Things To Do
in Kumi

Kumi is a vibrant city located in South Korea's North Gyeongsang Province, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural landscapes. The city is surrounded by mountains and rivers, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Kumi is also home to several historical sites, including ancient temples and traditional markets, which reflect its deep-rooted history.

With a growing number of modern amenities, Kumi offers a unique blend of tradition and contemporary lifestyle.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Kumi Museum, where you can learn about the city's history and cultural artifacts.

afternoon
:

Head to the historic Kumi Gyeongju Historic Area, exploring ancient sites such as the Choin Temple.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Korean dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll along the peaceful Kumi River.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventure
morning
:

Begin with a hike at the nearby Gumi Mountain, which offers stunning views and well-marked trails.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market to sample street food and shop for unique handicrafts.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a visit to a local cafe for dessert and coffee, soaking in the vibrant evening atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a Local Restaurant$8
Coffee at a Cafe$3
🚌Public Transportation Ticket$1
🏨Mid-Range Hotel Night$70
🍺Beer at a Bar$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and a safe environment.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may have limited routes.
  • Language barrier for non-Korean speakers.
  • "안녕하세요" - Hello
  • "감사합니다" - Thank you
  • "저는 ... 입니다" - I am ...
  • "화장실 어디에요?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "이거 얼마예요?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Kumi

Visit one of these nice places.

Kumi River Park

A scenic park along the river with beautiful walking paths and views of the mountains, perfect for sunset photography.

Choin Temple

An ancient temple set against a backdrop of lush greenery, ideal for capturing traditional architecture.

Gumi Mountain

Offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a prime spot for breathtaking nature shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kumi

Kumi offers a delightful range of local dishes and street food that reflect the rich culinary traditions of Korea. From savory stews to sweet snacks, food lovers will find plenty to enjoy.

Kumi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sundubu-jjigae

A spicy soft tofu stew, usually made with seafood or vegetables, served bubbling hot.

Must-Try!

Bibimbap

A mixed rice dish topped with assorted vegetables, meat, and a fried egg, served with gochujang (red chili paste).

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kumi Traditional Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food stalls offering tasty treats.

Gumi Night Market

A vibrant night market featuring a variety of street food options, including tteokbokki and hotteok.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kumi experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and dry, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are hot and humid, averaging around 30°C (86°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them the most comfortable seasons for outdoor activities and exploration.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders, such as using two hands when giving or receiving items.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the eldest person to start eating before you begin, and try to finish your meal to avoid waste.

Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance during conversations, as personal space is valued in Korean culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kumi is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. It's also advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Tipping in Kumi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Practices

Tipping is not customary in South Korea, and most service staff do not expect tips, although rounding up the bill is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for markets and smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms make spring a beautiful time to visit, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and humid, summer is ideal for enjoying water activities and exploring shaded areas in nature.

Autumn

The city is adorned with vibrant fall foliage, providing stunning backdrops for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold temperatures and occasional snowfall create a picturesque winter landscape, great for cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Kumi at Night

Kumi's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, but it offers a charming mix of local bars, karaoke lounges, and cafes. You can find a variety of places to enjoy traditional Korean drinks, such as soju and makgeolli. The Kumi Night Market is a lively spot in the evenings, offering street food and local entertainment, making it a great place to experience the local culture.

Hiking in Kumi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gumi Mountain Trail

A well-maintained trail that ranges from easy to moderate difficulty, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife along the way.

Bonghwa Mountain Trail

This trail is known for its scenic beauty and is suitable for hikers of all levels, with various resting spots along the way.

Airports

How to reach Kumi by plane.

Daegu International Airport

Located about 40 kilometers from Kumi, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights, providing convenient access to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kumi is a relatively walkable city, especially in areas around the downtown and Kumi River Park. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are pedestrian-friendly zones, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some attractions may be spread out, requiring public transportation or taxis for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Kumi, young professionals often work in technology and manufacturing sectors, contributing to the city's economic development.

Retirees

Many retirees choose to live in Kumi due to its peaceful environment and affordable cost of living, creating a tight-knit community.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is extremely popular in South Korea, with local teams often playing in the KBO League, drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Soccer

Soccer enjoys significant popularity, with local clubs participating in various leagues and attracting passionate fans.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kumi is generally manageable, with peak hours occurring during morning and evening commutes. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, which are reliable and affordable. Biking is also becoming increasingly popular, with designated bike lanes in certain areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kumi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, particularly banchan (side dishes) and bibimbap without meat.

Allergy Information

Be sure to communicate any allergies, as some dishes may contain nuts or seafood. Learning a few key phrases in Korean can help.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Kumi has several healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics that provide quality medical services. Emergency services can be reached through the local number 119. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance to cover any potential medical expenses.

Discover Korea, South

Read more in our Korea, South 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea, South Travel Guide