Things To Do
in Sejong
Sejong is a planned city in South Korea that serves as the administrative capital of the country. It was established in 2007 with the aim of decentralizing government functions from Seoul. Sejong is known for its modern and efficient urban planning, with wide roads, green spaces, and government buildings clustered in district areas.
The city is also home to several research institutions, universities, and cultural attractions.
- "안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
- "고맙습니다 (gomapseumnida)" - Thank you
- "실례합니다 (sillyehamnida)" - Excuse me
- "죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida)" - I'm sorry
- "얼마예요? (eolmayeyo?)" - How much is it?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Sejong Lake Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk by the water. The morning sun makes for a picturesque atmosphere, perfect for photography.
Head to the Sejong National Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region. The exhibits are engaging and provide great insight into Sejong's development.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a local Korean barbecue restaurant. Enjoy grilling your own meat and sampling various side dishes in a lively setting.
Visit the Birobong Peak in the early morning to hike and enjoy panoramic views of the city. The fresh air and the sounds of nature will invigorate your spirit.
Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing lunch at the Sejong Central Park. The greenery and open space provide a perfect backdrop for a restful afternoon.
Take a leisurely stroll along the walking paths of the park as the sun sets. The transition into evening offers a calming atmosphere and beautiful scenery.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Good quality of life with modern amenities and infrastructure.
- Lower cost of living compared to major cities like Seoul.
- Well-planned urban design with ample green spaces and parks.
- Strong educational institutions and research facilities.
- Cultural and historical sites that reflect Korean heritage.
- Less vibrant nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation options may be limited in some areas.
- Relatively small population can lead to a quieter atmosphere that may not appeal to everyone.
- Job opportunities may be fewer compared to bigger metropolitan areas.
- Limited international community and resources for expatriates.
Best Activities in Sejong
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a relaxing day outdoors at Dumulmeori Land, where you can take a leisurely walk along the Han River and enjoy the picturesque scenery.
Explore the beautiful Geumgang Natural Recreation Forest, which offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching.
Visit Sejong Lake Park for a peaceful day by the water, where you can enjoy walking or cycling around the lake, as well as water sports and other recreational activities.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sejong with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sejong
Visit one of these nice places.
Featuring a stunning lake and beautiful greenery, Sejong Lake Park offers picturesque views and great photo opportunities.
This park is home to various sculptures and art installations, providing unique and artistic photo opportunities with an urban backdrop.
The modern architecture of the Sejong Government Complex boasts impressive structures, making it an excellent location for architectural photography.
Food in Sejong
Sejong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty soup made with soybean sprouts and rice, typically served with a side of kimchi. Recommended places to try: Sejong Traditional Market, local eateries near government complex.
Must-Try!
Crunchy rice crust created at the bottom of the pot, often enjoyed as a snack or mixed with water to make a delicious porridge. Available at various rice specialty restaurants across Sejong.
A delightful dish featuring fresh leafy greens used to wrap rice and a variety of seasoned vegetables and meats. Look out for this dish at traditional Korean restaurants around the city.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a wide array of fresh produce, local snacks, and street food. Don't miss the opportunity to savor hotteok (sweet Korean pancakes), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) from the street vendors.
Another popular market known for its vibrant street food scene. Visitors can indulge in a myriad of savory and sweet treats, including mandu (dumplings), gimbap (seaweed rice rolls), and hot spicy fish cakes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Sejong, it is customary to bow slightly when greeting someone, especially someone older or in a higher position of authority.
It is a sign of respect to remove your shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional Korean establishments, such as temples or traditional Korean restaurants.
When giving or receiving objects, especially when it comes to money, it's polite to use both hands as a sign of respect in Sejong and Korean culture.
Safety
Tipping in Sejong
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Sejong, South Korea. In most cases, tipping is not expected or required, and some establishments may even refuse tips. However, there are some exceptions such as upscale hotels and restaurants where a service charge may be added to the bill.
In Sejong, South Korea, electronic payment methods such as credit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted and preferred. Cash is also widely used, especially for small transactions and in traditional markets. Foreign visitors should be aware that some smaller establishments may only accept cash and may not have the facilities to process international credit cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to see cherry blossoms and enjoy mild temperatures
Expect hot and humid weather, but plenty of outdoor activities and events
Beautiful foliage and comfortable weather for outdoor exploration
Cold temperatures but a chance to enjoy winter sports and festivals
Sejong at Night
Hiking in Sejong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large park with several trails, offering a variety of landscapes and views of the surrounding areas.
Features scenic walking trails along the lake, perfect for leisurely hikes with beautiful views.
Located nearby, this park has extensive hiking trails and diverse flora and fauna.
Apart from its amusement park, there are trails nearby that allow visitors to enjoy nature walks.
A popular hiking destination with trails varying in difficulty, offering stunning vistas at the summit.
Aiports
How to reach Sejong by plane.
Located approximately 50 km west of Seoul, Incheon International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in South Korea, serving numerous international flights.
Located about 40 km west of Sejong, Gimpo International Airport primarily handles domestic flights but also offers international services, mainly to East Asia.
Approximately 165 km south of Sejong, Gwangju International Airport caters to both domestic and limited international flights, serving the southwestern region of Korea.
Situated around 30 km northeast of Sejong, Cheongju International Airport operates domestic routes and some international flights, connecting to major Asian cities.
Located about 160 km southeast of Sejong, Daegu International Airport serves both domestic and select international routes, mainly in East Asia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Sejong consists of South Korean citizens, primarily ethnic Koreans.
A small percentage of the population includes foreign residents from various countries, working or studying in Sejong.
The senior citizen demographic includes elderly individuals, reflecting South Korea's aging population trend.
Children and young adults make up a significant portion, comprising students and those in early employment.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Sejong, with various local clubs and schools participating in competitive leagues.
Basketball has a strong following in Sejong, with numerous courts and youth programs encouraging participation.
Baseball is widely enjoyed in Sejong, with many amateur teams and a vibrant fan base supporting the sport.
Volleyball is popular in schools and community centers in Sejong, featuring both indoor and beach volleyball activities.
Badminton is a favored sport in Sejong, with facilities available for both recreational play and competitive matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sejong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Korean cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, numerous restaurants and cafes in Sejong are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan-friendly choices. Look for establishments that emphasize 'vegetarian' or 'vegan' options on their menus.
Individuals with gluten sensitivities can explore rice-based dishes such as bibimbap (rice mixed with vegetables and meat) and various seafood-based meals. It's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly when dining out to ensure suitable alternatives.