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Things to Do in South Korea

Choose from 99 Fun Things to Do in South Korea

Hanji Theme Park

The Hanji Theme Park is located in Wonju, a city in South Korea’s Gangwon province and home to the annual Hanji Festival. Hanji (literally meaning ‘Korean paper’) is handmade from the inner bark of mulberry trees; it’s an ancient and complicated process, and therefore it’s said that the paper’s beauty and durability reflects the wisdom of all those who have the knowledge and patience to produce it. Hanji plays a special role in the history and culture of this region. It was once offered as homage to the king and even used to decorate the residences of Korea's Permanent Representative to the UN. The adaptability of hanji means it has many uses, and this is one of the things visitors learn during their visit to the theme park in Wonju.The Hanji Theme Park covers more than 26,000 squaremeters, with a twostory building at its center. This features a history room, an experience center, and a cafeteria on the first floor, with rooms for special exhibitions and seminars on its second level.

Practical Info

To reach the Hanji Theme Park, catch the No. 6 bus from Wonju Intercity Bus Terminal.

151, Hanjigongwongil, Wonju, Gangwon, South Korea

From $ 1,790

Han River

Spanning more than 310 miles (500 km) at about 0.62 miles (1 km) wide, the Han River (Hangang) is one of the most important rivers in South Korea. A full-on tourism destination, a warm or even brisk day affords you the chance to explore the well-groomed pedestrian walkways and bicycle paths. Take the kids around as visitors and locals alike enjoy the soothing ambiance of the river beside while jogging, fishing or just hanging out in one of its many cafes. If you are so inclined you can even jet ski.

The Hangang Park also has playgrounds if you just want to sit and relax while the kids use up some energy. Unfortunately there are no real restaurants, but it is still a great place to picnic with the family or a loved one. One of the more popular things to do here is to take a boat cruise for a relaxing ride around, or for special occasions, boats can be booked a night soiree.

There are several subway lines that will cross the river depending on where you are and where along the river you want to go. For a lovely nighttime stroll, get out at the Yeouinaru Subway and go directly to the Cascade shown on the directional map at the entrance of the park. Otherwise, if you are looking for a little exercise, you can rent bikes for the day for about $5 at a few easily accessible locations that also offer drop-off points.

Seoul, South Korea

From $ 55

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.

Seoul, South Korea

Lotte World is open daily from 9:30am to 10pm (11pm on weekends).

Admission: 26,000 won for adults / 20,000 won for children, discounts for everyone after 4pm

From $ 12

Hongdae

Always abuzz with energy and excitement, the district of Hongdae is known for its lively nightlife. Set on Seoul's western end near Hongik University, the area's quirky cafes, avant-garde art galleries, boutique shops and gourmet eateries make it a popular spot for young locals, not to mention a fascinating place for visitors.

Visitors can marvel at Hongdae's street art and performances, immerse themselves in the lively cafe culture or indulge in some retail therapy in the shopping district, perhaps making a stop at the Hongdae Beauty Shop, just as the locals do. A weekend market runs from March to November, with stalls springing up near the university's front gate and selling Korean handicrafts and other souvenirs throughout the afternoon until sunset. By night, Seoul's youth comes out in force to have a good time at the area's dozens of bars, taverns, karaoke dens and clubs.

Many walking, cycling and even kayaking tours (on the Han River) of Seoul begin and end at Hongdae Station. The family-friendly and hugely popular Trick Eye Museum is also located in the area.

Practical Info

The main access point to Hongdae is via Hongdae Station on subway lines 2 and 6. The area is also served by Hongik University Station and Sangsu Station.

Hongdae, Seoul, South Korea

From $ 25

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.

Bukhansan National Park, Seoul, South Korea

From $ 85

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.

747-18, Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Open Tue-Sun 10:30 am - 6:00 pm.

Permanent Exhibition: Adult 10,000won,Child/Senior 6,000won.

From $ 73

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.

Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Daily

From $ 54

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.

Korean Folk Village, South Korea

Daily March-April & Oct-Nov 9:30am-6pm, May-Sep 9:30am-6:30pm, Dec-Feb 9:30am-5:30pm

Adult: 15,000 won, Youth: 12,000 won, Child: 10,000 won

From $ 11

Joint Security Area (Panmunjom)

The Joint Security Area (JSA), aka Panmunjom, offers a look at the still simmering tensions that remain from the Korean War. The North and South technically remain at war, and the JSA, located deep within the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), is the only place where visitors can see the actual border and North Korean soldiers on the other side.

Within the town at the Military Armistice Commission (MAC) Conference Room, visitors can even cross the border without a visa. The blue building is still used for face-to-face negotiation between the two sides and is bisected by the border, meaning travelers can technically cross into North Korea by walking to the other side of the room.

The Basics

Due to the tension and security concerns involved, travelers are required to join an organized tour group in order to visit the truce village better known as the JSA. Day trips to the DMZ from Seoul include stops at the JSA, as well as other area attractions like Imjingak Park, the Freedom Bridge, the Third Infiltration Tunnel, Bridge of No Return, and an observation point where it’s possible to observe a North Korean village across the border through a telescope. Some tours also include a stop at the War Memorial of Korea in Seoul.

Things to Know Before You Go

The JSA is a must-see for history buffs and anyone looking for a better understanding of the Korean conflict.
All Panmunjom tour participants are required to carry a valid passport, be at least 10 years of age, and dress appropriately.
Refrain from wearing worn or faded jeans, exercise clothes, sleeveless shirts, collarless shirts, short skirts, shorts, tight fitting clothes, military clothes, or sandals.
A DMZ tour from Seoul can last six to nine hours, depending on the option chosen.
Many tours to the JSA require booking several days in advance.

How to Get There

Panmunjom sits less than 40 miles from Seoul. However, visits can only be made via organized tour groups, which include strict rules of conduct, dress codes, and restrictions on photography to avoid starting an incident with the North Korean soldiers.

When to Get There

The Joint Security Area is closed on Sundays, Mondays, and public holidays. While the site is open for tours throughout the year, expect temps in the 80s and high humidity in summer, and temperatures below freezing in the winter.

The Process of Entering the JSA

To enter the JSA, visitors must pass through multiple checkpoints before arriving at Camp Bonifas, escorted by either US or South Korean soldiers. Here, JSA tour participants receive a security and safety briefing and sign a release form in case something happens.

Kaesŏng, Seoul, South Korea

Varies

From $ 90

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.

Seorak-dong, Sokcho-si, Kangwon, South Korea

From $ 350

Imjingak Park

Imjingak Park is located within the demilitarized zone (DMZ) of North Korea and South Korea. The park is dedicated to the 10 million South Koreans who were separated from their families when the peninsula was divided, with various monuments, statues, and other points of interest throughout.

Imjingak Park is located on the banks of the Imjin River and is the furthest point north that South Koreans can freely travel. There’s a three-story observation deck that provides an aerial view of the Imjin River and beyond towards North Korea. The Freedom Bridge, connecting North and South, was where 13,000 POWs were exchanged in the 1950s and is located where the former railroad bridge once stood.

Mangbaedan Alter is where Koreans separated from their families in the North visit to perform ancestral rites by bowing their heads towards their hometowns on certain days of the year. The park also features a wall of commemorative ribbons, a number of souvenir shops, and a restaurant.

Practical Info

Only designated shuttle buses can enter this area, so it is recommended to book onto a DMZ tour to visit Imjingak Park.

Imjingak Park, DMZ Zone, Paju, South Korea

From $ 40

Jogyesa Temple

Established in 1910, Jogyesa Temple serves as the center of Zen Buddhism in South Korea. The temple complex is home to Daeungjeon, Seoul’s largest Buddhist shrine, as well as a garden area with a white pine tree that is more than 500 years old.

The Basics

Its location in the heart of Seoul makes Jogyesa Temple among the most visited in South Korea. Just about every sightseeing tour of the South Korean capital stops at the temple, along with other notable attractions like the Blue House, Insadong neighborhood, Bukchon Hanok Village, Myeongdong commercial district, and the Joseon Dynasty palaces of Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung.

Those who want to learn more about Korean Buddhism can participate in daytime Temple Life or overnight Temple Stay programs, which include activities like Zen meditation, a tea ceremony, and lessons in how to make lotus flowers or salt mandalas.

Things to Know Before You Go

Jogyesa Temple is a must-visit for spiritual travelers or those interested in the history and heritage of Korean Buddhism.
Remember to dress respectfully, as this is an active place of worship.
The temple and its main shrine (Daeungjeon) are wheelchair accessible.
Public restrooms are available on the temple grounds.

How to Get There

The temple’s central location makes it easy to reach via public transportation. The most convenient way to get there is to take the Seoul metro to Jonggak Station (Line 1), Anguk Station (Line 3), or Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5).

When to Get There

The temple grounds are open daily year-round, though Temple Stay programs are only available on select dates and must be booked in advance. One of the best times to visit the temple is during the annual festival celebrating Buddha’s birthday, when the grounds are decorated with hundreds of paper lanterns.

The Trees of Jogyesa Temple

While the temple buildings only date back to 1936, two landmarks on the Jogyesa Temple grounds are much older. Baeksong is a lacebark pine tree that is more than 500 years old. A Chinese scholar tree growing near the main hall is believed to be more than 450 years old; these trees are often found near temples and palaces, as they’re believed to transform energy from negative to positive.

55 Ujeongguk-ro, Seoul, South Korea

From $ 33

Haeundae Beach

A majority of the visitors to Busan come for its proximity to the sea, and the city’s stretch of sand known as Haeundae Beach is perhaps the most famous beach in South Korea. Nearly a mile long (1.5 km), the beach is made up of rough sand from shells eroded by the Chuncheon Stream.

Visitors looking to laze in the sand or partake in water sports can rent umbrellas, yellow inner tubes, surf boards and jet skis all along the beachfront. Besides the beach itself, this stretch of coastline is lined with some of Busan’s best international hotels, as well as an assortment of restaurants, shops and the Busan Aquarium.

Practical Info

Haeundae Beach is especially popular and crowded from late July to early August, when tourists from throughout Korea visit Busan for vacation.

Haeundae-gu, Busan, South Korea

From $ 11

Hwaseong Fortress

This UNESCO World Heritage site was built between 1794 and 1796 as an homage to the remains of Prince Sado, who was murdered by his father after failing to carrying out his own suicide. Its unique architecture incorporates elements from China and Korea and took more than 700,000 man-hours to build.

Today, travelers can explore the impressive grounds that lie beyond a 3.5-mile wall originally erected to protect the fortress. Four main gates—Janganmun to the north, Hwaseomun to the west, Paldalmun to the south and Changnyongmun to the east once served as an entry into the fortress, but today modern roads and sturdy bridges provide the main means of connecting travelers from the outside world to the inner workings of Hwaseong. Visitors should check out some of the 48 structures dotting the wall, including several old-world watchtowers with three-story wooden pavilions that were once used as enemy lookouts.

Practical Info

The fortress is located 30 kilometers south of Seoul and is open in the summer season from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. daily and during the winter from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Admission is 1,000 won for adults, 700 won for youth and 500 won for children. Group rates are available at a discounted fee.

11, Haenggung-ro, Paldal-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea

Summer: 9am-6pm Winter: 9am-5pm

Adult: 1,000 WON, Youth: 700 WON, Child: 500 WON

From $ 54

Haeinsa Temple

Founded in 802, UNESCO-listed Haeinsa Temple famously houses the Tripitaka Koreana, one of the world’s most complete collections of Buddhist texts and a Korean national treasure. These 81,000 sacred religious works were engraved on wooden blocks between 1237 and 1248.

The buildings designed to house the Tripitaka Koreana date back to the 15th century and are considered themselves a work of art, and the temple ranks among Korea’s most beautiful. Located within the forests of Gayasan National Park, the Haeinsa grounds harmonize with the natural surroundings to create a serene temple experience.

Like many of South Korea’s temples, Haeinsa Temple welcomes visitors to its stay program – a two-day, one-night glimpse into what life is like for monks at the temple. A typical itinerary includes meditation sessions, lectures on temple etiquette and a chance to chat with the monks over tea or while strolling the grounds.

Practical Info

The Haeinsa Temple overnight program usually takes place on Saturday nights. It’s a good idea to reserve your spot ahead of time.

416-3, Sirang-ri, Gijang-eup, Gijang-gun, Busan, South Korea

Daily

From $ 130

Junam Wetlands Park

Two hours west of Busan near Changwon City lies 705 acres (285 hectares) of natural habitat known as Junam Wetlands Park. Bird watchers from around the globe visit the park, Korea’s largest migratory bird habitat, to witness the spectacle of anywhere from 10,000 to 20,000 winter birds – white-naped crane, spoonbill, swans, geese and mallards among them – who fly into the park daily. In the summer some 5,000 migratory egrets, herons, orioles and warblers join the park’s permanent residents, including ducks, pheasants and skylarks.

Much of the park is accessible via a series of elevated wooden boardwalks with pullouts for scenic views and bird blinds where you can observe the birds more easily without startling them. While October to April is prime birdwatching season, there’s something to see no matter the season.

Practical Info

If your time in Busan is limited, it’s possible to combine your visits to the Junam Wetlands Park and Haeinsa Temple into a single day trip.

Junam Wetlands Park, Changwon, South Korea

Daily

From $ 130

Jongmyo

Seoul’s Jongmyo Shrine, one of the most important cultural sites in the country, originally served as the ancestral shrine for Joseon Dynasty kings. Built between 1335 and 1408 by Lee Seong Gye, the first king of the Joseon Dynasty, Jongmyo was registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 1995 based on its well-preserved and authentic Confucian architecture.

The shrine is divided into 19 rooms, each dedicated to a different Joseon king and has existed as is since the 1500s. On the first Sunday of May, Jongmyo hosts a memorial service called Jongmyo Jaery, a rite lasting around six hours and thought to be the oldest ceremony in the world. Attending the ceremony allows you to witness songs and dances dating back more than 500 years. No matter when you come, touring the world’s oldest Confucian sanctuary offers insight not only into Korean history, but into Confucianism as well.

South Korea

From $ 43

Insadong

Insadong is Seoul’s cultural and artistic hub—the place to shop for local crafts, visit a traditional Korean tea shop, or catch an impromptu street performance. The neighborhood, located in the Jongno-gu district, offers one of the largest antiques and craft markets in the country, with many shops and cafés housed in historic buildings.

The Basics

Insadong is one of the Korean capital’s most popular neighborhoods. Locals and foreign visitors alike come here for its shopping, art scene, and traditional Korean teahouses. Most sightseeing tours of Seoul make a stop in this neighborhood, along with nearby Changdeokgung Palace. Insadong is also one of 22 stops on the Seoul hop-on hop-off bus.

Things to Know Before You Go

Insadong is a must-see for art lovers, shoppers, and first-time visitors to Seoul.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces; some of the streets are cobbled.
Come hungry; Insadong has some of the best street food in Seoul.
Combine your visit to Insadong with a stop at either Gyeongbokgung or Changdeokgung Palace; both are nearby.

How to Get There

Insadong is centrally located and easy to reach by taking one of several public bus lines, or by riding the metro to Anguk Station (Line 3) or Jonggak Station (Line 1).

When to Get There

Insadong comes alive on the weekends, when the main street is blocked off to vehicle traffic and the pedestrian area fills with vendors, fortune tellers, and buskers making the most of the weekend crowds. Many of Insadong’s shops and galleries are closed Monday.

What to Buy in Insadong

The markets and shops of Insadong are some of the best places in the city to pick up gifts and souvenirs to take back home. Favorites include traditional Korean masks, decorated chopstick sets, calligraphy scrolls, handmade paper and stationary, or personalized stamps with your name in Korean letters.

South Korea

From $ 18

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.

Seoul, South Korea

From $ 35

Jagalchi Fish Market

South Korea has become famous among travelers for its freshly caught seafood, and you’d be hard pressed to find a better place to sample it than at the Jagalchi Fish Market in Busan. The largest seafood market in the country, Jagalchi is unique in that its run largely by women who are known as Jagalchi Ajumma. This tradition dates back to the Korean War, when many of the men were off fighting and their wives took over the family businesses.

Walking through the market is like visiting an exotic aquarium, as many of the wares are kept live in tanks to maximize their freshness. You’ll find nearly any type of seafood you could want, including more varieties of shellfish than you knew existed. The market also houses a collection

of seafood restaurants where you can bring your purchases to have them cooked up and served to you on the spot.

Practical Info

If you want to see the market at its most active, come early in the morning or in the late afternoon hours.

Nampo-dong, Jung-gu, Busan, South Korea

Daily 5 a.m.-10 p.m. Closed last Tuesday of every month

From $ 90