Lotte World Seoul 롯데월드: An Ultimate Guide For A Perfect Visit

Lotte World is the go-to place if you’re in Seoul with kids or looking for a fun day out. Located in the heart of Seoul, it’s one of Korea’s top entertainment spots. What makes it special is that you can have a great time, rain or shine, thanks to its indoor and outdoor areas. The indoor park is the world’s largest, and in this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before you go.

How to get to Lotte World

Address: 240, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 송파구 올림픽로 240

By Subway

Take the subway Line 2 or 8 to Jamsil Station, then take off at Exit 4. From there, walk by the directions with photos here. 

• From Myeongdong: Take Subway Line 4 from Myeongdong Station to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park. From there, switch to Subway Line 2 and go to Jamsil Station. Then, search for Exit 4 to get directly to Lotte World. Travel time is roughly 26 minutes.
• From Seoul Station: Take Subway Line 4 from Seoul to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station. Then you transfer to Subway Line 2 and go to Jamsil Station. Lotte World is readily accessible from Jamsil Station’s Exit 4. The travel takes about 30 minutes.
• From Hongdae: Take the Subway Line 2 from Hongik University Station to Jamsil Station. Then, you get to Exit 4, immediately connected to the theme park. The one-way ride takes roughly 38 minutes.

By Bus

If you’re in downtown Seoul, you can catch a bus to Lotte World. You can hop on one of these bus: Green Bus (3217, 3313, 3314, 3315, 3317, 3411, 3414, 4319), Express Bus (1007-1, 1100, 1700, 2000, 6900, 7007, 8001), Blue Bus (301, 341, 360, 362). If you come from Incheon International Airport, catch an airport bus number 6000, 6006, 6705, or 6706A.

By Taxi

If you’re unfamiliar with Seoul’s roads, taxis are a common mode of transportation. Wherever you are in downtown Seoul, simply flag down a car, and they will drive you there. Taxi costs in Korea are calculated using a base fee and the distance traveled. Taxis in Seoul cost 4,800 won (2.87) for the first 1.6 kilometers, followed by 100 won for each additional 131 meters.

Tips

• Before heading to Lotte World, download the Lotte World guide map. It helps you get familiar with the area, plan your visit, and make the most of your time. 
• Save time and money by purchasing your tickets online before your visit. You can often score discounts by booking ahead.
• The Magic Pass might be worth it if you plan many thrill rides. It grants you skip-the-line access to most rides.
• Lotte World has a variety of live shows and parades throughout the day. Catching a few can be a great way to break up your day and cool down.
• You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes that you can stand in all day.
• The park has plenty of food and drink options but is relatively expensive, so you can consider eating out or bringing your food. There is a picnic area beside the Giant Loop entrance. 
• Carrying luggage or shopping bags in the theme park is a hassle. If you have luggage, store it at a luggage storage service in the Jamsil subway station.
• Rent a Korean school uniform for memorable experiences and photo opportunities in Seoul!

About Lotte World Seoul

Operated by Lotte Group in 1989, Lotte World is a prime destination for entertainment and sightseeing, attracting both Koreans and international tourists. The theme park comprises the indoor Lotte World Adventure and the outdoor lakeside Magic Island, complemented by amenities like a shopping mall, folk museum, ice rink, hotel, and more.

Lotte World Adventure, the world’s only indoor theme park recognized by Guinness World Records, offers over 40 rides, including thrill rides, roller coasters, family-friendly attractions, and shows and parades. Magic Island, the outdoor amusement park, offers additional rides, water attractions, and a picturesque lake. Popular among locals and tourists, Lotte World provides a versatile and enjoyable experience for visitors, making it an ideal destination for a day or weekend retreat, catering to diverse interests in entertainment and leisure.

If you are visiting Seoul with your kids or want to see the breathtaking night scenery of Seoul, Lotte World, Aquarium, and Seoul Sky Observatory is the best place. When it rains, it’s a no-brainer to visit. Because Lotte World Theme Park is the largest indoor theme park in the world. You can enjoy an amusement park, observatory, aquarium, folk museum, shopping mall, restaurant, movie theater, and ice rink here in one place.

Things to do and best rides in Lotte World Seoul

The theme park is so vast that choosing which attractions to try first can be challenging. Here are some popular recommendations, but feel free to pick based on your interests.

Lotte World Adventure (indoor area)

French Revolution

The French Revolution ride is a thrilling adventure where you get to spin 360 and 540 degrees. With a towering height of 38 meters and a speed of up to 80 km/h, the train zips through buildings, making it feel like you’re about to crash into the walls. It’s an exciting and heart-pounding experience for those seeking a dose of adrenaline. If you do not utilize the Magic Pass, you must wait around two hours to play the game.

Viking (The Conquistador)

The Viking Ride is a well-known and popular attraction in amusement parks. Opting for the last seat is recommended for those seeking an exhilarating experience and the ultimate thrill! Participants must be at least 110 cm tall to join in the fun. Given its popularity, the Viking ride often attracts large crowds. However, if you have a magic pass, you can skip the long wait times and enjoy the excitement without delays.

Flume Ride

It’s a water ride where boats travel along elevated tracks, perfect for cooling off on hot summer days. If you prefer to stay dry, I recommend skipping this game. However, if you’re still eager to try it, choose a seat in the middle or at the back to minimize the chances of splashing and wetting your clothes!

Camelot Carousel

If you’ve loved movies like “My Love from the Star” or “Stairway to Heaven,” you might recognize the romantic carousel at Lotte World Park in Korea. It is a classic merry-go-round with numerous twists and turns, providing visitors with a captivating and thrilling experience. This is also a popular photography spot. Whether you take pictures during the day with sunlight or in the evening with surrounding lights, I’m sure your photos will be beautiful!

Enjoy a regular parade or show

The indoor campus hosts thrilling performances unique to Lotte World. The parades occurring at 2 pm on the 1st Floor of the Adventure area are a must-experience activity at Lotte World Korea. Depending on the time, the parades feature various themes such as masquerade, Christmas, Halloween, and more. At 8 pm, you can partake in the Let’s Dream night parade featuring vibrant lanterns, balloons, and spectacular fireworks. Check the calendar to catch these special shows!

Ice Skating Rink

Lotte World Ice Rink is a popular place for figure skating fans. It’s located on B3 of Lotte World and is open all year. The modern design inside goes well with the surroundings, making it a pleasant spot to enjoy with friends and family. Even though it’s underground, natural light comes in through the glass dome roof of Lotte World Adventure, making it feel like you’re skating outdoors. The rink is large, well-equipped, and suitable for skaters of all levels, from beginners to advanced.

• Entrance ticket: 13,000 won ($9.7) for adults and 11,000 won ($8.2) for children on weekdays | 15,000 won ($11.2) for adults and 13,000 won ($9.7) for children on weekends and holidays.
• Open hours: Week days – 11:00 ~ 20:50 | Weekends – 11:00 ~ 21:20

• Ice Cleaning Hours (Weekdays)
  • 12:50 ~ 13:30
  • 15:50 ~ 16:30
  • 19:50 ~ 20:30
• Ice Cleaning Hours (Weekends)
  • 12:50 ~ 13:30
  • 14:20 ~ 15:00
  • 15:50 ~ 16:30
  • 17:20 ~ 18:00

Tips

• Bring your gloves. Gloves are not included in the rental services; therefore, you must purchase them if you do not already have them. 
• Check the ice cleaning time below before visiting the Ice Rink (here); it takes 40 minutes. If you go to the ice rink on Saturday at 2 p.m., you may have to wait an hour to get in.

Lotte World Ice Rink + Skate Rental Price

Lotte World Folk Museum

The Lotte World Folk Museum is like a treasure in Lotte World Theme Park. Unlike other museums that show old artifacts, this one lets you experience the history of South Korea firsthand. Through detailed miniature models, it brings to life people’s experiences spanning over 5,000 years, covering the Paleolithic era to the Japanese colonial period. Particularly fascinating is the model village, featuring around 2,000 reduced-scale dolls portraying the diverse seasons, customs, and lifestyles during the Joseon Dynasty. It’s a unique and exciting way to learn about Korea’s past! Plus, it’s free if you have a Lotte World ticket!

• Open hours: 11:00-19:00 daily (Last admission 18:30) 
• Ticket price: Adults 5,000 won ($3.7) / Teenagers 3,000 won ($2.2) / Children 2,000 won ($1.5)

Magic Island (outdoor area)

Check-in at Magic Island castle

This spot is renowned as one of the iconic photography locations in Lotte World, offering a panoramic view of the castle in the background. Additionally, there is a stall nearby where you can capture memories with Polaroid photos. The cost is 4,000 won ($3) for one set of photos and 7,000 won ($5.2) for two photos.

Atlantis Adventure

This game offers an intense racing simulation with challenging twists, turns, and epic battles. The game uses advanced 3D simulation technology to immerse players in a lifelike experience enhanced by realistic sound and light effects.

Upon entering the Atlantis Adventure game, participants are elevated to a height of 60 meters, maneuvering through a dynamic and hazardous racetrack. As you ascend, you’ll encounter captivating scenes depicting the Atlantis empire and various thrilling challenges.

Gyro Swing

If you’re a fan of adventurous entertainment, don’t overlook the Gyro Swing at Lotte World. In this exhilarating game, you’ll sit in a chair, buckle up, and experience the chair lifting, rotating, and freely dropping from the air, creating a sensation like you’re soaring through the skies.

The Gyro Swing features a unique design, initiating with a slow rotation speed that gradually accelerates while tilting the chair, providing players with fear and heart-stopping excitement. It’s a must-try for those seeking a thrilling and unforgettable experience.

Bungee Drop

True to its name, the Bungee Drop ride at Lotte World drops players vertically from a height of hundreds of meters, reaching speeds of 90 km/h. With the capacity to accommodate up to 40 people per turn, you won’t face lengthy waits for your chance to experience the thrill. However, you must ensure you don’t have any heart or blood pressure issues before participating in this exhilarating ride.

Spin Tree 

This Ferris wheel ride revolves around a sizable tree, making it suitable for participants of all ages. To join in the fun, you must have a minimum height of 120 cm or more. If you prefer rides that are less heart-stopping but still exciting, this is an excellent choice for a more relaxed yet thrilling adventure.

Take a Moon Boat or UFO Boat

Seated on the boat, you’ll cruise around Seokchon Lake. You can enjoy it during the day and at night when the boat is adorned with various colors. The dock is on the right side of the Comet Express. 

• Ride time: 20 minutes
• Price: Moonboat(3 seats) 25,000 won ($18.8) | UFOboat (5 seats) 35,000 won ($26.3)

Nearby attractions

Lotte World Aquarium

Lotte World Aquarium is an enchanting spot with 55,000 sea creatures from 650 species. Nine aqua chambers, like Nature Zone, Tropical Rivers, Amazon River, Sealion Zone, and Polar Region Zone, are visually stunning for you to explore. 

Additionally, they’ve got 14 interesting programs for you and your kids to learn about nature. It’s a great chance to bond with your little one. If you’re keen on taking pictures, spend more time on the B2 floor. There are way more stunning photo backdrops and things to explore.  

Tip: Don’t spend too much time on the B1 floor because there are more photo spots on the B2 floor.

• Address: 300 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul (Inside Lotte World Mall)
• Open hours: 10:00 – 20:00 on weekdays | 10:00 – 22:00 on weekends
• Price: Adult – KRW 31,000 ($23.3) | Child – KRW 27,000 ($20.3)

Lotte World Tower & Seoul Sky

After visiting Lotte World, you can visit and shop at Lotte World Tower. This is the shopping center with the largest duty-free store and the tallest building in Korea.

Then, you can visit Seoul Sky at an altitude of 500m on the 117th ~ 122nd floor of the building. The observatory deck has two-story-high glass windows for a 360-degree view. The thrilling Seoul-sky observatory shows outstanding views of Seoul. 

• Address: 300 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul
• Open Hours: 10:30 – 22:00 daily (23:00 on Friday & Saturday)
• Ticket for Seoul Sky: KRW 25,500 ($19.1)

Songpa Naru Park (Seokchon Lake Park)

Songpa Naru Park, commonly called Seokchonhosu Lake, is a tranquil citizen park in Seoul that offers walking trails and a jogging course. The park is divided by Songpa-daero Boulevard, with two lakes on either side. Initially, a branch of the Hangang River created a single large lake, but the construction of Songpa-daero Boulevard divided it into two. Strolling along Seokchon Lake is a serene experience known for its serenity. The park is renowned for cherry blossoms in April but also holds its charm in winter.

• Address: 136 Samhaksa-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul | 서울특별시 송파구 삼학사로 136
• Open hours: 24/7

Things to keep in mind before visiting Lotte World Seoul

• Except for guide or service dogs, no pets are permitted.
• Camera tripods and alcoholic drinks are not permitted.
• Smoking is only permitted in designated smoking rooms.
• Wedding and commercial filming is strictly prohibited.
• Bringing dangerous items or weapons is banned.
• You can only eat lunch box meals in specified picnic areas.
• Respect the cast members.

In conclusion, whether you are a thrill-seeker, a family looking for wholesome fun, or a traveler eager to explore South Korea’s unique offerings, Lotte World caters to diverse interests, making it a cherished destination for entertainment and leisure. Plan your visit to Lotte World and embark on a journey of joy and excitement in the heart of Seoul.

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