Exciting Activities to Enjoy During the Sweltering Summer

Summers in Korea can be unbearably hot, prompting many to seek refuge in the comfort of air-conditioned spaces. However, this does not mean that people should confine themselves within the confines of their homes. In this article, we will acquaint you with five enticing activities suitable for the summer season.

Kayaking on the Serene Han River

The Han River, with its gentle currents and mostly flat water all year round, may not be the most thrilling experience for seasoned or competitive rowers. Nevertheless, it offers a delightfully satisfying adventure, allowing you to float amidst one of the most densely populated cities, with iconic landmarks like the Lotte Tower and Jamsil Stadium serving as spectacular backdrops, especially during sunset.
To reach the starting point, make your way to Ttukseom Resort station on Line Number 9 and take Exit 2. From there, head westward for approximately ten to fifteen minutes until you find rental facilities located right by the river. Expect to pay around 30 USD for a two-hour excursion. You will have the freedom to explore the area between Jamsil and Cheongdam bridges.

Seoul Forest (서울숲)

Completed in 2005, this vast attraction spans over 595,000 square meters. It boasts numerous parks, picnic spots, open areas, and scenic walking trails. Despite its popularity, Seoul Forest remains relatively uncrowded, offering a serene environment free from excessive light and noise pollution.
The highlight of the park is undoubtedly the deer park, where visitors of all ages can encounter these gentle creatures and feed them with locally purchased treats. This is a wonderfully positive experience that feels far removed from a traditional zoo setting. Seoul Forest is recognized as an "eco-friendly zone" and also features an educational space with an interactive insect greenhouse. It is a top choice for families with young children.
To access the park, simply head to Seoul Forest Station on the Bundang line.

Baseball at Jamsil Stadium (잠실 야구장)

Please note that due to the Covid-19 situation, it is highly unlikely that stadiums will accommodate a large number of fans during the 2020 season. However, whenever the opportunity arises, watching a baseball game is an absolute must.
Jamsil baseball stadium is home to the Doosan Bears and LG Twins, with a seating capacity of 25,553. Despite its need for upgrades, the stadium exudes an electrifying atmosphere. Each player has their own chants and accompanying hand gestures, while the cheer squads and fans exhibit boundless energy. As someone once aptly put it, "Baseball in America is like Oprah. In Korea, it is like a rock concert." Who wouldn't enjoy a thrilling concert?
Alternatively, you can also visit the Gocheok Sky Dome in Guro. It is the only roofed baseball field in Korea, with a similar capacity of 25,000, and serves as the home stadium for the Kiwoom Heroes. Completed in 2015, it is the second newest baseball field in Korea.

Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁)

Established in 1395 and restored between 1852 and 1919 after suffering attacks, Gyeongbokgung Palace reigns supreme as the largest among the five palaces in Korea. Its iconic features include the Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, the Hyangwonjeong Pond, as well as contemporary art pieces and sculptures. A popular activity among tourists is to rent traditional Hanbok clothing from nearby stores and capture exquisite photos within the palace grounds. Admission ranges from 1.50 to 3 USD.

The area surrounding the palace is steeped in history. Adjacent to the palace is Samcheongdong, a vast 149-hectare zone encompassing Bukchon Village, tea rooms, and art galleries. Within a short walk, extending down to Cheonggyecheon, you will stumble upon Insa-dong market. Although it has evolved from its traditional roots, the market still boasts a multitude of authentic restaurants and historic buildings. It remains a favorite among both tourists and locals.

Deoksugung and Changdeokgung palaces are two other must-visit attractions. Deoksugung, situated across from City Hall, historically served as an auxiliary palace. It is unique among Korean palaces for its Western-style buildings, once hosting foreign ambassadors, notably from the UK and US. On the other hand, Changdeokgung is the second-oldest palace among the five, and its renowned Huwon, also known as the Secret Garden, can typically be explored through guided tours, affording visitors a captivating glimpse when weather permits.
What makes this traditional area so remarkable is the harmonious blend of modern structures, subways, and evidence of Korea's thriving economy.
                     

Namsan (남산)

Namsan and N.Tower dominate the cityscape and can be easily spotted from any point in Seoul. Various means of transportation are available to reach the mountain's peak, including a cable car from the Myeongdong area and tourist buses. Nevertheless, we highly recommend taking advantage of the numerous trails and roadways that wind around the mountain, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in its beauty. Namsan offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the occasional encounter with wildlife, regardless of the season.

Special Mention

Although not a typical tourist activity, visiting Banpo Han River Park provides a glimpse into local culture. This park is immensely popular among the locals, and you will find countless picnic gatherings taking place. It is the perfect spot to savor fried chicken and beer while enjoying the scenic riverside views to your heart's content.