Discover South Korea’s National Parks

Known for the sparkle and flash of K-pop, the stylish flair of K-drama, and the flawless veneer of K-beauty – all with megacity Seoul looming large – South Korea might not strike the unsuspecting visitor as all that “nature-y” of a destination.

However, this small nation of 100,000 sq km (about the size of the US state of Indiana) is made up of a surprising number of national parks, 22 to be exact. That’s 6.7% of South Korea’s total land mass. By comparison, the United States’s 63 national parks comprise 3.6% of its land.

South Korea’s first national park, a mountainous territory, came under formal protection in 1967. Since then, 17 other rocky regions have reached the same status. Moreover, the country’s national park system isn’t limited to strictly hilly terrain; it also includes three marine and coastal national parks and one historical national park, all designated to preserve the natural environment and historical culture of South Korea.

Whether you’re looking for a day trip of easy strolling or a multi-day excursion through some of the peninsula’s most challenging mountain passes or even a boat ride on the ocean, you’ll find it within South Korea’s national park system. You’ll have to pay a nominal entrance fee (most charge around ₩2000 to ₩4000 for upkeep, about US$1.60 to US$3.20, though some are free). Consequently, don’t forget to pack up your trash to take out with you, as public garbage bins are not a fixture.

Jirisan

Best National Park for Hiking Enthusiasts

As the country’s oldest and largest national park, Jirisan holds a special place in many Koreans’ hearts. At 472 sq km (182 sq miles), Jirisan occupies three of the nation’s nine provinces: Gyeongsangnamdo, Jeollanamdo, and Jeollabukdo. The peaks are sure to exhilarate thrill-seekers, as Jirisan contains the tallest mainland mountain, Cheonwangbong, while the valleys will soothe those less vertically inclined. Options for trekking abound, with 18 different trails to choose from. Most memorable is the Jongju Course, a three-day, two-night hike that traverses 13 peaks and 25.5 km (15.8 miles), outfitted with overnight shelters that are bookable in advance.

Jirisan is well known for its diversity of wildlife and plants. Keep an eye out for elk among the cherry, millennium pine, and Korean winter hazel trees. If you’re lucky, you might also spot an endangered Asiatic black bear.

Bukhansan

Best National Park for Travelers Staying in Seoul

A short bus ride from Gupabal subway station (Line 3), Bukhansan is the capital city’s nearest national park, earning it the moniker “the lungs of Seoul.” It’s also South Korea’s most popular national park, with more than five million visitors annually. For Seoulites, Bukhansan presents a chance to escape their grueling nine-to-five lives and experience nature by navigating the park’s streams, gorges, and peaks (the highest being Baegundae), as part of the over 1300 different species that call this site home.

However, the high public interest in Bukhansan has taken its toll on its ecosystem, so tourists might consider combining their visit with a cleanup day or park maintenance experience. Pay close attention to any access restrictions during your visit. Other noteworthy attractions at Bukhansan include its namesake fortress, Bukhansanseong, along with old Buddhist temples and monastic cells.

Dadohaehaesang

Best National Park for Island Hoppers

One of South Korea’s three marine and coastal national parks, Dadohaehaesang is also its largest park overall, covering nearly 2000 sq km (772 sq miles) of water and 335 sq km (129 sq miles) of land. Among Dadohaehaesang’s seven coastal areas in the Yellow Sea are Heuksando, a collection of 100 relatively unvisited – and some entirely uninhabited – islands; Jindo, the hometown of the quintessential Korean dog breed; and Cheongsando, the legendary land of Taoist fortunes and eternal energies. Get from island to island aboard passenger ships, which run year-round.

In addition to spectacular rock formations, Dadohaehaesang features lush evergreen forests and rare finless porpoises, creating a mystical, almost mythical atmosphere.

Seoraksan

Best National Park for Families and Children

Cherished by hiking experts and novices alike, Seoraksan National Park has a trail for everyone in your visiting walking group – and even a cable car for those who prefer a more relaxed journey. Set in the northeasternmost stretches of the country, Seoraksan is a prime spot to see the sun rise over the Land of Morning Calm and to catch the colors changing in fall.

Particular points of interest include Biryong, Daeseung, and Yongso waterfalls (all soft, slight climbs with minimal incline); the six-peaked rock formation Ulsan Bawi (much steeper and strenuous), and Daecheongbong (the highest summit at Seoraksan).

Hallasan

Best National Park for Winter Visitors

For travelers coming to witness Korea in all its winter splendor, no place is more magical than Hallasan, the shield volcano at the center of Jeju Island. As the tallest mountain in South Korea, Hallasan presents an imposing figure against the sky, particularly striking in winter when the slopes glitter and the endangered Korean fir trees are blanketed in white. Hallasan National Park isn’t confined to just the mountain itself; surrounding the main peak are hundreds of parasitic cones, the legacy of millennia of eruptions that lasted into the 11th century.

At the top of Hallasan is the crater lake Baengnokdam, typically reached by Seongpanak, accessible in three-hour increments.

Gyeongju

Best National Park for History Buffs

The country’s only historical national park is Gyeongju National Park, spanning eight separate districts in southeastern South Korea. Ornamented with relics dating back to the Shilla dynasty (57 BCE to 935 CE), when the city was the ancient capital of Korea, Gyeongju’s landscape serves as an education unto itself. Encircling downtown in clusters, the park features a wide variety of regional hallmarks, from the ecological (over two dozen endangered species) to the spiritual (Buddhist pagodas, statues, and temples, including the famous cave temple Seokguram).

For an outdoor museum adventure, follow one of Namsan, Tohamsan, or Danseoksan districts’ eight history and culture trails. Those with an appreciation for religious studies might explore Samneung, Bonghwagol, or Sinseonsa, all known for their rock-carved Buddhas, sitting meditative and watching over the expanse. Sinseonsa also covers the site where ancient Hwarang warriors, the elite fighters of the Silla Kingdom, underwent their training. Most of these are gentle walks taking from 90 minutes to four hours, but some are accessible by reservation only to protect the environment.