Gyeonggi-do(Suwon-si) , suwon

Wolhwawon Garden at the west point of Hyowon Park, located in Paldang-gu of Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, is known for unqiue style resembling Chinese elements. With a concept heavily influenced from ancient Guangdong Province of China, visitors can easily experience a Chinese culture from this grandeur establishement without having to travel far. The story of how the Chinese garden came to the Korean soil begun with a special memorandom of agreement (MOU) made between the provicial governments of Gyeonggi-do (Korea) and that of Guangdong (China) in October 2003. In appreciation of each other's cultural heritages and the friendship, both parties agreed to build traditional gardens of the counterpart, in each city. Following the agreement was the construction of Wolhwawon on June 15, 2005 and thereafter the opening to the public as of April 17, 2006. In a detailed note, this replica is similar to those largely found from Yeongnam region of China. The grand site not only inspires visitors to this garden, but also offers enjoyable views of the man-made mountain and lake located outside, visible through the building's windows. The artificial fountain in particular, was built with a pavilion modeled after a ship. Following the traditional architectural style of buildings in Guangdong province, Chinese poems and words are also found in multiple places written in white, over blue bricks and wood. Roofs were made of bricks, wood and lime combined.   About 80 Chinese laborers came to Korea in June 2005 to build this garden of 6,026㎡ (1,820 pyeong), costing about 3.4 billion won in completion, and the incurred fee was beared by the Guangdong province. Consequently, based on the MOU, Gyeonggi-do on the other hand constructed a 'Gyeonggi Garden' in Yuexiu Park in Guangzhou province, China, which became open to the public in December 2005. The garden was remodeled after Soswaewon Garden, a traditional Korean garden currently located in Damyang-gun, Jeollanam-do.  


Jeollabuk-do(Jeonju-si)

Jeonju has been a major producer of quality hanji paper for more than a thousand years. In keeping with this proud tradition, the Jeonju Traditional Hanji Center aims to preserve traditional paper-making techniques and become a mainstay in the hanji industry. More than 80 percent of the paper produced at the center is exported to Japan while the rest is used in Korea. The center produces, exhibits, and sells hanji used for calligraphy, Oriental paintings, and crafts, as well as special “yellow earth” wallpaper hanji and charcoal hanji, said to provide certain health benefits.


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

A must-visit museum for Korean film fans A museum dedicated to everything related to Korean films. Not only does the museum strives to collect, preserve, and screen Korean films, but it also Korea's largest archive of international and independent films. Visitors can watch and make films, and participate in special programs such as the filmmaking process experience and Children's Film Academy Awards.


Daegu(Jung-gu)

Unlike traditional 'gukbap,' which is rice in beef broth based soup, the rice and the soup in 'ttaro-gukbap (ttaro meaning 'separately')' are served separately. It is a speciality in Daegu, and the main dish served at Gugil Ttarogukbap (국일따로국밥). The restaurant makes the broth with beef bones, and adds spices, meat and coagulated ox blood to complete rich and flavorful soup. Meanwhile, the restaurant was designated as a site of master craftsmanship by the Korean Traditional Culture Preservation Committee, as well as an authentic local speciality restaurant in Daegu. ​


Gyeongsangbuk-do(Gyeongju-si)

Bomunho Lake is a man-made lake 1,652,900m² in size. It was built on the site of an old fortress in Mount Myeonghwalsan in the east of Gyeongju in accordance with the Gyeongju Bomun Tourist Resort development plan. There are many leisure facilities and parks around the lake, including an international hotel and Gyeongju World. Bomun Lake is very popular among bikers and walkers.Unlike other cities or towns where cherry trees are only found in certain areas, Gyeongju is packed with cherry blossoms. When spring arrives, the whole cityscape turns pink with the beautiful blossoms. The combination of the stunning trees reflected in the waters of Bomunho Lake and the trees of Bulguksa Park gracefully adorning the nearby temple make for particularly stunning sights. When the light breeze blows, cherry blossoms gentle flutter down like satin snow flakes. The Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon is held in April when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. 


Seoul(Seongbuk-gu) , Daehangno・Seongbukdong

E-mart is a discount supermarket operated by Shinsegae, a department store franchise. With two basement levels and five levels above ground, E-mart Mia is one of the largest branches in Korea that sell a variety of high quality products at affordable prices. Moreover, E-mart Mia is located in close proximity of Jeongneung, the first Joseon Dynasty royal tomb made for a queen, and Bugaksan Seoul Fortress Wall.


Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Insadong・Jongnon

Opened in October 15, 1984, this small theater holds the firm belief that "children nurtured happily make the world happy." Named after Maeterlinck's fairly tale, Blue Bird, and equipped with two performance halls almost 200 square meters the Samtoh Blue Bird Theater has offered performances that inspire dreams and impart wisdom to children and love and romance to adults. Various programs for children include puppet plays, musicals, and educational plays while those for adults offer plays, live concerts, and poetry recitals. In particular, the theater offers song concerts for children on the fourth Monday night every month. In addition, the theater hosts diverse events such as Blue Bird Festival. Simply put, the theater is a great place for families to visit.  


Chungcheongbuk-do(Cheongju-si)

About hundred years ago, the "Cheongju Eupseong Fortress" existed in the middle what is today's Cheongju-si. The fortress had two main gates connecting its northern and southern points, as well as a main avenue crossing the village formed inside the fortress. The name for this avenue, called Seongan-gil (literally 'road inside the fortress'), makes a clear statement as to the role it has served in the city throughout the decades.Geographically located in the heart of the city, the place still serves as the central commercial area of Cheongju, drawing in crowds of both young people and older residents. Being the top tourist attraction in the region, the city government designated the area as a 'car free street,' making it a pedestrian-friendly place for shopping and meandering. Only registered and shipping vehicles can enter the area, but only in the morning until noon. After that time, all vehicular access is prohibited.With its popular attractions, such as the Rodeo shopping district, the iron flagpole of Yongdusa Temple Site, as well as other major department stores, movie theaters, and recreational parks, Seongan-gil is a favorite gathering place for residents of Cheongju.


Gangwon-do(Gangneung-si)

Gyeongpo Cherry Blossom Festival takes place at the center of Gyeongpodae Pavilion, the 6th regional tangible cultural treasure of Korea, when cherry blossoms on trees on the 4.3㎞ path around Gyeongpoho Lake are in full bloom. During the festival, various cultural events and flower exhibitions are held against the backdrop of the beautiful cherry blossom covered Gyeongpodae. 


Incheon(Jung-gu) , Incheon Center

Discover Jemulpo Gurabu: A Cultural Landmark in Incheon for International Visitors For international tourists visiting South Korea, Jemulpo Gurabu in Incheon is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of history and culture. This site, originally established as a social club in 1901, has been a significant venue for cultural exchange and interactions among various nationalities, including Americans, British, Germans, French, Russians, and even a small number of Chinese and Japanese residents. Jemulpo Gurabu, initially known as the Jemulpo Club, was built to foster camaraderie and social interaction among the foreign residents of Incheon during a crucial period of Korea's opening to the world. The club is housed in a picturesque two-story brick building, topped with a tin roof, echoing the architectural style of its era. The interior was thoughtfully designed with facilities such as a social room, a library, a billiards table, and a tennis court, reflecting its purpose as a hub for leisure and socialization.         ​ The club's history is marked by various transformations, mirroring the dynamic political and cultural shifts in Korea. After the foreign concession areas were abolished in 1914, the building served multiple purposes, including a Japanese veteran's hall and a women's association center. Post Korean liberation, it was used by the U.S. military. The building's role as a cultural center continued as it became the Incheon City Museum from 1953 to 1990 and later the Incheon Cultural Center from 1990 to 2006. In 2007, Jemulpo Gurabu was reborn, emphasizing its historical significance and the Japanese pronunciation of "club". Today, it stands as a testament to the rich cultural interactions of modern history, attracting visitors from all around the globe. For international tourists, especially those interested in the history of international relations and cultural exchange, Jemulpo Gurabu is an unmissable destination. Its rich history, architectural beauty, and significance as a site of cultural confluence make it a fascinating stop in Incheon. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture admirer, or simply in search of unique travel experiences, Jemulpo Gurabu offers a deep dive into Korea's diverse and intricate past, making it a must-visit landmark in South Korea.