How to Transfer Large Sums from a Limited Account! Are you using a limited account in Korea? If you need to transfer more than 1 million KRW for things like tuition or a housing deposit, there are a few important steps to follow. 📋 What to Know When Transferring Large Amounts Bring Supporting Documents If you need to transfer a large sum (over 1 million KRW), you’ll need to visit your bank branch with supporting documents such as an invoice or rental contract. Make sure to prepare these ahead of time to avoid delays. Daily Transfers as an Alternative If visiting the branch is inconvenient or if you're transferring something like rent, you can make multiple daily transfers by splitting the amount up to the daily transfer limit of 1 million KRW . This way, you can send the amount over several days! 💡 With this information, you can manage your limited account more effectively and transfer funds safely and conveniently!
How to Get a Bank Balance Certificate in Korea! Are you studying in Korea? If you need to apply for a visa or submit documents to your school, you’ll likely need a Bank Balance Certificate (잔액증명서) . Here’s how to get one! 📄 What is a Bank Balance Certificate? A Bank Balance Certificate is a document that shows the balance in your account as of a specific date. It’s often required for visa applications , school registration , or other official purposes . Important Things to Know When Issuing a Balance Certificate 1. How to Get It In-Person : Visit a nearby bank branch with your ID and account number, and you can get it issued on the spot. Online/Mobile : You can also issue it through internet banking or mobile banking apps. Look for the ‘Certificate Issuance’ menu in your bank’s app or website. Issuance Fee : The fee for issuing a balance certificate is typically between 3,000 to 10,000 KRW. 2. Important Note The balance certificate freezes your account balance until the end of the next day after issuance. This means that the amount shown in the certificate cannot be withdrawn during this period. So, if you need money, make sure to withdraw it before issuing the certificate! 💡 3.Language Options The certificate can usually be issued in both Korean and English, so you can select the appropriate language depending on where you need to submit it. Tip! Did Your Parents Send You Money via International Transfer? If your parents sent you money for tuition or living expenses via international transfer , consider depositing it into a fixed deposit account to earn interest ! 💸 Long-term deposits can help you earn interest, which might be a small but helpful boost during your time in Korea. 📌 In Summary : A Bank Balance Certificate is a useful document for many situations. Just remember that the balance is frozen temporarily, so plan ahead with your finances! 😄
As an international student in Korea, you may encounter financial scams like voice phishing, especially in unfamiliar environments. Voice phishing is a type of phone or text message scam, and it can be extremely dangerous with severe financial consequences. Students, in particular, may be vulnerable to these scams, so it is important to stay vigilant. 1. What is Voice Phishing? Voice phishing refers to scams carried out via phone calls or text messages to steal personal information or money. Scammers often pretend to be officials from banks, the police, or government agencies to gain trust and trick victims into sharing sensitive financial information or making payments. Voice phishing is not just about losing money—it can have devastating impacts on your financial stability and emotional well-being. Victims can suffer severe economic losses, and as an international student, financial constraints may make such losses even more damaging. 2. Common Types of Voice Phishing Voice phishing comes in several forms, and here are the most common types that international students should be aware of: Impersonation of Government Agencies : Scammers pose as officials from the police, prosecution, or tax office, claiming that you are involved in criminal activity or owe unpaid taxes, demanding money. Bank Impersonation : The scammer pretends to be a bank employee, asking for personal details or bank account passwords. Once this information is provided, they can immediately withdraw money. Impersonation of Family or Friends : The scammer may pretend to be a close friend or family member, asking for financial help. This is especially common among international students who may not frequently contact their family. Job or Transaction Scams : Some scammers target students through job offers or sales platforms, tricking them into sending money as part of a fraudulent transaction. 3. Legal Consequences if You Participate in Voice Phishing Not only can you be a victim of voice phishing, but if you follow instructions from scammers and participate in withdrawing or transferring money, you could be considered an accomplice . In South Korea, participating in voice phishing activities can lead to criminal charges, including fraud , which carries penalties such as imprisonment or fines . For international students, participating in such activities can lead to severe consequences, including deportation or entry bans , which would significantly disrupt your studies and future plans. Therefore, it is crucial never to follow unknown instructions related to handling someone else's money. How to Prevent Voice Phishing : Be cautious of phone calls or messages from unknown numbers. Never share personal information over the phone. Police officers or bank officials will never ask for money over the phone. If you suspect anything suspicious, immediately contact your nearest police station or the relevant institution. It is essential for international students to stay informed and cautious about voice phishing scams to protect themselves from financial harm.
For international students opening a bank account in Korea, there are several essential documents you'll need to prepare. Additionally, if this is your first account, it may be classified as a limited account, so make sure to familiarize yourself with the restrictions that apply. 1. Documents Required to Open a Bank Account When opening a bank account in Korea as a foreign student, you'll typically need the following documents: Passport : A valid passport for identity verification. Alien Registration Card (ARC) : Required for those staying in Korea for more than 90 days. Proof of Address : A rental contract or utility bill to confirm your current address. Visa or Proof of Residence Status : Documents to prove that you are legally residing in Korea. Phone Number : A phone number registered in your name in Korea. Proof of Income : Some banks may request income-related documents such as a certificate of employment or salary slips. 🎈 If proving income in Korea is difficult, it is possible to open a limited account , which has transaction restrictions. 2. What is a Limited Account? When foreign nationals first open a bank account in Korea, it may be categorized as a limited account . This type of account places restrictions on withdrawals, transfers, and remittances. It is typically applied to foreign residents or accounts with low usage after being opened. Limited accounts are primarily used for the following reasons: To prevent money laundering and fraudulent transactions. To lift the restrictions, you must submit additional documents or follow the bank’s procedures. This usually includes providing proof of income, fixed residence documents, or other verification materials. It is recommended to inquire about the process for removing account limits and prepare the necessary documents after opening the account. 3. Typical Limitations at Major Banks While limits vary by bank, the following are common restrictions for limited accounts: Withdrawal Limit : Up to KRW 300,000 ~ 1,000,000 per day. Overseas Transfer Limit : Up to USD 5,000 per day and up to USD 15,000 per month. After account creation, you can provide additional documents or follow specific procedures to lift these restrictions. This information will help international students understand the necessary steps and documents required when opening a bank account in Korea, as well as the limitations that may apply.
The K-Food Festival "Knock-Knock " is a culinary celebration focused on traditional Korean cuisine. Running from Wednesday to Sunday, from 4 PM to 9 PM, this vibrant festival offers an exciting opportunity to explore a variety of Korean dishes. At the festival, 15 food trucks will serve innovative dishes like Kimchi Bacon Cheese Pancakes, Walnut Cream Cheese with Dried Persimmons, Kimchi and Ssamjang Chicken Skewers, Crispy Chicken Gangjeong with Nurungji, and Pumpkin Sikhye. It promises a colorful culinary adventure for all visitors. In addition to the food, the festival will feature pop-up stores selling handmade crafts, interactive activities for visitors, and live performances on the weekend. Located near Gwanghwamun and Gyeongbokgung stations, this festival offers the perfect opportunity to experience the flavors and culture of Seoul in the heart of the city!😁 When ~May 31, 2025 Location 110, Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea Transportation Exit 4 of City Hall Station on Line 1 Website https://knock-knock.kr/2024/
Location : Address: 225-2, Bongpyeong-ri, Bongpyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea (강원도 평창군 봉평면 봉평리 225-2) 📅 Hours : Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM 🎟 Admission : ₩25,000 for adults, ₩20,000 for students, and ₩15,000 for children Special Offer : If you book through Naver, you can enjoy a 10% discount on the admission price! 🌟 Exhibits Pyeongchang Deep Dive Museum stands out as one of the best media art museums in South Korea. Combining art, technology, and sensory experiences, it offers visitors an immersive adventure that delights both the eyes and the senses. This fantasy-like space is a hit with people of all ages, offering something magical for everyone—whether young or old. Digital Garden : A peaceful space where vibrant, digital floral displays bloom across the walls. The art merges nature and technology, providing a visually stunning and tranquil atmosphere. Waterfall of Light : Experience a breathtaking digital waterfall where light flows down like water, filling the space with shimmering, colorful patterns. This exhibit is perfect for those who love larger-than-life visuals. Mirror Infinity Room : Step into a futuristic world of infinite reflections. With mirrors and light creating a seemingly boundless space, it’s an experience that challenges your perception of reality. Spoon Table Mapping : Highly recommended! This exhibit combines art and dining, with an interactive table mapping show while you enjoy your meal. The projections bring your table to life, making this one of the most memorable experiences of the museum. 🌸 Sensory Experience What makes Pyeongchang Deep Dive Museum truly special is that it’s not just about visual art—it’s a sensory experience. Each room is designed with a specific scent that complements the theme of the artwork. Your eyes will feast on digital creations while your nose enjoys perfectly matched fragrances, creating an immersive, multi-sensory experience. At the end of your visit, you can purchase the scent of your favorite space as a souvenir at the gift shop, allowing you to take a piece of the experience home with you. 🚗 How to Get There Pyeongchang Deep Dive Museum is located in the heart of Gangwon-do, easily accessible by car or public transportation. From Seoul, you can take a bus to Pyeongchang or drive, which takes about two hours. Ample parking is available at the museum. Whether you're an art lover or simply looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, the Pyeongchang Deep Dive Museum offers a perfect blend of technology, art, and sensory enjoyment. This magical, fantasy-like space is sure to captivate visitors of all ages. Don’t miss Spoon’s table mapping , and make sure to pick up your favorite scent as a souvenir to relive the experience long after your visit!
King Jeongjo’s Dream: A World of Peace and Joy 📅 Dates : September 28 (Sat) – October 20 (Sun), 2024 ⏰ Time : 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM daily (1st session at 7:00 PM, 2nd at 7:30 PM, 3rd at 8:00 PM, 4th at 8:30 PM, 5th at 9:00 PM, 6th at 9:30 PM) 📍 Location : Suwon Hwaseong Hwarak (Harmony High) 🌟 Highlights Hwaseomun Gate : Experience the grand media art display that portrays King Jeongjo’s vision of a world where peace and joy flourish for all people. This large-scale projection mapping, set against the historical backdrop of Hwaseomun Gate, brings together light and video to create a captivating experience. VJing Party Schedule : September 28 (Sat): Special VJing Party (no reservation needed, open to all) October 4 (Fri), October 11 (Fri), October 18 (Fri), October 20 (Sun): Reservation required, 60-minute performances Janganmun Gate : Enjoy a mesmerizing light performance projected onto the walls of Janganmun Gate, blending the heritage of the Joseon Dynasty with modern artistic technology. Jangan Park : Relax and enjoy media art installations that harmonize with nature, offering a serene and immersive experience. 🎟 Reservation Information Book via Interpark : ₩10,000 for reserved seating ( Booking link ) No ticket needed : Standing areas are available for free viewing! 🚗 How to Get There Subway : Take the Suin-Bundang Line to Suwon City Hall Station , exit through Gate 2, and transfer to a bus (Bus No. 11, 13, 36, etc.) Bus : Transfer from Suwon Station or Suwon City Hall Station and get off at Hwaseong Haenggung Car : Parking is limited, so public transportation is recommended. 🎯 Why We Recommend This to International Students The Suwon Hwaseong Media Art Festival is a unique opportunity to experience Korean history through the fusion of traditional and modern art. Even if you're not fluent in Korean, the visual artistry allows you to appreciate Korea’s rich culture in an accessible way, making it a perfect event for international students to deepen their understanding of the country.
Gwangmyeong Cave: A Mysterious Space Where Nature and History Meet Gwangmyeong Cave is a unique urban cave located in Gwangmyeong City, Gyeonggi Province. It blends the wonders of nature with Korea’s industrial history. Once an abandoned mine used for extracting gold, silver, and copper during the Japanese colonial period, the cave has been transformed into a cultural and tourist destination, offering various exhibitions and interactive experiences. Gwangmyeong Cave is a place where both the natural beauty and the historical significance captivate visitors of all ages. 1. A Cave with Historical Significance Gwangmyeong Cave is not just a natural wonder but also an industrial heritage site. During the Japanese occupation, the cave was used as a mine, extracting precious metals such as gold, silver, and copper, which were transported to Japan. Today, Gwangmyeong Cave serves as a reminder of that difficult history, with exhibitions and programs allowing visitors to learn about the past and reflect on the cave’s historical background. · Early Development and the Japanese Colonial Period (1912 ~ 1945) Gwangmyeong Cave was first developed in 1912 during the Japanese colonial period. The Japanese discovered underground resources in this area and turned the cave into a mine to extract precious metals like gold, silver, and copper. During this time, many Korean miners were forcibly conscripted to work in harsh conditions. The cave extends about 7.8 kilometers in total length and has complex tunnels reaching depths of up to 275 meters. The extracted minerals were mostly sent to Japan, and inside the cave, infrastructure like rail tracks for transporting ores was installed. However, this process led to many miners losing their lives in accidents or suffering under extremely difficult working conditions. · Post-Liberation and Mine Closure (1945 ~ 1972) After the end of World War II in 1945, Korea was liberated, and the operation of Gwangmyeong Cave came under Korean control. However, due to the excessive mining during the Japanese occupation, the mine’s productivity rapidly declined, and eventually, it was closed in 1972 for economic reasons. After the mine was closed, Gwangmyeong Cave was abandoned for a long time, and its entrance was sealed off, cutting it off from the outside world. As a result, the cave's interior was naturally preserved, but its existence gradually faded from people's memories. · Modern Restoration and Rebirth as a Tourist Destination (2011 ~ Present) Gwangmyeong Cave began to gain attention again in 2011 when Gwangmyeong City decided to purchase the cave and develop it as a tourist destination. The city initiated large-scale restoration work to preserve this important cultural heritage while also transforming it into a tourist site. In 2015, Gwangmyeong Cave officially opened to the public. During the restoration, safety within the cave was ensured, and various facilities were established to allow visitors to explore comfortably. Additionally, to preserve the cave’s historical significance, an exhibition hall was created to recreate the tools and working conditions used by the miners at that time. Today, Gwangmyeong Cave is a tourist destination that remembers the painful history of the past while integrating various cultural and artistic elements. Inside the cave, there are artistic installations using LED lights, a wine cellar, an aquarium, a historical exhibition hall, and various attractions and experiences, making it a popular destination visited by hundreds of thousands of people every year. · Historical Significance Gwangmyeong Cave holds more than just the meaning of a tourist site. It serves as a place to remember the painful history of the Japanese colonial period, where the sacrifices of the countless Korean miners who worked there are commemorated through various historical exhibitions and preserved materials. Therefore, Gwangmyeong Cave is also a place where you can vividly feel a chapter of Korea’s modern history. In this way, the history of Gwangmyeong Cave embodies both Korea’s industrial development and the painful history of the Japanese colonial era, making it an important cultural heritage site. 2. The Natural Mysteries of the Cave Inside Gwangmyeong Cave, visitors can witness the wonders of nature. The walls and ceilings are adorned with various limestone formations, including stalactites and stalagmites, formed over thousands of years. These natural formations create a unique visual experience as you explore the cave. The temperature inside the cave remains a constant 12 degrees Celsius year-round, making it a cool retreat during hot summer months. This comfortable climate allows visitors to enjoy the cave exploration while escaping the heat, making it a popular destination for those seeking a natural getaway. How are caves formed? Caves, formed by natural geological processes, are truly remarkable places. Now, let's delve into the science of how caves are formed. Caves are underground spaces formed by natural geological actions, coming in various shapes and sizes. The process of cave formation is primarily driven by chemical, physical, and biological processes. Here, we will focus on the formation process of the most common type, limestone caves. ✔ How are limestone caves formed? The formation of caves begins with limestone rock. Limestone is primarily composed of a substance called calcium carbonate (CaCO₃), which has the property of dissolving easily in water. The first stage of cave formation begins with rainwater. When it rains, the water combines with carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the atmosphere to form a weak acid known as carbonic acid (H₂CO₃). As this acidic water seeps into the ground and encounters limestone, the limestone begins to dissolve. During this process, calcium carbonate is transformed into calcium bicarbonate (Ca(HCO₃)₂), which dissolves in water. As limestone slowly dissolves, small cracks widen, and these cracks gradually come together to form a cave. (It’s a chemistry equation that often appears in high school science!) ✔ The role of groundwater Groundwater plays a crucial role in cave formation. As groundwater flows through limestone layers, it continues to dissolve more limestone, creating large empty spaces in the process. Over time, as the flow of groundwater becomes concentrated in certain areas, more limestone is dissolved, leading to the creation of various tunnels and chambers within the cave. ✔ Structures inside the cave Even after a cave has formed, chemical reactions continue within it, leading to the formation of various structures. The most representative examples are stalactites and stalagmites. While exploring Gwangmyeong Cave, I noticed that my head got a bit wet from the dripping water. The droplets of water falling from the ceiling contain calcium bicarbonate, and as these droplets fall, the calcium bicarbonate transforms back into calcium carbonate, which precipitates out. This process leads to the formation of stalactites growing from the ceiling and stalagmites growing from the floor. When stalactites and stalagmites meet, they can form columns known as stalagnates. ✔ Do caves continue to change over time? Caves do indeed continue to change over time. The structure of a cave can alter due to changes in groundwater flow, climate change, or natural events like earthquakes. New stalactites or stalagmites may form, existing structures may collapse, or new passages may emerge. 3. Wine Cave and Interactive Experiences One of the highlights of Gwangmyeong Cave is the Wine Cave, where fine wines from all over Korea are stored and aged. Visitors can sample and purchase wines within the cave, which offers the perfect conditions for storing wine due to its consistent temperature and humidity. Wine lovers can enjoy a unique tasting experience inside the cave’s atmospheric setting. Golden Palace: A space with six giant golden pillars, the golden hammer, and Aisha, where visitors can meet Aisha and wish for good fortune. Inside the cave, various artworks are also on display. The unique atmosphere of the cave blends with the art, offering visitors a new visual experience. Different forms of art, such as media art and installations, are scattered throughout the cave, creating a special aesthetic experience during exploration. Many of the exhibitions revolve around themes like gold and longevity. I couldn’t resist touching the gold after hearing that doing so could bring wealth! 4. Art of Light: LED Light Show The cave is beautifully illuminated with stunning LED lights, creating a magical atmosphere. The colorful LED installations throughout the cave make you feel as though you've entered another world. The Art of Light section combines these lights with music to create an unforgettable visual and auditory experience, transforming the cave into not just a place for exploration but also an artistic journey. 5. Eco-Healing Space Gwangmyeong Cave serves as an eco-healing space, offering a serene escape into nature for those seeking relaxation in a city environment. After exploring the cave, visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk in the surrounding nature, relieving stress and recharging their energy. The area around the cave features scenic walking trails and rest areas, providing a perfect opportunity to connect with nature. Gwangmyeong Cave is a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, offering visitors the chance to explore an industrial heritage site while enjoying exhibitions and interactive experiences. With its combination of history education, natural exploration, and cultural activities, Gwangmyeong Cave is an ideal tourist destination for families, friends, and couples alike.
Pocheon Herb Island is a herb-themed park located in Pocheon, Gyeonggi Province, offering visitors a special space to experience and enjoy a wide variety of herbs amidst the beauty of nature. This destination provides a relaxing environment with various programs and facilities where guests can get closer to nature. It is the perfect place for families, friends, and couples looking to unwind and enjoy the calming effects of herbs. One of the main attractions of Pocheon Herb Island is its extensive herb gardens. Visitors can immerse themselves in the scent and beauty of herbs like lavender, rosemary, thyme, and more, as they touch, smell, and enjoy the sights of these aromatic plants. Each season offers a new array of beautiful flowers and refreshing fragrances, making the garden a sensory delight. The island also features several beautifully themed gardens. Another attraction of Pocheon Herb Island is its enchanting night views and the Light Festival. When night falls, the island is illuminated with colorful lights, creating a magical, fairy-tale atmosphere. The annual Light Festival is the perfect setting for families and couples to enjoy a romantic evening, blending the soothing scent of herbs with dazzling light displays. Pocheon Herb Island is a herb-themed park where visitors can engage in various herb-related experiences and learn about herbs in depth. This place offers the opportunity to learn a range of scientific knowledge, from the growth and benefits of herbs to their practical applications in daily life. Let me explain some of the scientific insights you can gain at Herb Island. 1. The Physiology and Growth Conditions of Herbs In the various gardens of Herb Island, you can observe many types of herbs. Each herb requires different growth conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and the amount of light, and you can learn how these plants grow under different conditions. Photosynthesis: Like other plants, herbs produce nutrients through photosynthesis. By understanding how they absorb light and convert it into energy, you can gain insights into the physiological principles of plants. Growth Conditions of Herbs: Some herbs thrive in sunlight, while others grow better in the shade. At Herb Island, you can learn about the optimal growth conditions for each herb. You'll also discover how environmental factors such as temperature and humidity influence the fragrance and growth of herbs. 2. The Benefits and Chemical Composition of Herbs Pocheon Herb Island provides scientific information about the various benefits of herbs. The aroma of herbs is not just a pleasant scent, but is composed of many components that have positive effects on the body. ✔ Essential Oils: Herbs contain volatile substances known as "essential oils." These oils are made up of various chemical compounds, each with different effects on the body. For instance, lavender oil contains linalool, which has a calming effect, while peppermint oil contains menthol, which creates a refreshing sensation. At Herb Island, you can learn how these oils are extracted and what benefits they offer. ✔ Medicinal Effects of Herbs: Herbs have been used as medicinal plants for centuries. For example, rosemary is believed to improve memory, and chamomile is known for its stress-relieving effects. You can learn about the bioactive compounds in herbs and how they function in the body. 3. Hands-On Essential Oil Extraction Herb Island also offers programs where you can experience the extraction of essential oils firsthand. You can learn about the scientific methods, such as distillation, used to extract essential oils from herbs. ✔ Distillation Process: In this process, herbs are heated with steam, causing volatile oils to evaporate, which are then condensed back into liquid form. You can observe how the oil separates from the water due to its lower density. ✔ Volatility and Chemical Properties of Oils: You'll also learn that oils are volatile substances, meaning they evaporate more easily than water. You can observe how different components of the oil produce distinct scents. 4. Aromatherapy and the Psychological Effects of Herbs At Pocheon Herb Island, you can learn about aromatherapy, which involves using herbal oils to promote physical and mental well-being. ✔ Psychological Effects of Herbs: Different herbs, such as lavender, rosemary, and peppermint, have distinct psychological effects. Lavender, for example, helps to relax, while rosemary can improve concentration. These effects are triggered when the chemical components in the herbs stimulate the nervous system. ✔ Scientific Principles: When the aroma of herbs is detected through the sense of smell, it triggers parts of the brain related to emotions. The scent components act on the limbic system, which helps reduce stress and elevate mood. 5. Practical Applications of Herbs in Everyday Life At Herb Island, you can also learn how to use herbs in daily life. You can participate in activities such as making herbal soaps or brewing herbal teas, learning the science behind their applications. ✔ Making Herbal Soap: You can discover how the chemical components of herbal oils contribute to skincare and hydration while making moisturizing herbal soap. ✔ Science of Herbal Tea: Herbal teas release the essence of herbs into the water, creating both aroma and flavor. You can learn about the specific compounds that are extracted during this process. For example, mint tea soothes the stomach, and chamomile tea helps to relieve stress. At Pocheon Herb Island , visitors can learn about the scientific principles of herbs, including their growth conditions, chemical composition, extraction techniques, and effects on the body. This educational experience provides valuable insights into how herbs can be integrated into daily life. As a healing destination, Pocheon Herb Island offers a variety of nature-based activities, from exploring herb gardens and participating in hands-on programs to enjoying herb-infused meals. It’s a space designed to promote relaxation and rejuvenation for both body and mind. 😉Recommended for: Anyone seeking the combined charms of nature and herbs.
The Pocheon Astronomical Science Museum is a special place located in the pristine natural environment of Pocheon, Gyeonggi Province, where visitors can deeply explore the universe and astronomy. Beyond simply observing celestial bodies, the museum’s various exhibits broaden the understanding of space and astronomy while vividly conveying the history of human space exploration. The museum particularly offers a visual experience of the origin of the universe and the development of astronomy through its exhibits. 1. Permanent Exhibits on the Birth and Evolution of the Universe The exhibition halls at the Pocheon Astronomical Science Museum are centered around the theme of the universe’s birth and evolution. From the Big Bang Theory to the formation of stars and planets, and the structure of our galaxy and the solar system, the museum provides in-depth explanations. Through visual aids and 3D models, visitors can experience the origins and evolution of the universe firsthand, feeling the vastness and mystery of space. The exhibition also covers various astronomical phenomena, with a particularly noteworthy exhibit explaining the life cycle of stars. This exhibit illustrates how stars are born, grow, and ultimately perish, highlighting the critical role stars play in the universe. 2. The History of Astronomy Another major exhibition theme at the Pocheon Astronomical Science Museum is the history of astronomy. It covers everything from early attempts by humans to observe the sky to the remarkable achievements of modern astronomy. The exhibition explains the progression of technological advancements, from ancient astronomical tools to medieval discoveries by astronomers and modern space telescopes. In particular, the exhibit walks visitors through Galileo Galilei’s historic use of the telescope to observe the heavens, right through to the present-day scientific discoveries. This journey allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding of how astronomy has evolved and how science has contributed to humanity’s exploration of space. 3. Unlocking the Secrets of Our Solar System One of the central exhibits at the museum is the section dedicated to the solar system. The exhibit compares the characteristics of the Sun, Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, and other planets, displaying their orbits and sizes in near-realistic proportions to help visitors visualize the solar system. This exhibit provides fascinating insights into how the solar system’s planets were formed and the unique environments of each planet. Additionally, the museum offers exhibits on interactions between Earth and the Moon, as well as astronomical phenomena such as solar eclipses and lunar eclipses, deepening visitors' understanding of these everyday celestial events. 4. Exhibits on the Latest Achievements in Space Exploration The Pocheon Astronomical Science Museum also features exhibits on the latest accomplishments in space exploration. Visitors can learn how modern space probes and robots operate and how humans have carried out explorations of the Moon and Mars. There is also information about the role of satellites, life in space, and future space exploration plans, giving a sense of the rapid progress in space technology. The exhibit on recent Mars rover missions and lunar exploration projects serves as an important element, inspiring curiosity about the future of space exploration. 5. A Unique Experience in Nature What makes the Pocheon Astronomical Science Museum special is its location in nature, offering astronomy combined with a natural setting. Visitors can enjoy a clear, unpolluted view of the night sky away from city lights, allowing for a clearer and more beautiful stargazing experience. The pristine environment surrounding the museum offers ideal conditions for celestial observation, making for unforgettable memories of exploring the universe. 6. Family-Friendly Astronomy Camps The Pocheon Astronomical Science Museum regularly hosts astronomy camps that are perfect for families. During these camps, participants explore constellations and learn astronomical knowledge, while enjoying outdoor activities like campfires. Spending a night observing celestial bodies in nature provides a unique and memorable experience for all participants. The lunar rover displayed in the corridor connecting the exhibition halls caught my attention. There are three types of telescopes on display : the Galilean telescope , the Keplerian telescope , and the Newtonian telescope . Among these, the Galilean telescope, even when you try to look through it from various angles, doesn’t show things clearly. The reason isn’t that the telescope is broken. Rather, it’s because this telescope was made exactly in the same way the Italian astronomer Galileo constructed his telescope 411 years ago in 1609 for his astronomical observations. This type of telescope is called a Galilean telescope , and to overcome its inconvenient observation difficulty, Kepler designed the two Keplerian telescopes that are displayed in the center. The museum has installed both types of telescopes side by side, allowing visitors to compare the two and experience the differences in observation. Detailed descriptions of each telescope’s characteristics are displayed in front of the telescopes. Additionally, there is an exhibit on Bohyunsan Optical Astronomy Observatory’s main telescope , which is also featured on the 10,000-won banknote —a frequent subject in Korean astronomical observation displays. The 10,000-won bill, which we commonly use, features some of Korea’s proud astronomical observation devices. Among them are the Cheonsang Yeolcha Bunyajido (a star chart including the Big Dipper ), the Armillary Sphere (Honcheonui) , and next to it, the Bohyunsan Observatory’s main telescope . A 1/6 scale model of the Bohyunsan main telescope is also displayed in front of the panel. This model represents the Bohyunsan Optical Astronomy Observatory’s main telescope , which is featured on the back of the 10,000-won bill. It is the largest telescope in Korea with a 1.8-meter aperture reflector , completed in 1996. It gathers tens of thousands of times more light than the naked eye can. Opposite the telescopes, there is a display panel featuring the Cheonsang Yeolcha Bunyajido , a star chart that offers a glimpse into the astronomical knowledge of our ancestors. (The original is housed at the National Palace Museum of Korea .) The cosmic distance comparison panel highlights the immense scale of the universe, comparing distances between celestial bodies. Alongside this, another exhibit focuses on the formation of Earth , detailing how our planet was born from cosmic dust and gases over billions of years, eventually becoming the life-sustaining planet we know today. Types of Electromagnetic Waves and Infrared Camera Experience Exhibit There are many different types of light, including gamma rays , X-rays , ultraviolet rays , visible light , infrared rays , microwaves , and radio waves —all of which are forms of electromagnetic waves. However, we can only see visible light . At this exhibit, you can use an infrared camera to capture infrared light, a type of light that our eyes cannot detect. Such displays are commonly found in science museums, but what made this one unique was not simply standing in front of the infrared camera to observe temperature differences based on body heat. What was particularly interesting here was the opportunity to use a cooling rod located to the left of the exhibit. After holding the cooling rod with one hand for 10 seconds, you raise both hands in front of the infrared camera to compare the temperature differences displayed on the screen, making the experience even more engaging! The panel that caught attention: "Star Lovers" . It features both domestic and international scientists, though most people are only familiar with the names of the foreign scientists. However, when you look closely, you'll realize that Korea’s astronomical knowledge, which began with ancient astronomy, is by no means inferior. (left) You can view real-time footage of Earth captured from the International Space Station (ISS) . There's also a display showing how the space shuttle is transported. (right) The shuttle is mounted on a modified aircraft and carried from Earth to its destination. 🙌 The Pocheon Astronomical Science Museum is a space where visitors can explore the mysteries of the universe and the development of astronomy through its exhibits. With diverse visual aids, models, and scientific explanations, the museum covers everything from the origins of the universe and celestial phenomena to the latest achievements in space exploration. This exhibition space is the perfect place to foster an interest in astronomy and answer questions about the vast universe. 😉Recommended for: Anyone interested in space and astronomy, especially families and students.
