Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Insadong・Jongnon

In an effort to promote the majesty and grace of Korean royal culture and present a major traditional ceremony to the public, the Seoul Metropolitan Government hosts a reenactment of the royal wedding ceremony of King Gojong and Queen Min in the spring and fall every year. The reenactment will take place at Unhyeongung Palace, the original site of the royal wedding ceremony on March 21, 1866, for emperor Gojong and his empress Myeongseong. Based on thorough historical research and consultation by the palace’s counsel panel, the event is organized to commemorate the significance of Korean history and to shed some new light on a fading traditional culture. Event Programs: Garye in Korean refers to 1) a royal wedding or enthronement of the king; 2) a wedding or formal installation of a crown prince or his eldest son, or the prince imperial or his son. Because it is a major national ceremony, it is not uncommon for thousands of people to be mobilized during several months just for this event. Also, because of the strict and complex procedures and formalities of Joseon-Dynasty royal weddings, the procedures were established according to a set of regulations. In all traditional Korean weddings, the groom customarily visited the bride’s house and brings her to his home. The same applied to the king. However, because common houses were limited in space, royal weddings were held at Byeolgung, known as detached palaces. For King Gojong and Queen Min, Unhyeongung Palace was used as the Byeolgung. The reenactment of the wedding starts with Eoga Haengnyeol, a royal procession led by a banner emblazoned with the king’s coat of arms, the yellow dragon. Following the coat-of-arms banner was the five directions banner and other traditional royal trappings. Then followed the Bisuchaeg Uisik, or the formal installation of Min as the queen, and the Chinyeong, in which King Gojong takes her as the queen. The wedding reenactment lasts for two hours. Major Highlights: This ceremony is an exact reenactment of the royal wedding ceremony of Joseon's imperial family. It offers a great opportunity to see royal costumes and the lifestyle of Joseon dynasty. The traditional royal costumes are spectacular and elegant, and the wedding displays such regal and grandeur distinction. After the ceremony, there is a photo session, so don’t forget to bring a camera. * The wedding ceremony is held in Spring (April or May) and Fall (September or October).


Busan(Jung-gu) , Nampo-dong(Jagalchi Market)

Busan's Bupyeong Market is also known as Kkangtong (tin can) Market. It earned that funny name when it had a variety of imported canned goods from the United States for the US forces stationed in Korea during the Korean War. It was also known as ‘Dottegi (bustling plea) Market’. All the foreign products sold across the nation at that time were supplied from this market. Since this market is so large and had almost everything including foreign products which were rare at that time, it was also referred to as ‘Gukje (International) Market’. Nowadays, the market has reduced in size as many foreign products are freely imported, but the reputation and potential still remain. Some imported goods including liquor, clothes, ornaments, accessories, fashion items and electronic goods are still sold here.A night market opens from 18:00-24:00 at the public parking lot and at Arcade 2 of the market . Along the 110m-long street market are 11 kiosks selling Korean food, 6 kiosks selling international food such as Japanese and Filipino foods, and 13 vendors selling clothes and accessories. The entrance of the market greets visitors with bright LED lights and fun performances. A magic show and a guitar performance take place twice a day by the entrance of the market and the at the four-way intersection inside the market.


Daegu(Nam-gu)

Apsan Observatory has been praised for being at true harmony with the city and nature, as well as the past and the future. The observatory, located in Daegu Apsan Park, is famous for its full view of Daegu spread out below. The observatory can be reach by cable car, operating in 15 minute intervals, or by taking a one-hour hike for the more active visitors.


Seoul(Mapo-gu) , Hongik-University-Area

Geek Live House is one of the most popular live clubs in the Hongdae (Hongik University) area, the home of clubs in Korea. It was opened by professional musicians in February 2003 as a venue that focuses on music performances as opposed to dance. The club has state-of-the-art stage, lighting, and audio equipment and is one of the best places in the area to enjoy performances by your favorite music professionals as well as see some of the up-and-coming talent. The club can house over 150 visitors (seats and standing room) and hosts 3-4 live performances each night. The Geek Live House is a lively place to experience the Korean independent band music scene and the club culture of the Hongdae (Hongik University) area.


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

In the 1970s, an elevated road was built to connect the eastern and western sides around Seoul Station. However, the road was closed to road traffic due to safety issues. After this, rather than tearing down the existing structure, the road was transformed into Seoullo 7017, a new pedestrian walking experience. Seoullo 7017 gets its name from its years of new life, from being a traffic road in the 70s to a sky garden in 2017. The "17" also has a deeper meaning, with Seoullo 7017 being divided into 17 unique sections, and the road being located 17 meters above the ground. There are a variety of facilities along Seoullo 7017, including an information center, cafes, gardens, and stages. Seoullo 7017 itself is open all day, every day for visitors to enjoy at their leisure. If you would like a guided tour, be sure to sign up for the guided walking tour through the official Visit Seoul website.


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.


Busan(Jung-gu)

This restaurant specializes in samgye-tang (ginseng chicken soup) and has had 60 years of tradition in Nampo-dong. It has been family run for many generations.


Seoul(Gangnam-gu) , Apgujeong・Cheongdamdong

Established by Olivier Baussan, Loccitane has its roots in the French Provincial style. It is a brand focusing on overall "wellbeing": the harmony of sensual pleasure and mental bliss. It is one of the first brands in Korea to use essential oils and natural ingredients in all its product lines.


Jeollabuk-do(Jeonju-si)

Jeonju Express Bus Terminal is visited by more than 5,000 passengers every day, going to Seoul, Dong Seoul, Sangbong, Incheon, Sungnam, Goyang, Busan, Ulsan, Deagu, Daejeon (Government Complex), Gwangju and Osan (Gwanmyeong, Cheolsan) Terminals. These 12 routes are the most frequented from Jeonju Express Bus Terminal, with 300 deparures a day for the destinations.