Daejeon(대전) :Home of Netflix Korean Drama”Squid Game”(오징어 게임)
“When people think of Daejeon in Korea, most often they associate it with being the ‘City of Education.’ In other words, it’s a city associated more with studying than leisure activities.
However, recently, with K-Dramas and movies like ‘Squid Game,’ ‘Hellbound,’ ‘DP,’ and ‘The Outlaws 2’ being filmed here, Daejeon is gaining attention. Particularly, iconic scenes from ‘Squid Game,’ such as ‘Dalgona,’ ‘Tug-of-war,’ and ‘Marbles,’ were all shot here.
In fact, even before these two dramas became hits, numerous Korean dramas and movies like ‘Kim Ji-young, Born 1982’ and ‘Peninsula’ were already filmed here. So, where exactly in Daejeon were these filmed? The answer lies in the large-scale studio called ‘Studio Cube,’ which includes the Aqua Studio capable of underwater filming and various sets suitable for movie and drama productions.
Because of this, schedules for filming dramas and movies are always packed here.
But besides movies and dramas, are there other places that describe Daejeon? The answer is yes, and there are many. The most famous attractions in this city for Koreans are Expo Park, Hanbat Arboretum, and Seongsimdang Bakery.

Hanbat Arboretum
Hanbat Arboretum is so vast that you need at least two hours to fully explore it. It’s open from 6 am to 9 pm from April to September and from 8 am to 7 pm from October to March. It’s closed every Monday, except for the tropical botanical garden within, which operates from 9 am to 6 pm every day except Monday. Admission is free.
If you visit between June and July, you’ll witness the breathtaking hydrangea blossoms. There are also various other beautiful flowers to see, so take your time to enjoy the view and take a leisurely stroll around.
A Haven of Biodiversity
Hanbat Arboretum is home to a different collection of trees, shops, and flowers from around the world. As you wander through its winding pathways, you’ll encounter towering oak trees, delicate cherry blossoms, and vibrant azaleas, creating a shade of colors and textures that delights the senses. Whether you’re a botany sucker or simply appreciate the beauty of nature, the colony offers a fascinating regard into the world of plant life.
Tranquil auditoriums and Scenic lookouts
Tranquil amphitheaters and Scenic lookouts One of the highlights of Hanbat Arboretum is its beautifully landscaped amphitheaters and scenic lookouts. From peaceful ponds and mooching courses to lush green meadows and shadowed groves, every corner of the colony exudes a sense of serenity and tranquility.
Take a tardy range along the theater paths, breaking to admire the graphic topographies and breathe in the fresh, ambrosial air. Whether you’re seeking a quiet spot for reflection or a peaceful place to enjoy a fun and games with loved bones, Hanbat Arboretum offers the perfect setting. .
Educational openings
Educational openings In addition to its natural beauty, Hanbat Arboretum also serves as an educational resource for guests of all ages. The colony offers guided tours, shops, and educational programs designed to educate guests about the significance of biodiversity, conservation, and environmental stewardship. Whether you’re interested in learning about native plant species or discovering the ecological significance of wetlands, there is commodity for everyone to explore and discover at Hanbat Arboretum..
Expo Citizen Plaza
After leaving the arboretum, you’ll come to Expo Citizen Plaza. Here, there’s a photo zone with statues from the Netflix dramas ‘Hellbound’ and ‘Squid Game’ to commemorate the filming.
Daejeon Expo Tower
If you’ve finished sightseeing with beautiful nature in the morning or during the day, I recommend visiting Daejeon Expo Tower in the evening. It’s adjacent to Shinsegae Department Store, so you can have dinner at the department store and then enjoy the view of Daejeon’s cityscape from the rooftop before heading to Expo Tower.
At the tower, you can enjoy night views and various themed exhibitions at the Daeartspace. The tower itself is modern and impressive. To enjoy the night view, purchase tickets for Daeartspace at the ticket booth located on B1 and take the dedicated elevator to the top. From here, you can enjoy different views of the city from three sides, allowing you to fully appreciate the dazzling night scenery of Daejeon.
Additionally, if you go up to the 42nd floor through the elevator or stairs, you’ll encounter an exhibition by Olafur Eliasson. The corridor itself is an artwork, with hexagonal mirrors and a very unique exhibition.
After viewing the exhibition, if you want to relax and enjoy the night view of Daejeon once again, you can do so while sipping coffee or tea at Starbucks in the building.
Daejeon Expo Science Park
Daejeon Expo Science Park Daejeon Expo Science Park Established in honor of the 1993 Daejeon World Expo, Korea’s original BIE- certified professional exhibition, the Expo Science Park stands as a testament to scientific invention and public education. Housing iconic mileposts analogous as the Hanbit Tower, emblematic of the Daejeon World Expo, and the recently repaired Daejeon Expo Memorial Hall, the demesne serves as a focal point for commemorating this major event.
Within the World Expo Memorial Museum, guests can claw into the rich history of expositions from around the globe, with over 200 vestiges and symbols on display, offering a regard into the elaboration of this global phenomenon. Also, the demesne features the Daejeon Transportation Culture Center, where children can engage in transportation- themed education and explore the history of transportation through interactive shows.
While the Simulation Hall, Dome Theater, Electric Energy Hall, Advanced Science Hall, Energy Hall, Maglev Train, Musical Fountain, and Kumdori Square are witnessing annihilation as part of Daejeon City’s Expo Redevelopment Project, the demesne continues to offer a myriad of educational and immersive exploits for guests of all ages.
Contact and Inquiry: 042-250-1111
Address: 480 Daejeon-daero, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon
Operating Hours:
[Daejeon Expo Memorial Hall, Daejeon Unification Hall] 09:30-17:20 (Last admission at 17:40)
[Hanbit Tower] 09:30-17:40
http://www.daejeon.go.kr/gar/index.do
Daejeon Prehistoric Museum
Exploring Daejeon Prehistoric Museum
The Daejeon neolithic Gallery is devoted to conserving and showcasing the archaeological heritage of Daejeon and its girding areas. As you step through the doors of the gallery, you’ll be transported to a world that predates spoken history, where ancient societies thrived and left behind suggestions to their way of life.
The gallery’s shows are divided into colorful sections, each offering a unique perspective on Daejeon’s neolithic history. From gravestone tools and crockery to ancient vestiges and fuds, there is commodity for everyone to discover. Marvel at the intricate artificer of Neolithic crockery, examine the tools and munitions used by early humans, and learn about the foliage and fauna that formerly floated the Korean promontory.
One of the highlights of the gallery is its collection of Paleolithic vestiges, which includes gravestone tools, bone tools, and hunting munitions dating back to the foremost known mortal occupants of the region. These vestiges give precious perceptivity into the diurnal lives and survival strategies of our ancient ancestors, slipping light on their imagination and resourcefulness.
Exploring the shows
The gallery’s shows are divided into various sections, each offering a unique perspective on Daejeon’s neolithic history. From monument tools and pottery to ancient vestiges and fossils, there is commodity for everyone to discover. Marvel at the intricate tradesman of Neolithic pottery, examine the tools and munitions used by early humans, and learn about the leafage and fauna that formerly floated the Korean promontory.
One of the highlights of the gallery is its collection of Paleolithic vestiges, which includes monument tools, bone tools, and hunting munitions dating back to the foremost given mortal inhabitants of the region. These vestiges give precious perceptivity into the quotidian lives and survival strategies of our ancient ancestors, slipping light on their imagination and resourcefulness.
Contact Information and Directions
Address: 100 Noeundong-gil, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon
Phone: (042) 270-8640 / Fax: (042) 270-8633
Yuseong Oncheon:Hot Spring
Yuseong Oncheon is an hot spring located in Bongmyeong-dong, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon Metropolitan City. It is one of the well-known hot spring destinations in Korea, steeped in the legend of “Baekhak”(White Swan). Yuseong Onsen is a great place to enjoy hot springs any time, but it becomes even more special in May when the Yuseong Onsen Culture Festival is held.
TheYuseong Oncheon Culture Festival, established in 1989, is a festival that inherits the significance of Yuseong Onsen and the science city of Yuseong in a modern sense. It aims to promote not only the origin and efficacy of Yuseong Onsen but also the city’s scientific aspects. It features unique festival programs that combine science and hot springs.
Address: 81 Oncheon-ro, Yuseong-gu Inquiries: 042-611-2080
Foodie Hotspots in Daejeon
Seongsimdang Bakery
There may not be a bakery as famous as Seongsimdang in Korea. It’s been a Michelin-rated restaurant for over 60 years and is one of the top three bakeries in Korea. The ‘Fried Soboro’ bread is the most famous item here. It may not look pretty with sweet soboro powder sprinkled on top, but the harmony of the sweet topping and the relatively mild bread flavor is unique. While Soboro bread is commonly found in ordinary bakeries in Korea, the Soboro bread at Seongsimdang is a very special taste that you have to wait in line to try. If you love bread, it’s worth a visit.”
As an iconic bakery unique to Daejeon, it has strongly established itself as a must- visit destination on Daejeon’s trip journal, drawing sightseers from across the country. Despite numerous offers to open branches in major department stores in the capital region, Seongsimdang Bakery remained pious to its roots, conserving its status as a cherished establishment cherished by the locals of Daejeon.
Daejeon Jungang Market
Step out of Exit 1 at Daejeon Station, and you’ll find yourself immersed in the lively air of Daejeon Jungang Market. Established in 1950, this bustling business stands as the largest traditional request in the central region, boasting a rich heritage and serving as the heart of Daejeon’s culinary scene.
Eight vibrant traditional requests, including the celebrated International Market, Fish Alley, and Food Alley, offer an cornucopia of goods and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Among these, the iconic Sundaegukbap Alley in Food Alley steals the spotlight, with merchandisers lining the entire road, inviting guests to enjoy the simple pleasures of Korean cuisine amidst the cozy setting of plastic speakers clustered together.
Conveniently deposited just in front of Daejeon Station, Daejeon Jungang Market is easily accessible for both locals and travelers likewise. Whether you’re exploring the municipality on bottom or staying for your coming train, it’s the perfect destination to satisfy your hunger jones. Indulge in a storming bowl of Sundaegukbap or explore a variety of other tasteful dishes like feed pates, hotteok, barley rice tteokbokki, and kimbap each offering a enjoyable taste of Daejeon’s culinary heritage.
Hotels
Lotte City Hotel Daejeon
Star Rating: 4-star
Features: Lotte City Hotel Daejeon stands out for its modern architecture and elegant interiors. Located in the new administrative city, it offers stunning city views, especially from its higher floors. The hotel features spacious guest rooms with contemporary amenities, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant serving a variety of international cuisines.
How to Get There: The hotel is conveniently located near the Government Complex Daejeon Subway Station, making it easily accessible by public transportation. For those arriving by air, it’s about a 30-minute drive from Cheongju International Airport.
LOTTE City Hotel Daejeon
- Features:
- A luxurious 5-star hotel offering elegant rooms with modern amenities.
- Features include a fitness center, business center, and multiple dining options.
- The hotel also offers stunning views of the Daejeon Expo Park and the Gapcheon River.
- Location:
- Located in Doryong-dong, Yuseong-gu, it is conveniently close to Daejeon Convention Center and the Expo Science Park.
- Easy access to public transportation, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers.
- How to Get There:
- About a 15-minute drive from Daejeon Station.
- From Incheon International Airport, take the KTX to Daejeon Station, then take a taxi or local bus.
- Making a Reservation
Hotel Interciti
- Features:
- A 5-star hotel known for its sophisticated design and high-end facilities.
- Includes a full-service spa, fitness center, and various dining options including a buffet restaurant.
- The hotel offers a range of room types, including deluxe rooms and suites.
- Location:
- Situated in Yuseong-gu, close to Yuseong Hot Springs and the Daejeon World Cup Stadium.
- The hotel is surrounded by various parks and recreational areas, providing a relaxing environment.
- How to Get There:
- About a 20-minute drive from Daejeon Station.
- From Incheon International Airport, take the KTX to Daejeon Station, then take a taxi.
- Making a Reservation
Yousung Hotel
- Features:
- A 5-star hotel offering a blend of traditional Korean and modern styles.
- Features include a thermal spa, fitness center, and several dining options.
- The hotel is well-known for its hot spring baths, providing a unique and relaxing experience.
- Location:
- Located in Yuseong-gu, it is close to the Yuseong Hot Springs and the Daejeon National Cemetery.
- The hotel is also near several cultural attractions, making it a great choice for tourists.
- How to Get There:
- About a 20-minute drive from Daejeon Station.
- From Incheon International Airport, take the KTX to Daejeon Station, then take a taxi.
- Making a Reservation
Hotel Stendhal
- Features:
- A luxurious 5-star hotel offering elegant and spacious rooms.
- Amenities include a fitness center, business center, and a fine dining restaurant.
- The hotel provides excellent services and facilities for both business and leisure travelers.
- Location:
- Located in Seo-gu, it is close to the Daejeon Government Complex and the Daejeon Art Center.
- The hotel is within walking distance to various shops and restaurants, offering convenience for guests.
- How to Get There:
- About a 15-minute drive from Daejeon Station.
- From Incheon International Airport, take the KTX to Daejeon Station, then take a taxi.
- Making a Reservation
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