Travel/Culture List

Korea International Circuit is the hybrid F1 circuit that combines two courses in Yeongam and Jeollanam-do. The circuit consists of two tracks: the F1 grand prix track and the regular track (stretching over 3.045km). The two tracks accommodate a variety of races. In addition to the F1 circuit, the Korea International Circuit plans to host both Korean and international motorsport events for years to come. The total length of the circuit stretches over 5.615km, which is the second longest in the world behind Monza Circuit (Italy/5.793km). It is the longest circuit in Asia. The circuit consists of an F1 pit building (14m in x_height), a control tower, a media center, a building for teams, grand stands holding up to 120,000 visitors, parking facilities, and entertainment facilities. Particularly fascinating is the fact that the track is run with the sea as a backdrop. It is also designed to maximize the speed of cars. It will host the 2010 F1 Korea Grand Prix, an FIA long-distance car race approved that is held for the first time in Korea.  

0Discover Museum SAN: A Hidden Gem in Korea’s Mountains Nestled in the tranquil mountains of Gangwon-do, Museum SAN (Space Art Nature) is an architectural masterpiece designed by the world-renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando. Opened in May 2013, this museum harmoniously blends minimalist concrete structures with the surrounding natural landscape, creating a serene environment for visitors to connect with art and nature. Complementing Ando’s architecture are the captivating works of James Turrell, celebrated for his innovative use of light and space. Museum SAN offers more than just exhibitions—it’s a journey of discovery. The experience begins at the Welcome Center and takes visitors through the Flower Garden, Water Garden, Main Building, Meditation Hall, Stone Garden, and finally, the James Turrell Hall. The Main Building’s unique design, featuring square, triangular, and circular wings, reflects the architect’s philosophy of connecting the earth, sky, and humanity. Recognized as a "2024-2025 Gangwon Wellness Tourism Destination," Museum SAN is a perfect escape for those seeking relaxation and renewal. As a wellness tourism hotspot, it provides an ideal space for rejuvenation through nature, meditation, and art, offering a restorative retreat for the modern traveler. In addition to its permanent and special exhibitions, the museum offers interactive programs, including workshops and educational experiences, ensuring an engaging visit for all ages. Operating Hours * Museum: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Last entry: 5:00 PM) * James Turrell Hall: 10:30 AM - 5:30 PM * Meditation Hall (January–February): 10:25 AM - 5:05 PM Admission Fees 1. Museum Ticket (Includes Outdoor Garden, Paper Museum, Art Museum): * Adults: KRW 19,000 * Children/Teenagers: KRW 11,000 * Preschoolers: Free 2. Meditation Ticket (Includes Outdoor Garden, Paper Museum, Art Museum, Meditation): * Adults: KRW 35,000 * Children/Teenagers: KRW 25,000 * Preschoolers: Not permitted 3. James Turrell Ticket (Includes Outdoor Garden, Paper Museum, Art Museum, James Turrell): * Adults: KRW 35,000 * Children/Teenagers: KRW 25,000 * * Preschoolers: Free (3:00 PM slot only) 4. Integrated Ticket (Includes Outdoor Garden, Paper Museum, Art Museum, James Turrell, Meditation): * Adults: KRW 40,000 * Children/Teenagers: KRW 28,000 * Preschoolers: Free admission to James Turrell (3:00 PM slot only); not permitted in the Meditation Hall (Children: Elementary to high school students; Preschoolers: Ages 6 and under) ★ Note: Prices and operating hours may vary. Please check the museum’s official website for the latest information. Why Visit Museum SAN? Museum SAN is more than a museum—it’s an immersive sanctuary for the mind and spirit. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking a unique and serene getaway during your Korean travels, this destination offers an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit to Museum SAN and discover the perfect harmony of art, nature, and architecture. ​『 COPYRIGHTS © 강원특별자치도 경제진흥원 All rights reserved. https://www.kwellness.kr』

Located 4 km southwest from on-site Anmyeon-eup, Kkotji Beach is 3.2 km in length and 300m wide. The beach has perfect conditions with its gentle slope, clear water and its comfortable water temperature. You can enjoy fresh fish from the nearby Port Bangpohang, as well as see the legendary Halmibawi Rock.The beautiful view of the sunset here attracts numerous photographers during all four seasons.

Situated in Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do and at the northernmost point of the Military Demarcation Line, Dora Observatory replaced the previous Songaksan Observation Post. From the observatory, visitors can overlook North Korea and various locations including Gaeseong, Songaksan, Kim Il-Sung Statue, and Cooperation Farm (Geumamgol). The observatory offers 500 seats, VIP rooms, and abundant parking space. It was first opened to the public in January 1987. Near the observatory is the Third Underground Tunnel, built by North Korea and found in 1978. It stretches over 1.6km with a x_height and x_width of 2m, capable of mobilizing 30,000 troops in one hour. In front of the tunnel are a variety of attractions such as the DMZ Media Hall (offering the history of the divided country and flourishing ecosystem in the Demilitarized Zone), DMZ Exhibition Hall (displaying relics and documents related to the Demilitarized Zone), sculptures, and souvenir shops. Visitors can see inside the tunnel by either walking or riding the monorail. Because civilian access is restricted in this area, visitors must participate in the DMZ Peace & Security Tourist Program (implemented by Paju-si) to visit the observatory. Conducted by a shuttle bus either from Imjingak Resort or Dorasan Station, it goes through the Dora Observatory, 3rd Underground Tunnel, Dorasan Station, and Unification Village. Visitors must carry their passport, which is examined at the checkpoint just beyond Unification Bridge.

Muju Gucheondong Valley is located within Deogyusan in Jeollabuk-do, and is often referred to as Mujugucheon-dong, meaning the 25km stretch of land and water from Najetongmun to Deogyusan Mountain's Baengnyeonsa Temple. Muju Gucheondong Valley is not a deep valley. However, the valley flows through a lush forest that's quite beautiful. The calm and soothing sounds of the river are very refreshing.The 33 scenic points of Gucheondong are what make it so famous. Of the 33, the most famous are Najetongmun and Sushimdae. Najetongmun, the first scenic point is a huge boulder with a hole through it like a tunnel. During the Samguk era, this spot once served as the border between the Silla and Baekje nations. Because it was the dividing line between the two nations, even to this day, the east and west side's speech and customs are different. No one knows how the hole got there, but the experience of walking through it is quite interesting. Sushimdae, the 12th scenic point, is a valley approximately 400m in length. It is surrounded with mountain cliffs, which makes the area resemble Geumgangsan Mountain, and so it is often referred to as Sogeumgangsan, or little Geumgangsan. The clear water and beautiful scenery makes this spot a must-see.Many people come to Muju Gucheondong Valley for trekking. The trails go from Deogyusan National Park to Baengnyeonsa Temple. It's a 3-hour roundtrip hike for this 6km trail. Though it's a mountain trail, it's not that steep, making it ideal for trekking.

Located inside Changdeokgung Palace, Huijeongdang Hall is a one-storey structure built in ikgong style (bird wing-shaped eaves placed on top of the pillars) with a hip tiled gable roof. It has 11 kans in the front and 4 kans to the sides (kan: a traditional unit of measurement referring to the space between two columns that is roughly 6 to 8 feet). During the latter period of the Joseon Dynasty, the hall was used as the king’s workplace. It is situated right in front of the palace’s residential hall called Daejojeon Hall. Originally built upon the foundation of Changdeokgung Palace, Huijeongdang Hall was destroyed by multiple fires during the battles of the Imjin War (Japanese invasion of Korea in 1592). It was rebuilt in 1834 but was burnt down again in 1917. The current structure is the one reconstructed in 1920. The frequent destruction and restoration of the hall account for the many changes that occurred in terms of the size and purpose of the building. The 9 kans in the front and 3 kans on the sides have been decorated into a living room with a Korean-style reception room on the left and a western-style reception room on the right. The rest of the building was used as hallways and other small rooms such as bathroom and cubicles. The hall's interior is decorated with foreign-made furniture as a result of the western influences at the time. The electricity installed in and outside the rooms is a change that took place during the last phase of the Korean empire. The original structure, however, had been strictly constructed according to the original palace building standards.

The Botanical Garden BCJ was established in 1965 on the belief that nature brings great joy into people's lives. Located in a suburb of the Seoul Metropolitan area, it is a perfect natural getaway for urban residents, as well as an important habitat for preservation of diverse plant species from home and abroad. Moreover, the BCJ offers exciting hands-on experience programs, and also serves food and drinks made with herbs at its restaurant and cafe.

Located in Jeollabuk-do province, Hanbyeokdang Pavilion has been designated Tangible Cultural Property No. 15. In 1404, a civil official from the Joseon Dynasty built this structure as a country house. Hanbyeokdang was built at the foot of Seungamsan Mountain with beautiful views of the Jeonjucheon River below. A large highway has since been built nearby taking away from the natural beauty. In the past, many writers often sought out Hanbyeokdang Pavilion to find inspiration in their writing. The pavilion is well known for the beauty of the mountain mist flowing down the mountain, thus making it one of the 8 must sees in Jeonju. 

Namdang Port is one of the representative ports of the West Coast along with Baeksajang Port in Taean. Known for catches of prawn, cockle, flat fish, rock fish and other types of seafood, the port draws visitors all year round. You’ll often see people out scouring the shoreline of the port for cockles, which are usually enjoyed as cockle shabu shabu or chargrilled cockle, top local delicacies.In September and October, many tourists flock to the port for the Daeha (prawn) Festival. The Namdangri Daeha Festival is a chance to eat and buy fresh prawn at reasonable prices and participate in programs that celebrate the fishing community. Favorite events include an ancestral ritual to pray for a plentiful catch, a fishing boat parade, singing contests, streets markets, and a ssireum (Korean wrestling) competition.Nearby attractions include the bamboo grove of Jukdo Island (10 minutes’ away by ferry) and Yongbongsan Mt., which is only a 40 minutes’ drive. Old houses of historical figures are also located in the area and include the residences of General Choi Young of the Goryeo Dynasty, Seong Sam Mun (a scholar official of the Joseon Dynasty), and General Kim Jwa Jin and Han Yong Un (independent activists).