Traveling is a big part of my life, and I always look forward to new adventures. Reflecting on past journeys, here are five unique places in Seoul you should check out.
Baedari Brewery Museum
Founded in 1915, Baedari Brewery has been crafting traditional Korean drinks like makgeolli, jukyoju, and soju. In 1974, Goyang makgeolli was selected for the first inter-Korean summit in Pyongyang. The museum, established in 2004, showcases the brewery’s history and is now operated by the fifth generation of brewers.
Start your visit by exploring the initial exhibits in the main building, then head upstairs for more. The dim lighting sets the mood for viewing the old tools used in the production of rice wine and soju. Though technology has improved, the museum’s displays reveal the industrial heritage with well-worn artifacts and models detailing the brewing processes.
After touring the museum, enjoy some lunch and try the local makgeolli, including a unique cactus-flavored variety.
Address: Gyeonggi-do, Goyang-si, Deokyang-gu, Seongsa-dong, 470-1
Directions: From Wondang station, line 3, exit 6. Cross the street and walk about 500 meters. Follow the brown road signs.
Ice Gallery
The Ice Gallery is touted as the world’s first year-round indoor ice sculpture exhibition. Step into the large walk-in freezer, kept at -5℃, and browse ice replicas of Korean landmarks such as Sungryemun (Namdaemun) and Bukchon Hanok Village. There’s even an ice slide that both kids and adults will enjoy.
You can also carve your own ice sculpture with guidance from the staff. It’s a fun yet challenging activity—don’t forget to drink from your finished creation.
Address: Seoul-si Jongno-gu Hwa-dong 138-7 B1
Directions: Anguk station, line 3, exit 1. Walk 100 meters, turn right, then continue straight for 400 meters. The Ice Gallery will be on your right.
Maniker Museum of Chicken Art
Formerly the Seoul Chicken Art Museum, this quirky museum in northern Gyeonggi-do celebrates the cultural and historical significance of chickens. The museum relocated in January 2012 and highlights chickens’ role in Korean history and symbolism.
Chickens were considered symbols of fertility, wealth, and even served as messages between realms in ancient times. The museum houses various artistic pieces from different countries and periods, providing a fascinating look at this humble bird. After the tour, you can enjoy some food or coffee at the on-site café.
Address: Gyeonggi-do Dongducheon-si Ha-bong-am-dong 141-4
Directions: Soyosan station, line 1. Exit the station, cross the road, and take bus 39 or 53-1 to the Maniker stop. Walk back about 100 meters and cross the road.
Seodaemun Prison History Hall
Seodaemun Prison History Hall memorializes Korean activists who opposed Japanese colonization in the early 20th century. The museum documents the harsh conditions and brutal treatment endured by the activists.
Originally opened in 1908 by the Japanese, it later held democracy activists until Korea’s democratic transition in 1987. Exhibits include prison artifacts, prisoner records, and interactive elements, such as a webcam that overlays your image on a historical movie scene of torture.
Address: Seoul-si Seodaemun-gu Hyeonjeo-dong 101
Directions: Dongnimmun station, line 3, exit 5. Independence Gate is visible from the subway.
Mr. Toilet House
Dedicated to Sim Jae Duck, also known as Mr. Toilet, this two-story toilet-shaped building in Suwon celebrates his contributions to sanitation and public health. The museum features exhibits on his life, global bathroom signs, and the history of public toilets in Korea.
Outside, you’ll find more displays, including an outhouse from Jeju Island. Though the explanations are in Korean, the exhibits are fairly self-explanatory and often humorous.
Address: Gyeonggi-do, Suwon-si, Jangan-gu, Imok-Dong, 186-3
Directions: Suwon station, line 1, exit 2. Take bus 92 or 310 to Dongwon High School and walk about 500 meters towards the school.
In short, Seoul offers a wealth of intriguing places to explore, each providing a unique look into Korean culture and history. Happy travels!