Gwangmyeong Cave Seoul
Explore a former mine transformed into an underground wonderland with dazzling light shows, an aquarium, and a unique cave winery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Gwangmyeong Cave Seoul
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a former mine transformed into an underground wonderland with dazzling light shows, an aquarium, and a unique cave winery.
"A former mine turned into a magical underground world with stunning light shows and unique attractions!"
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces inside the cave. :athletic_shoe:
🥶 It's Always Cool Inside
Even in summer, the cave maintains a cool temperature. Bring a light jacket if you get cold easily. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cave Aquarium
Inside the cave
Discover a unique underwater world nestled within the ancient cave walls.
Spectacular Light Shows
Various sections of the cave
Immerse yourself in dazzling light and sound displays that transform the cave.
Cave Winery
Inside the cave
Sip on wine in a truly unique subterranean setting.
Haunted House
Inside the cave
Experience a thrilling and spooky adventure in the depths of the cave.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Plan Your Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces inside the cave. :athletic_shoe:
🥶 It's Always Cool Inside
Even in summer, the cave maintains a cool temperature. Bring a light jacket if you get cold easily. :cloud:
📸 Capture the Magic
The lighting and displays are incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
The cave is larger than it looks, with many attractions. Plan for at least 2-3 hours. :hourglass:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces inside the cave. :athletic_shoe:
🥶 It's Always Cool Inside
Even in summer, the cave maintains a cool temperature. Bring a light jacket if you get cold easily. :cloud:
📸 Capture the Magic
The lighting and displays are incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
The cave is larger than it looks, with many attractions. Plan for at least 2-3 hours. :hourglass:
💡 Check Show Schedules
Light shows and performances have specific times. Check in advance to catch your favorites. :informationdeskperson:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Gwangmyeong Cave's unique transformation from a former mine into an entertaining spectacle, praising its cool temperatures and diverse attractions like the aquarium and light shows. Some find it can get quite crowded, especially during peak times, and suggest planning ahead to avoid disappointment.
"Beautiful cave! It is very big, and they have made it easy accessible with well built stairs. Amazing lights put up, so it felt like being inside a dream. Well worth the visit and a nice break from the summer heat. They have some cafes and kiosk for drinks and snacks. You can also buy water inside the cave. The company, who made some Lord of the Rings props for the movies, have made a gigantic dragon inside the cave."
Maria Nielsen
"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
• Location: Gwangmyeong-si, Gyeonggi-do
• Open: Tuesday to Sunday, 9 AM – 6 PM
Gwangmyeong Cave History
• It was a gold mine during the Japanese colonial period (started in 1912)
• People worked there in hard conditions
• The mine closed in 1972 because of flooding and pollution
• From 1978 to 2010, it was used to store salted shrimp
• In 2011, the city changed it into a fun tourist cave
• Now it has lights, art, wine, and history displays"
Silver C
"Nice place, really liked the cave, many stairs of course😉 good to reach, when at Gwangmyeong station only take the bus 17 there. But don't forget to bring cash they still only accept local credit cards, and there is no 🏧 or anything to get money from, so that is unfortunate for foreign tourists as nearly everywhere eles you only use card in seoul and at a such big attraction you woud think it should be possible to."
R K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gwangmyeong Cave is accessible via public transport. You can take the subway to Gwangmyeong Station (Line 1) and then transfer to a local bus (e.g., bus 17) that goes directly to the cave entrance. Some visitors also opt for taxis or ride-sharing services for convenience.
It's located just outside of Seoul, making it a popular day trip. The journey typically takes around 45-60 minutes by public transportation, depending on your starting point in Seoul.
Yes, there are parking facilities available for visitors who choose to drive. However, during peak times, parking can fill up quickly.
Many tour operators offer day trips to Gwangmyeong Cave from Seoul, which can be a convenient option if you prefer not to navigate public transport yourself.
Taking the subway to Gwangmyeong Station and then a bus is a cost-effective and common method. For those seeking more comfort, a taxi or pre-booked tour is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees vary slightly depending on age and any special exhibitions. It's advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing.
While tickets can often be purchased on-site, booking online in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods, to secure your entry and potentially avoid queues.
Gwangmyeong Cave generally operates during daylight hours, but specific opening and closing times can vary by season and day of the week. Always check the official website before your visit.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. It's worth inquiring at the ticket counter or checking the official website for details.
No, a valid admission ticket is required to enter Gwangmyeong Cave and access its attractions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Gwangmyeong Cave boasts a variety of attractions including a mini aquarium, themed exhibition halls, a haunted house, a wine cave, and impressive light and sound shows.
Yes, Gwangmyeong Cave is generally family-friendly. Children often enjoy the aquarium, the colorful light displays, and the unique environment. The haunted house might be too scary for very young children.
Most visitors spend between 2 to 3 hours exploring the cave and its various attractions. If you plan to enjoy the wine tasting or linger at the shows, allow for more time.
Yes, there are cafes and snack areas within the cave complex where you can purchase refreshments and light meals.
Gwangmyeong Cave hosts various events throughout the year, including seasonal festivals, light shows, and cultural performances. 
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside Gwangmyeong Cave, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions in certain areas or during particular shows.
The illuminated sections, the aquarium, the wine cave, and the various themed displays offer fantastic photo opportunities. The unique cave formations themselves are also very photogenic.
Tripod usage might be restricted in crowded areas or during shows to ensure safety and unobstructed views for other visitors. It's best to be prepared to shoot handheld.
The cave features a mix of natural dim light and artificial, often colorful, lighting for displays and shows. This can create dramatic and atmospheric photos.
Utilize the ambient light and the colorful illuminations to your advantage. Consider a wider lens for capturing the scale of the cave and a faster aperture for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The cool, stable temperature inside also makes it a great escape from hot summer days. While the haunted house might be a bit too intense for very young children, there are plenty of other engaging areas. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of walking involved. Consider bringing a light jacket for the little ones, as the cave can feel cool.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The aquarium, wine cellar, and themed exhibition spaces provide diverse subjects. Be prepared for low-light conditions and consider using a wider lens to capture the scale of the caverns. While tripods might be restricted in certain areas, especially during shows, the ambient lighting is often sufficient for handheld photography.
🥂 Wine Lovers
It's a novel experience to enjoy a tasting in such an unusual setting. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through History and Entertainment
The cave's extensive network of tunnels has been ingeniously repurposed. Visitors can wander through themed sections, discover a charming aquarium, and even enjoy a wine tasting experience in a subterranean cellar. The spectacular light and sound shows are a major draw, turning the natural formations into a canvas for dazzling visual performances.
Beyond the visual spectacles, the cave also houses a haunted house for thrill-seekers and various exhibition spaces. This multi-faceted approach ensures there's something for everyone, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking for a unique day out from Seoul.
Navigating Gwangmyeong Cave: Tips from Visitors
Comfortable footwear is essential, as the cave floor can be uneven and you'll be doing a significant amount of walking. The sheer size of the cave means you can easily spend several hours exploring its various attractions, from the aquarium to the wine cellar.
For the best experience, checking the schedules for the light shows and performances in advance is advised. These shows are a highlight for many and can significantly enhance your visit.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit