Top 10 Korean Weekend Culture: What Leisure Activities Surprises Foreigners the Most?

Bottom line: When foreigners come to Korea, the thing that shocks them the most is not K-Pop. Korean Weekend Culturewas!
From 53%'s #1 choice of "Jjimjilbang" to hidden leisure activities that even Koreans didn't know about, we reveal the real secret behind the 1.2 million tourists who visited Korea in 2025.

1. 24-Hour Jjimjilbang Healing Culture

Jjimjilbang is the number one experience for foreign tourists. In a survey of 926 international travelers, 531 TP3Ts chose jjimjilbangs as their most memorable Korean experience. Jjimjilbangs have evolved from simple bathhouses to complex cultural spaces.

1) Saunas and steam rooms with varying temperatures (from 50 to 90 degrees)

2) Always available with 24/7 operations

3) Karaoke, game room, and restaurant in one place

4) Unique cultures like making sheep's heads out of towels

5) A place to stay overnight with family and friends

Foreign tourists experiencing the various facilities of a jjimjilbang.

2. Han River Picnic and Tent Culture

The Hangang River is a typical weekend leisure space for Seoulites. Since April 2023, tents have been allowed in Ttukseom Han River Park, creating a more diverse picnic culture. Especially for foreigners, the experience of nature in the city center is refreshing.

1) Tent and shade rental service ($1-3 per hour)

2) Enjoying delivery food on the Han River

3) Rainbow fountain, musical fountain, and other special attractions

4) Biking, inline skating, and other activities

5) Experience street food at Bamdokbi Night Market

3. Food tour of the traditional market

Traditional markets in Korea are more than just a place to shop, they are a living cultural experience. In the recent "Dailycation" trend among foreigners, the "Food" category accounts for 23.71 TP3T, showing high interest.

1) Gwangjang Market - Dakgimbap - Bindae Tteok - Yukhoe

2) Dongdaemun Market - Night shopping and early morning soup

3) Namdaemun Market - Kalgukkuk, Hotteok, Gun Dumplings

4) Tongin Market - Bento Café Experience

4. PC and game cafe culture

Korea's unique PC-cafe culture is a source of great curiosity for foreigners. It is characterized by 24-hour operation, low prices (1,000-2,000 won per hour), and a wide range of services.

1) The latest games and high-end computers

2) Ordering snacks like ramen, drinks, and more

3) Team gaming culture with friends

4) Available 24 hours a day

Experiencing the unique Korean PC culture.

5. karaoke unlimited culture

Karaoke is at the heart of Korean weekend culture. It's a signature way to de-stress and have fun with friends, family, and lovers.

1) The culture of singing freely in private rooms

2) Songs ranging from the latest K-Pop to classics

3) Food and drink ordering services

4) From coin karaoke to luxury karaoke

6. chicken and beer chimaculture

Chimac, or "chicken and beer," is a classic Korean nightlife tradition, especially on weekend nights and while watching sports.

1) Different types of chicken (fried, marinated, soy, etc.)

2) 24-hour delivery service

3) Outdoor Chimac on the Han River

4) Hemorrhoids while watching a sporting event

7. Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Q1. What do I need to bring to a steam room?
A1. Most steam rooms provide towels, shampoo, body wash, etc. All you need to bring is your own underwear and a razor.

Q2. How much does it cost to rent a Han River picnic tent?
A2. The basic 4-hour service costs 20,000 to 50,000 won, depending on the company and the supplies included. Advance reservations are recommended.

Q3. Is it easy for foreigners to use your PC?
A3. Anyone with an ID can use the service. Some PC centers also offer English language services.

Q4. Can non-Korean speakers enjoy karaoke?
A4. Songs are available in a variety of languages, including English, Chinese, and Japanese, so you can enjoy them regardless of your language.