Explore South Korea: Top Seven Must-Visit Destinations

Though it may be fun-sized compared to its neighbors China and Russia, South Korea more than holds its own when it comes to incredible landscapes, cultural attractions, and a dazzling food and nightlife scene.

In fact, South Korea’s compact size paired with its ultra-reliable public transit system makes travel incredibly accessible. Consequently, travelers can journey from mountaintop to beachside or from village to megacity in a single day. Not that we recommend rushing your journey; with so many unique places to visit, each location could easily fill an entire trip. Start exploring our seven favorite places to visit in South Korea today!

1. Seoul

Best place for nightlife

Home to half of South Korea’s population, Seoul is a vibrant city that attracts many tourists. The capital has an electric vibe at any hour. Between the city’s low-key watering holes, high-end cocktail lounges, and always-fun noraebang (karaoke bars), Seoul accommodates every late-night reveler.

Some of the trendsetting bars are in Euljiro, while longstanding favorites are in popular nightlife neighborhoods such as Gangnam, Hongdae, and Itaewon. Gangnam is known for its upscale clubs, while Hongdae offers more budget-friendly options. Furthermore, Itaewon is renowned for attracting an international crowd.

2. Busan

Best place for maritime culture

Located on the southern coast, Busan is rich in maritime culture. Home to the country’s oldest and largest port, Busan Port handles around 80% of South Korea’s container cargo. The nearby Busan Modern History Museum illustrates the port’s important role in South Korean history. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches, parks, observatories, and even the famous oceanside temple, Haedong Yonggungsa.

At Jagalchi, South Korea’s largest fish market, the day’s catch includes fish, eel, crabs, and more, arranged in vibrant stalls. Shoppers can choose their seafood and enjoy it freshly prepared by restaurant staff. For a delightful culinary experience, look for beachside restaurants specializing in jogae gui, grilled shellfish complemented with various dipping sauces.

3. Gyeongju

Best place to discover ancient treasures

As the capital of the Silla Kingdom, Gyeongju is a treasure trove of ancient relics. While the Gyeongju National Museum showcases ornate jewelry and historical artifacts, the city itself is known as South Korea’s museum without walls. Visitors can explore royal tombs, the oldest astrological observatory in East Asia, and the picturesque palace of Donggung.

The stunning Buddhist grotto of Seokguram and the beautiful bridges of Bulguksa highlight the city’s rich historical legacy. Moreover, the Woljeonggyo bridge is particularly enchanting at night when lit, captivating anyone fortunate enough to witness it.

4. Gwangju

Best place for contemporary history

Regarded as the birthplace of Korean democracy, Gwangju played a pivotal role during the May 18 Democratic Uprising of 1980. To better understand this significant event, visitors can explore May 18th Memorial Park and National Cemetery. Furthermore, taking a stroll down Chungjang-ro offers insights into the street’s historical importance during the uprising.

5. Jeju-do

Best place for beaches and waterfalls

Located south of the Korean mainland, Jeju-do is a popular vacation destination known for its balmy subtropical climate. The island boasts stunning white-sand and black-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse volcanic landscapes. It is apparent why many mainlanders flock to this island for relaxation.

In addition to lounging on the beach, Jeju offers various outdoor adventures, including hiking the tallest mountain, Hallasan. Activities such as surfing, snorkeling, and exploring waterfalls like Jeongbang Pokpo provide thrill-seekers with plenty of options.

6. Gangwon-do

Best place for winter sports

Home to the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, Gangwon-do features the best ski resorts in South Korea. For skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, Yongpyong and High1 offer outstanding facilities. Additionally, the region hosts several winter festivals, including the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, where visitors can try ice fishing, curling, or sledding.

7. Andong

Best place for celebrating folk traditions

Andong, referred to as the “capital of Korean spirit,” is known for its rich Confucian culture, traditional wooden masks, and soju, the national drink. The UNESCO-listed Hahoe Folk Village offers visitors a glimpse into the old Joseon-era lifestyle.

Here, you can explore workshops and enjoy performances during the annual Andong Maskdance Festival. Additionally, traditional soju tastings can be experienced at local restaurants, alongside Andong’s signature dish, jjimdak, a soy-braised chicken delight.