Looking to explore Asia? Look no further than South Korea. This highly developed Asian gem offers a plethora of activities to indulge in.

Touching down in Seoul, a prime choice I must say, opens up a world of possibilities.

Amidst the modern skyscrapers and cutting-edge subways that make up this sprawling metropolis, you’ll find a harmonious blend with pop culture.

But Seoul isn’t just about the contemporary – delve into the serene beauty of Buddhist temples and grand palaces, all while treating your taste buds to the delights of Korean street food at bustling street markets.

1. Visit the South Korea Gocheok Sky Dome

The Gocheok Sky Dome located in a small neighborhood of Guro-gu in Seoul is a domed baseball stadium.

Baseball is one of the country’s favorite sports, so matches are a high form of entertainment, as fanatics will crowd the arena. Sky Dome is the home ballpark of KBO club Kiwoom Heroes.

Though the big hall-like stadium is completely covered on the top, it is primarily used for baseball and has a capacity for 16,744 spectators.

 This beautifully designed structure was opened on 15 September 2015.

Beyond its role as a sports complex, this venue transforms into a concert epicenter, accommodating approximately 25,000 spectators.

In 2016, I had the privilege of participating in a Christian crusade hosted by Korean churches, featuring the esteemed Prophet T.B. Joshua from Nigeria as the keynote speaker.

As I entered, I couldn’t help but marvel at the advanced technology that had been harnessed to construct this colossal, versatile structure.

In the past, this facility has been used to host major events. For example, the first round of the 2017 World Baseball Classic, featured host nations Taiwan, South Korea, Netherlands, and Israel.

In 2019, the large Gocheok Dome hosted the opening round of Group C at the 2019 WBSC Premier 12. South Korea, Cuba, Australia and Canada competed in Group C.

Check online to go visit the dome if there are any activities.

2. Explore the South Korea Gwangmyeongdonggul Cave (광명동굴)

Gwangmyeongdonggul Cave stands as South Korea’s premier themed cave park, offering an array of cultural and artistic wonders.

Its origins as a former gold mine, where precious metals like gold, silver, and bronze were once extracted, added a layer of astonishment to my visit.

Utilizing state-of-the-art technology, this space has been ingeniously transformed, inviting both local Koreans and international tourists to immerse themselves in its offerings.

Within this expansive underground expanse, the Wine Cave and Cave Aqua World beckon visitors to partake in novel experiences.

From Gold Falls to Gold Road, Gold Palace to Horror Experience, and from Cave Basement World to Underground Lake, the attractions unfold one after another.

Notably, the largest dragon sculpture in the nation stands here as well.

While many caves remain shrouded in darkness, Gwangmyeongdonggul Cave defies the norm.

Bright LED lights adorn its path, guiding visitors from the entrance to the depths of the subterranean realm.

And that’s not all; every weekend, a captivating Black Light Performance unfolds, captivating all in attendance.

It’s said that this distinctive cave isn’t just an attraction but a place of healing.

As you wander through its corridors, you’ll encounter numerous spots thought to hold healing energy, providing solace and rejuvenation for the mind.

Though I visited in 2015 when it was opened, this cave became one of Korea’s 100 top destinations between 2017-2018.

Ensure to plan a trip within the week. This is because from Tuesdays to weekends because it is closed on Mondays.

The tour inside is 30-40mins but could be a satisfying life experience.

Facilities for eating at the cave

The indoor cave Café is at Upcycle Art Center (2F). The menu varies with Korean meals and drinks, but you can only visit between 9 am-6 pm within open days
– Inquiries: +82-2-2612-7710

There is also a small outdoor café located near the Cave Ticketing Booth No. 1. Here, there are Western meals like oven-baked pizza, hot dog, snack, drinks, etc. It is equally opened only from 9 am to 6 pm on days when the cave is open.
– Inquiries: +82-70-4277-8907

Are you a shopaholic? Or would you want to buy a souvenir? There is a small Gift Shop beside the Cave Ticketing Booth No. 1. It opens and closes at the same time as the other places above.
– Inquiries: +82-70-4451-3192

If you didn’t have lunch before going there, then the Maru de Cave Restaurant is open from 11:30-14:30 / 18:00-21:00. Despite its irregular plan, it is certain you can relax here to eat after reserving at least 3 days before visiting via phone. (+82-70-4277-8908)

I was able to watch a concert performance by a violinist. The place was crowded that Saturday, but I recommend visiting during weekdays

How much are the fees?

Facilities and Services:

Parking: Available for a fee.

Suitability: Suitable for all age groups.

Entrance Fees:

• Adults: 5,000 won
• Teenagers: 2,500 won
• Children: 1,500 won

Discounts:

• Groups and Gwangmyeong residents eligible for discounts.
• Additional fees might apply for specific programs.
• Free admission for infants (aged 3 & below) and seniors (ages 65 & over).

Facilities Available:

• Convenient Facilities: Walking path, trekking path, nursing room, medical care room, etc.
• Educational Facilities: Gwangmyeong Resource Recovery Facility Exhibition Hall.
• Physical Facilities: Aixia Forest (children’s playground).
• Sanitation Facilities: Restroom, drinking fountain, etc.

Interpretation Services:

• Available upon request for group visitors speaking English, Japanese, or Chinese.

Group Reservations for Foreigners:

• For groups of 20 or more people.
• Reservation required 7 days prior to the visit.
• Not available on Mondays, weekends, and national holidays.

3. Visit the King Sejong statue

The massive Statue of King Sejong is located at the Sejongno, Gwanghwamun Plaza in central Seoul.

It is dedicated to the 15th-century Korean monarch, Sejong the Great.

He was the fourth king of Joseon dynasty and one of Korea’s most popular historical icons.

Made of steel sitting on a large pillar, it is one of Seoul’s major landmarks.

The government unveiled it in 2009 branding it as “South Korea’s most iconic statue.”

The statue beautifiescentral Seoul next to the Gwanghwamun Plaza.

Who designed and made the famous South Korea statue?

Kim Yeong-won designed the statue. He is a carving and modeling professor at Hongik University. The sitting King Sejong was designed after a chosen competitive bet between a shortlist of artists recommended by the Korean Fine Arts Association and universities.  

Every year, Koreans celebrate the  Hangul (Korean language) Day.  

The Monument’s Significance:

This grand statue commemorates the 563rd anniversary of the inception of the Korean alphabet by King Sejong.

Specifications and Impression:

In terms of structure and composition, the statue stands as a mighty golden figure, spanning a height ranging from 6.2 to 9.5 meters and boasting a weight of 20 tons.

When I stood beside it, I couldn’t help but feel dwarfed, akin to a tiny ant in its presence.

On sunny days, gazing up at its pinnacle requires quite a neck stretch.

The statue portrays King Sejong with one hand raised and the other gripping a book, a representation that honors his pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape of Koreans.

King Sejong’s Reverence:

Koreans hold King Sejong in profound esteem, a sentiment I came to understand during my studies at the Sunmoon Language Institute. His enduring legacy in the educational realm stands as a testament to this admiration.

Inscription Display:

Dominating the expansive side walls of the statue’s pillar are displays showcasing the entire Hangul alphabet characters, offering a tangible celebration of linguistic innovation.

Still as a memorial of his unique influence in Korea, in front of the statue there are small models of a celestial globe, a rain gauge, and a sundial, some of his traditional inventions.

I was surprised to know he was involved in the promotion of agriculture, literature, science and technology, as well as Confucian philosophy, in Korea

4. Visit a tourist Korean village settlement

Amidst the bustling expanse of Seoul, where towering skyscrapers and meticulously designed apartment complexes dominate the landscape, there exist pockets of neighborhoods that offer a glimpse into the past.

These enclaves boast ancient Korean-designed houses, each meticulously crafted in the distinctive and time-honored traditional style.

The structure of the Korean traditional house called a hanok consists of a wooden framework consisting of columns, crossbeams, purlins, rafters and various types of supports and connectors.

Hanok is also common in North Korea and China. It was first designed and built in the 14th century during the Joseon dynasty. 

Generally, Korean architecture considers the positioning of the house in relation to its surroundings.

Speaking of the connection to the land and the rhythm of the seasons, the interior of these houses is thoughtfully designed, featuring wooden flooring where residents would gather, sit, and even sleep on cushions or directly on the floor.

In ancient times, an idyllic Korean dwelling was envisioned to have a mountain as its backdrop and a river flowing in front.

This symbiotic relationship with nature was paramount.

For a genuine immersion into Korean architectural nuances, you’ll observe that the forms and styles differ according to the region.

For instance, in the colder northern areas of Korea, houses took on a square layout with a central courtyard, optimizing heat retention.

Conversely, in the southern regions, a more open and L-shaped design was favored, adapting to the local climate.

At this tour visit, you can enter the house and walk around the courtyard. No one lives here.

There are just guards wearing traditional Korean outfits who show you around and explain a bit of the history.

It was a great experience for me.

5. Attend a South Korea traditional concert

The reverence Koreans hold for their culture is palpable, driving them to earnestly champion its promotion.

Traditional songs resonate throughout the air, becoming an integral part of the city’s tapestry. Regardless of the season, you’ll find melodies echoing along the streets and within dedicated venues.

Concerts are thoughtfully arranged, offering platforms for people to come together, sing, and revel in dance.

These gatherings are infused with an energy that’s nothing short of vibrant, as they brim with a multitude of performances and cultural spectacles that leave an indelible mark.

The spectrum of offerings ranges from music to mesmerizing art displays.

It’s a tranquil antidote to the rigors of daily life, providing a space to shed the weight of work or academic pressures.

What is arirang?

Among the collection of songs, some hold a unique status, collectively known as Arirang.

These compositions bear profound cultural significance, delving into themes of departure and reunion, as well as the spectrum of human emotions encompassing sorrow, joy, and happiness.

The tapestry of Arirang comprises various categories, distinguished by their distinct lyrics and melodies.

Notably, the thirty-six recognized versions of Arirang have undergone a continuous evolution, each contributing to the rich heritage.

On a fortunate occasion, my friends and I were welcomed into a complimentary tour group that culminated in a captivating concert.

I found myself entranced by the exuberant performances that unfolded before us.

Among the delightful showcases, it was the spirited singing and dancing by the young children that left an indelible impression on me.

However, it was the astonishing drumming presentation by the skilled women that truly took my breath away.

Though the arirang songs are not upbeat like the K-Pop famous brands, they can be very solemn and enjoyable. In some cases, it is great to just listen to the musical pitches of the singers.

At the end of the concert, all the foreigners at the event were invited to sing too.

6. Seoul city tour

Among the myriad delights Seoul offers, consider concluding your journey with these recommended destinations:

Riverside Retreat: Immersing yourself in the city’s charm wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the riverside.

The Han River gracefully divides Seoul into two expansive zones, connected by a lengthy concrete bridge.

While the river itself doesn’t invite swimmers, its beaches beckon for leisurely strolls and serene rendezvous with nature.

My experience was amidst a fog-laden, breezy winter day, curtailing my time by the water.

To truly relish this experience, I encourage a visit during the balmy seasons of summer or spring. The vista is singular, and the air carries an invigorating essence.

War Museum Discovery: A pivotal part of our tour led us to a modest war museum.

This repository housed relics from ages past, showcasing a diverse array of ancient war artifacts, from weaponry to historical currency. It proved fascinating to discern the contrasts between bygone coins and notes and the modern currency in circulation.

The resilience of Korea’s history, and its commendable efforts to rebound from the ravages of the Korean War, garners admiration.

These culminating experiences encapsulate the essence of Seoul, offering a blend of natural beauty and a poignant connection to history.

Are you interested to find out other places you can visit in Korea and other countries? Please click here.