G o o d
B u y !
KOREA TRAVEL GUIDE
2002
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B u y !
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ňIncheon International Airport ňIncheon International Passenger Terminal ňJeju International Airport ňGimhae International Airport ňBusan International Passenger Terminal
Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this book is as up-to-date as possible at the time of going to press. However, datails such as prices, opening hours, telephone numbers are liable to change. We would be delighted to receive any corrections and suggestions. Please write to
[email protected]. Designed by Darum. Printed in the Republic of Korea. Not for sale. 2002 가이드북 영어
Korea 2002 Travel Guide http://www.tour2korea.com
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Tourist Map of Korea FIFA World Cup 2002 Korea/Japan
Contents
6 TM
13
Geumgangsan Diamond Mountains
14
Korea in Brief
17
Tourist Destinations
25 26 54 68 72 76
Seoul Subways (Seoul and Incheon) Seoul Vicinity (Incheon, Gyeonggi-do) Eastern Area (Gangwon-do, Ulleungdo) Central Area (Daejeon, Chungcheongnam-do, Chungcheongbuk-do) Southeastern Area (Gyeongsangbuk-do, Gyeongju, Busan, Gyeongsangnam-do, Hallyeo Maritime National Park ) Southwestern Area (Gwangju, Jeollabuk-do, Jeollanam-do) Jeju-do
Special Interests in Korea Korean Food Traditional Sports and Games Recreation Shopping Seasonal Attractions Spring
National Flag The Korean flag is called taegeukgi. Its design symbolizes the principles of the yin and yang in Oriental philosophy. The circle in the center of the flag is divided into two equal parts. The upper red section represents the proactive cosmic forces of the yang. Conversely, the lower blue section represents the responsive cosmic forces of the yin. The two forces together embody the concepts of continual movement, balance and harmony that characterize the sphere of infinity. The circle is surrounded by four trigrams, one in each corner. Each trigram symbolizes one of the four universal elements: heaven ( ),earth ( ), fire ( ), and water ( ).
National Flower The national flower of Korea is the mugunghwa or Rose of Sharon. Every year from July to October, a profusion of mugunghwa blossoms graces the entire country. Unlike most flowers, mugunghwa is remarkably tenacious and able to withstand both blight and insects. The flowerœ s symbolic significance stems from mugunghwaœ s root, Ŕmugung,ŕmeaning immortality. This word accurately reflects the immortal nature of Korean history, and the determination and perseverance of the Korean people.
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2002 Asian Games in Busan
80 92 98 105 106 108 110 116 124 124
Summer
125
Fall
126
Winter (Ski Resorts, Hot Springs) Golf Courses National Parks Museums Festivals
General Information Entry & Departure Formalities Transportation Accommodations Diplomatic Missions and Other Organizations Business Travel Tips Holidays Handy Facts Useful Korean Phrases Index
127 131 132 132 138 141 142 144 153 167 172 174 175 181 183
ҮThe Romanization of hangeul (the Korean alphabet) in this booklet follows the new system proclaimed by the Korean Ministry of Culture and Tourism on July 7, 2000. In an attempt to make things easier to understand, we accept some redundancy in English rendition, repeating certain terms stated in Korean. For example, gang means river, san means mountain and do means island, but we write Imjingang River, Mt. Namsan, and Jindo Island, etc. As two exceptions, however, because they are already so well-known internationally, occasionally you will see “the Han River” and “Jeju Island.” ҮUnfortunately most of phone numbers listed in this book may not answer in English. It will be more convenient to ask your Korean friends to call for you, or get assistance at 1330 Travel Phone.
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2002 FIFA World Cup Korea / Japan
World Cup Venues in Korea
Seoul
Changgyeongung Palace
Nestled around the Han River is the Korean capital Seoul, a city of old and new. With thousands years of history, it has well preserved royal palaces, historical relics, and cultural treasures, yet state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure as well.
Seoul World Cup Stadium in Mapo-gu will be the venue for the opening match on May 31, a first round game on June 13, and the semifinals on June 25.
Suwon s the World Cup again approaches, world soccer fans are heating up. The First World Cup of the 21st Century will be co-hosted by Korea and Japan from May 31 to June 30. We are looking forward to a valuable opportunity to work harmony not only between our two countries but also among world citizens through the productive competition and friendship that will be realized in the games in the year 2002. Korea will hold the opening ceremony and opening match on May 31, and Japan the final match and closing ceremony on June 30.
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About the tickets With the exception of the opening match, the base-level tickets range from US$60 for the first-round matches to $300 for the final match. The best seats range from $150 at the first-round matches to $750 in the final game. There are three kinds of tickets. Single tickets are good for one match. A Team Specific Ticket Series (TSTs) will enable the holder to watch all matches involving a specific team, and a Venue Specific Ticket Series (VSTs) are for all matches in a particular venue. Applications for tickets can be filed with FIFA’s World Cup Ticketing Bureau. Internet: www.FIFAworldcup.com E-mail:
[email protected] Address: P.O. Box 2002 Cheadle Hulme SK8 7RR, U.K. Tel: 44-870-123-2002 Fax: 44-870-124-2002 2002 FIFA World Cup Accommodation Bureau Korea Tel: 82-2-738-2006, Fax: 82-2-738-2165 www.fifa-hotels.com, e-mail:
[email protected] Korea travel guide
Just 41.5 km south of Seoul, Suwon is an ancient fortress city. Intending to move the nation’s capital to Suwon from Seoul, King Jeongjo who was the 22nd Joseon Dynasty ruler built a 5.74 km circular fortress wall, from 1794 to 1796. Today you can Suwon Hwaseong Fortress walk along the entire wall, which was designated by UNESCO in 1997 as a World Cultural Heritage. Suwon is also famous for its delicious beef ribs. Suwon’s neighboring Yongin is a popular tourist destination with many famous attractions such as the Korean Folk Village, the mammoth amusement theme park Everland, and several nice golf courses. In Suwon will be group matches on June 5, 11 and 13 and a round-of-16 on June 16 at the Suwon World Cup Stadium in Paldal-gu.
Incheon A gateway for sea transport to China, Incheon is emerging as a major Asian air hub as well. The new Incheon International Airport began operations on March 29, 2001, on land reclaimed from the sea. Well known as the site of General MacArthur’s landing in 1950, Incheon commemorates the triumph at both Freedom Park and at the Memorial Hall for the Incheon Landing Operation. There is Wolmido with its unique mixture of cafes, seafood shops and amusement rides, or an hour-long pleasure boat ride. Just a short drive from Freedom Protection Monument at the Memorial Hall for the Incheon Landing Operation
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downtown leads you to Ganghwado Island and its highest mountain Manisan with an altar on its summit: this is Chamseongdan where Dangun, the founding father of Korea, made offerings to God, and where the torch relays for all Korean sporting events begin. Ferries ply various interesting islands off Incheon, where friendly local villagers and fishing communities. Group matches will be held at Incheon Munhak Stadium on June 9, 11 and 14.
Daejeon Located in central Korea, Daejeon is a representative science city. The Expo Science Park, Daedeok Science Town, and the National Science Museum make Daejeon a future-oriented, high-tech science center. Yuseong Hot Springs, 11 km from downtown, gained nationwide fame for its healing power ever since the Baekje Kingdom (18 B.C.˅A.D. 660). Within city limits lies Daecheongho Lake with a beautiful lakeside drive that attracts young couples. Mt. Bomunsan is another tourist site dotted with Buddhist temples and hermitages; you can take a short cable car ride or walk the trails. EXPO Science Park
At Daejeon World Cup Stadium in Yuseong-gu, two group matches and a round-of-16 will be held on June 12, 14 and 18.
Daegu Famous for its sweet and juicy apples and textile industry, Daegu has been the country’s major retail center for medicinal herbs for several centuries. The items cover ginseng, herbs, nuts, fruits, honey, leaves, deer antlers, a cornucopia of roots, etc. Woobang Tower Land, an amusement theme park, has Daegu Tower featuring a panoramic view of the whole city. Located in the north part of Daegu is Mt. Palgongsan, considered a sacred mountain. It houses Medicinal herb market
Buddhist temples a thousand years old, such as Donghwasa and Pagyesa. Gatbawi, a stone Buddha image, attracts many to pray, as legend has it that people’s wishes are granted. Also designated as the venue for the 2003 Summer Universiade, the city will host three group matches on June 6, 8 and 10 and one third-place game on June 29 at Daegu World Cup Stadium in Suseong-gu.
Jeonju Nicknamed “Home of Art,” Pansori Jeonju is a center of the Korean culture and art. A local festival, Jeonju Daesaseupnori, is held on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. It presents many traditional aspects of Jeonju through pansori (epic solo song), sijo (a three-versed Korean ode), folk songs and farmers music. Also as an epicurean capital of the country, no matter where you eat, food here is well prepared and plentiful. Best known among Jeonju dishes is bibimbap. Jeonju is home of Jeonju Yi clan, from which the Joseon Dynasty kings sprang. Several historic sites related to Yi clan are still well preserved including Gyeonggijeon Shrine which was built to enshrine the portrait of Yi Seong-gye, founder of the Joseon Dynasty. Two group matches and a round-of-16 will be held at Jeonju World Cup Stadium in Deokjin-gu on June 7, 10 and 17.
Gwangju Gwangju, called “City of Light” and “City of the Arts,” hosts the
Korea travel guide
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Gwangju Biennale and holds the Kimchi Festival every October. At the eastern part of the city stands Mt. Mudeungsan with its tea plantations producing chunseolcha (“spring snow tea”), and sweet mountain-grown watermelons up to 50 cm in diameter and weighing 15 kg apiece. Some old Buddhist temples are situated on the slopes, including Jeungsimsa and Wonhyosa both founded during the Silla Kingdom (57 B.C.˅A.D. 935). Gwangju citizens are also famous for their patriotism. This was a center of heroic army resistance against Japanese invasions of the late 16th century and the independence movement opposing Japanese colonial oppression from 1910 to 1945. It also played a leading role in the contemporary democracy movement. Mt. Mudeungsan
Gwangju World Cup Stadium in Seo-gu will hold two group matches on June 2 and 4 and a quarter finals on June 22.
Ulsan Ulsan is a leading industrial center of Korean industry, such as oil refining, auto manufacturing, petrochemicals, shipbuilding and machinery. Hyundai Heavy Industries and Hyundai Motor Company are based in this city. Ulsan is also famous as a Hyundai Heavy Industries producing center of quality amethyst, and there is a park themed on this enchanting violet stone. A short way from downtown are clean beaches: Jujeon well known for its black pebble beach and Jinha with its surrounding pines. The Ulsan Munsu Football Stadium at Nam-gu will hold group matches on June 2 and 3, and a quarterfinal on June 21.
Seogwipo Seogwipo is situated at the foot of Mt. Hallasan on Jeju Island, whose lower slopes are covered with citrus trees and green pasture. As it enjoys mild, sunny weather and clean environment, people flock for sightseeing, sports and leisure activities all year round. Much loved by tourists, the Jungmun Resort offers a nice beach, beautiful waterfalls, public golf course, marine park, huge botanical garden and world-class
Jungmun Resort
hotels. Seafood is a must-try on Jeju Island. The city was chosen as a site for summit among world leaders several times in the 1990s. During the World Cup, two group matches on June 8 and 12 and a round-of-16 on June 15 are scheduled at Jeju World Cup Stadium in Bunhwang-dong.
Busan Busan is Korea’s principal port for international commerce. About 90% of the country’s container shipping passes through this port. Just a few minutes’ walk from the harbor are lively Gukje (International) Market and Jagalchi Fish Market Beomeosa Temple which attract flocks of visitors from Korea and abroad. For seafood lovers, a variety of fresh fish are sold in the Jagalchi Fish Market where spirited women merchants slice up fresh fish for instant sashimi meals. Only 40-minute subway ride from the downtown will take you to Beomeosa Temple which is surrounded by peaceful forest. The city was also selected as the venue for 2002 Asian Games. During the World Cup, group matches will be held at Busan Main Stadium in Yeonje-gu on June 2, 4 and 6.
2002 Asian Games in Busan (Sept. 29－Oct. 14, for 16 days)
002 Asian Games, the sports event set up for everlasting peace and harmony of 3 billion Asians, is to be staged in Busan under the motto of “New Vision, New Asia.” This greatest Asian sports festival will remind all Asians of the Olympic ideal for more prosperous and peaceful world, and the citizens of Busan are doing their best to realize this goal. More informations at www.busanasiad.org.
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Geumgangsan Diamond Mountains with 12,000 Pinnacles and 12,000 Miracles
Guryong Falls
Sangpaldam Pool
Manmulsang Rocks
Moranbong Acrobatic Circus
Bibong Falls
Geumgangsan Hot Spring
ҟAttractions in Geumgangsan Mountains
Samseonam Rock
“The beauty of the Diamond Mountains is beyond comparison with any mountains in the world. The wonder of grand gorges enraptures us.” - Isabella Bird Bishop, British explorer, in 1890 -
Each of four tour courses boasts truly breathtaking scenery. Outer Geumgang is the zenith of masculine magnificence while Inner Geumgang has feminine properties. Guryong Falls Fifty-meter-high Guryong Falls (“nine dragon falls”) is one of the most famous and exquisite falls in Korea. At the bottom of the waterfall are nine 10-meter trenches through solid rock, carved by the crashing waters over hundreds of thousands of years. The formation looks like dragons.
Sangpaldam Pool Sangpaldam Pool, the setting for an ancient legend of a fairy and a woodcutter, provides a perfect stopover point.
o other mountains in Korea have been more admired than Geumgangsan. Poets, painters, and artists have been eager to applaud the magnificence of these 110 mountains. With 12,000 pinnacles and hundreds of valleys, odd-shaped rocks, crystal clear waters, endless saw-tooth ridges, diverse flora and fauna, this is some of the most fantastic mountain scenery to be found anywhere on the face of the globe. For most foreigners visiting Korea at the new millennium, the beautiful Geumgangsan in North Korea has been added as a tourist attraction. Since the first 4-night-5-day Geumgangsan tour on November 19, 1998, more than 400,000 people have enjoyed the breathtaking scenery. On June 8 in 2001, The Hyundai Asan and North Korea agreed to allow overland journey from Sokcho to Geumgangsan. Though it will take some time to build the road, the future journey is expected to be more comfortable. In addition, the region is agreed to be designated as a “special tourism zone,” which will afford diverse amenities such as golf courses, ski slopes, condominiums, etc. Travel to the North Korean Geumgangsan Diamond Mountains is a wonderful opportunity, in linkage with South Korea’s east coast and Seoraksan Mountains. The voyage now takes place by ocean liner.
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Korea guide
travel
Bibong Falls The spray looks like a phoenix taking wing and it is named Bibong Falls (“flying phoenix falls”).
Manmulsang Rocks Manmulsang is perhaps the number-one scenic sight in the Geumgangsan Mountains. It features tens of thousands of rock images resembling various objects and living things. From every angle it displays incredible nature-carved images.
Geumgangsan Hot Spring About 300 meters away from the Geumgangsan Hotel is a long-famous, healing hot spring. Relax after hiking the mountain trails.
ҟThe process from reservation to embarkation: 1. Make a reservation at a qualified travel agency, with two passport-sized photos, and fill out an application form. 2. Make payment at a travel agency. All major credit cards are welcomed. Travel agents are not allowed to accept the cruise fee in cash, so whoever wants to pay in cash may remit through the Korea Exchange Bank or National Agriculture Cooperative Federation. 3. Confirm the reservation. 4. Arrive at the port 2 hours ahead of departure time. ҟDepartures at 13:00 from Sokcho Port and 3 days and 2 nights duration (sea voyage: 3ڰ hours) For further information or a list of qualified agencies, please contact Hyundai Asan at: ȭ 02-3669-3683, www.hyundai-asan.com or
[email protected]
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Korea in Brief Land Climate Religion Language History Arts Customs
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Korea in Brief Land he Korean peninsula extends southward from the eastern end of the Asian continent. Korean peninsula is roughly 1,020 km (612 miles) long and 175 km (105 miles) wide at its narrowest point. Mountains cover 70% of the Korea’s land area, making it one of the most mountainous regions in the world. The lifting and folding of Korea’s granite and limestone base has created breathtaking landscapes of scenic hills and valleys. The mountain range that traverses the length of the east coast plunges steeply into the East Sea, while along the southern and western coasts, the mountains descend gradually to the coastal plains that produce the bulk of Korea’s agricultural crops, especially rice. The Korean peninsula is divided just slightly north of the 38th parallel. The democratic Republic of Korea in the south and communist North Korea are separated by a demilitarized zone. South Korea’s 99,500 sq. km is
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Climate orea lies in the temperate zone and has four distinct seasons. In late March or early April, the trees burst into leafy splendor to mark the beginning of spring. Mostly sunny days can be expected from March to May. During the relatively hot and rainy summer season, the vegetation is lush. By June average temperature is
K
Korea travel guide
RUSSIAN FED. CHINA
Beijing
East Sea
KOREA
JAPAN
Seoul
Incheon
Tokyo
Busan Yellow Sea
over 20Ū C (68Ū F). Monsoon rains usually begin around the end of June and last until mid-to-late July. August is hot. The coming of autumn in late September brings continental winds and clear, dry weather, making the fall months perhaps the most pleasant time of year. October’s vivid golds and vibrant reds create a colorful panorama. December to February are cold and dry with occasional snow or rain. During the winter months,
three or four days of cold weather are often followed by a few warmer days.
Jeju lsland Shanghai
populated by 47.9 million people (2000). Administratively, the Republic of Korea consists of nine provinces (do); the capital Seoul; and the six metropolitan cities of Busan, Daegu, Incheon, Gwangju, Daejeon, and Ulsan. In total, there are 72 cities (si) and 91 counties (gun). Geographic position Ŏ Between 33Ūand 43Ūnorth latitude, and 124Ūand 131Ūeast longitude (including North Korea) ƅHighest mountains in S. Korea Ŏ Hallasan on Jeju Island, 1,950 meters (6,400 ft); Jirisan, 1,915 meters (6,283 ft); and Seoraksan, 1,708 meters (5,604 ft) ƅRivers Ŏ Nakdonggang, 522 km (313 miles); Hangang, 482 km (289 miles); Geumgang, 396 km (238 miles) ƅ Economic status (2000) Ŏ GNI US ʼ455.2 billion; national per capita income USʼ9,628 ƅ
Religion reedom of religion is fully guaranteed in the Republic of Korea. Korea’s traditional religionsōShamanism, Buddhism, and Confucianismō have all played an integral role in the country’s socio- cultural development. There are also various minor religions based on various combinations of elements from these traditional religions. Christianity has
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developed a large following since its introduction in the late 18th century.
Language he Korean language, like Hungarian, Turkish, Mongolian, and Finnish, is classified into the Ural-Altaic Language group. Hangeul, the Korean alphabet, is composed of 10 simple vowels and 14 consonants. A group of scholars under the patronage of King Sejong developed this systematic rendition of spoken sound in 1443. It is widely acclaimed by linguists as an ingenious invention. The chart on the next page presents the Romanization of the 24 hangeul letters. This Romanization is based on the new Romanization system proclaimed in 2000 by the Korean government.
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Earliest Form of Hangeul
However, because all road signs and information boards that are based on McCune-Reischauer system, the old official Romanization cannot be changed immediately, there might be some coexistence of | 18 | 19 |
Consonants ͳ OS Ͷ V L\ ͻ ZT U Vowels Α I Γ aI Ε MW Η aMW
΄ · Ή Ί Ό
JX [ [QTMV\ VO R KP
Ύ Ώ ΐ
S \ X P
Ι Ν Ξ
W aW ]
Σ Υ
a] M] Q
the two systems through 2005. For your understanding, major changes are listed below. 1) The previously used diacritical mark breve (Ȇ) and apostrophe ( ’ ) have disappeared in the new system. For example, the vowels , ၹ, ဌ, and ႈ are romanized as eo, eu, yeo, and ui instead of the erstwhile Ȇ o, Ȇ u, yȆo, and Ȇui. ႏᆐ, ဘಥዬ and ဌႈ౬ become Incheon, Yeongdeungpo and ungp’o Yeouido instead of Inch’Ȇon, YȆongdȆ and YȆoȆuido as written in the past. 2) When sounds ͳ, , ΄, and Ί appear before a vowel, they are transcribed by g, d, b, and j, but for the sake of phonetic consistency they are transcribed by k, t, p a
g u
h n
han
3) , Ύ, Ώ, and Ό are romanized as k, t, p, and ch instead of the old k’, t’, p’, and ch’. ዧു, ዬጪ, and ᆖჵ become Taepyeongno, Pohang, and Cheongju instead of T’aep’yȆongno, P’ohang, and Ch’Ȇongju. 4) ཪ is written si instead of shi. Thus ཬഈ and ႔ become Silla and Imsil.
Silent eo
k
guk
and t, when followed by another consonant or forming the final sound of a word. This means that ๛໕, ጨ and Ⴥჵ have changed from Pusan, HaptȆok and Cheju to Busan, Hapdeok and Jeju. Don’t worry ӹ when Koreans hear foreigners pronounce Pusan or Busan, both sound similar and either way is no problem.
Hangeul is written in syllabic units made up of two, three, or four letters.
eo (Korean language)
History he habitation of early man in Korea appears to have started about half a million years ago. The first kingdom, named Gojoseon (Ancient Joseon), was formed in 2333 B.C. By the first century B.C., Korea’s three ancient kingdoms of Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla ruled the whole Korean peninsula and much
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of Manchuria; they were by far the most powerful and eminent kingdoms in the area. The period of their rule, 57 B.C.ōA.D. 668, is known as the Three Kingdoms period. Goguryeo and Baekje were ultimately vanquished by Silla in A.D. 668 and 660 respectively. In A.D. 676, Silla unified the peninsula for the first time. The Unified Silla
Dangun and the Founding Myth of Korea Millennia ago when Hwanung, a son of Heaven, ruled the people, there were a bear and a tiger that seriously wanted to become human. So they prayed fervently to Hwanung to grant their wishes. Hwanung was moved by their entreaties and promised to transform them if only they could endure a dark cave eating only garlic and mugwort for a full 100 days. The tiger’s patience was soon worn thin, cooped up in the dark without being able to hunt, and it gave up the ordeal. The bear became a woman after 21 days of endurance. She then asked Hwanung to find her a husband; he found her very beautiful and married her. The couple gave a birth to a son, Dangun, who established a kingdom named Gojoseon (Ancient Joseon) in 2333 B.C., the first kingdom on the Korean peninsula.
period, A.D. 676ō935, was a golden age for Korean culture. The advancements in the area of Buddhist art are especially noteworthy. In the succeeding Goryeo Dynasty, A.D. 918ō1392, an aristocratic government was instituted. Buddhism was established as the state religion and came to have great influence in the political and administrative spheres. The name “Korea” is a derivative of “Goryeo.” The Joseon Dynasty, A.D. 1392ō 1910, was the peninsula’s final dynasty. During this period various political and economic reforms were enacted. The most prominent of these was the adoption of Confucianism as the state ideology. The surge of creative literary endeavors and the invention of hangeul, the Korean alphabet, in 1443, invest this period Ash-glazed gray stoneware vessel, with special cultural Silla period significance. Hanyang, now known as Seoul, was established as the dynasty’s capital city in 1394.
Palaces and gates constructed during this period can still be seen in the city today. The Japanese invasion of the peninsula in 1910 ended the Joseon Dynasty. Korea remained under Japanese colonial rule for 35 years until the end of World War н. On August 15, 1945, Gilt-bronze Japan surrendered to the contemplative of Allies and withdrew from the Bodhisattva 7th century Korean peninsula, which was then divided into two: South Korea in the free world and North Korea in the communist bloc. The Republic of Korea in the south established an independent government three years later. The Korean War began on June 25, 1950, when North Korea invaded the South. An armistice agreement was signed three years later in 1953. South Korea’s tireless post-war reconstruction efforts were highly successful in the promotion of national prosperity and stability.
ḏ ᬯ
Jongmyo Royal Shrine
Korea travel guide
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Arts he artistic talents of the Korean people are expressed through the original music, dance and painting that have evolved over their 5,000-year history. While in modern times many Western art forms have been introduced and embraced by Korea, her unique arts still flourish, both in their pure forms and in various harmonious combinations with modern genre.
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Traditional Music
Traditional Korean music, called gugak, has shared a similar cultural background with China and Japan. However, despite some superficial similarities, anyone who has experienced gugak can easily tell that it is clearly different from other East Asian music. Korean music, for example, traditionally has a triple rhythm (three beats per measure), while Chinese and Japanese music have two beats per measure. Gugak can be divided into two types: jeongak or the music of the upper classes, and minsogak or folk music. Jeongak, has a slow, solemn and complicated melody, while minsogak such as farmers music, pansori (epic solo song) and shamanistic music is fast and vigorous. Traditional Dance
Korea’s traditional dance, like its music, can also be classified into either court dances or folk dances. The slow, gracious movements of the court dances reflect the beauty of moderation and the subdued emotions formed as a result of the strong influence of Confucian philosophy. In contrast, the folk Korea travel guide
dances, mirroring the life, work and religion of the common people, are exciting and romantic, aptly portraying the free and spontaneous emotions of the Korean people. Some typical folk dances are farmers dances, mask dances and shamanistic dances. The appreciation of Korean traditional music and dance helps the visitor to better understand Korea itself. For theaters holding traditional music and dance performances, refer to page 110. Traditional Painting
particular school but used free, expressive techniques and bright colors to depict strength, humor and leisure. Both Western and Korean schools of painting coexist today in Korea and some new works are combining both. Pottery
Pottery-making techniques were transmitted from China to Korea over 1,000 years ago, where they flourished and produced an artistic tradition of which Koreans are justifiably proud. The subtle beauty and unique bluish-green color of the celadon pottery of the Goryeo Dynasty (A.D. 918ō1392) have made it world-
famous and much sought after by antique dealers. The white porcelain of the Joseon Dynasty (A.D. 1392ō 1910) is also renowned. This pottery-making skill was transmitted to Japan at different periods in history, particularly during the Japanese invasions of the 1590s, greatly contributing to the development of the art form in Japan.
Customs Sense of Seniority
Traditional Korean painting is very different from Western. Its roots lie in the unique lines and colors of the Orient. Evidence of early Korean paintings can be found in the royal tombs of the Three Kingdoms period (57 B.C.ōA.D. 668), which have helped us piece together details about the lifestyles of the time. During the later Goryeo Dynasty (A.D. 918ō1392) Buddhism reached its peak, leaving many precious Buddhist paintings and images in temples around the country. Confucianism became the political ideology of the Joseon Dynasty (A.D. 1392ō1910) and the upper-class intellectuals who produced much of the art were profoundly influenced by the Chinese style. Folk painting, which became popular among the lower classes, was not influenced by any
Although the traditional Confucian social structure is changing, it is still prevalent in Korea. Age or seniority is all-important and juniors are expected to follow the wishes of their elders without question. Therefore, people often ask you your age and sometimes your marital status (interesting is that no matter how old you are, at least among family members, you cannot be regarded as an adult if you are not married) to find out their position relative to you. These questions are not meant to intrude on your privacy and you need not answer, if you do not wish to. Names
The majority of Koreans have one of a small set of family names: Kim (about 21% of all Koreans), Yi (or Lee or Rhee, 14%), Park (or Pak, 8%), Choi (or Choe), Jeong (or Chung), Jang (or Chang), Han, Lim, etc. A Korean name consists of a family name, in almost every case
one syllable, plus a given name usually of two syllables. The family name comes first. A Korean woman does not take her husband’s family name, but their children take their father’s family name. Marriage
Koreans think marriage is the most important passage in one’s life and a divorce is regarded as a disgrace not only for the couple but also for their familiesōeven though the divorce rate is growing rapidly these days. Today’s typical wedding ceremony is somewhat different from what it was in old times: first a Western-style ceremony is usually held at a wedding hall or a church with white dress and tuxedo, then later in the day comes the traditional ceremony in a different room, in colorful traditional costume. Jerye (Ancestral Memorial Rite)
According to a traditional Korean belief, when people die their spirits do not immediately depart; they stay
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with descendants four generations. During this period the deceased are still regarded as family members and Koreans reaffirm the relationship between ancestors and descendants through jerye on the special days like Lunar New Year’s Day and Chuseok, as well as on the day the ancestors passed away. Koreans also believe that people can live well and happily thanks to benefits their ancestors bestow.
Ondol
When you beckon to a person, do with your palm down and fluttering fingers. It is not polite to beckon with palm upōespecially using only one finger, because Koreans do that way only for dogs.
Traditional Korean rooms have multiple functions. Rooms are not labeled or reserved for a specific purpose; there is no definite bedroom or dining room for example. Rather, tables and mats are brought in as needed. Most people sit and sleep on the floor on thick mats. Underneath the floors are stone or concrete flues. Traditionally hot air was vented through the flues to provide heat. Clay or cement would be placed over the stones to protect the residents from noxious gasses. This type of underfloor heating is called “ondol.” Nowadays hot water is piped through cement floors covered with linoleum.
Hanbok
Gimjang
Body Language
Tourist Attractions Seoul Seoul Vicinity Eastern Area Central Area Southeastern Area Southwestern Area Jeju-do
Gimjang is the age-old Korean practice of preparing winter kimchi, which has been passed down from generation to generation. Because very few vegetables are grown in the three or four winter months, gimjang takes place in early winter and provides what has become a staple Korean food. For Koreans, a dinner table without kimchi is unthinkable.
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Oriental Medicine
The hanbok has been the Korean people’s unique traditional costume for thousands of years. The beauty and grace of Korean culture can be seen in photographs of women dressed in the hanbok. Before the arrival of Western-style clothing one hundred years ago, the hanbok was everyday attire. Men wore jeogori (Korean jackets) with baji (trousers) while women wore jeogori with chima (skirts). Today, the hanbok is worn on days of celebration such as weddings, Seollal (Lunar New Year’s Day) or Chuseok (Thanksgiving Day).
Oriental medicine considers decreased vital energy and a weakened immune system to be the cause of diseaseōnot a problem of a particular body part, but rather an imbalance of the life forces in the whole body. Therefore Oriental medicine seeks to treat disease by strengthening the immune system and restoring the harmony within the body, not by removing pathogenic factors. Major fields of Oriental medicine include herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxa treatment, and cupping therapies.
Expressway National / Provincial Road Restaurant
Ferry Terminal
Hot Spring
Hospital
By Bus
Beach
Museum, Gallery
By Ferry
Mountain
World Cultural Heritage Tourist Attraction
Shopping
Temple
Embassy
Bank
Bus Terminal
Falls
Post Office
Movie Theater
City Tour Bus Stop
Royal Tomb
Airline Office
On Foot
C Days Closed
Hotel
Golf Course
Police Station
By Subway
H Open Hours
Airport
Ski Resort
Tourist Information
By Train
L Location
University
Korea travel guide Signs such as A1
A2 ... after the tourist destinations in this book indicate their locations on the maps.
Telephone
T Transportation A Admission Fee
EUJEONGBU Dobongsan
SEOUL
Suraksan
Buramsan
DOBONG-GU
NOWON-GU GANGBUK-GU EUNPYEONG-GU
GOYANG
Taereung
Bukhansan Hwagyesa Dream land
SEONGBUK-GU
JUNGNANG-GU
GIMPO Changgyeonggung
Yongma Park
Korea Univ.
Changdeokgung
Swiss Grand
GURI
Hongneung
JONGNO-GU Gyeongbokgung Palace Seoul SEODAEMUN-GU World Cup Stadium
DONGDAEMUN-GU KNTO
GANGSEO-GU Gimpo Airport
Yonsei Univ.
Deoksugung Palace
MAPO-GU
Ujang Park
SEONGDONG-GU
Seoul Station Shilla
Seoul Tower
Jeoldusan Martyrs’ Shrine
INCHEON
Namsan Park
Mok-dong Park National Assembly Mok-dong
Sports Y SSWA GYEONG Complex IN EXPRE YANGCHEON-GU
Dongdaemun Stadium
JUNG-GU
YEONGDEUNGPO-GU
Techno Mart Dong Seoul
Crown
H an Riv e r
KLI 63 Building Yeongdeungpo Station
Lotte World
World Trade Center Seoul
DONGJAK-GU Seonjeongneung Ritz-Calton
Seoul
GURO-GU
GANGDONG-GU
Children’s Grand Park
YONGSAN-GU Yongsan Electronics Market
National Cemetery
Amsa-dong Prehistoric Settlement Site
Walker Hill
Hyatt
Holiday Inn
BUCHEON
GWANGJIN-GU
Palace
Olympic Park
HANAM
Jamsil Sports Complex
SONGPA-GU
Boramae Park
S
Korea travel guide
GWANAK-GU
GEUMCHEON-GU GWANGMYEONG
broadband core of all branches of knowledge. Seoul preserves numerous relics of the Joseon Dynasty: Dongdaemun and Namdaemun Gates; five extant palaces, namely Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung, and Gyeonghuigung; royal tombs, including Hongneung and Seonjeongneung; and Seonggyungwan, the Confucian
Nakseongdae Shrine
Novotel
Seoul Nat’l Univ.
Gwanaksan GWACHEON
SEONGNAM
AY SW ES PR EX
un Gate Namdaem
GANGNAM-GU Seoul Arts Center
SEOCHO-GU BU NG EO GY
eoul has been the center of politics, economy, culture, and transportation of Korea for six centuries since Taejo, the founder of the Joseon Dynasty, moved the capital here in the third year (1394) of his reign. Today one quarter of the nation’s population lives in Seoul, which serves as the
ANYANG
educational institution. The litany of Seoul’s cultural heritage is endless. The city’s legacy winds through its labyrinthine alleys. At the same time, Seoul has risen as a global landmark of modernity, with many must-see attractions: Lotte World, an amusement park; Seoul Tower, the symbol of Seoul,
blazing the night through; many parks and museums; department stores and other emporiums; jazz bars, cafes, a casino, etc. These make Seoul a favorite tourist destination where visitors find all the amenities and entertainment they could want.
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ȭ 02-734-1346; www.nfm.go.kr ʟ: ˴700 ʡ: Tue. and January 1
Around Gyeongbokgung Palace ેๆଂ ჵ
Cheong Wa Dae ᆖူౄ
t the north end of Sejongno Street appears the imposing Gyeongbokgung, the oldest Joseon Dynasty palace. On its grounds stand the National Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum, where visitors can browse the unique cultural and historical traits of Korea and the lifestyle of olden days. Geunjeongjeon, the throne hall, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion in its lotus pond, Hyangwonjeong Pavilion, and many other buildings boast exquisite architecture in the grandest garden landscape. Geonchunmun, the east gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace, opens on Samcheongdonggil Street, with its hanbok (traditional dress) shops and many art galleries. At the northern tip of the one-km strip of Samcheongdonggil Street extends to a tree-arched street in front of Cheong Wa Dae, adorned with manicured roadside patches. At the end of the street are cozy Rose of Sharon Garden and Hyojadong Community Hall which displays former presidents’ gifts from overseas as well as memorabilia of Seoul history.
A
Geunjeongjeon
Gyeongbokgung Palace ેๆଂ
Built in 1394 as the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty (1392˅1910) by its founder King Taejo, it is the most comprehensive and grandest of the five palaces of the Joseon Dynasty. ȭ 02-734-2458 ʲ: Exit 5 of Gyeongbokgung Station, Line 3 ʦ: 09:00˅18:00 (09:00˅17:00, Nov.˅ Feb.) ʟ: ˴700 ʡ: Tues.
National Museum of Korea
This is the presidential residence of the Republic of Korea. Tours of Cheong Wa Dae have been conducted since 1998. Individual tours can be made from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays in April, May, September, and October. Tour tickets are distributed free of charge at the Cheong Wa Dae Tour Information Desk located on the grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace. Reserved group tours of up to 30 are possible. ȭ 02-737-5800; www.cwd.go.kr
ჾ࿘ฉෟ
Holy See
Samcheong-dong
Rose of Sharon Garden
Cheong Wa Dae ᅯဉఝ
(Mugunghwa dongsan)
Chunchumun Gate Hyoja-dong Community Hall (Hyoja-dong sarangbang)
JONGNO-GU on gd
Gyeongbokgung Palace ઠฟ
National Folk Museum
S am c heo n
ungil Jaham
Hyojaro
Gallery Ihn
gi l
Hyangwonjeong g
The Nest (guesthouse) Kukje Gallery Jeongdok Library Artsonje Center
Gyeonghoeru Geonchunmun
Gate
French Cultural Center Korean Traditional Folk Dress Museum Kumho Museum of Art Gallery Hyundai Jewelbutton & co. k Beomnyeonsa gu An Korean Publishers Assn.
Geunjeongjeon
Sajik Park Subway Line 3
National Museum of Korea
Cheong Wa Dae Tour Information
Dongsipjagak
Gyeongbokgu
ng
Gwanghwamun Gate
Seoul Immigration Office
઼ጷබ
in S u bw a y L
Seoul Metropolitan Museum Saemunan Church un
m
e da
ઠ፻
o
Se
Dong Wha DFS Koreana
Jongno Tower Ⴖചረဲ
Located within Gyeongbokgung Palace, the museum is a showcase of the lifestyle of the Korean people from the prehistoric age to the Joseon Dynasty, displaying items of everyday use, funerary objects, major works of art, and replicas.
Samcheongdonggil Street ᆖଥ
This street is lined with many famous art galleries such as Gallery Hyundai, Kumho Museum of Art, Artsonje Center, etc. There are also Beomnyeonsa
