Top Things To Do In Kaesong Koryo Insam Factory (Kaesong) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in Kaesong Koryo Insam Factory

1. 1. Koryo Insam (Ginseng) Processing Tour

   Discover the fascinating process of Koryo Insam production at the Kaesong Koryo Insam Factory. This tour allows visitors to witness the meticulous steps taken to transform the raw ginseng roots into a variety of products prized for their health benefits. Participants will get an in-depth look at the washing, sorting, steaming, and drying processes that are characteristic of traditional Korean Insam preparation, followed by the packaging that makes these products ready for consumption and distribution. Information on the historical and cultural significance of Insam in Korean culture will also be provided, making this an educational experience for those interested in traditional Korean medicine.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Included in the factory visit fee

2. 2. Ginseng Tea Tasting Session

   Discover the delicate flavors of Koryo ginseng tea through a professional tasting session. Led by an expert, this activity will educate participants on the different grades of ginseng tea and how they affect flavor and potency. Guests are guided through the sensory experiences of aroma, taste, and aftertaste, learning to appreciate the nuances of this esteemed herbal brew. Additionally, the session illuminates the health benefits associated with regular consumption of ginseng tea, as believed in traditional Korean medicine. Guests can sip, savor, and relax in the tranquil surroundings of the factory, making this a perfect activity for tea enthusiasts and health-conscious visitors alike.

   Duration: 30 minutes · Price: $10 per person

3. 3. Insam Cultivation Workshop

   Partake in a hands-on workshop at the Kaesong Koryo Insam Factory, where you will learn about the agricultural techniques employed in cultivating high-quality ginseng. This activity delves into the soil preparation, planting, and harvesting methods used by local farmers to grow Insam, known for its highly regarded medicinal properties. Participants will gain practical experience by engaging in the actual process under the guidance of experienced Insam farmers, offering a rare glimpse into the traditional Korean practice of ginseng cultivation. The workshop is not only informative but also provides a unique opportunity to connect with the land and people of Kaesong.

   Duration: 2 hours · Price: $15 per person

4. 4. Korean Ginseng Root Carving Class

   Unleash your creativity in a ginseng root carving class offered at the Kaesong Koryo Insam Factory. Ginseng root carving is a traditional Korean art form where participants learn to carve delicate patterns and shapes into the root of the ginseng plant. Under the tutelage of skilled artisans, visitors will discover the techniques to create intricate designs that are both beautiful and symbolic. This class not only teaches the art of carving but also the historical significance of ginseng in Korean culture. Guests will take home their carved creations as a unique and personal souvenir of their visit to Kaesong.

   Duration: 1.5 hours · Price: $20 per person

5. 5. Koryo Insam Cosmetic Workshop

   The Koryo Insam Cosmetic Workshop is a captivating opportunity to learn about the use of ginseng in the world of beauty and skincare. Participants will be introduced to the process of creating cosmetics infused with ginseng extract, which is renowned for its anti-aging and skin revitalizing properties. Experts will explain the benefits of various ginseng-based products, and attendees will then formulate their own ginseng-based lotion or cream to take home. This workshop offers a unique blend of traditional knowledge and modern cosmetic practices, showcasing yet another dimension of this versatile root in the realm of personal care.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: $25 per person

6. 6. Kaesong Insam Liquor Tasting

   Experience the robust flavors of traditional Korean ginseng liquor at the Kaesong Koryo Insam Factory. This guided tasting session offers a chance to sample various ginseng-infused spirits, each with its unique characteristics and potency. Through this activity, participants will learn about the distillation process and how ginseng is integrated into the alcohol to create these distinctive liquors. In addition to savoring the taste, attendees will also gain insights into the cultural backdrop of Insam liquor consumption in social and ceremonial contexts within Korea. It's a perfect activity for those interested in exploring the intersection of traditional herbal medicine and Korean drinking culture.

   Duration: 30 minutes · Price: $15 per person

7. 7. Koryo Insam Health and Wellness Lecture

   Join a comprehensive lecture on the health and wellness aspects of Koryo Insam, hosted within the walls of the Kaesong Koryo Insam Factory. This educational presentation covers the historical use of ginseng in Korean traditional medicine, its purported health benefits, and modern scientific studies concerning its efficacy. Guests will be enlightened on the ways ginseng can be incorporated into their daily lives for improved well-being, and will have the opportunity to ask questions to leading experts in the field. This lecture is ideal for those seeking a deeper understanding of the herb's role in preventive health and systemic treatment.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Free with factory admission

8. 8. Traditional Insam Kimchi Making Class

   Engage in a traditional Korean culinary experience with the Insam Kimchi Making Class at the Kaesong Koryo Insam Factory. In this hands-on session, culinary experts will guide participants through the ancient art of kimchi making, emphasizing the incorporation of ginseng for added health benefits. Attendees will learn to select the right ingredients, mix the kimchi spices, and ferment the cabbage to perfection. The class not only imparts practical kitchen skills but also provides an immersive taste of Korean culture. Each participant will have the chance to taste their creation and take some home to enjoy with family and friends.

   Duration: 2 hours · Price: $20 per person

9. 9. Ginseng Farm Field Trip

   Step out of the factory and onto a local Insam farm for an informative field trip. This activity offers participants an opportunity to observe and understand the natural environment where Koryo ginseng is cultivated. The field trip includes a guided tour through the ginseng fields, an explanation of the farming practices, and the chance to speak with farmers about their experience growing this precious root. Not only will visitors learn about the challenges and rewards of Insam farming, but they also gain an appreciation for the hard work and dedication that goes into producing high-quality ginseng.

   Duration: 3 hours · Price: $30 per person

10. 10. Kaesong Historical and Cultural Tour

    While not exclusively focused on ginseng, the Kaesong Historical and Cultural Tour takes visitors through the ancient city of Kaesong, which is home to the Insam factory. Participants will explore the city's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the tombs of the Koryo Dynasty and the old Kaesong streets, to gain insights into the region's rich history. This tour is an excellent complement to a visit to the Kaesong Koryo Insam Factory, as it places the cultural importance of ginseng into the broader context of Korean heritage. It's a must-do for those interested in immersing themselves in Korean history and culture.

    Duration: Half-day · Price: $35 per person