Nestled along South Korea’s eastern coast, Pohang is best known as the home of POSCO, one of the world’s largest steel producers.
But this coastal city offers far more than its industrial reputation.
From scenic beaches and cultural landmarks to K-drama filming locations and excellent seafood, there are plenty of reasons to add Pohang to your Korea itinerary.
Having visited several times, I can confidently say Pohang has something for everyone.
Whether you are a nature lover, foodie, or K-drama fan, this guide highlights the must-see attractions, top activities, and festivals so you don’t miss a thing.
How to Get to Pohang
From Seoul
- By Train: Take the KTX from Seoul to Pohang Station, which takes approximately 4 hours. It’s a convenient and comfortable ride with frequent departures.
- By Bus: Intercity buses from Seoul to Pohang Terminal take about 4.5 to 5 hours. Several buses run daily, offering an affordable travel option.
- By Car: The drive from Seoul to Pohang takes about 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic. There are parking options available in and around the city.
- By Air: Flights from Seoul to Pohang Airport take about 1 hour. This is a faster, though less common, option for reaching Pohang.
Need KTX Train Tickets? 👉 Book your tickets here to reserve your seat in advance with Trip.com.
From Busan
- By Train: The KTX from Busan to Pohang takes around 1.5 hours, making it a quick and comfortable option.
- By Bus: Intercity buses from Busan to Pohang Terminal take about 1.5 hours, with frequent departures throughout the day.
- By Car: Driving from Busan to Pohang takes approximately 1.5 hours. Parking is available in and around the city for convenience.
- By Air: Flights from Busan to Pohang Airport take about 30 minutes. Though limited, this is a quick way to get to the city
Trains arrive at Pohang Station, which is well connected to local buses and taxis, making it easy to reach your next destination.
Intercity buses from Seoul, Busan, and other cities stop at Pohang Express Bus Terminal or Pohang Intercity Bus Terminal, both located in the city center. These terminals provide excellent access to local transportation and nearby attractions.
Travel Tip:
Pohang does not have a subway system. However, it has an extensive, reliable, and affordable bus network. A T-Money card will work for the buses.
Taxis are available, though most drivers don’t speak English. So having your destination written in Korean can be helpful.
Having a backup ride share app, like KakaoTaxi, before you travel, is always a good idea. Read more about recommended apps HERE
Renting a car is another convenient option, especially if you want to explore more remote coastal areas at your own pace.
Things To Do In Pohang: Top Attractions
Jukdo Market: Pohang’s Largest Traditional Market
Jukdo Market is one of the largest traditional markets in the region and offers a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and scents.
Walking through the market gives you a real feel for everyday life in Pohang.
It’s conveniently located near the city center and easily accessible, perfect for soaking up the local vibe.
During my stay near Jukdo Market, I was amazed by its sheer size, which made it feel like a city within a city.
I had to walk through it to get to my Airbnb, and I almost got lost a few times.
Jukdo Market is a treasure trove of goods, offering everything from seafood and fresh produce to traditional snacks and home essentials like furniture, clothing, and bedding.
The market even houses a Daiso, one of my favorite stores in South Korea, where you can find practical items you might need.
Staying connected in Korea is a lot easier with a SIM card or eSim
👉 Grab your SKT Unlimited Local Data & Voice Calls Sim Airport Pick up HERE
OR
Grab your Korea eSIM with SKT Unlimited LTE data + Voice
Yeongildae Beach: Golden Sands, Sunrises, and Seafood
Yeongildae Beach is my favorite spot in Pohang, and for good reason.
Often called the “Gwangalli Beach of Pohang,” it has wide sandy shores, a lively strip of bars and restaurants, and some of the best sunrise views I’ve seen in Korea.
It was also the host of the 2024 Pohang International Fireworks Festival.
I highly recommend staying near Yeongildae Beach, especially if you enjoy watching the sunrise from your room.
One of the beach’s standout features is Yeongiljeong Pavilion, also known as Yeoungildae Observatory.
This stunning wooden structure is not just a pavilion but a unique observatory perched over the water at the end of Yeongilgyo Bridge, offering a one-of-a-kind view.
The pavilion provides breathtaking views of the coastline and POSCO Industrial Complex. It’s especially enchanting during sunrise or sunset.
Across from Yeongilgyo Bridge, a charming rose garden awaits, adding a serene splash of color and tranquility to the area, inviting you to relax and unwind.
As you wander the sidewalk along the beach, you’ll also come across various art installations, including striking steel sculptures.
With their modern twist, these installations add a unique beauty to the beach’s serene surroundings, inspiring a sense of appreciation for art and nature.
Yeongildae Beach is lined with restaurants offering fresh seafood, making it the perfect place to try mulhoe, a refreshing raw fish soup served cold.
It might not sound appetizing, but mulhoe has become one of my favorite dishes in Korea. I order it every time I’m in Pohang.
Hwanho Park and the Spacewalk
Hwanho Park is a peaceful coastal park with walking trails, sea views, and one very dramatic highlight, the Spacewalk.
The uphill walk passes several interesting art sculptures and rewards you with sweeping views once you reach the top.
The Spacewalk, a striking architectural structure, stands 333 meters high and features a total of 717 steps.
This unique walkway offers visitors the sensation of walking in the sky, suspended above the landscape.
The real highlight, however, is its panoramic views of Pohang and the sea, making it an ideal spot for photos. Just remember, selfie sticks are prohibited.
Also, keep in mind that the Spacewalk is closed on the first Monday of each month or during windy conditions, so plan your visit accordingly.
My quest to walk on the Spacewalk was a journey of perseverance.
The first attempt was on the first Monday of the month when it is closed.
The second time, the wind was too strong.
The third time, a K-pop concert by A.C.E. was in full swing underneath the Spacewalk!
Undeterred, I made a special trip back to Pohang, determined to finally set foot on the Spacewalk.
That time, I finally made it to the top, and the views were absolutely worth the effort.
After exploring the Spacewalk, you can unwind at the nearby café at the top of another hill, where you can relax and enjoy a drink with a view.
Or there are several cafes near the park entrance, offering a variety of drinks and light snacks.
Homigot Sunrise Square and the Hands of Harmony
Homigot Sunrise Square sits on the easternmost tip of the Korean Peninsula.
The bus ride out there is long, but the stunning coastal views along the way make it worth every minute.
Seeing the iconic Homigot Hands up close was genuinely unforgettable.
On the walk from the bus stop to the site, you’ll pass a few charming cafes and restaurants that are perfect for grabbing a bite before or after your visit.
Once you reach the plaza, you’ll see the Sangsaeng’s Hand, also known as the Hands of Harmony.
This two-part bronze sculpture is shaped like a pair of hands.
The hand on land represents the connection between people, while the one rising from the water symbolizes unity with nature.
The square is famous for its sunrise views, considered among the best in Korea.
Visitors often gather early to watch the sun rise over the sea with the sculpture framed against the horizon.
Beyond the sunrise views, the area also has tranquil walking paths along the coastline, a small gift shop with souvenirs, and nearby food stalls serving local snacks for a quick bite.
National Lighthouse Museum
The National Lighthouse Museum sits right next to Homigot Sunrise Square, making it an easy stop while visiting the area. Really hard to
The main museum was closed during my visit, but I still explored a smaller exhibit nearby.
It offered a glimpse into Korea’s coastal history, including lighthouses, maritime artifacts, and their role in guiding ships along this stretch of coast.
Even if you’re not especially interested in maritime history, the location alone makes it worth a quick stop thanks to the beautiful views of the sea.
Just be sure to check the hours before you go, since they can vary depending on the season.
Guryongpo Japanese House Street
Guryongpo Japanese House Street offers a fascinating glimpse into Korea’s colonial past during the Japanese occupation from 1910 to 1945.
This preserved neighborhood features traditional Japanese-style houses that have been restored and repurposed as cafés, small museums, and cultural spaces.
Fans of Korean dramas might recognize it from When the Camellia Blooms, and you can even snap a photo on the iconic stairs featured in the show.
I wandered through the area because it’s so different from the usual sights in Pohang.
Even without having seen the K-drama, the street’s unique charm and historical significance make it a fascinating spot to explore.
Greem Cafe: Pohang’s 2D Cartoon Cafe
Greem Cafe is a quirky 2D-themed café near Yeongildae Beach where bold black outlines and monochrome patterns make it feel like you’ve stepped into a hand-drawn cartoon.
The seaside views are a nice bonus, and the coffee and desserts are genuinely good too.
K-Drama Filming Locations in Pohang
Igari Anchor Observatory
Igari Anchor Observatory sits along the rugged East Sea coastline and is known for its distinctive anchor-shaped design and sweeping ocean views.
The observatory also appeared in the K-drama Run On, which draws fans who want to visit the filming location and recreate some of the show’s scenes.
Many visitors stop here at sunrise or sunset, when the views over the sea are especially beautiful.
Sabang Memorial Park
Sabang Memorial Park is home to the iconic “Boat on a Hill,” a striking sculpture that overlooks the coastline near Pohang.
The park commemorates 100 years of the Sabang Movement, a project that focused on planting trees on barren hills and mountains to restore the landscape.
The sculpture of a boat perched on the hillside symbolizes Korea’s resilience and its deep connection to the sea, creating a memorable scene against the surrounding coastline.
The park also served as a filming location for the popular K-drama Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, which adds an extra draw for fans of the series.
Wolpo Beach
Wolpo Beach is a quieter alternative to Yeongildae Beach, with soft sand, clear water, and beautiful views of the East Sea.
Because it sits farther from the city center, the beach tends to feel more relaxed and less crowded, making it a great place to watch the sunrise.
Wolpo Beach also served as a filming location for the popular K-drama Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, which draws fans who want to see one of the show’s coastal settings in person.
Top Festivals in Pohang You Can’t Miss
Pohang International Fireworks Festival: My Favorite Event in the City
The Pohang International Fireworks Festival draws crowds from around the world for an international fireworks competition featuring displays from three countries, along with South Korea.
If you know me, you know how much I love fireworks.
Unfortunately, I missed the Pohang International Fireworks Festival in May 2023 while I was in Korea, so I made it a priority to experience it in May 2024. I
t was absolutely worth the wait!
Having attended this festival, I recommend staying at or very near the beach. Traffic can be chaotic, especially when leaving the event.
Fortunately, the street along the beach is closed to traffic throughout the weekend, creating a pedestrian-friendly space to explore.
To my surprise, the festival kicked off on Friday night with a stunning drone show and some fireworks to whet the crowd’s appetite for the main event.
Saturday afternoon featured a vibrant parade marching down the street, adding a colorful cultural element to the festivities.
After the parade, to my surprise, there was a Military Band performance by the US Marine Corps!
The main event on Saturday night was spectacular.
The breathtaking fireworks lit up the beach, and the atmosphere was electrifying.
However, it did get a little chilly, so I recommend bringing a jacket, blanket, and perhaps an umbrella in case of unexpected rain.
The festival is mainly about the fireworks.
However, the street was lined with food stalls offering everything from fresh seafood to sweet treats.
Booths were also selling handmade goods, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs.
Live performances on a central stage added a festive tone, and the crowd’s energy made the event even more memorable.
For a more laid-back experience, areas were set aside for buskers, creating a vibrant street performance vibe.
I particularly enjoyed listening to the live music and seeing the crowd engage with the performers.
One delightful surprise was the free snacks and Maekgoli (Korean rice wine) handed out to festivalgoers.
These added a warm, community feel to the event and were the perfect treat before settling in for the fireworks.
If you’re anywhere near Pohang during the festival, don’t miss it.
The atmosphere alone, from free makgeolli and street performers to the drone show and fireworks finale, makes it one of the best events I’ve experienced in Korea.
Tips for Attending
- • Free seats are available, but arrive early on Saturday morning and be prepared to wait in line for a wristband.
- You can reserve your spot on the beach early in the day with a mat. Just understand that the beach will get very crowded closer to the show. Right before the show starts, empty spaces fill in.
- If you arrive early, bring food and drinks or pick them up at one of the nearby convenience stores, food stalls, or restaurants.
- Be prepared that the evenings can get chilly and may even rain a little. Consider bringing a blanket and umbrella.
- In addition to the fireworks, there’s often a K-pop concert at the Spacewalk.
- Although Pohang isn’t as touristy as major cities, locals speak English and are friendly to visitors.
- The street in front of the beach is closed to traffic during the festival, making for a pedestrian friendly experience.
- Weekend schedules are posted in English and Korean.
- Fireworks take place each night, but the main fireworks show happens on Saturday. If you’re visiting for a short time, try to be there that evening.
Other Festivals in Pohang
- Pohang Steel Art Festival (Weeklong in Autumn): A celebration of Pohang’s industrial history featuring steel sculptures and art installations displayed throughout the city.
- Homigot Sunrise Festival (New Year’s Eve): Celebrate the first sunrise of the year at Homigot with festivities, live performances, fireworks, and the chance to witness a stunning coastal sunrise.
- Homigot Octopus Festival (Weekend in late April): A quirky festival dedicated to octopus, with seafood stalls, games, and live performances. Worth it just for the food alone.
Where To Stay
📍 Win Hotel
Located right on beautiful Yeongildae Beach, it offers a clean and comfortable stay with stunning ocean views. Its prime beachside location makes it perfect for enjoying the sand and sea, with easy access to local attractions, restaurants, and bars. Check pricing and book your stay at Win Hotel now!
📍 Pohang Hotel View
Offers a comfortable stay with stunning views of Yeongildae Beach, just steps away from the shore. This modern hotel provides great amenities, making it an ideal base for enjoying the beach and exploring nearby sights. Check pricing and book your stay at Pohang Hotel View now!
📍 Browndot Terrace Pohang
Offers a stylish and comfortable stay with modern amenities, located near Yeongildae Beach. Perfect for beach lovers, this hotel provides a relaxing atmosphere with easy access to the sea and local attractions. Check pricing and book your stay at Browndot Terrace Pohang now!
FAQ
Pohang is famous for its industrial hub, POSCO, one of the world’s largest steel producers, and its coastal charm. Highlights include the iconic Hands of Harmony, the scenic Spacewalk, beautiful beaches like Yeongildae, and a local dish of cold raw fish soup called mulhoe.
Absolutely. Pohang is one of Korea’s most underrated coastal cities. Between the Spacewalk, Homigot Hands, Guryongpo Japanese House Street, and the International Fireworks Festival, there’s genuinely a lot to do, especially if you’re looking to get off the tourist trail. It’s also a K-drama filming hotspot with a food scene built around fresh seafood.
Yes! Pohang was a filming location for several K-dramas, including When the Camellia Blooms at Guryongpo Japanese House Street and Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha at Sabang Memorial Park.
Pohang does not have a subway system, but its extensive bus network is reliable and affordable. Taxis are available, though most drivers don’t speak English. So having your destination written in Korean can be helpful. Renting a car is another convenient option for exploring remote areas.
I’ve stayed near both Jukdo Market and Yeongildae Beach. While both locations have advantages, I recommend staying near Yeongildae Beach. I found it more interesting, with better nightlife, more restaurants, and the convenience of quickly catching a bus, making it a more enjoyable choice for my itinerary.
Yeongildae Beach and Chilpo Beach are the most popular. Yeongildae Beach is ideal for its lively atmosphere, restaurants, and night views, while Chilpo Beach offers a quieter, more relaxed vibe.
Conclusion
Pohang is one of those cities that rarely makes the top of a Korea itinerary, and I honestly don’t understand why.
It has beautiful beaches, great seafood, fascinating history, and one of the best festivals I’ve experienced in the country.
If you get the chance, visit during the International Fireworks Festival, explore the coastline, and order a bowl of mulhoe while you’re there.
Pohang might not be as famous as Busan or Seoul, but it’s absolutely worth adding to your Korea travel plans.
✈ Exploring Korea’s East Coast? Start with Busan
✔️ Getting from Incheon to Busan — easy, stress-free.
✔️ Where to Stay in Busan — best areas for first-timers.
✔️ Top 5 Beaches in Busan — you don’t want to miss