Believed to have been where the ancient Baekje capital of Wiryeseong was once located, Hanam lies directly east of Seoul. It boasts one of South Korea’s most popular mega malls and is within a stone’s throw from the picturesque walking trails surrounding Geomdansan Mountain.

Things to do

Want a unique shopping experience? Head to the shopping theme park of Starfield Hanam, one of the largest malls in the country. It’s anchored by the popular Shinsegae Department Store and packed with retail shops and entertainment areas, including the Aquafield water park and children’s play area of Toy Kingdom.

Located on the first floor of Starfield Hanam is the Hyundai Motorstudio where you can get an up-close look at the future of automobiles. Learn about Hyundai’s future hybrid vehicle IONIQ and the state-of-the-art features currently being developed in the automotive world.

Soak up the expansive views of Hanam and the confluence of the Namhangang and Bukhangang rivers from the summit of Geomdansan Mountain. During the Baekje period, this sacred mountain served an important ceremonial purpose and is today crisscrossed by hiking trails that access its mineral springs and memorial towers.

Spend an afternoon wandering through the attractive green space that hosted the boat and canoe races during the 1988 Seoul Olympics. The Misari Motorboat Racing Park lies along the Hangang River and today features cycling trails, walking pathways and alfresco cafes and restaurants.

Getting around

Hanam is a 15-minute train ride from the centre of Seoul and just over two hours from Incheon International Airport. Buses travel throughout Hanam, while the city is also easily explored on foot.