How to Meet Locals & Make Friends in Cheongju, Korea, South

1. Cheongju International Folk Village

Experience traditional Korean life and meet locals in a recreated village.

Join monks for a spiritual experience and engage with locals at Korea's most significant Buddhist temple.

Meditation Classes: Learn mindfulness practices with Korean monks.
Temple Cuisine: Sample vegetarian temple food and learn traditional cooking methods.
Korean Buddhism: Discover the history and philosophy of Korean Buddhism.

Buy fresh produce and interact with friendly local farmers.

Local Produce: Experience a variety of Korean fruits, vegetables, and street food.
Cultural Exchange: Learn about the region's farming traditions from local farmers.
Community Atmosphere: Connect with locals and fellow travelers in a friendly market environment.

Explore Cheongju by bike and meet locals along the way.

Local Scenery: Cycle through beautiful landscapes, parks, and historic sites.
Bike Tours: Join guided tours to learn about Cheongju's history and culture.
Meeting Locals: Engage with locals at bike shops, cafes, or along your route.

Taste local craft beer and connect with fellow beer enthusiasts and brewers.

Craft Beer: Sample a variety of unique Korean craft beers.
Meeting Locals: Engage with local brewers, fellow travelers, and beer lovers.
Brewery Tours: Learn about the brewing process and the history of Korean beer.

Visit unique cafes to meet locals, students, and fellow travelers.

Coffee Culture: Experience the vibrant Korean coffee scene.
Meeting Locals: Connect with students, young professionals, and other café patrons.
Café Atmosphere: Relax in cozy cafes, themed cafés, or rooftop cafés.

Connect with students by visiting the local university and participating in campus activities.

Student Life: Experience student life in Korea through clubs, events, or festivals.
Cultural Exchange: Learn about Korean culture and share your own customs with students.
Language Practice: Practice your Korean or English skills with friendly students.

Attend performances and workshops to meet local artists and enthusiasts.

Performance Art: Experience contemporary Korean art, music, and dance.
Workshops: Learn traditional or modern Korean arts from local artists.
Community Atmosphere: Connect with fellow art enthusiasts and locals in a creative environment.

Practice your English skills while making friends with local English learners.

Language Exchange: Improve your Korean or English through friendly conversations.
Cultural Exchange: Learn about each other's cultures and customs.
Community Atmosphere: Join a friendly and welcoming community of English learners.

Meet locals by joining sports clubs such as soccer, basketball, or badminton.

Physical Activity: Stay active while socializing with locals.
Team Spirit: Build camaraderie and friendships through team sports.
Language Practice: Improve your Korean or English skills while playing sports.

Visit bustling night markets to sample street food, shop for unique items, and meet locals.

Foodie Experience: Taste local delicacies and Korean street food.
Shopping: Find unique souvenirs, clothes, or gifts.
Community Atmosphere: Connect with locals, vendors, and fellow travelers in a lively environment.

Participate in local festivals to immerse yourself in Korean culture and meet locals.

Cultural Immersion: Experience traditional Korean customs, music, and dance.
Community Atmosphere: Connect with locals, fellow travelers, and performers during the festivals.
Food and Drink: Sample traditional Korean food and drink during the festivities.

Stay overnight at a local temple to engage with monks and experience Korean Buddhism.

Spiritual Connection: Deepen your understanding of Korean Buddhism through meditation, lectures, and rituals.
Cultural Exchange: Learn about local customs, traditions, and folklore.
Community Atmosphere: Connect with fellow travelers and locals in a peaceful temple setting.

Make a positive impact while connecting with locals through volunteer work.

Community Service: Help out at local schools, temples, or community centers.
Cultural Exchange: Learn about Korean culture and customs while serving the community.
Friendships: Connect with locals, fellow volunteers, and students through shared experiences.

Practice your Korean or English skills while making friends with locals and fellow travelers.

Language Practice: Improve your Korean or English through friendly conversations.
Cultural Exchange: Learn about each other's cultures and customs.
Community Atmosphere: Join a friendly and welcoming community of language learners.