Located in the eastern part of Gyeongsangbuk-do, Pohang was originally built as a center for the steel industry. However, its vibrant coastal charm has made it a popular destination for those looking for a Pohang day trip. Especially after the release of hit K-dramas like *Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha* and *When the Camellia Blooms*, the coastal areas of Pohang have exploded in popularity, becoming a dream destination for many drama fans.
This guide will take you through the highlights and itinerary planning for the city. If you are planning a Pohang day trip, be sure to save this post!
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Transportation from Seoul/Busan to Pohang
From Seoul: By KTX High-Speed Rail
The fastest way to reach Pohang from Seoul is by taking the KTX. Departing from Seoul Station, you can reach Pohang Station in approximately 2.5 hours. Once you arrive, you can transfer to a bus or taxi to reach the major attractions. Since landmarks like the Hands of Harmony at Homigot are quite far from the city center, larger groups might consider renting a car or taking a taxi.
From Busan: By Bus, Car, or Train
Traveling from Busan to Pohang takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Driving offers the most flexibility, allowing you to combine your trip with visits to Gyeongju or Ulsan. For public transport, you can take an express bus from Busan Central Bus Terminal to Pohang Intercity Bus Terminal, or take a Mugunghwa-ho train from Busan Station to Pohang Station. Note that train schedules are less frequent, so check in advance.
Local Transportation in Pohang
Main attractions such as Jukdo Market, Space Walk, and Yeongildae Park are concentrated within the city and can be easily reached by bus, taxi, or on foot. However, for more remote spots, renting a car or booking a private tour is highly recommended to save time on transfers and waiting.
Recommended Pohang Attractions
Homigot Sunrise Square (Hands of Harmony)
Homigot is the easternmost point of the Korean peninsula and a classic spot for watching the sunrise! Its most famous landmark is the “Hands of Harmony” bronze sculpture. One hand rises from the sea and the other from the land, symbolizing coexistence and harmony between people.
Space Walk
This art installation, designed by the German artistic duo Heike Mutter & Ulrich Genth, has become Pohang’s most iconic modern landmark. While it looks like a sky-high roller coaster, it is actually a walkable steel walkway. Visitors can climb the stairs to the top for a 360-degree view of the city and the East Sea. It offers different vibes during the day and night; I recommend arriving in the late afternoon to catch both the sunset and the night view—it is absolutely stunning!
From a distance, the steel structure looks very solid, but as you climb higher, you might feel a slight, thrilling sway from the wind. While it’s not too intense, those with a fear of heights might need a bit of courage! However, the railings are high and safe, so there is no need for concern.
Yeongildae Park
Yeongildae Park and Yeongildae Beach form a connected coastal area that serves as the most popular recreational spot in the city. Featuring wooden boardwalks, observation decks, cafes, and outdoor sculptures, it is a favorite for dates and walks. You can also view the Space Walk from a distance here. It’s a popular spot for photographers, especially at dusk when the sunset meets the sea in a romantic display.
Jukdo Market
It feels like every Korean city has its own landmark market! Jukdo Market is the largest traditional market in Pohang, offering an abundance of fresh seafood. You can find local delicacies like hoe (sashimi), spicy stir-fried octopus, and grilled eel. It is also a great place to browse small shops for dried goods and daily necessities, making it perfect for souvenirs and great food.
Guryongpo Japanese House Street
Guryongpo is a small fishing port town in southeastern Pohang. The Japanese House Street preserves a historical district where Japanese residents lived during the Joseon period. The streets are lined with low-rise, Japanese-style wooden buildings, some of which have been converted into exhibition halls, cafes, and craft shops. Stepping into this retro atmosphere feels like walking through a time tunnel. It is also a filming location for the famous drama “When the Camellia Blooms”, and you can still see posters and decorations related to the show today.
Recommended Itinerary for a Pohang Day Trip
| Time | Itinerary |
|---|---|
| Morning | Watch the sunrise at Homigot (Hands of Harmony) –> Walk by the sea at Yeongildae Park |
| Lunch | Enjoy local seafood at Jukdo Market |
| Afternoon | Explore Guryongpo Japanese House Street –> Experience the Space Walk |
| Dinner | Enjoy fresh Pohang seafood at a local restaurant |
That concludes our guide! I believe it is more convenient to drive yourself during a Pohang day trip because the attractions are quite spread out. However, if you cannot rent a car, many platforms offer one-day tours departing from Busan that cover most of the essential attractions, which is also a highly recommended option!
Check some hot tours in Busan:
📌 VISIT BUSAN PASS (24/48 Hours)：KKday｜Klook
📌 Busan Haeundae Blueline Park Beach Train / Sky Capsule：KKday｜Klook
📌 Busan Songdo Marine Cable Car Ticket：KKday｜Klook
📌 Sea Life Busan Aquarium Ticket：KKday｜Klook
📌 Busan City Tour Day Trip (Gamcheon Village, Taejongdae, etc.)：Klook
📌 Korea Unlimited Data SIM / eSIM：KKday｜Holafly
📌 Korea Rail Pass (KORAIL PASS)：Klook
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