Opportunities for fun and adventure in Seoul are vast. You’d be easily excused for spending your time here exploring inside the big city. Catching up on some serious high-end shopping or visiting one of many markets and finding a bargain. Dangling from a roller-coaster or two. Or being generously wowed by some of the world’s most delicious culinary delights.
It’s also a place to learn, and there’s lots to learn about Seoul. In the rank of world’s largest Metropolitan economies, Seoul ranks higher than London or Paris. It’s home to the world’s largest fountain bridge, Banpo Bridge over the Han River and four UNESCO world heritage sites. The world’s largest indoor theme park, Lotte World. Asia’s largest underground mall, Starfield CEOX Mall. An average of 28 days of snow per year…
Wow! So many facts! Such a metropolis could get a little overwhelming, especially with over 10 million people sharing the city with you. Okay, no more facts, we promise. Perhaps an escape from the big city for few hours, or a day or two. Let’s look at things to do outside Seoul and choose some of the best.
Hwaseong Fortress
Built between 1794-1796 by King Jeongjo who had dreams of an ideal city. Its original purposes were for defence, political strategy to establish king-led politics and end vicious faction struggles and to house the remains of Crown Prince Sado, the King’s father. The story goes he was locked inside a rice chest!
It’s worth mentioning this visit requires some level of physical fitness due to the walking involved. But, if you’re up for the challenge it’s a real treat. One reason people visit is the views from the summit of Paldal mountain, looking over Suwon beneath. But there is also the 6km walking trail to get there!
As you peruse, some things to admire include an impressive bronze statue of the king around the centre point of the fortified fortress. Along the stone walls you’ll notice sentry posts, fortified gates, cannons and Bongdon – the beacon signals similar to the one in Namsan park. With all the defence around, you may wonder what King Jeongjo was so concerned about? Just in case you’re called into action, why not practice some traditional Korean archery, which you can do here! But remember – it’s the 21st century so you’re unlikely to spot an enemy hoard breach the horizon!
Korean Folk Village
Nestled in the countryside in Yongin is the Korean Folk Village. Easily reached via subway from Gangnam, this slice of traditional Korean life is a far cry from the skyscrapers and busy streets of Seoul.
With sights, sounds and tastes you won’t find anywhere else, as you explore the neighbourhood of 260 traditional style houses, it’s possible to imagine how your life might have been way back in the Joseon Dynasty. You are also assured of a few greetings from folk in traditional dress willing to offer a few pointers. You can have a go at chopping wood. Watch traditional dance performances. See professional performers complete horse riding events. Indulge in some delicious traditional Korean food from one of the many stalls and learn how soya sauce was fermented and made.
Explore Incheon
A great escape from Seoul’s neon lit streets, this smaller neighbouring city is a stone’s throw away from the gorgeous Muuido Island and the sea. Strolls along the white sands of famous Hanagae Beach surrounded by green pine forests could be just the escape you need. Here you can go climbing or hiking along the coast or indulge in some amazing seafood dishes in one of the many restaurants.
Visit Chinatown in Incheon where you’ll see statues of Confucius and study some of the Chinese-Korean cultural connection at the Korea China Cultural Centre. Check out the culture street, a walkway popular with locals lined with cafes and seafood restaurants overlooking the sea. Then there’s Soraepogu Port where you’ll see how all the delicious seafood, the salted clams, anchovies, herrings, and shrimp along with all that amazing fish and crabs you’ve been eating are caught.
Nami Island
Located in Gapyeong County, part of Gyeonggi province about an hour drive, or an hour on the subway from Seoul station, is the stunning crescent-moon shaped Nami Island. After a five minute ferry to the island itself, you’re free to explore. Nami Island is one of Seoul’s best attractions for those seeking the natural beauty and diverse terrain outside Seoul.
A popular part of any Seoul itinerary, it’s worth bearing in mind it can get busy. If you want to catch it when its less busy, try during the week.
Magical all year round, admire springtime cherry blossoms, while the Maple Lane of True Love offers stunning autumnal foliage and catch it in snow and you’ll feel like you’ve slipped into a scene from a children’s fantasy novel. Animals here add to the magic – you can expect squirrels, peacocks, rabbits, lots of bird species, fish and quite surprisingly… ostriches! There are river walks, cycling, picnics and camping. Not to mention water sports, swimming, roller skating, a museum of musical instruments and a mini tourist train. However, relaxing strolls seem to be the main aim here. What else is here? The Garden of the Morning Calm, a horticulturalist’s dream where you can explore around some amazing Korean plants and flowers. And about 20 minutes’ drive is Petite France, a stunning French themed village next to Cheongpyeong Lake.
DMZ
Around 50 kilometres outside of Seoul is the DMZ or the demilitarised zone.
It’s no secret Korea is split in two. It’s been that way since the end of the Cold War when leader of the South, Syngman Rhee, allied with the US, whilst at the same time Kim Il-sung, leader of North Korea installed a communist regime.
What is really here? The major focus is the 250 kilometre long, four kilometre wide buffer zone between the North and the South, with the MDL or Military Demarcation Line (seen from a distance) being the actual border between the two. With such a tense sounding description, it’s worth noting it’s advised you bring your passport or ID card.
There’s also a number of infiltration tunnels, a peace park where you can see artworks, and dotted around the DMZ you’ll see monuments, statues and artillery remnants of the Korean War. Possibly the most poignant sight here is the Bridge of Freedom. Here you’ll see bright ribbons honouring relatives, friends and family of visitors come to pay their respects. For a different viewpoint, try the Dora observatory overlooking the DMZ. This particular spot is the closest you’ll get to the North Korea from the south. With binoculars, including the ones installed for this purpose, you can see into the north and the the Kim Il-sung statue and cooperation farm (Geumamgol).
Fun Alternatives Outside Seoul
Seeking some extra thrills? Try ziplining at Gapyeong, amongst nerve pulsing views of Blade’s Edge Mountain. Or skiing at the Vivavdi ski resort.
So, now you know my picks for things to do outside Seoul. We hope you enjoy your time in this fascinating South Korean capital! And that we’ve helped you make the most of your holiday in South Korea. We’ve seen some intimidating artillery both old and more modern, stepped back in time six hundred years at the Korean Folk Village and spent some time relaxing on the beach.
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