Experience the Magic of Music: Six Must-Visit Places in Korea this March

The Korea Tourism Organization has released its recommended places to visit in March under the theme of "Travel with Music". Music has the power to move people's hearts, and it becomes even more magical in travel destinations. These recommended destinations offer romantic spaces that will leave visitors with memories as warm as the sunshine in spring, when everything is revitalized.

The six best places to visit in March are:

• 'HiKR Ground' in Jung-gu, Seoul, where you can feel like a K-pop star.
• 'Hwang In-yong Music Space Camerata' and 'Concino Concrete Concert' in Paju, Gyeonggi-do, where you can immerse themselves in listening to music.
• 'Kim Kwangseok-gil Street' and 'Heimat Music Hall' in Jung-gu, Daegu, where you can take a memorable musical trip.
• 'K-Pop Museum' in Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do, where you can travel back in time with music.
• 'Tongyeong Concert Hall' and 'Isang Yun Memorial' in Tongyeong, Gyeongsangnam-do, where you can experience the romance of the spring sea with classical melodies.
• 'Korea Trot Music Center' in Yeongam, Jeollanam-do, where you can enjoy Korean Trot.

While there is always room for change depending on local conditions, visitors are advised to check the details such as opening status, hours, accessibility options, and admission fees with the relevant local government website or tourist information center in advance. It is also recommended to inquire about any viewing or participation methods, such as online reservations or timed entries, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

HiKR Ground is a popular tourist destination located in Jung-gu, Seoul, and is managed by the Korea Tourism Organization. Visitors can enjoy a variety of Korean tourism experiences, including K-pop, drama, art, and festivals. The K-pop Ground on the second floor is a particular highlight, as visitors can listen to K-pop, dance, and take photos or videos in a space that looks like a music video stage. To make the most of their visit, visitors can take advantage of the regular docent programs held twice a day from Tuesday to Sunday. HiKR Ground is open year-round from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and admission is free.

In Paju, Gyeonggi-do, travelers can visit 'Hwang In-yong Music Space' and 'Concino Concrete Concert,' two music venues dedicated to providing a unique listening experience. Both spaces feature vintage audio systems with large theater speakers from the 1920s and 1930s by Western Electric and German Klangfilm, which add to the overall charm of the experience. Many visitors are drawn to these venues for their raw and authentic atmosphere.

Daegu, a city in South Korea, offers two unique music destinations for visitors. The first is 'Kim Kwangseok-gil Street,' named after a musician who played an important role in Korean music history. This street provides a chance to immerse oneself in the warmth of his legacy. The second is Heimat Music Hall, which has been in operation since 1957, spanning three generations. This hall was once a gathering spot for classical club members and has a charming retro atmosphere. It is open from noon to 9 p.m. every day of the week, and visitors can enjoy tea and refreshments for an admission fee of 8,000 won.

In Gyeongju, a city located in the southeastern province of Gyeongsangbuk-do, visitors can travel back in time with music at the Gyeongju K-Pop Museum. It is the first museum in Korea to gather 100 years of popular music, from folk music to K-pop, in one place. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays), and admission fees apply. Gyeongju is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage, known as the "museum without walls" due to its numerous historical sites and relics.

Tongyeong, a city in the southern province of Gyeongsangnam-do, provides visitors with a chance to enjoy classical music at the Tongyeong Concert Hall and Isang Yun Memorial. The concert hall sits by the sea, providing a romantic atmosphere perfect for enjoying classical melodies. Additionally, from March 31 to April 9, 2023, visitors can attend the Tongyeong International Music Festival. The festival honors Yun Yi-sang, a world-renowned composer from Tongyeong, and features performances by world-class musicians. Admission fees apply, and the concert hall is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day except for Mondays.

Finally, in Yeongam, a city located in the southwestern province of Jeollanam-do, visitors can enjoy Korean Trot at the Korea Trot Music Center, which opened in 2019. Trot is a genre of Korean music that originated in the early 1900s and became popular in the 1960s and 1970s. It features an upbeat tempo, repetitive rhythm, and distinct vocal inflections, and often incorporates elements of Korean folk music. Trot music has been reinterpreted in recent years and is now regaining popularity with younger generations. At the Korea Trot Music Center, visitors can learn about the history of Trot music, listen to live performances, learn the dance moves, and even experience a virtual Trot concert. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed on Mondays), and admission fees apply.

Music has a special way of creating unforgettable memories, and these six recommended destinations offer unique experiences for visitors to enjoy in March. While local conditions may vary, it's recommended that visitors check the relevant local government website or tourist information center for detailed information before traveling. Whether you're a fan of K-pop, classical music, or traditional Korean trot, these destinations offer a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty and magic of music. Come discover the captivating power of music in some of Korea's most beautiful destinations this spring.