Things To Do
in Osan
Osan is a compact city in Gyeonggi Province, southwest of Seoul, where military presence meets everyday Korean life. The area around Songtan blends lively markets, cafes, and international dining options thanks to its proximity to Osan Air Base. Green spaces and nearby countryside offer relaxing escapes within easy reach of the city center.
Visitors can explore a mix of modern amenities and traditional neighborhoods that give a snapshot of life in this border region between urban Korea and rural landscapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Osan City Hall, where you can appreciate the blend of modern architecture and traditional Korean design. Stroll through the nearby Osan Traditional Market, sampling local delicacies like tteokbokki and hotteok while mingling with local vendors. Take time to explore the historic sites nearby, including the beautiful murals that depict the city's vibrant history.
After a hearty lunch at a local bistro, head over to the Osan Museum of History to learn about the region's rich cultural heritage. Spend the afternoon wandering around the serene Osan Civic Park, where you can relax by the pond or enjoy a leisurely walk among the lush gardens. Don't miss the chance to capture some picturesque photos of the park's colorful flora.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a traditional Korean BBQ restaurant, where you can grill your own meats at the table. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets of Osan, stopping by cafes for some delicious Korean desserts like bingsu. End your evening with a visit to a local norebang (Karaoke room) for a fun singing session with friends.
Travel to the nearby Korean Folk Village, where you can step back in time and experience traditional Korean culture. Start your exploration by watching the morning performances of traditional music and dance, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. Visit the various thatched-roof houses and workshops to see artisans at work making crafts like pottery and weaving.
After enjoying a traditional lunch at one of the village's restaurants, participate in hands-on activities such as making your own hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) or trying your hand at traditional Korean games. Spend the afternoon wandering through the beautiful gardens and scenic spots within the village, taking in the picturesque views and tranquil surroundings. Be sure to capture the scenic beauty with plenty of photographs.
As evening falls, grab dinner at a nearby local restaurant that specializes in Jeongol (Korean hot pot). After dinner, return to the Folk Village for the evening light show, where beautiful lanterns illuminate the pathways and create a magical atmosphere. This enchanting end to your day will leave you with unforgettable memories of Korean culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-120 |
| 🚆Weekly transit pass (local buses/trams) | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee to-go | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible mix of urban amenities and rural scenery
- Strong local markets with affordable food and cultural experiences
- Friendly and safe environment with easy English-friendly options around the base area
- Smaller city feel; fewer large-scale attractions than bigger cities
- Limited nightlife compared to major urban centers
- Occasional language barriers in smaller shops or markets
- "Annyeonghaseyo" - Hello
- "Kamsahamnida" - Thank you
- "Juseyo" - Please (give me)
- "Yeongeo jal haseyo?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hwajangshil eodieyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Jal meokkeseyo" - Please go ahead
Places to Visit in Osan
Visit one of these nice places.
A calm lakeside area with walking paths, trees, and reflections that work well for early morning or golden-hour shots.
Colorful walls and lively market scenes offer vibrant backdrops for urban photography.
Short hikes to accessible viewpoints provide sweeping views of the city and surrounding countryside.
A tidy riverside stretch ideal for slow shutter shots and casual sunset photography.
Food in Osan
Osan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy kimchi stew with tofu, pork or seafood, simmered with vegetables for a hearty, comforting meal.
Must-Try!
A colorful bowl of rice topped with assorted vegetables, gochujang, a fried egg, and optional meat or tofu.
Thin slices of pork belly grilled at the table, enjoyed with lettuce wraps, dipping sauces, and banchan.
Crispy, juicy fried chicken with a variety of glazes (spicy, sweet, or soy-garlic) perfect for sharing.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh produce, seafood, prepared foods, and affordable street bites.
Seasonal weekend market with tteokbokki, hotteok, skewers, fried snacks, and warm drinks—great for casual grazing.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A light bow or nod is polite when greeting. Use formal language with strangers and elders; address people with appropriate titles.
Remove shoes when entering traditional homes or certain eateries; wait to be directed to seats in formal settings.
If giving or receiving items, use both hands and accept with a smile. Small shared dishes are common in meals.
Speak politely in public places, avoid loud conversations on public transport, and be mindful of quiet hours in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Osan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Korea and is generally not expected. In some tourist or international establishments, small tips may be gratefully declined or accepted at the discretion of staff.
Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Mobile payments such as Kakao Pay, Naver Pay, and Samsung Pay are increasingly common in larger shops and restaurants. Always have some local currency for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures with blooming cherry blossoms and fresh greenery. Pack layers for fluctuating daytime highs.
Warm to hot and humid with occasional rain showers. Stay hydrated and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Comfortable temperatures and colorful foliage. Great for outdoor walks and photography.
Cold with possible light snow or frost. Bring warm layers and be prepared for shorter daylight hours.
Osan at Night
Hiking in Osan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle woodland trails around the city suitable for a few hours of walking with modest elevation changes.
Accessible trails near Suwon offering forest paths and scenic viewpoints with fortress views a short drive away.
Country lanes and farmland-adjacent trails offering peaceful nature experiences within a short drive from Osan.
Airports
How to reach Osan by plane.
Major international hub about an hour or slightly more by road from Osan; convenient for international travel and connections.
Closer to Seoul with domestic and some international routes; easy access for regional travel and short-haul flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Native residents who make up the majority of the city’s population.
A significant presence around Osan Air Base contributing to international influence and cross-cultural exchange.
A growing community contributing to diverse dining, languages, and social spaces.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional and widely practiced sport across Korea; you’ll see classes and demonstrations in local communities.
Baseball culture is strong nationwide; nearby leagues and parks provide local viewing and participation opportunities.
Common at parks and schools; informal pickups and local leagues are popular in many neighborhoods.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Osan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Korean meals often rely on fish sauce or broth; look for bibimbap or tofu dishes, and ask for no meat or seafood. Use phrases like 'Chaesik juseyo' (채식 주세요) for vegetarian options and specify no fish sauce or anchovy stock.