Things To Do
in Gimpo
Gimpo is a city located in Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, situated to the west of Seoul. It has a rich history dating back to ancient times and is known for its agricultural roots, particularly in rice production. In recent years, Gimpo has transformed into a suburban area, offering convenient access to Seoul while maintaining its own local charm and cultural heritage.
Key attractions include the Gimpo International Airport, Han River parks, and various traditional markets that reflect the city's vibrant community life.
- "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): $40 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $7 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk at Han River Park. The serene views and walking paths make for an invigorating experience.
Head to Gimpo's local market for lunch and enjoy traditional Korean street food. Spend your afternoon exploring unique shops and local crafts.
Wind down with a visit to a local cafe, enjoying traditional Korean tea. Afterward, take a peaceful stroll along the river as the sun sets.
Visit the Gimpo Museum to learn about the region’s rich history and culture. The exhibits showcase artifacts and local artistry.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant serving traditional Korean dishes. After lunch, take a tour of historic sites such as the Gocheok Sky Dome.
Find a traditional performance or cultural event to attend in the evening. This will give you a glimpse into Korean traditions and art forms.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Seoul: Gimpo is located close to Seoul, making it convenient for commuting.
- Transportation Hub: The city has an airport and multiple transportation options, including subways and buses.
- Cultural Diversity: Gimpo has a blend of traditional Korean culture and modern amenities.
- Recreational Areas: There are various parks and recreational facilities for outdoor activities.
- Affordable Living: Compared to Seoul, the cost of living in Gimpo is generally lower.
- Urban Development: Rapid urbanization might lead to congestion and overcrowding.
- Limited Nightlife: Compared to Seoul, Gimpo has fewer options for nightlife and entertainment.
- Public Services: Some public services may not be as developed as in larger cities.
- Job Opportunities: The job market may be less competitive and diverse than in Seoul.
- Air Quality: Pollution and air quality issues can arise due to nearby industrial areas.
Best Activities in Gimpo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A scenic park along the Han River, ideal for biking, walking, and picnicking while enjoying views of the water and city skyline.
A unique park located near the airport, where visitors can enjoy planes taking off and landing, plus walking paths and picnic areas.
A large urban park featuring walking trails, playgrounds, and open spaces for outdoor sports and relaxation.
A popular beach area for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying beach sports along the west coast of Korea, not far from Gimpo.
Explore the coastal area around the museum, which offers trails and beautiful views of the ocean, perfect for nature walks.
Tours
Uncover the best of Gimpo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Gimpo
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic riverside park offering stunning views of the Han River, perfect for sunsets and nature photography.
Provides a panoramic view of the city and surrounding areas, ideal for capturing the urban landscape.
A serene park with beautiful walking paths, gardens, and views of surrounding hills, great for peaceful nature shots.
An excellent spot for aviation photography, with clear views of aircraft takeoffs and landings.
Home to historical tombs and lush greenery, this park offers unique cultural photo opportunities.
Food in Gimpo
Gimpo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Known for its quality and flavor, Gimpo rice is often served as a staple with meals. It has a sticky texture and pairs well with many Korean dishes.
Must-Try!
Grilled or cooked in a spicy sauce, eel from Gimpo is fresh and flavorful, served in various forms at local restaurants.
A comforting stew made with kimchi and tofu, it showcases the local love for fermentation and is a staple dish in many homes and restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Gimpo better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling marketplace where locals shop for fresh produce and specialty foods. Visitors can find a variety of street food options like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and kimbap (Korean sushi rolls).
Open in the evenings, this vibrant market is known for its lively atmosphere and street food vendors selling everything from fried squid to sweet desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Gimpo, a polite bow or a slight nod is a common form of greeting. It's important to show respect by making eye contact and smiling. Handshakes are also common but should be accompanied by a bow, especially in more formal interactions.
In Korean culture, it is polite to wait for the eldest person to start eating before you begin your meal. Additionally, it is considered rude to stick your chopsticks upright in your rice. Always place them on the rest when not in use.
Gift-giving is an important aspect of Korean culture. When giving a gift, it is customary to present it with both hands as a sign of respect. Avoid giving gifts in sets of four as it is associated with death, and opt for beautifully wrapped items instead.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Gimpo with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Gimpo
Ensure a smooth experience
In Gimpo, Korea, tipping is not a common practice and is generally not expected in most service sectors. Restaurants and cafes usually include service charges in the bill, and customers may round up the bill or leave small change as a gesture of appreciation in some high-end establishments. However, it is not customary or obligatory.
Payments in Gimpo can be made using various methods including cash, credit cards, and mobile payment apps, which are widely accepted. South Korea has advanced digital payment systems, and services like KakaoPay and Naver Pay are popular among residents. Public transport also accepts these mobile payments, making transactions convenient for both locals and visitors.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Gimpo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (April to June) is one of the best times to visit Gimpo. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures averaging between 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Cherry blossoms bloom, especially in parks and along streets, creating picturesque scenery. It's a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.
Summer (July to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Rainy season typically occurs in July, bringing heavy showers. While this season may not be comfortable for everyone, you can enjoy vibrant festivals and events, as well as local summer foods.
Autumn (September to November) is another prime time to visit Gimpo. The weather is cool and crisp, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The foliage changes to beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow, making it ideal for photography and outdoor exploration.
Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to around -10°C to 5°C (14°F to 41°F). Snow is possible, creating a winter wonderland atmosphere. While fewer tourists visit during this season, it's a great time to experience local winter traditions and enjoy warmer indoor activities.
Gimpo at Night
Hiking in Gimpo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park along the Han River with walking trails and areas for enjoying nature, suitable for hiking enthusiasts.
A mountain offering various hiking trails with beautiful views and a chance to experience local flora and fauna.
This mountain provides multiple trails for different skill levels along with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
An open space featuring art installations along walking paths, making for a leisurely hiking experience.
While primarily an archaeological site, the surrounding areas offer pleasant trails for hiking amidst historical significance.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Gimpo through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Gimpo by plane.
The largest international airport in South Korea, located approximately 48 kilometers west of Gimpo.
The airport serving Seoul, South Korea, located just 15 kilometers west of central Seoul.
Located in Busan, approximately 325 kilometers southeast of Gimpo, it serves as a major international gateway for the southern part of South Korea.
Located on Jeju Island, about 450 kilometers south of Gimpo, this airport is the main gateway to the resort island.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This group represents a significant portion of Gimpo's population, often comprising families and young professionals.
Young adults who are typically in education or starting their careers, contributing to the vibrant community.
This demographic often includes established families and professionals.
Older adults, including retirees, who may have lived in the area for a long time.
This includes infants, toddlers, and school-age children, representing future generations.
Includes a mix of expatriates and migrant workers contributing to the cultural diversity of Gimpo.
The Soul of Gimpo
Discover the essence of Gimpo through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a highly popular sport in Gimpo, with many local clubs and youth teams participating in various leagues and tournaments.
Baseball enjoys a strong following in Gimpo, with community leagues and schools fostering the sport among young athletes.
Basketball is widely played in Gimpo, offering both recreational and competitive opportunities for players of all ages.
Volleyball is a common sport in Gimpo, featuring school teams and local clubs that promote engagement and competition.
As a traditional Korean martial art, Taekwondo is practiced extensively in Gimpo, with many dojos available for training.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gimpo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Korean cuisine includes many meat dishes, there are vegetarian options available such as bibimbap (mixed rice), vegetable pancakes, and assorted banchan (side dishes) in most restaurants.
Vegan dining can be challenging but some places offer vegan-friendly dishes like tofu stews, vegetable dumplings, and bibimbap without egg. Always ask for no fish sauce or meat broth.
Some dishes, like rice-based meals and certain stews, are naturally gluten-free. However, always check for soy sauce or other gluten-containing ingredients.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Gimpo with these cultural adventures.
