The Korean Peninsula is home to two distinct cultures that are as different to each other as day and night. One of these countries is the southern half, called South Korea. Unlike their neighbours up North, South Korea forms the more freethinking, technologically, and economically advanced state of the two. As a result, the southern half of the peninsula is more popular. That is probably the reason why it is simply known as Korea.
There are numerous places to visit in Korea. From its modern metropolises to the national parks, there are a host of tourist attractions to satiate your senses. Some of the most diverse places to visit in Korea have been listed by us for your consideration.
10 Places To Visit In Korea
From great cities to panoramic vistas and unparalleled natural beauty, here is a list of 10 best places to visit in Korea:
1. Seoul
2. Gyeongju
3. The DMZ
4. Jeju Island
5. Andong
6. Seoraksan National Park
7. Jeonju
8. Busan
9. Chuncheon
10. Suwon
1. Seoul
Seoul is the capital city of South Korea. It is the largest metropolis and a major destination in South Korea as well as eastern Asia. The city has a lot of attractions to offer tourists. A good starting point will be to visit one of the various palaces in the city. Some of them built way back in the 15th century, they provide a keen glimpse of Korea’s historical exuberance.
Notable places to visit will be the Changdeokgung and GyeongbokGung palaces. You can further explore the city by visiting its numerous shrines, giant parks and tasting one of the best cuisines in the whole of Asia.
Things to do: Explore Bukchon Hanok Village, Steepest Roller Coaster Ride and Cable Car Ride in Mount Namsen.
Ideal Duration: 4 Nights/5 Days
Currency: Won
Language: Korean
Must Read: 28 Stunning Places To Visit In South Korea
2. Gyeongju
The Silla Kingdom was in power about 2000 years ago in Korea. They chose Gyeongju as their capital city. This gives Gyeongju a unique historical character and makes it an incredible place to visit. Some of the most notable places to visit here are the numerous buddhist temples and shrines.
The Bulguksa and Seokguram grotto temples are absolute masterpieces and it is worth the hike that you take to get there. You can also sample delicacies and buy artefacts from the local Covered Market.
Currency: Won
Language: Korean
Suggested Read: Top 10 Reasons To Visit South Korea & Have A Blast With Your Family
3. The DMZ
The DMZ is the no man’s land between North and South Korea. DMZ is short for Demilitarized Zone and is considered a cease-fire zone. However, not all the areas of the DMZ are safe for normal folks and travellers. There is a special zone known as Joint Security Area or JSA that is open to the public. The only way to get here is through an authorized guided tour by the government.
This place is popular because here, you can stand in North Korea and buy some souvenirs like North Korean wine, currency and stamps.
Currency: Won
Language: Korean
Suggested Read: 10 Places Near Seoul That Are Must-Visit Attractions In South Korea
4. Jeju Island
Jeju island is set off the southern coast of South Korea and its only Autonomous Province and has some special powers. This island is popularly known as the Island of Gods. It enjoys beautiful subtropical weather and is quite famous among locals and travellers as a premer honeymooning spot. There are lava fields, pretty beaches and lush green forests to be explored here.
In addition to that you can visit the Seongeup Folklore Village to learn more about the culture. Or you can visit the Glass Castle, which is a theme park with glass sculptures. Loveland is another theme park but it is strictly for adults and romantic couples only.
Currency: Won
Language: Koreanic
Suggested Read: South Korea In June: Everything You Need To Know When Planning A Vacay
5. Andong
Andong is known as the center for Korean spiritual culture. It is over two thousand years old and the main draw here is the Andong Hahoe Folk Village. The local culture has been preserved here and the people share it with all the people that visit here. Enthusiasts can also have a good time by exploring things like the food and wine of the place. Most popular among these is Jimdak, a chicken soup and Soju, a local wine.
Currency: Won
Language: English and Korean
Suggested Read: Enter The World Of Webtoons At This Cartoon Cafe In South Korea
6. Seoraksan National Park
For hiking and nature lovers, Seoraksan National Park is the place to be. Here you will find a treasure trove of natural wonder like cascading waterfalls, rocky landscape and pine forests.
This Park is also home to over 1000 distinct animal species and gives you ample opportunities to take great panoramic pictures. You can grab a map of the park when you come here and just go out and explore the amazing hiking trails throughout the park.
Things to do: Biryong Falls, Sokcho Jungang Market, Yukdam Falls and Towangseong Falls.
Currency: Won
Language: English and Korean
Suggested Read: Rejoice Your Hearts By Shopping In Seoul On An Excursion To South Korea
7. Jeonju
Bibimbap is arguably the most famous dish to come out of Korea. Jeonju is widely known to be the birthplace of this amazing dish. Jeonnju has a special place in Korean history as it served as the capital of the Joseon Dynasty.
The best place to know more about this is the Jeonju Hanok Village. You can also taste the local Soju or visit the traditional houses in this village. You can collect souvenirs and explore more about the area at the Jeonju Museum.
Things to do: Explore the Jeonju Hanok Village streets, Rent a Hanbok, Hike to the Omodae Viewpoint and Visit the Free Museums.
Currency: Won
Language: English and Korean
Suggested Read: 6 Best Places To Visit In Suwon For An Eventful South Korea Holiday
8. Busan
Busan is a beautiful port city with gorgeous beaches, parks and hotsprings. It is the 2nd largest city of South Korea and a major cultural and industrial hub. The Gamcheon Cultural Village was set up as a cultural hotspot for tourists and locals. You can experience calm as you look past the gorgeous view of the water and brilliantly coloured hills.
The Beomeosa temple is the most popular to visit among all temples. Other cool attractions include the Nakdong Estuary and Bird Sanctuary, Taejongdae Park and the stunning Haeundae beach.
Things to do: Underwater Experience, Seafood Paradise, Watch Live Concert and Hiking at Taejong Dae.
Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days
Currency: Won
Language: Korean
Suggested Read: 8 Best Places To Visit In Incheon Your South Korea Trip Is Incomplete Without
9. Chuncheon
Chuncheon is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Korea. Surrounded by gorgeous lakes and snow covered mountains on all sides, this city also acts as the capital of the Gangwon Province. People throng this place to see the live location of the popular soap opera Winter Sonata. Apart from this, the city offers attractions like Statue park, Soyang dam and Cheongpyeongsa temple.
The Dakgalbi street is famous for a grilled chicken dish by the same name with rice, spice and vegetables. This street is filled with vendors offering their own version of the dish.
Currency: Won
Language: Korean
Suggested Read: Here’s Why The Cleanest Village In Asia, Mawlynnong Deserves More Tourists
10. Suwon
Suwon is the capital city of the Gyeonggi Province and is easily reachable by train. It houses the Hwaseong fortress which was built in the 18th century. Here you can gape at the amazing architecture or take archery lessons on the fortress grounds.
The city also features another popular structure called the Big Bird. It is the nav of the Soccer stadium that hosted the semifinals for the 2002 world cup.
Things to do: Hwaseong Haenggung Palace, Paldalmun Gate and Hwaseong Fortress.
Currency: Won
Language: Vietnamese English and Korean
Further Read: 36 Best Places To Visit In Southeast Asia That Won’t Let You Put Your Camera Down!
The lower half of the Korean Peninsula has been one of the most sought after tourist destinations in the world. We have tried to list down all the important places to visit in Korea on your next trip to this incredible country. We hope this trip to Korea goes more amazing than your expectations!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Korea
Is it expensive to go to Korea?
Yes, Korea is quite an expensive place to visit. The cost of travelling in the country is at a premium. However, your wallet takes the most hit in the country from accommodation. But, if you are frugal enough and spend judiciously in other areas, then you can certainly manage.
How many days should be enough for a Korean visit?
It depends on the places you want to visit and the experiences you want to have. It usually takes 7 to 10 days to explore Korea. You can increase the duration of visit if you wish to explore more.
What items are prohibited in Korea?
Drugs, narcotics and other such controlled substances can not be brought into the country. Some common prohibited substances include cocaine, hallucinogens and opium. Even your personal prescription drugs are scrutinised closely and then approved.
What is the best time to visit Korea?
The best time to go to Korea lies between September to November and March to May. In these times the weather is comfortable and conducive for travel. Also, travel and accommodation is cheaper around these times.
What things should be considered while visiting Korea?
Some things to consider are: Be prepared for the cold weather, check for protests on streets, learn basic Korean to interact with locals and be on the lookout when you take public transport.
Is the Koran public english friendly?
Many Koreans under 50 have had English in schools. They can understand you as long as you keep it simple. They don;y have much practice hence, their conversational english is not good.
What are the things that I need to avoid in Korea?
Some nifty things to remember avoiding in Korea are: inappropriate clothing, talking loudly in public places, throwing toilet paper in toilets instead of dustbins, wearing shoes indoors, and treating locals with disrespect(learn about local customs before your visit).
