Important Notice: Please note that I have stopped updating all South Korea-related content published before 2020 on this blog. You may find all updated South Korea travel content at my dedicated, new travel site here: www.thecalmchronicle.com 

In an online poll of  “Countries that Singaporeans want to have an Air Travel Bubble with” conducted by The Straits Times, South Korea scored 40.7 per cent of votes, claiming its place as Singaporean’s favourite destinations after the COVID.

So here are my insider tips of 10 hidden Winter Wonderland destinations you should consider post-pandemic. Who knows, maybe we’ll have a travel-bubble with South Korea someday!

1. Jeonju Hanok Village

If you are an avid foodie at heart and interested in Korean traditional culture, Jeonju (전주) in Jeolla-do province is where you should head to. It is arguably the culinary city of South Korea where a long list of mouth-watering food experiences awaits. And if you are lucky enough, the snow painted Jeonju Hanok Village ( 전주 한옥마을) will be a sight to behold during your trip. Check out our Jeonju Hanok Village Street Food Guide and our 3D2N Jeonju itinerary here.

2. Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm 

Pyeongchang county (평창군)  in Gangwon Province is a snowboard capital of South Korea. And Daegwallyeong (대관령)  is nested within this beautiful county famed of its sheep farms and snow-covered landscape in winter. These enormous sheep farms offer a rare opportunity for city kids to enjoy the beauty of mother nature. Read my dedicated post regarding Daegwallyeong Yangtte Sheep Farm, a delicious Tangsuyuk and Jjajjang Myun restaurant in the region, as well as my recommended accommodation in Degwallyeong at Queen’s Garden Guesthouse.

3. Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌 한옥 마을) in Seoul is a traditional Korean housing cluster inhabited by the elite Yangban Noble class during the Joseon Dynasty. It has developed into a tourist site packed with independent cafes, tea-houses, and interesting shops or museums in recent years. Experience the enchanted atmosphere of Bukchon Hanok village after the snow here.

South Korea, Seoul, Jongno-gu, Gahoe-dong | 서울특별시 종로구 계동길 37 

4. The Palaces

I love going to the palaces in Seoul after heavy snowfall. Gyeongbok Palace is one of my favourites. The frozen lake, blue sky and the red, green, yellow motifs of the traditional architecture make a striking contrast against the white snow. Complete your palace tour experience wearing a traditional hanbok here!

5. Jeongdongjin

Located in Gangneung, Gangwon-do, Jeongdongjin (정동진)  is a picturesque town with a train station closest to the ocean in the world. The beach right behind the Jeongdongjin station is also a well-known sunrise spot. Sunrise spectators would take an overnight train to Jeongdongjin station on the new year’s eve for the first sunrise of the year. The nearby Jeongdongjin Sun Cruise Resort is a beach resort modelled after a cruise ship perched on top of a cliff!

Jeongdongjin Station:
Gangdong-myeon, Gangneung-si, South Korea

Jeongdongjin Sun Cruise Resort:
950-39 Heonhwa-ro, Gangdong-myeon, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea 

6.Hahoe Folk Village

Tucked away in a secluded valley in Gyeongsang Province, the Andong Hahoe Folk Village (안동 하회마을)  is an idyllic place to unwind and experience traditional Korean rural life. Visitors can immerse in a rich array of cultural traditions such as Korean Mask Dancing and enjoy a wide variety of ancient culinary delights such as Andong Gangodeungeo (Salted Mackerel), Heotjesabap (A type of Bibimbap for the nobles) and Andong Guksu (A local noodle delicacy). Sleepover at one of the traditional hanok within the village and enjoy the fuzzy, magical and ethereal view the next morning!

40 Hahoe, Pungcheon-myeon, Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea | 안동시 풍천면 하회남촌길 63

7. Gamaksan Mountain

This beautiful photo of winter at Gamaksan Suspension Bridge (감악산 출렁다리) located in Paju definitely warrant a mention on the list! It just feels straight out of the Disney “Frozen” to me. The bridge spans 150 meters across Silmari Valley, and is easily accessible from the car park area! (No hiking required!). Be early to enjoy this majestic winter view all to yourself!

365, Gisan-ro Gwangtan-myeon, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do | 경기 파주시 광탄면 기산로 365

8. Paju Heyri Art Village

Located just 1 hour away from Seoul, Paju is a heaven for any art and book lover. The Hyeri Art Village (파주 헤이리 마을) is home to filmmakers, publishers, book writers, and artists. Expect quirky museums & architectures, beautiful cafes, enormous book store and book cafes, interesting studios and art spaces in this village. Paju is the nearest South Korean city to North Korea. And the north’s winter is known to be harsher than the south, so you can imagine Paju to be a winter wonderland after a heavy snowfall.

There is a “Paju English Village” (파주 영어 마을) filled with European styled buildings to create an immersive environment for the students to learn the language. The space is open to the public so you may spot couples taking pre-wedding photos there too!

Paju Hyeri Art Village:
1652-239 Beopheung-ri, Tanhyeon-myeon, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do |경기 파주시 탄현면 법흥리 1652-239

Paju English Village:
Paju-si Tanhyeon-myeon Uleumsil-ro 40  |경기 파주시 탄현면 얼음실로 40 

9. Seonunsa Temple

Seonunsa Temple (선운사) is one of the largest temples in the Southern part in Korea with over 1,500 years of its history. And winter is considered one of the best seasons to visit the temple as the camellia flowers bloom and the persimmons ripen. The fiery orange persimmons covered in snow, together with the blooming camellias from shrubs to shrubs make for an alluring sight in winter.

567, Samin-Ri, Asan-Myeon, Gochang-Gun, Jeollabuk-Do, Korea |전라북도 고창군 아산면 선운사로 250 선운사

10. Boseong Green Tea Field 

Located at Jeollanam-do Province, the Boseong Green Tea Field (보성 녹차밭) is another beautiful place to visit after a snowfall in Winter. Enjoy a tranquil walk and soak in the picturesque landscape at Daehan Dawon (대한 다원), the largest green tea plantation in the country as the snow turned the plantation white. Do note that the plantation closes at 5 pm daily during winter.

Daehan Dawon Greentea Plantation:
763-67, Nokcha-ro, Boseong-gun, Jeollanam-do | 전라남도 보성군 보성읍 녹차로 763-67 

All photos are provided by KTO unless otherwise stated.
Please note that information of the article is accurate at the time of publishing. 

[facebook_like_button]
[facebook_follow_button href=”{$facebook_profile_url}”]
[facebook_embedded_post href=”{$facebook_post_url}”]

Li

I am not talking about one or two rows of azaleas in the park, but something really massive. A mountain full of blooming azaleas that turn the entire site an eye feasting one.

Located in Bucheon, a city at the outskirt of Seoul, this place is perfect for half-day-outing, especially during the first 3 weeks in April due to its famous azalea bloom. The Wonmi Mountain (원미산) will be covered with hundreds and thousands of brightly coloured azaleas in full bloom this time every year. You may want to pack your own picnic bag and spend your entire morning there appreciating the beauty of mother earth.

I especially enjoyed my morning at Wonmi mountain. You’ll see adorable elementary school kids hiking up the stairs with their teachers, and ajummas sharing sweet potatoes and a cup of coffee under the trees. The better air, the bright pink flowers, and the relaxed vibe there at the park are all so wonderful.

I’ll totally list it as one of the not touristy things to do in Seoul! It is true that the cherry blossom waits for no one, but always remember you have an alternative. The azaleas never disappoint.

Writer’s Note: Aside admiring the bloom, there’s an annual Wonmisan Azalea Festival where visitors can participate in various activities. It is usually held on the 2nd week of April.  If picnic is your kind of activity, there’s a huge convenient storeto get some snacks at the Bucheon Sports Complex Station. Alternatively, you can pack your own food before departing from Seoul. Azalea flowers last about 3 weeks to a month. However, it is best to visit the place before the 3rd weekend of April to avoid disappointment. Please wear comfortable shoes as you’ll need to walk uphill quite a bit to reach the park.

Contact Details:

Wonmi Mountain Azalea Hill
482, Sosa-ro, Wonmi-gu, Bucheon-si, Gyeonggi-do
원미산 진달래동산
경기도 부천시 소사로 482 (춘의동)

Direction:

The Wonmi Mountain Azalea Hill can be accessed from anywhere in Seoul.
1. Get on subway line No. 7 and alight at Bucheon Sports Complex Station (부천 종합운동장역), then exit from Exit No. 2. Continue walking straight and you’ll find a stadium on your right-hand side. 

2. Walk into the compound of the stadium, until you see the above slope on your way up. You’ll be able to find a notice board with Korean wordings that read “진달래동산 가는길” (circled in red in the picture above). Follow the direction indicated: go up the slope.

3. Once you climbed up the slope, you’ll be able to see the blooming azaleas on the hills. Follow the crowd and continue to walk uphill, towards the mountain.

4. You should be able to see the staircase leading upward. Climb up these stairs and you’ll reach the entrance of the Wonmi Mountain Azalea Hill soon!

Maps

If you’re currently located in Korea, please use the Naver Map below to navigate: 

2018.2.24 | 지도 크게 보기 ©  NAVER Corp.

[facebook_like_button]
[facebook_follow_button href=”{$facebook_profile_url}”]
[facebook_embedded_post href=”{$facebook_post_url}”]

Like the post? Why not share it? ; D

↓↓↓↓

Sharing buttons are located below the tags.

“Bam” means night in Korean, and “Dokkaebi” refers to a Korean folklore character that appears only at night to trick human and disappears when the night turns to dusk. It is named after the characteristic of such night markets because they’re known to appear only at night and completely disappear by morning.

Bamdokkaebi Night Market first started in Yeouido in 2015 and expanding into 4 other venues in Seoul due to surging popularity — Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Cheonggye Plaza, Cheonggye-Cheon and Banpo. I have recently visited a Bamdokkaebi Night Market in Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP). Check out the video below:

These night markets are typically held every Fridays and Saturdays, with some Sunday markets happening at several locations mentioned above. Visitors can expect snack trucks, handmade goods stalls and cultural performances at these markets from 5pm- 11 pm.

The food trucks selections are wide. Expect international dishes like shrimp pad thai, Mexican tacos, English fish & chips, sandwiches, grilled lobsters, churros, hot dogs as well as Korean street food such as mandoo, ddeokbokki, and king sized bulgogi stick. The license to sell food here isn’t easy to obtain either. According to an egg benedict truck owner, all of these vendors went through several rounds of interviews before given a green light to do business there.

Different Bamdokkaebi Night Market has slightly different characteristics. For example, Yeouido focuses more on international fair, hence given the theme of “Yeouido World Night Market” whereas the one at DDP is themed as a “Youth Runway Market”, which functions as a platform for the youth to dream and shine. If you want to do some shopping to support local artists and designers, DDP night market is clearly the better option.

Yeouido Night Market is believed to be the biggest and oldest Bamdokkaebi Night Market in Seoul, which makes it the best night market you should check out if you’re in short of time. However, if you prefer something more stylish or quirky, board on subway line No.2 to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, where you’ll be greeted by the energetic crowd at the market.

For those who prefer a romantic night out with the loved ones, check out the Bamdokkaebi night market at Banpo. Themed as “Romantic Starlight Market”, the market focuses on food and various performances such as Jazz and Acapella. Remember to catch the Banpo Bridge Light Show when you’re there!

Information

Click onto the compiled Google map below to locate the nearest Bamdokkaebi Night Market.

Yeouido World Night Market 여의도 월드나이트마켓
Address: 330 Yeoeuido Hangang Park, Yeoeuidong-ro, Yondeungpo-gu, Seoul.
서울시 영등포구 여의동로 330 여의도한강공원 물빛광장
Every Friday & Saturday, March – October.
6pm-11pm

DDP Youth Runway Market 청춘 런웨이마켓
Address: 281 Euljiro, Jung-gu, Seoul.
서울시 중구 을지로 281
Every Friday & Saturday, March – October.
6pm-11pm

Banpo Romantic Starlight Market 반포 낭만달빛마켓
Address: Banpo Hangang Park, Banpo 2 dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul.
서울시 서초구 반포2동 반포한강공원 달빛광장
Every Friday & Saturday, March – October.
6pm-11pm

Cheonggye-Cheon Time Slip Market 청계천 타임슬립 마켓
Address: Cheonggye Cheon, Near Gwang Tong Bridge. Jungak Station Exit 5.
청계천 광통교 일대(을지로입구역 1∙2번 출구, 종각역 5번 출구)
Every Saturday 430pm-1130pm
Every Sunday 4pm – 9pm
March – October

Cheonggye Plaza 청계광장 시즌마켓
Address: 14 Seorin-dong, Jungno-gu, Seoul.
서울시 종로구 서린동 14
May 19th, 20th, 21st;  6pm-11pm.
August 18th, 19th, 20th; 6pm-11pm.
September 15th, 16th, 17th;  6pm-11pm.
October 13th, 14th, 15th;  6pm-11pm.
**Cheonggye Plaza’s night market has seasonal opening. Please check the official website for more information.

[facebook_like_button]
[facebook_follow_button href=”{$facebook_profile_url}”]
[facebook_embedded_post href=”{$facebook_post_url}”]

Like the post? Why not share it? ; D

↓↓↓↓

Sharing buttons are located below the tags.

Founded by two literature graduates, the café serves as a regular location for readers’ club, mini concerts, exhibitions, and even a practicing studio for artists. As a living space that nurtures arts, this cafe holds fond memories, especially to the Hongik University students. Many artists, singers, and writers could remember having meetings here with other like-minded souls.

The café serves strong brews. I love their Americano, so much better than your expensive, branded chain. For those who are not into coffee, you’re given a selection of homemade teas: Yuzu, Ginger, Quince and Lemon tea. Pick up a nice hot cup of quince tea on a cold day, and an icy yuzu tea during summer. Both are packed with rich source of vitamin C which improves immunity.

Lighting was another thing I love about this cafe. The huge window provides ample sunlight to these wooden and leather chairs, making the space so quaint and nostalgic, a perfect reminiscent of the 60s in South Korea! I am sure it’d be a great photo location for fashion covers and pre-wedding shot.

Writer’s Note: Yri Café is located at Seong-su (성수동) area, a neighbourhood right beside the trendy Hongdae. There are many interesting eateries, indie cafes and designer shops around the area. You might want to check this neighbourhood out next time if you’re around Hongdae. As Hongdae is getting more and more touristy, many big franchises had invaded the cultural space. Local stores and young artists couldn’t keep up with the rentals and have to move elsewhere due to gentrification. Yri Café is one of them. I am not too sure if Seong-su it’s playful, artsy and affordable old charm, but I think it’ll soon undergo another round of gentrification too.

Contact Details:

Yri Café  이리카페
서울시 마포구 상수동 337-4/ 서울 마포구 와우산로3길 27 1층
337-4, Sangsu-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Operating Hours: 11am-2am
Tel. +82-2-323-7861, +82-70-8867-7862

Directions:

iframe>

[facebook_like_button]
[facebook_follow_button href=”{$facebook_profile_url}”]
[facebook_embedded_post href=”{$facebook_post_url}”]

Like the post? Why not share it? ; D

↓↓↓↓

Sharing buttons are located below the tags.

I’d say it will be the next popular tourist destination in the country, as it has quite a few record-breaking titles under its belt: It is the world’s highest glass-bottomed observation deck in a building; it owns the world’s fastest elevator and did I mentioned their swimming pool located at 85th floor is the world’s highest swimming pool in a building? This latest landmark of South Korea will surely become a popular tourist destination in no time.

With 123 floors in total, this brand new landmark is the home to Avenuel, the largest luxurious department store in Korea, Lotte duty free store, a shopping mall, HiMart, Lotte Mart, a cinema, an aquarium, a concert hall, a 6 stars premium hotel, a high-end and prime office space for rent, residential units as well as a posh observatory which stretch across 5 floors.

The building stands at 556 meters high on top of Jamsil Station (잠실역). Every spring, you’ll get a wonderful bird’s eye view from the observatory. A pink petal ring near the building awaits as the cherry blossom trees bloom along Seokchon, making it one of the most valid reasons to visit the Seoul Sky Observatory (서울 스카이 전망대).

The entrance is located at basement 1, where visitors could purchase tickets and proceed to the lobby for the “sky shuttle”, an elevator that transfers you to and fro the basement and the observatory at the 117th floor.

It wasn’t the best day to visit an observatory on the day I visited this place. It was cloudy and the fine dust particles in Seoul was high but we decided to go ahead anyway. If you want to see clear views, and for your picture’s sake, especially when you are paying almost SGD30 for single entrance, I suggest ONLY visit the observatory when the weather is great.

Every entrance ticket comes with a QR code. You’ll only use it if you want to have your photos taken professionally at the various photo zones inside the observatory. It works as a code for the staffs to scan and register your photos so that you’ll be able to retrieve and pay for it should you decided to purchase them on the 120th floor or at the basement 1 ticketing counter.

You should also take note at the time listed on the ticket. There’s a 30 min time frame printed onto the ticket. I thought it was a limited time frame imposed on all visitors, but there wasn’t any emphasis on it during our entire 1.5hrs there at the observatory. However, during peak seasons, you might have to purchase the ticket earlier to make sure it doesn’t affect your travel itinerary. Luckily we didn’t have to do that when we were there as the crowd was manageable.

B1 – Seoul Sky Lobby & Sky Shuttle

We’re greeted by this nicely illuminated LED corridor before taking the sky shuttle. It feels kind of surreal when you’re standing in a dimmed space watching the LED light show. These Korean palace themed installations were quite impressive as it gives off a traditional atmosphere while retaining a techno-feel in it.

We were ushered to a waiting area later, where we wait for our sky shuttle. It shoot us up from the basement to the 117th floor in just less than a minute. They made sure the ride from Basement 1 to the 117th floor isn’t a boring one: The 4-walled screen and the ceiling of the elevator will tell a story of how Seoul and the Hangang (Han River) have changed over time, I’d say the whole journey up was a spectacular one.

The elevator will only operate from basement 1 straight to level 117th. You’ll have to do the climbing after the 117th floor as you check out the entire observatory up to the 120th. Each level has a different feature and I’ll go really brief, as the best is to witness and experience all of these personally.

117F – Observation Deck

And so here’s the view from the 117th floor, where you’ll be able to see the 360-degree panoramic view of Seoul. Right below the building is Lotte World and the Seokchon lake, which I believe many are familiar with.

118F – The Sky Deck

The Sky Deck at the 118th floor is a popular spot to check out. You get to view the world beneath your feet as you walk across the transparent glass floor. The total area of the glass flooring isn’t huge, though. Visitors have to queue and get into this area in batch, and you have to quickly snap some photos before time’s up for the next batch of visitors to come in.

I like how they allow us to stand on the glasses which were all shaded in white initially and made us count down as the glasses transform to totally transparent, enable you to see the bird’s eye view of a very busy Seoul intersection beneath. Quite gimmicky but it does the trick. I got quite giddy after starring top down for awhile.

120F – Sky Terrace

You’ll be given a chance to inhale the fresh air at the Sky Terrace on the 120th floor, some 483 meters high in the sky. Standing on the metal parapet is not allowed, though you can stay outdoor for as long as you wished. Interestingly, the temperature up here has no much difference from below! I didn’t have to wear a jacket out.

121F – Seoul Sky Shop

If you like some souvenirs from the world’s 5th tallest building, you may do some shopping here on the 121st floor. You’ll also find an escalator to the lounge at the 123rd floor, where the tallest spot of the building is located. While there is no admission fee charged for entrance to the lounge, each guest is expected to get a drink at the lounge.

122F – Seoul Sky Cafe

The 122nd floor is a small cafe operated by Angel-in-Us Coffee and an ice-cream chain. There aren’t many seats so I guess the drinks and ice-cream are more for take-out. Washroom here at the observatory is pretty cool too if you’re into Star Wars/ spaceship kind of stuff.

123F – 123 Lounge

Champagne on the 123rd floor, why not? The lounge located on the 123rd floor is probably the most exclusive spot in the entire building. Your KRW27,000 ticket does not cover the entrance to the lounge. Yeap, you paid that ridiculous amount for the observatory in the world’s 5th highest building, but you’re not allowed to the highest point of the building. lolx.  The key to the lounge? Buy a drink.

Writer’s Note:

Seoul Sky Observatory is really one of the best observatories in a modern building I have visited, and certainly the best in South Korea. The concept, the facilities, and the crowd controlling, everything is perfect! Anyone who’s interested, please visit this place soon. (You won’t want to come here when it is invaded by tour groups.)

The best time to visit would be 5pm-6pm as you get to see the day view and the night view all together at once. Please note that the sun sets earlier during winter, so you might have to adjust your itinerary accordingly. The ticket price was quite steep though. If it is your 1st time visiting Seoul and juggling between Namsan Seoul Tower, 63 Building Seoul or Lotte World Tower, I’d recommend Seoul World Tower as the view is the best out of all.

Another interesting function you may find at the Lotte World Mall right below the observatory: There’s a message tree where you can print whatever thing you wrote from the tablets provided onto a small piece of paper in the Lotte World Mall. Have fun!

Contact Details:

Lotte World Tower (Seoul Sky Observatory) 서울 스카이 전망대
29 Sincheon-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
서울특별시 송파구 신천동 29.

Admission Fee:
Adult: KRW 27,ooo
Child: KRW 24,000
Fast Pass: all ages 50,000

Directions:

Nearest Subway Station: Jamsil, Exit No.2
[facebook_like_button] [facebook_send_button]
[facebook_follow_button href=”{$facebook_profile_url}”]
[facebook_embedded_post href=”{$facebook_post_url}”]

Like the post? Why not share it? ; D

↓↓↓↓

Sharing buttons are located below the tags.

It works as a “creative public culture space” that aims to support teenagers, social entrepreneurs, artists and local vendors. The cluster is divided into various spaces, including the Youth Stand, where it supports teenagers for job training and employment. Likewise, the Mom Stand offers job opportunities for women, as well as healthy home cooking training to fellow mothers.

The Art Stand plays an important role in aiding the artists, from offering a debut stage, to supporting cultural events. The Power Stand is to assist new startups in starting their own business, including consulting, mentoring, technical support, as well as a cool co-working space for rent.

For visitors like us, you may find interesting products and designer goods at the Open Stand and the Social Stand. Open Stand is a platform to showcase products from young and talented designers, as well as artists’ work. I found a really comfortable designer shoe label by two young ladies, and their tailor-made shoes are simply amazing. I am thinking of getting a pair or two for myself soon!

The Social Stand, however, is a space where the community sets up social entrepreneurs’ trade fairs, farmers markets, with the aim to introduce eco-friendly products and lifestyle gadgets that “make a difference in life”. I got my mum some handmade soap made from organic kale, lettuce and basil from Farmplayground 동구밭. The packaging, price and product are all up to satisfactory.

I was there on a weekday afternoon. It was a little quiet compared to Common Ground, but the majority of the visitors were local. What I like about this place is that it is not only about attracting foreigners and making an extreme profit out of it but a comprehensive space that serves various purposes from buying local, to workshops, events, exhibition and even education, which makes the space brimming with charm.

Similar to Common Ground, most of the restaurants and cafe are located on the 2nd-floor terrace. I didn’t dine in there as I have plans elsewhere. Overall, this is a very local space to check out and support, if you’re up to visit a new place in Seoul. It gives off some sense of local uniqueness, which I find very attractive. It is definitely a trendy place to visit in Seoul in 2017!

The community takes effort in organising various event each month. You may check out their official website below at the contact details section below for event listing. They do not have the info in English though, the English tabs will give you a certain idea of what’s going on there.

The cluster is not very big to explore. You might spend about 30 minutes to 2 hours here, depending on your interest level in the activities, products, exhibition and performances offered here. I’ll recommend you to stop by before visiting the Seoul Forest which is famous for its Cherry Blossom in Spring, or just check out the nostalgic and beautiful Seongsu neighbourhood, where the hipsters of Seoul are currently hanging out at.

Contact Details:

Under Stand Avenue 언더스텐드에비뉴
63,Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul (Bundang Line K211 Seoul Forest Station, Exit 3)
서울 성동구 왕십리로 63 (성수동 1가 685-704)

Directions:

[facebook_like_button] [facebook_send_button]
[facebook_follow_button href=”{$facebook_profile_url}”]
[facebook_embedded_post href=”{$facebook_post_url}”]

Like the post? Why not share it? ; D

↓↓↓↓

Sharing buttons are located below the tags.

Where?

Nestled in the eastern end of Seoul, this place is slightly off the beaten path. It is not exactly near Gyeongbok Palace, Insa-dong, Myeongdong, Hongdae or Seoul Station (places that perhaps a 1st -time visitor would most likely go). Therefore, if this site sounds interesting to you, I’d suggest you make at least half a day off your schedule, and have the nearby Children’s Grand Park (어린이대공원) in the itinerary (if you are travelling during Spring and Autumn), and experience the buzzing nightlife at Konkuk University Station area to make your trip worthwile.

What?

You may find quirky, young designer brands here in the blue containers, and sorry, no, you won’t be able to get mainstream brands here at common ground (As of 2017), so all these added a somewhat “hipster” atmosphere to the place. Since it is very near to Konkuk University, it is known to be a hangout for the university students. There are food truck areas at the central square market, and also restaurants at the 3rd-floor terrace. You may also find exhibitions, performances and events held in this space. Here’re some of the photos during my visits over the years:

If you ask me if Common Ground is really worth your trip down, I would say yes, and no. Over the years, this place has gone too “mainstream” it starts to lose its originality. This place somehow reminds me of Myeongdong. Well, to some people, Myeongdong feels like Korea. But to some other people, especially the locals, many parts of it feels foreign. One man’s meat is another’s poison. For me, this place is gradually losing its charm due to its popularity.

However, the idea of shopping and eating inside the container is fun, and something relatively uncommon in Singapore. So if that’s what you’re looking for, you will enjoy this place nonetheless. There’s also a newly opened shipping container cluster some 2.6KM away, which is called the Under Stand Avenue. This trendy new place has a stronger sense of locality and is best visited during the weekend as of 2017.

I have also listed down the Yays and Nays of visiting Common Ground. Hopefully, it’ll help you decide better.

Yay.

• You get to do some shopping in the containers! Some of the designer shops are worth your time to check out.
• Get a peek into South Korean university life – those vibrant, carefree vibes make me young again!
• Instagram-worthy. Need I say more?
• Remember to check out other places around the Konkuk University area together, as this area is famous for its good food without the hefty price tag and interesting pubs. Chinese food (jjajjang myun and lamb skewers) is cheap here too!

Nay.

• Clothing prices are not exactly cheap. But if you are good at spotting great promotions, you may still get some cheap buys.
• Depending on where you stay, this place could take more than 40 mins. ride on a subway. If your aim is to shop, Hongdae/ Ehwa/ Gangnam or Garosugil would probably fare better.
• Hipster feel? Not too sure when it’s already quite “mainstream”.

Contact Details:

Common Ground 커먼그라운드
200, Achasan-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul (Konkuk University Exit 6, Line 2 or 7)
서울특별시 광진구 아차산로 200 (자양동17-11)
Tel: +82 2 467 2747
Opening Hours: 11:00am – 10:00pm

Selected as “Miele One To Watch 2017” in Asia,  TocToc is a Modern French restaurant nestled in the swanky Apgujung. Helmed by chef-owner Kim Dae Chun, it is an ideal place to sample dishes of what we called “living the Korean spirit”. You may find traditional Jangs (Korean sauces), long forgotten ingredients and wild veggies in your pasta, steak or salads.

A 3-course-lunch costs KRW 38,000 (SGD 42++), and it requires some patience (and some luck) to secure a table.

Marinated with Doenjang (Korean soybean paste), the succulent Hanwoo (Korean beef) was a head-turner. The chef uses the very pricy Binchōtan charcoal to grill the top notch, national-pride beef, which in return create a beautiful and even sear, locking the savoury juices and a sexy, woody flavour to the meat.

Black Truffle Pasta with Egg Yolk and Pecorino Cheese, another TocToc’s signature dish. This unassuming looking dish turns out to be a complete indulgence. The egg yolk and cheese added density to the sauce, and the handmade, thick and perfectly al dente noodles are evenly coated with the earthy, pungent scent of black truffle. Each bite was seriously that good – earth shattering and moan worthy, befitting the definition of a culinary orgasm.

You may find this dish on their lunch course selection, a la carte menu and signature dinner course. If you’re an avid truffle fan, spoil your taste buds by topping up a thick layer of fresh French summer truffles on your pasta during summer.

Chef Kim is famed for his conscientiousness in sourcing the seafood for his dishes due to his training background in Japan. We were really lucky to be the first few to try out this fried dory fish which is not on the menu. Using Kadaif noodles coating was a brilliant approach! I could still remember how the crunchy coating and the plump dory gushing into every corner of my mouth, it was a true bliss.

Contact Details:

TocToc 톡톡
3F, Rodeo Bldg. 33, Dosan-daero 51-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
서울시 강남구 도산대로 51길 33, 3층.
Tel. +82 2 542 3030

Directions:

[facebook_like_button] [facebook_send_button]
[facebook_follow_button href=”{$facebook_profile_url}”]
[facebook_embedded_post href=”{$facebook_post_url}”]

Like the post? Why not share it? ; D

↓↓↓↓

Sharing buttons are located below the tags.

Important Notice: Please note that I have stopped updating all South Korea-related content published before 2020 on this blog. You may find all updated South Korea travel content at my dedicated, new travel site here: www.thecalmchronicle.com 

1. The First Kiss: Hagwon Farm

This beautiful, blossoming buckwheat farm is a secret hideout for dokkaebi (Kim Shin), and it is also the place where Eun Tak and dokkaebi had their first kiss! This lush buckwheat farm is located at Hagwon Farm 학원농장, the country’s largest buckwheat farm located in Gochang county. Expect to see rapeseed flower in spring, sunflowers in summer and cosmos in autumn.

Address:
Hagwon Farm, 119-2 Seondong-ri, Gongeum-myeon, Gochang, Jeollabuk-do.
학원농장, 전라북도 고창군 공음면 학원농장길 158-6

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

피곤하긴 했는데 세상에! 한시까지 꿈속에서 놀았어요 . . . #감성쟁이으니 #가을여행 #메밀꽃 Photo by @penetrar_u

A post shared by 감성쟁이으니 (@jeongeun_jo) on Oct 5, 2018 at 9:51pm PDT

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

A post shared by 전라북도 (@jeonbukstar) on Jul 29, 2019 at 12:38am PDT

2. The First Summon: Jumunjin Beach

During the 1st episode, Ji Eun Tak inadvertently summoned Kim Shin for the very first time when she blows the candles on her birthday cake at a beautiful seaside. She then was gifted demanded Kim Shin’s buckwheat flower bouquet as her birthday gift. The beautiful scenery of Jumunjin 주문진 has become a popular tourist site after the episode went on air. People are flocking to the beach for photos that you may now need to queue before taking your photos.

Address:
81-32 Gyohyang-ri, Jumunjin-eup, Gangneung-si, Gangwondo.
주문진, 강원도 강릉시 주문진읍 교항리 81-32

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

A post shared by 27page (@___eun.ji___) on Oct 13, 2019 at 7:34am PDT

There was even a signpost that read “Muffler, flower and umbrella can be rented for KRW 1,000 each”, for visitors to recreate the drama scene. After much media attention, the signpost is nowhere to be seen.

 

A photo posted by KEVIN(JONGIN) PARK (@stoneheadboy) on Jan 4, 2017 at 6:47am PST

Apparently Jumunjin Beach has also become a popular K-pop destination after BTS filmed a photo in their album “You Never Walk Alone”. According to visitors, this place is so popular you might have to queue for your photos taken there.

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Ji Yeon 지연 (@bli2s_) on Aug 30, 2019 at 2:44am PDT

Jumunjin is also famous for its seafood dishes. Freshly steamed giant red crab (홍게), anyone? There are many good restaurants around the area, but Daeyoung Yoo Tong 대영유통 is the famous among all. I mean, look at that drumstick-look-alike crab craw, I am sure it is already making everyone salivate. Crabs eggs come in a dark green liquid form, and taste the best when fried together with rice.

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

A post shared by 대전 유성 봉명동 리턴청춘PT전문 (대전PT/유성PT) (@1st_returncc) on Aug 30, 2018 at 4:26am PDT

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Hong_응구 (@iopaesr) on Oct 21, 2019 at 11:29pm PDT

Daeyoung Yoo Tong Crab House
312-341 Jumun-ri, Jumunjin-eup, Gangneung, Kangwon-do, South Korea
대영유통, 강원도 강릉시 주문진읍 주문리 312-341.

3.The Church Summon: Mirinae Holy Site

“What a beautiful church!” This came up my mind when I saw this scene in the drama. Eun Tak finally found the way to summon Dokkaebi and chooses this venue to see her beau. This scene is filmed at Mirinae Holy Site 미리내 성지, located at Anseong, Gyeonggi-do. This church was built in 1986 and was famed as one of the best church to visit during autumn as it is surrounded by a thick autumn foliage.

Address:
420, Mirinaeseongji-ro, Yangseong-myeon, Anseong-si, Gyeonggi-do
456-932 경기도 안성 양성면 미리내성지로 420

4. Beautiful Night Walk: Cheongnaho Lake Park

Quite a few scenes were taken at Incheon, including this one, the Cheongnaho Lake Park 청라 호수공원 where the alcohol intoxicated Dokkaebi reveals his secret to Eun Tak. Surrounded by high-rise apartment, it is a perfect place to enjoy a romantic stroll at night.  

Address:
135 Cheongna Canal-ro, Seo-gu, Incheon.
인천 서구 청라커낼로 135

5. Eun Tak’s 2nd Part Time Job: Yongpyong Ski Resort

I was once again mesmerised by Korea’s snowscape at episode 9 when Eun Tak left Goblin’s place and started working at Pyeongchang-gun 평창군, a place famous for its ski resorts. Her arbiet (part-time job) was at Yongpyong Resort, one of the South Korean’s all-time-favourite ski resort. Pyeongchang is located at the north-eastern part of the country, which is considered the colder area in S.Korea. Expect to see an enchanted winter wonderland during winter, and enjoy the natural aircon here during summer.

Address:
715, Olympic-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do
강원도 평창군 대관령면 올림픽로 715

6. Grim Reaper & Sunny’s Fated Encounter: Yeongdap Station Pedestrian Bridge

Team #JeoseungSunny would know this place best. The fated encounter between the eye candy couple is filmed at Yeongdap Station Pedestrian Bridge 용답역 육교. A place where you can get a glimpse of ordinary life of local commuters.

Address:
159, Salgoji-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul. (Subway Line 2 Yongdap Station, Exit 2)
2호선 용답역 2번 출구. 서울시 살곶이길 성동구 159.

7. Goblin & Grim Reaper’s Home: Unhyeongung Yanggwan

The exquisite looking house where goblin and grim reapers stays is filmed at Unhyeongung Yanggwan (운현궁양관), or the Unhyeongung Western House, located within the Duksung Women’s University (Jongno Campus). It is currently listed under South Korean’s cultural property, hence it is unavailable for viewing. However, you may still access to the surroundings of the building via the main gate of the university.

Address:
464 Samil-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul
운현궁양관, 서울시 종로구 삼일대로 464

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

A post shared by @hoyul1052 on Jun 19, 2019 at 11:13pm PDT

8. Meeting For The First Time: Samcheongdong Doldamgil

All drama has its legendary, fated meeting-for-the-first-time between the protagonists. Eun Tak and Kim Shin’s was at Samcheongdong Doldamgil (삼청동 돌담길). There are many ways to reach Samcheongdong, and this doldamgil is located right at the usual route I would take to Samcheongdong. I like it because there are many things to see along the scenic route.

Address:
Taepyung-ro 1 ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Anguk Station Exit No.1)
서울시 종로구 태평대로 1가 

 

A photo posted by 김민희 (@chloechloekim) on Dec 26, 2016 at 6:08pm PST

9. The Accidental Summon: Mocca Bookstore

This yellow graffiti wall appeared in the drama where Eun Tak was blowing off the flames on her burnt squid snack and accidentally summoned the goblin. For those who’re wondering, this place is the same location where Kim Woo Bin filmed his Maxim coffee CF. It is called the Mocca Bookstore 모카책방 and was demolished after the filming. You may still see the graffiti at the location, though.

Address:
333-93 Seongsu-dong 2 ga, Seongdong Gu, Seoul. (Seongsu Station Exit No.4)
서울시 성동구 성수동 2가 333-93

 

A photo posted by 전농동 동아아파트 상가 102동 103호 (@moderneasy) on Sep 15, 2016 at 10:21pm PDT

10. Eun Tak’s School: Jungang Highschool

Eun Tak’s school is really beautiful, isn’t it? It is not a filming set, but a real, functioning high school located in Samcheongdong. I remembered visited the school a few times for model photo shoots, and the school looks exactly like what you saw in the drama. Visitors are not allowed during school hours, so be sure to come in a weekend.

Address:
Jungang Highschool, 164 Gye-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
중앙 고등학교, 서울시 종로구 계동 164

 

A photo posted by June Soo Park (@laetus83) on Dec 14, 2016 at 6:14am PST

11. The Library: Duksung Women’s University Library

Remember the scene where Kim Shin was annoyed by Eun Tak’s summoned to the school library? The location of all the library scenes was filmed in Duksung Women’s University Library. The library is open since 1955, with a collection of over 600 thousand books. The library also appeared in another popular drama “Reply 1988” (응답하라 1988).

Address:
114 Unni-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul.
덕성여자대학교, 서울시 종로구 운니동 114

12. Eun Tak’s Part Time Work Place: BBQ Olive Chicken

Ever wondered where was the small fried chicken restaurant where Eun Tak works as a part-timer? It is located at Gangnam! I haven’t tried their chicken at their new Olive Chicken Cafe, as I am always just a call away from my forever-love Kyochon. But if you’re all out for a Goblin themed trip, chicken and beer at Dae Cheong outlet is a must. Because nothing feels like Korea without fried chicken and beer.

Address:
687-2 Ilwon 1 dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul.
올리브치킨 대청점. 서울시 강남구 일원1동 687-2

13. A Place Full of Memories: Hanmi Bookstore

I really like this bookstore with the quirky yellow colour facade. It is actually a 2nd-hand bookstore located at a hipster area in Incheon. It is so real and beautiful, you may want to recreate your own Goblin drama scene, just like the Korean couple below. Have fun!

Address:
Hanmi Bookstore, 14-5 Geumgok-dong, Dong-gu, Incheon City, South Korea.
한미서점.인천시 동구 금곡동 14-5

 

A photo posted by 럽스타그램/데이트코스 (@subongpark) on Jan 1, 2017 at 5:17am PST

 

A photo posted by 럽스타그램/데이트코스 (@subongpark) on Jan 1, 2017 at 9:59pm PST

14. Fall in Love Again: Woljeongsa Temple

I was once again mesmerised by Korea’s snowscape at episode 9 when Eun Tak left Goblin’s place and started working at Pyeongchang-gun (평창군), a place famous for its ski resort. Look at the screen grabs again! The shots taken there are so magical, they make me want to brave the snowstorm and visit Pyeongchang right now. Many of the snow scenes were taken at Woljeongsa Temple 월정사, where its snowscape is known to be one of the best in South Korea. If you’re thinking of doing a temple stay during winter, I believe Woljeongsa is a good choice!

Address:
63-1 Woljeong-sa, Dongsan-ri, Jinbu-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwondo.
월정사, 오대산 강원도 평창군 진부면 동산리 63-1.

 

A photo posted by @itplace on Dec 27, 2016 at 1:30am PST

Important Notice: Please note that I have stopped updating all South Korea-related content published before 2020 on this blog. You may find all updated South Korea travel content at my dedicated, new travel site here: www.thecalmchronicle.com 

The best autumn foliage venue got to be the ginkgo garden behind the queen dowager’s residence within the Gyeongbok Palace. — Insider Pheuron Tay

“One of my best place to embrace the autumn is the Gyeongbok Palace. I was taking a stroll on a weekday afternoon and accidentally found this beautiful ginkgo garden behind the Jagyeong-Jeon (자경전 慈慶殿). It was like walking into an ocean of glittering golden leaves.”

Tell us a must-do activity in Korea during autumn?
Glamping. Pack up your personal belongings, call your friends, and you can basically leave the rest of the stuff to the glamping site. Remember to prepare some Ramyeon and Army Stew ingredients and So-maek for an authentic Korean campsite experience. Read my detailed write-up about glamping here.

 

Autumn-to-do in Korea: camping. 날씨 가을가을이니까 글램핑 글램핑 가야징^^ 고미워 친구야~~ 내 생에 첫 캠핑추억을 함께 해줘서 #글램핑 #가을 #autumn #camping #campsite

A photo posted by 정가현. 정퓨니. (@pheurontay) on Oct 25, 2014 at 1:35am PDT

What are your personal must-eats during this season?
Grilled ginkgo nuts & fresh figs.

Tell us 3 interesting facts about yourself.
– Korean mistaken me as local while people at home refuse to believe I am not a foreigner.
– I own 35 lipsticks but insist on wearing the same 5 shades over and over.
– I love bright sunlight. I get cranky and depressed in a dimly lighted room.

Gyeongju has the best autumn foliage…even the small maeul (village) bus stops match the autumn atmosphere so well. — Insider Neoh

“Although most Korean will recommend hiking to enjoy autumn foliage, I enjoy the scenery at Gyeongju (경주) very much. The slow-pace life over there, the streets filled with ginkgo trees and the endless rice fields…check out the small maeul (village) bus stops! Surprisingly they match the autumn atmosphere so well. Last but not least, the historical sites and temples covered in red and yellow leaves…makes a trip down to Gyeongju worthwhile.”

Tell us a must-do activity in Korea during autumn?
Hiking. Try Seorak Mountain. Basically autumn is a great season to travel, eat, drink and sleep. Remember to take lots of photo and hashtag them like mad.

What are your personal must-eats during this season?
You should definitely try fresh Bang-eo aka Japanese Amberjack (방어회) and Gwamaegi, Korean half-dried pacific herring (과메기), they’re my favourite sashimi during autumn. If raw fish isn’t your cup of tea, try their fresh persimmon or dried persimmon.

I went paragliding at Danyang during early autumn and I was genuinely blown away by the magnificent scenery beneath me. (It was so beautiful) I could’t stop smiling to myself .– Insider Irene Siah

Video Courtesy of Irene Siah

Tell us a must-do activity in Korea during autumn?
Road tripping or PARAGLIDING. It was a great experience flying in the air, with amazing autumn foliage beneath! Definitely something you want to add to your bucket list!

What are your personal must-eats during this season?
Autumn is the season of tangerine! I just had a tangerine-grapefruit juice (감귤 자몽 주스) from U:DALLY and it tastes sooooo good! You can even bring the cute little bottle home after drinking the juice!

 Naejangsan National Park was probably my favourite… The best photo spots: the Uhwajeong Pavilion & the Maple Tunnel.– Insider Siska

All Naejangsan Photos By Siska Ariyanti.

“I suggest to skip the free shuttle bus service and walk all the way up because the route from the car park to the cable car station is amazingly beautiful. It takes about 30 mins-1 hour to reach the cable car station, depending where you park your car at.The Naejangsa itself is just so-so, but the two scenic photo spots I mentioned above are situated along the way to Naejangsa. “

Any other insider autumn foliage locations you want to share with us?
For a place within Seoul, Children’s Grand Park (서울 어린이대공원) is worth a visit. I would recommend a stroll around the park or even go for a picnic.

If you have time to travel out of Seoul, I would recommend Jeonju (전주). You can have a foodie tour yet at the same time, enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage this city has to offer. Check out Jeonju Hyanggyo Confucian School, their ginkgo trees are at least 200-300 years old, therefore creating a picturesque view.

What is your personal must-eat during this season?
Danpatjuk, the sweet red bean soup (단팥죽) at “The Second Best in Seoul” (서울서 둘째로 잘 하는집), Samcheong-dong.

 

Coming back for this~ Danpatjuk (단팥죽) Not a fan of red bean porridge honestly but this one is an exception. ? #둘째로잘하는집 #thesecondbestinseol #danpatjuk #seoulfoodie #seoulfoods #koreandessert #koreanfoods #foodstagram #먹스타그램 #단팥죽 #삼천동 #삼천동맛집 #samcheondong #redbeanporridge #redbean

A photo posted by Siska Ariyanti (@seara3112) on Nov 17, 2016 at 5:11am PST

Like the post? Why not share it? ; D

↓↓↓↓

Sharing buttons are located below the tags.