Jeollabuk-do(Namwon-si)

The Namwon National Gugak Center envelops visitors in the enchanting world of Korean folk music, a genre known for its explicit beauty. Recruiting only the nation’s top performers in each discipline, the center offers a variety of regular folk performances such as musical plays, Pansori (epic stories told through song), folk songs, Gaya harp concerts, Samulnori, and more, representing all types of Korean traditional music.The center is located in Namwon, the birthplace of “Dongpyeonjae Pansori,” and offers a regular “Pansori Performance” through which visitors can hear the authentic melodies of Dongpyeonjae Pansori, handed down from generation to generation.In addition to performances, the center is home to a folk music reference room and a traditional Korean instrument gallery displaying approximately 60 different kinds of instruments along with pictures of famous performers. Among the instruments on display, of particular note are Gangneung Province’s “Sogu” (small drum) and the traditional Jeju folk instrument the “Muak.”Nearby attractions include Gwanghallu, a garden from the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) and Ojakgyo, the bridge from the epic love story of Gyeonwoo and Jiknyeo. Namwon is also famous as the setting of the ancient novel “Chunhyangjeon,” which is celebrated with Chunhyang, a folk festival that takes place each year on May 5th.


Seoul(Seongbuk-gu) , Samcheongdong・The Northern Part of the Seoul

Reflecting its name (literally the ‘House with Threefold Purity’), Samcheonggak is located in one of the most pristine places in the city and has born witness to standout moments in Korean history. It was the venue for the banquet for the Joint Statement (July 4, 2007) between North and South Korean representatives and has served as a forum for a variety of other political and diplomatic functions. The City of Seoul took over Samcheonggak in 2000 and made it available to the public and the building has been under the management of the Sejong Center for the Performance Arts since July 2009, affording visitors many opportunities to experience Korean traditional culture. The Korean Food Restaurant in Ilhwadang (Samcheonggak) features an impressive spread of delicious Korean dishes that have traditionally been enjoyed by royal and aristocratic families, using natural ingredients and pure water from Mt. Bukak. Dawon (Ilhwadang) offers traditional drinks, teas, and wine, and gives visitors dazzling scenery as the backdrop for their dining experience. In addition, Samcheonggak has several spots (Cheongcheondang, Cheonchudang, Yuhajeong, Chuihandang, and Dongbaekheon) for traditional performances, family gatherings, business meetings, workshops and seminars. Programs for Korean and international visitors allow for an exciting chance to experience traditional tea ceremonies, play a bamboo flute and Janggu (double-headed drum), and learn Pansori (traditional dramatic songs), make crafts, and cook Bibimbap.


4.0/1
Seoul(Mapo-gu)

24 Guest House Sinchon was created with the concept of a global guesthouse in downtown with the cultural association of space, sharing and sympathy. With the most wanted Korean style by foreigners, reasonably priced rooms, young staffs who want to be your tour guide with fluent language service, convenient public transportation to the airport, and 24 Guest House’s own all-time events of Social Club and Crowd Funding, 24 Guest House becomes one with citizens of the world. Experience the real Korea alive in Myeongdong the heart of Seoul and Korean Wave.



Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Insadong・Jongnon

Sajik Park is one of the three most popular parks in Jongno-gu along with Tapgol Park and Samcheong Park. Located west of the Government Complex-Seoul on the southeastern foothills of Mt. Inwang, the park measures an impressive 188,710m².The name of the park dates back to 1395 when Taejo Lee Sung-gye made the first Sajikdan (altar to the State deities) along with the Jongmyo Shrine (Royal Ancestral Shrine) at the center of the park. "Sa" refers to the deity of the earth while "jik" refers to the deity of the five grains. Rites wishing for a good harvest were held regularly at the Sajikdan. However, the area was not officially recognized as a park until 1922 under the Japanese colonial period.In the park are several playgrounds, statues of Sin Saimdang, Hwanghakjeong, and Yi I (often referred to by his pen name ‘Yulgok’), and the Municipal Children's Library. Dangun Shrine and Jongno Library are situated nearby. By following the path next to Sajik Park for approximately 5 minutes, travelers can reach the Mt. Inwang hiking path with relative ease.


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

Soon after its opening in 1983, the Park Ryu Sook Gallery moved to Cheongdam-dong, an uncharted territory back in 1988. Ever since, the gallery has played a significant role in turning the region into one of the most representative art places in Korea. The Park Ryu Sook Gallery mainly deals with modern art, and contributes to the development of Korea's modern art scene by recruiting and supporting talented rookies in the field, and by introducing artwork of major modern artists from abroad. Moreover, the gallery works to promote Korean art worldwide by joining major art fairs such as the Chicago, Koln, and Basel art fairs. Through these and similar activities, the Park Ryu Sook Gallery works to provide the public the invaluable opportunity to enjoy quality artwork, maximize their own creativity, and take a moment out of their hectic lives to indulge in a little self-reflection.  


4.0/1
Busan(Jung-gu)

Hotel Commodore is modeled after the royal residence of the king during the Joseon Dynasty. Each floor is decorated with colorful works of art and the walls are embossed with traditional Korean designs and pictures. The floors and ceilings are decorated with lotus blossom patterns and the handrails are impressively crafted into the shape of dragons. The crescent-shaped structure gives guests a majestic view of the Busan Port and the ocean.



Incheon(Jung-gu) , Incheon Center

Nestled in Mt. Eungbongsan in Incheon Metropolitan City, Jayu Park was first called Manguk Park and then Seo Park as the Japanese power became stronger. During the colonial rule of Japan, there was another park called Dong Park (East Park), which was created and used as a shrine by the Japanese.  Jayu Park, or park of Freedom, has held its name ever since October 3, 1957 when a statue of General McArthur, who led the Incheon Amphibious Landing Operation during the Korean War, was erected at the summit of Mt. Eungbongsan. The park offers spectacular views of downtown Incheon and its surrounding mountains, the port, and the sea. Telephone  +82-32-760-7597 Closed  N/A (Open all year round) Parking Facilities  Available (Public Parking Lot) Restrooms  Available Facilities for the Handicapped  Parking spaces, restrooms, wheelchair ramp Baby Stroller Rentals  Not available Pets  Permitted


Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Insadong・Jongnon

               


Busan(Yeongdo-gu)

Yeongdodaegyo Bridge connects Jung-gu and Yeongdo-gu districts in Busan. Constructed in November 1934, it is the first island-land connecting bridge and the only single-leaf bascule bridge in Korea. The bridge lifts up on one side to make way for large vessels.  


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

Opened in 1999, L'amitié is a French boutique restaurant, serving French cuisine made from the finest Korean ingredients for a perfect fusion of two cultures and tastes.