Travel/Culture List

Culture is Here!atGimhae International Airport Cocktail performance heldas a seasonal festival by the Korea Airports Corporation
 
Busan(Gangseo-gu)
  Culture is Here at Gimhae International Airport I saw a cocktail performance, an August event held by the Korea Airports Corporation as a seasonal festival! ≪Cool CoolCocktail Festa≫ Culture is Here is a seasonal festival held by the Korea Airports Corporation at 12 airports across the nation. It is held on a different theme every month. Last month, I watched the Return of the Heavenly Sword performance at Gimhae International Airport and shared my experience with you ^^     In August, a cocktail show was held as a cultural event in Gimhae International Airport’s Domestic Flights Waiting Room on the second floor. It was on the theme, Cool Cool Cocktail Festa!   Twelve airports across the nation use their respective region’s indigenous products to feature a cocktail performance at the airport as well as a non-alcoholic cocktail sampling event that embodies the respective airport’s unique taste.   [Dates on which the event is held at airports around the nation]     Lively music signaled the beginning of the cocktail performance, a seasonal festival held by the Korea Airports Corporation!! I didn’t have high expectations since the event was held at Gimhae International Airport. The two bartenders gave a wonderful performance that exceeded my expectations.     The bartenders gave a cocktail show, moving to the rhythm of exciting music. It was very fun to watch, so much so that I couldn’t move my eyes away from it. It is not easy to watch a cocktail show unless you go to a bar. It was great to enjoy cultural life while waiting for my plane’s departure at the airport!!     I took a video of that exciting moment.   It is a video of the cocktail performance that was held as the Korea Airports Corporation’s seasonal festival. Take a look at the video!! :-) The performers are great!!     The atmosphere was gaining momentum and the bartenders were heading towards the show’s highlight, moving to the rhythm of Psy’s song!!      Many travelers who were waiting for their flight clapped their hands and cheered the bartenders.  Adults and children alike truly enjoyed the cocktail show.     Once the exciting cocktail show came to an end, the bartenders began making a non-alcoholic cocktail drink using an indigenous product from the region!!      Gimhae is well known for raspberry, and this is why the bartenders prepared a raspberry cocktail drink.         The bartender demonstrated more acrobatic movements as the event progressed. The cocktail show almost seemed like a magic show, making it all the more exciting.         The bartender juggled three cocktail bottles. I felt giddy from the show, which was also amazing and great fun. I was fully entranced by the show.     This was the most amazing part of the cocktail show, which was quite like a magic show. I don’t know how the bartender did it!! During the entire time I watched the show, I was amazed by the high-quality performance that was given at the Culture is Here!event organized by the Korea Airports Corporation at GimhaeInternational Airport!  It wasn’t just an ordinary performance~~ It was truly a high-quality performance that travelers fully enjoyed while waiting for their flight!!       While I was engrossed in the show, the bartender completed the non-alcoholic raspberry cocktail drink!!     Enough cocktail was prepared for all travelers there to enjoy. A great number of people enjoyed the beverage.     Travelers watched the cocktail performance at Gimhae International Airport that was held as the Culture is Here!seasonal festival, and gathered to taste the beverage!! You could see there were many travelers.     The cocktail was a non-alcoholic drink that could be enjoyed by adults as well as children. Travelers of various age groups enjoyed the non-alcoholic cocktail drink!!     I also stood in line for a glass^^   Made of raspberry, an indigenous product of Gimhae, the cocktail drink was sweet and delicious! Its color is also pretty, isn’t it?^^ The cocktail performance was held as theAugust seasonal festival of Culture is Here! The Korea Airports Corporation holds Culture is Here!at airports for travelers to enjoy a cultural experience. The performance is great to watch while you are waiting for your flight.  Refer to the schedule table above for a convenient time. Your sense of excitement will double before you go on your journey :-)     Source : http://blog.naver.com/alwayspurelu/220783872652    Korea Airports Corporation www.airport.co.kr

Gwangju Art Street
 
Gwangju(Dong-gu)
Gwangju Art Street is aimed at developing Gwangju’s traditional art scene through exhibition of local work. The street is 300m long and located behind Jungang Elementary School, nearby Gwangju Dongbu Police Station. Items commonly found here include Korean fine art such as paintings, ceramics, writings, and industrial art.Every Saturday, an art flea market famous for its unique pieces is held here. People from all over the nation gather to display items that include old calligraphy materials, collector coins, stone hairbrushes, Chinaware, wooden sculptures, folk drawings, classic books, ink, and incense burners. Part of the attraction is the stories the collectors share with each part of their collection. Enjoy the many shows and exhibitions that draw regular crowds to this famous road.The Mudeung art exhibit operates according to districts, and functions as a cultural festival as well. The outdoor exhibition was built in February 1995, and is open throughout the day. The large exhibition space has 32 booths and regularly holds special exhibits. Many regional cultural treasures are also on display here. Every Saturday, the Street of Fine Arts is blocked from traffic, and people gather to share and enjoy art culture. Gwangju Summer Universiade will be held this summer, 2015

Namdaemun Market
 
5.0/1
Seoul(Jung-gu)
Opened in 1964, Namdaemun Market is the largest traditional market in Korea with various goods in store. All products are sold at affordable prices and the stores in this area also function as a wholesale markets.Most of the goods are made directly by the storeowners. Namdaemun Market opens from 11:00pm to 3:00am, and is crowded with retailers from all over the country. When day breaks, the site of busy Koreans bustling around the market, creates a unique scene that attracts tourists worldwide. The Namdaemun Market sells a variety of clothes, glasses, kitchenware, toys, mountain gear, fishing equipment, stationery, fine arts, accessories, hats, carpets, flowers, ginseng, and imported goods.* Children’s / Infants’ WearThe Children’s Wear area at the Namdaemun Market offers the best selection, as it is the largest children’s wear market in Korea with a 90% market share. Children’s items comprise of products such as t-shirts, dresses, shoes, and socks.* Ladies’ WearLadies’ Wear at the Namdaemun Market offers quality clothing with the latest designs in fashion, such as casual wear, women’s suits, clothing for the elderly, and much more. The clothes are made and sold directly from the stores.* Imported GoodsThe Namdo Import Market and the underground market known as the Doggaebi Market also have many goods in store, including furniture, clothing, medicinal drugs, liquor, infant goods, kitchenware, electronics, canned food, dried fish, and more. Newly designed Hanboks (traditional Korean costume), blankets, and bed sheets can be purchased at great bargains.* Kitchenware & Lacquer WareKitchenware range from China used in restaurants, stainless steel ware, lacquer ware inlaid with mother-of-pearl, and pottery, to imported kitchen utensils.* Optician’s ShopsAll of the opticians are gathered in one area at the Namdaemun Market. A wide selection of eyewear are sold at reasonable prices, including corrective glasses, contact lenses, and sunglasses for both children and adults. The shops are open until late at night, and also function as a wholesale market.* Mountain, Ski, & Fishing GearSporting goods stores in the area offer backpacks, mountain boots, and other various equipment for mountain climbing, skiing, and fishing at wholesale prices.* GinsengGinseng, laver, dried squid, croakers, dried cod, octopus, peanuts, and pine nuts are all available at both retail and wholesale prices so that customers can make reasonable purchases. 

Daecheon Beach
 
Chungcheongnam-do(Boryeong-si)
Daecheon Beach is located on Korea's west coast in Chungcheongnam-do Province.Clamshells blend into the white sands of this beach that stretches 3.5 km. No matter if it's high or low the tide, visitors can enjoy the waters anytime. A cruise boat sails in the waters off Daecheon Beach, offering visitors a view of white pebbles that line the ocean floor. This spot has been a popular tourist destination for quite some time and the facilities are well made. Cultural points of interest include Jogak (sculpture) Park and Dol (stone) Park. Most people come to this beach to cover their bodies in the thick, mineral-rich mud. The therapeutic treatment is known to improve the look of skin and is even said to help those suffering from skin disorders.

Le Space INSPIRE - Incheon INSPIRE Resort
 
Incheon(Yeongjong-gu)
Le Space INSPIRE: An Immersive Media Art Experience in Incheon Overview Le Space INSPIRE, located in the Inspire Resort on Yeongjong Island, Incheon, is Korea's largest immersive media art exhibition. Opened on May 1st, 2023, by Hyundai Futurenet, this cutting-edge exhibition spans approximately 6,600 square meters (about 2,000 pyeong) and features 18 unique galleries. Dive into the Magic of Light and Sound! Highlights 1. Immersive Experience Le Space INSPIRE uses high-definition LED signage, holograms, beam projections, and laser lighting to create an awe-inspiring world of light and sound. These advanced technologies guide visitors through a multi-sensory journey, providing an experience unlike any other. 2. Thematic Journey The exhibition’s theme, "Journey Beyond the Cosmos," takes visitors on a spectacular tour through galaxies, planets, and other cosmic phenomena. Each gallery covers different aspects of the universe, from the chaotic energy of the Big Bang to the serene beauty of distant planets. Experience the Pinnacle of Interactive Art! 3. Interactive Exhibits *Imagine Gallery: Features characters that mimic visitors' movements, offering a fun and interactive experience. This gallery provides an engaging and playful interaction with digital characters. *Emotion Gallery: Uses advanced technology to recognize visitors' facial expressions and display corresponding emotional visuals, providing a personalized and engaging interaction. This gallery showcases the connection between human emotions and visual art. *Space Exploration: Simulates a space journey with a curved projection screen, giving visitors the sensation of traveling through the cosmos in a spaceship. This immersive experience is designed to make visitors feel like astronauts exploring the universe. 4. Sensory Enhancements Special effects such as water, steam, and scent enhance the immersive experience. For example, the Volcanic Gallery features a volcanic landscape complete with steam and the scent of burning, creating a mystical atmosphere. These sensory elements add depth to the visual experience, making it feel even more realistic. Discover the Wonders of the Universe with Cutting-Edge Technology! 5. Cutting-Edge Technology The exhibition uses over 20 beam projectors to create a 360-degree visual experience, projecting digital content on all six surfaces of the room. This pioneering use of technology ensures that every corner of the exhibition is visually captivating. The use of high-definition LED screens, holographic images, and laser lights ensures that every visit is unique and engaging. Visitor Information *Location: Inspire Mall (Level 1), Inspire Resort, Yeongjong Island, Incheon *Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM (Last entry at 7:30 PM), open year-round. *Ticket Prices: Adults (14+): KRW 28,000 (General) / KRW 50,000 (VIP Express) Children (Under 14): KRW 20,000 (General) / KRW 50,000 (VIP Express) Seniors (65+): KRW 20,000 Toddlers (Under 36 months): Free *VIP Express: Allows priority access without time reservations and includes seasonal merchandise (subject to availability). Don’t Miss Out! Special Discount Events! Special Offers *The introductory pricing is valid until December. After that, weekend, holiday, and peak season rates will apply: KRW 33,000 for adults and KRW 25,000 for children. *Multiple discounts are not applicable. Getting There Le Space INSPIRE is easily accessible from Incheon Airport, making it a convenient destination for international travelers. The exhibition is located in the Inspire Resort, near Discovery Park, opposite the arcade. Start Your Journey to a New Dimension! Why Visit? Le Space INSPIRE is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Korea, offering a unique blend of art and technology that creates a captivating experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a technology buff, or simply looking for a new adventure, Le Space INSPIRE promises to transport you to another world. Additional Information Le Space INSPIRE provides a holistic experience that combines visual, auditory, and tactile elements. By integrating multi-sensory elements such as the scent of volcanic ash or the feel of mist, the exhibition offers visitors a deeply immersive visual spectacle and educational insights into astronomical phenomena and the latest advancements in space exploration. Le Space INSPIRE breaks the boundaries of art and technology, stimulating imagination and inspiring wonder. It is an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, and should definitely be included in your travel itinerary for an unforgettable journey beyond the cosmos. Plan Your Visit Today! Whether you're a local resident or a tourist, Le Space INSPIRE offers an exceptional cultural experience that combines the latest in media art technology with the timeless fascination of the universe. Make sure to add it to your itinerary for an unforgettable adventure.

Daejeon O-World
 
Daejeon(Jung-gu)
Daejeon O-World (Formerly “Daejeon Zoo”) was established when the Daejeon Zoo and Joy Land, an amusement park, were integrated under the supervision of the Daejeon City Corporation. The project cost a whopping 40 billion won and resulted in the construction of Flower Land (580,000m²) in addition to the renamed Zoo Land and the preexisting Joy Land.The three main sections of Daejeon O-World are Zoo Land, Joy Land, and Flower Land. Zoo Land is currently home to a total of 600 animals of 130 different species including American black bears, Bengal tigers, lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and ostriches. Amusement rides, waterslides, and four-season sledding are housed at Joy Land. Flower Land boasts a number of smaller sections such as Rose Garden, Four Season Garden, Herb Garden, and Maze Garden and is home to a total of 150,000 tress of 100 different species and 200,000 flowers of 85 different species. An outdoor stage and concert hall are also located in the area.There are plenty of things to see and enjoy in every corner of Daejeon O-World. Just beyond Festival Street, visitors will find a large (3000m²) pond with a fountain that shoots water as high as 20m. At night, colorful lights illuminate the pond and fountain, creating a dazzling scene. The water from the fountain is also used as a water screen for special performances.In recent years, O-World expanded its attractions to include Herbivore Safari (with around 20 deer) and Wolf Safari (with about 7 wolves) in the area between Zoo Land and Flower Land.

Yuseong Hot Spring
 
Daejeon(Yuseong-gu)
Yuseong Hot Springs is located at the center of Daejeon. The hot spring is known to be effective in countering many kinds of maladies. The water here contains alkaline minerals such as calcium, and potassium, sulphur, carbonic acid, silicic acid and radium.An especially high concentration of radium is found here. Such alkaline hot springs are known to be good for treating neuralgia and geriatric diseases. Nearby are large accommodations with many convenient facilities, which make it easy to visit here while touring.Yuseong Hot Springs has long been associated with cranes. During the final days of Baekje Kingdom, a man who was the only son and heir of a family for seven generations was seriously wounded during a war with Silla. His mother worried greatly over her son’s wounds.One day she saw a crane with a wounded wing dip itself into a hot spring in the midst of snow covered ground and healed. She took her son there and his wound was healed as well so the legend goes. Perhaps because of this legend, the Yuseong Hot Springs is famous for its incredible healing properties.

Ssamzigil (쌈지길)
 
Seoul(Jongno-gu)
Ssamzigil, a shopping mall specializing in crafts that opened on December 18, 2004, has been called the "New Insa-dong within Insa-dong." The many shops gathered here sell everything from luxury traditional crafts to modern artworks that still manage to convey Korean charm in their designs. The mall also has a food court with restaurants and cafes selling popular Korean dishes.

Bukchon Dol Hareubang Park
 
Jeju-do(Jeju-si)
As a main symbol of Jeju Island, Dol Hareubang, literally meaning "Old Grandfather" stone statues, can be found everywhere on the island. But a lack of historical documents has hampered the true understanding of the statue among people. Bukchon Dol Hareubang Park puts together a wide variety of the statutes and, in doing so, illuminates their aesthetic and scholarly importance to visitors as well as future generations. In this sense, the park is not only a tourist attraction, but also a learning center for children and adults alike. The park consists of 48 Dol Hareubang, a promenade, reinterpreted Dol Hareubang focusing on the theme of peace, a traditional local garden, and a learning center. * What’s Dol Hareubang? Symbolizing Jeju Island, Dol Hareubang was also called Useokmok, Museokmok, or Byeoksumeori in the past. Dol Hareubang became the official name in 1971 after being designated as a local folk heritage. Although Dol Hareubang was originally seen only around the entrance of government seats such as (Jejumok, Jeonguihyeon, and Daejeongheyon), there are over 48 Dol Hareubang throughout the island (21 in Jeju City, 2 in National Folk Museum of Korea, 12 in Seongeup, and 13 in Daejeong). The shamanistic statues are believed to be offering protection and warding off demons. According to Tamnaji (Record of Tamna) published by Damsugye (a group of scholars on Jeju Island in the past), Dol Hareubang is believed to have been initiated by Kim Mong-gyu, then Magistrate of Jeju in 1754 (30th year of King Yeongjo’s reign). Carved from porous basalt, Dol Hareubang reveals simple expressions blending naturally with the island. It is the unique cultural heritage that can only been seen and appreciated on Jeju Island.  

Myeongdong Theater
 
Seoul(Jung-gu)
Myeongdong Theater is an exclusive theatrical performance center, which has opened in the building where the National Theater of Korea used to be located. From 1934 to 1973, the National Theater of Korea pioneered Korean arts and culture, functioning as a movie theater, performance hall and art theater. Though it closed its doors in 1975, after 3 years of renovation, the theater has been renamed and was reopened as Myeongdong Theater in June 5, 2009. Complete interior renovations were carried out, leaving outside wall design untouched.The theatre has now been re-born as a mid-sized performance hall with state-of-the-art stage equipment and 588 seats, offering audiences a great view of the stage while the close proximity allows them to share the passion of the performers. The theater presents a range of performances such as serious plays, experimental plays, non-verbal performances, and musicals. Not only that, the place is a popular venue for diverse events like acting contests, theater festivals and performance festivals.