7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Sejong City

Sejong City, the de facto administrative capital of South Korea, is not only a hub for government affairs but also a strategic starting point for digital nomads looking to explore the country's rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty. While the city itself offers a modern and efficient living environment, the weekends are a perfect opportunity to venture out and discover what the surrounding areas have to offer. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, here are seven weekend getaways that cater to a variety of interests and provide a refreshing break from the digital nomad lifestyle.

Gongju

Gongju, the ancient capital of the Baekje Kingdom, is a treasure trove of history and culture. Just a short trip from Sejong City, it offers a glimpse into Korea's rich past with its UNESCO-listed fortresses, tombs, and archaeological sites. The Gongju National Museum is a must-visit for history buffs, while the serene atmosphere of Magoksa Temple provides a peaceful retreat. The annual Baekje Cultural Festival is a vibrant celebration of the city's heritage, featuring parades, performances, and traditional crafts.

How to Get There: Gongju is easily accessible by bus from Sejong City, with the journey taking approximately 1 hour.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to try the local specialty, Gongju chestnuts, which are known for their sweet flavor and are often used in traditional Korean dishes.

Where to Stay: Gongju offers a range of accommodations, from traditional hanok stays to modern hotels. The Hanok Village provides an authentic experience with its beautifully preserved traditional houses.

Where to Eat: Visit Sigol Bapsang for a taste of traditional Korean cuisine served in a cozy, home-style setting. Their bibimbap is particularly renowned for its authentic flavors and fresh ingredients.

Buyeo

Another gem from the Baekje era, Buyeo is a town that boasts historical significance and natural beauty. The Buyeo National Museum and the Baekje Cultural Land are highlights for those interested in the ancient kingdom. Nature lovers will enjoy the scenic Nakhwaam Rock and the tranquil Lotus Pond. The area comes alive during the Lotus Festival in summer, where the pond is covered in blooming lotuses and cultural events take place.

How to Get There: Buyeo is accessible by direct bus from Sejong City, with the journey taking around 1.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Take a leisurely boat ride on Baengmagang River for stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and historical sites.

Where to Stay: Lotte Buyeo Resort offers comfortable accommodations with modern amenities and is conveniently located near major attractions.

Where to Eat: For a unique dining experience, try the local delicacy, Baekje-style fermented skate, at one of the traditional restaurants in the area.

Daejeon

As the fifth-largest city in South Korea, Daejeon is a bustling metropolis with a mix of urban attractions and natural hot springs. The Yuseong Hot Springs are perfect for relaxation, while the Daejeon Science and Technology Museum is a hit with those interested in innovation. The city's vibrant nightlife and shopping districts, such as Eunhaeng-dong, offer a change of pace from the quiet life in Sejong City.

How to Get There: Daejeon is a quick 20-minute train ride from Sejong City, with frequent KTX and local train services available.

Travel Tip: Explore the Daejeon Skyroad, an outdoor shopping street with a large LED canopy that displays mesmerizing light shows in the evenings.

Where to Stay: Hotel Riviera Yuseong is a popular choice for its proximity to the hot springs and its excellent spa facilities.

Where to Eat: Jungang Market is a must-visit for foodies, offering a variety of street food and local specialties like Daejeon-style kalguksu (knife-cut noodle soup).

Jeonju

Jeonju is renowned for its well-preserved Hanok Village, where traditional Korean houses line the streets, offering a picturesque backdrop for a weekend getaway. The city is also famous for its culinary delights, particularly Jeonju bibimbap. Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the Jeonju Hanji Museum, dedicated to the traditional Korean paper-making craft, and the Jeonju National Museum, which showcases regional artifacts.

How to Get There: Jeonju can be reached by bus or train from Sejong City, with the journey taking around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Participate in a hanji-making workshop to experience the traditional art of Korean paper-making firsthand.

Where to Stay: Jeonju Hanok Village offers numerous hanok stays, where you can experience traditional Korean living with modern comforts.

Where to Eat: Hanok Village Food Street is the perfect place to sample local dishes, including the famous Jeonju bibimbap and street snacks like pajeon (Korean pancake).

Soswaewon Garden

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination, Soswaewon Garden in Damyang is a hidden gem. This private Joseon Dynasty garden is a masterpiece of traditional Korean landscape design, with its bamboo groves, tranquil ponds, and pavilions. It's an ideal spot for contemplation and escaping the digital world for a few hours.

How to Get There: The garden is accessible by bus from Sejong City to Damyang, followed by a local bus or taxi to Soswaewon Garden. The total journey time is approximately 2 to 3 hours.

Travel Tip: Visit during autumn to see the garden's foliage in vibrant shades of red and yellow, creating a breathtakingly picturesque scene.

Where to Stay: Damyang Resort offers comfortable lodging with scenic views of the surrounding bamboo forests and mountains.

Where to Eat: Try the local specialty, Damyang tteokgalbi (grilled short rib patties), at one of the traditional Korean restaurants near the garden.

Seonunsa Temple

Seonunsa Temple, nestled in the mountains of Gochang, is a serene and less frequented spiritual retreat. The temple is surrounded by the lush Seonunsan Provincial Park, which is famous for its azalea blooms in spring. Hiking trails lead to stunning views and hidden meditation spots, making it a perfect place for reflection and nature walks.

How to Get There: Reach Gochang by bus from Sejong City, then take a local bus or taxi to Seonunsa Temple. The journey takes around 2.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit during the Gochang Green Barley Field Festival in spring to witness the surrounding fields covered in a blanket of green barley.

Where to Stay: There are several guesthouses and minbaks (private homes offering lodging) in the area that provide a cozy and authentic experience.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a traditional temple meal at the dining hall in Seonunsa Temple, where you can taste vegetarian dishes prepared by the monks.

Mungyeong Saejae Provincial Park

Mungyeong Saejae Provincial Park is an unusual destination that offers a mix of outdoor activities and historical exploration. The park is home to the Mungyeong Saejae, an ancient mountain pass with three fortified gates that once served as a significant route during the Joseon Dynasty. Visitors can hike the trails, explore the old gates, and visit the Mungyeong Traditional Chasabal (Tea Bowl) Festival held annually.

How to Get There: The park is accessible by bus from Sejong City to Mungyeong, followed by a local bus or taxi to the park. The journey takes approximately 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Try your hand at pottery making at one of the workshops in the park, where you can create your own traditional Korean tea bowl.

Where to Stay: The Mungyeong Tourist Hotel offers comfortable accommodations and is conveniently located near the park's entrance.

Where to Eat: Sample the local specialty, Mungyeong omija (five-flavor berry) tea, at a traditional tea house within the park.

Each of these destinations offers a unique experience that can enrich the lives of digital nomads living in Sejong City. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in history, enjoy the beauty of nature, or simply relax and unwind, these weekend getaways provide the perfect escape from the digital grind.