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Top 100 Must-Visit Places in Korea & How to Go Guide
Discover the Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Korea for 2023-2024 that include famous attractions and some of the newly added places to visit across all regions of Korea from Seoul , Incheon , Busan to Gyeonggi-do and Gangwon-do .
The 6th edition of Top 100 Must-Visits Tourist Spots in Korea (2023-2024) list was announced by Ministry Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) and Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) on 13 December 2022 . The list is a compilation of recommended tourist attractions that are selected and promoted every 2 years by MCST and KTO .
Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots Summary (2023-2024)
39 natural attractions
61 cultural attractions
14 attractions have been selected for 6 consecutive times (e.g. 5 palaces in Seoul )
33 new additions include Seoul Forest , OSIRIA Tourist Complex , etc
Drop outs include Seoraksan National Park , etc
24 in Seoul Capital Area (incl. Seoul, Incheon, Gyeonggi-do)
10 in Gangwon-do Province
28 in Gyeongsang-do Province (incl. Busan, Daegu, Ulsan)
6 on Jeju Island
13 in Chungcheong-do Province
17 in Jeolla-do Province
![korea where to visit Balloons](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_787ea9d01fe44a4bb4c8634a43bff266~mv2_d_4450_2504_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_238,h_134,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/11062b_787ea9d01fe44a4bb4c8634a43bff266~mv2_d_4450_2504_s_4_2.jpg)
Shortlisted Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots (2023-2024) in/out Seoul or Busan
To assist travellers to explore these popular and recommended places of interests on your holiday in Korea , KoreaToDo has put together the shortlisted Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots that are:
easily accessed in Seoul
within 3 hours from Seoul
in/from Busan
It includes detailed guides on how to get there by public transport or join a local tour so as to get the most out of your travel time, when combined with other nearby attractions.
![korea where to visit Gyeongbokgung Palace](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_f21940731844461abbf66408e0fb843f~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_309,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_f21940731844461abbf66408e0fb843f~mv2.jpg)
Gyeongbokgung Palace
The largest of all five grand palaces built in the Joseon Dynasty, remaining in Seoul.
![korea where to visit Changgyeonggung Palace](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_b823aaa205554e8fa21c2ae27be9c8af~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_b823aaa205554e8fa21c2ae27be9c8af~mv2.jpg)
Changgyeonggung Palace
A simple and compact palace, surrounded by a forest with about 50,000 trees.
![korea where to visit Seoul Forest](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_6734e021c23f4699b857a2a623010ad2~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_307,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_6734e021c23f4699b857a2a623010ad2~mv2.jpg)
Seoul Forest
Known for its cherry blossoms & tulips in Spring, Ginkgo Tree Forest in Autumn & deer.
![korea where to visit Lotte World](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_eb828cc95b8d4947bb83770330c99d83~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_174,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_eb828cc95b8d4947bb83770330c99d83~mv2.jpg)
Lotte World
Include the World's largest Indoor theme park & an outdoor Magic Island.
![korea where to visit Ikseondong Hanok Village](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_cfdf6ff1f50a4067b874254b8c9d021f~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_275,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_cfdf6ff1f50a4067b874254b8c9d021f~mv2.jpg)
Ikseondong Hanok Village
A hot trending place with narrow streets of hip cafes, restaurants and pubs.
![korea where to visit Suwon Hwaseong Fortress](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_62349abc28e649b499161eeac886e1c7~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_309,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_62349abc28e649b499161eeac886e1c7~mv2.jpg)
Suwon Hwaseong Fortress
UNESCO World Heritage with impressive structure from Joseon Dynasty.
![korea where to visit Seoul Land Amusement Park](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_008346a4196d45aa8c9837b258777e23~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_253,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_008346a4196d45aa8c9837b258777e23~mv2.jpg)
Seoul Land Amusement Park
1st large-scale theme park in Korea with over 40 rides & games for all ages.
![korea where to visit DMZ, Paju](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_fa59921795f84bb7839a218593689fd4~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_fa59921795f84bb7839a218593689fd4~mv2.jpg)
DMZ, the border that divides the Korean Peninsula. Visit the 3rd Tunnel & Dora Observatory.
![korea where to visit Heyri Art Valley, Paju](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_7f05bbda6bc443e491ccd5facb986b2f~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_308,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_7f05bbda6bc443e491ccd5facb986b2f~mv2.jpg)
Heyri Art Valley, Paju
A lovely village formed by artists with shops, cafes, galleries and quirky sculptures.
![korea where to visit Chuncheon Samaksan Mountain Lake Cable Car](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_6eddb5a459734261b934a12739746ecc~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_297,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_6eddb5a459734261b934a12739746ecc~mv2.jpg)
Chuncheon Samaksan Mountain Lake Cable Car
The longest cable car in Korea at 3.61km, connecting Samak Mountain to Lake Uiam.
![korea where to visit Gangneung Coffee Street](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_e5e8b01d71ce47e5b143ba22284ca7f9~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_309,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_e5e8b01d71ce47e5b143ba22284ca7f9~mv2.jpg)
Gangneung Coffee Street
Anything related to coffee at the 'city of coffee', located on the eastern coast of Korea.
![korea where to visit Daegwallyeong: Yongpyong Ski Resort](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_eabbb9a27b884c3c88d7046ecc868ccd~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_309,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_eabbb9a27b884c3c88d7046ecc868ccd~mv2.jpg)
Daegwallyeong: Yongpyong Ski Resort
The largest ski resort in Korea & host of 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympic Games.
![korea where to visit Haeundae Beach](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_064ed1caf3a2423b822be231163b0778~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_275,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_064ed1caf3a2423b822be231163b0778~mv2.jpg)
Haeundae Beach
The most beloved & famous beach of the country. It stretches 1.5km long & 30-50m wide.
![korea where to visit Busan Green Railway](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_6e311a747df34aa7add68c6b7df9d408~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_303,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_6e311a747df34aa7add68c6b7df9d408~mv2.jpg)
Busan Green Railway
Alongside the 9.8km walking trail is the popular Haeundae Sky Capsule & Beach Train.
![korea where to visit Songdo Beach](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_9fab61bd354340e3a34f1036e34707a9~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_275,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_9fab61bd354340e3a34f1036e34707a9~mv2.jpg)
Songdo Beach
1st public beach in Korea. Walking distance to Busan Air Cruise & Songdo Cloud Trails.
![korea where to visit Yongdusan & Jagalchi Special Tourist Zone: Yongdusan Park](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_b87e635fb4df42019aa0224e62ed9f4a~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_308,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_b87e635fb4df42019aa0224e62ed9f4a~mv2.jpg)
Yongdusan & Jagalchi Special Tourist Zone: Yongdusan Park
The most significant structure at Yongdusan Park is the Busan Diamond Tower (120m).
![korea where to visit OSIRIA Tourist Complex: Lotte World Adventure](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_8264191c99464c09b70855be2ce0a84e~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_309,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_8264191c99464c09b70855be2ce0a84e~mv2.jpg)
OSIRIA Tourist Complex: Lotte World Adventure
1st theme park in Busan. The amusement park features 6 zones with 17 rides & attractions.
![korea where to visit Daewangam Park](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_a94df759998f40e381c6a8e3c4840f2c~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_197,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_a94df759998f40e381c6a8e3c4840f2c~mv2.jpg)
Daewangam Park
A seaside park, known for its beautiful coastlines and interestingly-shaped rocks.
![korea where to visit Naejangsan National Park](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_11af37d3f36143d58c6076dca7e920f0~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_204,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_11af37d3f36143d58c6076dca7e920f0~mv2.jpg)
Naejangsan National Park
A favourite autumn foliage destination with a beautiful temple in the park.
![korea where to visit Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_9a4124bd38b247dba98526aa0605a75b~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_181,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_9a4124bd38b247dba98526aa0605a75b~mv2.jpg)
Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage and one of the most well-preserved royal palaces.
![korea where to visit Gyeonghuigung Palace](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_579bf9703fba4052a3768a91fe2df24c~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_191,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_579bf9703fba4052a3768a91fe2df24c~mv2.jpg)
Gyeonghuigung Palace
Once a massive complex with 1,500 buildings and residence for kings for over 200 years.
![korea where to visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_859f6ced3fd44dc6a3d4485fe5e6338f~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_151,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_859f6ced3fd44dc6a3d4485fe5e6338f~mv2.jpg)
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
Iconic landmark of Korean design industry, designed by world-renowned architect.
![korea where to visit N Seoul Tower](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_d7866080232243faaa02a9428ae0cd6d~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_275,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_d7866080232243faaa02a9428ae0cd6d~mv2.jpg)
N Seoul Tower
Iconic landmark of Seoul with fantastic views of Seoul city.
![korea where to visit Starfield COEX Mall](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_55dfa96c937a47aa90f989aae2182446~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_275,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_55dfa96c937a47aa90f989aae2182446~mv2.jpg)
Starfield COEX Mall
A large primarily shopping mall known for its Starfield Library and COEX Aquarium.
![korea where to visit Korean Folk Village](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_6b6422938f574eedaeb62931c4ed1670~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_309,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_6b6422938f574eedaeb62931c4ed1670~mv2.jpg)
Korean Folk Village
A village recreated from the Joseon era with backdrop of mountains and river.
![korea where to visit Gwangmyeong Cave](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_e2157e4a0dfc4f749834ba9b4ab4faf2~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_174,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_e2157e4a0dfc4f749834ba9b4ab4faf2~mv2.jpg)
Gwangmyeong Cave
An abandoned mine for 40 years to the best Cave Theme Park in Korea.
![korea where to visit Anseong Farmland](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_e4bcead0ed684407b0b897b959e9c14e~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_194,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_e4bcead0ed684407b0b897b959e9c14e~mv2.jpg)
Anseong Farmland
The largest agro-livestock theme park in Korea with impressive seasonal flower fields.
![korea where to visit Jarasum Island](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_cd0aa09655db407ca1e2e98672be7648~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_195,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_cd0aa09655db407ca1e2e98672be7648~mv2.jpg)
Jarasum Island
Consists of 4 islands with the southern island transformed into a 'flower island'.
![korea where to visit Ganhyeon Tourist Area (Sogeumsan Grand Valley)](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_9c1c222f5384472c989e76cc3ab8cdf7~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_279,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_9c1c222f5384472c989e76cc3ab8cdf7~mv2.jpg)
Ganhyeon Tourist Area (Sogeumsan Grand Valley)
Experience the longest suspension bridge (200m) in Korea & cliffside walk.
![korea where to visit Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_aaf354975f7542f4b29218fcdb63b34a~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_193,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_aaf354975f7542f4b29218fcdb63b34a~mv2.jpg)
Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm
Korea’s first sheep farm, located at 850m above sea level in the Alps of Pyeongchang.
![korea where to visit Wondae-ri Birch Forest](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_34ff4882e9a4494a84c302ac3cc4a7bb~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_269,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_34ff4882e9a4494a84c302ac3cc4a7bb~mv2.jpg)
Wondae-ri Birch Forest
A nature sanctuary with over 700,000 birch trees, paths & lookouts.
![korea where to visit Songjeong Beach](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_3f7ebe05c958418eb41e65ea8f3ad644~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_275,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_3f7ebe05c958418eb41e65ea8f3ad644~mv2.jpg)
Songjeong Beach
Well-known surf beach in Busan. Wet suits & surf boards for rent. Surfing lessons offered.
![korea where to visit Gamcheon Culture Village](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_269f95b6e6b8470bb635777c96dcf56c~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_174,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_269f95b6e6b8470bb635777c96dcf56c~mv2.jpg)
Gamcheon Culture Village
'The Santorini of Korea', known for its colourful mountainside houses.
![korea where to visit Yongdusan & Jagalchi Special Tourist Zone: BIFF Square](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_f8bffa58e7144502adff862730a140cf~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_204,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_f8bffa58e7144502adff862730a140cf~mv2.jpg)
Yongdusan & Jagalchi Special Tourist Zone: BIFF Square
Main venue of the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) & a well-known food paradise.
![korea where to visit Gwangalli Beach](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_48015cfb948b474eaaf87066dd023bbc~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_173,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_48015cfb948b474eaaf87066dd023bbc~mv2.jpg)
Gwangalli Beach
Enjoy view of Gwangandaegyo Bridge & Gwangalli M Drone Light Show every Saturday.
![korea where to visit OSIRIA Tourist Complex: Skyline Luge Busan](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_77b7c92b67b6473889e4db93744ac844~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_307,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_77b7c92b67b6473889e4db93744ac844~mv2.jpg)
OSIRIA Tourist Complex: Skyline Luge Busan
2nd Skyline Luge in Korea. Enjoy the scenic skyride up & ride downhill on luge carts.
![korea where to visit Donggung Palace, Wolji Pond & Cheomseongdae](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_88a8492f92274bc5beb3628f2e05897d~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_285,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_88a8492f92274bc5beb3628f2e05897d~mv2.jpg)
Donggung Palace, Wolji Pond & Cheomseongdae
Top attractions of Gyeongju, the capital of ancient Silla Dynasty.
![korea where to visit Jeonju Hanok Village](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_214a4659e45e457f9ff0e9714e9300a9~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_309,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_214a4659e45e457f9ff0e9714e9300a9~mv2.jpg)
Jeonju Hanok Village
Referred as the 'Slow City' with over 800 traditional Korean hanok houses.
![korea where to visit Deoksugung Palace](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_0ef25ce8a14b41dd982a6637ec390182~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_275,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_0ef25ce8a14b41dd982a6637ec390182~mv2.jpg)
Deoksugung Palace
Smallest of the five palaces and the final residence of the last King of the Joseon Dynasty.
![korea where to visit Hongdae (Hongik University Area)](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_ee212eae78d9470084345cea50c6a777~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_309,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_ee212eae78d9470084345cea50c6a777~mv2.jpg)
Hongdae (Hongik University Area)
A university suburb with youthful streets of shops, cafes & clubs.
![korea where to visit Seoul Sky](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_fb2c2c81a3614a829b9687b78161763c~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_186,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_fb2c2c81a3614a829b9687b78161763c~mv2.jpg)
Observatory located on 117F-123F of South Korea's tallest building, Lotte World Tower.
![korea where to visit Seochon Village](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_2832c2703ac543608610e2a4c45e9fe8~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_205,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_2832c2703ac543608610e2a4c45e9fe8~mv2.jpg)
Seochon Village
The village resembles the old Seoul with hanoks (traditional Korean houses), shops & cafes.
![korea where to visit Incheon Chinatown](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_d51a7be500574267a8fe4434867c06ee~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_308,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_d51a7be500574267a8fe4434867c06ee~mv2.jpg)
Incheon Chinatown
Best Chinese food with nearby fairy tale inspired Songwoldong Fairy Tale Village & Jayu Park.
![korea where to visit Everland Theme Park](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_296b514225b54a62ad8440a560d9fd0e~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_275,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_296b514225b54a62ad8440a560d9fd0e~mv2.jpg)
Everland Theme Park
Korea's largest amusement park with many fun rides, zoo & themed festivals.
![korea where to visit Imjingak, Paju](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_dc4dddc3a4b44659a3f7d22f6f24aec4~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_309,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_dc4dddc3a4b44659a3f7d22f6f24aec4~mv2.jpg)
Imjingak, Paju
A famous DMZ tourist spot, built with the hope of Korean unification someday.
![korea where to visit Dumulmeori, Yangpyeong](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_ccb0efee1386478b8d7d1abb07fdc345~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_309,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_ccb0efee1386478b8d7d1abb07fdc345~mv2.jpg)
Dumulmeori, Yangpyeong
A place of rustic nature beauty. Known for its over 400-years old Zelkova trees & filming site.
![korea where to visit Nami Island](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_acf203269a4545c08baa6587837f3a82~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_189,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_acf203269a4545c08baa6587837f3a82~mv2.jpg)
Nami Island
Well-known as the filming location of 'Winter Sonata' Korean drama.
![korea where to visit Museum SAN](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_b2b905ffca884e279a43eb8858960d45~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_201,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_b2b905ffca884e279a43eb8858960d45~mv2.jpg)
Located on the mountain, a place where art & architecture are harmonized with nature.
![korea where to visit Daegwallyeong: Daegwallyeong Sky Ranch](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_527d9c06e88b4d35a6605e69a651b0e7~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_309,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_527d9c06e88b4d35a6605e69a651b0e7~mv2.jpg)
Daegwallyeong: Daegwallyeong Sky Ranch
A huge ranch with over 540 cows, sheep, horses and goats in the vast grassland.
![korea where to visit Taejongdae Park](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_790d0c365ec44555ae014cb94d0335cd~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_198,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_790d0c365ec44555ae014cb94d0335cd~mv2.jpg)
Taejongdae Park
Offer magnificent view of the sea at Yeongdo Lighthouse on the cliff.
![korea where to visit BUSAN X the SKY](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_b3e98b4023644102bbfc384aaa7dc754~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_306,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_b3e98b4023644102bbfc384aaa7dc754~mv2.jpg)
BUSAN X the SKY
Observatory on 98-100F of Haeundae LCT The Sharp, the highest building in Busan.
![korea where to visit Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_977fcdca56004a8d909d0764a1a27e7c~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_196,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_977fcdca56004a8d909d0764a1a27e7c~mv2.jpg)
Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge
Connect Amnam Park across the sea to Dongseom Island. 127.1m long and 2m wide.
![korea where to visit Yongdusan & Jagalchi Special Tourist Zone: Jagalchi Market](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_a4886599b31d458d8044670fe955b9b4~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_175,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_a4886599b31d458d8044670fe955b9b4~mv2.jpg)
Yongdusan & Jagalchi Special Tourist Zone: Jagalchi Market
Korea's largest seafood market with indoor & outdoor sections, including restaurants.
![korea where to visit OSIRIA Tourist Complex: Ananti Cove](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_df68958cef594dbaab393ea219bf0518~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_309,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_df68958cef594dbaab393ea219bf0518~mv2.jpg)
OSIRIA Tourist Complex: Ananti Cove
Large coastal town consists of Ananti Hilton Busan, hot spring, coastal walk, shops & cafes.
![korea where to visit OSIRIA Tourist Complex: Lotte Premium Outlets](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_ce607dcc5d264bd081302ca318ffa97e~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_ce607dcc5d264bd081302ca318ffa97e~mv2.jpg)
OSIRIA Tourist Complex: Lotte Premium Outlets
Designed with the concept of Santorini. Over 500 famous domestic & international brands.
![korea where to visit Bulguksa Temple & Seokguram Grotto](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_0c7813505f8646a2b2b7f87472549574~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_184,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_0c7813505f8646a2b2b7f87472549574~mv2.jpg)
Bulguksa Temple & Seokguram Grotto
The first historical sites in Korea registered as UNESCO World Heritage.
![korea where to visit Cheongpung Lakeside Cable Car](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_528fe07faf65401a87881a5107916f8f~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_196,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_528fe07faf65401a87881a5107916f8f~mv2.jpg)
Cheongpung Lakeside Cable Car
Panoramic view of Cheongpung Lake on the 2.3km cable car ride, connected to Mt. Bibongsan.
![korea where to visit Balloons](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_787ea9d01fe44a4bb4c8634a43bff266~mv2_d_4450_2504_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_233,h_131,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/11062b_787ea9d01fe44a4bb4c8634a43bff266~mv2_d_4450_2504_s_4_2.jpg)
Past Winners of Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots
![korea where to visit Seodaemun Prison History Hall](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_f91ae8d9dc8e4257a00c9d8848acaafb~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_276,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_f91ae8d9dc8e4257a00c9d8848acaafb~mv2.jpg)
Seodaemun Prison History Hall
Once a prison, now a museum. A popular K-drama location on their out of prison scenes.
![korea where to visit Myeongdong](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_cd8d4923260c4432a4b779083d2f3130~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_226,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_cd8d4923260c4432a4b779083d2f3130~mv2.jpg)
Well-known shopping, dining & street food paradise.
![korea where to visit Jebudo Island](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_33b0a76b91204298a81757d2ebbc86c8~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_168,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_33b0a76b91204298a81757d2ebbc86c8~mv2.jpg)
Jebudo Island
Jebu Island, a mysterious island where sea routes open twice a day due to tides.
![korea where to visit Pocheon Art Valley](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_68d9847c4faa4c92965e24ba25528ed2~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_202,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_68d9847c4faa4c92965e24ba25528ed2~mv2.jpg)
Pocheon Art Valley
Experience the beauty of the quarry at this famous drama filming location.
![korea where to visit High1 Ski Resort](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_26a2adc4fa824db991d5613ee2de1d4a~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_309,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_26a2adc4fa824db991d5613ee2de1d4a~mv2.jpg)
High1 Ski Resort
One of the most popular ski resorts in Korea, known for its puffy snow.
![korea where to visit Tongyeong Skyline Luge](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_d893da375c1340c8b42a7e2b2cf544e6~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_187,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_d893da375c1340c8b42a7e2b2cf544e6~mv2.jpg)
Tongyeong Skyline Luge
Ride the Skyride to get on board the Luge cart for exhilarating ride downhill.
![korea where to visit Seoullo7017](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_396317decd9c4c75a6bbdfe2af045300~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_309,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_396317decd9c4c75a6bbdfe2af045300~mv2.jpg)
Seoullo7017
A highway, now a beautiful sky garden walkway for pedestrians.
![korea where to visit Wolmido Island](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_75c7478296284ee1a875db02f469d793~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_151,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_75c7478296284ee1a875db02f469d793~mv2.jpg)
Wolmido Island
Cafes, seafood restaurants & theme park along the coast.
![korea where to visit The Garden of Morning Calm](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_a8af0a155e12403883b6191f84ea6531~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_275,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_a8af0a155e12403883b6191f84ea6531~mv2.jpg)
The Garden of Morning Calm
A beautiful & artistic private garden to be enjoyed in all seasons.
![korea where to visit Seoraksan National Park](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_71f450f239e94393858c31f76a6347f6~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_258,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_71f450f239e94393858c31f76a6347f6~mv2.jpg)
Seoraksan National Park
Beautiful mountain landscape, hiking courses & cable car rides to the top of the mountain.
![korea where to visit Huinnyeoul Culture Village](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_cda4c04946d6474184986dcbad290004~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_179,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_cda4c04946d6474184986dcbad290004~mv2.jpg)
Huinnyeoul Culture Village
Known for its beautiful coastal cliff landscape and a popular film location.
![korea where to visit Oedo-Botania](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_3712052a94164e17aef00fdb0e92e61e~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_181,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_3712052a94164e17aef00fdb0e92e61e~mv2.jpg)
Oedo-Botania
Famous for its European atmosphere & marine botanical garden.
![korea where to visit Itaewon](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_df7664f3181341cd971b66fea22b0b12~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_174,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_df7664f3181341cd971b66fea22b0b12~mv2.jpg)
The global village in Seoul, known for its restaurants & night life.
![korea where to visit Hwadam Botanic Garden](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_bb48b98810414a7dbf5bdaa44dea1def~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_286,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_bb48b98810414a7dbf5bdaa44dea1def~mv2.jpg)
Hwadam Botanic Garden
An ecological park divided into 17 themes with forest walking path & monorail courses.
![korea where to visit Namhansanseong Provincial Park](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_c7922febbb2043feb2948ae69add79e8~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_275,h_206,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_c7922febbb2043feb2948ae69add79e8~mv2.jpg)
Namhansanseong Provincial Park
A UNESCO World Heritage with 12.4km fortress & different hiking trails.
![korea where to visit Wonju Suspension Bridge](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_b681b15899f0440e8d492e273215b160~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_182,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_b681b15899f0440e8d492e273215b160~mv2.jpg)
Wonju Suspension Bridge
Korea's longest suspension bridge across Mt. Segeum's 2 peaks.
![korea where to visit Windy Hill](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_b8d362ff40a649d3a952f74c469542f8~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_310,h_181,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/0505b9_b8d362ff40a649d3a952f74c469542f8~mv2.jpg)
A hill overlooking the sea & the location of many famous Korean dramas.
KoreaToDo TOP PICKS - Tours, Activities & Discount Tickets to TOP 100 MUST-VISIT TOURIST SPOTS
➥ Handpicked experiences by KoreaToDo for their uniqueness, value, popularity, price competitiveness and at times, tedious to reach by public transport.
![korea where to visit N Seoul Tower Observatory Ticket](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_48aee576196448179d2f5c47460335d4~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_223,h_148,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
N Seoul Tower Observatory Ticket
enjoy breathtaking views
![korea where to visit Lotte World 1 Day Pass & Lotte World Aquarium](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_3bf693f521c04da3b0571d46077d84eb~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_223,h_148,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Lotte World 1 Day Pass & Lotte World Aquarium
located in the heart of Seoul
![korea where to visit Hanbok Rental near Changdeokgung Palace by Dorothy Hanbok](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_1da2963fc9f94e8dafc26f2a423cda99~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_223,h_162,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Hanbok Rental near Changdeokgung Palace by Dorothy Hanbok
Kid/Male hanbok available.
![korea where to visit Coex Aquarium in Seoul Admission Ticket](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_b749181dc1784b44b96ab104250aa0ca~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_223,h_148,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Coex Aquarium in Seoul Admission Ticket
largest aquarium in Seoul
![korea where to visit Discover Seoul Pass (Lotte World, COEX Aquarium, Han River Cruises, etc)](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_06ca4f7a5c54473585070fd02febf31d~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_223,h_168,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Discover Seoul Pass (Lotte World, COEX Aquarium, Han River Cruises, etc)
free access to >60 attractions
![korea where to visit Namsan Cable Car Round Trip Ticket (weekdays only & min. 2 pax)](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_a33e6509bebc4fc1a7f2f05ae3c8494d~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_223,h_153,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Namsan Cable Car Round Trip Ticket (weekdays only & min. 2 pax)
beautiful scenery of Seoul
![korea where to visit Hanbok Experience (Hanboknam Gyeongbokgung Store)](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_2e0671898e9b432f950fc5110f254dbd~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_221,h_173,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Hanbok Experience (Hanboknam Gyeongbokgung Store)
incl. basic hairstyling & inner skirt
![korea where to visit Nail Art & Hairstyling Experience at OLRANG, Hongdae](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_d23aa8acfd644e9aa5ea4e2e889935cb~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_223,h_148,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Nail Art & Hairstyling Experience at OLRANG, Hongdae
onsite English translation
![korea where to visit Seoul Moonlight Walking Tour with Local Historian](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_3fd633a88eba4e609ddc92818ddc0ba1~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_223,h_168,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Seoul Moonlight Walking Tour with Local Historian
Seoul's hidden gems with stories
![korea where to visit Seoul City Tour Bus: Myeongdong, Seoul Tower, Palaces, Insadong, Bukchon](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_6361d6410aa24ed191e039b5ba35a2d7~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_223,h_148,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Seoul City Tour Bus: Myeongdong, Seoul Tower, Palaces, Insadong, Bukchon
15 stops to hop on & hop off
![korea where to visit N Seoul Tower Package (Observatory & Cable Car Round Trip)](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_03cc8019fe804d7ea32bbf098cf85f73~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_223,h_148,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
N Seoul Tower Package (Observatory & Cable Car Round Trip)
scenic ride up Mt. Namsan
![korea where to visit Hanbok Rental (& Photoshoot) Experience by Hanbok That Day](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_cb162de87de44f94833517b966ff21d9~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_216,h_173,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Hanbok Rental (& Photoshoot) Experience by Hanbok That Day
3 mins walk fr. Gyeongbokgung
![korea where to visit Seoul Personal Color & Make-up Analysis in Hongdae](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_d9e3253670144600876361d50ced6ee9~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_217,h_173,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Seoul Personal Color & Make-up Analysis in Hongdae
with English speaking expert
![korea where to visit Cheongwadae Blue House & Gyeongbokgung Palace Walking Tour](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_939bd34f4a8d4d848e18ef62b501f4d6~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_216,h_173,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Cheongwadae Blue House & Gyeongbokgung Palace Walking Tour
former presidential residence
![korea where to visit Seoul City Tour Bus: Night View Course (Mt. Namsan, Han River Bridges...)](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_8fa72d299ef945e8a25fcbad26334fae~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_223,h_148,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Seoul City Tour Bus: Night View Course (Mt. Namsan, Han River Bridges...)
non-stop course with photo time
![korea where to visit Lotte World Theme Park 1 Day Pass](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_ad2f7cf78a4f4258a4efb24cce81e842~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_143,h_173,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Lotte World Theme Park 1 Day Pass
easy access on Seoul Subway
![korea where to visit Hanboknam Hanbok Rental Voucher at Changdeokgung Store](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_699eb946130a4c0e8bc0d0cc2bf2529f~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_223,h_147,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Hanboknam Hanbok Rental Voucher at Changdeokgung Store
![korea where to visit Alive Museum & Dynamic Maze in Insadong](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_333ad1513d5f4ccc9e8d189f1b6bd147~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_223,h_134,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Alive Museum & Dynamic Maze in Insadong
interactive artworks!
![korea where to visit Quaint Changgyeonggung Palace Night Tour](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_35b4b30bd6ed43dcbfccddd178fc76e1~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_216,h_173,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Quaint Changgyeonggung Palace Night Tour
learn about Joseon history
⬇ Tours departing from Seoul
![korea where to visit Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Tour](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_317447b4254d44239c20fd7079eb40f7~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_223,h_134,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Tour
bird’s eye view of North Korea
![korea where to visit Paju/Gimpo/Cheorwon DMZ Day Tour](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_c4e533c7be324163b350b09a3be3ab33~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_223,h_149,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Paju/Gimpo/Cheorwon DMZ Day Tour
DMZ (Demilitarized Zone)
![korea where to visit Hwadam Botanic Garden & Korean Folk Village Day Tour](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_b958106ebf2c4c02b96f942397b4f00e~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_223,h_165,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Hwadam Botanic Garden & Korean Folk Village Day Tour
garden with 17 themes
![korea where to visit Everland Day Tour (Admission, Tour Guide & Round Trip Transfer)](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/0505b9_6574fec1c6724225a3ad366caabe13c9~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_217,h_173,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/N%20Seoul%20Tower%20-%20Small%204%20-%20bright.jpg)
Everland Day Tour (Admission, Tour Guide & Round Trip Transfer)
Eng./Mandarin speaking guide
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DMZ 3rd Invasion Tunnel & Gamaksan Suspension Bridge Day Tour
150m long bridge across valley
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Korean Folk Village, Suwon Hwaseong & Suwon Nammun Market Day Tour
Authentic cultural experience
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Hwadam Forest, Ludencia Theme Park & Yeoju Outlet Day Tour
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PRIVATE DAY TOUR: Alpaca World, Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm
hotel pickup & admissions
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DMZ 3rd Invasion Tunnel & Majang Lake Suspension Bridge Day Tour
220m long bridge by the lake
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Yongin Dae Jang Geum Park (MBC Drama Studio) Tour
BTS Suga music video & ARMY
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Hwadam Forest, Ludencia Theme Park & Gwangmyeong Cave Tour
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Pocheon Art Valley, Apple Farm Experience & Herb Island Day Tour
apple pie making + monorail
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DMZ 3rd Invasion Tunnel & Korea Traditional Boat Voyage Day Tour
river flowing out of North Korea
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Hwadam Botanic Garden & Gwangmyeong Cave Tour
Top 100 Must-Visit Spots
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Everland 1 Day Pass (instant QR Code for entry incl. on voucher upon booking)
a large amusement park & zoo!
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Mt. Seorak & Naksansa Temple Tour
explore Korea’s natural beauty
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Nami Island, Petite France & Italian Village Day Tour
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Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour
best of Gangwon province!
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Alpaca World, Mt. Sogeum Suspension Bridge & Hoengseong Luge Day Tour
wildlife, outdoor activity & nature
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Nami Island, Alpaca World & Samaksan Mountain Lake Cable Car Day Tour
longest cable car in Korea!
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PRIVATE DAY TOUR: Alpaca World & Nami Island
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Seoraksan National Park, Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm Day Tour
spectacular landscapes of Korea
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Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm Day Tour
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Nami Island, Petite France, Italian Village & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour
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Alpaca World & Nami Island Private Day Tour (1-5 pax/car)
comfortable & safe travel
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Nami Island, Alpaca World & Chuncheon King Canoeing Day Tour
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PRIVATE DAY TOUR: Nami Island & Rail Bike (& more)
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IN THE SOOP BTS Ver. (PyeongChang) Filming Location Tour
incl. official merchandise gift!
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Nami Island, Petite France, Italian Village & The Morning Calm Day Tour
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Alpaca World, Nami Island & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour
enjoy the best of Gangwon!
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Alpaca World, Nami Island, Gangchon Rail Bike Private Day Tour (1-5 pax/car)
travel in comfort
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Legoland Korea & Nami Island Day Tour
World's 2nd largest Legoland!
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Nami Island Admission Ticket (incl. return ferry)
Skip the ticketing queue!
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Alpaca World, Nami Island & The Garden of Morning Calm Day Tour
walk with adorable alpacas
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Nami, Petite France, Italian V., Morning Calm & Gangchon Rail Bike Tour
visit them all!
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Alpaca World, Nami Island & Petite France Private Day Tour (1-5 pax/car)
travel with friends & family
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Legoland Korea & Samaksan Mountain Lake Cable Car Day Tour
longest 3.61km cable car ride!
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PRIVATE DAY TOUR: Alpaca World, Nami Island & Rail Bike
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Incheon Day Tour (Ganghwa Luge, Rail Bike, Wolmido & Fairy Tale Village)
enjoy the best of Incheon!
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over 800 traditional houses
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Lotte World Adventure Busan 1 Day Pass
1st theme park in Busan!
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CLUBD OASIS: Spa Ticket @LCT, Haeundae Beach
hot spring & Korean dry sauna with 5 themes (salt, cypress, red clay, elvan & ice)
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Busan Day Tour: Haeundae Beach Train
✚Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Cheongsapo, Huinnyeoul & Gamcheon Culture Villages
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Busan City Day Tour (Haeundae Sky Capsule)
✚Oryukdo Skywalk, Huinnyeoul Culture Village & Gamcheon Culture Village
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Busan Night Small Group Photo Tour
Gamcheon Culture Village, Observatory, Waterside Park & Mt. Hwangnyongsan
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Skyline Luge Busan Ticket
✚panoramic view sky rides
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CLUBD OASIS: Spa & Water Park All-Use Ticket
@Busan's tallest building LCT, Haeundae Beach
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Busan Day Tour: Haeundae Sky Capsule
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Busan City Day Tour (Yacht & Sky Capsule)
✚Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Cheongsapo & Gamcheon Culture Village
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Gyeongju UNESCO Sites & Haeundae Sky Capsule Tour
Bulguksa Temple, Gyeongju Historic Areas (Daereungwon, Hwangnidan-gil) & Wolji Pond
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Busan SEA LIFE Aquarium Admission Ticket
exclusive skip-the-line lane
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Busan Air Cruise Cable Car Ticket
normal or crystal cabin options
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Busan City Day Tour (Classic Course)
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Taejongdae, Gamcheon Culture Village & Songdo Skywalk
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Busan Must-Visit Day Tour (Sky Capsule & Beach Train)
✚Cheongsapo Skywalk, Jukseong Cathedral & Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
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MUSEUM 1 SIGNS of LOSS Ticket (new modern art)
152.4m mega sized LED media art!
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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in South Korea
Written by Freddy Sherman Updated Mar 20, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )
Author Freddy Sherman has traveled to South Korea multiple times, including a recent trip to Seoul in late 2022.
South Korea offers everything a traveler could want in a destination. It has a long and fascinating history, a wonderful culture, amazing food, friendly people, and an excellent tourism infrastructure (including a new high-speed rail system).
It's also a country of contrasts, with tourist attractions ranging from ancient mountaintop Buddhist temples like Bulguksa to the ultra-modern skyscrapers of Seoul, like the Lotte World Tower.
It also has one of the most unique attractions in the world that can be visited: a no man's land, part of a military border between two countries technically still at war (the DMZ). Discover the best places to visit with our list of the top tourist attractions in South Korea.
1. Experience Korean History at Changdeokgung Palace
2. explore beaches and history in busan, 3. visit jeonju, the former spiritual capital of korea, 4. view seoul from above at the n seoul tower, 5. see how people lived 600 years ago at the bukchon hanok village, 6. hike in the mountains at seoraksan national park, 7. look into north korea at the dmz, 8. check out korean art, history, and archeology at the national museum of korea, 9. have fun at korea's largest amusement park, lotte world, 10. gyeongbokgung palace, 11. ride the cable car at hallyeo maritime national park, 12. bulguksa temple, 13. visit the blue house, south korea's white house, 14. enjoy a beach getaway on jeju island, 15. walk through seoul's restored gwanghwamun gate, 16. stay overnight at jingwansa temple, 17. spend a night out in itaewon, 18. enjoy a meal in one of seoul's street food markets, 19. admire cherry blossoms at the jinhae cherry blossom festival, map of tourist attractions in south korea.
![korea where to visit Changdeokgung Palace](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/06/south-korea-top-tourist-attractions-changdeokgung-palace.jpg)
Of the five grand palaces built by the Joseon Dynasty in the 15 th century around Seoul, Changdeokgung Palace was always the preferred royal residence. It's where the king and royal family lived their daily lives.
The palace isn't just a single building, it's a complex of buildings, and each served a different purpose. Some are accommodations; some are libraries, dining rooms, and meeting rooms, among other uses. Be sure to spend some time in the 78-acre Huwon, or palace garden, located behind the palace. It's filled with pathways, green spaces, pagodas, streams, and lakes.
Address: 99 Yulgok-ro, Waryong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Seoul
![korea where to visit The hillside village of Gamecheon in Busan](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/06/south-korea-top-tourist-attractions-busan-gamecheon.jpg)
Did you know you can hit the beach in Korea? Busan is the second largest city in the country, and its coast is lined with some beautiful beaches and resorts. There's a lot of culture and history here, too. Be sure to visit the Beomeosa Temple and the hillside village of Gamecheon . Gamecheon is a European-style village on the cliffs above the sea, like Korea's version of Santorini.
Seafood lovers should be sure to visit Jagalchi Market , the country's largest commercial seafood market. Part of the market is open to consumers, and there are many small restaurants that will cook up your purchase, so you can eat it right here.
Getting to Busan is easy, it takes a little more than two hours from Seoul on Korea's KTX high-speed bullet train.
![korea where to visit Traditional house with storage pots in Jeonju](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/06/south-korea-top-tourist-attractions-jeonju.jpg)
Jeonju is a very historic city, once the spiritual capital of the Joseon Dynasty, it's about 90 minutes by train from Seoul. It's home to many ancient temples and shrines along with a hanok village. These are found throughout Korea. They are preserved neighborhoods of ancient and old homes (hanoks), allowing visitors to get a feel for what life was like in ancient Korea.
Some of the homes in the hanok villages are open for tours, and others have been made into museums (and restaurants and lodging, too), but most remain private homes.
![korea where to visit N Seoul Tower](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/06/south-korea-top-tourist-attractions-seoul-tower.jpg)
Yes, everyone visiting Seoul should go up in the city's iconic observation tower. Its position almost on top of a mountain, plus the height of the tower itself, gets you almost 500 meters above sea level and the city below.
But, leave some time to explore the surrounding mountain area. The tower is near the top of Mount Namsan, and the entire area is Namsan Park, which is run by the city. There are miles of hiking trails to explore, all within a few minutes of downtown Seoul.
The top levels of the N Seoul Tower include indoor and outdoor observation areas and restaurants. The exterior of the tower is covered in LED lighting, which is illuminated each night in seasonal light shows.
There's a cable car that takes you from the city (near Myeongdong) to the tower's base area. You can then hike from here. After climbing the mountain and riding on the cable car, leave time to explore the Namsan Hanok Village . These preserved historic villages, which are located all over Seoul and Korea, are re-creations of ancient Korean neighborhoods. This village includes five restored hanoks or traditional Korean homes.
Address: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan 2(i)ga-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
![korea where to visit Bukchon Hanok Village at sunset](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/06/south-korea-top-tourist-attractions-bukchon-hanok-village.jpg)
Hanok villages, which can be found in a few places in Seoul and around Korea, are living museums. They're restored and preserved ancient neighborhoods, some in their original location (like Bukchon) and some re-created with hanoks (traditional Korean homes) moved from elsewhere. They give visitors an opportunity to not only experience what it was like to live in a hanok, but also what it was like to live in Korea 600 years ago.
You can experience the tiny, narrow streets and also explore Korean culture, as many of the hanoks are museums or offer cultural demonstrations. Many are private homes, and some offer accommodations. That's what makes these village areas so special; they are true living history because many of the homes are privately owned and occupied by real local residents.
Bukchon Hanok Village is a popular place to explore, as it's right in central Seoul, in the area between the Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Changdeokgung Palace .
![korea where to visit Seoraksan National Park](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/06/south-korea-top-tourist-attractions-seoraksan-national-park.jpg)
Like the Yosemite of Korea, this majestic natural wonderland (Korea's first national park) has mountains, lakes, waterfalls, streams, and miles of hiking trails that allow you to explore them.
This park is known for its natural diversity, as it has over 1,500 different animal species and over 1,000 different kinds of plants. There are also two Buddhist temples inside the park, one known as the " Temple of a Hundred Pools " due to all the ponds around it fed by mountain streams.
When you get tired of walking, there's a cable car that will take you up Seoraksan Mountain for some incredible views of the mountains and valleys. It takes about four hours by bus or three hours by car to reach the park from Seoul.
![korea where to visit Soldiers at the DMZ](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/06/south-korea-top-tourist-attractions-the-dmz.jpg)
DMZ stands for demilitarized zone, and it's the no-man's land border between North and South Korea. Heavily guarded and mined, this strange area can be visited, but only on an official, guided tour. The official area is about four kilometers wide and is formally known as the JSA or Joint Security Area. It's probably the best place to visit in South Korea to learn about this conflict.
The No Shopping Half-Day Korean DMZ Tour from Seoul includes round-trip transportation from Seoul. Official DMZ tours include a visit to the 3rd Tunnel, dug by the North to facilitate an invasion of the South, and to the Dora Observatory, where you can look across no-man's-land into North Korea.
![korea where to visit National Museum of Korea](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/06/south-korea-top-tourist-attractions-national-museum-of-korea.jpg)
As a world capital, Seoul is filled with a lot of museums. The largest is the National Museum of Korea , and like the Met in New York, it's a place that really can't be explored in a single visit. The vast collection combines art, history, and archeology, presented to show the history of Korean culture and tell the story of the Korean people.
It's also an excellent attraction to see if you only have limited time in Seoul. The collection is beyond vast, as it goes back over a million years. It's fascinating, especially for families and kids as there's such a wide range of objects. Everything from Stone Age tools to modern artwork by Korean artists.
Address: 137 Seobinggo-ro, Seobinggo-dong, Yongsan-gu
![korea where to visit Lotte World, Seoul](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/06/south-korea-top-tourist-attractions-lotte-world.jpg)
There's an amusement park right in the middle of downtown Seoul. It's a fun place to spend the day and a chance to immerse yourself in real Korean commercial culture. Lotte World includes a hotel, movie theaters (one with the world's largest screen), a folk museum with traditional performances, and other things to do like ice skating.
This theme park is at the base of the Lotte World Tower, the tallest building in South Korea and the fifth tallest building in the world. The tower has multiple observation areas and experiences, its own luxury hotel (the SIGNIEL SEOUL ), and a range of shopping and dining options inside.
A visit is fun for both kids and adults, and aside from the rides and attractions there's a lot of shopping and also artists' workshops and cultural performances to watch. There's the world's largest indoor theme park and an outdoor theme park area called Magic Island .
For a bigger, outdoor theme park experience, Everland is about 45 minutes outside Seoul and is Korea's version of Disneyland.
Address: Songpa-gu, Jamsil 6(yuk)-dong, Olympic-ro, 300, Seoul
![korea where to visit Gyeongbokgung Palace with cherry blossoms](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/06/south-korea-top-tourist-attractions-gyeongbokgung-palace.jpg)
Also known as the Northern Palace, the large Gyeongbokgung Palace complex has gone through some incredible turmoil over the years. It was first built in 1395 during the Joseon dynasty, which built five grand palaces around Seoul. The palace has been bombed, destroyed, and rebuilt several times, occupied by the Japanese (first in 1592), and only finally restored in 1990.
Be sure to check out Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and Hyangwonjeong Pond , two of the remaining original structures from the Joseon period.
The palace compound can be explored on a guided walking tour . There are also two museums inside the grounds (the National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum ), both worth a visit.
Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul
![korea where to visit Hallyeo Maritime National Park](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/06/south-korea-top-tourist-attractions-hallyeo-maritime-national-park.jpg)
The ruggedly beautiful Hallyeo Maritime National Park includes miles of raw coastline on over 300 separate islands. Each has hiking trails with spectacular ocean and cliff views. The area also features a cable car, known as the Hallyeosudo Viewing Ropeway . It's the only dual-cable, automatic circulating gondola system in the country.
The ride is almost 2.4 kilometers long and takes nine minutes to reach the summit. You're rewarded with sweeping views of the countryside and coastline, including the Japanese island of Daemado. The park is about an hour by bus or car from downtown Seoul.
![korea where to visit Bulguksa Temple](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/06/south-korea-top-tourist-attractions-bulguksa-temple.jpg)
One of Korea's true must-see Buddhist temples, Bulguksa Temple is considered by many to be the country's most important. It's officially Historic and Scenic Site Number One as classified by the government. The temple is home to seven of the country's national treasures, sacred pagodas, and statues of the Buddha.
The temple is on the slopes of Mount Toham in Gyeongju, the ancient capital city of Korea. It's a city so historic, it's called a "museum without walls" due to all the historic sites and temples. Gyeongju is about two and a half hours from Seoul via the new KTX high-speed train.
Address: 15-1 Jinhyeon-dong, Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do
![korea where to visit The Blue House](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/06/south-korea-top-tourist-attractions-blue-house.jpg)
Named for the striking blue-tile roofs of its many pavilions and buildings, the Blue House, much like the White House, is the home of the Korean president. The very secure complex of buildings also houses many Korean executive government offices and official meeting sites. It's an interesting place to visit, as it gives you a behind-the-scenes look at modern Korean government and Korean formal culture.
A lot of what you see on the guided sightseeing tour are meeting rooms and official state reception rooms where foreign dignitaries are welcomed. Hour-long public tours are given, but you need to apply online in advance for a security check.
Address: 1 Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul
![korea where to visit Jusangjeolli Cliff, Jeju Island](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/06/south-korea-top-tourist-attractions-jeju-island.jpg)
A very popular resort destination (think the Hawaii of Korea), this volcanic island is best reached via a quick hour-long domestic flight from Seoul. The island boasts beautiful beaches along with a lot of culture and history.
The highest mountain in South Korea (a dormant volcano called Hallasan) is here along with miles of giant lava tubes. The lava tubes, which can be explored, are natural air pockets in the hardened lava, the size of railway tunnels.
Be sure to visit Jungmun Beach to see the diving women. These are women who free dive hundreds of feet to catch different types of seafood. This tradition started centuries ago, when the local men were all out on fishing boats. The island also has hundreds of miles of hiking trails and a lot of hot springs and health spas.
![korea where to visit Gwanghwamun Gate](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/06/south-korea-top-tourist-attractions-gwanghwamun-gate.jpg)
This attraction is a giant gate, formerly the opening in the fortress wall to the Gyeongbokgung Palace located within. It was originally built with the palace in the 15 th century but has been destroyed and rebuilt many times. Most recently in 2010, it was moved back to its original location in front of the palace and Gwanghwamun Square and restored with authentic materials using traditional techniques.
The previous restoration included concrete and other non-traditional construction techniques, but the new gate has been completely constructed with ancient techniques, using only native woods and handmade fittings.
Gwanghwamun Gate is home to the changing of the guards ceremony (performed since 1469), which happens daily (except Tuesdays) at 10am and 2pm. The area in front of the gate, Gwanghwamun Square, is a large public space often used for political and social demonstrations.
![korea where to visit Sunset at Bukhansan National Park](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/06/south-korea-top-tourist-attractions-jingwansa-temple-bukhansan-national-park.jpg)
This ancient temple complex about 15 minutes from downtown Seoul offers both an authentic Buddhist temple experience (including a temple stay program) and a beautiful national park. The temple, which was first established at the site in 1,000 BCE, has several programs for visitors to learn about and experience Buddhism and the monk lifestyle.
The temple is a must-visit attraction for foodies, as they grow most of their own food on-site. The temple also prepares its own Korean specialties, like pickling kimchi in ancient, giant pottery jars. Jingwansa offers meals to the public (and extended overnight stays) and educational programs that show the sustainability of the ancient temple operation.
You can do a temple stay program, which includes an overnight visit, or just come for a meal (vegetarian) or to explore the buildings and shrines. You can also visit the area just to explore Bukhansan National Park , as the temple is inside it. There are miles of hiking trails and three peaks, which can be climbed. Aside from the mountains and forests and their spectacular scenery, there are also ruins of an ancient fortress along the hiking trails.
Address: 73 Jingwan-gil, Jingwan-dong, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul
![korea where to visit Itaewon at night](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2019/06/south-korea-top-tourist-attractions-itaewon.jpg)
Yes, it's a touristy, ex-pat area filled with gift shops and street food, but the Itaewon neighborhood is a great place to just spend an afternoon wandering around. It's especially fun in the early evening, when residents also come out to grab dinner and people-watch. There's an energy here that defines the cosmopolitan city, and it's also a popular strolling spot for locals. You'll see a lot of Korean families, kids, and couples enjoying the shops and restaurants.
For those in search of authentic Korean food, this is not the place to come, but it is the place to come for international foods not widely available in Seoul. Things like Italian food, pizza, burgers, and American-style western barbecue.
![korea where to visit Street food in Seoul](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2021/10/south-korea-top-rated-tourist-attractions-seouls-street-food-markets.jpg)
As one of the world's great food cultures, no visit to Korea is complete without enjoying some street food. The Gwangjang Market, in Central Seoul , is truly a foodie heaven on earth. The large covered market area is filled with multiple food stalls offering a complete array of Korean specialties. It's definitely one of the best places to visit in Seoul if you're hungry.
The cool thing about this market and most food markets in Seoul is that the majority of these food stalls are like little mini restaurants in that they have a row of stools and a counter, so you can sit and eat. It's also cool that most stands will offer you a free sample.
Stalls typically offer bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), bibimbap (rice mixed with sauteed beef, vegetables, and gochujang red chili paste), gimbap (Korean sushi), sundae (blood sausage), tteokbokki (stir-fried spicy rice cakes), and various types of noodles.
![korea where to visit Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2023/03/south-korea-top-attractions-admire-cherry-blossoms-jinhae-cherry-blossom-festival.jpg)
Boasting almost 400,000 cherry trees, some over 100 years old, Jinhae is the best place in Korea to enjoy cherry trees blossoming with flowers each spring. This small town, located along South Korea's southern coast, hosts the country's most popular annual cherry blossom festival. Over a million visitors a year come to Jinhae just to see the cherry blossoms.
Formally known as Gunhangjae (Naval Port Festival), the Jinhae cherry blossom festival takes place in late March or early April, depending on when the trees are in flower. Head to Yeojwacheon stream and Jinhae's Gyeonghwa train station for some of the best blossom viewing. You can also enjoy the festival's food markets, public art installations, and live performances.
Getting from Seoul to Jinhae is easy via South Korea's high-speed ATX train — the journey takes just under three hours.
![korea where to visit instagram logo](https://www.planetware.com/i/instagram-100.jpg)
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The Most Beautiful Places in South Korea
By Caitlin Morton
South Korea is on everyone's radar right now, as PyeongChang gears up to host the Winter Olympics beginning on February 9. But the country's appeal extends far beyond athletic facilities—with ancient temples , tea plantations, trendy neighborhoods, and more than 3,000 offshore islands to explore, South Korea should be on everyone's travel bucket list. Need more convincing? Here are the country's most beautiful sites, ready to welcome you long after the Olympians head home.
![korea where to visit This image may contain Architecture Building Temple Worship Shrine and Water](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9df8af0dc48d25dafa1/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Donggung-Palace-and-Wolji-Pond-GettyImages-591106790.jpg)
Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond
Located near the city of Gyeongju, this 7th-century palace complex contains well-preserved temples, museums filled with ancient relics, and three small islands. Its star attraction is the surrounding Wolji Pond, an artificial lake that perfectly reflects the buildings (especially at night) and becomes covered with lotus flowers in the summer.
![korea where to visit Image may contain Field Outdoors Grassland Nature Human Person Countryside Meadow Farm and Rural](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9dfcaee085874d6499d/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Cheongsando-Island-GettyImages-592692256.jpg)
Cheongsando Island
Southern Cheongsando Island is known for its untouched beauty—think terraced rice paddies, panoramic ocean views, and fields of yellow rapeseed flowers. The island is also famous for embracing the concept of slow living, hosting a "Slow Walking Festival" every year in which visitors and residents are encouraged to stroll the walking trails as slowly as possible to better soak in the scenery.
![korea where to visit Image may contain Human Person Architecture Building Planetarium Urban Town Metropolis City and Downtown](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9beabbf37393aaae65d/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Dongdaemun-Design-Plaza-GettyImages-563003321.jpg)
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), Seoul
Built in 2014 near Seoul's Dongdaemun Market , this Zaha Hadid-designed plaza is well worth exploring for a few hours. The building's seven levels can be explored on a guided tour or at your own leisurely pace, but the on-site history museum and clothing market are just added bonuses to the architecture itself, designed with no angles nor straight lines.
![korea where to visit This image may contain Lighting and Crowd](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9e022589c54cddee638/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Samgwangsa-Temple-GettyImages-170839660.jpg)
Samgwangsa Temple, Busan
Samgwangsa Temple is known for its annual lantern festival, an event honoring Buddha's birthday (usually in late May) that attracts over a million visitors every year. During the festival, countless lanterns light up in spectacular colors beneath the night sky.
![korea where to visit This image may contain Labyrinth and Maze](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9efebe8d741b88f45d3/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Boseong-tea-plantation-GettyImages-596127886.jpg)
Boseong County
About 40 percent of the country's green tea supply grows in the fields of Boseong, which attracts photographers and filmmakers as much as tea drinkers thanks to its dramatic green fields.
![korea where to visit Image may contain Plant Human Person Flower Blossom and Cherry Blossom](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9cf700d4b48069a5735/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Yeojwacheon-Stream-Jinhae-GettyImages-903589994.jpg)
Located about 20 miles west of Busan, Jinhae is a quiet coastal town known for one thing: cherry blossoms. Each spring, the city holds the largest cherry blossom festival in South Korea, with hundreds of thousands of pink trees lining streets, railways, and streams.
![korea where to visit Image may contain Nature Promontory Shoreline Water Ocean Outdoors Sea Road Coast and Land](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a72094fa70af87db2c60c3a/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Ulleungdo-Island-GettyImages-591457086.jpg)
Ulleungdo Island
This volcanic island boasts some seriously impressive scenery, with Hawaii-esque coastlines and Cabo San Lucas-esque rock formations. But visual similarities aside, this Sea of Japan destination is truly one of a kind—especially when you throw in the island's famous seafood dishes (like honghap bap , a seasoned rice dish served with mussels).
![korea where to visit Image may contain Mountain Range Outdoors Nature Mountain and Peak](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9c64b063536a7d3625e/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Jirisan-National-Park-GettyImages-592691564.jpg)
Jirisan National Park
Established in 1967, this is the oldest official national park in the country, drawing visitors for its 119,350 acres of rolling mountains and valleys, temple complexes, and Asiatic black bear habitats.
![korea where to visit Image may contain Corridor Wood and Indoors](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9eaebe8d741b88f45d1/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Haeinsa-Temple-library-GettyImages-112553864.jpg)
Haeinsa Temple
Haeinsa is one of the most famous ancient sights in the country, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. Aside from its beauty, the temple is home to the Tripitaka Koreana , a collection of some 80,000 tablets engraved with Buddhist writings.
![korea where to visit Image may contain Water Nature Outdoors Land Tree Plant Lake Scenery Art Painting Landscape and Vegetation](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a7103c0abbf37393aaae667/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Juwangsan-National-Park-GettyImages-591392406.jpg)
Juwangsan National Park
Juwangsan National Park may be small (about 41 square miles), but it packs quite the punch. The park is known for the vertical, rocky cliffs of Juwangsan Mountain, tucked-away waterfalls, and willow tree-filled Jusanji Pond (pictured).
![korea where to visit Image may contain Building Architecture Temple Worship Human Person Shrine Church Altar Art and Buddha](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9c64b063536a7d36260/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Jogyesa-Temple-GettyImages-541215444.jpg)
Jogyesa Temple, Seoul
This 620-year-old Buddhist temple may be the most photographic spot in the Insadong district, with streams of pink, blue, and yellow lanterns on the ceiling and window shudders carved into the shape of trees.
![korea where to visit This image may contain Scenery Outdoors Nature Landscape Housing Architecture Monastery and Building](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9d68af0dc48d25daf9f/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Haedong-Yonggungsa-Temple-GettyImages-874460458.jpg)
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Busan
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple has one of the most scenic locations of any temple in the country—overlooking the sea on the northwest corner of Busan. Most temples are found in the mountains, so the chance to meditate while watching the sun rise over the ocean is particularly special.
![korea where to visit Image may contain Water River Outdoors Nature and Waterfall](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9b0700d4b48069a5731/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Cheonjiyeon-Waterfall-GettyImages-539081556.jpg)
Cheonjiyeon Falls
Located on Jeju Island—a wholly beautiful destination in its own right—this 72-foot-tall waterfall is surrounded by walking trails, lemon trees, and a pond filled with tropical (and totally harmless) eels. There is truly no wrong time to visit, as the cascades are lit up at night.
![korea where to visit This image may contain Animal Bird Nature Sunlight Outdoors Human and Person](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9a6caee085874d6499b/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Hands-of-Harmony-Homigot-GettyImages-595253278.jpg)
Located at the easternmost end of the country, Homigot is the place to watch the sun rise in South Korea. Due to its location, the area is the first in the country to catch sight of the rising sun—there is even a Sunrise Festival held here every New Year's, where visitors gather in masses to watch the solar event together. The site is made even more special with "Hand of Harmony," a sculpture featuring two hands—one on land, one in the ocean—reaching upward in a symbol of harmony.
![korea where to visit Image may contain Nature Building Outdoors Countryside Hut Rural and Shack](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9d5ebe8d741b88f45cf/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Naganeupseong-Folk-Village-GettyImages-557102929.jpg)
Naganeupseong Folk Village
Time seems to stand still in this village, with houses, castles, and monuments appearing almost exactly as they did 600 years ago. Cultural significance aside, the village is a unique tourist attraction—visitors get to tour houses, watch traditional dance performances, and take lessons in Korean tea ceremony etiquette.
![korea where to visit Image may contain Shrine Building Pagoda Temple Architecture Worship Housing and Monastery](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9b400e4205b17ee0db9/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Gyeongbokgung-Palace-GettyImages-479203176.jpg)
Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul
Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest—and arguably the most beautiful—of Seoul's five palaces. Its Gyeonghoeru pavilion remains nearly exactly as it was when it was built back in 1395, and its on-site museums feature some of the best Korean art in the country.
![korea where to visit Image may contain Outdoors Scenery Nature Landscape Aerial View Human and Person](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9ab8af0dc48d25daf9d/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Oedo-Paradise-Island-GettyImages-545840282.jpg)
Oedo-Botania
You can't visit the city of Geoje without taking a ferry ride to the nearby island of Oedo, home to Oedo-Botania. The 12 square miles of this marine botanical garden contain more than 3,000 species of plants, with perfectly manicured green spaces modeled after the gardens at Versailles .
![korea where to visit This image may contain Nature Outdoors Land Water Sky Dusk Red Sky Sunset Dawn Scenery Flame Bonfire and Fire](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9a8cd6b9042805a73ab/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Upo-Wetland-GettyImages-150929511.jpg)
Upo Wetlands
Stretching across 526 acres, Upo is the largest swamp area in the country. Visitors can walk or bike around the wetlands, getting glimpses of the more than 1,500 species of plants and endangered animals, plus beautiful willow groves and gatherings of fireflies.
![korea where to visit Image may contain Building Architecture Nature Outdoors Temple Shrine and Worship](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9ec48992b26c690e4ef/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Bulguksa-Temple-GettyImages-591456696.jpg)
Bulguksa Temple, Gyeongju National Park
Built in 774, the Temple of Bulguksa is found in the incredibly scenic Gyeongju National Park on the slopes of Mount Tohamsan. The complex's stone terraces, bridges, and pagodas look especially lovely in winter, covered by a light layer of snow.
![korea where to visit Image may contain Tree Plant Outdoors Vegetation Garden Arbour Tree Trunk Forest Nature Land Woodland and Grove](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9b600e4205b17ee0dbb/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Damyang-Metasequoia-GettyImages-591655426.jpg)
Metasequoia Road, Damyang
Lined with giant sequoia trees planted back in the 1970s, this is one of the most popular roads in all of South Korea—both for drivers and walkers. The path is particularly gorgeous in summer, when the treetops cover the road in a lush green canopy.
![korea where to visit This image may contain Architecture Building Worship Temple Shrine Human Person Gautama Buddha Art and Buddha](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9d4abbf37393aaae65f/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Sinheungsa-Temple-GettyImages-502616582.jpg)
Sinheungsa Temple, Seoraksan Mountain
There are many reasons to visit Sinheungsa Temple, from its towering bronze Buddha statue to its architecturally stunning buildings. But the main draw is perhaps the surrounding nature, with the Seoraksan mountain and colorful trees serving as the perfect backdrop.
![korea where to visit Image may contain Roof City Town Metropolis Urban Building Architecture Worship Shrine and Temple](https://media.cntraveler.com/photos/5a70f9be700d4b48069a5733/master/w_320%2Cc_limit/Bukchon-Hanok-Village-GettyImages-518187554.jpg)
Bukchon Hanok Village, Seoul
In an increasingly modern city like Seoul, the Bukchon Hanok Village stands apart for its quiescence. Hundreds of the hanoks (traditional Korean houses) have been protected, with many buildings now serving as tea houses and galleries.
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15 Best Cities to Visit in South Korea
By Alex Schultz · Last updated on February 5, 2024
In less than fifty years, South Korea went from being one of the world’s poorest countries to one of its richest. Its thriving cities highlight this change as ancient palaces, and traditional temples lie next to gleaming shopping malls and futuristic buildings.
Despite bordering two larger, more powerful nations for much of its history ( Japan and China ), the country has managed to preserve its unique culture; many of its museums showcase South Korea’s fascinating history, art, and local traditions.
A beautiful country to visit, many of South Korea’s cities are located amongst scenic mountains or next to idyllic islands and beautiful beaches. Hiking and immersing yourself in nature is almost a national pastime such is its popularity. Now known just as much for its delicious food and K-pop as for its impressive historical sights, South Korea and its fun and friendly cities are sure to delight with all they have to offer.
Map of cities in South Korea
![korea where to visit Map of cities in South Korea](https://www.touropia.com/gfx/b/2019/02/cities_south_korea_map.jpg)
A very welcoming and friendly place, Andong is renowned for its delicious cuisine, so foodies will rejoice at all the local delicacies on offer.
Founded over 2000 years ago, Andong boasts many historical and cultural attractions and often markets itself as a spiritual center due to its many temples and local religious sites.
One of the most interesting places to visit is the Andong Hahoe Folk Village, where you can learn all about the local traditions, culture, and history.
14. Tongyeong
![korea where to visit Tongyeong](https://www.touropia.com/gfx/b/2019/02/tongyeong.jpg)
Surrounded by sea on three sides, Tongyeong is located right on the southern tip of a peninsula. Most visitors to the city use it as a gateway from which to explore any of the 151 nearby islands.
A sleepy, laidback place, Tongyeong’s harbor is beautiful to behold. Walking along the harbor front or eating a delicious seafood dinner while watching the sunset is a unique experience.
Although there is not much going on in town, the city more than makes up for it with the wealth of beautiful islands nearby. Nature lovers will revel in visiting the spectacular Hallyeohaesang National Park.
13. Daejeon
![korea where to visit Daejeon](https://www.touropia.com/gfx/b/2019/02/daejeon.jpg)
Having expanded rapidly over the last few decades, Daejeon is now one of the largest cities in South Korea and is a significant science and research center, thanks in part to the large Expo Park complex.
While not particularly pretty to behold due to its urban sprawl, the city is, however, home to lots of interesting museums, with the National Science Museum’s fantastic exhibits making it one of the best on offer.
No visit to Daejeon is complete without a stop at the Yuseong Hot Springs; bathing in the thermal waters is the perfect way to end a day after taking in the city’s sights.
![korea where to visit Suwon](https://www.touropia.com/gfx/b/2019/02/suwon.jpg)
Due to its proximity to Seoul, Suwon is a fantastic day trip option from the capital, although it often gets overlooked by travelers.
Now a major center for industry, the city is home to Samsung Electronics. Its busy streets are packed with bars, restaurants, and shops, while Ingyedong is the place to head if you’re after some fun nightlife.
The main reason that people visit Suwon is for the stunning 18th-century fortress of Hwaseong that lies at the heart of the city; its twisting walls and looming towers are lovely to explore.
![korea where to visit Yeosu](https://www.touropia.com/gfx/b/2019/02/yeosu.jpg)
Lying on a peninsula of the same name in the south of the country, Yeosu is one of the most beautiful port cities in South Korea and an increasingly popular beachside resort.
Lined by mountains, Yeosu is surrounded by islands and cliffs that look spectacular. One of the best views is from Hyangiram Hermitage – a beautiful cliffside hermitage.
While Yeosu is not big on sights, its lively waterfront is home to lots of brilliant seafood restaurants. Just relaxing on the beach and taking in the view is what most people want from a visit to the city.
![korea where to visit Geoje](https://www.touropia.com/gfx/b/2019/02/geoje-1.jpg)
More of an island than a city, Geoje has nicknamed itself the ‘Blue City.’ It is surrounded by sparkling clear waters, a gorgeous rocky coastline, and lots of beautiful beaches.
While its scenic charm is what most people come for, Geoje has lots of interesting tourist sites to offer, such as a stunning 15th-century castle and a POW Camp, which used to host North Korean prisoners.
Although the city has more than enough restaurants and bars to keep you occupied, the spectacular scenery is what really steals the show. A boat trip to the breathtaking islands of Haegeumgang and Odeo is a must.
![korea where to visit Daegu](https://www.touropia.com/gfx/b/2019/02/daegu.jpg)
Home to a sizeable student population, Daegu has a youthful feel to it and is surprisingly friendly and welcoming, considering that it is the fourth largest city in the country.
Wandering around its lively downtown is a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. Its fantastic art museums lie side-by-side with beautiful old churches and temples, while its food and nightlife scenes are thriving.
Many people use Daegu as a gateway to the region, and the nearby Palgong Mountain is well worth a visit. It is home to loads of scenic trails as well as numerous temples and Gatbawi – a magnificent stone statue of Buddha.
8. Gyeongju
![korea where to visit Gyeongju](https://www.touropia.com/gfx/b/2019/02/gyeongju.jpg)
Boasting more than 2000 years of history, Gyeongju is fittingly known as ‘the museum without walls’ thanks to its endless array of tombs, temples and archaeological sites. Many of them date back to when the city was capital of the Silla Kingdom.
A captivating place to explore, the center of town is full of old tombs, beautiful pagodas, and traditional houses. The Gyeongju National Museum houses a wonderful collection of local artifacts.
Two must-see sights are the stunning Bulguksa Temple, dating back to the eighth century, and the nearby Seokguram Grotto – both of which delightfully show off some rich Buddhist art and highlight how the religion impacted the area.
![korea where to visit Jeonju](https://www.touropia.com/gfx/b/2019/02/jeonju.jpg)
Once the spiritual capital of the country, Jeonju is full of historical sites and cultural landmarks. It is also home to one of the nation’s most popular tourist attractions in the shape of Hanok Village, which showcases traditional houses, local cultural practices, and artisanal products from around the region.
With lots of beautiful temples to marvel at, Jeonju is fascinating to walk around; its winding alleys are home to atmospheric cafes and restaurants, and no visit to Jeonju is complete without trying bibimbap – a local delicacy.
Before leaving, make sure to visit the excellent Jeonju National Museum, which protects, preserves and promotes the rich local history and culture.
![korea where to visit Incheon](https://www.touropia.com/gfx/b/2019/02/incheon.jpg)
The third largest city in the country, Incheon lies just under 40 kilometers from Seoul. It was at the huge port here that American soldiers landed in 1950 during the Korean War to recapture South Korea’s capital.
An important city to the nation in both historical and economic terms, Incheon is expanding rapidly and has loads for visitors to see and do. Its bustling Chinatown and maze of shops, restaurants, and bars in Bupyeong are just two of the highlights.
With the oldest temple in the country – Jeondeungsa – for you to enjoy, alongside lots of lovely old architecture and some delightful waterfront promenades, Incheon is a great option if you’re looking for a comfortable and accessible day trip from Seoul.
5. Gangneung
![korea where to visit Gangneung](https://www.touropia.com/gfx/b/2019/02/gangneung.jpg)
Lying on the East coast, Gangneung is the perfect place to head if you’re looking to step off the beaten path and get to know one of the country’s lesser-known cities.
Separated from the rest of South Korea by the Taebaek mountain range bordering it, Gangneung has its own distinctive culture and feel about it, as is evidenced by the delicious local cuisine and cultural events – such as the fascinating Danoje folk festival.
With centuries-old temples for you to visit, alongside the impressive Ojukheon Museum – home to shrines, traditional buildings and memorabilia from famous Koreans – Gangneung also has some lovely nature on offer; one of the nation’s most popular beaches can be found at Gyeongpo.
4. Jeju City
![korea where to visit Jeju City](https://www.touropia.com/gfx/b/2019/02/jeju_city.jpg)
The largest city on the island of the same name, Jeju’s warm, welcoming climate makes it a popular tourist destination. Many people head here during the summer to enjoy the fancy hotels, teeming casinos, and trendy bars.
Although most of the main attractions are found out of town, Jeju City is a pleasant place to visit, with lots of fantastic restaurants, upmarket boutiques and accommodation options on offer.
Many people use it as a base from which to explore the rest of the island . A visit to the nearby Jeju Loveland – an adults-only theme park – will certainly highlight why the island is a popular honeymoon destination.
3. Seogwipo
![korea where to visit Seogwipo](https://www.touropia.com/gfx/b/2019/02/seogwipo.jpg)
Located on Jeju Island, Seogwipo is surrounded by some beautiful scenery, including a spectacular rocky coastline, plunging waterfalls, and beautiful beaches.
Consequently, most visitors to the city come primarily for its natural sights; it also boasts the best scuba-diving in the whole country. With lots of great paths and trails snaking their way to the waterfalls and along the coastline, it is also a popular hiking destination.
While the city itself doesn’t have that much going for it, the lovely scenery more than makes up for it. If you are at a loose end, the fun water park and immersive submarine tours are well worth checking out when in town.
![korea where to visit Busan](https://www.touropia.com/gfx/b/2019/02/busan.jpg)
The second largest city in South Korea, Busan is home to a bustling port and is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its beautiful scenery made up of forest-coated mountains and gorgeous beaches.
With many different sides to it, Busan is home to both a gritty industrial area and the hillside Gamcheon Cultural Village, full of brightly-colored houses offering delightful views over the city.
While most people come for its beaches, Busan has many interesting historical sites scattered around town: there’s the popular Beomeosa Temple with its numerous hot springs, fantastic seafood restaurants, and wealth of outdoor activities.
![korea where to visit Seoul](https://www.touropia.com/gfx/b/2019/02/seoul.jpg)
A sprawling metropolis that encompasses over 25 million people, South Korea’s capital has everything imaginable on offer. It is an enthralling place to explore, with centuries-old palaces and temples rubbing shoulders with gleaming shopping malls and bustling night markets.
With something for everyone to enjoy, you can be marveling at the intricate architecture of the 15th century Chandeok-gung palace one minute, be hiking in the nearby mountains and numerous parks the next, before later visiting one of the city’s fabulous museums.
Renowned for its excellent cuisine, Seoul has loads of great restaurants and street stalls dotted around. The city is continually pushing the boundaries of what is possible – whether that is in fashion and design or architecture and technology.
As such, there is always something new to see and do in Seoul.
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Ultimate South Korea Bucket List: 20 Best Things To Do
Looking for the best things to do in South Korea? Enjoy our South Korea bucket list full of great ideas on how you can plan your South Korea trip! This list features things to do in Seoul, Busan, Gyeongju, Jeonju and more beautiful places around the country. Here’s our bucket list on what to do in South Korea!
![korea where to visit Ultimate South Korea Bucket List: 20 Best Things To Do](https://thesunrisedreamers.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/The-Best-Things-To-Do-In-South-Korea-Bucket-List-44.jpg)
South Korea is a country in East Asia known for its K-Pop, Korean food, palaces, Buddhist temples and the famous capital city Seoul. If you love unique culture, views of mountains, bright neon signs and a country with so many modern features then you should start creating your South Korea bucket list now!
There are so many amazing things to do in South Korea and this list won’t even capture it all – but it’s definitely a start and a great introduction to what to do in South Korea on a first trip! If you need any help planning out your route, head over to our 2 week South Korea itinerary to plan the most amazing trip.
This South Korea bucket list includes destinations that are easy to get to by the impressive public transport the country has to offer. We’ll share how to get to these places and a few more tips for South Korea at the bottom of this page!
This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you .
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Ultimate South Korea Bucket List
Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)
South Korea is an incredible country to visit with amazing cities, lovely villages, great food and some of the best hikes! In no particular order – here are the 20 best things to do in South Korea!
1. Visit Gyeongbukgung
Gyeongbukgung is one of the most beautiful palaces in Seoul . There are five palaces in Seoul and all of them deserve a visit – but if you only have time for one, make it Gyeongbukgung. It was built in 1395 and was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty.
Make your visit to the palace memorable by renting a hanbok for a few hours. Hanbok rental stores are hard to miss when visiting South Korea and there are a few rental shops right around the corner from Gyeongbukgung. Find the link on Klook here – Hanbok Rental Klook
If you’re in Seoul for a few days – check out our 5 Day Seoul Itinerary travel guide here !
![korea where to visit Gyeongbukgung - South Korea Bucket List](https://thesunrisedreamers.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/South-Korea-Bucket-List-Best-Things-To-Do-In-South-Korea-19.jpg)
We use a Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit to take photos of us together on our camera, it’s so useful especially when there’s no one around! There’s also a version for a phone – Joby Phone Tripod to get the best photos on your South Korea trip!
2. Have a traditional Korean meal
Eating Korean food is one of the best things to do in South Korea and should definitely be on your South Korea bucket list! Enjoy a traditional Korean meal at Osegye Hyang ( location ) in the gorgeous streets of Insadong.
When entering, it’s polite to take off your shoes and sit on cushions on the floor instead of chairs. Along with your meal, you’ll be served lots of little side dishes called Banchan ! The best meal to have when you first arrive in South Korea!
![korea where to visit Traditional Korean meal at Osegye Hyang](https://thesunrisedreamers.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Ultimate-South-Korea-Bucket-List-20-Best-Things-To-Do-In-South-Korea-06.jpg)
3. Stay in a Temple
Temple stays are a cultural programme in South Korea as a way to experience the Buddhism lifestyle and practices. It’s our favourite thing we did in South Korea and we’d 100% go back to stay in more temples around the country. We highly recommend – Golgulsa Templestay ! (Near Gyeongju & Busan)
Here’s the link to find out more information and book a stay at – Golgulsa Templestay Reservations . The price is 60,000KRW per night, per person. (30krw for a pre-schooler)
We’ve also shared a Golgulsa Templstay Review so you can find out exactly what it’s like to stay overnight in a South Korean Buddhist Temple. It’s such an amazing and unique experience!
![korea where to visit Best Things To Do in South Korea - Golgulsa Templstay Review](https://thesunrisedreamers.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/South-Korea-Bucket-List-Best-Things-To-Do-In-South-Korea-63.jpg)
4. Take the train to Busan
If you’ve ever seen the horror/action movie Train to Busan – then taking the train from Seoul to Busan must be on your South Korea bucket list! Remember, it’s just a movie!
You can book your ticket on the KTX here – Korail Train Tickets . It’s a quick 2 hour 15 minutes from Seoul to Busan and the tickets are usually around ₩45,000 – ₩65,000. If you’re on a budget, then intercity and express buses are generally cheaper but slower in South Korea.
If you’re taking multiple trains in South Korea, you may want to get a KR Pass to save you money! Find out more details on Klook !
If you’re interested in travel costs and how much to budget for South Korea, here’s our 10 Best South Korea Budget Tips + Travel Costs (2024) !
5. Explore a Hanok Village
Another one of the best things to do in South Korea is to explore the many hanok villages that can be found around the country. Bukchon Hanok Village may be the most popular village to explore in South Korea as it’s located in Seoul. It’s absolutely beautiful and should be on your South Korea things to do list! Find Bukchon Observatory for an impressive view to see the tops of the preserved buildings!
- Jeonju Hanok Village (Jeonju)
- Bukchon Hanok Village (Seoul)
- Andong Hahoe Folk Village (between Seoul & Busan)
![korea where to visit Bukchon Hanok Village - Seoul](https://thesunrisedreamers.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/South-Korea-Bucket-List-20-Best-Things-To-Do-In-South-Korea-13.jpg)
6. Visit the DMZ
If you’re spending a few days in Seoul you may be interested to visit the Demilitarized Zone of Korea in between North and South Korea. It’s an important part of the country and there’s so much history to learn about the Korean War. This can only be done on a tour – book tickets with Klook here !
7. Spend a day in Gyeongju
Wondering what to do in South Korea? Take a visit to the beautiful city of Gyeongju also known as a museum with no walls . This ancient city has preserved remains and tombs from many years ago and it was once the residence of Silla rulers for over 1000 years. You can book a Gyeongju UNESCO World Heritage Tour from Busan on Klook .
Take a browse at 11 Best Things to do in Gyeongju to plan your trip!
![korea where to visit Woljeonggyo Bridge in Gyeongju - South Korea Bucket List](https://thesunrisedreamers.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Best-South-Korea-Bucket-List-Best-Things-To-Do-In-South-Korea-35.jpg)
8. Eat Korean street food
We’ve already mentioned that Korean food should be on your South Korea bucket list – and now we want to tell you to try Korean street food! There are so many markets around the country that have amazing choices when it comes to food. Gwangjang Market is our favourite food market in Seoul!
- Tteokbokki (Rice cakes in a spicy sauce)
- Gun Goguma (Roasted sweet potatoes)
- Mandu (Korean dumplings)
- Gamja-Hotdog (Korean-style corn dog covered with potato)
- Dakgangjeong (Korean fried chicken with a sweet spicy coating – There’s vegan options too!)
- Bindaetteok (Mung bean pancakes)
Check out our Vegan in South Korea Guide – Best Restaurants & Snacks (2024) !
![korea where to visit Street Markets in Busan](https://thesunrisedreamers.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/The-Best-Things-To-Do-In-South-Korea-Bucket-List-40.jpg)
9. Hike in Seoraksan National Park
Seoraksan National Park is one of the most impressive hiking spots in South Korea. Sokcho (the city nearby) is only a bus ride away from Seoul and has accommodations to stay in for anyone who wants to spend a day or more in the park.
Hiking Seoraksan ( Snow Rock Mountain ) should be on your things to do in South Korea if you love hiking! Challenge yourself to reach Ulsanbawi – a six-peak formation with gorgeous views of the mountains. It takes around four hours one way or there’s actually a cable car going a similar way.
10. Wander around Insadong
Seoul is a destination that must be on your South Korea bucket list and one of the best things to do in South Korea is to wander around the beautiful streets of Insadong.
Insadong is home to many independent restaurants, cafes and boutique shops – it’s a lovely place to spend a morning or afternoon in South Korea. It also has a few of our favourite places to eat! Plan your Seoul trip here – 5 Day Seoul Itinerary travel guide !
![korea where to visit Exploring Insadong - Seoul](https://thesunrisedreamers.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Ultimate-South-Korea-Bucket-List-20-Best-Things-To-Do-In-South-Korea-04.jpg)
11. Hike to the top of Seoul Tower
Next up on your South Korea bucket list is hiking in Namsan Park (Seoul Tower). Don’t worry, it’s not as long as the hikes in Seoraksan National Park and it’s right in the heart of Seoul. It’s actually possible to get a bus up to the top and the base of the tower.
The views are incredible from the park and one of our favourite things to do in South Korea. You can also go o the top of the tower for a better view of the city. Tickets are really affordable on Klook – so make sure you buy your ticket in advance!
![korea where to visit Views from Namsan Park - South Korea Bucket List](https://thesunrisedreamers.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/South-Korea-Bucket-List-Best-Things-To-Do-In-South-Korea-38.jpg)
12. Go to a K-Pop concert
K-pop is very popular in South Korea and people also love it around the world! For some fans, it’s the main reason they visit South Korea! K-pop is short for Korean popular music and is a big part of South Korean culture. Check tickets on InterPark or search the web! It’s such a South Korea bucket list moment to be able to watch K-pop live in the same country it originated from!
13. Try bibimbap
Bibimbap is a big part of Korean cuisine and it’s easily customizable for anyone which means it’s great for vegetarians in South Korea. Bibim means mixing rice and bap refers to the rice.
The Korean dish is usually topped with kimchi, gochujang, vegetables or protein and mixed up before being eaten. It’s one of the tastiest and most nutritious dishes in South Korea and originated in Jeonju!
Browse our guide on 25+ Best South Korea Travel Tips before your trip!
![korea where to visit Eating Bibimbap at Osegye Hyang](https://thesunrisedreamers.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Ultimate-South-Korea-Bucket-List-20-Best-Things-To-Do-In-South-Korea-07.jpg)
14. Explore Jeju Island
Jeju Island has to be on your South Korea bucket list, unfortunately, we didn’t get a chance to visit the island on our South Korea trip and are definitely planning a visit there next time!
The island is known for its stunning nature, waterfalls, the highest mountain in South Korea and lovely beaches. It’s a popular getaway for Koreans to escape the business of cities on the mainland. The country isn’t short on things to do in South Korea to spend your days!
15. Stay in a Hanok in Jeonju
Jeonju Hanok Village is home to over 700 Hanok homes that are still being used to this day. Some are people’s homes and others have been turned into accommodations for guests. Staying in a hanok is one of the best things to do in South Korea!
We highly recommend staying in the accommodation Jungdam ( Find here on Booking.com ) – right in the heart of the traditional Korean village! In hanoks, the sleeping set-up is Korean Style (on the floor!)
![korea where to visit Best things to do in South Korea - Hanok Stay](https://thesunrisedreamers.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Best-Things-To-Do-In-South-Korea-Bucket-List-35.jpg)
16. Try out Noraebang (Karaoke)
Noraebang is the Korean name for Karaoke (which is Japanese ). South Koreans love Noraebang and you’ll find plenty of Noraebang rooms in cities around the country. Most noraebang will rent a room by the hour to sing your heart out! It’s common to see clips from older K-dramas in the rooms too, so it’s a fun experience!
17. Shop in Hongdae
You can’t take a trip to Seoul without visiting the vibrant and trendy neighbourhood of Hongdae. Visit one of the many cafes in the area to join in with the popular cafe culture in South Korea. Hongdae is also a great place for nightlife and amazing street performers! Add this to your bucket list in South Korea!
Hongdae is one of the hip and trendy areas of Seoul, with many shops, restaurants and themed cafes. It’s also a great spot for nightlife alongside Itaewon. Street performers
![korea where to visit Hongdae - Seoul, South Korea](https://thesunrisedreamers.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/South-Korea-Bucket-List-Best-Things-To-Do-In-South-Korea-28.jpg)
18. Take a trip to Nami Island
Nami Island is a popular day trip from Seoul and one of the best things to do in South Korea in any season but especially in the Fall. The trees and foilage come alive in peak season and it’s a cosy place to visit!
From Seoul catch a train to Gapyeong Station, then a bus and from there it’s a 10-minute ferry over to the island! You can even take a zip wire onto the island! Nami island is also known as the final resting place of General Nami who was part of the Joseon Dynasty and a filming location for K-dramas such as Secret Garden and My Love from the Star.
The best way to get to Nami Island is to book a tour with Klook , prices are usually discounted and you can choose what activities to do. A Nami Island day trip is also included in the Klook Seoul Pass !
19. Gamcheon Culture Village
Visiting Gamcheon Culture Village is another one of the most interesting things to do in South Korea and a must when visiting Busan! The village has come a long way since the Korean war when it was populated by poor residents of Busan.
The Tourism board of South Korea chose to bring the village to life with art and creativity in the hope to attract visitors. It soon became a beautiful attraction with cute cafes and trendy shops and now it’s a spot to add to your South Korea bucket list!
We also have an in-depth 3-Day Busan Itinerary if you’re planning a visit!
![korea where to visit Best things to do in South Korea - Gamcheon Culture Village Busan](https://thesunrisedreamers.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/The-Best-Things-To-Do-In-South-Korea-Bucket-List-18.jpg)
20. Learn about history at the National Museum of Korea
Lastly on this South Korea bucket list, is to take a visit to the National Museum of Korea in Seoul – the largest museum in South Korea ! There is a collection of more than 310,000 historic artefacts dating back thousands of years.
The museum is easy to reach by Seoul’s public transport. It’s also free to enter this museum, so it’s perfect if you’re looking for things to do in South Korea!
![korea where to visit Jeonju Hanok Village - South Korea things to do](https://thesunrisedreamers.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Best-South-Korea-Bucket-List-Best-Things-To-Do-In-South-Korea-26.jpg)
So that’s our 20 best things to do in South Korea bucket list – it’s definitely not all the best things to do in the country, but now you can add to this to create your perfect trip. Here are a few more suggestions for you!
Best things to do in South Korea (Weather)
December – February ( Winter ) – Go skiing or snowboarding! If you’re visiting South Korea in the winter, it’s the best time to hit the slopes or have fun in the snow! Build a snowman, create a snow angel or go on a winter hike. The winter is pretty cold in South Korea, but it’s definitely worth a visit to see the country magically covered in snow!
March – May ( Spring ) – Once the snow has melted away and nature starts brightening up again, South Korea is covered in beautiful cherry blossoms. Japan is well known for the Sakura season all over the world, but South Korea gets the same lovely blossoms. Visit in Spring to be a part of the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival!
June – August ( Summer ) – This season is pretty different to European summers. South Korea experiences typhoons and the rainy season in the summer months. It’s usually hot and humid with lots of rain, although there will be sunny days too! We visited in early June and it was getting hot but no rain.
September – November ( Fall ) – Another beautiful season to visit South Korea – the foilage in October is absolutely beautiful and should be a season on your South Korea bucket list. Spring and Fall may be the best seasons to come to Korea.
![korea where to visit Hiking in South Korea - summer season!](https://thesunrisedreamers.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Best-Things-To-Do-In-South-Korea-Bucket-List-19.jpg)
What to pack for South Korea?
Depending on the weather, you’ll want to pack the clothes you usually wear, plus a good pair of footwear! We wear trainers everywhere (even when wearing hanbok oops!) and it’s definitely needed in the cities or on short hikes. Here are a few travel essentials we always carry:
- Stainless Steel Water Bottle – A refillable bottle is a must when tap water is free & accessible in South Korea!
- Amazon Basics Packing Cubes – We can’t pack our bags without using packing cubes!
- Rain Mac in a Bag – Essential for unpredictable rainfall when it’s warm in Korea!
- Anker Power Bank – Keep your phone charged by carrying around a power bank for your trip!
- Worldwide Travel Adaptor – The best for visiting multiple countries!
- Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit – The perfect lightweight tripod to take anywhere in South Korea! We love our Joby GorillaPod and use it for our Sony A600 . There’s also a version for a phone – Joby Phone Tripod .
Where to stay in South Korea?
- Seoul – Hostel Tommy – Find here on Booking.com !
- Busan – Dynamic Guesthouse – Find here on Booking.com !
- Gyeongju – Doobaki Guesthouse – Find here on Booking.com !
- Jeonju – Jungdam – Find here on Booking.com !
![korea where to visit Gyeongbukgung - Best Things to do in South Korea](https://thesunrisedreamers.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/South-Korea-Bucket-List-Best-Things-To-Do-In-South-Korea-22.jpg)
Festivals in South Korea
Boryeong Mud Festival – A celebration of water, coolness & covering the body in mud – summer
Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival – A festival to celebrate cherry blossoms – spring
Busan International Film Festival – A movie festival in Busan – fall
Lotus Lantern Festival – A celebration & Buddha’s birthday festival – spring
The Seoul Lantern Festival – A celebration of Korean culture – fall
Boseong Green Tea Festival – To celebrate South Korea’s biggest tea plantation – spring
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance
Don’t forget Travel Insurance! SafetyWing is a totally flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your trip anywhere in the world. You don’t have to be in your home country to start it and you can add months to your trip whenever you need to! Find out more here!
More South Korea guides:
- Ultimate 2 week South Korea Itinerary: Best Places (2024)
- 5 Day Seoul Itinerary – Best Things To Do (2024)
- Staying in Golgulsa Temple: The Best Templestay in Korea (2024)
- 3 day Busan Itinerary: What to do in Busan (2024)
- 11 Best Things to do in Gyeongju: Itinerary (2024)
- 25+ Best South Korea Travel Tips: What to Know
- Vegan in South Korea Guide – Best Restaurants & Snacks (2024)
- 10 Best South Korea Budget Tips + Travel Costs (2024) !
- All our South Korea posts!
That’s the end of our Ultimate South Korea Bucket List: 20 Best Things To Do! Have an amazing time in South Korea and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!
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Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.
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- 28 Stunning Places To Visit In South Korea In 2024
16 Feb 2024
The elusive, exotic land of South Korea beckons every traveler and backpacker to experience its many wonders. You’ll be spoilt for choice when shortlisting places to visit in South Korea , which offers such an unbelievable range of unexplored natural sites and urban delights.
There are tradition folk villages and swanky cities, gorgeous islands and breathtaking natural vistas. If you were wondering where to go in South Korea then here is a list of our top picks of places to visit in South Korea , from the popular to the unexplored, from countryside villages, grand Buddhist temples & palaces to ancient fortresses and high-tech urban cities. An interesting fact is that when it comes to South Korea most people only know about the capital city, Seoul and think that it is the only place worth visiting in the country. However, that is not the case. We have listed out some of the most amazing places in South Korea here that you can visit and explore.
Top 28 Places To Visit In South Korea 2024
So, you have come here which means you really do wanna know about the places to visit in South Korea ! Well, if you’re planning to visit South Korea soon, here is the perfectly curated list of places to visit in South Korea on your next trip. Keep scrolling down and read along the best South Korea tourist places to visit. Go on!
- Seoul : The Dazzling Capital City
- Jeju Island : A Stunning Island
- The Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ): Engage With Modern History
- Busan: Something For Everyone
- Gyeongju: A Treasure Trove Of Cultural Sites
- Dadohaehaesang National Park: The Largest National Park In Korea
- Pyeongchang County: Paradise For Hikers
- Suwon: Home To A UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Seoraksan National Park: A Tentative World Heritage Site
- Andong Hahoe Folk Village: Travel Back In Time
- Upo Marsh: The Largest Inland Wetland In Korea
- Juknokwon: The Slow City
- Boseong Green Tea Field: A Stunning Scenery
- Seongsan Sunrise Peak: For Gorgeous Sunset Views
- Ggotji Beach: Something For Beach Lovers
- Darangee Village: A Quaint And Photogenic Village
- Jeungdo Salt Farm: A Treasure Island
- Haeinsa Temple : World’s Oldest Intact Buddhist Canon
- Chunwang Peak: The Second Highest Peak In South Korea
- Naganeupseong Folk Village: An Appealing Little Village
- Gwang-An-Bridge: The Famous Diamond Bridge
- Kyeong-Wha Station: Capture The Essence Of Cherry Blossoms
- Gongryong Ridge: Ideal For Taking A Hike
- Bulguksa Temple : A UNESCO Listed Heritage Site
- Uleung Island Seaside Road: The Mysterious Island
- Chuncheon : Spectacular Lakes & Mighty Mountains
- Jeonju: With A Rich And Fascinating History
- Halla Mountain: Offers Spectacular Views
1. Seoul: The Dazzling Capital City
![korea where to visit beautiful parks and many amazing places to visit in South Korea](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/seoul.jpg)
The dazzling capital and one of the best cities in South Korea will impress you with its dizzying mix of modern architecture, party vibes, pop culture, beautiful parks & glittering promenades making it one of the most famous places in South Korea and the best cities to visit in South Korea. Vibrant Seoul is not just a buzzing urban hub but also rich in history and culture. With gorgeous palaces, chic restaurants and stylish boutiques, Seoul is among the charming places to visit in South Korea during autumn . The National Museum and War Memorial take you through the history of the country, while the cool shopping district of Gangnam gives you a taste of the city’s ritzy side on your reasons to visit South Korea .
Ideal for: Nightlife, Shopping, Culture, Architecture Key attractions: Changdeokgung Palace (with an amazing Secret Garden), Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok village (for its pagodas and old-world charm), Lotte World amusement park, Bukhansan National Park, N Seoul Tower for panoramic views.
Must Read: 26 Places To Visit In Korea During Winter
2. Jeju Island: A Stunning Island
![korea where to visit the pristine beauty of Jeju Island, one of the stunning places to visit in South Korea](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/jeju-island-cover.jpg)
This stunning island just 85 Kilometers off the coast is one of the most beautiful places in South Korea and one of the most famous places in South Korea. Having been voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, the pristine beauty of Jeju-do will take your breath away. Surreal white sand beaches surrounded by pine forests, volcanic craters and lava caves, beautiful botanical gardens and a rich culture are some of the high-points of this natural paradise amongst places near Seoul that are a must-visit.
Ideal for: Nature, Photography Key attractions: Seongsan Sunrise Peak, Halassang national park, Seopjikoji promontory, Hyeopjae & Hamdeok beach, Cheonjiyeon Waterfalls
3. The Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ): Engage With Modern History
![korea where to visit The Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), one of the interesting places to visit in South Korea](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/DMZ.jpg)
Amongst famous South Korea attractions, The DMZ is one of the most unique places to visit in South Korea to get a better understanding of the conflict between North and South Korea & the current state of affairs. The DMZ is full of interesting sites that make for an engaging lesson in modern history. You can take a peek into North Korea at the Observation Post and feel the rush of adventure while walking through the Infiltration Tunnel. It is advisable to take a guided tour that includes a visit to the Joint Security Area (JSA).
Ideal for: Historical Sites Key Attractions: Freedom Park, Dorasan Station & Observatory
Suggested Read: 7 South Korea Travel Tips
4. Busan: Something For Everyone
![korea where to visit Visit Busan, the second largest city and one of the famous places to visit in South Korea](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/busan.jpg)
If you’re visiting places in South Korea then not adding this place to your list would be unfair. This second largest city of South Korea is known across the world for hosting Asia’s largest international film festival. Busan is an interesting amalgamation of skyscrapers, majestic mountains, beautiful beaches and magnificent Buddhist temples and amongst the best places to visit in South Korea . Amongst the popular places to visit in Korea Busan is the Haedong Yonggungsa temple along the coast and the interesting Jagalchi fish market. Foodies can relish the sea food spread at the numerous restaurants and enjoy local delicacies at the ubiquitous street food stalls.
Ideal for: Beaches, Culture, Food Key attractions: Haeundae Beach (with the Sea Life Aquarium and Folk Square), Beomeosa Temple, Gwangalli Beach with beautiful views of the Diamond bridge, Hurshimchung Hot Springs
5. Gyeongju: A Treasure Trove Of Cultural Sites
![korea where to visit Experience the traditional roots, rich heritage, and one of the best places to visit in South Korea, Gyeongju](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Gyeongju.jpg)
One of the places to visit in South Korea in May , the coastal city of Gyeongju, often called an open-air museum, is one of the best things to do in South Korea to discover its traditional roots and rich heritage. The erstwhile capital of the ancient Silla kingdom, Gyeongju is a treasure trove of cultural and historical places in South Korea and ruins going back to a thousand years. With the UNESCO world heritage site, Bulguksa temple and the National Museum with its unparalleled collection of artefacts, this city gives you a glimpse into South Korea’s cultural roots.
Ideal for: Culture, History, Nature Key attractions: Anapji pond, Tumuli Park (the giant burial mounds covered in grass), the majestic Seokguram Grotto
Suggested Read: Korea Tour Land Of Morning Calm
Planning Your Next Holiday In South Korea?
![korea where to visit](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/South-Korea-Travel-Tips-For-You-251x334.jpg)
6. Dadohaehaesang National Park: The Largest National Park In Korea
![korea where to visit Hongdo Island is among the most scenic places to visit in South Korea](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Dadohaehaesang-National-Park.jpg)
Image Credit: Justinjfj for Wikimedia Commons
One of the most beautiful tourist destinations in South Korea, it is the largest National Park in Korea, this slice of paradise covers 1700 large and small islands and some rock structures. One of the most scenic and islands is the Cheongsando island considered one of the best places to visit in South Korea for it surreal landscapes and the slow city movement. Hongdo and Heuksando are the other popular islands where you can take a boat trip to admire the overwhelming natural sites. This is one of the top famous places to visit in South Korea for your next vacation!
Ideal for: Nature, Tranquility, Photography
7. Pyeongchang County: Paradise For Hikers
![korea where to visit Witness the awe inspiring scenic beauty at one of the best hiking places to visit in South Korea in Pyeongchang County](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Pyeongchang-County.jpg)
This is one of the must visit places in South Korea to experience tranquillity and awe-inspiring scenic beauty of the best places to visit in Korea . Located in the Taebaek Mountains, this picturesque county 180 Kms away from Seoul hosted the prestigious Winter Olympics in February 2018. The Odaesan National Park is a hikers’ delight with trails going up the snow-peaked mountains, while the ski resorts Alpensia and Yongpyong are popular with skiers and snowboarders. The mountains are also home to many beautiful Buddhist shrines. This place is surely one of the best places to visit in South Korea during winters !
Ideal for: Nature, Photography, Spirituality Key Attractions: Woljeongsa temple, Pyeongchang Hyanggyo
Suggested Read: 17 Epic 7 Star Hotels In The World
8. Suwon: Home To A UNESCO World Heritage Site
![korea where to visit Suwon is among the magnificent places to visit in South Korea](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/suwon.jpg)
Capital of the Gyeonggi province bordering Seoul, Suwon is known for its unique Hwaseong Fortress with its imposing stone walls and impressive archways, and this has made it one of the best places to visit in Korea . Built by the Joseon dynasty the fortresses wall is a UNESCO world heritage site with four pagoda-style gates, artillery towers and observation decks. Another magnificent structure at the site is the Hwaseong Haenggung Palace. With all that said, don’t forget to indulge in shopping in Suwon . With many more exciting things to do, Suwon is one of the top places to visit in South Korea .
Ideal for: History, Architecture Key Attractions: Suwon Hwaseong Museum to understand the history of the majestic fortress, Gwanggyosan Mountain (for hiking trails), Samsung Innovation Museum
9. Seoraksan National Park: A Tentative World Heritage Site
![korea where to visit awestruck by the giant Buddha](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Seoraksan-National-Park.jpg)
The vivid strokes of nature will greet you every step of the way in the UNESCO protected Seoraksan National Park and is one of the most mesmerizing places to witness autumn in Korea . Being one of the best places to visit in South Korea , this is l iterally meaning the Snowy Crag Mountains, the Seoraksan range with its snow-covered peaks forms a majestic backdrop to the park temple. It is a great place to hike the myriad trails including the formidable Ulsan Rock or simply enjoy the gondola ride up the mountain for some spectacular views. As you stroll through the 400000 sq km biosphere protection site, prepare to be awestruck by the giant Buddha statue on your path.
Ideal for: Hiking, Adventure, Photography, Nature Key Attractions: Baekdam sa Buddhist temple, Gyejo-am hermitage, Yukdam-Pokpo waterfall
Suggested Read: Top 10 Reasons To Visit South Korea
10. Andong Hahoe Folk Village: Travel Back In Time
![korea where to visit charming traditional Korean village](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Andong-Hahoe-Folk-Village.jpg)
Literally meaning ‘the village enveloped by water’ this charming traditional Korean village located in Andong is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Entering the Hahoe village is like travelling back in time to the simple Korean village way of life displaying local traditions and culture. The beautiful setting alongside the Nakdong river is accentuated by the rural tile and thatched roof houses, sandy beaches and pine trees. The village is also a great place to try out traditional Korean delicacies and marvel at the mask dance performed by the locals, read through Korea travel tips to know more.
Ideal for: Culture, Tranquility, nature Nearby attractions: Bongjeongsa temple, Buyongdae Cliff (take a boat for breathtaking views of the village)
11. Upo Marsh: The Largest Inland Wetland In Korea
![korea where to visit wetland in South Korea](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Upo-Marsh.jpg)
Image Credit: Travel in Korea for Wikimedia Commons
Considered to be the largest inland wetland in Korea, Upo March is a must-visit site for all tourists and one of the best free tourist attractions in South Korea. It is said that this land was formed over almost 140 million years ago and it is home to about 1500 species of plants and animals too. Some of these animals are, however, currently endangered. You can also spot a few migratory birds here which are found to be flying low as you walk or bike through the land. This surely tops the list of good places to visit in South Korea !
Ideal for: Biking, nature walks, photography, bird-watching Nearby attractions: NA
Suggested Read: Cartoon Cafe In South Korea
12. Juknokwon: The Slow City
![korea where to visit bamboo land](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Juknokwon.jpg)
Image Credit: UNC – CFC – USFK for Wikipedia
Explore South Kore and enjoy the slow-paced life. Also known as the ‘slow city’, Damyang offers a variety of tourist attractions, out of which, Juknokwon cannot be missed for sure. The thick bamboo land that has 8 different trails has 8 unique themes that you can walk through. If you look close enough, you can spot some green tea shoots growing from the dew that falls off the bamboo leaves, known as Jukro tea.
Ideal for: Nature walk, photography Nearby attractions: Gwanbangjerim, May 18th National Cemetery and Gangcheonsan County Park
13. Boseong Green Tea Field: A Stunning Scenery
![korea where to visit tea field](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Boseong-Green-Tea-Field.jpg)
Image Credit: ~Mers for Wikimedia Commons
With a major 40 % of the total tea produced in Korea being produced at these famous fields, this place is nothing less than a scenic beauty in itself which is also used as a backdrop of many Korean movies and drama shows. It is among the top 5 places to visit in South Korea and is perfect to plan a vacation in May, make sure you don’t miss out on the grand Green-tea festival or click a picture of the stunning scenery as this place is well lit by light bulbs during winter season which is also the best time to explore South Korea. This field is amongst the best places to visit in South Korea during summer !
Ideal for: Nature walk, photography Nearby attractions: Songjeong Station Market, Darangee Village
Suggested Read: 10 Places Near Seoul
14. Seongsan Sunrise Peak: For Gorgeous Sunset Views
![korea where to visit Seongsan](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Seongsan_Ilchulbong.jpg)
Image Credit: 螺钉 for Wikimedia Commons
If you are heading to Jeju Island anyway, then you should not miss watching the sunrise at Seongsan Peak. The best of South Korea tourist attractions , this spot has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was formed by the hydrovolcanic eruptions 5000 years ago. You will even find a variety of rare species of plants. The magnificent sunrise is the most spectacular thing on this volcanic mountain.
Ideal for: Hiking, Nature Key attractions: Sunrise, Rare plant species, lush greenery,magnificent views of nature
15. Ggotji Beach: Something For Beach Lovers
![korea where to visit Ggotji Beach](https://img.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Ggotji-Beach-400x229.jpg)
For those who live for beautiful sunsets should not miss this place on Jeju Island, one of the best South Korea destinations . The white sandy beach is a delight to the beach babies. The sunset here is nothing like you have seen before. You will find two large rock formations on the beach that are known as Granny and Grandpa Rocks. There is an interesting story behind the names too. According to the legends, the wife of a commander from the Shilla Dynasty became a rock waiting faithfully for her husband. When the sun sinks between the two rocks, it looks so magnificent and the sky lights up in tangerine color.
Ideal for: Sunsets, diving Key attractions: Granny Rock, Grandpa Rock
Suggested Read: 6 Places To Visit In Seoul
16. Darangee Village: A Quaint And Photogenic Village
![korea where to visit Darangee village](https://img.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Darangee-village_2nd-july-400x229.jpg)
If you want to explore the village life of South Korea, then you should visit Darangee which is a well-preserved village. The tiny step fields look so photogenic. This is your shot of experiencing traditional Korean places while backpacking in South Korea. It is amazing to see how a country like such can have two opposite sides; one completely modern and another so bucolic.
Ideal for: Backpacking Key attractions: Countless tiny fields
17. Jeungdo Salt Farm: A Treasure Island
![korea where to visit Scenic view of mud flats of the sea near Taepyeong Salt Farm at Jeungdo Island](https://img.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/shutterstock_1778754317.jpg)
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You have seen nothing like the soft beach and salt farms in Jeungdo. This is a treasure island not only because of all the salt produced but also the artifacts from the Song Dynasty found at the bottom of the ocean. The marine life that you will find in the mudflat town will amaze you. It is one of the best places to see in South Korea .
Ideal for: Sightseeing Key attractions: Salt farms, Mudflat town, marine life of the mud flat
Suggested Read: Hiking In Seoul
18. Haeinsa Temple: World’s Oldest Intact Buddhist Canon
![korea where to visit haeinsa Temple](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Haeinsa_Temple.jpg)
Image Credit: Lcarrion88 for Wikimedia Commons
Did you know that the world’s oldest intact Buddhist canon is restored inside Haeinsa Temple that itself is 1200 years old? The curiosity alone should make you visit this temple and if you are an avid Buddhist practitioner, then you should definitely visit this place on your vacation in South Korea and several other popular castles in Korea to get a glance into the history of Korea.
Ideal for: Sightseeing, Religious Key attractions: Janggyeong Panjeon, the oldest wooden Buddha Statue in Korea.
19. Chunwang Peak: The Second Highest Peak In South Korea
![korea where to visit Chunwang](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Cunwang.jpg)
Image Credit: Eimoberg for Wikipedia
The second highest peak in the country should definitely be one of your South Korea points of interest . Standing tall at 1,915 meters, this peak is a beloved for many Korean mountain climbers. If climbing mountains give you the thrill, then we see no reason why you should sit this one out. There is even a national park on the mountain that stretches over three provinces. The clean air and freshwater from the spring will be a delight to your internal organs.
Ideal for: Nature, hiking Key attractions: Chunwang Spring, sunrise, dazzling flora and fauna
Suggested Read: Shopping In Seoul
20. Naganeupseong Folk Village: An Appealing Little Village
![korea where to visit Naganeupseong](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Naganeupseong_Folk_Village.jpg)
Image Credit: Marco Schmidt for Wikimedia Commons
To enjoy South Korea sightseeing , plan a trip to Naganeupseong Folk Village where you will observe the lifestyle from the ear of the Chosun Dynasty. The straw-roofed houses, government offices, castles, guesthouse, all look so pretty and photogenic. You would really enjoy your time here even if you are not a history buff.
Ideal for: Sightseeing Key attractions: Overnight homestay
21. Gwang-An-Bridge: The Famous Diamond Bridge
![korea where to visit](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Gwang-An-Bridge.jpg)
Image Credit: Doo-ho Kim for Wikimedia Commons
Famously known as the Diamond Bridge, it is a suspension bridge located in Busan, South Korea that connectes Haeundae-gu to Suyeong-gu. The road surface is about 6,500 m long and although it is not a pedestrian bridge, you can still enjoy the stunning views of bridge and the surrounding region from afar.
Ideal for : Views, Photography Key attractions : The lighting system
Suggested Read: 6 Best Places To Visit In Suwon
22. Kyeong-Wha Station: Capture The Essence Of Cherry Blossoms
![korea where to visit](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Kyeong-Wha-Station.jpg)
Image Credit: 날개 for Wikimedia Commons
This place is a favourite haunt for photographers who can capture the true essence of the Cherry blossoms falling down on the track and making a picture-perfect moment. The visual delight of the train is approaching the station under the cherry blossom tunnel is absolutely unmissable and surreal.
Ideal for : Photography Key attractions: Cherry blossom tunnel
23. Gongryong Ridge: Ideal For Taking A Hike
![korea where to visit mountain peaks covered by mists](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/mountain-peaks-covered-by-mists-ss02062017.jpg)
Wondering where to visit in South Korea? Well, why not give Gongryong Ridge a try? Shaped like the spine of a dinosaur, this place is ideal for trekkers and hiking enthusiasts who would love a great climb along with sublime views of the surrounding mountain range. This ricky ridge offers spectacular views of Gongryong Ridge.
Ideal for : Sighseeing, hiking, nature enthusiasts Key attractions : Seorak mountain range
Suggested Read: 8 Best Places To Visit In Incheon
24. Bulguksa Temple: A UNESCO Listed Heritage Site
![korea where to visit Bulguksa Temple View In Korea](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Bulguksa-Temple.jpg)
This temple is a UNESCO listed heritage site that is considered to be amongst the most famous historic places to visit in South Korea and one of the most popular South Korea tourist places. It features two granite pagodas on either sides of the temple that add to the grandeur beauty of this place.
Ideal for : Historic sightseeing Key attractions : Dabotap and Seokgatap
25. Uleung Island Seaside Road: The Mysterious Island
![korea where to visit Uleung Island Seaside Road South Korea](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Uleung-Island-Seaside-Road-South-Korea.jpg)
Image Credit: Husen Mansurov for Pixabay
Also known as “Mysterious Island’, Uleung Island Seaside Road is one of the most interesting places to go in South Korea. It is a famous weekend getaway spot for the people of Seoul and will serve as a calming site for you. With its interesting rock formations, many waterfalls, and shore cliffs, the Uleung Island Seaside Road is magical and something you shouldn’t miss!
Ideal for : Sightseeing, weekend getaways Key attractions : Haengnam Coastal Walking Path and Dokdo Observatory
Suggested Read: 15 Seoul Cafes
26. Chuncheon: Spectacular Lakes & Mighty Mountains
![korea where to visit Chuncheon South Korea](https://assets.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Chuncheon-South-Korea.jpg)
Image Credit: Mark Zastrow for Wikimedia Commons
With its spectacular lakes and mighty mountains, Chuncheon happens to be one of the most well-known South Korea tourist places. It is also the capital city of the Gangwon Province and is the location where many popular Korean soap operas are filmed. Many visit the destination for this reason too! The city is also known as a foodies’ paradise, and you can try many Korean delicacies here.
Ideal for : Sightseeing Key attractions : Namiseom Island and Cheongpyeong Lake
27. Jeonju: With A Rich And Fascinating History
![korea where to visit Jeonju South Korea](https://img.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/shutterstock_2303403835.jpg)
If you are wondering about where to go in South Korea, then Jeonju is the answer! During the reign of the Joseon Dynasty the place happened to be the spiritual capital. It still has many temples and museums and is one of the best places to know about the rich and exciting history of the country. If you are a history buff and wish to see traditional homes dating back to the early 20th century then make sure you stop at Jeonju and have a good time. It is recommended as one of the best places to go in Korea if you are fascinated to know the background of this pleasing landmark.
Ideal for : Historic sightseeing Key attractions : Jeonju National Museum and Jeondong Cathedral
Suggested Read: Seoul Festivals
28. Halla Mountain: Offers Spectacular Views
![korea where to visit Halla Mountain in South Korea](https://img.traveltriangle.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/shutterstock_449789959.jpg)
If you are looking for tourist places in South Korea then Halla Mountain is one and you can’t miss this one! The snowflakes make for a gorgeous view and the icicles that cover the tea branches inspired the Halla Snow Festival which used to be held annually in late January or early February. Due to some reason, it does not happen anymore, but the snowflakes are still there, and the mountain makes for a great sight and must not be missed!
Ideal for : Hiking
Further Read: Top Adventure Honeymoon Destinations
Looking at the above places to visit in South Korea, it sure looks like an awesome destination for a holiday. From nature to the best of lifestyle and modern experiences – do what you love here and tell us about it in the comments section below. So, pack your bags and book your trip to South Korea right away!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In South Korea
Which are the best places to visit in South Korea?
Some of the best places to visit in South Korea are Seoul, Jeju Island, Busan, Gyeongju, Dadohaehaesang National Park, Andong Hahoe Folk Village, Boseong Green Tea Field, Seongsan Sunrise Peak, Halla Mountain, Jeonju, and Chuncheon.
Where should I go for the first time in South Korea?
Wondering where to go in South Korea for the first time? Here are some of the places you should not miss: 1. Bulguksa Temple 2. Gongryong Ridge 3. Gwang-An-Bridge 4. Ggotji Beach 5. Haeinsa Temple
Which is the most visited place in South Korea?
Seoul is the most visited place in South Korea. It is the capital city that covers the major coastal area and include famous Buddha temples, palaces, and other landmarks.
How many days are enough for South Korea?
If you want to have a balance of relaxing and adventurous vacation and explore beautiful places in South Korea to the fullest, then at least 10-14 days are required.
What are the popular outdoor activities in South Korea?
During your visit to South Korea, you may indulge in top outdoor activities such as Sky Diving, Bungee Jumping, Zip Lining, Paragliding, Scuba Diving, Para Sailing, Surfing, Rafting, and the thrilling rides in the adventure parks.
Which are some of the best places to visit in South Korea for families with kids?
Seoul, Busan, and Juju Island are some of the most popular tourist destinations in South Korea which are perfect to visit while travelling with family and kids. Being metropolitan centres, you can expect a large number of tourists during the seasonal months, making it a safe place for anyone planning a trip.
Which are some of the must-visit places in South Korea for couples?
Some of the must-visit places in South Korea for couples include N Seoul Tower, Han River, Ihwa Mural, Lotte World, Trick Eye Museum, Cheonggyecheon Stream, Boseong Green Tea Field, and Nami Island.
What is South Korea famous for?
South Korea is famous for its booming economy and entertainment industry. Moreover, the food segment does not lag behind and offers a variety of tasty foods to relish like Kimchi and Bibimbap that no one can afford to miss.
Which are the best national parks in South Korea?
South Korea is famous for its natural beauty which is an important trait that attracts so many visitors from around the world. Some of the enthralling national parks in South Korea are Dadohaehaesang, Seoraksan, Bukhansan, Hallasan, Gyeongju National Park, Jirisan, Songnisan, and Mudeungsan.
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South Korea ’s cities are a pulsating feast of eye-searing neon, feverish activity and round-the-clock business. Here you can shop till you drop at markets that never close. Or feast on eye-wateringly spicy food, get giddy on a bottle or two of soju, then sweat out the day’s exertions at a night-time sauna. In this guide with have collected the best places to visit and best things to do in South Korea.
1. Visit Insadong Tearooms
2. enjoy the beauty of huwon, seoul, 3. immerse yourself in korean culture at jeonju hanok village, 4. get involved in boryeong mud festival, 5. try makgeolli, 6. visit teddy bear museum, 7. take a walk in guinsa, 8. experience tranquillity at dosan seowon, 9. visit west sea islands, 10. take a stroll around dongdaemun market, 11. hiking in the naejangsan national park - one of the things to do in south korea to admire the scenery, 12. visit the dmz, 13. visit buamdong, 14. singing in noraebang - one of the best things to do in south korea for fun, 15. treat yourself with galbi, 16. visit gongsanseong, 17. watch the sunrise at jeongdongjin, 18. explore the rich korean history in gyeongju, 19. buy some socialist realist art, 20. climb n seoul tower by cable car, 21. head to the jeju island, 22. take a stroll through seoraksan national park, 23. visit gyeongbokgung palace, seoul, 24. visiting amusement parks - one of the best things to do in south korea with kids, 25. immerse yourself in the study of history at the national museum of korea.
The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Korea , your essential guide for visiting South Korea .
Travel ideas for South Korea, created by local experts
![korea where to visit Culture & Island life](https://d1bv4heaa2n05k.cloudfront.net/user-images/1663899357414/huwon-garden-changdeokgung-palace-seoul-korea-shutterstock-536964514_listing_1663899362284.jpeg)
Culture & Island life
Experience the highlights of Korea with a private guide by your side. Fascinating Seoul with a day trip to the DMZ, followed by days in Gyeongju and Busan. Afterwards, leave the mainland and fly to Jeju Island. Enjoy the crystal blue waters and island culture.
![korea where to visit Highlights of Korea](https://d1bv4heaa2n05k.cloudfront.net/user-images/1663903105330/mathew-schwartz-f2eWsuA7pm4-unsplash_listing_1663903117578.jpeg)
Highlights of Korea
From the skyscrapers of Seoul to traditional villages - this itinerary packs culture, history and cuisine in one compact itinerary. Enjoy a two-night temple stay as well as in-depth guided excursions in Seoul, Gyeongju, Yeosu, and Jeonju.
![korea where to visit Temples and Nature in Korea](https://d1bv4heaa2n05k.cloudfront.net/user-images/1663902269622/daniel-bernard-UCmgUguuwU4-unsplash_listing_1663902277034.jpeg)
Temples and Nature in Korea
Start your Korean adventure in Busan. Continue to Yeosu and Suncheon, discovering temples and landscapes on the way. In Suncheon, you will stay at a Korean Buddhist temple. Proceed to the Bamboo Forest of Jeonju before heading to Seoul.
![korea where to visit South Korea's Best: Heritage and Nature Tour](https://d1bv4heaa2n05k.cloudfront.net/user-images/1717123208850/2.3820143201500097k-景福宫_listing_1717123242385.jpeg)
South Korea's Best: Heritage and Nature Tour
This 9-day tour blends cultural, historical, and natural attractions, perfect for first-time visitors to South Korea. Highlights include Seoul's historical sites, Andong's traditional villages, Gyeongju's UNESCO treasures, Busan's coastal beauty, and Jeju Island's unique lava landscapes.
![korea where to visit 7-Day South Korea Journey: Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan](https://d1bv4heaa2n05k.cloudfront.net/user-images/1716971475552/1.首尔城市景_listing_1716972987711.jpeg)
7-Day South Korea Journey: Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan
This 7-day tour of South Korea covers Seoul's cultural landmarks, Gyeongju's historical sites, and Busan's coastal attractions. Highlights include Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bulguksa Temple, and Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, with ample free time for personal exploration.
![korea where to visit Classic South Korea From Seoul to Jeju in 9 Days](https://d1bv4heaa2n05k.cloudfront.net/user-images/1717038061437/6.日出峰(济州岛旅游局提供)_listing_1717038093966.jpeg)
Classic South Korea From Seoul to Jeju in 9 Days
Explore South Korea in 9 days. Visit landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bulguksa Temple, and Haedong Yonggungsa. Experience traditional living at Bukchon Hanok Village. Discover Jeju Island's beauty at Sangumburi Crater and Seongsan Ilchulbong.
Tea may have ceded ground to coffee across the nation, but Seoul’s traditional Insadong district still has dozens of secluded tearooms serving traditional brews.
Tea is big business in Korea. Unfortunately, most of the drinking takes place at home or work, though Insadong in Seoul has dozens of interesting tearooms and there are some gems outside national parks and in Jeonju’s hanok district. Green tea is by far the most popular, though if you find your way to a specialist tearoom, do take the opportunity to try something more special.
![korea where to visit Tea ceremony South Korea](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/tea-south-korea-shutterstock_515030317_d946f0e892.jpeg)
Participating in South Korean tea ceremony - one of the best things to do in South Korea© mnimage/Shutterstock
Relax by the lake as kings once did at this secluded “Secret Garden”, which nestles at the back of a UNESCO-listed palace in central Seoul . Seriously consider putting a visit to this place on your list of things to do in South Korea.
The palace’s undoubted highlight is Huwon (후원), usually referred to in Seoul’s tourist literature as the “Secret Garden”. Approached via a suitably mysterious path, the garden is concealed by an arch of leaves. In the centre is a lotus pond, one of Seoul’s most photographed sights, and alive with flowers in late June or early July.
Where to stay in Seoul:
- Best for location: Orakai Insadong Suites . Centrally located in Orakai Insadong Suites offers luxurious self-catering apartments with a well-equipped kitchenette and satellite TV. Facilities include an indoor swimming pool, fitness centre and sauna facilities.
- Best for backpackers: 57 Myeongdong Hostel . 57 Myeongdong Hostel is conveniently located 150 m from Exit 5 of Myeongdong Subway Station (Line 4) and offers private rooms with WiFi and city views.
Find more accommodation options to stay in Seoul
![korea where to visit huwon-garden-changdeokgung-palace-seoul-korea-shutterstock_536964514](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/huwon-garden-changdeokgung-palace-seoul-korea-shutterstock_536964514_93b5366c5f.jpeg)
Huwon, Seoul © Alon Adika/Shutterstock
One of the best things to do in South Korea for cultural purposes is visiting Jeonju Hanok Village. Here you can sleep in a traditional wooden hanok house heated from underneath by gentle flames, in one of Korea’s most agreeable cities.
Jeonju’s main attraction is undoubtedly its splendid hanok village, a city-centre thatch of largely traditional housing. Highlights here include a cathedral, an ancient shrine and a former Confucian academy, as well as museums for calligraphy, paper and wine; musical pansori performances are also frequent, and you may even be able to participate in traditional activities such as weaving or lantern making.
Where to stay in Jeonju Hanok Village:
- Best for atmosphere: Sarangroo . Featuring a shared lounge, garden and views of the garden, Sarangroo is located in Jeonju, 600 m from Jeonju Hanok Village. The property is situated 800 m from Seunggwangjae, 700 m from Jeonju Fan Culture Center and 700 m from Gyodong Art Center.
- Best for traditional setting: Jungdam . Set in Jeonju Hanok Village, Jungdam offers air-conditioned rooms and a garden. This property is situated a short distance from attractions such as Gyodong Art Center, Jeonju Korean Traditional Wine Museum, and Jeonju Fan Culture Center.
Find more accommodation options to stay in Jeonju Hanok Village
![korea where to visit Jeonju Hanok Village in South Korea © ST_Travel/Shutterstock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/aerial-view-jeonju-hanok-village-south-korea-shutterstock_1224455089.jpg_6e8fb916de.jpg)
Jeonju Hanok Village in South Korea © ST_Travel/Shutterstock
Discover the majestic temples of South Korea on our tailor-made tour to the Temples and Nature in Korea .
Korea’s dirtiest, most enjoyable festival takes place each July on the west coast – don’t forget your soap.
English teachers and American soldiers across the land circle the Boryeong mud festival in their diaries, but there’s plenty going on by the beach for most of the year. For two July weekends, and the space in between them, the beach is a sea of mud splattered foreigners and their Korean buddies.
The stuff is everywhere, allowing participants to wrestle or slide around in it, throw it at their friends or smear it all over themselves, then take lots and lots of pictures – some will end up on TV, in newspapers or even on tourism posters.
![korea where to visit Boryeong-mud-south-korea-shutterstock_1126924667](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/boryeong-mud-south-korea-shutterstock_1126924667_1cb78b8696.jpeg)
Boryeong Mud Festival at Daecheon beach, South Korea © yochika photographer/Shutterstock
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Get drunk the local way with this milky rice wine, which has undergone a huge surge in popularity of late.
The local drinking scene has recently been shaken up by sudden increases in demand for two particular alcoholic drinks. First of all came the makgeolli craze: for decades young Koreans pooh-poohed this delicious rice beer, but it has been given a new lease of life, and is now sold at mini-markets and convenience stores across the country; Seoul even has a bunch of chic bar-restaurants dedicated to the stuff.
![korea where to visit Makgeolli, Korean traditional rice wine © AdobeStock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/makgeolli-makgeolli-korean-traditional-rice-wine-AdobeStock_510326045.jpg_2f466793cb.jpg)
Makgeolli, Korean traditional rice wine © AdobeStock
The epitome of kitsch, most notable for its diorama room portraying twentieth-century events such as teddies tearing down the Berlin Wall, landing on the moon and going down with the Titanic.
Although it may sound like the epitome of Jeju tack, the Teddy Bear Museum impresses even its most sceptical visitors. The main building is filled with floors of bears, but the diorama room is the museum highlight, with furry depictions of historical events – one for every decade of the twentieth century.
![korea where to visit korea-teddy-bear-museum-shutterstock_1079059787](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/korea-teddy-bear-museum-shutterstock_1079059787_3218041f57.jpeg)
Teddy bear exposition © fullerdada/Shutterstock
The most distinctive temple complex in the country, Guinsa’s paths wind snake-like routes up a tight, remote valley in Korea’s heartland.
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Shoehorned into a tranquil valley northeast of Danyang is Guinsa, one of Korea’s more remarkable temple complexes. A great divider among Koreans, it’s viewed by many as the most un-Korean temple, which is emphatically true – the colours and building styles are hard to find anywhere else in the country, and the usual elegant restraint of the traditional layouts has been replaced by a desire to show off.
![korea where to visit Guinsa temple © 5n2/Shutterstock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/guinsa-korea-south-temple-shutterstock_430679869.jpg_2feb52440c.jpg)
Guinsa temple © 5n2/Shutterstock
The wonderfully unspoilt countryside surrounding the city of Andong is studded with gems, and this former Confucian academy is one of the best.
Dosan Seowon is a Confucian academy, surrounded by some of the most gorgeous countryside that the area can offer – on the bus journey here from Andong, you’ll find yourself winding your way past rice paddies and some pleasantly unspoiled countryside, before ducking down to the academy’s entrance.
From here it’s a short walk to the complex itself; the wide valley to your right is simply stunning, the sound of rushing water from the stream occasionally augmented by the splutter of a faraway tractor. Walking through the valley in complete tranquillity is one of the calming things to do in South Korea.
![korea where to visit Korean Traditional Buildings of Dosanseowon Confucian Academy in Andong, South Korea © Shutterstock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/korean-traditional-buildings-dosanseowon-confucian-academy-shutterstock_1967519701.jpg_ffca59b1fa.jpg)
Korean Traditional Buildings of Dosanseowon Confucian Academy in Andong, South Korea © Shutterstock
Over three thousand islands are sprinkled like confetti around Korea’s western coast – pick up a map in Mokpo , get on a ferry and lose track of time.
The Korean peninsula has thousands of islands on its fringes, but the seas around Mokpo have by far the greatest concentration. Though many of these are merely bluffs of barnacled rock that yo-yo in and out of the West Sea with the tide, plenty are large enough to support fishing communities; they’re all accessible by ferry from Mokpo.
The quantity of islands here is, in fact, so vast that it’s easier to trailblaze here than in some less-developed Asian countries – many of the islands’ inhabitants have never seen a foreigner, and it’s hard to find a more quintessentially Korean experience.
![korea where to visit Aerial view of port of Mokpo, Republic of Korea © trabantos/Shutterstock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/west-sea-islands-mokpo-shutterstock_1945704856.jpg_0d6ec86ab1.jpg)
Aerial view of port of Mokpo, Republic of Korea © trabantos/Shutterstock
A 24-hour market in a city that never sleeps, Dongdaemun is a Seoul institution, with sights and smells redolent of decades gone by.
Dongdaemun market is the largest in the country, spread out, open-air and indoors, in various locations around the prettified Cheonggyecheon creek. It would be impossible to list the whole range of things on sale here – you’ll find yourself walking past anything from herbs to hanbok or paper lanterns to knock-off clothing, usually on sale for reasonable prices.
Though each section of the market has its own opening and closing time, the complex as a whole simply never closes, so at least part of it will be open whenever you decide to come. Night-time is when the market is at its most atmospheric, with clothes stores pumping out music into the street at ear-splitting volume, and the
air is filled with the smell of freshly made food sizzling at streetside stalls.
![korea where to visit Dongdaemun market, South Korea © mTaira/Shutterstock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/Dongdaemun-Market-south-korea-shutterstock_386792200.jpg_d040a88491.jpg)
Dongdaemun market, South Korea © mTaira/Shutterstock
Shaped like a soft volcano, this national park’s ring of peaks provides the country’s most mesmerising displays of autumn foliage.
Naejangsan National Park is one of Korea’s most popular parks, its circle of peaks flaring up like a gas ring in the autumn. Maple trees are the stars of the show in this annual incandescence, with squads of elm, ash and hornbeam adding their hues to the mix.
The many trails and peaks across the park keep hikers happy year-round, though most visitors head to the amphitheatre-shaped mountain circle in the northeast, where the nearby tourist village has plenty of accommodation and places to eat.
![korea where to visit red-maple-autumn-naejangsan-south-korea-shutterstock_1243031458](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/red-maple-autumn-naejangsan-south-korea-shutterstock_1243031458_423241440c.jpeg)
Naejangsan National Park © jaaoe.bc/Shutterstock
Take a step inside the 4km-wide Demilitarized Zone separating North and South Korea: the world’s frostiest remnant of the Cold War.
The route to Panmunjom follows the Reunification Highway from Kaesong. Your first stop will be at the KPA guardpost, which sits just outside the northern barrier of the DMZ; the southern flank is just 4km away, though it feels much further.
After being given a short presentation of the site by a local soldier, it’s time for the ride into the DMZ itself – note the huge slabs of concrete at the sides of the road, ready to be dropped to block the way of any invading tanks (this same system is in place on the other side).
A short way into the DMZ is the Armistice Hall, which was cobbled together at incredible speed by North Korean soldiers to provide a suitable venue for the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement, a document which brought about a ceasefire to the Korean War on July 27, 1953.
Experience the highlights of Korea with our tailor-made trip to Culture & Island life . Fascinating Seoul with a day trip to the DMZ, followed by days in Gyeongju and Busan. Afterwards, leave the mainland and fly to Jeju Island. Enjoy the crystal blue waters and island culture.
![korea where to visit South Korea DMZ © JNEZAM/Shutterstock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/dmz-south-korea-shutterstock_453001384.jpg_a79eaa92ac.jpg)
South Korea DMZ © JNEZAM/Shutterstock
Seoul ’s latest “secret” area is a quiet maze of roads tucked away behind the royal palaces. Here you’ll find elegant restaurants and cafés – and very few tourists.
Hidden from central Seoul by the mountain of Bugaksan, Buamdong is one of the capital’s quaintest and calmest corners. Recent years have seen its fame propelled by modern Korea’s number-one cultural catalyst, the television drama: ever since the picturesque café Sanmotungi was used as a set in hit drama The Coffee Prince, young Seoulites have been heading to the area in ever greater numbers.
Despite this, Buamdong retains a tranquillity that’s almost impossible to find in other parts of Seoul, as well as a smattering of galleries and excellent places to eat and drink.
![korea where to visit streetfood-seoul-south-korea-shutterstock_1147518794](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/streetfood-seoul-south-korea-shutterstock_1147518794_5f81635739.jpeg)
Cafe in the Buamdong© SAHACHATZ/Shutterstock
A near-mandatory part of a Korean night out is a trip to a “singing room”, the local take on Japan’s karaoke bars. These “singing rooms”, found all over the country, are wildly popular with people of all ages; if you have Korean friends, they’re bound to invite you, as noraebang are usually sam-cha in a Korean night out – the “third step” after a meal and drinks.
You don’t sing in front of a crowd, but in a small room with your friends, where you’ll find sofas, a TV, books full of songs to choose from and a couple of maracas or tambourines to play. Foreigners are usually intimidated at first, but after a few drinks it can be tough to get the microphone out of people’s hands.
![korea where to visit Singing karaoke © liza54500/Shutterstock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/woman-sing-karaoke-shutterstock_508984036_c70dd7dbf7.jpeg)
A singer in the Noraebang © liza54500/Shutterstock
A fire at the centre of your table and a plate of raw meat to fling onto it – could this be one of the most fun things to do in South Korea?
Barbecued meat is one of Korea’s signature foods, and a whole lot of fun – for carnivores, at least. Here, you get to play chef with a plate of raw meat commonly placed on a grill over charcoal, and a pair of scissors to slice it all up. As excess fat drips off the meat onto the briquettes it releases the occasional tongue of flame, which lends a genuine air of excitement to the meal.
Two of the most popular meat dishes are galbi and samgyeopsal, which are almost always cooked by the diners themselves in the centre of the table. Galbi is rib-meat, most often beef (so-galbi; 소갈비) but sometimes pork (dwaeji-galbi; 돼지갈비). Samgyeopsal (삼겹살) consists of strips of rather fatty pork belly.
Find some top places to eat Korean food in our guide .
![korea where to visit galbi-beef-food-korea-shutterstock_1147396658](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/galbi-beef-food-korea-shutterstock_1147396658_04b33788ab.jpeg)
Enjoying Korean meat feast - one of the best things to do in South Korea © Yeo Jung Kim/Shutterstock
Overlooking the river in sleepy Gongju , the walls of this fortress follow an almost caldera-like course; in the middle you’ll find dreamy pavilions and walking paths.
For centuries, Gongju’s focal point has been the hilltop fortress of Gongsanseong, whose 2.6km-long perimeter wall was built from local mud in Baekje times, before receiving a stone upgrade in the seventeenth century. It’s possible to walk the entire circumference of the wall, a flag-pocked, up-and-down course that occasionally aff ords splendid views of Gongju and its surrounding area.
The grounds inside are worth a look too, inhabited by stripey squirrels and riddled with paths leading to a number of carefully painted pavilions.
Find out more details about Gongsanseong in our guide about the Baekje dynasty in Korea .
![korea where to visit gongsanseong-south-korea-shutterstock_1359286997](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/gongsanseong-south-korea-shutterstock_1359286997_7bc8139989.jpeg)
Gongsanseong pavilion © photo_jeongh/Shutterstock
Korea’s most surreal village has a train station on the beach, a ship-hotel atop a cliff, an American warship and a North Korean spy submarine.
For those bored with temples, war museums and national parks, the area around Jeongdongjin has some rather more unusual attractions to float your boat. Near this small, windswept coastal village lie two retired nautical vessels: an American warship from the Korean War, and an equally authentic North Korean submarine.
From Gangneung, trains make the short trip down the coast, much of which is cordoned off with barbed wire, before stopping at what is apparently the world’s closest train station to the sea. A short stretch of sand separates the track from the water, and it’s here that Korean couples flock to hold hands and watch the sunrise – the area was featured in Sandglass, a romantic Korean soap opera.
![korea where to visit Korea Jeongdongjin, morning light new year seaside cafes, seaside viewpoint.South Korea © nop popeye77/Shutterstock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/Jeongdongjin-south-korea-shutterstock_1271215534.jpg_47e97964ba.jpg)
Korea Jeongdongjin, morning light new year seaside cafes, seaside viewpoint. South Korea © nop popeye77/Shutterstock
The former capital of Silla is the most traditional city in Korea and should be on every visitor’s list of the best things to do in South Korea.
Travellers seeking to delve headfirst into Korea’s rich and storied history should make little Gyeongju their primary target – here you can walk among kings from a dynasty long expired and view the treasures accumulated during a millennium of imperial rule.
If this sounds a little like Kyoto, you’d be half right – unlike Japan’s more illustrious ancient capital, Gyeongju remains decidedly semi-rural in nature and a little rougher around the edges.
Where to stay in Gyeongju:
- Best for budget: Maison Mini Hotel . Located in Gyeongju, within 9.4 km of Gyeongju World and 23 km of Seokguram, Maison Mini Hotel provides accommodation with a shared lounge and free WiFi throughout the property as well as free private parking for guests who drive.
- Best for friendly vibes: Doobaki Hostel is located just under 5 minutes’ taxi ride east of Gyeongju Station. Both private and dormitory-style rooms features Ondol, Korean floor heating, and an en suite bathroom with a shower and free toiletries.
Find more accommodation options to stay in Gyeongju
![korea where to visit Gyeongju, South Korea © Shutterstock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/gyeongju-south-korea-shutterstock_775122904_3e3e0bbf13.jpeg)
Gyeongju, South Korea © Shutterstock
That which has become ironic in Eastern Europe remains iconic in the DPRK, with colourful murals found all across the country – send one home on a postcard.
Some tourists end up spending hundreds of dollars on Socialist realist art, often coming back for more – prospective owners (or dealers, since there’s money to be made) should ask to swing by the Mansudae Art Studio, though a shop down south in Panmunjom has cheaper, slightly lower-quality fare for sale too.
A visit to the stamp shop comes as part of many tours, and their socialist realist designs are really quite striking – a good purchase, even if you’re not a philatelist. Your hotel’s shop is also likely to stock a series of similarly cool badges.
![korea where to visit Street of Pyongyang ,the capital city of North Korea © Kanokratnok/Shutterstock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/pyongyang-north-korea-shutterstock_1017909730_f3797857c7.jpeg)
Pyongyang © Kanokratnok/Shutterstock
If you climb the N Seoul Tower by cable car - the beautiful nature spreads out in front of you.
N Seoul Tower sits proudly on Namsan’s crown. The five levels of its upper section are home to a viewing platform, and assorted cafés and restaurants. For many, the free views from the tower’s base are good enough, and coming here to see the sunset is recommended – the grey mass of daytime Seoul turns in no time into a brilliant neon spectacle.
![korea where to visit Seoul City Skyline and N Seoul Tower in South Korea © AdobeStock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/seoul-city-skyline-and-n-seoul-tower-in-south-korea-AdobeStock_151236845.jpg_e8b9399f59.jpg)
Seoul City Skyline and N Seoul Tower in South Korea © AdobeStock
An extinct volcano jutting out of the sea, Jeju is far more natural in feel than the mainland: think beaches, farmland, lava tubes and volcanic craters. And now you can walk around the whole island on the Jeju Olle Trail.
The mass of islands draped along Korea’s southern coast fades into the Pacific, before coming to an enigmatic conclusion in crater-pocked Jeju Island, known locally as Jejudo (제주도). This tectonic pimple in the South Sea is the country’s number one holiday destination, particularly for Korean honeymooners, and it’s easy to see why.
The volcanic crags, innumerable beaches and colourful rural life draw comparisons with Hawaii and Bali, a fact not lost on the local tourist authorities. This very hype puts some foreign travellers off, but the island makes for a superb visit if taken on its own terms; indeed, those who travel into Jeju’s more remote areas may come away with the impression that little has changed here for decades.
Where to stay at the Jeju Island:
- Best for views: Grand Hyatt Jeju . Centrally located in the heart of Jeju City, Grand Hyatt Jeju is situated 1.6 km from Shilla Duty Free. The property is 8 km from Jeju National Museum and 8 km from Jeju International Passenger Terminal. Samyang Black Sand Beach is 12 km from the resort, while Hamdeok Beach is 20 km from the property.
- Best for beach location: Y Resort Jeju . Featuring beautiful views of the ocean just a 5-minute walk from Hwasoongeum Beach, Y Resort Jeju features a spacious outdoor pool for guests to lounge in. Free Wi-Fi access is available throughout the property.
Find more accommodation options to stay at the Jeju Island
![korea where to visit Jeju island, South Korea © AdobeStock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/jeju-island-korea-AdobeStock_221664072.jpg_fd643e5376.jpg)
Jeju island, South Korea © AdobeStock
Koreans gush about Seoraksan National Park, and with good reason. The nation’s northernmost park, it contains some of the tallest peaks in the country, with mistfringed bluffs of exposed crag that could have come straight from a Chinese painting.
The name gains ambiguity in translation, but roughly translates as “Snow-cragged Mountains”; these bony peaks are pretty enough on a cloudy day, but in good weather they’re set alight by the sun, bathed in spectacular hues during its rising and setting. Seoraksan is one of the highest parks in the country and, as a result, usually the first to display the reds, yellows and oranges of autumn.
![korea where to visit Seoraksan National Park, South Korea © AdobeStock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/seoraksan-national-park-korea-AdobeStock_495587661.jpg_1b899a3e1f.jpg)
Seoraksan National Park, South Korea © AdobeStock
The glorious palace of Gyeongbokgung is, with good reason, the most popular tourist sight in the city, and a focal point of the country as a whole. The place is absorbing, and the chance to stroll the dusty paths between its delicate tile-roofed buildings is one of the most enjoyable experiences Seoul has to offer.
Gyeongbokgung was ground zero for Seoul’s emergence as a place of power, having been built to house the royal family of the embryonic Joseon dynasty, shortly after they transferred their capital here in 1392.
The complex has witnessed fires, repeated destruction and even a royal assassination but careful reconstruction means that the regal atmosphere of old is still palpable, aided no end by the suitably majestic crags of Bugaksan to the north. A large historical complex with excellent on-site museums, it can easily eat up the best part of a day. Try to time your visit to coincide with the colourful changing of the guard ceremonies.
From the skyscrapers of Seoul to traditional villages - this tailor-made tour to the Highlights of Korea packs culture, history and cuisine in one compact itinerary. Enjoy a two-night temple stay as well as in-depth guided excursions in Seoul, Gyeongju, Yeosu, and Jeonju.
![korea where to visit Gyeongbok palace in Seoul City © AdobeStock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/gyeongbok-palace-in-seoul-city-gyeongbokgung-palace-landmark-of-seoul-south-korea-AdobeStock_439614416.jpg_b2d572f164.jpg)
Gyeongbok palace in Seoul City © AdobeStock
One of the best things to do in South Korea with your kids is to visit one of the fascinating Korean amusement parks.
The local version of Disneyland is incredibly popular – the Lotte World complex receives over five million visitors per year, and it’s hard to find a Korean child, or even an adult, who hasn’t been here at some point. While it may not be quite what some are looking for on their visit to “The Land of Morning Calm”, Lotte World can be a lot of fun, particularly for those travelling with children.
It comprises two theme parks: the indoor section is known as Lotte World Adventure, and this is connected by monorail to Lotte Water Park, an outdoor section located in the middle of a lake, and also home to a spa. Also within the complex are a bowling alley, an overpriced ice rink and a large swimming pool.
Check our guide to the best places to go with kids and find some inspirational ideas for the family holidays.
![korea where to visit Lotte World amusement theme park around Seokchon lake, a major tourist attraction in Seoul, South Korea © AdobeStock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/lotte-world-amusement-theme-park-around-seokchon-lake-a-major-tourist-attraction-in-seoul-south-korea-AdobeStock_215973778.jpg_28d250db23.jpg)
Lotte World amusement theme park, a major tourist attraction in Seoul © AdobeStock
The huge National Museum of Korea is a Seoul must-see for anyone interested in history. It houses over eleven thousand artefacts, including an incredible 94 official National Treasures, but only a fraction of these will be on show at any one time.
Among the many rooms on the ground level are exhibitions from the Three Kingdoms period, which showcase the incredible skill of the artisans during that time – gold, silver and bronze have been cast into ornate shapes, the highlight being a fifth-century crown and belt set that once belonged to a Silla king.
Move up a floor and the focus shifts to paintings, calligraphy and wooden art, and there’s usually a colossal Buddhist scroll or two, over 10m high; some were hung behind the Buddha statue in temples’ main halls, while others were used for such purposes as praying for rain. The museum owns quite a few, but due to the fragility of the material, they’re put on a rota system and displays are changed regularly.
![korea where to visit Buddha statue, National Museum Of Korea, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Korea © AdobeStock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/buddha-statue-national-museum-of-korea-yongsan-gu-seoul-korea-AdobeStock_135919412.jpg_4e682e1876.jpg)
Buddha statue, National Museum Of Korea, Seoul © AdobeStock
Quite unexpectedly, South Korea is an attractive Christmas destination. Read our guide about Christmas in South Korea and you might want to spend the winter holidays here.
If you prefer to plan and book your trip to the South Korea without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.
Ready for a trip to South Korea ? Check out the snapshot The Rough Guide to Korea . If you travel further in South Korea, read more about the best time to go and the best places to visit in South Korea. For inspiration use the itineraries from our local travel experts . A bit more hands on, learn about getting there , getting around the country and where to stay once you are there.
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Top 15 Places to visit in Korea: A blog all about going to South Korea
All the plans are made, and your trip to South Korea is about to begin. You’re pretty excited, mainly because you are visiting some of the most exciting places in South Korea . But where do you visit if you spend only 3 days in Seoul ? How about a weekend in Busan or one day in Jeju Island?
Will you see all the famous tourist attractions, or will you explore the countryside? Well, this blog post is here to save you that dilemma since we have put together a list of the top 15 Places to visit in Korea ! South Korea is a country that offers so much to see and do.
If you visit South Korea, don’t forget to pack your camera! I’ll provide all the necessary details about travelling there from this article. Before packing up this article, I will add some tips about what to do or what not to do in South Korea. So, stick with it till the end!!!
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Recommended Tours & Tickets
Top 15 places to visit in korea..
Don’t miss out on the best of South Korea! Here are the top 15 places to visit in Korea that you must visit. With each location, there’s an amazing food and accommodation option that will make your trip all worth it in terms of quality alone- but we’re not done just yet because these spots also boast some pretty spectacular landmarks too–like castles or gothic churches for instance (or even both!). Check ’em all out here:
![Top 15 Places to visit in Korea: A blog all about going to South Korea 1 Places-to-visit-in-Korea@Seoul](https://thesimpletravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Gyeongbokgung-Palace.jpg)
Seoul , the brightest city of South Korea stands as the capital of it. If you want to enjoy both modern architecture and ancient culture, then this place is for you. The capital city of South Korea tops our list of places to visit in Korea for its combination of modern and well-preserved architecture.
Here you will find 100-floor skyscrapers which are a modern-day tourist attraction. And you will also find above thousand-year-old Buddhist temples that will introduce you to the history and culture of the country. You will get to click many Instagram-worthy pictures in Seoul, especially during the night.
Main Attractions:
● Gyeongbokgung Palace (One of the largest Palaces in Seoul, which helps to Korean heritage)
● Seoul Tower (500 meters tall observation tower providing a broad view of the city)
● Bukchon Hanok Village (ancient architecture of houses and pagodas which gives the taste of traditional culture)
● Blue House (House of the Korean President compared to White House)
● Bukhansan National Park (holding amusing natural beauty with the ancient temple and hiking place)
● Lotte World Tower (World’s 5th tallest building with an amusement park and observatory)
● Insadong( Korean ritual product selling market with the cultural exhibition of dance and music)
● Gwangjang Market (Seoul’s best food market)
2. Andong Hahoe Folk Village
![Top 15 Places to visit in Korea: A blog all about going to South Korea 2 Andong-Hahoe-Folk-Village](https://thesimpletravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Andong-Hahoe-Folk-Village.jpg)
Surrounded by a river, this village is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a great example of Korean traditional culture and rural life. You will be able to get the real touch of nature. The village is renowned for much traditional food, cultural festivals, and handmade products. For any tourist who visits this place, the Andong jjimdak , a spicy chicken dish is a must-try.
Almost all houses in the village are with thatched roofs which makes them look quite similar. But such roofs are rarely seen in villages in other parts of the world which makes these houses unique of all. Every house has a history of the people who lived there centuries ago. The most notable thing about Andong Hahoe Folk Village is that it dates back to the 9th century and both commoners and noblemen lived there.
● Traditional South Korean houses
● Mask Museum
● Ritual Mask Dance (performed by villagers)
● Boat Riding
![Top 15 Places to visit in Korea: A blog all about going to South Korea 3 Busan](https://thesimpletravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Busan.jpg)
From hiking to surfing, natural blessings to architectural beauties, mountains to sea beaches, temples to towers – Busan has everything in its midst. This 2nd largest city in South Korea has a different type of place in its tourist’s heart. Too many varieties in one place.
The city is a relaxing getaway and a stunning tourist spot among all the other places to visit in Korea. It is often underrated as most tourists visit Seoul and forget about Busan. But those who visited this city even for once, just don’t stop talking about their mesmerizing experience.
● Gamcheon Culture Village ( Acolourful village with the brightly painted house and multi-layer streets)
● Haeundae Beach (A beach which is located in the middle of the city offers a lot of festivals)
● Jagalchi Market (a fish market with thousands of types of fishes which made it an exploratory place)
● Busan Tower (Best way to explore Busan and its skyline from 120 m high view)
● Taejongdae( sea-side Park with a beautiful coastal view and evergreen forests)
● Nampodong Market (Downtown area of Busan where you can explore the cityjust by walking)
● Songdo beach (Human-made beach with a less crowded area. Just a relaxing spot nearby where you can do Skywalk, Cliff Bridge Walk and Cable Car)
● U.N. Memorial Cemetery (Only United Nations Cemetery in the world)
● Beomeosa Temple (One of the best urban temples where you can meditate and clear your mind)
● Gwangbokdong Food Street (The most famous food street in Busan to try different kinds of foods)
4. Jeju Island
![Top 15 Places to visit in Korea: A blog all about going to South Korea 4 Jeju-Island](https://thesimpletravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Jeju-Island.jpg)
If you’re looking for a breathtaking natural scenario in your tour, then Jeju Island is the place for you. It’s the most famous Island in South Korea and is considered one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. It is the favourite place for newlyweds and for couples planning a romantic getaway. The beautiful beaches and coastal trails are enough to impress you to a whole new level. And then, the delicious seafood will be a cherry on the top.
● Seongsan Sunrise Peak (famous for its marvellous sunrise view)
● Mount Hallasan (The highest mountain in Korea but easy for hiking with great natural beauty)
● Manjanggul Cave (One of the longest lavas tanel with a magical view)
● Cheonjiyeon Waterfall (A magnificent view holding waterfall carrying 3 sections of water)
● Jeju Folk Village (Able to take you for a travel back in time)
● JungmunSaekdal Beach (spreading charm with its huge wave and favourite to surfers)
● Seogwipo Submarine (A trip under the sea)
● Osulloc Tea Garden & Museum (Can be a favourite place to tea lovers for knowing the tea history)
● Seopjikoji( A famous cape in South Korea with Canola flowers)
● Yeomiji Botanical Garden (A loving place for botanic lovers with a vast collection of plants)
● Jeongbang Waterfall (One of the unique waterfalls because it falls directly into the ocean)
5. Gyeongju
![Top 15 Places to visit in Korea: A blog all about going to South Korea 5 Gyeongju](https://thesimpletravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Gyeongju.jpg)
Now it’s time to explore the historical property of South Korea . Gyeongju is the former capital of this country which is enriched with so many earliest and prehistoric sites. History admirers will find their home here.
It is another UNESCO World Heritage Site also known as “the museum without walls” due to the presence of a vast number of cultural properties and archaeological sites. From the 5th century to date, it has been an important centre of Korean Buddhism.
● Bulguksa Temple (pagodas made with stone and wood and representing Buddhist culture.
● Gyeongju National Park (historical resources blended with nature which is available for hiking)
● Cheomseongdae Observatory (oldest astronomical observatory in Asia)
● Gyeongju Bird Park (Best place to spend time with birds along with very close interaction)
● Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond (A Pagoda shaped Palace floating on a mesmerizing pond)
● Gyeongju Gyochon Traditional Village (a small village with traditional touch)
● Gyeongju National Museum (a small but well-organized museum dedicated to Silla culture)
● Seokguram( An ancient temple situated at the top of a mountain with a great view of the sunset)
● Cheonmachong Tomb (a tomb with a cultural museum)
6. Seoraksan National Park
![Top 15 Places to visit in Korea: A blog all about going to South Korea 6 Seoraksan-National-Park](https://thesimpletravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Seoraksan-National-Park.jpg)
Where are the hikers? Seoraksan National Park is the heavenly kingdom for hikers as they can enjoy temples, waterfalls, cable cars etc., during the hike. It unleashes its best view during the winter with foggy, snowy mountains. Both locals and foreigners come to this park to enjoy the rugged wilderness. It is one of the most visited parks in South Korea.
● Bronze Buddha Statue (48 feet high bronze statue situated only a few minutes away from the entrance)
● Sinheungsa Temple (standing near Buddha Statue holding traditional Korean construction)
● Geumganggul Cave (used for worshipping. You will be able to enjoy a panoramic view of mountains)
● Ulsanbawi Rock (An exclusive rock formation with an astonishing view from 900m top)
● Seoraksan Cable Car (will be able to see the whole park view from Cable Cars)
![Top 15 Places to visit in Korea: A blog all about going to South Korea 7 Suwon-hwaseong-fortress](https://thesimpletravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Suwon-hwaseong-fortress.jpg)
Suwon is famous for its fortress, Palace and many gates. The eye-catching stone-made wall of the fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The structural beauty has made the city different from others. Now, it is renowned as both a historical town and a multicultural city.
In Suwon, one of my favourite places to visit in Korea, you will get to know about the dramatic and golden succession of Korean history and alongside enjoy the modern architectural sites.
● Hwaseong Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage site which was built a long ago to protect the city with 4 main gates)
● Suwon Hwaseong Museum (Presents the whole history and culture of Hwaseong Fortress)
● Paldalmun Gate (One of the most important gates of the fortress surrounded by modern buildings)
● Haenggung Palace (Venue of cultural and traditional festivals with a lot of attractions)
● Hwahongmun Gate (Another gate of Hwaseong Fortress presents traditional history)
● Toilet Museum (A totally different concept-based museum to accelerate the awareness of sanitation)
● Wolhwawon Garden (A traditional Chinese Garden which is a quiet place with lovely nature and charming architecture)
● Janganmun Gate (Northern Gate of Hwaseong Fortress, which is also the main gate of the fortress)
● Yeonmudae( Huge pavilion offers both city view and Fortress view)
● Hwaseomun Gate (Considered as the most impressive gate of Hwaseong Fortress)
● Everland (South Korea’s largest theme park with zoo, garden and festivals)
● Samsung Innovation Museum (All about Samsung. Their rise to rule in the world as a tech company)
● Suwon World Cup Stadium (Football World Cup venue in 2002 where the roof is designed like a bird’s wing and seats are referred to Hwaseong Fortress)
8. Boseong Green Tea Field
![Top 15 Places to visit in Korea: A blog all about going to South Korea 8 Boseong-Green-Tea-Field](https://thesimpletravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Boseong-Green-Tea-Field.jpg)
This is one of the major green tea producing fields in South Korea, which offers a vital scenic beauty. A lot of people already know about it as it has been used as a filming site for a lot of Korean dramas. There are places to hike and enjoy the spot from the top, which can heal your soul. Alongside, Korean green tea is much different from normal ones because it can reduce bitterness and increase the taste.
Out of all the must-visit places in Korea, Boseong Green Tea Field is a notable one. In fact, it should be the first one on your priority list if you are a nature lover. The tea of this place is also very healthy and the beautiful green tea fields are a blessing to the eyes.
● Green Tea Farm Observatory ( situatedat the top to explore the whole view)
● Waterfall Area (A little waterfall to boost up your energy)
● Botjae Dawon Tea Plantation (another tea Field which is a 5-minute walk from the Boseong Green Tea Field)
● Green tea cafe (A coffee shop sitting on the hill of the field with a full-length view of the total area)
● Korea Tea Museum (holding the history of Korean tea)
● Yulpo Beach (a great place to enjoy the sunset and beach view)
9. Haeinsa Temple
![Top 15 Places to visit in Korea: A blog all about going to South Korea 9 haeinsa-temple](https://thesimpletravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/haeinsa-temple.jpg)
It’s considered the most authentic and major temple in South Korea. It has the oldest Buddhist canon reserved here for a long time. It’s popular both for religious and historical value. A lot of people who are not interested in any of these only go there to experience the calmness and purity of nature.
The temple houses the Tripitaka Koreana which is the most complete collection of Buddhist texts. The four buildings of the temple complex have a unique structure. It is a famous destination for both local and international Buddhists and scholars.
● The oldest Wooden Buddha Statue in Asia
● Complete Collection of Buddhist Canon
● Nearby Mountains (soothing eyesight)
● Neighbour Villages (for roaming around)
10. Pyeongchang County
![Top 15 Places to visit in Korea: A blog all about going to South Korea 10 Pyeong-chang-County](https://thesimpletravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Pyeong-chang-County.jpg)
Pyeongchang County is a place occupied by mountains. It’s an excellent place for hiking, skiing and snowboarding. You will also find temples in the midst of hills. The best time to visit here is autumn or winter to perform all the exciting activities. It is a city of nature and sports. A huge number of nature lovers and adventurers come here every year.
● Odaesan National Park (70% of this place is covered by mountains. Great place for trekking while observing a bunch of flora and fauna)
● Woljeongsa Temple (One of the best temples in Pyeongchang County surrounded by streams and hills. You will be able to walk through the woods while observing it)
● Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch (Can be a quick stop in the time of hiking to interact with cute little sheep)
● Bongpyeong Village (If your trip is planned for autumn, make sure to go there to explore buckwheat flowers fields)
● Yongpyong Ski Resort (your best chance to do some skiing and snowboarding)
11. The Korean Demilitarized Zone
![Top 15 Places to visit in Korea: A blog all about going to South Korea 11 Korean-Demilitarized-Zone](https://thesimpletravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Korean-Demilitarized-Zone.jpg)
This is the place holding the history of the division of North and South Korea. This 160 the mile-long area has a bunch of spots that are the witness of such modern history. It’s a living example of what can be done when two neighbouring countries go through conflict.
There are a specific set of rules that every tourist must follow when visiting this place. It’s different from other tourist spots so you should always follow your tour guide. You might even be required to follow a strict dress code and might not be allowed to take pictures without permission.
● 3rd Tunnel of Aggregation (secret tunnel made by North Korea and discovered by South Korea after 8 years)
● Freedom Bridge – Imjingak( A spot made to remember the divided family. It was also used for the exchange of people once)
● Dora Observatory (can catch a sight of North Korea without going there)
● Dorasan Station (Gateway to North Korea which is left unused nowadays)
12. Dadohaehaesang National Park
![Top 15 Places to visit in Korea: A blog all about going to South Korea 12 Dadohaehaesang-National-park](https://thesimpletravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Dadohaehaesang-National-park.jpg)
Now it’s time to spend some memorable time in the midst of the ocean. Dadohaehaesang National Park is the largest national park in South Korea which is a bundle of 1700 small and large islands and rocks located in the East and West Sea.
This is the place where you can only choose to relax sitting by the ocean or make a hardcore adventure list with trekking in the mountains and boating in the ocean. The majority of islands in Dadohaehaesang National Park are uninhabited. It is better to go to the inhabited and touristy islands to avoid all kinds of harm.
● Heuksando and Hongdo Districts (famous for their striking view of islands and sea)
● Baekdo District ( containingBaekdo Island where a unique form of rock pinnacles is found. Spreading beauty of towns and nature)
● Palyeongsan District (only spot without beach area but enriched with high mountains)
● Bigeum District (most beautiful beaches like Uido and Shimmok Beach)
● Geumodo District (having dark forest and beautiful view of sunrise)
● Naro Island District (the most different one because it has Naro Space Center)
13. Juknokwon
![Top 15 Places to visit in Korea: A blog all about going to South Korea 13 juknokwon](https://thesimpletravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/juknokwon.jpg)
What about just a peaceful walk through a bamboo forest that has 8 different paths with 8 other concepts? If you’re interested in a short tour of 3 to 4 hours wandering into a forest full of tall bamboo trees, then this place is the ideal form for you. The most interesting part is Juknokwon is almost an evergreen forest which means in the cold winter, under snowy cover, this forest keeps its greenery version fresh and charming.
This is one of the most interesting places to visit in Korea. Here you will be able to breathe in fresh oxygen away from the pollution of bustling cities. The cooling breeze throughout the lush forest is really relaxing to the mind and body.
● 8 Different Trails ( This includes Lover’s Lane, Philosopher’s Way,Old Friend’s Trail, Old Memories Byway, Scholar’s Road, Good Luck Road, Seonginsan Trail and Meditation Road )
● Bonghwangnu Observatory ( An observation tower to get the whole view)
● Traditional Pavilions ( You will get them all around the forest for just sitting there and enjoy the scenario)
● Siga Culture Village ( A village with prominent people’s work, stream, sculpture and historical site)
14. Incheon
![Top 15 Places to visit in Korea: A blog all about going to South Korea 14 Incheon](https://thesimpletravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Incheon.jpg)
Whether you are looking for yummy Chinese food or concession-era architecture, Incheon is the place for you. Out of all the top places to visit in Korea, Incheon is a different one. In Incheon, you will find parks, markets, temples, quaint islands and a fairytale village where fairytales seem to come alive.
This city that lies on the borders of Seoul and Gyeonggi has played a tremendous role during the Korean War. So, it is a great place to visit to learn about the history of Korea. Whether you are interested in history or architecture, islands or parks, hilltops or villages, here you will find every tourist attraction that interests you.
- Incheon Chinatown (The only official Chinatown in Korea where you can explore the remains of Korea’s past, history, and culture, and enjoy mouthwatering Chinese cuisines)
- Muuido (A small and peaceful island which is a great spot for camping, trekking, zip-lining, and clam digging)
- Wolmido Island (A busy island containing a theme park and many entertaining tourist attractions)
- Incheon Grand Park (The main nature park of the city offering rural landscape-like refreshing air and views)
- Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village (A cultural village filled with murals, designs, and paintings of fairytale characters)
- Jayu Park (The first westernized park in Korea that is home to several historical monuments)
- Jeondeungsa Temple (A Buddhist temple with beautiful architecture and picturesque surroundings)
- Sinpo International Market (A busy outdoor market selling food, clothing, and other local products)
- Daeryong Market (A unique traditional market selling local goods)
- Haengjusanseong (A hilltop fortress famous for its mesmerizing view and history of the Haengju battle)
- Incheon Bridge (A cable-stayed bridge that looks stunning at night due to the amazing light works)
- Yeongjong Bridge (A double-deck suspension bridge offering amazing foreshore views, it looks tremendously beautiful during the bridge lights at night)
- Jajangmyeon Museum (A museum dedicated to the Jajangmyeon dish (black soybean noodles), its history and development)
- Geomdan Prehistory Museum (A museum that hosts unique special exhibits of cultural artefacts from the palaeolithic era)
15. Gangneung
![Top 15 Places to visit in Korea: A blog all about going to South Korea 15 Gangneung-beach](https://thesimpletravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Gangneung-beach.jpg)
Eye-catching inland mountains and beautiful beaches are reasons why Gangneung is a popular tourist destination. If you want to escape city life, Gangneung is a place where you should go for a peaceful vacation. Out of all the top places to visit in Korea, it is the most tranquil tourist destination. This city is a perfect blend of natural beauty, modern technology and culture.
- Gyeongpo Beach (A beautiful sandy beach with a great view)
- Gangmun Beach (A huge beach with beautiful sand and shells, clear waters and a peaceful environment, ocean-fresh seafood, and excellent coffee shops)
- Jeongdongjin Sculpture Park (A Sculpture park with a green lawn looking out at the vast ocean offering a great sunrise view)
- Daegwallyeong Natural Recreation Forest (A very nice recreation forest popular for its well-known pine trees)
- Haslla Art World (A Instagrammable art museum with a breathtaking sea view from the top)
- Pinocchio Art Museum (An Art museum housing a wooden doll of the fictional character Pinocchio, a great tourist spot for both children and adults)
- Nochusan Mojeongtap-gil Trail (A serene place for walking or hiking with a beautiful folk tale)
- Adeul Rocky Park (Around 150 million years old natural rocks can be found here, and the place has a beautiful scenery)
- Heo Gyun Heo Nanseolheon Memorial Park (A must-see historic site containing a single-story Korean architectural wooden building made of Korean roof tiles)
- Gyeongpo Provincial Park (A must-visit park in South Korea with beautiful sea and mountain views)
- Anbandegi (A tranquil village situated amid mountains at a highland of 1100 m with a panoramic view)
- Seongyojang House (An elegant and traditional hanok historical settlement from the 18th-century that is a museum now)
- Aranaby zipline (A zipline at an 18 meter-high tower offering a thrilling sightseeing adventure)
- Chewang-san (A mountain at an elevation of 841 metres above sea level)
Some Special Manner You Should Always Maintain when in South Korea
The South Korean culture is one of a kind. You must maintain particular mannerisms when visiting this beautiful country, mainly if your travels occur in urban centres such as Seoul or Busan. The following rules will help you to cope up with South Koreans. They’re really dedicated to following those rules, so to enjoy your trip to your fullest, you should try to maintain them.
1. Whenever you’re receiving or giving anything to a person, always hold that thing with two hands. They take it as a matter of modesty.
2. After eating, always place your chopsticks parallel to your cup or plate. Never leave them upside down. It’s standard etiquette in South Korea.
3. If you’re taking public transportation like the train, try to keep your voice low. It’s very rare to find anyone talking loudly on a train in South Korea.
4. Never get into a fight. South Korea is a peace-loving country, and the people there are very kind to each other.
5. Try to avoid the use of red ink in any type of writing. In South Korea, red ink is considered a bad intention.
Don’t panic over these matters. It’s nothing like if you make a mistake, it’s over. Just keep these things in your mind and be confident.
South Korea is home to diverse tourist attractions. We have only listed 15 famous places to visit in Korea , and there are actually more. So, which one of these places to visit in Korea is your favourite? After reading this whole article, I hope you’re now able to sort out your plan. You know what to do, when to do and where to do it. So buckle up and try to make this tour The Memorable One.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the most visited place in Korea?
According to recent statistics, the most visited place in Korea is Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, followed by Jeju Island and the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) between North and South Korea. Other popular tourist attractions include Namsan Tower, Bukchon Hanok Village, and the traditional markets of Myeong-dong and Insadong.
What city should I visit in Korea?
South Korea has many amazing cities, but some top ones include Seoul, Busan, Jeju, Gyeongju, Incheon, Daegu, Daejeon, Suwon, Andong, and Jeonju. Each city has unique attractions and experiences, so it depends on what you’re interested in seeing and doing.
Is 3 days enough for Korea?
While 3-days may not be enough to see everything South Korea has to offer, it is enough time to see some of the highlights. You can visit Seoul and explore its historical sites, try some delicious Korean food, and even take a day trip to the nearby city of Suwon.
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Putin flies into North Korea with promise to back it against the US
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- Putin praises 'Comrade' Kim Jong Un
- Moscow seeks 'comprehensive' strategic partnership
- West says Putin is seeking weapons for Ukraine
- Russia, North Korea to jointly resist 'restrictions'
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As Moscow bureau chief, Guy runs coverage of Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States. Before Moscow, Guy ran Brexit coverage as London bureau chief (2012-2022). On the night of Brexit, his team delivered one of Reuters historic wins - reporting news of Brexit first to the world and the financial markets. Guy graduated from the London School of Economics and started his career as an intern at Bloomberg. He has spent over 14 years covering the former Soviet Union. He speaks fluent Russian.
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French far-right's finance point man vows fiscal restraint, pro-business stance
A new French government led by Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally (RN) would end the decades-long practice of running high budget deficits and stick to the European Union's fiscal rules, the party's financial pointman told Reuters.
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13 of the best things to do in Seoul, South Korea
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Feb 4, 2024 • 8 min read
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From bustling street food markets to peaceful temple life, experience the best of Seoul with this guide © Plan Shooting 2 / Imazins / Getty Images
For an ultra-modern city filled with sleek high-rises and time-tested palaces, tempting street food, vibrant shopping districts and much more, head to Seoul .
Whether you want to see the latest K-Pop sensation, take a late-night food and drink tour, or find serenity in a spa or temple, the city has something to offer 24/7. Here are the best things to do in South Korea ’s capital.
1. Taste the street food at Gwangjang Market
Street food in Seoul is beloved for its spice, variety and affordability, and there’s no better place to try it than Gwangjang Market . Dating from the early 20th century, this covered market has gained a reputation among foodies for having some of the country’s best street snacks.
Planning tip: Start with an order of tteokbokki (stir-fried rice cakes in a bright orange spicy sauce), followed by a couple of mandu (Korean dumplings) and a pajeon (savory green onion pancake). For dessert, try hotteok (a pancake filled with brown sugar and cinnamon) or bungeoppang (a fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste). Then do it all over again.
![korea where to visit Soldiers in historic uniforms and carrying pennants participate in the changing of the guard ceremony](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2022-07/shutterstockRF_1182036520.jpg?w=1920&auto=format&q=75)
2. Step back in time at Gyeongbokgung Palace
If you only have time to see one sight in Seoul, make it the splendid architecture, serene pagodas and maze-like grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace . Originally built during the reign of the powerful Joseon Dynasty in the 14th century, the palace was destroyed during the 16th-century Imjin War and rebuilt in the 18th century. Gyeongbokgung is the largest and most elegant of Seoul’s five royal palaces.
Planning tip: Take in the ceremonial changing of the Royal Guard in front of the massive Gwanghwamun Gate before strolling the grounds to admire striking hip-and-gable buildings, tranquil ponds and delicate cherry trees. Wrap up your visit with a stop at the National Folk Museum of Korea , which sits on the palace grounds and features exhibits on traditional Korean culture.
3. Stroll along the Cheong-gye-cheon Stream
In the heat of summer , nothing beats a walk along Cheong-gye-cheon Stream . A dazzling oasis that unfurls for nearly 11km (7 miles) through the towers of central Seoul, this picturesque waterway is lined with walking paths, trees and bridges. The original stream was covered with an elevated highway after the Korean War, but in 2005, the city undertook an urban renewal project to refresh the area and reintroduce the stream better than ever. Since then, it’s been a popular spot for locals and tourists looking to cool off or take a leisurely break from the city’s hustle and bustle.
4. Shop for the latest trends in Myeong-dong
You’ll want to break out the credit card for an afternoon of spending in Seoul’s most famous shopping district. Myeong-dong is renowned for trendy fashion labels, deluxe department stores and cosmetic boutiques packed with famed K-beauty products. Once you’ve sufficiently stocked up on mask sheets and moisturizer at Olive Young , innisfree and Etude House , check out the Myeong-dong Night Market for quirky souvenirs and traditional street food.
The area is also home to some of Seoul’s cutest cafes, with the Pink Pool Cafe at the Stylenanda Pink Hotel flagship store being the ultimate eye candy. This confectionery-colored spot has an ice-cream-parlor vibe, indoor ornamental pool and sweet-as-sugar art decor, making it a popular place for photo shoots.
5. Go for a dip in a jjimjilbang
More than just a way to get clean, bathing in Seoul is a full-fledged social activity. Koreans gather at bathhouses (jjimjilbang) with friends and family typically once a week. Jjimjilbang can range from an establishment with just a couple of small dipping pools to massive aquatic palaces with multiple pools, water features, cafes, saunas, relaxation rooms, gyms, spas and arcades.
First-timers should know that bathhouse etiquette requires bathing in the nude, and some bathhouses don’t allow patrons with tattoos. Once you’ve bared all, take a dip in the hot and cold pools, followed by a stretch in the sauna, then opt for a traditional full-body scrub to emerge baby-soft from your bathhouse experience.
Planning tip: The female-only Spa Lei draws patrons for its elegant atmosphere and invigorating massages.
![korea where to visit An aerial view of two hikers on a rocky outcrop overlooking cloudy mountain peaks a](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2022-07/South-Korea-Seoul-Bukhansan-National-Park-Stock-for-you-shutterstock-2027501111-RFE.jpg?w=1920&auto=format&q=75)
6. Take a hike in Bukhansan National Park
Bukhansan National Park is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as “the most visited national park per unit area” – which is easy to understand since it’s set within the city limits and easily reachable by public transportation . You’ll often see athletic Koreans in colorful hiking gear riding the subways on weekends.
Bukhansan covers 80 sq km (31 sq miles) and features jagged peaks, hiking trails, dozens of storied temples and 1300 species of plants and animals. The 5-hour round-trip hike to the 836m (2744ft) summit of Bukhansan is well worth it to see Seoul spread out before you in all directions.
7. Go singing in a noraebang
Walk down any busy street in the university districts on a Friday or Saturday night, and you’re likely to hear distant singing wafting through the air. Chances are it’s not an errant K-Pop band but the raucous merriment of karaoke at a noraebang (singing room). This popular late-night activity involves private rooms with big-screen TVs, phone-book-sized lists of songs and even disco balls or musical instruments to accompany the singalong. Top it off with room service bringing snacks and cocktails, and it’s a recipe for a great night out.
8. Sip on Korean drinks: soju and makgeolli
The traditional Korean beverages soju and makgeolli have been respectively distilled and brewed since the 13th century and are the most beloved drinks in this thirsty nation. Soju also has the surprising distinction of being the world’s best-selling spirit, perhaps helped out by the fact that a standard bottle often costs less than a bottle of water.
While such upmarket small-batch distilleries as Samhae Soju and Hangang Brewery create artisanal varieties, the most common labels, such as Jinro and Seoul Makgeolli, can be happily imbibed at the picnic tables dotting sidewalks outside convenience stores across the city.
Planning tip: Those new to the Korean alcohol scene should check out the Sool Company , which offers tasting tours, brewing classes and special events.
![korea where to visit A GangnamDol cartoon bear sculpture along K-Star Road in Gangnam, Seoul, South Korea](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2022-07/South-Korea-Seoul-ARTYOORAN-shutterstock-672015913-RFE.jpg?w=1920&auto=format&q=75)
9. Star-search on K-Star Road
You’re probably familiar with Hollywood’s Walk of Fame, but did you know Seoul’s glamorous Gangnam district has its own boulevard dedicated entirely to K-Pop artists? Instead of stars on the sidewalk, K-Star Road features 3m-tall (10ft) statues of cartoon bears called GangnamDols, each decorated to represent a different K-Pop singer or band, including Super Junior, Girls’ Generation and BTS.
Planning tip: After taking a few selfies with your favorite bears, pop into the GangnamDol Haus near the Apgujeong Rodeo subway station to pick up a few mini bears as souvenirs.
10. Stay at a temple and take part in life with the monks
The iconic image of a colossal Buddha statue looking over sleek high-rises can be seen at the 8th-century Bongeun-sa Temple in Gangnam . Although most tourists come just to snap a photo or two, you can actually participate in temple life with the monks. Over a weekend, join in vegetarian meals, morning chanting, meditation and even the 108 daily prostrations, all meant to clear the mind and bring you closer to achieving inner peace.
Planning tip: Temple-stay programs are offered not only at Bongeun-sa but also at various temples throughout Seoul.
11. Spend the night in Bukchon Hanok Village
Graceful sloping roofs, ornate tiles and colorful dancheong (intricate paintwork under the eaves of traditional Korean palaces) come together to create the Korean traditional house, called hanok . Tucked between the Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palace complexes lies Bukchon Hanok Village , a historic district filled with hundreds of charming hanok that’s often used as a backdrop for period movies and television shows.
Planning tip: While the village has cafes, teahouses, museums and boutiques, it’s also home to a handful of hanoks -turned-guesthouses where visitors can sleep on traditional ondol heated floors, walk through kimchi pot–filled courtyards and generally get a taste what life was like in old Seoul.
12. Get a bird’s-eye view at N Seoul Tower
At the top of Nam Mountain sits N Seoul Tower , a broadcasting structure dating from 1969 and rising 239m (784ft) into the sky above the city. The tower still has active transmission antennas, though today it’s better known for an observation deck that offers 360-degree views of the capital. The top of the tower also offers a few dining options, including a swanky rotating restaurant serving French fare.
Planning tip: To reach the tower itself, you can ride the Namsan Cable Car aerial tramway or hike the meandering trails to the top through Namsan Park .
13. Take a day trip to the DMZ
One of the top day trips from Seoul , a visit to the northern border may well be the most unusual 24 hours you’ll spend on the Korean peninsula. The 250km (160-mile) border between North and South known as the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is one of the world’s most closely guarded borders.
Various outfits, such as the popular DMZ Tours company, take curious onlookers from central Seoul to the border area to catch a glimpse into North Korea from Dora Observatory , explore the Third Infiltration Tunnel (originally dug by North Korean soldiers) and even step into North Korea in the Joint Security Area . There’s also the touristy DMZ Peace Train operated by KORAIL, which whisks passengers from Seoul Station to Dorasan Station, the last stop to the north before crossing into the Hermit Kingdom.
This article was first published Mar 4, 2020 and updated Feb 4, 2024.
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In Need of Munitions, Putin to Visit North Korea
Seeking more weapons for the war in Ukraine, the Russian president plans to return to the country on Tuesday for the first time in nearly a quarter-century.
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By Choe Sang-Hun
Reporting from Seoul
President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia will visit North Korea this week for a meeting with its leader, Kim Jong-un, their second in nine months, as the two countries deepen military ties to support Mr. Putin’s war in Ukraine with North Korean weapons.
Mr. Putin last visited North Korea in 2000, when he became the first Russian or Soviet leader to visit the nation. This week’s trip, beginning on Tuesday, highlights North Korea’s growing strategic importance for Mr. Putin, especially its ability to supply badly needed conventional weapons for the war in Ukraine.
Mr. Kim met with Mr. Putin in Russia’s Far East last September, ushering in a new era of relations between the two countries.
For Mr. Kim, it was a rare moment of his country, a pariah in the West, being sought after as an ally. For Russia, it’s a strengthening of ties with a country that is providing it with much-needed munitions for its war in Ukraine.
The two countries announced the two-day visit on Monday. “At the invitation of the chairman of state affairs of the D.P.R.K., Kim Jong-un, Vladimir Putin will pay a friendly state visit to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea on June 18-19,” the Kremlin said. A presidential aide told Russian state media that Mr. Putin would arrive in Pyongyang, the North Korean capital, late on Tuesday evening and hold meetings on Wednesday.
Days before the announcement, the Kremlin vowed to foster cooperation with North Korea “in all areas.”
Pyongyang and Moscow were Cold War-era allies whose relations cooled after the disintegration of the Soviet Union. But in the past couple of years, they have grown closer again as a result of shared hostility toward the United States — Russia over its war against Ukraine and North Korea over its nuclear weapons program.
As the war in Ukraine has dragged on, Russia has found itself in urgent need of conventional weapons, especially artillery shells. North Korea has plenty to offer . In return, Mr. Kim wants to upgrade his weapons systems, and Russia has advanced military technologies and other aid to share.
Since Russia launched the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, North Korea has sent Russia thousands of shipping containers’ worth of munitions, officials from the United States and South Korea say . Moscow, they say, has reciprocated by sending thousands of containers filled with economic and other aid.
In the weeks ahead of Mr. Putin’s visit, Mr. Kim flaunted what he has to offer Mr. Putin. While visiting munitions factories last month, he praised them for increasing production and showed off warehouses full of short-range ballistic missiles — of a kind similar to the North Korean missiles that Washington has said Russia fired at Ukraine.
Both Moscow and Pyongyang deny arms trade, which is banned under United Nations sanctions. But at the Group of 7 summit in Italy last week, the G7 leaders condemned “in the strongest possible terms the increasing military cooperation” between the two nations, including Pyongyang’s export of ballistic missiles and Russia’s use of them against Ukraine.
“The fact that President Putin is making this trip means that because of its war in Ukraine, Russia is badly in need” of North Korean weapons, Chang Ho-jin, the South Korean national security adviser, told Yonhap News TV over the weekend. “The North Koreans will try to get as much as possible in return, because the situation looks favorable to them.”
Mr. Chang said South Korea had warned Moscow ahead of Mr. Putin’s trip that it “should not cross certain lines.” He did not elaborate. But some analysts in South Korea have speculated that during Mr. Putin’s trip, North Korea may seek Russian help in improving its nuclear weapons capabilities and try to reinstate a Cold War-era military alliance with Moscow.
Things had looked grim for Mr. Kim until the war in Ukraine created opportunities for him.
For years, his country’s economy was devastated by the sanctions the U.N. Security Council imposed to deter his nuclear weapons program. Mr. Kim’s attempt to lift the sanctions collapsed when his direct diplomacy with President Donald J. Trump ended in 2019 without an agreement .
Mr. Kim’s answer was to double down on his nuclear weapons program, while envisioning a “ Neo-Cold War ” in which his country hoped to elevate its strategic value for China and Russia in Northeast Asia while the United States, Japan and South Korea expanded their own military cooperation .
North Korea was among the few countries to openly support Mr. Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. In return, Mr. Putin invited Mr. Kim to the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the Russian Far East last year and indicated that Russia could help North Korea launch satellites. Mr. Kim wants satellites to better monitor his military targets but has had trouble putting them into orbit.
Mr. Kim toured sensitive Russian space and military facilities during his trip to Russia last year, at one point toasting with Mr. Putin to what he called their “sacred struggle” against the “band of evil” in the West.
Russia is barred by United Nations agreements from arming North Korea with military equipment, but the decision to welcome Mr. Kim into high-tech facilities that manufacture rockets and fighter jets underscored Russia’s ability to provide the sort of technology North Korea has long coveted in its standoff with the United States and its allies.
Faced with an onslaught of international pressure over his invasion of Ukraine, Mr. Putin has tightened his relationship with American adversaries around the world, including in Iran, North Korea and Syria, posing challenges for Washington outside Europe.
Closer cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow has security implications for the United States and its allies. The use of North Korean missiles on the battlefield in Ukraine can provide North Korea with valuable data on how they perform against Western missile defense systems, defense experts said.
The U.S. State Department said in a statement on Monday: “Deepening military cooperation between Russia and the D.P.R.K. is a trend that should be of great concern to anyone interested in maintaining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, upholding the global nonproliferation regime, and supporting the people of Ukraine as they defend their freedom and independence against Russia’s brutal invasion.”
In Moscow on Monday, Mr. Putin continued to reshuffle his military top brass, signing an order removing four deputy defense ministers who served for years under Sergei K. Shoigu, Russia’s previous defense minister. He issued another order that appointed four new people with no military background to serve as deputy defense ministers.
Leonid Gorin, a former deputy finance minister, became first deputy defense minister, as Mr. Putin tries to make sure the vast defense budget is spent efficiently. This continues his effort to remake the military leadership with more economic expertise. He recently named an economist, Andrei R. Belousov, to replace Mr. Shoigu.
Pavel Fradkov, a former Kremlin official who is the son of a former Russian prime minister, was appointed a deputy defense minister overseeing construction.
The closer ties between Russia and North Korea are already creating gaping holes in international efforts to strangle Mr. Kim’s ability to earn hard currency through illicit activities.
In March, North Korean TV showed Mr. Kim and his daughter riding in a Russian Aurus limousine that Mr. Putin gave him despite a ban on exporting luxury items to Pyongyang. State-sponsored hackers from North Korea are increasingly using Russian cryptocurrency exchanges to launder stolen funds . Last month, the White House said that Russia was shipping refined petroleum to North Korea at levels that exceeded Security Council limits.
South Korean analysts also worry that in return for North Korean weapons, Moscow may allow more migrant workers from North Korea to work in Russia and earn badly needed cash for Mr. Kim.
Importing such workers from North Korea is banned under Security Council resolutions. But this year, Moscow made it easier to flout the resolutions by using its veto power at the Council to disband a U.N. panel of experts that had monitored North Korea’s compliance with international sanctions.
Paul Sonne contributed reporting from Berlin, Ivan Nechepurenko from Tbilisi, Georgia, and Edward Wong from Washington.
Choe Sang-Hun is the lead reporter for The Times in Seoul, covering South and North Korea. More about Choe Sang-Hun
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2. Busan. Best place for maritime culture. Situated on the southern coast, South Korea's second city, Busan, overflows with a maritime culture as lively as it is varied. Setting the tone is Busan Port, the oldest and largest in the country (and also the sixth-busiest in the world), handling some 80% of South Korea's container cargo.
4. Busan. One of the best cities in South Korea to visit is Busan, a port city that provides a nice contrast to many of the other popular city destinations. The main focus for many visitors to Busan is the city's gorgeous beaches, with Haeundae Beach and Gwangalli Beach the two best known.
281 Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul. +82-2-2153-0000. Seoul Seoul Sky & Lotte World. show. Perched from the 117th to the 123rd floors of Lotte World Tower, the tallest building in Korea and the fifth tallest globally, Seoul Sky offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Seoul from 500 meters above ground.
5. Take advantage of Korea's world-class public transportation. Korea's subways, trains and buses are clean, convenient and efficient. It can sometimes seem like a new station is added to the Seoul metro every month, and the rail and intercity bus networks will take you to every corner of the country.
Discover the Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Korea for 2023-2024 that include famous attractions and some of the newly added places to visit across all regions of Korea from Seoul, Incheon, Busan to Gyeonggi-do and Gangwon-do.. The 6th edition of Top 100 Must-Visits Tourist Spots in Korea (2023-2024) list was announced by Ministry Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) and Korea Tourism ...
3. The War Memorial of Korea. 4,342. Military Museums. Military history museum with a vast array of artifacts across three floors, interactive displays, and an impressive outdoor exhibit of warships and aircraft. Includes a poignant memorial hall. See ways to experience (12) 2023. 4.
Korea's Digital Nomad "Workcation" Visa allows foreigners to travel and work remotely long-term in Korea. With the Digital Nomad Visa, you can fully immerse yourself in the Korean culture while working from wherever you want at the same time for one whole year. To be eligible for the Digital Nomad Visa, you must be a non-Korean citizen ...
Discover the best places to visit with our list of the top tourist attractions in South Korea. 1. Experience Korean History at Changdeokgung Palace. 2. Explore Beaches and History in Busan. 3. Visit Jeonju, the Former Spiritual Capital of Korea. 4. View Seoul from Above at the N Seoul Tower.
6. National Museum of Korea. 2,412. History Museums. This is the largest and most popular museum in Korea with over 420,000 objects in its collection. It has six permanent exhibition galleries such as Calligraphy and Painting and the Room of Quiet Contemplation…. See ways to experience (4) 2023. 7.
Asia. From Seoul's glittering nightlife to Seoraksan National Park's vertiginous hikes, South Korea offers the traveler a dazzling range of experiences, beautiful landscapes and 5000 years of culture and history. Best Time to Visit. Best Places to Visit. Attractions.
Jinhae. Located about 20 miles west of Busan, Jinhae is a quiet coastal town known for one thing: cherry blossoms. Each spring, the city holds the largest cherry blossom festival in South Korea ...
Nature lovers will revel in visiting the spectacular Hallyeohaesang National Park. 13. Daejeon. Having expanded rapidly over the last few decades, Daejeon is now one of the largest cities in South Korea and is a significant science and research center, thanks in part to the large Expo Park complex.
Lastly on this South Korea bucket list, is to take a visit to the National Museum of Korea in Seoul - the largest museum in South Korea! There is a collection of more than 310,000 historic artefacts dating back thousands of years. The museum is easy to reach by Seoul's public transport.
From Haeinsa Temple to Jeju Island, South Korea delights travelers with natural and manmade beauty. See 50 beautiful places to visit there.
Hongdo and Heuksando are the other popular islands where you can take a boat trip to admire the overwhelming natural sites. This is one of the top famous places to visit in South Korea for your next vacation! Ideal for: Nature, Tranquility, Photography. 7. Pyeongchang County: Paradise For Hikers.
Below is a map showing the best places to visit in Korea. 1. Seoul. Seoul is centrally located in a strategic location on the Korean Peninsula and has a population of over 10 million people. The kingdoms of Baekje, Goguryeo, Silla and Joseon all fought over the area which is now Seoul.
2. Jeju Island: Nature's Masterpiece. Jeju Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural gems. Often dubbed the "Hawaii of South Korea," this volcanic haven is undeniably one of the most beautiful places in South Korea. The island boasts a diverse range of landscapes.
Take a walk in Guinsa. 8. Experience tranquillity at Dosan Seowon. 9. Visit West Sea Islands. 10. Take a stroll around Dongdaemun Market. 11. Hiking in the Naejangsan National Park - one of the things to do in South Korea to admire the scenery.
17. Visit the colorful Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art. 18. Have some fun at the Alive Museum and Dynamic Maze. BONUS 1: 13 Extra things to do in Seoul. BONUS 2: Must-try food in Korea. BONUS 3: 4 Day trips from Seoul. BONUS 4: Things To Do in Seoul With Kids. Practical information about traveling to Seoul.
The green tea capital of South Korea, Boseong County in North Jeolla province is a stunning emerald expanse of terraced fields that produces more than 40% of the country's nokcha supply. Visit the 500-hectare (1235 acres) Daehan Dawon, the region's oldest and largest plantation, to meander the tea fields and surrounding cedar and juniper forests.
4. Jeju Island. If you're looking for a breathtaking natural scenario in your tour, then Jeju Island is the place for you. It's the most famous Island in South Korea and is considered one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. It is the favourite place for newlyweds and for couples planning a romantic getaway.
Renowned as one of the top travel destinations in Asia, South Korea beckons with its iconic landmarks, delicious cuisine, as well as a bustling entertainment scene that attracts K-Pop and K-Drama fans worldwide. Nevertheless, beyond these, there's a reason why the country is often called the "Land of the Morning Calm" — its breathtaking natural beauty and tranquil scenery!
Putin's visit to North Korea is widely viewed as an opportunity for him to seek to bolster Kim's support for his war - a goal that may be increasingly urgent as long-delayed American ...
Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in North Korea on Wednesday for his first visit in 24 years, vowing to deepen trade and security ties with the reclusive nuclear-armed state and to support ...
As Russian President Vladimir Putin makes his first visit to North Korea in more than two decades this week, his focus is widely seen to be on securing ongoing support from the hermit nation for ...
13. Take a day trip to the DMZ. One of the top day trips from Seoul, a visit to the northern border may well be the most unusual 24 hours you'll spend on the Korean peninsula. The 250km (160-mile) border between North and South known as the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is one of the world's most closely guarded borders.
The two countries announced the two-day visit on Monday. "At the invitation of the chairman of state affairs of the D.P.R.K., Kim Jong-un, Vladimir Putin will pay a friendly state visit to the ...