Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Insadong・Jongnon

In 2013, the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Korea opened a new branch in Sogyeok-dong, Jongno-gu at the former site of the Defense Security Command. The announcement for the construction of the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul (MMCA Seoul) came out in 2009, and the architecture for the museum was selected through idea proposals and an architectural design competition in 2010. What makes the Seoul branch different from the others is that it introduced Korea’s traditional architectural concept of ‘madang’, which is a spacious courtyard where people can come in and gather together to socialize. MMCA Seoul's building is also designed to harmonize with the surrounding nature around the city.Equipped with facilities including a reference center, a project gallery theater and a multipurpose hall, MMCA Seoul strives to accommodate every mode of new artistic endeavor and to communicate with the public. The site is where Korea’s historical and political developments were achieved. Most of the old buildings are gone but a few still remains to remind people of its significant role.MMCA Seoul was inaugurated on November 12, 2013


Seoul(Songpa-gu)

Munjeong-dong Rodeo Street is a large shopping district containing over 200 brand-name discount stores. The street is T-shaped, with a 1km-long main street connected to a 400-meter-long alley, and the Munjeong 1-dong Resident Center located at the center. For shoppers’ convenience, there is a public parking lot (if visitors purchase goods at Rodeo Street, they can park here for free) and a parking lot for foreign tourists only (free of charge). Munjeong-dong Rodeo Street is one of Korea’s major shopping streets with customers ranging from teenagers to adults, since discount stores stocking sports wear, casual wear, shoes, men’s and ladies’ suits, and golf wear are all located on this street. Moreover, this is a great place to find deals on famous brands, at prices lower than at a department store. On some items you can get discounts of up to 70-80%.Shopping TipsSince most of the goods are stock from previous seasons, it might be better to purchase the more classic styles rather than the trendy fashions. In some cases, the goods might have been slightly crumpled or stained during the transfer from warehouse storage, but taking them to the dry-cleaners should fix most problems. However you should be careful when looking at the sewing quality, and check for missing buttons.One more thing to bear in mind is the shopping season. Even discount stores have periods when stock runs low. The best time to shop is immediately after the stores in Rodeo Street restock their merchandise. This is done at about the same time as department stores. There is also an enormous variety of goods to choose from during the Rodeo Festivals in May and September. The purchased goods are exchangeable but non-refundable, so check the quality of the products carefully before you purchase them. In addition, Munjeong-dong Rodeo Street has a wide selection of restaurants and entertainment facilities. There are a number of pizza places, coffee shops, and food courts, as well as internet cafes and game rooms in the alleys behind the stores. Visitors can also relax in the surrounding parks. There’s a park with a 600-year-old zelkova tree right behind the Munjeong 1-dong Resident Center. Munjeong Rodeo Street is not just a shopping area; it’s a cultural area. The ‘Munjeong-dong Cultural Festival’ takes place every year in May, and the ‘Munjeong-dong Rodeo Festival’ takes place in May every other year. During these festivals, visitors can watch traditional Korean performances, traditional wedding ceremonies, international fashion parades, hip-hop dancing, and more. A charity sale is held on weekends and national holidays on the open-air stage of the Munjeong 1-dong Resident Center, and merchandise is sold for even bigger discounts.


Incheon(Jung-gu) , Incheon Center

Discover the Incheon Art Platform: A Hub of Ever-Evolving Art and Culture Introduction to Incheon Art Platform When planning a trip to Incheon, South Korea, a must-visit destination is the Incheon Art Platform. Opened in September 2009, this vibrant cultural and artistic space was created as part of Incheon’s old downtown regeneration project. It offers a unique blend of history and modern creativity, making it a perfect spot for art enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike. A Historical and Modern Fusion Incheon Art Platform is situated in Haean-dong, an area known for its well-preserved architectural heritage. The complex comprises 13 buildings that were originally constructed in the 1930s and 1940s. These buildings have been thoughtfully remodeled to retain their historical charm while being repurposed into studios, galleries, performance halls, and other cultural facilities. This transformation has created a space where the past and present coexist harmoniously, providing visitors with a rich cultural experience. Facilities and Attractions The Incheon Art Platform is more than just a collection of buildings; it is a comprehensive cultural ecosystem designed to support and promote the arts. The facilities include: - Building A (Training Center): Home to the Incheon Foundation for Arts & Culture Life Culture Center. - Building B (Exhibition Hall): Features an exhibition hall and storage rooms. - Building C (Performance Hall): Equipped with a performance hall, practice rooms, and waiting areas. - Building D (Archive): Contains material rooms, a media lab, and spaces for facility management and policy research. - Buildings E1-E3 (Studios): Provide 22 studios, resting rooms, media labs, and workspaces for artists. - Building F (Guesthouse): Offers guestrooms, a laundry room, and rest areas. - Building G1 (Small Gallery): Used for exhibitions. - Building G2 (Platform Lounge): A research and meeting area for registered workers and a participation area for citizens. - Building G3 (IAP Promotional Hall) - Building H (Community Hall): Includes a café, community hall, and life culture center. Cultural Activities The platform hosts a variety of activities that cater to both artists and the public. It operates artist residency programs, and organizes exhibitions, performances, and educational programs that encourage community participation. This makes the Incheon Art Platform not only a place for artistic creation but also a space for cultural exchange and community engagement. Nearby Attractions In addition to the art platform, the surrounding area offers several other attractions: - Incheon Chinatown: A vibrant area where you can explore unique architecture and enjoy delicious Chinese cuisine. - Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village: A whimsical village decorated with fairy tale-themed murals and sculptures, perfect for families and children. - Wolmido Island: Known for its amusement park, scenic views, and seafood restaurants, it’s a great place to relax and have fun.  Visitor Information - Address: 11-5 Haean-dong, Jung-gu, Incheon - Hours: 09:00 - 21:30 - Admission: Free (Some special programs and performances may have fees) - Parking: Not available - Directions: From Incheon Station (Seoul Subway Line 1), Exit 1. Take Bus 15 or 28 and get off at Jung-gu Office. The Incheon Art Platform is a dynamic space where historical architecture meets contemporary art, offering a rich and engaging experience for all visitors. Whether you are an art lover or simply looking to explore Incheon’s cultural heritage, this platform is an essential stop on your itinerary.


Seoul(Seodaemun-gu) , Sinchon・Ewha Womans University

Mobum Tteok-bokki was established in 1976 and operations been handed down over 4 generations. Mobum is the originator of chadolbagi tteok-bokki (beef brisket and stir-fried rice cake).  Another unique aspect of Mobum’s tteok-bokki is that the tteok (rice cakes) are specially made and served in 30cm long lengths. Diners then cut the tteok to their desired eating size.  Mobum's representative dish is their chadolbagi tteok-bokki (beef brisket and stir-fried rice cake), but another well known menu item is their whole squid tteok-bokki. Additionally, diners can add garnishes to their tteok-bokki such as noodles, dumplings, and jumeok-bap (riceballs), and more!   


Seoul(Gangnam-gu) , Apgujeong・Cheongdamdong

Oh Tongyoung offers fresh seafood dishes with seafood directly delivered from the ocean. ​


Seoul(Jung-gu) , Insadong・Jongnon

Gomguksi is a soup consisting of handmade noodles and beef slices in a thick and rich beef broth. Gomguksi became famous through word-of-mouth by tourists from the neighboring country of Japan. These days the restaurant is always crowded with people. Also, the side dishes that accompany Gomguksi are extremely delicious.  


Gangwon-do(Pyeongchang-gun)

The Daegwallyeong Snow Festival is held in the Hoenggye-ri area, which is located in Daegwanryeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do. The festival starts with a fireworks display, followed by various programs such as a singing contest, an international naked marathon contest, a singing contest for multicultural families, a climbing competition, snow art contests, a snow literature event, etc. *Note: The detailed programs may differ each year, and festival period is subject to change depending on ice conditions (Opens only when the ice is completely frozen. Please refer to the official website or make a phone-inquiry before visiting).        


Seoul(Jung-gu) , Namdaemun・Seoul-Station

The old building of the Seoul train station was designed by Tsukamoto Yasushi, a professor of Tokyo University. Construction of the station started in June, 1922 and was completed in September, 1925. Due to its unique domed roof and large size, the station attracted much attention in its early years.After Korea regained its independence from under Japanese colonial rule, the station’s name was changed from ‘Gyeongseong Station’ to ‘Seoul Station’. During the Korean War, the station was partially destroyed but later restored. After Korea began industrializing after the war, the South annex and West annex were constructed to handle the increasing transportation volume.In 2004 when the privately-funded new station was constructed, the old station closed down, but after reconstruction in 2011 opened as a multicultural space called ‘Culture Station Seoul 284’. The main section (Jungang Hall) is for performances, exhibitions, events, and cafés, while the 2nd floor houses a hall that serves as a venue for cultural performances, exhibitions, academic seminars, business meetings, and more.


Seoul(Mapo-gu) , Yeouido・Yeongdeungpo・Mapo

Alternative Space Loop (also known as the “Loop”) is a non-profit gallery that provides exhibition space and support programs for young and promising artists. In the late 1900s, many artists could not afford to pay for exhibition space in a gallery and struggled to pursue their passion for the arts. The idea of a “free alternative exhibition space” was born and as a result, the Loop was opened in Sangsu-dong in Feb, 1999. In 2005, the Loop was moved to Seogyo-dong, its current location.On the first floor and in the basement, the works of new artists are on display. On the 2nd floor, there is a small café where visitors can take a break and enjoy a cup of coffee, have discussions, or read one of the books provided.The Loop has been holdng exhibitions and performances more than ten times a year ever since its opening. The gallery engages in diverse international exchanges such as Tirana Biennale and in 2002, was invited to the Gwangju Biennale as an alternative art space. 


Seoul(Gangnam-gu) , Gangnam・Samseongdong(COEX)

First opened in June 2003, Pungwoldang is a cultural salon for classical music enthusiasts. It's filled with music albums and houses seminars, travel services, and a café. There are over 11,000 music albums (classical music CDs/DVDs and opera CDs) and a diversity of seminars related to classical music. Visitors can watch music-related movies free of charge and can receive a 50% discount at the café with each album purchase.