoul, take Subway Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung. Leave the station at exit 3 and take the 1020 or 1711 bus from the Gyeongbokgung Station bus stop nearby. Alight at Lotte Apartments and walk to the gallery from there.
Address: 97 Pyeongchang-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Mon-Sun 10am-7pm
From $ 73
Gongsanseong
Gongsanseong is a mountain fortress in South Korea that served as a royal palace and defensive fort during the Baekje period. This commanding stone structure is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers much to explore, along with some superb views over the town and the Geumgang River.
There are two ways to tour the fortress; one is to start from the parking lot, passing the west gate before following the road around, the other is to walk along the top of the castle via Sanseong Road. The latter route has many twists and turns and is a more challenging trek, but it also has the advantage of following alongside the river.
There are numerous pavilions scattered around the site that have been sympathetically reconstructed according to archeological evidence. A changing of the guards ceremony takes place at the main entrance between 11am and 4pm on weekends throughout April, May, June, September and October. Every evening the fortress is lit up by floodlights.
Practical Info
To reach Gongsanseong, take an intercity bus to Gongju Bus Terminal before connecting on one of the regular bus services from here to the Gongsanseong Fortress.
Address: 280 Ungjin-ro, Gongju, Chungcheong, South Korea, South Korea
Hours: Daily 9am-6pm (last admission: 5:30pm)
Admission: Adults: 1200 Won; Children: 600 Won
From $ 659
Deoksugung
Situated along an old stone road and tucked between a handful of western-style buildings, Deoksugung is the only traditional palace in Seoul’s bustling neighborhood of Jung-gu. Visitors who enter the grounds must cross a picturesque bridge where the king’s carriage once traveled thousands of years ago. Tourists can explore the traditional palace buildings that dot the grounds, as well as venture into the ornate gardens and the National Museum of Art. Free guided tours are available for those interested in learning more about the history of Deoksugung, but visitors say the exquisite detail of the buildings’ interiors and vast grounds are still impressive without the back story. The changing of the guards, which takes place daily, is one of the most popular attractions at Deoksugung.
Practical Info
Deoksugung is located at 99 Sejong-daero in Jung-gu, Seoul’s busiest downtown district. It is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. It is closed on Mondays.
Address: 99 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m.
Admission: Adults: ₩1000, Children: ₩500
From $ 18
Gamcheon Culture Village
Gamcheon Culture Village spills down a hillside just outside of Busan in a riot of colors. The village, with nicknames like “Santorini on the South Sea” and the “Lego Village,” started off as a relatively poor area until the Korean War, when refugees began setting up homes here. Many of these refugees were members of the Taegeukdo religious movement, a religion at the forefront of the Korean independence movement.
Today, few of the 10,000 residents are still believers, but it remains a popular destination for visitors who come to see the multicolored cubicle houses stacked one on top of the other up the hill. Wander through the narrow alleys and streets, and you’ll stumble across murals, art installations and old houses converted into galleries or cafes.
Practical Info
You can reach Gamcheon Culture Village by taking either Bus 2 or 2-2 from the stop in front of the hospital outside Toseong Station.
Address: Gamcheon-dong, Saha-gu, Busan, South Korea
From $ 36
Gukje Market (International Market)
During the 1950s, refugees of war-torn Korea began opening up small shops to try to earn a living. This modest collection of shops has transformed into what is now Gukje Market (International Market, or Kookjae Market), Busan’s largest traditional market with vendors selling practically everything under the sun – items both new and secondhand.
While Gukje Market is very much a place where local Koreans still shop, travelers will find plenty of interest as well, besides the atmospheric street market atmosphere. It’s a great place to find hanbok, the traditional Korean formalwear, small souvenirs, T-shirts and favorite Korean street snacks, all at bargain prices. Whether you’re looking for bargain clothes, vintage glasses, some new electronics, or dried seaweed, prices are cheap and bargaining is totally accepted. Korean culture is based around dignity and respect for one another, so do bargain with a smile and always be polite.
This is a good place to stop for a bite to eat too. If you’ve never slurped noodles from a stall in the middle of a street, here’s your chance. A maze of a market, don’t worry if you get lost. Just ask anyone for Jagalchi subway station, and they’ll help you out.
Practical Info
You can reach Gukje Market by way of Nampo-dong Station. Take exit #1. It is also a five-minute walk northeast from Jagalchi subway station, which is on line 1.
Address: Gukje Market, Busan, South Korea
Hours: Daily
From $ 68
Gwangjang Market
Gwangjang Market, Seoul’s first and oldest covered market, was originally the place to buy traditional Korean clothing items, such as hanbok. Though the market still specializes in textiles, it’s become one of Seoul’s biggest street food hot spots, where foodies can sample nearly any type of Korean cuisine under the same roof.
The Basics
Gwangjang Market ranks among the most popular for foodies. Some sightseeing tours of the city stop here, especially food-centric walking tours, where travelers can taste some of the market’s best bites. If you’re in the market for a tailored silk dress or set of high-quality bed sheets, head upstairs to the wholesale shops, where most anything can be custom-made at a fraction of the cost you’d pay in Seoul’s high-end shopping districts.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Gwangjang Market is a must-visit for foodies and fashionistas looking for custom-made clothes.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Many vendors will offer a discount if you pay in cash instead of using a credit card.
- The market is largely wheelchair-accessible, though not all food stalls offer accessible seating.
How to Get There
To get to Gwangjang Market, take the Seoul metro to either Jongno 5-ga Station (Line 1) or Euljiro 4-ga Station (Lines 2 and 5). Several buses also stop at the nearby Jongno 5-ga Station bus stop.
When to Get There
The market tends to be busy all day, Monday to Saturday, though it’s a bit quieter on weekdays. Most of the shops close on Sunday, but the food court remains open.
What to Eat at Gwangjang Market
In the food court, dozens of vendors pack tightly together, busily preparing quick meals for shoppers passing through. The variety is astounding, but bibimbap (a Korean rice dish with ground meat and vegetables), dumplings, and savory mung bean pancakes are always safe and tasty bets.
Address: 6-1 Yeji-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 52
Gyeongju
If you’re interested in exploring the dynamic and long reaching history of Korea, there’s no better place to start than the coastal region of Gyeongju, also one of Korea’s ancient capital cities. It’s known as “the museum without walls” because it’s one of the most culturally rich sites in the entire country, a historical hotspot packed with ancient tombs, temples, pagodas and palaces.
Around the time of Jesus, this city became the heart of the Shilla dynasty, which reigned here for 1,000 years as a cultural center of the Far East. The Cheomseongdae Observatory is the oldest existing observatory in the region, built by Queen Seonduk in 634, and the National Museum of Gyeongju is the best place to see artifacts recovered from myriad sites around the city, including the golden crown of Geumgwanchong and King Michu's golden sword. And as you explore Gyeongju, you may notice grassy hills, which are ancient burial mounds, such as that of King Wonseong, whose tomb is surrounded by carved stone artifacts.
Practical Info
Gyeongju sits in the southeast corner of the Korean Peninsula, about 170 miles from Seoul. The best way to get here from the capital is by train, which takes about two hours. Once in Gyeongju, rent a bicycle to leisurely explore the vast collection of historical sites.
Address: Gyeongju, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Daily
From $ 195
Dongbaek Island (Dongbaekseom)
Deongbeak Island (Dongbaekseom), considered one of Busan’s most scenic places, isn’t really an island at all. The former island, now connected to the Korean mainland by a land bridge made up of accumulated sediment, gets its name from the abundant dongbaek trees that live there.
Located within an easy walking distance of Haeundae Beach, the island park is crisscrossed by a series of boardwalks and trails, some winding along the rocky shore and others climbing through the verdant interior, perfect for a fresh air escape from the nearby city. Follow the boardwalk along the shore, and eventually you’ll come upon one of the island’s most famous landmarks, a statue of a mermaid sitting on a rock amid the crashing waves.
Practical Info
To get to Deongbaek Island, take the subway to Dongbaek Station and leave through exit 1. Admission to the island is free.
Address: Deongbaek Island, Busan, South Korea
Hours: Daily
From $ 90