Things To Do
in Pohang

Pohang, located on the southeastern coast of South Korea, is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and industrial significance as a major port city. The city is famous for its rich history, including ancient sites and modern landmarks like the POSCO steel plant. Pohang is also known for the annual Pohang International Fireworks Festival, attracting visitors from all over the world.

With its stunning coastal scenery, delicious seafood, and friendly locals, Pohang offers a unique blend of city life and natural beauty.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Pohang
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Homigot Sunrise Square, where you can see the famous hand sculpture and enjoy the beautiful coastal views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Pohang Steel Museum to learn about the history and technology behind South Korea's steel industry.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant and then take a stroll along the beach to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Head to the Jukdo Market to experience local culture and taste fresh seafood for breakfast.

afternoon
:

Visit the Yangdong Folk Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to explore traditional Korean houses and learn about local customs.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a visit to a local cafe or bar, enjoying the vibrant nightlife atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$5-10
Coffee at a cafe$2-4
🚍Local bus fare$1
🎟️Museum entrance fee$3-5
🛏️Hotel per night$30-100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning coastal scenery and beaches
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites
  • Delicious seafood and local cuisine
  • Limited English signage in some areas
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent in rural areas
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons
  • "안녕하세요" - Hello
  • "감사합니다" - Thank you
  • "얼마에요?" - How much is this?
  • "도와주세요" - Please help me
  • "화장실 어디에요?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Pohang

Visit one of these nice places.

Homigot Sunrise Square

Famous for its stunning sunrise views and the iconic hand sculpture, this spot is perfect for capturing breathtaking seascapes.

Pohang Steel Museum

The museum's unique architecture and surrounding landscape provide great opportunities for industrial-themed photography.

Guryongpo Beach

A picturesque beach with beautiful sunsets, ideal for capturing the essence of coastal life in Pohang.

Culinary Guide

Food in Pohang

Pohang's culinary scene is a delight for food lovers, offering an array of fresh seafood dishes and traditional Korean cuisine that reflect the city's coastal heritage.

Pohang Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gukbap

A hearty soup made with rice, often featuring seafood or beef, perfect for a warm meal.

Must-Try!

Sashimi

Freshly sliced raw fish, a must-try for seafood lovers, often served with a variety of dipping sauces.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Jukdo Market

A bustling market known for its fresh seafood, local produce, and street food stalls offering a variety of snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Pohang experiences a temperate oceanic climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with average temperatures around 25-30°C (77-86°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities and festivals, with average temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Koreans have a strong cultural norm of respecting elders; use both hands when giving or receiving items as a sign of respect.

Shoes Off in Homes

It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional accommodations.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the eldest person to start eating before you begin, and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, as it resembles funeral rites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Pohang is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 for police and 119 for medical emergencies.

Tipping in Pohang

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in South Korea, as service charges are often included. However, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in Pohang, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller shops or street vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is mild and pleasant, with blooming flowers and cherry blossoms making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summers can be hot and humid, attracting beachgoers to the coastal areas. Expect vibrant festivals and plenty of seafood.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler weather and stunning fall foliage, making it a picturesque time for hiking and sightseeing.

Winter

Winters are cold, with occasional snowfall. It's a quieter time for tourists, but the winter scenery can be quite beautiful.

Nightlife Guide

Pohang at Night

Pohang's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, offering a mix of bars, karaoke rooms, and nightclubs. The city has a youthful energy, especially around university areas, where students gather for drinks and entertainment. Local bars often feature live music, and traditional Korean pubs, known as 'hofs,' serve a variety of drinks and snacks. For a more relaxed experience, you can enjoy a night stroll along the beach or visit a seaside cafe.

Hiking in Pohang

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bonghwangsan Mountain Trail

A scenic hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and coastline, suitable for various skill levels.

Geumjeongsan Mountain Trail

A more challenging hike that rewards adventurers with stunning panoramas of the region, especially beautiful during autumn.

Airports

How to reach Pohang by plane.

Pohang Airport (KPO)

Located about 10 km from the city center, Pohang Airport offers domestic flights to Seoul and other cities, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Pohang is relatively walkable, especially in the downtown area where most attractions, restaurants, and cafes are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally in good condition, and many pedestrian-friendly zones exist. However, some areas may require public transportation or taxis to reach, particularly those that are further away from the city center.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Pohang is home to several universities, drawing a large student population, particularly from domestic and international backgrounds.

Industrial Workers

Due to its industrial significance, a significant demographic includes workers in the steel and manufacturing sectors, contributing to the local economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is immensely popular in Pohang, with the local team, Pohang Steelers, having a strong following and a rich history in Korean football.

Baseball

Baseball enjoys a significant fan base in Pohang, with local teams competing in the Korean professional league.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Pohang can be moderate, especially during rush hours. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, which are reliable and affordable. The city also has bike rental services, making it easy to navigate without a car. However, during peak tourist seasons, expect higher traffic volumes near popular attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Pohang.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood is prominent, there are vegetarian-friendly dishes available in many restaurants, such as bibimbap.

Halal Food

Halal options may be limited, so it's advisable to check with restaurants in advance or consider cooking if you have specific dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Pohang is accessible with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and travelers. The most notable is Pohang Medical Center, which offers a range of services including emergency care. Pharmacies are also widely available, and many staff members can communicate in basic English. It is advisable 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