South Korea is one of Asia’s leading countries, where you can find modernism, nature, and the past. Let’s look at 10 wonderful locations!
Its only land border is the Korean Demilitarized Zone, which it shares with North Korea. The two closest countries are China and Japan (bordered by sea). South Korea, with its great historical past, is now one of the world’s leading economic powers and a member of numerous international alliances.
Table of Contents
Best places in South Korea
Seoul
South Korea’s capital is one of Asia’s most beautiful and modern cities.
The city, lying on both banks of the Han River, has a history dating back to 18 BC, when Baekje, one of the three Korean kingdoms, established its capital in what is now the southeastern part of Seoul. The city is full of historical sites, such as the Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and Deoksugung palaces, which recall the royal past.
Additionally, popular tourist destinations include the parks along the Han River, Namsan Park, and the Jongmyo Shrine. The Daehangno Road is popular among young people, where bars, small theaters, entertainment venues, and cafes can be found.
Jeju Island
South Korea’s largest island is located in the southern part of the country.
The volcanic island is famous for its stunning natural beauty, unique culture, and peaceful atmosphere, which is why many call it „Korea’s Hawaii.” The island became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007.
Here lies the country’s highest point, Mount Hallasan at 1,950 meters. Around the mountain are volcanic craters and lava caves, of which the Manjanggul Cave is particularly famous. The island’s coastline is dotted with stunning rocks, black sand beaches, and waterfalls, such as the Cheonjiyeon and Jeongbang waterfalls.
A unique feature is the Haenyeo female divers, who practice underwater hunting without breathing apparatus as a special tradition. This profession is part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. The island’s symbol is the Dol Hareubang (stone statues), which stand as ancient spiritual protectors along roads and gates.
Busan
South Korea’s second-largest city is located on the East Korean Sea coast.
It is the country’s most popular excursion destination among Koreans as well. Here you’ll find the most famous beach, Haeundae Beach. The approximately 1.5 km long beach has fine sand, with numerous bars and restaurants along its shore waiting for visitors.
Its historical attractions must also be mentioned. One of the most beautiful is the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. The Buddhist temple stands on the seafront, which is a rare location as most Korean temples are found in mountains.
Busan’s cuisine is famous for its seafood. Dishes such as sannakji (live octopus), tteokbokki, and various fish soups (like milmyeon) all provide unmissable experiences. For street food lovers, BIFF Street is recommended.
Gamcheon Cultural Village
One of Busan’s most iconic attractions, often referred to as „Korea’s Santorini” due to its colorful houses.
It originally developed during the Korean War when refugees settled in the area. The village’s appearance underwent a dramatic change in 2009 when the local government and artists jointly began a cultural revitalization project. The once gray houses were painted in colors, artworks were placed, and the settlement was transformed into a tourist attraction.
The narrow streets and alleys are filled with murals, sculptures, and various artworks. The statue of the literary figure, The Little Prince, stands out as the most famous creation.
Seoraksan National Park
One of South Korea’s most beautiful natural areas has been part of UNESCO’s biosphere reserve since 1982.
At the park’s center stands Mount Seoraksan, the country’s third-highest peak (1,708 meters). Its name means „snowy rock mountain”, as its peaks are covered with snow caps in winter, making the landscape particularly picturesque.
The Ulsanbawi Rock, a massive granite rock, is one of the park’s most famous attractions. Climbing the rock is challenging, but the panorama from the summit offers an unforgettable experience. The Buddhist Sinheungsa temple is famous for its huge bronze Buddha statue and atmospheric ambiance.
Gyeongju
Often referred to as a „living outdoor museum”, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
For more than 1,000 years, it was the center of the Silla Kingdom, which became the first unified kingdom of the Korean peninsula. During its heyday, the city was one of Asia’s most flourishing cultural centers. The architectural wonders of the Silla period, Buddhist art relics, and remnants of traditional Korean culture can still be found today.
The Bulguksa Temple is one of Korean Buddhism’s most important sanctuaries. Its wonderful carvings and architecture are outstanding. Another important temple is Seokguram Grotto. This beautifully carved cave sanctuary houses a massive Buddha statue. The Cheomseongdae Observatory is one of the world’s oldest surviving observatories, dating from the 7th century.
Boseong Tea Plantations
South Korea’s largest tea-growing regions are famous for their premium quality green teas.
The most famous is the Daehan Dawon tea plantation, which is open to visitors. The view of the organized, terraced tea fields is particularly picturesque, especially early in the morning or at sunset. The area’s cafes and restaurants offer many specialties, such as green tea ice cream, pastries, noodles, and even meats seasoned with green tea salt.
The teas produced here are highly valued both in Korea and internationally for their special taste, aroma, and excellent quality.
Andong Hahoe Village
One of South Korea’s best-preserved traditional villages is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The name Hahoe means „river embracing”, referring to the village’s geographical location, as it lies along the S-shaped Nakdong River. Among the hanoks are richly decorated noble residences and simpler, common houses, reflecting the social hierarchy.
It was established during the Joseon Dynasty and has been inhabited through multiple generations since then. The village’s uniqueness lies in the fact that it was home to a single clan, the Ryu family, for centuries. This community has preserved its traditions to this day.
Nami Island
One of the country’s most popular tourist destinations is located about 60 km from Seoul.
The island’s true popularity, however, began in the 2000s: some scenes from the Korean television series „Winter Sonata” were filmed here, giving the location international fame.
Its most famous attractions are the carefully arranged tree lanes. The rows of metasequoia trees, larches, birch trees, and ginkgo trees create a special sight. It’s especially worth visiting in autumn when the red foliage creates a wonderful landscape.
Additionally, numerous leisure activities are available. Sailing on the Bukhangang River or participating in water sports is popular. For adventure seekers, the island can be reached via an impressive zipline that crosses over the river.
DMZ
The Demilitarized Zone is one of the Korean Peninsula’s most interesting locations, stretching between South and North Korea.
This 4-kilometer-wide and 250-kilometer-long zone was established in 1953 as part of the armistice agreement between the two countries. The zone was created based on the 1953 Panmunjom armistice agreement and has remained in the world’s spotlight ever since.
From the Dorasan Observatory, visitors can get a glimpse into North Korean territory. On clear days, nearby North Korean cities, farms, and the famous propaganda village (Kijong-dong), built by the northern side for propaganda purposes, are visible.
