Explore Yongin - South Korea Travel, Asia

Overview of Yongin

History & Cultural Influence

The city’s origins can be traced back to the Three Kingdoms period, when it was part of the Baekje Kingdom. The city is renowned for its amusement parks, including Everland, the largest in South Korea, and the traditional Korean Folk Village, which offers a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage. Throughout the centuries, Yongin has been influenced by various dynasties, including Goguryeo and Silla, and played a crucial role during the Joseon Dynasty as a transportation hub along the Yeongnam-daero road. Despite its rapid urbanization, Yongin has maintained its commitment to preserving green spaces and cultural rites, ensuring that the city's rich history remains alive. The city's transformation into a hub for education and technology, with numerous universities and research institutes, highlights its dynamic character.

Interaction with The Locals

The general attitude of Yongin's residents towards tourists is friendly and hospitable. Many locals take pride in their city's attractions, such as Everland and the Korean Folk Village, and are often eager to share their knowledge and experiences with visitors. While English proficiency may vary, younger generations and those working in the tourism sector are typically more comfortable communicating in English, making interactions smoother for international travelers.

Top Attractions in Yongin

Everland

As South Korea's largest and most popular amusement park, Everland promises excitement for visitors of all ages. From heart-pounding roller coasters to family-friendly rides, there's something for everyone. The park hosts vibrant seasonal festivals, including breathtaking flower displays in the spring and thrilling Halloween events in the fall. Beyond the rides, visitors can enjoy beautifully landscaped gardens and animal exhibits, including a safari experience. Everland is the perfect destination for families, adventure seekers, and anyone looking for a day packed with fun.

Korean Folk Village

Step back in time at the Korean Folk Village, an open-air museum that immerses visitors in the life and culture of the Joseon Dynasty. With over 300 meticulously restored houses, visitors can explore traditional Korean architecture and watch cultural performances such as folk dances and tightrope walking. The village also offers hands-on activities like pottery-making and traditional craft demonstrations. Seasonal festivals add an extra layer of vibrancy, making this a rich cultural experience for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

Wawoojeongsa Temple

Nestled in the quiet embrace of nature, Wawoojeongsa Temple is a serene retreat known for its awe-inspiring lying Buddha statue, one of the largest in the world. The temple’s striking architecture harmonizes with the surrounding natural beauty, offering a peaceful atmosphere for reflection. Visitors can explore walking trails that wind through the picturesque landscape, making this an ideal destination for those seeking spiritual solace or simply a tranquil day out in nature.

Hoam Art Museum

For art lovers, the Hoam Art Museum is a hidden gem showcasing Korea’s rich artistic heritage. Set amid beautifully landscaped gardens, the museum’s collection includes traditional Korean ceramics, paintings, and calligraphy, as well as rotating exhibitions that offer something new with every visit. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk through the garden while appreciating Korea’s artistic legacy. It's a cultural haven for those interested in both art and nature.

Cheonggyesan Mountain

For those who crave nature, Cheonggyesan Mountain offers scenic hiking trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. With diverse flora and fauna, the mountain is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an escape from city life. Whether you're looking for a leisurely hike or a more challenging trail, Cheonggyesan provides a peaceful setting for a day of exploration and relaxation in nature.

Must-Try Dishes in Yongin

Yongin, a city in South Korea, is not only rich in culture and history but also boasts a vibrant culinary scene that offers unique flavors and dishes. Here are some must-try dishes and local specialties that highlight Yongin's culinary diversity:

• Yukhoe (Korean Beef Tartare): Yukhoe is a traditional Korean dish of seasoned raw beef, often mixed with pear, a raw egg yolk, and various seasonings such as sesame oil, soy sauce, and garlic. The beef used is typically tender and lean, carefully prepared to ensure freshness and quality. This dish is a testament to the Korean love for fresh, high-quality ingredients and showcases the traditional Korean way of seasoning and enjoying meat.
• Makguksu (Buckwheat Noodles): Makguksu is a cold noodle dish made from buckwheat, typically served with a tangy chilled broth or a spicy dressing. It is often garnished with sliced cucumber, pear, boiled egg, and sometimes kimchi. Especially popular during the hot summer months, makguksu is known for its refreshing and light taste. It's a regional specialty in areas of Korea with a tradition of cultivating buckwheat.
• Samgyeopsal (Grilled Pork Belly): Samgyeopsal consists of thick, fatty slices of pork belly meat that are not marinated or seasoned before being cooked on a grill at the diner's table. The meat is typically dipped in a seasoning made of salt and pepper mixed in sesame oil, and wrapped in lettuce along with garlic, chili, and other sides. This dish is a beloved Korean barbecue option, reflective of the communal and interactive aspect of Korean dining.
• Kalguksu (Knife-Cut Noodle Soup): Kalguksu is a noodle soup with handmade, knife-cut wheat flour noodles served in a large bowl with broth and other ingredients like vegetables, seafood, or chicken. The dish highlights the Korean expertise in noodle making and offers a comforting, hearty meal that is particularly favored during the cooler months.
• Sundubu-jjigae (Soft Tofu Stew): This is a hot and spicy stew that contains freshly curdled soft tofu, vegetables, mushrooms, onion, optional seafood (like oysters, mussels, and clams), and gochujang (chili paste) or gochu garu (chili powder). The stew is often served in a stone pot with raw egg added just before serving. Sundubu-jjigae is celebrated for its rich, distinct flavors and is a staple in Korean home cooking.

Festivals & Local Celebrations

• Yongin Folk Culture Festival: Held in the fall, this festival takes place at the Korean Folk Village. It includes performances of traditional Korean music and dance, folk games, and hands-on experiences with traditional crafts. It’s a deep dive into Korea’s rich cultural history and a fun, educational event for all ages.
• Everland Tulip Festival: Every spring, Everland Resort transforms into a spectacular garden with its Tulip Festival. Featuring more than a million tulips of various kinds, it’s a celebration of spring’s arrival with beautiful flower sculptures, photo zones, and themed parades.
• Yongin International Dance Festival: This festival occurs in late spring and showcases a blend of traditional and contemporary dance performances by artists from around the world. It’s a vibrant, energetic event that highlights the universal language of dance and promotes cultural exchange.
• Baekam Art Festival: Taking place in summer, this arts festival in the Baekam Hot Springs area includes a range of performances, from musical acts and live concerts to art exhibitions. It’s an opportunity to enjoy Yongin’s natural beauty alongside creative and artistic expressions.
• Yongin Korean Music Festival: Hosted annually, this event celebrates traditional Korean music with performances from renowned national musicians. It typically includes genres like pansori (a traditional musical storytelling performance), samulnori (percussion music), and more, providing a rich auditory feast.
• Yongin Great Battle Festival: Commemorating the historical battles that occurred in the region, this autumn festival features reenactments, military parades, and cultural events that bring history to life. It’s both educational and entertaining, offering insights into Korea’s historical military strategies and costumes.

What to Do in Yongin

Yongin is a city full of diverse attractions, blending outdoor adventures with rich cultural experiences. Here are some top activities that visitors can enjoy:

• Exploring Korean Folk Village: Step back in time at the Korean Folk Village where you can explore traditional Korean houses, watch live cultural performances like folk dances and acrobatic shows, and even participate in hands-on traditional crafts. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Korea's cultural heritage and learn about the historical lifestyle of the Korean people.
• Adventuring in Everland Resort: South Korea's largest theme park offers thrilling rides, including one of the world’s steepest roller coasters, a zoo and a water park. Everland provides fun for all ages and is particularly famous for its seasonal festivals like the Tulip Festival in spring and Halloween Festival in autumn.
• Visiting Yongin Daejanggeum Park: Explore this large outdoor set where numerous Korean historical dramas have been filmed. The park offers a unique glimpse into the film and TV industry of South Korea, with detailed sets depicting ancient palaces, traditional villages, and more. It's a must-visit for fans of Korean dramas looking to step onto the sets of their favorite shows.
• Hiking in Gwanggyosan Mountain: For nature enthusiasts, hiking the trails of Gwanggyosan Mountain offers serene landscapes and refreshing outdoor exercise. The mountain features well-maintained trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints overlooking Yongin and beyond. It's an ideal activity for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy Korea’s natural beauty.
• Sampling Local Cuisine at Jukjeon Cafe Street: After a day of sightseeing, unwind at Jukjeon Cafe Street where you can sample local and international cuisines and enjoy a variety of coffees and desserts in stylish cafes. This bustling area is a great place to people-watch, relax, and experience the contemporary urban culture of Yongin.

Shopping in Yongin

• Korean Folk Village Souvenir Shops: For authentic Korean crafts and unique souvenirs, the shops inside the Korean Folk Village are a must-visit. They offer everything from traditional Korean clothing, such as hanbok, to handcrafted pottery and jewelry. These items not only serve as great mementos but also provide a tangible connection to Korean culture and history.
• Bojeong-dong Café Street: While primarily known for its vibrant café culture, Bojeong-dong Café Street also features an array of boutique shops selling handmade accessories and local crafts. It's a great place to browse unique and quirky items while enjoying a relaxing day out in one of Yongin’s most charming neighborhoods.
• Yongin Agricultural Products Market (Yongin Nonghyup Hanaro Mart): For local food products, this market offers a wide range of items including freshly picked fruits, vegetables, and regional specialties like Korean rice cakes and seasoned seaweeds. It’s an ideal spot for food lovers looking to explore local flavors or buy authentic Korean ingredients to take home.
• Shinsegae Department Store in Yongin: This major department store hosts a variety of international and Korean brands. For those looking for high-quality clothing, cosmetics, and electronics, Shinsegae provides a comprehensive shopping experience with the convenience of having everything under one roof.
• Everland's Gift Shops: Located within Everland Resort, these shops specialize in fun and whimsical souvenirs themed around the park's attractions and characters. From plush toys and apparel to unique gadgets and local snacks, these shops offer a wide selection of gifts that are perfect for young visitors or the young at heart.

Weather in Yongin: Best Time to Visit

Yongin experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, each offering its own unique charm and considerations for travelers. Here’s a detailed overview of the weather and climate in Yongin to help you plan your visit:

Average Temperatures

• Spring (March to May): The temperatures in spring are pleasant, ranging from 5°C (41°F) in early March to around 20°C (68°F) by May. This season sees the city blooming with flowers, making it a beautiful time for outdoor activities.
• Summer (June to August): Summer in Yongin is warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F). July and August can be particularly hot and muggy.
• Autumn (September to November): Fall is often considered the best time to visit Yongin due to its mild weather and spectacular autumn foliage. Temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) in September to around 5°C (41°F) by late November.
• Winter (December to February): Winters are cold and dry, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. January is typically the coldest month, with average lows around -5°C (23°F) and highs just above freezing.

Best Time to Visit

• Autumn (September to November) is highly recommended due to comfortable temperatures and the stunning visual display of fall colors. The weather is conducive for hiking, sightseeing, and participating in outdoor festivals.
• Spring (March to May) is also an excellent time to visit, especially for those interested in spring blossoms such as cherry and apricot flowers. The weather is generally mild, although it can be a bit chilly in early March.

Essential Travel Information

Getting Around Yongin

• Buses: Yongin boasts an extensive network of local and regional buses that connect all major districts and attractions. The buses are affordable and fairly punctual, with bus stops featuring electronic boards displaying real-time information.
• Subway: Part of the Seoul Metropolitan Subway, the Yongin EverLine is a light metro line that connects to the Seoul subway system at Giheung Station. This line is particularly useful for reaching Everland Resort and other local areas.
• Taxis: Taxis in Yongin are readily available and reasonably priced. They can be hailed directly from the street, booked via phone, or through apps. Both standard and deluxe (black) taxis are available, with the latter offering a more comfortable ride at a higher fare.
• Ride-Sharing Services: Services like Kakao T provide convenient alternatives to traditional taxis and are often preferred for their ease of use and transparent pricing. These apps are user-friendly and offer services ranging from budget to premium cars.
• Car Rentals: Renting a car can be a practical option for those planning to travel around Yongin extensively or visit rural areas. Several car rental agencies operate at both Incheon and Gimpo airports, as well as within Yongin.
• Bicycles: Yongin is increasingly promoting cycling as an eco-friendly way to explore the city. Dedicated bicycle lanes and rental services are available, particularly around major parks and tourist areas.

ATM & Banking Services

• Widespread Availability: ATMs are abundantly available throughout Yongin, especially in high-traffic areas like shopping centers, transportation hubs, and near tourist attractions.
• International Compatibility: Many ATMs in Yongin support international cards, particularly those operated by major banks like KB Kookmin Bank, Shinhan Bank, and Hana Bank. Look for ATMs marked with global network logos like Visa, MasterCard, or Cirrus to ensure compatibility.
• 24/7 Access: While most bank ATMs operate during business hours, ATMs in convenience stores such as GS25, CU, and 7-Eleven are available 24/7, offering both cash withdrawal and foreign card services.

Where to Stay in Yongin

• Family-Friendly Stays: Yongin is home to popular attractions like Everland and Caribbean Bay, making it a great tourist destination for families. Many accommodations near these attractions are designed with families in mind, offering spacious rooms, play areas, and easy access to the theme parks. These family-friendly stays often provide additional amenities like shuttle services to the parks, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable experience for parents and kids alike.
• Business and Conference Hotels: Yongin is not only a tourist destination but also a business hub for its location closes to Yongin’s industrial complexes. Many business-friendly hotels in the city offer modern amenities such as conference rooms, high-speed internet, and business centers.
• Luxury Stays: If you’re looking for a more indulgent experience, Yongin offers luxury accommodations that provide top-tier services and amenities. These high-end stays often include spa facilities, fine dining options, and stunning views of the surrounding nature.