Muju Voyage Tips and guide

Muju is a small town in the North Jeolla province, in South Korea. Muju is known for their annual Firefly Festival, as well as skiing, at nearby Muju Resort.

Muju is in the Sobaek Mountains in the center of South Korea. While Muju is infrequently visited for most of the year, the Firefly Festival invites thousands of tourists, primarily from within South Korea. Beyond the festival, Muju is famous within South Korea for the lively taekwondo scene.

Muju’s past is defined by its role as a geographical and cultural bridge. During the Three Kingdoms period, the district was divided by the Sobaek Mountains: the eastern area (Mupung) belonged to Silla, while the western area (Jugye) was part of Baekje. These two distinct territories were unified in 1414 during the Joseon Dynasty, combining the first characters of their names to create "Muju."

For centuries, Muju served as a vital transitional ground for cultural exchange between the eastern and western provinces of the southern peninsula. Its rugged terrain also made it a strategic refuge; the Jeoksangsanseong Fortress on Mt. Jeoksang was used as a safe haven for the Royal Archives of the Joseon Dynasty. In the late 20th century, Muju transformed from a secluded agricultural county into a global center for sports and culture, famously hosting the 1997 Winter Universiade and establishing itself as the spiritual home of Taekwondo with the opening of the National Taekwondo Park.

Muju experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Due to its inland location and high elevation within the Sobaek Mountains, it is significantly cooler than the surrounding plains, making it a popular year-round getaway.

• Spring & Autumn: These are the most comfortable times to visit. May and October offer clear blue skies and crisp air, ideal for hiking Mt. Deogyusan or witnessing the vibrant autumn foliage on Mt. Jeoksang.
• Summer (Jun–Aug): Summers are hot and humid. July and August see the heaviest rainfall due to the monsoon season. Despite the humidity, Muju's mountain streams remain a favorite spot for locals to escape the heat.
• Winter (Dec–Feb): Winters are cold and dry with frequent snowfall. This weather is essential for the region's thriving winter sports scene, particularly at the Deogyusan Ski Resort, where snow-covered peaks create a stunning "silver world."

36°0′22″N 127°39′36″E

Map of Muju

Muju is located in a mountainous region in the center of the peninsula. While there is no direct rail service to the county, it is well-connected by an extensive network of intercity buses and expressways.

Muju can be reached by bus from Jeonju, Daejeon, Seoul, and many other smaller, nearby cities. The Muju Intercity Bus Terminal in Muju-eup is the primary gateway for visitors.

• 36.0065127.66051 Muju Intercity Bus Terminal (무주공용버스터미널), 7, Dangsan-gil, Muju-eup. Direct buses run from Seoul Nambu Terminal (approx. 2.5 hours, 5 times daily) and Daejeon Terminal Complex (approx. 1 hour, runs hourly). There are also frequent services from Jeonju (about 1.5 hours).  (updated Dec 2025)

• To the Resort: If your destination is the ski resort or Deogyusan National Park, some buses from Daejeon or Jeonju continue to the Gucheon-dong Terminal (near the resort entrance). Check the destination sign carefully.

There are no train stations within Muju. The most common way to arrive by rail is to take a train to a nearby city and transfer to a bus.

• Via Yeongdong Station (영동역): This is the closest station to Muju. Take a Mugunghwa or ITX-Saemaeul train to Yeongdong. From there, local buses to Muju-eup run frequently (approx. 40 minutes).
• Via Daejeon Station (대전역): Take the KTX or SRT to Daejeon Station. From the station, you must take a city bus or taxi to the Daejeon Terminal Complex (about 15-20 minutes away) to catch an intercity bus to Muju.

Using Highway 35, Muju can be reached in as little as 45 minutes from Daejeon, or just over an hour from Jeonju (Highway 20 to Highway 35).

• From Seoul: Take the Gyeongbu Expressway and transition to Highway 35 at the Daejeon Junction. Exit at the Muju IC. The drive takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
• From Jeonju: Take Highway 20 (Iksan-Pohang Expressway) and transition to Highway 35. The journey takes approximately 1 hour.

During the winter ski season, Muju Deogyusan Resort operates dedicated shuttle buses from major cities.

• From Seoul: Shuttles typically depart from Jamsil Station (Line 2/8) or Sports Complex Station (Line 2/9). Pre-booking via the resort's official website or a travel agency is essential.
• From Busan/Daegu: Seasonal shuttles are operated by private tour companies. Check with the resort or local tour operators for the latest schedules and pick-up points.

Any location within the town of Muju can easily be reached by a short walk. Nearby attractions (such as the ski resort, Bandi Land, Mt. Jeoksang, etc) are easily accessed via taxi (fares start at ₩2300).

While the town center is walkable, Muju also could be a destination for serious hikers.

• Gucheon-dong Valley Trail: A gentle 7km trekking path that leads from the Gucheon-dong parking lot to the Baekryeonsa Temple. It is well-marked and relatively flat, suitable for casual walkers.
• Deogyusan Peak Trail: For a more intense experience, hikers can trek from Baekryeonsa to the summit (Hyangrobong). Alternatively, you can take the Tourist Gondola from the resort to Seolcheonbong and walk the final 20 minutes to the peak on a wooden boardwalk.
• Jeoksangsan Trails: Several paths lead to the Jeoksangsanseong Fortress and Anguksa Temple, providing a mix of historical sites and natural scenery.

Cycling is popular along the scenic riverside paths, though the terrain becomes extremely challenging as you move toward the national park.

• Namdaecheon Path: A well-paved bicycle and pedestrian path runs along the Namdae-cheon Stream in Muju-eup, offering a peaceful route for a short ride.
• Road cycling: The road leading up to Mt. Jeoksang is a famous "HC" (Hors Catégorie) climb for experienced road cyclists, known for its steep gradients and breathtaking views.

Taxis are readily available at the Muju-eup terminal and near the entrance of Deogyusan Resort.

• Muju Call Taxi: While KakaoT works in the town center, calling a local dispatcher is often more effective in the mountain valleys.
• Fares: Taxis operate on a meter, but long-distance trips (e.g., from Muju-eup to the resort) may sometimes be subject to a fixed regional rate. Always confirm the estimated fare before starting your journey.

The local bus system, known as the Muju-jin Bus, is the primary mode of transport for residents and budget travelers.

• Hubs: Most local routes originate from the Muju Intercity Bus Terminal and connect to the six townships (myeons).
• Routes to Gucheon-dong: Buses running from Muju-eup to the Gucheon-dong Valley (the gateway to Deogyusan National Park) are the most frequent, typically running every 20–30 minutes.
• Fares: A flat fare system is generally used within the county, and T-money or other Korean transportation cards are widely accepted.

If you are visiting for winter sports or staying at the resort, the dedicated shuttle system is the most convenient option.

• Resort shuttle: Muju Deogyusan Resort operates a free shuttle bus that circulates between the Muju-eup terminal and the resort complex during the peak ski season. This is the easiest way to bridge the gap between the intercity bus arrival point and the ski slopes.
• Internal shuttles: Within the resort, smaller shuttles run between the various hotel buildings (Tirol, Kookmin Hotel) and the Manseon/Seolcheon base areas.

There are a wide variety of trails that lead directly out of the city into the nearby mountains. Some of these are not clearly marked, so ask a local or do some exploring.

• Firefly Bridge. Located in the center of town, the bridge is decorated with colored tiles, artistic renditions of fireflies, and is covered by lights that change color. Unfortunately, predicting when the bridge will be lit is next to impossible, as it is solar powered and will only light up when the capacitors have charged (during special events, however, the bridge will always be lit). Free. 
• 35.8601127.74711 Deogyusan National Park (덕유산국립공원), 159, Gucheondong 1-ro, Seolcheon-myeon. One of Korea's most beautiful national parks, famous for its high peaks and diverse flora. The highest peak, Hyangrobong (1,614m), can be reached via a scenic hike or a tourist gondola from the resort. It is particularly stunning in winter when the trees are covered in hoarfrost.  (updated Dec 2025)

• 35.9055127.77122 Gucheon-dong Valley (구천동계곡), 159, Gucheondong 1-ro, Seolcheon-myeon. A 28-km-long valley stretching from Seolcheon-myeon to the foot of Mt. Deogyusan. It is famous for the "33 Scenic Spots of Gucheon-dong," including various waterfalls, strangely shaped rocks, and deep pools nestled in a lush forest.  (updated Dec 2025)

• 35.9145127.66253 Mt. Jeoksang (적상산), Sanseong-ro, Jeoksang-myeon. The mountain is open all the time, but the road to reach the top is quite steep, and may be impassable at rare times during the winter. At the summit, there's an enormous reservoir used to power the city and a Buddhist temple. Free.  (updated Dec 2025)

• 35.922127.66454 Cheonillyeo Falls (천일폭포), Sanseong-ro, Jeoksang-myeon. A hidden waterfall on the slopes of Mt. Jeoksang. The name implies that the waterfall is "so high it touches the sky," and it provides a cooling mist and a refreshing view for those driving up the mountain road.  (updated Dec 2025)

• 35.9348127.70285 Taekwondo Park (국립태권도원), 1482, Museol-ro, Seolcheon-myeon. Tu-Su 10:00-18:00. The park is in area covering 2.3 million m² and includes a Taekwondo Stadium, Exhibition Hall, Experience Hall and Accommodations. An observatory in the site of Taekwondo Park in Seolcheon-myeon, Muju-gun, draws Taekwondo lovers and tourists from around the world. Adult ₩4000, youth ₩3500, child ₩3000.  (updated May 2019)
• 35.9085127.65886 Anguksa Temple (안국사), 667, Sanseong-ro, Jeoksang-myeon. A peaceful temple located near the summit of Mt. Jeoksang. It was built to protect the royal archives of the Joseon Dynasty stored nearby. The temple offers a quiet atmosphere and great views of the mountain ridges.  (updated Dec 2025)
• 35.8755127.76557 Baekryeonsa Temple (백련사), 1011, Gucheondong-ro, Seolcheon-myeon. The gateway temple to the summit of Mt. Deogyusan. The walk from the park entrance to this temple is a gentle trekking course along the stream. The white lotuses (Baekryeon) that gave the temple its name are its symbolic feature.  (updated Dec 2025)
• 35.9125127.6618 Jeoksangsanseong Fortress (적상산성), San 110, Buk-ri, Jeoksang-myeon. A stone mountain fortress built during the Goryeo period. It was strategically important for guarding the Sagak (Royal Archives). Most of the fortress walls have been restored, allowing visitors to walk along parts of the historical defense line.  (updated Dec 2025)
• 36.0105127.66229 Muju Hyanggyo (무주향교), 10, Hyanggyo-ro, Muju-eup. A local Confucian school established during the Joseon Dynasty. The traditional architecture is well-preserved, including the Daemyeong-ru gate and the main hall where ancestral rites were performed.  (updated Dec 2025)

• 35.9678127.712610 Bandi Land (반디랜드), 1324, Museol-ro, Seolcheon-myeon. An eco-cultural park dedicated to fireflies (Bandi), which are a symbol of Muju's clean environment. The complex includes an insect museum, an astronomical observatory, and an ecological aquarium.  (updated Dec 2025)
• 35.9675127.71211 Muju Insect Museum (무주곤충박물관), 1324, Museol-ro, Seolcheon-myeon. Part of Bandi Land, this museum houses thousands of insect specimens from around the world. It features a 3D theater and a greenhouse with tropical plants, making it a favorite for families with children.  (updated Dec 2025)
• 35.9388127.653512 Muju Meoru Wine Cave (무주 머루와인동굴), 359, Sanseong-ro, Jeoksang-myeon. A tunnel that was built for a hydroelectric power plant has been repurposed as a wine cellar. It stays naturally cool year-round and is used to age and sell wine made from local "Meoru" (wild grapes). Visitors can enjoy wine tasting and foot baths.  (updated Dec 2025)

Muju is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities that range from adrenaline-pumping winter sports to peaceful ecological festivals.

• Hike a nearby mountain. Although virtually all of the nearby mountains have trails crisscrossing them, Mt. Jeoksang and Mt. Deokyu are famous for their trails and various traditional Buddhist attractions along the way. Free entry.

• 35.9348127.70281 Taekwondo Performance and Training at Taekwondowon (태권도원 시범공연 및 체험), 71, Museol-ro, Seolcheon-myeon. Watch professional Taekwondo demonstrations at the T1 Arena or participate in a basic training program. Visitors can learn fundamental kicks and forms under the guidance of certified masters.  (updated Dec 2025)
• 36.0095127.66312 Muju Mountain Film Festival (무주산골영화제), 326, Hanpungnu-ro, Muju-eup. Early June (5 days). Known as a "healing" film festival, this unique event features outdoor screenings of independent, classic, and international films in a relaxed mountain setting. It emphasizes a "slow" culture, where visitors can enjoy movies while camping or sitting on the grass under the stars. The festival also hosts various live music performances and talk sessions with filmmakers.  (updated Dec 2025)
• 35.8906127.73713 Skiing and snowboarding at Muju Deogyusan Resort (무주덕유산리조트 스키장), 185, Manseon-ro, Seolcheon-myeon. One of the most famous ski resorts in Korea. It features the "Silk Road" slope, which is the longest in the country (6.1km), and the "Raiders" slope, known for its steep incline. Equipment rental and lessons are available for all skill levels.  (updated Dec 2025)
• 36.0095127.66314 Muju Firefly Festival (무주 반딧불축제), 326, Hanpungnu-ro, Muju-eup (Main Venue). Late August to early September. A representative eco-friendly festival in Korea dedicated to fireflies, a natural monument and symbol of a clean environment. The festival offers firefly exploration tours, traditional performances, and a "falling fire" (Nakhwa-nori) show over the river.  (updated Dec 2025)
• 35.8906127.73715 Ride the Tourist Gondola, 185, Manseon-ro, Seolcheon-myeon. Take a 15-minute gondola ride from the resort base to Seolcheonbong Peak (1,520m). From there, it is a gentle 20-minute walk on a wooden boardwalk to Hyangrobong, the highest peak of Mt. Deogyusan. It is especially popular in winter for viewing frost-covered trees.  (updated Dec 2025)
• 35.9678127.71266 Stargazing at Bandi Observatory (반디별천문과학관), 1324, Museol-ro, Seolcheon-myeon. Located within Bandi Land, this observatory features high-powered telescopes to observe planets, stars, and nebulae. It is an ideal spot for families to learn about astronomy in the clear, unpolluted night sky of Muju.  (updated Dec 2025)
• 36.0235127.63557 Rafting on the Geumgang River (금강 래프팅), 48, Geumgang-ro, Muju-eup. April to October. Enjoy a scenic rafting trip down the Geumgang River. The rapids here are relatively mild, making it suitable for families and beginners. It is a great way to see the riverside cliffs and rock formations from a different perspective.  (updated Dec 2025)

Muju is famous for high-quality alpine agricultural products, especially wild grapes (Meoru) and Gastrodia elata (Cheonma). Also, there is one small winery near Muju, located halfway up Mt. Jeoksang. A word of warning, though, the various wines will be nothing at all like wines from outside the country. There's a reason Korean wine is not internationally known. If, despite this, you want to try some, the most common brand is Magique Muju. A bottle of wine will run about ₩40,000.

• 35.9388127.65351 Muju Meoru Wine Cave Shop (머루와인동굴 판매장), 359, Sanseong-ro, Jeoksang-myeon. The best place to purchase Muju's signature wild grape wine. Several local brands are available for tasting before purchase. The wine is known for its deep color and rich, sweet-tart flavor profile.  (updated Dec 2025)
• 36.0055127.66352 Muju Traditional Market (무주반딧불장터), 10, Jangeot-gil, Muju-eup. A traditional five-day market that opens on dates ending in 1 and 6. It’s an excellent spot to find fresh local produce like walnuts, apples, and dried herbs directly from local farmers.  (updated Dec 2025)
• 36.0065127.66053 Cheonma Specialized Shop (천마 전문 판매점), 7, Dangsan-gil, Muju-eup (Inside Bus Terminal). Specializes in products made from Cheonma (Gastrodia elata), a rare medicinal herb that thrives in Muju’s clean environment. You can find tea, extracts, and powdered forms of this health-boosting root.  

Most restaurants serve typical Korean fare, one main dish with a lot of side dishes. While the Korean restaurants in Muju don't stand out from one another, they're all fairly good, and reasonably priced (a group of 6 can eat for about ₩40,000).

• If starved for Western style pizza, Imsil Cheese Pizza (임실 치즈 피자) makes an excellent pie, and the owner knows the English names for common pizza ingredients. ₩16,000.
• For the ultimate in budget eating, consider Nadeuri (나드리). While it's a chain restaurant across Korea, the prices aren't standard, and in Muju ₩1000 will get you one roll of kimbap, soup, kimchi, and radishes, with free refills on the side dishes. Even the more expensive items on the menu will only set you back ₩3000-4000.
• Local food can be bought from the farmer's market, which meets on the 1st of every month, and every five days thereafter (1st, 6th, 11th, etc.) excepting the 31st. Located across a few blocks in the northwest of town, you can't miss it if you wander in that direction.
• Myeongga Galbitang (명가네 갈비탕): Famous for its hearty beef rib soup, this restaurant serves a delicious and comforting meal. Galbitang is a Korean soup made with short ribs, and Myeongga is known for its rich and flavorful broth.
• Muju Mienok (무주면옥): A place to enjoy traditional Korean noodles. They offer a variety of noodle dishes, including mul naengmyeon (cold noodles in broth) and bibim naengmyeon (spicy cold noodles).
• Little Big Farmer (리틀빅파머): If you're in the mood for a unique dining experience, Little Big Farmer offers a farm-to-table concept. Fresh, locally sourced ingredients are used to create dishes that highlight the region's flavors.
• Muju Jukbang Mulhoe (무주죽방물회): Specializing in mulhoe, a Korean cold raw fish soup, this restaurant provides a refreshing and savory seafood experience. It's a great choice if you enjoy fresh seafood dishes.
• Odaeyang Han Sikdang (오대양한식당): A Korean restaurant that offers a variety of traditional dishes. From bulgogi (marinated grilled beef) to kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew), you can find a range of classic Korean flavors here.
• Punggi Myeonga(풍기명가): Known for its pajeon (green onion pancakes) and makguksu (buckwheat noodles), this restaurant provides a taste of Korean comfort food.
• Sambaedon (삼백돈): If you're a fan of pork, Sambaedon is a barbecue restaurant where you can grill your own pork belly at the table. It's a popular choice for those craving Korean barbecue.
• Sanjang Hanjeongsik (산장한정식): For a traditional Korean set menu, Sanjang Hanjeongsik offers a variety of dishes in a single meal, allowing you to experience a range of flavors.
• 36.0075127.66181 Geumgang Sikdang (금강식당), 46, Dan-ro, Muju-eup, ☏ +82 63-322-0977. A legendary restaurant famous for its authentic Eojuk (fish porridge). The dish is made by boiling freshwater fish for hours, then adding rice, noodles, and gochujang. It’s a hearty, spicy, and nutritious meal that is considered a local soul food.  (updated Dec 2025)
• 35.9045127.77152 Byeolmaru (별마루), 160, Gucheondong 1-ro, Seolcheon-myeon. Located near the entrance of Deogyusan National Park, this restaurant specializes in Sanchae Bibimbap (wild herb mixed rice) and Deodeok-gui (grilled deodeok root). They use seasonal herbs harvested directly from the surrounding mountains.  (updated Dec 2025)
• 35.9355127.70153 Mujuhyang (무주향), 21, Museol-ro, Seolcheon-myeon. A popular spot known for its buckwheat noodles and pork slices. It offers a clean, modern atmosphere and is a great place to have a light but satisfying meal after visiting Taekwondowon.  (updated Dec 2025)

There is a surprisingly large number of bars in Muju. Unfortunately, none of them serve any imported liquors or beers whatsoever. Basically, the menu is limited to one brand of soju, and three brands of (Korean) beer.

• 3040. For a nice, quiet atmosphere, try 3040. The owner here speaks some English, and one bottle of beer will cost you ₩2500. 
• Tudari. If you are interested in a decent selection of Korean food to go with your drinks, try Tudari. Another chain establishment, it's slightly more expensive than some of the local options, but has an excellent selection of food. ₩4000-10,000 food, ₩3000 beer. 
• 35.9388127.65351 Muju Meoru Wine Cave (Tasting Room) (머루와인동굴 시음장), 359, Sanseong-ro, Jeoksang-myeon. The quintessential drinking experience in the region. After walking through the naturally cooled tunnel, visitors can reach the tasting bar to sample different varieties of Meoru wine, ranging from sweet to dry. They also offer unique wine foot baths to relax your tired feet.  (updated Dec 2025)

Muju has a variety of cafes to explore. These places are frequented by locals, making them great spots to experience the local culture and ambiance. It's recommended to check reviews or get recommendations from locals before visiting.

• The Original: One of Muju's representative cafes, offering a cozy atmosphere along with a variety of coffee and desserts.
• Baralo: Located amidst nature, this cafe allows you to relax while enjoying the natural scenery through the windows. You can savor coffee or tea while breathing in the fresh air.
• Cafe The Palette: Situated in a beautiful garden, this cafe boasts an artistic and sophisticated atmosphere. It offers distinctive beverages and desserts.
• The Clem: Nestled in the forests of Muju, this cafe allows you to enjoy premium drinks in the fresh air.
• Black Diamond: One of the famous cafes in Muju, Black Diamond provides a cozy atmosphere along with unique beverages.
• Cafe G: A charming cafe with a rustic interior, known for its warm ambiance and friendly service. It's a great place to unwind with a cup of coffee.
• Hidden Garden Coffee: Tucked away in a serene garden setting, this cafe offers a tranquil escape. It's a popular spot for those looking to enjoy nature while sipping on quality coffee.
• Wooden Cafe: True to its name, this cafe features a wooden interior, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. They serve a variety of hot and cold beverages.
• Sweet Breeze Cafe: If you're looking for a cafe with a view, Sweet Breeze Cafe offers a terrace where you can enjoy your drinks while taking in scenic surroundings.
• Muju Coffee Roasters: A place for coffee enthusiasts, Muju Coffee Roasters is known for its freshly roasted beans and aromatic brews.
• Slow Garden Cafe: This cafe emphasizes a slow-paced and relaxed experience. It's a perfect place to enjoy a leisurely cup of coffee surrounded by greenery.
• 35.9355127.70152 Cafe Jinyori (카페 진요리), 21, Museol-ro, Seolcheon-myeon. A cozy and aesthetically pleasing cafe located near the Taekwondowon and Bandi Land. It is a popular spot for travelers to grab a high-quality coffee or a refreshing seasonal fruit juice. The interior is decorated with traditional touches, providing a relaxing atmosphere.  (updated Dec 2025)
• 36.0072127.66283 Place 64 (플레이스 64), 18, Ju-daero, Muju-eup. A trendy cafe and pub located in the heart of the town center. During the day, it serves as a modern coffee shop, but in the evening, it transforms into a lively spot where you can enjoy light snacks with a selection of beers. It is a favorite hangout for both locals and younger visitors.  (updated Dec 2025)

Remember, Muju's cafe scene is diverse, and you might discover hidden gems as you explore the area.

Accommodation in Muju ranges from massive mountain resorts to cozy pensions and traditional Korean houses. Prices for rooms, especially in the love motels, can vary considerably depending on the season (they're much higher during the Firefly Festival, taekwondo events, and the middle of skiing season).

• Iris Motel. A typical hotel. ₩50,000 for a double. 
• Johnny's. Muju's one love hotel. ₩40,000. 
• 35.8906127.73711 Muju Deogyusan Resort (무주덕유산리조트), 185, Manseon-ro, Seolcheon-myeon, ☏ +82 63-322-9000. The largest accommodation complex in the area. It offers various types of condos and hotels, designed to look like a European mountain village. It is the most convenient place to stay for skiers and those taking the tourist gondola.  (updated Dec 2025)
• 35.8915127.73652 Hotel Tirol (호텔 티롤), 185, Manseon-ro, Seolcheon-myeon. A high-end, Austrian-style boutique hotel within the resort complex. It features cozy wooden interiors, a warm fireplace in the lobby, and premium service. It became famous after Michael Jackson once stayed here.  (updated Dec 2025)
• 36.0108127.66153 Dasodam Hanok Stay (다소담 한옥체험), 21, Hyanggyo-ro, Muju-eup. A charming traditional Korean house (Hanok) located near the Muju Hyanggyo. It offers a peaceful and authentic cultural experience with modern amenities. Perfect for travelers who want to feel the traditional atmosphere of the town.  (updated Dec 2025)

Muju is well-connected with modern telecommunications, though signals may weaken in the deeper parts of Deogyusan National Park.

• The international country code for South Korea is +82.
• The local area code for the region is 063. When calling from abroad, drop the leading "0" (e.g., +82-63-XXX-XXXX).
• Emergency numbers:
  • Police: 112
  • Fire and Ambulance: 119
• Tourism information: 1330 (Available in English, Chinese, and Japanese)

• Public Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available at major hubs like the Muju Intercity Bus Terminal and the Goseokjeong Tourist Information Center.
• Resort & Cafes: Most Resorts provides Wi-Fi in all guest rooms. Most cafes in Muju-eup and near the resort entrance offer high-speed internet for customers.

There are several post offices where you can send international mail (EMS) or use ATM services.

• 36.0078127.6611 Muju Post Office (무주우체국), 16-1, Dan-ro, Muju-eup, ☏ +82 63-320-1114. M-F 09:00–18:00. The central post office in the town center, offering full postal and banking services.  (updated Dec 2025)

• 35.9365127.70252 Seolcheon Post Office (설천우체국), 7, Gucheondong-ro, Seolcheon-myeon. M-F 09:00–18:00. Conveniently located for those visiting Taekwondowon or Bandi Land.  (updated Dec 2025)

• 35.8368127.64353 Anseong Post Office (안성우체국), 14, Sijang-gil, Anseong-myeon. M-F 09:00–18:00. Serves the southern part of the county, near the Anseong IC.  (updated Dec 2025)

Muju is a very safe destination, but its mountainous terrain requires specific precautions.

• Mountain safety: When hiking Mt. Deogyusan, always check the weather forecast. Conditions can change rapidly, and temperatures at the summit are significantly lower than in the town. In winter, crampons (spikes for shoes) are essential for icy trails.
• Flash floods: During the summer monsoon season (July–August), avoid camping or lingering near mountain streams. Flash floods can occur suddenly even if it isn't raining in your immediate location.
• Driving: Roads leading to Mt. Jeoksang and the resort area are winding and steep. In winter, these roads can become extremely icy. Ensure your vehicle is equipped with snow tires or carry snow chains.
• Ticks and wildlife: When hiking through tall grass, be mindful of ticks (which can carry SFTS). Wearing long sleeves and using insect repellent is recommended. While rare, wild boars inhabit the mountains; if you see one, move away slowly and do not provoke it.

Muju is a perfect base for exploring the central and southwestern regions of Korea.

• Yeongdong County: Located just north of Muju. Known as the "Vineyard of Korea," it is famous for its high-quality grapes and wine. It is also the closest point to catch the Gyeongbu Line trains.
• Daejeon: The nearest major metropolis and a center for science and technology. It offers extensive shopping, dining, and a major KTX station connecting to Seoul and Busan.
• Jeonju: About 1.5 hours away by bus. Home to the famous Jeonju Hanok Village, it is the best place to experience traditional Korean architecture and world-class gastronomy.
• Jinan: Located to the southwest, Jinan is home to the unique Maisan Mountain (Horse Ears Mountain), famous for its distinctive ear-shaped peaks and the stone pagodas of Tapsa Temple.