Incheon(Jung-gu) , Incheon Center

The opening of the Incheon Port in 1883 led to the start of many foreigners coming into the area for settlement. Soon, it became a rich village and many young people gradually moved out, leaving the village in a state of stagnant. As such, a renovation project was brought upon to improve development of the village by painting and decorating classic fairy tales all around.


Gangwon-do(Goseong-gun)

The villa of Lee Ki-poong is located between the villas of Rhee Syngman and Kim Ilsung on the shores of Hwajinpo Lake. The villa was originally built by foreign missionaries in the 1920's. It began to be used as a priviate residence by Lee, the Vice-president to President Rhee, and his wife Maria Park after the cease-fire agreement.


Gangwon-do(Goseong-gun)

During the 1950's three leaders, Kim Ilsung, Rhee Syngman and Lee Ki-poong had summer houses built around the lake of Hwajinpo. The villa of Rhee Syngman, Korea's first president, was built in 1954 but fell into a state of disuse by 1961. It was not repaired until July of 1997 by the army, and was fully restored in 1999, opening as an exhibition hall.


Gangwon-do(Goseong-gun)

The villa of Kim Ilsung, former leader of North Korea, is perhaps better known as the Castle of Hwajinpo, for its fortress-like exterior. The villa was used as a summer house not only by the Kim family, but also by high-level members of the Communist Party from 1948 to 1950. The interior of the castle keeps history alive through a set-up of personal items and materials used by the Kim family. There is one photo in particular of a young Kim Jongil standing at the foot of the stairs that brings a sense of intimacy to this secretive family.


Gyeongsangbuk-do(Gyeongju-si)

Silla Culture Experience Center was established to offer various cultural programs featuring Gyeongju in the basement level between Daereungwon Tomb Complex and Cheomseongdae Observatory. Cultural programs include making chocolates in the shape of Gyeongju's cultural assets, making a golden crown, kite-making, Korean music performance, and more.


Incheon(Jung-gu) , Incheon Center

Explore Incheon's Historic Open Port Area Discover Incheon's Rich Heritage: A Must-Visit Destination If you're planning a trip to Korea, Incheon should be at the top of your list, especially its historic Open Port Area. This area preserves over 130 years of history, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Korea's past. Gaehangjang Historic and Cultural Street Incheon's Gaehangjang (Open Port Area) Historic and Cultural Street is a place where time seems to stand still. This area has been carefully preserved to retain the essence of its rich history since the port opened in 1883. Walking through these streets, you'll feel as if you've stepped into a black-and-white photograph, with historical buildings and cultural landmarks around every corner. Incheon Station Your journey can begin at Incheon Station, the terminus of Korea's first railway, the Gyeongin Line. This station remains a significant historical landmark and serves as the gateway to Incheon's Jung-gu district. It's a bustling hub where countless travelers begin their exploration of the city's storied past. Historic Landmarks As you stroll through the streets, you'll encounter many well-preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Notable sites include the former Japanese Consulate, which now houses the Jung-gu Office, and the old branches of Japan's 1st, 18th, and 58th Banks. These structures offer a fascinating glimpse into the architectural styles and cultural exchanges of that era. Cultural and Historical Experiences In addition to its architectural wonders, the Gaehangjang area is home to several other historical and cultural attractions. You can visit the former Japan Mail and Shipping Inc., the Incheon Art Platform, and the Jemulpo Club, all of which tell the story of Incheon's evolution as an international city. For those who prefer a guided experience, expert cultural tourism guides are available by reservation, providing in-depth insights into the area's history. Tour Routes To fully appreciate the area's charm, consider following one of the recommended tour routes: *1-Hour Course: Start at Incheon Station (World Community Center), then visit Chinatown, the Jajangmyeon Museum, Haegang Cathedral, Daebul Hotel Exhibition Hall, Incheon Open Port Museum, Modern Architecture Exhibition Hall, and the Incheon Art Platform. *2-Hour Course: Begin at the Korean-Chinese Cultural Center, followed by the Overseas Chinese History Museum, Daebul Hotel Exhibition Hall, Incheon Open Port Museum, Modern Architecture Exhibition Hall, Jung-gu Office, Qing-Japanese Concession Boundary Stairs, Three Kingdoms Mural Street, Jajangmyeon Museum, and Incheon Station. *3-Hour Course: This extended tour includes all the sites from the 2-hour course plus the Incheon Metropolitan City Historical Archives, Jemulpo Club, Jayu Park, General MacArthur's Statue, Fairy Tale Village, and Chinatown (Uiseondang). Conclusion Incheon's Open Port Area is a treasure trove of cultural and historical experiences waiting to be explored. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, this area has something to offer everyone. Plan your visit today and step back in time to discover the fascinating history of Incheon.


Incheon(Jung-gu)

The Korean-Chinese Cultural Center was built by the Jung-gu District of Incheon to facilitate mutual understanding between Korea and China by learning more on each other's culture, history, economy and society. Diverse performances are available, along with special exhibitions, Chinese cultural lecture, Chinese cultural experience corner, reading room on Korean-Chinese history & culture are put in place for visitors to enjoy while learning. In addition, on the weekends, Chinese language classes for Koreans, Korean language classes for Chinese, free moving screenings, and other variety of exhibits are also available.  


Ulsan(Ulju-gun)

Ganwolsan Mountain is a popular destination for hikers in the Ulsan and Busan area as well as other regions of Gyengsangnam-do Province. In early August, the reeds and lilies near the summit create a splendid view. To the west, the deep Naerijeong and Wangbonggol valleys channel clean water to Baenaegol Valley. From the Ganwol Gogae Ridge, follow the Singallo Path to Wanbonggol towards Paraeso Falls. There you will find a cave called Jungnimgul, which is sacred Catholic ground often visited by the Catholic faithful. The first church built by Catholics in the Yeongnam region to escape persecution is found in Buldanggol (Ganwolgol) Valley in Ganwolsan Mountain area. The tomb of Kim Agatha who died in persecution is also in the Ganwolgol Valley.


Gangwon-do(Sokcho-si)

Abai Ferry is a special way to get across the Sokcho harbor, separating downtown Sokcho from Abai Village. The distance is quite small, only reaching about 50m across, but riding one of the two ferries across is much quicker than going around by land. The ferry must be pulled across by rope by all passengers, excluding the elderly. This unique experience can only be found in Sokcho.


Gyeonggi-do(Suwon-si) , suwon

Locaed in Iui-dong, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon Museum consists of one basement level and two above-ground levels, spanning over an area of 6,535㎡. The museum houses approximately 33,000 relics which are donated or purchased in Suwon Museum of History, Calligraphy Museum of Korea, planned exhibition hall and other exhibition hall. Suwon Museum of History covers an area of 489㎡ and presents the old scene of Yeongdong Market Street in around 1960’s. Hwachunok, attributed to the spread of Suwon galbi (ribs) that is famous in Suwon. Children can learn and experience our past life and adults can remind of the old times at this museum. Calligraphy Museum of Korea is the first calligraphy museum build by local governments. Important calligraphy relics like the works of Yang Taekdong who was a calligrapher in May 2003 in Suwon. The hall features a large scale of area (624㎡) and its display case were made with cutting-edge device and high class of design. Exhibitions includes Geumseokmun (metal writing), Beopseo (calligraphic specimen of renowned artists of the past), renowned calligraphers during Joseon Dynasty, Eopil (the writings of King), Seogan (letters), contemporary renowned calligraphers, Sagunja (four gracious plants), Munbangsau (four important things of study) and others. Also, an approximate 327㎡ scale of planned exhibition hall is open to be held exhibitions with specific themes every year and available for general visitors to use the hall. In addition, the museum offers educational programs for visitors as well as large scale of calligraphy festival for all of calligraphers alike. Saun Lee Jong Hak Archives is a archive room of 241㎡ and 63㎡ of a material hall to house 20,000 pieces donated from Saun Lee Jonghank (1927-2002). He devoted his life to collecting materials related Yi Sun-sin, Japanese invasion materials, and Dokdo Island. The collected materials are donated to The Independence Hall of Korea, Donghak Peasants Revolution Memorial Hall, Hyeonchungsa Shrine and others. In particular, Dokdo Museum was established in Ulleungdo Island based on the Dokdo Island-related materials. Also, he significantly attributed to the academic field by publishing materials, which are thought to be valuable but not well-known, himself with his own money.