[Photo News] Everland’s favorite panda mascot

Giant Bao, a massive blown-up balloon version of Everland’s popular panda Fu Bao, has become a go-to tourist attraction in the largest theme park and zoo in South Korea. It has been a year of Fu Bao -- the first panda to be born naturally in Korea in 2020 -- for Everland as countless visitors fell in love with the panda's lovely charm and cuteness. Everland has prepared a special photo zone with the 12-meter-tall mascot at the entrance. Visitors can take pictures with other installati

Dec. 22, 2023

[Travel Bits] Festivals, sights across Korea

Lighting at Cheonggye Plaza Cheonggye Plaza is lit up in festival lights until the end of this month from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Visitors can drop by and see the area illuminated with a giant Christmas tree set up along the Cheonggye Stream, which runs from west to east starting from the plaza. There is no admission fee. Parking and public bathrooms are not separately available. Visitors are encouraged to use the subway. The nearest stations to the area are Exit No. 5 from Gwanghwamun Station on

Dec. 22, 2023

North Gyeongsang Province beckons tourists with UNESCO World Heritage

With Gaya Tumuli as the country’s latest addition to the list of UNESCO World Heritage in early September, North Gyeongsang Province now offers six UNESCO World Heritage sites for tourists, each capturing travelers’ hearts with different charms. Gaya Tumuli refers to the seven tomb clusters of Korea’s ancient Gaya Kingdom (42 BC-562 AD). The historical site was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List for its universal value as archaeological evidence of Gaya culture, and sh

Dec. 21, 2023

Outdoor ice skating rinks open for winter season

Several outdoor ice skating rinks are opening this weekend, beckoning winter sports lovers. Though the ice condition may not satisfy the most sensitive skaters, outdoor rinks are a popular option for fun with one's family and friends, enjoying the cold season to the fullest at an affordable price. Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink is arguably the most popular and accessible outdoor skating rink in the nation. Located in front of City Hall in central Seoul, the rink is a favorite for skaters from

Dec. 20, 2023

Haenam poised to become top travel destination for culture, history buffs

When searching for cities to visit and learn about the history of Korea, the capitals of old Korean kingdoms, such as Seoul; Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province; and Gongju, South Chungcheong Province, may be the first to come to mind. While all three cities boast ancient architecture, a rich cultural heritage and a unique appeal in their own right, there is a lesser known historical gem that is certainly worth a visit. Haenam -- a small county located close at the southernmost point of the Kore

Dec. 16, 2023

[Travel Bits] Festivals, sights across Korea

Nature Park A zoo for those curious about how animals survive winter has opened in Daegu. Visitors can feed the animals and enjoy the nearby flower garden and playground. Through early January, guests will receive presents if they buy a “Lucky Bag” sold on the spot. Admission is priced at 20,000 won for adults and 18,000 won for elementary school students and younger. The zoo is open Wednesday to Monday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. with last admissions at 5 p.m. More details are avail

Dec. 15, 2023

Revel in Christmas atmosphere outside of Seoul

Bonghwa, a remote county in North Gyeongsang Province, plans to create a memorable Christmas experience for visitors to the area, with a special opportunity to meet Santa Claus from Rovaniemi, Finland -- known as the official hometown of Santa Claus. The provincial government of North Gyeongsang Province on Monday confirmed the opening of its iconic Buncheon Santa Village on Saturday. The opening ceremony will feature dance performances, a concert by artists Lee Bo-ram and Woody, a marching

Dec. 12, 2023

S. Korea determined to become tourism powerhouse

With plans to prepare for the Visit Korea Year 2023-24 campaign, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism is going all out to make Korea another Asian tourism powerhouse and create a more enjoyable tourism environment for domestic holidaymakers. In a press briefing in Seoul on Thursday, Jang Mi-ran -- the second vice minister of culture, sports and tourism -- expressed high hopes to turn Korea into an appealing destination for both foreigners and locals, exceeding pre-pandemic visitor levels

Dec. 8, 2023

Cheorwon to open complete Hantan River trail

Cheorwon, one of the coldest counties in Korea located in Gangwon Province, on Thursday announced that its iconic Hantan River trekking course is fully available for winter lovers and outdoor activity enthusiasts, starting from Saturday. While the county initially unveiled the 5.15-kilometer trail that stretches from Jiktang Falls to Seungil Bridge in early November, starting this weekend tourists can walk the complete 8.5-kilometer trekking course to Goseokjeong Pavilion. Recognized for its u

Dec. 8, 2023

[Travel Bits] Festivals, sights across Korea

  Jeju Camellia Festival   Winter on Jeju Island is all about the camellia flower, which has become like a symbol for the island itself. Jeju Island invites visitors tired of the freezing cold to its camellia festival, which runs to the end of January next year. Visitors will be surrounded by blooming camellias in lush greenhouses, gardens and trails -- all within a park. Jeju tangerines add a flavor making the trip all worthwhile. Adults pay 13,000 won for entry, while fees for those

Dec. 8, 2023

Festivals to illuminate Seoul’s winter nights

The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced it will hold the first-ever light festival at Songhyeon Green Plaza in Jongno-gu, central Seoul from Dec. 15. The 37,117 square-meter park opened to the public in October 2022 for the first time in 110 years since the Japanese colonial era (1910-1945). Under the theme of “Experiencing Nature in Mysterious Light Garden,” the 2023 Light Festa in Songhyeon will feature six different exhibition spaces, including "Shadow Forest," "

Dec. 3, 2023

[Travel Bits] Festivals, sights across Korea

Yuseong Christmas Festival Yuseong Christmas Festival is scheduled to take place at Yuseong Hot Springs and its nearby park in Daejeon. The three-day event, which starts from Friday and runs through Sunday, features a Christmas tree lighting ceremony in front of Yuseong Hot Springs’ water screen at 6 p.m. A special Christmas market, featuring wine, candles, Christmas trees and Yuseong-themed merchandise, will run throughout the festival period as well. The store is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p

Dec. 1, 2023

Jeju Island offers many choices for holidaymakers with pets

If you visit Jeju Island, popular tourist spots, well-known landmarks, Instagrammable cafes and restaurants may be filled not only with holidaymakers but also with their pet dogs. A total of 307 pet-friendly destinations beckon pet owners looking to enjoy the southern resort island, worry-free. It is an increase of 130 places from 2022, taking into consideration the 23 spots that closed this year, according to Jeju Tourism Organization. Recognizing that most pet-welcoming places are restaurants

Nov. 25, 2023

[Travel Bits] Festivals, sights across Korea

Haeundae Lighting Festival, Busan One of Busan’s most famous winter festivals is set to begin on Dec. 2 and runs through Jan. 31 at areas around Haeundae Beach in the southeastern city. The special lighting ceremony is scheduled to take place at the event square at Haeundae Beach at 7 p.m. on Dec. 2. The festival features various light fixtures, lanterns and media art on display to entertain those who stop by. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll around Haeundae Beach, Haeundae Market, Gu

Nov. 24, 2023

Unique indoor dating spots to warm your winter days

The recent arrival of a bitter cold snap has many people looking for indoor activities, away from the chill in the air. The alleys near Konkuk University Station on Subway Line No. 2 attracts visitors with some unique indoor dating spots, offering a refuge from the start of this year's winter season. Ddowaddo With temperatures dropping significantly in the first week of November, many people have already taken out their puffer coats, an iconic essential to get through Korea's harsh win

Nov. 18, 2023

[Travel Bits] Festivals, sights across Korea

Board Game Festa in Seoul Seoul’s Board Game Festa is an event that promotes board games, showcasing some of the latest party games. The two-day convention is being held at Seoul Trade Exhibition and Convention in Gangnam-gu, southern Seoul, on Saturday and Sunday. Visitors can experience more than 400 Korean board games as well as board games from around the world for free, and take part in a tournament as well. Opening hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sund

Nov. 17, 2023

Journey to Joseon scholars' timeless dwellings

Gotaek, which translates to "old house," signifies a historic family residence. Typically, these homes were inhabited by the upper class, including scholars, and have been diligently preserved by generations maintaining much of their original form. The Korea Tourism Organization has selected five gotaek destinations to explore, each with a unique and compelling story to share. The destinations are: Yeoyudang in Namyangju, Gyeonggi Province; Incheon Citizens' Home in Incheon; Myeon

Nov. 11, 2023

[Travel Bits] Festivals, sights across Korea

Seosan Chrysanthemum Festival Seosan Chrysanthemum Festival is held in the areas around Seosan Agricultural Technology Center in Seosan, South Chungcheong Province. The event, which started Nov. 3, runs through Sunday. The flower-themed festival features a chrysanthemum exhibition showcasing various works of bonsai art and sculptures. It has diverse programs for vacationers, including flower picking, flower crown making, natural dyeing and more. The opening hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission t

Nov. 10, 2023

Catch fleeting fall foliage with exciting outdoor activities

Peeping leaves of red and gold while grasping a cup of warm coffee at a nearby cafe or enjoying the scenic views of the city in orange and brown hues on a bus ride is always a great way to feel the deepening autumn atmosphere. But, it’s a shame to just let the spectacular colors of ginkgo, maple and metasequoia and the gentle fall breeze go by, with the winter season lurking just around the corner. Take in the flaming reds, dazzling yellows and brilliant oranges with thrilling activities b

Nov. 4, 2023

[Travel Bits] Festivals, sights across Korea

Beartree Park Fall Foliage Festival Beartree Park Fall Foliage Festival, which began on Oct. 21, will run through Sunday at Beartree Park in Sejong. Visitors can enjoy the peak fall foliage while taking a light stroll along the walking trail at Beartree Park. The festival is set to entertain visitors with outdoor concerts, unique photo zones and more. Holidaymakers can immerse in nature and enjoy the autumn breeze. The opening hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission costs 12,000 won and 10,000 won

Nov. 3, 2023