Things To Do
in Ch’ungmu

Ch’ungmu, located in South Korea's southern coast, is a charming city known for its rich history and stunning coastal views. It serves as a gateway to nearby islands and is famous for its seafood and traditional Korean culture. Visitors can explore scenic beaches, historic sites, and experience the local lifestyle.

The blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes Ch’ungmu an appealing destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Ch’ungmu
morning
:

Start with a visit to Ch’ungmu’s beautiful beaches, like the famous Tongyeong Bridge, where you can enjoy the sunrise and take photos.

afternoon
:

Visit the Dongpirang Village, known for its colorful murals and art installations. Enjoy lunch at a local seafood restaurant.

evening
:

Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade and enjoy dinner at a traditional Korean BBQ place.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Explore the historical sites such as the historic Ch’ungmu Temple and learn about its significance in Korean history.

afternoon
:

Take a boat tour to the nearby islands for sightseeing and enjoy fresh seafood on one of the islands.

evening
:

Return to Ch’ungmu for a relaxing evening at a local cafe, enjoying traditional desserts and tea.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$8
Coffee at a cafe$3
🚌Public transportation ticket$1
🏨Hotel accommodation (per night)$50
🎟️Entry fee to attractions$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and coastal views.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially seafood.
  • Limited English signage may pose challenges.
  • Public transportation options can be limited in remote areas.
  • Hot and humid summers may not be comfortable for everyone.
  • "안녕하세요" - Hello
  • "감사합니다" - Thank you
  • "물 좀 주세요" - Please give me some water
  • "화장실 어디에요?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "도와주세요" - Help me, please

Places to Visit in Ch’ungmu

Visit one of these nice places.

Tongyeong Bridge

An iconic bridge with stunning views, especially at sunset.

Dongpirang Village

A colorful village filled with murals, perfect for vibrant portraits and landscapes.

Ch’ungmu Temple

A serene temple surrounded by nature, ideal for capturing traditional architecture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ch’ungmu

Ch’ungmu is a haven for food lovers, especially for those who enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Korean dishes.

Ch’ungmu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mulhoe

A refreshing cold soup made with raw fish, vegetables, and spicy sauce, perfect for hot days.

Must-Try!

Gukbap

A rice soup that is hearty and flavorful, often served with seafood.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tongyeong Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls offering tasty snacks like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes).

Climate Guide

Weather

Ch’ungmu experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures dropping to about 0°C (32°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders, using polite language and gestures.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the eldest to start eating before you begin and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional accommodations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ch’ungmu is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. Standard safety precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached via 112 for police and 119 for medical assistance.

Tipping in Ch’ungmu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in South Korea, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to carry cash for street vendors and small shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a beautiful time to visit.

Summer

Warm and humid, perfect for beach activities, but expect occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with stunning fall foliage, ideal for outdoor exploration.

Winter

Cold and occasionally snowy, offering a different, tranquil experience with fewer tourists.

Nightlife Guide

Ch’ungmu at Night

Ch’ungmu has a laid-back nightlife scene, featuring cozy bars and seafood restaurants that stay open late. There are several karaoke rooms where locals gather to sing, and casual pubs that offer a relaxed atmosphere for socializing. The waterfront promenade is also popular during the evening for leisurely walks and enjoying the night view.

Hiking in Ch’ungmu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mireuksan Trail

A scenic trail that offers stunning views of the coastline and surrounding mountains.

Guryeongsan Trail

A moderately challenging hike that takes you through lush forests and provides panoramic views.

Airports

How to reach Ch’ungmu by plane.

Tongyeong Airport

The closest airport, about 30 minutes away, offers limited domestic flights to and from major cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ch’ungmu is quite walkable, especially around the waterfront and city center. Many attractions, cafes, and shops are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, although some areas may have steep inclines.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority are ethnic Koreans, who maintain traditional customs and practices.

Tourists

Increasing numbers of domestic and international tourists visit, especially during peak seasons.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

A favorite pastime among locals, with numerous community teams and matches.

Fishing

Popular among both locals and tourists, with various fishing spots along the coast.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ch’ungmu can be moderate, especially during peak hours. Public transportation includes buses that connect various parts of the city, and taxis are readily available. However, walking is a great option for exploring the city center and waterfront areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ch’ungmu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood is prevalent, some restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes and tofu options.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free dishes can be found, but it's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Ch’ungmu are adequate, with several hospitals and clinics available for general and emergency care. Most healthcare professionals can communicate in basic English, but it's advisable to have a translation app or phrasebook handy. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and the local hospitals are well-equipped.

Discover Korea, South

Read more in our Korea, South 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea, South Travel Guide