Travel/Culture List

Ice Theme Park : Freezing Island
 
Seoul(Jongno-gu)
Opened in 2017, the ice theme park Freezing Island is a novel Seoul tourist attraction. The indoor theme park has over 250 ice sculptures and fun activities to enjoy! Freezing Island has 3 exhibition halls spread over 2 floors and it is Korea's largest ice theme park. Freezing Island is like seeing a bit of the North Pole right in Seoul. Great for visitors of all ages, the theme park is a fun outing for families, couples, and solo travelers. Don't forget to take a ride on the ice slide at Freezing Park!  

Dongdaemun Design Plaza
 
Seoul(Jung-gu)
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) has a meaning of Dream, Design, and Play. It holds various exhibitions, fashion shows, forums, conferences, and other domestic and international events. Registration for touring the architecture is available on-site and other event schedules and kid program information are available on the website.

Santorini Seoul
 
Seoul(Mapo-gu)
Santorini Seoul is a multipurpose cultural complex comprised of a museum, gallery, performance hall, shop, and a café. The cultural complex, located in the basement floor of Homi Atelier (a famous art supply store for professional artists), is around 700 pyeong (more than 2000 meters squared) in size. The facility can be categorized into three main parts: an open-run museum exclusively for trick art; three galleries / performance hall; and an art museum displaying cat-related pieces. The trick art museum features paintings that are extremely realistic and seem as if they are in 3D. By posing next to the painting in a certain way, you can take a picture and look like you’re part of the painting! In the gallery section, artwork by well known artists is on display and is changed every few months. The complex stays open every night until 10:00pm and is a popular date spot for office workers.

Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky
 
Seoul(Songpa-gu)
Seoul Sky is located on floors 117-123 of Lotte World Tower, the nation's tallest and the world's fifth tallest building. The observatory offers a panoramic view of the entire capital city, beautiful both day and night. In addition to the outstanding view, visitors can enjoy a small snack or coffee from the dessert cafe while sitting in the lounge or on the sky terrace. While waiting for the elevator up, visitors can enjoy art in the exhibition zone in basement levels 1-2. The exhibition includes artwork displaying the history, culture, and pride of Korea's foundation and success over the centuries. Visitors can also purchase Seoul Sky merchandice from the gift shop to remember their trip or give as a souvenir. The observation deck has two story-high glass windows for an uninterrupted view. The Sky Deck, located at 478m, hold the Guinness World Record as the highest glass-floored observatory in the world. On days when visibility is limited, visitors can still enjoy a clear sky through the Sky Theater. The 120th floor holds the Sky Terrace, open to the elements. Visitors looking for refreshments can enjoy the one-of-a-kind menu served at the dessert cafe Sky Friends Cafe on level 119, or refreshing wine sold at the premium lounge on floor 123. This cozy spaces is the highest lounge in Seoul and is perfect for taking in the view in a relaxing ambiance. To get to Seoul Sky, you will have to take the Sky Shuttle, a double-deck elevator that reaches a speed of 600m per minute. In no time at all, you'll be at the top of the world!

Wolmi Sea Train
 
Incheon(Jemulpo-gu)
Must-Visit Attraction in Incheon: Wolmi Sea Train If you're planning a trip to Incheon, South Korea, the Wolmi Sea Train is a must-visit attraction. Recognized by the Korea Tourism Organization as one of the "Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots for Koreans," this urban tourist monorail offers a unique way to explore the scenic beauty of Wolmido. The Wolmi Sea Train is the longest urban monorail in Korea, covering a total distance of 6.1 kilometers at an average speed of 9 kilometers per hour. The entire journey around Wolmido takes approximately 42 minutes. With tracks elevated between 7 and 18 meters above the ground, passengers can enjoy breathtaking views of Wolmido, Incheon Inner Port, the Yellow Sea, and even the distant Incheon Bridge. One of the highlights of the Wolmi Sea Train is the stunning sunset over the Yellow Sea, which paints the sky in beautiful shades of orange and red. The train ride offers a perfect vantage point to enjoy this natural spectacle, making it a memorable experience for all visitors. The Wolmi Sea Train operates from Wolmi Theme Park, a popular destination that has been loved by many since its opening in 1992. The theme park was revamped in 2009 and now features major attractions like the Disco Pang Pang, Viking rides, and a giant Ferris wheel. The park has been featured in various Korean TV programs such as "1 Night 2 Days" and "SBS Running Man," showcasing its appeal as a fun and exciting destination. In the evenings, the theme park is beautifully illuminated, offering a romantic and picturesque night view unique to Wolmido. It's an ideal spot for families, couples, and friends to enjoy both the natural beauty and the lively atmosphere. Location: Wolmi Sea Train, 269 Jemullyang-ro, Jung-gu, Incheon, South Korea Contact: +82-32-450-7600 Operating Hours: Weekdays: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Weekends: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Ticket Prices: Adults: 8,000 KRW Teenagers (13-18 years): 6,000 KRW Seniors (65 years and older): 6,000 KRW Children (3 years and older): 5,000 KRW Disabled/State Meritorious Persons: 4,000 KRW Make sure to include the Wolmi Sea Train in your Incheon travel itinerary. It's a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and vibrant culture of this wonderful city. Don't miss out on this unique and enjoyable attraction!

Insa Art Space
 
Seoul(Jongno-gu)
Insa Art Space was established by the government to support artists who are experiencing financial difficulties. Opened on May 26th, 2000, the total exhibit maintenance fee is provided by the government. It is recognized as one of the more successful national art support policies. Mostly experimental and progressive artwork are exhibited here to activate the art. Curators research the present state of the art circles. Also various open exhibit projects are held to find new talented artists. The newly chosen artists for the events can exhibit their work here free of charge for two weeks. These events are held to help poor artists who cannot start their careers. You can visit without doubting the sincerity of the exhibited artwork. The displayed works are valued for their quality only. Annually 2~3 internal exhibitions and international exhibitions are held, and symposiums and “dialogues with artists” are also often held. Currently there is one curator and two assistant curators. Insa Art Space is a great place for travelers who want to have long day tours. Most galleries close between 5pm and 6pm, but Insa Art Space is open till 7pm or 8pm. It is also located in the traditional Korean street, Insadong, so there are plenty of things to do and see while visiting this gallery.

Statue of Admiral Yi Sun-Shin
 
Seoul(Jongno-gu)
The Statue of Admiral Yi Sun-Shin was erected at the front of Gwanghwamun Square on April 27, 1968, in honor of the brave spirit and leadership of the Admiral. At 17 meters tall, the bronze statue stands firmly with a sword in his right hand, representing protection and patriotism. In front of the statue is a miniature turtle ship that the Admiral built, and at each front corner are two drums that were used to increase the morale of soldiers going to the battlefield.

Panmunjeom (Joint Security Area)
 
Gyeonggi-do(Paju-si)
Panmunjeom is located in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), 50 km north of Seoul and 10 km east from the city of Gaeseong, a city which now belongs to North Korea. This area is most notably known for the peace talks that were held here on October 25, 1951 and on July 27, 1953 when the Armistice Agreement was signed. It is now beyond the jurisdiction of both the North and South. The conference center in Panmunjeom is surrounded by the Joint Security Area (JSA) and measures 800 meters in diameter. It is the only portion of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) where North and South Korean forces stand face-to-face. It was used as a filming location of the movie "JSA (Joint Security Area)." It was also the site of military negotiations between North Korea and the United Nations Command (UNC). It has now become one of the most visited tourist sites of the DMZ.

HiKR GROUND
 
Seoul(Jung-gu)
Discover the Heart of Korean Pop Culture at "HiKR Ground" – Your Ultimate Korean Entertainment Destination!         Prepare yourself for an extraordinary journey where tradition meets contemporary, art meets technology, and dreams meet reality. Nestled in the pulsating heart of Seoul, the Korea Tourism Organization Seoul Center introduces "HiKR Ground," a trailblazing space that is more than just a Korean tourism publicity center — it is your gateway to the exhilarating world of K-Pop, mesmerizing media art, and the authentic Korean local tourism experience that goes beyond your imagination. Step into a Realm of Unforgettable Experiences: First Floor - The HiKR Wall and Beyond Embark on an unprecedented visual journey through the "HiKR Wall," a grandiose media canvas showcasing the impeccable artwork, "Landscape of the New City" by the renowned media artist Lee Lee-nam. Here, you're not just viewing art; you're stepping into it, surrounded by vibrant displays and curated tourism videos brought to you by global Hallyu aficionados. Your adventure into the Korean zeitgeist begins here, drawing you into a world where art and technology dance in a vivid tapestry of sights and sounds, offering a modern gaze into the Korean spirit.   Second Floor - Your K-Pop Dream Studio Channel your inner K-Pop star at the state-of-the-art XR Live Studio, where you are the lead in your music video. This is not just a studio; it is a canvas where your K-Pop dreams come to life, with the vibrant backdrop of the rejuvenated Cheonggyecheon Stream adding a touch of natural splendor to your production. And while here, don’t miss the captivating "North Wall" installation by the illustrious artist Suh Do-ho, a piece that seamlessly blends art and nature, offering a contemplative space amidst the K-Pop excitement.   Third & Fourth Floors - Dive Deep into the Local Korean C Ascend to the upper echelons of "HiKR Ground" where a rich tapestry of local Korean experiences awaits. Here, every corner offers a new adventure, with exhibitions that narrate the poetic tales of Korea's lands and waters, and interactive sessions that bring you face to face with the artistry and craftsmanship that is quintessentially Korean. What sets "HiKR Ground" apart is its unwavering commitment to offering a multi-faceted exploration of Korean culture, with a special emphasis on fostering a deep connection with the younger generation. It's a haven where the young and the young at heart can forge unforgettable memories, diving deep into a culture rich in history, yet vibrant and contemporary. Come, be a part of this vivacious journey, as "HiKR Ground" greets global enthusiasts with a warm "Hi" and opens its doors to a playground where every moment is a celebration of the Korean spirit. Discover "HiKR Ground"— where Korea welcomes the world, and where every visitor becomes a part of the ever-evolving Korean story. Let's make history together at "HiKR Ground," your ultimate destination for a rich, immersive, and truly Korean experience.

Gwanghwamun Gate
 
Seoul(Jongno-gu)
Founded in 1395 by the first king of the Joseon Dynasty, Gwanghwamun is the main gate of Gyeongbukgung Palace. Roughly meaning “may the light of enlightenment blanket the world,” the name symbolizes the resounding dedication that the people of the Joseon Dynasty had in creating a new dynasty. Constructed solely out of granite, its center is an entrance that resembles a rainbow, called Hongyemun. Above that is a gate tower. Gwanghwamun holds a painful memory in Korean history. During the Japanese occupation of Korea, in order to dampen the spirits of the Korean citizens, the Japanese governing general destroyed the gate and built his own government building. The present appearance of the gate is that of 1968 when it was rebuilt using concrete, and it’s location is about 10m behind the original spot. Though Gwanghwamun is the most beautiful of the five palace gates, it was not designated by the Korean government as a national treasure because it is made purely of concrete. The government is now in the process of removing the Japanese building and restoring the palace. Gwanghwamun has its name written on a sign on the gate, and it was personally written by then-president Park Jeong-Hui. On either side of the gate you can see the word “Haetae” facing south. Haetae is a mythical unicorn-lion that is said to protect palaces from fire. According to Pungsujirisang, there was a fire around Gwanaksan Mountain, so in order to protect the palace from fire from the mountain, these fire-eating Haetaes were put beside the gate.