Travel/Culture List

Geumseongsanseong Fortress in Geumseongsan Mountain (603m) forms a boundary between two small villages located on the border of two provinces (Geumseong-myeon, Damyang-gun, Jeollanam-do and Sunchang-gun, Jeollabuk-do) and is one of the three popular mountains of the Honam region (the Southwestern region of Korea that includes Jeollanam-do and Jeollabuk-do). The fortress is surrounded by two walls connecting Cheolmabong Peak, Undaebong Peak, and Jangdaebong Peak. The total length of the outer wall is 6.486 meters and inner wall is 859 meters. Historians are uncertain about the year the fortress was built, and have concluded that it dates back to the Three Kingdoms Period (57 BCE – 676 CE) based on an examination of the ruins and remains discovered in the surrounding area. The fortress was reconstructed in 1409 and repaired in 1610 after the Imjin War (1592-1598). Following that, it continued to develop into a strong military base. - Classification: Historic Site No. 353 - Date of Designation: August 24, 1991 - Owner: Park Jinseong and 85 persons - Age: Three States Era - Site Area: 1,349,977㎡ - Kind of Cultural Properties: Castle Site  

A Symphony of Spice and Steam: The K-Ramyeon Studio Experience in Incheon (Where the Cinematic Allure of K-Dramas Meets the Pinnacle of Interactive Gastronomy) Incheon, South Korea — To truly understand the pulse of a nation, one must look to the comfort foods that fuel its people. In South Korea, that pulse beats to the rhythm of boiling water and fiery, soul-warming broths. Tucked away in the sleek, rapidly ascending district of Seo-gu lies a cultural sanctuary that has redefined this iconic staple: K-Ramyeon Studio. This is not merely a dining venue; it is an avant-garde epicurean gallery where the globally celebrated Korean soul food transcends its everyday origins to become a highly personalized work of art. To our esteemed international guests: If you have ever been mesmerized by a K-Drama and yearned to taste that steaming, savory red broth, your invitation has arrived. Step into the ultimate playground for the modern culinary explorer.   [ The Ambience ] An Architectural Homage to K-Soul Food Upon crossing the threshold of K-Ramyeon Studio, the traditional boundaries between chef and diner dissolve entirely. You are greeted by an immaculate, brilliantly illuminated interior that feels more akin to a modern art exhibition than a conventional eatery. ◆ The Floor-to-Ceiling Archive: The visual centerpiece of the space is a magnificent, curated library of Korea’s finest instant Ramyeon. Arranged with meticulous precision, this colorful spectrum ranges from rich, velvety beef bone broths to the legendary, fiery spices that have captivated global social media. Selecting your authentic Korean canvas is the thrilling first act of this culinary symphony. ◆ The Interactive Culinary Lab: Experience the iconic "Han River Ramyeon" culture with flawless, indoor execution. The studio is equipped with state-of-the-art, automated induction stations. These machines are programmed to boil your creation at the exact, scientifically calculated temperature and time, guaranteeing a flawlessly springy, al dente texture that is an absolute revelation. [ The Artistry ] A Canvas of Infinite Flavors What truly elevates this studio into the realm of the extraordinary is its uncompromising dedication to customization. The pristine, buffet-style topping bar allows you to become the artisan of your own authentic bowl. ◆ The Pristine Harvest Bar: Unlike standard convenience stores, the studio offers a lavish array of immaculate, farm-fresh garnishes. From crisp spring onions and vibrant bean sprouts to premium sausages, soft-boiled eggs, and melting mozzarella, the ingredients are constantly replenished to ensure absolute peak freshness. Every addition transforms your Ramyeon into a complex, multi-layered masterpiece of authentic Korean flavors.   [ The Distinction ] The Five-Star Standard of Global Hospitality A deep dive into international travel reviews reveals a flawless consensus: K-Ramyeon Studio has mastered the delicate art of cultural immersion and hospitality. ◆ Masterful Cultural Hosts: The most resounding praise is consistently reserved for the staff. Reviewers highlight their warm, sophisticated, and deeply polite demeanor. For travelers unaccustomed to the Korean DIY cooking process, the team serves as gracious cultural guides, offering patient, smiling assistance that instantly dissolves any language barriers. ◆ Spotless Modernity: Global visitors place a premium on cleanliness, and the studio delivers with absolute perfection. The space is relentlessly maintained, offering a spotless, cafe-like environment with trendy lighting that serves as the ultimate backdrop for your stylish travel photography. ◆ A Welcoming Haven for All: Whether you are a solo traveler seeking a comfortable, unpressured dining sanctuary or a group of friends eager to host a flavor-tasting summit, the spacious and intuitively designed layout accommodates every dynamic with effortless grace.   [ The Connoisseur’s Guide ] Three Unmissable Creations     1. The K-Cinematic Truffle Blend (Chapaguri Style) Channel your inner film director by blending a rich, savory black bean Ramyeon with a spicy seafood base. Top it with a perfectly cooked egg from the fresh bar for an umami explosion that defines modern Korean fusion. 2. The Seoul Spice Challenge For the adventurous palate, select one of the top-tier spicy Ramyeon brands. Balance the fiery red broth by showering it with fresh mozzarella and crisp bean sprouts—a beautifully complex dance of heat, creaminess, and crunch. 3. The Comforting Artisan Gomtang Prefer a gentle embrace for your palate? Opt for the milky white, rich beef bone broth. Garnish heavily with fresh green onions and a dash of black pepper for a deeply soothing, restorative meal. [ Essential Visitor Information ] K-Ramyeon Studio (케이라면스튜디오) ■ Location: Daon Plaza 2, Balsan-ro 23, Seo-gu, Incheon. Situated in the vibrant, modern Geomdan New City. ■ Access: Easily accessible via Incheon's pristine public transit system. The journey into Seo-gu offers a fascinating glimpse into the sleek, everyday dynamism of a rising Korean metropolis. ◇ Editor’s Professional Tip: Do not rush the experience. Grab a seat by the window, curate your perfect bowl, and pair it with a traditional Korean sweet iced tea or a sparkling fruit ade. The contrast between the hot, savory Ramyeon and the icy, refreshing beverage is the ultimate local secret to gastronomic bliss. "Curate your flavor. Command the kitchen. At K-Ramyeon Studio, you are not simply tasting food—you are holding the vibrant, fiery soul of modern Korea in the palm of your hands."

Gunsan Country Club is a golf course featuring 81 holes (18 holes for the members and 63 holes for the public) on the site of an abandoned salt field that spans over 1,060 acres. It is the only course in Korea where all the holes are surrounded by lakes; around 380 acres or 36% of the course is comprised of lakes, and the holes are connected by 26 bridges. It has some of the longest golf holes in the world, including a Par 7 hole (1,004m) and a Par 6 hole (661m). The 18-hole private golf course features classic American style, while the public golf course offers more variety.

Banghwadong Natural Recreational Forest is located at the foot of Jangansan Mountain. The mountain trail from Deoksanyongso Pond leading to Banghwadong Valley features nature learning centers and adventure games facilities. The clean valley is lined with oddly shaped cliffs, shrubs and trees, which all combine into a splendid view. The forest is situated at a highland more than 500 meters above sea level. It is surrounded by mountains that are over a thousand meters high above sea level, so the temperature is low and the water at the valley is cool even in the summer. There are log cabins, group accommodation facilities, and training halls by the valley to accommodate group visits, conferences, gatherings and seminars. There are also video rooms, broadcast facilities, and restaurants. The group accommodation facilities offer eight rooms for up to eight persons, eight rooms for up to six persons, and there are four 12-person log cabins.

Mt. Naeyeonsan (내연산) in Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do is located in the southern Taebaek Mountains. Hywangrobong Peak, the highest peak, is 930 meters above sea level. The ancient Bogyeongsa Temple (보경사) is located on this mountain, as are numerous beautiful waterfalls. If you reach Gwaneum Falls after passing by Ssangsaeng Falls, Sambo Falls, Boyeon Falls, and Jamyong Falls, you will find Gwaneum Cave. After continuing over a viaduct, you will finally come across Yeonsan Falls, the most magnificent and splendid waterfall among the 12 on Mt. Naeyeonsan. With its pristine waters and surrounding pine forest, many visitors have fallen in love with Yeonsan Falls.  

The birthplace of Jeongseon Arirang, Jeongseon. After the coal mining rationalizing business, floating population travelling Joengseon to the metropolitan area has been dramatically decreased and so did the population at Jeongseon. All the stations in Jeongseon Line have now operates with no station employee reside in and Jeongseon station is the only one with a station staff, maintaining its existence. After Korea started to have a day off on Saturday, the birthplace of Jeongseon Arirang has been a popular touristic place. Especially in every summer, tourists from all over the country flock to this town for Jeongseon’s Market day It has been a must-see spot for students or customers using Rail-Ro.

The Ttukseom Water Purification Plant (Waterworks Museum and Slow Sand Filtration Basin) was completed in August 1908 as the first water purification plant ever built in Korea. In 2008, it celebrated 100 years of history with the opeing of the Waterworks Museum, which showcases the history and value of Seoul's public waterworks. The water supply facility and Slow Sand Filtration Basin are designated No.72 Tangible Cultural Asset of Seoul.

Jungang High School is located in Jong-ro near Samcheongdong-gil. It was built to educate the public at the beginning of the 20th century. The school’s main building was reconstructed in 1937 after the original two-story brick house was destroyed in 1934. The main building situated in front of the main gate is a two-story H-shaped granite stone building in Gothic style, with a four-story tower in the middle. The school holds historical significance because it was designed by Park Dong Jin, one of Korea's first modern architects and the designer of Korea University’s main building and library and the Chosun Ilbo Newspaper Company building. Jungang High School is designated as Historic Site No. 281. Many national leaders were educated at the gothic building during the grim period when Korea was trying to escape Japanese colonial rule.

Gadeokdo Lighthouse is a manned lighthouse patterned after gothic style lighthouses in France. Built in December, 1909 at the end of the Daehan Empire (official title of Korea from Oct. 12, 1897 to Aug. 29, 1910), it is an intricate building that houses a light tower (9.2m high), an office, and a lighthouse keeper’s room. Plum blossoms, the symbol of the imperial family of Joseon, are delicately carved along this European-style building. It is considered a remarkable cultural property not only because of its architectural design, unique shape or historic value, but also because it has been surprisingly well-maintained, especially in comparison to other lighthouses built during the same period. In recognition of its unmatchable style and preservation, the old Gadeokdo lighthouse was designated Tangible Cultural Property No. 50 of Busan in Sep. 2003. It is owned and managed by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries. A new lighthouse was built next to the original one in 2002. The new one is octagonal in shape and 40.5m high, the second highest lighthouse in Korea. Gadeokdo, the location of Gadeokdo lighthouse, is often referred to as the ‘Island of History,’ and is the largest island in Busan. Gadeokdo, a strategically important base for military operations and seaborne trade, was the stage for a number of gruesome battles during the Japanese invasion in 1592. Today, it is a critical entry point to the Jinhae Bay. Gadeokdo Lighthouse is part of one the nation’s naval bases. Therefore, visitors must contact and register with the Busan Regional Maritime Affairs and Port Office prior to visiting the lighthouse. Those who participate in the Lighthouse Experience Program (parties of 6 or less) can spend the night in the innkeeper’s room free of charge. In order to use these accommodations, visitors must apply online at the Busan Regional Maritime Affairs and Port’s homepage between the 1st and the 8th of the month, one month prior to desired date of visit.