Some visitors may conceive of South Korea as a major metropolis with tight borders, yet this East Asian nation is a terrific location to visit with various activities. South Korea is a must-see destination if you like cuisine, history, the outdoors, or trekking.
You are free to design your journey any way you see fit. We’ve produced this list of the greatest locations to visit in South Korea to demonstrate how exciting and unique the country can be. We know that at least a handful of these locations will soon be on your bucket list.
Gyeongju
Gyeongju is a lovely city on South Korea’s coast with numerous historic attractions. People often claim that this old Silla Kingdom capital city is like a museum without walls, and this makes sense until you start seeing one major ancient landmark after another.
The most well-known attraction is arguably Bulguksa Temple, a Buddhist temple from the sixth century that UNESCO protects. You may also see the exquisite Buddha statue at the Seokguram cave. The Anapji Pond & the Bomun Pavillion are both must-see attractions in the city. The cherry blossoms on the Bomun Pavillion demonstrate how lovely Korea is in the spring.
Seoul
We had no question that we would suggest Seoul since it is the capital and the most popular destination in South Korea. This massive metropolis offers a lot to see and do, and that’s why most visitors to the nation spend even a short time here.
There are many interesting locations to explore, including the ancient Gyeongbokgung Palace and the fascinating Bukchon Hanok Village. Visitors visiting Korea, however, may be astonished to hear that Seoul has a national park, Bukhansan National Park, where one can go trekking and experience a panoramic view of the city.
Jeju Island
Jeju Island, a gorgeous volcanic island in the Korea Strait, is undoubtedly one of Korea’s most attractive destinations. The fact that Jeju Island is one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature ought to give you an idea of how incredible this area is.
The island’s scenery is generally the major reason tourists come here. There are calm beaches, dramatic cliffs, and magnificent mountains such as Hallasan, all of which may be explored through walking routes that wind their way around the island. For spectacular views, visit Seongsan Sunrise Peak or the beach and lighthouses at Seopjikoji on the coast. The summit may be seen finest from there.
Busan
Busan is South Korea’s finest port city. It differs from many other popular cities positively. Many visitors flock to Busan because of its gorgeous beaches, particularly Haeundae and Gwangalli.
But Busan also offers many cultural attractions, such as the historic Beomeosa Temple and the Gamcheon Culture Village, which was formerly a city slum but is now a vibrant, colorful neighborhood that is gaining popularity. Hiking routes on surrounding mountains, such as Geumjeongsan, provide a distinct aspect of Busan worth visiting.
Suwon
Suwon, South Korea, is sometimes overshadowed by larger towns like Seoul and Gyeongju, yet its magnificent environment is incentive enough to come. Suwon has existed for hundreds of years. Therefore, numerous major sites are guaranteed to impress. The most well-known attraction is the majestic Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Haenggung Palace, Hwahongmun Gate, & Paldalmun Gate are all located between their massive walls and contribute to what makes this location so distinctive. Suwon has a contemporary aspect as the headquarters of electronics powerhouse Samsung Electronics. The Samsung Innovation Museum teaches visitors about the company’s history.
Seoraksan National Park
People should visit Seoraksan National Park to enjoy some of the nicest natural landscapes in the nation. This playground has become a must-see in South Korea since it is home to Daecheongbong, the country’s third-highest mountain peak. It’s a world apart from the towns that most tourists to the nation first see, with its stunning granite slopes and rich greenery.
Given the area’s slopes and jagged peaks, it’s no wonder that hiking is the most popular pastime in this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Gongnyong Ridge, known as “Dinosaur Ridge,” is a well-known location in Seoraksan. It gets its name from the granite peaks which give it form.
The Korean DMZ
Given the tight relationship between South Korea and its northern neighbor, it’s no surprise that the Korean Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Korea. Only on tour can you view the 250-kilometer (155-mile) border between South and North Korea.
Most excursions end in the Joint Security Area, where the two nations signed an armistice deal in 1953 and can still communicate diplomatically. The Third Infiltration Tunnel, an effort to delve under the edge, and the Observation Post, from which North Korea can be seen, are also on display.
Darangee Village
To witness a more serene aspect of rural life, visit Darangee Village in the Namhae area. This little Korean community has a lovely slope with over 100 rice terraces overlooking the seashore.
As you can expect, the landscape is stunning and a photographer’s dream. There are also walking routes and viewing spots throughout the area so that you can see this beautiful place on the coast from every angle.
The Haeinsa Temple
Temples are one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Korea, which is not surprising. On the other hand, the Haeinsa Temple in Hapcheon County is unlike other temples. This ancient temple has the world’s earliest Buddhist texts, which are still in excellent condition.
The ancient Buddhist canon, Tripitaka Koreana, depicted on woodblocks, and the halls of Janggyeong Panjeon, where it is stored, are the major draws for visitors to Haeinsa Temple. However, this location is particularly notable since it houses Korea’s first wooden Buddha statue, and you may stay at the temple to learn more about the Buddhist culture.
Boseong Green Tea Fields
Visiting the stunning tea fields of Boseong is an excellent opportunity to experience the Korean countryside. Boseong is home to several tea plantations, accounting for almost 40% of all tea produced in Korea. Looking at the unending tea leaves columns is a terrific way to pass the time.
Visitors may also sample various green tea-flavored delights, such as green tea desserts or a green tea rendition of the famous Korean meal bibimbap. You may be able to attend the region’s green tea festival in May, and little lights provide some joy to the area in the winter.
