Choose from 99 Fun Things to Do in South Korea
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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
Trickeye Museum
Located in the lively Hongdae nightlife district, Seoul’s Trickeye Museum does just what it says; it teases your senses with an optical illusion technique called trompe l'oeil that gives two dimensional works of art a 3D appearance. It’s also one of the few museums in the world that makes art interactive.
Bring a camera, because the exhibits at the Trickeye Museum are designed for photo ops. Plant a big wet one on the cheek of Mona Lisa, launch a giant Angry Bird or pose in an upside-down room that makes you look like you’re meditating on the ceiling. The museum’s Santorini Gallery houses three additional exhibit rooms with more serious works of art from contemporary artists.
The museum stays open well into the evening hours, so it’s a good place to visit on your way to a night out in Hongdae. For the price of admission, you’ll have a camera full of unique souvenirs to take home with you.
Bring a camera, because the exhibits at the Trickeye Museum are designed for photo ops. Plant a big wet one on the cheek of Mona Lisa, launch a giant Angry Bird or pose in an upside-down room that makes you look like you’re meditating on the ceiling. The museum’s Santorini Gallery houses three additional exhibit rooms with more serious works of art from contemporary artists.
The museum stays open well into the evening hours, so it’s a good place to visit on your way to a night out in Hongdae. For the price of admission, you’ll have a camera full of unique souvenirs to take home with you.
Address: 357-1 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Open Daily 10:00 am - 9:00 pm
From $ 11
Yeouido Park
The city of Seoul is divided into two parts by the Han River, and one of the city’s best green areas sits on an island in the middle of this river. Yeouido Park is a favorite among locals for walking, jogging, biking, and playing sports. During spring, it’s one of the loveliest spots in Seoul to see cherry blossoms.
The Basics
Yeouido park is divided into four themed sections. Native Korean trees and plants grow in the Traditional Korean Forest, while Grass Square offers an open expanse that’s perfect for picnicking. The city of Seoul stages cultural performances throughout the year in Culture Square. The most complex of the four areas is Nature’s Ecosystem Forest, which contains a pond, grassy area, forest, and several pavilions where you can sit back and simply enjoy being out in the fresh air. Join a guided bike tour through the park to learn more about its history and development.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Yeouido Park is a must-visit for families and active travelers.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
How to Get There
The park is situated on an island in the Han River, but it’s within walking distance of two major Seoul Subway stations. Take Line 5 to Yeouinaru Station and leave through Exit 1; it’s a 10-minute walk from there. Alternately, get off at Yeouido Station and leave through Exit 3. Head toward the National Assembly building.
When to Get There
Yeouido Park tends to be more lively with locals on the weekends and quieter on weekday mornings. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for enjoying the outdoors, thanks to cooler temperatures, and springtime sees the cherry trees bloom along Yunjunro Street next to the park.
Seoul’s Yeouido District
Yeouido, along with Gangnam and Samseongdong, is one of Seoul’s three main business districts. It’s also the home of the Korean National Assembly building, where the legislature meets to debate and pass laws. While you’re in the neighborhood, swing by the 63 Building for views of Seoul from the 60th-floor Sky Deck, do some shopping at the IFC Mall, or sample seafood at the Noryangjin Fish Market.
Address: 120, Yeouigongwon-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 55
Yongdusan Park
Yongdusan Park, a mountainous park in the center of Busan, is one of the city’s most popular green spaces. Its name translates to “dragon’s head mountain,” as it’s thought to resemble a dragon poking its head above the surface of the sea.
The park is dotted with various monuments to battles and Korean heroes, including Joseon naval commander Admiral Yi Sun-shin. The Busan Tower rises from the heart of the park, and while climbing the tower requires an admission fee, it’s worth it to see the view from the top. The park is also home to a cafe and a few restaurants, an aquarium, a temple and exhibition spaces that frequently host cultural performances on the weekends.
Practical Info
Explore the free park by day, but come back at night to enjoy the views of Busan from the top of the Busan Tower after sunset.
Address: 1-2 Gwangbok-dong 2-ga, Jung-gu, Busan, South Korea
Hours: Daily
From $ 100
Yongin MBC Daejanggeum Park
Previously known as MBC Dramia, Yongin MBC Daejanggeum Park is owned by Munhwa Broadcasting Company (MBC) and Yongin Municipal Office. This outdoor historical film set covers a vast area. It opened to tourists and the general public to visit in 2011.
Fans of Korean drama are in for a treat, as series such as Jumong, Dong Yi, Queen Seondeok, Goryeo, and many more dramas, documentaries, and films were shot here. The park features permanent sets that consist of ancient buildings and villages, with architecture imitating that from the Korean Three Kingdoms era. In fact, Daejanggeum Park was created based on historical records and so accurately reflects the buildings, villages, and culture of ancient times.
There are of course plenty of photo opportunities here, with a number of different sets to explore. There’s also a coffee shop and snack bar onsite.
Practical Info
MBC Daejanggeum Park can be reached by taking the number 105 bus or a taxi to the complex. Parking is also available.
Address: 7781 Yongcheonri, Yongin, South Korea
Hours: Winter: 9am-5pm / Summer: 9am-6pm
Admission: 7000 KRW / Student: 6000 KRW / Child (under 13): 5000 KRW
From $ 116
Jamsil Sports Complex
Constructed for the 1988 Summer Olympics and the 19th annual Asian Games, the Jamsil Sports Complex is situated along the banks of the Han River. Designed by architect Kim Swoo Geun, the profile of structures are intended to resemble the curving lines of a Joseon era porcelain vase. All told, the complex is capable of seating upwards of 100,000 spectators.
Opened in 1984, Jamsil hasn't housed a major international sporting event since the aforementioned Olympics. Today, the facility is home to equestrian events, the Seoul United FC soccer team, and concert events, including Bon Jovi, Ricky Martin, Roger Waters, Michael Jackson, Oasis, Pussycat Dolls, Backstreet Boys, Iron Maiden, Metallica, Tommy Lee, Celine Dion, Nine Inch Nails, and Limp Bizkit, and many others.
The nearby Jamsil Baseball Stadium, which, along with the main complex, is accessible by subway (line 2) and bus, as well as automobile. The LG Twins and Doosan Bears play to crowds of more than 30,000 people.
The combined complex (the foundations of which were begun in the 1970s) houses two swimming centers, a general sports facility, a track and field facility, and an indoor facility designed specifically for
students. The green lawns of the nearby park grounds are a popular setting for weddings and other public and private gatherings.
Though the massive international events predicted by developers and promoters in the early 1980s have failed to materialize, Jamsil is visited by millions of domestic sports enthusiasts yearly.
(Image courtesy of the Korea Tourism Organization: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/index.kto)
Opened in 1984, Jamsil hasn't housed a major international sporting event since the aforementioned Olympics. Today, the facility is home to equestrian events, the Seoul United FC soccer team, and concert events, including Bon Jovi, Ricky Martin, Roger Waters, Michael Jackson, Oasis, Pussycat Dolls, Backstreet Boys, Iron Maiden, Metallica, Tommy Lee, Celine Dion, Nine Inch Nails, and Limp Bizkit, and many others.
The nearby Jamsil Baseball Stadium, which, along with the main complex, is accessible by subway (line 2) and bus, as well as automobile. The LG Twins and Doosan Bears play to crowds of more than 30,000 people.
The combined complex (the foundations of which were begun in the 1970s) houses two swimming centers, a general sports facility, a track and field facility, and an indoor facility designed specifically for
students. The green lawns of the nearby park grounds are a popular setting for weddings and other public and private gatherings.
Though the massive international events predicted by developers and promoters in the early 1980s have failed to materialize, Jamsil is visited by millions of domestic sports enthusiasts yearly.
(Image courtesy of the Korea Tourism Organization: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/index.kto)
Address: Seoul, South Korea
Admission: Prices vary depeding on event
From $ 12
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
UN Memorial Cemetery
The 35-acre UN Memorial Cemetery is one of Busan’s most peaceful spots. Established in early 1951, the quiet park and cemetery honors a total of 2,300 United Nations soldiers representing 16 countries who were killed during the Korean War between 1950 and 1953.
At the heart of the park lies the Main Cemetery Area, where soldiers from Australia, France, Canada, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Turkey and the USA are interred. Besides headstones, the lines of graves on the green expanse are marked with manicured hedges and flower bushes, creating a beautiful and somber sight.
Visitors to the cemetery will also find the Memorial Service Hall, a small multi-faiths chapel where you can watch a short documentary on the Korean War, as well as the Memorabilia Hall, where photos and artifacts from the war stand on display.
Practical Info
The UN Memorial Cemetery is open daily throughout the year, and admission is free.
Address: 779-1 Daeyeon 4(sa)-dong, Nam-gu, Busan, South Korea
Hours: Oct-April 9am-5pm;
May-Sept 9am-6pm
From $ 150
Unhyeongung Palace
Once the royal residence of Prince Regent Daewon-gun, this historic palace is now a public museum that draws locals and travelers to its ornate halls and impressive gates. Visitors will find a network of galleries inside the palace where mannequins dressed in traditional clothing pay homage to the nation’s colorful past. The Morakdang Hall, the palace’s largest building, was once a women’s residence. Visitors will find a typical Korean kitchen here and may even catch a contemporary wedding ceremony, since the space is a popular spot among locals exchanging vows. And while these are certainly lovely to see, lucky travelers who visit Unhyeongung in the spring or fall have the opportunity to witness a royal wedding reenactment. The ceremony is an exact reenactment of King Gojong and Empress Myeongseong’s wedding and showcases traditional royal fashion and costumes, which are sure impress.
Practical Info
The palace is located at 114-10 Unni-dong in the Jongno-gu section of Seoul. Admission is free.
Address: 464 Samil-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Korea, South Korea
From $ 90
Soswaewon Garden
The Soswaewon Garden in South Korea dates back to the 1500s when it was constructed by Yang Sanbo. A stone and mud wall surrounds the garden, with three inscribed stone and wooden panels built into it, including a board at the entrance displaying Kim Inhu's poem praising the garden.
The garden itself is a scenic spot — a mixture of nature’s work and artificial features that blend well together. Amid the landscape are a pond, two pavilions, and a bamboo grove. Elsewhere, a variety of different types of trees line both sides of a stream, and translucent water flows down the foot of the garden walls.
Practical Info
The Soswaewon Garden is open daily, but times differ slightly depending on the season. The garden is located 150 meters from the main road and there’s a small entrance fee on arrival. If arriving at the Gwangju Bus Terminal, take the bus 2-1 or 2-4 to Soswaewon.
Address: 123 Jigok-ri, Nam-myeon, Damyang-gun, Jeollanam-do, South Korea
From $ 650
Sokcho Jungang Market
Located in Sokcho City in South Korea’s Gangwon Province, the Sokcho Jungang Market is a quintessential Korean market specializing in fish, chicken and fresh fruits. Locals come to shop for groceries, and even if you’re not planning to cook, the market is an entertaining place for a stroll. The seafood section of the market teems with live aquatic critters in large fish tanks, making it akin to a free aquarium, and the variety of fruits on offer are inexpensive and great to take back to the hotel for breakfast or a snack.
While most people come to Sokcho Jungang Market to shop, the typical traveler comes to eat. The market food stalls have earned a drool-worthy reputation for their mansuk, a traditional local dish made by deep-frying chicken and tossing it in a sweet and spicy sauce. Some two dozen of these stalls occupy the market, and while they might all look the same at first glance, the ones with the longer lines are usually the best bets.
Practical Info
You can reach Sokcho by catching a bus bound for the Sokcho Bus Terminal from the Seoul Express Bus Terminal.
Address: Jungang-ro 147beon-gil, Sokcho-si, Kangwon, South Korea
From $ 70
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
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
Seoul Daehangno
Nicknamed “College Street” for Seoul National University, Seoul Daehangno is Seoul’s theater and arts district. The university has since moved, but the neighborhood with its parks and cultural arts centers remains. On weekends, Maronnier Park transforms into a large outdoor performing arts space for Seoul’s youth. Local and international performances of all types are held in the 40 or more theaters in the area.
Notable venues include the Batangol Art Center, Dongsung Art Center and the Literary Arts Hall. Each venue will have posters plastered on the walls outside advertising what’s currently showing, so even if you don’t speak Korean, you’ll be able to get a decent idea of what’s on offer. Before you catch a show, stop in to one of the area’s many small cafes and eateries for some traditional Korean food.
During the early summer months, Seoul Daechangno hosts the Seoul Theater Festival, with the Seoul Performing Arts Festival following in autumn. Both events put on dozens of performances, mostly in Korean, but occasionally in English as well.
Notable venues include the Batangol Art Center, Dongsung Art Center and the Literary Arts Hall. Each venue will have posters plastered on the walls outside advertising what’s currently showing, so even if you don’t speak Korean, you’ll be able to get a decent idea of what’s on offer. Before you catch a show, stop in to one of the area’s many small cafes and eateries for some traditional Korean food.
During the early summer months, Seoul Daechangno hosts the Seoul Theater Festival, with the Seoul Performing Arts Festival following in autumn. Both events put on dozens of performances, mostly in Korean, but occasionally in English as well.
Address: South Korea
From $ 18
Seoul Museum of History
The Seoul Museum of History charts the history of Seoul from the Joseon era right up to the present day. It was conceived in order to preserve and reinforce the cultural identity of Seoul and its citizens and to promote patriotism. The construction of the museum was completed in 1993.
The museum features a permanent exhibition documenting the history and culture of Seoul and its people, with displays in both Korean and English, plus there’s a large-scale model of the city for visitors to wander around. The museum also showcases themed temporary exhibitions and stages workshops, plus musical and cultural events.
Sitting outside the Seoul Museum of History is a section of the Gwanghwamun Gate, plus an old-fashioned tram that operated in Seoul in the 1930s.
Practical Info
The Seoul Museum of History is located at 55 Saemunan-ro. There may be extra charges for special exhibitions.
Address: 55 Saemunan-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: Mar-Oct: Mon-Fri 9am-8pm, Sat-Sun & Holidays 9am-7pm; Nov-Feb: Mon-Fri 9am-8pm, Sat-Sun & Holidays 9am-6pm
From $ 43
Seoul Land
Seoul Land, one of South Korea’s oldest theme parks, sits amid the scenery of Cheonggyesan mountain. The park is divided into five themed areas, where park-goers find some 40 rides and roller coasters geared toward both kids and adults. Days at the park culminate in a nightly fireworks and laser show.
The Basics
Quieter and less expensive than Everland and Lotte World, Seoul Land offers several classic amusement park rides—a swinging pirate ship, flume ride, bumper cars, and roller coasters—as well as unique attractions you’re not likely to find at other amusement parks. Visitors can choose between two ticket options: a standard admission or a nighttime entry (after 4pm). Some attractions, including a swimming pool in summer and a sledding hill in winter, have a separate admission fee.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Seoul Land is a must-visit for families with kids and thrill seekers.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Some of the park is wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available free of charge.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared to spend quite a bit of time on your feet.
- There are lockers and an ATM across from the Central Information Office.
How to Get There
It’s possible to get to the park by taking the Seoul metro (Line 4) to Grand Park and Seoul Land Station. From there, the Elephant Train ferries visitors to the park entrance, as well as to Seoul Grand Park and the National Modern Art Center.
When to Get There
Seoul Land remains open throughout the year, and when you visit depends on what activities you want to participate in, whether winter sledding, summer swimming, or taking part in one of several festivals throughout the year. It’s a good idea to visit on a weekday and to arrive early to beat the crowds.
Festivals at Seoul Land
The Seoul Land calendar includes five major festivals throughout the year. The Character Festival goes from mid-March through early June when the spring flowers are in full bloom. This event includes parades and plenty of photo ops with park characters. The Water Festival from late June to the end of August features a pirate-themed parade that doubles as a giant water fight. There’s also a Halloween Festival, Christmas Party, and Snow Party.
Address: 181 Gwangmyeong-ro, Makgye-dong, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do,, South Korea
From $ 17
Teddy Bear Museum
The Teddy Bear Museum in Seogwipo features several galleries and an extensive gift shop dedicated to stuffed bears from around the world. The museum also contains the world’s smallest teddy bear, which measures just 4.5 millimeters.
Within the museum, you’ll find the History Hall, the Art Hall and the Project Exhibition Hall. The History Hall explores the 100year history of teddy bears, with various bears from different eras, antique bears, and famous scenes and artwork recreated with teddy bears. The latter includes the Mona Lisa bear and the teddy bears of The Last Supper. The Art Hall features modern artwork by international designers, as well as a number of bear animations. In the Project Exhibit Hall, the collection extends to teddy bears grouped into a number of different themes.
The museum also has a cafe, plus a bar for adults that’s only open in the summer months. Outside in the museum garden, which is adorned with teddy bear sculptures, there are some fantastic views of the coastal landscape of Jeju Island.
Practical Info
From Jeju Airport, take the Airport Limousine 600 bus and alight at the Yeomiji Botanical Garden bus stop in Jungmun Resort. The Teddy Bear Museum is around a fiveminute walk from here.
Address: 31 Jungmungwangwangro, Seogwipo, South Korea
Hours: Winter: 9am-8pm / Summer: 9am-10pm
Admission: Adult: 9500 KRW / Teenager: 8500 KRW / Child & senior: 7500 KRW
From $ 7
Tapgol Park
Formerly known as Pagoda Park, this small public gathering place was once the home of a Buddhist Temple and still holds an important place in Korean history. That's because the March 1st Movement, part of the nation's move towards independence from Japanese rule, took place in Tapgol Park.
Visitors can wander the grounds, which offer a number of places for quiet reflection, including an old pagoda dating back to the 15 Century. Impressive stone statues dot the grounds, which most travelers agree can be seen in about 30 minutes. Tapgol Park is perfect for relaxing on the way to or from nearby Isna-dong.
Practical Info
Tapgol Park is located at 97 Jongno Street in Seoul. It is accessible via public transit using the 1, 3 and 5 lines of the Seoul Subway and getting off at 3-ga Station.
Address: 99 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 37
Third Tunnel of Aggression
The Third Tunnel of Aggression is one of four known tunnels situated within the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating North Korea and South Korea. Located more than 70 meters beneath the ground and at 265 meters long, the Third Tunnel of Aggression is a highlight of any DMZ tour.
The tunnel was built by North Korea in the 1970s, who initially denied its existence when South Korea discovered it later. The North were then said to have claimed it was a coal mine, before it was revealed that they had dug the tunnel in order to launch a surprise attack on Seoul. The South eventually took control of the tunnel, blocking off the demarcation line with the North via concrete barricades.
Although the Third Tunnel is now very much a tourist site (there’s even a gift shop near its entrance), it still remains guarded and taking photography is forbidden once inside. The tunnel passage is dark, long, and narrow, and it’s a steep incline to access it.
Practical Info
The DMZ can only be accessed via authorized shuttle buses and tours. There is also a dedicated monorail that serves the Third Tunnel area.
Address: 210-358, Jeomwon-ri, Paju 413-920, South Korea
Hours: 9:10am-3pm
Admission: Dependent on tour
From $ 40