Good news for tourists, the Climate Card, which is new from the Seoul Metropolitan Government, will be available for tourist for the first time and is a way to save money on transportation while you explore Seoul. Starting July 1st 2024, the Climate Card Tourist Pass will be available to short-stay and foreign visitors to South Korea. It will give visitors unlimited access to Seoul’s subway, bus system for 1, 2, 3, or 5 days.

For a short video version of this article:

Origin of the Climate Card (Not for tourist)

The Seoul Metropolitan Government started the first pilot program for the Climate Card (기후동행첃瓻) on January 27, 2024, and it will run until June 30, 2024. This is Korea’s first eco-friendly prepaid travel fare card. It lets you use Seoul’s public transportation as much as you want for a month, and it’s good for 30 days from the first day you use it. It comes in two different plans.

The first one costs KRW 62,000 for subway and bus use only. The second one costs KRW 65,000 and includes the use of the Seoul bike service (Ttareungi) along with subway and bus use. The goal of the Climate Card is to fight climate change while also making it easier for people to use public transportation. Learn more about the Korean Climate Card

Where can you purchase the Climate Card Tourist Pass?

Starting in July 2024, international tourists can purchase a physical Climate Card Tourist Pass from several locations:

• Tourist Information Center in Seoul Tourism Plaza (Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jongno-gu)
• Myeongdong Tourist Information Center
• Customer safety centers in subway stations on lines 1 to 8,
• Convenience stores near subway stations.
• Machines located in Lines 1 to 8 (Seoul Metro) stations, Line 9, Sillim Line, and Ui-Sinseol Line.

How much is the Climate Card Tourist Pass?

The Climate Card Tourist Pass is offered in four durations: one-day, two-day, three-day, and five-day. The prices for each pass are as follows:

• One-day pass: KRW 5,000
• Two-day pass: KRW 8,000
• Three-day pass: KRW 10,000
• Five-day pass: KRW 15,000

Where can you use the Climate Card’s unlimited use of public transport

Here is a list of the Subway lines you can use with the Climate Card:

• (Line 1) Onsu Station/Geumcheon-gu Office Station to Dobongsan Station
• (Line 3) Jichuk Station to Ogeum Station
• (Line 5) Banghwa Station to Gangil Station/Macheon Station
• (Line 7) Onsu Station to Jangam Station
• (Line 9) All stations
• (Sillim Line) All stations
• (Gyeongui-Jungang Line) Susaek Station to Yangwon Station/Seoul Station
• (Suin-Bundang Line) Cheongnyangni Station to Bokjeong Station
• (Line 2) All stations
• (Line 4) Namtaeryeong Station to Danggogae Station
• (Line 6) All stations
• (Line 8) All stations
• (Ui-Sinseol Line) All stations
• (AREX) Gimpo Int’l Airport Station to Seoul Station
• (Gyeongchun Line) Cheongnyangni Station to Sinnae Station
• (Gimpo Goldline) All stations

You cannot use the Climate Card outside of Seoul. You can’t use the Climate Card to get on and off the subway in Seoul and outside of Seoul. Do not leave the train or bus without tapping in and out.

To give you an example, you can’t use the Climate Card to get on at Jongno 3(sam)-ga Station in Seoul and get off at Indeogwon Station in Gyeonggi-do; station workers will have to take your fare separately.

Who is the Climate card tourist pass for?

For tourist who are planning to travel strictly in Seoul, the Climate Card Tourist Pass will be useful and can save you some money travelling in Seoul. If your travel itinerary includes travelling to locations outside Seoul, then the T-Money Card is still the best transportation card for travellers.

My recommendation for saving money is, allocating one to five days of purely travelling within Seoul to fully utilize the Climate Card Tourist Pass, this way, you’ll be able to use the unlimited travel using subways and busses, while having the peace of mind of not overspending for transportation.

For those who are planning to travel in Seoul, it’ll be useful to read this guide on taking Kakao Taxis for foreigners, and also renting a car and driving in Korea.

How did they do it? Movies and TV shows from Korea are known for having their style, high production standards, and new stories. There are a lot of loyal fans of K-culture worldwide because it is different from other cultural exports: the content is very good.

Rise of K-Pop Giants

K-Culture includes many different things like music, TV shows, movies, clothes, food, and language. People everywhere love it! K-pop music, especially groups like BTS and Blackpink, has become household names, both locally and internationally. Their catchy songs and awesome dance moves have made them big stars worldwide.

The success of K-pop alone brings in billions of dollars, and many people say they visit South Korea just because of K-pop. Even with the challenges of COVID-19, South Korea’s tourism industry is bouncing back strong, and K-pop is a big reason for that.

Impact of Korean Television and Films

People all over the world love Korean TV shows and movies, thanks to sites like Netflix and YouTube. Huge hits like “Squid Game” and “Train To Busan” get people all over the world interested in Korean stories. It greatly influenced both people around the world and K-Culture.

They love the stories and how they mix old and new traditions. Squid Game has become the most-watched show on Netflix in 90 countries, including Ireland, showcasing its broad international appeal. The series is part of the Korean Wave, or Hallyu, which has been sweeping the globe with Korean cultural products.

After Squid Game came out, sellers of dalgona, the honeycomb candy that was featured in the show, saw a big jump in sales both in Korea and around the world. In the weeks after the show’s opening, sales of everyday clothes that looked like those worn on the show, like Vans slip-on shoes and green tracksuits, went up a lot. South Korea’s clothing industry had a short comeback when people wanted to buy clothes that were inspired by Squid Game. After the first episode of Squid Game aired, sellers of costume accessories like the guards’ masks also saw a lot of extra business as people got ready for Halloween.

Influence of Fashion on K-Culture

Korean fashion is super popular worldwide, thanks to the Korean Wave or Hallyu. This wave has made people everywhere interested in K-Culture, like music, TV shows, movies, and food. The cool styles and looks from Korean fashion have caught the attention of people all over the world. Lots of people who love K-Culture want to visit South Korea to see the fashion, music, and entertainment up close. This has helped boost tourism in South Korea, which is good for their economy.

Korean fashion trends, often started by K-pop stars, have become popular everywhere. Styles like big clothes, bright colors, and wearing lots of layers are now cool all over the world. Many designers and fans get inspiration from Korean fashion and this big success has also made South Korea more powerful globally.

K-pop and K-dramas, in particular, have become big draws for tourists coming to South Korea. A report from South Korea’s culture and tourism office says that K-pop has become the main reason people come to the country, beating out Korean food and cultural content.

New Visa Options for K-Culture Lover

Because of the non-stop popularity of K-pop and K-dramas around the world, South Korea added two new visas in 2024. This is to attract foreign talent, promote cultural exchange, boost tourism, and enhance the country’s global reputation as a hub for remote work and K-Culture. These Two Visa Programs might be the ones you’re looking for!

Digital Nomad Visa or the Workation Visa

As of January 1st, 2024, South Korea has released a new visa called the workation visa, aiming to encourage longer stays for foreign visitors. Unlike tourist visas that typically last for 90 days, this visa allows visitors to stay for up to two years, combining work and travel.

How does it work?

Foreigners had to apply for tourist visas or stay for less than 90 days without a visa for a “workcation” in Korea. The new system allows employees and employers from overseas companies to visit and work remotely in Korea for a longer period.

To apply, you must submit documents to the Korean embassy in your country proving an annual income of over 84.96 million won ($65,860), which is double Korea’s gross national income per capita for 2022.

Applicants also need to provide proof of employment, a criminal record check and proof of private health insurance with coverage of at least 100 million won for emergency travel. Applicants must be 18 or older and have at least one year of experience in their current job.

Once granted the visa, digital nomads can bring their spouses and children under 18. The visa allows an initial stay of one year, with the option to extend for another year, making the maximum stay two years.

K-culture Training Visa or Hallyu Visa

And big news for fans of K-Culture! South Korea is introducing a special visa just for you called the Hallyu visa, also known as the “K-culture Training Visa.” This visa will change how people who love South Korean culture can experience the country.

The Hallyu visa is named after the “Korean Wave,” which is the huge popularity of South Korean culture worldwide. It shows that South Korea cares about its culture and wants to welcome fans from everywhere. The Korean Tourism Board (KTB) says the new visa is for foreigners who love South Korean pop culture, especially those who are coming to Korea to work in the entertainment industry or study topics that are connected to it. It’s like a dream come true for anyone who loves Korean music, movies, and art.

In 2015, South Korea introduced the Entertainment and Culture visa. The new 2024 K-culture visa, on the other hand, lets you stay longer (than 90 days), gives you more job options in all arts, culture, and entertainment fields, and makes it easier to apply for jobs in the music industry and at reputable South Korean academies.

The exact requirements for the K-Culture Visa have not been revealed yet, but more information is anticipated to be available by the latter half of 2024. Fans of K-Culture are buzzing with excitement as more details about the Hallyu visa come out. This visa is a big deal for anyone who loves Korean music, dramas, and more. It’s opening up new opportunities to experience the culture of South Korea like never before.

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Let’s dip into the vibrant soul of Seoul and discover the best ways to make the most of your summer adventure.

May 2024: Lotus Lantern Festival

The Lotus Lantern Festival, Yeon Deung Hoe, is an annual traditional Buddhist celebration in South Korea. It takes place on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, typically falling in April or May. The festival is highly significant and draws both locals and international visitors.

Major cities, particularly Seoul, are decorated with colorful lanterns during the festival. These lanterns are meticulously crafted and feature Buddhist symbols, mythical creatures, and elements of Korean culture. The lantern parade is a major highlight, where participants carry lanterns through the streets, starting from Dongguk University in Seoul. With participants frequently dressed in traditional Korean attire, the parade creates a stunning display of light and color.

Major cities, particularly Seoul, are decorated with colorful lanterns during the festival. These lanterns are meticulously crafted and feature Buddhist symbols, mythical creatures, and elements of Korean culture. The lantern parade is a major highlight, where participants carry lanterns through the streets, starting from Dongguk University in Seoul. With participants frequently dressed in traditional Korean attire, the parade creates a stunning display of light and color.

In addition to the lantern parade, the Lotus Lantern Festival offers various cultural performances, art exhibitions, traditional music, dance, and martial arts demonstrations. Visitors can also engage in Buddhist ceremonies, and temple tours, and participate in activities like making lotus lanterns and meditation sessions.

Event Date: 10 -12 May 2024
Location: 288 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

June 2024: Busan One Asia Festival

The Busan One Asia Festival (BOF) is an annual cultural event that aims to bring together young people from Busan and around the world to enjoy Korean cultural content, particularly K-pop performances. This year, Busan One Asia Festival is celebrating its 8 years representing Korea’s cultural event in Asia.

One of the highlights of BOF is the lineup of hottest K-Pop idols like ZEROBASEONE, BOYNEXTDOOR, and n.SSign dazzled the audience with their energetic choreography and powerful vocals, while legendary acts like Super Junior D&E and God brought nostalgia and excitement to the stage.

You can join the BOF Big CONCERT with a tour from Klook

Event Date: 8 Jun 2024
Location: Busan Asiad Main Stadium

June 2024: Pohang International Fireworks Festival

The Pohang International Fireworks Festival is an annual event held in Pohang, South Korea, featuring a spectacular display of fireworks. In addition to the fireworks, the festival offers a host of other activities and entertainment, such as busking, parades, street performances, street art, food stalls, and international cultural exchange programs.

You can join this festival with a tour from Trazy or Klook.

Event Date: June 1, 2024
Location: Yeongildae Beach in Pohang, South Korea

July 2024: Buyeo Seodong Lotus Flower Festival

The Buyeo Seodong Lotus Festival has gained increased recognition and popularity over the years, becoming Korea’s representative summer flower festival. It has been selected as an ‘Excellent Festival’ multiple times, highlighting its growing importance in the cultural landscape of South Korea. The festival takes place every July during the peak summer season when lotus flowers are in bloom.

Over the years, the Buyeo Seodong Lotus Flower Festival has expanded its lineup of activities. Now, you have the chance to engage in various activities including crafting paper lotus flowers, making lotus flower soap, enjoying a night parade starring Prince Seodong and Princess Seonhwa, traditional music and dance performances featuring the rich heritage of Baekje culture, participating in a photo contest, food tasting and amazed by LED lights and lanterns.

Festival Date: July 5 -7,2024
Location: Gungnamji Pond in Buyeo Seodong Park, Buyeo County, South Chungcheong Province, South Korea

July to August 2024: Boryeong Mud Festival

The Boryeong Mud Festival is an annual event held in Boryeong, South Korea, which uses mud from the Boryeong mud flats. This festival, first staged in 1998, attracts millions of visitors yearly. It is known for its mud-based activities, including mud baths, mud slides, mud prisons, mud skiing competitions, and body painting using colored mud.

The mud from the Boryeong mud flats is believed to be rich in minerals and is associated with various health benefits. Initially created as a marketing strategy for Boryeong Mud Cosmetics, the festival has grown into a major cultural event, featuring live music, dance competitions, and entertainment activities. 

Visitors of all ages can participate in the festival, which offers a lively and joyful atmosphere filled with laughter and excitement. The Boryeong Mud Festival is a unique celebration that combines fun, health benefits, and cultural experiences centered around the therapeutic properties of mud.

You can join this festival with a tour from Klook

Festival Dates: 19 Jul – 04 Aug 2024
Location:  Boryeong, Chungcheongnam-do, South Korea

July to August 2024: Waterbomb Festival

The Waterbomb Festival is one of South Korea’s most anticipated summer music festival featuring a blend of K-pop, K-hip-hop, and EDM performances. Participate in water gun battles, water canons, and other water activities while enjoying live music. It’s a fun-filled event dancing to the beats in a refreshing setting.

Festival Dates: 5 Jul – 31 Aug 2024
Location: vary by dates

July 2024: Jeongnamjin Jangheung Water Festival

The 17th Jeongnamjin Jangheung Water Festival is a celebration of the region’s freshwater resources, including the Tamjingang River, Jangheung Dam Lake, and Deukryang Bay seawater. It aims to boost tourism and the local economy by showcasing the area’s cleanliness and greenery, attracting visitors to enjoy organic agricultural products.

Unlike typical festivals, it offers unique water-themed activities suitable for the hot summer season. Recognized as a designated cultural and tourism festival, it has become a signature event alongside other local attractions. It’s not just a festival but a place to immerse in clean nature and relaxation to beat the summer heat.

Event Date: TBA
Location: TBA

August 2024: Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival

Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival is the biggest live music event in South Korea, attracting both aspiring and prominent musicians from Korea and around the world. The 2024 edition of the festival is scheduled to take place from August 2-4, 2024 at the Songdo Moonlight Festival Park in Incheon. However, the full lineup for the 2024 edition of the festival has not been revealed yet. The official website will post more details about the 2024 lineup will be announced closer to the event dates.

Festival Date: 2 – 4 Aug 2024
Location: Songdo Moonlight Festival Park, Incheon

Here are some of the best summer music festivals you won’t want to miss

K-Pop Music Festivals In Korea:
Dream Concert – Seoul
Spectrum Dance & Music Festival – Seoul

Rock Music Festivals In Korea:
IT’S A FEST – Incheon

Indie Music Festivals In Korea:
GreenPlugged – Seoul
Grand Mint Festival – Seoul
Rainbow Island – Gapyeong

EDM Music Festivals In Korea:
Seoul World DJ Festival – Seoul
Ultra Music Festival Korea – Seoul
5tardium – Seoul
EDC Korea – Seoul

Other Music Festivals In Korea:
Seoul Jazz Festival – Seoul
DMZ Peace Train Music Festival – Seoul
NBA Buzzer Beat Festival – Seoul
Rapbeat Festival – Seoul
SKA Superswag Festival – Incheon
Big Day South – Busan

August to September 2024: Daegu Chimac Festival

The Daegu Chicken and Beer Festival, also known as the “Daegu Chimac Festival”, is an annual event held in Daegu, South Korea, celebrating the popular combination of chicken and beer (referred to as “chimac” in Korean). The festival features a variety of chicken dishes such as fried, grilled, and spicy chicken, showcasing the culinary creativity of local chefs and vendors.

You can also enjoy a wide selection of local and international beers to complement the chicken. This festival includes various activities and entertainment, such as surprising performances, in addition to the food and drink offerings.

Food Festivals in Korea during the Summer

Summer 2024: Bonghwa Eun-uh (Sweetfish) Festival

Held annually during the summer months which is typically the end of July, this festival celebrates the local specialty product of sweetfish, a cherished delicacy in Korean cuisine. The festival presents a variety of engaging programs that allow visitors to actively participate.
These include fishing, water play, a water fight, and agricultural experiences.

August to September 2024: Chuncheon Makguksu & Dakgalbi Festival

Every year between August and September, Makguksu, a traditional Korean buckwheat noodle dish, takes center stage at the Chuncheon Makguksu & Dakgalbi Festival. Made from freshly ground buckwheat flour and served in a chilled broth, this refreshing dish is the perfect antidote to the summer heat. Sample a variety of makguksu preparations, from classic versions to creative twists created by local chefs.

There’s a variety of fun-filled activities designed to entertain and delight festival-goers of all ages. From cooking competitions and food-eating contests to interactive games and cultural exhibits, there’s never a boring moment at the Chuncheon Makguksu & Dakgalbi Festival.

A new attraction in Seoul this June 2024: Moon of Seoul

June 2024: The “Moon of Seoul” will rise to 150 meters above Yeouido

Set to fly in June, the Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) has announced an exciting new addition to the city skyline – the Moon of Seoul! This moon-shaped hot air balloon will soar 150 meters above Yeouido Park, offering a remarkable night experience.

While it may look like a regular hot air balloon, the Moon of Seoul is filled with helium gas and tethered to the ground by sturdy cables. The buoyancy of helium and an electric mechanism power its vertical trips.

The making of the Moon of Seoul began in January, with careful planning and construction, and started its installation at Yeouido Park’s Grassy Field on April 29. Thorough test flights will be conducted to guarantee safety before the official launch in late June, the actual launch date will depend on weather conditions to ensure the best viewing experience possible.

Each trip lasts about 15 minutes and can accommodate up to 30 passengers. Imagine wandering above Seoul’s busy streets, seeing the iconic landmarks and Hangang River. Visitors can enjoy the Moon of Seoul from Tuesday to Sunday, between 12 PM and 10 PM. Adult tickets start at KRW 25,000, with discounts available for certain groups. Maintenance work is scheduled for Mondays to keep the attraction in top condition.

The Moon of Seoul is set to become a landmark in the city’s skyline. It’s sure to capture the hearts and imaginations of locals and tourists. Remember to capture your experience and share it on Instagram for all to see!

Please note that the booking link for the Moon of Seoul will be available soon. Keep an eye out for updates on how to reserve your spot!

How to get there: Take the subway to Yeouido Hangang Park. Travelers can alight at Yeouinaru Station Line 5, exits 2 or 3.

Address: 서울특별시 영등포구 여의동로 330 (여의도동) | 330, Yeouidong-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul

Other activities at Yeouido Hangang Park can be booked at Klook

Top 10 Events in Seoul featured in Fever

Bluespring Summer Night 2024 Music Festival (Pre-Sale)

Bringing all music lovers to the vibrant city of Seoul – Blue Spring Summer Night, the annual music festival will feature a stellar lineup of Korea’s top vocalists Jeong Eun Ji, Kim Feel, John Park, Lee Byeong Chan, and many more!

The excitement doesn’t stop with music. Indulge your taste buds at various food zones, explore side events, and immerse yourself in the cool summer atmosphere of the festival.

Event Date: July 6-7, 2024
Time: 03:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Location: TBA 

Join the waitlist and get a presale link on 5/7 with a Fever-exclusive discount price before the tickets are released.

Waitlist link here

Discover the Wonders of Miniature Life with Tatsuya Tanaka’s “MINIATURE LIFE · MITATE MIND” Exhibit in Seoul

On-going from March 2 – June 10

The MINIATURE LIFE · MITATE MIND exhibition showcases over 200 artworks, including 52 original miniatures, photographs, and videos, each crafted with meticulous detail and infused with Tanaka’s signature charm. Themes such as HOME, FORM, COLOR, SCALE, MOTION, LIFE, and WORLD serve as a gateway into Tanaka’s imaginative universe, where objects are transformed and narratives unfold in miniature form.

Event Date: On-going from March 2 – June 10 (open every day)
Time: Weekdays: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm (last admission: 8:00 pm)
Weekends (Sat-Sun): 10: 00 am – 10:00 pm (last admission: 9:00 pm)
Location: MPX Gallery, Level 3, IFC Mall (10, International Finance Street, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul)

Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the magic of.

More information and Booking

Get Ready to Dance: The 2024 World DJ Festival is Here!

15 & 16 June 2024

The 2024 World DJ Festival brings together top DJs from around the globe for an unforgettable experience of music and energy. As Asia’s premier EDM festival and the first Korean festival to be ranked in DJ MAG’s Top 100, festivals promise to deliver a unique atmosphere filled with pulsating beats.
Renowned artists Eric Prydz, KSHMR, The Chainsmokers, and more will take the stage at SeoulLand, Gwacheon. From the high-energy sets on the World Stage to the dreamy vibes of the Dream Stage invite music lovers from ages 19 and above.

Secure your spot with 1-Day or 2-Day passes, giving you access to a lineup of global top DJ headliners and electrifying performances that will keep you dancing all night long. 

Event Date: 15 & 16 June 2024
Time: 02:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Location: Seoul Land, 181 Gwangmyeong-ro, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea

Click here for more information and Booking

Spain Club, Seoul’s Ultimate Destination for Authentic Spanish Dining

04 May – 30 Dec 2024

Exclusive Set Menus Available Only on Fever!
Experience the flavors of Spain right here in Seoul at Spain Club, the largest Spanish restaurant in Korea. Delighting diners with an exquisite menu of traditional Spanish dishes for over a decade.

Taste the authentic sirloin steak, and flavorful seafood paella crafted with the finest ingredients sourced from directly from Spain!
Enjoy your sangria with friends in the vibrant atmosphere of Spanish hospitality.

Click here for more information and Booking

Neon Brush Painting Workshop

23 – 25 May 2024

Come solo or bring your friends, sure you’ll enjoy this! A unique and immersive experience happening at Neon Brush Painting Workshop that invites you to unleash your creativity in a vibrant retro-futuristic atmosphere. A combination of art, ambiance, and entertainment is waiting for you to create classic and fluorescent paint under the glow of neon lights memorable and guided by expert artists.

After the session, you can take home your wonderful creation as a reminder of your proud experience at the workshop.

Event Date: 23 – 25 May 2024
Location: The Room Taktinn (Samcheong-ro 4, 4th Floor, Jongro-gu, Seoul)

Click here for more information and Booking

Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience

03 – 31 May 2024

Transport yourself to the 19th century and explore some of Van Gogh’s most iconic masterpieces like never before. It’s a multi-sensorial experience that will leave you wanting more! Step into Van Gogh’s World, and immerse yourself in the life and art of the genius artist through cutting-edge 360-degree projection mapping. The exhibition offers a one-of-a-kind virtual reality (VR) experience titled “A Day in the Life of the Artist in Arles, France,” allowing you to dive deeper into the inspiration behind eight of Van Gogh’s works.

Join us in celebrating Van Gogh’s 171st anniversary with a special 20% discount—secure your tickets now and don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!

Click here for more information and Booking

Location: GIDC Gwangmyeong G floor (B2 floor)

S2O Korea Songkran Music Festival 2024

13 – 14 Jul 2024

Songkran Music Festival 2024 is a spectacular water EDM festival that lets you experience music, energy, and water effects. Hosted at SeoulLand, this festival features live performances from the world’s top DJs, and will surely beat the heat with 1 million liters of water that will create an aquatic party atmosphere.

Prepare to be blown away by performances from acclaimed artists including VINI VICI, NICKY ROMERO, TJR, BEN NICKY, NERVO, KAAZE, SUB ZERO PROJECT, MIKE WILLIAMS, RAY VOLPE, TRITONAL, just_____us, and SALVATORE GANACCI. More to come!

Dates: July 13 & 14, 2024
Time: 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Location: SeoulLand

Click here for more information and Booking

Have a Nice Trip 2024 Music Festival

27 – 28 Jul 2024

Look forward to an array of exciting activities and amenities to enjoy. Take a break from the summer heat with indoor performances, explore various tasty food zones, and engage in fun-filled activities that promise to keep the excitement going all day long.

Ready to be captivated by the soulful melodies of Alec Benjamin, Peach Pit, and the dynamic performances of Henry Moodie, Hong Isaac, Kenya Grace, KISS OF LIFE, and Will Hyde. Then, on Sunday, July 28th, get ready to groove to the indie vibes of Alvvays, the mesmerizing sounds of King Krule, and the enchanting performances of KWON JIN AH, Nerd Connection, Remi Wolf, Sampha, and Surl.

Dates: July 27 – 28, 2024
Time: 12:00 – 22:00 (ticket booths open at 11:30 a.m.)
Location: KINTEX 2nd Exhibition Center, Ilsan

Click here for more information and Ticket Booking

Create Your Signature Scent at Lumiere Parfum Seongsu

4 May – 30 Dec 2024

Participate in a one-day class led by professional perfumery experts where you’ll have the opportunity to create and customize your signature scent. Explore a wide selection of fragrances and learn the art of blending to craft a personalized perfume that reflects your unique personality. The sensory space at Lumiere Parfum is designed to engage your senses and awaken your creativity.

As a special token, you can bring home a mini perfume gift to cherish your experience in this perfume-making class and enjoy your custom fragrance wherever you go.

Dates: 03 May – 30 Dec 2024
Location: Lumiere Parfum Seongsu (#301, Wonchangsilup Nadong, 49 Yeonmujang-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul)

Click here for more information and Ticket Booking

Candlelight Spring: Tribute to Taylor Swift

14 Jun 2024

Experience the magic of live music at Candlelight concert where talented musicians play in a magical setting that captures your heart. The candlelight and beautiful floral displays create a peaceful and romantic atmosphere that awakens your overall sensory experience. Celebrate the arrival of spring with a string quartet that interprets Taylor Swift’s iconic songs such as “Love Story,” “Blank Space,” “Shake It Off” and more.

Location: Platform L Contemporary Art Center,  11 Eonju-ro 133-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Click here for more information and Ticket Booking

Support In My Korea

Thanks for reading. If you want to help me to create more great content in the future, why not buy me a coffee? A strong coffee helps me write more and is a simple way to show gratitude for this free content.

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So, if you’re ready for a South Korean road trip adventure, here’s what you should know before you hit the road!

For those who wants to watch a quick video version, watch it here:

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Driving in Korea for Tourists: the checklist

1. To rent a car in South Korea, you have to be at least 21 years old. Young driver surcharges may apply from rental car companies if you are under 25.
2. A valid driver’s license from your home country.
3. Valid International Driving Permit (IDP) following the Geneva convention or the Vienna convention.
4. You will need to present your passport for identification.
5. A credit card in the driver’s name.

Choosing a Car Rental Company in korea and Booking Online

Both local and international car rental businesses operate in major cities, including major airports like Incheon and Gimpo. Whether you prefer manual or automatic transmission vehicles, you’ll discover rental options that meet your needs. To ensure availability and avoid scams, book reservations with reputable vehicle rental businesses ahead of time.

Popular cart rental companies in Korea include LOTTE Rent-a-Vehicle, SK Rent-a-Car, Hertz, Avis, and Budget. These companies offer a wide range of cars, from compact cars to luxury sedans, so you have plenty of options. Furthermore, many car rental companies in South Korea offer navigation systems with GPS and English-speaking staff to help foreign visitors.

If you plan to book a rental car online, here are some of the sites I recommend. You can book six months in advance and collect the vehicles at airports and major transportation hubs:

• EconomyBookings
• Rentcars.com
• Klook

Selecting the Right Car

Choosing the right car depends on your planned itinerary, personal preference, and budget. For example, if you’re exploring urban areas, a compact car is perfect due to its easy navigation in traffic jams and smaller parking lots.

Typically, economy and compact cars are the most affordable to rent. They are usually more fuel-efficient, so you can save money on gas. Smaller cars are easy to navigate through narrow city streets and crowded parking lots. The Hyundai i10 and Kia Morning are popular models.

For those seeking more space and comfort, midsize and full-size cars offer advantages, especially for longer journeys or traveling with a group or family. Despite the higher rental costs and fuel consumption, midsize and full-size cars offer better safety and seating comfort. Commonly available options are the Hyundai Sonata and Kia K7.

If you need more luggage space or are planning to shop (who isn’t?!), SUVs and vans are for you. Although it is more expensive, it will provide the extra space you need. For countryside travel or a trip to Jeju Island, consider a larger vehicle for a more comfortable ride. Available options are Hyundai Staria and Kia Carnival.

Electric vehicles (EVs) offer an environmentally friendly way to explore Korea. Renting an EV provides tourists with a modern and high-tech driving experience that includes advanced features and technology, enhancing the overall driving experience. Some rental companies, like SK Rent-a-Car and LOTTE Ren-a-Car, offer promotions or free charging for EV rentals, providing cost savings for travelers. Please note that due to limitations in EV charging infrastructure in Korea, some extra planning is required, especially for driving in remote areas like the backcountry.

Other Add-ons

When renting a car in South Korea, there are additional add-ons to consider to enhance your rental experience and ensure a smooth journey. 

Child Seat: The availability and cost of child seats vary by rental company. In South Korea, it is legally required for children under the age of 6 to be seated in a child safety seat when traveling in a car.

Car insurance for a car rental in South Korea is mandatory. The cost of a rental car typically includes insurance for personal and third-party injuries and the property of third parties. 

Additional Drivers option can be added upon picking up the car from the rental location but this will incur extra charges. Each additional driver must present the same requirements as the main driver, including a driver’s license and an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Tips for renting car for driving in Korea as a tourist

Travellers with young child(ren)

Though not strictly enforced, I recommend getting a child safety seat when travelling with children. The good news is that some rental companies on Economy bookings offer child toddler seat as a free add-on in Korea. Look for this message when browsing the rentals.

Insurance

Whenever you rent a car in Korea, the rental company has some insurance on the car in case something happens to the car during the rental period. The rental company will then sell you an insurance product that reduces the amount of excess you need to pay if something goes wrong. The excess amount typically goes between USD1,500 to USD2,500. The options are there, drive like a safety freak and be paranoid about any moving object near your rental vehicle, or fork out an extra ~USD15 per day for the peace of mind.

If you booked your trip with a reputable credit card that comes with complimentary travel insurance, this excess amount might be covered! Please check the terms of your travel insurance to make sure you are covered.

Lastly if you purchased travel insurance for your trip, this excess amount might be covered as well. Having travel insurance has many benefits, and I always recommend getting one when travelling. Once again please check the terms before making the decision of forgoing insurance for your rental vehicle.

When picking up the vehicle

Ask any questions you may have. Check all terms and conditions, including insurance, mileage, fuel, and any fees. Before leaving, do a visual inspection to see if there is any damage that has already occurred. Make a note of any visible damage by taking a photo or video and documenting it as evidence, so you don’t have to pay any extra when existing damages are found.

Useful Navigation Apps for driving in Korea

Naver Map (neibeo jido) is one of the most popular mapping and navigation apps in South Korea, providing accurate directions, real-time traffic information, and a variety of features like SmartAround for detailed information on locations, reviews, and menus of famous restaurants or shops.

KakaoMap (kakaomaeb) is another widely used map app in Korea, known for its high accuracy and convenience. It offers features like linking to KakaoTalk and KakaoTaxi, providing directions for various modes of transport, and voice reports for congestion and speed cameras.

Google Map is one that I keep trying to use (with disappointment), as I have had great experience using it in countries like Japan and Australia. But I don’t recommend it at all for driving in Korea, as the navigation is often inaccurate and the above 2 are just better in every way in Korea.

Most car rental companies also offer GPS devices with the rental, but I personally prefer navigating with a phone when driving in Korea, as the data is more updated and the touchscreen just feels better than most GPS devices.

To navigate with phone apps, make sure you have enough mobile data on your phone. Getting a Korean sim or esim plan will be essential. I suggest allocating at least 300MB of data per day for navigation on a typical day of driving. If you are using Naver Map, I also recommend downloading offline-ready maps specifically for the areas you plan to visit; this will save you precious mobile data and help navigate through cellular dead zones. Additionally, remember to bring a charging cable or power bank to ensure your phone stays charged for navigation.

Fueling up

Fueling up can be daunting if you’re not sure what to expect. I remember my first time fueling up at a self-service fuel station, and knowing little Korean at that time, it was tricky.

It is crucial to always return a rental car with a full tank; failing to do so can result in additional charges. In South Korea, car rental fuel policies usually follow the ‘full-full’ principle, requiring you to return the rental car with the same amount of fuel it had when you received it. As the driver, you are accountable for the fuel consumed throughout the rental period. The rental company determines the fuel usage by comparing the initial and final fuel levels of the vehicle.

Step-by-step guide for fueling up at a korean self-service station

1. Identify the Fuel Type
   • Gasoline stations are marked with the Korean word “주유소” (pronounced “joo-you-so”), while LPG stations are marked as “LPG충전소” (pronounced “LPG choong-juhn-so”) 
   • Gasoline pumps are typically yellow, while diesel pumps are green.
2. Activate the Pump 
   • Locate the anti-static pad on the pump and touch it to reduce the risk of static electricity buildup. 
   • Press the “시작하기” (“Start”) button to begin the fueling process.
3. Select the Fuel Type
   • Choose the appropriate fuel type, either gasoline (“휘발유”) or diesel (“경유”), based on your vehicle’s requirements
   • Pump the Fuel
4. Payment
   • You can pay for the fuel using cash, credit/debit cards, or the Hi-Pass electronic toll payment system. If using a card, insert it into the card reader on the pump and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the transaction.
5. Refueling Completion
   • Once the tank is full, the pump will automatically stop, and you can replace the fuel nozzle. Ensure you have properly replaced the fuel nozzle and close your vehicle’s fuel tank cover before driving away.

Cost of petrol

The cost of petrol in South Korea fluctuates according to the international oil price, with prices reported at around ₩1,673 per liter, or approximately USD 1.27 per liter, as of April 2024. Check here for recent prices.

Road and Traffic Rules in South Korea

In South Korea, traffic operates on the right-hand side of the road, so drivers should keep to this lane. Wear your seat belt at all times while driving, as safety is a top priority. Additionally, using mobile phones while driving is strictly prohibited unless they are operated in a hands-free manner to minimize distractions. Do not drink and drive in Korea! The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.03% and refrain from drinking and driving to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road.

Speed Limits

Like many other countries, South Korea imposes the maximum allowed speed limit on all roads.

• Highways: Speed limits vary between 100-120 km/hr.
• Open roads: The speed limit is normally 80 km/hr.
• City roads: Speed limits not more than 60 km/hr, depending on the specific area and road conditions.

Some common road signs and symbols, along with parking regulations in South Korea:

• Stop Sign (정지/): A red octagonal sign with “정지” written in white. Drivers must come to a complete stop and yield the right-of-way to vehicles and pedestrians.
• Yield Sign (양보): A downward-pointing triangle with a red border and “양보” written in white. Drivers must yield the right-of-way to vehicles on the intersecting road.
• Speed Limit Signs (속도 제한): Circular signs with the maximum speed limit displayed in kilometers per hour (km/h). Common speed limits are 60 km/h in urban areas and 80-100 km/h on highways, but they may vary.
• No Entry Sign (진입 금지): A red circle with a white horizontal bar across it and “진입 금지” written underneath. Indicates that entry into a certain area or road is prohibited.
• One-Way Sign (일방 통행): A rectangular sign with an arrow indicating the direction of traffic flow and “일방 통행” written underneath. Indicates that traffic is allowed to flow in only one direction on the specified road.
• Parking Sign (주차 허용/금지): Signs indicating whether parking is allowed or prohibited. “주차 허용” means parking is allowed, while “주차 금지” means parking is prohibited.
• Disabled Parking Sign (장애인 주차구역): Indicates designated parking spots for disabled individuals. Parking here without proper authorization can result in fines.
• Loading/Unloading Zone Sign (화물 로딩/로딩 구역): Indicates areas where loading and unloading of goods are permitted. Typically found near commercial areas.
• No Parking Sign (주차 금지): A red circle with a white horizontal bar across it and “주차 금지” written underneath. Parking is prohibited in the specified area.
• Tow Away Zone Sign (무인 단속 주차금지): Indicates areas where vehicles parked illegally may be towed away by authorities

Turning Left on a Green Light in South Korea

In South Korea, the general rule is that drivers are not allowed to turn left on green lights at intersections unless there is a specific green arrow signal indicating that left turns are permitted.

When there are four signal lights at an intersection, drivers will typically need to wait for a green arrow to appear before making a left turn, as the green light alone does not authorize left turns in most cases.

However, there is an exception to this rule when drivers see a blue sign that says “비보호” with a left arrow on it. In this case, drivers can turn left on the green signal without waiting for a green arrow.

Turning Right

Similar to the US, you are allowed to turn right on red.

Use of Hazard Lights

The use of hazard lights (or emergency lights) in South Korea has several distinct meanings beyond standard emergency signaling.

1. Indicating a search for a parking spot
2. Expressing gratitude or apology, “thank you or “sorry”
3. They are alerting others to a hazard or obstruction
4. Indicating a stopped or parked vehicle

Tolls in South Korea

Tolls in South Korea are calculated based on several criteria, including the distance traveled, the type of roads used, and the type of vehicle. Tourists can pay tolls in cash, credit card, or T-Money Card and hi-pass cards at toll booths on the expressways.

Here are the guidelines for toll payments. Here’s what you need to know:

• Ticket Collection: Upon entering a toll booth at your departure location, make sure to collect a ticket from the toll booth attendant. This ticket will indicate the entry to the highway.
• Payment at Destination: When you reach your destination and encounter another toll booth, present the ticket you received at the departure toll booth to the attendant and pay the toll fee accordingly.
• No Hi-Pass System: Rental cars in South Korea normally are not equipped with the Hi-Pass automated toll payment system.
• Avoid Blue-Marked Lanes: Do not drive through lanes marked with blue symbols, as these are designated for vehicles equipped with the Hi-Pass system. Using these lanes without the system may cause complications and delays.

Tips: Avoid the left-most lanes marked in blue unless you have a hi-pass. Instead, use the cash lane (현금 means cash), commonly located to the right, which also accepts T-money cards. Note that credit cards may not be accepted unless they are Korean credit cards, so it’s safer to carry some cash.

Parking in South Korea

Parking costs in Seoul can vary depending on location and time of day. On average, parking costs range from 1,000 to 4,000 KRW per hour.

Public parking lots typically offer more affordable rates compared to private parking lots. They often provide a 50% discount for “light cars,” which are small and eco-friendly vehicles. Some parking zones implement a “first two hours free” policy, making them convenient for quick stops or visits to nearby stores.

If you park at public or private parking lots, you’ll encounter signs near the entrance or at the worker’s booth displaying the applicable rates. Some lots utilize automated systems that scan your license plate and calculate the parking fee automatically upon exit. 

Street parking is not allowed unless the parking spot is marked with a white line. If the parking spot has numbers or signs on it, then it is a residential parking spot.

Double Parking

Don’t be surprised! Parking in residential areas is quite challenging. Double parking in residential areas is normal due to the lack of space. Most Korean cars display their phone number on their windshields so they can be reached if their car is blocking someone in parking lots.

Advanced Parking System

Shopping centers, hotels, and multiplex cinemas in city areas often offer automated car parks that incorporate conveyor-type systems to prioritize user safety and convenience. Drivers can drive into a platform within a garage of single-car size, exit the vehicle, and have it automatically parked like a car vending machine.

Tips:  When booking accommodation, look for ones that explicitly mention parking availability in their descriptions or amenities list. Having parking available at your hotel can save you time and hassle.

The alternative: Public transport and taxis in Korea

If your itinerary consists mainly of the main cities like Seoul and Busan, I recommend taking public transport instead. Public transport is generally the more convenient and comfortable option for tourists in South Korea. After factoring expenses like fuel, tolls, parking fees, and insurance, or if a short budget is a constraint, still taking a bus, subway or taxi is often more cost-effective and practical than renting a car.

Subway: Seoul

The Seoul subway system is one of the most efficient ways to travel around the city. Trains run non-stop from approximately 5:30 am until midnight. All subway lines are color-coded and stations display signs in Korean, English, and Chinese. To ride the subway, you must use a single or multiple journey pass. Single-journey passes can be purchased in the subway stations and require exact fare to your destination plus a 500-won refundable deposit.

Multiple journey passes called T-money can be purchased at most convenience stores. Transfers between subway lines are free, and T-Money Card users can transfer for free between bus and subway lines. Smartphone and tablet users can download a variety of apps that give routes, times, and transfer information in English, including Seoul Subway, Metroid Korea Subway Info, and Subway Navigation by Kakao.

Bus

Riding a bus as a tourist is another convenient way to explore the cities of South Korea. Bus routes reach places that may not be accessible by other modes of transport, like subways.

Tourists can easily check bus routes or map apps, and digital bus stops in city centers provide real-time information on bus locations for travel convenience. Tap the T-Money Card to the card reader when you enter the bus to start your journey, then tap it again when you exit the bus. In most city buses in Korea, you enter at the front of the bus and get off in the middle. There will be a T-Money Card reader in both locations.

Taxi

In South Korea, taxis offer wide options based on your needs including regular and deluxe standard taxis, as well as international taxis with multi-lingual drivers for travelers’ convenience. Fares vary by city and taxi type, usually a base fare and additional charges based on distance traveled, with late-night surcharges applicable during specific hours.

The best way to get a taxi in Korea is with a taxi booking app, such as Kakao Taxi. This will allow you to call a taxi directly to your location and to set the final destination. This allows you to book taxis without speaking Korean and also shows you the expected cost of the journey. If you’re arriving at a train or bus terminal, there are usually taxi ranks outside where you can get a taxi any time of the day.

Driving in Korea as a tourist FAQs

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Two days in Seoul might seem like a short time for one of the world’s busiest metropolises, but still enough to have an amazing time. Wander through royal palaces dressed in traditional Korean hanbok, see the sights from up high in N Seoul Tower, cruise along the Han River at night to see the glittering skyscrapers, and fill your heart and soul (and stomach) at Myeongdong’s Street Food Alley and markets.

For those who want to do all the best activities in Seoul in a short time, and aren’t sure where to start, then this article is perfect for you. If you plant to spend longer than a weekend in Seoul, then you can spread these activities out over a few days and have extra time to spend visiting ancient tea rooms, cool cafes, a wide variety of interesting museums, and lots more that you can’t miss out on in Seoul.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Tips For Planning A Weekend In Seoul

This two day itinerary for Seoul covers some of the best sights and experiences in Seoul that I think most travellers to Korea’s capital will enjoy. The good thing about this city is that there are a few key areas where many of the attractions are located, which makes it easier to get around and see lots on foot or with a few short bus or subway rides.

This section offers some really useful insights and tips that I think you need to know before you start planning your weekend in Seoul, including where to stay, what to bring, and how to get around. There’s also a quick rundown of Seoul’s seasons and when’s the best time to visit for your weekend stay.

Where To Stay In Seoul

To maximise your time seeing Seoul’s sights in a tight schedule of just two days, I recommend basing yourself in one of the main tourist areas. These areas all have lots of attractions, shops, and restaurants, as well as convenient transport links to other parts of Seoul. I think staying in Myeongdong would be the best option as it is close to many of the historic and cultural attractions mentioned in this article.

For more information about Seoul’s major districts, including details about what you can find in each area and a few hotel recommendations for each budget, check out my guide about where to stay in Seoul. It’s packed full of useful tips for finding the right place to stay in Seoul for the right price.

Best Time To Visit Seoul

Without a doubt the best time to spend a weekend in Seoul is in spring or autumn. In spring you’ll see colourful cherry blossoms, the weather is mild, and nature is starting to show itself, there are also lots of fun spring festivals. In autumn, the heat disappears and the cool weather is perfect for seeing another natural wonder – autumn leaves, which can be seen in the royal palaces and parks.

Don’t let the weather put you off visiting Seoul at other times, though. Seoul is a modern city and most places will be heated or air-conditioned depending on the season. If you’re travelling during summer or winter, try to plan to do more indoor activities in Seoul. This is especially important for summer as that’s also rainy season. Fortunately, there are lots of museums, galleries, malls, and cafes to visit.

What To Pack For A Weekend In Seoul

Seoul is a modern city and convenience stores like 7/11 will stock most things you can imagine that you might need in an emergency. Some things that you might want to bring to make life more comfortable for 48 hours in Seoul, especially if this is your first time in Korea or Asia, are as follows:

For more information about what to pack and how to prepare for a trip to Korea, be sure to read my South Korea Travel Guide, which is packed with my best tips about coming to Korea.

How To Get Around In Seoul

It’s easy to get around in Seoul thanks to the efficient public transport system, taxis, and your two feet. Seoul’s subway system is in English. There are plenty of lines that will get you from each area in a short time. Pick up a Korean transportation card when you arrive from the airport or at a convenience store in Seoul. You can use this to pay for public transportation in Seoul and beyond.

For a weekend in Seoul, you shouldn’t need to charge a transportation card with more than ₩20,000. This will cover more than 10 bus or subway rides and many of the places included in this article are within walking distance of each other anyway. If you plan to use a taxi, then perhaps add more to the transportation card as you can use this to pay for taxis, too.

If you’re flying into Incheon Airport to spend two days in Seoul, I recommend taking the high speed train (AREX) to Seoul Station and then a taxi to your hotel in Myeongdong. For those staying in Hongdae, take the all-stop subway from Incheon Airport to Hongik University (Hongdae) subway station. If you’re in a group with lots of luggage, then maybe a private airport transfer is more convenient.

First Day Of Your Weekend In Seoul

This first day of your weekend in Seoul will introduce you to Korean history and culture before visiting Seoul’s famous markets. Sample authentic street food, see the night view from atop a mountain, and then head down the other side to check out the cool bars and restaurants of Itaewon.

Please note: You don’t have to do everything in this two day Seoul itinerary, and you might not have time to do them all depending on how long you spend at each place. I’ve included them to show you what’s available in each area and you’re free to pick and choose what you want and skip the rest.

1: Wear Traditional Korean Hanbok

So you’ve come to Korea for a weekend in Seoul and you want to embrace the culture and see the sights. The best way to do this is to dress like a true Korean would – by wearing hanbok. Hanbok (Korean traditional clothes) can be worn by anyone and consists of a colourful skirt with a loose shirt over the top for women, or loose trousers and shirt for men.

Wearing hanbok will help local people warm to you and certainly show that you appreciate their culture. This might open doorways to conversations and photo ops you might not normally have. You can rent hanbok from many locations, such as near Gyeongbokgung Palace. Coincidentally, this is the next stop on your weekend in Seoul.

2: See Seoul’s Magnificent Palaces

If you’ve rented hanbok, then I have some great news for you. Those wearing hanbok can gain free access to Gyeongbokgung, Changgyeonggung, Changdeokgung, and Deoksugung Palaces, as well as jump the queues! That’s definitely a good enough reason to wear Korea’s traditional clothes, as well as the gorgeous pictures you can take.

Take a picture outside Gyeongbokgung Palace’s gigantic front gate (Gwanghwamun Gate) before strolling around the imperial residence and gardens. Afterwards, head into the National Folk Museum and Culture Centre, where you can try some traditional Korean games.

Whilst Gyeongbokgung might be older and larger, my personal favourites are Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung Palaces. These are both a short walk east of Gyeongbokgung. These two palaces are actually part of a larger complex that includes The Secret Garden (access limited, book ahead).

3: Step Back In Time In Bukchon Hanok Village

After visiting one of these palaces, head north to the area between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace. Here you’ll find a wonderful area full of authentic Korean charm, hanok (traditional Korean houses), cafes, murals, and lots, lots more. This area is the Bukchon Hanok Village and is where wearing hanbok certainly pays off.

You can take great snaps in the narrow, traditional streets and there are lots of peaceful, historic streets with traditional tea rooms, and even more photo opportunities. No weekend in Seoul would be complete without a stroll through this area. For more information, check out my detailed guide about all the best places in Bukchon Hanok Village.

4: Rest And Shop In Insadong

After you’ve snapped your heart out in Bukchon, a great place to recover is in Insadong. Famous for its art stores, souvenirs, culture, and cafes, Insadong is sure to please. The main street (Insadong-gil) has dozens of galleries to explore, showcasing some of the finest Korean art. Not just paintings, you can find ceramics, woodwork, stonework, calligraphy, and much more in this area.

This is a good place to stop and get lunch in one of the traditional Korean restaurants. There are also lots of traditional tea houses and food stalls selling yeot (Korean taffy), ice cream, and spicy tteokbokki. Be sure not to miss out on Ssamziegil – a large collection of art shops, cafes, and amusing things. There’s also Anyoung Insadong, a modern shopping mall with a retro-style approach to Korean history and modern culture.

5; Get Back To Nature At The Cheonggyecheon Stream

Walk south from Insadong and you’ll be near the start of the Cheonggyecheon Stream. The start area, Cheonggye Plaza, usually has events for tourists, including hands-on activities to learn about Korean culture and history. This area is also one of the best to take photos with the river and fountains. There’s even a giant multi-coloured shell statue towering over the start of the stream.

The stream was created as a place for gathering, harmony, peace, and unity. It gives Seoulites a place to come and cool off in summer, and to be together away from the concrete jungle. For tourists, this is a wonderful chance to experience the light and lantern festivals that often occur along the stream, as well as take a break to hop over the stepping stones and get some colourful photos.

6: Shop Till You Drop In Seoul’s Market

Shopaholics with a weekend in Seoul have to visit one of Seoul’s famous markets. These markets have street food, fashion, cosmetics, souvenirs, and bargains all around. Continuing south from the Cheonggye Plaza, you’ll soon run into two of the best markets in Seoul – Namdaemun Market and Myeongdong Market.

The best place for branded goods can be found in these markets. Stalls in the street, which are open until late at night, will often have the cheapest goods (but likely to be fake), while the stores will offer huge discounts for tourists and lots of special offers. Find out more about traditional markets in Korea.

7: Sample Myeongdong’s Famous Street Food

Hungry after shopping? You’re in the perfect place to sample another can’t-miss experience in Seoul – Myeongdong’s street food, including delicious Korean winter foods. The range of food has exploded in recent years as people flock to Myeondong’s street food stalls. You can find the best examples of traditional Korean street food, as well as some of the new insta-worthy fusion snacks.

For those who want to sample the more traditional Korean street food, make sure you try out tteokbokki, odeng, hotteok, or gyeranppang. For those seeking something new, try out tornado potatoes, lobster tail with cheese, or foot-long ice creams. Head to Myeongdong-gil to find the best treats. You could probably spend your whole weekend in Seoul here and not run out of things to try!

8: Ride The Cable Car Up Namsan Mountain

Feeling refreshed by some awesome street food? Why not head to the top of Namsan Mountain to get some fantastic night views of Seoul? There are several options to get to the top of the Namsan Mountain, including hiking to the top. My favourite way is getting there by cable car. The Namsan Cable Car is found a short walk south of Myeongdong Station. Head up the hill and you can’t miss it.

You can buy single or return tickets to the peak and back. It’s probably best to buy a return ticket as transport from the bottom is much easier than at the top. Time it right and you can watch the sunset on your way up Namsan Mountain. Whatever time you ride, you’re sure to have great views with the northern part of Seoul slowly spreading out above the skyscrapers and around the mountains.

9: See All Of Seoul From N Seoul Tower

When you get to the top of Namsan Mountain, head on over to the ticket booth and purchase a ticket for the N Seoul Tower observatory. Alternatively, you can book discount tickets for the observatory and a range of other attractions online and save on your entry fee.

There are several restaurants that you can dine in, as well as cafes and gift shops. Take as many pictures as you can, there is a lot to see from every side – cityscape, mountains, rivers, fortress walls, and Seoul as far as the eye can see. Romantic couples can also leave a ‘love lock‘ to symbolise their eternal commitment to each other.

10: Eat, Drink, Interact In Itaewon

What better way to end the first night of your weekend in Seoul than with a bite to eat or a drink or two in one of the liveliest parts of Seoul – Itaewon. Known as the ‘foreigner district’, this location is a melting pot of Korean and foreign culture that offers up some of the best restaurants, with food from every corner of the world.

Take a taxi from the cable car station, ride the subway from Myeongdong Station, or take a bus (03/143 nearby) to get to Itaewon, south of Namsan Mountain. You can’t miss the plethora of restaurants, bars, and cafes around Itaewon Station. The best place to check out is the street directly north of Itaewon Station (Itaewon-ro 27ga gil), which is a narrow, busy street lined with English pubs, Spanish tapas restaurants, Italian pizzerias, nightclubs, and lots, lots more.

For those who want something a bit quieter and don’t mind paying for it, walk west towards Noksapyeong Station until you see a small road heading up the hill on your right (Noksapyeong-daero 40 gil). Meat lovers can find Manimal Smokehouse here – a delicious American smokehouse. You can also find lots of good bars and clubs in Itaewon in case you don’t want to sleep this weekend.

Second Day Of Your Weekend In Seoul

On the second day of your weekend in Seoul, start off with some exercise with a gentle walk, see the future in Dongdaemun, then shoot up to the observation deck of the world’s 6th largest building – Lotte Tower. If you still have time and energy, head to Gangnam for a K-Pop experience and then head over to the south west of Seoul for a night cruise and to check out the coolest part of Seoul – Hongdae.

1: Follow The Fortress Wall Trail

Seoul is an amazing city for many reasons, one of those is the number of historic monuments still in place around the city, including fortress walls. Seoul’s fortress walls were built over 600 years ago and are still protecting the city today – from over-development. These beautifully preserved walkways are perfect for a morning stroll through the city without the hassle of cars and street lights.

You can join from many places, but I’d recommend a short walk starting at Naksan Park – easily accessed from Hyehwa Station by walking up the hill to the east. You’ll see some beautiful views from the walk from the station to the park. There are lots of cafes nearby if you need a bit more energy. Head south from the park and you’ll walk towards Dongdaemun, the next stop on the tour.

Of course, this can be skipped if you were out a bit late the night before.

2: Experience Dongdaemun Design Plaza

A weekend in Seoul will usually find me visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) at least once. This place not only looks incredible – like a futuristic space ship – but also has so much to offer. Come for the interesting exhibitions and galleries, stay for the shopping, museums, cafes, and night markets.

There is a big slope from one side that acts as a giant lawn above the city. Here you can relax in the sun and see more of the surrounding areas. The DDP is good at any time of day. I’d recommend checking out the shops inside the main area for some unique, quirky gifts. Head to the Dongdaemun Culture and History Park Station to find the DDP or walk south from Dongdaemun Station.

3: Shop More In Dongdaemun’s Fashion Markets

In case shopping in Myeongdong’s markets weren’t enough for you, one of the other hot spots for bargain hunters is right outside the DDP – Dongdaemun Market. Made up of several large department stores and indoor markets, you could probably spend a whole weekend in Seoul here and not finish checking out everything.

For the lowest prices, head to Good Morning City or HelloAPM department stores. For other brands and shops, check out Lotte Fitin or Migliore. They are all right next to each other and you can’t miss them once you’ve left the DDP. Check out the back streets behind these shopping behemoths for some cheap eats and local treats.

4: Brave The Heights Of The Seoul Sky Observatory

Lotte World Tower stands like a finger pointing up into the heavens in the centre of Seoul. It’s hard to miss the world’s 6th tallest building which stands at 555 metres above Seokchon Lake. Getting here from Dongdaemun is really easy. Simply take the green subway line (Line 2) from Dongdaemun Culture and History Park Station to Jamsil Station and you’ll appear right at Lotte World Tower.

If you’ve ever wanted to know what it would feel like to soar above the streets of Seoul, then the Seoul Sky Observatory on the 120th floor of the Lotte World Tower is for you. Spread over 7 floors, from the 117th to 123rd floor, there are lots of things to do here. Take a selfie on the glass floor, looking down nearly 500 metres to the streets below if you have the courage to. Not for the faint hearted!

Once you’ve had your fill of the soaring heights, head outside to Seokchon Lake.

5; Walk Around The Beautiful Seokchon Lake

Seokchon Lake is a small lake that spreads out like butterfly wings below the towering Lotte World Tower. On the left wing is Lotte World Magic Island – a small theme park, squashed together like a magical kingdom. Taking a stroll around the lake is very pleasant and will help you feel grounded after soaring above the clouds in the Seoul Sky Observatory.

If you’re lucky enough to spend a weekend in Seoul during April, then you’ll get get to see the incredible cherry blossoms. The Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the best festivals in Seoul and needs to be seen to be believed. Cherry trees line the entire pathway around the lake and there are hundreds of selfie spots to capture the cherry blossoms.

You can find loads of great cherry blossom festivals in Seoul if you’re visiting at in early April.

6: Get Your K-Pop Fix In Gangnam

Whether K-Pop is your thing, or you just want to learn more about Korean culture, then head to Gangnam. Just 3 stops away from Jamsil Station (Lotte Tower) is Samseong Station, home to the gigantic COEX Mall. Outside the COEX Mall you’ll find a giant statue dedicated to ‘Gangnam Style‘, created by Korea’s first big K-Pop star – PSY.

The other hot place in Gangnam for K-Pop fans is the K Star Road. Starting from Apgujeong Rodeo Station to the Cheongdam intersection, you will see cute GangnamDols in the image of famous K-Pop stars, including BTS, EXO, Girl’s Generation, and more.

Once you’ve finished taking pictures with your favourite idols’ statues, you can check out some of their favourite locations in the area and maybe even bump into someone famous!

7: Find Fashion And Fun In Hongdae

Hongdae is arguably the coolest place in Seoul and for many good reasons. Home to big name fashion stores, discount stores, award winning restaurants, nightclubs, cute cafes, escape rooms, activity cafes, and so, so, so much more. You can visit Hongdae many times over and never get bored.

If you’re around COEX Mall, then take the green subway line (Line 2) from Samseong Station all the way across town to Hapjeong Station or Hongik University Station. This will put you at one of the two ends of Hongdae. You could spend all day exploring Hongdae.

The best way is to explore Hongdae is to start at Hongik University Station and then wander down towards Hapjeong Station. Generally, shops are in the north, cafes, bars and nightclubs are in the south.

8: Rest Among Some Cute Animals In Hongdae

There are many cute cafes in Hongdae. One of my favourite cafes is the Thanks Nature Sheep Cafe. Here you can get in touch with nature whilst sipping on a latte and dining on a waffle. It’s a great place to experience real sheep up close, but in a safe environment for you and them. The sheep have their own little stable and you can stroke their soft, woolly backs while they walk around peacefully.

9: Take A Cruise On The Han River

After a busy weekend in Seoul, it’s time to wind down and put your feet up. Head over to Yeouinaru Station and take a cruise along the broad Han River. You’ll see a magical sight as the sun sinks and the lights of the city start to shine. You’ll pass under many bridges along the way, including the magical Banpo Moonlight Rainbow Bridge, which shoots jets of water in rainbow-like colours.

Tours depart from Yeouido Dock near Yeouinaru Station and start from 11:30 am. I recommend trying to book an evening tour as the sights are so much better and you’ll get to experience the rainbow bridge in all its glory. They’re also sold out quite early in the day and if you turn up in the evening, there might not be any tours available. You can also save money by booking in advance.

Enjoy some live music and fireworks (evening shows) while you peacefully meander along the Han River and see other sights from the boat, including the N Seoul Tower, Olympic Stadium, and Yanghwa Bridge.

10: End Your Weekend In Seoul In A Sauna

The last stop during your weekend in Seoul would probably be back to your hotel. But, before you go there, why not head to a jjimjjilbang (sauna) and let the stress wash off your body. You can find jjimjjilbangs throughout the city.

I recommend visiting Sea La La – a big sauna that has lots of places to relax, soak, get a massage, eat, drink, and recover from a busy day of exploring Seoul. These indoor hot springs have something for everyone, from steaming saunas to freezing cold pools and everything in between. There’s also a rest area where you can don the free pyjamas, relax with your friends or family, and even sleep overnight.

One thing that might frighten some people away is the need to be naked in the sauna section. Koreans have no qualms about nudity when bathing, but don’t be shocked. Now is your chance to embrace the culture and see how Koreans let it all go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about spending a weekend in Seoul. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article. If you have any more questions about this topic, please feel free to post a comment at the end of this article.

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Korea’s traditional markets have become must-see destinations thanks to the spread of Korean culture, food, and products across the world. You can buy cheap treats, stock up on Korean ginseng, bulk buy quality cosmetics, and relax with a bowl of something yummy in the surrounds of a bustling, active market. For a glimpse into the real life of a Korean city, you should definitely visit one of these markets.

The best thing about visiting a traditional market in Seoul or other cities is that you can find a wide variety of traditional and modern goods at lower prices than you’ll find in shops and department stores. If you’re a foodie, you can save a lot by eating out in places like Seoul’s Gwangjang Market and try incredible Korean dishes you’ve probably never even heard of but will fall in love with instantly.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Top 10 Traditional Markets In Korea

Korea is a modern and forward-looking country with high-tech products and transport improving every year. However, it’s also a country that values its connections to the past and maintains traditional areas where people can experience a way of life that has been around for generations. One such place which highlights Korea’s past mixing with its present is at a Korean traditional market.

Korea’s traditional markets are great if you live in Korea as you can find cheap fruit and veg as well as cheap eats for when you’re hungry. For tourists, they’re a window into Korea’s past and an opportunity to go bargain hunting, try traditional Korean foods, and stock up on souvenirs, Korean goods, cosmetics, and lots more. They’re also interesting places to walk through to experience real Korean culture.

Here are the top 10 traditional markets in Korea I think you should visit:

1: Namdaemun Market In Seoul

Why visit this market: Namdaemun Market (남대문시장) is the largest traditional market in Korea, with thousands of stores selling everything from fresh produce and Korean street food to handicrafts and traditional medicines. With over 600-years of history, this is the perfect place to experience real Korean market life and to buy authentic Korean goods or souvenirs to take home.

What to buy: This traditional market in Seoul has it all, from fashion to foods, fabrics, face masks, and more. There are many zones in the market catering to different needs. If you want to pick up some healthy Korean ginseng, Namdaemun Market is the best place to find it at a good price. Worried about taking your purchases home? There’s even a suitcase section in case you need extra luggage.

As this is a traditional market for Seoulites, not just tourists, you’ll find plenty of common household goods and traditional foods and medicines, but these tend to be in the downstairs areas in the market. Tourist-friendly goods are on the street level, including Korean clothes and accessories, souvenirs, and tasty treats. I recommend heading into the downstairs markets as you’ll see interesting sights.

What to eat: Although nearby Myeongdong has some of Seoul’s best street food, you should definitely try the dishes available in Namdaemun Market. There’s all the street food favourites on offer, such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), eomuk (fish cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and kkochi (skewers).

Make sure you try traditional Korean dishes such as kalguksu (칼국수), a hearty bowl of knife-cut noodles and one of my favourite traditional Korean dishes. You can also find galchi jorim (갈치조림) for sale in Namdaemun Market, which is a spicy braised cutlassfish stew.

Tip for this market: Haggling is accepted but expect the market vendors to drive a hard bargain. Take your time to shop around for the best prices and try not to accept the first price offered.

2: Gwangjang Market In Seoul

Why visit this market: Gwangjang Market (광장시장) is one of the most famous traditional markets in Seoul thanks to the Netflix show, ‘Street Food Asia‘, although it was popular long before then. This is the oldest permanent market in Korea, established in 1905, and one of the largest with over 5,000 stalls above and below ground. The best part about this market is definitely the food.

What to buy: Gwangjang Market is the place to go in Seoul if you want to buy your own hanbok, Korea’s traditional clothing that you’ll see people wearing around the royal palaces in Seoul. There’s a wide selection of hanbok shops where you can get your own custom-made hanbok prepared for you to take home or sent to you by post. There are many traditional Korean clothes and crafts here.

What to eat: Without a doubt, Gwangjang Market is the number one place to go in Seoul if you want to experience eating Korean food at a traditional market. You’ll find dozens of vendors selling all sorts of foods, including sundae (blood sausage), bibimbap (mixed rice with veg), gimbap (rice roll), and mandu (dumplings). Just grab a seat and point to whatever you want to eat.

If you want a cosy dining experience, I recommend squeezing into one of the narrow restaurants opposite the main food stalls and ordering a plate of bindaetteok 빈대떡 (mung bean pancake) with a bowl of makgeolli 막걸리 (rice wine). The tables are squashed together and usually packed, you might be sharing a table with others, but the food and wine is so good you won’t even notice.

Tips for visiting this market: Sit down and get a meal of bindaetteok and makgeolli in the small restaurants around the centre of the market. Order the mixed pancake set to try the various flavours and get a bottle of makgeolli to wash it down. It’s a great combo.

3: Seoul Folk Flea Market In Seoul

Why visit this market: The Seoul Folk Flea Market (서울 풍물시장) is not your average Korean traditional market. This unique space is dedicated to folk items from across Korea and retro items you won’t find elsewhere. Modernised in 2008, this market was originally a collection of stalls by the Cheonggyecheon Stream, but is now housed in a new building with restaurants, goods, and more inside.

What to buy: The Seoul Folk Flea Market is like a labyrinth, with long aisles packed full of interesting and unique goods to pick up and wonder at. You’ll find retro and vintage goods (1F) along with more modern market goods (2F), souvenirs, traditional goods, and traditional foods.

Unlike other traditional markets in Korea, you can find real history inside that you can take home and show your friends. There’s also a load of junk, but one person’s junk is another person’s treasure. The Seoul Folk Flea Market has 7 different coloured zones to help you find what you’re looking for. They are:

What to eat: There are plenty of traditional Korean dishes available at all traditional markets in Korea, and the Seoul Folk Flea Market is no exception. Try a big bowl of mandu guk (dumpling soup), kalguksu, or juk (porridge) to warm you up on a cold day. They’re good any time of year though, so don’t pass up the chance to have a cheap and delicious traditional meal here.

Tips for visiting this market: There really is something for everyone, even those who are just looking to take a snapshot of Korean history. Go for the retro and vintage items, sample some delicious traditional foods, and maybe find a rare treasure to take home with you.

4: Noryangjin Fish Market In Seoul

Why visit this market: Noryangjin Fish Market (노량진수산물도매시장) is a working fish market and a great place to sample some of Korea’s best seafood, freshly caught and sold that day. Operating since 1927 near Seoul Station, but later moved to more modern facilities next to Noryangjin Station, this market provides 50% of Seoul’s seafood.

What to see: Opening from 1:30am, early birds can discover the hidden world of Seoul’s fish markets, including the early morning deliveries and sorting. The best time to visit is from 3:00am when the live fish auctions happen each day. These are a spectacle in themselves and you might be able to pick out what you want to eat for breakfast.

Wander down long aisles alive (literally) with fresh squid, octopus, shellfish, urchins, and all other kinds of seafood. You’ll be astounded by all the weird and wonderful sights that you probably didn’t know existed under the sea. I was certainly shocked the first time I visited a traditional Korean fish market.

What to eat: The seafood sold at the fish auctions at Noryangjin will find their way into various dishes, such as jjukkumi 쭈꾸미 (baby octopus), maeuntang 매운탕 (spicy fish broth), and haemul pajeon 해물 파전 (seafood and green onion pancake). There’s also crab, lobster, and hoe 회 (fresh raw fish) prepared in the market for your breakfast. A great start to the day and very healthy.

Tips for visiting this market: This bustling, stinky, wet, fresh market will provide a wonderfully unique experience during a stay in Seoul but getting there for the fish auctions can be hard. I recommend staying somewhere close, such as Hongdae, and then taking a taxi to the market in the morning.

5: Tongin Market In Seoul

Why visit this market: Seoul’s traditional markets have great food and Tongin Market (통인시장) is no exception, but the food here is served in a different way from the other markets. At Tongin Market you can buy a lunch box, or doshirak in Korean, to fill up with your favourite snacks from select vendors throughout the market. A lunch box costs ₩5,000 and is a great way to sample Seoul’s street food.

Tongin Market, which started in 1941, is famous for these lunch boxes as the area was previously home to Japanese residents who were used to buying bento boxes (Japanese lunch boxes). Decades later, the market is home to many restaurants and shops, dozens of them participating in the unique lunch box program. There are also market goods available to buy between the stalls.

What to buy: One of the main draws of this market is the lunch box program, which runs every day except Monday. Pay the cost of the lunch box and you’ll receive a plastic lunch box and a collection of gold coins to use to pay for foods throughout the market. Each item costs a number of coins and you can buy foods from participating stalls with signs saying “gamaengjom” (가맹점).

What to eat: With over 70 stalls to choose from, each selling a wide range of delicious Korean street food snacks or meals, there’s something for everyone. I recommend trying some mandu 만두 (dumplings), tteokbokki 떡볶이 (spicy stir-fried rice cakes), and flame cooked dakkochi 닭꼬치 (chicken skewers). After you’ve made your purchases, take a seat on the benches in the market.

Tips for visiting this market: This market is west of Gyeongbokgung Palace, but often overlooked as people head to Bukchon Hanok Village and other sights east of the palace. It’s not the first traditional market in Seoul you should see, but if you have enough time, add Tongin Market to your itinerary as well as the nearby Cheong Wa Dae (President’s Blue House).

6: Nambu Traditional Market In Jeonju

Why visit this market: There’s more to Jeonju than the historic Jeonju Hanok Village, which you can see on a day trip from Seoul, including Jeonju’s lively traditional market – Nambu Market (전주 남부시장). Nambu Market has existed for over 100 years, however, it wasn’t until 2011, and the addition of the Youth Mall, that Nambu Market really became a hot spot in the centre of Jeonju.

Other special features of this market are the weekly night markets, held on Friday and Saturday nights from 7:00pm to 11:00pm in winter (12:00am in summer). You’ll find many street food stalls and vendors catering to people who want to enjoy a night out in the town. It’s similar to Myeongdong’s night markets, but you can also see live performances and cultural shows around the market.

What to buy: You can find a range of typical goods for sale that you’d find in Seoul’s traditional markets, such as snacks, local produce, food, accessories, home goods, and lots more. However, for tourists, the Youth Mall section might offer more interesting shops and sights, including locally made handicrafts, souvenirs, and interesting knick-knacks that Koreans love to collect and display.

The Youth Mall is run by local young entrepreneurs and is housed in the previously abandoned second floor of the market. It adds youthful charm, design, and culture to this historic area and is now often compared with the likes of Hongdae in Seoul. You can find some great food, clothes, and creative goods in the Youth Market, as well as artistic displays on the walls and in shops.

What to eat: Jeonju is known as the food capital of Korea, just like Osaka is in Japan There are many wonderful foods you can try at this traditional market, such as sundae gukbap 순대국밥 (blood sausage soup with rice), kongnamul gukbap 콩나물 국밥 (bean sprout soup with rice) and pat kalguksu 팥칼국수 (red bean noodle soup). Check out the Youth Mall for more modern dining options and bars.

Tips for visiting this market: As Jeonju is home to Jeonju bibimbap 비빔밥 (mixed rice with vegetables), you certainly shouldn’t waste the chance to try one of Korea’s most famous traditional foods in the city that does it best.

7: Jagalchi Market In Busan

Why visit this market: Jagalchi Market (자갈치시장) is one of several traditional markets in the downtown Nampo area of Busan and one that will make you feel like the sea has come to you. This is Busan’s main fish market (and Korea’s biggest) and the best place to try fresh Korean seafood. Like Noryangjin Market in Seoul, you’ll find a wide selection of the sea’s harvest for sale here.

What to buy: The main thing for sale at this traditional market is of course seafood in all shapes and sizes. There’s everything from shrimp to squid, octopus to oysters, and all else that hangs around under the sea. You’ll find Korea’s seafood delicacies for sale in the market, as well as outside the market in the many seafood restaurants selling Busan’s best local dishes, such as octopus tentacles.

You can buy freshly sliced fish, usually served as thin slices to be dipped in soy sauce like Japanese sashimi, or you can buy seafood to take home and prepare there. If you don’t want to take it home, then you can get it prepared and served in one of the market’s restaurant instead. Or you could just visit one of the many seafood restaurants nearby and see what they have to offer.

What to eat: If you have the courage, why not try some nakji 낙지 (octopus tentacles) or even sannakji 산낙지 (raw / live octopus tentacles)? For those who are less brave, consider some maeuntang 매운탕 (spicy fish soup). You won’t find a shortage of places selling these nearby. Popular seafood offerings are mackerels, sea squirt, and lobster. There’s a seafood buffet if you’re really hungry, too.

Tips for visiting this market: For those who don’t much enjoy the taste of seafood (I understand you!), there are plenty of other markets and restaurants nearby. However, I’d still recommend checking out this sprawling market just for the unique sights, sounds, and, most overwhelmingly, the smells.

8: Gukje Market In Busan

Why visit this market: Situated in the same part of Busan as Jagalchi Market, Gukje Market (국제시장) offers visitors a more traditional Korean market experience with an international twist. This market is located close to many other popular sights in Busan, such as Bosu-dong Book Alley, BIFF Square, Busan Tower, and Gwangbok-ro Fashion Street, so you can see lots from here.

This is Busan’s largest traditional market and despite the typical sights like stalls full of Korean herbs and spices, clothes, and Korean dishes, you can also find a lot of international goods here. Gukje Market was established in the 1950s by Korean war refugees and has benefited from Busan’s status as a port city, which see many international sailors, travellers, and expats visiting the market.

What to buy: This market has a wide range of traditional Korean goods, such as foods, snacks, handicrafts, medicines, and everyday stuff Korean people need. There are many small boutique stalls squeezed in among the traditional goods where you can find interesting souvenirs, books, stationery, gifts, accessories, and sweet treats, Be sure to pick some up to take home with you.

What to eat: You can’t shop in Gukje Market without sampling some unique market foods! Gukje Market has some of Busan’s finest local dishes, such as bibim dangmyeon 비빔당면 (spicy glass noodles), yubu jeongol 유부 전골 (fried tofu stew), and ssiat hotteok 씨앗호떡 (seed-stuffed sweet pancake). This area is famous for eomuk (fish cakes), be sure to try those from the street food stalls, too.

Tips for visiting this market: Mix up a day exploring this historic area of Busan with a trip to the nearby Huinnyeoul Culture Village, Jeoryeong Coastal Walk, and an afternoon staring out at the sea from the Taejongdae Resort Park. Or visit those places first to avoid walking with shopping bags.

9: Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market On Jeju Island

Why visit this market: If you make your way down to Jeju, then you really should check out Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market (서귀포매일 올레시장) in Jeju’s second largest city, Seogwipo. This market caters to Korean tourists more than international tourists, as well as locals, and you can find some of Jeju Island’s incredible delicacies here, including the large hallabong orange (and other citrus) during winter.

This market feels less touristy and isn’t as crowded as the markets in Seoul and Busan. If you want to take your time to stroll through the shops, buy some cute Jeju souvenirs, taste fresh seafood, citrus, and other local delights, then Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market is the place for you. I love to stock up on foods from the market before travelling out of Seogwipo to hike or see the beaches of Jeju.

What to buy: Jeju Island is easily Korea’s most beautiful destination for nature lovers and thanks to the volcanic eruptions from Hallasan Mountain, it’s a place that’s very fertile and grows many delicious crops. Therefore, you should definitely pick up some fresh fruit while you’re at the market, such as hallabong orange, kiwis, avocados, passion fruit and even tropical dragon fruit.

Besides the fruits of the land, you’ll find many fruits of the sea for sale at Seogwipo Market, including freshly sliced raw fish, juicy shrimp, sea squirts, and octopus. For tourists, you’ll find the traditional markets are the best place to get great souvenirs of Jeju Island, such as chocolates with unique Jeju flavours (cactus, tangerine, green tea), local cosmetics, and the best green tea in Korea.

What to eat: If you want to try authentic Jeju Island street food, then buy a bag of dol hareubang manju 돌 하르방 만쥬 (small pastries shaped like the Jeju stone statues). Also known as Jeju Grandpas, these little cakes are delicious snacks filled with Jeju Island’s own hallabong 한라봉 (sweet tangerine). You’ll find stalls selling fresh hallabong juice with the bottle shaped like the iconic stone statues, too.

If you want something more filling, you can buy freshly caught fish and seafood that’s ready to eat. This is perfect if you want to have a quiet meal in your hotel or sitting down by the harbour watching the boats. There are other Jeju Island snacks here, too, such as black pork (흑돼지) buns and egg-wrapped gimbap, and the usual market foods like fried chicken, tteokbokki, and skewers.

Tips for visiting this market: There’s a really nice bar near the market called Jeju Beer Fountain (제주약수터) which sells locally brewed beers, including some very interesting tastes made with local products like a Jeju tangerine raddler. These beers are only available as takeout, which makes them perfect for drinking in your hotel room with some freshly sliced fish from the market.

10: Seomun Market In Daegu

Why visit this market: Last, but not least on this list of traditional markets in Korea is Seomun Market (서문시장) in Daegu. Steeped in history, this market has its roots as one of the three main markets during the Joseon Dynasty that ruled Korea for more than 500 years. These days, the market is as popular as ever and draws big crowds on the weekends for the Seomun Night Market.

Thanks to Seomun Market’s central location, you can explore the other sights of Daegu. such as to the Daegu Gyesan Catholic Church and the Missionary Houses to learn about Daegu’s tragic past. There’s also a tourist street through the city to the Hyangchong Cultural Centre, all about Korea’s recent history. This place is great for dressing up in classic Korean clothes of the early 20th Century.

What to buy: Seomun Market specialises in fabrics, including silk, satin, knitted goods, accessories, and clothes. However, you’ll also find a lot more to buy, such as fresh foods, jewellery, watches, and dried seafood. At Seomun Night Market, which opens until 11:30pm, you’ll find start-up shops for young designers, fusion food with unique takes on Korean food, and live music on certain nights.

What to eat: If you want a traditional food experience, you’ll love the sujebi 수제비 (hand-pulled dough soup) that is made right in front of you. There are also freshly cut bowls of kalguksu, mandu 만두 (dumplings) and a popular dish across Korea, the ubiquitous eomug guk 어묵국 (fish cake soup).

Tips for visiting this market: You can see many of Daegu’s central sights in one day and Seomun Market is the perfect place to start your adventure. Take a bus (#425 / #651) from Dong Daegu Station directly to the market and then walk back through the city’s historic areas on the way back to the station. There are several walking paths through the city and they’re well signposted.

Why Myeongdong Market Isn’t On This List

When people talk about traditional markets in Seoul they might think of Myeongdong Market, which is famous for its delicious street food, cheap accessory and fashion stalls, and shops selling Korean cosmetics like face masks. However, this isn’t really what a Korean traditional market is about and Myeongdong is really more of an outdoor market to cater to the tourists flocking to this area.

Even though Myeongdong Market doesn’t make it on my list of the best traditional markets in Seoul, it’s still a must-see place in Seoul for the hustle and bustle of the night markets, the food vendors, and the busy streets. If you want to stay in Seoul, booking a hotel in Myeongdong is a great option as it’s close to all the action of Myeongdong, as well as traditional markets like Namdaemun Market.

What’s The Best Traditional Market In Seoul?

If I had to choose just one traditional market in Seoul to recommend to travellers, I would probably choose Gwangjang Market for the simple fact that it has an incredible selection of street food and small restaurants to dine in. Seoul has many traditional markets besides the ones previously mentioned in this article, and they all offer an interesting look into local culture and products.

Namdaemun Market is slightly bigger and perhaps has a wider selection of goods available, but it’s also quite spread out with many small streets to explore and feels like you’re in a maze at times. In comparison, Gwangjang Market feels more compact, with a central area selling lots of different dishes and small streets leading off from there. It’s easier to explore and see everything without getting lost.

The best traditional market in Seoul changes for each person. If you’re a vintage lover, you’re sure to love Seoul Folk Flea Market’s retro goods. If you want fashion bargains and accessories, Namdaemun Market and Dongdaemun’s markets and malls will leave you broke and with full bags of fashionable goods. There are also loads of smaller traditional markets throughout the city to discover.

Tours To Korea’s Traditional Markets

Not sure what to do at one of Korea’s traditional markets, what you should try, or need help finding the best things to eat and buy? Then why not book a tour to one of Korea’s traditional markets in Seoul or Busan and enjoy the experience without the worries. Here are a few market tours you might enjoy:

Seoul: Gwangjang Market Unique Food Tour: Experience Korean cuisine at Gwangjang Market, a historic and lively traditional market in Seoul. As one of Seoul’s top traditional markets, this tour offers a chance to try unique Korean dishes while surrounded by the market’s vibrant atmosphere.

Seoul: Traditional Market Walking Tour & Korean Cooking Class: Join a hands-on cooking class to create a delicious Korean home meal using ingredients from Gyeongdong & Yangnyeong Markets and gain insights into Korean food culture as you shop for fresh food and learn traditional recipes.

Seoul: Korean Cooking Class at Local Home with Local Market Experience: Visit Mangwon Market to select fresh ingredients and sample street food before learning to prepare a traditional Hanjeongsik, a full-course meal featuring over 10 dishes. You’ll even learn some useful Korean phrases on this tour.

Busan: Jagalchi Fish Market & Korean Food Market Tour with Local Chef: Explore the world of Korean cuisine through a walking tour of Busan’s iconic traditional markets, including Jagalchi Market & Gukje Market and try representative Busan delicacies, such as live octopus, dried seafood, and fish cakes.

Korean Market Food You Must Try

Whichever traditional market you choose in Seoul or Korea, be sure to try some of the delicious traditional Korean foods available – both street food snacks and full meals. These foods are usually cheaper in the markets than places like Myeongdong and even cheaper than most restaurants.

Here are 10 awesome Korean street foods to try at traditional markets in Korea. If you want to know more about each one, check out my article about Korean street foods.

For a more filling meal at a traditional market, check out these 10 mouth watering and stomach filling traditional Korean dishes. Again, to find out more about these dishes, be sure to read my article about the best Korean traditional dishes you must try in Korea:

My tip – don’t be put off by the appearance of Korean food. It might look strange to you, but hiding underneath an unusual exterior, there’s a whole world of new tastes waiting for you to discover. And if something is red, watch out as it’s probably spicy!

How To Pay In Korea’s Traditional Markets

Korea strongly favours credit and debit cards to make payments, as well as mobile payments and bank transfers. Cash isn’t as commonly used these days, but one place you will most likely spend cash in Korea is in a traditional market or street market in Seoul. However, there are recent changes that encourage market vendors to accept cards in Seoul’s market, including 300 stalls in Myeongdong.

The easiest way to pay for goods in Korea’s markets is with cash. Korean money (Korean won) can be confusing as the numbers are very large compared to currencies such as the USD, SGD, or EUR. A street food snack might cost around 3,000 to 5,000 Korean won and a meal anywhere from 10,000 won and up. If in doubt, search for the exchange rate on Google to see how much things cost.

Learn more about how to pay for goods and services while you’re travelling in Korea with my essential guide to paying in Korea, which covers what cards are accepted and where, if you need cash, how to pay for public transport, and lots more. You’ll also find lots of money saving tips for visiting Korea.

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Replete with natural beauty, historic sights, and awe-inspiring landscapes, Korea’s national parks are waiting for you to discover their charms. Whether visiting for spring splendour, summer shade, autumn foliage sights, or snowy winter fun, there’s a national park in Korea you’re sure to fall in love with.

Find out which are the best national parks in Korea to visit (there are 22 to choose from), what to see and do in each one, and why you simply must visit these areas of outstanding beauty. Be prepared to discover ancient temples where you can join a temple stay, stunning natural wonders such as waterfalls and rock formations, sweeping vistas from lofty peaks, and delicious traditional Korean dishes.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Why Visit Korea’s National Parks?

Korea is a nature-lover’s paradise, with dozens of stunning national parks combining forests, mountains, streams, waterfalls, Buddhist temples and sometimes even coastal scenery. From the otherworldly lava tubes of Hallasan National Park to the iconic Mt. Seoraksan with its autumn foliage, Korea’s national parks offer incredible hiking, photo ops, and serene natural escapes.

Whether you’re looking for challenging all-day treks or easygoing trails the whole family can enjoy a day out at a Korean national park. Some of Korea’s national parks even have cable cars to whisk you straight up to the best views around. And the best part? Several of these wilderness gems are just a short distance from Seoul, making them easy weekend getaway destinations.

Here are 10 of the top national parks in Korea that should be on any nature-enthusiast’s bucket list. I’ve covered the highlights and main attractions of each as well as travel tips like the best times to visit and top activities. Read on for your definitive guide to seeing the best national parks in Korea.

Here are 5 great reasons you should visit a Korean national park:

Which National Park Should You Visit In Korea?

If you are looking for a certain experience when you visit a Korean national park, such as autumn foliage, hiking, snowy peaks, or traditional food, then check out the table below. It shows you some of the best options for various activities and sights and which park best suits those needs. Of course, most parks will offer seasonal views like cherry blossoms, autumn foliage, and snow.

The 10 Best National Parks In Korea

Here are the top 10 best national parks in Korea, based on my own travels around Korea, reports from other hikers, and national parks that are really popular with locals and tourists alike. I hope you visit at least one, if not all of them. They each have something unique to offer and I’ve enjoyed visiting each.

1: Jirisan National Park

Why visit Jirisan: Jirisan is Korea’s largest national park and home to the mainland’s highest peak, as well as some of Korea’s last Asiatic black bears. This national park offers something for everyone, with multi-day hiking trails through the mountains or gentle day-treks around the foothills and through green valleys. Wander through old villages where people live a simpler life than in Seoul.

This national park is one of the only places that offers mountain lodges where you can stay overnight to watch the sunrise over the sprawling mountains below. Jirisan has many farms and maple trees, making it one of the best places to see harvest goods and autumn foliage in September and October. There’s never a bad time to visit Jirisan as there’s something to see and do in each season.

You should visit this national park if you want to see the Korean countryside, walk past rice fields and farms, and witness Korea’s natural beauty.

Best hiking trail: The best hiking route in Jirisan National Park is the Jungsanri to Cheonwangbong Loop, which will take you to the highest peak in the park. This route can be done in a day, but it’s very tough and I recommend booking a lodge to stay overnight. Staying overnight allows you to see the sunrise from the peak, which is absolutely incredible.

How to get to Jirisan: Jirisan National Park isn’t close to Seoul. If you want to visit, it would be best to travel by bus or car from Busan, Daejeon, Gwangju, or one of the other cities in southern Korea. Nearby towns to stay in with access to the park include Namwon, Gurye, and Hadong.

2: Seoraksan National Park

Why visit Seoraksan: Located near Korea’s east coast, Seoraksan National Park hosts towering mountain peaks and sweeping valleys smothered in foliage views each autumn. As one of Korea’s most beloved natural escapes with peak panoramas, it attracts over 5 million visitors annually. Even if you don’t climb to the peaks, you can spend hours exploring the temples and valleys of Seoraksan.

Popular with both hikers and day travellers, Seoraksan caters to all thanks to attractions like Sinheungsa Temple and the Seoraksan cable car, which will take you to the peak without the need to hike. If you do want to hike, there are many suitable courses, including the short trip to Ulsanbawi Peak and overnight hiking options with shelters to stay in. There are also many waterfalls to see.

You should visit this national park if you want to see what Korea’s national parks have to offer all in one place, including Buddhist temples, seasonal views, and rocky peaks. A day trip from Seoul will allow you to see the sights of Seoraksan without any hiking gear or travel troubles.

Best hiking trail: One of the most popular trails is the short route up to Ulsanbawi Peak, which starts at the eastern entrance and passes by Sinheungsa Temple. It’s not the highest peak, but offers views over the valleys and peaks of Seoraksan with a rocky area to discover at the top. Alternatively, the Biseondae Rock trail is perfect for beginner level hikers and follows the valley paths.

How to get to Seoraksan: Seoraksan is 2.5 hours away from Seoul by car or bus. Tours from Seoul will take you to the main entrance of the park and guide you around the top spots, too. The nearest city to Seoraksan is Sokcho and this is a nice place to stay for a weekend of hiking and beach fun.

Find out how to get to Seoraksan, what there is to see and do, where to stay, and lots more essential info in my detailed guide to visiting Seoraksan National Park.

3: Hallasan National Park

Why visit Hallasan: Dominating the centre of Jeju Island, Hallasan National Park is famous for offering the only place to hike to the top of a (technically) active volcano in Korea. Although the crater is filled in at the top, leaving a dome that fills with water during summer, the views from the almost 2km high peak allow you to see the whole of Jeju and the rugged coastline stretching out all around.

If you visit Jeju Island during winter, you can see the snow-capped peak while you’re sitting on a sandy beach and, even if it’s clear and calm on the shore, there can be knee-deep snow covering the whole of the national park. This national park only has one peak, but it’s one of the most impressive. You can also see many ‘oreums’ – hardened hills of lava deposits leftover from previous eruptions.

You should visit this national park if you want to stand on the highest point in South Korea and gaze out at the shore in all directions from a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park offers easier hiking trails that lead up slowly and steadily, making them more accessible.

Best hiking trail: The Seongpanak Trail that leads to the peak of Hallasan is definitely the best hiking trail to follow if you want a full-day hike that’s not too steep. The long, slow trek to the top rewards you with views across the whole island. Alternatively, take the Yeongsil Trail for an easier, shorter hike that will show you Jeju’s west coast.

How to get to Hallasan: For the Seongpanak Trail start point, take bus #281 or #181 from Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal (heading to Seogwipo) for 40 minutes. For the Yeongsil Trail start point, take bus #240 from Jeju City Intercity Bus Terminal (heading to Jungmun) for 50 minutes. Get off at the Yeongsil Ticket Office and follow the path to the trail entrance for 2.5km.

Find out how to hike Hallasan during winter, including how to make a reservation, how to get to the park, and lots of other travel tips for surviving this snowy hike in my detailed guide to hiking Hallasan in winter.

4: Bukhansan National Park

Why visit Bukhansan: Bukhansan may be relatively small, but its close proximity to Seoul makes it one of the most visited national parks in Korea (per unit area), according to the Guinness Book of Records. The reason for its popularity is evident when you consider that it offers the chance to escape the bustling city and find peace and harmony in nature with lots of scenic beauty all around.

Bukhansan National Park offers a range of hiking trails, including the breathtaking Baegundae Peak, which can be completed in a few hours, or combined for a full day out in nature. Besides hiking trails, there are traditional restaurants near the park’s entrances, Buddhist temples, and the Bukhansan fortress walls to see. This is one of my favourite places to see autumn foliage near Seoul.

You should visit this national park if you want to hike in a Korean national park while visiting Seoul and see the city from a new perspective. Bukhansan offers the best chance to experience temples and traditional food with mountain views close to the capital.

Best hiking trail: If you want to see just how big Seoul is, take the hike to Baegundae Peak, the park’s highest peak. Although it’s relatively small compared to the peaks of other national parks, you’ll be left speechless (and breathless) when you scale the rocky slabs to gaze out in all directions.

How to get to Bukhansan: For the hike to Baegundae Peak, take the subway to Gupabal Station (구파발역) on Line 3, go out Exit 1 and take bus 34, 704, or 8774 to the Bukhansan Fortress Entrance stop.

Find out how to hike Baegundae Peak, including how to get there, which courses to follow, and lots of other hiking tips for Bukhansan in my detailed guide about how to hike Baegundae Peak.

5: Gyeryongsan National Park

Why visit Gyeryongsan: This small national park close to Daejeon doesn’t have the tall peaks you’ll find in Seoraksan or Jirisan, but it has many other charms that make it worth visiting. The main hiking courses take you to one of two peaks (or both in a loop), passing by unique sights like twin pagodas, a long waterfall, and a rest spot half way up that looks out over the green valleys below.

This national park has a good selection of cafes to visit, where you can grab a cake and coffee and stare out at the small mountains surrounding you. I spend many weekends in Gyeryongsan – hiking in the morning and taking in the views from a cafe in the afternoon – especially in spring as this is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms near Daejeon, although I hike here year round.

You should visit this national park if you want to see streets lined with cherry blossom trees in early April and pretty hiking trails all year round. Not the most impressive park, but a peaceful one that has something for everyone and plenty of places to try traditional Korean dishes, including haemul pajeon.

Best hiking trail: If you want a short hike, take the slow path to Sambulbong Peak, which passes by the Nammaetap twin pagodas. You can reach the peak in a couple of hours and then turn around or continue on to Gwaneumbong Peak by following the ridge. This extension will lead you round to Donghaksa Temple and takes about 5-6 hours to complete. Bring some lunch with you.

How to get to Gyeryongsan: From Seoul, travel to Daejeon on the KTX, then take bus #107 from Daejeon Station all the way to the Donghaksa Temple stop, which is the main entrance of the park and the final stop for the bus.

6: Naejangsan National Park

Why visit Naejangsan: Famed as one of the best spots to see autumn leaves in Korea, Naejangsan is a splendid place to immerse yourself in Korea’s natural beauty. At the entrance of the park is the colourful Maple Tree Tunnel, which leads you to a wide central area with a cable car and traditional restaurants and the historic Naejangsa Temple. The park is easy to explore for all visitors.

Naejangsan has been listed as one of the top 10 most beautiful places in Korea and is home to many famous sights, including the Yeonjabong Peak Observatory (accessed by cable car), Naejangsa Temple area, and the Uhwajeong Pavilion. The Uhwajeong Pavilion, which reflects beautifully in the surrounding lake, is considered an iconic sight to see in Korea, especially in autumn.

You should visit this national park if you want to see some of the most beautiful autumn foliage sights in Korea in early November. This park is worth visiting in other seasons and has many attractions to see and isn’t as crowded as parks like Bukhansan or Seoraksan.

Best hiking trail: One of the most popular routes is the Naejangsan outer loop, which follows the peaks around the central area of the park. If you want a shorter hike, head to Sinseonbong Peak, the park’s highest peak. The trail starts near Naejangsa Temple, but you can take a shortcut by taking the cable car. This route isn’t too long, but it’s quite tough in places, especially near the peak.

How to get to Naejangsan: Take the KTX from Yongsan Station to Jeong-eup Station, then take a local bus to Naejangsan National Park. Naejangsan is quite far south, so it might be better to include it if you visit Gwangju, Jeonju, or Daejeon. There should be tours that will take you directly there from Seoul during autumn.

Find out all there is to see and do in Naejangsan National Park in fall, including how to get there, what to eat, and what to see, in my guide to visiting Naejangsan for autumn foliage.

7: Deogyusan National Park

Why visit Deogyusan: This is one of my favourite national parks in Korea for winter hiking because the main trail to Hyangjeokbong Peak has so many beautiful sights. It starts following the river along a valley, before climbing to a hidden temple in the mountains, then a steep ascent into the heavens with open views at the peak. But the wonders continue with a beautiful pagoda just past the peak.

The big advantage of Deogyusan National Park over other national parks, especially in winter, is that it connects to Muju Ski Resort. You can hike up in the morning and ride down to the ski resort for a late lunch of ramyeon and hot coffee. The 1,614 metre high peak is accessible even to those who don’t want to hike, so you can embrace the long vistas with or without a morning of hiking behind you.

You should visit this national park if you want to see incredible snow scenes in winter or picturesque foliage in other seasons. The cable car from Muju ski resorts allows you to experience the heights without the hassle of hiking. Autumn is another incredible time to visit this national park.

Best Hiking Trails: The Gucheondong Valley trail going to Hyangjeokbong Peak, is one of the best hiking trails in this park. This course is actually quite gentle for the first 6km, walking along the valley on the way to Baekyeonsa Temple. After that there’s 1.5km of tough but rewarding hiking to the peak, followed by a cable car ride to Muju Ski Resort where you can get a bus home.

How to get to Deogyusan: I wouldn’t recommend travelling to Deogyusan from Seoul. You can access Deogyusan from Daejeon, Muju, and other nearby cities. Buses run from Daejeon to Gucheondong Valley from Daejeon Bokhap Terminal. There’s a free shuttle bus from the Muju Ski Resort to the town of Muju. From Muju, you can take buses to Daejeon, Seoul, and other cities in Korea.

8: Chiaksan National Park

Why visit Chiaksan: This national park near Seoul has some medium-sized mountains that don’t compare in size to the lofty peaks of Jirisan or Seoraksan, but offer a serious challenge to hikers eager to explore its forested paths. Chiaksan is blessed with many steep valleys and thick forests, offering some truly stunning views, including some interesting granite rock formations and waterfalls.

This national park caters more to hiking enthusiasts than day-trippers looking to see some sights, however, there is still plenty to see if you’re willing to put in the effort. Brave hikers will be rewarded with sights such as Taejongdae Rock, Guryongsa Temple, and the lovely Seryeom Waterfall. You don’t need to be super fit to hike here, but definitely be prepared to sweat a bit.

Fun fact: Chiaksan is one of the toughest national parks to hike in Korea. Korean peaks with ‘ak’ in them (including Wor-ak-san & Seor-ak-san) indicate they are difficult, although the mountains use different Hanja (Chinese characters), so it’s hard to tell just how true that is. Another translation of the ‘ak’ Hanja in Chi-ak-san (岳) is ‘parents-in-law’, something people might also describe as tough!

You should visit this national park if you want a tough, challenging hike in a forested national park and enjoy seeing unique geology and peaks. If you’re prepared to sweat a bit, you’ll definitely love the hikes here, although there are shorter trails available, too.

Best hiking trail: The path to Birobong Peak, the highest point in the park, is one of the most popular trails, offering challenging terrain and rewarding views. This path starts at the Guryong Information Centre and after a gentle start gets up to ‘expert level’. For a less strenuous hike, the Guryongsa Temple trail provides a scenic walk through the park’s forests, leading to one of its cultural landmarks.

How to get to Chiaksan: Take bus #21, #41, or #82 bound from Guryongsa Temple / Chiaksan National Park from Wonju Bus Terminal. If you’re travelling from Seoul, take an intercity bus to Wonju Bus Terminal, or the train from Cheongnyangni Station to Wonju Station.

9: Mudeungsan National Park

Why visit Mudeungsan: Located close to Gwangju City in southern Korea, this is one of the newest and smallest national parks in Korea, but is still full of charm. Fans of geology will love the hexagonal rock formations near Seoseokdae Peak, formed from ancient volcanic activity, as well as the sheer rock faces that spring up out of the ground and look like they’ve been dropped by giants.

This park has lots of natural and cultural wonders to explore, including the spectacular Jeungsimsa Temple, home to picturesque autumn scenes with giant ginkgo trees covering the temple grounds in a blanket of yellow leaves. Just past this temple is the Dangsan Namu Guardian Tree – a giant tree that protects the local area. At the peak, there’s a nature reserve (Jangbuljae) and more to see.

You should visit this national park if you want to see unique volcanic rocks and a lovely Korean temple surrounded by tall trees. This park’s convenient location next to Gwangju City makes it ideal for anyone travelling to this part of Korea looking for a trip into nature.

Best hiking trail: The path to Seoseokdae Peak from Jeungsimsa Buddhist Temple is one of the best ways to see the main highlights in this compact Korean national park. The route isn’t that tough, slowly winding up roads and rocky paths before coming out to open plains. Follow the signposts all the way to the peak and return the way you came or head north over the peaks (Wonhyo Valley) for more views.

How to get to Mudeungsan: As this park is close to Gwangju, it’s best to travel to Gwangju Station and take a bus from there to the park entrance near Jeungsimsa Temple. There are cafes, restaurants and shops in this area and it’s the best place to start exploring the park from.

10: Songnisan National Park

Why visit Songnisan: This guide to national parks in Korea wouldn’t be complete without this hidden gem. Songnisan is an enchanting national park right in the heart of Korea that is packed with traditional Korean delights. I might be biased as I live near this park and have done a temple stay experience at Beopjusa Temple more than once, but if you visit, I think you’ll agree it’s lovely.

The main entrance to the park is packed with traditional Korean restaurants and local markets selling locally sourced foods, such as daechu (dates), wild mushrooms, and ginseng. Then it opens out into one of the most impressive Buddhist temples found in a national park – Beopjusa Temple. There’s a long walking path through the valley which leads out to various hiking paths in the park.

Giant cherry blossoms: If you want to see some truly impressive cherry blossom sights, then visit Beopjusa Temple near the end of April to see the King cherry blossoms on display. These large, fluffy blossoms (pictured below) are so soft and much larger than usual cherry blossoms. Partnered with the colourful temple buildings, they create some really spectacular scenes.

You should visit this national park if you want to see one of the best Korean Buddhist temples in Korea, a serene lake with turtles sunbathing on logs, Korean restaurants tucked away in the forest with waterfall views, and lots of leafy trees. You don’t need to hike to enjoy all that Songnisan has to offer.

Best hiking trail: The path to Cheonhwangbong Peak that starts from Beopjusa Temple is very rewarding. There are a few ways to get to this peak, which start after a couple of miles trekking along the valley floor following the river. Once you reach a pajeon restaurant by a waterfall, you’ve found the start of the hiking area.

How to get to Songnisan: You can reach Songnisan by bus from Daejeon, Daegu, Busan, and other nearby cities. If you’re in Seoul, take an intercity bus from Seoul’s Nambu or Dong-Seoul bus terminals to Songnisan National Park.

Korean National Parks Near Seoul

There are several national parks near Seoul that you can access for a day hiking in the mountains or relaxing in the valleys. The nearest park is Bukhansan National Park, which is actually part of Seoul and can be accessed by subway and bus in a short time. There are several others that can be reached by bus, train, or car from Seoul in less than a few hours, as detailed below.

Chiaksan National Park – the next closest national park to Seoul is Chiaksan. This park can be accessed by travelling to Wonju City and then taking a local bus to the parks’ entrance.

Seoraksan National Park – this park is easy to access from Seoul with a day tour, or by taking a bus from Seoul to Sokcho City and then changing to a local bus to the park’s entrance.

Odaesan National Park – technically closer to Seoul than Seoraksan, this park isn’t as accessible as Seoraksan but you can drive there or take the KTX train to Jinbu Station and change to a bus or taxi.

There are a few other national parks that are accessible if you have a car, including Woraksan National Park, Taebaeksan National Park, and Sobaeksan National Park, but they’re not convenient if you plan to use public transportation. Another national park near Seoul is Taean Seaside National Park, which is a coastal park rather than a mountain park.

My Favourite National Parks In Korea

I started hiking in Korea’s many national parks since I arrived in 2015, starting in Gyeryongsan National Park, which is close to my home in Daejeon. I’ve visited almost every national park across the country in the years since then, checking out spring blossoms, seeking shade in summer, seeing autumn foliage, and wading through deep snow in winter.

These are the my favourite national parks in Korea (based on my hiking experience in each):

1: Jirisan National Park – This is my favourite national park in Korea because it’s so big and offers so many options. Day treks in the foothills, overnight stays with sunrise hikes, and so much more.

2: Hallasan National Park – The tallest peak in South Korea and an incredible park to see the sights of Jeju Island. I’ve hiked to the peak twice during winter, both times ending up knee-deep in thick snow.

3: Songnisan National Park – One of my favourite parks to show friends and family the true beauty of Korea’s countryside. Impressive valley trails, Buddhist temple (Beopjusa), and local foods.

4: Deogyusan National Park – This park offers a great hike in any season and never fails to impress with its views. At the top of the main peak is a ski resort and a mountaintop pagoda with wide views.

5: Naejangsan National Park – I’ve only visited this park during autumn and it’s on my list solely for the amazing foliage views and attractions in the park, including the iconic Uhwajeong Pavilion.

Popular Mountains To Hike In Korea

With so many awesome national parks to visit in Korea, you’re really spoilt for choice for places to hike, explore, relax in, and photograph. Korea is rich with mountains which are worth visiting when you’re in various parts of the country. Below is a list of 10 of my favourite mountains to hike that aren’t in the national parks I’ve mentioned in this article and mostly aren’t in national parks at all.

Guide To Hiking In Korea’s National Parks

I’ve been hiking regularly in Korea since 2015 and it’s become one of my favourite hobbies. I can’t imagine a month going by without reaching a peak somewhere in Korea! After exploring almost every national park, here are a few essential insights to help you get the most out of your trip. For more tips and trips about hiking Korea’s national parks, check out my essential guide to hiking in Korea.

Here are 10 of my top insights about hiking in Korea’s national parks:

Entrance fees: Access to Korea’s national parks is now free. There used to be a fee payable to temples in the parks, but these have been waived since May 2023

Tough mountains: If you see a national park with ‘ak‘ in the name (e.g. Chi-ak-san, Seor-ak-san), it means the main peak is tough and quite steep. There are still easier courses available though.

Valley trails: Most national parks start with long walking trails before the hiking begins. These are great for all visitors and some valley trails can be as long as 10km with no hiking involved.

Stick to the paths: Korea’s national parks aren’t open for exploration and it is necessary to stick to the paths. There can be wild animals (deer, boar, bears!, snakes, etc.) in the parks and guide fences are there for everyone’s safety.

Signposts: National Parks in Korea are designed for Koreans, but also have many signs in English. There are resources available for non-Korean (English) speaking hikers in the national parks, too.

Toilets: Toilets in Korea are clean and well maintained, even in national parks, but they aren’t available in all locations throughout the parks. You will mostly find toilets at the entrance and towards the end of the walking area in the valley, but further up the mountains, toilets are rare.

Supplies: If you plan to hike in Korea’s national parks, you should bring some supplies with you, such as water (at least 1l), snacks, and tissues. If you start hiking at the main entrance to a national park, you will find shops selling supplies, but if you start in a more remote area, there may not be shops.

Trash: There are no bins on the mountains and people are expected to take everything home with them. Koreans hike with a small plastic bag to store their waste until they get home. Public bins aren’t that common in Korea.

Busy times: Hiking in Korea’s national parks is one of the most popular pastimes in Korea and the hiking trails can get especially busy on weekends, holidays, and during cherry blossom or autumn foliage season. This can affect public transport availability, too.

Souvenirs: You can buy souvenir towels in each national park. These have maps of the hiking routes and are convenient as a map / sweat towel / souvenir. I love to collect one from each park I visit.

When To Hike In Korea’s National Parks

The best time to hike in Korea’s national parks is definitely during autumn, which is from late September to early November. During this time you can see Korea’s incredible autumn foliage spreading out over the mountains and along the valleys. Spring is also very popular as you can see cherry blossoms, plum blossoms, and other spring blooms. Unfortunately, these are also the busiest times.

I love winter hiking for snowy scenes and sunny skies (winter in Korea is very sunny), but it’s not for everyone and you really need to be prepared for the cold weather. If you want to see snow in Korea, visiting a national park is one of the best options as the snow falls more often there than in the city. Summer hiking is tough as it’s very hot, but the shaded valleys with rivers can bring cool relief.

For a more detailed breakdown about the best time to hike and see Korea’s national parks, check out my Korean hiking season guide. It includes details about the best mountains to hike in each season, what to expect and look for, and what each season is like.

What Clothes Do You Need For Hiking?

Once you’ve figured out what time of year you want to visit a Korean national park, you should pack the right clothes for the season. Of course, the weather in Korea can change day to day, so also bring appropriate clothes for the weather that day (i.e. a raincoat if it’s raining).

Here’s a rough guide to what to pack for hiking in each season:

Headwear: a hat is also useful if you plan to hike in Korea’s national parks as you’re exposed to the sun a lot. A light cap is fine from spring to autumn, but a wooly hat is better in winter.

What Equipment Do You Need For Hiking?

Even though you’ll want a light pack when you hike in a national park, there are some essential items that you should bring whenever you hike, such as hiking poles, tissues, a sweat towel, and gloves. These items can change depending on the season, but most are essential for the longer trails.

If you only plan to explore the lower areas of the park, you can skip some of these items (hiking poles, first aid kit, hiking boots), but I would still recommend you bring some supplies with you. The Wowpass is a good Korean debit card that’s designed for tourists that you can use across Korea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about national parks in Korea. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article. If you have any more questions about this topic, please feel free to post a comment at the end of this article.

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The good news for travellers to Korea is that taxis are affordable and reliable and they offer a convenient way to travel around Seoul and other cities when you’re in a rush. With busy subway systems often packed to the brim during rush hours, and confusing bus routes, hailing a cab can be a lifesaver when you need to get somewhere fast. If you’re travelling in a group, it can be cheaper, too!

This quick guide to taxis in Korea explains everything you need to know about catching taxis in cities across Korea like Seoul, Busan, Daejeon and Daegu. It covers how to hail a taxi on the streets or book one through an app, provides tips on communicating with drivers, and outlines the pricing structure and payment process so you never get ripped off. Read on to master the art of riding taxis like a local!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

How To Get A Taxi In Korea: Summary

Taxis in Seoul are relatively cheap compared to countries like Japan, the US and the UK, with prices starting at ₩4,800 ($4 USD) for a short journey. You can hail a cab from the street or use taxi booking apps like Kakao Taxi to call a taxi to your location. Taxis are a convenient way to get around big cities like Seoul and to get from Incheon Airport to your hotel, possibly saving you time and money.

To check if a taxi is available, look at the sign in the windscreen. Here’s what each sign means:

Taxis are broken down into four main types – regular, deluxe, international, and jumbo. These taxis each charge different fares based on the services they provide. More details about costs and types of taxis are covered later in this guide to how to get a taxi in Korea. First, here’s how to hail a cab in Seoul.

How To Hail A Cab In Seoul & Other Cities

To hail a cab in Seoul, simply find a main street and look for taxis displaying the “빈차” (empty car) sign, which will be displayed with a red light. This indicates availability and the taxi will stop to pick you up if you hail it by sticking out your arm and waving to the taxi. Alternatively, you can book a taxi using an app, which will be covered in the next section.

There are several types of taxi in Seoul that you can hail from the street:

Regular Taxis (일반 택시): These taxis are usually grey or white saloon cars that can accommodate up to 4 passengers with limited space in the boot for 1 or 2 suitcases at most.

International Taxis (인터내셔널 택시): These taxis look similar to regular taxis, but they are bright orange and can only be found in Seoul. These taxis cater to tourists and the drivers can speak other languages, including English, Chinese, or Japanese. The price for these taxis is 20% higher than regular taxis.

Deluxe Taxis (모범 택시): Taxi drivers in deluxe taxis are known for their experience and service, so you can expect a very pleasant ride with this type of taxi in Seoul in a more luxurious car. However, the prices are also higher for the same journey length and time, so be careful.

Jumbo Taxis (대형 택시): These large taxis can accommodate larger groups and people travelling with luggage, which makes them ideal for airport transfers between Seoul and Incheon Airport. Not so common outside of transportation centres like major stations and airports.

You can find taxi stands outside busy areas like bus and train stations, department stores, and central shopping and entertainment areas. If you can’t hail a taxi from the street, it might be because there’s a taxi stand nearby and taxis will only pick up customers from there. Look around and see if you can see a taxi stand, which usually has a signpost with the word ‘taxi’ or ‘택시’ on it.

How To State Your Destination

Once you’ve hailed a taxi, you need to tell the driver your destination. Try saying the location in English or Korean, or show the driver the location on a map app, such as Naver Map or Kakao Map. However, I’ve found some older taxi drivers have trouble looking at maps on phone screens, so this may not work. You can use those map apps to check your journey so you arrive at the right place.

Tip: Pick up a business card from your hotel as they usually have the address in Korean on them. You can show this to the taxi driver to get back to your hotel easily.

Tip: Make sure the driver starts the meter after you’ve stated your destination. It’s a legal requirement to use the meter and if they don’t, they’re likely trying to rip you off.

How To Pay For A Taxi Ride In Korea

If you hail a taxi from the street in Korea, you can pay for the ride at your destination in cash, by card, or with a transportation card such as the T-Money card. Card payments are the easiest method to pay as you don’t have to worry about carrying cash with you as you travel. You can use international credit cards (Visa / Mastercard), or a local debit card like a WOWPASS to pay for the taxi.

For travel money in Korea, I recommend getting either a Wise travel card (Visa / Mastercard debit card accepted in Korea) or the aforementioned WOWPASS. I use both to pay for taxis and other services in Korea. You can find out more about both of those in my article about how to pay in Korea.

Tip: Taxi drivers never ask for tips and it is not expected that you will tip them. I’ve lived in Korea since 2015 and never once paid or been asked for a tip by a Korean taxi driver.

Taxi Prices In Seoul & Other Cities

Taxi fares in Seoul start at ₩4,800 for the first 1.6km of your journey and rise by ₩100 for every 131 metres or 30 seconds in the taxi. This is the price for regular taxis in Seoul. Deluxe, jumbo and international taxis start with higher base charges and there are additional costs for taking a taxi at night. Outside of Seoul, the base charge is typically lower and the additional costs may be different.

Tip: You can work out the expected cost of taking a taxi in Seoul and other cities with Kakao Taxi. More details on how to use Kakao Taxi in the next section.

Here are the base charges for taxis in Seoul during the day and at night, as well as additional charges.

Late Night Taxi Surcharges

There is a late night surcharge applied to taxi fares in Korea between 10pm and 4am to cover the unsociable working hours. The amount you pay for the base taxi fare at night increases, with higher costs between 11pm and 2am. Due to the increased fee during these hours, it’s often difficult to find taxis right before the increase as drivers wait a while for a higher fee, even on taxi booking apps.

Problems Finding A Taxi In Seoul

Finding a taxi in Seoul at night has become increasingly difficult since the pandemic, with taxi drivers leaving the industry to become delivery drivers for Korea’s growing home delivery services instead. Some taxi drivers also refuse to accept low-value fares, although they are legally obliged to do so. This is a growing issue due to taxi booking apps allowing drivers to screen out low-value routes.

How To Book A Taxi With Kakao Taxi App

The best way to book taxis in Korea, especially for foreigners, is with a taxi booking app. The main taxi booking app in Korea is called Kakao Taxi and is useful for travellers as it’s available in English and other languages. Kakao Taxi allows you to enter your start and end destinations and search for nearby taxis. You can request different types of taxi and the fare you see is usually close to the final charge.

Here is how to book a taxi with Kakao Taxi:

Step 1: Open the app and select the ‘Taxi’ feature. There are lots of other services available in Kakao Taxi, but the taxi feature is the main one and can be found in the top left corner of the screen.

Step 2: Select your pickup destination. The app will ask permission for your current location. Move the ‘From’ marker to the correct location to choose where to start your ride.

Step 3: Select your final destination. Click on the ‘Where are you going?’ button at the bottom of the screen. You can either search by typing in the name or use the map symbol to move the marker manually to where you want to go to. If you can’t find your destination, search in a different map app and then copy and paste address. Once you select your destination, click ‘set as destination’.

Step 4: Choose your taxi type. Depending on your location, you will see a range of available taxis to choose from. The best option is ‘General Request’ as this will be a regular taxi that can accommodate up to 4 people. If you need a larger taxi, choose the jumbo taxi option (if it’s available).

Step 5: Confirm payment payment method. The price of the taxi will appear at the bottom of the screen along with a ‘Request’ button. Before ordering the taxi, you’ll need to confirm the payment method. Fortunately, the default option is to pay to the driver. Click ‘Apply’ and then ‘Request’ again.

Step 6: Wait for your taxi. Check the progress of the taxi in the app. It will show you how far away the driver is and you can also track the journey from start to finish. Pay when you exit the taxi.

Kakao Taxi is available on Android and Apple. To learn more about how to use the app to book taxis in Korea, including how to set up a Kakao account, check out my useful guide to using Kakao Taxi in Korea, which includes screenshots of each step and more tips about how to book taxis with Kakao Taxi.

Tip: Apps like Kakao Taxi need an internet connection. Save money on SIM cards by booking them online from Klook before you travel. These are cheaper than the SIM cards at Incheon Airport.

Alternatives To Kakao Taxi

Travellers from other countries may be familiar with Grab, Uber, and other taxi hailing services where people can freelance and provide their own taxi services. Due to Korea’s strict taxi laws, these aren’t really possible and only registered taxi drivers can operate taxi services. Uber does exist in Korea, but it’s not widely used and offers the same services that Kakao Taxi does (booking registered taxis).

How To Get A Taxi From Incheon Airport To Seoul

There are many ways to get from Incheon Airport to Seoul, including high speed train, subway, and limo buses. Perhaps the most convenient for travellers to Korea for the first time, especially those with luggage or in a group, is to get a taxi from Incheon Airport directly to their hotel. There are all types of taxis available at Incheon Airport, including jumbo taxis that can take large groups with suitcases.

Taking a taxi from the airport direct to your hotel can save you time vs. public transport and may be cheaper than booking individual tickets for a limo bus if you’re travelling as a group. Travel time from Incheon Airport to central Seoul is around 40 minutes, but may be longer depending on the time of day and which part of Seoul you’re going to. Hongdae is closer than Myeongdong and Gangnam.

Tip: Order an airport pickup service before you arrive to ensure a taxi is waiting to take you to your hotel. Ordering online lets you pay in your home currency and avoids trying to get a taxi when you arrive.

Where To Get A Taxi At Incheon Airport

To get a taxi at Incheon Airport after you arrive, you should exit the Arrival Hall on the 1st floor through gates 4, 5, or 6 and cross the road, past the airport buses. As you can see in the map below, there are sections for regular taxis (outside gate 6) and international taxis (outside gate 4). These taxis will both take you to Seoul but the price is different, as explained later.

How Much Does A Taxi From Incheon Airport Cost?

The cost to travel to various parts of Seoul by taxi from Incheon Airport is displayed on the wall in the taxi boarding area to allow you to check the price before you get a taxi. The price of a taxi from Incheon Airport to Seoul depends on which district of Seoul you’re travelling to and can also include tolls. Expect to pay around ₩60,000 to ₩75,000 to get to central areas of Seoul by regular taxi.

Tip: Don’t let the drivers offer you a set price to get to your hotel, as this is likely to be much more expensive and there have been numerous reports of tourists getting ripped off in this way. Always use the meter and check the expected fare before you travel.

International Taxi Service From Incheon Airport

If you want to use an international taxi to get from Incheon Airport to your hotel in Seoul, you can book them online using the International Taxi website. This is a taxi service designed to help foreign tourists in Korea and provides taxi drivers who can speak English, Chinese, Japanese, or other languages. The service is focused on providing safe and convenient taxi booking from Incheon Airport.

The main benefits of the international taxi service is that you can book it online (at least 24 hours in advance), the drivers can speak other languages, and the prices to each district in Seoul are set. The cost of booking an international taxi service from Incheon Airport starts from ₩70,000 (about $55 USD). The price for a taxi to the Myeongdong area is ₩85,000 (about $65 USD).

Please note: The international taxi service is more expensive than regular taxis at Incheon Airport. There is also an international taxi service that offers services within Seoul, but this has a 20% surcharge on the regular taxi price. Due to these extra costs, I would recommend using Kakao Taxi or hailing a cab from the street instead of this service if you’re moving around the city.

Useful Phrases When Using A Taxi In Korea

Here are some useful phrases that show you how to get a taxi in Korea and how to give directions during the ride. Learning a few basic Korean phrases is a great way to understand more of your trip to Korea and makes a good impression when interacting with Korean people. You can also use translation apps like Papago to help you translate English into Korean and vice-versa.

How To Avoid Taxi Problems In Korea

Despite the Korean government regularly cracking down on the minority of bad taxi drivers, there are a few issues with taking taxis in Korea that it’s useful to be aware of. These problems are probably worst in Seoul and other touristy areas, but I’ve experienced them in less-touristy places, too. Here’s some of the common problems you might have taking a taxi in Korea and ways to hopefully avoid them.

Offering a fixed price: Taxi drivers at Incheon Airport might offer a set price to customers arriving to Korea instead of using the meter (as they are legally obliged to). This is likely to cost you a lot more, with some taxi rip-offs being as much as ten times the actual cost. Always use the meter unless you’ve pre-booked the taxi and paid in advance.

Saying the meter is broken: Another way taxi drivers may try to charge you a higher price is by not turning on the meter or telling you it’s broken and quoting a (higher) price instead. Be sure to check the meter is running when you start your journey and don’t accept a ride if it’s ‘broken’,

Taking a longer route than necessary: This is an issue I’ve had several times in Korea where taxi drivers take an indirect route to increase the fare. The best way to avoid this is to use Kakao Taxi and check the route as you go. If the driver goes off course, you can ask them why.

Driving at dangerous speeds: Time is literally money for taxi drivers in Korea and so some drive excessively fast and dangerously, including running red lights. I’ve seen a handful of crashed taxis who have done this. If you’re worried that your taxi driver is going to fast, tell them ‘chon-chon-hee‘, which means ‘slowly’ in Korean.

Fortunately, the number of taxi scams seems to be declining in Korea and with taxi booking apps like Kakao Taxi, it’s easier than ever to book a taxi in Korea and travel safely. Apply the same caution and common sense you’d use when taking a taxi in your own country and you should be fine.

If you’re think taking taxi is too much and prefer to drive by yourself, make sure to check out our comprehensive guide on driving in South Korea for foreigners, it includes detail from renting a car, all the way to driving nuances in South Korea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about how to get a taxi in Korea. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article. If you have any more questions about this topic, please feel free to post a comment at the end of this article.

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Ranging from tranquil islands to preserved historic villages that transport you back in time, these easy excursions provide a compelling taste of Korean history, culture and natural beauty. This list of the 25 best day tours from Seoul will ignite your exploration outside the capital and show you many of the wonderful sights Korea has to offer. There’s definitely a day trip that will suit you here.

All of the day trips from Seoul covered in this article are accessible within a day, meaning you can travel out for an action packed day of exploration and return to your hotel in Seoul. Several of these locations can be combined into one day trip, such as Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm, and Alpaca World. I’ll include tour links to combined tours when they are as they’re a convenient way to see more.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Why Book A Day Tour From Seoul?

Embarking on a day tour from Seoul is a must when you visit Korea as it offers you a unique opportunity to explore the country’s rich heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant local culture beyond the bustling capital. I think these Seoul day trips will provide deeper insights into Korea than you’ll find in the capital and leave you with a better understanding of what Korea’s really like.

These day trips give you a way to discover historical sites like the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, natural wonders such as Nami Island, and unique attractions like the DMZ, showcasing the poignant history and beauty of Korea. These destinations, which are all accessible in a day, give you the chance to contrast Seoul to other parts of Korea and I’m sure you’ll notice some big differences.

Whether it’s indulging in traditional Korean experiences at the Jeonju Hanok Village or exploring the enchanting Gwangmyeong Cave, these day tours from Seoul cater to a wide range of interests, ensuring memorable experiences from your journey. Moreover, they offer insights into Korea’s diverse regions, making them essential for those looking to experience the country’s cultural charms.

Quick links: Looking for a certain type of day tour from Seoul? Use the links below to jump straight to the section that interests you, or keep on reading to discover all of these tours.

How To Book Day Tours From Seoul

The most convenient way to book a day trip from Seoul is through user-friendly online platforms like Klook, Viator, Trazy, and Get Your Guide. These sites make exploring beyond Seoul simple by aggregating reliable tours complete with reviews, easy online booking in your chosen currency, e-tickets, and even transportation coordination from central pick-up points. I use them to book tours myself.

I recommend booking day tours in advance when visiting Korea (especially if you’re travelling in spring or autumn) for these reasons:

Learn more: Paying in your home currency is often easier and cheaper than converting money into Korean won. Booking ahead is one of the tips included in my guide to paying in Korea, which covers ways to save on travel money in Korea and alternatives to relying on exchanging cash to travel.

Where To Stay For Seoul Day Trips

Tour companies offering day trips out from Seoul might collect you directly from your hotel, but more often they prefer to arrange pickups in these three popular districts:

• Myeongdong
• Hongdae
• Gangnam

If you’re planning to take some day trips while you’re staying in Seoul, then I recommend staying in one of these locations as you’ll find it easier to arrange tour pickups. There are some excellent hotels in Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Gangnam and these are the most popular areas to stay. To learn more about Seoul’s districts, check out my guide about where to stay in Seoul.

Using Public Transport In Korea

Public transport in Seoul and Korea in general is amazing and services run frequently, actually turn up on time, and cost little. You can travel between cities for less than $10 and tickets cost the same regardless of when you use them. Transportation in Seoul is provided in multiple languages and is easy to use. While it’s great in Seoul, relying on public transport beyond the city can prove challenging.

Destinations outside Seoul may not be well connected, especially in the Korean countryside. Infrequent services, complex transfers and language barriers leave DIY day trips prone to confusion and wasted time, even for experienced travellers. Booking a guided tour ensures stress-free travel to and from Seoul on comfortable buses or vans, direct to each location with expert commentary, too.

It’s certainly possible to use public transport for some destinations, such as Nami Island, but for a hassle-free day trip from Seoul, tours are much simpler than using public transport, which requires research and planning. If you want to use public transport for your day trips, I recommend Naver Map or Kakao Map for directions, along with Papago to help translate Korean to English as you travel.

Top 10 Seoul Day Trips For Sightseeing

With endless fascinating sights and experiences to discover beyond the capital, narrowing down the most celebrated Seoul day tours offers a great starting point to explore more of the country. These ten destinations repeatedly rate as top favourites amongst both Korean and international visitors seeking to unlock the cultural, historical and natural highlights waiting beyond Seoul’s borders.

1: Nami Island

Nami Island, located in Chuncheon, is a half-moon shaped isle known for its breathtaking landscapes and cultural attractions. Established as a tourist destination in 1965, the island covers an area of 430,000 square metres and is renowned for its tree-lined walking paths, making it a picturesque escape from the urban hustle of Seoul and one of Korea’s best day trips.

What to see and do: The island offers a variety of attractions, from its beautiful tree lanes, such as Ginkgo Tree Lane and Metasequoia Lane, to cultural sites like the UNICEF Charity Train. You can enjoy cycling, zip-lining to the island, traditional Korean foods, and seasonal events. The island also features art galleries, performance stages, and water sports during the summer.

Suitable for: families, couples, and nature enthusiasts.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

How to get there: If you want to make your own way to Nami Island, check out my guide about how to get to Nami Island from Seoul by car, tours, and public transportation.

2: Garden Of Morning Calm

The Garden of Morning Calm is a serene botanical garden located in Gapyeong County. Established in 1996, it spans 30,000 square meters and features Korean traditional garden concepts. The garden is a tranquil retreat showcasing Korea’s natural beauty through its diverse plant species and landscaped gardens. One of the most beautiful of these Seoul day trips, especially in spring and summer.

What to see & do: You can explore themed gardens, scenic walking paths, and seasonal festivals, including the Spring Garden Festival and the Winter Illumination Festival. Highlights include the Wild Flower Garden, Pine Garden, and the picturesque Pond Garden. The garden also offers cultural experiences and workshops, making it a place of learning and relaxation.

Suitable for: nature lovers, families, and photographers.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

3: Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) Area

The DMZ, or Demilitarised Zone, separates North and South Korea, extending 250 kilometres across the peninsula. This buffer zone, established in 1953, is a significant symbol of the Korean War’s cessation (but not end). It offers a unique insight into the geopolitical tensions and history of the region, making it a compelling destination for Seoul day trips.

What to see and do: Tours from Seoul to the DMZ allow you to explore observation posts, tunnels dug by North Korea, and the Joint Security Area (currently unavailable). The area also hosts exhibitions and historical sites, providing educational insights into the Korean conflict. These tours often include visits to key landmarks, such as the Freedom Bridge and the Third Infiltration Tunnel.

Suitable for: history buffs, political enthusiasts, and modern history lovers.

Current DMZ tour issues: Due to the recently increased tensions with North Korea, as well as a swine flu outbreak in the area, the Joint Security Area is currently closed to tourists.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

4: Suwon Hwaseong Fortress

Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a late 18th-century fortification in Suwon, South Korea. It represents the pinnacle of 18th-century military architecture, combining Eastern and Western design principles. The fortress encompasses a wall stretching nearly 6 kilometres, featuring four gates and numerous defensive structures, making it a standout destination for Seoul day trips.

What to see & do: You can explore the fortress walls, offering panoramic views of Suwon city. The site includes impressive gates, watchtowers, and pavilions. The Hwaseong Haenggung Palace, within the fortress, showcases royal residences and administrative buildings. Cultural events, martial arts performances, and traditional archery experiences are also available, enriching tours from Seoul.

Suitable for: history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and families.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

5: Yongin Korean Folk Village

The Yongin Korean Folk Village is a living museum located in Yongin that recreates traditional Korean life from the Joseon Dynasty. Spanning over 243 acres, it features over 260 traditional houses, offering a deep dive into Korea’s cultural heritage, making it a popular choice for day trips. This tour from Seoul is often combined with the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress and other attractions nearby.

What to see & do: Witness traditional Korean crafts, such as pottery and weaving, watch folk music and dance performances, and explore a traditional marketplace. The village also offers hands-on experiences like traditional games and seasonal activities, including farming. Attractions include martial arts demonstrations and traditional wedding ceremonies, providing a look into historical Korean culture.

Suitable for: cultural enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in Korea’s traditional lifestyle.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

6: Jeonju Hanok Village

Jeonju Hanok Village, located in the heart of Jeonju, is a vibrant cultural district renowned for its 800 beautifully preserved traditional Korean hanok houses. This picturesque village serves as a living museum, encapsulating the essence of the Joseon Dynasty’s architectural and cultural heritage.

You are transported back in time, as you wander through narrow alleys lined with tile-roofed houses, artisanal workshops, and quaint tea houses. The village’s commitment to maintaining traditional Korean crafts, cuisine, and culture makes it perfect for those seeking an authentic tour from Seoul.

What to see & do: You can explore traditional tea houses, artisan workshops, and cultural museums. The Jeonju Hanji Museum, dedicated to traditional Korean paper, and the Jeonju Korean Traditional Wine Museum are highlights. Traditional Korean dress (hanbok) rental is popular, along with sampling authentic Jeonju bibimbap, making it a vibrant mix of cultural exploration and culinary delight.

Suitable for: cultural enthusiasts, photographers, and foodies.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

7: Alpaca World

Alpaca World is a scenic area within easy reach from Seoul and one of the best places to see cuddly critters in leafy surroundings. This expansive park is not just about alpacas; it’s an animal haven set against the backdrop of Korea’s beautiful natural landscape. You have the chance to interact closely with alpacas, deer, and other animals in an environment that prioritises their wellbeing and freedom.

What to see & do: Beyond feeding and walking with alpacas, you can try activities such as horse riding, exploring the ecological forest, and crafting. The park also features thematic gardens, picnic areas, and walking trails, making it an ideal spot for leisure and learning about animal care and nature conservation. The hands-on interactions with the animals provide a memorable experience for all ages.

Suitable for: families, animal lovers, and nature enthusiasts.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

8: Gangchon Rail Park

Gangchon Rail Park offers you an outdoor adventure combining scenic beauty with physical activity. The repurposed old railway tracks allow you to pedal rail bikes through tunnels, over bridges, and along rivers. Covering a distance that showcases the stunning rural landscapes of Korea, it’s an innovative way to explore the countryside, making it a popular choice for day trips from Seoul.

What to see & do: The main attraction is the rail biking experience, where you can pedal along old railroad tracks while enjoying the surrounding nature. The course includes features like tunnels, adorned with lights and music, and panoramic views of the river and countryside. Additionally, the park offers rest areas with scenic photo spots to witness the beauty of the Korean landscape.

Suitable for: active travellers, families, and groups seeking a unique experience in nature.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

9: Petite France

Petite France is a French-themed village that stands as a beacon of European charm within Korea. This cultural village is designed to emulate the atmosphere of a quaint French town, featuring brightly coloured buildings, cobblestone streets, and a collection of European dolls, antique musical instruments, and French literature. It’s a eccentric enclave that offers a uniquely European escape.

What to see & do: Within its boundaries, you can explore a variety of attractions including the Saint-Exupéry Memorial Hall dedicated to the author of “The Little Prince,” puppet shows, and street performances that capture the essence of French culture. The village also offers workshops on French crafts and cooking, making it a place of both entertainment and learning with lots of photo opportunities.

Suitable for: families, couples, and Francophiles.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

10: Gwangmyeong Cave

Gwangmyeong Cave is a former gold mine transformed into a cultural and recreational space. This subterranean complex is a fusion of historical, cultural, and entertainment elements, offering a unique experience beneath the earth’s surface. It boasts illuminated caverns, underground lakes, and themed exhibitions, making it a great destination for those seeking an adventurous day trip from Seoul.

What to see & do: In Gwangmyeong Cave you can explore a variety of interesting attractions including the Wine Cave, where Korean wines are showcased and available for tasting, and the Golden Road, which tells the history of the mine’s gold extraction era. The cave also hosts art installations, a concert hall, and an aquarium, providing diverse entertainment options.

Suitable for: adventurers, families, and those interested in geologic phenomena.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Korean Culture Lovers Day Trips From Seoul

These day trips from Seoul are for the K-culture lovers, both modern and traditional, who want to spend a day away from Seoul to see unmissable destinations from TV, movies, art, and nature. If you’re a fan of BTS or modern K-culture, then you’ll love the BTS tour and a visit to Dae Jang Geum Park. Families and couples will be pleasantly surprised with day tours in Pocheon and Gangneung, too.

BTS ARMY Fan Tours From Seoul

BTS-themed tours from Seoul offer fans of the global K-pop sensation a unique journey through the places associated with BTS’s rise to fame. These tours cover iconic sites outside Seoul that hold significance to the band’s history, such as music video locations, favourite hangouts, and significant locations in their career. It’s an immersive experience that brings fans closer to the footsteps of BTS.

What to see & do: Participants can visit sites inside and outside of Seoul, like the BTS bus stop at Hyangho Beach from the “Spring Day” music video, Yongin Daejanggeum Park where Suga recorded “Daechwita”, and Seoul sights such as Hakdong Park, Yoojung Sikdang, and the old Big Hit headquarters. Some tours offer exclusive merchandise and photo shoots at famous BTS-related spots.

Suitable for: ARMYs, K-pop enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the cultural phenomenon of BTS.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Yongin Dae Jang Geum Park Tour

Yongin Dae Jang Geum Park, previously known as MBC Dramia, is an expansive outdoor film set. This site is famous for being the filming location of numerous popular Korean historical dramas, including “Dae Jang Geum.” Tours from Seoul offer fans of K-dramas and K-movies a behind-the-scenes look at the settings of their favourite productions, showcasing traditional Korean architecture and culture.

What to see & do: You can explore the meticulously constructed sets that replicate historical palaces, villages, and landscapes from various periods of Korean history. Tours provide insights into the filming processes and stories behind the scenes. There’s the opportunity to dress in traditional Korean costumes, and occasional reenactments and performances really bring the drama to life.

Suitable for: fans of Korean dramas, history buffs, and those interested in traditional Korean culture.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Pocheon Art Village And Herb Island

Day tours from Seoul to Pocheon Art Valley and Herb Island offer a blend of natural beauty, art, and aromatic experiences. Pocheon Art Valley, a transformed granite quarry, now serves as a cultural space featuring sculptures, an art museum, and a picturesque lake. Herb Island, focusing on Mediterranean herbs, lights up with fairy-tale illuminations at night, creating a magical atmosphere.

What to see & do: In Pocheon Art Valley, you can enjoy scenic landscapes, explore art installations, and take part in craft workshops. The monorail provides easy access to stunning views. Herb Island gives you a chance to wander through lavender fields, participate in soap-making classes, and explore themed gardens and greenhouses. Visit at night to see the entire island aglow with decorative lights.

Suitable for: art lovers, nature enthusiasts, and families looking for a creative day of delights.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Gangneung K-Culture Day Trip

Gangneung is a beautiful beach city on the east coast of Korea accessible from Seoul in under 2 hours by KTX high speed train. Known as a city of coffee, nature, and culture, the city boasts festivals dedicated to coffee (Gangneung Coffee Festival), cherry blossoms (Gyeongpo Cherry Blossom Festival), and beach life (Gyeongpo Beach Beer Festival & Gangneung Gyeongpo Summer Festival).

What to see & do: Day trips will take you to some top cultural destinations in the area, including Jumunjin to see the filming location of the popular Korean drama “Goblin”. Nearby, K-pop fans can visit the bus stop featured in BTS’s “Spring Day” music video – a must-see for diehard A.R.M.Y fans! The area also offers new attractions like the immersive light and shadow art experience – ARTE Museum.

Suitable for: art lovers, culture vultures, and those interested in modern K-culture.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Family Friendly One Day Trips From Seoul

If you’re looking for a family-friendly break from Seoul, then these theme parks and attractions will provide a whole day of outdoor fun for all. While Seoul offers great theme parks like Lotte World Adventure, the destinations outside Seoul are bigger and have more to see and do – making them worth a visit. Here are some fun day trips from Seoul to enjoy during summer and other seasons.

Caribbean Bay Water Park

Caribbean Bay Water Park, part of the Everland Resort in Yongin, is one of the largest water parks in the world. Offering a tropical Caribbean theme, it features a wide range of water-based attractions, including wave pools, water slides, and a lazy river. Tours from Seoul to Caribbean Bay provide a refreshing escape from the city, allowing visitors to enjoy thrilling rides and relaxation in a picturesque setting.

What to see & do: You can experience exhilarating water slides of varying heights and speeds, the expansive wave pool capable of generating artificial waves, and the relaxing lazy river that meanders through the park. The Aqua Loop, a high-speed slide with a 360-degree loop, is a must-try for thrill-seekers. If you’re just looking to relax, the spa and sauna facilities offer a serene retreat.

Suitable for: families, groups of friends, and anyone seeking fun and adventure in a water park setting.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Everland Theme Park

Everland theme park, also in Yongin, is Korea’s largest theme park and offers a diverse range of attractions across its zones – Global Fair, American Adventure, Magic Land, European Adventure, and Zootopia. Combining thrilling rides, themed areas, and a zoo, tours from Seoul to Everland provide a day of adventure and fun, making it a top choice for those seeking excitement outside the city.

What to see & do: Visitors can enjoy high-speed roller coasters, such as the T-Express, family-friendly rides, and seasonal festivals. Zootopia offers close encounters with animals, including a panda habitat and a safari ride. The park’s beautifully landscaped gardens and parades add to the festive atmosphere. For those looking to cool down, check out the aforementioned water park, Caribbean Bay.

Suitable for: families, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking for a fun-filled day out.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Legoland Korea

Legoland Korea is a newly opened theme park that brings the iconic Lego brand to life. This family-oriented park features over 40 rides, shows, and attractions across various themed zones, each dedicated to the creativity and fun of Lego building blocks. Day tours from Seoul to Legoland Korea offer an immersive experience into a world of imagination and innovation for Lego fans of all ages.

What to see & do: The park is divided into themed areas, including Miniland, where iconic landmarks from around the world are recreated in Lego form. Visitors can enjoy interactive rides, build and test their own Lego creations, and watch 4D cinema presentations. For younger guests, Duplo playgrounds provide a safe and exciting environment. The park also hosts seasonal events.

Suitable for: families with children, Lego enthusiasts, and those looking for a creative day out.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Day Trips From Seoul To See Nature

Some of the most-loved day trips from Seoul introduce you to the abundant green sights you’ll find outside Korea’s capital, including the aforementioned Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm, and Pocheon Art Valley. There are plenty more natural wonders awaiting you in the Korean countryside, with massive mountains, serene rivers, picturesque forests and gardens, and more, to discover.

Seoraksan National Park

Seoraksan National Park is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, including rugged mountains, narrow valleys, and dense forests. It’s a UNESCO Biosphere Protection site, offering an escape into nature’s tranquility. Day tours from Seoul to Seoraksan allow you to explore Korea’s natural beauty, with the park’s changing seasons offering many wonderful sights, especially during autumn.

What to see & do: The park features a range of hiking trails for all abilities, from easy walks to challenging climbs, leading to stunning vistas and natural landmarks like the Ulsanbawi Rock. Don’t want to hike? Take the cable car to Gwongeumseong and see panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. You can explore Buddhist temples in the park, including picturesque Sinheungsa Temple.

Suitable for: nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat into natural beauty.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Hwadam Botanical Gardens And Forest

Hwadam Botanical Garden is a meticulously designed ecological space that combines traditional Korean and modern landscaping techniques. This self-sustaining garden is known for its extensive collection of native and exotic plants, making it a haven for botany enthusiasts. Day tours from Seoul to Hwadam Botanical Garden offer a serene escape into nature and a literal breath of fresh air.

What to see & do: Meander through themed sections, including a conifer garden, medicinal herb garden, and a wetland ecosystem, each offering unique plants and educational insights. The garden’s walking paths and scenic bridges over ponds create a peaceful environment for your to relax and take photos. Visit for seasonal events, such as the spring cherry blossom festival and autumn foliage viewing.

Suitable for: nature enthusiasts, families, and photographers looking for a tranquil day out.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Namhansanseong Fortress

Namhansanseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to Korea’s historical military architecture and strategic significance. Located on a mountainous terrain south-east of Seoul, this fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Tours from Seoul provide insight into Korea’s rich history, with well-preserved fortifications that date back to the 17th century.

What to see & do: The fortress encompasses several walking trails leading to historical sites, including ancient gates, command posts, and Buddhist temples like the Sudoksa Temple. You can explore the Emergency Palace, which served as a refuge for kings during invasions. The combination of natural beauty and historical discovery waiting to be found here makes for a fulfilling experience.

Suitable for: history enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone interested in exploring Korea’s cultural heritage.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Yangpyeong Dumulmeori

Yangpyeong Dumulmeori is famed for its picturesque natural landscapes that have inspired countless photographers and filmmakers. This tranquil spot, easily accessible via day tours from Seoul, is named ‘Dumulmeori’ for its water’s resemblance to a ‘head of two waters’. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat into nature, with its stunning vistas and serene atmosphere.

What to see & do: You can enjoy leisurely walks along the riverbank, take memorable photographs of the traditional Korean boats and the iconic willow trees lining the water’s edge, or explore the nearby Semiwon Garden. Seasonal changes bring a dynamic beauty to the area, with lush greens in summer, vibrant blooms in spring, and fiery colours showcasing gorgeous autumn foliage.

Suitable for: photographers, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a day of scenic beauty.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

One-Day Tours From Seoul With A Difference

This final set of Seoul day trips offer a chance to see more offbeat sights, join in exciting outdoor activities, and visit other notable cities in Korea. There are lots of extreme sports and cities you could visit on a day trip, which will be covered in other articles. These four destinations will give you a chance to get away from the main tourist areas, see some unusual sights, and try fun activities.

Danyang Paragliding & Sightseeing Tours

Danyang paragliding tours offer an exhilarating escape into the skies, showcasing some of Korea’s most breathtaking landscapes from a bird’s-eye view. Danyang is renowned for its scenic beauty, including lush mountains and clear rivers. This tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of flight, making it a popular choice for adventure seekers looking to get away from the urban jungle.

What to see & do: You can soar above the picturesque landscapes of Danyang, taking in views of the winding rivers, rugged cliffs, and verdant forests. The experience is made safe and enjoyable under the guidance of experienced instructors, ensuring a memorable adventure. Besides paragliding, you can explore the local attractions, such as the Gosu Cave and Dodamsambong Peaks.

Suitable for: thrill-seekers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience an adrenaline rush.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Jebu Island Marine Cable Car

Jebu Island (Seohaerang) Marine Cable Car offers a unique vantage point to explore the natural beauty and coastal landscapes of Jebu Island. This is a great opportunity to experience this island’s scenic views from above, including its famous tidal flats, surrounding waters, and the impressive Siwha Sea Barrier. The cable car ride presents panoramic vistas that will surely captivate you.

What to see & do: The cable car journey allows you to witness the dramatic changes of the tide at Jebu Island’s mudflats, a phenomenon that reveals the seabed at low tide and hides it beneath the waves at high tide. Additionally, you can explore the island’s attractions, such as the Jebu Island Lighthouse and various coastal trails, offering leisurely walks with stunning seaside views.

Suitable for: families, couples, and photography enthusiasts interested in Korea’s coastal landscapes.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Day Trip To Busan By KTX Train

As the country’s second-largest city, Busan offers a diverse array of attractions, from ancient Buddhist temples to modern skyscrapers that line the waterfront. Day tours from Seoul to Busan are an excellent way to experience the unique blend of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty that this city has to offer. However, as this is a large city, I would recommend staying at least 1 night to see the sights.

Although there aren’t really any guided tours to Busan from Seoul, it’s easy enough to get to Korea’s second biggest city and back in a day thanks to the KTX high speed train network that links the two cities. This is a good way to use the unlimited Korean rail pass. Once you’re in Busan, the main sights can be accessed by public transport or a city tour that starts once you arrive.

What to see & do: Highlights of a Busan tour include Haeundae Beach, renowned for its scenic beauty and festive atmosphere; Gamcheon Culture Village, with its brightly painted houses and artistic vibe; and Jagalchi Fish Market, where you can taste fresh seafood. The Haedong Yonggungsa Temple offers spiritual serenity by the sea, and Taejongdae Park presents panoramic ocean views,

Suitable for: beach lovers, cultural explorers, and food enthusiasts keen to try culinary delights.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Day Trip To Incheon City

Incheon City is Korea’s third-largest city and known for its historical significance, modern landmarks, and cultural diversity. Incheon blends history with modernity, featuring attractions from its time as a major port during the late 19th century to its current status as a global city. A day trip to Incheon offers an insightful journey into the city’s rich heritage, vibrant markets, and scenic coastal areas.

What to see & do: Explore Korea’s first Chinatown with its colourful streets, traditional architecture, and authentic cuisine. The Songdo district showcases futuristic urban planning and green spaces. Historical sites like the Incheon Landing Operation Memorial Hall offer a glimpse into Korea’s modern history. For a relaxing end to the day, Wolmido Island provides seaside attractions and amusement parks.

Suitable for: history enthusiasts, foodies, and urban explorers looking for a mix of cultural experiences.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Seasonal Day Tours From Seoul

There are various day tours from Seoul that only run during certain seasons and will whisk you away to gorgeous destinations that only dazzle for a short time. These day tour destinations shine bright and bold during their respective seasons, but often don’t offer much during the rest of the year, or at least not as much. Below are some of the best tours from Seoul that you can take in each season.

Spring Day Tours From Seoul

Spring is all about nature and beautiful blossoms, which you can see across the country with tours to cherry blossom festivals, flower festivals, and areas of natural beauty. Spring is a wonderful time to travel in Korea thanks to the warm weather and clear skies, as well as the many spring festivals that are on. April is one of the best times to visit Korea, and May is also really good.

Here are some of the best spring destinations with tours from Seoul:

Summer Day Tours From Seoul

Summer in Korea is hot and wet, but there are loads of fun festivals and events happening across the country, including a giant mud festival that embraces the rainy weather. It’s also a time when nature is in full flow and there are many lush forests and parks to walk through, as well as rose gardens and tea plantations. Trips to the beach are popular and Seoulites will flock to the east coast for summer sun.

Here are some of the best summer destinations with tours from Seoul:

Autumn Day Tours From Seoul

Autumn in Korea starts from September and runs until early November and is arguably the best time to visit Korea, thanks to the many Korean autumn foliage spots that begin showing their colours from early October, and the weather is great. Besides autumn leaves, there are also harvest and culture festivals going on and tours to farms and countryside towns to try local produce are popular.

Here are some of the best autumn destinations with tours from Seoul:

Winter Day Tours From Seoul

Winter in Korea is not the easiest time to visit, but it’s a season packed with fun winter activities and snowy sights. You will find dozens of winter festivals in Korea to enjoy on day trips from Seoul, including ice fishing festivals, snow and ice festivals, and winter illuminations. Winter sports lovers and families looking for snowy sights in Korea will love the many ski resorts accessible from Seoul.

Here are some of the best winter events with tours from Seoul:

Best Time To Take Seoul Day Trips

While remarkable sights encircle Seoul in every season, temperate spring and autumn offer ideal weather for day trips. Summer is hot, so being outside can be difficult for long periods of time, the same can be said of winter as it’s so cold. However, you shouldn’t let the weather put you off as the right clothes and frequent indoor breaks can solve most problems from the adverse weather conditions.

Not only are spring and autumn warm and sunny, they’re not too wet. It mostly rains in Korea from June to August. Winter in Korea is very dry, making it a good time to take day trips out to the aforementioned winter destinations, as long as you’re wrapped up warm. Summer rains aren’t that bad though as the weather is a bit cooler when it rains, although it’s not good for the beach.

I recommend booking day tours on weekdays as these are less busy and you’ll encounter fewer local tourists. Koreans make the most of their free time and weekends and public holidays are a time to get out and enjoy popular sights outside the city (and in). If there’s a festival on then definitely visit during the week as some of the big festivals can see over 100,000 people per day on weekends!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about day tours from Seoul. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article. If you have any more questions about this topic, please feel free to post a comment at the end of this article.

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This river boat service in Seoul will allow easier access to riverside destinations for locals and tourists alike, helping them get between some of the most popular destinations in Seoul, such as Yeouido and Jamsil (home of the Lotte World Tower). Seoul’s river bus service will allow people to cross the city’s mighty Han River, which is currently a hassle to do, with ease and speed.

The Seoul river bus service hasn’t started yet, and some of the details in this article may change by the time it launches in October 2024. I will continue to update this article before and after the river boat in Seoul begins operation so you have the most up to date information available. Read on to discover more about Seoul’s latest innovation, which prioritises accessibility, sustainability, and tourism needs.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

What Is The Seoul River Bus Service?

The Seoul river bus service is an innovative new river-based transportation service being launched by the Seoul government to promote sustainability as well as tourism and accessibility around the Han River area. It will allow people to travel between various destinations on the Han River for a small fee and save time and effort vs. current methods of travelling between Han River locations.

There will be a total of 8 eco-friendly vehicles to carry up to 199 passengers, bicycles, and wheelchairs at a time along the length of the Han River in central Seoul. The boats will move at 17 knots (31 km/h), which will make them faster than rush-hour traffic. It will run from Magok in the west of the city (close to Gimpo Airport) to Jamsil in the east – home of the Lotte World Tower and Seokchon Lake.

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-Hoon stated the electric vessels will offer a climate-friendly transit option for 2.5 million citizens and visitors alike by 2030. He envisions the service as both a practical mobility solution and tourism draw, showcasing the innovative attractions of Seoul while addressing environmental issues through green transportation infrastructure enhancements along the iconic river.

When Will The Seoul River Bus Service Begin?

The metropolitan government has stated that the Seoul river bus service will begin in October 2024, as long as the construction of river bus terminals meets the expected schedule. The service will connect seven terminals along the Han River at first, but could be expanded to other parts of the city at later dates. I will add updates about extensions to this article when announced.

What Hours Does The Seoul River Bus Run?

The river bus service will run during the following hours:

The earlier hours during the week are to allow commuters to travel along the river instead of using congested road and public transportation routes. This should make travelling in Seoul during rush hour less stressful (it’s really busy now) and save commuters a lot of time in some situations.

How Often Will The River Boat In Seoul Operate?

The river boat in Seoul will run at different frequencies depending on the time of day and week:

The Seoul river bus service takes up to 75 minutes to travel the full route between Magok and Jamsil, or 54 minutes between these two destinations if you use the express service that only stops at Magok, Yeouido, and Jamsil.

What Are The Seoul River Bus Stops?

The Seoul river bus service will stop at the following locations (as shown from left to right in the map image above) along the Han River:

You can see these destinations with this Seoul River Bus Locations Map from Google Maps. These destinations were chosen based on a number of factors and provide services to residential, commercial and tourist areas. The most popular areas for tourists on the Han River are Mangwon, Yeouido, and Ttukseom, but each area has attractions and services that travellers are likely to travel to.

What Can You See Near These Stops?

As mentioned, the most popular stops on the river bus in Seoul for tourists are Mangwon, Yeouido, and Ttukseom, as these stops are home to popular Han River parks and other tourist attractions. If you’re planning to ride the Seoul river bus service when you visit Seoul, this table shows you some of the key attractions and areas you’ll find near each stop. This will help you plan your Seoul itinerary.

Future Terminals On The Han River Boat Service

Besides the original 7 stops on the Seoul river bus service, the city government has announced plans to add more destinations to help increase convenience for commuters and to make Seoul more attractive for tourists. The line might extend past Magok to the Gimpo Ara Han River dock, which is close to Gimpo Airport hotels and duty free shops. There may also be more stops between terminals.

As well as the river bus, the Seoul government has a number of other future attractions in the works, such as the world’s first twin ferris wheel and an aerial gondola connecting various cultural and tourist hotspots along the river. These are part of Seoul mayor Oh Se-Hoon’s “Great Han River Project Plan” that will transform the capital’s riverside area in the next few years.

How Much Does The Seoul River Boat Cost?

The Seoul river boat service will cost ₩3,000 (about $2.25) per ride, which is more expensive than the current price of subway rides and bus rides in the capital, but offers a convenient method of crossing the river which will certainly save a lot of time. You should be able to use transportation cards such as the T-Money Card to pay for the rides, although this is still to be confirmed.

Seoul’s public transportation network currently allows free transfers between buses and subways within 30 minutes, as long as you touch out with your transportation card when leaving the bus or subway. It hasn’t been confirmed whether the Seoul river bus service will also feature free or discounted transfers between journeys with other methods of public transportation.

How To Get Discounted River Boat Rides In Seoul

As part of the Seoul government’s push to reduce commuting costs and encourage people to use more public transportation, people with a Seoul Climate Card will also be able to ride on the Han River boat service for free. The Climate Card, which launched in January 2024, offers unlimited public transportation within the city for a monthly fee starting at ₩62,000.

What To See And Do On The Han River

The Han River offers an abundance of attractions for visitors to Seoul to enjoy. Travellers can explore lengthy riverside parks perfect for cycling, jogging or leisurely strolls, with scenic stretches like Yeouido Hangang Park and Ttukseom Hangang Park. There are also swimming pools, sports facilities and performance venues situated along the shores, and various festivals throughout the year.

Here are 15 top sights along the Han River in Seoul:

With so much recreation, entertainment and sightseeing available along the banks of the river, the Han River area promises appealing destinations for any visitor to Seoul, which will only be enhanced with the forthcoming water bus service. The natural scenery, historic landmarks, and wealth of activities offer compelling reasons for travellers to explore this iconic river and its parks.

Han River Night Cruises In Seoul

When the sun goes down, the Han River comes alive with illuminated cruise boats that provide a magical way to see Seoul’s skyline. The Seoul Hangang River Cruise is a popular way to see the sights of Seoul along the river at night. Lasting about an hour, the river cruise brings passengers past the glittering Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain, city landmarks, and picturesque parks after dark.

Gliding gently down the river, the evening cruise allows visitors to view Seoul’s vibrant energy from a unique vantage point amid the glistening reflections of a capital that truly never sleeps. As well as night cruises that show you Seoul’s vibrant city lights under moonlit skies, you can also take a Han River cruise during the day with regular departures daily. Book online or buy tickets on the day.

Other Ways To Get Around The Han River

The Han River encompasses some of the most beautiful parts of Seoul, with 12 riverside parks, attractions, and areas of natural beauty to enjoy throughout the city. Besides taking a river bus in Seoul to see the Han River, here are some other ways you can explore the waterway.

By Bicycle: The Seoul Public Bike rental service provides people the chance to rent bikes and cycle along the long stretches of the river’s edge. Popular areas for cycling are around Yeouido and in Seongsu-dong between Seoul Forest Park and Ttukseom Park and beyond. This is one of the best places to ride a bike in Korea, with 240km of cycle routes along the Han River.

By Foot: Along with cycle paths that run along the Han River’s shore, there are also walking paths in similar areas. The walking path around Yeouido is especially beautiful and home to several spring flower festivals, including one of Seoul’s largest cherry blossom festivals. Walking between the two banks of the river has been hard until the introduction of the river bus in Seoul, which will making exploring easier.

River Cruise: As mentioned, a river cruise is a great way to see the sights of Seoul, both during the day and at night. Even though the new Seoul river bus service might reduce people’s desire to pay for a cruise, the fact that you can travel in peace and pass under the many beautiful bridges at a slow pace will keep the cruise popular.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Seoul river bus service. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article. If you have any more questions about this topic, please feel free to post a comment at the end of this article.

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This article covers the benefits of a Wise account, including how you can send money internationally, spend in Korea by card, and how to receive payments from abroad. There’s also information about who can get a Wise account, what currencies you can use, and how to spend and send money.

I’ll also share the best ways to send money from abroad to Korea (including the US and UK) and how to send money out from Korea to other countries, too. These include Korea-based banks and banking apps that you can use as an expat in Korea to send and receive money with lower fees than banks charge.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

What Is Wise And How To Use It In Korea

In the words of Wise, their service is “an international money transfer service designed to make cross-border transactions more affordable, transparent, and efficient.” Wise utilises peer-to-peer technology to offer the mid-market rate for international transfers and currency exchanges, which helps to reduce currency conversion costs for you. Revolut offers a similar service.

Basically, you can send, receive, and spend money internationally at rates that are better than what you’d find at airport money exchanges and offered by banks for international transfers. You can use the app or website to send and receive money internationally and also get a physical or digital card to spend in shops, restaurants, hotels, attractions, and elsewhere.

Here are some of the benefits I’ve discovered of having a Wise account and getting a Wise card:

How To Use Wise In Korea

If you want to get a Wise account to spend money in Korea or make international transfers, you’ll need to make sure you sign up for a Wise account before you travel to Korea. Unfortunately, you can’t create a Wise account from inside Korea. You’ll need to confirm your identity by phone when you create an account, therefore, do it in your home country before going to Korea.

Once you have a Wise account though, you’ll discover a world of international banking that is much easier than using local banks in each country and, in my experience, much cheaper, too. If you travel internationally a lot, or visit other countries on holiday from time to time, you’re sure to find that a Wise account can make spending your money more convenient and less risky.

There are several ways you can use Wise in Korea as an expat or traveller. I use Wise to do all of these things and more, as I’ll show you in the following sections.

Learn more: For full details about how to use Wise and the many benefits of using a Wise card to pay for things in Korea, check out my article all about how to use Wise in Korea. For details about how to plan your travel money and what methods of payment are accepted in Korea, check out my article about ways to pay in Korea and you’ll discover the best travel money mix for you.

If you’re interested in getting a Wise account, you can use these links below to find your local Wise site:

How To Use Wise To Send Money To Korea

This section will show you how to use Wise to send money to Korea in two different situations, based on who is sending the money and who is receiving the money. The first situation deals with how to transfer money to Korea from your own account using Wise, while the second details how someone else can send money to Korea from other countries into your Wise account.

1 – How To Transfer Your Own Money Using Wise

This situation is for expats living in Korea or people travelling to Korea. It assumes you already have a Wise account that you created before going to Korea to live or travel. You need to open a currency account in Wise for whatever currency you want to transfer into Korean won – this is really easy and you just have to select the currency in the app and choose ‘open’. It takes ten seconds.

Step 1 – Add money to your Wise account in your own currency: I have a UK bank account, so I add money from my UK bank account to Wise. You can add funds by credit card, debit card, bank transfer, or Swift transfer. To add money, select the currency you want to add in the app and click on the big green button that says ‘Add‘ and follow the instructions. The money usually transfers instantly.

Step 2 – Convert your currency into Korean won: You can convert money into Korean won in the Wise app in two ways. Firstly, click on the button that says ‘Convert‘ in the currency you just added (GBP in this case) and choose to convert to Korean won. Secondly, go to your Korean won account in the app and select ‘Add‘. There’s a small fee to convert money, as shown in the image above.

Step 3 – Spend the money in Korea using your Wise card or withdraw cash from an ATM: Once you’ve converted your money into Korean won, you can use your Wise card to spend in Korea at most shops, restaurants, hotels, etc., or withdraw cash from a ‘Global ATM’. I recommend using the card as there’s no fee to pay by card but the Korean ATMs will charge a fee to withdraw cash.

2 – How To Send Money To Wise For Someone Else

This situation is for people outside of Korea who want to send money to people in Korea who have a Wise account. You (the person sending the money) don’t need to have a Wise account yourself, but the person receiving the money should have a Wise account. You will be sending money in your own currency and shouldn’t have to pay any fees to transfer the money.

Step 1 – Ask for the Wise account details of the person you want to send to in Korea: When you create a currency account in Wise (e.g. GBP or USD), you will receive a bank account number, along with details including your Sort Code, IBAN, SWIFT, or BIC numbers. You can find these account details by going to that currency in your Wise app and clicking on the account number (as shown below).

Step 2 – Send money to the Wise account from your own account: For this example, I will assume that my mum wants to send me £100. I provide her with my Wise account details for my GBP currency account that is shown in the Wise app. She can make a bank transfer from her bank to Wise in the same way she’d transfer money to anyone else in the UK. I receive the money in my Wise account.

Step 3 – Convert the money you received into Korean won: After my mum has kindly sent me £100 to my Wise GBP currency account, I can now convert that money into Korean won and use my Wise card to spend it in Korea to buy myself a new pair of shoes or a fancy meal out. Thanks, Mum! The transfer didn’t cost my mum anything and I now get to spend the money in Korea as I like.

Can You Transfer Directly To Korean Won With Wise?

Unfortunately, as Wise doesn’t allow people in Korea to sign up for a Wise account (I suspect this is due to strict Korean banking regulations), you won’t be assigned a Korean bank account when you create a Korean won currency account. That means you can’t transfer money directly from one country into Korean won and will need to choose one of the methods shown above.

Simply put, to transfer money to Korea with Wise, you need to transfer money to another currency account in Wise and then convert that into Korean won. Even though there’s no Korean won bank account, you can still spend money in Korea with your Wise card without any extra fees or hidden conversion costs after you’ve converted money into Korean won in your Wise app.

Transfer Money From Wise To A Korean Bank Account

You can transfer money from your Wise account directly to a Korean bank account in the Wise app. Select the Korean won currency account in the app and click on ‘Send‘. Enter the details of the recipient (bank account, name, etc.) and select the amount of Korean won you want to send. Alternatively, you can share a payment link and send that. There’s a fee of ₩1,450 to make a bank transfer.

Currencies That Offer Bank Accounts With Wise

Although it’s not possible to get a Korean bank account with Wise, you can open bank accounts in the following currencies and make transfers or receive deposits in those currencies:

AUD / CAD / EUR / GBP / HUE / MYR / NZD / PLN / RON / SGD / TRY / USD

You can also add money to your Wise account in the following currencies:

AUD / BGN / BRL / CAD / CNY / CHF / CZK / DKK / EUR / GBP / HUF / IDR / JPY / MYR / NOK / NZD / PLN / RON / SEK / SGD / TRY / USD

Please note: There are some exceptions and conditions for certain currencies based on the country you’re in. Check the Wise website for more details about money transfers in your desired currency.

Why I Use Wise For International Banking

As an expat who works online, I receive and spend money in various currencies (USD / GBP / AUD / EUR / KRW) and use my Wise account to manage and convert them as I need. I can receive money into my USD account on Wise and use the app to convert that into Korean won to spend in Korea, as detailed previously. Wise allows me to manage my international banking needs in one app.

Not only do I use Wise to spend my USD / GBP money in Korea in Korean won, I also use my Wise card when I travel internationally. I recently travelled to Thailand and used my Wise card as my main payment method when cards were accepted. I converted USD and other currency balances to THB in $200 batches and then spent with card or withdrew cash from Thai ATMs as needed.

Another reason I use Wise for international banking as an expat in Korea is that it allows my family to send money to my Wise account (or UK bank account which I then transfer to Wise) that I can spend in Korea. The alternative to using Wise for this would be to receive money into my UK bank account and then withdraw cash in Korea or pay by card – both are expensive options due to bank charges.

Sometimes I need to receive money in currencies that aren’t KRW or GBP and, thanks to Wise, I can do that without having to do a complicated or expensive international transfer between another country and the UK. It’s free to add extra currency accounts in Wise and you don’t need to go through the long, complicated process of setting up a foreign bank account. It’s so simple and quick.

How I Send Money From Korea To My Wise Card

As mentioned, Wise doesn’t allow you to create a Korean bank account, so you can’t send money directly from a Korean bank account to Wise. Fortunately, there are other ways to send money from Korea to other countries. My favourite way is with SentBe, a Korean FinTech company providing international money transfers for a low fee (₩2,500). You need a Korean phone number to use SentBe.

To transfer money from your Korean bank to your Wise account using SentBe, you will need to enter your international (Global) account numbers provided in the Wise currency account of your choice. For example, I would enter my Wise GBP currency account details into SentBe and send money from my Korean bank account to my Wise account. The money is converted into GBP, not KRW.

Alternatively, you can send money from Korea with SentBe directly to your home bank account if you don’t plan to use that money with your Wise card. If you need to send large amounts of money from Korea to other countries, please note that there is a limit of 50,000 USD per year that you can send. I believe this is being increased to 100,000 USD in the future. There are daily limits, too.

There are other apps and websites that provide international transfers from Korea, such as WireBarley, Western Union, and MoneyGram. I haven’t tried any of these options, but from my own experience and feedback from other expats living in Korea, SentBe seems to be the cheapest and most used method.

Other Ways To Transfer Money To Korea

Apart from using Wise to transfer money to Korea, there are some other methods you can use.

Bank Transfer (Remittance): Send money to Korea by entering in the Korean bank details of the person you’re sending money to in Korea. This is how I used to transfer money, but the fees for doing this can be high and the exchange rates can be bad.

International Remittance Provider: You can use companies like Western Union, Currency Fair, or Remitly to send money to a Korean bank account or (in some situations) to be collected in cash at an approved location. Be careful with this method as some frauds are conducted through international remittance providers. Only send money to accounts you trust.

Based on my experience as an expat for more than 13 years in Korea, Hong Kong, Japan, and Australia, I can say that using Wise in combination with my home bank account, Korean bank account, and SentBe has been the best option for sending money to Korea and transferring money out of Korea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about how to use Wise to send money to Korea. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article. If you have any more questions about this topic, please feel free to post a comment at the end of this article.

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More than sightseeing, an authentic Korean temple stay lets you embrace monastic living, gaining profound yet accessible insights into the Buddhist philosophy permeating this ancient culture. Abandon modern anxieties as you awake to drummed morning prayers, meditate amid stunning nature, craft lotus lanterns by hand, and savour the monk’s contemplative cuisine.

In this article, you’ll discover the best places to do a temple stay in Seoul or in other parts of Korea, as well as my recommendations for the best temples to try a Korean templestay experience in. I’ll introduce you to the most common cultural activities that you might encounter at a temple stay and offer insights into what a temple stay is like by sharing my own experience of a temple stay.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Why You Should Do A Temple Stay In Korea

More than mere accommodation, an authentic Korean temple stay offers visitors the rare opportunity to briefly yet meaningfully embrace the lifestyle of the Buddhist monks living in accordance with ancient traditions amidst the nation’s rapid modernisation. It’s a serene change of pace from bustling city streets, a chance to reset both body and mind through simple mindfulness practices.

On an overnight temple stay experience, you get to stay in a traditional hanok room inside the temple’s main grounds and join in ceremonies and practices not normally seen by outsiders. Awaken before dawn to attend morning prayer ceremony, join in meditation sessions surrounded by stunning natural beauty, craft lotus lanterns, and sample the monks’ flavourful vegetarian fare.

While creature comforts are few, the rewards prove plentiful – visitors often depart with refreshed perspective, having gained insight into the spiritual fulfilment framing many Korean lives. So take a pause from sightseeing to unwind the Korean Buddhist way – through cultural and personal enrichment centred on serenity, compassion and contemplation direct from a temple stay.

Some of the main reasons I think you’ll love doing a temple stay in Korea are that you can…

But most of all, it’s a truly unique Korean experience that you can only have in Korea, usually in a stunning setting like a national park or area of natural beauty. While a temple stay experience in Korea might not be for everyone, if you’re open to trying new things, I think you’ll really enjoy it.

What Is The Korean Temple Stay Program?

The temple stay program was set up by the Culture Corps of Korean Buddhism with the aim to promote Korean Buddhism to the world. This scheme lets you experience a temple stay in one of Korea’s beautiful Buddhist temples in Seoul and across the country. It’s a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else. In the words of the Korean temple stay program:

“A temple stay is a unique cultural program which lets you experience the life of Buddhist practitioners at traditional temples which preserve the 1700 year old history of Korean Buddhism.”.

– Korean Templestay Program

I’ve joined a temple stay in Korea several times now and for me the best part is the chance to learn more about Buddhist philosophy. I’ve written more about my experience doing a temple stay later in this article. Even if you have no interest in Buddhism, you shouldn’t miss the chance to check out the historic temple buildings, witness centuries of Korean culture, and consider a new perspective on life.

Different Temple Stay Experiences In Korea

There are 3 types of temple stay experiences that are available to try in Korea, ranging from a 1-day program where you can engage in various cultural activities with the monks to longer overnight stays with a range of unique and interesting programs. These overnight programs are where I think you’ll find the most value from your temple stay as you get to see the inner workings of the temple.

1-Day Temple Stays

The one-day temple stay option is best for those with a limited time in Korea. Lasting a few hours, you can experience a temple tour, learn about mediation, or join in a traditional tea ceremony. Perfect for those on a tight schedule or who want a quick introduction to Korean Buddhism.

Experience-Oriented Temple Stays

This is definitely the best option for a temple stay in Korea, this option allows you to stay overnight at the temple and join in activities not open to regular visitors. Be part of Korean Buddhist ceremonies, join morning chanting with the monks, try the 108 prostrations, eat Buddhist meals, and practice Buddhist meditation. Other activities can include lotus lantern walks and prayer bead making.

Rest-Oriented Temple Stay

For those who want the tranquility and peace that comes from a temple stay in Korea, this is for you! The temple offers you a place to escape the busy modern world and learn to recharge through meditation and Buddhist ceremonies. In addition, you can reduce your stress, recharge, and unwind.

Where To Do A Temple Stay In Seoul

From serene mountain monasteries to urban temples tucked amid the bustling city streets, Seoul offers numerous easily accessible yet wholly immersive temple stays for foreigners. Experience an afternoon learning about Korean Buddhism at a heritage temple like Jogyesa or Bongeunsa, or escape the crowds completely for an overnight mountain retreat at Hwagyesa’s peaceful forest grounds.

There are many Buddhist temples scattered across Korea’s capital, with seven locations offering temple experience services in English, as you can see in the picture below. Jogyesa and Bongeunsa are the most touristy temples in Seoul, so if you want an experience that’s away from the main crowds, try one of the other temples such as Hwagyesa or Geumsunsa.

You can search for temple stays in Seoul on the Templestay website and filtering by temples in Seoul. Here’s a list of the temple stays in Seoul and what they currently offer:

• Bongeunsa Temple – one-day temple stay experiences
• Myogaksa Temple – one-day temple stay experiences
• Hwagyesa Temple – overnight temple stay experiences
• Geumsunsa Temple – one-day & overnight temple stay experiences
• Jogyesa Temple – no current temple stay programs
• Jinkwansa Temple – no current temple stay programs
• International Seon Center – no current temple stay programs

Please note: The temple stay schedule is usually set for the upcoming year or just the next season. If there are no temple stays when you check, they might be available later on. The programs available above are based on what was listed at the most recent time I checked.

Where To Try Korean Temple Food In Seoul

More than just sustenance, Korean temple cuisine thoughtfully encapsulates the contemplative Buddhist philosophy of compassion and interdependence. Each dish spotlights organically grown soybean products, wild mountain greens, vegetables and medicinal herbs, providing flavourful plant-based nourishment for both body and soul through simplicity, balance and care.

If you want to try Korean temple food in Seoul, then you can join a temple stay in Seoul, visit the Korean Temple Food Culture Experience Centre near Anguk Station, or visit the Balwoo Gongyang temple food restaurant on the 5th floor of the Templestay Information Centre near Jogyesa Temple. The Korean Temple Food Culture Experience Centre let’s you make your own temple food dishes.

Dining at a temple is a moving experience, allowing guests to approach their plates with newfound mindfulness and insight into the Korean maxim – “We eat to live.” So be sure to sample this meaningful cuisine during an overnight temple stay, allowing Korean Buddhist philosophy to touch your lips and permeate your perspective. The serenely healthy dishes will provide food for thought.

Where To Do A Temple Stay In Korea

There are many different temples across Korea that you can stay in. They are usually located in national parks or similar beautiful surroundings. You can find temples in every major region of Korea, including on Jeju Island. Venturing beyond the capital into Korea’s serene rural pockets unveils ancient monasteries and hermitages perfect for deeply immersive temple stays.

Each of these Korean temple stays offers something special; whether it’s unique Korean culture like Tripitaka Koreana or the Korean Buddhist martial art, Sunmudo; awe-inspiring views of mountains, coastlines, and waterfalls; or simply a new outlook on life through the meditative programmes on offer. Whichever one of these temple stay experiences you choose, you’ll discover something amazing.

Here are 7 of the best places to do a temple stay in Korea outside of the capital. These temples are currently all offering temple stay experiences, but availability changes each season.

1: Lotus Lantern International Meditation Centre (Incheon): The Lotus Lantern Centre welcomes overseas visitors to experience a blend of modern relaxation and ancient Buddhist traditions in Incheon, near Seoul. The temple stays include a free-style program where you can choose what to do, as well as regular overnight temple stays with chanting ceremony, temple cuisine, and accommodation.

2: Bulguksa Temple (Gyeongju): This is arguably one of the most impressive places to do a temple stay in Korea as this historic temple has UNESCO World Heritage status. Bulguksa Temple offers overnight stays which include morning meditation as the sun rises over the grand courtyard, joining the monks in daily rituals, and a chance to explore the ornate 15th century Buddhist sanctuaries.

3: Haeinsa Temple (Gayasan National Park): Remote yet easily accessible Haeinsa Temple, nestled within Hapcheon County’s verdant mountain valleys, unveils Korea’s Tripitaka Koreana wooden block anthology alongside meditation sessions, monastic cuisine, lotus lantern making, and sunrise ceremonial drumming through their memorable one-night temple stay.

4: Golgulsa Temple (Near Gyeongju): Golgulsa Temple has a large selection of temple stay experiences and provides the unique opportunity to witness and try ‘Sunmudo‘ – a Korean Buddhist martial art. There’s also the chance to try meditation on the beach, archery, horseback riding, and many of the other interesting activities that you’d expect during a temple stay in Korea.

5: Beopjusa Temple (Songnisan National Park): Home to Korea’s tallest wooden pagoda and a mammoth bronze bell, majestic Beopjusa Temple treats overnight visitors to personally crafted experiences like lotus lantern making, chanting ceremonies, temple cuisine, and taekwondo alongside scenic mountain trekking through Songnisan National Park’s lush foliage.

6: Naksansa Temple (Near Sokcho): Naksansa Temple treats overnight visitors to personally tailored stays combined morning prayer ceremonies amid stunning East Sea sunrises, a guided trek to a cliffside hermitage overlooking the sea, meditation, and deliciously simple monastic vegetarian fare. This is a great temple to stay in if you’re planning to visit Korea’s east coast.

7: Hwaeomsa Temple (Jirisan National Park): Nestled within Jirisan National Park’s trees, ancient Hwaeomsa Temple invites visitors into the daily life of their monks through immersive overnight stays – rising with the sun for morning prayer chanting, joining meditation sessions and Buddhist lectures, crafting lotus lanterns, dining on traditional temple cuisine, and resting amid mountain-framed serenity.

These next 3 temples currently don’t have any temple stay experiences available, but I’ve included them because they’re really beautiful temples that are definitely worth visiting just to explore. They might have temple stay programs again later in the future.

Yakchunsa Temple (Jeju Island): This is a very unique temple in Korea that looks like it would be more at home in South East Asia than in Korea. The entrance to the temple is lined with palm trees and it looks out over the rugged coast and sea. There are tangerines growing in the temple grounds and many unique and interesting sights to see. One of my favourite temples I’ve visited in Korea.

Magoksa Temple (South Chungcheon Province): Enveloped within the lush peaks of Mount Taehwasan, Magoksa Temple invites visitors to immerse in temple life through their overnight stay – greeting the mountain sunrise with Buddhist chanting, meditating stream-side in the pine-scented forest, crafting paper lanterns, dining on homemade temple cuisine, and retiring to their tranquil, natural haven.

Woljeongsa Temple (Odaesan National Park): With grounds enveloped by Odaeasan’s panoramic national park, historic Woljeongsa Temple treats visitors to personally tailored temple stays. It combines morning prayer ceremonies, meditation under waterfalls, monastic vegetarian meals made with organically grown ingredients, and Korean culture classes like lotus lantern crafting.

The Temple Stay Experience: What To Expect

Now that you know where you can do a temple stay in Seoul or Korea, let’s see what will happen during your temple stay experience. There are many different activities you can take part in during a temple stay in Korea. Most temples will offer these wonderful experiences. In addition, some temples offer more, including walks, treks, traditional crafts, and even music performances.

Guided Temple Tour: Ever explored a Buddhist temple and wondered what all the interesting statues, patterns, and symbols meant? Now you can find out with an English guided tour around the temple. The temple staff will kindly explain the history, culture, and meaning behind all you see at the temple. Great for increasing your knowledge about Korean Buddhism.

108 Prostrations: A mainstay of Korean temple stays is performing the bowing ritual ‘108 prostrations’, involving fully lowering one’s body to the floor 108 times as a symbolic shedding of greed and ego. While challenging physically, finishing evokes a profound sense of humility and purification amongst temple stay participants. This may involve threading 108 prayer beads at the same time.

Yebool (Buddhist Chanting): Yebool is the opening chant to start the day and offers the chance for self-reflection and purification for the day ahead. During a temple stay in Korea you’ll be able to join the monks inside the temple, somewhere most tourists will only see from the outside. Yebool chanting starts before sunrise, so make sure you get an early night the night before.

Da-Seon (Tea Ceremony): The Korean Buddhist tea ceremony is a form of meditation in itself. Firstly, practice mental discipline and concentration through the processes involved in creating the perfect cup of tea. Secondly, harness all your senses whilst you prepare and drink the tea in quiet contemplation. During the tea ceremony you have the chance to ask a monk questions.

Balwoogongyang (Monastic Meal): Balwoogongyang is the traditional method of eating a meal at Buddhist temples. Containing a mixture of rice, vegetables, and side dishes, certainly this healthy vegan-friendly meal will help you appreciate the simplicity and honesty of food. Eat together in silence, waste nothing, and give thanks for all of the hard work involved in your humble meal.

Walking Meditation (Pohaeng): A core element of Korean Buddhist practice is ‘pohaeng’ walking meditation – slowly circumnavigating temple grounds in silent contemplation, focusing on the sensation of each step to calm the mind. Most temple stays offer this meditative activity, allowing you to mindfully traverse flower-lined courtyards and soak up the tranquil beauty in these sacred refuges.

Cham-Seon (Seon Meditation): Seon meditation focuses on clearing your mind of thoughts, allowing you to learn mindfulness and concentration. This is one of the main practices of Korean Buddhists. By practising Seon meditation you will be able to learn your true nature and discover inner peace. If you just want to focus on meditation, I recommend visiting the The International Seon Center in Seoul.

Korean Traditional Culture Experience: This includes a range of cultural experiences offered by each individual temple. For example, you might make lotus flower lanterns or wood block prints, prepare temple food, or even see musical performances. Each temple stay offers their own unique cultural experiences, which you can see on their Templestay website page.

What To Bring To A Temple Stay

As most temple stays involve basic accommodation and an early morning start, be sure to come prepared with an open mind plus:

As temple stays allow only small bags within sleeping quarters, best leave luggage locked at temples and pack light necessities in a daypack instead. With humble lodging and vegetarian monk’s fare the norm, indulge in life’s luxuries beforehand or after. This program’s rewards lie not in lavish comforts but in the rare chance to personally immerse in the temple culture still thriving in modern Korea.

Do You Need To Know Korean To Do A Temple Stay?

You shouldn’t need to speak any Korean to join a temple stay experience as the program is designed to welcome foreigners and therefore there are guides who can speak English, as well as translate anything the monks might say. During the temple stay experiences I have been on, there are often people from around the world, with a variety of different backgrounds and native languages.

How To Book A Temple Stay In Korea

There are two main ways you can book a temple stay in Korea and both are really easy to do in English. You won’t need to know any Korean to book these, don’t worry.

Book online: Firstly, you can book a temple from the Templestay website. This website is helpful and shows you where you can do various temple stay experiences across Korea. It’s all in English and provides lots of essential information. You can book a temple stay before you arrive in Korea, which is recommended to help you plan your schedule and guarantee your place.

Book in Seoul: You can also book a temple stay by visiting the Templestay Information Centre in Insadong, Seoul. This is close to Jogyesa Temple, which is an excellent Buddhist temple that’s certainly worth visiting while you’re in Seoul, even if you don’t end up doing a temple stay. The information centre staff should be able to speak English and can answer your questions about the experience.

How Much Is A Korean Temple Stay?

I checked the prices of various Korean temple stay programs in Seoul and across Korea and the prices in 2024 range from ₩30,000 – ₩50,000 for a one-day program and from ₩60,000 to ₩100,000 for an overnight stay at a temple. The cost of a temple stay is different for each temple, depending on what they offer, the length of the stay, and other factors like that.

Considering that hotel rooms in Korea can be around ₩60,000 to ₩100,000 for a night, you’re essentially getting a night in a hanok house with lots of extra free cultural experiences, as well as a healthy dinner and breakfast. It’s certainly great value for money. If you’re just visiting the temple and not doing a temple stay, it’s free to visit, but donations to the temple are of course appreciated.

Etiquette Rules For Korean Temple Stays

It’s good to be respectful and follow the rules of any place you visit. Taking part in a temple stay in Korea is no exception, and the temples will ask you to follow a few basic rules. If you’re worried about being rude in Korea, then be sure to read my guide to Korean etiquette.

Dress code: Try to dress conservatively during your temple stay. Dark colours and long sleeves are best. Try to avoid bright and over the top clothing, heavy makeup, or strong perfume. If in doubt, cover up and keep it simple. Furthermore, you should keep your feet covered in the temple. Bring socks as you’ll need to take your shoes off inside, which is normal in Korea.

What not to do: Remember, this is a sacred place for the monks and nuns, therefore, try to avoid loud noises, smoking, or drinking alcohol in the temple grounds. There are many sacred religious objects and locations in the temple grounds, certainly avoid damaging or disrespecting them. In addition, sitting or writing on any sculptures is strongly prohibited.

In the Buddha’s Hall: When entering the Buddha’s Hall (the main temple), make sure to enter using the doors on the left and right. This is because the main door is reserved for the monks and nuns. If you enter the hall, first, do a half-bow with palms together toward the Buddha and then greet the statue with three prostrations. Temple staff will teach you how to do this.

Using your phone: In my experience, it’s been perfectly fine to bring a mobile phone with you when you take part in the temple activities, but please make sure it’s turned to silent mode so it doesn’t interrupt the monks or others. Also, try to avoid taking pictures when asked not to (in the Buddha’s Hall) and go away from others to talk on the phone. Otherwise, you’re fine to take pics of your stay.

Do You Have To Be Religious?

You don’t have to be religious to take part in a Korean temple stay experience. People of any faith can participate in a temple stay and you can certainly learn a lot and broaden your mind by joining in this program. Furthermore, the Buddhist monks and staff understand people have different views on the world and, in my personal experience, welcome discussion and alternative views.

Do You Have To Follow The Schedule?

You are free to choose whether or not you want to join the various temple stay programs. If you feel uncomfortable joining in any part, or you don’t think you can wake up before the sun rises, you can choose to miss that activity. The monks and staff at the temple stay were accommodating in my temple stay experiences. You won’t feel uncomfortable during this wonderful experience.

However, I would recommend trying to take part in everything if you can. When are you likely to be able to experience something like a temple stay again? Take note that meals are served during certain hours and won’t be available outside of those hours.

My Korean Temple Stay Experience

I’ve done a temple stay in Korea several times and absolutely loved every one. I’ve always gone for the weekend experience as there’s something special about staying overnight in the temple and getting up in the early hours to join in the morning worshipping and chanting ceremonies.

My most recent temple stay experience was at Beopjusa Temple in the beautiful Songnisan National Park in central Korea, a place I often visit for hiking. I arrived in the early afternoon and went through a VR welcome tour of the temple. Yes, even Buddhist temples have embraced new technologies in Korea! It was fun being able to see the temple from above through drone footage.

After an introduction to the program by the English guide, I got changed into the required clothing – a very simple outfit of loose trousers and top that you can wear over your normal clothes. It was still cold at that time of year, so I was happy for extra layers. There was a welcome ceremony that explained what we could expect, the rules we had to follow, and a chance to ask some questions.

I was with about 20 other people from Korea and around the world who all joined this temple stay program. We were given a guided tour of the temple grounds and told more about the traditions and meanings behind the various paintings, statues, and buildings. It was really interesting to learn about the rich history of this temple and how Buddhism has evolved in Korea.

In the evening, we ate dinner with the monks (yummy vegan home-cooked food), took a night time walk with lanterns through the temple after dark, then got an early night. The accommodation at the temple was basic, but that’s part of life in a Korean Buddhist temple. It’s also comfortable and I had no complaints. I went to sleep straight away because there was an early start the next day.

Our schedule started at 4 a.m. with a music performance by the monks. You rarely get to see this ceremony, so it was a real treat. After that was another exclusive – the morning yebool, or chanting ceremony. I didn’t understand what was being said, but I could still join in, practice bowing, learn about the importance of the ceremony and see the dedication and spirituality in the monks.

Breakfast was served around 6 a.m. and then it was time for an early morning sunrise hike to a nearby peak (only 30 minutes away) to watch the sun rise. It was a beautiful scene, watching the sun crawl over the horizon and light up the mountain peaks and forests in the national park. Fortunately, we were allowed a short nap after this before the next main activity, which was one of the toughest!

A popular activity during a temple stay in Korea is the 108 prostrations. This is also one of the hardest! There are 108 ideals that Korean Buddhists are thankful for. In order to show their appreciation, they will bow 108 times. Participants at this temple stay experience got to do this whilst also threading 108 beads to make a prayer bead bracelet. This is really hard, but I guess it’s a good test of devotion.

It was tough, yes, but also worth it. I’d recommend giving it a try. If you’re not comfortable doing it, you can grab a mat and watch from the side instead. By this time we were all hungry and went for lunch with the monks again. More delicious vegan food and my body was feeling really good by this point with all the food, sleep, and lack of technological distractions.

The final activity of the program was also one of the best – a tea ceremony and question and answer session with one of the monks. I found this was the most interesting part of the temple stay and I learned a lot from the monk. I feel sorry in a way as I asked a lot of difficult questions, but he answered them honestly and, sometimes, with shocking answers. It turns out monks can have iPhones!

Overall, I had a fascinating, relaxing, insightful time during my temple stay experience and I would highly recommend it to others. There are different temple stay experiences across the country and I want to try visiting other temples to see what they have to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about doing a temple stay in Korea. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article.

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