Korean Job Discussion Forums

[is so delicious]

My girlfriend and I want to go somewhere this weekend. Maybe just a day trip, maybe overnight. I just badly need to swim in cold water. I grew up in the country, and this is probably what I miss most about it.

Anyway, I'm looking for a place not too far from Seoul, if possible. Just a lake or any place that seems somewhat natural (you know, without buildings around and swarms of people) and has at least chest-deep cold water to swim in. Anyone know any such place??

Thanks.

[Jane]

Take a second rub of the genie lamp, my chingu. Unfortunately, even a genie can't make your request possible in Korea, unless you are willing to swim with a billion Koreans fully dressed and complete with preservers and hair caps.

I know how you feel. Particularly in summer, I miss doing 'natural' activities that I used to do in my backyard back home. Swimming, sports, etc.

[is so delicious]

Damn... seriously, nothing? No lakes or rivers or mountain creeks??

[thrylos]

On national road 56, in northwest Kangwon's Hwacheon County, not too far from Kimhwa, between Sachan-ri and Sin-po there's an awesome river that caters to (almost white) water river-rafters and enough spots where the water's deliciously cool and over 5-6 meters deep that's perfect for swimming. Not too fast a current, deep, and most importantly, the only ones swimming in it. (OK, on weekends you get some folks for the BBQ and soju, all hidden away in the shade or the occasional fishing, but mostly quiet).

It's at the 36-km marker on road 56 from Chuncheon, heading north-west, or about 9-10 kms west/southwest from Sachan-ri. (Get a map)

About 5 kms downriver (towards Chuncheon), there's a place called Otan-2 (or 3)-ri and that's the place full of minbaks, drinking tents, tubes, and lifejackets in waist-high water. Further upstream is where the real fun is.

Either place will hit the spot, I think. About 90-100 mins from Seoul to Chuncheon. There's public transport out to the river, but I'm not sure where it goes (Chuncheon or Hwacheon). Your own wheels are preferable. Enjoy before it's too late.

[is so delicious]

Wow, really helpful. Thanks a lot, guys. I think I'll try that Korean class... I've been here almost two years now and feel kind of pathetic how little of the language I know (though somehow I get by).

Thanks again!

[mimis]

Ehm, wrong thread?

[is so delicious]

Ha... yeah, oops- I have a few different threads going right now- both pages are open on my computer.

Okay, getting back to the topic, that place in Thrylos' post sounds awesome. Anyone know how a bum without a car can get there? Are there many accommodations, or what time does the last bus come back to Seoul??

[thrylos]

[definitely maybe]