Pyeongtaek
Pyeongtaek is a city in Gyeonggi-do, South Korea, known for its strategic location as a major transportation hub and its proximity to U.S. military bases such as Camp Humphreys. It offers a unique blend of traditional Korean culture and modern urban life. The city's agricultural eco-parks, scenic waterfronts, and local festivals make it an attractive destination for visitors seeking both relaxation and cultural experiences.
Understand
[edit]Pyeongtaek's history dates back to ancient times, and it has evolved into a vibrant city with a mix of industry, agriculture, and culture. The city is home to one of the largest U.S. military communities in Korea, which has significantly influenced its local culture and economy.
History
[edit]During the Three Kingdoms period, this area was part of Baekje territory. Later, it came under the Silla Kingdom and was known as Jinwi-hyeon. During the Goryeo Dynasty, it was called Pyeongtaek-hyeon.
In the Joseon Dynasty, the region saw several changes in administration. It was initially part of Chungcheong Province, moved briefly to Gyeonggi Province in 1398, and then switched back to Chungcheong before settling in Gyeonggi Province in 1896. The arrival of the Gyeongbu Railway in 1905, with stations at Pyeongtaek and Seojeong-ri, helped the area grow. It became Pyeongtaek-eup in 1938 and eventually Pyeongtaek City in 1986.
In 1995, Pyeongtaek City merged with Pyeongtaek County and Songtan City, forming the modern Pyeongtaek we know today. Now, Pyeongtaek is a mix of history and modernity, known for its agricultural roots, industrial growth, and a large U.S. military presence.
Climate
[edit]Pyeongtaek's climate is very similar to that of nearby Seoul and Suwon.The following table is Suwon's climate. Compared to Incheon or Seoul, Suwon is relatively hotter and colder. It features continental climate. Pyeongtaek is close to the West Sea so there are a lot of winds from the sea. Pyeongtaek’s climate is somewhat similar to Incheon’s, though not as influenced by coastal factors as areas like Daebudo Island. Pyeongtaek experiences a temperate rain climate, with summer temperatures about 2°C cooler and winter temperatures about 2°C warmer than Seoul or inland areas like Suwon. Although it lacks typical coastal city characteristics, it benefits from the moderating influence of marine climate traits, making it relatively pleasant.
The annual precipitation in Pyeongtaek is approximately 1,300 mm, which aligns with the averages found along the west coast. The city is well-equipped with drainage infrastructure, which prevents flood damage. However, like other areas influenced by oceanic climates, summers in Pyeongtaek are very humid. On non-rainy summer days, humidity often exceeds 90%, and it can reach 100% during night time.
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Get in
[edit]The Gyeongbu Line runs north and south, and metropolitan subway lines run at each station, and main trains can be used at Seojeong-ri Station, Pyeongtaek Jije Station, and Pyeongtaek Station.
By subway
[edit]Pyeongtaek is well connected by the Seoul Metropolitan Subway system. The city is primarily served by Subway Line 1 and the SRT (Super Rapid Train), providing fast and convenient access to major cities in South Korea.
Travel times to Pyeongtaek's central areas:
- From Seoul Station (Seoul): 1 hr 5 min
- From Suwon Station (Suwon): 30 min
- From Cheonan-Asan Station (Asan): 20 min
- From Incheon International Airport (Incheon): 1 hr 20 min (via transfer)
Pyeongtaek is served by several major subway stations. Future developments include plans to integrate additional subway lines, enhancing accessibility to the Greater Seoul area and other regional hubs.
- 1 Pyeongtaek (평택역). This station connects Line 1 with various intercity rail services, making it one of Pyeongtaek's main transportation hubs.
- 2 Pyeongtaek Jije (평택지제역). This modern station serves the SRT and Line 1. It is located in a rapidly developing area with easy access to Pyeongtaek's southern districts.
- 3 Songtan (송탄역). This station is close to the Songtan International District and Osan Air Base, making it a convenient stop for visitors and residents.
- 4 Seojeong-ri (서정리역). Seojeong-ri Station is a quieter stop on Line 1, surrounded by local markets and residential areas.
Korail Gyeongbu Line Pyeongtaek Station
By bus
[edit]There are various bus routes from Seoul.
By train
[edit]By taxi
[edit]You can take a taxi at the taxi stand. The taxi stand is usually near the bus stop.
As of July 2023, the basic fare for regular taxis is ₩4,800 (₩5,800 at night), with a surcharge of ₩100 applied according to time and distance. (The basic fare is up to 1.6 km (1 mi), plus ₩100 per 135 m.)
Get around
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By bus
[edit]The bus system in Pyeongtaek is reliable and affordable. Most major stops have a list of available bus lines with route information. Green buses typically operate within the city, while larger blue and red buses connect Pyeongtaek to Seoul and neighboring cities. Most major stops and points of interest have English signage. English announcements on the bus are generally made only for stops of tourist interest. Pyeongtaek Station is not the terminus for the bus lines, so make sure you are traveling in the correct direction.
By taxi
[edit]Taxis are widely available in Pyeongtaek and are easy to use. Some offer free translation services. It's helpful to know a major landmark near your destination, as taxi drivers may not be familiar with specific addresses or smaller building names. However, with a little patience and understanding, you will find a taxi willing to get you close to your destination. Some drivers may even call English-speaking friends or relatives to assist.
Taxis are easily identifiable, usually gray, white, or black with illuminated signs on top and front windows. Black taxis are considered "luxury" taxis, typically offering a more comfortable and spacious ride, but they are also slower and more expensive. Gray or white taxis tend to be faster and cheaper but may drive more recklessly.
By subway
[edit]Pyeongtaek is served by the Suin-Bundang Line, which connects to other major cities in Gyeonggi Province and Seoul. The line offers a convenient way to travel to Yongin, Gangnam, Hwaseong, Ansan, Siheung, and Incheon, with Pyeongtaek Station being the main hub for transit.
By bicycle
[edit]Cycling in Pyeongtaek is easy, with wide sidewalks and designated paths for both pedestrians and cyclists. The city is relatively flat, making it accessible for biking.
- Bike Rental (자전거 대여). This is an unmanned rental system for shared bicycles in Pyeongtaek. They also offer bicycle safety training and promote the use of bicycles.
On foot
[edit]Pyeongtaek is a manageable city for walking, especially around downtown and popular markets. Walking from Pyeongtaek Station to the waterfront or nearby attractions is quite feasible and can be a pleasant alternative to driving.
See
[edit]- 1 Sudosa Temple (수도사), Pyeongtaek 58, Hoam-gil, Poseung-eup, ☏ +82 31-682-3169. Known for its serene environment and traditional temple food
- 2 South African War Memorial (Korean War Monument of the South African Air Force). Unveiled in 1975 in memory of the 37 South African Air Force members who served during the Korean War.
- 3 Asan Lake (아산호), 1396, Daean-ri, Hyeondeok-myeon, ☏ +82 31-659-4138. An artificial freshwater lake at the mouth of Anseongcheon Stream.
- 4 Pyeongtaek Natural Theme Botanical Garden (평택시자연테마식물원), 33-58, Cheongo-ro, Oseong-myeon. There are 5,200 plants of 161 species growing in a glass greenhouse with an area of 880㎡. It consists of a self-sustaining botanical garden decorated with trees, herbaceous plants, herbs, and sheep plants, and a tropical garden planted with subtropical plants and succulents, as well as rare plants. In addition to the pond and small waterfall, stone lanterns, water expansion, jangdokdae, and millstones are harmonized with various plants. free.
- 5 Songtan Special Tourist Zone (송탄관광특구), Seojeong-dong, Sinjang 1 and 2 dong, Jisan-dong, and Songbuk-dong. The Xinjiang district is a street centered on the Xinjiang district shopping mall, which was completed in 1998. People can properly enjoy shopping and relaxation while walking on about 300 m of pedestrian paths starting from the front of the U.S. military base.
- 6 Picnic Garden (소풍정원), 476-20 Gung-ri, Godeok-myeon, ☏ +82 31-668-4815. Picnic Garden is a wetland park built in Gungri, Godeok-myeon, Pyeongtaek-si.
Do
[edit]- 1 Pyeongtaek Agricultural Eco-Park (평택시농업생태원), 33-34 Cheongo-ro. Pyeongtaek Agricultural Eco-Park offers a unique opportunity to explore Korea's agricultural heritage. Visitors can participate in various hands-on activities, such as planting, harvesting, and learning about sustainable farming practices. The park also features walking trails, gardens, and educational programs for all ages.
- 2 Pyeongtaek Hyanggyo Confucian Academy (평택향교), 150-11 Hyanggyo-ro. Pyeongtaek Hyanggyo is a Confucian academy established during the Joseon Dynasty, offering insight into traditional Korean education and Confucian culture. It served as a place for local scholars to study Confucianism and prepare for the national civil service exams. The well-preserved buildings and serene surroundings make it a peaceful place for reflection and learning.
- 3 Woldu-ri Cultural Village (웃다리문화촌), 63-8, Woldu-ri. Woldu-ri Cultural Village is a unique cultural space that showcases traditional Korean lifestyle and architecture. Visitors can explore the village, participate in various cultural programs, and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding countryside. It serves as a great spot for families and tourists looking to experience Korean culture.
- 4 Pyeongtaekho Lake Tourist Complex (평택호관광단지), 726-50 Cheongbuk-ro, Poseung-eup. Located by Pyeongtaek Lake, this tourist complex offers a variety of activities, including boating, fishing, and picnicking. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks along the lake or partake in family-friendly outdoor adventures.
- 5 Museum of Modern and Contemporary Korean Music (한국근현대음악관), 147, Pyeongtaekho-gil, Hyeondeok-myeon, ☏ +82 31-8024-8683. It was established for the first time in Korea to inherit the legacy of master Ji Young-hee, the father of modernization of Korean traditional music, and to preserve and inform the tradition of modern and contemporary music in Korea. It has more than 70,000 pieces of contemporary music materials, ancient documents, and old records donated by top music scholars in Korea, and is a complex cultural space with various functions such as libraries, exhibition rooms, and concert halls. You can feel the true history and beauty of our music in this space.
- 6 Ahn Jung-ri Artist Square (안정리 예술인광장), 11, Anjeong Shopping-ro, Paengseong-eup, ☏ +82 31-692-9110. It consists of a total of 10 buildings, including a pure arts center, a living arts center, a performing arts center, and a creative workshop, and is a complex cultural and artistic space where anyone can enjoy various exhibitions, performances, residence operation, art education, and festivals.
- 7 Pyeongtaek Herb Farm, 1287, Seodong-daero, Poseung-eup, ☏ +82 31-684-9994. It is an eco-friendly naturalist rural experience education farm based on agriculture and horticulture, with nature-friendly spaces and themed gardens such as plants, roses, and herb gardens. It operates a variety of experience classes, including cooking experiences enjoyed with directly harvested materials, and there is also a space for groups such as workshops.
Festivals
[edit]There are several regular festivals in Pyeongtaek.
- 8 Pyeongtaekho Mulbit Festival (평택호 물빛축제), Pyeongtaek Lake, Poseung-eup (The festival venue is located near Pyeongtaek Lake.), ☏ +82 31-8024-8685. This festival, held annually in late summer or early autumn, showcases beautiful light displays and cultural performances around Pyeongtaek Lake. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, live concerts, and local food. Free entry.
- 9 Wonpyeongnaroo Eulalia Festival (평택 원평나루 억새축제), Wonpyeongnaroo riverside (The festival site is located along the Wonpyeongnaroo riverbank.), ☏ +82 31-8024-8685. Celebrated in autumn, this festival is famous for its scenic eulalia fields. Visitors can participate in cultural events, nature walks, and enjoy photography spots with Korea’s vibrant fall foliage. Free entry.
Learn
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There are several universities in Pyeongtaek, including Pyeongtaek University.
- 1 Pyeongtaek University (평택대학교), 57, Yonghwa-ro (Located in central Pyeongtaek.), ☏ +82 31-659-8000. Pyeongtaek University is a private university established in 1990. It offers diverse undergraduate and graduate programs and emphasizes community engagement.
Buy
[edit]- 1 Pyeongtaek International Central Market (평택국제중앙시장), 16, Jungang Market-ro. Pyeongtaek Central Market is a vibrant traditional market offering a wide variety of fresh produce, local delicacies, clothing, and household items.
- 2 Godeok Traditional Market (고덕전통시장), 23-6 Godeok-ro, Godeok-myeon. Godeok Traditional Market is a vibrant, local market where visitors can explore a wide range of products, from fresh produce and seafood to traditional Korean foods. It's a great place to experience local culture, taste street food, and shop for unique items.
Eat
[edit]Songtan Special Tourist Zone in front of Camp Humphreys of the U.S. Forces Korea is famous as a multicultural tourist destination, and there are many mainland-style restaurants and Songtan-style budae jjigae restaurants nearby.
- 1 Red Onion (레드어니언), 110-4 Anjeongsunhwan-ro, Paengseong-eup (5 minutes from Camp Humphreys entrance), ☏ +82 31-656-6660. Su-Th 11:00-21:30, F Sa 11:00-22:00. Red Onion is a Turkish restaurant that offers authentic Mediterranean cuisine. With its cozy interior reminiscent of a Middle Eastern mosque, it provides a unique dining experience just outside Camp Humphreys. Popular dishes include kebabs, hummus, and wood-fired pizzas. Perfect for both dine-in and takeout. Varies by dish.
- 2 Alice's Kitchen (앨리스키친), 17-5, Gyeonggi-daero 1559beon-gil (near Pyeongtaek University), ☏ +82 31-654-4940. M-Sa 11:00-21:00, Su 11:00-20:00. Alice's Kitchen is known for its comforting homemade meals, offering a variety of Korean and Western dishes. The cozy atmosphere makes it a popular spot for families and friends. Signature dishes include pasta, salads, and traditional Korean comfort food, all prepared with fresh ingredients. Ideal for dine-in or takeout.
- 3 Heungbu and Nolbu (흥부랑놀부랑), 157 Jungang 2-ro, ☏ +82 31-653-4396. 11:00 - 21:30. Korean Restaurant
- 4 Go Bok Su Naengmyeon (고복수냉면), 1st Floor, 71, Jogaeteo-ro 1beon-gil, Hapjeong-dong, ☏ +82 31-655-4252. 11:00-21:00. It has been developing its own unique broth and noodles for four generations to maintain the traditional taste and is located across from Hapjeong Elementary School in Pyeongtaek City's public playground.
- 5 Moti Mahal (모티마할), 65, Anjeongsunhwan-ro, Paengseong-eup, ☏ +82 31-657-3358. It is a restaurant that sells Indian food.
- 6 Pureunso (Gyeongbokgung Pyeongtaek) ((주)푸른소(경복궁평택점)), 64, Jogaeteo-ro 26beon-gil, Hapjeong-dong, ☏ +82 31-655-0567. 11:30-22:00. It is a restaurant that sells Korean beef.
- 7 Monte Bianco, 14-15th Floor, 73, Pyeongtaekhangman-gil, Poseung-eup, ☏ +82 31-8053-7777. 11:00-22:00. A scenic restaurant with a view of the Seohae Bridge, located at Pyeongtaek Port and one of Pyeongtaek’s landmarks. This rotating restaurant completes a 360-degree turn every two hours. Signature dishes include lobster, steak, pasta, and wine, making it a great choice for special occasions. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely meal while watching the sunset in a beautiful ambiance.
Drink
[edit]Café
[edit]- 1 Zenta Cafe (젠타카페), 181 Jungang-ro. 09:00-22:00. A cozy cafe famous for its vanilla latte and desserts. Perfect for relaxing in a chic atmosphere. ₩4,000-6,000.
- 2 Tough Enough Roasters VER2 (터프이너프 로스터스 VER2), 80 Pyeongtaek 3-ro (Near Pyeongtaek City Hall). 10:00-21:00. Known for great coffee and stylish interiors. Parking might be challenging during busy hours. ₩4,000-7,000.
- 3 Café Seodaeul (카페 서대울), 748-6, Cheongbukjungang-ro, Cheongbuk-eup. 10:00-20:00. A quaint countryside cafe run by an elderly couple, offering excellent coffee and nostalgic vibes. ₩3,000-5,000.
- 4 Market Jin Yangho (마켓진양호 평택점), 477-17, Geyang-ro, Paengseong-eup. 11:00-22:00. Combining mid-century interiors with a unique American grocery-style ambiance. A hidden gem for Instagram-worthy photos. ₩5,000-8,000.
Sleep
[edit]| This guide uses the following price ranges for a standard double room: | |
| Budget | Under ￦60,000 |
| Mid-range | ￦60,000-100,000 |
| Splurge | Over ￦100,000 |
Accommodation in Pyeongtaek is relatively affordable by Gyeonggi-do standards. In the higher price brackets, demand can outstrip supply, especially during special events like the Pyeongtaek Port Festival or other large-scale gatherings, when most places may sell out. However, budget hotels and hostels remain reasonably priced and are generally available throughout the year.
Downtown Pyeongtaek or Songtan are great places to stay. These areas offer convenient transportation and are close to various restaurants and shopping malls, making it easy to get around.
In Pyeongtaek, accommodation rates often do not include VAT or service charges. Therefore, when budgeting for your stay, be sure to add around 10% on top of the listed price to account for these additional fees.
Budget
[edit]Backpackers' hostels can primarily be found in areas like Pyeongtaek City and Songtan. Prices for a dorm bed in these hostels typically range from ₩20,000–40,000. It’s important to read reviews carefully, as some of the cheapest options may have issues with cleanliness or maintenance.
Cheap motels are clustered around the Pyeongtaek Station area and Songtan district. These motels are often used by customers who rent rooms by the hour, but they also offer overnight stays. While rooms tend to be small and basic, they are usually clean and equipped with essentials such as a bathroom and television. Prices for these motels start as low as ₩30,000 for a few hours and around ₩60,000 for a full night’s stay. The three major budget chains found throughout Pyeongtaek are:
- 1 Brown Dot Pyeongtaek (브라운도트 평택점), 13, Pyeongtaek-ro 28beon-gil. ₩46,100-50,000.
- 2 Pyeongtaek Tiffany Hotel (티파니호텔), 18, Jayu-ro 8. Tiffany Hotel is about a 5-minute walk from Pyeongtaek Public Bus Terminal and about a 10-minute walk from Exit 1 of Pyeongtaek Station on Line 1. The accommodation is equipped with parking lots and offers wireless Internet service. Inside the modern interior, there are air conditioners, TVs, desktops, hairdryers, and coffee pots, and the bathrooms are equipped with bathroom supplies ₩38,000-50,000.
- 3 Pyeongtaek Muse (평택 뮤즈), 10-7, Jayu-ro 7-beon-gil. ₩33,000-41,000.
Mid-range
[edit]Most of the mid-range accommodation in Pyeongtaek consists of functional but somewhat featureless older hotels, with a notable cluster near Pyeongtaek Station and Songtan. "Boutique" hotels housed in renovated buildings or upscale motels offer fairly reasonable prices. Room rates for these hotels range from ₩60,000 to ₩100,000.
- 4 Homegarden Park (홈가든파크), 50-34, Paengseong-eup. Check-in: 16:00, check-out: 11:00. ₩92,000.
- 5 Daily Heaven Hotel (데일리헤븐호텔), 17, Pyeongtaek 28beon-gil. Check-in: 16:00, check-out: 13:00. ₩71,000.
- 6 Ktree pyeongtaek hotel (케이트리 호텔 평택), 3-10 Pyeongtaek Port 184beon-gil, Poseung-eup, ☏ +82 31-229-3600. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. Hotel where you can enjoy the beautiful Pyeongtaek Port through the glass window in the room ₩75,000.
Splurge
[edit]Pyeongtaek offers some of 4-star accommodations, especially around Songtan and Pyeongtaek Station, where several major hotels are located. For a 4-star hotel, you can generally expect rates starting at ₩100,000. Hotel prices fluctuate depending on demand, with rates rising during large conferences or events, while significant discounts may be available on weekends during off-peak seasons. The largest hotel clusters are near Pyeongtaek Station and Songtan, which are convenient for business and transportation. If you're looking for a quieter or more scenic stay, consider accommodations near rural tourist areas or lakeside parks around Pyeongtaek.
- 7 Tree house (트리하우스), 30-22 Masan-ri, Jinwi-myeon, ☏ +82 31-663-9900. Tree house is an hotel which is in a tree. So, Sleeping in here would be special memory. ₩350,000 (2-4 people).
- 8 World Tourist Hotel (월드관광호텔), 117, Gukje-ro, ☏ +82 31-667-5300. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. ₩125,000.
Connect
[edit]
Go next
[edit]- Seoul from the seaport: there is a bus stop in front of the terminal, 50 meters away. Take the bus #81 to Pyeongtaek Bus Terminal, which is the terminal for buses and trains. From then, take the line 1 subway to Seoul. Bus costs ₩1600 and takes 45-60 minutes, the subway to Seoul costs ₩2000 (+ ₩500 of deposit you get back at the exit, see Seoul#By subway) an takes at least 1 hr 30 min to reach Seoul Station.