Top 5 Must Do's

There are so many things to do and see in South Korea that it is hard to just focus on just a few “must do's”. Here are the top 5 things not to be missed.

1. Gyeongbok Palace

Gyeongbok Palace was built in 1395 built by Korea's King Taejo of the Joseon dynasty. This is one of the biggest palaces in Korea and worth seeing. In 1592 it was left in ruins after it burned during the Japanese invasion. King Gojong restored the palace to its former beauty in 1868. The architecture of the buildings is incredible and the gardens are pristine. Hours are from 9:00 to 5:00 or 6:00 during tourist season. It costs 3,000 Korean won for adults and 1,500 for children to enter. You can walk to it from stop 26 on the city bus route. It is closed on Tuesdays.

2. The Folklore and Natural History Museum

The Folklore and Natural History Museum is another must see in South Korea. It is near downtown Cheju city and displays folklore relics and plants and animals found on the Cheju Island. Three exhibition halls are divided into special resources, natural history of the area and folklore. It is open 8:30 to 6:30 daily.

3. Songup Folk Village

Songup Folk Village is on Cheju Island. Interestingly, most of the island inhabitants are female and known for their diving ability. They can dive around 20 meters deep and have the ability to stay underwater for over five minutes to search for clams that contain pearls. Songup Village will give you a good idea of what real island life is like.

4. Namdaemun Market

Namdaemun Market is in Seoul and shouldn't be missed. Here you can shop 10 acres and over 1000 shops for souvenirs that won't go in your closet or drawers and be forgotten. Here you will find knock off brands of purses that look like the real thing and the price is dirt cheap. You can also find clothing, shoes, vegetables, tableware, toys and jewelry. Wholesalers are open midnight to 6:00 am and retailers open at 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. Some Sundays the market is closed.

5. Lotte World

Lotte World is an amusement park that will exhilarate the senses. This is a theme park on the order of Disney World in the United States. They have rides, ice skating rink, parades, a lake, and there is a folk museum on site. There is an Adventure theme inside the building but outside is Magic Island theme. There are all kinds of activities and shows along with restaurants with cuisine of different countries. It is open 9:30 am to 11:00 pm every day. Admission runs around 36,000 won for adults for a day pass and 26,000 for young children. 

South Korea offers a look at a world pass, the culture of today and gives you a little magic along the way – a perfect place to vacation.