While the name ‘Everland Theme Park’ perhaps at first makes you think of its state-of-the-art rollercoasters and themed attractions, did you know that you can also experience the very best of Korean culture from throughout the ages at Everland? From history to culture to food, there is a wealth of traditional Korean fare to be found at Korea’s largest amusement park.
If you are looking to explore Korean culture both as it is and as it has been throughout history whilst at Everland, let our handy guide provide you with the best spots to hit up during your visit.
1. Take a Trip Through the Ages
The first stop on our tour of Everland’s traditional Korean experiences is the ‘Pride in Korea’ exhibit. A colorful and fluctuating light tunnel welcomes you into this digital history exhibit, setting the scene for the dynamic and informative exhibit ahead.
Once inside, you will be greeted with an awe-inspiring introduction to the development of Korean culture – be sure to take a look at the compelling digital panels on the walls in order to learn more about important figures and leaders from Korea’s broad history.
Moving into the exhibition’s main space, you will quickly find a wealth of compelling exhibits on display to teach you all about the Korean Renaissance. But you’ll find that this space is as fun as it is informative – interactive display screens let you virtually dress yourself in Korean traditional garments, and an AR-powered display wall lets you share in Admiral Yi’s victory at the Battle of Myeongnyang.
Interested in seeing all the beautiful sights of the Korean peninsula – all in one place? ‘Pride in Korea’ features an invigorating VR experience so that you can behold all of the most historically and aesthetically important spots in Korea without even needing to step outside.
2. Dress Up like Royalty
Now that your interest in Korean traditional culture has been piqued, it’s time to head over to the next stop on our tour and travel back in time to the age of the Joseon Dynasty. At Everland’s newly opened Hanbok Experience Center, you can browse a dynamic range of traditional Korean outfits – hanbok – and hairstyles and choose your favorite look in which to model this iconic Korean cultural emblem.
Once you have perfected your look, you can explore Everland in style and capture this unforgettable memory against the dynamic backdrop of Everland’s numerous themed zones. Why not check out the nearby Rose Garden for pictures straight out of a fairy tale?
Depending on the season of your visit, you might be able to catch the beautiful blossoms of spring in your pictures – or the vivid fall foliage.
Each type of hanbok carries with it its own aesthetic uniqueness, and these different styles each represent a different usage – as developed throughout its illustrious history. Brighter colors of hanbok were reserved for special occasions, and only the royal family could wear clothing with gold leaf patterns on the bottom of their chima, or skirt. Got any questions? The staff at the Hanbok Experience Center are on hand to illuminate everything for you.
3. Get an Authentic Taste of Korea
Finally, after soaking up all that Korean culture, you’re likely to be hungry – so why not head to one of Everland’s restaurants and cafes that offer delicious, traditional Korean food? Hangaram is a great choice for those interested in fish, with a delicious mackerel dish served with traditional Korean side dishes and rice on the menu.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit warmer – and a bit spicier – why not head to the delightful Magic Time restaurant for kimchi jjigae, a popular Korean stew made with tofu, pork, vegetables, and plenty of kimchi.
Alternatively, head over to the Snack Busters restaurant to sample some of Korea’s traditional street foods. Having seen a recent resurgence, street food has always been a dynamic part of Korean culture. Dishes like tteokbokki – gelatinous rice cakes in a spicy sauce – and eomuk – fish cakes made of fish meat and wheat flour – are the perfect way to celebrate your day of traditional Korean culture.
For more information on the full list of attractions at Everland, as well as the park’s opening times, please visit the official Everland website. The Hanbok Experience Center is closed for the winter months but will be re-open Spring 2019.
