Osan

Osan is a city located in Gyeonggi Province in South Korea known for its bustling commercial district and military presence. Home to the United States Air Force's Osan Air Base, the city has a diverse population with a mix of American and Korean cultures. Osan is a popular destination for shopping and dining, with a variety of restaurants and shops offering both traditional Korean cuisine and international fare.

The city also boasts several parks and cultural attractions, making it a vibrant and dynamic place to visit.

  • "안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
  • "고맙습니다 (gomapseumnida)" - Thank you
  • "실례합니다 (sillyehamnida)" - Excuse me
  • "죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida)" - I'm sorry
  • "얼마예요? (eolmayeyo?)" - How much is it?

Prices in Osan

  • 🏠 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

Highlights

  • Strategic location near Seoul and major military bases
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Access to various outdoor activities and nature
  • Vibrant local markets and diverse cuisine
  • Friendly community and a strong sense of camaraderie among residents
  • Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities
  • Air quality issues due to industrial activities
  • Higher cost of living compared to some nearby areas
  • Language barrier for non-Korean speakers
  • Possible limited job opportunities outside of military and base-related employment

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Explore Osan

morning

:

Start your day with a visit to the Osan City Hall, where you can enjoy the local architecture and culture. Take a stroll in the nearby park to soak in the fresh morning air.

afternoon

:

Head to the Osan Air Base Museum to learn about aviation history. Grab lunch at a nearby café for a taste of local Korean cuisine.

evening

:

In the evening, enjoy a traditional Korean BBQ dinner. Explore the vibrant local market for some shopping and street food.

day 2

Culinary Delights in Osan

morning

:

Begin with a cooking class to learn how to make kimchi, a staple in Korean cuisine. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with a fresh breakfast.

afternoon

:

Take a food tour of Osan to sample various street food items and local delicacies. Visit a traditional tea house to relax and unwind.

evening

:

Dine at a restaurant that specializes in regional dishes. End the day with a dessert of hotteok, a traditional Korean sweet pancake.

Attractions in Osan

Visit one of these nice places.

Songtan City

Offers beautiful views and photo opportunities with its charming streets and traditional architecture.

Osan Air Base

Provides stunning aerial views of the area and opportunities to capture military aircraft in action.

Yonggungsa Temple

A scenic and serene location with picturesque landscapes and traditional Korean architecture, perfect for photography.

Is it safe in Osan

The city is generally considered safe for residents and visitors. With a low crime rate, violent crime is particularly rare. Most incidents tend to be non-violent, such as petty theft or minor disturbances. The local authorities are proactive in maintaining safety and order, and the presence of military personnel from the nearby base contributes to a heightened security atmosphere. The community is also known for its friendly and welcoming nature, making it easy for newcomers to feel comfortable. Public transportation is reliable and safe, and street lighting and pedestrian paths are typically adequate, contributing to overall public safety. As with any urban area, it is advisable to remain aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places or during night hours. Being respectful of local customs and laws is also important for a safe and enjoyable experience. Emergency services are easily reachable, and the community often rallies together for support in various situations, enhancing the overall sense of safety.

Best Activities in Osan

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Osan.

Osan's Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bibimbap

A signature Korean dish featuring a colorful mix of rice, vegetables, egg, and spicy gochujang sauce. Must-try versions include dolsot bibimbap served in a sizzling stone pot.

Must-Try!

Galbi

Tender, marinated beef or pork ribs grilled to perfection. Look for eateries specializing in this dish for an authentic experience.

Samgyeopsal

Thick slices of pork belly grilled at the table, often enjoyed with fresh lettuce, garlic, and ssamjang (spicy paste).

Unique Experiences in Osan

Get to know Osan better with these unique experiences.

Things To Do in Osan

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Osan Air Base

Visit the Osan Air Base for a tour and to see aircraft up close.

Songtan Entertainment District

Explore the vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and bars in the Songtan Entertainment District.

Gyeonggi Children's Museum

Enjoy a family-friendly day at the Gyeonggi Children's Museum with interactive exhibits and activities.

Janghowon

Take a leisurely hike or picnic in the beautiful natural surroundings of Janghowon.

Weather in Osan

The climate in this region is characterized as a humid continental climate, experiencing four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are hot and humid, with temperatures frequently exceeding 30°C (86°F). Spring and fall are relatively mild and pleasant, making them ideal seasons for outdoor activities. Precipitation is generally more abundant during the summer months due to the East Asian monsoon, while winters can be drier with occasional snowfall. Overall, the variability in temperature and precipitation provides a diverse environment throughout the year.

How To Behave in Osan

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Use of Titles

It is important to address people by their titles, such as Mr., Mrs., or Miss, along with their last name, to show respect in Osan, Korea, South.

Removing Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home, as well as certain traditional places such as temples and some restaurants.

Accepting and Offering with Two Hands

When giving or receiving items, especially money or business cards, it is polite to use both hands as a sign of respect in Osan, Korea, South.

Tipping & Payment

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not common practice in South Korea, including Osan. It is generally considered unnecessary and can even be perceived as rude in some situations.

Payment

In Osan, Korea, South, cash is widely used for small transactions, although credit and debit cards are also widely accepted. Mobile payment methods such as Samsung Pay and KakaoPay are increasingly popular and can be used in many establishments.

Nightlife in Osan

The nightlife in Osan offers a vibrant and dynamic experience, especially around the area near Osan Air Base, known to locals and visitors as Songtan Entertainment District. The streets come alive with a variety of bars, clubs, and eateries catering to both locals and members of the international community, particularly U.S. military personnel stationed nearby. You can find an array of establishments, from cozy pubs and sports bars to lively dance clubs and karaoke rooms (noraebang). Traditional Korean bars (hofs) serve popular local beer and soju alongside delicious anju (snacks) that enhance the social drinking experience. Many venues also feature diverse music, from K-pop hits to Western classics, ensuring that there's something for everyone's taste. The food scene at night is equally enticing, with late-night restaurants offering everything from authentic Korean cuisine, such as samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), to international fare that reflects the diverse population in the area. Street vendors also add to the nocturnal ambiance, providing quick bites like hotteok (sweet pancakes) and various skewered meats. The cultural blend of traditional Korean elements with the influences from the military presence creates a unique atmosphere that's both energetic and welcoming, making for an unforgettable night out in Osan.

Best Time to Visit Osan

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

Best time to visit with blooming cherry blossoms and comfortable weather

Summer (June to August)

Expect hot and humid weather with occasional rainfall

Autumn (September to November)

Enjoy cool and pleasant weather with colorful foliage

Winter (December to February)

Experience cold temperatures with occasional snowfall

Accomodations in Osan

Find the best place to stay when visiting Osan.