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.


Seoul(Songpa-gu) , Jamsil(Lotte World)

The Olympic Park Peace Plaza ice skating rink, located in the Songpa-gu district of Seoul, is open for every winter. Seoul Olympic Museum, Soma Museum of Art, and Mongchontoseong Fortress are also within the vicinity.


Seoul(Jongno-gu)

Bukchon Heritage Studio is a hands-on culture space where visitors can experience traditional Korean cultural heritages. It is located in a large Korean-style house at the entrance of Bukchon Hanok Village. The studio provides various things to see and enjoy in which the traditional and the new are harmoniously mixed. Exhibitions display artwork created by intangible cultural assets and great masters.  The exhibitions also present Korean traditions from ancient art to modern art and how the process has developed.  Also, chances to see the production process of Seoul’s traditional folk alcoholic beverage "samhaeju" and sample it are offered. Other hands-on programs include traditional food programs. * First opened on April 5, 2013 * Founded by Cho Yongsik, Kim Yangsu, Kim Tonghwan * Collection: statue of the Buddha from Goryeo Dynasty, metallic cultural assets such as a tower and incense burner, works of contemporary artists including Paik Nam-june, Seo Se-ok, Byun Chong-gon, and Choi Byung-hoon and modern and contemporary furniture designed by Ettore Sottsass, Michele de Lucchi, Gaetano Pesce, and George Nelson


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

With 24 granite pillars, a splendid blue dome, and white exterior, the National Assembly Building is a beautiful piece of architecture. The historic building came to life in 1975 after six years of construction. The pillars and the dome symbolize the various opinions of the public emerging as one. The building is a favorite among tourists as it is located next to the Hangang River. The Hangang River sits behind the building as a beautiful backdrop.The National Assembly Building contains the Visitor Center, a walking area, and benches alongside the Hangang River. The easiest way to visit the National Assembly Building is by applying at the Visitor Center. One can tour various parts of the National Assembly Building as well as the main conferencing area. The application process lasts roughly twenty minutes. The drawback is that it does not offer a foreign language service. Those who are interested in seeing Korean politics in action may also see sessions as they proceed. However, those not particularly interested in Korean politics will be more than satisfied with the regular tour.


Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Insadong・Jongnon

Insa-dong has been situated at the heart of the nation’s capital for over 600 years and was at the center of culture during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). The Insa-dong area usually refers to the areas extending from the Anguk-dong Rotary to Tapgol Park in Jongro 2(i)-ga, past the Insa-dong Intersection. The notable features of Insa-dong are the countless alleys that branch out from the main street. Insa-dong has also become known as ‘Merry’s Area,’ one of the favorite shopping spots among foreigners. Over forty percent of the nation’s antique stores are clustered in the Insa-dong area, and they sell more valuable antiques compared to any other places in Korea. The price of the valuables and souvenirs in this area can range from 10,000 won to some hundred million won. Among the antiques sold there are old pictures, pottery, wooden containers and jewelry. There is a variety of artwork varying from earthenware of the Unified Silla Era to white pottery of the Joseon Era. Foreigners from all over the world including Japan, China, France, and America frequent Insa-dong to witness a truly traditional Korean atmosphere. Prices range greatly depending on the customers and the items. Old books are usually popular among the Japanese and Chinese tourists who can identify Hanja (Chinese characters). Antique books are purchased by many visitors, from history professors to antique collectors, at prices varying from 10,000 won to 30,000 won. Highly valued items are not sold and even if they are displayed in the store, as some shopkeepers do not intend to sell them. Archaeology and history books are the most popular selections. Some items are priceless so shopkeepers often name their own price, but keep in mind that some stores do have price tags to indicate products for sale. Tongmungwan is a representative store selling old books and has been run by a family for three generations. When you enter this small bookstore, you can see old books packed in rows. This bookstore was originally opened by the grandfather of the current shopkeeper, and is living proof of Insa-dong’s long-standing history. This is definitely a place worth visiting even if you do not intend to make a purchase. Traditional Korean ceramic ware is the main artwork Insa-dong has to offer. It is also the most popular item among tourists. Ceramic ware can be used in everyday life and many also consider it an essential decorative item. Ever since Queen Elizabeth I of England visited Insa-dong in April 1999 and praised the beauty of the ceramic art forms, many tourists from all over the world, including Europe, America, and Japan have become interested in them. Prices may start at 10,000 won, but can cost you up to some 10 million won. The most popular ceramic ware are pottery in the shape of a gourd bottle, costing anywhere from 100,000 won to 200,000 won. Keep in mind that the finer ceramic ware boast a clear color and have a clear resonant sound when tapped with the tip of your fingernail. Famous shops include ‘Park Young Suk Yo’ where Queen Elizabeth paid a visit and ‘Haedong Godoja.’ The main artwork offered are the common porcelain ware that have been recrafted, and pots of the Joseon Era. ‘Haedong Godoja’ is known for selling the best quality ceramic ware. ‘Goseohwa’ (old paintings and calligraphic arts) is another main form of artwork offered in Insa-dong. There are shops selling old artwork along with oriental paintings, as well as modern paintings. Shops such as Dongmundang and Gonghwarang display and sell old paintings along with calligraphic works. Antique furniture and other items are available at Naraksil and Gayajae. Naraksil offers great quality antique furniture such as bookshelves and bookstands, while Gayajae sells old pieces of furniture, stone Buddhas, and tiles. Other popular antiques can be found at ‘Toto’s Antiques’ where there are contemporary articles from the period before and after the liberation of Korea from Japanese forces. Even though there isn't any traditional artwork at this store, Korean antiques are displayed picturesquely. Toto’s Antiques seems to arouse nostalgia among its visitors, as it is decorated with old schoolbooks, toys, and ornaments from the 50’s and 60’s. Sunday is designated a pedestrian-friendly day as cars are not permitted in the area for on that day of the week. Instead, a flea market opens on this day to sell various antiques, accessories, artwork, and books. Traditional antiques from different parts of Korea as well as international antiques brought by foreign tourists are displayed throughout Insa-dong, allowing visitors to view many items in one glance. It is highly recommended that you visit Insa-dong on Sundays since you can also view the beautiful street art. When shopping in Insa-dong, make sure you check where the product is made. Recently, cheap Chinese goods such as teacups, wall tapestries, and small accessories have been brought into the Insa-dong markets and there have been cases where merchandise thought to be made in Korea turned out to be marked as ‘Made in China.’ So if you are looking to purchase only authentic Korean products, be sure to check the label. 


Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Insadong・Jongnon

Museum Kimchikan is a unique museum dedicated to kimchi and kimjang, the process of making kimchi which was designated as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The museum was also selected by CNN in March 2015 as one of the world’s top 11 food museums. Visitors can learn the history of kimchi as well as learn and get a taste of the different types of kimchi. Audio guides in English, Japanese, and Chinese are available for international visitors and a guided tour of the museum by a docent is also available at designated times. Online reservation is available through the museum’s official website.


Seoul(Gangnam-gu) , Sinsadong・Garosu-gil

At this restaurant, Pyeongyang-style handmade mandu (dumplings) casserole and Korean royal casserole are made in the traditional way and are very tempting. This restaurant has been around for 50 years and has been run by the same family in Pyeongan-do for three generations . Pyeongan-do Obuja is an ideal place to bring a special guest.


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

Hongdae Hope Market first took place in May 2002 as Korea’s first spontaneous handicraft market. Originally created with the aim of reviving the environmental-friendly handicraft industry, the market developed into a truly interactive space where local artists make and sell their unique craftwork at affordable prices.


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Gyeonggi-do(Suwon-si) , suwon

The KBS Suwon Studio is an outstanding film studio that produces HD digital TV dramas. It is comprised of an open set, drama production center, special set, and various facilities.Intended to be used semi-permanently, the studio boasts realistic buildings. A variety of dramas filmed there include historical dramas such as Empress Myeongseong and Dongyang Geukjang; the studio is also a popular site for producing movies, commercials, and music videos.In close collaboration with Suwon, KBS opened this media theme park full of attractions. Visitors can visit the studio through its tour program or the Suwon City Tour run by Suwon. 


Busan(Haeundae-gu) , Haeundae

The Bean Pole brand itself has been known for its high quality and excellent designs for a long time. Beanpole at Centum City boasts latest hats, shirts, and bags, popular among customers.