While some travelers may think that South Korea is all dense metropolis and contentious borders, this country in East Asia is actually a spectacularly diverse destination that you shouldn’t overlook. Whether you’re a diehard foodie or a fan of history or you love getting into the outdoors and hiking, travel in South Korea can take whatever form you want it to. We’ve put together this collection of the best places to visit in South Korea to show you just how entertaining and varied this country can be. We’re sure you’ll add at least a few of these places to your bucketlist in no time.
1. 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. But there are plenty of cultural attractions in Busan as well, from the ancient Beomeosa Temple to the increasingly famous Gamcheon Culture Village, an electric and colorful neighborhood that was once a city slum. The other side of Busan worth exploring is the hiking trails through the nearby mountains such as Geumjeongsan, with its peaceful scenery.
2. Suwon
The South Korean city of Suwon often gets overshadowed by places like Seoul and Gyeongju, but it’s well worth a visit for its impressive scenery. With centuries of history to its name, Suwon is full of immense landmarks that are sure to impress. The most well-known place is the imposing UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hwaseong Fortress. Between its massive walls, you’ll see Haenggung Palace, Hwahongmun Gate, and Paldalmun Gate, each of which goes toward making it such a special place. As the birthplace of tech powerhouse Samsung Electronics, Suwon has a modern side to it as well, and with a visit to the Samsung Innovation Museum, you can find out about the company’s story.
3. Seoraksan National Park
To explore some of the best natural scenery in the country, travelers should make a beeline to Seoraksan National Park. Home to the nation’s third highest mountain peak, Daecheongbong, this national park is a must-see in South Korea. With impressive rocky ridges and lush flora, it’s a far cry from the urban spaces most travelers first experience upon arrival in the country. It shouldn’t be a surprise that hiking is the most popular activity in this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, thanks to its running ridgelines and jagged peaks. One of the most iconic spots in Seoraksan is the so-called “Dinosaur Ridge,” a.k.a. Gongnyong Ridge, whose stone peaks really do earn it its name.
4. Boseong Green Tea Fields
A great way to take a trip out to the Korean countryside is with a visit to the gorgeous tea fields of Boseong. Home to rolling fields of tea plantations, Boseong supplies around 40% of all the tea produced in Korea. While admiring the endless rows of tea leaves is a great way to spend time here, visitors can also indulge in all manner of green-tea flavored treats, from green tea ice cream to a green tea take on the classic Korean dish, bibimbap. Come during May and you may be able to experience the area’s green tea festival, while wintertime sees tiny lights bring some cheer to the landscape.
5. Naejangsan National Park
Another great destination if you’re interested in South Korea’s natural side is Naejangsan National Park. Centered on Naejangsan Mountain, this national park is known for its autumn foliage, waterfalls, and many temples. While the colors in autumn really delight visitors, Naejangsan National Park can be visited year round, although taking to its hiking trails can be tricky when the mountains are covered with winter snow. Other attractions include Dodeok Falls, Geumseon Falls, and Naejangsa Temple, which is a standout due to the pretty trees that lead up to it.
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