Popular Aquariums & Zoos in COEX

Both the COEX Starfield Library and the Aquarium are located within the large COEX Mall, making them geographically close and easily accessible by foot. The Aquarium is typically found on the mall's underground floors, while the Starfield Library is in the central plaza area. After visiting the Aquarium, you can follow the mall's directional signs, pass through the shopping areas, and reach the library to experience a different cultural ambiance. Both are very popular highlights within the COEX complex and are recommended to be visited on the same day.

The COEX Aquarium is renowned for its unique exhibit designs and diverse range of species. While it doesn't feature traditional large animal performances, it hosts various feeding shows and educational talks, allowing visitors to observe marine life behavior up close, such as mermaid performances. Additionally, the aquarium features multiple themed zones like 'Fantasia World' and 'Amazon World,' which offer unique educational and entertainment experiences through immersive design and interactive installations, deepening visitors' understanding of marine ecosystems.

The COEX Aquarium boasts an excellent location in the heart of Seoul, with convenient transportation, making it ideal for combining with shopping or cultural attractions in the Gangnam district. Its distinctive features include modern design and themed exhibitions, such as creative displays where everyday objects like phone booths and refrigerators are transformed into fish tanks, along with a unique Korean-themed zone. The aquarium also emphasizes interactive experiences integrated with technology, showcasing a diverse array of freshwater and saltwater species. For travelers seeking an ocean exploration experience in the city center combined with a varied itinerary, the COEX Aquarium is an excellent choice.

For a more comfortable visiting experience, it's advisable to avoid weekends and South Korean national holidays. Weekday mornings around opening time (usually 10 AM) tend to have fewer visitors, allowing for a more serene atmosphere. Additionally, weekday evenings (2-3 hours before closing) are also good options, as many tour groups and student groups have usually departed by then. It's recommended to check the official website for daily operating hours before your visit and avoid school vacation periods when planning your trip.

You can book your tickets for the COEX Aquarium through various channels. Purchasing tickets on-site is the most straightforward method. However, to save time queuing and enjoy more convenient services, online booking is recommended. For instance, booking through platforms like KKday ensures immediate ticket confirmation and provides access to customer support in Chinese, along with flexible cancellation policies. This is particularly beneficial for travelers whose plans might change, as it alleviates language barriers and offers an extra layer of security.

For your first visit to the COEX Aquarium, it's recommended to follow the planned route from the entrance, exploring each themed zone sequentially to ensure you don't miss any fascinating exhibits. Generally, a complete visit takes about 2 to 3 hours. The aquarium is quite spacious, so wearing comfortable shoes is advised. If you're visiting with children, pay attention to the interactive zones and the feeding schedule. Furthermore, luggage storage services are available within the facility, which can be utilized for larger bags. After your visit, you can also explore COEX Mall to make your outing more comprehensive.

The COEX Aquarium is situated within the expansive COEX Mall, which itself is a rich destination for family leisure. Besides the aquarium, families can visit the COEX Starfield Library for reading enjoyment. The mall offers a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it convenient for dining and resting. Nearby, Bongeunsa Temple provides a tranquil cultural experience. Combining the aquarium visit with these surrounding facilities can create a more diverse and fulfilling family outing.

Being located inside the large COEX Mall, the COEX Aquarium offers a vast and diverse range of dining choices. The mall features multiple food courts serving various international cuisines, including Korean, Chinese, Japanese, and Western dishes, from casual meals to fine dining, catering to different tastes. Additionally, there are cafes and dessert shops within the mall, perfect for a short break. You can easily find suitable dining spots within the mall based on your preferences and available time, making it very convenient.

The recommended time for visiting the COEX Aquarium is approximately 2 to 3 hours. This duration is sufficient to thoroughly explore all the exhibits and participate in some interactive activities or feeding talks. If you are visiting with children or have a particular interest in marine life, you might spend longer. For a quicker overview, about 1.5 hours would allow you to walk through the entire aquarium. It's advisable to adjust the visiting time flexibly based on your level of engagement with the exhibits and the pace of your companions.

The most convenient and time-saving method to travel from Incheon International Airport to the COEX Aquarium is by taking the AREX Express train directly to Seoul Station, then transferring to Subway Line 2, and alighting at Samseong Station. Exits 5 and 6 of Samseong Station directly connect to COEX Mall. The total journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Airport buses are also a viable option, with several routes serving areas near COEX, but be mindful of traffic conditions.