Encounter the mysterious Earth, embracing the four seasons, at the National Institute of Ecology Ecorium

Perhaps we are living our lives forgetting the wonders of the Earth? How long has it been since we felt the vitality of a green forest, the serenity of a hot desert, or the mystery of the ice-covered poles in our desolate daily lives? There is a place where, with every step, the very breath of the other side of the world is fully conveyed. This is the National Institute of Ecology Ecorium located in Seocheon, Chungcheongnam-do.

This is not just an exhibition hall. It recreates diverse ecosystems from around the globe under one roof, making you feel as if you are embarking on a world tour. From the humid air of tropical rainforests to the cold winds of polar regions, a special experience awaits you to directly encounter living creatures thriving in different climates and environments.

All of Earth’s Climates in One Place, the Heart of the Ecorium

The National Institute of Ecology Ecorium is a massive ecological exhibition hall that perfectly implements the Earth’s five major climate zones. From the Tropical Zone, Desert Zone, Mediterranean Zone, Temperate Zone, to the Polar Zone, you can experience the diversity and wonder of the Earth’s ecosystem with all five senses through the vivid 모습을 of animals and plants living in different environments. This place makes you personally feel the importance of ecological conservation to protect lives disappearing due to environmental destruction and pass them on to future generations.

Embracing the Vitality of Five Oceans and Six Continents

• Tropical Zone This is a space where a tropical rainforest, full of hot sunlight and humidity, is recreated in a greenhouse, with exotic plants and colorful animals living and breathing. You can fully enjoy the feeling of walking through a lush forest.
• Desert Zone Here you can meet desert animals and plants that thrive resiliently even in harsh and dry environments. You can glimpse the strength of unique plants like cacti and the small creatures hidden within them.
• Mediterranean Zone The ecological environment of the Mediterranean climate, famous for its mild climate and beautiful landscapes, has been brought here as is. You can feel a relaxed atmosphere while observing plants like olive trees.
• Temperate Zone This zone recreates the unique climate and ecosystem of the Korean Peninsula, which has distinct four seasons. Through familiar animals and plants that can be seen around us, we rediscover the nature of the Korean Peninsula.
• Polar Zone This is a place where you can indirectly experience the mysterious polar climate of the Antarctic and Arctic. Through polar animals like penguins, you can feel the vitality of an ice-covered world up close.

An Immersive Experience of Feeling the Cycle of Life

Beyond being just climate zones, the Ecorium is equipped with various exhibition facilities that help understand basic concepts of ecology and the importance of biomes. Here, you can recognize the value of ecosystem services closely connected to our lives and deeply reflect on the meaning of conserving ecological resources.

A Special Way to Understand Ecosystems

The permanent thematic exhibition hall provides extensive knowledge from the basic principles of ecosystems to the importance of biodiversity. Through various audiovisual materials and experiential facilities, anyone from Children to adults can easily and enjoyably approach ecology. It will be of great help in understanding the complex connections within ecosystems.

Vivid Nature Stories Felt with Eyes and Ears

In the 4D Stereoscopic Cinema, you can learn about the preciousness of ecosystems through exciting animations. You can gain deep messages about nature and life with an immersive feeling, as if you are the protagonist in a movie.

1. Gangsan’s Adventure The story of brave Gangsan protecting our native animals from invasive species
2. Mom’s Forest A moving journey that teaches the beautiful cycle of ecosystems through the life of a salmon
3. Flying Pond Turtle A story about a pond turtle’s adventure to return to its disappearing wetland

Additionally, the Children’s Ecology Reading Room provides books and programs where children can interact with nature and develop ecological sensitivity. Here, children naturally acquire ecological knowledge and realize the importance of environmental protection.

Into Seocheon’s Nature, National Institute of Ecology Ecorium Visitor Guide

Where is the Ecorium?

The National Institute of Ecology, located in Seocheon, Chungcheongnam-do, where the beautiful nature of the West Sea breathes, offers good accessibility. It is convenient to check the location in advance and plan your visit by public transport or private car. The address is 1210 Geumgang-ro, Maseo-myeon, Seocheon-gun, Chungcheongnam-do.

Tips for a More Fulfilling Visit

• Plan ample time The Ecorium is larger than you might expect and has many attractions. It is recommended to allocate at least 3-4 hours for a leisurely tour.
• Comfortable shoes are a must You will walk quite a bit moving between climate zones, so wearing comfortable shoes is recommended.
• Experience seasonal charm The indoor Ecorium can be comfortably viewed all year round, but the outdoor exhibitions and surrounding scenery offer different beauty each season. Especially in spring and autumn, the outdoor walking paths are superb.
• Connect with nearby tourist attractions Seocheon has many attractive tourist spots besides the National Institute of Ecology. Plan a trip that includes exploring other famous places in Seocheon along with the Ecorium.
• No worries about food Restaurants and cafes are available inside and outside the Ecorium, so you can comfortably enjoy meals or snacks when you’re hungry.

Around the Ecorium, Another Gift from Seocheon

After visiting the National Institute of Ecology Ecorium, how about enjoying Seocheon’s beautiful natural scenery and various sights? There are many attractions around the Ecorium that will provide visitors with unforgettable memories.

• Sinseong-ri Reed Field Famous as a filming location for the movie ‘Joint Security Area JSA’, it is one of Korea’s four major reed fields. In autumn, the golden waves create a spectacular view, and in winter, the snowy landscape is beautiful.
• National Marine Biodiversity Institute of Korea This is a place where you can learn about the diversity and value of marine life. It serves as an excellent ecological education course along with the Ecorium and is great for visiting with children.
• Chun jangdae Beach It is a representative beach on the West Coast, famous for its gentle slope and fine sand. In particular, the dense pine forest makes it ideal for camping or leisurely strolls.

Seocheon is a special place where nature and life harmonize. Starting with the experience at the National Institute of Ecology Ecorium, a journey to discover Seocheon’s hidden treasures will undoubtedly bring new vitality to your life. Create wonderful memories meeting all the Earth’s climates and lives in this place that boasts different charms throughout the four seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How long does it take to tour the National Institute of Ecology Ecorium?
The Ecorium is large, so it takes at least 3-4 hours to leisurely explore all exhibition halls. If you include the outdoor areas, it’s good to plan for more than half a day.

Q2. Is it good for visiting with children?
Yes, it is excellent for family visitors as it offers various experiential spaces and educational programs for children. The Children’s Ecology Reading Room and the 4D cinema are enough to spark children’s interest.

Q3. Are there places to eat?
Restaurants and cafes operate inside the Ecorium. You can enjoy simple meals or drinks, and there are also various popular restaurants in the surrounding Seocheon area, so consider those as well.

Q4. Is the 4D movie viewing paid?
The 4D stereoscopic cinema can be used for free without a separate admission fee. You can check the screening schedule and visit accordingly. (However, operating policies may change.)

Q5. Are the National Institute of Ecology and the Ecorium different places?
The National Institute of Ecology refers to the large ecological research and exhibition facility in Seocheon, and the Ecorium is the core exhibition facility within that National Institute of Ecology. In other words, you can understand Ecorium as part of the National Institute of Ecology.