Stunning Sea Life at the COEX Aquarium in Seoul

The COEX Aquarium has officially reopened as the Sea Life COEX, Seoul Aquarium. But it’s not just a name change, it’s a full blown glow-up! There are now 14 themed zones packed with over 650 species and more than 20,000 marine creatures, ranging from Amazonian ecosystems to shark kingdoms.

Each zone has it’s own beautifully immersive charm, starting with the very first zone entitled the “Sea at Night.” This entire section is dedicated to various species of jellyfish and it’s pure magic. The hypnotic movement of the jellyfish combined with vibrant neon colors give the whole exhibit a fantasy like feel that just immediately draws you in. Maybe it worked a little too well, because my husband had to gently remind me that there was literally still an entire aquarium to explore.

Some other favorites were the Deep Blue Sea Tunnel, a walkway under a sea of rays and sharks, Amazonia World, where you wander through rainforest-style exhibits, and the Penguin Playground, even though they were all sleeping when we visited. Though not as flashy as some of the other exhibits, I really liked the Secret Garden of Seahorses which held about 160 seahorses including a few rare breeds. I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many different species before.

But I’d have to say the real showstopper is the glass-bottom boat ride. Yes, a boat ride right in the middle of the aquarium. This experience has you floating right over the shark enclosure to give you a birds-eye view of aquatic life below.

The experience has small groups climb into a glass-bottom boat over the shark tank which is heavily populated with all sorts of fish, turtles, and, of course, sharks. The guide gave us a short primer on shark teeth and how the marine biologists keep the ecosystem balanced in the tank. The ride does come at an additional cost (11,000 KRW), but it was such a unique experience we highly recommend it.

Aside from enjoying the beautiful habitats, marine life and the memorable boat ride, you can also watch animal feedings, enjoy a mermaid show, participate in a stamp rally and even feed some fish. If you visit be sure to check the schedule for the day so you don’t miss out on all the cool programs they have going on.

Tickets for the Sea Life COEX Aquarium are 33,000 KRW at full price if you buy them at the Aquarium directly. Only card is accepted. We recommend getting them at a discounted price through Creatrip or KLOOK.

The aquarium itself is located at the COEX mall next to Samsung Station on Line no. 2.