Exploring Gimpo Airport And Its Surroundings

what to do around gimpo airport

Gimpo International Airport is located in Gangseo-gu, Seoul, and was first established in 1939 as a military facility by the Japanese Army. If you're looking for things to do around Gimpo Airport, there are a few options to consider. The LOTTE Mall Gimpo Airport offers duty-free shopping, restaurants, and a cinema. The Hyundai Premium Outlet is also nearby, featuring 230 premium brands. For those interested in aviation, the National Aviation Museum provides an insightful look into the history and future of aviation. If you're looking to enjoy the outdoors, the Seoul Botanic Park, Gimpo International Sculpture Park, and Jangneung offer lush green spaces. You can also explore smaller shops and galleries, or venture beyond the city to discover nearby towns and their attractions.

Characteristics Values
Shopping Hyundai Premium Outlet, Laveniche March Avenue, LOTTE Mall Gimpo Airport
Nature Seoul Botanic Park, Gimpo International Sculpture Park, Jangneung, Gaehwasan Mountain
Museums National Aviation Museum, Gimpo Tea Etiquette Museum
Tours K-POP Fan One Day Tour, Korean Cooking Class
Eating Top-notch restaurants, Korean cooking class

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Visit the National Aviation Museum

The National Aviation Museum of Korea, located right next to Gimpo Airport, is the first national museum in the aviation field established by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. The museum is divided into three sections: Aviation History, Aviation Industry, and Aviation Future.

The Aviation History Hall takes visitors on a journey through the history of aviation, starting from Leonardo da Vinci's flying machines to the Wright brothers' first successful motor-operated plane in 1903. It also covers the role of aviation in the two World Wars and the invention of the jet engine, before moving on to the history of South Korean aviation. On display is a restored Standard J1 biplane, a two-seat basic trainer used by the first Korean pilots in their independence struggle against Japan.

The Aviation Industry Hall showcases the current state of the aviation industry, including the operation of airports. Finally, the Aviation Future Hall gives visitors a glimpse into the future of aviation, with exhibits on various aviation technologies, airplanes, and models that are yet to come.

In addition to these halls, the museum offers a unique experience space for those who dream of flying. Visitors can choose from five different experiences: the Black Eagle boarding experience, an in-flight training session, a pilot control simulation, air sports, and a children's airport experience. The museum also has a kids' play zone, a library full of aviation-related books, and a rooftop terrace with spectacular views of Gimpo Airport and picnic spots.

To get to the museum, simply follow the signs from Gimpo Airport Station (Line 5) towards the second parking lot. It's about a 5-minute walk, or you can take the shuttle bus from Gate 4 on the first floor of the Gimpo Airport Domestic Terminal.

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Shop at Hyundai Premium Outlet

Hyundai Premium Outlet is a popular destination for travellers passing through Gimpo. With 230 premium brands under one roof, it's a shopper's paradise. The outlet is conveniently located near public transport stops, making it accessible for both local and international visitors. It is also attached to the underground walkway between the domestic and international terminals of Gimpo airport.

The outlet is a great place to spend a few hours before or after your flight. You'll find a wide range of shops, as well as restaurants serving a variety of cuisines, including Mexican, Indian and Chinese. If you're looking to pick up souvenirs, Hyundai Premium Outlet is a good place to start.

To get to the outlet from Gimpo airport, you can take a taxi (around 4 dollars) or use public transport. Take the subway to Gimpo Airport Station and then take town bus 16 from Gaehwa Station Wide Transit Center. Get off at Ara Waterway (about 28 minutes) and the outlet is a short walk from there.

While you're in the area, there are other attractions you might want to check out. Haneul Park is not far from the outlet and is worth a visit. You can also learn about the history of Seoul by visiting Bukchon Hanok Village, or check out the shops and restaurants in the area. Lotte Mall Gimpo Airport is another popular shopping destination, with entertainment facilities and a theme park.

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Explore Seoul Botanic Park

Seoul Botanic Park is a great attraction to visit if you're looking for things to do near Gimpo International Airport. The park is located in the Magok Urban Development Zone in Gangseo-gu, Seoul, which used to be farmland. It showcases plants and cultures from 12 cities around the world and is a great way to enhance the ecological aspect of the city.

The park features an indoor greenhouse with diverse plant species and themed gardens, including a hanok (traditional Korean building) and small bunny statues. The outdoor areas, such as the Open Forest, Lake Garden, and Wetland, offer a tranquil setting with tall grasses and an icy blue lake, especially during the winter season. These outdoor areas are free to enter, while the themed gardens require a ticket.

The Courtyard Seoul Botanic Park hotel, located adjacent to the park, offers convenient accommodation with modern and eco-friendly rooms, an all-day dining restaurant, and a rooftop bar with contemporary Western cuisine and wine. The hotel provides easy access to other Seoul attractions, such as Hongdae, DMC, and KINTEX, and is just one stop away from Gimpo Airport via the subway.

To get to Seoul Botanic Park, take the subway to Magongnaru Station on Line 9 and exit through Exit 2. From there, it's less than a 10-minute walk to the Greenhouse. The park is open daily, with varying hours depending on the season, and is closed on Mondays.

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Enjoy LOTTE Mall Gimpo Airport

Gimpo Airport is conveniently located in Gangseo-gu, Seoul, and is surrounded by plenty of attractions for tourists. One of the most notable destinations near the airport is the LOTTE Mall Gimpo Airport, which is more than just a mall—it's a lifestyle shopping complex. Here's how you can make the most of your time at LOTTE Mall Gimpo Airport:

Explore the Variety of Shops

LOTTE Mall Gimpo Airport is Korea's first and largest lifestyle shopping complex, with a vast array of shops spread across 5 basement floors and 9 above-ground stories. You'll find all the major brands you know and love, offering everything from fashion to souvenirs.

Indulge in Culinary Delights

Take a break from shopping and treat your taste buds to a wide range of dining options. The mall boasts restaurants serving Mexican, American, Chinese, and Korean cuisine, as well as street food options to satisfy any craving. Don't forget to try the pastries from the lower ground floor—they're highly recommended!

Entertainment and Leisure

The complex offers a wealth of entertainment facilities to keep everyone entertained. From amusement parks to cinemas and even an observatory, you'll never be bored. The observatory, located on top of the complex, provides a unique perspective on the airport, allowing you to watch airplanes landing and taking off.

Accommodation and Accessibility

If you're looking to stay close to the airport, LOTTE Mall Gimpo Airport has you covered. The complex includes accommodation options, ensuring a comfortable stay. Getting to and from the mall is easy, with convenient access to public transportation. It is connected to Seoul Subway Lines 5 and 9, as well as the Airport Railroad (AREX).

The National Aviation Museum

Located within the LOTTE Mall Gimpo Airport complex, The National Aviation Museum is a must-visit attraction. It is Korea's first national museum dedicated to aviation. The museum showcases the history of aviation, the aviation industry, and aviation life, featuring 16 actual aircraft on display. It also offers insights into future technological advancements and provides an educational and entertaining experience for all ages.

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Learn history at Aegibong Observatory

If you're interested in learning about the history of Gimpo, the Aegibong Observatory is a must-visit. Here are some reasons why:

Firstly, the observatory is located within the Gimpo DMZ, an area that combines nature and history. The DMZ, or Demilitarized Zone, is a unique region that was once a military area and holds a complex and tumultuous past. It is a place where nature meets history, offering visitors a window into a world that is both serene and significant.

The Aegibong Observatory itself provides breathtaking panoramic views. From its strategic location atop a hill, visitors can observe the heavily fortified border between North and South Korea, offering a glimpse into North Korea from a safe distance. This border holds significant historical meaning as it was once the site of fierce fighting between the two Koreas during the Korean War.

The observatory is also located near the Jogang River, which has a symbolic significance as the only South-North Free-zone in Korea. The river connects the disconnected history and culture of the two Koreas, representing peace and harmony. The story of Aegibong Peak, the original name of which was Ssukgatmeori Mountain, further adds to the historical significance of the area. According to a folk tale, the name change occurred when the ruler of Pyeongan, fleeing from the second Manchu invasion of Korea, was chased to the Jogang River basin with his love, Aegi. Unfortunately, the ruler was captured and taken north, leaving Aegi behind. Aegi waited for her love every day on the peak, which was renamed in honour of her sorrow, representing the sorrow of the 10 million separated Korean families.

In addition to the observatory, the Aegibong Peace Ecopark offers a blend of natural beauty and military history. Visitors can explore lush landscapes, walking trails, and diverse wildlife while learning about the area's past. The ecopark is also home to the Jogang Observatory, which provides panoramic views and birdwatching opportunities.

To access the Aegibong Observatory and the surrounding area, travellers can join a guided tour of the Gimpo DMZ. These tours offer a seamless and enjoyable experience, providing round-trip transportation and admission fees, as well as English/Chinese speaking guides.

Frequently asked questions

Gimpo Airport is located in Gangseo-gu, Seoul, and is conveniently connected to the LOTTE Mall Gimpo Airport, Korea's first and largest lifestyle shopping complex. The mall features shops, a hotel, entertainment facilities, and a theme park.

Hyundai Premium Outlet is a popular destination for retail therapy, with 230 premium brands showcasing the latest fashion trends.

Seoul Botanic Park is located near the airport, featuring plants and cultures from 12 cities around the world. Gaehwasan Mountain and Gimpo International Sculpture Park are also popular outdoor attractions.

The National Aviation Museum is located near the airport, showcasing the history of aviation and displaying 16 aircraft. The Gimpo Tea Etiquette Museum is another cultural attraction in the area.

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