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Things to do in South Korea 2022

14 Things To Do In South Korea For Singaporeans Planning Their EOY Travels

Things to do in South Korea


As Singaporeans, we just can’t seem to let the Hallyu Wave die out. You’ve got K-pop fans crashing Ticketmaster whenever their favourite group comes to perform, while even my dad’s absolutely hooked on the latest K-dramas on Netflix. And then you’ve got the ones who simply can’t resist the allure of South Korea, jetting over to the country every other month.

Far too often, you’d catch snippets of their escapades on IG stories, whether they’re hitting up the unique cafes in Seoul or taking in the picturesque scenery on Jeju Island. Well, if you’re already tempted to hop on a plane to take in these sights in-person, here are some new things to do in South Korea if you’ve not been there in a hot minute.

The current exchange rate is ₩1,000 = ~S$0.96 as of 18th November 2024.


What travel apps are best for navigating South Korea?


There are plenty of apps to use for your South Korea trip that will make navigation so much easier. Here are a few that you should have installed on your phone before your trip:


Papago – English-to-Korean translator


The Papago app is essential if you don’t speak fluent Korean. Have your messages translated immediately by typing it into the translator or speaking into the mic. There’s also a camera function that translates signs, menus, and images you see when you’re out and about.

Download Papago (App Store | Google Play Store)


Naver Maps – More accurate than Google Maps


While Google Maps may be the de facto navigation tool in most places in the world, it’s Naver Maps that runs South Korea. We’ve found Naver Maps to be more accurate in providing travel routes, including providing walking directions through alleyways, which Google Maps was unable to do.

Download Naver Maps (App Store | Google Play Store)


Subway Korea – Updated subway routes for 5 cities


Use Subway Korea for an overview of the metro system in Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Daejeon, and Gwangju. It’s updated on all train station closures and disruptions and will provide you with the fastest routes with minimal transfers based on your current location.

Download Subway Korea (App Store | Google Play Store)


Kakao T – E-hailing app for private hire vehicles & taxis


Taxis are considerably cheap in Seoul, with base fares starting from ₩4,800 up to 1.6km. You can expect to pay ₩100 every 150m thereafter. If you want to book a taxi or private hire vehicle to get around, download Kakao T, which has an English interface and can be used in major cities in Korea.

You’ll need to create a Kakao ID first, which can be done on the Kakao website. Thereafter, just key in your pick-up location and destination address to book. In the payment option section, you’ll need to swipe right till you see “Pay to the driver” in order to pay by cash. Credit card payments are only allowed from Korean banks.

Download Kakao T (App Store | Google Play Store)


Catch Table – Reserve tables at popular restaurants & cafes in Korea


If you’ve been drooling watching Culinary Class Wars on Netflix, you’ll want to download Catch Table the next time you visit Korea. It’s a table reservation app to all the hottest dining spots in Korea – including the restaurants run by the chefs featured in the cooking competition. Just note that some restaurants require a deposit up front, which will be refunded to your credit card after you’ve dined in.

Download Catch Table


When is the best time to visit South Korea?


Mid-March to early April would be an ideal time frame to go if you want to catch the cherry blossom in full bloom and enjoy the spring weather. Meanwhile, fall typically begins any time between October and November, so plan your trip around this time to see the warm orange autumn foliage.

For those who prefer travelling a little off-peak but don’t want to be caught right smack in the middle of summer, May and June are nice periods so you can enjoy the cooling breeze from spring.


– Seoul –


From shopping at aesthetic malls to unique art exhibitions in the Buk-Seoul Museum of Art, check out these things to do in Seoul for your upcoming trip.


1. The Hyundai Seoul


Visit a whimsical forest-themed mall with an indoor waterfall


The Hyundai Seoul
8m-wide walkways and a 12m-tall waterfall at The Hyundai Seoul.

Image adapted from: @thirdonmay via Instagram

The Hyundai Seoul is a 12-storey, forest-themed mall with around 600 shops. It first opened in 2021 and has since become a favourite haunt of influencers and celebrities alike because of its whimsical interior. In fact, former SNSD member Jessica Jung featured this mall in one of her vlogs back in 2021.

What sets this mall apart from its glitzy peers is its nature-inspired interior that’s filled with greenery. In the atrium lies a 2-storey waterfall measuring about 12m tall, reminiscent of the one at Jewel Changi.

The Hyundai Seoul interiorSkylights in The Hyundai Seoul create a glasshouse-like atmosphere.
Image credit: @zero_grapher via Instagram

Basement 2 is where you’ll find fashion labels that are popular with young people, such as Korean streetwear brand thisisneverthat and Swedish lifestyle-cum-fashion brand ARKET.

The Hyundai Seoul
Google Reviews
4.4
(9,962)
Address
108 Yeoui-daero, Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul, South Korea
Opening Hours:
Friday 10:30 AM - 08:30 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

2. Cafe Sanare


Dine at a dreamy mountainside cafe


Cafe Sanare
Image adapted from: @cafe_sanare
via Instagram

Located next to Bukhansan mountain, a popular hiking spot in South Korea, Cafe Sanare is a dreamy cafe filled with lush greenery. Cafe Sanare’s name means “cafe under the mountain”, and judging by its location, the name is more than fitting.

Despite being a quiet mountainside cafe, Cafe Sanare is actually only a 5-minute walk from the Bukhansan Ui Station on the Ui LRT line.

Cafe Sanare interior
Image adapted from: @cafe_sanare
via Instagram

The interior of Cafe Sanare features a clean design boosted by full-length windows that grant visitors a front-row view of the gorgeous greenery of the surrounding area. Head outside and you’ll find an outdoor seating area that’s particularly breathtaking in the autumn.

Cafe Sanare cats
If you’re lucky, you may come across a lounging stray cat or two
.
Image adapted from: @cafe_sanare via Instagram

Do note that Cafe Sanare is a “no kids zone” and children under 14 aren’t allowed to enter. Our guide to the “no kids zone” and other things you need to take note of before visiting Korea delves into this further.

Check out more unique cafes in Seoul.

Cafe Sanare
Google Reviews
4
(411)
Address
56 Samyang-ro 181-gil, Gangbuk-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Opening Hours:
Friday 11:00 AM - 09:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

3. Sanrio Lovers Club


Go gaga over Sanrio characters at a themed cafe


Sanrio Lovers Club
Image adapted from: 솜비
via Naverand @sanrio_lovers_club via Instagram

If you’re a lover of all things cute, check out the Sanrio Lovers Club that’s been trending on social media recently. It’s a merch store, themed cafe, and photo zone all rolled into one. Every corner has the potential to be a photo spot, and the whole place is decked out with Sanrio paraphernalia.

Sanrio Lovers Club bathtub
Giant Hello Kitty chilling in a bathtub.

Image credit: @_____uc___ via Instagram

The most eye-catching part of Sanrio Lovers Club has got to be the feature wall lined with Sanrio plushies next to the bathtub with a giant Hello Kitty chillin’ and living her best life.

When you’re done taking photos for the ‘gram, head to the cafe for a tea break. There, you’ll find character-themed desserts in pastel hues that look almost too cute to eat. The cafe rolls out new limited edition menu items every month, so you’d have something to look forward to even if this isn’t your first time visiting.

Sanrio Lovers Club food
Image adapted from: @sanrio_lovers_club
via Instagram

You can book your trips to Sanrio Lovers Club via Catch Table. Reservations open on the 9th and 30th of every month, and visitors have noted that slots during Friday and the weekends are particularly hard to snag, so you might want to plan your visit earlier in the week.

Sanrio Lovers Club
Google Reviews
4.1
(219)
Address
18 Wausan-ro 19-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Opening Hours:
Friday 12:00 PM - 09:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

4. Starbucks Wave Seoul


Watch the sunset from a floating Starbucks on Han River


Starbucks Wave SeoulImage credit: @kim_92 via Instagram

South Korea is a nation with a robust cafe culture, and it only stands to reason that even their Starbucks outlets are next level. One such outlet is Starbucks Wave Seoul, which looks like it’s floating on water.

Starbucks Wave Seoul interior
Image adapted from: @slow__solos
via Instagram

Starbucks Wave Seoul is housed in Seoul Wave Art Center, a cultural complex that serves as an art gallery and space for exhibitions. If the place looks familiar to you, that may be because the first floor has been used as a filming location for K-Pop artistes and groups such as BTS, Oh My Girl, and Chungha.

Starbucks Wave Seoul seatingImage credit: @mihee_seoulite via Instagram

Thanks to the lofty ceilings and full-length windows, Starbucks Wave Seoul feels way bigger than it actually is. We recommend picking a seat by the window for maximum vibes, and so that you can pretend to be the main lead in a romantic K-drama pining after your unrequited crush.

Starbucks Seoul Wave Art Center
Google Reviews
4.3
(1,022)
Address
145-35 Jamwon-ro, Seocho District, Seoul, South Korea
Opening Hours:
Friday 08:30 AM - 09:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

5. Legoland Korea


Family-friendly Lego-themed attractions


Legoland Korea entrance
Image credit:
LEGOLAND Korea Resort

Legoland Korea is a resort dedicated to everyone’s favourite plastic building block.

Legoland Korea is actually located in Gangwon-do, not Seoul. However, it’s only 1.5 hours away from Seoul if you drive or take a bus – that’s like taking the MRT from Tuas Link to Changi Airport – or 2.5 hours by train.

Legoland Korea rides
Image credit: L
EGOLAND Korea Resort

Legoland Korea comprises 2 parts: a 28,000sqm theme park and a 154-room hotel. The theme park is split into 7 zones, namely Brick Street, Bricktopia, Lego Castle, Pirate Shores, Lego Ninjago World, Lego City, and Mini Land. In total, there are 40 rides and attractions.

Legoland Hotel Korea
Image credit:
LEGOLAND Korea Resort

Since you’re likely to be exhausted after a whole day of exploring the theme park, you’ll need a place to rest for the night. That’s where Legoland Hotel Korea comes in. The hotel is, of course, Lego-themed. There’s even a treasure hunt with clues hidden in each room, which will surely keep you or your kiddos entertained.

LEGOLAND Korea Resort
Google Reviews
4.2
(3,326)
Address
128 Hajungdo-gil, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea
Opening Hours:
Friday 10:00 AM - 06:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

6. Do Ho Suh Artland exhibition


Take pics at an avant-garde clay structure


Do Ho Suh artDo Ho Suh’s Artland.
Image credit: Prudence Cumings Associates

Artland was an interactive and ever-changing art installation by Do Ho Suh, a London-based Korean sculptor. In earlier instalments, viewers could collaborate and add on to the existing structure, However, it’s been since converted to a permanent viewing exhibition from 29th February 2024.

It’s currently being exhibited in the Buk-Seoul Museum of Art, where it’ll remain till 31st December 2025.

Artland first started out as a simple project made of children’s modelling clay by Suh and his family. But over the past 7 years, the structure has grown to become a representation of a thriving, fantastical ecosystem of alien flora and fauna.

Clay sculpture
Both kids were adults are encouraged to make and add their own clay figurines to the installation.

Image credit: Seoul Museum of Art

Those curious about what Artland looked like originally will be glad to know that the exhibition includes a 3D rendering of the original structure. Also, visitors will be given a workbook titled The Wonders of Artland. Written by Suh’s children, the workbook contains drawing activities and also serves as a guide to the world of Artland.

Seoul Museum of Art
Address
Seoul Museum of Art, Seoul
Opening Hours:
Friday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings

– Busan –


Take a day trip to Busan for cafes with seaside views or fuel your adrenaline rush with the rides at Lotte World and Gyeongnam Masan Robot Land.


7. Waveon Coffee


Sip on coffee at an aesthetic ocean-side cafe


Waveon CoffeeImage credit: Waveon Coffee via Facebook

Probably one of the most well-known cafes in Busan is Waveon Coffee, and you’ll understand why right from the get-go. Its distinct architecture is a haven for those on the prowl for pretty pics, and they’ve even set-up bean bags outside if you’d like to take your drinks al fresco.

Waveon Coffee viewsImage adapted from: @hj_0130__ & @travel._jay via Instagram

Head on up to the rooftop for snaps of the ocean, or watch the crashing waves from a cosy nook within the cafe. Alternatively, make your way to the back of the cafe, where parasols and outdoor furniture have been set-up for visitors to enjoy their cuppa joe while getting their daily fix of vitamin D.

Waveon Coffee food
Image credit: @from.pindaily via Instagram

Speaking of which, their selection of coffees is impressive, but you’re unsure of what to order, any one of their drip coffees is a safe bet. They’ve also got an on-site bakery which pumps out fresh bakes daily; dig into a delicious Strawberry Pistachio Tarte , or pair your drinks with a fluffy Black Sesame Roll.

Waveon Coffee
Google Reviews
4.2
(6,089)
Address
286 Haemaji-ro, Gijang, Busan, South Korea
Opening Hours:
Friday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings
Contact Information

8. Lotte World Adventure Busan: Magic Forest


Fulfil your fairytale dreams at a magic forest theme park


Lotte World Adventure Busan Magic Forest
Image credit: Lotte World Adventure Busan

Lotte World Adventure Busan: Magic Forest is a theme park that looks like a magical fairytale version of Europe. The park consists of 6 themed zones, including a royal garden-themed section featuring a ride inspired by Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, and Joyful Meadows, a section dedicated to kid-friendly rides.

Though it only has 17 rides compared to the 46 in Seoul’s Lotte World, the premises of Lotte World Adventure Busan are 20% larger. In other words, it’s less crowded here even when things get busy.

Lotte World Adventure Busan Magic Forest rides
Image credit: Lotte World Adventure Busan

Adrenaline junkies will want to check out the Giant Swing, Giant Digger, and Giant Splash rides in Underland, an area inspired by a Korean fairytale called the Ogre’s Magic Club.

Lotte World Adventure Busan Magic Forest castle
Queen Lorry’s castle and her royal garden.

Image credit: @myuniverse_mj via Instagram

But if you treasure a peaceful life, head to Queen Lorry’s Royal Garden, where you can lepak and take chio photos to show off to your friends. As it’s a great photo spot that’s popular with couples, there are professional photographers stationed here, in case you’re in need of their paid services.

And unlike the castles in Disneylands all over the world, the one at Lotte World Adventure Busan is open to all visitors. There’s even an observatory on the 2nd floor, and we recommend heading up for a romantic view when the sun sets over the theme park.

Book tickets to Lotte World Busan.

Lotte World Adventure Busan
Google Reviews
4.1
(2,467)
Address
42 Dongbusangwangwang-ro, Gijang, Busan, South Korea
Opening Hours:
Friday 10:00 AM - 08:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

9. Gyeongnam Masam Robot Land


Step into the future at a robot theme park


Gyeongnam Masam Robot Land rides
Image adapted from: 리니히니 v
ia Naver

Gyeongnam Masan Robot Land isn’t technically in Busan, but it’s close enough and worth a day trip. The theme park is located in Changwon, which is only 30 minutes away from Busan by car, 1 hour by bus, and 1 hour 45 minutes by train.

The robot-centric theme park is the first of its kind in the world, and you’ll find about 250 robots here. All in all, there are 22 rides and 11 robotic experimental facilities in Gyeongnam Masam Robot Land, which is as big as 150 football fields.

Gyeongnam Masam Robot Land attractions
Image adapted from: 뿅뿅이삼촌 and 리니히니
via Naver

Key rides at this theme park include a 65m-tall Gyro Drop, a 90° rollercoaster with 360° twists, and a Viking Ship. Brave kids can try riding the 11m-tall Gyro Drop, which is enough for an adrenaline rush but safe enough so that parents won’t have to worry. Less risky rides include the merry-go-round and bumper cars, though they’re no less fun.

Robot Land
Google Reviews
4.3
(1,838)
Address
South Korea, Gyeongsangnam-do, Changwon-si, Masanhappo-gu, 로봇랜드로 250
Opening Hours:
Friday 10:00 AM - 06:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

10. CLUB D OASIS


Splash around in a 3-storey water park & spa


CLUB D OASIS exterior
Image credit: Klook

Other than its magnificent seaside views, Busan is also well-known for the various hot springs peppered around the city. But, if you’d like to splash about in a water park right after a nice soak in one, then CLUB D OASIS is the place to be. The 3-storey water park and spa is even located right across Haeundae Beach, so you won’t have to stray too far to visit Busan’s most famous beach.

CLUB D OASIS waterparkImage credit: CLUB D OASIS

Families will have a blast at the facility’s expansive water park, which is separated into indoor and outdoor sections. For starters, adrenaline junkies can go on the 200m long water slide, while the little ones can wade a water playground or float down a lazy river.

CLUB D OASIS infinity poolImage adapted from: CLUB D OASIS 

Another one of CLUB D OASIS’ hotspots is its 80m-long infinity pool. Those looking to catch some sun can recline on its sailing boat-like sun beds, or go right to the pool’s edge to soak in views of Haeundae Beach.

CLUB D OASIS hot spring
Don’t worry, that’s not wine; it’s the minerals in the hot spring’s water that give it a violet shade.
Image credit: @coco_young__ via Instagram

As far as hotsprings go, CLUB D OASIS plays host to the first and only urban hot springs in the country, and they’ve been approved as the 8th national wellness hot spring in all of South Korea. They’ve got 5 hot springs to choose from, and even the decor surrounding the pools are pretty IG-worthy, as the stone path leading to them is flanked by willowy plants.

Club D Oasis
Google Reviews
3.8
(216)
Address
30 Dalmaji-gil, Haeundae, Busan, South Korea
Opening Hours:
Friday 10:00 AM - 09:30 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

– Incheon –


11. Momo Art Cafe


Live out your cottagecore dreams at a workshop cafe


Momo Art Cafe exterior
Image adapted from: Onest Kim
via Naver

Momo Art Cafe first started out as a space for horticultural and ceramic art workshops for adults and kids alike. Later, the place was expanded to include a cafe space so that adults could have a place to chill while their kids were attending workshops.

Momo Art Cafe greenhouse - Things to do South Korea
The greenhouse where gardening workshops are held.

Image credit: Onest Kim via Nave

The premises include a greenhouse, garden, huge backyard, and a building where indoor workshops are held. In the summer, there are kiddie pools set up in the backyard. Do note that you’d need to make reservations via Naver should you wish to make use of these pools.

Momo Art Cafe decor - Things to do South Korea
Image adapted from:, gyeyang_gu
via Naver 

Admission to Momo Art Cafe costs 8,000, which includes a free drink. We recommend trying one of Momo Art’s ades – Konglish for lemonade soda drinks.

Admission: KRW8,000/adults (~S$8.04), free for children under 12 months
Address: 33 Yeokgol-ro, 43 beon-gil, Gyeyang-gu, Incheon, South Korea
Opening hours: 10am-7pm, Daily
Contact: +82 32-555-7378 | Momo Art Instagram


12. Amoene Cafe


Trippy topsy-turvy cafe with Alice in Wonderland vibes


Amoene Cafe exterior - Things to do South Korea
Image credit: @beary_pic via Instagram

For a mind-boggling coffee run, look no further than Amoene Cafe. You’ll spot it from a mile away, as it resembles 2 houses collapsing into one another, Dr. Strange style. But, you’ll find that its peculiar design extends to even its interior.

Amoene Cafe decor - Things to do South Korea
Image adapted from: @mini_pon_ and @true___c via Instagram

Past the cafe’s cute heart-shaped doors, expect to peer out of slanted windows and navigate through askewed doors; even the door to the bathroom is misaligned. Of course, the cafe’s table and chairs are perfectly level, so you don’t have to worry about your drinks or bums slipping onto the floor.

Amoene Cafe food - Things to do South KoreaImage adapted from: @soon._.hang & @amoene_cafe via Instagram

If you’re not queasy from the trippy decor, Amoene Cafe specialises in a variety of cakes and tarts, so feel free to order some to quell your rumbling bellies. Their Muscat Yoghurt cake is the go-to for grape lovers, and cheesecake fans can opt for their Sweet Potato Crumble Cheesecake or Chestnut Cheesecake.

Amoene Cafe
Google Reviews
4.3
(85)
Address
471 Seondu-ri, Gilsang-myeon, Kanghwa, Incheon, South Korea
Opening Hours:
Friday 10:00 AM - 09:00 PM Show More Timings

– Daegu –


Get ready to be surrounded by modern art and cafes in nature by adding these places to your itinerary when planning what to do in Daegu.


13. MRNW Daegu


Get in touch with nature at a tree farm-turned-exhibition space


MRNW Daegu - Things to do South Korea
Image credit: SPACE

According to SPACE, MRNW Daegu started as a landscaping tree farm. MRNW stands for “miraenongwon”, which means “future farm”.

The original owner grew landscaping trees and plants in the huge compound, both for business and as a hobby. Later, his son – the current owner – inherited the farm and turned it into MRNW Daegu.

MRNW Daegu ducks - Things to do South Korea
Image adapted from:
@hyuggy_hammy and @yunhejl via Instagram 

The landscaping trees from the original owner have been painstakingly preserved in the expansive gardens at MRNW, so that’s what visitors come here for – besides taking numerous photos of the Insta-worthy building.

The best part of MRNW, in our opinion, is the fact that you’ll spot cute ducks roaming around the garden.

MRNW Daegu exterior - Things to do South Korea
Image credit: SPACE

MRNW regularly runs events such as art exhibitions and gardening workshops, the latter of which is conducted in conjunction with Seoul Gardening Club and will appeal to aspiring plant parents out there.

And when you’re done exploring MRNW, head to the in-house cafe called Piper, where you can rest your weary body and recharge with a good cup of coffee.

mrnw
Google Reviews
4
(82)
Address
495-9 Seobyeon-dong, Buk-gu, Daegu, South Korea
Opening Hours:
Friday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings

14. Liebevoll


Explore a Secret Garden-esque cafe


Liebevoll hut - Things to do South Korea
Image credit: @92.115ss
via Instagram

Located in Seongju County, which lies west of Daegu, Liebevoll is an unusual cafe with premises measuring approximately 9,917sqm. The majority of the space is taken up by gardens and it honestly looks more like a forest than a cafe. For Singaporeans who have lived all their lives in the city, this #cottagecore cafe will be a novel experience.

Liebevoll seats - Things to do South Korea
Image credit: @92.115ss
via Instagram

This place is so big that they even have a mini creek and waterfall, so you could easily spend a whole day here exploring the grounds.

From time to time, you’ll find flea markets being held at Liebevoll. The cafe is particularly magical come Christmastime, when the owner decks out the entire place with winter-themed decorations, creating a Narnia-esque cosy atmosphere.

Liebevoll food - Things to do South Korea
Image adapted from: @liebevoll_art
via Instagram

Liebevoll is technically a “no kids zone”, but there are some caveats – the cafe allows kids above 12 years old and babies under 12 months old to enter.

Address: 1433, Deokun-ro, Suryun-myeon, Seongju-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 11am-6pm | Sat 11am-9pm | Sun 11am-8pm | Closed on Wednesdays
Contact: +82 10-4434-2018 | Liebevoll Instagram


What to do in South Korea

Now that we’re frantically fighting fires during the year-end workload, perhaps a trip to South Korea is in order once everything is said and done. But before you jet off, read up on things to know about visiting South Korea – you won’t find these tips in regular guidebooks.

Check out more things to do in South Korea:


Originally published on 27th September 2022. Last updated by Khoo Yong Hao on 18th November 2024.
Cover image adapted from: @92.115ss, @kim_92, @rikorikoleeriko via Instagram, & One Fine Day,