Choose from 99 Fun Things to Do in South Korea
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Andong Folk Museum
Andong Folk Museum is the perfect place to get acquainted with Andong’s ancient culture and traditions. Next door to Andong Folk Village, the museum contains over 3,700 artifacts. From traditional clothing to pottery dating back to the Joseon Dynasty (1392 - 1897), as you wander two floors of exhibits you’ll get to learn the traditions that Koreans go through from birth to childhood, in adulthood, and in death. From Korean child rearing to ancient cooking methods, wedding ceremonies to spiritual practices, there are lots of interesting facts to learn about. Did you know that, in the past, when pregnant Korean women wanted a boy they would pray to phallic rocks?
After seeing the indoor exhibits, head to the outdoor park to see the thatched-roof houses that were saved when nearby Andong Dam was erected in 1976. In the garden you’ll also get to see and learn about Korea’s giant totems, traditionally built with fierce faces to ward away evil spirits.
Practical Info
Admission to Andong Folk Museum is W 1,000. It is open from 9am to 6pm in March through October, and until 5pm from November to February. Signs are in English, as well as Korean, Japanese, and Chinese, and there’s an onsite snack bar, restaurant, and souvenir shop. To get to the museum from Andong Bus Terminal, take Bus 3, which runs every 20 minutes.
Address: 13, Minsokchon-gil, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do 760-360, South Korea
Hours: Nov-Feb 9am-5pm; March-Oct 9am-6pm
Admission: W 1,000
From $ 130
COEX Aquarium
Set in the huge underground COEX Mall, the COEX Aquarium features nearly 100 exhibit tanks, spread across 16 themed zones, including the Deep Blue Sea Tunnel, Garden of Jellyfish, and Penguin’s Playground. The Marine Touch zone offers visitors of all ages the chance to make personal contact with baby sea creatures.
bThe COEX Aquarium is one of Seoul’s top wildlife attractions, as it is home to the most diverse aquarium collection in the country. Admission to the aquarium includes access to all 16 themed areas, as well as the Mermaid Performance in Deep Blue Square. Manatee, shark, seal, penguin, and otter feedings let visitors observe animal behavior and learn from aquarium keepers. Book tickets online to save time; online discounts may also be available.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The aquarium is a must-see for animal lovers and families traveling with kids.
- Give yourself about 90 minutes to explore the aquarium.
- The aquarium is wheelchair accessible, and strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent at the COEX Mall service counter.
How to Get There
The COEX Mall is located along subway line 2, underneath the COEX Convention and Exhibition Centre and near the greater South Korean World Trade Center complex. The easiest way to get there is to take the subway to Bongeunsa Station (line 9) or Samsung Station (line 2). Several public buses also stop nearby.
When to Get There
The COEX Aquarium is open year-round, with extended hours on Saturday and holidays. Because the aquarium is indoors and climate-controlled, it’s a good option for a hot summer afternoon or cold winter day. Plan to arrive early on a weekday to avoid crowds.
COEX Mall
Situated in the heart of Seoul’s Gangnam district, the COEX Mall underwent a large-scale renovation in 2014 to make it one of the largest shopping centers in Asia. Besides the aquarium, the mall is also home to SMTOWN and its hologram theater, a 17-screen cinema, and the Kimchi Museum.
Address: Seoul, South Korea
From $ 21
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
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
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
Bongeunsa Temple
Situated in Seoul’s stylish Gangnam district, Bongeunsa Temple was founded in 794. Though it has been rebuilt many times, the temple remains an important center of Seon (Zen) Buddhism in South Korea. Panjeon, the oldest hall in the complex, is home to some 3,000 woodblocks carved with Buddhist scriptures and religious art.
The Basics
Though it’s not the most famous temple in Seoul—that distinction belongs to Jogyesa Temple—Bongeunsa Temple is featured on many tours of the city’s ritzy Gangnam district, along with Garosu-gil Road, COEX Mall, and the Seolleung and Jeongneung Royal Tombs. Visitors can also opt to book an overnight temple stay, which typically includes monastic meals, a traditional tea ceremony, a temple tour, and guided meditation. Overnight stays must be booked in advance.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The temple is worth a trip for spiritual travelers or those visiting the Gangnam District.
- Wear comfortable shoes that are suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Remember to dress respectfully, as the temple serves an active Buddhist community.
- Restrooms are available on the temple grounds.
How to Get There
Bongeunsa is centrally located in Samseong-dong, Gangnam, and is easily accessible either on foot or by public transportation. Take Seoul subway line 9 to Bongeunsa Temple Station and leave through Exit 1.
When to Get There
The temple is open daily year-round, but the best time to visit is Thursday when the complex hosts a Temple Life program for visitors. Visit during the Lotus Lantern Festival in April to see the temple fully decorated for the celebration of Buddha’s birthday.
Jeongdaebulsa, A Celebration of Scripture
Each September, Bongeunsa Temple plays host to a Buddhist ceremony called Jeongdaebulsa. Visitors to the temple complex during this single-day event can see monks marching through the grounds carrying scriptures on their heads and reciting the Buddhist rites.
Address: Seoul, South Korea
From $ 81
Bulguksa Temple
Just outside Gyeongju, South Korea’s Bulguksa Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s known for its beautiful gardens and pagodas. Completed in 774, during the golden age of Silla architecture, the huge temple complex is said to have been commissioned by chief minister Kim Daeseong as a way of pacifying the spirits of his parents.
Bulguksa Temple is home to seven national treasures, including the original Dabotap and Seokgatap stone pagodas and bronze Buddhas.
Korean for Temple of the Buddha Land, Bulguksa still acts as a working temple for the 11th district of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, and you’re likely to see monks performing ceremonies on your visit. Look out for the patio covered with stone stacks, too. It’s said that if you can add a stone to the top of a stack without it toppling over, your wish will come true. Keep a lookout for the local chipmunks who hang out on the patio, too.
The temple’s ornamental gardens are especially beautiful in spring, when the cherry blossoms peak. And as you walk through the gardens from Bulguksa’s parking lot to the temple, you’ll see vendors offering all sorts of foods, from silkworm larvae to candyfloss.
Practical Info
Bulguksa Temple is open daily, and entry costs 4,000 W for adults. To get to the temple from Gyeongju, take the 40-minute bus ride on no 10 or 11 from either the intercity or express bus terminals, or the train station. You can also hail a taxi, which’ll take around 20-25 minutes to reach Bulguksa from downtown.
Address: 15-1 Jinhyeon-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
Hours: Daily 7am-6pm
Admission: Adults 4,000 W, Youth 3,000 W, Children 2,000 W, Children Under 7 Free
From $ 62
Andong Hahoe Folk Village
Hahoe means “enveloped by water,” the name given Andong Hahoe Folk
Village due to its position at the bend of the Nakdong River in the
foothills of the Hwasan Mountains. Far from the modern skyscrapers of
Seoul or Busan, the village offers visitors a glimpse at a Korea of old.
The
village, one of several that comprise the UNESCO-listed Historic
Villages of Korea, dates back to the 10th century, when members of the
Ryu clan began settling there; descendants of the clan still live in the
historic homes today. The village is unique in that commoners and the
upperclass coexisted there, and you’ll notice that the tile-roofed
houses of the elite toward the village center gradually give way to
thatched homes toward the outskirts.
Practical Info
To experience the village at its best, plan your visit for a weekday morning. On weekends, the village gets overrun with visitors and loses a bit of its charm.
Address: Andong Hahoe Folk Village, South Korea
Hours: Daily
From $ 130
Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village is a lovely residential neighborhood located
between Gyeongbok and Changdeok Palaces, and is full of traditional hanok homes. It is a
place that perfectly embodies the heritage and culture of South Korea.
Famous for once being the residences of high-ranking government officials, the village is now a peaceful destination for visitors looking to taking a stroll through its comforting alleyways and calm, picturesque scenery. Boasting more than 600 years of history, the village reflects that of the tranquil views and nature of neo-Confucianism.
It currently houses a museum and various craft shops tucked away in its back alleys, built in a uniform way where gardens meeting on adjacent properties seem to make the whole idea of property go away. Located just at the mouth of the village, the Bukchon Traditional Culture Center is a great place to get the low-down on not only the village itself, but its history and artist integrity, providing audiovisual materials and a shop.
Just a few steps away, the charming neighborhood of Samcheong-dong is the perfect place to stroll through while enjoying its unique shops, galleries and cafes.
Famous for once being the residences of high-ranking government officials, the village is now a peaceful destination for visitors looking to taking a stroll through its comforting alleyways and calm, picturesque scenery. Boasting more than 600 years of history, the village reflects that of the tranquil views and nature of neo-Confucianism.
It currently houses a museum and various craft shops tucked away in its back alleys, built in a uniform way where gardens meeting on adjacent properties seem to make the whole idea of property go away. Located just at the mouth of the village, the Bukchon Traditional Culture Center is a great place to get the low-down on not only the village itself, but its history and artist integrity, providing audiovisual materials and a shop.
Just a few steps away, the charming neighborhood of Samcheong-dong is the perfect place to stroll through while enjoying its unique shops, galleries and cafes.
Practical Info
You can get to the village by taking subway line number 3 to
Anguk Station. Business hours for the cultural center exist throughout
the entire week, year-round, from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday through
Friday, and 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Saturday and Sunday. For a good place to
eat some local cuisine or just enjoy the atmosphere of a nice bar,
Samcheonggak offers both lunch and dinner menus from 12:00 until 10 pm.
The venue is also known for its performance hall where you can check out
some local acts.
Address: Seoul, South Korea
From $ 25
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
Banpo Bridge
Banpo Bridge passes over the Han River in downtown Seoul, connecting the Yongsan and Seocho neighborhoods. This girder bridge, completed in 1982, entered the Guinness Book of World Records in 2009 for installing the longest bridge fountain in the world, the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain, which puts on a nightly water-and-light show.
The Basics
Some 380 water jets on both sides of Banpo Bridge pump water from the Han River to a fountain display meant to resemble willow branches in the wind. When the sun goes down, the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain lights up, and 20-minute shows add music to the spectacle. Many guided nighttime tours via bus or bike, or on foot, include a stop at the bridge.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Banpo Bridge at night is a must-see for couples and families traveling with children.
- Dress in layers; the temperature can drop once the sun goes down.
- The best views of the fountain are from Banpo Hangang Park.
How to Get There
To get to Banpo Bridge, take Seoul Subway Line 3, 7, or 9 to the Express Bus Terminal Station and leave through Exit 8-1. It’s a short walk to the bridge from there.
When to Get There
The Banpo Bridge fountain only operates from April to October, and showtimes change from month to month. When the weather is nice, the park at the base of the bridge makes a pleasant spot for an evening picnic dinner while you wait for the fountains to come to life. Fountain shows are canceled in the event of rain.
Banpo Hangang Park
Situated on the southern side of the Han River at the end of Banpo Bridge, Banpo Hangang Park is not only a popular spot for watching the fountain show, but also it attracts visitors and locals to its playgrounds, sports facilities, and riverside café. Nearby Seoraeseom Island is a popular spot for picnics during the spring and summer months.
Address: Seobinggo-dong Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 40
63 City
63 City, sometimes also called “the golden tower” or 63 Building, is one of the tallest buildings in Korea and sits on Yeouido Island. One part of the name is true - due to the gold tinted glass, the whole structure tends to glitter in a beautiful rose gold hue during the day. However, the skyscraper only has 60 floors above ground, the remaining three are an underground restricted area. 63 City is anything but an ordinary skyscraper though. Apart from the dazzling views that can be had from the observation deck on the 60th floor, locals and tourists alike will find the inside of the building filled to the brim by a big selection of fun activities and attractions.
There are several main attractions inside the buildings, including Sea World, a wax museum, an IMAX theatre, Sky Art and the Fanta-Stick performance. The latter is a Korean music show that takes elements of traditional Korean performance arts and gives them a modern twist. The result is a fantasy-like percussion performance mixing martial arts, break dancing and Samullori with heavy drums. At Sea World, visitors can discover over 400 marine species, including adorable African penguins and electric eels able to power lights. Sky Art is an art gallery that was named highest art gallery in the world and a place where visitors can enjoy various exhibitions with a great view. The wax museum isn’t your ordinary wax museum either and instead, the venue hands out costumes so you can pose with your favorite celebrities adequately dressed. It also hosts a terrifying chamber of horror. The final attraction promises “walking on a cloud” and a top class dining experience in Korea’s highest restaurant.
Practical Info
63 City is located in Yeouido right by the Hangang River. To get there, take subway line 5 to Yeouinaru station and take exit number 4. From there you can either walk the remaining 15 minutes or take one of the free shuttle busses.
Address: 50 63-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 9
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
Bukhansan National Park
Bukhansan National Park is an urban oasis within the boundaries of Seoul. The park covers nearly 50 square miles (129 square kilometers) and contains hiking trails, sweeping mountaintop views, and streams rushing between gorges and granite peaks. Bukhansanseong Fortress and many Buddhist temples are also set here.
The Basics
Bukhansan National Park is a haven for hikers, climbers, and anyone looking to escape the bustle of South Korea’s capital city. Explore the park’s many hiking trails, climb Baegundae (Bukhansan’s highest peak), or visit the centuries-old Bukhansanseong Fortress.
Tours of Bukhansan National Park typically leave from Seoul and include a guided hike of Mt. Bukhan, plus a relaxing visit to a Korean-style spa or sauna (jjimjilbang). It’s also possible to visit the park on a contemporary art tour of Seoul, which usually includes a drive up Bukhansan Mountain to Gana Art Gallery.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bukhansan National Park is a must-see for nature lovers.
- Bring sun protection, plenty of water, and shoes suitable for hiking; much of the park is unsuitable for wheelchairs.
- The granite mountains can be slippery when wet; be careful if it has rained recently.
- Fans of rock climbing should check out Insubong peak, which has climbing routes for various skill levels.
How to Get There
Bukhansan National Park is located in northern Seoul and is easily accessible via public transportation. Take Seoul Subway Line 1 to Dobongsan Station right at the park.
When to Get There
The park is open year-round but is especially beautiful in fall when the plentiful maple trees’ leaves turn shades of gold and red. Opt for a weekday visit to avoid crowds.
Trails in Bukhansan National Park
The park’s most popular hiking routes include the trail to the 2,746-foot (837-meter) Baegundae peak, the Insu-bong trail, the Mt. Bukhan hike, and the 43-mile (70-kilometer) Dulle Gil Trail, which connects forested paths along foothills and local villages and contains 21 sections.
Address: Seoul, South Korea
From $ 55
Alive Museum Insadong
Be sure to pack a fully charged camera when visiting the Alive Museum in Seoul, since the collection of “trick art” will have you snapping away for hours at the creative optical illusions. Watch as a waterfall spills off the wall and Spiderman dangles from the ceiling, or stroll the red carpet with your favorite celebrities before playing tennis against Marilyn Monroe. Laugh as a giraffe tickles your hand with its tongue, or you gallop away on a horse, but not before climbing into a huge mug of beer and swimming inside the foam. This is definitely a place for fun-loving travelers, and the level of creativity inside this museum is as fascinating as the pieces themselves. This type of art, called object art, creates a 4D experience that lets you place yourself in the middle of the pictures, and is a fun excursion for travelers of all ages—particularly families and couples.
Insider Tip: Try to visit early in the morning before the museum is too crowded, so you don’t have to deal with as many people when trying to frame your photos.
Practical Info
The Alive Museum is located on the basement level of the Ssamziegil shopping complex in Insa-dong. It’s best accessed by riding the metro, and expect to spend between 1-2 hours.
Address: 12 Insadong, Jongno, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: 9am-10:30pm daily. Last admission is 9:30pm.
Admission: About $10 for adults and $8 for children
From $ 8
Blue House (Cheong Wa Dae)
Known for the blue tiles that cover its roof, Seoul’s Blue House (Cheong Wa Dae or Cheongwadae) sits at the foot of Mount Bugaksan and is the official residence of South Korea’s president. The house was built in the traditional Korean architectural style within a Joseon Dynasty–era royal garden.
The Basics
The Blue House is an ideal spot to appreciate traditional Korean architecture and learn about South Korea’s tumultuous history. Seoul sightseeing tours often stop by the Blue House, allowing you to see the structure from the outside. City tours typically visit the Blue House along with other local attractions such as Gyeonbokgung Palace, Jogyesa Temple, and the National Folk Museum. Small-group and private tour options are available, and it’s also possible to visit the Blue House independently on a hop-on, hop-off tour.
To see the interior, a formal application must be sent via mail or email at least three weeks in advance. If you gain permission, you can stroll through the gardens, visit the main building where the president lives and conducts business, and see the Main Office Hall (Bon-gwan), the State Reception House (Yeongbin-gwan), the Press Hall (Chunchu-gwan), and the Secretariat Buildings.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Blue House is a must-see for history buffs and architecture lovers.
- Bring a camera to capture the Blue House with Bugaksan Mountain in the background.
- Tours of the grounds must be approved by a formal application sent via mail or email; applications must be submitted at least three weeks in advance.
- A passport is required to tour the grounds.
How to Get There
The Blue House is located in the Jongno-gu area of Seoul, adjacent to the Gyeongbokgung Palace grounds. It is accessible by guided tour, taxi, and public transportation. To get there on the subway, take Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station and leave via Exit 5. Then, head to Gwanghwamun Gate parking lot (east gate).
When to Get There
You can see the house’s exterior year-round. Guided tours of the grounds take place Tuesday through Friday and every second and fourth Saturday of the month. Visit at 10am on Saturdays to see the Military Honor Guard and Band perform outside the Blue House. The presidential residence is closed on Saturday, Monday, and national holidays.
The Blue House’s Auspicious Location
The Blue House was deliberately located at the foot of Mount Bukhansan. It is flanked by two other mountains—Naksan (symbolizing the azure dragon), and Inwangsan (symbolizing the white tiger). To the south is Namsan, said to be the capital’s protective mountain, while the Cheonggyecheon stream and Han River flow in front of the building.
Address: 1 Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 18
Busan Tower
Busan Tower stands 120 m tall from the center of the city’s Yongdusan Park. Built in 1973 and modelled on Bulguksa Temple’s Dabotap Pagoda, the tower is a popular visit day and night. Head to the viewing deck via high-speed elevator, and enjoy panoramic views of Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city. Come at sunset to see the city lights start to twinkle under the night sky. On the lower deck of Busan Tower, there’s a souvenir shop and a cafe where you can while away the hours and enjoy the views of busy Busan port.
All loved up? Do as thousands of young Korean couples do, and tie a padlock with a note of your everlasting love to one of the fences by the tower. The mountain’s feng shui is said to bring you good luck.
Korean for Dragon Head Mountain because of its shape, Yongdusan Park hosts lots of lively cultural performances in summer and on weekends, and on Buddha’s Birthday, paper lamps shaped like tigers and dragons float throughout the park.
Practical Info
Busan Tower is open all year round, from 9am - 10pm. Entry costs 4,000 W for adults. Inside there is a World Musical Instruments Museum (10 - 6pm), which is open Tuesday - Sunday. To get to the park, take the subway to Nampo station (Exit 7). 20 meters away is the escalator that’ll take you up to the park. Tour buses can park right at the entrance to Busan Tower.
Address: Busan, South Korea
Admission: 4,000 W
From $ 100
Daemyung Vivaldi Park Ski World
Whether you’re a seasoned snow bunny or new to the slopes Daemyung Vivaldi Ski World has the perfect run for every level. Some 20,000 visitors a day ride the 10 lifts to zip down some 13 runs that make this frozen wonderland a destination for skiers and snowboarders.
This frozen chateau caters to more than just powder heads with a world-class resort at the bottom of the mountain complete with a well-stocked food court, plenty of shopping, spa services, karaoke and even a 3D cinema. Daemyung Vivaldi Park Ski World is the perfect place for outdoor adventurers to spend a day exploring the slopes. But travelers agree that there are enough activities and options to keep hot chocolate lovers happy indoors, too.
Practical Info
Daemyung Vivaldi Park Ski World is open daily from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. During peak season lifts and runs are open 24-hours. Ski lessons are available for all skill levels, including experts. The website is updated regularly with details about open runs and weather, too.
Address: 250-751 Seo-myeon, Gangwon, South Korea
Hours: Open daily from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. During peak season lifts and runs are open 24-hours.
From $ 85
Bosingak Belfry
The Bosingak Belfry refers to an ornate pavilion in central Seoul that houses a bell with a history that dates all the way back to the 14th century. Located opposite the modern Jongno Tower, the original bell was constructed in 1396 and used during the Joseon Dynasty to keep time and act as an alarm to alert people of fires and other emergencies.
Back then, the bell rang out 33 times (for the 33 Buddhist heavens) every morning at 4am, and the gates to the city were opened for the day. Each night at 10pm, they rang out 28 times (representing the location of the stars of constellations), to signal the closure of the gates and the start of the nightly curfew.
The original bell melted in a fire and was replaced in 1468. For preservation purposes, this bell now sits in the gardens of the National Museum of Korea, and the current bell you can see today is a replacement made with contributions from the public that was mounted in the same spot in 1985.
In a ceremony that starts at 11am, the guardsmen who patrol the tower ring the bell 12 times at noon from Tuesday through Sunday. A small-group walking tour is a great way to visit Bosingak Belfry, allowing you to take in other attractions in Seoul, such as Gyeonghuigung Palace, Daehamun, Cheonggyecheon Plaza, and the various landmarks of Jongno.
Insider’s Tip: If you happen to be in Seoul over New Year’s Eve, head down to the Bosingak Belfry, where a huge event is organized and the bell is rung 33 times at midnight.
Practical Info
The Bosingak Belfry is located along Jongno, the major financial and cultural center of Seoul, and is easily walkable from Gwanghwamun Square. Alternatively, take subway Line 1 to Jonggak Station and use exit 4.
Address: 54 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: 24 hours
From $ 47
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