Things To Do
in Sŏngnam

Sŏngnam is a vibrant city located in South Korea, known for its rapid urban development and rich cultural heritage. As a part of the Gyeonggi Province, it serves as a major hub for both business and technology, attracting many young professionals. The city is home to several parks, shopping districts, and cultural sites, making it an attractive destination for tourists.

Its proximity to Seoul allows for easy access to the capital's attractions while still offering a unique city experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Sŏngnam
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Sŏngnam Central Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through beautiful green spaces.

afternoon
:

Head to the Bundang Museum of Art to explore contemporary art exhibitions, followed by lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Conclude your day at the Sŏngnam Arts Center, where you can watch a live performance or enjoy a meal at the center's restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Cuisine
morning
:

Visit the Seongnam City Hall to admire its modern architecture and learn about the city’s history.

afternoon
:

Spend time at the local food market, exploring various stalls and tasting traditional Korean street food.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife at a local bar or pub, sampling Korean craft beers and cocktails.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$8
Coffee at a café$4
🍺Local beer$3
🚇Metro ticket$1
🏨Budget hotel per night$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences with historical sites.
  • Convenient access to Seoul and surrounding areas.
  • Diverse culinary scene with many dining options.
  • Language barrier can be challenging for non-Korean speakers.
  • Public transport can be crowded during peak hours.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to Seoul.
  • "안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
  • "감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida)" - Thank you
  • "도와주세요 (Dowajuseyo)" - Please help me
  • "화장실 어디예요? (Hwajangsil eodiyeyo?)" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "얼마예요? (Eolmayeyo?)" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Sŏngnam

Visit one of these nice places.

Seongnam Central Park

A scenic urban park featuring beautiful landscapes, sculptures, and walking paths, perfect for capturing nature and city life.

Bundang Museum of Art

A modern architectural marvel with interesting art installations that provide unique photo opportunities.

Sŏngnam Arts Center

An iconic cultural venue with stunning architecture and light displays, particularly beautiful at night.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sŏngnam

Sŏngnam offers a delightful culinary scene that showcases the rich flavors of Korean cuisine, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Sŏngnam Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bibimbap

A signature Korean dish made of rice topped with assorted vegetables, meat, a fried egg, and gochujang (chili paste).

Must-Try!

Tteokbokki

Spicy stir-fried rice cakes served with fish cakes and vegetables, a popular street food snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bundang Food Market

A bustling market where visitors can find a variety of street food options, fresh produce, and traditional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sŏngnam experiences four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. Autumn (September to November) is characterized by cool, crisp air and beautiful foliage, while winter (December to February) is cold, with temperatures often dropping below 0°C and occasional snowfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to older individuals is crucial; always bow slightly when greeting them.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the oldest person to start eating before you begin; sharing food is common, so be prepared to try each other's dishes.

Removing Shoes

When entering homes or certain traditional establishments, it is customary to remove your shoes.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sŏngnam is generally considered a safe city for both locals and tourists. However, it is always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 for police and 119 for fire or medical emergencies.

Tipping in Sŏngnam

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not a common practice in Korea, and service charges are usually included; however, leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payments via apps like KakaoPay are popular among locals.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Visitors can expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and humid weather is common, so staying hydrated is important; many locals enjoy water-related activities.

Autumn

The weather cools down, and the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange, providing stunning backdrops for photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures and occasional snowfall create a winter wonderland atmosphere, perfect for seasonal festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Sŏngnam at Night

Sŏngnam's nightlife is lively and diverse, with options ranging from chic bars and lounges to karaoke rooms and nightclubs. The Bundang district is particularly popular, featuring a mix of traditional pubs and modern establishments. You can find local craft beers, soju, and unique cocktails, while many venues offer live music or DJ performances, making it an exciting place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Sŏngnam

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gwanaksan Mountain Trail

A popular trail that leads to the summit of Gwanaksan Mountain, offering stunning views of the surrounding area and a rewarding hiking experience.

Bukhansan National Park

Located a bit farther from Sŏngnam, this national park features various trails that cater to different skill levels and provides beautiful natural scenery.

Airports

How to reach Sŏngnam by plane.

Gimpo International Airport

Located about 40 km from Sŏngnam, it serves both domestic and international flights, providing convenient access to the city and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sŏngnam is a walkable city with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, particularly around popular attractions and parks. Many neighborhoods are designed for easy exploration on foot, making it convenient for visitors to navigate. However, some areas may require using public transport or taxis to reach more remote attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Many young adults flock to Sŏngnam for job opportunities in tech and business, contributing to the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Families

Sŏngnam is home to many families who appreciate the city's parks, schools, and community-oriented activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a popular sport in Sŏngnam, with local teams competing at various levels and community leagues being widely supported.

Baseball

Baseball enjoys a passionate following in South Korea, with many fans attending games at local stadiums throughout the season.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sŏngnam can be congested during peak hours, especially in commercial districts. Public transportation options, including the metro and buses, are efficient and widely used, allowing easy access to different parts of the city. The metro system is well-connected, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sŏngnam.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of traditional dishes; however, it’s advisable to verify ingredients as some may contain meat-based broths.

Halal Food

There are a few halal-certified establishments, but it's best to check in advance or look for certified labels.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Sŏngnam is of high quality, with numerous hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Facilities are equipped with modern technology, and most healthcare professionals are proficient in English. It is advisable for tourists to have travel insurance to cover any medical needs during their stay.

Discover Korea, South

Read more in our Korea, South 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea, South Travel Guide