Things To Do
in Pocheon

A lively market area with stalls selling fresh produce, dried seafood, tteok (rice cakes), hotteok (filled pancakes) and simple hot snacks — great for sampling local flavors and people-watching.

Temporary street-food stalls and food trucks pop up near Art Valley and Herb Island offering skewers, fried snacks and sweet treats during peak seasons and weekends.

Use polite language and gestures, such as a slight bow or nod; be aware of age and social hierarchy in interactions and address elders respectfully.

Remove shoes when entering traditional homes, some guesthouses and certain restaurants; follow hosts’ cues.

Wait for the eldest to start eating, use both hands when receiving items from elders, and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice (it resembles funeral rites).

Keep noise moderate on public transport and in public spaces; queuing and orderly behavior are expected.

Tipping is not customary in South Korea and is generally unnecessary; excellent service is appreciated but not expected to be rewarded monetarily. Some higher-end international hotels may accept or include service charges.

Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in shops, restaurants and tourist sites; many smaller vendors prefer cash. Use a T-money card for buses and some taxis; carry some Korean won for markets and rural areas.

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring one of the best times to visit — cherry blossoms and herb gardens are at their peak from April to May. Expect cool mornings and occasional rain; pack a light jacket and umbrella.

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers and occasional thunderstorms; tourist sites are busy on weekends. Bring sun protection, breathable clothing and be prepared for higher humidity near lakes and river areas.

Crisp, clear air and spectacular fall foliage (late October to early November) make autumn ideal for hiking and photography. Daytime is comfortable but nights get cooler — layers are recommended.

Cold with possible snow and icy trails, especially in higher elevations; some outdoor attractions may have reduced services. Dress warmly in insulated layers and wear sturdy footwear if hiking.

Shaded trails through an ancient, ecologically significant forest and around the Gwangneung Royal Tomb — excellent for spring blossoms and autumn colors.

Easy lakeside walking and cycling route with scenic viewpoints, suitable for families and casual visitors.

Trails along river canyons and rock formations that offer varied terrain and impressive geological scenery.

Several smaller mountains and ridgelines around Pocheon provide half-day hikes with rewarding views; trail difficulty varies — check local maps and seasonal conditions before heading out.

South Korea’s main international gateway located west of Seoul — roughly 1.5–2 hours by car depending on traffic; airport express trains and buses link to Seoul where you can transfer to intercity buses or hire a car to Pocheon.

Closer to Seoul and used for domestic flights and some regional routes — about 1–1.5 hours by car to Pocheon; offers quicker access for domestic transfers.

The majority of residents are ethnic Koreans, with many family households and a community-oriented lifestyle.

Some residents commute to Seoul for work, contributing to a mix of rural and suburban lifestyles.

As with many regional cities, there is a noticeable older population, particularly in smaller neighborhoods outside the central area.

A modest number of foreign visitors and residents, including some service-sector workers and visitors interested in nearby attractions and the DMZ region.