With its thriving entertainment scene and rich cultural heritage, South Korea has become a popular destination for travellers from all over the world. Places like Seoul, Busan, and Jeju Island often steal the spotlight. However, there is another city that deserves your attention: Daejeon.
Located just an hour away from Seoul by KTX, Daejeon is known as Korea's "Silicon Valley." The city has developed a reputation as a high-tech HQ, as it houses over 230 research institutes. Moreover, it offers a unique experience with its artistic attractions without the bustling crowds of tourists.
In this blog, we will explore the top 10 artistic places to visit in Daejeon that will captivate your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories.
Top 10 Artistics Places to Visit in Daejeon
1. The Daejeon Museum of Art:
Also known as the Daejeon Metropolitan Museum of Arts, Daejeon Museum of Art is one of the top Daejeon tourist spots. Situated at 396 Mannyeon-dong, Seo-gu, crossing the river from the Expo Science Park, this museum exhibits contemporary art by both local and international artists. Notable exhibits in this museum include "The Horizon of Daejeon Art" and The Exhibition of Park Seung-moo. The facility also features an outdoor sculpture park, providing an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art.
2. Hanbat Arboretum
Situated near the Government Complex and Daejeon EXPO Science Park, Hanbat Arboretum is among the top places to visit in Daejeon. This largest man-made arboretum in Korea is a haven for nature lovers and art enthusiasts alike. The arboretum conserves numerous plant species, serves as a youth's educational space, and provides a tranquil green area for citizens. It also includes 19 themed gardens like Magnolia Garden, Rock Garden, Herb Garden, and a tropical botanical garden. Take a leisurely walk through the gardens, surrounded by the beauty of art and nature.
3. Daejeon Art & Culture Complex
The Daejeon Art & Culture Complex is situated in a culture belt, connecting the Daejeon Art & Complex, Daejeon Museum of Art, and Ungno Lee Museum of Art. This complex houses the Daejeon Art & Culture Hall, which can accommodate up to 1,546 seats and can stage up to 300 performers. It also hosts various cultural performances, like grand opera, musicals, ballet, and more. The neighbouring Daejeon Museum of Art and Ungno Lee Museum of Art further enrich the artistic experience in this area.
4. EXPO Science Park
Once the site of the 1993 Daejeon EXPO, the EXPO Science Park has been transformed into a science education space for citizens. You can explore various attractions within the park. It boasts a simulation theatre, where the chairs move according to the movie, an electrical energy pavilion, and the symbolic tower of EXPO Science Park, Hanbit Tower. This tower offers panoramic views of Daejeon City. Also, do not miss the recently opened Daejeon EXPO Memorial Hall and World EXPO Memorial Museum, where you can learn about the history of the EXPO and its impact on the world.
5. Lee Ungno Museum
If you want to learn about Korean art, you should definitely include the Lee Ungno Museum in your list of places to visit in Daejeon. Dedicated to the renowned Korean artist Lee Ungno, this museum showcases his innovative approach to traditional ink painting and calligraphy. With over 1,366 works of art on display, it offers a comprehensive insight into the life and work of this influential artist.
6. National Science Museum
The National Science Museum should be one of the must-include Daejeon tourist spots for science enthusiasts. This museum collects, displays, and exhibits numerous scientific materials and provides educational content for visitors of all ages. It also has special exhibition halls, permanent exhibition halls, outdoor exhibitions, and observatory halls to expand your knowledge of various scientific disciplines. The Museum operates from 9:30 am to 5:30 am and is usually closed on Monday and public holidays. So, make sure to check the operating hours before visiting.
7. Daejeon Skyroad
If you are looking for some nightlife and shopping in Daejeon, head to Daejeon Skyroad. Situated in the city centre, this bustling district offers a range of entertainment options, including karaoke bars, photo booths, cafes, and shops. Walk along the Skyroad and be mesmerized by the LED panels that create unique visual effects and animations. Look up at the "road-like" structure above the main street, and you will find hundreds of LED panels joined together for special effects, advertisements, and animations. Daejeon Skyroad is truly one of the most exciting and artistic places to visit in Daejeon.
8. Art and Culture Street
Once known as the administrative and cultural hub of central South Korea, Art and Culture Street has regained its status as a vibrant centre for art and culture. With over 150 businesses of art and culture, like galleries, theatres, and exhibition halls, this street is a haven for artists and art enthusiasts. Festivals like the Youth Maim Festival, the Art and Culture Street Festival, and Uineungjeongi Festival make the atmosphere lively. Moreover, Daejeon's renowned Sky Street, equipped with arcade-type LED screens, is a popular tourist destination. It offers entertainment and advertising through its main screen and media hub.
9. Ppuri Park
For a unique cultural experience, visit Ppuri Park in Daejeon. This educational park features the world's first sculptures representing family names, promoting filial piety and cultural awareness. The park also boasts various facilities, including Sasindo (the painting of four gods) and Sibijiji (the twelve terrestrial branches)-shaped spring waters, waterside stages, observatories, an octagonal pavilion, and a recreational forest. The park also hosts cultural events throughout the year. Additionally, there are 30 mini motorcars for kids, a Traffic Safety Education Center, and a nature observation trail. Ppuri Park hosts various cultural events, like family name sculpture ceremonies, concerts, and children's day events.
10. Daejeon-O World
Conclude your artistic journey in Daejeon at Daejeon-O World, an integrated theme park that offers something for the whole family. It is the largest facility in central southern South Korea and combines zoo land, flower land, and joy land. With around 160 species of 600 animals and themed gardens like the Sound Garden and Rose Garden, it offers a feast for the senses. Enjoy various rides like the Giant Drop and Flume Ride. The park also features a fun maze and a beautiful water-themed garden with ponds and fountains. Therefore, Daejeon-O World is a delightful mix of nature and excitement.
Documents Required to Visit Daejeon
When planning your trip to Daejeon, make sure you have the following documents in order:
- A valid passport with at least six months' validity from the date of travel.
- A copy of your completed and signed visa application form (if applicable).
- Proof of accommodation, such as hotel bookings.
- A copy of the returned ticket.
- Proof of sufficient financial means to support your trip.
- Salary slip for last 6 months and income tax returns for last 3 years.
- Travel insurance to ensure you are covered for any unforeseen circumstances.
VISA Process to Visit Daejeon
For international travellers visiting Daejeon, it is important to go through the visa application process. Here is a brief overview of the process:
- Identify the type of visa required for your visit.
- Complete the visa application form and gather all necessary documents.
- Book an appointment at the Korea Visa Application Center.
- Pay the required fees.
- Visit the Korea Visa Application Center on the scheduled date.
- Track your visa application.
- Collect your passport from the Visa Application Center.
Importance of Travel Insurance During International Travel
When travelling internationally, it is essential to have travel insurance for Korea. This is because it provides coverage for medical expenses in case of illness while abroad. If you need to cancel your trip due to unforeseen circumstances, it can reimburse you for non-refundable expenses. It also covers the cost of lost, delayed, or damaged luggage, ensuring you are not left empty-handed during your trip. In case of flight disruptions, international travel insurance can compensate you for additional expenses incurred, like accommodation and meals. Whether you are visiting popular Daejeon tourist spots or exploring new destinations, travel insurance offers peace of mind, knowing that you are protected from unexpected events while travelling.
