Things To Do
in Mokpo

Mokpo is a vibrant city located on the southwestern coast of South Korea, known for its rich history and scenic coastal views. It serves as an important port city and is the gateway to Jeollanam-do province. The city boasts a blend of traditional and modern attractions, including cultural landmarks, beautiful parks, and bustling markets.

Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and experience the warmth of local hospitality while exploring this charming destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Mokpo's Culture
morning
:

Start your day at the Mokpo National Maritime Museum to learn about the city's maritime history and view impressive exhibits.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Mokpo Modern History Museum to explore the city's past, followed by a leisurely stroll through the peaceful Yudalsan Park.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant, sampling dishes like grilled mackerel, and then visit the Mokpo Waterfront Park for a night view of the harbor.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a ferry to Oedaldo Island and explore its scenic walking paths and beaches, perfect for a relaxing morning.

afternoon
:

Return to Mokpo and visit the famous Mokpo Bridge, where you can take stunning photos and enjoy the panoramic views.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Korean BBQ restaurant and explore the local night market for some delicious street food snacks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a restaurant$7-$12
Cup of coffee$2-$4
🚕Taxi fare (within city)$3-$6
🚌Bus ticket$1
🏨Night at a budget hotel$30-$60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Delicious seafood and unique local cuisine
  • Beautiful coastal scenery and outdoor activities
  • Limited English signage and language barriers
  • Less touristy than other major cities, which may limit some amenities
  • Public transportation can be limited outside the main areas
  • "안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
  • "감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida)" - Thank you
  • "죄송합니다 (Joesonghamnida)" - I'm sorry
  • "얼마예요? (Eolmayeyo?)" - How much is this?
  • "화장실 어디예요? (Hwajangsil eodiyeyo?)" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Mokpo

Visit one of these nice places.

Yudalsan Mountain

A stunning viewpoint offering panoramic views of Mokpo and its coastline, especially beautiful at sunset.

Mokpo Bridge

An architectural marvel that provides a picturesque backdrop for photography, particularly at night when illuminated.

Oedaldo Island

Known for its scenic trails and beautiful beaches, this island is perfect for capturing nature shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mokpo

Mokpo is renowned for its seafood and traditional Korean cuisine, offering a delightful culinary journey for visitors.

Mokpo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grilled Mackerel

A local favorite, this dish features fresh mackerel grilled to perfection and served with a side of rice and kimchi.

Must-Try!

Seafood Pajeon

A savory Korean pancake made with fresh seafood and green onions, often enjoyed with a dipping sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mokpo Fish Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh seafood and enjoy it cooked on-site or take it home.

Mokpo Night Market

A vibrant night market offering various street food options, from tteokbokki to hotteok.

Climate Guide

Weather

Mokpo experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures dropping to around -5°C (23°F) occasionally. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Using both hands when giving or receiving items shows respect, especially to elders.

Shoes Off Indoors

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

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders, including using formal language and seating positions.

Safety Guide

Safety

Mokpo is generally a safe city for travelers. Violent crime is rare, but petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. It's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 for police and 119 for fire and medical emergencies. Additionally, familiarize yourself with local emergency contact information.

Tipping in Mokpo

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 carrying cash is advisable for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Mokpo is mild, with blooming cherry blossoms and numerous outdoor festivals, making it an ideal time for sightseeing.

Summer

Summer can be hot and humid, but it's perfect for enjoying the beaches and water activities around Mokpo.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler temperatures and stunning foliage, perfect for hiking and outdoor photography.

Winter

Winters are chilly, but Mokpo's cozy cafes and warm seafood dishes provide a comforting escape from the cold.

Nightlife Guide

Mokpo at Night

Mokpo's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, featuring a range of bars, karaoke rooms, and clubs. The city has a lively atmosphere, especially around the waterfront, where you can find bars offering local brews and cocktails. Karaoke is a popular pastime, and many locals enjoy singing their favorite songs late into the night. Additionally, street vendors and night markets provide a perfect venue for trying local street food while enjoying the buzz of the city.

Hiking in Mokpo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mokpo's Yudal Mountain Trail

This trail offers a moderately challenging hike with scenic views of Mokpo and the surrounding area.

Gwangju's Mudeungsan National Park

Located about an hour's drive from Mokpo, this national park features various trails suitable for all levels of hikers.

Airports

How to reach Mokpo by plane.

Mokpo Airport (MKP)

Located about 30 km from the city center, Mokpo Airport offers domestic flights to Seoul and Jeju Island, making travel convenient.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mokpo is relatively walkable, especially in the downtown area where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. The city has pedestrian-friendly streets, and many parks provide pleasant walking paths. However, some hilly areas may require more effort to navigate.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Older Population

Mokpo has a significant older population, reflecting the city's historical roots and traditional values.

Young Professionals

A growing number of young professionals are moving to Mokpo for job opportunities and an affordable lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a favored sport in Mokpo, with local teams drawing enthusiastic crowds during the season.

Soccer

Soccer is also popular, with local clubs and community games often taking place in the city's parks.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Mokpo can vary, with peak hours typically occurring during morning and evening commutes. Public transportation, including buses and taxis, is reliable and affordable, making it easy to navigate the city. Biking and walking are also popular options, especially around the waterfront areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mokpo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While Korean cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants offer vegetarian options; be sure to ask.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but many dishes can be modified; confirm with the restaurant.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Mokpo is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for both locals and tourists. Major hospitals offer services in English, and pharmacies are widely available for basic medications. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while visiting South Korea.

Discover South Korea

Read more in our South Korea 2025 Travel Guide.

South Korea Travel Guide