Gimpo (김포) is located in the western part of Gyeonggi, South Korea and lower part of the Han River. As soon as the Ara Waterway in Gyeongin was completed, the area was surrounded by water. Although the area is treated as an island, the eastern part of the island and Gochon-eup are Incheon, and the northern part of the Yangchon-eup is a peninsula close to Seoul.
Understand
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Gimpo sits between the Han River and the Yellow Sea (locally called West Sea). It boasts a rich history, cultural heritage, and vast plains. The name 'Gimpo' is said to originate from the legend of 'Tugeumpo,' where two brothers found a gold nugget in the river, and the younger brother, out of jealousy, threw it back into the water. Another theory suggests that the ancient word 'geom' means sacred land, indicating Kimpo's long-standing historical significance.
Orientation
[edit]Gimpo is divided into several districts and neighborhoods, each with its own unique atmosphere and attractions.
| Pungmu-dong (풍무동) The most modernized district in Gimpo, featuring new apartment complexes, shopping malls, and cafés. Perfect base for commuters thanks to the Goldline subway and proximity to Seoul. |
| Tongjin-eup (통진읍) A northern countryside area that retains traditional rural scenery, with small local markets and open fields. Ideal for those seeking an authentic local experience. |
| Geolpo-dong (걸포동) Central transport and administration hub of Gimpo, home to the city hall, stadium, and key transfer centers. Blend of government buildings, shopping, and residential areas. |
| Haseong-myeon (하성면) Located near the riverside and border, this district is known for its peaceful villages, walking trails, and historic attractions such as Jangneung Royal Tomb. |
History
[edit]Gimpo’s history can be traced back to ancient kingdoms, as its territory once belonged to Goguryeo and later the Silla dynasty. The region is renowned for the fertile Gimpo Plain, which has been used for rice cultivation for millennia, even providing rice to Korean royalty—archaeological evidence indicates rice was grown here over 5,000 years ago. Local legends claim Gimpo’s name comes from a gold nugget thrown into the river. Throughout Korea’s dynastic past, the Gimpo area played an important defensive role with historic sites like Deokpojin and Munsusanseong Fortress, serving as strongholds along major rivers and strategic entry routes toward Seoul.
In the 20th century, Gimpo’s transformation accelerated during the Japanese occupation with the construction of Gimpo Airfield, which later played a key role in the Korean War. After the war, Gimpo developed rapidly, highlighted by the growth around Gimpo International Airport and large-scale land development including residential districts and massive urbanization projects such as the Han River New Town. Officially promoted to city status in 1998, Gimpo has experienced continued population growth, advanced transportation infrastructure, and a vibrant coexistence of historical tradition and modern city life. Today, Gimpo offers visitors a window into Korea’s past and present, with rich heritage sites standing alongside thriving urban areas.
Climate
[edit]Gimpo features a monsoon-influenced humid continental climate (Köppen: Dwa), characterized by four distinct seasons. Its location near the Yellow Sea (West Sea) influences its weather, making it slightly milder and breezier than more inland cities like Seoul and Suwon, and comparable in overall pattern to nearby Incheon.
Seasonal Overview
[edit]Summer (June to August)
[edit]Summers are long, hot, muggy, and wet, with high humidity and concentrated rainfall. The monsoon season (Jangma) typically peaks during July and August, bringing the majority of the annual precipitation. Average high temperatures in these months reach 29∘C–30∘C (84∘F–86∘F). The coastal proximity contributes to high humidity, often exceeding 75% and feeling particularly heavy.
Winter (December to February)
[edit]Winters are short, cold, and dry, with clear skies and occasional, but not heavy, snowfall. The coldest month is January, where average daily high temperatures are near 0∘C (33∘F) and average lows drop to around −7∘C (19∘F).
Spring and Autumn
[edit]These transitional seasons offer the most pleasant weather and are generally considered the best times to visit. They are relatively mild, less rainy, and feature clear skies, with comfortable temperatures typically ranging from 10∘C to 22∘C (50∘F–72∘F).
Precipitation and Wind
[edit]Annual precipitation is high, with the vast majority concentrated in the summer months. The region is noticeably breezy year-round, particularly in its open and coastal areas due to the maritime influence.
Overall, Gimpo’s climate combines marine and continental influences, making it slightly milder than inland cities like Suwon, with more humidity and wind because of its closeness to the West Sea.
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Get in
[edit]By plane
[edit]- 1 Gimpo Airport (김포국제공항, GMP IATA). Caters only to the shuttle services to Taipei-Songshan, Tokyo-Haneda Airport, Osaka-Kansai, Beijing Capital International Airport and Shanghai-Hongqiao, as well as domestic flights within South Korea, mostly to Jeju.
Gimpo International Airport (GMP) is located on the southern edge of Gimpo city, but most of its direct connections are to Seoul. To reach Gimpo city from the airport, travelers should use local city buses or taxis, as there is no direct train line into Gimpo city from the airport.
Get around
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See
[edit]- 1 Jangneung Royal Tomb (김포 장릉), 79 Jangneung-ro. It is a royal tomb where King Wonjong of Chujon, the parents of King Injo of the 16th King of Joseon, and his wife Queen Inheon Gu are buried. It has been designated as a Korean historical site. ₩1000 for adults.
- 2 Gimpo International Sculpture Park (김포국제조각공원), 435-14 Gomak-ri, Wolgot-myeon, ☏ +82 31-980-2980. It is the natural art space where art works wishing for peace harmonize with recreational forests of Munsusan Mountain.
- 3 Ujeoseowon Confucian Academy (우저서원), 90, Jungbong-ro 25beon-gil, ☏ +82 31-985-9692. It is the shrine of Jo Heon who was a disciple of Yulgok Yi I.
- 4 Gimpo Art Village (김포아트빌리지), 1325-10 Unyang-dong, ☏ +82 031-999-3995. 11:30-22:00. A family-friendly cultural space housed in Korean "hanok" traditional houses, Gimpo Art Village blends tradition and contemporary art. Visitors can tour art exhibits, participate in hands-on activities, and enjoy performances held at the village.
Do
[edit]- 1 Laveniche March Avenue Waterfront Park (김포 라베니체 수변공원), 6887-1 Gurae-dong. Laveniche March Avenue is a picturesque canal-side complex in Gimpo, inspired by Venetian architecture and atmosphere. The area features a scenic artificial waterway called the Golden Waterway, making it a popular spot for walks both day and night. Bridges and curved canals run alongside European-style commercial streets lined with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.
- 2 Gimpo Hamsang Park (김포함상공원), 551-1 Daemyeong-ri, Daegot-myeon, ☏ +82 031-987-4097. Korea's first battleship-themed park, featuring a retired LST battleship on display. The park includes educational exhibits about naval history, interactive experiences, and is popular with families and children. ₩3000.
- 3 Ara Marina (아라마리나), 774 Jeonho-ri, Gochon-eup, ☏ +82 031-999-7800. 09:00-18:00. Ara Marina is a riverside leisure complex offering yachting, water sports, and dining options. The marina hosts seasonal events and is a perfect destination for enjoying the outdoors along the Ara Waterway.
Buy
[edit]- 1 Laveniche March Avenue (라베니체), 2018-2 Janggi-dong. Laveniche March Avenue is a lively shopping street and cultural district featuring boutique stores, trendy cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy live street performances, public art, and seasonal festivals. It’s a great place for shopping, dining, and soaking up the local atmosphere.
- 2 Hyundai Premium Outlet Gimpo (현대프리미엄아울렛 김포점), 654 Jeonho-ri, Gochon-eup, ☏ +82 031-812-2233. 10:30-21:00. A premier shopping destination near Gimpo International Airport offering over 230 high-end brand stores. Shoppers can find discounted fashion, footwear, and accessories in a stylish environment. The outlet also hosts seasonal sales and cultural performances.
- 3 Gimpo Lotte Mall (롯데몰 김포공항점), 882-1 Banghwa-dong, Gangseo-gu, Seoul, ☏ +82 02-6116-4000. 10:30-22:00. A large lifestyle shopping complex with numerous retail shops, restaurants, a cinema, and entertainment facilities. Connected conveniently to the airport by an underground passage, it offers a wide range of Korean and international products with a modern shopping experience.
- 4 Gimpo Market (Held on days ending in 2 and 7) (김포장), 273-2 Bukbyeon-dong, ☏ +82 031-980-2271. 08:00-18:30. The largest traditional market in Gimpo, held regularly on the 2nd and 7th of each month. The market is set in the Bukbyeon public parking lot and offers a wide variety of goods at very affordable prices, including fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, seafood, clothing, bedding, household items, and various other products. Visitors can enjoy sampling local foods such as hot noodle soup and savory Korean pancakes, making it a lively cultural and shopping destination.
Eat
[edit]- 1 Deungchon Kalguksu (등촌샤브칼국수), 40-1, Gurae-dong, Gimpo-si, Gyeonggi-do, ☏ +82 31-987-9993. Daily 11:00-21:30. Famous for its spicy Mushroom Shabu-Shabu Kalguksu (knife-cut noodles). The set meal includes vegetables, meat, noodles, and fried rice (볶음밥) to finish, offering great value.
- 2 Choigane Hanjeongsik (최가네 한정식), 33-14, Haeseong-ro, Gimpo-si, Gyeonggi-do (Near Janggi Station. A traditional Korean restaurant.), ☏ +82 31-983-0008. A popular spot for Hanjeongsik (Korean set course meal). It serves a variety of seasonal side dishes and traditional food using fresh, local ingredients, ideal for groups or formal dining.
- 3 Pyeongchang Makguksu (평창 막국수), 1097, Geomdan-ro, Gimpo-si, Gyeonggi-do (Located in the Geomdan area of Gimpo.), ☏ +82 31-988-5182. Specialized in Makguksu (buckwheat noodles) and Suyuk (boiled pork slices). The simple, clean taste of the broth and chewy noodles makes it a local favorite during summer.
- 4 Gimpo Bori-gukbap (김포 보리밥), 1025-1, Wolgot-myeon, Gimpo-si, Gyeonggi-do (Near the Wolgot area.), ☏ +82 31-988-7557. Serves hearty Bori-gukbap (barley rice soup) and bibimbap with fresh vegetables. Known for its generous portions and healthy, rustic Korean flavor.
- 5 Minsok Chueotang (민속 추어탕), 322-1, Masong-ro, Gimpo-si, Gyeonggi-do (Easily accessible by car near the Masong IC.). A well-regarded spot for Chueotang (loach soup), a nutritious and warming Korean dish. The soup is rich and deeply flavored, perfect for cold weather.
- 6 Daege-Jang (대게장), 59, Daemyeonghang-ro, Daegot-myeon, Gimpo-si, Gyeonggi-do (Located right next to Daemyeong Port (대명항).), ☏ +82 31-987-9990. As it is right near the port, this restaurant specializes in extremely fresh snow crab (대게) and other seafood dishes. Guests can select their crab directly from the tank.
- 7 Gimpo-guksu (Local Noodle Shop) (김포국수), 35, Gimpo-daero 1500beon-gil, Gimpo-si, Gyeonggi-do. Daily 10:00-20:00 (Check for seasonal closures). A simple, popular spot for inexpensive and delicious Janchi-guksu (feast noodles) and Bibim-guksu (spicy mixed noodles). It's a true local's lunch favorite.
- 8 Silla Samgyetang (신라 삼계탕), 38, Bukbyeonjung-ro, Gimpo-si, Gyeonggi-do (Located in the center of Bukbyeon-dong.), ☏ +82 31-985-1110. Known for its high-quality Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup). A rich and healthy meal, perfect for boosting energy during hot summer days or cold winters.
- 9 Bakery Cafe 189 (베이커리 카페 189), 189, Gimpo-daero 1466beon-gil, Gimpo-si, Gyeonggi-do (Located near the main highway, a large facility with parking.), ☏ +82 31-983-0189. While not strictly a meal, this large, scenic cafe is famous for its delicious bakery items and coffee, offering a great place to relax. It’s a very popular destination for dessert and brunch.
- 10 Seohae Oyster & Clam Steamer (서해 굴찜조개찜), 12, Wolgot-ro, Daegot-myeon, Gimpo-si, Gyeonggi-do (Near Daemyeong Port, a short distance from the fish market.), ☏ +82 31-984-0001. Daily 11:00-23:00. Highly recommended for its fresh steamed clams and oysters (조개찜/굴찜), sourced directly from the nearby West Sea. A perfect place to enjoy authentic Korean seafood with soju. Steamer sets start at ₩40,000.
Drink
[edit]Sleep
[edit]Hotels
[edit]- 1 Ramada Encore by Wyndham Gimpo Han River Hotel (라마다앙코르 바이윈덤 김포한강호텔), 169, Arayuk-ro 152beon-gil, Gochon-eup, ☏ +82 02-582-0700. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 12:00. A modern hotel near Gimpo International Airport offering comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. Ideal for business travelers and short stays.
- 2 Hotel Marinabay Seoul Ara (호텔 마리나베이 서울), 210-50, Arayuk-ro 152beon-gil, Gochon-eup, ☏ +82 02-1577-8118. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. Situated close to Gimpo city center, this hotel features stylish rooms, a garden, free parking, and a restaurant. Guests appreciate the quiet environment and easy access to transportation.
- 3 Gimpo Stavia (스타비아 호텔), 147, Taejang-ro 795beon-gil, ☏ +82 031-5186-0500. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. A contemporary 3-star hotel providing spacious rooms with terraces, free private parking, and 24-hour front desk service. Conveniently located for travelers visiting Gimpo.
- 4 Hotel L'art Gimpo (호텔 라르 김포), 5-9, Jangcha-ro 5beon-gil, Gochon-eup, ☏ +82 0319821322. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Located near the Hyundai Premium Outlet, this hotel offers fitness facilities and complimentary Wi-Fi. It is suitable for shoppers and those who want to explore nearby attractions.
- 5 JK Hotel Gimpo (JK 호텔), 100, Gimpohangang 9-ro 75beon-gil. Check-in: 15:00. Featuring air-conditioned rooms and private bathrooms, JK Hotel is known for its excellent location and city views. Offers amenities like hot tubs and serves both business and leisure travelers.
- 6 Lotte City Hotel Gimpo Airport (롯데시티호텔 김포공항), 38, Haneul-gil, Gangseo-gu, Seoul, ☏ +82 02-6116-1000. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 12:00. A resort-style hotel with luxurious suites, including premier rooms with separate living areas and modern amenities. Connected to Gimpo Airport, it’s perfect for travelers wanting premium convenience.
Pensions
[edit]In South Korea, the word for a boarding house where three meals a day are provided along with your room is "pension". There are 1,635 pensions around Incheon according to a 'Naver page', including the following:
- 7 Gimpo Munsusan Tourist Farm Pension (김포 문수산 농원 펜션), 125, Gimpodaehak-ro, Wolgot-myeon, ☏ +82 010-6880-6943. Check-in: 15:00. A peaceful pension nestled at the foot of Munsusan Mountain, offering a retreat in nature. Visitors enjoy fresh air, spacious rooms, and easy access to hiking trails and local flora.
- 8 Sangchunjae Hanok Pension (김포 상춘재), 308, Gunha-ro, Wolgot-myeon, ☏ +82 010-3347-7676. Check-in: 15:00. A traditional Korean-style pension built in 2024 in Tongjin-eup, Gimpo. It features hanok architecture, cozy rooms, and a serene environment perfect for experiencing Korean culture in a quiet setting.