10 Best Family Things to Do in Goseong

The Goseong Unification Observatory provides a glimpse into the nation-state of North Korea from a 70-metre-high viewpoint. More than 1.5 million people frequent this attraction every year. Look below the glass deck at the observatory and you will see the 2 nations facing off against each other at the armistice line – a reminder that tensions still linger between the South and North despite a long period of relative peace.

You’re required to register at the Unification Observatory Deck before proceeding by car to the Goseong Unification Observatory. It is worth noting that only private vehicles are allowed on the grounds. With sweeping views of the East Sea and the Geumgang mountain range, along with extensive military exhibits, the Goseong Unification Observatory Tower is a must-visit when in Gangwon Province.

The DMZ Museum houses a variety of equipment from the Korean War, including bayonets, propaganda leaflets and gun cartridges. It is set in the Demilitarized Zone in Goseong, about 900 metres behind the Unification Observatory, close to the Civilian Control Line.

Opened in 2009, the DMZ Museum symbolises the separation caused by the Korean War and the hope for reunification in the future. The environment around the DMZ has not been altered or disrupted for over 60 years. This leads to a thriving wildlife ecosystem, some of which has been recreated in the DMZ Museum.

Hwajinpo Lake plays a key role in the ecology of the Goseong region. Known as the largest lagoon in South Korea, it's named after the beach roses lining its shores. The unique figure-8 lake is a mix of freshwater and seawater, which creates a diverse ecosystem for aquatic creatures to live together harmoniously.

Hwajinpo Lake is best experienced in summer when the roses are in full bloom and the dense pine trees provide some much-needed shade. It was featured in many South Korean productions, including the drama Autumn in My Heart (2000) and the film Failan (2001).

The Hwajinpo Ecological Museum offers an opportunity to learn about the ecosystem of the nearby Hwajinpo Lake and the various species inhabiting the lagoon.

The museum consists of 3 exhibition halls, each showcasing different aspects of the Hwajinpo Lake. From learning about the tectonic movements that caused the lagoon’s formation to observing hundreds of fossils and lifelike models, a visit to the museum is an educational experience that gives you a greater appreciation for the complex geology of the Hwajinpo Lake.

Songjiho Beach is a secluded stretch of coastline approximately 2 km long with shallow and tranquil waters. The beach is near Songjiho Lake, with Seoraksan visible to the west and Jukdo Island to the east.

Songjiho Beach is an excellent beach for families, thanks to its calm waters, soft sand, and peaceful atmosphere. Nearby, you can find a convenience store, restrooms, and beach showers. Renebleu by Walkerhill looms in the background. Not many tourists venture out to this beach, but those who do are rewarded with fantastic views and a relaxing spot to cool off during the sweltering summer.

The Goseong Wanggok Village is a 14^th-century Korean settlement which, thanks to its sheltered location, has remained in pristine condition for decades. Visitors looking for an authentic cultural experience can spend a night at one of the 50 hanok (wooden lodgings) in this historic community. Some houses are built with tiles and others with thatch, but all of them follow traditional design principles.

The Goseong Wanggok Village can be found near Songji Lake, around 1.5 km from Songjihohaesuyokjang Beach. The Folk Experience Festival takes place every year from July to October, offering plenty of traditional performances, games, and cart rides.

Ayajin Beach has garnered popularity among locals as a secluded yet picturesque beach in Goseong. Onsite facilities include showers, changing rooms and even camping areas. The beach spans 600 metres in length, with shallow waters that are especially clear on sunny summer days.

There are many cafes near the shore if you want to stay dry, though we prefer relaxing under one of the beach’s many colourful gazebos. Thrill-seekers looking for an adrenaline rush can hop on a jet boat or floating raft for a high-speed experience.

Geonbongsa Temple is a Silla-era shrine in Goseong. It stands alongside Sinheungsa, Baekdamsa and Naksansa as one of 4 representative temples in the Seoraksan region. The scenery is especially breathtaking during autumn when the foliage transforms into vivid shades of orange and red.

Geonbongsa Temple was damaged in a major fire in 1878 and even razed to the ground during the Korean War. It has been rebuilt and restored to its former glory, with untouched remnants like Neungpagyo Bridge earning special protection status. The sole surviving pine tree from both the 1878 fire and the Korean War dates back 300 years. The Janggun spring is another must-see at the temple. Legend has it that monks were brought here during the Japanese invasion (1592–1598) to train and bathe in the healing waters.

The Hani Lavender Farm is surrounded by fields of soft purple flowers which bloom every spring. It's a great place to shop for anything made with lavender. The shop is filled with soaps, perfume, scented candles, and sachets of dried lavender for your sock drawer.

Take home a box of lavender tea, which is said to help you sleep and improve skin health. Goseong is known for growing gorgeously scented lavender – it even hosts a lavender festival in June. If you’re visiting in summer to try Hani Lavender Farm’s lavender lemonade or lavender-flavoured ice cream.