Introduction

If you are planning a trip to Seoul, you’ve likely asked yourself: "Is the Discover Seoul Pass (DSP) actually worth the money?" With options ranging from the 72-hour pass to the currently trending "Pick 3 Pass," the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming. As a Seoul local, I’ve seen many travelers rushing from one spot to another just to break even on the pass. However, the secret to mastering this pass isn't visiting every location—it’s about strategically selecting the high-value attractions within each group.

If you are new to the Discover Seoul Pass, I recommend reading my introductory guide first:

[Introduction to Discover Seoul Pass]

In this post, I will break down 10 attractions from Group C (out of 38 total), provide updated 2026 pricing, and share my personal recommendations to make your Seoul adventure truly perfect.

To see a detailed breakdown of which attractions are in each group, their original prices, and local recommendations (including whether it's just an entry ticket or includes experience programs), please refer to the following guides:

[Discover Seoul Pass Group A: Details, Prices, and Local Tips]

[Discover Seoul Pass Group B: Details, Prices, and Local Tips]

[Discover Seoul Pass Group C: Details, Prices, and Local Tips #2]

[Discover Seoul Pass Group C: Details, Prices, and Local Tips #3]

[Discover Seoul Pass Group C: Details, Prices, and Local Tips #4]

[Discover Seoul Pass Group T (Lotte World): Details, Prices, and Local Tips]

[Discover Seoul Pass Group T (Everland): Details, Prices, and Local Tips]

[Discover Seoul Pass Group T (Seoul Land): Details, Prices, and Local Tip]]

(Using the Discover Seoul Pass to explore the historic Bukchon Hanok Village with a stunning view of Namsan.)

---

Table of Contents

1. Gahoe Museum
2. Gangneung Royal Tomb
3. Gyeomjae Jeong Seon Art Museum
4. Gyeongbokgung Palace
5. National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) Seoul
6. Deoksugung Palace
7. Ttareungyi (Seoul Public Bike)
8. Mokdong Ice Rink
9. Museum Kimchikan
10. Bukchon Museum
11. Personal Recommendations
12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

---

1. Gahoe Museum

Gahoe Museum is a specialized folk painting museum established to research and exhibit folk paintings and talismans (amulets) collected personally by the director, aiming to preserve the identity and uniqueness of traditional culture. Starting with a special exhibition in 2002, it has held various exhibitions of Joseon Dynasty folk paintings, talismans, and Shamanistic paintings. It plays a role in promoting the excellence of traditional folk art and the artistic merit of modern folk art by hosting special exhibitions of modern folk painters. Some special invitational exhibitions are also held at the Insa Art Center in Insadong, Seoul.

(Admiring the sophisticated ink wash paintings on traditional folding screens at Gahoe Museum.)

• DSP Benefit: Includes a free 1-person admission ticket and a craft experience program for making a lotus-patterned coaster.
• Operating Season: Closed every Monday.
• Operating Hours: 10:00 to 18:00 (Last entry 17:20 / Experience program 17:00).
• Standard Price for 1 Adult Entry: 5,000 KRW.
• Standard Price for Program Participation: 10,000 KRW.

2. Gangneung Royal Tomb

Gangneung is a twin tomb of King Myeongjong, the 13th monarch of the Joseon Dynasty, and Queen In-sun of the Shim clan, located in Nowon-gu, Seoul. To the west of Gangneung lies Taereung, the tomb of Queen Munjeong, King Myeongjong’s mother. Together, the two tomb areas are called Taegangneung and have been designated as a Historic Site. In 1966, the Taereung National Training Center, which trains Korea's national athletes, was built between Gangneung and Taereung, occupying much of the area. However, after being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2009, the training center is being relocated, and the tomb grounds are being restored. Taereung and Gangneung are connected, so you can visit both locations with a single ticket.

(A breathtaking drone shot of the Gangneung Royal Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site from the Joseon Dynasty.)

• DSP Benefit: Includes a free 1-person admission ticket for an adult.
• Operating Season: Closed every Monday.
• Operating Hours: 06:00 to 18:00 (Last entry 17:00).
• Standard Price for 1 Person Entry: 1,000 KRW.

3. Gyeomjae Jeong Seon Art Museum

The Gyeomjae Jeong Seon Art Museum is a district museum established by Gangseo-gu, Seoul. it collects, preserves, exhibits, and researches the authentic original works of Gyeomjae Jeong Seon, a painter from the late Joseon Dynasty, for public viewing. Gyeomjae Jeong Seon is a vital figure in the history of Korean painting. Previously, landscape paintings were modeled after ideal Chinese landscapes, but Jeong Seon is said to have personally visited mountains and rivers to capture actual Korean scenery on his canvas. In particular, "Jingyeong Sansuhwa" (True-View Landscape Painting) is highly valued for realistically representing the topography of the Korean Peninsula during the Joseon Dynasty, leaving behind a record of Joseon as it truly was. The museum's scale is not large, but it offers a neat and quiet atmosphere.

(Viewing the authentic Korean landscape masterpieces by Gyeomjae Jeong Seon at his dedicated art museum.)

• DSP Benefit: Includes a 1-person admission ticket for an adult.
• Operating Season: Closed every Monday.
• Operating Hours: 10:00 to 17:00 (Last entry 16:30).
• Standard Admission Ticket Price: 1,000 KRW.

4. Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace was the center of Hanyang (the capital of Joseon) and the primary legal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Buildings were arranged across a wide terrain with Mt. Bukaksan as the main backdrop, and the wide Yukjo-geori (Street of Six Ministries) unfolded in front of Gwanghwamun, the main gate. It was built in 1392 and was destroyed 200 years later in 1592 during the Imjin War with Japan. It was rebuilt in 1867, 270 years after its destruction. Following the Japanese invasion in 1910, it began to be systematically damaged; the Japanese General-Government Building was constructed inside Gyeongbokgung to obstruct the view. After liberation in 1945, it was maintained for a long time until restoration work began in 1990, leading to its current state. Notably, BTS's recent comeback performance, which started at Geunjeongjeon Hall and moved toward Gwanghwamun, was praised for harmonizing tradition and modernity. It has also long been a popular trend to rent a Hanbok from nearby shops and take photos at Gyeongbokgung, which boasts beautiful scenery.

(The magnificent Gyeonghoeru Pavilion at Gyeongbokgung Palace, beautifully reflected on the pond in autumn.)

• DSP Benefit: Includes a 1-person admission ticket for an adult.
• Operating Season: Closed only on January 1st, Seollal (Lunar New Year), and Chuseok.
• Operating Hours: 10:00 to 18:00 (However, it is open for night viewing on Wednesdays and Saturdays, which is free of charge).
• Standard Admission Fee: 3,000 KRW.
• (Those wearing a Hanbok are admitted for free.)

5. National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) Seoul

The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) is Korea's representative national art museum under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. It collects, preserves, exhibits, and researches modern and contemporary artworks on a national level, promoting international exchange and artistic activities. Currently, the Seoul branch is exhibiting Damian Hirst's controversial exhibition (until June 28, 2026), the MMCA Permanent Collection "Highlights of Korean Modern Art" (until May 31, 2026), and "Poetics of Extinction: On Fading Art" (until May 3, 2026). Notably, it offers the "Journey Tour" program in English. This 30-minute program involves viewing major works with a guide, listening to commentary, and having a conversation. It is held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 13:00 and 14:30.

(Information for the free English guided tours at MMCA Seoul, available for international art enthusiasts.)

• DSP Benefit: Includes a 1-person integrated admission ticket for an adult.
• Operating Season: Closed every Monday.
• Operating Hours: 10:00 to 18:00 (Open until 21:00 for night viewing every Wednesday and Saturday).
• Standard Admission Ticket Price: Each exhibition is priced separately, but the integrated ticket provided by DSP is 10,000 KRW.

6. Deoksugung Palace

Deoksugung Palace served briefly as the imperial palace of the Korean Empire between the Joseon Dynasty and the modern Republic of Korea. It was originally built much earlier as a private residence for Grand Prince Wolsan, the older brother of King Seongjong, the 9th monarch of Joseon. During the Imjin War in 1592, when all the palaces in the capital were destroyed, it was used as a temporary palace. In 1611, it became an official palace under the name Gyeongungung, but when Changdeokgung was built next to Gyeongbokgung, it remained a secondary palace rather than an official one. Later, with the proclamation of the Korean Empire in 1897, it was used as the imperial palace. However, following the Japanese invasion, the Emperor of the Korean Empire was forced to abdicate, and the palace's name was changed to Deoksugung. Among the Joseon-era palaces, it is the only one where Western-style buildings and traditional architecture harmonize. Therefore, it feels familiar even to Westerners, and its well-maintained landscaping makes it a popular walking course for nearby office workers after lunch.

(The unique architectural blend of traditional Korean and Western styles at Deoksugung Palace during twilight.)

• DSP Benefit: Includes a 1-person admission fee for Deoksugung Palace.
• Operating Season: Closed every Monday (If a public holiday falls on Monday, it is closed the following day).
• Operating Hours: 09:00 to 21:00 (Last entry 20:00).
• Standard Admission Ticket Price: 1,000 KRW.

7. Ttareungyi (Seoul Public Bike)

Ttareungyi is the name of the shared bicycle system operated by Seoul City. With stations densely located throughout all areas of Seoul, it allows users to rent a bike, move, and return it to any station. It is loved as a "last-mile" transportation method for Seoul citizens. You can also ride along the well-built bicycle paths by the Han River to enjoy the night view or use it to travel between nearby tourist attractions in the city center. Some foreigners have suggested registering for a pass using the DSP because payment errors often occur with foreign credit cards on the dedicated Ttareungyi app. However, as a Seoul local, I absolutely do not recommend this.

(Conveniently exploring the city using Seoul's public bike-sharing system, Ttareungyi, available at many stations.)

• DSP Benefit: Includes a 24-hour usage pass.
• Operating Season: Open year-round.
• Operating Hours: 24/7.
• Standard Price for 24-hour Pass: 5,000 KRW.

8. Mokdong Ice Rink

Mokdong Ice Rink is the center of Seoul's recreational sports, filled with the sweat of countless Korean skaters and precious memories of citizens. Opened in 1989, it serves as a training ground for promising young skaters boasting the best skills in the Seoul area. It is operated with separate ground and underground rinks. The ground rink is an international ice hockey standard rink with safety fences installed on the perimeter.

(Enjoying a recreational skating session at the famous Mokdong Ice Rink, a popular winter sports venue.)

• DSP Benefit: Includes an admission ticket to use the ground rink and fees for renting skates and a helmet.
• Operating Season: Closed only on the day of Seollal and Chuseok.
• Operating Hours: Mon-Fri 14:10 to 18:00 / Sat-Sun and Public Holidays: 12:10 to 18:00.
• Standard Price for 1 Adult Entry: Mon-Fri 4,000 KRW / Sat-Sun and Holidays: 5,200 KRW.
• Skate Rental Fee: 4,000 KRW for the first 2 hours / 1,000 KRW per additional hour.

9. Museum Kimchikan

Museum Kimchikan is Korea’s first Kimchi museum. It became widely known as an authoritative museum promoting Kimchi to the world after Health Magazine (USA) selected Kimchi as one of the world's top five health foods in 2006, and the BBC and CNN introduced the museum. Additionally, the unique Korean culture of "Kimjang" (Kimchi making) was designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, and CNN selected it as one of the world's 11 best food museums, making it already a popular spot for foreign tourists. Great care is taken regarding accessibility for foreigners; audio guides are provided in English via QR codes for self-guided listening (earphones required). While they operate a free experience program called "Foreigner Kimchi School," unfortunately, individuals cannot participate; it is only available for groups of 16 or more. Paid programs are available for individuals. These are 1-hour courses held every Tuesday to Friday at 10:00 and 14:00, with a separate participation fee of 40,000 KRW per adult.

(Learning about the diverse world of Kimchi through the extensive collection displayed at Museum Kimchikan.)

• DSP Benefit: Includes a 1-person admission fee.
• Operating Season: Closed every Monday / January 1st / 3 days of Seollal and Chuseok holidays / December 25th.
• Operating Hours: 10:00 to 18:00 (Last entry 17:30).
• Standard Admission Fee: 5,000 KRW.

10. Bukchon Museum

Bukchon Museum is a space that re-examines "Korean traditional culture as a holistic aura of life" through exhibitions of ancient art, as well as modern art and crafts where traditional values are newly interpreted and reproduced. It is located in Bukchon, a popular tourist destination for foreigners. This site was originally built on the home of Son Byeong-hui, a leader of Cheondoism and an independence activist during the late Joseon Dynasty. Though not large, the museum offers views of ancient art as well as modern art and crafts where traditional values are reimagined. You can also view paintings such as landscape paintings, Shipjangsaeng (ten symbols of longevity), and Mureung-dowon (Peach Blossom Spring). The museum’s small scale makes it perfect for a quick visit, and the displayed traditional furniture creates a tranquil atmosphere.

(A detailed recreation of traditional Korean living spaces and elite culture at the Bukchon Museum.)

• DSP Benefit: Includes a 1-person admission ticket.
• Operating Season: Closed every Sunday and Monday.
• Operating Hours: 10:00 to 18:00.
• Standard Price for 1 Person Entry: 3,000 KRW.

---

11. Personal Recommendations

Honestly, I suspect the controversy over the effectiveness of the Discover Seoul Pass stems from this very Group C.

• I strongly recommend visiting at least one of Seoul's five major palaces. However, to the question, "Should I go while using the Group C pass?" my answer is: I don't really recommend it. As explained above, entry to Gyeongbokgung is free if you wear a Hanbok, and admission to other palaces is only about 1,000 to 3,000 KRW. Therefore, I recommend either free entry or paying for a regular ticket rather than using up your pass.
• I also don't really recommend Ttareungyi. In reality, due to the weight and performance of the bikes, there is no need to use them all day. Furthermore, at stations near tourist attractions, it's very common to find them completely empty as other users have already rented them. While Seoul City hires staff for redistribution, it is often insufficient due to the sheer number of users.
• Mokdong Ice Rink is a bit far from central Seoul, so I don't really recommend it.
• If you are an art lover, I recommend the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA). However, if you are visiting Seoul for a limited time to enjoy things unique to Seoul or Korea, I don't strongly recommend it.
• I do recommend Museum Kimchikan. Although Kimchi has become very famous, there are still many more foreigners who have never experienced it. I am certain that seeing the manufacturing or fermentation process of Kimchi firsthand will foster an appreciation for it.
• As for other museums and art galleries, I don't particularly recommend them considering their scale and exhibition sizes.

12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Is the Discover Seoul Pass really worth it for Group C attractions?

A. It depends. For high-value experiences like the Museum Kimchikan or MMCA integrated tickets, it's beneficial. However, for palaces with low entry fees (1,000–3,000 KRW), paying separately or wearing a Hanbok for free entry might be more cost-effective.

Q. Can I use the Ttareungyi (Seoul Public Bike) for 24 hours straight?

A. Yes, the pass provides 24-hour access, but as a local, I recommend checking bike availability at popular tourist spots in advance, as stations can often be empty.

Q. Does the free entry for Gyeongbokgung Palace with a Hanbok apply to Group C benefits?

A. No, Hanbok entry is a general palace policy. While the Discover Seoul Pass covers the 3,000 KRW admission fee for Group C, wearing a Hanbok already grants free access regardless of the pass.

---

Image Source: Official Websites of Respective Institutions, Seoul Tourism Organization Archive