Step into a surreal world where history, art, and adventure collide! Gwangmyeong Cave, just 30 minutes from Seoul, transforms an abandoned gold mine into a mesmerizing subterranean playground. Once a symbol of Korea’s industrial era (1912–1972), this 7.8km labyrinth now thrills visitors with neon-lit galleries, interactive exhibits, and cultural gems—all 22°C (71.6°F) year-round. Perfect for curious travelers!
🌟 Must-Experience Zones
-
Golden Light Garden
Walk through tunnels shimmering with 35,000 LED roses—a dreamy Instagram paradise. Don’t miss the “Starlight Road,” where fiber-optic constellations dance overhead. -
Wine Tunnel & Tasting
Savor locally produced wines in a vaulted cellar. The cave’s natural humidity ages oak barrels perfectly—try the “Cave Reserve” Cabernet Sauvignon (₩15,000 per glass). -
Aqua World
Korea’s deepest underground aquarium! Marvel at glowing jellyfish and sturgeons swimming beside mine relics. Kids adore feeding rainbow trout. -
Dark Ride Thrills
Hop on a mining cart (₩3,000) for a 400-meter roller-coaster ride through pitch-black tunnels—heart-pounding fun! -
History Hall
Hear stories of miners through holograms and reclaimed tools. The “Gold Panning” exhibit lets you sift for pyrite (“fool’s gold”)—keep your finds!
🎨 Art & Culture Fusion
- Media Art Gallery: Projections transform rocky walls into animated Korean folklore scenes.
- Monet’s Water Lilies Tunnel: An eerie-yet-beautiful recreation with mirrored pools.
- K-Pop Cave: Light shows sync to BTS and BLACKPINK hits—unexpectedly epic!
🧳 Visitor Essentials
- Hours: 9 AM–6 PM (last entry 5 PM). Night tours until 9 PM on Saturdays.
- Fees: Adults ₩20,000 | Teens ₩15,000 | Kids ₩12,000 (Discounted combos available).
- Getting Here: Subway Line 1 to Gwangmyeong Station, then Bus 17 (10-min ride). Taxis from Seoul cost ~₩25,000.
- Pro Tips:
- Wear sneakers—paths can be uneven.
- Bring a light jacket—cool inside even in summer!
- Try Gwangmyeong Makgeolli (cloudy rice wine) at the cave café.
💬 Why Foreigners Love It
> “Like stepping into a sci-fi movie! The blend of history and futuristic art blew my mind.”
> – Liam, Australia
>
> “The wine tasting after the dark ride? Genius. So uniquely Korean!”
> – Sofia, Spain
Unearth this hidden gem—it’s not just a cave, but a journey through Korea’s past and imagination. #GwangmyeongCave awaits your adventure! 🚇✨
👉 Official Site: www.gm.go.kr/cave (English info available)