Travel/Culture List

1004 Bridge (천사대교)
 
Jeollanam-do(Sinan-gun)
1004 Bridge, opened in April 04, 2019 connects Songgong-ri to Sinseok-ri in Sinan-gun, Jeollanam-do. The name 1004 is for the 1004 islands that surrounds Sinan-gun. The bridge is the fourth longest marine bridge in Korea.

Romy Zian Garden: Gangwon-do
 
Gangwon-do(Jeongseon-gun)
Discover the Healing Tranquility of Romy Zian Garden in Gariwangsan Mountain Nestled in the heart of Gariwangsan Mountain, Romy Zian Garden is a serene, 330,000-square-meter (approximately 100 acres) mountainous retreat surrounded by lush deciduous forests and rare, exotic trees. Designed as a sanctuary for wellness and self-reflection, the garden offers visitors an opportunity to experience both physical and mental rejuvenation in a truly unique setting. A Garden Designed for Healing and Meditation Romy Zian Garden is not only a picturesque natural landscape, but it is also a carefully curated space optimized for healing and meditation. The garden features 23 themed meditation spots and 7 forest trekking routes, each thoughtfully designed to enhance well-being and encourage moments of peace and introspection. Along with its outdoor spaces, the garden also includes indoor areas that evoke the feeling of being immersed in nature, such as the meditation hall, café, and accommodations, allowing guests to relax and restore their energy. A Wellness Destination Recognized by Kangwon Province In recognition of its commitment to promoting wellness tourism, Romy Zian Garden was named one of Kangwon Province's Outstanding Wellness Tourism Destinations for the 2024-2025 period. "Wellness" is a term that combines well-being, happiness, and fitness, and wellness tourism refers to travel experiences focused on healing and recovery through natural therapies, beauty treatments, spas, meditation, and relaxation—offering a perfect escape from the stresses of modern life. A Love Story Behind the Garden The story behind Romy Zian Garden is deeply personal. In 2011, Son Jin-ik, the founder of LBest Group, created this garden for his wife, Romy, who was struggling with health issues. After discovering the pure mountain air at an altitude of 700 meters, Son decided to build the garden as a place for healing and tranquility. Over time, the garden became a symbol of their enduring love, and the name "Romy Zian" comes from the couple's affectionate nicknames. Romy Zian Garden opened to the public in 2017, inviting others to experience the healing energy that had helped the founders restore their health. Reflect and Heal in a Peaceful Setting The garden is designed around themes of life cycles, offering various spaces that reflect stages of life: * Green for Birth: Symbolizing new beginnings and growth. * Red for Youth: Representing vitality and passion. * Black for Maturity: Reflecting wisdom and life experience. Visitors can explore the 60+ meditation spots scattered throughout the garden, each with its own significance. The thoughtfully designed paths, small hills, and tranquil resting areas offer a peaceful environment for reflection and self-discovery. Key Highlights of Romy Zian Garden * Gasibeosi Castle: This iconic structure offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular photo spot. The name "Gasibeosi," meaning "husband and wife" in Korean, symbolizes the love that inspired the garden. * Sky Aura: A stunning collection of limestone formations, creating a unique and serene atmosphere perfect for meditation or photography. * Three Merge Water Viewpoint: A picturesque spot where visitors can observe the merging of three streams, symbolizing harmony and unity. * The Silent Thousand Years: A spiritually charged area known for its profound natural energy, offering visitors a chance to connect deeply with the forest. Wellness Programs for Body and Mind Romy Zian Garden offers various wellness programs aimed at helping visitors reconnect with themselves. These programs include: * Guided meditation walks through the garden's lush trails, * Yoga sessions in peaceful forest settings, * Body scans and wellness assessments at the Mountain House, a modern wellness center designed for physical and mental rejuvenation. With seven trekking routes and 23 thematic walking paths, the garden offers numerous opportunities to explore and experience nature's healing power. Whether you seek mindfulness, physical exercise, or simply a quiet place to relax, Romy Zian Garden is the perfect destination for a rejuvenating escape. A Year-Round Destination for Healing No matter the season, Romy Zian Garden offers a healing experience that changes throughout the year. From the vibrant spring greens to the warm autumn hues, each visit promises new beauty and a sense of renewal. Whether you're visiting for relaxation, wellness, or simply to enjoy the natural beauty, Romy Zian Garden offers a sanctuary that will leave you feeling restored and at peace. ​『 COPYRIGHTS © 강원특별자치도 경제진흥원 All rights reserved. https://www.kwellness.kr』

Taebaek Sangjang-dong Mural Village
 
Gangwon-do(Taebaek-si)
Taebaek Sangjang-dong Mural Village, also called “Nambu Village”, is located in Sangjang-dong, Taebaek-si as the name refers. The village has been improved upon by residents who volunteered and shared their artistic talents to participate in Taebaek-si’s new village movement in 2011. Each alley throughout the village gives a unique and refreshing ambience that created a turning point in the village. Also, valuable events such as ‘Yeontan (briquette) painting contest’ are held for students and families to participate in and share their warm hearts. The Central Inland Region Train (O-Train), which began operating as of April 12, 2013 by Korail, stops in Taebaek-si, so tourists can easily reach the mural village via train.

KBS On (KBS 온 (KBS견학홀))
 
Seoul(Yeongdeungpo-gu)
Located within the KBS broadcasting station in Yeouido, the KBS Exhibition Hall is the first museum in Korea dedicated to the history and evolution of the Korean broadcasting industry. The exhibition hall is a space where visitors can experience radio and television broadcasting production firsthand. The KBS Exhibition Hall first opened on January 1, 1977 and after extensive renovation, the exhibition hall reopened in April 2001. Now, the hall offers better services than before with the addition of a Hologram Corner, 3D TV Experience Corner, and Character Photo Zone. The KBS tour starts from the main hall on the second floor and continues onto the fourth and fifth floors. In addition to the small museum, radio drama studio, sound effect instruments, 9 o'clock news corner, hologram corner, 3D movie experience hall and chroma key corner, visitors have the chance to observe the TV production process and radio programming process through a window that looks out into the broadcasting studio.

Ganghwa Dolmens Gymnasium: Where Sports Meet History
 
Incheon(Ganghwa-gun)
Ganghwa Dolmens Gymnasium, located on Ganghwa Island in Incheon, South Korea, is a premier sports venue that seamlessly blends modern athletic facilities with the island's rich cultural heritage. Opened in October 2013, the gymnasium boasts a seating capacity of over 4,000, including 1,428 adjustable seats, making it an ideal location for various events. Key Features: * State-of-the-Art Facilities: Designed to host a wide array of sports and cultural events, the gymnasium is equipped with modern amenities to ensure comfort and convenience for both participants and spectators. * Cultural Significance: The name "Dolmens" pays homage to the nearby Ganghwa Dolmen Sites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, reflecting the area's ancient history and cultural importance. * Notable Events: The gymnasium gained international recognition by hosting the taekwondo and wushu events during the 2014 Asian Games, showcasing its capability to facilitate major sporting events. Popular Media Highlight: Adding to its appeal, Ganghwa Dolmens Gymnasium has been featured as a filming location for the popular SBS TV show "Shooting Stars" (골 때리는 그녀들). This exposure has increased its popularity among fans and tourists alike, who visit to experience the setting of their favorite show. Visiting Ganghwa Dolmens Gymnasium: Situated amidst the scenic landscapes of Ganghwa Island, the gymnasium offers visitors an opportunity to experience modern Korean sports culture while being in proximity to historical sites. After attending an event, visitors can explore the Ganghwa Dolmen Sites to gain insight into Korea's prehistoric era. Getting There: Ganghwa Dolmens Gymnasium is accessible via public transportation from Incheon and Seoul. Local buses and taxis provide convenient options for reaching the venue. For detailed directions and event schedules, it's advisable to check the official Ganghwa County website or contact local tourist information centers. Why Visit? Whether you're a sports enthusiast eager to witness local events, a fan of "Shooting Stars" looking to visit a filming location, or a traveler interested in the fusion of modern facilities with historical context, Ganghwa Dolmens Gymnasium offers a unique experience. Its strategic location allows visitors to enjoy contemporary Korean culture and delve into the rich tapestry of the nation's history. Incorporating a visit to Ganghwa Dolmens Gymnasium into your travel itinerary provides a balanced glimpse into South Korea's dynamic present and its storied past.

Yeonhwasa Temple
 
Sejong
Yeonhwasa Temple is said to have been built by Hong Mun-seop. After having a dream, Hong dug the current site of Yeonhwasa to find two stone Buddha statues, and built a temple there. Yeonhwasa was designated a traditional temple in 1988. The temple features Muryangsujeon Hall, Samseonggak Hall, and Yosachae (monks’ residence). There used to be a building with a tile roof, but following the discovery of Muinmyeongseokbulsangbudaejwa (Buddhist stele and pedestal with a 'Muin' inscription; National Treasure No. 649), the roof was improved. The side of Muinmyeongseokbulsangbudaejwa is in a trapezoid shape with a wider bottom. It is thought to date back to the Unified Silla era. The temple is also home to Chiljonseokbulsang (Stele with seven relief Buddhist images; National Treasure No. 650). Together with the stone images of Biamsa and Jeonganmyeon, this stele is considered to have cast a new light on the Ancient Art.

Gongam Rock - Elephant Rock
 
Gyeongsangbuk-do(Ulleung-gun)
Together with Gwaneumssanggul Cave and the Samseonam Rocks, Gongam Rock is one of the three scenic landscapes of Ulleungdo Island. The rock is in the shape of an elephant with its trunk dipped in the water for a drink. It is also called Gumeong Bawi (or Hole Rock) due to a 10-centimeter hole around the trunk. The surface of the rock looks like stacked firewood due to Jusangjeolli (columnar jointing) phenomenon.

Ansan Botanical Garden
 
Gyeonggi-do(Ansan-si)
The Ansan Botanical Garden (안산식물원) has three pavilions: The first pavilion (382.81㎡) is a tropical garden, while the second pavilion in the middle (846㎡) and the third to the south (846㎡), feature marsh plants. Outside are four rose gardens, a fruit tree garden, a wild plant garden, a plant succession garden, and a pond (featuring a total of 46 plants including red momo botan lotus). The botanical park has a pyramid-shaped, modern greenhouse that is a source of pride for Ansan City. The park is also connected to Seongho Park.

Chuncheonho Lake
 
Gangwon-do(Chuncheon-si)
Chuncheongo Lake is a man-made lake at the foot of Chuncheon Dam on the upper region of the Bukhan River. The area’s beautiful landscape and its easy accessibility make it a popular tourist destination and weekend getaway spot for Seoulites. The road along the top of the dam acts as a connecting expressway between Chuncheon and Hwacheon. The road continues past Uiam Lake, a fantastic fishing spot great for family visitors. Maeuntanggol (street of chili fish stew shops), formed around the Dam, is famous throughout Korea, offering the nation’s best chili fish stew, made from fresh catfish and mandarin fish. The Chuncheon Dam was built in Feb. 1965, blocking the flow of water from the Bukhan River into Paro Lake. The water level is not very consistent in Paroho Lake and fish may sometimes be scarce because of the lake’s narrow entry point. The area still attracts a large number of people because of its superb scenery and easy accessibility.