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.

  • "μ•ˆλ…•ν•˜μ„Έμš” (annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
  • "κ³ λ§™μŠ΅λ‹ˆλ‹€ (gomapseumnida)" - Thank you
  • "μ‹€λ‘€ν•©λ‹ˆλ‹€ (sillyehamnida)" - Excuse me
  • "μ£„μ†‘ν•©λ‹ˆλ‹€ (joesonghamnida)" - I'm sorry
  • "μ–Όλ§ˆμ˜ˆμš”? (eolmayeyo?)" - How much is it?

Prices in Sejong

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
  • β˜• Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
  • πŸ›’ Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
  • πŸ‹οΈβ€β™‚οΈ Gym Membership: $30 - $60

Highlights

  • 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.

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Sejong Exploration

morning

:

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.

afternoon

:

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.

evening

:

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.

day 2

Nature and Parks

morning

:

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.

afternoon

:

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.

evening

:

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.

Attractions in Sejong

Visit one of these nice places.

Sejong Lake Park

Featuring a stunning lake and beautiful greenery, Sejong Lake Park offers picturesque views and great photo opportunities.

Yeongpyeong Sculpture Park

This park is home to various sculptures and art installations, providing unique and artistic photo opportunities with an urban backdrop.

Sejong Government Complex

The modern architecture of the Sejong Government Complex boasts impressive structures, making it an excellent location for architectural photography.

Is it safe in Sejong

The city is known for its focus on urban planning and safety, boasting well-structured residential areas and public facilities. Crime rates tend to be low, contributing to a general sense of security among residents and visitors. The local government emphasizes community safety measures, including efficient law enforcement and public awareness campaigns. Additionally, there are various emergency services readily available, ensuring quick response times in times of need. The infrastructure is designed with safety in mind, featuring well-maintained roads, pedestrian pathways, and bicycle lanes, promoting safe transit options for residents. Natural disaster preparedness is also prioritized, given the region's susceptibility to certain environmental challenges. Educational programs and drills are often held to inform the community about safety protocols during emergencies. Overall, the combination of low crime rates, effective emergency services, and proactive community safety measures contributes to a safe and secure living environment.

Best Activities in Sejong

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Sejong.

Sejong's Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kongnamul Gukbap

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!

Nurungji

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.

Ssambap

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.

Unique Experiences in Sejong

Get to know Sejong better with these unique experiences.

Things To Do in Sejong

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Dumulmeori Land

Enjoy a relaxing day outdoors at Dumulmeori Land, where you can take a leisurely walk along the Han River and enjoy the picturesque scenery.

Geumgang Natural Recreation Forest

Explore the beautiful Geumgang Natural Recreation Forest, which offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching.

Sejong Lake Park

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.

Weather in Sejong

The climate in this region is characterized as a humid continental climate, which means it experiences four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and dry, with January being the coldest month, often seeing temperatures drop below freezing. Snowfall is not uncommon during this season. Summers are warm and humid, with July typically being the hottest month, where temperatures can reach the high 30s Celsius (around 100 degrees Fahrenheit). The rainy season generally occurs in the summer, influenced by the East Asian monsoon, bringing significant rainfall, particularly in July and August. Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant, with blooming flowers in the spring and vibrant foliage in the autumn. The transitional seasons are shorter compared to winter and summer but provide a nice reprieve from the extremes, making them favorable for outdoor activities. Overall, the climate supports a variety of seasonal changes that contribute to the region's natural beauty.

How To Behave in Sejong

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bow when greeting

In Sejong, it is customary to bow slightly when greeting someone, especially someone older or in a higher position of authority.

Remove shoes indoors

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.

Use two hands when giving or receiving items

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.

Tipping & Payment

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

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.

Payment

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.

Nightlife in Sejong

Nightlife in Sejong offers a blend of modern and traditional experiences tailored to various tastes and preferences. Although it is primarily known as an administrative city, its growing community of students, young professionals, and government officials has spurred the development of evening entertainment options. Vibrant cafes, chic bars, and casual pubs are popular spots for socializing and unwinding after a long day. Craft beer enthusiasts can find several places that serve locally brewed options alongside international selections. Some establishments also offer live music or DJ performances, providing a lively atmosphere for those looking to dance the night away. For a more laid-back experience, there are numerous cozy coffee shops and tea houses that stay open late, perfect for enjoying a quiet conversation or catching up on work in a relaxed setting. Korean karaoke bars, or noraebang, are a staple of nightlife throughout the country, and Sejong is no exception. These venues provide private rooms where groups of friends can sing along to their favorite tunes. While it might not boast the bustling nightlife of Seoul or Busan, Sejong's evening scene continues to evolve, with new venues and activities emerging to cater to the diverse interests of its residents.

Best Time to Visit Sejong

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Best time to see cherry blossoms and enjoy mild temperatures

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather, but plenty of outdoor activities and events

Autumn

Beautiful foliage and comfortable weather for outdoor exploration

Winter

Cold temperatures but a chance to enjoy winter sports and festivals

Accomodations in Sejong

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sejong.