Tourist Attraction in Korea ①: Aiins World

Every summer, we visit Korea to see our family, friends and business contacts. This summer we spent two and a half months in Korea from May 25 through August 10. It was the longest time we spent time together in Korea. We went to many places during the trip, and would like to share our experiences with you. Most Koreans are very eager to introduce different parts of Korea to foreigners. Our cousin’s friend brought us to a theme park called Aiins World in Bucheon, Gyeonggido. Bucheon is close to Seoul. We took a taxi to get there.

Aiins World is a miniature park that has miniature versions of famous structures throughout the world. These include the Empire State Building (USA), the Eiffel Tower (France), the Leaning Tower of Pisa (Italy) and St. Basil’s Cathedral (Russia). If you take pictures there at the right angle, you can make it look like you are actually in the different countries. This park is never crowded. So, it is easy to take good pictures. The park opens from 9:30 am to 7 pm Monday through Friday, and from 9:30 am to 9 pm on Saturday, Sunday and holidays. The admission fee is 8,500 won for adults (less than 10 US dollars).


Taxis are cheap in Korea. The initial charge is 2200~2400 won, depending on the region. The initial charge is 2400 won in Seoul and 2200 won in Busan. Be advised that taxi fares are 20% more expensive between midnight and 4 am. You do not need to tip the driver. If you don’t speak Korean at all, ask some Koreans passing by to write down your destination in Korean. This is what J.J. did in Korea. Gina wrote down his destination on paper so that he could show it to taxi drivers. If you want to practice Korean, say “(your destination)ro Ga-ju-se-yo”. Ro means ‘to’ or ‘toward’, ga(da) ‘go’ and Ju-se-yo ‘please give me’. Basically this phrase means “Please take me to (my destination)”. Or it would be okay just to say your destination.

There are taxis specifically for foreigners in Seoul and nearby metropolitan areas. These taxis are called international taxis. You can use these taxis by making a reservation online at http://www.internationaltaxi.co.kr/ (English and Japanese versions available). Except for the international taxis, don’t expect taxi drivers to speak in English. We recommend you ask for help from Koreans in their 20s and early 30s. These groups of people usually spend a good amount of time and effort learning English or other foreign languages. Women tend to be more helpful and friendlier. Don’t worry about getting around in Korea. Public transportation is very good. The bus system is well developed throughout Korea, and you can use the subway in Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Gwangju and Daejeon.