When traveling or living in Korea, it’s only natural to want to expand your experience beyond the bustling heart of Seoul. One of the best ways to explore the surrounding areas is through a scenic drive. While destinations like Gapyeong, Chuncheon, Yangpyeong, and Paju are accessible by public transportation, having a car offers greater convenience — making it easier to discover hidden gems along the way. In this blog post, under the theme of “K-Driving Roadmap,” we’ll introduce drive-friendly travel courses ideal for a day trip or a relaxed overnight getaway from Seoul.
A Scenic Lake Drive to Gapyeong
1) The Lakeside Charm of Cheongpyeong
Gapyeong is located about one to one and a half hours east of Seoul and is famed for its picturesque natural scenery. Thanks to its location along Cheongpyeong Lake and the Bukhangang River, it makes for a perfect driving destination. If you rent a car and take the Gangbyeon Expressway heading toward Gapyeong, the cityscape slowly gives way to serene views of blue rivers and lakes. Driving along the Cheongpyeong lakeside road, you’ll find charming cafés, cozy guesthouses, and popular eateries where you can stop, relax, and enjoy the view.
2) Nami Island and Nearby Activities
Gapyeong is also home to the popular tourist attraction, Nami Island. Famously featured in Korean dramas, it draws many international visitors. Reaching the island involves a short ferry ride, adding a fun twist to your trip. After exploring Nami Island, you can head to nearby Gapyeong Leisure Town for water sports like waterskiing or jet skiing, or grab a meal at one of the area’s renowned dak-galbi (spicy stir-fried chicken) restaurants. With a car, it’s easy to get around and fit multiple activities into your day.
3) Day Trip or Overnight Stay?
Gapyeong’s proximity to Seoul makes it ideal for a day trip, but an overnight stay is recommended if you want to truly unwind. Spend a night at a lakeside pension or resort, where you can enjoy a campfire or barbecue dinner. To avoid weekend traffic, it’s best to depart on Friday evening or early Saturday morning. Likewise, plan your return to avoid the congestion commonly seen on Sunday afternoons and evenings.
A Culinary and Scenic Getaway to Chuncheon
1) Dak-galbi Alley and Soyang River
Chuncheon is known as a foodie’s paradise, famous for dak-galbi, amid a landscape where mountains and rivers coexist beautifully. It’s easily accessible via Jayu-ro or the Gyeongchun Expressway. Once you arrive downtown, you’ll find a whole street dedicated to dak-galbi, lined with restaurants ready to welcome hungry visitors. Grilling spicy stir-fried chicken on an iron plate and pairing it with a bowl of makguksu noodles completes the culinary adventure in Chuncheon.
2) Soyanggang Skywalk & Gugok Falls
The Soyanggang Skywalk is a must-visit attraction in Chuncheon. Walking along the transparent glass floor gives you the thrilling feeling of hovering above the river. The surrounding landscape also makes it a perfect photo spot. For a deeper immersion in nature, drive to Gugok Falls. This short hiking trail offers a glimpse of a beautiful waterfall amidst fresh mountain air and tranquil forest paths — an ideal setting for relaxation and recharging.
Yangpyeong: Where Healing Meets Art
1) Sunrise at Dumulmeori and the Lotus Garden of Semiwon
Yangpyeong is where the North and South Han Rivers merge, and is best known for the ethereal morning scenery at Dumulmeori. Arriving at sunrise rewards you with a mystical view of fog-covered waters and a peaceful ambiance — something only a pre-dawn drive can offer. The region is also home to Semiwon, a lotus-themed garden that blooms into a dreamlike landscape in the summer, offering yet another artistic treat for your senses.
2) Artistic Cafés and Galleries
Yangpyeong is dotted with art-inspired cafés and galleries. From repurposed factory spaces to cafés surrounded by lush gardens, these charming spots invite visitors to take a break, snap some photos, and enjoy the calm. Unlike the hustle and bustle of Seoul, here you can savor your coffee slowly while exploring exhibitions — making it a perfect route for a mid-drive rest and cultural experience.
Exploring Paju & Heyri Art Village
1) Paju Book City and Heyri Village
Located in northwest Seoul, Paju is often referred to as the city of books and arts. Entering Paju Book City introduces you to a unique landscape filled with bookstores and publishing houses. Nearby lies Heyri Art Village, where museums, galleries, and studios come together to ignite your artistic senses. A weekend drive to Paju lets you enjoy a cultural journey paired with scenic roads.
2) Imjingak Park and DMZ Tour
Due to its proximity to North Korea, Paju also offers access to Imjingak Park and tours to the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone). Driving along Jayu-ro reveals unique views of the northern landscape. With a DMZ tour, you can visit sites with significant historical meaning, such as the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel and Dora Observatory. Note that some areas may require advance reservations or ID verification, so careful planning is essential.
K-Driving Tips: Safe and Comfortable Short Trips
1) Using a GPS Navigation App
If you’re not familiar with Korean, installing an English-supported navigation app like KakaoNavi or TMAP in English is highly recommended. These apps provide real-time traffic updates and smartly guide you through national and expressways to avoid congestion. Save your destination in the app beforehand to avoid having to search mid-drive.
2) Experiencing Korean Rest Stop Culture
While driving on Korean highways, you’ll encounter a unique local institution — the highway rest stop. These spots offer quick meals, snacks, and souvenirs, providing drivers with a fun and relaxing pause. You can enjoy local street foods like dak-gangjeong (sweet crispy chicken), walnut pastries, or fish cakes, and the facilities are generally very clean.
3) Parking and Road Etiquette
Popular destinations and restaurants near Seoul often see heavy weekend traffic, which means parking lots can fill up quickly. It’s wise to research nearby public parking spaces or alternative lots in advance. Arriving earlier in the day also helps. When driving through rural areas, pay close attention to pedestrians, tractors, and cyclists to avoid accidents — driving at a safe speed is crucial.
Conclusion: Discover a New Side of Korea Beyond Seoul
The outskirts of Seoul are brimming with diverse attractions. Just a short drive away, you’ll find yourself immersed in drastically different landscapes and cultures. From the lakes and rivers of Gapyeong and Chuncheon, to the art and nature of Yangpyeong, and the publishing and history-rich Paju — each destination offers its own unique travel theme. Renting a car allows you the freedom to depart when you please, stop where you like for a coffee or a photoshoot, and explore delicious spots along the way — delivering a deeply rewarding experience.
What we call “K-Driving,” or Korean road trips, is not difficult for international travelers. As long as you’re familiar with basic traffic rules and have your navigation set properly, anyone can enjoy smooth drives around Seoul’s suburban areas. This weekend, escape the urban routine and hit the road. The beauty, tranquility, and unexpected delights of Korea are waiting to be discovered.
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