Things To Do
in Suncheon

Suncheon, located in South Korea's Jeollanam-do province, is a city known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. It features the famous Suncheon Bay National Garden, which showcases a vast array of flora and fauna, making it a prime destination for nature lovers. The city's historical sites, such as the Suncheon Confucian School and the Nagan Eupseong Folk Village, provide a glimpse into Korea's past.

With a blend of urban and rural experiences, Suncheon offers visitors a unique perspective of South Korean life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and History
morning
:

Start your day at Suncheon Bay National Garden, where you can stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy the scenic views of wetlands.

afternoon
:

Visit the Nagan Eupseong Folk Village to experience traditional Korean culture and architecture, exploring the thatched-roof houses and historical artifacts.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant serving traditional Korean cuisine, followed by a leisurely walk along the Suncheon Bay estuary as the sun sets.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Suncheon Confucian School, a historical site rich in educational heritage and architecture.

afternoon
:

Explore the Suncheonman Bay Wetland Reserve, where you can observe migratory birds and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the wetlands.

evening
:

Experience local nightlife by visiting a traditional Korean barbecue restaurant and then head to a cozy café for some dessert.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍚Meal at a Local Restaurant$7
Coffee at a Café$3
🚌Public Transportation Ticket$1
🏨Hotel Room (per night)$50
🍺Beer at a Bar$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with historical sites.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and gardens.
  • Friendly locals and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Limited English signage in some areas.
  • Public transport may be less frequent in rural areas.
  • Some attractions may have entry fees.
  • "안녕하세요" - Hello
  • "감사합니다" - Thank you
  • "얼마예요?" - How much is this?
  • "화장실 어디에요?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "도와주세요" - Help me, please.

Places to Visit in Suncheon

Visit one of these nice places.

Suncheon Bay

Known for its picturesque wetlands and stunning sunsets, it's a must-visit for nature photographers.

Nagan Eupseong Folk Village

A beautifully preserved village that provides a glimpse into traditional Korean life, with opportunities to capture historic architecture.

Suncheon Bay National Garden

A vast garden with diverse plant life, perfect for colorful landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Suncheon

Suncheon is a culinary delight, offering a rich variety of local dishes influenced by its coastal location and agricultural surroundings.

Suncheon Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Suncheon Doenjang Jjigae

A hearty soybean paste stew that is a staple in Korean cuisine, often featuring seasonal vegetables and seafood.

Must-Try!

Bokkeumbap

Fried rice mixed with fresh vegetables and your choice of meat or seafood, a popular comfort food.

Godeungeo Gui

Grilled mackerel, known for its rich flavor and is often served with pickled vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Suncheon Traditional Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, local specialties, and street food such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes).

Suncheon Night Market

An evening market that offers a variety of street food options, including fried snacks and sweets.

Climate Guide

Weather

Suncheon experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold and can drop below freezing, while summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is most common during the summer months, particularly in July and August.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders by using formal language and gestures.

Removing Shoes Indoors

It's customary to remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional accommodations.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the elder to start the meal before eating, and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice.

Safety Guide

Safety

Suncheon is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 for police and 119 for fire and medical assistance. It's also wise to have travel insurance and keep emergency contacts handy.

Tipping in Suncheon

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Practices

Tipping is not customary in South Korea, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, and mobile payments are widely used; however, it's useful to carry some cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Summer can be hot and humid, but it's also the best time to enjoy the beaches and outdoor festivals.

Autumn

Autumn offers stunning foliage, especially in parks and natural reserves, perfect for scenic walks.

Winter

Winter can be cold, but the city is less crowded, allowing for a peaceful exploration of historical sites.

Nightlife Guide

Suncheon at Night

Suncheon's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, with a variety of bars, pubs, and karaoke rooms. The atmosphere is friendly, and many venues offer live music and entertainment. Traditional Korean karaoke, known as 'noraebang', is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike, providing a fun way to enjoy the evening. Additionally, there are several cafes that stay open late, serving desserts and beverages in a cozy setting.

Hiking in Suncheon

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Jogyesan Trail

A moderately challenging trail that leads to the summit of Jogyesan Mountain, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Daejeong Trail

A scenic trail that winds through forests and along streams, suitable for hikers of all levels.

Airports

How to reach Suncheon by plane.

Yeosu Airport

Located about 30 kilometers from Suncheon, Yeosu Airport offers domestic flights and connects to major cities within South Korea.

Getting Around

Walkability

Suncheon is quite walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions, parks, and restaurants are within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available. However, some areas may involve hills, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Many young people in Suncheon are engaged in the service and technology industries, contributing to the city's modern economic landscape.

Retirees

Suncheon also attracts retirees due to its peaceful environment, making it a popular choice for those looking for a quieter lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is extremely popular in South Korea, and Suncheon has local teams that play in various leagues.

Soccer

Soccer is also widely played, with local clubs and schools participating in competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Suncheon is generally manageable, with less congestion compared to larger cities. Public transportation includes buses that are reliable and cover major areas. Taxis are readily available and affordable, making them a convenient option for getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Suncheon.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While Korean cuisine is often meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of popular dishes.

Halal Food

Halal options can be found at select restaurants, but it's advisable to inquire in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Suncheon is good, with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and visitors. Emergency medical services are responsive, and many doctors speak basic English. Pharmacies are widely available, but it's advisable to carry any necessary medications, as not all pharmacies may have foreign brands.

Discover Korea, South

Read more in our Korea, South 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea, South Travel Guide