The 2018 Winter Olympics, officially known as the XXIII Olympic Winter Games, and commonly known as PyeongChang 2018, will be held for 17 days from 9 to 25 February 2018 in PyeongChang, Gangwon Province, Korea.
With less than seven months away, the Korean Culture and Information Service (KOCIS) has made a series of short online films to promote the upcoming PyeongChang 2018 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. A surprise magic show by illusionist, Yu Ho-Jin, unfolds in the videos.
Link of the full promotional video on Youtube and Facebook:
YouTube ▶ https://youtu.be/aNc8NBIzqJs
Facebook ▶ https://facebook.com/TalkTalkKOREAContest/videos/1969373466642117/
Watch more on YouTube
✓ Snowboard ▶ https://youtu.be/boX-nASh1xY
✓ Ski Jumping ▶ https://youtu.be/mF8h-ssJrYo
✓ Cross-county Skiing ▶ https://youtu.be/svHlkaDlPlg
✓ Speed Skating ▶ https://youtu.be/eSKX2ykAjgU
Here is the behind the scene of the promotional video:
Don’t forget to participate in PyeongChang Events (Share & Quiz events) and get a chance to win PyeongChang 2018 souvenirs and a round-trip flight ticket to Korea!
SHARE EVENT:
Share the full version of promotion video with your friends to spread this amazing news.
How to Participate:
✓ Watch PyeongChang Winter Games full version promotion video from YouTube, Facebook OR K-Store
✓ Share the video on your Facebook in Public.
✓ Tag your friends and leave a comment on this event posting.
※MUST use all 3 hashtags in order to win this event!
(#2018PyeongChang #TalkTalkKorea #TalkTalkKorea_PyeongChang)
Period: 24 July ~ 4 August 2017
Prize: PyeongChang Gift Box (30 People)
Winners Announcement: 9 August 2017
QUIZ EVENT
You Can Also Do It, PyeongChang Magic!
A Chance to get a FREE flight ticket to Korea in 2017!
Watch all four PyeongChang Winter Games promotion videos. Then, take a picture of yourself and answer the questions!
QUIZ: FILL IN THE BLANK
1. These are the promotion videos of PyeongChang Winter Games, which will be held in year OOOO in OOOOO.
2. Among four videos, PyeongChang Mascot OOOOOOOOO appears in O videos.
How to Participate:
✓ Watch 4 PyeongChang Winter Games promotion videos from YouTube, Facebook OR K-Store.
✓ Take a picture of yourself imitating the representative poses of the videos.
✓ Post pictures on your Facebook in Public with a PyeongChang supporting message.
✓ Message the posting URL with the quiz answers to ‘Talk Talk Korea’ Facebook!
Period: 25 July ~ 31 August, 2017
Prizes:
✓ Round-trip flight ticket to Korea (1 Person)
✓ Bluetooth Earphone (10 People)
✓ PyeongChang Gift Box (30 People)
Winners Announcement: 5 September, 2017
Please visit Talk Talk Korea‘s Facebook and website for more information about the current promotional events! Share the passion. Make your story at PyeongChang!
Imagine Your Korea is the Korea Tourism Organization‘s brand slogan and brand identity designed to better promote and communicate Korea’s tourist attractions to international tourists.
In 2014, it featured global KPOP group, BigBang with ‘Imagine Your Korea – To:ur Imagination’ (watch it here); in 2015, it featured Hallyu star, Lee Min Ho with ‘Korea. Your Story’ (watch it here); and in 2016, it featured Hallyu star, Song Joong Ki with ‘Enjoy your Creative Korea’ (watch it here).
This year, it is ‘8 faces of Korea, 8 types of trip! What’s your dream trip to Korea?’
Here is the official teaser of the upcoming TVC of Korea Tourism Organization starring Hallyu Star, Korean model-turned actor, Lee Jong Suk, the endorser for 2017 Korea Tourism, sharing his own 8 ways to enjoy Korea.
Stay tuned as each 8 episodes of Korea is coming soon!
Imagine Your Korea, the tourism brand of Korea Tourism has events in their official Facebook and Instagram where you can win Lee Jong Suk goods. If you’re a fan, be to sure to like their SNS accounts and join the event!
Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/imagineyourkorea/videos/1390913297670466/
Instagram Link: https://www.instagram.com/p/BWoz_2wH7FT/
Event Period : July 17 ~ July 23, 2017
Event Process :
– Step 1. Watch the video
– Step 2. Share the video and comment below which types of trip you want to travel
Winner Announcement : July 31, 2017
Prize : Lee Jong Suk goods
Follow Imagine Your Korea on Facebook and Instagram (@imagineyourkorea), and their website.
Follow Korea Tourism Organization on Facebook and Twitter, and Visit Korea’s website.
For Filipinos, you can follow the Korea Tourism Organization – Manila Office’s Facebook page, Twitter, and KakaoTalk (@ktomanila) for more local updates on Korea tourism, events, and promos.
Seoullo 7017: The rebirth of Seoul Station Overpass
May 20, 2017 marked the grand opening of Seoullo 7017, and where cars once sped along, people will now be able to wander.The original overpass built in 1970 was ready for demolition due to structural integrity and not safe for vehicles, but instead was turned into a garden walkway. It is an elevated city park inspired from New York’s High Line, offering spectacular views of the Seoul central area.
Seoullo 7017’s name is a nod to the dates of its construction. The original overpass was constructed in 1970, and it was reborn in 2017. It can be accessed by stairs at specific points. There are also 17 different pathways to walk at Seoullo 7017. This pedestrian road will link Myeong-dong, Seoul City Wall, Namdaemun Market, and other most famous Seoul sights.
The lush garden park was planted with over 24,000 plants. It features 254 species of trees, shrubs and flowers. There are exhibitions, street food stalls, and flower shops too.
It makes Seoul look more greener!
There are walking tours available to enjoy the walkway:
Tour course 1: From Hanyang to Seoullo
Tour course 2: Seoullo Architecture Tour
Tour course 3: Seoullo Night Tour
For more detailed information on the tours and for reservations, check here > http://english.visitseoul.net/tours/All-about-Seoullo-7017_/
The sky garden, glows at night!
Tourist facilities and convenience facilities opened along the opening of Seoullo 7017. You can obtain useful information here and there are so many things to see and enjoy.
– Seoullo Travelers’ Café: This is a specialized tourist information center and resting space.
– Seoullo Information Center: The center introduces the history and significance of ‘Seoullo 7017′ and provides information on nearby attractions.
– Seoullo Shop: The shop sells souvenirs centering on the theme of ‘Seoullo 7017′.
Check out Seoullo 7071’s website for more updated information, promos, and events.
Seoullo7017 Homepage: http://seoullo7017.seoul.go.kr/SSF/GLO/ENG/M000.do
Sources: Seoul Metropolitan Government and Seoul Tourism Organization
The Discover Seoul Pass is the result of an initiative of the Seoul Metropolitan Government and the Seoul Tourism Organization to better address the needs of free independent tourists. The pass is the first of its kind, and gives you the freedom to plan your own itineraries, so that you can optimize your budget and time.
The Discover Seoul Pass includes 21 of Seoul’s biggest landmarks as well as a selection of historical, cultural, and hallyu (Korean Wave) attractions that you can visit for FREE!
21 Featured Attractions
– Seoul’s Historical Attractions: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, Changgyeonggung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, Jongmyo Shrine, Seodaemun Prison History Museum
– Seoul’s Cultural Attractions: Leeum Samsung Museum of Art, National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Museum Kimchikan, Hanboknam, Simone Handbag Museum, Coreana Cosmetics Museum
– Seoul’s Amusements: N Seoul Tower, Teseum Seoul, Trick Eye Museum, Grévin Museum, Figure Museum W, Alive Museum, MBC World, SMTOWN@coexartium(Theatre), Seoul City Tour Double-Decker Bus
With this pass, you can visit a variety of Seoul’s tourist attractions over a period of 24 hours or 48 hours. When you purchase the 39,900 won or 55,000 won pass, you will get more than 150,000 won worth of free admissions to numerous landmarks and attractions.
Travelers can use the pass as a transportation card (T-money), charging it as much as needed, and pay for the subway, bus, or taxi with convenience.
○ Form : Plastic transit card (with Tmoney capacity)
○ Price : 39,900 won(24hr) / 55,000 won(48hr)
○ Duration: 24 or 48 hours after activation
○ Offered Services
－ Tourism : Free admission to 21 tourist attractions and discount to 14 tourist attractions or travel services
－ Transit : Usage of public transportation through T-money (Unlimited duration)
Where to buy? You can buy it at Incheon International Airport, online through Seoul Travel Pass and One More Trip websites with pick-up locations at Incheon and Gimpo Airports, and buy it at official sellers in Seoul. Check out the list and how here > http://discoverseoulpass.com/index.php/en/store
How to use? Detailed info here > http://discoverseoulpass.com/index.php/en/howtouse
1. Plan your itinerary.
2. Top up the T-money.
3. Use the passs as admission tickets to Seoul attractions.
4. Download the app and synchronize it with your pass. Here, you’ll know how much time remains on your pass.
App Release
The Discover Seoul Pass App is a free smartphone app with service in 5 languages (Korea, English, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, and Japanese). Sync your pass with the app to get useful travel information and the remaining time on your pass.
Additional discounts for pass
With your Discover Seoul Pass, you can enjoy additional savings if you pre-pay for the tour buses with cash or credit at designated ticket offices. Check out the list of ADDITIONAL DISCOUNTS here . http://discoverseoulpass.com/index.php/en/contents
I’m traveling to Korea with Seoul as my base in November. As a budget traveler, this pass would let me explore Seoul the way I want without feeling the pinch on my wallet! Here are my 24-Hour and 48-Hour Itineraries that I will be following to maximize this pass (recommended for KPOP and Hallyu fan).
As you noticed, I started with N Seoul Tower Observatory at 8:00 pm the day before. This will really maximize the 24-hour pass rather than starting on the day itself at 8:30am or 9:00am and you end at the most 9:00pm or 10:00pm depending on the closing time of the attraction on the same day, giving you only 11 to 12 hours of use and you can’t use it the next day because it will be 24 hours at 9:00am the next day. Taking note that the pass is activated as soon as you visit your first attraction.
Continuing my 24-hour itinerary above, now Day 2 to make it into a 48-hour itinerary.
Note that I based the discounted price of the pass in the costing at 15% off from Seoul Travel Pass, but you can get 30% off from One More Trip.
More information on the Discover Seoul Pass at their website.
http://discoverseoulpass.com/index.php/en/contents
*Get your Discover Seoul Pass from One More Trip today and get 30% Off!
https://www.onemoretrip.net/goods/Discover_Seoul_Pass_24hr/view?no=1087
A Romantic Tourist Attraction within the City. Namsan Mountain has been known as a propitious site for couples since ancient times. More recently, because many Korean dramas and films feature couples “locking in” their love at N Seoul Tower with padlocks, the site has become a sacred place for lovers who dream of ever-lasting love, both in Korea and around the world.
Free entrance to the N Seoul Tower Obsevatory is available with the Discover Seoul Pass
30% OFF at Hello Kitty Island in N Seoul Tower. Hello Kitty visits N Seoul Tower, the center of Seoul! Meet Hello Kitty’s cute little items at the lovely Hello Kitty House and the history museum where over 40 years of Hello Kitty’s history is exhibited.
Hours of Operation
10:00 ~ 23:00 (~24:00/Sat.)
Address
105, Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Korea
[Bus]
Namsan Circular Shuttle Bus
1. Namsan Circular Shuttle Bus No. 02
– Take the bus from the closest subway station: Chungmuro Station (Seoul Subway Line 3, 4), Exit 2 (in front of Daehan Cinema) or Dongguk University Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 6.
2. Namsan Circular Shuttle Bus No. 03
– Take the bus from the closest subway station: Seoul Station (Seoul Subway Line 1, 4), Exit 9, Itaewon Station (Seoul Subway Line 6), Exit 4 or Hangangjin Station (Seoul Subway Line 6), Exit 2.
3. Namsan Circular Shuttle Bus No. 05
– Take the bus from the closest subway station: Myeong-dong Station (Seoul Subway Line 4), Exit 3 or Chungmuro Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 2 (in front of Daehan Cinema).
[Cable Car]
Get off at Myeong-dong Station (Seoul Subway Line 4) and Exit 3.
Walk for about 15 minutes following the street on the right side of the Pacific Hotel. The cable car boarding place will be seen ahead.
Homepage
http://www.nseoultower.com/
An indoor teddy bear theme park located in Jongno-gu, Seoul. From dioramas of more than 400 miniatures of Seoul’s major attractions to thousands of teddy bears arranged in a variety of categories ranging from Safari Zone, Aqua Zone, Ice Zone and Provence Zone!
Hours of Operation
08:30~19:00 (Ticketing 18:00)
Address
CIZN Bldg. B1, 19 Jibong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul Korea
*Subway Line No. 1 and 6 Dongmyo Station Exit #6
Homepage
http://teseum.net/
Paris, Montreal, Prague, and Seoul. Eighty stars and fantastic interactive experiences await you at Asia’s first Grévin Museum. An exhibition of eighty wax figures of famous stars is on display, not only of Korean celebrities such as Kim Soo-hyun, Lee Min-ho, Jang Keun-suk, Psy, G-Dragon, but international stars too, including Michael Jackson and Marilyn Monroe.
Hours of Operation
09:30~19:00(only Friday ~21:00)
Address
Euljiro 23, Jung-gu, Seoul
*City Hall Station (Seoul Subway Line 1, 2), Exit 6. Walk straight for 5 min.
*Euljiro 1-ga Station (Seoul Subway Line 2), Exit 1. Walk straight for 3 min.
Homepage
http://www.grevin-seoul.com/
Hanbok Nam is not a mere Hanbok lending company but a Hanbok content developer and designer that plans events, parties, and festivals that can be enjoyed wearing Hanbok. As a Hanbok complex cultural space located within five minute walking distance from Gyeongbokgung Palace, Hanboknam’s Hallyu Theme Set Studio offers an opportunity for tourists to become the protagonist of a historical drama. Hanboknam is dedicated in creating a special and friendly experience for domestic and foreign tourists to implant a positive image of Korea.
Hours of Operation
09:30~21:00
Address
17, Bukchon-ro 5ga-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
※ Subway station near by: Subway Line No. 3 Anguk Station Exit #1
※ Addtiopnal benefit for Discover Seoul PASS
1. If you want to use hanbok outdoors, you can get a 50% discount on the original price of the service.
2. Underskirts, headbands, and lockers are provided.
Homepage
www.hanboknam.com
The First Palace of the Joseon Dynasty, in Central Hanyang. Built in 1395 as a residential palace, Gyeongbokgung Palace was the first palace of the Joseon Dynasty. The palace was situated in the heart of ancient Seoul (called Hanyang), and has Bugaksan Mountain behind it to the north, and Yukjo Boulevard (present day Sejong-daero) sprawling forth from Gwanghwamun, its main gate.
Hours of Operation
09:00 ~ 17:00
Sumunjang (Royal Guard) Changing Ceremony – 10:00am, 2:00pm / 20 minutes per ceremony (except Tuesday)
Major Highlights: The Royal Guard-Changing Ceremony is a great opportunity to experience a rare traditional scene in Korea. Be sure to bring a camera to take lots of pictures. The guards’ splendid costumes, with their brilliant primary colors, are a real pleasure to see. If you have some spare time to kill, make sure to visit the palace and enjoy the beauty of Korean palaces following the ceremony.
Address
161, Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Korea
*Gyeongbokgung Palace Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 5.
*Gwanghwamun Station (Seoul Subway Line 5), Exit 2.
Homepage
http://www.royalpalace.go.kr/
A content never seen before, an experience never experienced by anyone, a fantasy that you have only imagined! The newest and most amazing experience of meeting SM celebrities. A unique lifestyle shop SUM suggested by celebrities, SUM CAFÉ and SUM MARKET where the artists and fans can interact using all 5 senses through various products developed using SM contents, hologram contents, and a Multi-Functional Theatre where you can enjoy SURROUND VIEWING, musicals, concerts, lectures and diverse performances.
Hours of Operation
10:00~22:00
Address
513, Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
*Subway Line No.2 Samsung Station Exit #5 and #6
Homepage
https://www.smtownland.com/
A 3D Exhibition of Trick Eye Art. Voted Seoul’s #1 museum by Trip Advisor, the Trick Eye Museum is a new concept in culture and entertainment where the visitor becomes the protagonist. Touch the artworks directly and take photos, or plunge into them and become the main hero! The attraction offers a fresh experience different from solemn art museums that will no doubt leave you with fun and enduring memories.
※ The Discover Seoul Pass includes three exhibitions at the Trick Eye Museum, including its Ice Museum, Carnival Street and of course the trick art exhibition.
Hours of Operation
09:00 ~ 21:00
Address
B2, Seogyo Plaza, 357-1, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul
*Hongik University Station (Seoul Subway Line 2), Exit 9.
Korea’s first theme park created by a broadcaster, and is focused around hallyu (Korean Wave). Visitors can enjoy premium dramas created by MBC and other popular entertainment programs.
[Information on Zones]
M Zone: Visitors can learn about MBC’s history and enjoy interactive programs through moving their bodies.
B Zone: This zone consists of MBC brand stores and promotional wall, and a hall displaying MBC’s premium hallyu programs.
C Zone: Be prepared to be amazed through various attractions named after the most popular MBC programs.
Hours of Operation
10:00~18:00
Address
267, Seongam-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Korea
*Digital Media City Station and go out to Exit 2.
Homepage
http://mbcworld.imbc.com/
A museum offering an experience of kimchi and kimchi-making through all the senses opened in Insa-dong, one of the most culturally-rich areas of Seoul. The museum features a refrigerated exhibition featuring kimchi as well as other salted vegetables from around the world, and a tasting room where visitors can taste and evaluate kimchi. Visitors can also learn about different regional varieties of kimchi, or kimchi prepared in royal palaces during the Joseon era and more through watching an outstanding documentary.
Hours of Operation
10:00~18:00
Address
4~6F, 35-4, Insadong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Korea
*Line No.1: Get off at exit No. 3 of Jonggak Station and turn around the Kumkang Shoe Building. Go straight about 200meters on the Insa-Dong street and then turn left.
*Line No.3: Get off at exit No. 6 of Anguk Station and go straight about 300 meters on the Insa-Dong Street and then turn right.
Homepage
https://www.kimchikan.com/
Leeum Samsung Museum of Art consists of two museums. Museum 1 exhibits Korean antiquities and Museum 2 displays both Korean and international contemporary art on a permanent basis. The museum was co-designed by three world-renown architects: Mario Botta, Jean Nouvel, and Rem Koolhaas. The personalities of the architects seem to blend in harmoniously, and for this reason many consider the buildings of the museum themselves a work of art.
Hours of Operation
10:30~18:00
Address
60-16 Itaewon-ro 55-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Korea
*From Hangangjin Station (Subway Line 6) Exit 1, walk straight for 100m towards Itaewon. Make a right turn at the first intersection and alley, walk up the hill for about 5 minutes.
Homepage
http://leeum.samsungfoundation.org/
Heart-beating sounds of powerful percussion rhythm and Heart-filling melodies of beautiful Gukak!
Story of Korea with Korean traditional instruments; Dae-guem, Hae-geum, Gayaguen, and A-jaeng. When Fanta-Stick’s beating starts, your heart-beat will go up to the highest with the percussion sounds. Modern interpretation of Gukak based on tradition. Guaka is no longer boring. Experience new Korea.
Performance Times
January 1, 2016 ~ Open Run
Monday-Sunday / 17:00, 20:00 (Open all year-round)
Address
NH Art Hall – Fanta-Stick Theater
120, Tongil-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
*Seodaemun Station (Seoul Subway Line 5), Exit 5 & 6. Connected to exit
Homepage
www.fanta-stick.co.kr
******
Sources: Korea Tourism Organization , Discover Seoul Pass, Seoul Travel Pass
Last November 2016, Seoul Metropolitan Government had an online event entitled “Love in Seoul” in which you’ll submit touching stories and the prize was a holiday with your loved one in Seoul that included airline tickets to Korea, Seoul tour, and 3-night hotel voucher.
Let us take a look of the Seoul tour experience of the winner, Marie, a French woman residing in Seoul, with her younger sister Camille through the Love in Seoul video series!
Location: 13-6, Noryangjin-dong, Dongjak-gu, Seoul
Transportation: Noryangjin Station on Subway Lines 1 & 9
The Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market, founded in 1927, is the largest inland fish market in Korea. The market is where 50% of the capital’s seafood transactions occur with a daily volume of 250 to 300 tons. The auction at Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market which starts at 1am is quite a spectacle to watch. Voted the ‘Most Attractive Site in Seoul’ by foreign tourists in 2011, you can see all kinds of marine products and try fresh raw fish at the market.
Kimchi is a health food of Korea and an important side dish that provided vitamins during the winter when vegetables were hard to come by. Every family makes kimchi right before the winter. The method is different for each region. In the northern regions, kimchi is mild and lightly flavored while in the warmer south, kimchi is made spicy and salty to last longer. The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) hosts the Seoul Kimchi Festival in early winter to provide people with an opportunity to make kimchi.
Visit the ancient palaces in Seoul to discover the traditional beauty of Korea. The five ancient palaces in Seoul, Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung, and Gyeonghuigung, are well-known for their unique beauty. Rent a hanbok from one of the many affordable rental shops near each palace and tour the five palaces for FREE. Touring ancient palaces while wearing a hanbok has become a sensation among Korean female students. Recently, foreign tourists are also joining the trend. Tour ancient palaces in traditional Korean garments and take pictures to commemorate your special moment.
Come out of Exit 3 at Hongik University Station (Line 2) to get to the Yeonnam-dong section of the Gyeongui Line Forest Park. Created as part of a railway regeneration project, the park offers a walkway for residents on top of a discontinued railway section of the Gyeongui Line tracks. People rest in the park while taking a walk with family or enjoy precious moments with friends and lovers. Enjoy the history of Seoul while walking along the tracks with a hundred years of history or visit hot spots in Hongdae and Yeonnam-dong.
Source: Seoul Metropolitan Government website
For updates on Seoul, check out Seoul Metropolitan Government’s official website and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Medical Tourism in Korea has been actively promoted worldwide for years. Medical tour packages that include Western and Oriental medicines, cosmetic surgery, and wellness that suits that patients and/or tourists are offered.
Wellness is emerging as a major tourism theme worldwide today. Wellness tourism is about taking a break from the complex and boring daily life, and traveling to destinations where we can soothe our tired bodies and minds. Did you know that Korea is a great destination for wellness tourism?
Visit Medical Korea, the platform for Korea Medical Tourism, recently featured seven wellness destinations in Korea!
Cheongkwanjang Spa G. Type: Cafe/Tea Shop/Health Center
A spa facility recently launched by Cheongkwanjang, a high quality hongsam (red ginseng) brand of the Korea Ginseng Corporation. The specialized spa programs at Cheongkwanjang Spa G use six-year-old ginseng roots that have gone through rigorous testing and quality management. Spa G consists of five individual hongsam therapy rooms. Guests can receive water massage to stimulate blood circulation at the Hongsam Spa Room, detoxify and provide nourishment to the body through heat and steam treatments and application of red ginseng concentrate at Hunjeungyok, get stress relieving foot massages at Foot Spa Zone, and restore scalp health using red ginseng products at Head Spa Zone. All spa programs require reservations, and spa programs vary from 1 to 6 hours depending on the choice of treatments. The spa is open from 9 am to 11 pm.
Address: 416, Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 서울특별시 강남구 영동대로 416 (대치동,(주)케이티앤지 서울사무소)
Directions: [Subway] Samseong Station (Seoul Subway Line 2), Exit 2. Go straight 200m to arrive at the SPA G (Kosmo Tower, B2) on the left.
Operating Hours: 09:00-23:00
Reservations: Tel: +82-2-557-8030 (Available languages: English, Japanese)
Website: www.spag.co.kr (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)
Source: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=1461568
Tea Therapy. Type: Cafe/Tea Shop/Health Center
Turning away from the conventional concept of a tea shop, Tea Therapy offers not only healthy tricks for home-brewed teas but also a relaxing foot bath experience.
The shop aired on KBS’s “Muhanjidae Q” due to its interior design and unique programs available where visitors can enjoy a tasty cup of tea but also rejuvenate by meditating, consulting with a professional dietitian, trying blending their own tea and more.
The tea selections and dessert menu items are plentiful, providing international visitors with a chance to become easily acquainted with Korea’s tea culture.
Address: 16, Eonju-ro 173-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 서울특별시 강남구 언주로173길 16 (신사동)
Directions: [Subway] Apgujeong Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 2. Go 300m to arrive at the first corner, and turn left. The cafe is located on the left.
Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday 10:00-23:00 and Sunday 10:00-22:30
Reservations: +82-2-518-7506
Webiste: www.teatherapy.co.kr (Korean, English, Japanese)
Source: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/FOD/FO_EN_6_4_4.jsp?cid=2020905
Sulwhasoo Flagship Store. Type: Beauty Complex/ Spa/ Boutique/ Culture Lounge
Sulwhasoo Flagship Store is the signature venue of the leading Korean cosmetic brand, Sulwhasoo, and is popular as a unique place of relaxation in the heart of downtown Seoul.
It offers tours for visitors, enabling them to experience the journey of beauty. It consists of spa, a boutique, a culture lounge, a gift wrapping center, and a roof deck. Guided tours start at 15:00 and 18:00 every day (duration: 40 minutes, not available on the second Monday of every month, New Year’s Holiday and Chuseok).
Address: 18, Dosan-daero 45-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 서울특별시 강남구 도산대로45길 18 (신사동)
Directions: [Subway] Apgujeong Rodeo Station (Seoul Subway Line 3, Bundang Line)
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday 10:00 – 21:00
Reservations: Sulwhasoo Spa(B1) 02-541-9272 and Sulwhasoo Balance Spa(4F) 02-541-9273
Website: http://www.sulwhasoo.com/
Yakdabang Bomdong. Type: Tea house/Traditional Korean Medicine Clinic
This traditional tea salon run by a traditional medicine clinic is famous for its tea masters who recommend and customize teas for patrons depending on their emotional and physical conditions.
Guests can enjoy customized teas, foot spa, and even consult traditional medicine doctors on site about their physical constitutions.
Features and services : 48 tea blends for tasting, traditional tea food, medicinal liquors (tinctures),
physical constitution diagnoses, consultation with doctors, and foot spa (30 minutes)
Address: 12-13 Worldcupbuk-ro6-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul.
Directions: [Subway] Hongik University (Line 2, Airport railroad ), Exit 1. Exit Gate 1, Hongik University Station (Metro Line 2). Turn right at the Hongik University Intersection. Cross the first crossroad and walk straight on. Turn right at the alley marked by the convenience store “Ministop”. Turn left at the building right next to Hanmi Pharmacy on the first three-way junction you encounter.
Operating Hours: 11:00am-11:00pm
Telephone: 070-4639-2221Operating Hours: 11:00am-11:00pm
Features on site include an outdoor charcoal-heated sauna, a sauna steamed with medicinal herbs, a germanium-steamed sauna, a cypress green shower room, a Himalayan salt sauna, an outdoor hot spring and outdoor earthenware tubs, as well as an outdoor pool and outdoor hot springs, which are open in summer.
The inside of the entire venue is decorated in traditional Korean architecture, and displays classical features such as jeongja(wooden pavilion) and pyeongsang(Korean-style sunbeds). The place is also equipped with a food court serving Korean food, a café, and a staff of professional masseuses.
Address: Cheongna Sparex (10F), 16 Cheongna Canal-ro 260-Beongil, Seo-gu, Incheon
CENTUM SPA LAND. Type: Hot Springs/ Bath Houses/Spas/ Jjimjilbangs
Spa Land, equipped with all the benefits of a traditional Korean spa, is located in ‘Shinsegae Centum City’ in Haeundae, Busan. Spa Land consists of 22 spas fed by two different kinds of all-natural spring water pumped up from 1000m underground, 13 distinctively themed ‘Jjimjil-bangs’ and saunas, and an open-air foot spa.
The 1st floor houses the Korean traditional ‘Jjimjil-bang’ and traditional saunas from all over the world. Visitor favorites include a radiant heat-based ‘Roman Sauna,’ which recreates the ancient roman bath using modern technology, and the traditional ‘Finnish Sauna,’ which is an all-natural, Finnish-style sauna said to keep you healthy during the freezing winter months.
Entertainment Zone on the second floor provides a range of beautification programs, a PC room, a restaurant, and a conference room. Spa Land is a refreshing place for relaxing with your friends and family.
Address: 35, Centumnam-daero, Haeundae-gu, Busan 부산광역시 해운대구 센텀남대로 35 (우동)
Directions:
[Subway] Centum City Station (Busan Subway Line 2). The subway station is directly connected to the complex.
[Bus] From Gimhae Airport, take the Airport Limousine Bus for Centum City.
Get off at the Shinsegae Centum City. It takes about 50 minutes.
Operating Hours: 06:00 – 24:00
Telephone: +82-51-745-2900
Website: www.shinsegae.com
Source: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=1000306
Cimer Ocean Spa, Paradise Hotel Busan. Type: Hot Springs/Spas
A space providing a fantastic view as if floating on the sea. The floor is designed to be a little higher than the existing spas so you can enjoy the horizon view of Busan’s Haeundae Beach.
Dipped in a spa and looking at the wide-open sea, you get to focus on the comfort of the moment as if surrounded by the broad sea. The spa is famous for its odorless, colorless, and weak alkaline hot spring of seawater that boasts of great skin-improving properties.
Cimer is open for staying guests only. The guests can however invite friends and family to join them at the spa for higher admission fees.
Address: 1408-5, Jung-dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan
Operating Hours: 8:00am-10:00pm
Telephone: +82-51-742-2121
Website: https://www.busanparadisehotel.co.kr/spa
Which among the seven wellness destinations would you choose? Participate in the 2017 Visit Medical Korea’s Wellness Tourism Promotional Event for a chance to win round-trip tickets to and from Korea or a three-night stay in a Korean hotel. Choose a wellness destination in Korea and tell them why you would like to visit that place.
Event period: April 11 to April 25, 2017
How to Participate:
More information on Korea Medical Tourism at the following links:
http://english.visitmedicalkorea.com
https://www.facebook.com/visitmedicalkorea/
~~~ Personally, I would choose Cimer Ocean Spa in Busan, optimal venue for relaxation while enjoying the panoramic horizon view of Haeundae Beach. I love Busan and I’ve experienced the hotel spa at Westin Chosun Hotel which is also overlooking Haeundae Beach but indoor but basically was a luxurious Jjimjilbang, and seeing the pictures, Cimer Ocean Spa is much more beautiful and what is great is the outdoor pools and saunas. As a person who has a problem with acne, the spa’s hot springs which boasts skin-improving properties is what I need. Not only will it help improve my skin, but also relax my body and mind from all the stress in life. Cimer Ocean Spa has been on list and I will really save for at least staying at Paradise Hotel for a night to be able to try out the spa. That will complete an unforgettable Busan and Korea trip.
Follow Korea Tourism Organization on Facebook and Twitter, and Visit Korea’s website.
For Filipinos, you can follow the Korea Tourism Organization – Manila Office’s Facebook page, Twitter, and KakaoTalk (@ktomanila) for more local updates on Korea tourism, events, and promos.
UPDATE: K-Travel Bus resumed its operation as of June 2017.
Last August, I blogged about the launched of K-Travel Bus with Hallyu Star, Jung Il Woo, as the Honorary Ambassador, and the subsequent campaign of 2016–2018 Visit Korea Year, offering a foreigner-exclusive coach bus traveling a 2-day round trip from Seoul to South Korea’s famous local attractions in Daegu, Gangwon Province, Southern Jeolla Province, Northern Gyeongsang Province, the Southeast Region, and new courses being added or changed when the season changes.
You probably don’t want to miss this great opportunity to travel beautiful regions of Korea and here are the five reasons why you have to take the K-Travel Bus!
✓ Affordable Price!
✓ Substantial Discount Promotion!
✓ Can find out hidden attractions of Korea!
✓ Can enjoy fun experience!
✓ Can make new friends!
Every K-Travel Bus package is 1 night 2 days tour! Hotel is included and it’s going to be a shared room (2 people). If a person wants to use a single room, there is additional charge of 60USD!
Personal expenses and meals (except breakfast on the second day) are the only things that are not included.
Here is my favorite among the offered tour courses, the Jeollanam-do course!
For more detailed information on the courses, promotions and discounts, and how to reserve a seat on the bus, visit the official website. You can also follow them on Facebook for updates and promos.
Follow Imagine Your Korea on Facebook and Instagram (@imagineyourkorea), and their website.
Follow Korea Tourism Organization on Facebook and Twitter, and Visit Korea’s website.
For Filipinos, you can follow the Korea Tourism Organization – Manila Office’s Facebook page, Twitter, and KakaoTalk (@ktomanila) for more local updates on Korea tourism, events, and promos.
In an effort to increase Korea’s culture and brand awareness, Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Korean Embassy and Korean Cultural Center of the Philippines (KCC) held its “K-Ribbon Selection” Exhibit, a 10-month long worldwide promotion, from November 2 to 8, 2016 at the Shangri-La Mall Plaza Grand Atrium, Mandaluyong City.
The K-Ribbon Selection, Constancy and Change of Korea is the Korean government`s recognition of excellent cultural products that convey the cultural value of Korea. Its unique Logo is inspired by the Hanbok coat string (Traditional Korean Clothes). It is aimed at creating a “Korea Premium” concept through systematic management and brand marketing activities. Its implementation began in November 2015, and covers cultural products that can represent Korea, including Korean food, handicraft, Hanbok (traditional Korean dress), and cultural contents.
Korean traditional premium handicrafts were displayed of wood crafts, metal and ceramics mostly used by the royal and noble families in Korea and up to now. A Royal Heritage Crafts Exhibition was also held which was managed by Korean Women’s international Network and Korean Women’s Association in the Philippines. The exhibit for Korean handicrafts was supported by the Korea Craft Art’s Association and sponsored by Korean Royal Heritage Gallery. In this area, traditional and modern designed pots and vases were displayed.
Vibrant colors of Hanbok welcomed the guests. Hanbok is Korea’s traditional clothes and is made up of layers of different colored textiles perfect for festivals and important events. Aside from the usual designs, modern twists for the traditional clothes were introduced. Just beside the Hanbok displays was the photobooth where you could try Korean traditional clothes! You just need to select the design you want, fit your face on the screen, and you get a printed copy of you wearing a Hanbok!
A wall that played music videos of renowned KPOP groups was situated at the center of the venue dedicated for the Korean-pop enthusiasts. A Virtual Reality Experience Zone let you walk under the moon and check on the paintings during the Joseon period. The Moon vol. 2 was designed to show Koreans’ practices in the Joseon dynasty including their beliefs that praying to the moon would give them blessings and protection.
Korean food products with seal of excellence were displayed so that guests will be familiar to premium brands. A K-Food Open Kitchen also gave a complete experience of Korean foods, with few recipes and food samples handed out. An authentic taste of Samgyetang (Chicken in Ginseng soup), Bulgogi (marinated beef) and seaweed rice rolls were few of the samples!
The event was a must-see event for all Korean culture enthusiasts like me to truly see the beauty of Korean culture and products. Hope there would be more Korean-related exhibits here in the Philippines in the future.
For Filipinos, you can follow Korean Cultural Center of the Philippines for more updates and future events, KCC’s Official Facebook Page and KCC’s website. They are located at the 2F Mancor Corporate Building, 32nd Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.
You can follow the Korea Tourism Organization – Manila Office’s Facebook page, Twitter, and KakaoTalk (@ktomanila) for more local updates on Korea tourism, events, and promos.
Visiting Korea? Here’s your chance to “Enjoy Mobile Korea” for FREE!
The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) has collaborated with Samsung and SK Telecom to provide international visitors to Korea with a free smart phone rental experience.
Chosen participants of 250 people every week will be offered free rental of a Samsung Galaxy Note 5 for five (5) days including free data, local voice calls and SMS messages, and the pre-installed Visit Korea app to make traveling to Korea more convenient, to access useful and latest information such as themed travel, directions, discount coupons, and more! International incoming calls and messages can also be received.
For more detailed information, please visit the official promotion website (http://emk.visitkorea.or.kr/).
Follow Imagine Your Korea on Facebook and Instagram (@imagineyourkorea), and their website.
Follow Korea Tourism Organization on Facebook and Twitter, and Visit Korea’s website.
For Filipinos, you can follow the Korea Tourism Organization – Manila Office’s Facebook page, Twitter, and KakaoTalk (@ktomanila) for more local updates on Korea tourism, events, and promos.
Korea Grand Sale is back again! It will run from October 1 to October 31, 2016.
For those who are traveling to visit Korea in October, you’re just in time! Held throughout the month of October, a variety of benefits, promotions, and discounts ranging from shopping to transportation, entertainment, beauty and health, food and more will be offered to all international tourists.
Don’t miss #KoreaGrandSale’s updates and follow them on Facebook. Check out their website for more detailed information.
Have a great time shopping and enjoy exploring Korea too!
Follow Imagine Your Korea on Facebook and Instagram (@imagineyourkorea), and their website.
Follow Korea Tourism Organization on Facebook and Twitter, and Visit Korea’s website.
For Filipinos, you can follow the Korea Tourism Organization – Manila Office’s Facebook page, Twitter, and KakaoTalk (@ktomanila) for more local updates on Korea tourism, events, and promos.
Global ISEOULU Friends 2017
Exemplary Global SEOULmate 2014
2014 and 2016 / Best WOW Korea Supporter 2016
![[News/Translation] F4 Reunites, Fans were Teary-Eyed (Jiangsu Spring Festival 2013)](https://bubblemarai.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/f4laugh.jpg?w=40&h=40&crop=1){kind=small}
My little bubble world. 