Day 10 - Lotte Mall Gimpo

“Wow” was the one word that came to my mind when I stepped into this shopping mall. Built in 2011, Lotte mall Gimpo is, in fact, one of the biggest malls in South Korea, consisting of Lotte’s very own hotel, cinema, supermarket and many other shops. From international brands such as H&M to Miniso. The entire mall was basically a maze, as it was so big with lots of twists and turns, I definitely had a hard time navigating around the mall.

Odao fact: Gimpo Airport was originally built and used by the Japanese during their occupation, and was operated by the Koreans and Americans after world war two ended in order to commercialize as a full-fledged airport in April 1958. However, it was still being used by the military. It was only after the Seoul Olympics when travel started to become a norm, coupled with the nation’s development, international flights were shifted to Incheon International Airport!

Want a unique view? Visit the observatory at the top floor of the mall to get a good view of Gimpo airport whilst planes buzz through the sky! Not only that you can also check out the stunning pond and playground outside of the mall, which turns into a musical fountain and several times a day!

Not only is lotte mall famous for its size and facilities, they boast a huge variety of shopping and dining options! I was definitely spoilt for choice and didn’t know what to get or even where to go!! I ended up settling for jjajangmyeon at the food court! It was relatively affordable and the food was great! I would definitely recommend the food court if you’re on a budget or if you would simply like a no-frills option!

The next thing the mall is famous for, Lotte Mart! It boasts a huge variety of household goods and food all the way to skincare and cosmetics. One can also have their meal whilst doing their daily groceries at the supermarket. Definitely, don't forget to get some of the must buy in the shop! From Maggie noodles to cheese chips here are some of lotte’s best sellers!

1. Shin ramyeon

2. Abc chocolate

3. Honey butter chips

4. Chocopie

5. Anytime mints

6. Market o brownies/cheese chips

7. Rice tea

8. Seaweed

These are some of the things that the supermarket chain sell which are very popular among tourists! However, these are only 8 out of the many popular and must buy items! Overall I say that lotte mall Gimpo is definitely a must go if you are in the Gimpo area if not, the majority of its many facilities can be found in Seoul city as well! Overall I would give it 2.5 out of 5 kimchis!

Written by Tina Ting as ODAO