With the start of the spring semester, fresh faces once again bring a lively atmosphere to the campus of POSTECH. Anticipation fills the air as new students arrive, eager to meet new people and settle into their new surroundings. For many freshmen and exchange students unfamiliar with life in Pohang, one of the quickest ways to acclimate to the city is through a tradition known as “bab-yag”, a compound word derived from the Korean words for a meal (bab) and plan (yag, short for yagsog).

  Bab-yag is a culture prevalent among Korean universities, where senior students treat lower-grade students to meals off-campus. In return, the lower-grade students cover expenses at a café afterward. This tradition fosters camaraderie between students of different years and helps freshmen integrate into campus life by expanding their social circles. It also offers an opportunity for students to explore the city beyond the confines of campus. In this article, let’s explore some of the most popular and well-known destinations frequented by Postechians.

Hyoja Market

  Located just a fifteen-minute walk from the Jigok Community Center, Hyoja Market is a favorite hangout spot for Postechians due to its proximity to campus. Despite its small size, Hyoja Market boasts a variety of cozy restaurants, cafés, and bars offering everything from ramen to seafood, as well as barbecue and pasta. The market’s convenience makes it an ideal choice for quick lunches or large group gatherings. Karaoke adds to the fun, providing a perfect way to unwind with friends after a drink.

Daei-ro

  A ten-minute taxi ride away, Daei-ro is larger than Hyoja Market and offers a broader range of establishments, including clinics and stores in addition to restaurants and cafés. Here, you will find bigger dining spaces capable of accommodating larger groups, as well as many franchise restaurants offering diverse menus ranging from burgers to all-you-can-eat pork belly.

Hyeongsan River

  Stretching along the Hyeongsan River are numerous restaurants, many of which specialize in Korean barbecue. This area features upscale dining options with unique menus like salmon, beef ribs, and Indian cuisine. The highlight is its beautiful riverside path, adorned with cherry blossom trees in spring, roses in summer, and a field of pink muhly in fall. Many Postechians enjoy strolls or bike rides along this scenic route.

Yeongildae Beach

  A twenty-minute ride from campus, Yeongildae Beach is the largest beach on the eastern coast of the South Korean peninsula. With its iconic Yeongiljeong Pavilion, the beach attracts many visitors, especially during summer. During exam seasons, many Postechians visit the beach to catch the sunrise after pulling all-nighters—a campus tradition known as the “Rising Sun”. Several establishments remain open late into the night or early into the morning, catering to those seeking the perfect spot to witness the dawn.

Jukdo Fish Market

  For seafood enthusiasts, Jukdo Fish Market is a must-visit destination. Located a fifteen-minute ride away, this market boasts a rich history spanning fifty years and offers an array of fresh seafood delicacies, including sliced raw fish, crabs, abalones, and shrimp. Visitors can enjoy seafood at affordable prices, including Pohang’s specialties such as cold raw fish soup and gwamegi (Korean half-dried herring).

  While Pohang may not be described as ‘stirring’, its vibrant atmosphere continues to attract visitors year-round. So why not take some time to explore the city, discover its hidden gems, and make it your own? Find your favorite spots, activities, and experiences that make Pohang feel like your second home.