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• 28 Stunning Places To Visit In South Korea In 2024

23 Mar 2023

The elusive, exotic land of South Korea beckons every traveler and backpacker to experience its many wonders. You’ll be spoilt for choice when shortlisting places to visit in South Korea , which offers such an unbelievable range of unexplored natural sites and urban delights.

There are tradition folk villages and swanky cities, gorgeous islands and breathtaking natural vistas. 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 popular to the unexplored, from countryside villages, grand Buddhist temples & palaces to ancient fortresses and high-tech urban cities. An interesting 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. We have 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 2024

So, you have come here which means you really 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 Korea 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

1. Seoul: The Dazzling Capital City

The dazzling capital and one of the best cities in South Korea will impress you with its dizzying mix of modern architecture, party vibes, pop culture, beautiful parks & glittering promenades making it one of the most famous places in South Korea and the best cities to visit in South Korea. Vibrant Seoul is not just a buzzing urban hub but also rich in history and culture. With gorgeous palaces, chic restaurants and stylish boutiques, Seoul is among the charming places to visit in South Korea during autumn . 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 ritzy 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.

Must Read: 26 Places To Visit In Korea During Winter

2. Jeju Island: A Stunning Island

This stunning island just 85 Kilometers off the coast is one of the most beautiful places in South Korea and one of the most famous places in South Korea. Having been voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, the pristine 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 a rich culture are some of the high-points of this natural paradise amongst 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

Amongst famous South Korea attractions, The DMZ is one of the most unique places to visit in South Korea to get a better understanding of the conflict between North and South Korea & the current state of affairs. The DMZ is full of interesting sites that make for an engaging lesson in modern history. You can take a peek into North Korea at the Observation Post and feel the rush of adventure while walking through the 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

Suggested Read: 7 South Korea Travel Tips

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 of South Korea is known across the world for hosting Asia’s largest international film festival. Busan is an interesting amalgamation of skyscrapers, majestic mountains, beautiful beaches and magnificent Buddhist temples and amongst the best places to visit in South Korea . Amongst the popular places to visit in Korea Busan is the Haedong Yonggungsa temple along the coast and the interesting Jagalchi fish market. Foodies can relish the sea food spread at the numerous restaurants and enjoy local delicacies at the ubiquitous 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 places to visit in South Korea in May , the coastal city of Gyeongju, often called an open-air museum, is one of the best things to do in South Korea to discover its traditional roots and rich heritage. The erstwhile capital of the ancient Silla kingdom, Gyeongju is a treasure trove of cultural and historical places in South Korea and ruins going back to a thousand years. With the UNESCO world heritage site, Bulguksa temple and the National Museum with its unparalleled 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

Suggested Read: Korea Tour Land Of Morning Calm

Planning Your Next Holiday In South Korea?

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

Image Credit: Justinjfj for Wikimedia Commons

One of the most beautiful 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 scenic and islands is the Cheongsando island considered one of the best places to visit in South Korea for it surreal landscapes and the slow city movement. Hongdo and Heuksando are the other popular islands where you can take a boat trip to admire the overwhelming natural sites. This is one of the top famous 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 tranquillity and awe-inspiring scenic beauty of the best places to visit in Korea . Located in the Taebaek Mountains, this picturesque county 180 Kms away from Seoul hosted the prestigious Winter Olympics in February 2018. The Odaesan National Park is a hikers’ delight with trails going up the snow-peaked mountains, while the ski resorts Alpensia and Yongpyong are popular 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 winters !

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

Suggested Read: 17 Epic 7 Star Hotels In The World

8. Suwon: Home To A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Capital of the Gyeonggi province bordering Seoul, Suwon is known for its unique 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 fortresses wall is a UNESCO world heritage site with four pagoda-style gates, artillery towers and observation decks. Another magnificent 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 vivid strokes of nature will greet you every step of the way in the UNESCO protected Seoraksan National Park and is one of the most mesmerizing places to witness autumn in Korea . Being one of the best places to visit in South Korea , this is l iterally 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 formidable Ulsan Rock or simply enjoy the gondola ride up the mountain for some spectacular views. As you stroll through 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 sa Buddhist temple, Gyejo-am hermitage, Yukdam-Pokpo waterfall

Suggested Read: Top 10 Reasons To Visit South Korea

10. Andong Hahoe Folk Village: Travel Back In Time

Literally meaning ‘the village enveloped 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 displaying local traditions and culture. The beautiful setting alongside the Nakdong river is accentuated 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, read through Korea travel tips to know more.

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

Image Credit: Travel in Korea for Wikimedia Commons

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 over 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 spot a few migratory birds here which are found to be flying low as you walk or bike through the land. This surely tops the list of good places to visit in South Korea !

Ideal for: Biking, nature walks, photography, bird-watching Nearby attractions: NA

Suggested Read: Cartoon Cafe In South Korea

12. Juknokwon: The Slow City

Image Credit: UNC – CFC – USFK for Wikipedia

Explore South Kore and enjoy the slow-paced life. Also known as the ‘slow city’, Damyang offers a variety of tourist attractions, out of which, Juknokwon cannot be missed for sure. The thick bamboo land that has 8 different trails has 8 unique themes that you can walk through. If you look close enough, you can spot some green tea shoots growing from the dew 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

Image Credit: ~Mers for Wikimedia Commons

With a major 40 % of the total tea produced in Korea being produced at these famous fields, this place is nothing less than a scenic beauty in itself which is also used as a backdrop of many Korean movies and drama shows. It is among the top 5 places to visit in South Korea and is perfect to plan a vacation in May, make sure you don’t miss out on the grand Green-tea festival or click a picture of the stunning scenery as this place is well lit by light bulbs during winter season which is also the best time to explore 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

Suggested Read: 10 Places Near Seoul

14. Seongsan Sunrise Peak: For Gorgeous Sunset Views

Image Credit: 螺钉 for Wikimedia Commons

If you are heading to Jeju Island anyway, then you should not miss watching the sunrise at Seongsan Peak. The best of South Korea tourist attractions , this spot has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was formed by the hydrovolcanic eruptions 5000 years ago. You will even find a variety of rare species of plants. The magnificent sunrise is the most spectacular 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

For 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 delight to the beach babies. The sunset here is nothing like you have seen before. You will find two large rock formations 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 faithfully for her husband. When the sun sinks between the two rocks, it looks so magnificent and the sky lights up in tangerine color.

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

Suggested Read: 6 Places To Visit In Seoul

16. Darangee Village: A Quaint And Photogenic Village

If you want to explore the village life of South Korea, then you should visit Darangee which is a well-preserved village. The tiny step fields look so photogenic. This is your shot of experiencing traditional Korean places while backpacking in South Korea. It is amazing to see how a country like such can have two opposite sides; one completely modern and another so bucolic.

Ideal for: Backpacking Key attractions: Countless tiny fields

17. Jeungdo Salt Farm: A Treasure Island

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You have seen 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 artifacts from the Song Dynasty found at the bottom of the ocean. The marine life that you will find in the mudflat town will amaze you. It is one of the best places to see in South Korea .

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

Suggested Read: Hiking In Seoul

18. Haeinsa Temple: World’s Oldest Intact Buddhist Canon

Image Credit: Lcarrion88 for Wikimedia Commons

Did you know that the world’s oldest intact Buddhist canon is restored inside Haeinsa Temple that itself is 1200 years old? The curiosity alone should make you visit this temple and if you are an avid Buddhist practitioner, then you should definitely visit this place on your vacation in South Korea and several other popular 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

Image Credit: Eimoberg for Wikipedia

The second highest peak in the country should definitely be one of your South Korea points of interest . Standing tall at 1,915 meters, this peak is a beloved for 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 stretches over three provinces. The clean air and freshwater from the spring will be a delight to your internal organs.

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

Suggested Read: Shopping In Seoul

20. Naganeupseong Folk Village: An Appealing Little Village

Image Credit: Marco Schmidt for Wikimedia Commons

To enjoy South Korea sightseeing , plan a trip to Naganeupseong Folk Village where you will observe the lifestyle from the ear of the Chosun Dynasty. The straw-roofed houses, government offices, castles, guesthouse, all look so pretty and photogenic. You would really enjoy 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

Image Credit: Doo-ho Kim for Wikimedia Commons

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

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

Suggested Read: 6 Best Places To Visit In Suwon

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

Image Credit: 날개 for Wikimedia Commons

This place is a favourite haunt for photographers who can capture the true essence of the Cherry blossoms falling down on the track and making a picture-perfect moment. The visual delight of the train is approaching the station under the cherry blossom tunnel is absolutely unmissable and surreal.

Ideal for : Photography Key attractions: Cherry blossom tunnel

23. Gongryong Ridge: Ideal For Taking A Hike

Wondering 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 enthusiasts who would love a great climb along with sublime views of the surrounding mountain range. This ricky ridge offers spectacular views of Gongryong Ridge.

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

Suggested Read: 8 Best Places To Visit In Incheon

24. Bulguksa Temple: A UNESCO Listed Heritage Site

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

Ideal for : Historic sightseeing Key attractions : Dabotap and Seokgatap

25. Uleung Island Seaside Road: The Mysterious Island

Image Credit: Husen Mansurov for Pixabay

Also known as “Mysterious Island’, Uleung Island Seaside Road is one of the most interesting places to go in South Korea.  It is a famous weekend getaway spot for the people of Seoul and will serve as a calming site for you. With its interesting rock formations, many waterfalls, and shore cliffs, the Uleung 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

Suggested Read:  15 Seoul Cafes

26. Chuncheon: Spectacular Lakes & Mighty Mountains

Image Credit: Mark Zastrow for Wikimedia Commons

With its spectacular lakes and mighty mountains, Chuncheon happens to be one of the most well-known South Korea tourist places.  It is also the capital city of the Gangwon Province and is the location where many popular 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 many Korean delicacies here.

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

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 reign of the Joseon Dynasty the place happened to be the spiritual capital. It still has many temples and museums and is one of the best places to know about the rich and exciting 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. It is recommended as one of the best places to go in Korea if you are fascinated to know the background of this pleasing landmark.

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

Suggested Read:  Seoul Festivals

28. Halla Mountain: Offers Spectacular Views

If you are looking for tourist places in South Korea  then Halla Mountain is one and you can’t miss this one! The snowflakes make for a gorgeous view and the icicles that cover the tea branches inspired 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

Further Read: Top Adventure Honeymoon Destinations

Looking at the above places to visit in South Korea, it sure looks like an awesome destination for a holiday. From nature to the best of lifestyle and modern experiences – do what you love here and tell us about it in the comments section below. So, pack your bags and book your trip to South Korea right away!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In South Korea

Which are the best places to visit in South Korea?

Some of the best places to visit in South Korea are Seoul, Jeju Island, Busan, Gyeongju, Dadohaehaesang National Park, Andong Hahoe Folk Village, Boseong Green Tea Field, Seongsan Sunrise Peak, Halla Mountain, Jeonju, and Chuncheon.

Where should I go for the first time in South Korea?

Wondering where to go in South Korea for the first time? Here are some of the places you should not miss: 1. Bulguksa Temple 2. Gongryong Ridge 3. Gwang-An-Bridge 4. Ggotji Beach 5. Haeinsa Temple

Which is the most visited place in South Korea?

Seoul is the most visited place in South Korea. It is the capital city that covers the major coastal area and include famous Buddha temples, palaces, and other landmarks.

How many days are enough for South Korea?

If you want to have a balance of relaxing and adventurous vacation and explore beautiful places in South Korea to the fullest, then at least 10-14 days are required.

What are the popular outdoor activities in South Korea?

During your visit to South Korea, you may indulge in top outdoor activities such as Sky Diving, Bungee Jumping, Zip Lining, Paragliding, Scuba Diving, Para Sailing, Surfing, Rafting, and the thrilling rides in the adventure parks.

Which are some of the best places to visit in South Korea for families with kids?

Seoul, Busan, and Juju Island are some of the most popular tourist destinations in South Korea which are perfect to visit while travelling with family and kids. Being metropolitan centres, you can expect a large number of tourists during the seasonal months, making it a safe place for anyone planning a trip.

Which are some of the must-visit places in South Korea for couples?

Some of the must-visit places in South Korea for couples include N Seoul Tower, Han River, Ihwa Mural, Lotte World, Trick Eye Museum, Cheonggyecheon Stream, Boseong Green Tea Field, and Nami Island.

What is South Korea famous for?

South Korea is famous for its booming economy and entertainment industry. Moreover, the food segment does not lag behind and offers a variety of tasty foods to relish like Kimchi and Bibimbap that no one can afford to miss.

Which are the best national parks in South Korea?

South Korea is famous for its natural beauty which is an important trait that attracts so many visitors from around the world. Some of the enthralling national parks in South Korea are Dadohaehaesang, Seoraksan, Bukhansan, Hallasan, Gyeongju National Park, Jirisan, Songnisan, and Mudeungsan.

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South Korea

Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

South korea - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in South Korea.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to South Korea.

If you decide to travel to South Korea:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
• Review the  Country Security Report  for South Korea.   
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.   
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .    

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No – From April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, the Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is not required for US citizens traveling for short-term business or tourism purposes.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy seoul.

188 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03141, Korea Telephone: +(82) (2) 397-4114 (from within Korea, dial 02-397-4114)  DSN:721-4114 Fax: +(82) (2) 397-4101 Email:  [email protected]

U.S. Consulate in Busan

Lotte Gold Rose Building #612, Jungang-daero 993, Jin-gu Busan 47209, Korea Telephone: (+82) 51-863-0731 Email:  [email protected]

The Embassy and Consulate are closed on weekends and on  American and Korean holidays .  Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +82 (2) 397-4114.

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Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

• You must have a valid U.S. passport to enter Korea. From April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, the  Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA)  is not required for US citizens for stays of 90 days or less that are for tourism or business purposes.
• Visa required for all other purposes, including employment, teaching English, and for stays longer than 90 days.

Exceeding your authorized stay or not possessing a valid visa may result in detention and fines.

• In the event of an overstay, apply for a visa extension from the  Korea Immigration Service (KIS)  before attempting to leave the country. Also consult with KIS regarding changes in visa category.

Military Personnel/DOD and their families on orders:

• Consult  DOD Foreign Clearance Guide , and follow all instructions.
• Enter Korea with DOD identification and travel orders.
• Do not transit other countries such as China without a passport and appropriate visas.
• Family Members/Dependents of Military Personnel/DOD on orders must present upon arrival passports valid for at least six months .

U.S. Government Executive Branch personnel on official business and DOD personnel assigned to the U.S. Embassy  (Including family members/dependents):

• Employes assigned to Mission Korea should enter Korea with a diplomatic or official passport and a diplomatic or official Korean visa obtained through their sponsoring agency.  Check with your sponsoring agency about other requirements. 
• TDY visitors traveling to Korea for up to 90 days on diplomatic or official passports do  not  require Korean visas and do  not  require a K-ETA. TDY visitors must obtain country clearance using  Department of State's eCC system  or  DOD APACS system .

HIV/AIDS Restriction:  The Department of State is unaware of any such entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents in Korea.

• Visit the  Embassy of Korea  website for current visa information. Please read our  Customs Information page .

COVID-19 Requirements :

• There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.
• Travel regulations and restrictions are subject to change, sometimes with little notice. You should review the information available on your nearest Korean Embassy or Consulate’s webpage before traveling.

Safety and Security

Public Demonstrations:  Demonstrations and rallies are common in South Korea, particularly near the U.S. Embassy, Seoul City Hall, and areas surrounding military installations. You should avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or rallies. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.

North Korea (The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, DPRK):  An armistice agreement, monitored by the United Nations, has maintained general peace on the Korean peninsula since 1953. Tensions occasionally flare up because of provocative acts by North Korea, including ballistic missile and nuclear tests and limited armed incursions into ROK-held territory. Some provocations have escalated into geographically limited skirmishes. South Korea routinely conducts military training exercises and civil defense drills. North Korea often issues strongly-worded and threatening messages, frequently in connection with these exercises. Please see our  Fact Sheet on North Korea .

Weather-related Events:  Heavy rains and flooding may occur during the June - August monsoon season or the May - November typhoon season. See general information about natural disaster preparedness at the U.S.  Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  website.

Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ):  To receive security messages by email and make it easier to locate you in an emergency, register in STEP. 

If the Embassy becomes aware of any specific and credible threat to the safety and security of U.S. citizens, we will inform you through our website, social media, and email.

Crime:  For most visitors, South Korea remains a very safe country. Common crimes occur more frequently in major metropolitan areas, tourist sites, and crowded markets.

• Take routine safety precautions.
• Pay attention to your surroundings.
• Report any concerns to local police.

Violent crime is not common; however, remain vigilant:

• Exercise caution in crowded entertainment, nightlife, and shopping districts.
• If traveling at night, consider traveling in groups.
• Use legitimate taxis or public transportation only.

Victims of Crime:  Call 112 for emergency assistance or to report a crime to local authorities. Call 02-397-4114 to contact the U.S. Embassy. We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care;
• Assist you in reporting a crime to police;
• Contact relatives or friends on your behalf;
• Explain Korean judicial procedures in general terms;
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
• Help you find accommodations and flight arrangements to the United States;
• Replace a lost or stolen passport.

Sexual Assault:   The Embassy regularly receives reports of sexual assault from U.S. citizens. Most cases involved young women assaulted by acquaintances they met on social media, dating, or messaging apps. Alcohol is often involved, and Korea’s low overall crime can create a false sense of security.  Specialized hospital units and police are available in South Korea to assist victims, however services in English and responsiveness to the crime are not always consistent. In general, sex crimes are not punished as harshly in South Korea as in the United States and the road to prosecution is a challenging one for victims.

Domestic Violence:  Victim’s assistance resources or battered women’s shelters exist in Seoul and other urban areas but may be limited in rural areas. Most are government administered and require a police referral. Call 112 for emergency assistance or 1366 to reach Korea’s 24-hour domestic violence hotline. Victims may also contact the Embassy, tel. (+82) 2-397-4114.

Lost or Stolen Passports:  If your passport is stolen, file a report at the nearest police station.

Don't buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if widely available.  It is against South Korean law to purchase these goods and against U.S. law to bring them into the United States. The  Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Division in the U.S. Department of Justice  has more information.

Avoid fraud and scams:  See  Department of State  and  FBI  websites for more information.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  While in Korea, you are subject to local laws. If you violate Korean laws, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Be aware that:

• Immigration violations can lead to arrest, fines, and deportation.
• There is little tolerance for illegal drugs.
• If you mail illegal drugs to/ from Korea, you will be prosecuted.
• Commercial disputes may lead to criminal charges being filed under local laws.

Be aware that some crimes are prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the Embassy. See our  webpage  for further information.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES

Dual Nationality and Military Conscription:  Dual national males (including U.S. service members) may be subject to compulsory military service. If you have family ties to South Korea, consult the nearest Korean Embassy or Consulate or the  Korean Military Manpower Administration  regarding potential citizenship obligations  before entering South Korea .

Passport Seizures and Exit Bans:  If you are involved in a criminal investigation or commercial dispute, authorities may seize your passport and/or block your departure. While we may reissue a passport, we cannot lift an exit ban.

Exit Permits:  Exit permits are not generally required. However, if a parent requests a travel restriction on his/her child, Korean authorities may prevent that child from departing even when traveling with the other parent. As of June 1, 2020, foreigners who are long-term residents of the ROK are required to obtain a re-entry permit four business days prior to departure from Korea. The permits are available online through an e-application at the  www.hikorea.go.kr  website.

International Child Abduction:  See our website for information related to the  prevention of international child abduction . 

Working in South Korea:  If working, including teaching or modeling, you must enter with the appropriate work visa. It is not possible to change your visa status without leaving the country. If you begin work without the appropriate visa, you may be arrested, fined, and/or deported. If you are working without a valid work permit and get into a contractual dispute with your employer, you have little legal recourse.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

ROK National Security Law:  Authorities may detain, arrest, and imprison persons believed to have committed acts intended to endanger the “security of the state,” including statements deemed to praise the political system and/or officials of the DPRK. 

Customs Regulations: There is strict enforcement of regulations on importing and exporting items such as firearms, narcotics and prescription drugs, non-prescription health supplements, radio equipment, and gold. Importation of materials deemed to be obscene, subversive, or harmful to the public peace is also restricted.

• Amphetamines are illegal in Korea. Do not bring amphetamines or other prescription narcotics into the country without obtaining advance permission in writing from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. See the  U.S. Embassy Seoul, Health Information page .
• Traveling with Pets: See  Korea’s Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency  website.

See the  Korean Customs Regulations website for complete information.

LGBTI Travelers:  Consensual same-sex sexual activity is not criminalized. Korea is a conservative country in regards to LGBTI issues. However, there are an increasing number of LGBTI-oriented clubs, festivals and NGOs advocating for LGBTI issues. The ROK National Human Rights Commission Act prohibits discrimination against individuals because of their sexual orientation, but there are no laws specifying punishment for persons found to have discriminated on this basis. Same-sex marriages are not recognized. Korean citizens can legally change their gender identity.

See   our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of the  Department of State's Human Rights report  for further details.

Mobility Issues:  Korean law mandates access to transportation, communication, and public buildings. Cross walks typically have audio and visual signals. Older buildings and streets are generally less accessible than modern ones. Metro cars and buses in Seoul offer priority seating for the disabled and most metro stations have elevators. Metro platforms include Korean Braille information. Contact individual bus companies and subway associations for specific information. Foreign residents are eligible for disability assistance from local ward offices; assistance varies by ward.

Quality of Care : Western-style medical facilities are available in most large cities. However, not all doctors and staff, are proficient in English. A  list of hospitals  and medical specialists who speak English is available on our website. For emergency ambulance service dial 119. Ambulance services are widely available. For information on medical evacuation from South Korea, please see the State Department’s brochure on  Air Ambulance/MedEvac/Medical Escort Providers . 

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. Verify your health insurance coverage before traveling overseas. See our webpage for information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage . In most cases, health care providers will require payment in advance of treatment or will not release a patient until hospital bills are paid. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to include coverage for medical evacuation.

Medication:  Carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Most prescription medications, except psychotropic types, can be obtained at Korean pharmacies (brand names often differ). Local pharmacies will require a prescription from a Korean doctor.

Update  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

For further health information go to:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Roads are well-paved, traffic signals functional, and most drivers comply with basic traffic laws. South Korea has a significantly higher traffic fatality rate than the United States. Causes of accidents include excessive speed, frequent lane changes without signaling, running red lights, aggressive bus drivers, and weaving motorcyclists. It is recommended that you photo document any traffic accidents.

Be aware that motorcyclists may drive on sidewalks, and drivers do not always yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks.

Traffic Laws include:

• International driving permit (or ROK license) is required for all drivers.
• Left-hand turns prohibited except with green arrow.
• Seat belts and car seats are mandatory.
• Motorcycle passengers must wear helmets.
• Automobile drivers are presumed to have some fault in accidents involving pedestrians.
• Expect long waits at police stations while police investigate any incidents.
• Police may take your passport or detain you during an investigation.
• Even if negligence is not proven, criminal charges may be filed.
• Blood-alcohol content of 0.03% or higher is considered legally intoxicated.
• Police regularly set up DUI checkpoints. Drivers are required to submit to breathalyzer tests; refusal can result in cancellation of your license.

For information about driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance, refer to our  Road Safety page . You may also visit the  Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) website.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of the Republic of Korea's Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the ROK's air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA's Safety Assessment Page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to South Korea should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at the U.S. Department of Transportation’s  Maritime Security Communications with Industry Web Portal . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and as a broadcast warning on the  National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s website .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

South Korea was cited in the State Department’s 2022 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  South Korea.  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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When is the best time to visit South Korea?

Feb 18, 2024 • 7 min read

Whether you visit for the city buzz or the peace of the mountains, here are the top times to travel to South Korea © Jesse Morrow / Stocksy United

No matter where your good times happen – raucous nightclubs, ancient mountain hermitages, packed baseball stadiums, boundary-pushing museums and galleries – the chances are you'll find something to love in  South Korea . There's no such thing as a bad time to visit, but some planning can take your trip to another level and create lasting memories.

With terrain that ranges from alpine peaks to subtropical beaches, South Korea goes through four distinct seasons, so knowing what to expect and how to prepare will go a long way toward getting the best out of your vacation. Here's everything you need to know about choosing the best time to visit.

March to May is the best time for mild weather and cherry blossoms

South Korea starts to shake off its winter frost in March, and for the next three months, you can expect mild, pleasant weather. By the time May rolls around, Seoul and other inland cities are already pushing for summer, with temperatures occasionally rising into the upper 20s Celsius. Naturally, folks start heading back outside – hikers start hiking, bikers start biking, and Korea's pro baseball and soccer leagues get underway.

The season's undeniable highlight, however, is the annual return of the cherry blossoms. They begin appearing on Jeju-do  and along the south coast in mid-March and work their way up the peninsula, arriving in Seoul and Gangwon-do Province in early April. The end of March also brings the spectacle of the Jeju Fire Festival, which celebrates the creation of the island.

The weather in May can alternate between springlike and summery. Koreans celebrate Children's Day on May 5 and Parents' Day on May 8, and amusement parks and any sights that are vaguely kid-related fill up with families. Buddha's birthday in May is celebrated in Seoul by the Lotus Lantern Festival  when brightly colored lanterns light the avenues and a parade of giant glowing floats proceeds through downtown.

The one thing that can put a damper on the season is hwangsa , yellow dust that gets blown off the deserts of Mongolia and northern China. It combines with local air pollution to occasionally create some pretty grim air conditions. When that happens, it's a good idea to wear a mask if you plan to spend significant amounts of time outdoors.

June to August is the best time to head to the mountains or the beach

Summer in South Korea is long, hot and rainy, particularly in the cities. The Korean rainy season – known as jangma – starts in the second half of June and can last through August. Temperatures stay stuck at close to 30ºC (86ºF), the humidity borders on the sadistic, and it rains just about every day.

Fortunately, no matter where you are in South Korea, there are beaches or mountains (or both) close at hand for a summer escape. Get out of the city and explore Seoraksan National Park , the surfing town Yangyang or far-flung islands such as Jumun-do, off the Incheon coast. Busan's famed Haeundae Beach is packed, while young Koreans and expats head to the west coast town of Boryeong to party at its Mud Festival . It would seem madness to travel to Daegu , Korea's hottest and most humid city, at this time of year, but they host a lively Korean-style fried chicken and beer festival , so think about it!

The downside of this plan, of course, is that accommodation rates in top vacation spots are higher at this time of year. For a cheaper escape, partake in the traditional Korean pastime of packing a picnic and spending the day in a gyegok , a mountain valley with a cool stream – a good starting point is Woo-ii Gyegok on Seoul's northeastern edge.

Summer also brings a wide range of festivals to the peninsula, and Korea's two major pro sports leagues – the Korea Baseball Organization and the K League soccer tournament – are in full swing. The traditional holiday of Dano typically falls in June, marked by one of Korea's most remarkable festivals – the UNESCO-listed Gangneung Danoje . During this multi-day event, celebrants conduct traditional shamanic rituals, perform mask dramas and pray to the mountain spirits. Visiting at this time offers a unique opportunity to get a glimpse of Korea's traditional shamanic practices.

Korea celebrates Liberation Day, commemorating the end of Japanese colonial rule, on August 15. The rain finally starts to let up, though the weather remains hot and humid. Alternative art has its moment, with the Seoul Fringe Festival taking place in the artsy university neighborhood of Hongdae, and both domestic and international rock, pop and metal acts turning up the volume at Incheon's Pentaport Rock Festival .

September to November is the best time for dry skies and golden ginkgoes

Visiting South Korea in the fall is pretty much a foolproof plan. Pleasant temperatures, crisp air and clear skies make this the ideal time for travel in the Land of the Morning Calm. And surprisingly, September is also South Korea's best beach month.

Summer's heat – but fortunately not its humidity – is still hanging around, but the crowds have seriously thinned out. Instead, locals head into the mountains to take in the fiery foliage, which starts to get really good in late October and early November. Expect crowded mountain trails at this busy time of year. This is also the season when the leaves of Seoul's innumerable ginkgo trees turn a stunning royal gold, making the sometimes drab cityscape undeniably beautiful.

Koreans call fall the "season for reading," and it's an ideal time to grab a book and spend some time enjoying the country's terrific cafe scene, hopping from one impeccably designed coffee shop to the next. In fact, October is probably the best month to visit South Korea. The Busan International Film Festival , Seoul Fashion Week , Andong Mask Dance Festival , Jarasum Jazz Festival and Gwangju World Kimchi Festival would all be reasons enough to buy a plane ticket, but to have all of them in the same month? And then you've got golden ginkgoes and fall foliage on top of all that? It doesn't get any better.

After October's frenzy of events, South Korea seems to exhale in November, and the calendar is relatively empty. Traditionally, November was a time when Koreans would prepare for the coming cold season, a vestige of which remains in the act of kimjang , preparing kimchi for the winter, which many families continue to perform together. For travelers, November's cool, clear weather creates great conditions for hiking in Korea's national parks and sipping a latte or local craft beer in a renovated hanok (traditional Korean house).

December to February is the best time for winter sports

Travel to Korea in winter, and you'll quickly learn the expression " Choo-uh! " – meaning "it's cold!" – which Koreans utter pretty much nonstop for three months. The country can be frigid at this time of year, especially up north and in the mountains. Expect daily highs to reach just a few degrees above freezing, with the south coast and Jeju-do being slightly warmer.

Mountainous Gangwon-do Province gets the most snow. The 2018 Winter Olympics brought international attention to Korea's winter sports venues, most of which are in Gangwon-do. While the crowds thin out elsewhere, as with any hub for recreation in this densely populated country, the ski slopes can get a lot more crowded than visitors from Europe or North America will be used to.

Winter brings celebrations for Christmas and New Year's, a holiday so nice Koreans celebrate it twice – once on January 1 and once on the Lunar New Year, when families gather and share traditional foods. Foodies will also be rewarded for making an off-season visit – winter is when Korea's hearty, soup-centric cuisine is at its most satisfying. Stay warm by getting lost in Seoul's many superb museums (such as the excellent National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art ) and tucking into buchimgae (fried pancakes) in a cozy pub with traditional ondol floor heating.

Most years, Seollal falls in February. This three-day affair is one of Korea's two major holidays, and many Koreans travel to their hometowns. If you think you'll need to travel on these dates, book tickets far in advance. If you're staying put, you'll find that major cities such as Seoul and Busan are uncommonly peaceful with so many folks out of town. Many businesses remain open, but not museums and palaces.

This article was first published August 2022 and updated February 2024

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South Korea Travel Guide

Where to go, what to see & how to stay on budget.

By Patricia Liu and Joel Marinan

There has never been a better time to visit South Korea. Clean, modern, sophisticated, and ultra safe, Korea is a destination that you will want to come back to again and again. With the rise of Korean culture and entertainment throughout the world, the country is experiencing a renaissance of sorts, especially for foreigners who wish to experience all that Korea has to offer.

Korea has always been a fascinating country to visit and deserves a place on everyone’s travel bucket list. Known for its stunning blend of tradition and modernity, Korea features futuristic technology, bustling markets, and a thriving pop culture scene. There are no guns or drugs allowed in Korea, and visitors can expect a high level of safety and cleanliness while exploring the country. Also of note is that Korea is a no tipping culture, so savoring the delicious cuisine is extra affordable, as are the cab rides to restaurants and other destinations.

Speaking of affordability, the exchange rate between the Korean won and the US Dollar has been very favorable for Westerners, which is another perk of traveling to Korea right now.

Our South Korea Travel Guide shows you where to go, what to see, and when to travel. Start your journey with itinerary ideas and pre-travel tips, the best day trips, and lots more essential Korean travel advice. Let’s go!

Here are some of our most popular articles that will help you make the most of your trip to South Korea.

A Local’s Guide to Gyeongju

What To Do in Korea in May: The Family Month

19 Did-You-Knows About Korea

10 Ways to Spend a Magical Christmas in Korea

Hiking in Seoul, the Top 5 Mountains You Must Try

Jeju Island: Top 10 Places You Must See

19 Best Things to Do in Seoul Right Now- An Insider’s Guide

23 Reasons Seoul Will Be Your New Favorite City

Latest travel updates.

• Vaccination is NOT a requirement for entry into Korea.
• There is no requirement on the passport’s remainder validity for entry. You may travel to Korea as long as your passport remains valid throughout your stay in Korea.
• From April 1st, 2023, travelers from the USA, Canada, and 21 other countries no longer need to apply for the K-ETA to travel to Korea. This will run at least until 31st December, 2024 and is designed to make it easier to travel to Korea.

Planning Your Trip To Korea

Check the Korean Embassy for any possible travel restrictions.

• If you’re not sure where to stay, check out our guide to the  best hotels in Seoul  . You can find our recommendations for the best luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels in Seoul, as well as long-term apartments that you’ll love.
• For the best flight deals to South Korea, Best of Korea recommends  Skyscanner  and  Expedia . You  can find the cheapest prices and most convenient flights and buy the one that suits you best.
• For the best hotel prices in Seoul, Best of Korea recommends  Klook  0r  Agoda  – they cover most hotels in Seoul and the rest of Korea and offer great prices without hidden fees.
• Before you travel to Korea, it’s a good idea to order an eSim card, regular  sim card  or  portable WiFi router  to collect at the airport so you’re connected as soon as you arrive. You can change a small bit of money before you travel, but you can also use the airport ATM to get some Korean won.
• There are large differences in exchange rates so you will need to do some comparing before you exchange a large sum of money. You can exchange USD to KRW easily at banks or money exchange shops in all major tourist areas like central Seoul (Myeongdong and Namdaemun are good places but the Coex Center also offers money exchange. You can also negotiate the exchange rate with the vendor if you think it is too high.
• You can withdraw cash from bank ATMs. Alternatively, use a pre-paid travel card like the one offered by  Wise , which allows ATM withdrawals and payments and works perfectly in Korea.
• Don’t forget to bring a  travel adapter for your electronics and leave plenty of extra space in your suitcase for the many Korean souvenirs and goodies you’ll buy on your tri

Do US Citizens Need A Tourist Visa?

No, travelers from the USA don’t need a tourist visa to enter South Korea. You can visit for up to 90 days visa-free.

Current COVID-19 Rules In Korea

Most COVID-19 rules in Korea have been dropped and now there are only 2 main rules to be aware of. First, face masks are mandatory when visiting medical facilities (hospitals). There is no longer a 7-day mandatory quarantine for people in South Korea. If you’re infected with COVID, the Korean government recommends a 5 day self-quarantine, but it’s not enforced. Travelers to Korea should follow the current restrictions or may be liable for fines or deportation.

Korean Tourism Support Hotline

If you have any concerns or problems when traveling in Korea, you can call  1330 . This is a dedicated tourism support hotline where trained specialists provide tourist assistance and is available in Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Vietnamese, Thai, and Malay.

US Government Travel Advisory For Korea

The U.S. Department of State currently has a level 1 travel advisory (Exercise Normal Precautions) for the Republic of Korea (ROK). Find out more about current travel advisories for South Korea on the  Department of State  website.

6 Best Destinations In Korea

South Korea is truly a country of contrasts. From the bustling, modern city of  Seoul , with cutting-edge designer buildings, VR labs, and AI robots, to peaceful UNESCO World Heritage cities like Jeonju  and  Gyeongju , there are many unique places to explore.

There’s nothing worse than coming back from vacation and hearing about incredible places you missed that you wished you’d seen, such as a beautiful Buddhist temple by the beach (Haedong Yonggungsa Temple) or a leafy island getaway where deer and rabbits roam freely (Nami Island).

Here are 6 of the best destinations in Korea that you absolutely must visit, as well as some of the sights you’ll want to check out while you’re there. We’ll be bringing you lots more detailed destination guides in the future, so be sure to visit again soon.

Korea’s Busy Capital

Seoul is Korea’s largest city, capital, and first, stop for most travelers to Korea. There are  many beautiful places in Seoul , including landmarks, relics from ancient kingdoms, towering skyscrapers, Buddhist temples, Michelin-starred restaurants, and some of the best street food you’ll find in the world. If you see only one city in Korea, you should definitely visit Seoul.

You’ll never be bored in Seoul. Whether you’re traveling as a family, as a couple, or by yourself, there’s so much to do. Be sure to plan lots of time to check out Korea’s capital.

This  Full Day Tour  of Seoul will show you some of the hottest spots in the city, while this  Customized Private Tour of Seoul will allow you to choose where to go.

Here are 10 of the best Seoul attractions:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Bukchon Hanok Village
• Starfield COEX Mall
• Bukhansan National Park
• Myeongdong Street Markets
• Lotte World Tower
• Secret Garden (Changdeokgung Palace)
• Dongdaemun Design Plaza
• N Seoul Tower
• Yeouido Hangang Park

Korea’s Second City

Busan, Korea’s second city, is a thriving port city far away from Seoul both physically and culturally. This popular summer destination features some of Korea’s most popular beaches and bars. Explore Busan and you’ll find sprawling markets, fresh seafood, film festivals, the world’s largest shopping mall, coastal temples, and lots more.

Busan is a city with some very photogenic sights. See the sunrise on the beach, hike around leafy coastal streets on the side of cliffs, and marvel at the wide range of (living!) seafood in the markets.

This  Full Day Tour  of Busan will show you the best beaches, markets, and local sights, while this  Customized Private Tour of Busan  will allow you to choose where to go.

Here are 10 of the best Busan attractions:

• Haeundae Beach
• Gwangbokdong Food Street
• Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
• Huinnyeoul Culture Village
• Gamcheon Culture Village
• Oryukdo Sky Walk
• Lotte World Busan
• Jagalchi Fish Market
• BIFF Square & Centum City Mall
• Taejongdae Resort Park

UNESCO City

Gyeongju is the former capital of the Silla Kingdom, part of the Three Kingdoms part of Korean history. These days, Gyeongju is an open air museum housing Korea’s finest history and monument. This UNESCO World Heritage City is a must-see for those who want to learn more about Korea’s deep cultural past.

Gyeongju is packed with temples, palaces, historical sights, and monuments. But it’s not just the history that draws the crowds, the city is an area of natural beauty, lined with cherry blossoms and shadowed by misty mountains.

This  Full Day Tour of Gyeongju  from Busan will take you around Korea’s open-air museum city, showing the top UNESCO sites along the way, while this  Customized Private Tour of Gyeongju  will allow you to choose where to go.

Here are 10 of the best Gyeongju attractions:

• Gyeongju Historic Area
• Bomun Lake Tourist Complex
• Bulguksa Temple & Seokguram Shrine
• Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond
• Yangdong Folk Village
• Cheomseongdae Astronomical Observatory
• Gyeongju National Museum
• Gyochon Traditional Hanok Village
• Woljeonggyo Bridge
• Gyeongju National Park

Natural Wonder

Jeju Island is Korea’s semi-tropical island that’s a popular vacation destination for locals and tourists alike. This area of outstanding natural beauty offers up rugged coastal walks, sandy beaches, green hills, and a volcano to hike up for those who enjoy a challenge. Culture and cafe lovers will also find Jeju Island a charm.

From snorkelling under the sea, to hiking above the clouds, sampling Jeju’s black pork BBQ, and drinking local green tea, there’s so many exciting activities, sights, tastes, and experiences waiting for you on Jeju Island.

This  Full Day Tour of Jeju Island  will show you some of the most incredible UNESCO World Heritage sites on Jeju’s East Coast, while this  Customized Private Tour of Jeju Island  will allow you to choose where to go.

Here are 10 of the best Jeju Island attractions:

• Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak
• Jusangjeolli Hexagonal Lava Cliff
• Hallasan Mountain (Volcano)
• Hamdeok Beach
• Jeju Folk Village
• Hyeopjae & Geumneung Beach Areas
• Cheonjeyeon & Jeongbang Waterfalls
• Udo Traditional Island
• Yakcheonnsa Coastal Buddhist Temple
• O’Sulloc Green Tea Fields

Traditional Korea

Jeonju is famous for its historical and cultural sights, including the sprawling Jeonju Hanok Village, packed with more than 700 traditional  hanok  houses. Jeonju’s many impressive sights are close to each other and perfect for a day trip from Seoul or Busan. You can even stay overnight in one of the traditional houses.

Jeonju is a tourist hotspot so there are plenty of things to keep travelers entertained and places to experience traditional Korean food and drinks. Be sure to check out the Jeonju bibimbap, one of Korea’s national dishes. Rent hanbok (traditional clothes), take lots of pictures, and see the sights.

This  Full Day Tour of Jeonju  will show you around the beautiful  hanok  houses and traditional Korean restaurants, while this  2-Day Tour of Jeonju  includes an overnight stay in a  hanok  and lots of delicious Korean meals.

Here are 10 of the best Jeonju attractions:

• Jeonju Hanok Village
• Gyeonggijeon Shrine & Portrait Museum
• Jeongdon Catholic Church
• Jeonju Hyanggyo Confucian School
• Nambu Traditional Market
• Jaman Mural Village
• Omokdae Viewpoint
• Deokjin Park
• Hanbyeokdang Pavilion
• Taiji-ro & Hyangoyo-gil Shopping Streets

Rural Attractions

Gapyeong County is an area just outside of Seoul that’s home to several interesting attractions celebrating Korean and foreign culture. The lush green hills and blue rivers of Gapyeong make it a great place to immerse in Korean nature.

You’ll find some of the hottest day trip locations here. Explore Gapyeong County on a day trip from Seoul. You can see romantic tree-lined streets and cafes on Nami Island, explore one of Korea’s most beautiful gardens, take a trip to Petite France, and enjoy cycling through the hills on an abandoned railway track.

This  Full Day Tour of Gapyeong  will show you around Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm, and the Rail Bike Park.

Here are 10 of the best Gapyeong attractions:

• Nami Island
• Garden of Morning Calm
• Petite France
• Ganchon Rail Bike Park
• Edelweiss Swiss Village
• Cheongpyeong Lake
• Jarasum Island
• Kalbongsan Recreational Forest
• Gapyeong Sledding Hills
• Nami Island Zip Line

There are loads of locations to visit in Korea that make for a perfect day trip from Seoul. Hop on a coach, train, or tour bus in the morning and explore one or more of these unique destinations.

Here are 10 of the best day trips from Seoul to discover on your next journey to Korea:

• DMZ (North Korean Border)
• Suwon Hwaseong Fortress
• Everland Theme Park
• Jeonju Historic City
• Seoraksan National Park
• Korean Folk Village
• Alpaca World
• Gwangmyeong Cave

Most travelers to Korea arrive at Incheon Airport and then travel into Seoul (it’s only 40 minutes away) to begin their journey. Seoul is certainly an incredible place to start traveling, but it definitely shouldn’t be your only destination. Korea has a lot to offer, including a lot of seasonal activities and events that you should take into consideration.

Spring and fall are the best seasons to visit Korea and during these times the traditional cities like Gyeongju and Jeonju look amazing. They’re covered with cherry blossoms or fall foliage and this creates some postcard-like scenes. Gapyeong area is packed full of natural sights to enjoy, so definitely check out these areas.

If you’re visiting during summer, head towards the coastal areas, including the north-east coastal towns of Gangneung & Sokcho, or the south-east coastal areas of Busan and the nearby islands, such as Geoje, Tongyeong, and Yeosu. You’ll find lots of winter activities to enjoy in these areas.

Winter is cold and dry and, ironically, a great time to visit Jeju Island. This semi-tropical island is warmer than the mainland, but still gets snow on the mighty Hallasan Mountain. You can sit on a sunny beach one day and then hike knee-deep in snow the next. Jeju is also famous for its citrus, with thousands of tangerine trees dropping their juicy fruits in early winter.

Where To Stay In Seoul

South Korea is truly a country of contrasts. From the bustling, modern city of  Seoul , with cutting-edge designer buildings, VR labs, and AI robots, to peaceful UNESCO World Heritage cities like Jeonju  and  Gyeongju , there are many unique places to explore. If you’ve decided on Seoul, here are some of the best hotels that are well located and highly reviewed.

Choosing the best destinations to visit in Korea can be a challenge, especially if you don’t know what there is to see. You might not have heard of some of these destinations, which is not surprising. Korea is a country of undiscovered wonders that are waiting to be found.

If you want the best Seoul has to offer, these luxury hotels are for you. Located in Seoul’s glitziest neighborhoods, these hotels are within walking distance of Michelin-starred restaurants, chic boutiques, galleries, museums, and the finest shopping experiences available.

Expect nothing but the best in terms of service and style at these luxury hotels. Silky soft sheets, immaculate rooms with the finest fixtures and fittings, and true 5-star service from the hotel staff. These hotels have sports, dining, and entertainment facilities to make you comfortable during your stay.

Airport transfers are available with these hotels, making your journey into and out of Seoul a breeze. Located in popular upmarket districts in Seoul, these neighborhoods have lots of local charm for you to discover, as well as allow easy access to other parts of the city with excellent transport options nearby.

Not only are these beautiful, comfortable hotels inside, but they are also located in some of the most iconic buildings or districts and provide amazing views over some of Seoul’s most interesting districts. The view from the first hotel is worth the cost alone.

Recommended Luxury Hotels In Seoul

Here are 3 of the best luxury hotels in Seoul that we recommend for an unforgettable stay in Korea’s capital:

Families. couples and other travelers that want to experience the best of Seoul without breaking the bank can sleep easy with these mid-range hotel recommendations in some of Seoul’s trendy, vibrant districts, including Hongdae, Gangnam, and Myeongdong.

Encounter stylish accommodation in Seoul’s Hongdae districts, which is full of street culture and artistic scenes from the district’s eponymous Hongik University – one of Korea’s leading art centers.

Fashion lovers and shoppers will find lots to love in downtown Gangnam, with its wide streets and glassy storefronts bracketing narrow side streets and hidden delicacies.

Myeongdong is famous for its budget and mid-range accommodation options, including several hotels by the famous Lotte chain – one of Korea’s best mid-range brands.

Whichever mid-range hotel you choose in Seoul, you can be sure you’ll have fantastic city views, convenient subway access, and lots of unique cultural sights, sounds, and tastes to experience.

Recommended Mid-Range Hotels In Seoul

Here are 3 of the best mid-range hotels in Seoul that we recommend for an comfortable stay in Korea’s capital:

Seoul has a wealth of budget accommodation options that will help make your money go further. These hotels are all around $100 or less but offer the comfort and convenience that you’d expect to find in a mid-range hotel. One even has a beautiful rooftop pool.

Although these hotels are cheaper, don’t lower your expectations. You’ll always find great service in Korea. Save on sleeping to spend more on shopping, souvenirs, sights, and all the other fun things there are to do in Seoul.

These budget hotels in Seoul are also in great locations for shopping, enjoying local culture, and seeing the real side of Seoul and Korea. Hongdae offers bargain hunters the chance to get boutique fashion at market prices, Gangnam has plenty of cafes and cheap eats tucked away off the main avenues, and Myeongdong is a budget traveler’s paradise full of $1 street food and bargain souvenirs.

You won’t be disappointed with a night at any of these hotels. If you want to make your budget go further so you can spend more on some of the incredible day trips Seoul has to offer, definitely book a night at one of these hotels.

Recommended Budget Hotels In Seoul

Here are 3 of the best budget hotels in Seoul that we recommend for an affordable stay in Korea’s capital:

Korean Travel Tips

Korea is a unique country with a written language that looks nothing like English, fascinating etiquette rules , and an always busy lifestyle. Travelers may be lost trying to do even the simplest things.

These travel tips include the best options for staying connected, how to use public transportation easily and cheaply, great discount cards that will save you money as you travel, where to exchange money, and how to learn some basic Korean phrases for when you travel.

These essential Korean travel tips have been crafted by experienced travelers who love to save time and money. Only the best quality services and products are recommended here.

Here are our Korea travel essentials that’ll help you get around more easily, save you money, and let you get the most out of your trip.

Plan ahead now and you’ll have fewer troubles on your travels, giving you more time to enjoy your time in Korea.

If you’re traveling to Korea, you’re almost certainly going to want to get access to the internet to help you navigate, translate Korean, or even book tickets to attractions. Korea has one of the world’s best mobile internet and the prices are very reasonable. 5G mobile internet services are available across the country and Korea was one of the first to get the super-fast service. You won’t have problems connecting with a sim card or WiFi router when you travel.

Sim Cards & Data Plans

A Korean sim card is a great way to get access to all your usual cellphone services when you travel to Korea. Sim cards come with data-only packages, or data and phone services combined.

Buying a Korean sim card will give you access to a Korean phone number, which is useful when using Korean apps. If you want to order food online in Korea, you need to have a Korean phone number to complete the order.

Korean Sim Card Costs

Prices start at W5,900 ($5) for a 1-day sim. You can also get 10-day sim cards (W34,700/$28) and 30-day sim cards (64,400/$52). These all come with unlimited data, domestic calls, and texts.

You can purchase a  Korean Sim Card  From Klook and collect it at the airport. This is a very convenient option as you can use it immediately to help navigate and check in back home.

Portable WiFi Routers

A Korean portable WiFi router will give you access to mobile internet throughout Korea by connecting to WiFi hotspots run by the major phone companies in Korea and comes with great coverage.

The major benefits of a portable WiFi router include a lower cost than a Korean sim card and also the ability to connect up to 3 devices to 1 router. That means that families and groups will be able to share the service.

Korean Portable WiFi Router Costs

The cost of a Korean portable pocket WiFi router is W3,200 ($2.60) per day. You can rent the WiFi router for as many days as you require and pay in advance and pay any excess days when you return it.

You can also purchase a  Korean Portable WiFi Router From Klook and collect it at the airport. You can book online before you travel so that it’s guaranteed to be waiting for you.

Should I Get A Sim Card Or WiFi Router In Korea?​

Both a sim card and WiFi router are great options for travelers to Korea and will almost guarantee a great reception for mobile internet. The choice between whether you should get a sim card or WiFi router in Korea really comes down to the costs involved and if you need a Korean phone number.

WiFi routers are cheaper and allow you to connect 3 devices, so they’re perfect for families. However, a sim card gives you a Korean phone number, which means you can call people and also register for Korean apps which require a phone number.

Check out our detailed article about the  Best Sim Card & Portable WiFi  options for traveling to Korea.

Korea is a safe, modern country and one that has pushed hard for the mass adoption of cards. Almost every location that deals with money is required to accept card payments. This is great news for travelers to Korea as you can use a card to pay for meals out, entrance tickets, trains, and lots more.

Cash is still needed for some things, such as topping up transportation cards like the T-Money Card (more on that soon) and for paying for small things like street food. Please note, as Korea doesn’t have a tipping culture, you don’t need cash for leaving a tip. In fact, if you try to leave a cash tip, it’ll be returned to you in most places.

Read on to find the best tips to avoid getting ripped off when exchanging money and how to pay the lowest fees when you use a card to pay in Korea. Be a smart traveler and save more money for shopping and souvenirs.

Korean Money Exchange Options​

Once you arrive in Korea, there are several options for exchanging money. First, you can exchange money at a money changer in tourist areas such as Myeongdong. These money changers used to have the best rates in Seoul.

However, a better option these days is to use the currency exchange machines from WOW Exchange. These machines are located all over Seoul’s most popular tourist spots, stations, and hotels. They allow you to exchange foreign cash directly to Korean won, with better rates than at the airport. You can also use these machines to claim a tax refund for your shopping before heading to the airport. Both options require a passport.

Should I Change Money At The Airport?

Exchanging money at the airport is easy and convenient as you can instantly get cash to use for shopping, transportation, and general use. However, the exchange rate at the airport is usually much worse than you’ll find in other places in Korea, as mentioned previously. If you need cash as soon as you land, withdraw a small amount ($50) and then exchange the rest in Seoul.

Travel Money Cards For Korea

While cash is useful and familiar when traveling, a much better option is to use a travel money card (also known as a currency card). Travel money cards, such as the Wise Travel Money Card, allow you to pay for travel expenses without the need to carry cash or convert money.

A travel money card offers the convenience of using a credit card without high fees that a regular bank could charge. It also allows you to withdraw cash from an ATM without a fee (up to a limit), so you can avoid carrying any cash on the flight or using a money exchange. The exchange rate is the mid-market rate, meaning it’s better than you’ll find even at the money exchanges listed before.

Can I Use My Bank Card In Korea?​

Credit cards are widely accepted in Korea. Visa and Mastercard users shouldn’t face a problem, but other cards aren’t as widely accepted. Debit cards and cash withdrawals might not work depending on the bank. Your bank may charge a fee when using it overseas, or give a bad exchange rate. Check with your bank before traveling.

The best option for travel money in Korea is to have a mixture of cash and cards, with a backup credit card just in case. Taking some USD with you is always a good option as you can find plenty of places to exchange it to Korean won and probably at a better rate than you’ll get in the US. If you want to withdraw money in Korea, look for the global ATMs in tourist areas.

Taking a  travel money card  will be safer, cheaper, and more convenient than relying on your own bank or credit card, too. These cards offer competitive rates and are widely accepted around the world so you can use them to visit other countries, too. If you use a travel money card and it gets lost or stolen, you can freeze the card instantly with the app and not have to worry about losing the balance on the card.

When you visit Korea, you’ll notice that most people pay for goods with a card or payment app, even for small purchases like a bottle of water. Unfortunately, the payment apps that are common in the US, such as Apple Pay or Google Pay, aren’t available in Korea. Korean apps, such as Kakao Pay, require a Korean bank account, and therefore aren’t an option for travelers.

T-Money For Public Transport

The T-Money Card is an essential purchase for every traveler to Korea. The T-Money Card is a transportation card that allows contactless travel on Korea’s buses and subways. Simply buy a T-Money Card, top-up the card, then use it to travel.

Not only is this transportation card really convenient, it also saves you money. You’ll receive a discount on every bus or subway journey when you pay with the T-Money Card. These discounted fares are available in all cities across Korea, not just Seoul.

This isn’t the only use of the T-Money Card. You can also use to buy a coffee from Starbucks, get lunch in McDonald’s, shop for Korean cosmetics, and even to watch a baseball game. It’s a very useful card that can be used anywhere you see the T-Money Card.

You can get the  T-Money Card in Korea from subway stations and at certain transport centers, including Seoul Station and Incheon Airport. The card costs 2,500 KRW. You can buy the card with a credit card, but to top-up the card, you need to use cash. If you buy a Discover Seoul Pass, this card includes the T-Money functions.

Save With The Discover Seoul Pass

Travelers to Seoul have a lot of options for incredible attractions to enjoy and experience. However, tourists, especially families, can find that the cost of these attractions quickly add up, especially when you are visiting many locations in a short time.

A great way to save money when you travel in Seoul is to buy a  Discover Seoul Pass  – a special card that offers you big savings on some of Seoul’s top attractions, as well as other benefits.

If you plan to visit Seoul’s Royal Palaces, N Seoul Tower, Lotte World Adventure Theme Park, the COEX Aquarium, Alive Museum, Seoul Zoo, or other premium attractions, you can gain free entry when you purchase a Discover Seoul Pass.

Not only that, you can also get a free river cruise, free hanbok rental, free ride on the Airport Express from Incheon Airport to Seoul, free City Tour Bus Ride, free T-Money Card and lots more.

The Discover Seoul Pass is valid for 24 | 48 | 72 hours and is valid from the moment you first use it until that many hours later.

Things To See & Do In Korea

If you want to build your own itinerary for South Korea, then this section of the South Korea Travel Guide will provide the building blocks you need to craft the perfect trip.

South Korea is a country packed with famous landmarks and sights, unique culture – modern & historical,  family-fun activities, outdoor adventures, cozy cafe districts, and natural wonders. There’s more to do in Korea than you could imagine and it’s impossible to explore it all in one trip. Try to plan your itinerary by cities and locations. For example, plan your day in Seoul stay by district.

Here are some of the best things to see and do in South Korea, broken down into different themes so you can find things that interest you the most. The location of each of these attractions is included, too, so you can create a city by city itinerary, seeing the best South Korea has to offer.

These attractions are available all year round so whenever you go to Korea, you can enjoy them. There are plenty of things to see and do in Korea that only happen during certain seasons. Check out the  Season Guide  in this South Korea Travel Guide for more information about Korean festivals and seasonal events.

Here are 10 of the best Korean landmarks:

• Lotte World Tower (Seoul)
• Bukchon Hanok Village (Seoul)
• Nami Island (Gapyeong)
• Banwol ‘Purple Island’ (West Coast)
• N Seoul Tower (Seoul)
• Dongdaemun Design Plaza (Seoul)
• Seoraksan National Park (Gangwon Province)
• Hwaseong Fortress (Suwon)
• Cheonggyecheon Stream (Seoul)
• Gamcheon Cultural Village (Busan)

Why travel to a diverse country such as Korea and not embrace the local culture? Here are 10 of the best unique Korean experiences you can only enjoy fully in Korea. Be brave, try something new and create lasting memories of your Korean adventure.

Here are 10 of the best uniquely Korean experiences:

• Wear Traditional Korean Hanbok (Royal Palaces)
• Sing In A Korean Noraebang (Everywhere)
• Sleep In A Korean Hanok House (Hanok Villages)
• Visit The Kimchi Museum (Seoul)
• Eat Street Food (Traditional Markets)
• Experience A Korean Temple Stay (National Parks)
• Drink Makgeolli – Korean Rice Wine (Everywhere)
• Visit The World’s Most Dangerous Border – The DMZ
• Relax In A Korean Sauna (Everywhere)
• Visit A Korean Green Tea Field (Boseong, Jeju)

Here are 10 of the best Korean historic sights:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace (Seoul)
• The Secret Garden (Seoul)
• Bulguksa Temple (Gyeongju)
• Jeonju Hanok Village (Jeonju)
• Seoul Fortress Walls (Seoul)
• Haedong Yonggungsa Temple (Busan)
• Andong Hahoe Folk Village (Andong)
• Gyeongju Historic Area (Gyeongju)
• Baekje Historic Area (Gongju, Buyeo)
• Jangsaengpo Whale Museum (Ulsan)

Here are 10 of the best modern K-Culture spots:

• K-Pop Headquarters (Seoul)
• HYBE Insight (Seoul)
• COEX Artium (Seoul)
• K-Style Hub (Seoul)
• Hongdae Shopping Street (Seoul)
• Hallyu K-Star Road (Seoul)
• Asia Culture Center (Gwangju)
• Busan International Film Festival Square (Busan)
• MBC World Theme Park (Seoul)

As you’ll see, there’s just so much to see and do in Korea. You could spend a whole week in Seoul and not run out of exciting activities to do and sights to explore. Our advice is to try to avoid planning to do too many things in one day and adding in plenty of free time.

There’ll be many random things that catch your eye, such as a curious side street, or your nose, like the delicious smells from a food stall. Make sure you’ve got flexibility in your schedule to investigate these surprises and to take a rest if you need to – walking and traveling for days on end can get tiring.

Korea comes alive at night and markets and city streets are often best explored after the sun goes down. Drab concrete buildings come alive with neon signs, lanterns, and electric lights and are quite a sight to be seen. Visit popular tourist attractions such as the royal palaces and hanok villages during the morning as they’ll be less crowded.

If you plan to visit the Secret Garden in Changdeokgung Palace (you really should!), tickets are available on the day and sell out fast. Getting to these places early can guarantee you get tickets, see the sights unobstructed, and have time in the evening to soak up the night life and culture.

Here are the 10 best family-friendly activities in Korea:

• Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm (Gapyeong)
• Seoul Grand Park & Zoo (Seoul)
• Lotte World Adventure (Seoul, Busan)
• Alive Museum & Dynamic Maze (Seoul)
• Seoul Children’s Grand Park (Seoul)
• Seoul Children’s Museum (Seoul)
• Everland & Caribbean Bay Theme Parks (Near Seoul)
• Sea Life Busan Aquarium
• Jeju Dinosaur Island (Jeju)
• Alpaca World (Gangwon Province)

Here are the 10 best museums & galleries in Korea:

• National Museum of Korea (Seoul)
• Seoul Museum of Art (Seoul)
• Gyeongju National Museum (Gyeongju)
• War Memorial of Korea (Seoul)
• National Folk Museum of Korea (Seoul)
• National Maritime Museum (Busan)
• Seodaemun Prison History Museum (Seoul)
• Seoul Museum of History (Seoul)
• Museum Kimchikan (Seoul)
• Daegu Art Museum (Daegu)

Here are the 10 best cafe areas in Korea:

• Ikseondong Hanok Village (Seoul)
• Gyeongui Line Hongdae (Seoul)
• Samcheondong Cafe Street (Seoul)
• Jeonpo Cafe Street (Busan)
• Hwangnidan-Gil (Gyeongju)
• Gangneung Coffee Street (Gangneung)
• Sinsa-Dong / Garosugil Road (Seoul)
• Jukjeon Cafe Street (Seoul)
• Hwaseong Haenggung Area (Suwon)
• Kim Kwang Seok Gil Street (Daegu)

Here are 10 of the best Korean markets and shopping areas:

• Gwangjang Market (Seoul)
• Myeongdong Market Area (Seoul)
• Jagalchi Fish Market (Busan)
• Centum City Mall (Busan)
• IFC Mall (Seoul)
• Starfield COEX Mall (Seoul)
• Nambu Market (Jeonju)
• Seomyeong Underground Shopping Center (Busan)
• Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market (Jeju)

Here are 10 of the best natural sights in Korea:

• Hallasan Mountain (Jeju)
• Jirisan National Park (Jeollanam Provice)
• Seoraksan National Park (Gyeonggi Province)
• Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak (Jeju)
• Damyang Juknokwon Bamboo Forest (Damyang)
• Boseong Green Tea Plantation (Boseong)
• Haeundae Beach (Busan)
• Udo Island (Jeju)
• Hwaamdonggul Cave (Gangwon Province)

Travel Itinerary For Korea

When planning a travel itinerary for South Korea, it’s best to think about what kind of experience you want when you travel to South Korea and build your itinerary from that. What kind of traveler are you and what do you want to take away from your Korea trip? Are you planning a trip for yourself, for your family, or as a romantic escape?

Do you want to learn about traditional Korean culture and history? Are you visiting to immerse yourself in modern Korean culture and maybe meet your idols? Are you planning to get out into Korea’s mountains to hike and join a Buddhist Temple Stay? Or are you going to eat, drink, shop, and make the most of Korea’s discounted goods? Or all of the above?

This section of this South Korea Travel Guide will offer some of the best one-week and two-week itineraries for South Korea. These itineraries are rough guides, created to help you begin planning your trip. Feel free to pick and choose the parts from them that you like to create your own travel itinerary for South Korea. We’ll be adding more great itineraries soon, be sure to check back for the latest ideas.

Classic 1 Week Itinerary For Korea: Seoul, Busan, Gyeongju

This is one of the most popular of the 1-week itineraries for South Korea and will take you to the most famous and interesting places that are top of most travelers’ South Korea bucket lists. Starting in Seoul, Korea’s capital, you’ll explore the best sights in this city before taking a day trip out to the lovely Gapyeong County to get a breath of fresh Korean countryside air.

From day 4, zip across the whole of Korea on the high-speed KTX train and explore Korea’s second city, Busan. See coastal temples, fish markets, wide beaches, and more in Busan before taking a day trip to Korea’s historic UNESCO World Heritage City, Gyeongju. On the last day, it’s time to return to Seoul to pack your bags full of the best souvenirs and snacks and say farewell in the highest part of the city.

Afternoon : Dressed in your hanbok, enjoy more traditional Seoul with a walk around the narrow streets of the Bukchon Hanok Village. Visit traditional Korean teahouses, galleries, markets, and more.

Evening : Check out the stalls and shops of artsy Insadong, contemplate Jeogyesa Temple, and take an evening stroll along the Cheonggyecheon Stream before dining in Myeongdong or the Jonggak Avenue of Youth. This  Full Day Tour  of Seoul will show you some of the hottest spots in the city, while this  Customized Private Tour of Seoul  will allow you to choose where to go.

Afternoon : Head back to central Seoul and witness the bustling sights and delicious smells of Seoul’s traditional Gwangjang and Dongdaemun Markets. Try delectable Korean street foods here.

Evening : Take the Namsam Cable Car to the top of Namsan Mountain and watch the sunset from N Seoul Tower. See some of Seoul’s fortress walls before heading back down to go late-night shopping at Myeongdong Market.

Afternoon : Zip line or sail over to Nami Island for impressive nature, bike rides, leafy walks, and cozy cafes. See popular scenes from K-dramas and even some wild animals, like deer and rabbits.

Evening : Pedal your way along an abandoned railway at the Gangchon Rail Bike Park before heading back to Seoul for fine dining in Gangnam’s Apgujeong Rodeo district.

Afternoon : Head to the Nampo-dong near Busan Station and visit Jagalchi Market for a fresh seafood lunch. Then explore cosy Bosu-dong Book Alley or take a taxi to the Huinnyeoul Culture Village.

Evening : Take the subway up to Haeundae Beach for Busan’s best night-scenes. Grab dinner overlooking the beach, or at one of the market stalls. If you’re feeling brave, visit BUSAN X the SKY to see breathtaking views over the coast and city.

Afternoon : Head to the Gyeongju Gyochon Traditional Village for a traditional meal and to see the stunning Woljeonggyo Bridge. Gyeongju National Museum is nearby, too.

Evening : See the tranquil night views of Wolji Pond where palace buildings reflect perfectly in still waters. Stop at Hwangnidan-gil area for dinner and drinks before returning to Busan.

Afternoon : Explore the artistic shopping streets of Hongdae for last minute souvenirs and gifts for yourself. Take a break in one of the unique animal or artsy cafes.

Evening : Either take a night cruise along the Han River from Yeouido Hangang Park or dine in style at the Lotte World Tower in Jamsil, the world’s 6th tallest building. Both offer great night views of Seoul and unforgettable memories to take home.

Korean Seasons Guide

The best time to visit South Korea is during the warm spring or fall seasons. The weather is mild and clear, there’s a range of festivals and seasonal activities to enjoy, and you can travel to Korea comfortably.

The best months to visit are April, May, September, and October. These months are all during the Korean school semester, so there won’t be as many local travelers around during the weekdays. However, expect the weekends to be busy as people leave the cities to travel within Korea.

Large public holidays, including  Chuseok (mid-autumn festival) in September / October) and Buddha’s Birthday (May), provides travelers with the opportunity to experience Korean culture and celebrations. These holidays change each year based on the lunar calendar.

Korean Weather & Climate

South Korea is a country that experiences four very distinct seasons, with temperatures ranging from 100 Fahrenheit in the summer to below 0 Fahrenheit in the winter. Each of South Korea’s seasons brings opportunities to see unique natural views and enjoy the different climates in Korea.

Spring has some of the gentlest weather, with light rain and a quick jump in temperature to the 60s and 70s by late March. Summer begins with the rainy season in late June and becomes extremely humid and hot throughout July and August before cooling again in September.

Fall has the best weather in Korea, with many warm, sunny days. Cold winter weather appears very quickly in mid-November and the first snow usually appears by late November. Winter is dry and sunny with the lowest chance of rainfall but is also very cold. Snow isn’t constant, but can fall for several weeks on and off during winter.

Visiting in spring offers the chance to see beautiful cherry blossoms stretch across the country, as well as many other spring flowers that brighten up Korea after a cold winter.

Spring starts in late March with the awakening of the cherry blossoms and ends in early June with the start of the rainy season. South Korea is a country with a close connection to nature, which can be witnessed in the many spring festivals and celebrations that happen throughout the year.

Some of the best spring festivals include the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, Damyang Bamboo Forest Festival, Yeon Deung Hoe Lotus Lantern Festival, Jindo Sea Parting Festival, and Boseong Green Tea Plantation Festival.

The weather in summer is perfect for getting outside and relaxing on one of Korea’s many beaches. Some of the best activities include spending a weekend camping or glamping by the beach, hiking in shaded valleys in the national parks, and water sports such as surfing, kayaking, and scuba diving.

Unfortunately, the heat may put off some travelers, and high humidity makes it uncomfortable to move around too much. Fortunately, Korea is a modern country with lots of air-conditioning and ways to deal with the hot weather, including delicious summer dishes.

Cool down with a bowl of Korean bingsu (shaved ice dessert) or a cool latte in one of the many cozy Korean cafes in popular beach destinations.

Travelers to Korea in the fall are treated to spectacular fall foliage creeping far and wide. You can see it falling on palace grounds, sprawled on mountains in national parks, and along city streets.

The start of the fall foliage season in Korea coincides with the end of the hot and humid summer, with clear skies and cool weather, making it the perfect time to travel in Korea. Like spring, the fall season in Korea is one of the festivals and celebrations.

The Chuseok holidays in late September / early October are the biggest public holidays of the year, with cultural events held in popular tourist destinations. There’s also a range of cultural festivals, such as the Andong Mask Festival, Baekje Culture Festival, Jinju Namdang Yudeung Lantern Festival, Jeonju Bibimbap Festival, and the Seoul Kimchi Festival.

Winter, like summer, has more extreme weather than spring and fall, with temperatures often in the 20s and 30s and below. This season, however, is also one of the best for travelers who want to see clear, blue skies and experience good weather.

Winter is the driest season and it very rarely rains. If you don’t mind the cold weather, it’s perfect for traveling around South Korea. One of the biggest draws during winter is the chance to see snowy Korean landscapes, from snow-bedecked royal palaces to frosty peaks atop Korea’s many mountains.

Winter sports are popular in Korea, with ski and snowboard resorts aplenty. Winter also offers the chance for family fun with winter attractions including sledding, winter illuminations, and Christmas parades.

Cost To Travel To Korea

The cost to travel in South Korea largely depends on your personal style of travel. You can travel on a low budget in Korea, for under $50 per day, or you could also travel for 10 times that amount if you wished to.

Food costs range from a few dollars for a bowl of  jajang  (black soybean) noodles to hundreds for premium  hanwoo (Korean beef) steak. The same applies to accommodation, with budget hostels costing $10 per night and premium 5 stars hotels costing hundreds.

Most travelers to Korea will already know what they want to prioritize their spending on. Some travel to Korea to eat, others to shop, and many more to experience the unique culture and history that Korea has to offer.

The costs in this section of our South Korea Travel Guide are based on the latest costs in Korea from this year. Examples of different costs have been covered to give you an idea of what to expect when you try to budget.

Please note, these prices are based on traveling in Seoul during non-peak times. Prices may be higher in peak times, which include cherry blossom season (Apr) and fall foliage season (Oct). Popular tourist cities, such as Gyeongju and Jeonju, may also have higher prices on weekends.

How Much Does It Cost To Travel In South Korea?

Travelers may find they want to spend more on hotels and less on eating out, or vice-versa, so don’t feel like you have to only follow the costs for one section. This is only a guideline to help you plan based on your own personal preferences.

To make it easier to figure out your expected costs to travel in Korea, this South Korea Travel Guide has broken down the costs into 3 different categories. These categories loosely fit 3 different types of travelers, as described below:

• Accommodation:  $200+ per night, per room (double)

Korea has a wide range of luxurious hotel options, including rooms in the Lotte World Tower, historic hanok houses, and glamping for those who want to escape to the countryside.

• Food & Drink:  $100+ per day, per person

It’s easy to spend a lot on food and drink in Korea as there are so many delectable restaurants. Fresh seafood, Korean steak, or the finest foreign foods are all available.

• Transportation:  $20+ per day, per person

Taxis and transportation are relatively cheap in Korea. A taxi journey across Seoul can cost less than $20 for 30 minutes and even the 1st class options on Korea’s high-speed trains are under $100 for the longest journey (Seoul to Busan).

• Accommodation:  $100 ~ $200 per night, per room (double)

You can book 4-star hotels in Seoul for very reasonable prices and enjoy both comfort and lower prices than you’d find at home. Korea has a wide range of comfortable mid-priced hotels.

• Food & Drink:  $50+ per day, per person

With all-you-can-eat Korean restaurants that serve unlimited Korean BBQ and other dishes for under $20 or $30 per person, it’s easy to enjoy the best food Korea has to offer without breaking the bank.

• Transportation:  up to $15 per day, per person

Use the subway and buses to get around the big cities and trains to travel further around Korea without breaking the bank. You can even splash out on a taxi and pay only a few dollars per person when traveling as a group for a few dollars extra.

• Accommodation:  up to $100 per night, per room (double)

Hostels and guesthouses can be found for under $50 per night and are perfect for somewhere to rest and recharge. If that’s all you need, save money here and spend it elsewhere.

• Food & Drink:  $20 – $30 per day, per person

If you budget well and stick to street food, free hotel breakfasts, and convenience store foods, you can eat well and still have enough to splurge on good food for dinner.

• Transportation:  up to $10 per day, per person

Walking and buses are cheap and convenient ways to travel around Korea’s biggest cities. Traveling from city to city is also cheap, with intercity buses costing less than $10 for 1-2 hour journeys.

Further Costs To Travel In South Korea

Besides these everyday costs to travel in South Korea, there are other costs that you’ll need to cover from time to time. These costs include internet & phone access, day trips, activities, souvenirs, travel insurance, and flights. These costs will be broken down into low and high-end costs that you can expect to pay in Korea.

Museums and galleries offer unique (and authentic) Korean souvenirs such as pottery, painting, tea & soju sets, and more. If you want something a bit more special, head to the underground markets near Gwangjang Market in Seoul and get your own handmade hanbok, which you can get posted back home to save luggage space.

• Small Souvenirs: $5+
• Korean Cosmetics: $5+
• Korean Artworks: $10+
• Korean Tea (box of): $10 to $20
• Korean Soju Set: $10 to $20
• Korean Handcrafts: $10+
• Tailored Hanbok: $200+

The day trip prices quoted below are the prices you can expect to pay with a reputable tour company like  Klook  or  Trazy . Hiring a private guide will be a lot more expensive and might come to $200+ per day.

Please note:  The prices quoted below are estimates and may change depending on the season or tour services.

• DMZ Tour – $50 to $120
• Nami Island Area – $40 to $70
• Everland Theme Park – $30 to $50
• Jeonju Hanok Village – $50 to $70
• Korean Folk Village – $50 to $60
• Seoraksan Mountain – $70 to $150

As mentioned earlier in this South Korea Travel Guide, buying a  Discover Seoul Pass  is a great way to save money on Seoul’s premium attractions.

• Royal Palaces – $3
• N Seoul Tower – $10
• Hanbok Rental – $10+
• Seoul City Tour Bus – $10
• Han River Cruise – $15 to $30
• Seoul Sky Observatory – $30 to $50
• Aquariums – $20 to $30
• Seoul Zoo & Seoul Grand Park $10
• Amusement Parks – $30 to $40

The cost to fly to Korea is more than twice the normal price right now. Fortunately, Korea ended the restrictions on the number of flights into the country from June 2022 and flight costs and availability should be improved in the near future.

Best of Korea recommends  Skyscanner  and  Expedia  for the best flight deals to Korea.

Why Travel To South Korea?

In recent years, travelers from around the world have been increasingly drawn to South Korea. The country is a must-see destination in Asia, with more than 17 million travelers in 2019. After reading this South Korea Travel Guide, you’ll understand what draws so many people to the Land of The Morning Calm, as Korea is also known.

There are myriad reasons why people visit Korea. Many come to experience life in a unique country, packed with historical and cultural sights that you won’t find elsewhere in the world. In the afternoon you can walk through a royal palace dressed in  hanbok  (traditional Korean clothes), sip green tea in a  hanok  (traditional Korean house), and pass Buddhist monks walking peacefully through an ancient temple.

Modern South Korean culture is conquering the world, with chart-topping acts that include BTS and Black Pink, Oscar-winning movies like Parasite, and phenomenally successful TV shows like Squid Game. This brings in legions of fans flocking to shooting locations and film sets to relive their favorite K-Culture moments. Some lucky travelers even get to catch sight of their favorite K-Stars walking around Gangnam, a hotspot for Korea’s most famous citizens.

Not only is Korea a beautiful country, it’s a country that will make you beautiful, with some of the world’s best fashion and beauty shops. Korea is famous for its K-Beauty products and is a beauty and fashion shoppers paradise. From the street fashions of Hongdae, to the luxurious fashion malls of Gangnam, and the wall-to-wall malls with discount clothes in Dongdaemun, you’re guaranteed to find something you can’t resist at a great price. If you prefer a cultural shopping experience, there are traditional markets all over Korea, where you can experience street food, buy novel gifts, and see how locals live and socialize.

There’s so much more to South Korea than what you’ll find in the cities, however. South Korea, a country that’s 70% mountainous with coasts on three sides, offers so much to nature and adventure lovers. Hiking, South Korea’s national pastime, is a popular way to see more of the Korean countryside, looking down over rice fields, forested valleys, and pockets of urbanization. Skydiving, parasailing, scuba diving, water sports, cycling, rock climbing, white water rafting, and lots more are on offer and very reasonably priced. South Korea is a great place to enjoy the great outdoors.

The real jewel in South Korea’s natural crown, however, has to be Jeju Island – one of the New 7 Wonders of the Natural World. Explore lava caves, hike to the peak of the central dormant volcano (Hallasan Mountain), trek around the rugged coast, relax on a sandy beach in a modern cafe, and even try your hand at horse riding.

Whatever your reason to travel to South Korea, you’re sure to find more and more reasons to return again and again. Let this South Korea Travel Guide whet your appetite for your first trip, inspire you to plan a follow-up trip, and guide you to the best things to see and do in South Korea.

South Korea Travel Guide FAQs

Not sure about the South Korea travel restrictions and want to know more about visas, vaccinations, and what the rules are? This next section covers some of the most frequently asked questions about traveling to Korea now. If you have more questions that aren’t covered below, feel free to write to us on the  Best of Korea  Facebook page.

Do I need a visa to travel to South Korea?

US citizens and tourists from 111 other countries, including Canada and Mexico, don’t need a visa to travel to South Korea. The US government and South Korea have a visa-free travel arrangement and tourists can stay for up to 90 days.

What happens when I arrive in South Korea?

From September 2022 onwards it is no longer necessary to provide any vaccination status or take any PCR or RAT tests. A mandatory health check will be required, but this is only a simple form you can fill in on arrival.

What happens if I get a positive PCR result?

If you test positive for COVID-19 while in Korea, you will need to quarantine for 7 days at government facilities. Travelers who break the quarantine rules are subject to deportation or fines.

Can I travel to Korea if I'm unvaccinated?

Yes, you can still travel to South Korea if you’re unvaccinated. South Korea no longer restricts travel based on vaccination status (as of October 2022).

However, if a traveler (vaccinated or unvaccinated) tests positive for COVID-19 in Korea, they will have to self-quarantine until negative.

South Korea is a dynamic and culturally rich country that deserves a place on everyone’s travel bucket list. Known for its stunning blend of tradition and modernity, Korea features futuristic technology, bustling markets, and a thriving pop culture scene. Perhaps most importantly, visitors can expect a high level of safety and cleanliness while exploring the country and savoring its delicious cuisine.

This South Korea Travel Guide shows you where to go, what to see, and when to travel. Start your journey with itinerary ideas and pre-travel tips, the best day trips, and lots more essential Korean travel advice. Let’s go!

LATEST KOREA TRAVEL UPDATES

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6/1/23 From June 1st, 2023, there is  no longer any mandatory quarantine  for COVID-infected people in Korea – both locals and travellers. The Korean government now recommends that infected people showing symptoms should self-isolate (voluntarily) for 5 days.

4/1/23 From April 1st, 2023, travelers from the USA and 21 other countries  no longer need to apply for the K-ETA  to travel to Korea. This will run until 31st December, 2024 and is designed to make it easier to travel to Korea.

3/20/23 From March 20th, 2023, the indoor mask mandate has been removed for public transport, including buses, trains, subway, taxis, and flights. The only remaining mask mandate is for medical facilities, including hospitals, care homes, and pharmacies.

How To Travel To Korea

Current Travel Restrictions For South Korea 2023

If you’re suspected of infection when you arrive (high temperature, feverish signs), you may be asked to take a PCR test. PCR tests are now free for travelers suspected of being COVID-19 positive within the first 3 days of arrival. This South Korea Travel Guide is regularly updated with the latest Korean travel restrictions.

Requirements To Travel To Korea

Here’s a simple 2-step guide about how to travel to Korea right now. Most restrictions have been lifted so travel to Korea is easier than ever. This applies to travelers from the US, Canada, and many other countries . As mentioned, it doesn’t matter whether you’re vaccinated or not.

Check the Korean Embassy if you’re not sure in either situation.

• When you travel to Korea, you will be asked to complete a self-check health questionnaire to show you’re not sick. You can do this when you arrive or complete it before you depart on the  Q-Code website .
• You don’t need to do any testing before you fly, but it is a good idea to take a self-test to make sure you’re safe. If you’re infected in Korea, it’s necessary to do 7 days self-quarantine. You don’t need to bring copies of your vaccination records but printing a copy of the K-ETA is recommended.

No, travelers from the USA don’t need a tourist visa to enter South Korea. You can visit for up to 90 days visa-free. However, you must apply for the K-ETA before traveling and upload your travel plans and hotel details.

Here are 6 of the best destinations in Korea that you absolutely must visit, as well as some of the sights you’ll want to check out while you’re there. We’ll be bringing you lots more detailed destination guides in the future, so be sure to visit again soon

This  Full Day Tour  of Seoul will show you some of the hottest spots in the city, while this  Customized Private Tour of Seoul  will allow you to choose where to go.

Korea is a unique country with a written language that looks nothing like English, interesting  Korean Cultural And Etiquette Rules , and an always busy lifestyle. Travelers may be lost trying to do even the simplest things.

If you’re traveling to Korea, you’re almost certainly going to want to get access to the internet to help you navigate, translate Korean, or even book tickets to attractions. Korea has one of the world’s best mobile internet and the prices are very reasonable. 5G mobile internet services are available across the country and Korea was one of the first to get the super-fast service. You won’t have problems connecting with a sim card or WiFi router when you travel

Traveling to any country involves potential scams, bad exchange rates, mistakes, and confusion when it comes to dealing with foreign currency. Fortunately, travelers to Korea have a wide range of options for travel money both before and while they travel.

South Korea is a country packed with famous landmarks and sights, unique culture – modern & historical,  family-fun activities, outdoor adventures, cozy cafe districts, and natural wonders. There’s more to do in Korea than you could imagine and it’s impossible to explore it all in one trip. Try to plan your itinerary by cities and locations. For example, plan your day in Seoul and stay by the district.

Here are some of the best things to see and do in South Korea, broken down into different themes so you can find things that interest you the most. The location of each of these attractions is included, too, so you can create a city-by-city itinerary, seeing the best South Korea has to offer.

Any South Korea Travel Guide would be incomplete without thee top landmarks & famous areas in Korea. These unmissable Korean attractions offer some of the best sights in Korea, showing you Korean history, culture, design, and sense of humor.

Learning about Korea’s past is not only enjoyable, it’ll also open your eyes to how modern Korean culture has evolved. Witness the majesty of grand palaces and the humble Buddhist temples and gain an insight into life in Korea with these fascination historical sights.

Are you a fan of Korean culture? Then check out these 10 modern K-Culture locations in Korea. Whether you’re ARMY or an arthouse cinema fan, you’ll love these sights. K-Drama fans, check out these  K-Drama Filming Spots in Seoul .

If you’re traveling to Korea with your family, you don’t need to worry about the kids getting bored. There are plenty of family-fun attractions in Korea to keep them amused and to show them what Korea’s really like.

Culture lovers will find no shortage of places to learn about Korean, Asian, and world history & culture. Korea has a rich history and displays this through a range of museums. Learn about traditional life, Korean wars, the democracy struggles, and even  kimchi .

Once a land of teahouses, Korea has now fully embraced coffee culture. Korea’s late-night culture makes cafes a great place to gather and chat. The rise of social media has also led to hundreds of insta-worthy cafes with photogenic decor, unusual coffee designs, and delicious desserts.

Many people travel to Korea just to shop, thanks to the low prices, haggling in the markets, and good quality items. From traditional markets to high-end designer goods, there’s somewhere to shop for everyone. Be sure to try authentic Korean street foods in the markets, too.

Korea is a country surrounded by sea on 3 sides and 70% mountainous, giving it a wealth of natural beauty. Besides  Korean cherry blossoms , flowers, and fall foliage, there are sculpted gardens, shimmering ponds, riverside parks, and a volcano to see.

Morning : Explore Seoul’s historic royal palaces starting with Gyeongbokgung or Changdeokgung Palace in central Seoul. You get free entry if you’re wearing a Korean hanbok, so be sure to pick one up from the rental shops outside.

Morning : Learn about Korea’s history at the National Museum or War Memorial in Yeongsan. These fascinating museums have interactive exhibits and feature 1000’s of years of Korean history.

Morning : Take a day trip from Seoul to explore Gapyeong County. See the wonders of the Garden of Morning Calm and its idyllic nature. This is one of the most beautiful gardens in Korea.

Morning : Grab an early breakfast at Seoul Station and ride the high-speed KTX train directly to Seoul. It takes less than 4 hours and rides past rice fields, mountains, and the Korean countryside.

Morning : Take a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Gyeongju and roam the Gyeongju Historic Area. See Daereungwon Tomb Complex and Cheomseongdae Observatory.

Morning : Pack your bags and ride the KTX back to Seoul. Head to Hongdae for street food snacks or Michelin-starred delights in famous restaurants.

March to May

June To August

September to November

December to February

Korean Souvenir Costs

The best places to buy souvenirs in Korea are in the traditional markets and tourist areas. Insadong in Seoul has a lot of art and souvenir shops, as do the market streets around Bukchon Hanok Village. Hongdae offers lots of bargain snacks and souvenirs to take home.

Day Trip Costs From Seoul

A day trip from Seoul is a must to see a different side of Korea from what you’ll experience in the capital. Taking a day trip is a great chance to experience Korea’s countryside, nature, and hard-to-reach cultural attractions.

Korean Activity Costs

Seoul and other Korean cities have so much to offer to tourists. From historical palaces to exciting theme parks and attractions, it’s easy to have fun, explore, and discover more about Korea’s history.

Flight Costs To Korea

Flight costs depend on which airports you’re traveling from. A flight from Los Angeles to Incheon Airport (Korea’s main airport) costs around $1370 right now. Flight costs vary depending on the season and time of day.

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in South Korea

Written by Freddy Sherman Updated Mar 20, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Freddy Sherman has traveled to South Korea multiple times, including a recent trip to Seoul in late 2022.

South Korea offers everything a traveler could want in a destination. It has a long and fascinating history, a wonderful culture, amazing food, friendly people, and an excellent tourism infrastructure (including a new high-speed rail system).

It's also a country of contrasts, with tourist attractions ranging from ancient mountaintop Buddhist temples like Bulguksa to the ultra-modern skyscrapers of Seoul, like the Lotte World Tower.

It also has one of the most unique attractions in the world that can be visited: a no man's land, part of a military border between two countries technically still at war (the DMZ). Discover the best places to visit with our list of the top tourist attractions in South Korea.

1. Experience Korean History at Changdeokgung Palace

2. explore beaches and history in busan, 3. visit jeonju, the former spiritual capital of korea, 4. view seoul from above at the n seoul tower, 5. see how people lived 600 years ago at the bukchon hanok village, 6. hike in the mountains at seoraksan national park, 7. look into north korea at the dmz, 8. check out korean art, history, and archeology at the national museum of korea, 9. have fun at korea's largest amusement park, lotte world, 10. gyeongbokgung palace, 11. ride the cable car at hallyeo maritime national park, 12. bulguksa temple, 13. visit the blue house, south korea's white house, 14. enjoy a beach getaway on jeju island, 15. walk through seoul's restored gwanghwamun gate, 16. stay overnight at jingwansa temple, 17. spend a night out in itaewon, 18. enjoy a meal in one of seoul's street food markets, 19. admire cherry blossoms at the jinhae cherry blossom festival, map of tourist attractions in south korea.

Of the five grand palaces built by the Joseon Dynasty in the 15 th century around Seoul, Changdeokgung Palace was always the preferred royal residence. It's where the king and royal family lived their daily lives.

The palace isn't just a single building, it's a complex of buildings, and each served a different purpose. Some are accommodations; some are libraries, dining rooms, and meeting rooms, among other uses. Be sure to spend some time in the 78-acre Huwon, or palace garden, located behind the palace. It's filled with pathways, green spaces, pagodas, streams, and lakes.

Address: 99 Yulgok-ro, Waryong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Seoul

Did you know you can hit the beach in Korea? Busan is the second largest city in the country, and its coast is lined with some beautiful beaches and resorts. There's a lot of culture and history here, too. Be sure to visit the Beomeosa Temple and the hillside village of Gamecheon . Gamecheon is a European-style village on the cliffs above the sea, like Korea's version of Santorini.

Seafood lovers should be sure to visit Jagalchi Market , the country's largest commercial seafood market. Part of the market is open to consumers, and there are many small restaurants that will cook up your purchase, so you can eat it right here.

Getting to Busan is easy, it takes a little more than two hours from Seoul on Korea's KTX high-speed bullet train.

Jeonju is a very historic city, once the spiritual capital of the Joseon Dynasty, it's about 90 minutes by train from Seoul. It's home to many ancient temples and shrines along with a hanok village. These are found throughout Korea. They are preserved neighborhoods of ancient and old homes (hanoks), allowing visitors to get a feel for what life was like in ancient Korea.

Some of the homes in the hanok villages are open for tours, and others have been made into museums (and restaurants and lodging, too), but most remain private homes.

Yes, everyone visiting Seoul should go up in the city's iconic observation tower. Its position almost on top of a mountain, plus the height of the tower itself, gets you almost 500 meters above sea level and the city below.

But, leave some time to explore the surrounding mountain area. The tower is near the top of Mount Namsan, and the entire area is Namsan Park, which is run by the city. There are miles of hiking trails to explore, all within a few minutes of downtown Seoul.

The top levels of the N Seoul Tower include indoor and outdoor observation areas and restaurants. The exterior of the tower is covered in LED lighting, which is illuminated each night in seasonal light shows.

There's a cable car that takes you from the city (near Myeongdong) to the tower's base area. You can then hike from here. After climbing the mountain and riding on the cable car, leave time to explore the Namsan Hanok Village . These preserved historic villages, which are located all over Seoul and Korea, are re-creations of ancient Korean neighborhoods. This village includes five restored hanoks or traditional Korean homes.

Address: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan 2(i)ga-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Hanok villages, which can be found in a few places in Seoul and around Korea, are living museums. They're restored and preserved ancient neighborhoods, some in their original location (like Bukchon) and some re-created with hanoks (traditional Korean homes) moved from elsewhere. They give visitors an opportunity to not only experience what it was like to live in a hanok, but also what it was like to live in Korea 600 years ago.

You can experience the tiny, narrow streets and also explore Korean culture, as many of the hanoks are museums or offer cultural demonstrations. Many are private homes, and some offer accommodations. That's what makes these village areas so special; they are true living history because many of the homes are privately owned and occupied by real local residents.

Bukchon Hanok Village is a popular place to explore, as it's right in central Seoul, in the area between the Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Changdeokgung Palace .

Like the Yosemite of Korea, this majestic natural wonderland (Korea's first national park) has mountains, lakes, waterfalls, streams, and miles of hiking trails that allow you to explore them.

This park is known for its natural diversity, as it has over 1,500 different animal species and over 1,000 different kinds of plants. There are also two Buddhist temples inside the park, one known as the " Temple of a Hundred Pools " due to all the ponds around it fed by mountain streams.

When you get tired of walking, there's a cable car that will take you up Seoraksan Mountain for some incredible views of the mountains and valleys. It takes about four hours by bus or three hours by car to reach the park from Seoul.

DMZ stands for demilitarized zone, and it's the no-man's land border between North and South Korea. Heavily guarded and mined, this strange area can be visited, but only on an official, guided tour. The official area is about four kilometers wide and is formally known as the JSA or Joint Security Area. It's probably the best place to visit in South Korea to learn about this conflict.

The No Shopping Half-Day Korean DMZ Tour from Seoul includes round-trip transportation from Seoul. Official DMZ tours include a visit to the 3rd Tunnel, dug by the North to facilitate an invasion of the South, and to the Dora Observatory, where you can look across no-man's-land into North Korea.

As a world capital, Seoul is filled with a lot of museums. The largest is the National Museum of Korea , and like the Met in New York, it's a place that really can't be explored in a single visit. The vast collection combines art, history, and archeology, presented to show the history of Korean culture and tell the story of the Korean people.

It's also an excellent attraction to see if you only have limited time in Seoul. The collection is beyond vast, as it goes back over a million years. It's fascinating, especially for families and kids as there's such a wide range of objects. Everything from Stone Age tools to modern artwork by Korean artists.

Address: 137 Seobinggo-ro, Seobinggo-dong, Yongsan-gu

There's an amusement park right in the middle of downtown Seoul. It's a fun place to spend the day and a chance to immerse yourself in real Korean commercial culture. Lotte World includes a hotel, movie theaters (one with the world's largest screen), a folk museum with traditional performances, and other things to do like ice skating.

This theme park is at the base of the Lotte World Tower, the tallest building in South Korea and the fifth tallest building in the world. The tower has multiple observation areas and experiences, its own luxury hotel (the SIGNIEL SEOUL ), and a range of shopping and dining options inside.

A visit is fun for both kids and adults, and aside from the rides and attractions there's a lot of shopping and also artists' workshops and cultural performances to watch. There's the world's largest indoor theme park and an outdoor theme park area called Magic Island .

For a bigger, outdoor theme park experience, Everland is about 45 minutes outside Seoul and is Korea's version of Disneyland.

Address: Songpa-gu, Jamsil 6(yuk)-dong, Olympic-ro, 300, Seoul

Also known as the Northern Palace, the large Gyeongbokgung Palace complex has gone through some incredible turmoil over the years. It was first built in 1395 during the Joseon dynasty, which built five grand palaces around Seoul. The palace has been bombed, destroyed, and rebuilt several times, occupied by the Japanese (first in 1592), and only finally restored in 1990.

Be sure to check out Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and Hyangwonjeong Pond , two of the remaining original structures from the Joseon period.

The palace compound can be explored on a guided walking tour . There are also two museums inside the grounds (the National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum ), both worth a visit.

Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul

The ruggedly beautiful Hallyeo Maritime National Park includes miles of raw coastline on over 300 separate islands. Each has hiking trails with spectacular ocean and cliff views. The area also features a cable car, known as the Hallyeosudo Viewing Ropeway . It's the only dual-cable, automatic circulating gondola system in the country.

The ride is almost 2.4 kilometers long and takes nine minutes to reach the summit. You're rewarded with sweeping views of the countryside and coastline, including the Japanese island of Daemado. The park is about an hour by bus or car from downtown Seoul.

One of Korea's true must-see Buddhist temples, Bulguksa Temple is considered by many to be the country's most important. It's officially Historic and Scenic Site Number One as classified by the government. The temple is home to seven of the country's national treasures, sacred pagodas, and statues of the Buddha.

The temple is on the slopes of Mount Toham in Gyeongju, the ancient capital city of Korea. It's a city so historic, it's called a "museum without walls" due to all the historic sites and temples. Gyeongju is about two and a half hours from Seoul via the new KTX high-speed train.

Address: 15-1 Jinhyeon-dong, Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Named for the striking blue-tile roofs of its many pavilions and buildings, the Blue House, much like the White House, is the home of the Korean president. The very secure complex of buildings also houses many Korean executive government offices and official meeting sites. It's an interesting place to visit, as it gives you a behind-the-scenes look at modern Korean government and Korean formal culture.

A lot of what you see on the guided sightseeing tour are meeting rooms and official state reception rooms where foreign dignitaries are welcomed. Hour-long public tours are given, but you need to apply online in advance for a security check.

Address: 1 Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul

A very popular resort destination (think the Hawaii of Korea), this volcanic island is best reached via a quick hour-long domestic flight from Seoul. The island boasts beautiful beaches along with a lot of culture and history.

The highest mountain in South Korea (a dormant volcano called Hallasan) is here along with miles of giant lava tubes. The lava tubes, which can be explored, are natural air pockets in the hardened lava, the size of railway tunnels.

Be sure to visit Jungmun Beach to see the diving women. These are women who free dive hundreds of feet to catch different types of seafood. This tradition started centuries ago, when the local men were all out on fishing boats. The island also has hundreds of miles of hiking trails and a lot of hot springs and health spas.

This attraction is a giant gate, formerly the opening in the fortress wall to the Gyeongbokgung Palace located within. It was originally built with the palace in the 15 th century but has been destroyed and rebuilt many times. Most recently in 2010, it was moved back to its original location in front of the palace and Gwanghwamun Square and restored with authentic materials using traditional techniques.

The previous restoration included concrete and other non-traditional construction techniques, but the new gate has been completely constructed with ancient techniques, using only native woods and handmade fittings.

Gwanghwamun Gate is home to the changing of the guards ceremony (performed since 1469), which happens daily (except Tuesdays) at 10am and 2pm. The area in front of the gate, Gwanghwamun Square, is a large public space often used for political and social demonstrations.

This ancient temple complex about 15 minutes from downtown Seoul offers both an authentic Buddhist temple experience (including a temple stay program) and a beautiful national park. The temple, which was first established at the site in 1,000 BCE, has several programs for visitors to learn about and experience Buddhism and the monk lifestyle.

The temple is a must-visit attraction for foodies, as they grow most of their own food on-site. The temple also prepares its own Korean specialties, like pickling kimchi in ancient, giant pottery jars. Jingwansa offers meals to the public (and extended overnight stays) and educational programs that show the sustainability of the ancient temple operation.

You can do a temple stay program, which includes an overnight visit, or just come for a meal (vegetarian) or to explore the buildings and shrines. You can also visit the area just to explore Bukhansan National Park , as the temple is inside it. There are miles of hiking trails and three peaks, which can be climbed. Aside from the mountains and forests and their spectacular scenery, there are also ruins of an ancient fortress along the hiking trails.

Address: 73 Jingwan-gil, Jingwan-dong, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul

Yes, it's a touristy, ex-pat area filled with gift shops and street food, but the Itaewon neighborhood is a great place to just spend an afternoon wandering around. It's especially fun in the early evening, when residents also come out to grab dinner and people-watch. There's an energy here that defines the cosmopolitan city, and it's also a popular strolling spot for locals. You'll see a lot of Korean families, kids, and couples enjoying the shops and restaurants.

For those in search of authentic Korean food, this is not the place to come, but it is the place to come for international foods not widely available in Seoul. Things like Italian food, pizza, burgers, and American-style western barbecue.

As one of the world's great food cultures, no visit to Korea is complete without enjoying some street food. The Gwangjang Market, in Central Seoul , is truly a foodie heaven on earth. The large covered market area is filled with multiple food stalls offering a complete array of Korean specialties. It's definitely one of the best places to visit in Seoul if you're hungry.

The cool thing about this market and most food markets in Seoul is that the majority of these food stalls are like little mini restaurants in that they have a row of stools and a counter, so you can sit and eat. It's also cool that most stands will offer you a free sample.

Stalls typically offer bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), bibimbap (rice mixed with sauteed beef, vegetables, and gochujang red chili paste), gimbap (Korean sushi), sundae (blood sausage), tteokbokki (stir-fried spicy rice cakes), and various types of noodles.

Boasting almost 400,000 cherry trees, some over 100 years old, Jinhae is the best place in Korea to enjoy cherry trees blossoming with flowers each spring. This small town, located along South Korea's southern coast, hosts the country's most popular annual cherry blossom festival. Over a million visitors a year come to Jinhae just to see the cherry blossoms.

Formally known as Gunhangjae (Naval Port Festival), the Jinhae cherry blossom festival takes place in late March or early April, depending on when the trees are in flower. Head to Yeojwacheon stream and Jinhae's Gyeonghwa train station for some of the best blossom viewing. You can also enjoy the festival's food markets, public art installations, and live performances.

Getting from Seoul to Jinhae is easy via South Korea's high-speed ATX train — the journey takes just under three hours.

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Best (and Worst) Times to Visit South Korea in 2024/2025

South Korea experiences four distinct seasons. Generally, the best times to visit South Korea are in spring (March to May) for the cherry blossoms and autumn (September to November) for the fall foliage . Both periods have mild temperatures with an average range of around 10–16°C (50–61°F), with more clear days than summer/winter.

The best time for you to visit South Korea could be different however, depending on what you want to see and your travel preferences. Read our article to find out the best times to visit South Korea based on different factors.

• 1.South Korea Weather and Climate
• 2. The Worst Times to Visit South Korea
• 3. Best Times for Pleasant Weather and Fewer Crowds
• 4. The Cheapest Time to Visit South Korea
• 5. South Korea Travel Guide by Month

South Korea Weather and Climate

South Korea has four distinct seasons:

Spring (March to May): Being one of the best times to visit South Korea, the average temperature ranges from 8–16°C (46–61°F) , providing pleasant weather to enjoy the cherry blossoms and outdoor activities.

Summer (June to August): The sweltering conditions may make it uncomfortable for you to explore sightseeing spots during summer in South Korea. The average daily high during this season is 30°C (86°F) and there is frequent rainfall due to the rainy season. June is a better time to travel compared to July and August as it's cooler and has fewer crowds, with an average daily temperature range of 18–27°C (64–81°F).

Autumn (September to November): This is another one of the best times to visit South Korea. Cooler temperatures and decreased rainfall are the main features of this season. The average night-day temperature range is from 10 to 18°C (50–64°F). Many locals choose to go hiking during fall.

Winter (December to February): It is the coldest and driest time of the year, with temperatures ranging from 3 to 5°C (37–41°F) on a typical day. We don't usually advise visiting South Korea during this period because it is too cold for comfort. However, if you are going for skiing or snowboarding activities, it's a different story. A Japanese skiing/ winter experience is even better though.

Suggested reading: How to Plan a Trip to South Korea >>>

The Worst Times to Visit South Korea

The summer months (July to August) in South Korea are the worst time to visit. High temperatures usually reach up 35°C (95°F) on the hottest days, and two-thirds of the annual rainfall occurs during this season, making heavy rainfall common. Therefore, you're recommended to avoid this period if you have a flexible schedule.

The second worst time to visit South Korea is in winter , from December to February. January is the coldest month of the year, with temperatures in Seoul sometimes dropping below -10°C (14°F) and occasionally falling below -15°C (5°F).

Suggested reading: Plan a Family Trip to South Korea >>>

Best Times for Pleasant Weather and Fewer Crowds

Late April to May has mild weather in South Korea , with average daily temperatures ranging from 13 to 23°C (55–73°F), and there are more sunny days before the rainy season arrives. The crowds of people viewing the cherry blossoms have disappeared and the summer vacation has not yet started, making it a perfect time to do outdoor activities and go sightseeing.

June is the start of summer and the rainy season in South Korea. The night-day temperature range is about 18–27°C (64–81°F) and rainfall typically consists of steady drizzles, but it doesn't rain every day.

September marks the tail end of the summer crowds and the rainy season. The weather tends to be drier and cooler, with an average daily temperature range of 17–26°C (63–79°F). More crowds arrive in October and November for the colorful autumn scenery. South Korea usually has a 3-day holiday in September for the important Chuseok (Mid-Autumn) festival and some stores may close or open late. Chuseok would not affect your trip and could be a chance to see more of Korea's culture.

Suggested reading: Plan a 2-Week Itinerary in Japan and South Korea >>>

The Cheapest Time to Visit South Korea

Winter (December to February) is the cheapest time to visit South Korea, except during Christmas and New Year (usually from December 23rd to January 5th). Not only could you benefit from lower hotel prices and better deals on international flights, but also you would see fewer crowds. However, be prepared for the chilly weather!

South Korea Travel Guide by Month

January and february: cold and dry.

• Average temperature: -4–5°C (25–41°F)
• Average rainfall: 23 mm (1 in)

January and February in South Korea have the coldest and driest weather of the year, with temperatures dropping as low as -10°C (14°F). It's quite cold and it may not be an ideal time for you to visit the country.

Festivals and events: Seollal, Korean Lunar New Year, is the most important festival in South Korea. During this time, you could immerse yourself in Korean culture at a temple fair to experience traditional Korean performances, sample local cuisines, and pray for the coming year.

March to April: Best Time for Cherry Blossoms

• Average temperature: 5–14°C (41–57°F)
• Average rainfall: 56 mm (2 in)

The cherry blossom season, from March to April, is one of the best times to visit South Korea due to the pleasant weather and increased number of sunny days. The cherry blossoms are usually in full bloom from late March to early April.

Festivals and events: Cherry blossom festivals are held in many cities in South Korea to view the charming pink blossoms, and it's the most popular event in spring.

May: Warm with Clearer Days

• Average temperature: 13–23°C (55–73°F)
• Average rainfall: 106 mm (4 in)

May offers an excellent opportunity for travel in South Korea due to its pleasant climate and sunny days. It's a perfect time to travel, particularly if you have a flexible schedule , as the rainy season and summer vacation crowds have yet to arrive.

June: Coolest Summer Month

• Average temperature: 18–27°C (64–81°F)
• Average rainfall: 133 mm (5 in)

June marks the beginning of summer in South Korea and is considered to be the coolest month to travel during the summer season. However, it is also the start of the rainy season, which typically means a steady drizzle rather than downpours.

June is a better month for families with school-age children (if you can get time off school) compared to July and August because you could enjoy fewer crowds and lower costs.

Festivals and events: South Korea celebrates the Dragon Boat Festival. As well as seeing dragon boat races, you could also eat aizi cake (wormwood rice dumplings) and appreciate captivating traditional performances.

July to August: Hot and Humid

• Average temperature: 22–31°C (72–88°F)
• Average rainfall: 380 mm (15 in)

July and August are the hottest months of the year, and the rainfall is very high and sometimes stormy. However, it does not rain every day. High temperatures could exceed 35°C (95°F), creating an uncomfortable feeling of heat and humidity while doing outdoor sightseeing on some days. There are also the summer vacation crowds. If you are flexible with when you can go, it is suggested that you avoid this period.

September: End of the Rainy Season with Fewer Crowds

• Average temperature: 17–26°C (63–79°F)
• Average rainfall: 169 mm (7 in)

The weather becomes cooler and drier in September. You could expect fewer crowds and cheaper costs when traveling to South Korea during this month.

Festivals and events: The Chuseok festival is another important festival in South Korea where you could appreciate the full moon and enjoy traditional performances, immersing yourself in the festive atmosphere.

October to November: Best Time for Autumn Foliage

• Average temperature: 7–16°C (45–61°F)
• Average rainfall: 52 mm (2 in)

October to November is one of the peak times to travel to South Korea due to the comfortable weather and sunny days. The whole country explodes with colors and you could enjoy the stunning red and yellow fall foliage scenery.

December: Celebrating Christmas

• Average temperature: -3–4°C (27–39°F)
• Average rainfall: 22 mm (1 in)

December is cold and dry in South Korea. Although it's not quite as cold as January, it's too cold for travel without being encumbered by lots of warm clothing. If you want to celebrate Christmas with your family in South Korea, remember to book your Christmas feast in advance.

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How to Visit South Korea

Last Updated: January 22, 2024 References

This article was co-authored by Allyson Edwards . Allyson Edwards graduated from Stanford University with a BA in International Relations. Afterwards, she went on to facilitate International partnerships with agencies in over twenty countries, and has consulted for companies in industries across education, fintech, and retail. There are 19 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 54,830 times.

Planning to mark a trip to South Korea off your bucket list? You’ll need to plan ahead to make sure you have your passport ready and work to get the best rates on airline tickets. From there, you’ll need to know some basics about the country, like their currency, public transit, and some awesome places to visit. Once you have all that covered, you are ready for a memorable experience. Adventure awaits!

Preparing for Your Trip

• You’ll want to start on this early because it can take up to 8 weeks to receive your new passport. Even if you choose to pay the extra fee to have it expedited, it can still take 2-3 weeks to receive. [2] X Research source

• Online websites and videos are a good resource to help you get familiar with basic phrases. [4] X Research source
• Translator apps that you can download to your phone are a super helpful tool for more difficult conversations. [5] X Research source

• Summers are wet with monsoon rains, so you will want to bring your rain gear if traveling in July or August. [7] X Research source
• Winters are extremely cold but dry, with temperatures dropping below 0°. If traveling December - March, you won’t need snow boots, but may want to bring your parka! [8] X Research source

Booking Travel and Accommodations

• Airline companies often run special promotions, so booking directly through them during those times is a good idea.
• Don’t forget to check travel companies like Orbitz and Expedia because sometimes they end up having really good deals. They also offer special packages that include airfare, hotel, and transportation, which may save you some money. [10] X Research source

• If you want to stay somewhere more modern or upscale, like a luxury hotel or resort, you’ll want to book in advance. Don’t wait until the last minute as they usually book up fast or charge higher prices for late bookings. [11] X Research source
• For a uniquely Korean experience, stay in a hanok, which is traditional Korean housing. They feature privacy, incredible architecture, and beautiful gardens. [12] X Research source It’ll cost you a little more to stay here, but you’ll be glad you had the experience!
• If you just need a place to rest a little while you are on the go, check out a Jjimjilbang, which is basically a community sauna with a heated floor that will cost you the equivalent of just a few dollars to sleep on.

• Renting a car to drive yourself might not be a great idea--road systems are complex and traffic is dense. Plus, you have to be over 21 to have an international driver’s permit. [14] X Research source

Making the Most of Your Vacation

• The exchange rate is always changing, so check the current rate when you arrive to give you a good idea of how much money you should convert.
• Most major credit cards are accepted in larger cities, but be aware that you may be charged a foreign transaction fee for using them. [16] X Research source

• Entry will cost you 8000₩ for adults, 4000-6000₩ for youth, and children under 6 years old are free.
• Take a break to play and go on a ride on the ferris wheel for a small additional fee!

• For the most value for your money, try YongPyong Resort, which features over 15 miles (24 km) of slopes and 15 lifts. Day ticket prices are about 76,000₩ for adults and 61,000₩ for children.

• This outing will cost you about 2000₩ for adults, 1200₩ for teenagers, and 600₩ for children. They do offer group rates as well. [20] X Research source

• Doota shopping mall and 10 Corso Como offer super-trendy shopping, while Namdaemun Market is home of the biggest traditional Korean market for local and handmade goods.

Community Q&A

• Planning an international trip can be overwhelming, but don't worry! Creating a detailed plan and checklist, and marking items off as you go, will get you trip-ready in no time! Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

• If you go anywhere near the Demilitarized Zone, be very careful. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.worldtravelguide.net/guides/asia/south-korea/passport-visa/
• ↑ https://passportinfo.com/passport-renewal/
• ↑ https://www.fluentu.com/blog/korean/korean-travel-phrases/
• ↑ https://www.fluentu.com/blog/korean/online-korean-course/
• ↑ https://www.fluentu.com/blog/korean/korean-translator-app/
• ↑ https://www.selectiveasia.com/south-korea-holidays/weather
• ↑ https://www.cnbc.com/2017/05/11/whens-the-best-time-to-book-a-flight.html
• ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/2011/02/27/travel/27prac-vacationpackage.html
• ↑ https://www.smartertravel.com/stay-south-korea-lodging-tips/
• ↑ http://travel.cnn.com/seoul/visit/5-reasons-stay-hanok-while-traveling-korea-813242/
• ↑ https://www.lonelyplanet.com/south-korea/transport/getting-around/local-transport
• ↑ https://www.worldtravelguide.net/guides/asia/south-korea/getting-around/
• ↑ https://www.worldtravelguide.net/guides/asia/south-korea/money-duty-free/
• ↑ https://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/credit-cards/foreign-transaction-fee/
• ↑ https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/south-korea-beautiful-places/index.html
• ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidbressan/2018/02/10/winter-olympics-geology-perfect-ski-slopes-are-the-results-of-250-million-years-of-earths-history/#50a3605e4a89
• ↑ http://www.art-and-archaeology.com/korea/gyeongju/an01.html
• ↑ https://thisiskoreatours.com/project/anapji-wolji-pond/
• ↑ https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/worlds-best-shopping-cities/index.html

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The Most Beautiful Places in South Korea

By Caitlin Morton

South Korea is on everyone's radar right now, as PyeongChang gears up to host the Winter Olympics beginning on February 9. But the country's appeal extends far beyond athletic facilities—with ancient temples , tea plantations, trendy neighborhoods, and more than 3,000 offshore islands to explore, South Korea should be on everyone's travel bucket list. Need more convincing? Here are the country's most beautiful sites, ready to welcome you long after the Olympians head home.

Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond

Located near the city of Gyeongju, this 7th-century palace complex contains well-preserved temples, museums filled with ancient relics, and three small islands. Its star attraction is the surrounding Wolji Pond, an artificial lake that perfectly reflects the buildings (especially at night) and becomes covered with lotus flowers in the summer.

Cheongsando Island

Southern Cheongsando Island is known for its untouched beauty—think terraced rice paddies, panoramic ocean views, and fields of yellow rapeseed flowers. The island is also famous for embracing the concept of slow living, hosting a "Slow Walking Festival" every year in which visitors and residents are encouraged to stroll the walking trails as slowly as possible to better soak in the scenery.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), Seoul

Built in 2014 near Seoul's Dongdaemun Market , this Zaha Hadid-designed plaza is well worth exploring for a few hours. The building's seven levels can be explored on a guided tour or at your own leisurely pace, but the on-site history museum and clothing market are just added bonuses to the architecture itself, designed with no angles nor straight lines.

Samgwangsa Temple, Busan

Samgwangsa Temple is known for its annual lantern festival, an event honoring Buddha's birthday (usually in late May) that attracts over a million visitors every year. During the festival, countless lanterns light up in spectacular colors beneath the night sky.

Olivia Morelli

Stacey Lastoe

Maresa Manara

Boseong County

About 40 percent of the country's green tea supply grows in the fields of Boseong, which attracts photographers and filmmakers as much as tea drinkers thanks to its dramatic green fields.

Located about 20 miles west of Busan, Jinhae is a quiet coastal town known for one thing: cherry blossoms. Each spring, the city holds the largest cherry blossom festival in South Korea, with hundreds of thousands of pink trees lining streets, railways, and streams.

Ulleungdo Island

This volcanic island boasts some seriously impressive scenery, with Hawaii-esque coastlines and Cabo San Lucas-esque rock formations. But visual similarities aside, this Sea of Japan destination is truly one of a kind—especially when you throw in the island's famous seafood dishes (like honghap bap , a seasoned rice dish served with mussels).

Jirisan National Park

Established in 1967, this is the oldest official national park in the country, drawing visitors for its 119,350 acres of rolling mountains and valleys, temple complexes, and Asiatic black bear habitats.

Haeinsa Temple

Haeinsa is one of the most famous ancient sights in the country, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. Aside from its beauty, the temple is home to the Tripitaka Koreana , a collection of some 80,000 tablets engraved with Buddhist writings.

Juwangsan National Park

Juwangsan National Park may be small (about 41 square miles), but it packs quite the punch. The park is known for the vertical, rocky cliffs of Juwangsan Mountain, tucked-away waterfalls, and willow tree-filled Jusanji Pond (pictured).

Jogyesa Temple, Seoul

This 620-year-old Buddhist temple may be the most photographic spot in the Insadong district, with streams of pink, blue, and yellow lanterns on the ceiling and window shudders carved into the shape of trees.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Busan

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple has one of the most scenic locations of any temple in the country—overlooking the sea on the northwest corner of Busan. Most temples are found in the mountains, so the chance to meditate while watching the sun rise over the ocean is particularly special.

Cheonjiyeon Falls

Located on Jeju Island—a wholly beautiful destination in its own right—this 72-foot-tall waterfall is surrounded by walking trails, lemon trees, and a pond filled with tropical (and totally harmless) eels. There is truly no wrong time to visit, as the cascades are lit up at night.

Located at the easternmost end of the country, Homigot is the place to watch the sun rise in South Korea. Due to its location, the area is the first in the country to catch sight of the rising sun—there is even a Sunrise Festival held here every New Year's, where visitors gather in masses to watch the solar event together. The site is made even more special with "Hand of Harmony," a sculpture featuring two hands—one on land, one in the ocean—reaching upward in a symbol of harmony.

Naganeupseong Folk Village

Time seems to stand still in this village, with houses, castles, and monuments appearing almost exactly as they did 600 years ago. Cultural significance aside, the village is a unique tourist attraction—visitors get to tour houses, watch traditional dance performances, and take lessons in Korean tea ceremony etiquette.

Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest—and arguably the most beautiful—of Seoul's five palaces. Its Gyeonghoeru pavilion remains nearly exactly as it was when it was built back in 1395, and its on-site museums feature some of the best Korean art in the country.

Oedo-Botania

You can't visit the city of Geoje without taking a ferry ride to the nearby island of Oedo, home to Oedo-Botania. The 12 square miles of this marine botanical garden contain more than 3,000 species of plants, with perfectly manicured green spaces modeled after the gardens at Versailles .

Upo Wetlands

Stretching across 526 acres, Upo is the largest swamp area in the country. Visitors can walk or bike around the wetlands, getting glimpses of the more than 1,500 species of plants and endangered animals, plus beautiful willow groves and gatherings of fireflies.

Bulguksa Temple, Gyeongju National Park

Built in 774, the Temple of Bulguksa is found in the incredibly scenic Gyeongju National Park on the slopes of Mount Tohamsan. The complex's stone terraces, bridges, and pagodas look especially lovely in winter, covered by a light layer of snow.

Metasequoia Road, Damyang

Lined with giant sequoia trees planted back in the 1970s, this is one of the most popular roads in all of South Korea—both for drivers and walkers. The path is particularly gorgeous in summer, when the treetops cover the road in a lush green canopy.

Sinheungsa Temple, Seoraksan Mountain

There are many reasons to visit Sinheungsa Temple, from its towering bronze Buddha statue to its architecturally stunning buildings. But the main draw is perhaps the surrounding nature, with the Seoraksan mountain and colorful trees serving as the perfect backdrop.

Bukchon Hanok Village, Seoul

In an increasingly modern city like Seoul, the Bukchon Hanok Village stands apart for its quiescence. Hundreds of the hanoks (traditional Korean houses) have been protected, with many buildings now serving as tea houses and galleries.

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Reasons Why You Should Visit South Korea at Least Once in Your Lifetime

While South Korea might not yet be the number one travel destination for many around the world, there are plentiful reasons why you should visit the country of the morning calm on your next vacation. From history to culture and food to religion, take a look at our guide to the top reasons why you should visit South Korea at least once in your lifetime.

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Pulsating culture

Due to their long history, South Koreans have a variety of traditions they have kept alive throughout centuries. Still today, you can watch traditional Korean dance and music performances, while people love to dress in traditional clothes ( hanbok ) – you can rent it to wear around Seoul and Jeonju, for example. Even in modern Seoul, you can still find traditional hanok house neighborhoods with lovely teahouses that have been in existence for decades. This mix of old and new is truly fun to explore when traveling in South Korea.

Rich History

The history of South Korea is long and dating back over a thousand years. Due to the natural isolation of the Korean Peninsula, the country’s culture hasn’t changed as much as in other regions. Still today, you can stand in awe of some of the most significant cultural heritage sites of the country, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main palace situated in Seoul. The city of Gyeongju is also a place of historic value and is often called a ‘museum without walls’. Gyeongju was the capital of Korea during the Silla Dynasty from 57 BC – 935 AD and is home to countless royal tombs, palaces, and temples that are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Year-round Festivals

When you are for the first time in South Korea, make sure you visit a festival. Every year, there are more festivals in South Korea than one could attend, with a couple of main festivities everyone likes to join in with. When the snow melts and the weather gets warmer, pink and white cherry blossoms transform South Korea into a magical wonderland for a short period at the beginning of spring, and thousands of people come to see the blossoms from all over the country. Buddha’s Birthday is another major holiday celebrated in May with lantern parades and performances at local temples, while in fall, Koreans celebrate their own version of Thanksgiving during Chuseok and honor their ancestors during proudly conducted ceremonies. In fact, there are festivals in every month of the year for every taste.

Futuristic Modernity

In contrast to its historic landmarks, South Korea is a pioneer in creating new and innovative structures. Looking at Seoul, for example, you are surrounded by futuristic buildings in one part of the city, such as the Dongdaemun Design Plaza by Zaha Hadid, while traditional hanok neighborhoods lie just around the corner. Earlier this year, Seoul proudly opened the world’s fifth largest skyscraper piercing majestically out of the ground overlooking the Han River. It comes with little surprise that some of the world’s leading companies are also located here, including Samsung, Hyundai and Kia.

Exciting Food

Koreans are very proud of their unique cuisine. This is another result of the country’s natural isolation and climate leading to particular food preparation methods. Take kimchi , for example, the country’s number one side dish made from salted and fermented vegetables that are kept in jars for months, one of many practices used to protect food during harsh winters. Over the centuries, Koreans have created a fascinating and rich food culture made up of meat dishes, stews, soups, noodle dishes, seafood and many vegetable side dishes. Visit South Korea and you should spend an entire day roaming street markets sampling your way through this concert of flavors.

Quiet Countryside

As South Korea is not yet a worldwide popular vacation destination like its neighbors China and Japan, you will find untouched rural areas giving insight into traditional Korean lifestyle. While around 20% of all South Koreans live in and near Seoul, it’s especially the small rural villages where you can find peace and quiet. The well-connected railway and express bus systems make it easy to also explore the less visited areas of the country. You’ll be surprised that you can find lush rice terraces and hidden temples right here in South Korea.

You can find even more tranquility and inner peace when joining a one- or two-day templestay program, which allows you to spend some time living like Buddhist monks in temples across Korea. While the Korean templestay program might not be as heard of around the world, it’s a well-established organization offering English-speaking programs to anyone around the country. Whether you want to experience a templestay in downtown Seoul or in rural South Korea on top of a mountain, the options are endless and the results are incredibly rewarding.

Vibrant cities

While Seoul is arguably the most thrilling city in South Korea, it’s not the only large city that’s worth a visit. Despite its small size, South Korea has plenty of exciting cities from north to south. Busan in the very south, for example, is the country’s second largest city and located on a beautiful coastline with sandy beaches and clear ocean water. Jeonju in the west of the country is one of the last places featuring a traditional old town with Korean hanok houses and a beautiful destination in spring and fall. Each of Korea’s nine provinces has its own local cuisine and attractions that are worth exploring.

K-pop Culture

South Korea is world-famous for its exciting music culture. K-pop is not only a music genre, it’s part of Korean culture that captures people all over Asia and the world. Walking down main pedestrian streets in South Korea, you will hear the latest hits of the industry. K-pop fans visit South Korea in waves and visit their favorite group’s or singer’s music label, get a K-pop makeover or visit K-pop-themed cafés. If you’re not yet into Korean music, we guarantee you that after you visit South Korea, you will be.

Korean Trendsetters

K-pop and Korean fashion go almost hand in hand. However, in recent years, South Korea has not only become known for coming up with quirky outfits for their boy and girl groups but also setting global trends in regular fashion. Seoul Fashion Week, for example, is becoming more and more visited by international designers and fashion labels who visit fashion shows to import Korean fashion lines to their home countries in Europe, America, Africa and all over Asia. Visiting Seoul, visitors will also notice that South Koreans, in general, are very fashionable and love to experiment and show off their hot streetwear on the streets of Seoul. Visit Dongdaemun, Gangnam or Myeongdong to get your own sets of Korean outfits to take home with you.

Make-up and Skincare

Ever wonder why Korean women (and men!) have flawless and stunningly beautiful skin? Koreans see taking care of their skin as an essential part of their daily lives and they spend more money on skincare and beauty than anywhere else in the world. Many Koreans even have a ten-step morning and night routine they strictly follow day after day to maintain their beautiful skin. It’s therefore no wonder that South Korea is home to countless skincare and make-up brands offering the most innovative and futuristic products on the global market. If that’s not a great reason to come to Korea, then we don’t know what is!

Quirky Entertainment Options

Entertainment is very important to South Koreans and they come up with new ways to keep themselves amused almost every month. We have all heard of the quirky themed cafés all over Seoul that offer visitors the chance to pet cats or dogs, play with racoons, cuddle with meerkats and engage with all kinds of other animals. There are also themed cafés that allow you to dress up as a princess and take pictures or eat food shaped like poop. Karaoke rooms have also been part of Korean entertainment for decades and are popular among all age groups. PC rooms are also well-visited, usually by a younger crowd, who compete in a variety of online games with people from all over the world – so much so that South Korea has become a leading force in global e-sports.

Stunning Coastline and Beaches

Due to South Korea being a peninsula, the country offers miles and miles of beautiful coast and stunning beaches. Korea also has a lot of beautiful islands, the most popular and largest one being Jeju Island. Jeju Island is one of Korea’s most visited destinations thanks to its exceptional natural wonders and breathtaking beaches. Another beautiful beach and coastal region is Jeollado in the west of the country. Moreover, the eastern coast is famous for beautiful sunrises, the earliest in the country.

Picturesque Mountain Ranges

South Korean attractions include beautiful national parks. Despite its small size, South Korea is home to 22 national parks with countless mountains. The island of Jeju has the highest peak in South Korea, the shield volcano Hallasan. Another popular hiking area is Seoraksan, the third tallest mountain in the country at 1,708 meters (5,603 feet). You can hike around this national park on Culture Trip’s 10-day adventure around South Korea . It’s exactly this combination of mountains and coast that make South Korea such a thrilling destination.

Four Amazing Seasons

Due to South Korea’s location in East Asia, the country is blessed with changing seasons. This makes Korea an exciting place to travel and live. No matter when you travel to Korea, you’ll be surprised with breathtaking seasonal changes in nature, such as cherry blossoms in the spring, flower fields in the summer, colorful foliage in the fall and a white wonderland in the winter. Besides the changing weather, each season also has special festivals and also dishes, such as the Taebaeksan Snow Festival in winter and cold noodles in summer.

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10 Best Places to Visit in South Korea

Occupying the southern half of the Korean Peninsula is the country of South Korea. Completely distinct and independent from neighboring North Korea, South Korea is a thoroughly modern, engaging and thrilling destination for travelers. Major cities like Seoul offers the buzz of an urban metropolis along with fantastic nightlife and a chance to discover the latest technological marvel.

However, South Korea is also home to scenic national parks and plenty of places where you can slow down and enjoy the atmosphere. From islands off the coast to the fearsome border zone in the middle of the Korean Peninsula, there are countless things to do, see and explore on your next trip to South Korea.

10. Suwon [SEE MAP]

The city of Suwon is the capital of Gyeonggi Province, and it is just 30 km (20 miles) outside of Seoul. It is easily accessible from Seoul by car or train, but it often skipped over by travelers.

If you visit, you’ll be able to see the World Cup Stadium, affectionately called Big Bird, that hosted the quarter finals of the 2002 FIFA World Cup. If you’re not a soccer fan, head instead to the historic 18th century Hwaseong Fortress, where you can tour the architecture and even try your hand at archery on the premises.

9. Chuncheon [SEE MAP]

Surrounded by scenic lakes and towering mountains in Chuncheon, the capital city of Gangwon Province. Chuncheon is the location of a popular Korean soap opera called Winter Sonata, and a lot of visitors in the city come to see some of the most common filming locations.

Other travelers come for the food, because Chuncheon is known as a foodie’s paradise. After touring major attractions like the Soyang Dam, Statue Park or Cheongpyeong-sa Temple, head to Dakgalbi Street. This street features the dish dakgalbi, a grilled chicken meal with spicy vegetables and rice. Dozens of restaurants on the street offer the same iconic dish, each offering slight variations on the recipe.

8. Busan [SEE MAP]

The second largest city in the entire country is Busan. It’s also a major port, and it is known for boasting beautiful beaches as well as hot springs and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Busan’s Gamcheon Cultural Village, known as the Santorini of Korea, is a stunningly colorful hillside community overlooking the water.

While in Busan, you’ll also have the chance to visit several temples, the most popular of which is Beomeosa Temple. While the city boasts all the shopping and museums you might expect from an urban area of its size, some of the most popular attractions include Haeundae Beach, Taejongdae Park and the beautiful Nakdong River Estuary Migratory Bird Sanctuary.

7. Jeonju [SEE MAP]

At the peak of the Joseon Dynasty, Jeonju was its spiritual capital. Today, Jeonju is filled with temples and museums and is one of the best places to visit in South Korea. If you want to embrace the local culture and get to know its history, make your way to the Jeonju Hanok Village.

There, you can see traditional homes from the early 20th century, make the traditional Hanji paper or sip the locally made soju. Another popular attraction in the city is the impressive Jeonju National Museum, home to a staggering collection of artifacts. While in Jeonju, try the famed Korean dish Bibimbap, which originally comes from this region.

6. Seoraksan National Park [SEE MAP]

If you want to go hiking, see the best known mountain range in South Korea or just get some epic photos, then make sure you visit the Seoraksan National Park. Within the park you’ll find pine forests, jagged and rocky mountain peaks, crystal clear streams and stunning lakes.

Seoraksan National Park is also home to over 2,000 animal species. Start your visit at the National Park Visitor Centre, where you can pick up free maps in English and Korean. Then, enjoy the miles and miles of signposted hiking trails that crisscross the entire park.

5. Andong [SEE MAP]

At more than 2,000 years, Andong is sometimes referred to as the Capital City of Korean Spiritual Culture. Perhaps the main attraction in the city is the Andong Hahoe Folk Village, where local cultural heritage has been preserved and is shared with visitors.

However, it is foodies that will most enjoy a visit to Andong. The city boasts all kinds of local specialties, starting with a famed chicken and noodle dish called jjimdak. Andong is also home to a special type of alcohol called soju, so have a sip before you depart the city.

4. Jeju Island [SEE MAP]

Off the southern coast of South Korea is Jeju Island, the country’s only Special Autonomous Province. Nicknamed Island of the Gods, Jeju is a subtropical destination known as one of the top honeymoon and vacation spots in South Korea. In addition to beautiful beaches, lava tubes and lush green scenery, Jeju boasts a long list of tourist attractions and amusement parks.

You can get to know the local culture at the Seongeup Folklore Village, or you could visit Glass Castle, a theme park that revolves around glass sculptures. Perhaps the oddest and most controversial attraction in Jeju is Loveland, a theme park featuring romantic and adults-only attractions.

3. DMZ [SEE MAP]

The DMZ, or demilitarized zone, is the boundary area between North and South Korea. It is considered a cease-fire zone. While travelers can visit the DMZ, not all areas of the zone are safe. Only a small portion of the DMZ, known as the JSA or Joint Security Area, is open to the public.

In the JSA, you can physically stand in North Korea, although you will be within a building that also houses South Korean soldiers. You can also visit a North Korean gift shop that sells stamps, wine and currency from North Korea. Be aware that the only way to visit the DMZ is on an authorized and guided tour.

2. Gyeongju [SEE MAP]

Gyeongju is the ancient capital of what was once the Silla Kingdom. This makes the city more than 2,000 years old. Gyeongju is an incredible destination that boasts a number of temples and cultural festivals. Start your trip at the Bulguksa Temple, a true masterpiece of Buddhist religion and art that dates back to the 8th century. Then, hike up from the temple to the Seokguram Grotto for even more Buddhist culture and artifacts.

Don’t miss the Covered Market, a collection of vendors selling everything from Silla souvenirs to freshly made Korean delicacies.

1. Seoul [SEE MAP]

Seoul is by far the largest city in South Korea and a major destination in East Asia. If you’re spending any time in the country, there’s a good chance you’ll be visiting Seoul at some point. There is no end to the attractions in the city, but many visitors start with some of the many palaces located in Seoul.

Top picks include the incredible Gyeongbok-gung and the 15th century Changdeok-gung. You’ll also find ancient temples and shrines, beautiful public parks, cutting-edge design, shopping malls and some of the best cuisine in all of Asia.

Map of South Korea

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Reader interactions.

March 7, 2021 at 12:35 am

korea is so beautifull

September 26, 2019 at 8:21 pm

I am Korean, but live in US and I think you missed Kwangju, where Korean Democracy started and Moodeng Mount is beautiful and lots of performance of Korean traditional music. Whenever I visit Korea, I love to visit that city where you can feel the spirit of Korean.

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Top 15 Places to visit in Korea: A blog all about going to South Korea

All the plans are made, and your trip to South Korea is about to begin. You’re pretty excited, mainly because you are visiting some of the most exciting places in South Korea . But where do you visit if you spend only 3 days in Seoul ? How about a weekend in Busan or one day in Jeju Island?

Will you see all the famous tourist attractions, or will you explore the countryside? Well, this blog post is here to save you that dilemma since we have put together a list of the top 15 Places to visit in Korea ! South Korea is a country that offers so much to see and do.

If you visit South Korea, don’t forget to pack your camera! I’ll provide all the necessary details about travelling there from this article. Before packing up this article, I will add some tips about what to do or what not to do in South Korea. So, stick with it till the end!!!

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

Recommended Tours & Tickets

Top 15 places to visit in korea..

Don’t miss out on the best of South Korea! Here are the top 15 places to visit in Korea that you must visit. With each location, there’s an amazing food and accommodation option that will make your trip all worth it in terms of quality alone- but we’re not done just yet because these spots also boast some pretty spectacular landmarks too–like castles or gothic churches for instance (or even both!). Check ’em all out here:

Seoul , the brightest city of South Korea stands as the capital of it. If you want to enjoy both modern architecture and ancient culture, then this place is for you. The capital city of South Korea tops our list of places to visit in Korea for its combination of modern and well-preserved architecture.

Here you will find 100-floor skyscrapers which are a modern-day tourist attraction. And you will also find above thousand-year-old Buddhist temples that will introduce you to the history and culture of the country. You will get to click many Instagram-worthy pictures in Seoul, especially during the night.

Main Attractions:

● Gyeongbokgung Palace (One of the largest Palaces in Seoul, which helps to Korean heritage)

● Seoul Tower (500 meters tall observation tower providing a broad view of the city)

● Bukchon Hanok Village (ancient architecture of houses and pagodas which gives the taste of traditional culture)

● Blue House (House of the Korean President compared to White House)

● Bukhansan National Park (holding amusing natural beauty with the ancient temple and hiking place)

● Lotte World Tower (World’s 5th tallest building with an amusement park and observatory)

● Insadong( Korean ritual product selling market with the cultural exhibition of dance and music)

● Gwangjang Market (Seoul’s best food market)

2. Andong Hahoe Folk Village

Surrounded by a river, this village is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a great example of Korean traditional culture and rural life. You will be able to get the real touch of nature. The village is renowned for much traditional food, cultural festivals, and handmade products. For any tourist who visits this place, the Andong jjimdak , a spicy chicken dish is a must-try.

Almost all houses in the village are with thatched roofs which makes them look quite similar. But such roofs are rarely seen in villages in other parts of the world which makes these houses unique of all. Every house has a history of the people who lived there centuries ago. The most notable thing about Andong Hahoe Folk Village is that it dates back to the 9th century and both commoners and noblemen lived there.

● Traditional South Korean houses

● Mask Museum

● Ritual Mask Dance (performed by villagers)

● Boat Riding

From hiking to surfing, natural blessings to architectural beauties, mountains to sea beaches, temples to towers – Busan has everything in its midst. This 2nd largest city in South Korea has a different type of place in its tourist’s heart. Too many varieties in one place.

The city is a relaxing getaway and a stunning tourist spot among all the other places to visit in Korea. It is often underrated as most tourists visit Seoul and forget about Busan. But those who visited this city even for once, just don’t stop talking about their mesmerizing experience.

● Gamcheon Culture Village ( Acolourful village with the brightly painted house and multi-layer streets)

● Haeundae Beach (A beach which is located in the middle of the city offers a lot of festivals)

● Jagalchi Market (a fish market with thousands of types of fishes which made it an exploratory place)

● Busan Tower (Best way to explore Busan and its skyline from 120 m high view)

● Taejongdae( sea-side Park with a beautiful coastal view and evergreen forests)

● Nampodong Market (Downtown area of Busan where you can explore the cityjust by walking)

● Songdo beach (Human-made beach with a less crowded area. Just a relaxing spot nearby where you can do Skywalk, Cliff Bridge Walk and Cable Car)

● U.N. Memorial Cemetery (Only United Nations Cemetery in the world)

● Beomeosa Temple (One of the best urban temples where you can meditate and clear your mind)

● Gwangbokdong Food Street (The most famous food street in Busan to try different kinds of foods)

4. Jeju Island

If you’re looking for a breathtaking natural scenario in your tour, then Jeju Island is the place for you. It’s the most famous Island in South Korea and is considered one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. It is the favourite place for newlyweds and for couples planning a romantic getaway. The beautiful beaches and coastal trails are enough to impress you to a whole new level. And then, the delicious seafood will be a cherry on the top.

● Seongsan Sunrise Peak (famous for its marvellous sunrise view)

● Mount Hallasan (The highest mountain in Korea but easy for hiking with great natural beauty)

● Manjanggul Cave (One of the longest lavas tanel with a magical view)

● Cheonjiyeon Waterfall (A magnificent view holding waterfall carrying 3 sections of water)

● Jeju Folk Village (Able to take you for a travel back in time)

● JungmunSaekdal Beach (spreading charm with its huge wave and favourite to surfers)

● Seogwipo Submarine (A trip under the sea)

● Osulloc Tea Garden & Museum (Can be a favourite place to tea lovers for knowing the tea history)

● Seopjikoji( A famous cape in South Korea with Canola flowers)

● Yeomiji Botanical Garden (A loving place for botanic lovers with a vast collection of plants)

● Jeongbang Waterfall (One of the unique waterfalls because it falls directly into the ocean)

5. Gyeongju

Now it’s time to explore the historical property of South Korea . Gyeongju is the former capital of this country which is enriched with so many earliest and prehistoric sites. History admirers will find their home here.

It is another UNESCO World Heritage Site also known as “the museum without walls” due to the presence of a vast number of cultural properties and archaeological sites. From the 5th century to date, it has been an important centre of Korean Buddhism.

● Bulguksa Temple (pagodas made with stone and wood and representing Buddhist culture.

● Gyeongju National Park (historical resources blended with nature which is available for hiking)

● Cheomseongdae Observatory (oldest astronomical observatory in Asia)

● Gyeongju Bird Park (Best place to spend time with birds along with very close interaction)

● Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond (A Pagoda shaped Palace floating on a mesmerizing pond)

● Gyeongju Gyochon Traditional Village (a small village with traditional touch)

● Gyeongju National Museum (a small but well-organized museum dedicated to Silla culture)

● Seokguram( An ancient temple situated at the top of a mountain with a great view of the sunset)

● Cheonmachong Tomb (a tomb with a cultural museum)

6. Seoraksan National Park

Where are the hikers? Seoraksan National Park is the heavenly kingdom for hikers as they can enjoy temples, waterfalls, cable cars etc., during the hike. It unleashes its best view during the winter with foggy, snowy mountains. Both locals and foreigners come to this park to enjoy the rugged wilderness. It is one of the most visited parks in South Korea.

● Bronze Buddha Statue (48 feet high bronze statue situated only a few minutes away from the entrance)

● Sinheungsa Temple (standing near Buddha Statue holding traditional Korean construction)

● Geumganggul Cave (used for worshipping. You will be able to enjoy a panoramic view of mountains)

● Ulsanbawi Rock (An exclusive rock formation with an astonishing view from 900m top)

● Seoraksan Cable Car (will be able to see the whole park view from Cable Cars)

Suwon is famous for its fortress, Palace and many gates. The eye-catching stone-made wall of the fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The structural beauty has made the city different from others. Now, it is renowned as both a historical town and a multicultural city.

In Suwon, one of my favourite places to visit in Korea, you will get to know about the dramatic and golden succession of Korean history and alongside enjoy the modern architectural sites.

● Hwaseong Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage site which was built a long ago to protect the city with 4 main gates)

● Suwon Hwaseong Museum (Presents the whole history and culture of Hwaseong Fortress)

● Paldalmun Gate (One of the most important gates of the fortress surrounded by modern buildings)

● Haenggung Palace (Venue of cultural and traditional festivals with a lot of attractions)

● Hwahongmun Gate (Another gate of Hwaseong Fortress presents traditional history)

● Toilet Museum (A totally different concept-based museum to accelerate the awareness of sanitation)

● Wolhwawon Garden (A traditional Chinese Garden which is a quiet place with lovely nature and charming architecture)

● Janganmun Gate (Northern Gate of Hwaseong Fortress, which is also the main gate of the fortress)

● Yeonmudae( Huge pavilion offers both city view and Fortress view)

● Hwaseomun Gate (Considered as the most impressive gate of Hwaseong Fortress)

● Everland (South Korea’s largest theme park with zoo, garden and festivals)

● Samsung Innovation Museum (All about Samsung. Their rise to rule in the world as a tech company)

● Suwon World Cup Stadium (Football World Cup venue in 2002 where the roof is designed like a bird’s wing and seats are referred to Hwaseong Fortress)

8. Boseong Green Tea Field

This is one of the major green tea producing fields in South Korea, which offers a vital scenic beauty. A lot of people already know about it as it has been used as a filming site for a lot of Korean dramas. There are places to hike and enjoy the spot from the top, which can heal your soul. Alongside, Korean green tea is much different from normal ones because it can reduce bitterness and increase the taste.

Out of all the must-visit places in Korea, Boseong Green Tea Field is a notable one. In fact, it should be the first one on your priority list if you are a nature lover. The tea of this place is also very healthy and the beautiful green tea fields are a blessing to the eyes.

● Green Tea Farm Observatory ( situatedat the top to explore the whole view)

● Waterfall Area (A little waterfall to boost up your energy)

● Botjae Dawon Tea Plantation (another tea Field which is a 5-minute walk from the Boseong Green Tea Field)

● Green tea cafe (A coffee shop sitting on the hill of the field with a full-length view of the total area)

● Korea Tea Museum (holding the history of Korean tea)

● Yulpo Beach (a great place to enjoy the sunset and beach view)

9. Haeinsa Temple

It’s considered the most authentic and major temple in South Korea. It has the oldest Buddhist canon reserved here for a long time. It’s popular both for religious and historical value. A lot of people who are not interested in any of these only go there to experience the calmness and purity of nature.

The temple houses the  Tripitaka Koreana   which is   the most complete collection of Buddhist texts. The four buildings of the temple complex have a unique structure. It is a famous destination for both local and international Buddhists and scholars.

● The oldest Wooden Buddha Statue in Asia

● Complete Collection of Buddhist Canon

● Nearby Mountains (soothing eyesight)

● Neighbour Villages (for roaming around)

10. Pyeongchang County

Pyeongchang County is a place occupied by mountains. It’s an excellent place for hiking, skiing and snowboarding. You will also find temples in the midst of hills. The best time to visit here is autumn or winter to perform all the exciting activities. It is a city of nature and sports. A huge number of nature lovers and adventurers come here every year.

● Odaesan National Park (70% of this place is covered by mountains. Great place for trekking while observing a bunch of flora and fauna)

● Woljeongsa Temple (One of the best temples in Pyeongchang County surrounded by streams and hills. You will be able to walk through the woods while observing it)

● Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch (Can be a quick stop in the time of hiking to interact with cute little sheep)

● Bongpyeong Village (If your trip is planned for autumn, make sure to go there to explore buckwheat flowers fields)

● Yongpyong Ski Resort (your best chance to do some skiing and snowboarding)

11. The Korean Demilitarized Zone

This is the place holding the history of the division of North and South Korea. This 160 the mile-long area has a bunch of spots that are the witness of such modern history. It’s a living example of what can be done when two neighbouring countries go through conflict.

There are a specific set of rules that every tourist must follow when visiting this place. It’s different from other tourist spots so you should always follow your tour guide. You might even be required to follow a strict dress code and might not be allowed to take pictures without permission.

● 3rd Tunnel of Aggregation (secret tunnel made by North Korea and discovered by South Korea after 8 years)

● Freedom Bridge – Imjingak( A spot made to remember the divided family. It was also used for the exchange of people once)

● Dora Observatory (can catch a sight of North Korea without going there)

● Dorasan Station (Gateway to North Korea which is left unused nowadays)

12. Dadohaehaesang National Park

Now it’s time to spend some memorable time in the midst of the ocean. Dadohaehaesang National Park is the largest national park in South Korea which is a bundle of 1700 small and large islands and rocks located in the East and West Sea.

This is the place where you can only choose to relax sitting by the ocean or make a hardcore adventure list with trekking in the mountains and boating in the ocean. The majority of islands in Dadohaehaesang National Park are uninhabited. It is better to go to the inhabited and touristy islands to avoid all kinds of harm.

● Heuksando and Hongdo Districts (famous for their striking view of islands and sea)

● Baekdo District ( containingBaekdo Island where a unique form of rock pinnacles is found. Spreading beauty of towns and nature)

● Palyeongsan District (only spot without beach area but enriched with high mountains)

● Bigeum District (most beautiful beaches like Uido and Shimmok Beach)

● Geumodo District (having dark forest and beautiful view of sunrise)

● Naro Island District (the most different one because it has Naro Space Center)

13. Juknokwon

What about just a peaceful walk through a bamboo forest that has 8 different paths with 8 other concepts? If you’re interested in a short tour of 3 to 4 hours wandering into a forest full of tall bamboo trees, then this place is the ideal form for you. The most interesting part is Juknokwon is almost an evergreen forest which means in the cold winter, under snowy cover, this forest keeps its greenery version fresh and charming.

This is one of the most interesting places to visit in Korea. Here you will be able to breathe in fresh oxygen away from the pollution of bustling cities. The cooling breeze throughout the lush forest is really relaxing to the mind and body.

● 8 Different Trails ( This includes Lover’s Lane, Philosopher’s Way,Old Friend’s Trail, Old Memories Byway, Scholar’s Road, Good Luck Road, Seonginsan Trail and Meditation Road )

● Bonghwangnu Observatory ( An observation tower to get the whole view)

● Traditional Pavilions ( You will get them all around the forest for just sitting there and enjoy the scenario)

● Siga Culture Village ( A village with prominent people’s work, stream, sculpture and historical site)

14. Incheon

Whether you are looking for yummy Chinese food or concession-era architecture, Incheon is the place for you. Out of all the top places to visit in Korea, Incheon is a different one. In Incheon, you will find parks, markets, temples, quaint islands and a fairytale village where fairytales seem to come alive.

This city that lies on the borders of Seoul and Gyeonggi has played a tremendous role during the Korean War. So, it is a great place to visit to learn about the history of Korea. Whether you are interested in history or architecture, islands or parks, hilltops or villages, here you will find every tourist attraction that interests you. 

• Incheon Chinatown (The only official Chinatown in Korea where you can explore the remains of Korea’s past, history, and culture, and enjoy mouthwatering Chinese cuisines)
• Muuido (A small and peaceful island which is a great spot for camping, trekking, zip-lining, and clam digging)
• Wolmido Island (A busy island containing a theme park and many entertaining tourist attractions)
• Incheon Grand Park (The main nature park of the city offering rural landscape-like refreshing air and views)
• Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village (A cultural village filled with murals, designs, and paintings of fairytale characters)
• Jayu Park (The first westernized park in Korea that is home to several historical monuments)
• Jeondeungsa Temple (A Buddhist temple with beautiful architecture and picturesque surroundings)
• Sinpo International Market (A busy outdoor market selling food, clothing, and other local products)
• Daeryong Market (A unique traditional market selling local goods)
• Haengjusanseong (A hilltop fortress famous for its mesmerizing view and history of the Haengju battle)
• Incheon Bridge (A cable-stayed bridge that looks stunning at night due to the amazing light works)
• Yeongjong Bridge (A double-deck suspension bridge offering amazing foreshore views, it looks tremendously beautiful during the bridge lights at night)
• Jajangmyeon Museum (A museum dedicated to the Jajangmyeon dish (black soybean noodles), its history and development)
• Geomdan Prehistory Museum (A museum that hosts unique special exhibits of cultural artefacts from the palaeolithic era)

15. Gangneung

Eye-catching inland mountains and beautiful beaches are reasons why Gangneung is a popular tourist destination. If you want to escape city life, Gangneung is a place where you should go for a peaceful vacation. Out of all the top places to visit in Korea, it is the most tranquil tourist destination. This city is a perfect blend of natural beauty, modern technology and culture. 

• Gyeongpo Beach (A beautiful sandy beach with a great view)
• Gangmun Beach (A huge beach with beautiful sand and shells, clear waters and a peaceful environment, ocean-fresh seafood, and excellent coffee shops)
• Jeongdongjin Sculpture Park (A Sculpture park with a green lawn looking out at the vast ocean offering a great sunrise view)
• Daegwallyeong Natural Recreation Forest (A very nice recreation forest popular for its well-known pine trees)
• Haslla Art World (A Instagrammable art museum with a breathtaking sea view from the top)
• Pinocchio Art Museum (An Art museum housing a wooden doll of the fictional character Pinocchio, a great tourist spot for both children and adults)
• Nochusan Mojeongtap-gil Trail (A serene place for walking or hiking with a beautiful folk tale)
• Adeul Rocky Park (Around 150 million years old natural rocks can be found here, and the place has a beautiful scenery)
• Heo Gyun Heo Nanseolheon Memorial Park (A must-see historic site containing a single-story Korean architectural wooden building made of Korean roof tiles)
• Gyeongpo Provincial Park (A must-visit park in South Korea with beautiful sea and mountain views)
• Anbandegi (A tranquil village situated amid mountains at a highland of 1100 m with a panoramic view)
• Seongyojang House (An elegant and traditional hanok historical settlement from the 18th-century that is a museum now)
• Aranaby zipline (A zipline at an 18 meter-high tower offering a thrilling sightseeing adventure)
• Chewang-san (A mountain at an elevation of 841 metres above sea level)

Some Special Manner You Should Always Maintain when in South Korea

The South Korean culture is one of a kind. You must maintain particular mannerisms when visiting this beautiful country, mainly if your travels occur in urban centres such as Seoul or Busan. The following rules will help you to cope up with South Koreans. They’re really dedicated to following those rules, so to enjoy your trip to your fullest, you should try to maintain them.

1. Whenever you’re receiving or giving anything to a person, always hold that thing with two hands. They take it as a matter of modesty.

2. After eating, always place your chopsticks parallel to your cup or plate. Never leave them upside down. It’s standard etiquette in South Korea.

3. If you’re taking public transportation like the train, try to keep your voice low. It’s very rare to find anyone talking loudly on a train in South Korea.

4. Never get into a fight. South Korea is a peace-loving country, and the people there are very kind to each other.

5. Try to avoid the use of red ink in any type of writing. In South Korea, red ink is considered a bad intention.

Don’t panic over these matters. It’s nothing like if you make a mistake, it’s over. Just keep these things in your mind and be confident.

South Korea is home to diverse tourist attractions. We have only listed 15 famous places to visit in Korea , and there are actually more. So, which one of these places to visit in Korea is your favourite? After reading this whole article, I hope you’re now able to sort out your plan.  You know what to do, when to do and where to do it. So buckle up and try to make this tour The Memorable One.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the most visited place in Korea?

According to recent statistics, the most visited place in Korea is Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, followed by Jeju Island and the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) between North and South Korea. Other popular tourist attractions include Namsan Tower, Bukchon Hanok Village, and the traditional markets of Myeong-dong and Insadong.

What city should I visit in Korea?

South Korea has many amazing cities, but some top ones include Seoul, Busan, Jeju, Gyeongju, Incheon, Daegu, Daejeon, Suwon, Andong, and Jeonju. Each city has unique attractions and experiences, so it depends on what you’re interested in seeing and doing.

Is 3 days enough for Korea?

While 3-days may not be enough to see everything South Korea has to offer, it is enough time to see some of the highlights. You can visit Seoul and explore its historical sites, try some delicious Korean food, and even take a day trip to the nearby city of Suwon.

Related Posts

The best 10-day south korea itinerary: budget and how to plan, exploring the wonders of korea: korea itinerary 7-days, the ultimate seoul itinerary: unveiling the gems of south korea’s capital, ultimate guide on a day trip to nami island, south korea- plan the best day trip to gapyeong.

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• South Korea

When is the best time to visit South Korea? — The best, worst, affordable & best season to visit Korea

Korea is a country with an extremely strongly developed tourism industry, every year it welcomes millions of international visitors to explore. Coming to Korea, each season you can witness different beauty. You will be overwhelmed by the scenery of bright cherry blossoms in spring, admire the romance of streets filled with red maple leaves in autumn, or immerse yourself in the cold of the white snowflakes in the winter, basking in the sun at stunning beaches in summer. Don’t forget to learn about the weather of four seasons of the year in Korea to make your own trip!

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• Korea cherry blossom 2024 forecast — The best time & 9 best places to see cherry blossoms in Korea

So, what is the best month to travel to Korea, what is the best time to travel to Korea, when is the best time to visit Korea (when is the best time to visit South Korea). Let’s check out our suggested best season to go Korea, best season to travel to Korea, best season to visit Korea, best season to visit South Korea, cheapest time to visit Korea as well as worst time to visit South Korea as follows!

Planning a trip to Korea but don’t know “which season or month is best to travel to Korea”, this article will help you clearly understand the climate, weather, and scenery of Korea in 4 seasons and in 12 months.

Korea brings many feelings about traditional Asian features but no less modern with many beautiful scenery, rich history, delectable cuisine. This country attracts tourists around the world with its beautiful four-season nature, each season has a different characteristic, and therefore, which month is the best time to travel to Korea, you also need to find out information and rely on your preferences.

Some information about Korea

Korea is located in Northeast Asia, the terrain has many hills and mountains mixed with plains along with a long and beautiful coastline. This country has an extremely developed entertainment industry, through music and movies, the image of the beautiful country of Korea has been promoted worldwide.

Korea is one of the countries with an extremely unique culture with diverse tourist destinations. There are rarely any countries in the world where traditional and modern features are strangely harmoniously interwoven, cultural beauty remains intact after a long history, and everyone has a special affection for art and beauty.

Overview of Korean climate (# when is the best time to visit south korea)

Korea is located in a temperate zone so there are four distinct seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter. Spring and autumn have the most pleasant weather. Meanwhile, the summer is hot and humid while the winter is cold and long with lots of snow falling at the end of the year.

• Spring usually starts in mid-March and ends in May.
• Hot and humid summer starts from June to August.
• Autumn starts from September and ends at the end of November.
• Winter is cold from late November to mid-March.

Except in the mountains, the average annual temperature is between 6 and 16°C. The hottest month is August, the coldest month is January. Thunderstorms often appear in the summer months, but there are fewer storms here than in neighboring countries. You also don’t need to worry about natural disasters when traveling to Korea, because this country rarely has earthquakes or tsunamis.

Average monthly temperatures range from 23 to 27°C in August and -6 to 7°C in January. The annual rainfall in Korea is 1,000 mm to 1,800 mm, and in the central area is 1,100 mm to 1,400 mm.

Rainfall in winter is less than 10% of the total rainfall each year. Precipitation in winter occurs mainly in the form of snowfall, with the T’aebaek Mountains receiving the most precipitation.

July has the highest humidity, reaching 80 – 90% across the country. In contrast, January and April have the lowest monthly humidity ranging from 30 – 50%. Low relative humidity from September to October contributes to good harvests.

Korean climate characteristics by each season

Spring (march to may) (# when is the best time to visit south korea).

Like other countries around the world, spring in Korea is a warm season, no rain, bright sunshine, and extremely pleasant weather. The scenery is especially beautiful in spring, which is the season of flower festivals. In spring, Koreans often go to cherry blossom viewing spots with their families to chat, enjoy the flowers, eat, drink and have fun, or climb mountains to enjoy the scenery. Some mountains in Korea are very beautiful in spring, such as: Hallasan Mountain, Sobaeksan, Jirisan and Taebaeksan Mountain.

Spring in Korea starts from late March and ends from early May, with mild, pleasant temperatures. In the ideal space of spring, when visiting Korea, we will have the opportunity to enjoy cherry blossoms, forsythia, magnolia and lilac blooming on the streets and gardens.

When coming to Seoul, visitors will be amazed by the cherry blossoms blooming on the Yunjung-ro flower road around the National Assembly Building. On both sides of the road there are more than 1,400 cherry trees about 30 to 40 years old. Around April every year, this nearly 6 km long road will be full of life, welcoming millions of tourists to visit and admire. The pale pink and pure white colors of cherry blossoms in full bloom brighten up the entire sky, captivating visitor’s hearts.

However, spring is not the most beautiful and best season to travel to Korea, because April and May are months when Korea experiences yellow dust storms, you will feel uncomfortable with this phenomenon and encounter many problems when going out.

Summer (June to August) (# when is the best time to visit korea)

Summer in Korea begins from June to early September. Summer will be very hot and rainy, especially at the end of July. During this season, the temperature and humidity both increase extremely high, sometimes the temperature heats up to 38 – 40 degrees Celsius. However, in return, Korea’s summer beaches are very beautiful, especially in the summer with many special festivals.

The weather at this time is quite hot, but beach tourism in Korea is extremely exciting with clear skies and blue sea. This is also the time in Korea where many exciting summer festivals take place.

If you come to Korea in the summer, you can go to Busan, where Haeundae beach is famous for its beauty. Coming to Busan, visitors can admire camellia anywhere in the city and meet hospitable, enthusiastic and friendly people.

There are many hot springs near the beach and there are many activities such as Haeundae Sand Festival, Busan Beach Festival and World Beach Volleyball Competitions. Usually in early summer, the Sand Festival attracts tourists from around the world with sculptures of famous figures, beautifully displayed castles and sandboarding activities.

Although tourists who have had fun and visited in Korea also remind that summer is not the most suitable season to travel to Korea, because both plans, mood and health will be affected by the hot and humid weather. But if you want to travel to Korea this season, go to Mangsang, Naksan, Seokcho, Gyeongpo, Hwajin, Gyeongpodae, Haeundae Beach and Jeju Island to escape the summer heat.

Fall (September to November)

It can be said that autumn is the best time to visit Korea. Autumn is one of the most beautiful seasons of the year in the land of kimchi and lasts from September to November. It is pleasantly warm during the day and slightly chilly at night. The mountain roads began to be carpeted with bright red leaves, creating an extremely impressive sky.

The weather at this time is extremely cool, very suitable for tourist activities. In autumn, nature puts on an extremely brilliant red-yellow color.

The most interesting thing is to see the scenery on top of Naejangsan Mountain in Jeongeup-si Province, Jeollabuk-do. This mountain peak will be an extremely popular tourist destination in the fall. The entire landscape around Naejangsan is covered in the brilliant yellow and red of dense forests. This place has become a national park. Besides, you can also visit Seoul city – the largest city in Korea, where the famous royal palace is located and Nami Island, where the movie “Winter Sonata” was filmed. Ginkgo trees sheds yellow leaves in the cool autumn breeze.

In particular, autumn in the land of kimchi is the season of abundant fruits, food and agricultural products. Therefore, traveling to Korea on your own with accommodation or travel in the fall can both satisfy and fill your stomach. In short, there is no fall travel destination as special and attractive as autumn in Korea.

Winter (December to February) (# best season to visit korea)

Winter in Korea is usually cold and dry, begins from December to early March of the following year. The land of kimchi not only has golden autumn colors but also has the beauty of white snowflakes that cover the entire sky. Many tourists like to travel to Korea in winter, watching romantic snowfall and skiing in Korean movies, or participating in unique ice fishing festivals. Relaxing in hot springs, exploring snow-capped mountain peaks, strolling through famous amusement parks, or enjoying hot dishes for winter days are all wonderful and enjoyable experiences for tourists. visitors come to explore the land of kimchi.

Winter is not the most ideal time to travel to Korea, but it is a special choice and interesting experience. You will be able to soak in the hot springs at Asan Spavis Water Park, ski at Vivaldi Park, Mujukyusan, Pheonix, Yongpyong Resort in Gangwon, or participate in the Daegwallyeong Snow Festival, Taebaeksan Mountain Snow Festival and ice fishing festival at Hwacheon Sancheoneo…

Which month (which season) should I travel to Korea? (# when is the best time to visit korea)

It can be seen that every month in Korea has its own beauty and it is very difficult to choose which season is the best time to visit Korea.

However, the most suitable time for you to travel to Korea is probably spring (March, April, May) and autumn (September, October, November) when the weather is cool and pleasant, not too hot. cold, not too hot, little rain and lots of sunshine, poetic and romantic natural scenery.

The peak tourist season in Korea is spring and fall, however Korea is actually beautiful in all four seasons. Each season has its own beauty and excitement for you to explore. From the scene of cherry blossoms blowing in the wind in spring, the cool atmosphere in summer to the carpets of colorful leaves in autumn, they all bring you many different emotions, even in winter despite being extremely cold but it will be an interesting experience if you want to see beautiful Korea covered with layers of white snow.

Which is the cheapest time to travel to Korea ?

Which season is the cheapest to go to Korea is always a question and curiosity of many tourists. With its painting-like beauty, autumn is considered the peak tourist time in Korea. So if you go to Korea in the fall, the cost will be a bit higher.

Because of some typical weather and climate characteristics, spring, summer and especially winter in Korea often not crowded with visitors. Therefore, the cost of traveling in these seasons will also be much cheaper than going to Korea in the fall.

Which month should I go to Korea?

If you still don’t know when to travel to Korea, April, October, or December will be great choices. The weather and scenery in Korea during these months are extremely suitable for typical experiences here.

• Average temperature: minus 7°C – 3°C
• Suitable tourist destinations: Northern provinces Gangwon-do, Gyeonggi-do

The weather in January in Korea is very cold, the average daily temperature is quite low, there is a lot of snow but the advantage is that there is often little rain. Such weather conditions make January a suitable time to go skiing.

The coldest month of the year, the weather in Korea is often very cold. The average temperature is – 2.1°C, average humidity is 55%, it is dry, there may be snow. This is the right time to travel to Korea in winter with fun activities such as skiing.

February (# what is the best month to travel to korea)

• Average temperature: minus 7°C – 24°C.
• Suitable tourist destinations: Seoul, Yongpyong and Alpensia Ski Resorts.

The Korean weather in February is still quite cold, there is a lot of snow and everything is often frozen. Therefore, if you intend to go to Korea in February, prepare lots of warm clothes and thermal bags.

Normally, February is the time when some Asian countries celebrate the traditional Lunar New Year. If you come at this time, you will be immersed in unique festivals such as Lunar New Year or the winter sports.

• Average temperature: minus 1°C – 9°C.
• Suitable tourist destination: Ski resort north of Pyeongchang

The weather in Korea in March is still chilly and snowy in some places. If you want to take photos with snow but don’t want to experience cold weather, come to Korea in early March, and if you want to catch the spring breeze, come here at the end of March, because at this time the weather will be cold. It’s getting warmer and the flowers are starting to bloom again!

The weather is cold. The average temperature is minus 1°C – 9°C. When the weather in Korea begins to warm up, it is also the season when spring flowers begin to bloom. The most famous is cherry blossoms. Coming to Korea at this time, you will be walking under romantic and poetic flower streets.

• Average temperature: 5°C – 16°C.
• Suitable tourist destinations: Seoul, Busan, Nami Island, Yeouido…

Saying goodbye to the cold, April welcomes the return of spring throughout the Land of Kimchi. If asked which season is beautiful to travel to Korea, the answer is definitely April, is the middle of spring, if you miss the cherry blossoms in March, you can still go to Korea to see the flowers in April, especially the weather will be much less cold with an average temperature of about 5°C – 16°C.

The weather in Korea in April is milder, the temperature is very stable and suitable to welcome bright pink cherry blossoms all over the streets. This is also the most popular time of year to visit Korea.

• Average temperature: 11°C – 22°C.
• Suitable tourist destinations: Jirisan National Park, Jeju Island…

May is also considered one of the good time to go to Korea during the year. This is the transition time between spring and summer, the weather gradually becomes warm, not too cold nor too hot, very suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

The weather in Korea in May gives you a refreshing feeling as if your fatigue has been washed away. Try the feeling of walking on the streets watching the late blooming cherry blossoms and the freshness of young buds on the trees, it will definitely be an unforgettable experience.

The weather is starting to get warm. The average temperature is around 11°C – 22°C. This is the transition time between summer and spring in Korea. At this time, visitors can easily see the fragile beauty of late blooming cherry blossom petals on young green foliage. The weather is not too cold or too hot, extremely suitable for sightseeing activities.

• Average temperature: 16°C – 26°C.
• Suitable tourist destination: Han River camping area, coastal city of Busan.

Korean weather in June gradually bids farewell to spring to welcome summer, temperatures begin to rise everywhere. However, the typical summer showers have not yet arrived, which is also the reason why this is a quite suitable time to travel to Korea. This is the ideal time for you to visit coastal cities in the Land of Kimchi.

The weather in Seoul is usually warm to hot, with occasional showers. At this time, the temperature increases somewhat (average temperature is from 16°C – 26°C), suitable for many interesting outdoor activities such as picnics, swimming, etc.

• Average temperature: 21°C – 28°C.
• Suitable tourist destination: Beaches.

In July, the weather in Korea is hotter and rainy, the humidity in the air is high, making you always feel wet. Take advantage of this time to go swimming and visit major amusement parks in Korea like Everland Park.

The weather in Seoul is often hot, humid and rainy. The average temperature is 21°C – 28°C. This is the time when many summer festivals are held in Korea.

August (# what is the best time to travel to korea)

• Average temperature: 23°C – 30°C.
• Suitable tourist destination: Southern Korean resorts.

This is the hottest month of the year in Korea, the weather is hot and rainy, but the weather in the night is relatively pleasant. If you intend to travel to Korea in August, always remember to bring an umbrella with you.

This time in Korea is the most suitable for nighttime exploration and fun activities. The most popular activity that cannot be missed is exploring the bustling night markets in this city. We suggest everyone to visit Dongdaemun night market, the food here is very delicious.

• Average temperature: 17°C – 26°C.
• Suitable tourist destinations: Seoul, Seoraksan, Busan…

September sees the beginning of the autumn of red leaves in the Land of Kimchi. The weather in Korea is no longer hot and can still rain, but not as much as the previous month. The pleasant atmosphere combined with beautiful natural scenery is ideal conditions for tourist activities.

If you choose September to come to Korea, you should participate in the Jinju Namgang Yudeung festival – the largest lantern festival held at the end of September every year. Release your own lantern and pray for luck, health and peace.

October (# what is the best month to travel to korea)

• Average temperature: 9° – 19°C.
• Suitable tourist destinations: Beopjusa Temple, Songnisan, Seoul…

If you don’t know which month to go to Korea, choose October. The weather in Korea in October is extremely mild, making it one of the best months to admire the beautiful scenery of yellow and red leaves in this country. The climate in Korea at this time is quite pleasant, the days are mildly sunny but the nights are still a bit chilly, so remember to bring some warm clothes for the evening.

In October in Korea, many major events and festivals take place such as: International Fireworks Festival, Seoul Arirang Cultural Festival, Andong International Mask Dance Festival,… Come here at this time. There will be no need to worry about whether there will be anything to do in Korea or not.

November (# best season to visit south korea)

• Average temperature: 7° – 16°C.
• Suitable tourist destinations: Nami Island, Changdeokgung Palace, Everland Park, Bukchon Hanok Village.

The Korean weather is now starting to get colder as it has entered the last days of autumn, but the weather is still warm and favorable to visit tourist destinations. Take advantage of the opportunity to capture the last moments of the maple leaves dyeing red in this extremely poetic Korean landscape.

In addition to enjoying the romantic scenery of Korea, at this time there are many traditional festivals for you to participate in such as: Gwangju Kimchi Festival, Seosan Chrysanthemum Festival, Jangdan Soybean Festival…

Traveling to Korea in November, the weather in Seoul starts to get colder because it is late fall and early winter. The average temperature is 7.2°C, but it is sunny, very favorable for visiting tourist attractions. The Korean landscape at this time is filled with extremely poetic red and yellow leaves.

• Average temperature: minus 7°C – 3°C.
• Suitable tourist destinations: Lotte World, Busan, Namsan.

Winter comes, the weather in Korea in December becomes cold. Snow and ice can also appear during this time, so you still need to prepare plenty of warm clothes when traveling to Korea in December. This is also a good time to immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of year-end festivals, especially Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Furthermore, you can also experience the Pyeongchang Trout Festival and Ice Fishing – one of the largest ice festivals in Korea.

Traveling to Korea in December, the weather begins to enter winter, it is very cold with an average temperature of only about minus 7°C – 3°C and it starts to snow. This is the right time to realize the “white snow dream” and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of year-end festivals such as Christmas…

Suggested some places to visit all year round in Korea

Changgyeonggung palace, seoul in spring.

Located in the capital Seoul, Changgyeonggung Palace is a destination that you should not miss when traveling to Korea. With a total area of up to 580 thousand square meters, Changgyeonggung Palace is divided into four main areas.

The architecture at Changgyeonggung Palace is extremely unique, representing traditional Korean architectural style. If you come here in the spring, you will see Changgyeonggung Palace even more brilliant with the decoration of cherry blossoms, sansuyu, azalea, apricot blossoms…

Jeju Island in winter and spring

Jeju Island is a tourist paradise in Korea. Jeju Island is located about 130km from the mainland, the flora and fauna system is extremely lush and green. Coming here, visitors will visit and experience many interesting activities such as: admiring Cheonjiyeon waterfall, exploring Manjanggul cave, kayaking, scuba diving to see coral…

The appropriate time to travel to Jeju is from November to May of the following year because this is the time when the weather here is dry and cool, convenient for surrounding tourist activities.

Beomeosa Temple, Busan in autumn

This is one of the oldest temples in Korea with a history of more than 1300 years. After many restorations, Beomeosa Pagoda still retains its traditional architectural features mixed with modern elements. Coming here, visitors will have a quiet feeling far away from the bustle of the city. Especially in the fall, Beomeosa Pagoda becomes even more ancient when the surrounding trees turn a bright yellow color.

The ideal time to travel to Beomeosa Temple as well as Busan is from spring to autumn. This is the time when the weather in Korea is extremely pleasant and warm for traveling as well as viewing cherry blossoms around March and April.

Nami Island, Gangwon-do

Nami Island with its beautiful natural scenery is the setting in many famous Korean movies. On the island there are rows of many years old redwood trees. Walking under the trees, visitors will feel like they are lost in a fairy tale land. In winter, white snow covers everywhere on Nami Island, creating an extremely poetic scene.

Notes before traveling to Korea

• Before traveling, check the weather forecast carefully so you can prepare the most suitable luggage for your trip to Korea.
• Korean weather is somewhat colder than other Asian countries, so you should prepare more warm clothes and thermal bags to avoid catching a cold.
• In early spring, there will often be a lot of fine dust in Korea, so choose a hotel with an air purifier to ensure your health.
• Regarding clothing, you should monitor the weather in Korea in advance when traveling to prevent the climate from changing compared to your country.
• Plan a trip that fits your stay in Korea. Please pay attention to your tourist destination to choose appropriate clothing, such as visiting a temple or sacred place, choose long and discreet clothing.
• In general, the food here in the land of kimchi is mildly spicy. If you are someone who can eat spicy food, be prepared to enjoy it. If you can’t eat spicy food, you can prepare some instant foods and seasoning.
• Use an international credit card to pay (most restaurants in Korea today accept this payment method).

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and from Seoul you can refer to

• Private Incheon International Airport Transfers (ICN) for Seoul
• Private Incheon Airport Transfers (ICN) for Seoul
• Incheon International Airport (ICN) Limousine Bus Transfers for Seoul (Gangnam District)
• Klook Exclusive Seoul 5 Day Pass
• Discover Seoul Pass (BTS Edition Available)
• [SALE] Instant Ticket! Korea Rail Pass (KR PASS) 2/3/4/5 Days to travel around the cities in Korea
• Private Incheon Airport (ICN) and Gimpo Airport (GMP) Transfers for Seoul by S.A Tour
• Everland Private Car Charter with Admission Ticket by Wondertrip
• KAL Limousine Bus Ticket for Seoul
• [Limited Offer] AREX Incheon Airport Express Train One Way Ticket in Seoul
• Bukchon Oneday Hanbok Rental Experience (4/24 Hrs)
• Nami Island, Petite France, Garden of Morning Calm, and Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour from Seoul
• Seoul City Sightseeing Bus (Downtown Palace Namsan Course/Seoul Panorama Course)
• [Limited Offer] Incheon International Airport (ICN) Luggage Services (Between Airport and Hotel) by Safex
• 4G Prepaid SIM Card (SK Airports Pick Up) for South Korea
• [Sale] Hanbok Experience (Hanboknam Gyeongbokgung Store) with Korean Hairstyling
• [SALE] South Korea 4G Pocket WiFi (KR Airports Pick Up) from KT Olleh
• 4G WiFi (MY Airport Pick Up) for South Korea (Unlimited Data)
• 4G Portable WiFi for South Korea from Uroaming (Unlimited Data)

Are you finding more top things to do in Seoul: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here .

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South Korea’s Stunning Sights Really Are A Must-See

Posted: February 8, 2024 | Last updated: February 8, 2024

Beauty spots

South Korea is crammed with gorgeous sites, from futuristic modern skyscrapers to ancient mountaintop temples. Whether you want to see Seoul's stylish cityscapes, Gangneung's top K-drama filming locations or Jeju Island's natural landscapes, we've got you covered. As part of Visit Korea Year, citizens from 22 countries can currently visit South Korea visa-free until December 2024, so now is a great time to add this Asian nation to your travel list. Let's take a look at South Korea's most dazzling sights.

Bukchon Hanok Village, Seoul

Wedged between the Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces, Bukchon Hanok Village is a quiet residential area filled with hundreds of hanoks (traditional Korean buildings), either dating from or styled to imitate the 14th century. The steep, narrow roads serve up sumptuous views across the city, especially with the hanoks in the foreground, tall apartment blocks behind them and N Seoul Tower in the distance.

Sodolbawi Rock, Gangneung

A two-hour bus or train ride from Seoul brings you to Gangneung, an east coast city nicknamed 'The Pine City' after the region's lush pine forests that drape the region in forest scent. Amid the unique formations of the coastal Sodol Adeul Rock Park stands Sodolbawi Rock, where legend holds that a couple once prayed for 100 days to conceive a son. Today it's more popular to clamber over the rocks and pools of clear water below to get a closer view of the strangely-shaped rocks sculpted by the wind and waves.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Busan

While many of Korea’s most impressive temples are tucked away in the mountains, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is found right by the sea. This Busan beauty was built in the 14th century and, though it's been restored and reconstructed over the years, it retains an elegant atmosphere. There are 108 steps lined with stone lanterns which guide you along the rocky shore, leading you to the temple's vibrantly-colored facades

Jinhae, Changwon

Jinhae, a district in Changwon City, is deep cherry blossom territory. The Jinhae Gunhangje Festival is held here every year (typically from the end of March into early April), during which hundreds of Yoshino cherry trees transform the area into the pastel-pink stuff of dreams. With its popularity come the crowds, although weekdays can be quieter. Gyeonghwa Station is one of the prettiest spots, where trains pass along the tracks beneath a canopy of blossom.

Sangsaeng’s Hand, Homigot

You’ll find this striking bronze sculpture in Homigot, on Korea's easternmost tip, and it’s no coincidence that this town marks the location of South Korea’s earliest first sunrise every year. Early morning is certainly the most captivating time to visit to see the hand silhouetted against the sun. The right hand (pictured) emerges from the ocean, while the left hand is installed on the beachfront.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Seoul

Is this Seoul's coolest building? The Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is one of Zaha Hadid's architectural masterpieces and is a prime example of the capital's slick, modern aesthetic. Its spaceship-like shape is split into five zones, which include ultra-modern markets, art halls and exhibition areas. Spacious walkways wrap through and around the building so you can admire its fluid curves from every angle. DDP also stands for 'dream, design and play'.

Songdo Central Park, Incheon

Incheon is best-known for its international airport – most likely your point of arrival into the country – but there's still a smattering of sights worth seeing here. The port city is steeped in maritime history but today there's a modern edge to the place; make a beeline for Songdo Central Park for views of epic skyscrapers reflected by a wide waterway.

Jumunjin Breakwater, Gangneung

Gangneung is a popular K-drama filming location. Head to Jumunjin Breakwater, pictured, to recreate the classic scene from Goblin  (if you know, you know) and spot a series of colorful lighthouses. A little way up the road you’ll find the famous BTS Bus Stop, where the K-pop superband BTS shot their You Never Walk Alone album cover.

Jaman Mural Village, Jeonju

Situated on a steep hill, Jaman Mural Village has oodles of quirky charm. You'll weave through winding roads and see murals depicting scenes from popular anime movies like Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro , as well as a few western additions like The Beatles and The Wizard of Oz . This colorful, unique area is filled with cute cafés, and it’s not far from the Jeonju Hanok Village, where you can head afterwards for a more traditional vibe.

Bukhansan National Park, Seoul

Bukhansan National Park is well worth an early start; not just to avoid the crowds but, depending on when you visit, the heat of the midday sun too. Located on the outskirts of Seoul, it's one of the most visited national parks in the world and by far Korea's most popular hiking hotspot. The park boasts many different forms of beauty: think huge white-granite rocks piercing the pine forest canopy, crystal-clear streams tinkling through sheer gorges and hundreds of ancient Buddhist temples scattered across the landscape.

Woljeonggyo Bridge, Gyeongju

A reconstruction of a 7th-century original and the largest wooden bridge in South Korea, Woljeonggyo Bridge is beautiful both inside and out. Red columns flank a wooden walkway which is topped with a low-sloping tiled roof. The covered bridge looks even more breathtaking at night, when it lights up and doubles its beauty with a reflection on the clear water's surface below.

The Garden of Morning Calm, Gapyeong

With over 5,000 plants and 20 themed areas connected by walkways, the Garden of Morning Calm is a horticulturalist's dream. The Sunken Garden is shaped like the Korean peninsula, and features flowers representing a hopeful reunification between North and South Korea. Set amid a towering pine forest, it’s an attractive place to linger, while all four seasons offer something different. Look for the bright-yellow adonis flowers blooming in spring, or enjoy themed light festivals during the winter.

Hahoe Folk Village, Andong

Described as ‘the most Korean town in Korea’, Hahoe is steeped in nostalgic charm. Its most famous and captivating place to visit is Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that brilliantly showcases the culture and aesthetic of the 15th-century early Joseon Dynasty. It's home to members of the Ryu family, who have lived there for 600 years. Check out the well-preserved tile-roofed and thatched houses, and don’t miss the enthralling mask dance performances (pictured) either.

Ojukheon House, Gangneung

Ojukheon House is one of the oldest wooden residential buildings in the entire country. Today the complex operates more like a traditional open-air museum with well-tended gardens, and visitors can roam around the grounds. The Gangneung landmark was once the residence of a prominent 16th-century artist, Sin, and her scholar son, Yi, who feature on the 50,000 and 5,000 Korean won notes.

Boseong County

Producing nearly half of South Korea’s green tea, Boseong County’s well-tended fields are seemingly endless. The tiered tea plantations snake up and down the hilly terrain, so wander the ridges and valleys or stop off at a hilltop café to soak up the views with a cup of the good stuff. The best time to visit is in May, when the tea is harvested and the Boseong Aromatic Tea Festival takes place, when visitors can try their hand at picking, making and sampling the county's crop.

Pocheon Art Valley, Pocheon

This former rock quarry lay abandoned for decades until the 1990s, when it was finally given a new lease of life as the Pocheon Art Valley. You can still soak up the breathtaking natural beauty of Cheonjoho Lake (pictured) from the observation café and sky park, but it’s now home to an arts and culture complex too. A common date spot, the site boasts an outdoor sculpture park and a performance space nestled under the quarry cliffs, as well as an astronomy museum popular with families with children.

Hallasan Mountain, Jeju Island

Stunning summits await at Hallasan Mountain, which sits at the center of Jeju Island. Also called Yeongjusan (meaning ‘mountain high enough to pull the galaxy’), this national geopark proudly takes the title of South Korea’s tallest mountain at almost 6,400 feet (1,950m) above sea level. It's home to 1,800 types of plant and 4,000 species of animal, and is topped with a famous crater lake. Immerse yourself in the mountain’s enchanting environment on the Seongpanak (6 miles/9.6km) or Gwaneumsa (5.4 miles/8.7km) trails. The trails are well-maintained, but, as with all mountains, research your route thoroughly before attempting.

Bulguksa Temple, Gyeongju

Nestled in a forest beside the southern city of Gyeongju, the 8th-century Bulguksa Temple is a fascinating slice of Korean history and culture set in peaceful, natural surroundings. The Buddhist temple complex is split into three areas, where wooden buildings rest on raised stone terraces. From here there’s a short one-mile (2km) trail to the remote Seokguram Grotto, where you'll be awed by a huge Buddha statue. Together, the two attractions make up a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Arte Museum, Gangneung

The breathtaking Arte Museum is the country’s largest immersive media art exhibition and makes a perfect rainy day activity. Using a combination of light, sound and scent, the floor-to-ceiling installations (which reach 32 feet/10m high) immerse you in blossoming seasons, swirling tides, iconic European artworks and more. The company behind the installation recently made headlines with their public artwork 'WAVE', which featured an astonishingly realistic-looking wave crashing around what appeared to be a large glass box.

Hamdeok Beach, Jeju Island

Take a stroll along Hamdeok Beach and see for yourself why it's one of Jeju Island’s best-loved beauty spots. With its blend of pure-white sand, jet-black rock and emerald-blue sea, it’s a dreamy place to spend an afternoon. Go paddling in a rock pool, wander out along a sandbar or hike up the small hillside of terraced fields. Keen for even better views? You can also go paragliding here.

Seoraksan National Park, Gangwon

Spanning a large swath of Gangwon Province, Seoraksan was South Korea's first ever designated nature reserve in 1965, and offers invigorating trails through scenic spots like Biryong Falls, Ulsan Peak and Geumganggul Cave. Staircases stretch up giant rock formations that pierce the sky, while the park is awash with color all-year-round: think vibrant blossoms in the spring and crimson-red foliage come fall. Pictured is Dinosaur Ridge, a jagged ridge of rock said to resemble the back of a dinosaur rising from the earth.

Changdeokgung Palace, Seoul

Seoul boasts several pretty palaces but Changdeokgung is perhaps the most beautiful. The 15th-century palace complex encompasses the sprawling Secret Garden; you can only visit as part of a guided tour, but it really is a must-see. As your guide leads you past traditional pavilions, lilypad-filled ponds and a canopy of foliage, you can soak up the yesteryear atmosphere in blissfully tranquil surroundings.

Jagalchi Market, Busan

You might not expect a seafood market to be 'beautiful' exactly, but Busan's Jagalchi Market is a sight to behold. This is South Korea's largest seafood market with indoor and outdoor stalls selling live and dried offerings: think scallops, snow crabs, octopus and plenty more. Plus, there's a pleasant atmosphere with friendly servers (called 'Jagalchi ajumma', meaning middle-aged or married Korean women) and a smattering of street performers.

Cheonjiyeon Falls, Jeju Island

This 72-foot (22m) waterfall sounds as incredible as it looks. The stream thunders down into the pool below, where some claim the reflection of the rock resembles a face. Cheonjiyeon Falls (which translates as 'sky connected with land') is set amid a network of walking trails, with plenty of other scenery to admire. The valley stretching from the falls is also famous for its population of giant mottled eels – carnivorous fish that can grow up to six-and-a-half feet (2m) long.

Bomun Lake, Gyeongju

This man-made lake is a stunning scenic spot in Gyeongju, in the southeast of the country. There's a four-mile (7km) walking trail which loops around the lake and takes around two hours to complete at a leisurely pace. There are plenty of pretty bridges and small parks, plus a steady stream of picnic benches to pause at. For the full experience, take to the water on a swan-shaped pedal boat.

Oedo-Botania, Geoje

This botanical garden is set on a reclaimed rocky islet in Hallyeohaesang National Marine Park, off the southeast coast of Geojedo Island. What started as a private garden now envelops the entire island, where European-styled gardens are punctuated with sculptures and statues. You can only reach Oedo-Botania by ferry and there’s no accommodation, which adds to its sense of escapist tranquility. Incredibly, dinosaur footprints have previously been found here.

Gyeongui Line Forest Park, Seoul

A slice of respite in South Korea's liveliest city, the  Gyeongui Line Forest Park  is one of Seoul's most beautiful spots. This four-mile (6km) linear walking trail partly tracks a former railway line that trundled through Book Street, where you’ll spot bronze statues commemorating its heritage. Urban life hums behind the tree-lined paths as you soak up the greenery, trickling streams and overall chilled-out ambience. The line passes by the bustling Dongjin Market, and the trendy, bohemian neighborhoods of Hongdae and Waugyo.

Hwaseong Fortress, Suwon

Looking as much like a majestic roundabout as a citadel, the Hwaseong Fortress is still a striking sight centuries on. The piled-stone and brick fortress was built in the late 18th century with huge stone towers, bunkers, bastions, secret gates and enormous 3.7-mile-long (6km) city walls that rip through the region's uneven terrain. There’s plenty of good viewpoints over the city and its fortifications, like the photogenic Paldalmun Gate (pictured). The fortress was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

The three scents of Gangneung

It might sound strange, but follow your nose for Gangneung’s most beautiful sights. The city is famous for its three scents – coffee, pine forest and ocean breeze – and Anmok's coffee streets, the pine forest campsites on one side of the city and the endless beaches on the other perfectly showcase Gangneung's best bits. You can combine all three with a stay at  St John’s Hotel ; from your balcony, sip a cup of coffee while overlooking the forests below and the endless ocean views ahead.

Gamcheon Culture Village, Busan

Set in the foothills of a coastal mountain, the colorful Gamcheon Culture Village is one of South Korea's most vibrant attractions and makes an excellent screensaver. The residential area was given a massive makeover in 2009 and now its higgledy-piggledy houses and labyrinthine streets sparkle in the midday sun. It’s been dubbed 'the Machu Picchu of Busan', although expect more murals and street art than alpacas...

Now discover Taiwan's most beautiful sights

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South Korea's president vows not to back down in the face of doctors' strike

SEOUL, South Korea — South Korea ’s president vowed Monday not to back down in the face of vehement protests by doctors seeking to derail his plan to drastically increase medical school admissions, as he called their walkouts “an illegal collective action” that poses “a grave threat to our society.”

About 12,000 medical interns and residents in South Korea have been on strike for six weeks, causing hundreds of canceled surgeries and other treatments at university hospitals. In support of their action, many senior doctors at their teaching schools have also submitted resignations though they haven’t stopped treating patients.

Officials say they want to raise the yearly medical school cap by 2,000 from the current 3,058 to create more doctors to deal with the country’s rapidly aging population. Doctors counter that schools can’t handle such an abrupt increase in students and that it would eventually hurt the country’s medical services. But critics say doctors, one of the best-paid professions in South Korea, are simply worried that the supply of more doctors would result in lower future incomes.

Public surveys show that a majority of South Koreans support the government’s push to create more doctors. But observers say many people are increasingly fed up with the protracted confrontation between the government and doctors, threatening to deal a blow to governing party candidates ahead of next week’s parliamentary elections.

In a nationally televised address, President Yoon Suk Yeol said adding 2,000 medical students is the minimum increase needed to address a shortage of physicians in rural areas, the military and essential but low-paying professions like pediatrics and emergency departments. Yoon said South Korea’s doctor-to-patient ratio — 2.1 physicians per 1,000 people — is far below the average of 3.7 in the developed world.

“Increasing the number of doctors is a state project that we can’t further delay,” Yoon said.

Yoon urged the striking doctors to return to work, saying they have a responsibility to protect people’s lives in line with the local medical law. He also said the government remains open to talks if doctors come up with a unified proposal that adequately explains why adding 2,000 more students is too steep of an increase.

“I can’t tolerate an attempt to carry through their thoughts by force without due logic and grounds,” Yoon said. “The illegal collective action by some doctors has become a grave threat to our society.”

Yoon said the recruitment plan won’t lead to lower earnings for doctors, citing what he called expected increases in national income and demand for medical services in the fast-aging society. He said the average income of South Korean doctors is the highest in the developed world.

Yoon’s speech is expected to draw an angry response from doctors, who have maintained they can have serious talks only when the government drops its increased enrollment plan. They deny opposing the plan over worries about future incomes.

Yoon said the government is taking final administrative steps to  suspend the licenses  of the strikers but added he doesn’t want to punish the young doctors. This implies that his government is willing to soften punitive measures on the strikers if they return to work soon.

Yoon recently ordered officials to pursue “a flexible measure” to resolve the dispute and seek constructive consultations with doctors at the request of governing party leader Han Dong-hoon.

The striking junior doctors represent a fraction of the total doctors in South Korea — estimated at 115,000 by Yoon and 140,000 by a doctors’ association. But in some major hospitals, they account for about 30% to 40% of doctors, assisting qualified doctors and department chiefs during surgeries and other treatments while training.

Doctors say the government enrollment plan lacks measures to resolve key medical issues such as how to increase the number of physicians in some key but unpopular professions. They say newly recruited students would also try to work in the capital region and in high-paying fields like plastic surgery and dermatology. They say the government plan would also most likely result in doctors performing unnecessary treatments due to increased competition.

The Associated Press

I'm adopted and wasn't interested in exploring my South Korean heritage. That changed in 2020

By Luke Bowden

• X (formerly Twitter)

Everyone in my life knows me as Luke, but for the first six months of my life I was Choi, Jeong Hyuk.

My adoption records state that my name means Truth and Glory.

Earlier this year I travelled to South Korea, where I was born, for the first time as an adult.

During my first few days in Seoul and then Daegu, the city of my birth, a sense of home would hit me in waves, affecting all of my senses. It was the taste of the food, the colour palette of winter — even the smell of open sewer vents early in the morning was strangely comforting.

I experienced it while sitting on the subway too, which was unexpected and moving, because I haven't had a sense of home for a long time.

In addition to growing up as a South Korean adoptee in Australia in the 1980s and 90s, my childhood home in lutruwita/Tasmania was completely destroyed by fire in 2005.

By my second week in Korea, this feeling of home was constant. I mentioned this to someone I met in a museum and their response was one of the most profound parts of the trip.

"Of course," I remember them saying. "Everything in this country has been designed for you by people like you".

A long journey home that started in lockdown 

I grew up with little to no interest in connecting with my South Korean heritage, instead wanting as much as possible to be 'Australian'.

Something changed in 2020 and I became curious about my birth family and past. I decided to reach out to a high-school friend, who is also an adoptee from South Korea, and asked for her advice on how I might find out more.

The search for my biological parents took years and involved DNA databases and petitions from the Tasmanian government to the adoption agency in Seoul on my behalf.

In mid-2022, the agency contacted my biological mother, who is now married. She denied being pregnant or having a baby and requested no further contact.

South Korea is quite conservative in comparison to Australia, and the assumption is her now-husband would be unaware she had a child before meeting him. Therefore, her only course of action would be denial.

I remember the day the woman from the Tasmanian government called with this news. I was at work and she asked if there was somewhere quiet I could go. 

Unconsciously, I asked if it was good news, and quickly learnt it was the opposite. 

I was acutely upset about my birth mother's response, with rejection and abandonment being such an inherent trigger. 

When I mentioned this to a mental health professional weeks later, she shared something I initially dismissed.

"You've got closure on this now, Luke," she said.

"You've found the mother and now you can go and forge your own identity".

Following my own footsteps

Towards the end of my trip to Korea, I visited the adoption agency where my adoptive parents collected me in 1985.

As the elevator opened on the fourth floor I was greeted by two toddlers running around my legs. 

A staff member gave me a tour of the building, explaining how much has changed within the building, with only the foyer remaining in its original state.

As we chatted at the building's entrance I couldn't take my eyes off the steps, consumed by the thought of my adoptive parents walking down them and onto the streets of Seoul with me in their arms.

With little information about my life before coming to Australia, the adoption agency is the only place in South Korea that I know I've been before.

My trip was coming to an end and the same friend who helped me begin the search for my family, organised a meeting with Professor Lee, Keun-Su, a former police officer who now locates missing people and works to reunite families.

With the assistance of a translator, Professor Lee said he might be able to find more information about my biological parents.

After our brief meeting, I was preparing to start my long journey home when Professor Lee invited me to join him on a radio show where he was due to do an interview.

It was last minute but I work in the media, so agreed. I was also purposefully being very spontaneous on this trip.

A message for my biological parents

The radio host and Professor Lee explained that they would ask me to introduce myself and explain what I was doing in South Korea. After this, they continued the program in Korean as I sat silently in the studio.

While I don't understand or speak Korean, I do know my biological parents' names, so it was a surprise to hear Professor Lee say their names and the province my records say they come from.

I realised he was doing a national call-out live on air for my birth parents.

Before I made this trip, many people asked if I was going to be looking for my family. It was never on my agenda because I already had closure.

It wasn't until the end of my time in Korea that I realised what the whole trip had been about: I was following Choi, Jeong Hyuk's footsteps — my own.

Back in the radio studio, Professor Lee pushed his phone towards my microphone, using a translation app to ask, "what would you like to say to your parents?"

"I would like to tell them I have had a good life in Australia and to thank them very much for letting me be adopted. That I am well. That I am healthy and that I understand."

Luke Bowden is a visual journalist with ABC News based in nipaluna/Hobart. 

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A recent visit to my parents' birth country left me thinking about a parallel life.

I'm taking back my birth name and reclaiming the identity I lost through adoption

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U.S. ambassador to U.N. to visit Japan and South Korea this month

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield is planning to travel to Japan and South Korea this month to discuss responses to North Korea, diplomatic sources said Thursday.

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Strong Taiwan Quake Kills 9, Injures Hundreds

The earthquake was the most powerful to hit the island in 25 years. Dozens of people remained trapped, and many buildings were damaged, with the worst centered in the city of Hualien.

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• Hualien, Taiwan A landslide after the quake. Lam Yik Fei for The New York Times
• New Taipei City, Taiwan Books flew off shelves as a home shook. @Abalamindo via Storyful
• Taipei, Taiwan Passengers waiting at a train station as some services were suspended. Chiang Ying-Ying/Associated Press
• Hualien, Taiwan People are rescued from a building that had partially collapsed. TVBS via Associated Press
• Hualien, Taiwan Firefighters rescuing trapped residents from a building. CTI News via Reuters
• Taipei, Taiwan Students evacuated to a school courtyard after the earthquake. Lam Yik Fei for The New York Times
• Guishan Island, Taiwan Rocks tumbling down one side of an island popular for hiking. Lavine Lin via Reuters
• Hualien, Taiwan A building leaned to one side after the quake. Randy Yang via Associated Press
• Ishigaki, Okinawa, Japan Watching news on a rooftop of a hotel after a tsunami warning. Chang W. Lee/The New York Times
• Hualien, Taiwan Motorbikes damaged in the quake. TVBS via Associated Press
• New Taipei City, Taiwan Damage in an apartment Fabian Hamacher/Reuters
• New Taipei City, Taiwan Water cascading down a building during the quake. Wang via Reuters

Meaghan Tobin and Victoria Kim

Here’s what you need to know about the earthquake.

Taiwan was rocked Wednesday morning by the island’s strongest earthquake in a quarter century, a magnitude 7.4 tremor that killed at least nine people, injured more than 800 others and trapped dozens of people.

The heaviest damage was in Hualien County on the island’s east coast, a sleepy, scenic area prone to earthquakes. Footage from the aftermath showed a 10-story building there partially collapsed and leaning heavily to one side, from which residents emerged through windows and climbed down ladders, assisted by rescuers. Three hikers were killed after being hit by falling rocks on a hiking trail in Taroko National Park, according to the county government.

By late afternoon, officials said rescue efforts were underway to try to rescue 127 people who were trapped, many of them on hiking trails in Hualien.

One building in Changhua County, on the island’s west coast, collapsed entirely. The quake was felt throughout Taiwan and set off at least nine landslides, sending rocks tumbling onto Suhua Highway in Hualien, according to local media reports. Rail services were halted at one point across the island.

The earthquake, with an epicenter off Taiwan’s east coast, struck during the morning commute, shortly before 8 a.m. Taiwanese authorities said by 3 p.m., more than 100 aftershocks, many of them stronger than magnitude 5, had rumbled through the area.

In the capital, Taipei, buildings shook for over a minute from the initial quake. Taiwan is at the intersection of the Philippine Sea tectonic plate and the Eurasian plate, making it vulnerable to seismic activity. Hualien sits on multiple active faults, and 17 people died in a quake there in 2018.

Here is the latest:

The earthquake hit Taiwan as many people there were preparing to travel for Tomb Sweeping Day, a holiday across the Chinese-speaking world when people mourn the dead and make offerings at their graves. Officials warned the public to stay away from visiting tombs in mountain areas as a precaution, especially because rain was forecast in the coming days.

TSMC, the world’s biggest maker of advanced semiconductors, briefly evacuated workers from its factories but said a few hours later that they were returning to work. Chip production is highly precise, and even short shutdowns can cost millions of dollars.

Christopher Buckley

Lai Ching-te, Taiwan’s vice president, who is also its president-elect, visited the city of Hualien this afternoon to assess the destruction and the rescue efforts, a government announcement said. Mr. Lai, who will become president in May, said the most urgent tasks were rescuing trapped residents and providing medical care. Next, Mr. Lai said, public services must be restored, including transportation, water and power. He said Taiwan Railway’s eastern line could be reopened by Thursday night.

Meaghan Tobin

Taiwan’s fire department has updated its figures, reporting that nine people have died and 934 others have been injured in the quake. Fifty-six people in Hualien County remain trapped.

Shake intensity

Taiwan’s fire department reports that nine people have died and 882 others have been injured in Taiwan. In Hualien County, 131 people remain trapped.

Agnes Chang

Footage shows rocks tumbling down one side of Guishan Island, a popular spot for hiking known as Turtle Island, off the northeast coast of Taiwan. Officials said no fishermen or tourists were injured after the landslide.

The death toll has risen to nine, according to Taiwan government statistics.

Meaghan Tobin, Siyi Zhao

Officials in Taiwan warned residents to not visit their relatives' tombs, especially in the mountains, this weekend during the holiday, known as Ching Ming, meant to honor them. There had already been 100 aftershocks and the forecast called for rain, which could make travel conditions on damaged roads more treacherous.

Crews are working to reach people trapped on blocked roads. As of 1 p.m. local time, roads were impassable due to damage and fallen rock in 19 places, according to the Ministry of Transportation. At least 77 people remain trapped. A bridge before Daqingshui Tunnel appeared to have completely collapsed.

Taiwan’s worst rail disaster in decades — a train derailment in 2021 that killed 49 people — took place on the first day of the Tomb Sweeping holiday period that year, in the same region as the earthquake.

The earthquake hit Taiwan as many people here were preparing to travel for Tomb Sweeping Day, or Ching Ming, a day across the Chinese-speaking world when people mourn their dead, especially by making offerings at their graves. Now those plans will be disrupted for many Taiwanese.

The holiday weekend would typically see a spike in travel as people visit family across Taiwan. Currently, both rail transport and highways are blocked in parts of Hualien, said Transport Minister Wang Guo-cai. Work is underway to restore rail transportation in Hualien, and two-way traffic is expected to be restored at noon on Thursday, he said.

Taiwan’s preparedness has evolved in response to past quakes.

Taiwan’s earthquake preparedness has evolved over the past few decades in response to some of the island’s largest and most destructive quakes .

In the years after a 7.6 magnitude earthquake in central Taiwan killed nearly 2,500 people in 1999, the authorities established an urban search-and-rescue team and opened several emergency medical operation centers, among other measures .

And in 2018, after a quake in the eastern coastal city of Hualien killed 17 people and caused several buildings to partially collapse, the government ordered a wave of building inspections .

Taiwan has also been improving its early warning system for earthquakes since the 1980s. And two years ago, it rolled out new building codes that, among other things, require owners of vulnerable buildings to install ad-hoc structural reinforcements.

So how well prepared was Taiwan when a 7.4 magnitude quake struck near Hualien on Wednesday morning, killing at least seven people and injuring hundreds more?

Across the island, one building collapsed entirely, 15 others were in a state of partial collapse and another 67 were damaged, the island’s fire department said on Wednesday afternoon . Structural engineers could not immediately be reached for comment to assess that damage, or the extent to which building codes and other regulations might have either contributed to it or prevented worse destruction.

As for search-and-rescue preparedness, Taiwan is generally in very good shape, said Steve Glassey, an expert in disaster response who lives in New Zealand.

“ The skill sets, the capabilities, the equipment, the training is second to none,” said Dr. Glassey, who worked with Taipei’s urban search-and-rescue team during the response to a devastating 2011 earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand. “They’re a very sharp operation.”

But even the best urban search-and-rescue team will be stretched thin if an earthquake causes multiple buildings to collapse, Dr. Glassey said.

Taiwan has options for requesting international help with search-and-rescue efforts. It could directly ask another country, or countries, to send personnel. And if multiple teams were to get involved, it could ask the United Nations to help coordinate them, as it did after the 1999 earthquake.

Pierre Peron, a spokesman for the United Nations, said on Wednesday afternoon that no such request had yet been made as a result of the latest earthquake.

Meaghan Tobin contributed reporting.

At least seven people have died and 736 have been injured as a result of the earthquake, according to Taiwan’s fire department. Another 77 people remained trapped in Hualien County, many of them on hiking trails. Search and rescue operations are underway, said the fire department.

Aftershocks of magnitudes between 6.5 and 7 were likely to occur over the next three or four days, said Wu Chien-fu, director of the Taiwanese Central Weather Administration’s Seismology Center, at a news conference.

As of 2 p.m., 711 people had been injured across Taiwan, the fire department said, and 77 people in Hualien County remained trapped. The four who were known to have died were in Hualien.

Victoria Kim

Hualien County is a quiet and scenic tourist destination.

Hualien County on Taiwan’s east coast is a scenic, sleepy tourist area tucked away from the island’s urban centers, with a famous gorge and aquamarine waters. It also happens to sit on several active faults , making it prone to earthquakes.

The county has a population of about 300,000, according to the 2020 census, about a third of whom live in the coastal city of Hualien, the county seat. It is one of the most sparsely populated parts of Taiwan. About three hours by train from the capital, Taipei, the city describes itself as the first place on the island that’s touched by the sun.

Hualien County is home to Taroko National Park, one of Taiwan’s most popular scenic areas. Visitors come to explore the Taroko Gorge, a striated marble canyon carved by the Liwu River, which cuts through mountains that rise steeply from the coast. The city of Hualien is a popular destination as a gateway to the national park.

According to the state-owned Central News Agency, three hikers were trapped on a trail near the entrance to the gorge on Wednesday, after the quake sent rocks falling. Two of them were found dead, the news agency said. Administrators said many roads within the park had been cut off by the earthquake, potentially trapping hikers, according to the report.

Earthquakes have rattled Hualien with some regularity. In 2018, 17 people were killed and hundreds of others injured when a magnitude 6.5 quake struck just before midnight, its epicenter a short distance northeast of the city of Hualien.

Many of the victims in that quake were in a 12-story building that was severely tilted, the first four floors of which were largely crushed, according to news reports from the time. The next year, the area was shaken by a 6.1-magnitude earthquake that injured 17 people.

The area has some of the highest concentrations of Taiwan’s aboriginal population, with several of the island’s Indigenous tribes calling the county home .

The county government in Hualien released a list of people that had been hospitalized with injuries, which stood at 118 people as of midday Wednesday.

Across Taiwan, one building fell down entirely, in Changhua County on the west coast, and 15 buildings partially collapsed, Taiwan’s fire department said. Another 67 buildings were damaged. One of the partially collapsed structures was a warehouse in New Taipei City where four people were rescued, according to Taiwan’s Central News Agency. Another 12 were rescued at a separate New Taipei City building where the foundation sank into the ground.

Peggy Jiang, who manages The Good Kid, a children’s bookstore down the street from the partially collapsed Uranus Building in Hualien, said it was a good thing they had yet to open when the quake struck. The area is now blocked off by police and rescue vehicles. “Most people in Hualien are used to earthquakes,” she said. “But this one was particularly scary, many people ran in the street immediately afterward.”

Lin Jung, 36, who manages a shop selling sneakers in Hualien, said he had been at home getting ready to take his 16-month-old baby to a medical appointment when the earthquake struck. He said it felt at first like a series of small shocks, then “suddenly it turned to an intense earthquake shaking up and down.” The glass cover of a ceiling lamp fell and shattered. “All I could do was protect my baby.”

Chris Buckley ,  Paul Mozur ,  Meaghan Tobin and John Yoon

The earthquake damaged buildings and a highway in Hualien.

The magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck Taiwan on Wednesday damaged many buildings and a major highway in Hualien, a city on the eastern coast, and it knocked out power as it rocked the island.

Across Taiwan, the quake and its aftershocks caused one building to completely collapse and 15 others to partially collapse, according to Taiwan’s fire department. Sixty-seven other buildings sustained damage.

Two tall buildings in Hualien that sustained particularly extensive damage were at the center of the rescue efforts there. Most damage across the city was not life-threatening, said Huang Hsuan-wan, a reporter for a local news site.

Where buildings were reported damaged in Hualien City

“A lot of roads were blocked off. There are a lot of walls toppled over onto cars,” Derik du Plessis, 44, a South African resident of Hualien, said shortly after the earthquake. He described people rushing around the city to check on their houses and pick up their children. One of his friends lost her house, he said.

One of the damaged buildings in Hualien, a 10-story structure called the Uranus Building that housed a mix of homes and shops, was tilted over and appeared to be on the verge of collapse. Many of its residents managed to flee, but some were missing, said Sunny Wang, a journalist based in the city. Rescuers were trying to reach the basement, concerned that people might be trapped there.

Photographs of the initial damage in Hualien showed another building, a five-story structure, leaning to one side, with crushed motorcycles visible at the ground-floor level. Bricks had fallen off another high-rise, leaving cracks and holes in the walls.

The quake also set off at least nine landslides on Suhua Highway in Hualien, according to Taiwan’s Central News Agency, which said part of the road had collapsed.

Taiwan’s fire department said four people had been killed in the earthquake.

Across Taiwan, 40 flights have been canceled or delayed because of the earthquake, according to Taiwan’s Central Emergency Operation Center.

President Tsai Ing-wen visited Taiwan’s national emergency response center this morning, where she was briefed about the response efforts underway by members of the ministries of defense, transportation, economic affairs and agriculture, as well as the fire department.

A look at Taiwan’s strongest earthquakes.

The magnitude 7.4 earthquake that hit Taiwan on Wednesday morning was the strongest in 25 years, the island’s Central Weather Administration said.

At least four people died after the quake struck off Taiwan’s east coast, officials said.

Here’s a look back at some of the major earthquakes in modern Taiwanese history:

Taichung, 1935

Taiwan’s deadliest quake registered a magnitude of 7.1 and struck near the island’s west coast in April 1935, killing more than 3,200 people, according to the Central Weather Administration. More than 12,000 others were injured and more than 50,000 homes were destroyed or damaged.

Tainan, 1941

A magnitude 7.3 earthquake in December 1941, which struck southwestern Taiwan, caused several hundred deaths, the United States Geological Survey said.

Chi-Chi, 1999

A 7.6 magnitude earthquake in central Taiwan killed nearly 2,500 people in September 1999. The quake, which struck about 90 miles south-southwest of Taipei, was the second-deadliest in the island’s history, according to the U.S.G.S. and the Central Weather Administration. More than 10,000 people were injured and more than 100,000 homes were destroyed or damaged.

Yujing, 2016

A 6.4 magnitude earthquake in February 2016 caused a 17-story apartment complex in southwestern Taiwan to collapse, killing at least 114 people . The U.S.G.S. later said that 90 earthquakes of that scale or greater had occurred within 250 kilometers, or 155 miles, of that quake’s location over the previous 100 years.

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