28 Stunning Places To Visit In South Korea

Well, today’s topic is going to be very interesting. Lots of people are having so much interested in visiting South Korea especially because they are enamoured with the polished perfection of K-POP (BTS & Black Pink…etc) and the entertainment of dramas. So this is one of the reasons why nowadays lots of people want to visit South Korea. If you are one of them who want to visit South Korea, so here are lots of interesting places you can visit.

The elusive, far-off land of South Korea beckons every traveller and backpacker to experience its many wonders. You’ll be spoilt for choice when shortlisting best places to visit in South Korea, which gives such an unbelievable range of under-explored natural sites and urban thrills.

There are traditional folk villages and classy cities, pleasure islands and breathtaking natural panorama’s. If you were wondering where to go in South Korea then here is a list of our top picks of places to visit in South Korea, from the famous to the unexplored, from countryside villages, grand Buddhist temples & palaces to ancient fortresses and high-tech urban cities. An engrossing fact is that when it comes to South Korea most people only know about the capital city, Seoul and think that it is the only place worth visiting in the country. However, that is not the case. I listed out some of the most amazing places in South Korea here that you can visit and explore.

Top 28 Places To Visit In South Korea

So, you have come here which means you do wanna know about the places to visit in South Korea! Well, if you’re planning to visit South Korea soon, here is the perfectly curated list of places to visit in South Korea on your next trip. Keep scrolling down and read along the best South Korean tourist places to visit. Go on!

• Seoul: The Dazzling Capital City
• Jeju Island: A Stunning Island
• The Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ): Engage With Modern History
• Busan: Something For Everyone
• Gyeongju: A Treasure Trove Of Cultural Sites
• Dadohaehaesang National Park: The Largest National Park In Korea
• Pyeongchang County: Paradise For Hikers
• Suwon: Home To A UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Seoraksan National Park: A Tentative World Heritage Site
• Andong Hahoe Folk Village: Travel Back In Time
• Upo Marsh: The Largest Inland Wetland In Korea
• Juknokwon: The Slow City
• Boseong Green Tea Field: A Stunning Scenery
• Seongsan Sunrise Peak: For Gorgeous Sunset Views
• Ggotji Beach: Something For Beach Lovers
• Darangee Village: A Quaint And Photogenic Village
• Jeungdo Salt Farm: A Treasure Island
• Haeinsa Temple: World’s Oldest Intact Buddhist Canon
• Chunwang Peak: The Second Highest Peak In South Korea
• Naganeupseong Folk Village: An Appealing Little Village
• Gwang-An-Bridge: The Famous Diamond Bridge
• Kyeong-Wha Station: Capture The Essence Of Cherry Blossoms
• Gongryong Ridge: Ideal For Taking A Hike
• Bulguksa Temple: A UNESCO Listed Heritage Site
• Uleung Island Seaside Road: The Mysterious Island
• Chuncheon: Spectacular Lakes & Mighty Mountains
• Jeonju: With A Rich And Fascinating History
• Halla Mountain: Offers Spectacular Views

17 Top-Rated Attractions & Things To Do in Seoul | Best Places to visit in Seoul

17 Top-Rated Attractions & Things To Do in Seoul | Best Places to visit in Seoul

1. Seoul: The Dazzling Capital City

The glaring capital city will excite you with its dizzying mix of modern architecture, party vibes, pop culture, alluring parks & glittering seafront making it one of the most famous places in South Korea and Seoul is the best cities to visit in South Korea. Spirited Seoul is not just a buzzing urban hub but also rich in history and culture. With beautiful palaces, elegant restaurants and stylish boutiques, Seoul is charming all the way. The National Museum and War Memorial take you through the history of the country, while the cool shopping district of Gangnam gives you a taste of the city’s deluxe side on your reasons to visit South Korea.

Ideal for: Nightlife, Shopping, Culture, Architecture
Key attractions: Changdeokgung Palace (with an amazing Secret Garden), Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok village (for its pagodas and old world charm), Lotte World amusement park, Bukhansan National Park, N Seoul Tower for panoramic views.

Accommodation: I am just giving you an example. You can search more accommodation according your need. Check every detail very carefully before check-in…:)

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2. Jeju Island: A Stunning Island | Best Places to Visit in South Korea

This beautiful island just 85 Kilometers off the coast is one of the most beautiful places in South Korea and one of the most popular places in South Korea. Having been voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, the unblemished beauty of Jeju-do will take your breath away. Surreal white sand beaches surrounded by pine forests, volcanic craters and lava caves, beautiful botanical gardens and rich culture are some of the high points of this natural paradise among places near Seoul that are a must-visit.

Ideal for: Nature, Photography
Key attractions: Seongsan Sunrise Peak, Halassang national park, Seopjikoji promontory, Hyeopjae & Hamdeok beach, Cheonjiyeon Waterfalls

3. The Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ): Engage With Modern History

Of all famous South Korean attractions, The DMZ is one of the most popular places to visit in South Korea to get a better understanding of the dispute between North and South Korea & the current state of affairs. The DMZ is full of interesting sites that make for an appealing lesson in modern history. You can take a peek into North Korea at the scrutiny post and feel the rush of adventure while walking by Infiltration Tunnel. It is advisable to take a guided tour that includes a visit to the Joint Security Area (JSA).

Ideal for: Historical Sites
Key Attractions: Freedom Park, Dorasan Station & Observatory

4. Busan: Something For Everyone

If you’re visiting places in South Korea then not adding this place to your list would be unfair. This second largest city in South Korea is known across the world for hosting Asia’s largest International film festival. Busan is a complusing amalgamation of skyscrapers, elevated mountains, beautiful beaches and splendid Buddhist temples and is amongst the best places to visit in South Korea. Amongst the famous places to visit in Korea Busan are the Haedong Yonggungsa temple along the coast and the interesting Jagalchi fish market. Foodies can adore the seafood spread at the numerous restaurants and enjoy local delicacies at the omnipresent street food stalls.

Ideal for: Beaches, Culture, Food
Key attractions: Haeundae Beach (with the Sea Life Aquarium and Folk Square), Beomeosa Temple, Gwangalli Beach with beautiful views of the Diamond bridge, Hurshimchung Hot Springs

5. Gyeongju: A Treasure Trove Of Cultural Sites

One of the best places to go in South Korea, the coastal city of Gyeongju, frequently called an open-air museum, is one of the best things to do in South Korea to find its traditional roots and rich heritage. The former capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, Gyeongju is a treasure trove of cultural and historical sites and ruins going back a thousand years. With the UNESCO world heritage site, Bulguksa temple and the National Museum with its exceptional collection of artefacts, this city gives you a glimpse into South Korea’s cultural roots.

Ideal for: Culture, History, Nature
Key attractions: Anapji pond, Tumuli Park (the giant burial mounds covered in grass), the majestic Seokguram Grotto

6. Dadohaehaesang National Park: The Largest National Park In Korea

One of the most attractive tourist destinations in South Korea, it is the largest National Park in Korea, this slice of paradise covers 1700 large and small islands and some rock structures. One of the most picturesque islands is the Chenongsando island considered one of the best places to visit in South Korea for its surreal landscapes and slow city movement. Hongdo and Heuksando are the other famous islands where you can take a boat trip to admire the overwhelming natural sites. This is one of the top popular places to visit in South Korea for your next vacation.

Ideal for: Nature, Tranquility, Photography

7. Pyeongchang County: Paradise For Hikers

This is one of the must-visit places in South Korea to experience peace and the inspiring scenic beauty of the best places to visit in Korea. Located in the Taebaek Mountains, this scenic county 180 km away from Seoul hosted the reputable Winter Olympics in February 2018. The Odaesan National Park is a hiker’s delight with trails going up the snow-peaked mountains, while the ski resorts Alpensia and Yongpyong are famous with skiers and snowboarders. The mountains are also home to many beautiful Buddhist shrines. This place is surely one of the best places to visit in South Korea during winter!

Ideal for: Nature, Photography, Spirituality
Key Attractions: Woljeongsa temple, Pyeongchang Hyanggyo

8. Suwon: Home To A UNESCO World Heritage Site

This is the capital of the Gyeonggi region bordering Seoul, Suwon is known for its special Hwaseong Fortress with its imposing stone walls and impressive archways and this has made it one of the best places to visit in Korea. Built by the Joseon Dynasty the fortress wall is a UNESCO world heritage site with four pagoda-style gates, artillery towers and observation decks. Another splendid structure at the site is the Hwaseong Haenggung Palace. With all that said, don’t forget to indulge in shopping in Suwon. With many more exciting things to do, Suwon is one of the top places to visit in South Korea.

Ideal for: History, Architecture
Key Attractions: Suwon Hwaseong Museum to understand the history of the majestic fortress, Gwanggyosan Mountain (for hiking trails), Samsung Innovation Museum

9. Seoraksan National Park: A Tentative World Heritage Site

The evocative strokes of nature will welcome you every step of the way in the UNESCO-protected Seoraksan National Park which is one of the most enthralling places to witness autumn in Korea. Being one of the best places to visit in South Korea, this is precisely meaning the Snowy Crag Mountains, the Seoraksan range with its snow-covered peaks forms a majestic backdrop to the park temple. It is a great place to hike the myriad trails including the intimidating Ulsan Rock or simply enjoy the gondola ride up the mountain for some spectacular views. As you amble by the 400000 sq km biosphere protection site, prepare to be awestruck by the giant Buddha statue on your path.

Ideal for: Hiking, Adventure, Photography, Nature
Key Attractions: Baekdam a Buddhist temple, Gyejo-am hermitage, Yukdam-Pokpo waterfall

10. Andong Hahoe Folk Village: Travel Back In Time

Exactly meaning “the village surrounded by water” this charming traditional Korean village located in Andong is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Entering the Hahoe village is like travelling back in time to the simple Korean village way of life showing local traditions and culture. The beautiful setting alongside the Nakdong river is highlighted by the rural tile and thatched roof houses, sandy beaches and pine trees. The village is also a great place to try out traditional Korean delicacies and marvel at the mask dance performed by the locals.

Ideal for: Culture, Tranquility, nature
Nearby attractions: Bongjeongsa temple, Buyongdae Cliff (take a boat for breathtaking views of the village)

11. Upo Marsh: The Largest Inland Wetland In Korea

Considered to be the largest inland wetland in Korea, Upo March is a must-visit site for all tourists and one of the best free tourist attractions in South Korea. It is said that this land was formed almost 140 million years ago and it is home to about 1500 species of plants and animals too. Some of these animals are, however, currently endangered. You can also speak a few migratory birds here which are found to be flying low as you walk or bike by the land. This firmly tops the list of good places to visit in South Korea!

Ideal for: Biking, nature walks, photography, bird-watching

12. Juknokwon: The Slow City

Explore South Korea and enjoy the unhurried pace of life. Also known as the ‘slow city’, Damyang provides a variety of tourist attractions, out of which, Jukokwon cannot be missed for certain. The thick bamboo land that has 8 various trails has 8 unique themes that you can walk through. If you see closely enough, you can spot some green tea shoots growing from the drizzle that falls off the bamboo leaves, known as Jukro tea.

Ideal for: Nature walk, photography
Nearby attractions: Gwanbangjerim, May 18th National Cemetery and Gangcheonsan County Park

13. Boseong Green Tea Field: A Stunning Scenery

With a vital 40% of the total tea produced in Korea being produced in these popular fields, this place is nothing less than a scenic beauty in itself which is also used as a backdrop for lots of Korean movies and drama shows. If you’re planning to travel to this place in May, make sure you don’t miss out on the grand Green-tea festival or click a picture of the beautiful scenery as this place is well kindled by light bulbs during the winter season which is the best time to tour South Korea. This field is amongst the best places to visit in South Korea during summer!

Ideal for: Nature walk, photography
Nearby attractions: Songjeong Station Market, Darangee Village

14. Seongsan Sunrise Peak: For Gorgeous Sunset Views

If you are heading to Jeju Island at all, then you should not miss watching the sunrise at Seongsan Peak. The best of South Korean tourist attractions, this spot has been known as a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was launched by the hydrovolcanic eruptions 5000 years ago. You will even search for a variation of scarce species of plants. The splendid sunrise is the most striking thing on this volcanic mountain.

Ideal for: Hiking, Nature
Key attractions: Sunrise, Rare plant species, lush greenery, magnificent views of nature

15. Ggotji Beach: Something For Beach Lovers

Those who live for beautiful sunsets should not miss this place on Jeju Island, one of the best South Korea Destinations. The white sandy beach is a enchant to the beach babies. The sunset here is nothing like you have seen before. You will search for two large rock evolutions on the beach that are known as Granny and Grandpa Rocks. There is an interesting story behind the names too. According to the legends, the wife of a commander from the Shilla Dynasty became a rock waiting loyally for her husband. When the sun sinks between the two rocks, it seems so elegant and the sky lights up in a tangerine colour.

Ideal for: Sunsets, diving
Key attractions: Granny Rock, Grandpa Rock

16. Darangee Village: A Quaint And Photogenic Village

If you want to live the village life of South Korea, then you should visit Darangee which is an unspoiled village. The small step fields look so photogenic. This is your shot of experiencing a traditional Korean life while exploring South Korea. It is astonishing to see how a country like such can have two opposite sides; one completely modern and another so pastoral.

Ideal for: Backpacking
Key attractions: Countless tiny fields

17. Jeungdo Salt Farm: A Treasure Island

You have spotted nothing like the soft beach and salt farms in Jeungdo. This is a treasure island not only because of all the salt produced but also the artefacts from the Song Dynasty found at the bottom of the ocean. The marine life that you will find in the mudflat town will astonish you. It is one of the best places to see in South Korea.

Ideal for: Sightseeing
Key attractions: Salt farms, Mudflat town, the marine life of the mud flat

18. Haeinsa Temple: World’s oldest intact Buddhist Canon

Did you know that the world’s oldest intact Buddhist canon restored inside Haeinsa Temple which itself is 1200 years old? The excitement alone should make you visit this temple and if you are an avid Buddhist practitioner, then you should visit this place on your vacation in South Korea and many other famous castles in Korea to get a glance into the history of Korea.

Ideal for: Sightseeing, Religious
Key attractions: Janggyeong Panjeon, the oldest wooden Buddha Statue in Korea.

19. Chunwang Peak: The Second Highest Peak In South Korea

The second highest peak in the country should be one of your South Korea points of interest. Standing tall at 1,915 meters, this peak is beloved by many Korean mountain climbers. If climbing mountains give you the thrill, then we see no reason why you should sit this one out. There is even a national park on the mountain that reclines over three provinces. The clean air and fresh water from the spring will be elegant for your internal organs.

Ideal for: Nature, hiking
Key attractions: Chunwang Spring, sunrise, dazzling flora and fauna

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20. Naganeupseong Folk Village: An Appealing Little Village

To love South Korean sightseeing, plan a trip to Naganeupseong Folk Village where you will experience the lifestyle from the ear of the Chosun Dynasty. The straw-roofed houses, government offices, castles, and guesthouses, all feel so pretty and photogenic. You would love your time here even if you are not a history buff.

Ideal for: Sightseeing
Key attractions: Overnight homestay

21. Gwang-An-Bridge: The Famous Diamond Bridge

Popularly known as the Diamond Bridge, it is a shelving bridge located in Busan, South Korea that connects Haeundae-gu to Suyeong-gu. The road surface is about 6,500m long and although it is not a pedestrian bridge, you can still relish the beautiful views of the bridge and the surrounding region from afar.

Ideal for: Views, Photography
Key attractions: The lighting system

22. Kyeong-Wha Station: Capture The Essence Of Cherry Blossoms

This place is a best-loved haunt for photographers who can capture the true soul of the Cherry blossoms falling on the track and making a picture-perfect moment. The visual delight of the train approaching the station under the cherry blossom tunnel is utterly unmissable and bizarre.

Ideal for: Photography
Key attractions: Cherry blossom tunnel

Famous for: Famous for beautiful cherry blossoms in spring

23. Gongryong Ridge: Ideal For Taking A Hike

Marvellous where to visit in South Korea? Well, why not give Gongryong Ridge a try? Shaped like the spine of a dinosaur, this place is ideal for trekkers and hiking admirers who would love a great climb along with sublime views of the surrounding mountain range. This swivel ridge gives spectacular views of Gongryong Ridge.

Ideal for: Sightseeing, hiking, nature enthusiasts
Key attractions: Seorak mountain range

24. Bulguksa Temple: A UNESCO Listed Heritage Site

This temple is a UNESCO-listed heritage site that is taken to be amongst the most popular historic places to visit in South Korea and one of the most famous South Korean tourist places. It features two granite pagodas on either side of the temple that adds to the grandeur beauty of this place.

Ideal for: historic sightseeing
Key attractions: Dabotap and Seokgatap

Famous for: The beauty of the temple itself and the artistic touch of the stone relics are known throughout the world

25. Ulleung Island Seaside Road: The Mysterious Island

Also known as “Mysterious Island”, Ulleung Island Seaside Road is one of the most engrossing places to go in South Korea. It is a popular weekend getaway spot for the people of Seoul and will serve as a calming site for you. With its interesting rock formations, lots of waterfalls, and shore cliffs, the Ulleung Island Seaside Road is magical and something you shouldn’t miss!

Ideal for: Sightseeing, weekend getaways
Key attractions: Haengnam Coastal Walking Path and Dokdo Observatory

Interesting fact: Ulleungdo is nicknamed “Mystery Island”

26. Chuncheon: Spectacular Lakes & Mighty Mountains

With its picturesque lakes and mighty mountains, Chuncheon happens to be one of the most well-known South Korean tourist places. It is also the capital city of the Gangwon Province and is the location where many famous Korean soap operas are filmed. Many visit the destination for this reason too! The city is also known as a foodies’ paradise and you can try lots of Korean delicacies here.

Ideal for: sightseeing
Key attractions: Namiseom Island and Cheongpyeong Lake

Interesting fact: The area is renowned for its small river islands, such as Sangjungdo, Ha-Jungdo, Bungeodo, and Wido.

27. Jeonju: With A Rich And Fascinating History

If you are wondering about where to go in South Korea, then Jeonju is the answer! During the rule of the Joseon Dynasty, the place occurred to be the spiritual capital. It quite has lots of temples and museums and is one of the best places to know about the rich and enchanting history of the country. If you are a history buff and wish to see traditional homes dating back to the early 20th century then make sure you stop at Jeonju and have a good time.

Ideal for: historic sightseeing
Key attractions: Jeonju National Museum and Jeondong Cathedral

Famous For: Korean food, historic buildings, sports activities, and innovative festivals.

28. Halla Mountain: Offers Spectacular Views

If you are searching for tourist places in South Korea then Halla Mountain is one and you can’t miss this one! The snowflakes make for a stunning view and the icicles that cover the tea branches stimulated the Halla Snow Festival which used to be held annually in late January or early February. Due to some reason, it does not happen anymore but the snowflakes are still there and the mountain makes for a great sight and must not be missed!

Ideal for: hiking

Interesting fact: Hallasan Mountain is established as a shield volcano