The Namhae Tourism Council has selected two experiences that best capture the charm of Namhae in February: a visit to Geumsan Mountain and a warming bowl of oyster tteokguk.

February, positioned at the end of winter and just ahead of Lunar New Year, is often seen as the true start of the year in Korea.

With that in mind, the council named Geumsan Mountain as a meaningful place to visit and oyster tteokguk as the seasonal dish not to miss.

Geumsan Mountain is especially busy in February, as visitors arrive to pray for success, good health, and peace in the year ahead.

Located on the mountain, Boriam Hermitage is one of Korea’s three major Avalokitesvara prayer sites and is known for the long-held belief that sincere prayers here will grant at least one heartfelt wish.

After taking in the spiritual atmosphere of Geumsan, the council recommends turning to food that reflects the vitality of the Namhae sea.

Oysters harvested in February are at their peak, rich in glycogen and zinc and traditionally valued for restoring energy during the colder months.

Oyster tteokguk, made by simmering oysters with sliced rice cakes that symbolize longevity, is considered both a celebratory Lunar New Year dish and a nourishing comfort food.

Korean