South Korea: 6 Must-See Cities and Places

South Korea is a country rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. From bustling cities to serene countryside, there are plenty of places to explore in this dynamic country. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, here are some of the must-visit cities and places in South Korea that you should not miss.

1. Seoul

South Korea’s capital city, Seoul, is a bustling metropolis that offers a unique blend of modern technology and ancient traditions. A must-visit attraction is the Gyeongbokgung Palace, a stunning 14th-century royal palace that is a symbol of Korean culture and history. The palace offers daily tours, and visitors can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony that takes place in front of the palace gate. Another popular attraction is the Namsan Tower, which offers breathtaking views of the city and is a great place to visit at night when the city is lit up. For shopping and entertainment, visitors can head to Myeong-dong, a bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and street vendors.

FUN FACT: South Korea is the world’s largest consumer of instant noodles, with an estimated 75 packets of instant noodles consumed per capita each year.

2. Busan

Located on the southern coast of South Korea, Busan is a picturesque city that is known for its beaches, temples, and seafood. One of the city’s most famous attractions is the Gamcheon Culture Village, a colorful hillside village that offers a glimpse into the city’s history and culture. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets and alleys, taking in the vibrant murals and unique architecture. For beach lovers, Haeundae Beach is a must-visit destination, offering pristine sands and crystal-clear waters. The city is also home to the Beomeosa Temple, a 1,300-year-old temple that is a symbol of Buddhist culture and tradition.

3. Jeju Island

Jeju Island is a stunning volcanic island located off the southern coast of South Korea. The island is known for its natural beauty and unique culture, and it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. A must-visit attraction is the Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, a volcanic crater that offers stunning views of the island and the surrounding ocean. Another popular attraction is the Jeju Folk Village, a living museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the island’s history and culture. The island is also home to the Jeju Loveland, a quirky sculpture park that features over 140 sculptures depicting various sexual themes.

FUN FACT: In South Korea, it’s traditional to celebrate a baby’s first birthday with a special ceremony called Doljanchi. During the ceremony, the baby is dressed up in a traditional hanbok and is placed in front of a table filled with various objects, including rice, coins, and pencils. The baby’s future is said to be predicted based on the object that they choose to pick up first.

4. Gyeongju

Gyeongju is a city located in the southeastern part of South Korea and is often referred to as the “museum without walls” due to its rich history and cultural significance. It was once the capital of the Silla dynasty, which ruled the Korean peninsula from the 7th to 9th century AD. As such, the city is home to numerous ancient temples, tombs, and artifacts that offer a glimpse into Korea’s past. Some must-visit sites in Gyeongju include Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, and the Royal Tomb Complex. The city also hosts the Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Festival in early April, where visitors can enjoy the stunning sight of cherry blossoms in full bloom.

5. Suwon

Suwon is a city located just south of Seoul and is known for its impressive Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was built in the late 18th century. The fortress spans over 5 kilometers and features various gates, watchtowers, and barracks. Visitors can take a stroll along the fortress walls and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding areas. Other must-visit sites in Suwon include the Korean Folk Village, where visitors can experience traditional Korean culture, and the Suwon Hwaseong Museum, which showcases the history and construction of the fortress.

FUN FACT: South Korea has a love for themed cafes, from cat cafes to board game cafes to even poop cafes, where all the decor is poop-shaped. These unique cafes are popular with locals and tourists alike and are a fun way to experience Korean culture.

6. Andong

Andong is a city located in the southeastern part of South Korea and is known for its traditional Korean culture and history. Visitors can explore the Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into traditional Korean life with its traditional houses, narrow alleys, and beautiful scenery. The village also hosts the Andong Mask Dance Festival in October, where visitors can enjoy traditional mask dances and other cultural performances. Other must-visit sites in Andong include the Dosan Seowon Confucian Academy and the Woryeonggyo Bridge, a picturesque wooden bridge that spans the Nakdong River.

South Korea is a country rich in culture, history, natural beauty and is a country that is perfect for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers, and with so many amazing places to visit, it’s hard to go wrong. So, be sure to add these must-visit cities and places to your itinerary, and experience all that South Korea has to offer.

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