Seoul(Seongbuk-gu) , Daehangno・Seongbukdong

Gilsangsa Temple is located in the Seongbuk-dong neighborhood of northern Seoul. The temple was built on the site of a fancy restaurant called Daewongak. The restaurant owner donated her property to the revered Buddhist monk Venerable Bupjeong (1932-2010), who turned the property into a temple that opened in 1997. Although Gilsangsa has a relatively short history, it is conveniently located in the heart of Seoul so it attracts many local and international visitors alike. The temple also serves as a downtown cultural space by offering a variety of Buddhist programs like temple experience, classes on Buddhist teachings, and templestay. The temple features Gilsang Seonwon (zen center) and the House of Silence, which are special halls dedicated to practicing meditation. While Gilsang Seonwon provides meditation rooms for Buddhists with experience in meditation, the House of Silence is open to the general public at liberty to pursue personal meditation. Gilsangsa also has a branch temple in Paris.


Busan(Haeundae-gu) , Haeundae

Established and run by the Goeun Foundation, the Goeun Museum of Photography and the Goeun Contemporary Photo Museum are located in Haeundae, Busan and are the first photography museums founded outside of the capital city of Seoul. The museums aim to offer more cultural opportunities to visitors by collecting real and valuable works representing both Korean and international artists. The venue also acts in the discovery and support of new and up-and-coming artists. Goeun Museum of Photography has an exhibit room on the 2nd floor, as well as a seminar room and a photo library on the 1st floor. Goeun Contemporary Photo Museum has 3 different spaces for exhibitions, mainly concentrated on contemporary photo works.


Incheon(Ganghwa-gun)

Deokjinjin was the key strategic point of the outer castle wall used for defending the Ganghwa Straits during the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392). It was originally a military camp commanded by an official with the rank of Cheomsa under the command of the Korean naval base. In 1677, an official with the rank of Manho was assigned to this camp along with 26 military officials, 100 soldiers, 2 battle ships, and other military equipment. In 1679, the Namjangpodae and Deokjinpodae batteries were stationed here. Deokjinjin Camp was the scene of fierce battles that took place during Byeonginyangyo (the French invasion in 1866) and Shinmiyangyo (the American invasion in 1871). The battlements and gatehouse of Deokjinjin that had all been destroyed during Sinmiyangyo were restored in 1977. At the Namjangpodae Battery, cannons used by the Joseon military have been reproduced and installed for display.


Seoul(Seongdong-gu) , The Eastern Part of the Seoul

From Eungbongsan Mountain (94m) one can easily see the Hangang River, Seoul Forest, Jamsil Sports Complex and more in the eastern part of Seoul. With such a great view of the Hangang River, the mountain are packed with visitors including many photographers. There is a sunrise event on the first day of the year and forsythia festival around April as the mountain is well-known for its forsythia.


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.


Jeju-do(Jeju-si) , SinJeju

Samdasoo is volcanic bedrock water produced and bottled by the Jeju Special Self-Governing Province Development Corporation. Jeju-do Island records the highest level of rainfall in Korea and 46% of the total rainfall permeates underground to form the vast groundwater resources. Samdasoo factory is located in Gyorae Village, where the precipitation is so high that it is impossible to farm on this part of island. The village is also the only site on Jeju-do Island with authorization to draw mineral water. The factory tour program begins with the screening of an 8 minute-long promotional video. At the Jeju Water Promotional Hall, visitors can learn more about the nation’s leading water brand, such as the history and birth of Jeju water, the geologic characteristics of the island, and the formation of volcanic bedrock water.


Seoul(Gangnam-gu)

PMC Production is a cultural venture capital company that plans and produces musicals and films. Among its recent productions is Nanta, an incredibly popular nonverbal performance. PMC Kids Hall is a large (3,000㎡) theater and cultural space for children that is located only a minute away from Samseong Station.


Daegu(Dalseo-gu)

83 Tower is a symbol of Daegu and offers an incredible view of the entire city. The tower also has a revolving restaurant and Sky Lounge, offering top cuisine and night views of the city.


Seoul(Nowon-gu)

Korea Military Academy is a place of strict rules, patriotism, and military cadets. It was extremely difficult for outsiders to visit the academy until 1997, when a special tourism course was created. The course showcases the major sites at Korea Military Academy. Starting from the school information center, visitors can see the museum, memorial hall, and exhibition center in a 1.5 hour course. The Military Museum displays treasures and materials from each branch of the military, while visitors can see the history of the military and lifestyle of cadets at the memorial hall. However, the highlight of a trip to Korea Military Academy is watching the Hwarang Ceremony, a parade of cadets which takes place every Saturday at 11:30. In the ceremony, cadets don their formal uniform to march. Touring the academy at 10 is perfect for watching the parade later.


Gangwon-do(Sokcho-si)

Located in Sokcho, the Teddy Bear Farm Gallery offers a glimpse into the unique lifestyle of Sokcho through teddy bears: teddy bears are displayed mountain-climbing, skiing, playing golf, riding a boat from Abai Village to downtown, working hard on a squid fishing boat, sun tanning, or even defending the country. Visitors can purchase teddy bears at the gift shop and there are also some learning programs for teddy bear fans.