Many people travel to South Korea to experience its many wonders. The country offers a vast range of urban delights and unexplored natural sites, from awe-inspiring natural vistas and breathtaking islands to prosperous cities and traditional folk villages. So, if you’re planning to visit South Korea soon and wondering which places to go to, check out this list of the top travel destinations in the country.
Seoul
South Korea’s stunning capital city will impress you with its bewildering mix of beautiful parks, pop culture, modern architecture, glittering promenades, and party vibes, making it one of the most famous destinations and the best cities to visit in the country. Seoul isn’t just a bustling urban hub but also rich in culture and history. With chic restaurants, stylish boutiques, and gorgeous palaces, Seoul is enchanting all the way. The War Memorial and National Museum take you through the country’s history, while the shopping district of Gangnam brings you a taste of Seoul’s side on your reasons to go to South Korea.
Jeju Island
Jeju Island is only 85 km off the coast and is among the most beautiful and famous places in South Korea. Having been chosen as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, the stunning beauty of the pristine island is sure to take your blow your mind. Immaculate white sand beaches surrounded by rich culture, lava caves, beautiful botanical gardens, volcanic craters, and pine forests are among the reasons why this natural paradise is a must-visit.
The Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
The Korean Demilitarized Zone or DMZ is among the most famous South Korean attractions. The DMZ is the place to visit if you want to understand better the conflict between North and South Korea and the current state of affairs. The area is full of compelling sites that make for a fascinating lesson in modern history. You can also take a glimpse into North Korea at the Observation Post and sense a rush of adventure while strolling through the Infiltration Tunnel. It’s recommended to take a guided tour, which includes a trip to the Joint Security Area (JSA).
Busan
If you’re going to places in South Korea, then Busan would be a great addition to your itinerary. The country’s second-largest city is known worldwide for holding Asia’s largest International Film Festival. The city is an impressive fusion of impressive mountains, majestic Buddhist temples, skyscrapers, and beautiful beaches. Some of the popular sites to visit in Busan are the Jagalchi fish market and the Haedong Yonggungsa temple along the coast. Food enthusiasts can enjoy the seafood spread at many restaurants and savor local delicacies at street food stalls everywhere.
Gyeongju
The coastal city of Gyeongju, frequently called an open-air museum, is among the best spots to go to in South Korea if you want to learn about its rich heritage and traditional roots. Gyeongju, the former capital of the ancient Silla kingdom, is a treasure trove of historical and cultural sites and ruins turning back to a thousand years. With the National Museum with its massive collection of artifacts and Bulguksa temple, a UNESCO world heritage site, this coastal city gives you a peek into the country’s cultural roots.
Dadohaehaesang National Park
The biggest National Park in the country, Dadohaehaesang National Park, is one of South Korea‘s most beautiful tourist spots. This wonderland covers 1,700 small and large islands and numerous rock structures. Cheongsando is one of its most scenic islands, which is considered one of the best spots to visit because of its slow city movement and breathtaking landscapes. Heuksando and Hondo are the other famous islands where you can go on a boat trip to admire their natural sites.
Seoraksan National Park
The UNESCO-protected Seoraksan National Park will greet you with its striking strokes of nature every step of the way. The National Park is also one of the most mesmerizing sites to witness during autumn in the country. The Seoraksan range, with snow-covered peaks forming a majestic backdrop for the park’s temple, is an excellent hiking place containing multiple trails, which includes the formidable Ulsan Rock. You can also enjoy going on a gondola ride up the range for some panoramic views. As you pass through the 400000 sq km protection site, prepare to be amazed by the enormous Buddha statue on your way.
Andong Hahoe Folk Village
Meaning “the village enveloped by water,” Andong Hahoe Folk Village is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Entering the village feels like traveling back to the simple Korean village way of life, showing local culture and traditions. The beautiful environment alongside the Nakdong river is accented by the thatched-roof and rural tile houses, pine trees, and sandy beaches. Hahoe village is also an excellent place to wonder at the mask dance the locals perform and try the traditional Korean delicacies.