Gangseo-gu is a trendy neighbourhood set on the south bank of the Han River. The district is home to one of the top art museums in Korea, as well as several museums spotlighting local cultures and traditions. Discover the city’s ancient past at centuries-old temples and eat your way through local restaurants and street food stalls.
Things to do in Gangseo-gu
Visit the Gyeomjae Jeongseon Art Museum to admire one of the finest collections of Korean landscape paintings in the country. The museum is dedicated to iconic painter Jeong Seon and features four floors of masterpieces by the Korean artist.
The small but fascinating Heojun Museum features exhibits on traditional Korean medicine. You can learn about the legacy of Heo Jun, a pioneer of oriental medicine and healing. The lush herb garden is brimming with medicinal plants that have been used by traditional doctors for centuries.
Set at the foot of Gaehwasan Mountain, Yaksasa Temple is a serene sanctuary in the heart of Gangseo-gu. The temple is set in a tree-filled garden and features an impressive three-storey stone pagoda and an enormous statue of Buddha carved several centuries ago. Scenic trails wind through the forest and immerse you in the natural beauty of Gaehwasan Mountain.
Strolling around Gangseo-gu, you’ll be tempted by restaurants serving delicious Korean cuisine. Dig into steaming bowls of noodles, spicy tofu soup and BBQ pork topped with “kimchi” fermented vegetables. Street food stalls sell traditional “tteokbokki” rice and fish cakes loaded with scallions and chili sauce.
Getting around Gangseo-gu
Gangseo-gu is serviced by several stations on the Seoul Subway, including Balsan Station on Line 5 and Sinbanghwa Station on Line 9. Taxis are a quick and easy way to get around Gangseo-gu. Seoul is 20 minutes away by car or subway while Incheon International Airport is a one-hour drive away.