Songnisan Mountain Maltijae, Songnisan Mountain gateway is a steep, zigzagging uphill path located 8km from Chungbuk Boeun in the direction of Songnisan. During the Joseon Dynasty (1392~1910) while Sejo King was climbing Songnisan Mountain he mounted a horse (mal) because of the mountain’s steep gradient, thus giving the mountain its name. Located here, Songnisan Maltijae Recreational Forest (속리산 말티재 자연휴양림) is harmoniously mingled with Jangjae reservoir creating a beautiful scene. It is a good place to experience nature.For its main facilities there are promenades, mountain paths, Water Parks, public kitchens, and for its lodging facilities there are Forest Cabins divided into 16 villages. Reservations can be made through the homepage.

The Damyang Resort Spa is well equipped for large groups of people since it possesses 1,260 lockers in its men’s/women’s hot springs spa. Here there are a variety of event spas, an open-air spa so people can enjoy the outdoors, a jjimjilbang, a skincare beauty center, and a massage center. The nutrients found in Damyang Spa’s hot spring waters are said to cleanse the blood, effectively relieves stress, treat arthritis, and are great for your skin.  

The town of Goryeong is four hours outside of Seoul, and features many relic sites of Daegaya around the whole district of Goryeong-gun. Around the first century, Daegaya was formed in the Nakdonggang River’s downstream area in the lower Korean peninsula, flourished independently for 520 years (AD 42~562), and declined after the 6th century. After its decline, part of it was annexed by Silla (57 BC ~ AD 935), and the rest annexed by Baekjae (18 BC~AD 60), and became a forgotten tribal kingdom.On King Jinheung’s (reign 540~576) 23rd year of reign it became the district of Daegaya, and the name was changed to the district of Goryeong on King Gyeongdeok’s (reign 742~765) 16th year of reign.This is the place where you can view the country’s first Sunjangmyo (tomb where many dead people were buried together), called Jisandong Gobungun, Daegaya Royal Tomb Exhibit Hall, and Treasure No. 605, the pre-eminent relics site of the Prehistoric Period called Yangjeondong Amgakhwa, and other various cultural assets.There is a large, ancient tomb with a diameter of 20m, built on the ridgeline of the mountain, and as you go down the mountain, there are 159 other tombs of smaller scale. The largest tomb in the south side is called the Geumrim Royal Tomb, and the other large tombs near it are presumed to be tombs of royalty or aristocrats.At the Daegaya Royal Tomb Exhibit Hall, site of the restored No. 44 tomb, you can see the ancient custom of burying the living with the dead (Royalty buried with their retainers). The dome-style exhibit hall displays Sunjangseokgwak, ironware, pottery and other various excavated relics.

Archaeological Site in Seokjang-ri, Gongju is located approximately 6km out of the city of Gongju, on the northern banks of the Geumgang River. The site is one of Korea's representative relic sites of the Old Stone Age, and is designated Historic Site No. 334. The site was excavated 10 times between 1964 and 1974 by teams from Yonsei University Museum. The excavation of 27 layers of stratum produced relics proving people lived in the area through 11 cultural eras. The area was excavated again in 1990 and 1993, producing even more cultural artifacts and helping to create a clearer image of the people living in that time.

Guryongsa Temple (구룡사) is located 6km from Birobong Peak on Chiaksan Mountain, in the direction of Hakkok-ri. Monk Ui Sang (625~702) of the Silla Kingdom (BC 57~AD 935) built and named the temple Guryongsa in 668 (during the reign of King Moon Mu: reign 661 ~ 681). However, it is now known that the temple was built after King Sukjong, the 19th King of Joseon Dynasty (1392~1910), who reigned from 1674 to 1720, because of the architectural style of the Daewoongjeon Shrine. There is a legend that the Guryongsa Temple site was originally a lake where nine dragons lived. The name Guryong comes from the story that the lake was filled up to build the temple on it. There are many shrines such as Daewoongjeon, Bogwangnu, Samseonggak, Simgeomdang and Seolseondang. Daewoongjeon has maintained its original shape though it was repaired many times. Daewoongjeon is a wooden building with the basic Dapojip style in the Joseon Era. The shape of the building is a Chinese character (八), with three rooms in the front and two rooms on the side and built without any nails. It is designated as Tangible Cultural Property No.24. We can see the characteristics of the Buddhist statues in the Joseon Period though the Samjonmokbul inside Daewoongjeon. With the Seokgamuni figure in the center and two Bosal statues on each side harmonize the structure of the building, and there are many other Buddhist artifacts in the temple such as Bogwangru and others.

Sindo Island is a 16.1 km-long (6.92㎢) piece of land situated 14km northwest of Incheon and 5km south of Ganghwado Island. Its highest point is Gubongsan Mountain (178.4 meters high). The name of the island, ‘Sindo’ (meaning ‘trust’ in Korean), came from the fact that the residents of the island are trustworthy and diligent. The island is also known as ‘Jinyeom’ (meaning ‘true salt’ in Korean) since the island is known for its high-quality salt.  Though relatively small in size, the island has a diversity of geographical features. Along the southwest coast is a large bay, while the northern and southern regions are more mountainous. Wide tidelands surround the entire island and provide a habitat for rare birds including the Chinese Egret and Black-tailed Gull, which also populate nearby Sido and Modo Islands.  Residents of Sindo make their living through farming and fishing. Goby and shellfish are caught off the coast and sweet grapes are grown in the fields. The villages of the island, such as Pyeongchon in the east, Gonam-ri in the southwest and Guroji in the southwest, serve as an important fishing points for locals.  From the peak of Gubongsan Mountain, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the islands of the Yellow Sea (including Yeongjongdo Island). Travelers to Sindo can also conveniently visitor neighboring Sido Island via the 579 meter-long Yeondogyo Bridge, constructed in 1992. 

Discover Incheon's Must-Visit Gem: Songdo Hanok Village If you're planning a trip to Incheon, South Korea, one destination you absolutely must visit is Songdo Hanok Village. This unique village, located in Songdo-dong, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon, isn't an assembly of old traditional houses but a newly constructed hanok complex built in 2013. The stunning contrast between the high-rise buildings of Songdo International City and the traditional Korean architecture of the hanok creates a fascinating blend of East meets West. Originally intended to serve as a space for experiencing traditional Korean culture, Songdo Hanok Village has now evolved into a vibrant commercial area. The entire site is leased to various businesses and features a hanok-style hotel, restaurants, and cafes, offering visitors a taste of Korean culture with modern amenities. Moreover, this picturesque village has become a popular filming location for several famous Korean dramas, including "Goblin," "Queen of Ambition," and "Bluebird's House." Its scenic beauty and unique charm attract numerous visitors who come to walk the same paths as their favorite TV characters.

Discover the Scenic Wonders of Incheon: Wolmi Observatory and Beyond Wolmi Observatory: Your Window to Incheon's Beauty If you're planning a trip to Incheon, South Korea, the Wolmi Observatory should be at the top of your list. Located on the summit of Wolmisan Mountain, this observatory offers panoramic views of Incheon Port, the Incheon Bridge, the coastal passenger ship terminal, and the surrounding islands. Reaching the top of Wolmisan Mountain is an adventure in itself. You can choose to hike for about 30 minutes or take the convenient Seal Car shuttle, which takes roughly 15 minutes. At the summit, the circular stairs of the Wolmi Observatory lead you to a platform with breathtaking views. Below, you can see the blue waves of the West Sea and the bustling Incheon Port, while a glance upward reveals the cityscape of Incheon and the historic Freedom Park. The observatory is particularly famous for its stunning sunsets and vibrant night views. The 23-meter high, three-story glass structure creates a magical atmosphere, making it a popular spot for couples and photographers. The Moonlight Maru Cafe, located within the observatory, provides a perfect spot to relax with a cup of coffee while enjoying the panoramic scenery. Nearby, you can explore Wolmisan Peak Plaza and Yepo Plaza, which offer additional scenic spots and activities. Must-See Attractions Around Wolmi Observatory Moonlight Music Fountain Located on Wolmi Culture Street, the Moonlight Music Fountain is a delightful evening attraction. Although it is not very large, the synchronized water and light show set to music is a visual feast. Operating from May 1st to October 31st, with regular maintenance on Mondays, the fountain's evening shows are particularly enchanting with their colorful lights and patterns. Wolmi Theme Park Wolmi Theme Park is a popular destination for families and couples, offering a variety of amusement rides. This park provides numerous attractions that cater to all ages, ensuring a fun-filled day for everyone. Wolmi Sea Train The Wolmi Sea Train is a monorail that loops around Wolmido Island, covering a distance of 6.1 kilometers in about 42 minutes. This elevated train ride offers excellent views of the island, Incheon Inner Harbor, the West Sea, and the distant Incheon Bridge. Wolmi Cruise For sea lovers, the Wolmi Cruise is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the West Sea. The cruise provides views of Incheon Port, Yeongjong Bridge, and stunning sunsets. Passengers can even feed seagulls from the deck, adding a unique interactive element to the experience. Culinary Delights Wolmido is renowned for its seafood restaurants, with over 50 establishments offering fresh seafood dishes. A must-try is "Kalguksu," a handmade noodle soup. Additionally, numerous cafes provide the perfect spot to enjoy coffee while taking in the sea breeze, making it an ideal place to relax. Wolmido Island is a hidden gem in Korea, offering beautiful scenery, delicious food, and exciting activities. It's the perfect destination for a day trip, allowing you to explore and enjoy without straying far from the city. When visiting Incheon, be sure to experience the charm and attractions of Wolmido Island.

The POSCO Museum, built on July 3, 2003 in Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do shows the history, spirit, corporate culture and vision of POSCO. This 3-story, 1,100 pyeong building rests on a 3,000 pyeong site, while the exhibition area is 600 pyeong in area. In advanced countries, it is not uncommon for a private company to open a museum, however, it is a rarity in the Korean experience. Therefore, the POSCO Museum has come into the spotlight from the onset of master planning. The museum was established with the aim to be ‘a museum in which the past, present and future of POSCO coexist,’ showcasing the history of success and great achievements of POSCO, which has become a world leader of industry since its establishment in 1968.  

Housed in a 27,124 m2 building with two ground floors and two underground floors, the Bucheon Botanical Garden houses many rare plants for visitors to see. The building was built in the shape of a peach flower, the symbol of Bucheon City, and has five thematic gardens: the general plant garden, aquatic plant garden, tropical plant garden, succulent plant garden, and indigenous plant garden. At the central garden, 9,975 trees representing some 310 species are planted. With a forest nearby, the botanical garden offers a great nature learning experience for visitors. Together with the Natural Ecology Museum and Children Zoo nearby, it is also a great cultural and recreational destination.