Choose from 99 Fun Things to Do in South Korea
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Namsan Tower (N Seoul Tower)
Head to the top of Namsan Tower (N Seoul Tower) in hilly Namsan Park, the largest in Seoul, for some of the best panoramic views over the South Korean capital. The 777-foot (237-meter) tower offers three observation decks and half a dozen restaurants where you can soak in the views, day or night.
The Basics
As one of Seoul’s most enduring landmarks, Namsan Tower is featured on many sightseeing tours of the city, along with attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Blue House, Jogyesa Temple, and Namsangol Hanok Village. Access to the observation tower requires an admission ticket, though admission is free for diners at the n.GRILL restaurant, where advance reservations are recommended.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding park.
- Book your observatory entrance ticket online to avoid lines at the ticket office.
- Remember to pick up an audio guide in the observation area for commentary on attractions you can see through the windows.
- Both Namsan Tower and the cable car are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Cars are not allowed within Namsan Park, so to reach the tower you’ll have to walk up the hill or ride the cable car. The nearest subway station is in Myeongdong, a 10-minute walk from the cable car station. It’s also possible to ride the Namsan Sunhwan Shuttle Bus, which stops at several subway stations throughout Seoul.
When to Get There
Namsan Tower is open 365 days a year, with extended hours Saturday. Each restaurant has its own operating hours, so it’s a good idea to call ahead if you’re planning to eat. Though the views from the tower are excellent no matter when you visit, they’re particularly stunning at night when the city is illuminated.
Namsan Tower Love Locks
The tower has long been a popular date spot for Koreans, and you’ll notice the railings around the tower are covered in colorful padlocks. These locks are often decorated with names of couples who left them at the tower as a symbol of eternal love.
Address: Seoul, South Korea
Admission: Varies
From $ 6
Namdaemun Market
Whether you’re looking for street food, ginseng, jewelry, housewares, clothes, or souvenirs, you’ll find these (and just about everything else under the sun) in the stalls of Namdaemun Market. South Korea’s largest market is busy around the clock as locals and tourists rub elbows in search of the best deals.
The Basics
Namdaemun ranks among Seoul’s most popular shopping destinations. The market is often a stop on sightseeing tours of the city, but dedicated shopping tours dig deepest into the market, giving travelers local insight into how and where to find the best bargains. Foodies can treat themselves to a market tasting tour, to sample some of the best bites from among the market’s 10,000 stalls.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Namdaemun Market is a must-visit for shoppers, foodies, and first time visitors.
- Mild haggling is expected, so don’t feel that you must pay the initial asking price.
- It’s easy to get turned around in the market; join a guided tour to ensure you won’t get lost.
- While credit cards are accepted at some stores, it’s a good idea to bring some cash in small denominations.
How to Get There
Numerous public buses stop at Namdaemun Market, but the easiest and most convenient way to get there is by taking the Seoul subway to Hoehyeon Station (Line 4) and leaving through Exit 5.
When to Get There
Namdaemun Market is almost always open. Most of the market activity takes place during daytime hours, though wholesalers stay open through the night. Some vendors close Sunday.
Restaurant Alley
Although most visitors come to Namdaemun Market to shop, it’s also an excellent place to eat. Street food vendors sell a range of dishes; local favorites include dumpling soup, sujebi (shellfish soup), kalguksu noodles, bibimbap (Korean rice), and bindae duk (mung bean pancakes).
Address: 49-1 Namchang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 18
Seokguram Grotto
Known for being home to one of the finest Buddha shrines in the Asia, South Korea’s Seokguram Grotto looks out to the East Sea from Mount Tohamsan near Gyeongju. Commissioned in 742 AD by the Silla Kingdom’s chief minister, Kim Daeseong, it was built in honor of Daeseong’s parents from a past life.
If you’re feeling fit, one of the best ways to get to the UNESCO World Heritage Site is by hiking under the canopy of trees from Bulguksa Temple, past tumbling waterfalls and wildflowers, to the top of the mountain where Seokguram Grotto sits.
Pay the small entry fee and head inside, where the 3.5-meter tall granite Buddha sits on his lotus throne. Surrounded by panels of bodhisattvas and guardians, Buddha peacefully sits with his legs crossed in the bhumisparsha mudra position. The only structure to survive fully intact from the Silla era, look up at the ceiling -- it’s beautifully decorated with half moons and a lotus flower. For a truly special experience, come at dawn to see the sunrise over the East Sea in the distance.
Practical Info
Admission to Seokguram Grotto is 4,000 W for adults, and the site is open from November - January from 7am - 5pm, and from March - September from 6.30am - 6pm. From February - March, and in October, the shrine is open from 7am - 5.30pm. From Gyeongju, take bus 10 or 11 from either the bus terminals or the train station, and get off at Bulguksa. If you’d prefer not to hike from Bulguksa to Seokguram, hop on bus 12, which leaves at 40 minutes past every hour from the parking lot, then heads back to Bulguksa every hour on the hour from Seokguram’s parking lot. As protection, the grotto can only be viewed through a glass wall, and photography is not allowed at this sacred site.
Address: 999 Jinhyeon-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
Hours: Nov - Jan 7am-5pm, Mar - Sep 6:30am-6pm
Admission: Adults 4,000 W
From $ 120
Seoul City Hall
Towering over the former city hall building, Seoul's sleek, 13‐story City Hall, the current residence of city government, is an architectural wonder that only opened for business in 2012. A wander through the wave‐shaped building leads past a seven‐story vertical garden, down a spiral staircase and into the basement where an exhibition hall showcases Gungisi artifacts such as arrowheads unearthed during the construction of the new City Hall. Back on the first floor, an art installation representing modern and past Seoul, bubbles up along the building’s glass‐paned front. Several gift shops and cafés also pepper the property.
The building’s unusual shape, with geometric window panels and curvaceous front wall, was designed by architects and planners to reflect the Korean Hanok houses, and their traditional concepts of horizon and deep shadow. The older City Hall building is also worth a gander, and now houses the Seoul Metropolitan Public Library with more than 70,000 regional and global works. The oval‐shaped grassy plaza fronting the building is also a popular gathering space that hosts regular evening events in the summer and a skating rink in winter.
Practical Info
Seoul City Hall is a functioning government building, but visitors can wander through its basement, first, eighth and ninth floors between 7:30am and 6pm. on weekdays and from 9 a.m. til 6 p.m. on weekends and holidays. There is no admission, and a number of guided city tours incorporate stops. Subway lines 1 and 2 service the area and can be taken to City Hall, exit 5, in addition to a number of buses such as 172, 700, 101 and 405. Self‐guided city hall tour brochures are available within the building.
Address: 110 Sejong-daero, Taepyeongno 1, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: 7:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. on weekdays and from 9 a.m. til 6 p.m. on weekends and holidays.
From $ 33
SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium
The SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium is located in the Haeundae Beach area of Busan. With its variety of marine life and state-of-the-art facilities, it’s one of the top aquariums in the country, and a popular attraction among families. The aquarium is spread across three underground levels and also features an outdoor park, with a gift shop and several places to eat on its first level.
The SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium features more than 35,000 fish, algae, reptiles, and other marine animals. You can view the sea creatures in the building's main tank either through giant windows or from an 80-meter underwater tunnel – an incredibly popular area of the aquarium. Elsewhere, there are 40 exhibits to enjoy, featuring animals such as penguins, otters, and piranhas, plus there’s a touch tank for a close-up viewing of various species under the guidance of trained staff.
A trip to the SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium can be combined with visiting Busan’s other key attractions, including the Beomeosa Temple and Haeundae Beach. Most full-day tours will include lunch, entrance fees, and round-trip transportation.
Practical Info
If not arriving as part of an organized tour, you can reach The SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium via taxi, or by taking bus number 139 from Haeundae Station.
Did You Know? The aquarium offers a 4D movie theater experience, glass-bottom boat rides, and even shark diving. (These activities are all charged separately to the entrance fee.)
Address: 266 Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Busan, South Korea
Hours: 9am-9pm
Admission: Adult: 26,000 KRW / Child: 20,000 KRW
From $ 16
Seoraksan National Park
With its magnificent, towering hilltops and more than 2,000 species of animals, Seoraksan National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Protection site and ranks among the most beautiful parks on the Korean Peninsula. Well-marked trails lead past Buddhist temples as they wind through the picturesque landscape.
The Basics
This national park protects 154 square miles (398 square kilometers) of land, including South Korea’s third highest peak. Because of its proximity to Seoul, this park is popular with weekenders and day trippers from the capital. Many guided excursions include a hike to the summit of Mt. Seorak and a visit to Naksansa Temple, also located within the park. Some trips combine the national park with a trip to Nami Island or Sokcho City.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Seoraksan National Park is a must-visit for adventure travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Wear comfortable and sturdy hiking shoes.
- Don’t forget to bring sun protection and plenty of water.
- Day trips to the national park from Seoul last eight to 12 hours, depending on the activities that are included.
How to Get There
If you’re not exploring the area as part of a guided tour with included round-trip transportation, the easiest way to get to the park is to take an intercity express bus from the Seoul Express Bus Terminal, or from the Dong Seoul Bus Terminal, to Sokcho, and then change to bus No. 7 or 7-1.
When to Get There
Plan to visit the park on a weekday, because many Seoul residents flock to the park on weekends, and buses and hiking trails can be crowded. Though summer is the most popular season to visit, spring brings colorful wildflowers, autumn offers a show of bright foliage, and winter snows turn the park into a winter wonderland.
Seorak Sogongwon Cable Car
If you’re pressed for time (or simply don’t relish the climb), you can reach the top of Seoraksan Mountain by riding the Seorak Cable Car. From the top cable car station, it’s a 30-minute hike to Gwongeumseong, a lookout point affording panoramic views of the surrounding rocky scenery.
Address: Seoul, South Korea
Admission: Varies
From $ 50
Namsangol Hanok Village
This well-preserved village is home to five restored traditional Korean houses, as well as a quiet pond and a picturesque pavilion. Though some consider this destination a bit too touristy, others say the rebuilt homes from the Joseon Dynasty perfectly illustrate the daily lives of locals during ancient times.
Travelers can wander through the homes of both peasants and kings while they explore typical life. A traditional craftwork shop offers travelers the chance to pick up traditional games and historic replicas. On weekends visitors can take part in a traditional wedding ceremony and sometimes catch other performances, like kite flying and the five-colored experience that showcase local dance and culture.
Practical Info
The village is open from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. Wednesday through Monday. It is accessible via public transit using the Chungmuro Subway Station.
Address: 28, Toegye-ro 34-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Open from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. Wednesday through Monday
From $ 18
Namiseom (Nami) Island
This half-moon-shaped island in the southwest of Chuncheon served as a setting in the popular Korean TV drama Winter Sonata. Namiseom offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of Seoul with facilities for bike riding, ziplining, camping, and boating. The island’s redwoods, ginkgos, and pines offer a habitat for roaming deer and waterfowl.
The Basics
Thanks to its scenic beauty and cultural significance, Nami Island has become one of the most popular day trip destinations from Seoul. An entrance ticket to the island includes round-trip transportation on the ferry from Gapyeong Wharf.
Many day trips to the island also include a visit to Petite France, a cultural village that looks like it belongs in the Piedmont Alps. Tours might also include stops at the Garden of the Morning Calm or the Elysian Ski Resort, depending on the season.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Namiseom Island is a must-visit for couples and Korean pop culture enthusiasts.
- Allot about eight to 10 hours for a day trip to the island and other nearby attractions.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, and don’t forget sun protection, especially in the summer.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach the island is to take the train from Chuncheon to Gapyeong (about a 20-minute ride) and then walk to the wharf where you can catch a ferry to the island.
When to Get There
The island attracts visitors year-round, with each season having its own appeal. Spring brings cherry blossoms (typically during the month of April), and the island is lush and green during summer. It’s a popular place for leaf peeping come autumn, while couples come in winter to experience the snow-covered landscape as seen in Winter Sonata.
Top Photo Ops on Nami Island
Nami Island, which is perhaps best known for its tree-lined lanes, is undeniably photogenic. The Central Korean Pine Tree Lane, which leads through the center of the island, is a must-visit. In autumn, yellow-covered leaves make Ginkgo Tree Lane particularly scenic, while the towering redwoods of Metasequoia Lane, stunning throughout the year, are worth visiting. If you’re a fan of Korean dramas, be sure to visit the Winter Sonata Statue in Gongsaengwon Garden.
Address: Namiseom Island, South Korea
From $ 40
Seodaemun Prison History Hall
Constructed in 1908, Seodaemun Prison was used to house Korean patriots and activists who were tortured and executed here during the Japanese occupation from 1910 to 1945. The prison could hold up to 500 prisoners, but in fact up to 3500 were held here in squalid conditions at the height of the anti Japanese protests in 1919. The prison was also used by various postwar Korean dictators up until its closure in 1987.
The Seodaemun Prison History Hall opened in November 1998 to commemorate those who sacrificed their lives in the name of Korean independence. As well as the patriot memorial and the main exhibition hall, visitors can take a sombre journey through various prison cells, a watchtower, an execution room, a tunnel through which corpses were carried, plus the basement cell where the female prisoner, Yu Gwansun, was tortured and executed.
Exhibitions featuring recreations of torture scenes and photographs of the prison and the conditions the prisoners faced are on display, along with some video footage. The memorial outside the building lists the names of 90 Koreans known to have died at the prison, although it’s predicted that up to 600 others died here as a result of torture, execution, or squalid conditions.
Practical Info
Seodaemun Prison History Hall is located at Seodaemun Independence Park. It can be reached via Seoul Subway Line 3; alight at Dongnimmun Station and take exit 5 – it’s around a 10 -- minute walk from here. Numerous buses also serve Dongnimmun Station.
Address: 251, Tongilro, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: 9:30am-6pm March to October / 9:30am-5pm November to February
Admission: Adult: 3000 KRW / Youth: 1500 KRW / Child: 100 KRW
From $ 119
Paju Premium Outlets
The Paju Premium Outlets is a luxury shopping complex in Paju to the northwest of Seoul. This three-storey building is home to 220 outlet stores, with a mixture of international and designer brand names, plus local retailers.
The complex is known for its discounted products, with everything from designer clothing and accessories to homeware and gifts offered at a reduced cost – sometimes with up to 70% off the usual retail price. There is also a large food court on the top level, along with a number of restaurants and cafes scattered across the two remaining floors.
Practical Info
The Paju Premium Outlets is located at 200 Philseung-ro in Paju City. It’s open from Monday to Thursday from 10:30am to 8:30pm, and Friday to Sunday from 10:30am to 9pm. From May to October it’s open from 10:30am to 9pm every day.
Address: 200 Pilseung-ro, Tanhyeon-myeon, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Hours: Nov-Apr: Mon-Thur 10:30am-8:30pm, Fri-Sun 10:30am-9pm; May-Oct: Open Daily 10:30am-9pm
From $ 54
Petite France
Petite France is a French-style cultural village set in the middle of the Korean countryside. It features a cluster of 16 French-style buildings on the hillside. The village can accommodate up to 200 guests overnight, and features an array of other attractions so that visitors can experience French food, culture, and daily life.
Ideal for those interested in French literature and film, Petite France has a memorial hall dedicated to the author of the French novel, Le Petit Prince, as well as a gallery showcasing various paintings and sculptures of the French national symbol. It features a number of shops and other places to enjoy various types of performances, including Guignol – the traditional French hand puppet performance.
Petite France is also home to the Goseong Youth Training Center.
Practical Info
To reach Petite France by subway, alight at Cheongpyeong station on the Gyeongchun line. From there, head to Cheongpyeong Bus Terminal (10-minute walk) and catch the bus to Goseong-ri.
Address: 1063 Hoban-ro, Cheongpyeong, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: 9am-6pm
Admission: 8000won / Teens: 6000won / Children: 5000won
From $ 11
National Museum of Korea
Not only is the National Museum of Korea the best in the country, it’s also free. In a sweeping introduction to Korean art, culture and history, the museum houses more than 150,000 artifacts with around 11,000 on display, so you’ll have plenty to see, even if you’ve been to the museum before.
The three floors are divided into six total exhibit areas. On the first floor, you’ll find the Prehistory and Ancient History section and the Medieval and Early Modern History section, each displaying artifacts from the beginnings of Korean civilization through the Joseon Dynasty. The second floor houses the Calligraphy and Paintings section as well as an area designated for pieces donated by private collectors. The third floor contains a Sculptures and Crafts section and an Asian Arts section with cultural and artistic artifacts from various Asian countries.
If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to visit the onsite Children’s Museum, filled with interactive exhibits on traditional life in Korea. To enhance your experience, rent an audio guide from the museum’s information desk.
The three floors are divided into six total exhibit areas. On the first floor, you’ll find the Prehistory and Ancient History section and the Medieval and Early Modern History section, each displaying artifacts from the beginnings of Korean civilization through the Joseon Dynasty. The second floor houses the Calligraphy and Paintings section as well as an area designated for pieces donated by private collectors. The third floor contains a Sculptures and Crafts section and an Asian Arts section with cultural and artistic artifacts from various Asian countries.
If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to visit the onsite Children’s Museum, filled with interactive exhibits on traditional life in Korea. To enhance your experience, rent an audio guide from the museum’s information desk.
Address: 137 Seobinggo-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Tue, Thu, Fri: 9am - 6pm
Wed, Sat: 9am - 9pm
Sun, Holidays: 9am - 7pm
From $ 18
Odongdo
Odongdo, once an island but now connected by a walkable breakwater to Yeosu Port, is considered one of the most beautiful islands in Hallyeo Marine National Park. While the island gets its name from the Odong trees growing throughout, it’s the camellia flowers that steal the show. Beginning in January and continuing through March, some 3,000 camellia trees paint the island in shades of pink. Some 70 species of wildflowers grow on the island, so there’s usually something in bloom.
A path leads to the top of the island where a lighthouse dating back to 1952 still stands, and a path circling the island takes visitors through several dense bamboo forests. A large fountain on the island performs dancing water shows synchronized to the latest pop tunes. The island is a popular place to watch the sunrise.
Practical Info
Odongdo Island charges no admission.
Address: Yeosu, South Korea
Hours: 9.30am to 5.30pm
From $ 780
National Folk Museum of Korea
This national museum is an impressive collection of Korean culture and history as displayed in nearly 100,000 artifacts. It’s housed in the beautiful Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Its halls and exhibits tell the stories of daily life in Korea across time and occupation. In this way, many of the Korean traditions that have existed for centuries come to life and continue to be preserved. The museum has been open since 1945, expanding the breadth of its collection when it merged with the National Museum of Korea in 1975.
In addition to exhibitions dedicated to history, way of life, and life cycles of the Korean people, there is an open-air exhibit featuring replicas of important items from village life. The exhibits range from prehistory to the end of the Joseon Dynasty. Korean arts and crafts, performance art, and a children’s museum supplement the excellent efforts to showcase Korean life and culture.
Practical Info
The museum is open daily (closed Tuesdays) from 9 am to 6 pm. Admission is free, but tickets to visit the Gyeongbokgung Palace must be purchased. The nearest metro station is either Anguk or Gyeongbokgung Station.
Address: 37 Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Korea, South Korea
Hours: Open daily (closed Tuesdays) from 9 am to 6 pm
From $ 18
Noryangjin Fish Market
The Noryangjin Fish Market, one of the largest seafood markets in Korea, has been in operation since 1927. On any given day, you’ll see vendors selling more than 800 varieties of seafood, both retail and wholesale. It’s the place to go, to sample the freshest Korean seafood, prepared traditionally right in the market.
The Basics
Visiting the market is almost like a trip to an aquarium, but the best part is sampling the wares. After you’ve made your purchase of clams, fish, squid octopus, sea cucumber, shrimp, or crabs, to name a few, you can take your choice to a restaurant stall, where the cooks will chop it up for you to eat sashimi-style, or prepare it grilled or in a spicy stew.
Market and culinary tours of Seoul often stop at Noryangjin, but it’s also worthwhile to take a guided tour of the market itself, to get insider tips from a local on where to buy the freshest seafood and which on-site restaurants will cook up the most delicious dishes. A fish market tour can be combined with a bike tour along the Han River or a traditional Korean barbecue dinner.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Noryangjin is a must-visit for foodies and families traveling with kids.
- Come hungry; market restaurants will cook up your seafood purchases for you.
- Most market vendors accept credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash just in case.
- Be sure to wear sturdy shoes with a good grip; the wet floor of the market can get slippery.
How to Get There
It’s easy to reach the market via public transportation. Dozens of buses stop at Noryangjin Market Station, as does Seoul subway Line 1; take Exit 1 and you’ll find the market just over the bridge.
When to Get There
If you can get yourself out of bed and to the market in the wee hours of the morning—or really, really late at night—you can witness the daily seafood auction. This is the market at its best, as fishmongers fight to get the best price on bulk items. Otherwise, visit for lunch or dinner to enjoy the fresh seafood.
Sannakji, a Korean Delicacy
Adventurous seafood lovers should be sure to sample some sannakji during a visit to the market. This Korean delicacy is made from a small species of octopus that is purchased live, chopped up, and served raw, sashimi-style with sesame oil for dipping. Nerves in the tentacles cause them to move even after the octopus is dead.
Address: 13-8 Noryangjin 1(il)-dong, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 54
Namsan Cable Car
The Namsan Cable Car in Seoul runs from the Hoehyeon-dong platform at the base of Mount Namsan up to the Yejang-dong platform near the Namsan Tower. Naturally, it’s a scenic journey, offering 360-degree views of Seoul and the mountain by both day and night.
New cable cars were put in place in 2008, which have increased the capacity of the cars and improved them so that they feature glass on all four sides, giving visitors more of a panoramic vantage point.
This is a popular attraction, with around 50,000 people riding the Namsan Cable Car every month, and it tends to get particularly busy in the evenings. Those looking for a quieter time to ride are advised to visit in the morning. As an alternative to the cable car, active types can instead opt to reach the top of the mountain and the tower by walking up.
Practical Info
To reach the Namsan Cable Car, take Exit 3 out of Myeong-dong Station and follow the street to the right of the Pacific Hotel. It’s around a 20-minute walk, mainly uphill. Alternatively the Namsan Oreumi opened in 2009 to transport those less able (or willing) to walk to easily access the cable car station. This is the first outdoor elevator of its kind in Korea, operating from near the Namsan Tunnel entrance and transporting visitors to the Namsan Cable Car station in just a few minutes. The Namsan Cable Car is open daily from 10am until 11pm.
Address: San 1-19, Hoehyeon-dong 1-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Daily 10am-11pm
Admission: 6,000 won
From $ 119
Olympic Park
In 1988, Seoul hosted the Summer Olympics, and the Olympic Park has since been transformed into a massive green space where locals come to relax. Located on the site of the ancient Mongchon Toseong Fort, the park contains grassy lawns, sculpture gardens, pavilions, and walking paths, making it a popular picnic spot on the weekends.
The Basics
The Olympic Park is divided into four sections. In the Culture Art Park, you’ll find the Olympic Museum and the Seoul Olympics Museum of Art. Locals come to the Leisure Sports Park for skating, walking, jogging, and socializing, while the Environmental Eco-Park offers a bit more solitude as well as bird watching opportunities. If you want to see the Mongchon Toseong Fort, you’ll find it in the History Experience Park. The Gangnam circuit of the Seoul hop-on hop-off bus stops at the park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Olympic Park is a must-visit for families and anyone looking for some fresh air.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, or rent a bike to cycle through the grounds.
- Set aside at least three hours to explore the park’s attractions, particularly if you’re touring on foot.
- Don’t forget to bring sun protection and plenty of water.
- Strollers are available to rent at the East Gate and World Peace Gate information centers.
How to Get There
Seoul’s Olympic Park is well-connected by public transportation. Several public buses stop at Olympic Park, Olympic Park Peace Plaza, and Olympic Center bus stops, or you can ride the Seoul subway to Olympic Park Station (Line 5) or Mongchon Toseong Station (Line 8).
When to Get There
While the park is open daily year-round, it tends to be more lively on the weekends, when locals come to stretch their legs and enjoy the fresh air. Plan to visit during the spring or autumn when the weather is cool and comfortable for exploring Seoul’s outdoor attractions.
Save Your Feet, Ride the Road Train
The Olympic Park is so large that there’s a tourist tram running through the grounds to take visitors from one point of interest to the next. The Road Train (Hodori Train) departs from the playground in front of Peace Square. The train runs hourly on weekdays, and every 40 minutes on weekends and holidays.
Address: 88 Bangi-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 12
Nagwon Arcade
Nagwon Arcade is a vast collection of tiny shops selling musical instruments that range from petite woodwinds to massive bass drums. Travelers can wander the stalls lined with pianos, electric guitars and other items. Chat with locals who repair and build these incredible pieces and learn about the history of what is arguably one of the largest collections of instrument shops in the world. Whether you’re a beginner, an expert, or simply a lover of music, there’s bound to be something that catches your eye while exploring Nagwon Arcade’s three stories of stores, shops and dealers.
Practical Info
Nagwon Arcade is located at Samil-daero, Jongno-gu in Seoul, near the Korea Soongsil Cyber University. It is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m.
Address: 428 Samil-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-8pm
From $ 35
Phoenix Park
Phoenix Park is nestled in a valley within the Balwang Mountains, around two to three hours’ drive from Seoul. It’s a popular ski and snowboard resort in Korea, and boasts a whole host of hotels, nightclubs, and restaurants.
The resort features 12 pistes, served by eight lifts. As it often gets incredibly busy at Phoenix Park at the weekends, skiers and riders should expect to queue to get up the mountain. While the terrain here won’t provide much of a challenge for more advanced skiers, the resort itself has all the facilities and entertainment you could wish for from a popular ski resort.
Practical Info
It will take between two to three hours to drive to Phoenix Park from Seoul, but visitors should be aware that the traffic leading up to the area can get very congested, particularly at weekends.
Address: 174 Taegi-ro, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea
From $ 175
Nagan Eupseong Folk Village
Nagan Eupseong Folk Village, located in Jeollanam-do Province, encompasses one of the best preserved walled fortress town of the Chosun period. While there were 96 town fortresses in more than 330 of these towns at the height of the Chosun Dynasty, many of them were destroyed during the Japanese occupation. The village was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2011.
More than 100 families still live within the historic structures, going about their day-to-day tasks much like people indigenous to the area have been doing for centuries. Over 200 of Nagan Eupseong’s houses remain in their original condition, complete with thatched roofs and stonework without the use of mortar. A few of these have been converted to guesthouses for travelers who wish to stay the night.
Practical Info
To reach Nagan Eupseong Folk Village, take bus 61, 63 or 68 from the bus stop near Suncheon Bus Terminal. The ride takes about 50 minutes.
Address: Jeollanam-do Province, South Korea
Hours: Dec - Jan: 9 am-5:00; Feb - Apr & Nov: 9 am -6 pm; May - Oct: 8:30 am - 6:30 pm
Admission: Adults: 2,000 won; Youths (ages 13-18): 1,500 won; Children (ages 7-12): 1,000 won
From $ 780