Things To Do
in Guryongpo

Guryongpo is a picturesque coastal town located in the North Gyeongsang Province of South Korea, known for its rich fishing heritage and stunning natural scenery. The town offers beautiful beaches, scenic views of the East Sea, and a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure. Guryongpo features a blend of traditional Korean culture and modern amenities, providing visitors with a unique experience.

The town is also famous for its seafood market, where fresh catches are sold daily.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Guryongpo
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Guryongpo Beach for a relaxing morning walk along the shore, enjoying the sunrise and fresh sea breeze.

afternoon
:

Explore the local seafood market, where you can sample fresh sashimi and other seafood delicacies, followed by a visit to the Guryongpo History Museum to learn about the town's maritime past.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Korean dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll along the beach to experience the serene evening atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Culture
morning
:

Take a hike on the nearby Geumseong Mountain, enjoying the beautiful views and natural surroundings.

afternoon
:

Visit the Guryongpo Port area to watch the fishing boats and maybe even join a local fishing tour.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local barbecue spot, then experience the nightlife at a nearby bar or cafe, mingling with locals and other travelers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$7-$15
Coffee$3-$5
🚌Bus fare$1-$2
🏨Budget hotel per night$40-$80
🍜Street food snack$2-$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning coastal scenery and beaches.
  • Rich culinary experiences with fresh seafood.
  • Cultural and historical sites to explore.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to bigger cities.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Korean speakers.
  • "안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
  • "감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida)" - Thank you
  • "화장실 어디에요? (Hwajangsil eodieyo?)" - Where is the restroom?
  • "얼마에요? (Eolmaeyo?)" - How much is this?
  • "도와주세요 (Dowajuseyo)" - Please help me

Places to Visit in Guryongpo

Visit one of these nice places.

Guryongpo Beach

A beautiful sandy beach with stunning views of the sunrise and sunset, perfect for capturing scenic photographs.

Guryongpo Port

A vibrant area with fishing boats and local life, ideal for candid shots of everyday activities.

Geumseong Mountain

Offers panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding landscape, a great spot for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Guryongpo

Guryongpo is a seafood lover's paradise, offering an array of fresh catches and traditional Korean dishes that reflect its coastal heritage.

Guryongpo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sashimi (회)

Freshly sliced raw fish served with dipping sauces, a must-try for seafood enthusiasts.

Must-Try!

Grilled Mackerel (고등어구이)

A popular dish in the area, featuring grilled mackerel seasoned to perfection.

Seafood Soup (해물탕)

A spicy and hearty soup made with various seafood, vegetables, and spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Guryongpo Seafood Market

A bustling market where you can buy fresh seafood and enjoy tastings at nearby stalls.

Street Food Stalls

Offering various snacks like fish cakes and tteokbokki, perfect for a quick bite while exploring.

Climate Guide

Weather

Guryongpo experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures ranging from -5 to 5°C (23-41°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild, making them the most pleasant seasons for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to older individuals, using honorific language when addressing them.

Removing Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional establishments.

Public Behavior

Maintain a moderate volume in public spaces and avoid disruptive behavior.

Safety Guide

Safety

Guryongpo is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, basic precautions should be taken, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and being aware of your surroundings. It's advisable to keep personal belongings secure, especially in crowded places like markets.

Tipping in Guryongpo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in South Korea, but rounding up the bill is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Warm weather attracts beachgoers, but be prepared for occasional rain and typhoons.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage create picturesque landscapes, perfect for hiking.

Winter

Cold temperatures with occasional snow; the beach is quieter, making it a peaceful time to visit.

Nightlife Guide

Guryongpo at Night

Guryongpo's nightlife is relatively laid-back, with a few bars and cafes offering a cozy atmosphere for socializing. Local establishments often feature live music and encourage mingling among both locals and tourists. The beach area can be lively during summer nights, with beach parties and events, while quieter spots provide a relaxing escape for those seeking a more tranquil experience.

Hiking in Guryongpo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Geumseong Mountain Trail

A well-marked trail offering stunning views of the coastline and surrounding nature, suitable for all skill levels.

Oeosa Temple Trail

A moderate hike leading to a historic temple with breathtaking scenery, perfect for those looking for a spiritual experience.

Airports

How to reach Guryongpo by plane.

Pohang Airport

Located approximately 20 km from Guryongpo, this small airport offers flights to major cities like Seoul and Busan.

Getting Around

Walkability

Guryongpo is relatively walkable, especially in the beach and port areas where most attractions are located close together. Sidewalks are generally available, and the flat terrain makes it easy to explore on foot. However, some attractions may require a short drive or public transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Fishermen

A significant demographic in Guryongpo, contributing to the town's economy and culture.

Tourists

Visitors from both domestic and international locations, especially during the summer months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A favorite pastime in South Korea, with local teams often playing in nearby cities.

Fishing

With Guryongpo's coastal location, fishing is a popular sport, both recreationally and commercially.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Guryongpo is generally light, especially compared to larger cities. Public transportation options include local buses that connect various parts of the town and surrounding areas. Biking is also a popular way to get around, with designated bike paths along the coast.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Guryongpo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood is abundant, some restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like bibimbap.

Allergy Awareness

It's advisable to communicate any allergies, especially to seafood, as it is a staple in local cuisine.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Guryongpo is good, with several clinics and a hospital available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are efficient, and most medical staff can communicate in basic English. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Korea

Read more in our Korea 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea Travel Guide