SEA LIFE COEX, Seoul Aquarium

More about SEA LIFE COEX, Seoul Aquarium

About COEX Aquarium

COEX Aquarium is one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in South Korea, located in Gangnam district. As part of the sprawling COEX Mall, it provides an enchanting escape into the underwater world, showcasing a vast collection of marine life from various parts of the globe. Housing over 40,000 sea creatures from 650 different species, the aquarium offers an immersive experience that appeals to visitors of all ages.

A must-visit destination

Opened in 2000, the COEX Aquarium has become a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike. Its thoughtfully designed exhibits take you on a journey through diverse aquatic habitats, from the rivers of the Korean peninsula to the coral reefs of the Pacific Ocean. Each themed zone is meticulously curated, making it more than just a showcase of marine animals, but also a platform for education and conservation.

With COEX Aquarium tickets, you can get access to one of the most extensive collections of marine life in Seoul, spread across 14 themed discovery zones. The aquarium is home to some unique and rare species, including the Amazonian manatees and the ever-popular shark tunnel, where visitors can walk through a transparent passage surrounded by sharks and rays.

Starting from only SGD 26.94 on Traveloka, COEX Aquarium tickets offer you a rare opportunity to get up close with some of the most fascinating creatures from around the world. The diverse exhibits, interactive experiences, and stunning underwater views make it a perfect destination to escape the city's hustle and bustle.

COEX Aquarium Opening Hours

The COEX Aquarium is open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The last admission is at 7:00 PM, giving visitors ample time to explore the various exhibits. It’s advisable to set aside at least two hours to fully enjoy the experience.

What is Special About COEX Aquarium?

By securing COEX Aquarium tickets, you will be able to get up close with some of the most fascinating creatures from around the world. The diverse exhibits, interactive experiences, and stunning underwater views make it a perfect destination.

1. Themed Zones

The aquarium is divided into 14 themed zones, each representing a different aquatic habitat. Some highlights include:

• The Rainforest Zone: Featuring tropical creatures such as piranhas, Amazonian manatees, and capybaras.
• Marine Mammal Village: Home to playful seals and elegant penguins.
• Ocean Kingdom: The largest zone in the aquarium, it features a massive tank filled with various species of fish, rays, and sharks, including the mesmerising shark tunnel.
• Deep Blue Sea Tunnel: A 180-degree glass tunnel where you can walk through and feel surrounded by marine life, offering a surreal under-the-sea experience.

2. Interactive Activities

• Feeding Shows: Watch the trained divers feed sharks, rays, and other marine creatures while learning interesting facts about their behaviour and diet.
• Touch Pools: Get a hands-on experience by touching starfish, sea cucumbers, and other gentle sea creatures.
• Mermaid Performances: Enjoy captivating mermaid performances that bring to life the magic of underwater myths and legends.

3. Educational Programmes

The COEX Aquarium offers various educational programmes aimed at raising awareness about marine life and conservation. From guided tours to interactive workshops, these programmes are designed to be informative and engaging, making them ideal for school groups and curious minds of all ages.

When is the Best Time to Visit COEX Aquarium?

The best time to visit the COEX Aquarium is during weekdays, preferably in the morning. This is when the aquarium is less crowded, allowing you to explore the exhibits at a leisurely pace and enjoy the interactive experiences without much waiting time. Avoid weekends and public holidays if possible, as the aquarium tends to be quite popular with families and tourists during these periods.

For a unique experience, try visiting in the late afternoon when the aquarium lighting creates a more mystical and serene atmosphere. This is also a great time to catch the feeding shows and enjoy the exhibits as the day winds down.

Location and How to get to COEX Aquarium

The COEX Aquarium is conveniently located in the COEX Mall, part of the larger COEX Convention and Exhibition Centre in the Gangnam district of Seoul. Its central location makes it easily accessible by various modes of transportation.

Getting there by MRT (Subway)

The most convenient way to reach the COEX Aquarium is via the Seoul Metropolitan Subway:

• Line 2 (Green Line): Take the subway to Samseong Station (Exit 5 or 6). From there, it's a short 5-minute walk to the COEX Mall. Follow the signs within the mall to reach the aquarium.
• Line 9 (Gold Line): You can also take the subway to Bongeunsa Station (Exit 7). From this exit, it's a 10-minute walk through the COEX complex to the aquarium.

Getting there by Car

If you're travelling by car, the COEX Mall offers ample parking facilities. You can enter the car park directly from the nearby main roads. Parking fees apply, and it's recommended to park near the Asem Tower entrance for easy access to the aquarium. Navigating using a GPS system with the COEX Mall as the destination will provide the most accurate directions.

Getting there by Bus

Several city buses stop near the COEX Mall:

• Express Buses: 9407, 9414, 9600, and 9602
• Local Buses: 146, 301, 401, 351

Get off at the COEX Mall stop or the Korea World Trade Center stop and follow the signs to the aquarium entrance within the mall.

Tips When Visiting COEX Aquarium

1. Buy Tickets in Advance: To avoid long queues, especially on weekends and holidays, purchase your COEX Aquarium tickets online via Traveloka, starting from only SGD 26.94, which can save you time and money with online discounts.
2. Plan for at Least Two Hours: The COEX Aquarium has many exhibits and interactive zones. Allocate at least two hours to explore the aquarium fully and enjoy all the attractions without rushing.
3. Check the Feeding Show Schedule: The feeding shows are a highlight of the visit. Check the schedule when you arrive so you don’t miss the chance to see sharks, rays, and other marine animals being fed.
4. Visit During Off-Peak Hours: The aquarium can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Visiting during the early morning hours on weekdays will ensure a more comfortable experience with fewer crowds.
5. Souvenirs and Photos: There is a gift shop near the exit where you can buy marine-themed souvenirs. Professional photo spots are also available throughout the aquarium, where you can have your picture taken with various backgrounds.
6. Accessibility: The aquarium is wheelchair accessible, and strollers are permitted. It’s a family-friendly attraction, so feel free to bring young children along.

Attractions Near COEX Aquarium

The COEX Mall and its surrounding area are home to numerous attractions that make it an excellent spot for a full day of exploration. Here are five must-visit places near the COEX Aquarium:

1. Lotte World Theme Park

Located just a short subway ride away from COEX Aquarium, Lotte World Theme Park is one of the most popular amusement parks in South Korea. It offers a mix of indoor and outdoor attractions, making it perfect for visitors of all ages and a great destination regardless of the weather. The park features thrilling rides, a parade, and even an ice-skating rink. 

2. Figure Museum W

For enthusiasts of pop culture and collectibles, Figure Museum W is a unique destination showcasing an extensive collection of action figures, statues, and life-sized models. Located in the nearby Cheongdam-dong area, this museum features figures from popular franchises such as Marvel, DC, and Star Wars, as well as anime characters and historical figures.

3. Seoul Myeongdong Nanta Musical Show

A visit to Seoul wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the famous Nanta Musical Show. This non-verbal performance is held at various venues around Seoul, with Myeongdong being one of the most accessible locations. The show combines traditional Korean rhythms with comedy, acrobatics, and cooking, creating an energetic and highly entertaining experience. 

4. N Seoul Tower

N Seoul Tower offers one of the most iconic views of the city. Just a short taxi ride from the COEX area, it’s a must-visit landmark that provides breathtaking 360-degree panoramas of Seoul. Once at the tower, explore the digital observatory, take photos with the famous "Locks of Love" fence, or enjoy a meal at the revolving restaurant. Visiting N Seoul Tower in the evening is particularly magical, as the city lights up below, creating a spectacular view.

5. Seoul Sky at Lotte World Tower

Just a short distance from the COEX Mall, Seoul Sky is located at the top of the Lotte World Tower, the tallest building in Korea. The observation deck offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, making it a must-visit attraction, especially in the evening.

With these nearby attractions, you can make the most of your visit by exploring the diverse sights and experiences that Seoul has to offer. So, wait no more to grab your COEX Aquarium tickets now in Traveloka, where you can also book flights, hotels, and explore the fun attractions wherever you may go all at once, hassle-free!