interesting places to visit in korea

Ultimate South Korea Bucket List: 20 Best Things To Do

Looking for the best things to do in South Korea? Enjoy our South Korea bucket list full of great ideas on how you can plan your South Korea trip! This list features things to do in Seoul, Busan, Gyeongju, Jeonju and more beautiful places around the country. Here’s our bucket list on what to do in South Korea!

South Korea is a country in East Asia known for its K-Pop, Korean food, palaces, Buddhist temples and the famous capital city Seoul. If you love unique culture, views of mountains, bright neon signs and a country with so many modern features then you should start creating your South Korea bucket list now!

There are so many amazing things to do in South Korea and this list won’t even capture it all – but it’s definitely a start and a great introduction to what to do in South Korea on a first trip! If you need any help planning out your route, head over to our 2 week South Korea itinerary to plan the most amazing trip.

This South Korea bucket list includes destinations that are easy to get to by the impressive public transport the country has to offer. We’ll share how to get to these places and a few more tips for South Korea at the bottom of this page!

This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you .

Ultimate South Korea Bucket List

Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)

South Korea is an incredible country to visit with amazing cities, lovely villages, great food and some of the best hikes! In no particular order – here are the 20 best things to do in South Korea!

1. Visit Gyeongbukgung

Gyeongbukgung is one of the most beautiful palaces in Seoul . There are five palaces in Seoul and all of them deserve a visit – but if you only have time for one, make it Gyeongbukgung. It was built in 1395 and was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty.

Make your visit to the palace memorable by renting a hanbok for a few hours. Hanbok rental stores are hard to miss when visiting South Korea and there are a few rental shops right around the corner from Gyeongbukgung. Find the link on Klook here –  Hanbok Rental Klook

If you’re in Seoul for a few days – check out our  5 Day Seoul Itinerary travel guide here !

We use a  Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit  to take photos of us together on our camera, it’s so useful especially when there’s no one around! There’s also a version for a phone –  Joby Phone Tripod  to get the best photos on your South Korea trip!

2. Have a traditional Korean meal

Eating Korean food is one of the best things to do in South Korea and should definitely be on your South Korea bucket list! Enjoy a traditional Korean meal at Osegye Hyang ( location ) in the gorgeous streets of Insadong.

When entering, it’s polite to take off your shoes and sit on cushions on the floor instead of chairs. Along with your meal, you’ll be served lots of little side dishes called Banchan ! The best meal to have when you first arrive in South Korea!

3. Stay in a Temple

Temple stays are a cultural programme in South Korea as a way to experience the Buddhism lifestyle and practices. It’s our favourite thing we did in South Korea and we’d 100% go back to stay in more temples around the country. We highly recommend – Golgulsa Templestay ! (Near Gyeongju & Busan)

Here’s the link to find out more information and book a stay at –  Golgulsa Templestay Reservations . The  price  is  60,000KRW  per night, per person. (30krw for a pre-schooler)

We’ve also shared a Golgulsa Templstay Review so you can find out exactly what it’s like to stay overnight in a South Korean Buddhist Temple. It’s such an amazing and unique experience!

4. Take the train to Busan

If you’ve ever seen the horror/action movie Train to Busan – then taking the train from Seoul to Busan must be on your South Korea bucket list! Remember, it’s just a movie!

You can book your ticket on the KTX  here –   Korail Train Tickets . It’s a quick 2 hour 15 minutes from Seoul to Busan and the tickets are usually around ₩45,000 – ₩65,000. If you’re on a budget, then intercity and express buses are generally cheaper but slower in South Korea.

If you’re taking multiple trains in South Korea, you may want to get a KR Pass to save you money! Find out more details on Klook !

If you’re interested in travel costs and how much to budget for South Korea, here’s our 10 Best South Korea Budget Tips + Travel Costs (2024) !

5. Explore a Hanok Village

Another one of the best things to do in South Korea is to explore the many hanok villages that can be found around the country. Bukchon Hanok Village may be the most popular village to explore in South Korea as it’s located in Seoul. It’s absolutely beautiful and should be on your South Korea things to do list! Find Bukchon Observatory for an impressive view to see the tops of the preserved buildings!

• Jeonju Hanok Village (Jeonju)
• Bukchon Hanok Village (Seoul)
• Andong Hahoe Folk Village (between Seoul & Busan)

6. Visit the DMZ

If you’re spending a few days in Seoul you may be interested to visit the Demilitarized Zone of Korea in between North and South Korea. It’s an important part of the country and there’s so much history to learn about the Korean War. This can only be done on a tour –  book tickets with Klook here !

7. Spend a day in Gyeongju

Wondering what to do in South Korea? Take a visit to the beautiful city of Gyeongju also known as a museum with no walls . This ancient city has preserved remains and tombs from many years ago and it was once the residence of Silla rulers for over 1000 years. You can book a Gyeongju UNESCO World Heritage Tour from Busan on Klook .

Take a browse at 11 Best Things to do in Gyeongju  to plan your trip!

8. Eat Korean street food

We’ve already mentioned that Korean food should be on your South Korea bucket list – and now we want to tell you to try Korean street food! There are so many markets around the country that have amazing choices when it comes to food. Gwangjang Market is our favourite food market in Seoul!

• Tteokbokki (Rice cakes in a spicy sauce)
• Gun Goguma (Roasted sweet potatoes)
• Mandu (Korean dumplings)
• Gamja-Hotdog (Korean-style corn dog covered with potato)
• Dakgangjeong (Korean fried chicken with a sweet spicy coating – There’s vegan options too!)
• Bindaetteok (Mung bean pancakes)

Check out our Vegan in South Korea Guide – Best Restaurants & Snacks (2024) !

9. Hike in Seoraksan National Park

Seoraksan National Park is one of the most impressive hiking spots in South Korea. Sokcho (the city nearby) is only a bus ride away from Seoul and has accommodations to stay in for anyone who wants to spend a day or more in the park.

Hiking Seoraksan ( Snow Rock Mountain ) should be on your things to do in South Korea if you love hiking! Challenge yourself to reach Ulsanbawi – a six-peak formation with gorgeous views of the mountains. It takes around four hours one way or there’s actually a cable car going a similar way.

10. Wander around Insadong

Seoul is a destination that must be on your South Korea bucket list and one of the best things to do in South Korea is to wander around the beautiful streets of Insadong.

Insadong is home to many independent restaurants, cafes and boutique shops – it’s a lovely place to spend a morning or afternoon in South Korea. It also has a few of our favourite places to eat! Plan your Seoul trip here –  5 Day Seoul Itinerary travel guide !

11. Hike to the top of Seoul Tower

Next up on your South Korea bucket list is hiking in Namsan Park (Seoul Tower). Don’t worry, it’s not as long as the hikes in Seoraksan National Park and it’s right in the heart of Seoul. It’s actually possible to get a bus up to the top and the base of the tower.

The views are incredible from the park and one of our favourite things to do in South Korea. You can also go o the top of the tower for a better view of the city. Tickets are really affordable on Klook – so make sure you  buy your ticket in advance!

12. Go to a K-Pop concert

K-pop is very popular in South Korea and people also love it around the world! For some fans, it’s the main reason they visit South Korea! K-pop is short for Korean popular music and is a big part of South Korean culture. Check tickets on InterPark or search the web! It’s such a South Korea bucket list moment to be able to watch K-pop live in the same country it originated from!

13. Try bibimbap

Bibimbap is a big part of Korean cuisine and it’s easily customizable for anyone which means it’s great for vegetarians in South Korea. Bibim means mixing rice and bap refers to the rice.

The Korean dish is usually topped with kimchi, gochujang, vegetables or protein and mixed up before being eaten. It’s one of the tastiest and most nutritious dishes in South Korea and originated in Jeonju!

Browse our guide on 25+ Best South Korea Travel Tips before your trip!

14. Explore Jeju Island

Jeju Island has to be on your South Korea bucket list, unfortunately, we didn’t get a chance to visit the island on our South Korea trip and are definitely planning a visit there next time!

The island is known for its stunning nature, waterfalls, the highest mountain in South Korea and lovely beaches. It’s a popular getaway for Koreans to escape the business of cities on the mainland. The country isn’t short on things to do in South Korea to spend your days!

15. Stay in a Hanok in Jeonju

Jeonju Hanok Village is home to over 700 Hanok homes that are still being used to this day. Some are people’s homes and others have been turned into accommodations for guests. Staying in a hanok is one of the best things to do in South Korea!

We highly recommend staying in the accommodation Jungdam ( Find here on Booking.com ) – right in the heart of the traditional Korean village! In hanoks, the sleeping set-up is Korean Style (on the floor!)

16. Try out Noraebang (Karaoke)

Noraebang is the Korean name for Karaoke (which is Japanese ). South Koreans love Noraebang and you’ll find plenty of Noraebang rooms in cities around the country. Most noraebang will rent a room by the hour to sing your heart out! It’s common to see clips from older K-dramas in the rooms too, so it’s a fun experience!

17. Shop in Hongdae

You can’t take a trip to Seoul without visiting the vibrant and trendy neighbourhood of Hongdae. Visit one of the many cafes in the area to join in with the popular cafe culture in South Korea. Hongdae is also a great place for nightlife and amazing street performers! Add this to your bucket list in South Korea!

Hongdae  is one of the hip and trendy areas of Seoul, with many shops, restaurants and themed cafes. It’s also a great spot for nightlife alongside Itaewon. Street performers

18. Take a trip to Nami Island

Nami Island is a popular day trip from Seoul and one of the best things to do in South Korea in any season but especially in the Fall. The trees and foilage come alive in peak season and it’s a cosy place to visit!

From Seoul catch a train to Gapyeong Station, then a bus and from there it’s a 10-minute ferry over to the island! You can even take a zip wire onto the island! Nami island is also known as the final resting place of General Nami who was part of the Joseon Dynasty and a filming location for K-dramas such as Secret Garden and My Love from the Star.

The best way to get to Nami Island is to book a tour with Klook , prices are usually discounted and you can choose what activities to do. A Nami Island day trip is also included in the Klook Seoul Pass !

19. Gamcheon Culture Village

Visiting Gamcheon Culture Village is another one of the most interesting things to do in South Korea and a must when visiting Busan! The village has come a long way since the Korean war when it was populated by poor residents of Busan.

The Tourism board of South Korea chose to bring the village to life with art and creativity in the hope to attract visitors. It soon became a beautiful attraction with cute cafes and trendy shops and now it’s a spot to add to your South Korea bucket list!

We also have an in-depth 3-Day Busan Itinerary if you’re planning a visit!

20. Learn about history at the National Museum of Korea

Lastly on this South Korea bucket list, is to take a visit to the National Museum of Korea in Seoul – the largest museum in South Korea ! There is a collection of more than 310,000 historic artefacts dating back thousands of years.

The museum is easy to reach by Seoul’s public transport. It’s also free to enter this museum, so it’s perfect if you’re looking for things to do in South Korea!

So that’s our 20 best things to do in South Korea bucket list – it’s definitely not all the best things to do in the country, but now you can add to this to create your perfect trip. Here are a few more suggestions for you!

Best things to do in South Korea (Weather)

December – February ( Winter ) – Go skiing or snowboarding! If you’re visiting South Korea in the winter, it’s the best time to hit the slopes or have fun in the snow! Build a snowman, create a snow angel or go on a winter hike. The winter is pretty cold in South Korea, but it’s definitely worth a visit to see the country magically covered in snow!

March – May ( Spring ) – Once the snow has melted away and nature starts brightening up again, South Korea is covered in beautiful cherry blossoms. Japan is well known for the Sakura season all over the world, but South Korea gets the same lovely blossoms. Visit in Spring to be a part of the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival!

June – August ( Summer ) – This season is pretty different to European summers. South Korea experiences typhoons and the rainy season in the summer months. It’s usually hot and humid with lots of rain, although there will be sunny days too! We visited in early June and it was getting hot but no rain.

September – November ( Fall ) – Another beautiful season to visit South Korea – the foilage in October is absolutely beautiful and should be a season on your South Korea bucket list. Spring and Fall may be the best seasons to come to Korea.

What to pack for South Korea?

Depending on the weather, you’ll want to pack the clothes you usually wear, plus a good pair of footwear! We wear trainers everywhere (even when wearing hanbok oops!) and it’s definitely needed in the cities or on short hikes. Here are a few travel essentials we always carry:

• Stainless Steel Water Bottle  – A refillable bottle is a must when tap water is free & accessible in South Korea!
• Amazon Basics Packing Cubes  – We can’t pack our bags without using packing cubes!
• Rain Mac in a Bag  – Essential for unpredictable rainfall when it’s warm in Korea!
• Anker Power Bank  – Keep your phone charged by carrying around a power bank for your trip!
• Worldwide Travel Adaptor  – The best for visiting multiple countries!
• Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit  – The perfect lightweight tripod to take anywhere in South Korea! We love our  Joby GorillaPod  and use it for our  Sony A600 . There’s also a version for a phone –  Joby Phone Tripod .

Where to stay in South Korea?

• Seoul – Hostel Tommy – Find here on Booking.com !
• Busan – Dynamic Guesthouse – Find here on Booking.com !
• Gyeongju – Doobaki Guesthouse –  Find here on Booking.com !
• Jeonju – Jungdam –  Find here on Booking.com !

Festivals in South Korea

Boryeong Mud Festival – A celebration of water, coolness & covering the body in mud – summer

Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival – A festival to celebrate cherry blossoms – spring

Busan International Film Festival – A movie festival in Busan – fall

Lotus Lantern Festival – A celebration & Buddha’s birthday festival – spring

The Seoul Lantern Festival – A celebration of Korean culture – fall

Boseong Green Tea Festival – To celebrate South Korea’s biggest tea plantation – spring

SafetyWing Nomad Insurance

Don’t forget Travel Insurance! SafetyWing is a totally flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your trip anywhere in the world. You don’t have to be in your home country to start it and you can add months to your trip whenever you need to! Find out more here!

More  South Korea  guides:

• Ultimate 2 week South Korea Itinerary: Best Places (2024)
• 5 Day Seoul Itinerary – Best Things To Do (2024)
• Staying in Golgulsa Temple: The Best Templestay in Korea (2024)
• 3 day Busan Itinerary: What to do in Busan (2024)
• 11 Best Things to do in Gyeongju: Itinerary (2024)
• 25+ Best South Korea Travel Tips: What to Know
• Vegan in South Korea Guide – Best Restaurants & Snacks (2024)
• 10 Best South Korea Budget Tips + Travel Costs (2024) !
• All our  South Korea  posts!

That’s the end of our  Ultimate South Korea Bucket List: 20 Best Things To Do!  Have an amazing time in South Korea and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!

LIKE THIS POST? PIN IT FOR LATER & SHARE IT WITH OTHERS!

Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.

Similar Posts

Ultimate 3 week Sri Lanka Itinerary: 2024 Guide

Planning 3 weeks in Sri Lanka? You’re in the right place! Sri Lanka is an amazing country to explore with…

10 Best South Korea Budget Tips + Travel Costs (2024)

Are you wondering how much a trip to South Korea will cost? Here’s our in-depth travel guide on the 10…

The Ultimate Southeast Asia Packing List | 2024

Wondering what to pack for Southeast Asia? Here’s our tried and tested Southeast Asia packing list created for travellers who…

6 Japan Budget Tips: Cost of Travel in Japan

Japan is a country at the top of bucket lists. It’s known by many for being the sushi capital of…

3 Week Philippines Route & Itinerary: Where to visit in 2024

Planning a 3 week Philippines route and itinerary in 2024? This is our detailed travel guide on how you can…

Cameron Highlands Itinerary: Best Things To Do (2024)

Planning a Cameron Highlands itinerary in 2024? You’re in the right place! The Cameron Highlands is a beautifully unique area…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

SEOUL - north  |  SEOUL - south

Day Trips from Seoul  | Busan  |  Best Collections

🌸Festivals ( Seoul • Busan )

Top 100 Must-Visit Places in Korea & How to Go Guide 

Discover the  Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Korea for 2023-2024  that include famous attractions and some of the newly added places to visit across all regions of Korea from Seoul , Incheon , Busan to Gyeonggi-do and Gangwon-do .

The 6th edition of  Top 100 Must-Visits Tourist Spots in Korea (2023-2024) list was announced by Ministry Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) and Korea Tourism Organization (KTO)  on  13 December 2022 . The list is a compilation of recommended tourist attractions that are selected and promoted every 2 years  by MCST and KTO .

Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots Summary​ (2023-2024)

39 natural attractions

61 cultural attractions

14  attractions have been selected for 6 consecutive times (e.g. 5 palaces in Seoul )

33 new additions include Seoul Forest , OSIRIA Tourist Complex , etc

Drop outs include  Seoraksan National Park , etc 

24 in Seoul Capital Area (incl. Seoul, Incheon, Gyeonggi-do)

10 in Gangwon-do Province

28 in Gyeongsang-do Province (incl. Busan, Daegu, Ulsan)

6 on Jeju Island

13 in Chungcheong-do Province

17 in Jeolla-do Province

Shortlisted Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots (2023-2024) in/out Seoul or Busan

​ To assist travellers to explore these popular and recommended places of interests on your holiday in Korea , KoreaToDo has put together the shortlisted Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots that are:

easily accessed in Seoul

within 3 hours from Seoul

in/from Busan

It includes  detailed guides on how to get there by public transport or join a local tour so as to get the most out of your travel time, when combined with other nearby attractions.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

The largest of all five grand palaces built in the Joseon Dynasty, remaining in Seoul.

Changgyeonggung Palace

A simple and compact palace, surrounded by a forest with about 50,000 trees.

Seoul Forest

Known for its cherry blossoms & tulips in Spring, Ginkgo Tree Forest in Autumn & deer.

Lotte World

Include the World's largest Indoor theme park & an outdoor Magic Island.

Ikseondong Hanok Village

A hot trending place with narrow streets of hip cafes, restaurants and pubs.

Korean Folk Village

A village recreated from the Joseon era with backdrop of mountains and river.

Gwangmyeong Cave

An abandoned mine for 40 years to the best Cave Theme Park in Korea.

Anseong Farmland

The largest agro-livestock theme park in Korea with impressive seasonal flower fields.

Jarasum Island

Consists of 4 islands with the southern island transformed into a 'flower island'.

Ganhyeon Tourist Area (Sogeumsan Grand Valley)

Experience the longest suspension bridge (200m) in Korea & cliffside walk.

Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm

Korea’s first sheep farm, located at 850m above sea level in the Alps of Pyeongchang.

Wondae-ri Birch Forest

A nature sanctuary with over 700,000 birch trees, paths & lookouts.

Songjeong Beach

Well-known surf beach in Busan. Wet suits & surf boards for rent. Surfing lessons offered.

Gamcheon Culture Village

'The Santorini of Korea', known for its colourful mountainside houses.

Yongdusan & Jagalchi Special Tourist Zone: BIFF Square

Main venue of the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) & a well-known food paradise.

Gwangalli Beach

Enjoy view of Gwangandaegyo Bridge & Gwangalli M Drone Light Show every Saturday.

OSIRIA Tourist Complex: Skyline Luge Busan

2nd Skyline Luge in Korea. Enjoy the scenic skyride up & ride downhill on luge carts.

Donggung Palace, Wolji Pond & Cheomseongdae

Top attractions of Gyeongju, the capital of ancient Silla Dynasty.

Jeonju Hanok Village

Referred as the 'Slow City' with over 800 traditional Korean hanok houses.

Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage and one of the most well-preserved royal palaces.

Gyeonghuigung Palace

Once a massive complex with 1,500 buildings and residence for kings for over 200 years.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

Iconic landmark of Korean design industry, designed by world-renowned architect.

N Seoul Tower

Iconic landmark of Seoul with fantastic views of Seoul city.

Incheon Chinatown

Best Chinese food with nearby fairy tale inspired Songwoldong Fairy Tale Village & Jayu Park.

Everland Theme Park

Korea's largest amusement park with many fun rides, zoo & themed festivals.

Imjingak, Paju

A famous DMZ tourist spot, built with the hope of Korean unification someday.

Dumulmeori, Yangpyeong

A place of rustic nature beauty. Known for its over 400-years old Zelkova trees & filming site.

Nami Island

Well-known as the filming location of 'Winter Sonata' Korean drama.

Located on the mountain, a place where art & architecture are harmonized with nature.

Daegwallyeong: Daegwallyeong Sky Ranch

A huge ranch with over 540 cows, sheep, horses and goats in the vast grassland.

Taejongdae Park

Offer magnificent view of the sea at Yeongdo Lighthouse on the cliff.

BUSAN X the SKY

Observatory on 98-100F of Haeundae LCT The Sharp, the highest building in Busan.

Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge

Connect Amnam Park across the sea to Dongseom Island. 127.1m long and 2m wide.

Yongdusan & Jagalchi Special Tourist Zone: Jagalchi Market

Korea's largest seafood market with indoor & outdoor sections, including restaurants.

OSIRIA Tourist Complex: Ananti Cove

Large coastal town consists of Ananti Hilton Busan, hot spring, coastal walk, shops & cafes.

OSIRIA Tourist Complex: Lotte Premium Outlets

Designed with the concept of Santorini. Over 500 famous domestic & international brands.

Bulguksa Temple & Seokguram Grotto

The first historical sites in Korea registered as UNESCO World Heritage.

Cheongpung Lakeside Cable Car

Panoramic view of Cheongpung Lake on the 2.3km cable car ride, connected to Mt. Bibongsan.

Deoksugung Palace

Smallest of the five palaces and the final residence of the last King of the Joseon Dynasty.

Hongdae (Hongik University Area)

A university suburb with youthful streets of shops, cafes & clubs.

Observatory located on 117F-123F of South Korea's tallest building, Lotte World Tower.

Seochon Village

The village resembles the old Seoul with hanoks (traditional Korean houses), shops & cafes.

Suwon Hwaseong Fortress

UNESCO World Heritage with impressive structure from Joseon Dynasty.

Seoul Land Amusement Park

1st large-scale theme park in Korea with over 40 rides & games for all ages.

DMZ, the border that divides the Korean Peninsula. Visit the 3rd Tunnel & Dora Observatory.

Heyri Art Valley, Paju

A lovely village formed by artists with shops, cafes, galleries and quirky sculptures.

Chuncheon Samaksan Mountain Lake Cable Car

The longest cable car in Korea at 3.61km, connecting Samak Mountain to Lake Uiam.

Gangneung Coffee Street

Anything related to coffee at the 'city of coffee', located on the eastern coast of Korea.

Daegwallyeong: Yongpyong Ski Resort

The largest ski resort in Korea & host of 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympic Games.

Haeundae Beach

The most beloved & famous beach of the country. It stretches 1.5km long & 30-50m wide.

Busan Green Railway

Alongside the 9.8km walking trail is the popular Haeundae Sky Capsule & Beach Train.

Songdo Beach

1st public beach in Korea. Walking distance to Busan Air Cruise & Songdo Cloud Trails.

Yongdusan & Jagalchi Special Tourist Zone: Yongdusan Park

The most significant structure at Yongdusan Park is the Busan Diamond Tower (120m).

OSIRIA Tourist Complex: Lotte World Adventure

1st theme park in Busan. The amusement park features 6 zones with 17 rides & attractions.

Daewangam Park

A seaside park, known for its beautiful coastlines and interestingly-shaped rocks.

Naejangsan National Park

A favourite autumn foliage destination with a beautiful temple in the park.

Past Winners of Top 100 Must-Visit Tourist Spots

Seodaemun Prison History Hall

Once a prison, now a museum. A popular K-drama location on their out of prison scenes.

Well-known shopping, dining & street food paradise.

Jebudo Island

Jebu Island, a mysterious island where sea routes open twice a day due to tides.

Pocheon Art Valley

Experience the beauty of the quarry at this famous drama filming location.

High1 Ski Resort

One of the most popular ski resorts in Korea, known for its puffy snow.

Tongyeong Skyline Luge

Ride the Skyride to get on board the Luge cart for exhilarating ride downhill.

Seoullo7017

A highway, now a beautiful sky garden walkway for pedestrians.

Wolmido Island

Cafes, seafood restaurants & theme park along the coast.

The Garden of Morning Calm

A beautiful & artistic private garden to be enjoyed in all seasons.

Seoraksan National Park

Beautiful mountain landscape, hiking courses & cable car rides to the top of the mountain.

Huinnyeoul Culture Village

Known for its beautiful coastal cliff landscape and a popular film location.

Oedo-Botania

Famous for its European atmosphere & marine botanical garden.

The global village in Seoul, known for its restaurants & night life.

Hwadam Botanic Garden

An ecological park divided into 17 themes with forest walking path & monorail courses.

Namhansanseong Provincial Park

A UNESCO World Heritage with 12.4km fortress & different hiking trails.

Wonju Suspension Bridge

Korea's longest suspension bridge across Mt. Segeum's 2 peaks.

A hill overlooking the sea & the location of many famous Korean dramas.

KoreaToDo TOP PICKS - Tours, Activities & Discount Tickets to TOP 100 MUST-VISIT TOURIST SPOTS

➥ Handpicked experiences by KoreaToDo for their uniqueness, value, popularity, price competitiveness and at times, tedious to reach by public transport.

N Seoul Tower Observatory Ticket

enjoy breathtaking views

Hanbok Experience (Hanboknam Gyeongbokgung Store)

incl. basic hairstyling & inner skirt

Nail Art & Hairstyling Experience at OLRANG, Hongdae

onsite English translation

Seoul Moonlight Walking Tour with Local Historian

Seoul's hidden gems with stories

Seoul City Tour Bus: Myeongdong, Seoul Tower, Palaces, Insadong, Bukchon

15 stops to hop on & hop off

Namsan Cable Car Round Trip Ticket (weekdays & min. 2 pax)

beautiful scenery of Seoul

Hanbok Rental (& Photoshoot) Experience by Hanbok That Day

3 mins walk fr. Gyeongbokgung

Seoul Personal Color & Make-up Analysis in Hongdae

with English speaking expert

Cheongwadae Blue House & Gyeongbokgung Palace Walking Tour

former presidential residence

Seoul City Tour Bus: Night View Course (Mt. Namsan, Han River Bridges...)

non-stop course with photo time

Lotte World Theme Park 1 Day Pass

easy access on Seoul Subway

Hanboknam Hanbok Rental Voucher at Changdeokgung Store

Alive Museum & Dynamic Maze in Insadong

interactive artworks!

Quaint Changgyeonggung Palace Night Tour

learn about Joseon history

Lotte World 1 Day Pass & Lotte World Aquarium

located in the heart of Seoul

Hanbok Rental near Changdeokgung Palace by Dorothy Hanbok

Kid/Male hanbok available.

Coex Aquarium in Seoul Admission Ticket

largest aquarium in Seoul

Discover Seoul Pass (Lotte World, COEX Aquarium, Han River Cruises, etc)

free access to >60 attractions

⬇ Tours departing from Seoul

Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Tour

bird’s eye view of North Korea

Paju/Gimpo/Cheorwon DMZ Day Tour

DMZ (Demilitarized Zone)

Hwadam Botanic Garden & Korean Folk Village Day Tour

garden with 17 themes

Everland 1 Day Pass (instant QR Code for entry incl. on voucher upon booking)

a large amusement park & zoo!

DMZ 3rd Invasion Tunnel & Gamaksan Suspension Bridge Day Tour

150m long bridge across valley

Korean Folk Village, Suwon Hwaseong & Suwon Nammun Market Day Tour

Authentic cultural experience

Hwadam Forest, Ludencia Theme Park & Dumulmeori Day Tour

Everland Day Tour (Admission, Tour Guide & Round Trip Transfer)

Eng./Mandarin speaking guide

DMZ 3rd Invasion Tunnel & Majang Lake Suspension Bridge Day Tour

220m long bridge by the lake

Yongin Dae Jang Geum Park (MBC Drama Studio) Tour

BTS Suga music video & ARMY

Hwadam Forest, Ludencia Theme Park & Yeoju Outlet Day Tour

PRIVATE DAY TOUR: Alpaca World, Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm

hotel pickup & admissions

DMZ 3rd Invasion Tunnel & Korea Traditional Boat Voyage Day Tour

river flowing out of North Korea

Hwadam Botanic Garden & Gwangmyeong Cave Tour

Top 100 Must-Visit Spots

Hwadam Forest, Ludencia Theme Park & Gwangmyeong Cave Tour

Pocheon Art Valley, Apple Farm Experience & Herb Island Day Tour

apple pie making + monorail

Mt. Seorak & Naksansa Temple Tour

explore Korea’s natural beauty

Nami Island, Petite France & Italian Village Day Tour

Nami Island, Petite France, Italian Village & The Morning Calm Day Tour

Alpaca World & Nami Island Private Day Tour (1-5 pax/car)

comfortable & safe travel

Nami Island, Alpaca World & Chuncheon King Canoeing Day Tour

PRIVATE DAY TOUR: Nami Island & Rail Bike (& more)

Seoraksan National Park, Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm Day Tour

spectacular landscapes of Korea

Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm Day Tour

Nami Island, Petite France, Italian Village & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour

Alpaca World, Nami Island, Gangchon Rail Bike Private Day Tour (1-5 pax/car)

travel in comfort

Legoland Korea & Nami Island Day Tour

World's 2nd largest Legoland!

IN THE SOOP BTS Ver. (PyeongChang) Filming Location Tour

incl. official merchandise gift!

Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour

best of Gangwon province!

Alpaca World, Nami Island & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour

enjoy the best of Gangwon!

Alpaca World, Nami Island & Petite France Private Day Tour (1-5 pax/car)

travel with friends & family

Legoland Korea & Samaksan Mountain Lake Cable Car Day Tour

longest 3.61km cable car ride!

PRIVATE DAY TOUR: Alpaca World, Nami Island & Rail Bike

Nami Island Admission Ticket (incl. return ferry)

Skip the ticketing queue!

Alpaca World, Nami Island & The Garden of Morning Calm Day Tour

walk with adorable alpacas

Nami, Petite France, Italian V., Morning Calm & Gangchon Rail Bike Tour

visit them all!

Nami Island, Alpaca World & Samaksan Mountain Lake Cable Car Day Tour

longest cable car in Korea!

PRIVATE DAY TOUR: Alpaca World & Nami Island

Incheon Day Tour (Ganghwa Luge, Rail Bike, Wolmido & Fairy Tale Village)

enjoy the best of Incheon!

over 800 traditional houses

Lotte World Adventure Busan 1 Day Pass

1st theme park in Busan!

CLUBD OASIS: Spa Ticket @LCT, Haeundae Beach

hot spring & Korean dry sauna with 5 themes (salt, cypress, red clay, elvan & ice)

Busan Day Tour: Blueline Park - Cheongsapo Station

✚Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Huinnyeoul & Gamcheon Villages

Busan City Day Tour (Haeundae Sky Capsule)

✚Oryukdo Skywalk, Huinnyeoul Culture Village & Gamcheon Culture Village

Busan Night Small Group Photo Tour

Gamcheon Culture Village, Observatory, Waterside Park & Mt. Hwangnyongsan

Skyline Luge Busan Ticket

✚panoramic view sky rides

CLUBD OASIS: Spa & Water Park All-Use Ticket

@Busan's tallest building LCT, Haeundae Beach

Busan Day Tour: Haeundae Sky Capsule

✚Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Cheongsapo, Huinnyeoul & Gamcheon Culture Villages

Busan City Day Tour (Yacht Course)

✚Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Gwangalli Beach & Gamcheon Culture Village

Gyeongju UNESCO Sites & Haeundae Sky Capsule Tour

Bulguksa Temple, Gyeongju Historic Areas (Daereungwon, Hwangnidan-gil) & Wolji Pond

Busan SEA LIFE Aquarium Admission Ticket

Busan Air Cruise Cable Car Ticket

normal or crystal cabin options

Busan City Day Tour (Classic Course)

✚Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Taejongdae, Gamcheon Culture Village & Songdo Skywalk

Busan Must-Visit Day Tour (Sky Capsule & Beach Train)

✚Cheongsapo Skywalk, Jukseong Cathedral & Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

MUSEUM 1 SIGNS of LOSS Ticket (new modern art)

152.4m mega sized LED media art!

Busan Day Tour: Haeundae Beach Train

Busan City Day Tour (Haeundae Beach Train)

✚Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Gamcheon Culture Village & Songdo Skywalk

Busan Night Tour (Western Course)

Songdo Cable Car+Skywalk, Gamcheon Culture Village & Cheonmasan Road View

⬇ Tours departing from Busan

Gyeongju Old Capital Day Tour

Bulguksa Temple, Gyochon Village, Woljeong Bridge, Daereungwon, Wolji Pond++

Gyeongju UNESCO World Heritage Site Day Trip

Bulguksa Temple, Yangdong Village, Daereungwon, Wolji Pond, Woljeong Bridge++

Oedo Botania Island & Geoje Cable Car Day Tour

Hill of Wind, Cruise Ship, Haegeumgang, Oedo Botania & Geoje Panorama Cable Car

Busan & Gyeongju Private Customized Tour

Chinese/English speaking driver, 8hrs, vehicle, parking, toll fee, insurance, hotel pick-up

♔  KoreaToDo recommends  Klook.com , Asia leading in-destination service provider 

🌸SEASONAL HOT PICKS🌸 Handpicked Experiences from Seoul

1883 Incheon Chicken & Beer Party Day Tour

25 May 2024

K-pop, night market & drone show

2024 Pohang International Fireworks Festival (from Seoul)

incl. Hwanho Park Space Walk

2024 Boryeong Mud Festival, Daecheon Beach & Suspension Bridge Day Tour

19 Jul - 4 Aug 2024

Korea's famous mud festival!

Other KoreaToDo 'Best of Collections' that you may like:

Top 10 Most Popular Attractions

Top Day Trips from Seoul under 3 hours

Best Hidden Places in Seoul

Top Favourite Shopping Heaven in Seoul

Still looking? Explore KoreaToDo handpicked collection of:

Seoul - North of Han River

Seoul - South of Han River

30 Things to Do in South Korea: The Ultimate Bucket List

08/18/2023 by Guest Blogger 2 Comments

If you’re the type of traveler who enjoys good food, beautiful architecture, festivals and unique culture (and who doesn’t?) South Korea is incredible to explore. Rich with cultural history and merged perfectly with modern design, events and technology, the list of things to do in South Korea is practically endless.

Since you have so many choices in South Korea, I’ve narrowed it down to an ultimate bucket list. These are 30 of the best things to do in South Korea:

Table of Contents

1. Karaoke is a MUST

Korean karaoke is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Get a group of friends together, rent a karaoke room, order food, order drinks, and grab the mic! Unlike karaoke in the U.S., you don’t have to sing in front of a bunch of strangers or wait your turn. Pass around a book of songs and take full control of the evening. 

2. Play in mud at the Boryeong Mud Festival

Even the mud in Korea adds to the Korean beauty experience… well, at least in Boryeong it does.  Visit the Boryeong Mud Festival  in the summer to experience K-Pop concerts, fireworks, and lots of mud.

This mud is imported from the Boryeong mud flats and brought into playscapes on the beach of Boryeong. This mud is used in many Korean mud beauty products, which is silky smooth and has a ton of health benefits. Needless to say, locals and foreigners line up to roll and play in the mud.

3. Ride the KTX cross country

One of the easiest (and quickest) ways to explore the country of South Korea is via KTX train. The KTX is a high-speed express train that travels all over the country. The routes are still expanding, but, for the most part, you can go nearly anywhere around the country by using the KTX and/or other train services.  KTX scheduling information and tickets  can be found and purchased online or at the train station. 

4. Visit Busan in the summer 

Busan is the second largest city in South Korea. It sits on the southeast corner of the country surrounded by the Yellow Sea and the Sea of Japan. Where there’s seas, there’s beaches. One of the most popular beaches in the country of South Korea is Busan’s Haeundae Beach. Busan is great to visit any time of year, but the city really comes to life in the warmer months when festivals are plentiful and the beach season is at its prime.  

5. Connect with the Expats

Many expats gravitate towards areas in Seoul and Busan to teach English abroad. Visiting a foreign country that doesn’t speak your native language can be tough.

Connect with these seasoned foreigners via Facebook groups or by hanging around foreigner hot-spots, such as Itaewon or Hongdae. One of the best traits about expats? Most are very welcoming and open to meeting new people. 

6. Immerse yourself in the golf culture of South Korea

Locals  love  to golf in South Korea. Stop by a golf course, driving range, or head to one of the many indoor screen golf experiences – many of which offer private rooms with food and beverage services. 

7. Look and feel flawless with Korean beauty

Feel your absolute best with the abundance of  Korean beauty options  in South Korea. Get your nails done at a Korean salon (add some bling for the real Korean experience). Shop for skincare and cosmetic products at one of the many cosmetics shops in the country.

You can even give plastic surgery a try with some of the best plastic surgeons in the world. Or, you can go easy with a simple procedure such as laser hair removal, which is super cheap in South Korea!  

8. Get your fit on at an outdoor gym

The Korean culture is very active. Locals are always hiking, biking, walking around, at a workout class or at the gym. One of the cheapest and most convenient forms of exercise is at one of the many outdoor gyms that are scattered throughout cities, parks, around lakes, and in many other spots around the country. These gyms consist of simple equipment to work different parts of the body. Some of the exercises may look silly, but they really do hit the right spots if performing them properly. 

9. See an impressive firework display

Koreans love to celebrate, and what better way than firework displays? Many festivals or celebrations throughout the year in South Korea have a specific night that features a firework show, such as on New Year’s Eve or the final evening of the Boryeong Mud Festival. There are also a few festivals that are solely centered around fireworks, such as the International Fireworks Festival , which typically takes place in Busan and Seoul in the month of October each year. 

10. Try all the macarons 

If you thought France was the only country big on macarons, you thought wrong. Macarons are  everywhere  in South Korea. Many cafés sell the macarons along with cakes and other sweets, or there are stand-alone macaron shops scattered throughout the country.

Some are quite elaborate, stuffed with icing and decorated in fun, Instagrammable ways (focusing more looks than taste). Whereas others are simple, delicate, and quite tasty. 

11. Visit N Seoul Tower at Night

Take a cable car ride up to the hilltop of Namsan Park, where the infamous N Seoul Tower (use code KOREA10OFFAUG for 10% off!) is located. If you are a K-drama fan, you might recognize the area as many Korean dramas shot romantic scenes here! Speaking of romance, here you will see young couples seal their romantic promises with a padlock on trees, perhaps inspired by the love lock bridge in Paris. N Seoul Tower also offers stunning views of the city, especially at night.

12. Check out a gazillion cafés 

The best thing about South Korea is the abundance of cafés. Don’t even mention the name Starbucks when deciding on where to get your morning cup o’ joe!

Koreans take their coffee (and cafés) seriously. Watching the baristas make the coffee is an experience in itself. Want a vanilla latte? Some places will actually grind a real vanilla bean to blend into your caffeinated concoction, with, of course, a handcrafted foam design on top. Don’t forget to grab a piece of cake or macaron to accompany your drink!

13. Attend a K-pop concert

The moment one arrives to South Korea, K-pop will suddenly appear  everywhere  ­– on billboards, on apparel, in cabs, and on TV. K-pop is a genre of music that originated in South Korea. It means ‘Korean Popular Music’. Many other genres of music fall into this category: hip hop, rap, electronic, rock, R&B, etc. What makes this different than good ole’ regular pop? The experience.

K-pop groups consist of young Korean groups that perform these popular genres of music, along with perfectly-choreographed dancing, vibrant costumes, and lots of energy. 

14. Visit the DMZ 

The demilitarized zone is the border that separates North and South Korea. Tourists are allowed to visit the South Korean side of this border through an  organized tour (use code KOREA10OFFAUG for 10% off!). There are many different tours to choose from and most depart from Seoul.

The different tours will visit different parts of the DMZ. When tensions are low, choosing a tour that visits JSA (Joint Security Area – Truce Village) will allow you to actually step into North Korea. 

15. Try a hotteok 

Hotteoks, also known as Korean sweet pancakes, are a popular street food in South Korea. They look like pancakes, but have filling inside of them – most times a brown sugar syrup, honey, or crushed peanuts with cinnamon. Look for the places that cook these on a griddle, as opposed to frying them. 

16. Visit Jeju Island 

Jeju (use code KOREA10OFFAUG for 10% off!) is an island getaway on the southwest coast of South Korea and a short flight away from any domestic airport. There are also ferries that depart from different cities, but take much longer.

There are beaches, museums, hiking and more. One of the highlights of the island is the erotic Love Land museum . 

17. Attend a Korean baseball game

Baseball games in South Korea are pretty comparable to football games in America. The energy is electric and fans go wild for their teams. Locals and foreigners crowd the stadiums with inflatable noise-makers and lots of yelling. It’s a must-do experience. 

18. Drink soju 

Soju is a clear, nearly tasteless, alcoholic beverage that originated in South Korea. There are many different flavors if the ‘Fresh’ tasteless variety isn’t your jam. Soju can be found almost anywhere in South Korea ­– at convenience stores, restaurants, bars and more. A common soju mixed drink that locals love is soju mixed with either Hite or Cass beer.

19. Cure your hangover

Make sure to prepare before a night of indulging in soju (or any alcoholic beverage). Head to a convenience store for a ‘hangover drink’, called Condition. This little glass bottle is packed with vitamins to help you feel 110% the next morning.  It really works! 

Each bottle contains Hovenia fruit extract from an oriental raisin tree. Note that the dark green bottle, or pink bottle specifically for ladies, is for drinking at night before and/or after consuming alcohol. There is also a gold bottle with a smooth cap for the morning after.

20. Experience Korean nightlife

If soju is involved, there’s bound to be a party nearby. South Korea has tons of fun bars and nightlife. With or without the booze, Korean nightlife is great entertainment. Many local bars will do fire shows for your birthday or special occasion.

There are some bars that will do magic shows for you while you’re sitting at the bar sipping on a soju tower. And, of course, there are karaoke bars, where you can rent a private room with your friends to sing and dance the night away.

21. Enjoy the luxury of Korean bidets 

If you’ve been to Japan , these bidets don’t quite live up to those, but it’s a close second. These fancy toilets are heated, self-cleaning, and drying (and I’m not talking about the toilet), and some will even play music or water sounds to create a relaxing experience.  

Everyone, and I mean  everyone  – children up to elderly – love to hike. There are a ton of hiking paths everywhere you go. Unlike other hiking spots around the world that zig-zag, trails in South Korea go from point A to point B in the shortest possible distance. Therefore, many trails can be quite steep and difficult.  Find the perfect trail  near you.  

23. Eat bingsu

This delightful dessert is much yummier than it sounds. It’s flavored shaved iced (typically frozen milk), topped with a variety of ingredients and then finished with a drizzle of condensed milk. Some of the tastier topping combinations can include cocoa powder, brownies with whipped cream; cocoa powder, Oreos with mint chocolate chip ice-cream; fresh strawberries with whipped cream; and macarons with vanilla ice-cream. There are others that are a little more adventurous, such as, injeolmi (which is soybean powder), red bean, green tea, and cheese.

24. Eat kimchi

Kimchi, made from fermented cabbage, originated in Korea. Many Korean restaurants will provide all-you-can-eat kimchi throughout your meal. There are tons of amazing health benefits to eating this Korean staple, including lowering cholesterol, providing healthy bacteria, which can aid in stomach health and help prevent yeast infections, slowing the aging process (it’s a wonder why Koreans look so young), and many more.

25. Eat bibimbap from Jeonju

Head to the city of Jeonju, where bibimbap originated. Bibimbap is a bowl of white rice with either shaved or ground beef, topped with fresh julienned carrots, cucumber, bean sprouts and lettuce, finished with a fried egg on top. Many people eat this with gochujang (chili pepper paste), or doenjang (soybean paste), along with a side of kimchi. This Jeonju-original is now found in almost every Korean restaurant. 

26. Try beef on a leaf 

Beef on a leaf is a slang term for Korean BBQ because of the large pieces of lettuce you get that you can eat your beef on. Some places call it “galbi”, which refers to Korean ribs.

The Korean BBQ experience is a  must.  Choose your favorite type of meat from the menu and when you’re ready to order, press a button at your table for a server to come by. Once you place your order, the server will bring out tons of sides for the whole table to share and ignite the grill in the middle of the table to start heating up for the meat. Shortly after, the server will come back with plates of raw meat, scissors, and tongs. Sometimes they will cook the meat for you, but many places allow you to cook your own. Cut the meat into small pieces and place it on the grill, along with any sides you want roasted. 

27. Visit Seoul

Seoul is the capital and largest city of South Korea. Find a large assortment of shopping, loads of entertainment, “Seoul” much good food and more. Explore the city with a local to get a deeper understanding of life in one of the most technologically advanced cities in the world.

READ NEXT: 18 awesome things to do in Seoul

28. Splurge at Daiso

Daiso is similar to a dollar store but has an incredible selection of items for everyday necessities. It’s basically like the dollar store version of a Target – it will just tell you what you need. 

29. See the cherry blossoms in the spring

Hurry, though! They don’t last long. The cherry blossoms bloom throughout the country near the end of March or early April and only last a few weeks. There are many festivals that go on around the country dedicated to these blooming beauties, but the best places to see them are away from the crowds. Try to find a nearby lake or off-the-beaten-path colorful palace to catch a better glimpse. 

30. Check out the oldest bakery in South Korea

Lee Sung Dang Bakery is the oldest bakery in South Korea. It is located in the small town of Gunsan, about two hours south of Seoul. This isn’t a bakery where you grab a loaf of bread and head on your way. Locals  stock up  on these baked goods! Grab a tray and a pair of tongs and wander the shop, adding anything and everything to your tray.

Many locals will grab multiple trays to fill. Once paying for the baked goods, head to the bakery’s counterpart next door (where you can also purchase some of the bakery’s items), and go upstairs to their café to grab a drink and enjoy some of your irresistible pastries.  

Korea Quirks:

Sweet tooth heaven.

Korea is a sweet tooth’s heaven. Everything, and I mean  everything,  is sweet. Pepperoni pizza?  Yup.  Garlic bread?  Yup.  Looking for “actual” sweets? Head to any café and you’re bound to find a case full of cakes and macarons to compliment your sweet potato latte. 

Korean Shirts

Korean shirts are a novelty to westerners. They’re just so off-the-wall that they’ll bring a smile to your face whenever you see one. They take an ordinary word or phrase and somehow twist it to make it into a deep connotation ­(typically with grammatical errors). They’re almost there, but just not quite right. My favorite I’ve seen is a shirt with a smiley face that says, “BE SMILE”.  

Spiders are the size of birds

I wouldn’t necessarily call this a quirk as much as a nightmare. Starting in late spring and into the summer months, HUGE spiders suddenly appear. Their bodies can be the size of golf balls. Their webs will span  meters -long. Be very cautious walking between trees or even cars. Most times, you will see them up near lamp posts where many bugs are attracted. That’s where most of the “big guys” hang.   

For all of it’s adventures, novelties and oddities, I love exploring South Korea and hope you will, too.

This article was written by Kylie Loyd. Born & raised in Michigan, New Yorker at heart, adventure took ahold of her fate and brought Kylie to her [now] husband, who leads her around the world via U.S. Air Force. Kylie Loyd has lived on three and traveled to four different continents in the past two years. With moving around the world so frequently, finding work with a background in event management was a struggle while living the “drifter life”. Kylie became certified as a personal trainer to appease her passion for fitness, and also started her blog,  gocatchthedrift.com . Today, she blogs about the travel opportunities for military spouses around the world, and also enjoys including ways to stay fit and healthy while on the road.

*Some of the links in this post are affiliate links to tours we love and recommend. Any purchase you make through these links supports us at no extra cost to you.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

 subscribe to our newsletter

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Lisa JoyDellaVita says

08/19/2020 at 8:37 am

Thank you! This post really makes me want to go to SK! *-*

Elena DePree says

08/09/2021 at 11:58 am

We are going to South Korea next June so this really helped me learn some super cool things. I would like know where the picture, with the 2 bridges, was made? I would love to find that and take some pictures.

13 of the best things to do in Seoul, South Korea

Feb 4, 2024 • 8 min read

From bustling street food markets to peaceful temple life, experience the best of Seoul with this guide © Plan Shooting 2 / Imazins / Getty Images

For an ultra-modern city filled with sleek high-rises and time-tested palaces, tempting street food, vibrant shopping districts and much more, head to Seoul . 

Whether you want to see the latest K-Pop sensation, take a late-night food and drink tour, or find serenity in a spa or temple, the city has something to offer 24/7. Here are the best things to do in South Korea ’s capital.

1. Taste the street food at Gwangjang Market

Street food in Seoul is beloved for its spice, variety and affordability, and there’s no better place to try it than  Gwangjang Market . Dating from the early 20th century, this covered market has gained a reputation among foodies for having some of the country’s best street snacks. 

Planning tip:  Start with an order of tteokbokki (stir-fried rice cakes in a bright orange spicy sauce), followed by a couple of mandu (Korean dumplings) and a pajeon (savory green onion pancake). For dessert, try hotteok (a pancake filled with brown sugar and cinnamon) or bungeoppang (a fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste). Then do it all over again.

2. Step back in time at Gyeongbokgung Palace

If you only have time to see one sight in Seoul, make it the splendid architecture, serene pagodas and maze-like grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace . Originally built during the reign of the powerful Joseon Dynasty in the 14th century, the palace was destroyed during the 16th-century Imjin War and rebuilt in the 18th century. Gyeongbokgung is the largest and most elegant of Seoul’s five royal palaces.

Planning tip:  Take in the ceremonial changing of the Royal Guard in front of the massive Gwanghwamun Gate before strolling the grounds to admire striking hip-and-gable buildings, tranquil ponds and delicate cherry trees. Wrap up your visit with a stop at the National Folk Museum of Korea , which sits on the palace grounds and features exhibits on traditional Korean culture.

3. Stroll along the Cheong-gye-cheon Stream

In the heat of summer , nothing beats a walk along Cheong-gye-cheon Stream . A dazzling oasis that unfurls for nearly 11km (7 miles) through the towers of central Seoul, this picturesque waterway is lined with walking paths, trees and bridges. The original stream was covered with an elevated highway after the Korean War, but in 2005, the city undertook an urban renewal project to refresh the area and reintroduce the stream better than ever. Since then, it’s been a popular spot for locals and tourists looking to cool off or take a leisurely break from the city’s hustle and bustle.

4. Shop for the latest trends in Myeong-dong

You’ll want to break out the credit card for an afternoon of spending in Seoul’s most famous shopping district. Myeong-dong is renowned for trendy fashion labels, deluxe department stores and cosmetic boutiques packed with famed K-beauty products. Once you’ve sufficiently stocked up on mask sheets and moisturizer at Olive Young , innisfree and Etude House , check out the Myeong-dong Night Market for quirky souvenirs and traditional street food.

The area is also home to some of Seoul’s cutest cafes, with the Pink Pool Cafe at the Stylenanda Pink Hotel flagship store being the ultimate eye candy. This confectionery-colored spot has an ice-cream-parlor vibe, indoor ornamental pool and sweet-as-sugar art decor, making it a popular place for photo shoots.

5. Go for a dip in a jjimjilbang

More than just a way to get clean, bathing in Seoul is a full-fledged social activity. Koreans gather at bathhouses (jjimjilbang) with friends and family typically once a week. Jjimjilbang can range from an establishment with just a couple of small dipping pools to massive aquatic palaces with multiple pools, water features, cafes, saunas, relaxation rooms, gyms, spas and arcades.

First-timers should know that bathhouse etiquette requires bathing in the nude, and some bathhouses don’t allow patrons with tattoos. Once you’ve bared all, take a dip in the hot and cold pools, followed by a stretch in the sauna, then opt for a traditional full-body scrub to emerge baby-soft from your bathhouse experience.

Planning tip: The female-only Spa Lei draws patrons for its elegant atmosphere and invigorating massages.

6. Take a hike in Bukhansan National Park

Bukhansan National Park is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as “the most visited national park per unit area” – which is easy to understand since it’s set within the city limits and easily reachable by public transportation . You’ll often see athletic Koreans in colorful hiking gear riding the subways on weekends.

Bukhansan covers 80 sq km (31 sq miles) and features jagged peaks, hiking trails, dozens of storied temples and 1300 species of plants and animals. The 5-hour round-trip hike to the 836m (2744ft) summit of Bukhansan is well worth it to see Seoul spread out before you in all directions.

7. Go singing in a noraebang

Walk down any busy street in the university districts on a Friday or Saturday night, and you’re likely to hear distant singing wafting through the air. Chances are it’s not an errant K-Pop band but the raucous merriment of karaoke at a noraebang (singing room). This popular late-night activity involves private rooms with big-screen TVs, phone-book-sized lists of songs and even disco balls or musical instruments to accompany the singalong. Top it off with room service bringing snacks and cocktails, and it’s a recipe for a great night out.

8. Sip on Korean drinks: soju and makgeolli

The traditional Korean beverages soju and makgeolli have been respectively distilled and brewed since the 13th century and are the most beloved drinks in this thirsty nation. Soju also has the surprising distinction of being the world’s best-selling spirit, perhaps helped out by the fact that a standard bottle often costs less than a bottle of water.

While such upmarket small-batch distilleries as Samhae Soju and Hangang Brewery  create artisanal varieties, the most common labels, such as Jinro and Seoul Makgeolli, can be happily imbibed at the picnic tables dotting sidewalks outside convenience stores across the city.

Planning tip:  Those new to the Korean alcohol scene should check out the  Sool Company , which offers tasting tours, brewing classes and special events.

9. Star-search on K-Star Road

You’re probably familiar with Hollywood’s Walk of Fame, but did you know Seoul’s glamorous Gangnam district has its own boulevard dedicated entirely to K-Pop artists? Instead of stars on the sidewalk, K-Star Road features 3m-tall (10ft) statues of cartoon bears called GangnamDols, each decorated to represent a different K-Pop singer or band, including Super Junior, Girls’ Generation and BTS. 

Planning tip:  After taking a few selfies with your favorite bears, pop into the GangnamDol Haus near the Apgujeong Rodeo subway station to pick up a few mini bears as souvenirs.

10. Stay at a temple and take part in life with the monks

The iconic image of a colossal Buddha statue looking over sleek high-rises can be seen at the 8th-century Bongeun-sa Temple in Gangnam . Although most tourists come just to snap a photo or two, you can actually participate in temple life with the monks. Over a weekend, join in vegetarian meals, morning chanting, meditation and even the 108 daily prostrations, all meant to clear the mind and bring you closer to achieving inner peace.

Planning tip:  Temple-stay programs are offered not only at Bongeun-sa but also at various temples throughout Seoul.

11. Spend the night in Bukchon Hanok Village

Graceful sloping roofs, ornate tiles and colorful dancheong  (intricate paintwork under the eaves of traditional Korean palaces) come together to create the Korean traditional house, called hanok . Tucked between the Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palace complexes lies Bukchon Hanok Village , a historic district filled with hundreds of charming hanok  that’s often used as a backdrop for period movies and television shows.

Planning tip:  While the village has cafes, teahouses, museums and boutiques, it’s also home to a handful of hanoks -turned-guesthouses where visitors can sleep on traditional ondol heated floors, walk through kimchi pot–filled courtyards and generally get a taste what life was like in old Seoul.

12. Get a bird’s-eye view at N Seoul Tower

At the top of Nam Mountain sits N Seoul Tower , a broadcasting structure dating from 1969 and rising 239m (784ft) into the sky above the city. The tower still has active transmission antennas, though today it’s better known for an observation deck that offers 360-degree views of the capital. The top of the tower also offers a few dining options, including a swanky rotating restaurant serving French fare.

Planning tip:  To reach the tower itself, you can ride the Namsan Cable Car aerial tramway or hike the meandering trails to the top through Namsan Park .

13. Take a day trip to the DMZ

One of the top day trips from Seoul , a visit to the northern border may well be the most unusual 24 hours you’ll spend on the Korean peninsula. The 250km (160-mile) border between North and South known as the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is one of the world’s most closely guarded borders.

Various outfits, such as the popular DMZ Tours company, take curious onlookers from central Seoul to the border area to catch a glimpse into North Korea from Dora Observatory , explore the Third Infiltration Tunnel (originally dug by North Korean soldiers) and even step into North Korea in the Joint Security Area . There’s also the touristy DMZ Peace Train operated by KORAIL, which whisks passengers from Seoul Station to Dorasan Station, the last stop to the north before crossing into the Hermit Kingdom.

This article was first published Mar 4, 2020 and updated Feb 4, 2024.

Explore related stories

Wildlife & Nature

Feb 27, 2024 • 6 min read

April is the ideal time of year for mild-weather hikes, cherry blossom festivals, fresh produce and more.

Feb 22, 2024 • 6 min read

Jan 2, 2023 • 12 min read

Jun 9, 2022 • 6 min read

Jan 19, 2022 • 10 min read

Oct 12, 2020 • 6 min read

Sep 2, 2019 • 5 min read

Oct 26, 2018 • 6 min read

Jun 14, 2018 • 7 min read

Aug 9, 2017 • 5 min read

In My Korea

50 Unique Korean Experiences In Korea You’ll Definitely Love

Here’s a list of the 50 most amazingly unique Korean experiences that you’ll absolutely want to try when you visit Seoul or other parts of Korea. From dressing up in traditional Korean hanbok and visiting Korean hanok, to sitting down to enjoy ramyeon noodles and watching the cherry blossoms, there are many novel ways to spend your time in Korea and unique places to visit.

Do you want to recreate famous scenes from your favourite K-drama or K-movie, dressing up and snapping pics like a star? Or do you want to dance under the Gangnam Style statue whilst munching mouthwatering Korean street food? In this list of the 50 unique Korean experiences, you’ll find out loads of great ideas that you can do in all seasons and across Korea. You’ll definitely want to use these ideas to create your own South Korean bucket list.

Whilst you might be familiar with some of these, there’s hopefully a lot of unique Korean experiences that you’ve never heard of our considered before. I’m sure you’ll find something fun that you’ll want to try out as soon as you’re in Korea.

Table of Contents

Affiliate Disclaimer :  This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Guide To These Unique Korean Experiences

These unique Korean experiences are all things you can do only in Korea, or at least only in a Korean way. Seeing cherry blossoms might be available in many countries, but the way Korea celebrates their oncoming can be unique.

I’ve included links to explain more about each experience or to book online (when appropriate). Booking online helps to avoid crowds and can save money. I’ve also added some links to other articles that I’ve written about travelling in Korea and these unique Korean experiences. They’ll give you a much deeper insight into how, why, and when to enjoy these activities.

Quick links : Looking for a certain type of unique Korean experience? Use the links below to jump straight to the section that interests you, or keep on reading to discover all of the wonderfully unique things to do in Korea.

Unique In Seoul

UNique Experiences

Unique Places

Unique Festivals

Unique Foods

Planning to visit Korea? These travel essentials will help you plan your trip, get the best deals, and save you time and money before and during your Korean adventure.

Visas & K-ETA: Some travellers to Korea need a Tourist Visa , but most can travel with a Korean Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA). Currently 22 Countries don’t need either one.

How To Stay Connected : Pre-order a Korean Sim Card or a WiFi Router to collect on-arrival at Incheon Airport (desks open 24-hours). Alternatively, download a Korean eSIM for you travels.

Where To Stay : For Seoul, I recommend Myeongdong (convenient), Hongdae (cool culture) or Gangnam (shopping). For Busan, Haeundae (Beach) or Seomyeon (Downtown).

Incheon Airport To Seoul : Take the Airport Express (AREX) to Seoul Station or a Limo Bus across Seoul. Book an Incheon Airport Private Transfer and relax to or from the airport.

Korean Tour Operators : Tour companies that have a big presence in Korea include Klook , Trazy , Viator , and Get Your Guide . These sites offer discounted entry tickets for top attractions.

Seoul City Passes : Visit Seoul’s top attractions for free with a Discover Seoul Pass or Go City Seoul Pass . These passes are great for families and couples visiting Seoul – you can save lots.

How To Get Around : For public transport, grab a T-Money Card . Save money on Korea’s high speed trains with a Korea Rail Pass . To see more of Korea, there are many Rental Car Options .

Travel Money : Use money exchanges near Myeongdong and Hongdae subway stations for the best exchange rates. Order a Wise Card or WOWPASS to pay by card across Korea.

Flights To Korea : I use flight comparison sites such as Expedia and Skyscanner to find the best flights to Korea from any country. Air Asia is a good option for budget flights from Asia.

How To Learn Korean : The language course from 90 Day Korean or Korean Class 101 both have well-structured lessons and lots of useful resources to help you learn Korean.

Top 12 Unique Experiences In Seoul

Travellers to Seoul have a world of unique experiences awaiting them, from incredible sights in Seoul’s distinctive landmarks, to cultural encounters both modern and traditional. Seoul is perhaps the best place to embrace the kind of experiences you can only find in Korea as it’s been a melting pot of history, culture, nature, and people and the centre of Korean life for centuries.

I’ve not included some of the wonderful activities that you can try in other parts of Korea that you can also find in Seoul, such as wearing hanbok and visiting Korea’s traditional markets. That’s because these are available in various cities across Korea and not exclusively in Seoul.

Here are 12 of the most uniquely Korean experiences and activities you can try in Seoul:

1: Stroll around Seoul’s Royal Palaces

There are 5 beautiful royal palaces for you to explore in Seoul where you can peek into ancient throne rooms, walk through picturesque gardens, and experience the life of an emperor or empress. The 5 royal palaces in Seoul are Gyeongbokgung, Changgyeonggung, Changdeokgung, Deoksugung, and Gyeonghuigung. Gyeongbokgung is the oldest and largest of the temples and one of the most incredible landmarks in Asia that you should definitely check out, although they’re all worth visiting.

2: Brave The Heights Of The Seoul Sky Observatory

The best place to see Seoul is from the  Seoul Sky Observatory  on the 120th floor of the Lotte World Tower. The Lotte World Tower, the world’s 6th largest building, points up into the heavens above the glittering waters of Seokchon Lake. Spread over 7 floors, from the 117th to 123rd floor, there are lots of unique things to do here. Are you brave enough to take a selfie on the glass floor? Or even braver to take a walk outside the tower on the Sky Bridge?

3: Learn About Hallyu Culture In Gangnam

Gangnam is home to many places relating to  Hallyu  한류 – the Korean cultural wave that has spread around the world through music, movies, TV, and idols. There are loads of attractions in this area to learn about Hallyu , including the  K Star Road , the former HQ of entertainment companies, shops, restaurants and cafes owned by K-Pop stars, and the impressive Gangnam Statue dedicated to PSY himself. Certainly the best of these unique experiences in Seoul for K-Pop fans.

4: See Seoul From The N Seoul Tower

The N Seoul Tower is an iconic location in Seoul, viewable from all around thanks to its location on top of Namsan Mountain in central Seoul. The original date spot in Seoul, this is is a hit with locals and tourists alike and features millions of love locks left by romantic couples from all over the world.

You can get to the N Seoul Tower on foot, hiking up the small hill, but the best way is by the cable car. Once you’re at the top, head to the observatory for lovely 360 degree views of Seoul, including the mountains of Bukhansan National Park.

There are lots of shops, restaurants, and attractions at the N Seoul Tower, too, making this a fun place to explore for an evening.

If you plan to visit many of Seoul’s premium attractions, including the N Seoul Tower and Lotte World, check out this article about the Klook Pass Seoul and how it can save you money in Seoul.

5: Find Fashion, Fun, & Future Trends In Hongdae

Hongdae is arguably the coolest place in Seoul and for many good reasons. Home to big name fashion & discount stores, award winning restaurants, nightclubs, cute cafes, escape rooms, activity cafes, art galleries, and so, so so much more, you can visit Hongdae many times over and never get bored.

My favourite spots (to show tourists) are the Thanks Nature Sheep Cafe, Bau House Dog Cafe, VR & arcade game buildings, Kakao Friends Store, the many wonderful restaurants & craft beer bars, and the stores near Hongik University subway station.

One of the top unique Korean experiences for art lovers, students, and bargain hunters. If you’re after bargain clothes, snacks, souvenirs, or accessories to take home, Hongdae is the place for you.

If you’re planning to visit Korea, I definitely recommend staying in Hongdae. It’s a great place to explore local Korean culture. Here’s 10 Amazing Hotels In Hongdae to stay in.

6: Cruise On The Han River & See Seoul’s Sights

Take a cruise along the Han River in Seoul and watch the sunset while the city starts to shine. The river is the perfect places to see the sights of Seoul. You can see the N Seoul Tower, the Olympic Stadium, and the famous Yanghwa Bridge.

You’ll pass by many bridges along the way, but one is more magical than the rest – the Banpo Rainbow Bridge. This bridge was installed with a full spectrum of colourful lights that shine down through jets of water. This creates a stunning rainbow waterfall on the north side of the bridge. The lights are turned on between April and October.

7: Drink A Latte From A Toilet At The Poop Cafe

I don’t know of any other country where poop is treated as something cute, but that’s what you’ll find in Korea. For those that might be a bit squeamish at the idea of a poop cafe, don’t worry. This latte in a mini-toilet is actually pretty cute. The colourful decor is on the theme of, well, poop, and there are little poop hats to wear.

This is a must for those looking for really unique Korean experiences and don’t have a problem taking some really strange pictures for social media. And what could be stranger than a rose (or mint) latte served in a little toilet cup from the Poop Cafe ?

Whats more, you can also buy  ddong bbang  똥빵 (literally translated to poop bread) and curry served in a traditional style Korean toilet. Gross? Maybe, but definitely memorable!

8: Stroll Along The Cheonggyechon Stream

Another great place to escape the summer heat and enjoy something uniquely Korean, is a trip to the Cheonggyecheon Stream in central Seoul. The Cheonggyecheon Stream was created as a place for gathering, harmony, peace, and unity, giving Seoulites a place to come and cool off in the summer heat and to walk together away from the concrete jungle.

For tourists, this is a wonderful chance to experience the light and lantern festivals that often occur along the stream, as well as take a break to hop over the stepping stones and get some colourful photos. The start area, Cheonggye Plaza, usually has events for tourists, including hands-on activities to learn about Korean culture and history.

9: Learn About Korean History – Past & Present

Located in the Yongsan area of central Seoul, the War Memorial of Korea and National Museum of Korea are must-sees for history enthusiasts. It’s also great for those who simply want to know more about the often tragic, always enthralling history of Korea.

The War Memorial of Korea puts a focus on visual, realistic imagery and uses provocative models to bring the horror of war to life. Learn about the role of war in Korean society and conflicts with their bigger neighbours, Japan and China.

The National Museum of Korea completes the history lesson. See the various kingdoms that made up Korea in the past. Marvel at the wide range of artefacts on display, dating from the stone age to now. Finally, learn more about Korean culture through the ages and the contributions Korea has made to the world.

10: Explore The Secret Garden Hidden For Centuries

Hidden away in the wide grounds of Changdeokgung Palace is a real treasure that only a limited number of people get to enjoy each day – The Secret Garden .

The Secret Garden, also known as Huwon or Biwon, takes up a large chunk of the palace grounds, and was originally an area reserved fro the Korean royal family to rest and relax. The area features iconic scenes, such as the pond shaped like Korea (pictured above), beautiful pagodas, and other historic buildings.

The real attraction is the nature on show, with cherry blossoms and autumn leaves coming to life throughout the year, and an abundance of other plants, trees, and even wild animals.

Unlike the other royal palaces, The Secret Garden is not freely open to visitors. To gain access you must book a tour on that day. Be sure to get there early so you don’t miss out on this unique Korean experience.

11: Eat, Shop, Play In Seoul’s Night Goblin Markets

Seoul’s  Bam-Dokkaebi  (Night Goblin) Markets are the best thing about summer in Seoul. Found across the city from April until October, these markets provide an opportunity to purchase hand-made items from local artists, watch live performances, and sample freshly cooked food from one of the ubiquitous food trucks.

With the heat still lingering at night during summer, the best way to enjoy the evening is by grabbing a cold beer, strolling through the markets, and listening to the impromptu live music performances, especially near the Han River at the Yeouido Global Night Market. If you’re in Seoul in the summer time, then these markets are a must-visit to see how the locals spend their evenings.

12: View The Streets Of Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village is a little piece of history tucked away in central Seoul, between two royal palaces. It’s the perfect place to see traditional style Korean houses – hanok . The area is packed with beautifully preserved hanok buildings where you can pose for pictures, pop your head inside, explore small galleries, sit and enjoy some Korean tea, and lots more.

You’ll probably recognise this area if you’ve seen pictures of Seoul, it’s one of the best places to see traditional Korean buildings, and you get an awesome view of the N Seoul Tower, royal palaces, and Myeongdong as a background. This should really be on your South Korea bucket list if it’s your first time to Seoul and don’t forget to rent some hanbok when you visit, too.

Unique Korean Experiences And Activities

Korea is much more than just Seoul and when you venture outside of the capital, you’ll discover a wealth of unique Korean experiences and activities to enjoy. Of course, many of these are available in Seoul, but you might find better places to sample these Korean delights in other cities, such as Busan or Gyeongju, or in the great Korean countryside and many national parks.

Here are 12 of the most uniquely Korean experiences and activities you can try across Korea:

1: Dress Up In Traditional Korean Hanbok

What could be a more unique Korean experience than dressing up in gorgeous Korean hanbok (traditional Korean clothes)? Available for both men and women, these traditional clothes come in a range of colours with lots of extra accessories and hair styling available.

The best place to Experience Wearing Korean Hanbok is in central Seoul, whilst you’re exploring Seoul’s royal palaces or Bukchon Hanok Village. You can also try this unique Korean experience in Jeonju Hanok Village outside of Seoul and in similar places.

Don’t miss out on the chance to snap some unforgettable pics of yourself dressed up as a Korean lord or lady when you visit Korea.

2: Eat Delicious Korean Street Food

One that’s certainly on most people’s South Korea bucket lists is trying out the amazing street food on offer at markets across the country. From spicy tteokbokki to sweet hotteok , or even finger licking KFC (Korean fried chicken), Korea’s markets have an incredible array of tastes, smells, and culinary options for you to try out.

The best news is that Korean Street Food is cheap, so you can sample all of them! For the most authentic Korean street food experience, head to Gwangjang Market in Seoul – you might recognise it from the Netflix show about street food. Definitely try bindaetteok from the food stalls here.

You can find street food in all cities across Korea, each providing some special dishes that are unique to the area. Be sure to try as much as you can when you explore Korea.

3: Stay Overnight In A Traditional Hanok House

What could be more of a unique Korean experience than spending a night in a Traditional Korean Hanok House ? Sleeping amongst old wooden walls, feeling the heat through the ondul underfloor heating, sipping tea on polished floors served in the traditional Korean way, and taking in all the intricate decorations on walls, furniture, and fabrics.

You can experience this for yourself during your trip to Korea in places such as the Bukchon Hanok Village, Jeonju Hanok Village, and several other places with hanok buildings that have been carefully converted into hotels. This type of accommodation is open to all visitors, with hanok stays ranging from cheap-sleeps on a futon to more luxurious conditions and 5 star service.

4: Grab Some Bargains At Traditional Markets

Shopaholics looking for the best bargains have so many options available to them in Korea’s traditional markets . There is a wide range of discounted goods, with everything from knock-off Supreme sweatshirts to bargain brand names and lots more.

Some of the best areas to explore Seoul’s markets are Namdaemun, Myeongdong, and Dongdaemun, which all have large traditional markets. Dongdaemun is the best for clothing and also features wholesalers who can ship internationally, as well as department stores and shopping centres.

Wherever you go, make sure to bargain and get the best deals. If you need an extra suitcase to bring it all back in, you can buy those, too.

5: Find Your Soul At A Korean Buddhist Temple

Going through a long list of South Korea bucket list items can be tiring, physically and mentally. It’s important to take some time out and rediscover your spiritual side as you travel. Where better to do that in one of the peaceful Korean Buddhist temples that are scattered throughout Korea.

Gaze in awe at the traditional architecture – in bright greens, blues, golds, and reds. Learn about a religion and history that you might have had no idea about before. And if you’re lucky, you might make it in time for one of the many festivals and events at the temple, such as Buddha’s Birthday in spring.

For an ultimately unique Korean experience, why not try an overnight temple stay ? You can visit the temple, join in the sacred rituals, learn about Korean Buddhism (in a non-preachy way), and witness the daily life of the monks.

6: Sing Your Heart Out At A Korean Noraebang

Korean people love, love, love to sing. You can’t walk around a city of any size in Korea without bumping into a  noraebang   (노래방) – a Korean singing room. Noraebangs are designed to let you sing your heart out with a few beers whilst enjoying the disco lighting and fancy wigs they offer. Music lovers will want this on their South Korea bucket list.

If you’re travelling with some friends then check out the singing rooms. You can order drinks and pay a small fee to sing for as many hours as you’d like. Travelling alone but still want to sing? No problem, just find one of the individual singing booths (like a large photo booth). Belt out your favourite K Pop, love songs, or teary ballads.

7: Relax & Unwind At A Korean Sauna

Life in Korea is hectic and there’s nothing better than soaking in a hot pool after a long day. Tired from rushing around ticking off your South Korea bucket list, why not stay at a  jjimjjilbang  찜질방(Korean sauna)? Here you can let the stress and tiredness wash off your body.

These indoor hot springs have something for everyone, from steaming saunas to a freezing cold pool and everything in between. You can even sleep in a rest area with free pyjamas provided for you.  Jjimjjilbangs  also act as cheap overnight accommodation or emergency hotel rooms when you’re stuck without somewhere to stay.

8: Enjoy Beer & Ramyeon By The Han River

Summer In Korea is hot and although it’s not the best time to visit, there are some incredible unique Korean experiences you can discover at this time. The one enjoyed by many Seoulites (and me) is heading to the Han River, grabbing a cold beer and some ramyeon noodles, and taking in the riverside culture that springs up in summer – boarders, musicians, markets, games, and more.

Go to Yeouinaru Station and head to the Han River and you’ll find shops selling various flavours of  ramyeon  with automatic cookers that will prepare everything for you at the touch of a button. Grab a can of Cass, find a table or spot of grass, and enjoy. You can even rent a tent and make an afternoon of it, watching the sun set and the many lights of Seoul spark on.

9: Unwind With A Traditional Korean Tea Ceremony

Tea is a core part of Korean culture and a good tea room can be a welcome respite for busy tourists and locals alike. Traditional tea houses offer the chance to try fresh green tea from tea fields across Korea, or sample something a bit more unique, such as tea made from rose, persimmon, bamboo, or even mugwort.

Enjoy the tea in a traditional hanok building with peaceful surroundings and calm interiors that will help you unwind. Remember to take off your shoes before you enter, try not to make too much noise, and drink slowly in small sips. Let the tea sit in your mouth for a while before swallowing it and wait as it refreshes your body and soul.

10: Hike Korea’s National Parks & Watch Out For Bears

The last of these unique Korean experiences is one of my favourites and one enjoyed by millions of Koreans each week – Hiking In Korea . Korea is 70% mountainous and has 17 national parks and thousands of interesting mountains to hike.

Some of them are even home to Korea’s black bears and other wildlife, including wild boars, deers, and tigers (actually, they died out a long time ago).

There is a hiking path for everyone in Korea, ranging from gentle walks along the valley floor, to sweating it out climbing over rocks and taking in the incredible views at the peak. Some mountains have cable cars to help you to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with amazing sunset views and, in winter, snowy scenes to take your breath away.

11: Make Traditional Korean Paper Crafts In Jeonju

Discover Korea’s artistic heritage in Jeonju with a papercrafting workshop. Hanji, traditional Korean handmade paper, has been produced for centuries from the bark of mulberry trees. At the Jeonju Hanji Center, learn how to craft beautiful and functional items from flower vases to lanterns using natural dyes and pressed flower petals. Guide your coloured paper into delicate shapes under the instruction of artisans preserving these historic paper making techniques. Getting hands-on with this slow craft is a calming, creative way to connect to Korea’s culture.

12: Visit Famous K-Culture Sights

There’s a whole world of K-Cultural sights to explore outside of Seoul, from famous K-pop filming spots to epic K-Drama locations. Visit Nami Island to see locations from Winter Sonata, then head to the east coast and visit Daepohang Lighthouse in Sokcho (Strong Woman Do Bong Soon), Jumunjin Beach in Gangneung (Goblin) and for BTS fans, make sure to visit the BTS Bus Stop also in Gangneung.

Further afield, you can see familiar music video backgrounds at Jeju Island’s Seongsan Ilchulbong (The Blue Night of Jeju Island by Soyou) and Jungmun Saekdal Beach (Alcohol-Free by Twice), as well as scenes from Crash Landing on You in Hallasan National Park. In Busan, visit Dadaepo Beach (The King: Eternal Monarch) and the Hansung Apartment Building (Fight for My Way).

Unique Places In Korea To Visit

It’s not only unique experiences that you can enjoy in Korea, there are also loads of interesting, eye-opening sights to discover in the Land of Morning Calm. From war zones to areas of natural beauty, these places while leave you speechless and introduce you to more of Korea’s unique history, culture, and nature. Make sure to bring your camera as you won’t see these elsewhere.

Here are 15 of the most unique places to visit across Korea:

1: See The Most Dangerous Border In The World At The DMZ

South Korea and North Korea are technically still at war, despite recent attempts to finally bring peace to the peninsula. Separating these two countries, and dividing the Korean people, is the De-militarised Zone (AKA the DMZ), lined with landmines, outposts, and thousands of soldiers.

Fortunately, it’s not that dangerous most of the time, which means you can go and see it for yourself while travelling to Seoul. DMZ tours will take you to several famous sights from the ongoing Korean war, as well as allow you to access the Panmunjom ‘Peace Village’ – an area on the border between the north and south.

In Panmunjom you can have what is undeniably a unique Korean experience – you can walk into North Korea and pose with Korean soldiers from both sides. *Please note that tours to Panmunjom are currently unavailable but should be back in the future.

2: Experience Traditional Culture At The Jeonju Hanok Village

Jeonju Hanok Village  in central Jeonju beautifully demonstrates life in a traditional Korean setting, with hundreds of hanok (traditional Korean) buildings, shops, cultural experiences, and delicious traditional foods – including Jeonju’s own famous dish, bibimbap . It’s one of those unique Korean experiences that shows you how people used to live, play, eat, and enjoy life.

It’s certainly not a museum, however. You get to be part of the experience, joining in traditional activities at the Jeonju Crafts Exhibition Hall, playing Korean games, dressing up in traditional Korean hanbok , and sitting on the smooth wooden floors of the hanok buildings whilst you eat. You can even stay overnight and see how people used to (and still do) sleep on the floor with futons and underground heating.

3: Get Back To Nature At Nami Island & Garden Of Morning Calm

A short journey from Seoul, Nami Island is a natural wonder that’s amazing year round and has many beautiful attractions to discover. See the giant metasequoia, golden ginkgo trees, as well as cherry blossoms, pines, and many other natural wonders.

Explore the many tree-lined paths, one of which was a filming location for the hit Korean drama Winter Sonata. There are also traditional markets, cultural performances and local foods to try.

Nami Island is the perfect getaway for families, couples, and those looking for some tranquil peace. Nami Island caters for the adventurous, too. You can enter the park on the Nami Island zip line and there are other water-sports nearby. Getting To Nami Island is easy, with public transport or tour options available.

The Garden of Morning Calm is one of the most beautifully sculpted (and most popular) natural attractions to visit near Seoul. Created by a horticultural professor in 1996, the garden is world-class and provides a place to experience the calm and peace that symbolises Korea – also known as the Land of Morning Calm.

You’ll certainly feel calm as you stroll through, smell the flowers, cross wooden swing bridges, see inside traditional Korean houses, or stop for a snack by one of the many streams or ponds. Perfect in all four seasons, this place offers breathtaking walks through dreamy gardens with pagodas, stepping stones, lakes, and an abundance of native and foreign flowers.

4: See The Views Of Gamcheon Culture Village In Busan

Known as the Machu Picchu of Korea,  Gamcheon Culture Village  in Busan is high on all photographers’ bucket lists. See hundreds of colourful buildings on the slopes of these coastal hills, as well as murals and sculptures created by local residents. A lot of the art makes use of boring parts of the local landscape and turns them into Instagram-worthy locales.

You can follow the regular street maps, which will show you where to collect stamps along the way. Or get lost in amongst the winding streets, up and down painted stairway murals. There are even cosy little cafes hidden around the place to recover in.

For the best experience, enter via the northern entrance and you’ll find a lot of the most famous sites, including art from The Little Prince, love locks, sock shops, the Library Stairs, and others.

Here are some more ideas for what to do in Busan .

5: Rule The Walls Of Hwaseong Fortress In Suwon

Korea has a history of conflict, with many walls and fortresses needed to protect Korea from their neighbours or factions within the country. One of the best fortress that remains standing if the magnificent Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon and is one of the many fun things to do in Suwon .

This fortress allows you to hike the 6km of walls in a big circuit that cuts through the city, explore the many fortress buildings, and try traditional Korean sports and games, such as archery. This is one of Korea’s UNESCO World Heritage sights and is definitely worth a day trip from Seoul.

There are also beautiful gardens, cosy cafes, and markets near the fortress, as well as the famous Suwon Fried Chicken Street for Korea’s best chicken.

If you’re looking to try some of Seoul’s best chicken joints, then check out the Zen Kimchi Chicken & Beer Tour that runs at night. Experience the best of Seoul’s lesser-known chicken restaurants.

6: Find Thrills In Everland & Caribbean Bay

Korea’s answer to Disney Land or Universal Studios is the thrilling Everland and Caribbean Bay. These are a must for any thrill seeker’s South Korean bucket list.

Everland   is Korea’s largest theme park and boasts the world’s steepest roller coaster. This sends you hurtling down to the ground at an angle of 77 degrees and at 104 km/h! Great for thrill seekers, families, couples looking to create some unforgettable memories, and even animal lovers.

Caribbean Bay  is one of the world’s largest water parks. With loads of rides, this is the best place to have fun and cool off in summer. Some of the best rides at Caribbean Bay include the Mega Storm, Aqua Loop, and the Tower Raft. Caribbean Bay also features an indoor infant pool, sauna, spa, diving pool, and many types of swimming pools.

7: Gyeongju Historic Area

There’s so many ancient wonders to see in central Gyeongju, the historic capital of the Silla Dynasty from the 7th Century, that the area has been dubbed ‘Korea’s outdoor museum’. The Gyeongju Historic Area encompasses many marvellous creations from the Kingdom, including the 1,400 year old Cheomseongdae Observatory, which has its own special viewing area and light show at night.

The area is a mixture of cultural and natural beauty, featuring bright flower beds, Gyerim Forest, and pink muhly (in October) wrapping themselves around remnants of historic palaces and royal buildings, as well as a confucian school, centuries old statues, and burial mounds. There are many other unique sights in this area, including Woljeonggyo Bridge and the Gyochon Traditional Village.

8: Visit The Purple Banwol Island

A former farming town in southern Korea has transformed itself into a insta-worthy attraction by painting everything a lovely shade of lilac. Banwol Island, known as ‘ Purple Island ‘, really has to be seen to be believed. There are over 400 homes, bridges, and other buildings painted in purple colours, with summer lavender providing even more purple picture opportunities. It’s truly unique.

9: Hike The Jeju Olle Trail

Escape the crowds by lace-up your boots and tackling sections of Jeju Island’s Olle Trail . Stretching over 437km around the island’s coastline and split into 27 courses, this well-maintained route passes through verdant forests, along coastal cliffs and by volcanic craters. The courses are well signposted and you can easily complete at least one course in a day, maybe even two if you are feeling active.

Follow stone pathway markers as you wander quiet backroads, dipping into local villages and stopping at cafes along the way. Choose easy coastal stretches or challenge yourself scrambling over Hallasan’s foothills. With epic landscapes and ocean vistas around every bend, the unique experience of hiking the Olle Trail lets you discover Jeju’s wild beauty. Grab an Olle Trail passport to record your journey, too.

10: See The World’s Highest Lava Column

Ever thought about walking inside the lava tubes formed by a 2km high volcano and seeing the world’s highest lava column? Well, even if you haven’t, you should probably add it to your South Korea bucket list and check it out if you visit Jeju Island – home to South Korea’s largest mountain and active volcano.

At Manjaggul Cave on Jeju Island you can walk along a dark and spooky tunnel created by lava as it violently pushed its way from the depths of the earth out into the seas. You’ll see the where the lava flowed, learn about the island’s history, and at the end see the world’s highest lava column, standing like a frozen rocky waterfall.

11: Visit Coastal Haedong Yonggungsa Temple In Busan

A trip to  Haedong Yonggungsa Temple  is a rare chance to see the beautiful southern coast and one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Korea. The clear blue seas are on par with what you’ll find in Haeundae Beach. However, when contrasted by the rugged rocks and unique architecture, this is an even more amazing view.

As you make your way from the entrance, you will be amazed by all the sights there are to see. Pass by rows of zodiac statues (can you find yours?), be astounded by the large golden statues of Buddha, and, of course, take lots of pics of the temple itself, like the one above.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is one of the three sacred places related to the Goddess of Buddha of South Korea. Its motto is ‘ at least one of your wishes will be answered here through sincere prayers ‘. Hopefully your wish can come true.

12: Try Green Tea At The Boseong Green Tea Fields

The Boseong Green Tea Fields near Gwangju is the biggest plantation in Korea and setup to welcome curious tourists who wish to learn more about this delicious drink.

The sight of row upon row of fresh, bright tea leaves just waiting to be picked and drowned in hot water is incredible and like a postcard picture. Spend your time walking around the green tea bushes set on the side of lush hills where you might even be able to see the sea on a sunny day.

Other attractions, besides drinking lots of tea, include the Korean Tea Culture Park, the Tea Museum of Korea, and, of course, the gift shop. Korean green tea is refreshing, healthy, and one of the unique Korean experiences you can take home and share with friends and family.

If you’re visiting Jeju Island, you can also see green tea plantations at the O’Sulloc Tea Museum and Green Tea Fields .

13: Get Lost In The Damyang Bamboo Forest

The Bamboo Forests Of Damyang , known as  Juknokwon  in Korean, provide a unique opportunity to see gigantic bamboo trees. Meander along shaded pathways, experience a traditional Korean village, and try some bamboo beer (better than it sounds). Sample the local delicacy  daetong bap  (bamboo rice), which is a healthy portion of steamed rice served in a bamboo stem. Yummy.

This lush, dense bamboo forest drowns out the noise and heat of modern Korea and is a breath of fresh air. Quite literally, in fact, as there is a high level of oxygen produced from all those bamboo trees. Take a deep breath and cleanse your lungs and your soul as you walk through the cool forest, perfect for those who want a zen South Korea bucket list.

14: Find Rare Books In Bosu-Dong Book Alley In Busan

Book lovers making a South Korea bucket list will love this spot. The quaint Bosu-Dong Book Alley in Busan has books of every kind in a range of different languages. It’s a must for book lovers who want to find something unique and for those who just love being around books. Don’t worry if you can’t understand everything, you can browse freely and take in the atmosphere.

When you get tired of looking at books and squeezing through the narrow street, there are many cafes nestled in or between the book shops. The atmosphere is very different from the rest of Busan and the ambience and charm from this historic, mostly untouched street that has been selling books for over 70 years now is lovely.

15: Get Snap-Happy At The Dreamy Camera Cafe

For those looking to leave the bustling streets of Seoul behind, along with all the other cute cafes and cool hangouts, then why not head out to the Dreamy Camera Cafe in Yangpyeong County. As the name suggests, this is more than just a cafe, it’s a place to dream. Set in the idyllic Korean countryside, the views are astounding, both of the model Rolleiflex Twin Lens Camera building, and the never ending greenery outside.

The friendly owner of the cafe encourages guests to take some time out and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings whilst pondering their own dreams for the future. Take your time and sample some fresh coffee and one of the delicious cakes on offer while you contemplate. Before you leave, take a minute to write down those dreams. Who knows, maybe you’ll come back again one day and realise that dreams can come true?

Unique Korean Festivals To Experience

Korea is a country steeped in rich and diverse culture and history which is best witnessed through it’s many festivals held throughout they year. Besides beautiful festivals celebration cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, there are unique festivals that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. I’ve chosen one from each season to share below, as well as the amazing cherry blossoms and autumn foliage.

If you plan to visit Korea at a certain time and want to check out festivals during that season, you can find the best ones in my seasonal guides to Korean festivals, which currently includes the best spring festivals in Korea and the best winter festivals in Korea .

Here are some of the most unique Korean festivals you can join in Korea this year:

1: Spring – The Jindo Sea Parting Festival

Like Moses parting the waters, the Jindo Sea Parting Festival is a unique annual occurrence that has to be seen to be believed. Watch as the seas give way and form a 3km-long pathway between islands. You’re not likely to see an event like this elsewhere in the world. This is one of the best of the spring festivals in Korea .

Join the festival and watch as the waters part before your eyes and then trek across the pathway between islands. There are also lots of cultural events and activities going on while you wait for the miracle to occur.

2: Summer – The Boryeong Mud Festival

Don’t mind getting dirty or want to put on an all-body mud pack? Then the Boryeong Mud Festival is the place for you. This festival is one of the wildest in Korea and attracts the largest number of foreign visitors. Running throughout the second half of July, the cool mud is a great way to escape the Korean summer heat.

There are a wide range of activities on offer, including mud face painting, mud beauty products, and the Mudflat Games. The Mudflat Games are what make this festival so unique, with mud wrestling, mud football, and even a mud marathon to compete in.

After spending a busy day in the mud, why not sample some fresh hoe (raw fish) and watch the sparkling sun set into the calm ocean. Spectacular views, good food, healthy mud, and lots of fun – this festival should be high on your South Korean bucket list.

3: Autumn – The Jinju Lantern Festival

With thousands of lanterns on display, including full-sized replicas of buildings and trees, it’s easy to see why the Jinju Namgang Yudeung (Lantern) Festival is the most popular of all the lantern festivals held in Korea. Hundreds of thousands of people attend this two week festival in October.

The most impressive section is along the river and in the Jinjuseong Fortress. The best time to see the lanterns is after the sun goes down, but there’s still a lot to see and do while the sun is up, including cultural displays (dancing) in the fortress, lantern making (various kinds), traditional Korean games, and a lantern contest to judge.

4: Winter – The Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival

Running for most of January each year, the Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival is arguably the best winter festival in Korea . During this time you can take part in various winter activities, including ice fishing for  sancheoneo  (mountain trout), tubing on a giant ice slide, grabbing fish with your bare hands, and even ice sledding.

Those who don’t mind the cold water can join in the barehanded fish catching contest. Catch the one with the golden ring attached and you can win the grand prize! If you’re not really into fish, then check out the ice sculptures, snow sculptures, light displays, and festival food on offer throughout the village. There are several other ice fishing festivals and these unique Korean experiences provide a perfect winter activity to enjoy the snow.

Learn more : I wrote a detailed guide about visiting the Hwacheon Ice Festival during winter and what you can see and do at the festival with details about how to get there.

5: Marvel At The Beautiful Cherry Blossoms

If you’re visiting Korea in spring, seeing the Gorgeous Cherry Blossoms should definitely be on your South Korea bucket list. These pinky-white blossoms adorn millions of trees and Korea has so many wonderful spots to view these harbingers of spring that it’s hard to choose the best place to see them. From royal palaces to national parks, you’ll find cherry blossoms of all kinds across Korea.

Whilst you may associate cherry blossoms with Japan, I’ve included this on the list of unique Korean experiences for the way cherry blossom season is celebrated in Korea. Grab some ramyeon and beer from the nearest convenience store, find a nice spot to sit outside, and devour them whilst appreciating the blossoms – just like many Koreans do each spring.

6: Witness Incredible Autumn Foliage In Korea

Few sights rival the brilliance of Korea’s autumn scenery . As crisper air creeps over the peninsula, trees ignite into rich shades of crimson, orange and gold. One of the best places to catch the fall foliage is Seoraksan National Park. Taking the cable car to the mountain’s lofty peak treats you to a bird’s eye view over a patchwork quilt of colour in the valleys below. Meander quiet trails lined with maple trees under a bright blue sky for the quintessential autumn in Korea experience. Time your travel right to stand amid the blazing autumn hues before they fade away.

Unique Korean Foods To Try

Every country has their own national dish and popular foods, and Korea is certainly no different. However, beyond a selection of distinctive dishes, Korea also offers unique food experiences to try out, such as eating your food live, sharing with friends, and making your own meal. There are also meals and drinks that go well in certain situations in Korea, such as after hiking.

Here are some of the best unique Korean food experiences that you can try in Seoul and beyond:

1: Experience Korea’s Best Meal – Korean BBQ

My favourite of these unique Korean foods, and you have to try in Korea, is enjoying a night of Korean BBQ (samgyeopsal). You might think that BBQ is a global thing, but in Korea, eating BBQ is more than just having a meal – it’s an event. A Korean BBQ is a microcosm of Korean culture – it’s about sharing, indulging, letting go whilst thinking of others, and the need to have a good time.

Korean BBQ is a shared meal which often involves a lot of drinking, etiquette rules (that you probably won’t know about), social bonding, and amazing food. Lots and lots of amazing food. If you’re not a fan of pork, you can also try Korean BBQ with beef. Don’t eat meat but don’t want to miss any unique Korean culinary experiences? You can order extra dishes such as naeng-myeon (cold noodles).

2: Eat Your Food While It’s Alive

If you’ve ever watched the classic Korean movie Old Boy, you’ll know that eating live animals (an octopus in the movie) is something that can happen in Korea. While this might seem cruel, it’s certainly a unique food experience and one you can try if you’re visiting coastal areas in Korea. Besides foods eaten alive, there are also dishes cut up while they’re still alive, such as eel and frogs.

The most common live food to try in Korea is called sannakji (산낙지), which is live octopus legs (not the whole thing). This dish is certainly a weird experience as the suckers are still really strong and you have to tug each leg out of the dish they’re in. Make sure to dip them in sauce to loosen them up. Want to learn about some more unique Korean foods? Check out these weird Korean dishes .

3: Share Korean Pancake With Makgeolli After Hiking

After a busy day hiking in one of Korea’s lovely national parks, the best way to recharge and relax in Korean-style is with the traditional Korean hiker’s meal of jeon (pancake) and makgeolli (Korean rice wine). There are several types of pancakes available, including kimchi pancake, potato pancake, and the most popular one – seafood pancake (hameul pajeon), made with squid and green onions.

What makes this a unique Korean food experience is the sharing culture prevalent in many Korean meals, but this time it’s elevated as you’re sharing the meal with someone who has hiked with you and is just as tired. The feeling of sipping chilled makgeolli from a bronze bowl and tearing off a piece of pancake to dip in the spicy soy sauce is so rewarding and even better when shared with hiking buddies.

4: Become A Kimchi Expert At The Kimchi Museum

Truly Korean, kimchi is the national dish of Korea and a part of every meal – even breakfast. Kimchi is a fermented Korean side dish that is a bit spicy and salty, but very healthy. It’s made from a range of ingredients, but usually cabbage. You’ll find kimchi in any restaurant you go to and it goes with everything. You can’t say you’ve visited Korea if you haven’t tried at least one type of kimchi.

Koreans spend a whole day at the start of winter making kimchi, which is called kimjang. I’ve tried making kimchi and it’s an interesting insight into Korean food culture. If you want to try it, visit the Museum Kimchikan in Insadong, Seoul. This museum teaches you all about the history, health benefits, and process of kimchi-making. You can also try samples of different kimchi (there are over 200 types).

5: Sample Fresh Seafood At Jagalchi Fish Market

There are many great things to do in Busan , and visiting Jagalchi Fish Market is certainly one of the best. It’s stinky, messy, and full of weird looking sea creatures, but also an experience that shouldn’t be missed. Seeing millions of wriggling sea creatures might seem strange to most, but walk around the busy stalls and you’ll find yourself enthralled with the many fish and seafood on offer.

The best part about visiting this market is the chance to sample the freshly caught seafood offerings. Buy from the open markets on the 1st floor, then wait as they’re cooked (or served raw) for you on the 2nd floor. Even if you don’t like seafood, this place is still worth checking out for unique sights. Keep an eye out for the active market sellers and walk around to find the best bargains.

6: Try The Drink That’s Bigger Than Vodka – Soju

When you think of the world’s biggest spirit brand, you probably think of Vodka. Little do most people know that the world’s largest spirit brand is Jinro  Soju .  Soju  is Korea’s national drink and consumed regularly by many Koreans. Being only 14% in strength and costing around 1,800 won (about $1.50) for a bottle in a convenience store, it is easy to see why this drink is so popular.

Soju by itself doesn’t taste of much, but mixing it with Korean been (maekju) makes a drink called so-maek (soju with beer), which vastly improves the taste of the two individual drinks. Of course, if that doesn’t sound sweet enough for you, there is fruit flavoured soju that makes drinking them (and getting drunk) a lot easier! This type of soju is increasingly popular around the world, but best tried in Korea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about unique Korean experiences to try in Korea. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article. If you have any more questions about this topic, please feel free to post a comment at the end of this article.

What are the most unique Korean experiences?

The most unique Korean experiences, ones you can’t find outside of Korea, are trying on Korean hanbok , staying in a traditional Korean hanok building, and sampling Korean street food at one of the sprawling traditional markets in Seoul and other cities.

Are there any unique Korean experiences outside Seoul?

Yes, there are many unique Korean experiences that you can’t witness in Seoul, such as doing a temple stay in a national park, visiting one of the many unique festivals, visiting the Boseong Green Tea Fields, and lots of unique experiences that you can find on Jeju Island.

What are some things Korea is famous for?

Korea is famous for many things, including kimchi , hanbok traditional clothes, hanok houses, the royal palaces of Seoul, Jeju Island – one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, Lotte World Tower – the world’s 6th tallest building, and lots more.

What unique Korean experiences should I not miss?

Don’t miss out on the chance to wear traditional Korean hanbok and visit the traditional hanok villages in Bukchon or Jeonju. Also try some of the unique Korean dishes that are best in Korea, such as BBQ, live octopus, and pajeon .

What unique Korean experiences can I do for free?

There are many unique Korean experiences that you can enjoy for free, such as wearing hanbok (traditional Korean clothes), hiking to the N Seoul Tower, visiting the many Korean Buddhist temples, and even exploring the royal palaces on Culture Day (last Wednesday of each month).

Support In My Korea Thanks for reading. If you want to help me to create more great content in the future, why not buy me a coffee? A strong coffee helps me write more and is a simple way to show gratitude for this free content.

Liked This? Pin It For Others

If you enjoyed reading this article, then please share this with your friends on Pinterest.

Related Articles

How To Hike Bukhansan Baegundae Peak: Seoul’s Best Hike 2024

10 Best Traditional Markets In Korea For Food And Shopping

How To Get A Taxi In Korea: Hailing Or Booking A Taxi 2024

Hi! My name is Joel, I'm the author of In My Korea and writer of this article. I've lived, worked and travelled in Korea since 2015 and want to share my insights, stories and tips to help you have the best experience during your trip to Korea.

I love learning more about Korean culture, hiking the many mountains, and visiting all the coolest places in Korea, both modern and traditional. If you want to know more about my story, check out the ' about me ' section to learn why I love living in Korea.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Seoul

Written by Freddy Sherman Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Freddy Sherman has visited South Korea multiple times, most recently exploring Seoul and the DMZ in 2022.

Seoul, South Korea is a vibrant and exciting city, one that deftly combines ancient history with ultra-modern design and technology. This city is filled with a wide range of fun things to do and tourist attractions of all types, from outdoor adventures like exploring Mount Namsan and its surrounding park to indoor fun like visiting one of Seoul's many museums.

Seoul is also a city of palaces, with five huge palace complexes located throughout the city and now restored to their former glory. Of course, it's also known for its food, with a mouthwatering array of street food, Korean specialties like barbecue, and even fine-dining options.

Discover the best places to visit in this exciting city with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Seoul.

1. N Seoul Tower

2. explore the bukchon hanok traditional village, 3. national museum of korea, 4. lotte world tower, 5. visit the dmz, 6. gyeongbokgung palace, 7. seoul museum of art, 8. blue house, 9. bongeunsa temple, 10. gwanghwamun gate, 11. take a walk along cheonggyecheon, seoul's urban stream, 12. jingwansa temple, bukhansan national park, 13. people watch in itaewon, 14. dongdaemun design plaza, 15. gwangjang market, 16. spend a sunday in insadong, where to stay in seoul for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in seoul, seoul, south korea - climate chart.

Rising almost 500 meters above the city, this communications and observation tower provides dramatic views of the city from its perch on the side of Mount Namsan. A cable car whisks you up the side of the mountain to the base of the tower. From here, you can go up in the tower and visit any one of four observation decks, one of which is a rotating restaurant.

There are five different dining experiences at the N Seoul Tower and, of course, several gift shops. The n.GRILL, on the top level, is considered one of Seoul's best French fine-dining restaurants. Be sure to visit the new Inside Seoul immersive media art exhibition, where 40 laser projectors create a virtual display of the city via five-dimensional mapping, with the tower at the center.

The views from the tower are great, but so are the views of the tower from most parts of the city. Computer-controlled LED lighting on the exterior of the tower provides a digital, visual cultural experience of Seoul with changing themed lighting presentations.

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

For a taste of Korean traditional culture and architecture, a visit to the Bukchon Hanok Village is a fun and educational way to spend an afternoon. This preserved district of several ancient neighborhoods gives you a feel for what it was like to live in Korea 600 years ago. It's right in central Seoul, in the area between the Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Changdeokgung Palace.

The neighborhoods of narrow streets feature hanoks or traditional Korean houses. It's a unique place, as it's a historic area, very popular with tourists, but it's also a real neighborhood because the houses are all occupied.

Some of the hanoks are now guesthouses and bed-and-breakfasts , and a few are museums and can be toured. Others are cultural centers showcasing traditional crafts and other historic aspects of Korean life, but most are private homes.

This must-see attraction in Seoul showcases the incredible history and artwork of Korea and the Korean people. The National Museum of Korea , one of the largest in Asia, is in the city's Yongsan District (close to Itaewon).

It focuses on archeology, history, and art and includes a vast collection of works and objects going back more than a million years. There are ancient and prehistoric artifacts, sculptures, paintings, and other artwork along with a large collection of objects and antiques.

Before or after your museum visit, head down the street to Yongsan Family Park , a nice outdoor space to relax. Another important museum worth a visit, The War Memorial of Korea is also close by.

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

One of the newest attractions in Seoul is the Lotte World Tower skyscraper. The tallest building in South Korea, it's 500 meters above the ground and currently the fifth-tallest building in the world . The vase-like shape, with gentle curves, is designed to mimic traditional Korean ceramic pieces.

There are several indoor and outdoor observation areas (called Seoul Sky) at the top on the 117th-123 rd floors. Views are spectacular both during the day and at night, and you can see 360 degrees around the city.

On the 118 th floor, there's the Sky Deck with the world's highest glass floor. Like magic, the floor changes from opaque to clear, terrifying unsuspecting visitors. Even getting to the top is fun, and the journey is done via super fast, double-decker elevators, with windows on one side and LED screens on the other three and on the ceiling.

Inside the tower are offices, luxury residences, and the SIGNIEL SEOUL luxury hotel. There's also the Lotte World Aquarium, the Lotte Museum of Art, and an enormous shopping mall. The tower is home to the Lotte Concert Hall and the Lotte Cinema, a state-of-the-art, 21-screen MoviePlex with the world's largest movie screen. The tower is adjacent to the Lotte World amusement park, which is a great thing to do in Seoul for families.

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

A remnant of the Korean War, the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) is the area located along the border between North and South Korea. This highly sensitive and highly fortified area can only be visited during an official tour. Aside from the visit to the DMZ, a tour gives you a chance to get out of urban Seoul and see a bit of the Korean countryside.

The Half-Day Korean DMZ Tour , which includes pickup and drop-off in central Seoul, takes you to the important sites in the DMZ area and gets you back to Seoul right after lunch (if you take the early morning tour). The guided tour includes visits to landmarks like the 3rd Tunnel, dug by the North in anticipation of an invasion, and the Dora Observatory, where you can look over into North Korea.

First built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest of Seoul's five grand palaces built during the powerful Joseon dynasty. Destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries, it was restored to its original glory after the Second World War and totally restored in the 1990s.

A visit to the Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the best things to do in Seoul because within the palace grounds, you can also find the National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum of Korea , and both are worth a visit. The palace museum is especially fascinating as it presents items from the palaces of the Joseon Dynasty.

This includes priceless antiques and artwork, as well as everyday items for cooking, cleaning, and daily life. The National Folk Museum focuses on items from daily life, as well as clothing and dioramas, to tell the story of the Korean people since prehistoric times.

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

Located behind the Deoksugung Palace, the Seoul Museum of Art , or SeMa as it's known to locals, has a large collection of artwork, mainly from the modern era. The art museum focuses on Korean art and Korean artists but has a decent selection of international works and creators. Changing temporary and visiting exhibitions also showcase unique collections and artwork.

The collection is displayed over three floors in a large building that was formerly the home of the Korean Supreme Court. The museum has six additional satellite locations in other parts of Seoul, and these feature rotating exhibits from the museum's main collection, as well as special exhibitions.

Don't miss the museum's Nam June Paik Memorial House, an exhibition and workshop space inside the house of legendary Korean contemporary artist Nam June Paik. The house is located in Seoul's Changsin-Dong neighborhood.

Address: 61, Deoksugung-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul

The Blue House is Korea's version of the White House. It's the official residence of the Korean president , as well as the location of his and related executive offices of state. The Blue House isn't really a single building, it's an entire campus of buildings, all built in the traditional Korean style and all featuring the distinctive blue tile roofs where it gets its name.

One of the coolest things to do in Seoul is to take a tour of the Blue House. Hour-long tours are given, but participants must apply and schedule their tour in advance, online. The tour takes you to many parts of the palace complex including meeting rooms, reception rooms, and the Korean version of the Rose Garden, where the Korean president holds press conferences.

Ask your hotel concierge to help with reservations.

Address: 1 Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Bongeunsa is one of many Buddhist temples in and around Seoul. It first opened in the year 794 and is a complex of multiple buildings and shrines. It's easy to visit, as it's centrally located in the exciting Gangnam area. If you're spending the day sightseeing and exploring the city, this is a wonderful place to take a break.

The temple is on the side of a low mountain, directly across the street from the massive COEX convention center and mall. It's a popular spot for convention-goers to take a break and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Visitors are welcome, and the temple even has a program that allows guests to experience the daily life of a monk for a few hours.

Address: 531 Bongeunsa-ro, Samseong 1(il)-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

The largest and main gate to Seoul's Gyeongbokgung Palace , Gwanghwamun Gate is home to the changing of the guards ceremony (performed since 1469), which happens daily (except Tuesdays) at 10am and 2pm.

The gate has undergone many renovations and rebuilding, most recently in 2010, when it was restored to its original location and reconstructed with native materials using traditional tools and building techniques.

There's a large plaza in front, and the gate sits in front of the vast Gwanghwamun Square , home to frequent political demonstrations, a large subway station, a giant fountain, and some huge statues of Joseon-era leaders.

This natural creek that flows through central Seoul was covered over by highways in the post-Korean War economic boom. Seven miles of the creek were uncovered as part of an urban revitalization project and turned into an outdoor recreation area, opening in 2005.

There are now seven miles of creek-side hiking, walking and biking trails. It really has changed the CBD of Seoul by bringing an artery of water and green into what was a very urbanized, crowded area.

The creek is also home to the spectacular Seoul Lantern Festival , held each November. Ornate, lighted paper lanterns are displayed in and along the creek, and each night, thousands of people line the creek to view and enjoy the floating artwork. It's a fun, nighttime activity for families, as a lot of the art installations are geared toward children.

Set within the strikingly beautiful landscape of the Bukhansan National Park , Jingwansa is an ancient temple complex offering many ways to experience and learn about Buddhism and temple life. The traditional buildings are surrounded by miles of hiking trails (you can come here just to hike) snaking through the mountains.

The temple, which grows most of its own food (and even ferments its own kimchee), has a range of public programs. There's a temple stay program, which includes an overnight visit, plus there are cultural and learning programs. They also offer foodie experiences like a traditional vegetarian temple meal, as eaten by the monks.

Jingwansa is on the far west side of the city, it's one of the four major temples of Seoul first built around 1,000 BC.

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

Itaewon is a bustling neighborhood of Seoul focused on a few pedestrian streets filled with shops, cafés, and other consumer businesses. If you have limited time in the city, it's one of those places that can give you a real feel for Korean retail culture in a short time period. There are food carts and street performers, and some of the side streets are filled with restaurants. It's a great place for people-watching.

This is an excellent place to wander around and just lose yourself in the energy of the city. Be sure to wander down pedestrian-only Gyeongnidan Street, as it's lined with all kinds of restaurants and is a place to buy many international foods not easily available in Korea (like pizza and American-style barbecue). It's a fun thing to do in Seoul for families, and you'll see many parents and children here.

Another street, literally called Itaewon Antique Furniture Street, is filled with antique shops, and this is always an excellent place to buy unique gifts.

Known by its initials, the DDP is a very cool design center in Seoul's Dongdaemun area. Dongdaemun, Seoul's fashion district, is also known for its shopping; there are a lot of department stores and discount clothing and houseware stores in the area. The DDP has changing art and creative exhibitions open to the public, as well as a very cool store inside.

The silver, orb-like flowing Dongdaemun Design Plaza building looks like something from outer space. It was designed by the late Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid, considered one of the great female architects of the modern era. In perhaps Seoul's ultimate contrast, there are ruins of the ancient city fortress preserved just outside the front entrance of the design center.

The complex is filled with showrooms, workspaces, offices, and design studios. There is also what has to be Seoul's coolest shop, with small craft vendors selling all kinds of interesting items showcasing contemporary design and locally made, handcrafted items. It's an excellent place to buy unique gifts.

A visit to the DDP is one of the best things to do in Seoul at night — the design center comes alive when the sun goes down, the highlight being 25,550 white LED roses that light up. The silver-colored, modern, curving building and the rows of artificial flowers make the DDP one of Seoul's best Instagram spots.

After your visit, head across the street for a burger and crinkle-cut fries at one of Seoul's most popular new dining spots, Shake Shack. It's right across from the DDP in the Doota shopping mall.

Address: 281 Eulji-ro, Euljiro 7(chil)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul

Seoul's best street food market combines a taste-bud tempting array of street food vendors under one large roof. The market features rows of food stalls, offering every kind of Korean food you can imagine.

Most stalls have small chairs or stools in front of them, creating tiny restaurants, where you can sit and have a meal. It's all about tasting things here, and a smile and request will usually get you a sample of most of the things on offer.

The market is in central Seoul, and it's open from 9am to 10pm. The most popular things sold here are 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.

Other parts of the market have vendors selling meat and seafood, and other sections have clothes and household items.

Address: 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno 4(sa)-ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul

This unique neighborhood in central Seoul is filled with small stores that sell Korean traditional folk and handicrafts, along with art galleries. Stores sell things like hanji (traditional, hand-made paper), hanbok (traditional clothing), teas, pottery, and unique artwork.

The galleries in Insadong feature Korean fine art of all types. There are also a lot of tea houses and small cafes, perfect for a break during your shopping adventures.

The Insadong area really comes alive on Saturday afternoons and all day Sunday, when streets are closed to traffic and it becomes a giant craft and culture fair. Aside from food stalls and vendors, there are traditional music and dance performances and other cultural exhibits.

Luxury Hotels:

• Grand Mercure Ambassador Hotel and Residences Seoul Yongsan is one of Seoul's top 5-star resorts. Located in the heart of downtown, it offers a range of poshly decorated rooms and suites, all with stunning city views, especially after dark. Amenities include multiple restaurants, an indoor golf room, a fitness center, and spa. There is also a swimming pool, hot tub, and sauna. If you're traveling with the family, there is a kids' club, and if that family includes a dog, the hotel is pet friendly.
• Designed with relaxation in mind, SIGNIEL SEOUL has luxurious and comfortable rooms with beautiful decor. It's located high up in Seoul's Lotte World Tower, so the rooms and suites have some spectacular views. There are several restaurants in the hotel and a wide variety close by in the tower and mall complex below. Other on-site amenities include an indoor swimming pool and a hot tub and a spa with a full range of treatments. There is also a fitness center on-site.
• Four Seasons Hotel Seoul is the largest hotel in the South Korean capital city and the first in South Korea. The 5-star property has 317 rooms, including 43 suites, and all feature elegant luxe decor. Expect customizable beds with high-quality linens, spa-style bathrooms, and floor-to-ceiling windows with great city views. The hotel is family-friendly and has a kids' pool and a children's menu at its restaurants. Other amenities include a posh spa, a heated indoor swimming pool, an indoor golf driving range, and a fitness center.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• May Place Seoul Dongdaemun is a top mid-range choice. It offers a mix of rooms and suites that are spartan but comfortable, with wood floors and white linen-draped beds. They also come with air purifiers and blackout curtains. Amenities include a restaurant, a hot tub, and a rooftop terrace where you can check out the panoramic city and mountain views.
• In the middle of Seoul's cultural district, Hotel28 Myeongdong is another excellent good-value choice, especially if you like sleek and modern décor. The hotel has glass walls of windows and well-appointed rooms and suites. Amenities include a restaurant and workout room.
• GLAD Gangnam COEX Center Hotel has a convenient locale just outside Exit 1 of the Samseong Subway Station. Rooms feature contemporary décor, floor-to-ceiling windows, and giant wall-mounted flat-screen TVs. Amenities include a restaurant with a breakfast buffet, a workout room, and a 24-hour front desk.

Budget Hotels :

• Delight Hotel is a clean and comfortable budget choice with contemporary rooms featuring luxury linens, marble bathrooms with rain showers, and large windows. Amenities include a restaurant serving complimentary breakfast, 24-hour room service, a hot tub, and even rental bikes to explore the area.
• Also, try the Grid Inn Hotel for budget-friendly lodging. Centrally located in the Gwanak-Gu district, it offers tidy rooms with refrigerators, blackout curtains, and safes. There is a restaurant and coffee shop on-site. The front desk is open 24 hours, and there is self-service laundry for guests.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Beyond Seoul: While many of the country's highlights are in Seoul, have a look at our article on the top attractions in South Korea for ideas on places to visit throughout the country.

Best things to do in South Korea

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• best-things-to-do-in-south-korea

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 20.12.2022

South Korea ’s cities are a pulsating feast of eye-searing neon, feverish activity and round-the-clock business. Here you can shop till you drop at markets that never close. Or feast on eye-wateringly spicy food, get giddy on a bottle or two of soju, then sweat out the day’s exertions at a night-time sauna. In this guide with have collected the best places to visit and best things to do in South Korea.

1. Visit Insadong Tearooms

2. enjoy the beauty of huwon, seoul, 3. immerse yourself in korean culture at jeonju hanok village, 4. get involved in boryeong mud festival, 5. try makgeolli, 6. visit teddy bear museum, 7. take a walk in guinsa, 8. experience tranquillity at dosan seowon, 9. visit west sea islands, 10. take a stroll around dongdaemun market, 11. hiking in the naejangsan national park - one of the things to do in south korea to admire the scenery, 12. visit the dmz, 13. visit buamdong, 14. singing in noraebang - one of the best things to do in south korea for fun, 15. treat yourself with galbi, 16. visit gongsanseong, 17. watch the sunrise at jeongdongjin, 18. explore the rich korean history in gyeongju, 19. buy some socialist realist art, 20. climb n seoul tower by cable car, 21. head to the jeju island, 22. take a stroll through seoraksan national park, 23. visit gyeongbokgung palace, seoul, 24. visiting amusement parks - one of the best things to do in south korea with kids, 25. immerse yourself in the study of history at the national museum of korea.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Korea , your essential guide for visiting South Korea .

Tailor-made travel itineraries for South Korea, created by local experts

14 days  / from 3800 USD

Culture & Island life

Experience the highlights of Korea with a private guide by your side. Fascinating Seoul with a day trip to the DMZ, followed by days in Gyeongju and Busan. Afterwards, leave the mainland and fly to Jeju Island. Enjoy the crystal blue waters and island culture.

11 days  / from 2400 USD

Highlights of Korea

From the skyscrapers of Seoul to traditional villages - this itinerary packs culture, history and cuisine in one compact itinerary. Enjoy a two-night temple stay as well as in-depth guided excursions in Seoul, Gyeongju, Yeosu, and Jeonju.

7 days  / from 1950 USD

Temples and Nature in Korea

Start your Korean adventure in Busan. Continue to Yeosu and Suncheon, discovering temples and landscapes on the way. In Suncheon, you will stay at a Korean Buddhist temple. Proceed to the Bamboo Forest of Jeonju before heading to Seoul.

Tea may have ceded ground to coffee across the nation, but Seoul’s traditional Insadong district still has dozens of secluded tearooms serving traditional brews.

Tea is big business in Korea. Unfortunately, most of the drinking takes place at home or work, though Insadong in Seoul has dozens of interesting tearooms and there are some gems outside national parks and in Jeonju’s hanok district. Green tea is by far the most popular, though if you find your way to a specialist tearoom, do take the opportunity to try something more special.

Participating in South Korean tea ceremony - one of the best things to do in South Korea© mnimage/Shutterstock

Relax by the lake as kings once did at this secluded “Secret Garden”, which nestles at the back of a UNESCO-listed palace in central Seoul . Seriously consider putting a visit to this place on your list of things to do in South Korea.

The palace’s undoubted highlight is Huwon (후원), usually referred to in Seoul’s tourist literature as the “Secret Garden”. Approached via a suitably mysterious path, the garden is concealed by an arch of leaves. In the centre is a lotus pond, one of Seoul’s most photographed sights, and alive with flowers in late June or early July.

Where to stay in Seoul:

• Best for location: Orakai Insadong Suites . Centrally located in Orakai Insadong Suites offers luxurious self-catering apartments with a well-equipped kitchenette and satellite TV. Facilities include an indoor swimming pool, fitness centre and sauna facilities.
• Best for backpackers: 57 Myeongdong Hostel . 57 Myeongdong Hostel is conveniently located 150 m from Exit 5 of Myeongdong Subway Station (Line 4) and offers private rooms with WiFi and city views.

Find more accommodation options to stay in Seoul

Huwon, Seoul © Alon Adika/Shutterstock

One of the best things to do in South Korea for cultural purposes is visiting Jeonju Hanok Village. Here you can sleep in a traditional wooden hanok house heated from underneath by gentle flames, in one of Korea’s most agreeable cities.

Jeonju’s main attraction is undoubtedly its splendid hanok village, a city-centre thatch of largely traditional housing. Highlights here include a cathedral, an ancient shrine and a former Confucian academy, as well as museums for calligraphy, paper and wine; musical pansori performances are also frequent, and you may even be able to participate in traditional activities such as weaving or lantern making.

Where to stay in Jeonju Hanok Village:

• Best for atmosphere: Sarangroo . Featuring a shared lounge, garden and views of the garden, Sarangroo is located in Jeonju, 600 m from Jeonju Hanok Village. The property is situated 800 m from Seunggwangjae, 700 m from Jeonju Fan Culture Center and 700 m from Gyodong Art Center.
• Best for traditional setting: Jungdam . Set in Jeonju Hanok Village, Jungdam offers air-conditioned rooms and a garden. This property is situated a short distance from attractions such as Gyodong Art Center, Jeonju Korean Traditional Wine Museum, and Jeonju Fan Culture Center.

Find more accommodation options to stay in Jeonju Hanok Village

Jeonju Hanok Village in South Korea © ST_Travel/Shutterstock

Discover the majestic temples of South Korea on our tailor-made tour to the Temples and Nature in Korea .

Korea’s dirtiest, most enjoyable festival takes place each July on the west coast – don’t forget your soap.

English teachers and American soldiers across the land circle the Boryeong mud festival in their diaries, but there’s plenty going on by the beach for most of the year. For two July weekends, and the space in between them, the beach is a sea of mud splattered foreigners and their Korean buddies.

The stuff is everywhere, allowing participants to wrestle or slide around in it, throw it at their friends or smear it all over themselves, then take lots and lots of pictures – some will end up on TV, in newspapers or even on tourism posters.

Boryeong Mud Festival at Daecheon beach, South Korea © yochika photographer/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

Get drunk the local way with this milky rice wine, which has undergone a huge surge in popularity of late.

The local drinking scene has recently been shaken up by sudden increases in demand for two particular alcoholic drinks. First of all came the makgeolli craze: for decades young Koreans pooh-poohed this delicious rice beer, but it has been given a new lease of life, and is now sold at mini-markets and convenience stores across the country; Seoul even has a bunch of chic bar-restaurants dedicated to the stuff.

Makgeolli, Korean traditional rice wine © AdobeStock

The epitome of kitsch, most notable for its diorama room portraying twentieth-century events such as teddies tearing down the Berlin Wall, landing on the moon and going down with the Titanic.

Although it may sound like the epitome of Jeju tack, the Teddy Bear Museum impresses even its most sceptical visitors. The main building is filled with floors of bears, but the diorama room is the museum highlight, with furry depictions of historical events – one for every decade of the twentieth century.

Teddy bear exposition © fullerdada/Shutterstock

The most distinctive temple complex in the country, Guinsa’s paths wind snake-like routes up a tight, remote valley in Korea’s heartland.

The Rough Guides to South Korea and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Shoehorned into a tranquil valley northeast of Danyang is Guinsa, one of Korea’s more remarkable temple complexes. A great divider among Koreans, it’s viewed by many as the most un-Korean temple, which is emphatically true – the colours and building styles are hard to find anywhere else in the country, and the usual elegant restraint of the traditional layouts has been replaced by a desire to show off.

Guinsa temple © 5n2/Shutterstock

The wonderfully unspoilt countryside surrounding the city of Andong is studded with gems, and this former Confucian academy is one of the best.

Dosan Seowon is a Confucian academy, surrounded by some of the most gorgeous countryside that the area can offer – on the bus journey here from Andong, you’ll find yourself winding your way past rice paddies and some pleasantly unspoiled countryside, before ducking down to the academy’s entrance.

From here it’s a short walk to the complex itself; the wide valley to your right is simply stunning, the sound of rushing water from the stream occasionally augmented by the splutter of a faraway tractor. Walking through the valley in complete tranquillity is one of the calming things to do in South Korea.

Korean Traditional Buildings of Dosanseowon Confucian Academy in Andong, South Korea © Shutterstock

Over three thousand islands are sprinkled like confetti around Korea’s western coast – pick up a map in Mokpo , get on a ferry and lose track of time.

The Korean peninsula has thousands of islands on its fringes, but the seas around Mokpo have by far the greatest concentration. Though many of these are merely bluffs of barnacled rock that yo-yo in and out of the West Sea with the tide, plenty are large enough to support fishing communities; they’re all accessible by ferry from Mokpo.

The quantity of islands here is, in fact, so vast that it’s easier to trailblaze here than in some less-developed Asian countries – many of the islands’ inhabitants have never seen a foreigner, and it’s hard to find a more quintessentially Korean experience.

Aerial view of port of Mokpo, Republic of Korea © trabantos/Shutterstock

A 24-hour market in a city that never sleeps, Dongdaemun is a Seoul institution, with sights and smells redolent of decades gone by.

Dongdaemun market is the largest in the country, spread out, open-air and indoors, in various locations around the prettified Cheonggyecheon creek. It would be impossible to list the whole range of things on sale here – you’ll find yourself walking past anything from herbs to hanbok or paper lanterns to knock-off clothing, usually on sale for reasonable prices.

Though each section of the market has its own opening and closing time, the complex as a whole simply never closes, so at least part of it will be open whenever you decide to come. Night-time is when the market is at its most atmospheric, with clothes stores pumping out music into the street at ear-splitting volume, and the

air is filled with the smell of freshly made food sizzling at streetside stalls.

Dongdaemun market, South Korea © mTaira/Shutterstock

Shaped like a soft volcano, this national park’s ring of peaks provides the country’s most mesmerising displays of autumn foliage.

Naejangsan National Park is one of Korea’s most popular parks, its circle of peaks flaring up like a gas ring in the autumn. Maple trees are the stars of the show in this annual incandescence, with squads of elm, ash and hornbeam adding their hues to the mix.

The many trails and peaks across the park keep hikers happy year-round, though most visitors head to the amphitheatre-shaped mountain circle in the northeast, where the nearby tourist village has plenty of accommodation and places to eat.

Naejangsan National Park © jaaoe.bc/Shutterstock

Take a step inside the 4km-wide Demilitarized Zone separating North and South Korea: the world’s frostiest remnant of the Cold War.

The route to Panmunjom follows the Reunification Highway from Kaesong. Your first stop will be at the KPA guardpost, which sits just outside the northern barrier of the DMZ; the southern flank is just 4km away, though it feels much further.

After being given a short presentation of the site by a local soldier, it’s time for the ride into the DMZ itself – note the huge slabs of concrete at the sides of the road, ready to be dropped to block the way of any invading tanks (this same system is in place on the other side).

A short way into the DMZ is the Armistice Hall, which was cobbled together at incredible speed by North Korean soldiers to provide a suitable venue for the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement, a document which brought about a ceasefire to the Korean War on July 27, 1953.

Experience the highlights of Korea with our tailor-made trip to Culture & Island life . Fascinating Seoul with a day trip to the DMZ, followed by days in Gyeongju and Busan. Afterwards, leave the mainland and fly to Jeju Island. Enjoy the crystal blue waters and island culture.

South Korea DMZ © JNEZAM/Shutterstock

Seoul ’s latest “secret” area is a quiet maze of roads tucked away behind the royal palaces. Here you’ll find elegant restaurants and cafés – and very few tourists.

Hidden from central Seoul by the mountain of Bugaksan, Buamdong is one of the capital’s quaintest and calmest corners. Recent years have seen its fame propelled by modern Korea’s number-one cultural catalyst, the television drama: ever since the picturesque café Sanmotungi was used as a set in hit drama The Coffee Prince, young Seoulites have been heading to the area in ever greater numbers.

Despite this, Buamdong retains a tranquillity that’s almost impossible to find in other parts of Seoul, as well as a smattering of galleries and excellent places to eat and drink.

Cafe in the Buamdong© SAHACHATZ/Shutterstock

A near-mandatory part of a Korean night out is a trip to a “singing room”, the local take on Japan’s karaoke bars. These “singing rooms”, found all over the country, are wildly popular with people of all ages; if you have Korean friends, they’re bound to invite you, as noraebang are usually sam-cha in a Korean night out – the “third step” after a meal and drinks.

You don’t sing in front of a crowd, but in a small room with your friends, where you’ll find sofas, a TV, books full of songs to choose from and a couple of maracas or tambourines to play. Foreigners are usually intimidated at first, but after a few drinks it can be tough to get the microphone out of people’s hands.

A singer in the Noraebang © liza54500/Shutterstock

A fire at the centre of your table and a plate of raw meat to fling onto it – could this be one of the most fun things to do in South Korea?

Barbecued meat is one of Korea’s signature foods, and a whole lot of fun – for carnivores, at least. Here, you get to play chef with a plate of raw meat commonly placed on a grill over charcoal, and a pair of scissors to slice it all up. As excess fat drips off the meat onto the briquettes it releases the occasional tongue of flame, which lends a genuine air of excitement to the meal.

Two of the most popular meat dishes are galbi and samgyeopsal, which are almost always cooked by the diners themselves in the centre of the table. Galbi is rib-meat, most often beef (so-galbi; 소갈비) but sometimes pork (dwaeji-galbi; 돼지갈비). Samgyeopsal (삼겹살) consists of strips of rather fatty pork belly.

Find some top places to eat Korean food in our guide .

Enjoying Korean meat feast - one of the best things to do in South Korea © Yeo Jung Kim/Shutterstock

Overlooking the river in sleepy Gongju , the walls of this fortress follow an almost caldera-like course; in the middle you’ll find dreamy pavilions and walking paths.

For centuries, Gongju’s focal point has been the hilltop fortress of Gongsanseong, whose 2.6km-long perimeter wall was built from local mud in Baekje times, before receiving a stone upgrade in the seventeenth century. It’s possible to walk the entire circumference of the wall, a flag-pocked, up-and-down course that occasionally aff ords splendid views of Gongju and its surrounding area.

The grounds inside are worth a look too, inhabited by stripey squirrels and riddled with paths leading to a number of carefully painted pavilions.

Find out more details about Gongsanseong in our guide about the Baekje dynasty in Korea .

Gongsanseong pavilion © photo_jeongh/Shutterstock

Korea’s most surreal village has a train station on the beach, a ship-hotel atop a cliff, an American warship and a North Korean spy submarine.

For those bored with temples, war museums and national parks, the area around Jeongdongjin has some rather more unusual attractions to float your boat. Near this small, windswept coastal village lie two retired nautical vessels: an American warship from the Korean War, and an equally authentic North Korean submarine.

From Gangneung, trains make the short trip down the coast, much of which is cordoned off with barbed wire, before stopping at what is apparently the world’s closest train station to the sea. A short stretch of sand separates the track from the water, and it’s here that Korean couples flock to hold hands and watch the sunrise – the area was featured in Sandglass, a romantic Korean soap opera.

Korea Jeongdongjin, morning light new year seaside cafes, seaside viewpoint. South Korea © nop popeye77/Shutterstock

The former capital of Silla is the most traditional city in Korea and should be on every visitor’s list of the best things to do in South Korea.

Travellers seeking to delve headfirst into Korea’s rich and storied history should make little Gyeongju their primary target – here you can walk among kings from a dynasty long expired and view the treasures accumulated during a millennium of imperial rule.

If this sounds a little like Kyoto, you’d be half right – unlike Japan’s more illustrious ancient capital, Gyeongju remains decidedly semi-rural in nature and a little rougher around the edges.

Where to stay in Gyeongju:

• Best for budget: Maison Mini Hotel . Located in Gyeongju, within 9.4 km of Gyeongju World and 23 km of Seokguram, Maison Mini Hotel provides accommodation with a shared lounge and free WiFi throughout the property as well as free private parking for guests who drive.
• Best for friendly vibes: Doobaki Hostel is located just under 5 minutes’ taxi ride east of Gyeongju Station. Both private and dormitory-style rooms features Ondol, Korean floor heating, and an en suite bathroom with a shower and free toiletries.

Find more accommodation options to stay in Gyeongju

Gyeongju, South Korea © Shutterstock

That which has become ironic in Eastern Europe remains iconic in the DPRK, with colourful murals found all across the country – send one home on a postcard.

Some tourists end up spending hundreds of dollars on Socialist realist art, often coming back for more – prospective owners (or dealers, since there’s money to be made) should ask to swing by the Mansudae Art Studio, though a shop down south in Panmunjom has cheaper, slightly lower-quality fare for sale too.

A visit to the stamp shop comes as part of many tours, and their socialist realist designs are really quite striking – a good purchase, even if you’re not a philatelist. Your hotel’s shop is also likely to stock a series of similarly cool badges.

Pyongyang © Kanokratnok/Shutterstock

If you climb the N Seoul Tower by cable car - the beautiful nature spreads out in front of you.

N Seoul Tower sits proudly on Namsan’s crown. The five levels of its upper section are home to a viewing platform, and assorted cafés and restaurants. For many, the free views from the tower’s base are good enough, and coming here to see the sunset is recommended – the grey mass of daytime Seoul turns in no time into a brilliant neon spectacle.

Seoul City Skyline and N Seoul Tower in South Korea © AdobeStock

An extinct volcano jutting out of the sea, Jeju is far more natural in feel than the mainland: think beaches, farmland, lava tubes and volcanic craters. And now you can walk around the whole island on the Jeju Olle Trail.

The mass of islands draped along Korea’s southern coast fades into the Pacific, before coming to an enigmatic conclusion in crater-pocked Jeju Island, known locally as Jejudo (제주도). This tectonic pimple in the South Sea is the country’s number one holiday destination, particularly for Korean honeymooners, and it’s easy to see why.

The volcanic crags, innumerable beaches and colourful rural life draw comparisons with Hawaii and Bali, a fact not lost on the local tourist authorities. This very hype puts some foreign travellers off, but the island makes for a superb visit if taken on its own terms; indeed, those who travel into Jeju’s more remote areas may come away with the impression that little has changed here for decades.

Where to stay at the Jeju Island:

• Best for views: Grand Hyatt Jeju . Centrally located in the heart of Jeju City, Grand Hyatt Jeju is situated 1.6 km from Shilla Duty Free. The property is 8 km from Jeju National Museum and 8 km from Jeju International Passenger Terminal. Samyang Black Sand Beach is 12 km from the resort, while Hamdeok Beach is 20 km from the property.
• Best for beach location: Y Resort Jeju . Featuring beautiful views of the ocean just a 5-minute walk from Hwasoongeum Beach, Y Resort Jeju features a spacious outdoor pool for guests to lounge in. Free Wi-Fi access is available throughout the property.

Find more accommodation options to stay at the Jeju Island

Jeju island, South Korea © AdobeStock

Koreans gush about Seoraksan National Park, and with good reason. The nation’s northernmost park, it contains some of the tallest peaks in the country, with mistfringed bluffs of exposed crag that could have come straight from a Chinese painting.

The name gains ambiguity in translation, but roughly translates as “Snow-cragged Mountains”; these bony peaks are pretty enough on a cloudy day, but in good weather they’re set alight by the sun, bathed in spectacular hues during its rising and setting. Seoraksan is one of the highest parks in the country and, as a result, usually the first to display the reds, yellows and oranges of autumn.

Seoraksan National Park, South Korea © AdobeStock

The glorious palace of Gyeongbokgung is, with good reason, the most popular tourist sight in the city, and a focal point of the country as a whole. The place is absorbing, and the chance to stroll the dusty paths between its delicate tile-roofed buildings is one of the most enjoyable experiences Seoul has to offer.

Gyeongbokgung was ground zero for Seoul’s emergence as a place of power, having been built to house the royal family of the embryonic Joseon dynasty, shortly after they transferred their capital here in 1392.

The complex has witnessed fires, repeated destruction and even a royal assassination but careful reconstruction means that the regal atmosphere of old is still palpable, aided no end by the suitably majestic crags of Bugaksan to the north. A large historical complex with excellent on-site museums, it can easily eat up the best part of a day. Try to time your visit to coincide with the colourful changing of the guard ceremonies.

From the skyscrapers of Seoul to traditional villages - this tailor-made tour to the Highlights of Korea packs culture, history and cuisine in one compact itinerary. Enjoy a two-night temple stay as well as in-depth guided excursions in Seoul, Gyeongju, Yeosu, and Jeonju.

Gyeongbok palace in Seoul City © AdobeStock

One of the best things to do in South Korea with your kids is to visit one of the fascinating Korean amusement parks.

The local version of Disneyland is incredibly popular – the Lotte World complex receives over five million visitors per year, and it’s hard to find a Korean child, or even an adult, who hasn’t been here at some point. While it may not be quite what some are looking for on their visit to “The Land of Morning Calm”, Lotte World can be a lot of fun, particularly for those travelling with children.

It comprises two theme parks: the indoor section is known as Lotte World Adventure, and this is connected by monorail to Lotte Water Park, an outdoor section located in the middle of a lake, and also home to a spa. Also within the complex are a bowling alley, an overpriced ice rink and a large swimming pool.

Check our guide to the best places to go with kids and find some inspirational ideas for the family holidays.

Lotte World amusement theme park, a major tourist attraction in Seoul © AdobeStock

The huge National Museum of Korea is a Seoul must-see for anyone interested in history. It houses over eleven thousand artefacts, including an incredible 94 official National Treasures, but only a fraction of these will be on show at any one time.

Among the many rooms on the ground level are exhibitions from the Three Kingdoms period, which showcase the incredible skill of the artisans during that time – gold, silver and bronze have been cast into ornate shapes, the highlight being a fifth-century crown and belt set that once belonged to a Silla king.

Move up a floor and the focus shifts to paintings, calligraphy and wooden art, and there’s usually a colossal Buddhist scroll or two, over 10m high; some were hung behind the Buddha statue in temples’ main halls, while others were used for such purposes as praying for rain. The museum owns quite a few, but due to the fragility of the material, they’re put on a rota system and displays are changed regularly.

Buddha statue, National Museum Of Korea, Seoul © AdobeStock

Quite unexpectedly, South Korea is an attractive Christmas destination. Read our guide about Christmas in South Korea and you might want to spend the winter holidays here.

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to the South Korea without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

Ready for a trip to South Korea ? Check out the snapshot The Rough Guide to Korea . If you travel further in South Korea, read more about the best time to go and the best places to visit in South Korea. For inspiration use the itineraries from our local travel experts . A bit more hands on, learn about getting there , getting around the country and where to stay once you are there.

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

• Authentic Experiences
• Where to Stay
• South Korea
• Inspiration
• See & Do
• Where to stay

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Travel advice for South Korea

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to South Korea

• Eating and drinking in South Korea
• Getting around South Korea: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips South Korea for planning and on the go
• Culture and Etiquette in South Korea
• How to get to South Korea
• Sports and Outdoor activities in South Korea
• Best time to visit South Korea

Find even more inspiration for 27 here

Ready to travel and discover south korea, get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Travel advice

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Asia » South Korea » Seoul

34 BEST Places to Visit in Seoul (Attraction Guide for 2024)

Seoul is one of the most popular destinations in Asia. It’s a bustling metropolis that combines cyber-punk sights with old-world goodness. It’s a truly unique city.

There are numerous cool places to visit in Seoul and a lot of sights to see. This city has it all, from a fascinating and unusual culture to great food, amazing shopping, and great entertainment options. It’s also very welcoming and used to travelers making it a safe and accessible place in Asia. There countless points of interest in Seoul, so you’ll have an exciting and busy trip to the city.

Knowing where to go, and what to visit  in Seoul can seem a little intimidating. It’s a sprawling metropolis and doesn’t quite have the complete ease of its East Asian neighbor Japan. However, Seoul is actually a very safe city and is popular amongst tourists, so the tourist trails are well worn and easy to explore.

With this easy guide, you’ll find it easy to travel to Seoul and come back with stories and pictures that other people just can’t match! There are a lot of cool places to visit in Seoul, so let’s get to it!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Seoul:

The best places to visit in seoul, faqs on the best places to visit in seoul, final thoughts before visiting seoul’s best places.

Gangnam translates as ‘south of the river’ and is a district that has blown up in recent years. It was originally an area dedicated to sleepy rice fields – but you’d never believe it when visiting today!

• Check out the K-pop scene and pick up a few CDs at Evan Records.
• Shop for the latest fashion and boutique items (or just window shop) at Galleria department store.
• Eat bibimbap at Tokkijung or a famous Korean barbeque meal at Yang Good.

Where do you start with where to visit in Seoul – in a city of 10 million? Your experience while travelling in South Korea will be dramatically different by the accommodation you choose. You want to make sure you’re closest to all the coolest things to do.

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

#1 – Bukchon Hanok Village – What to Visit in Seoul for Korean architecture

• A great place to experience Seoul’s traditional culture.
• You’ll be able to take some awesome pictures in this area!
• Just be aware that people still live in these houses, so be respectful of their privacy.

Why it’s so awesome: The traditional houses in Seoul are called Hanok and they date back to the Joseon Dynasty between 1392 and 1910. These houses are designed to maintain a balance between the house and the outside world of mountains, rivers, and land contours. This makes them extremely aesthetically pleasing and one of the must-sees in Seoul! You may even be able to find an Airbnb in Seoul in this architectural style if you’re lucky!

What to do there: People actually still live in this residential area, which is located between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, so be respectful of their spaces and time. If you can, join a guided tour early in the morning to get even more insights. Or take some extra time and explore the area and make sure you get some pictures too. There are some spots where you can see the traditional houses against more modern landmarks, and they make for the most striking photo-ops of all.

#2 – Myeongdong – Where to go in Seoul if you love to shop!

• Literally shopper’s paradise!
• You’ll find amazing deals in this area on every kind of cosmetics you can imagine.
• Make sure you take advantage of the samples and the changing deals and offers.
• If you want to find out more,  get a guide  to show you around!

Why it’s so awesome: The women of Seoul look amazing. They’re always beautifully dressed and have impeccable make-up, and this area is why. Myeongdong is a whole shopping area dedicated to every cosmetic store and brand you could ever want. So, no matter what type of skin you have or what make-up look you want, you’ll be able to find the right products in this area.

What to do there: This is the most famous place in Seoul for shopping and there are always a lot of special deals and offers in this area so keep your eyes open and take advantage of them. A lot of shops also offer free samples, so don’t be afraid to try a brand you’ve never heard of! This is a trip mostly for the girls, so leave the guys at home and take your best friends along for the ride.

#3 – Lotte World – A must-do in Seoul for families!

• The world’s largest indoor amusement park.
• If you get tired of the rides, then visit the shopping complex also on-site!
• This is a Seoul must-do and a great place to take the kids.

Why it’s so awesome: Lotte World is huge. It includes both an indoor and outdoor amusement park and there is also a hotel, an aquarium, luxury boutiques, a water park, and a shopping center on-site! So, even if you get tired of the rides, you can always slip out and grab a meal or a bargain before returning to the Lotte fun.

What to do there: Take the kids, or friends, and just enjoy the amusement park. The rides and attractions are some of the best you’ll ever see at Lotte World and it’s well worth taking an entire day in this park to soak it all in.

Make sure you try the Desperados game, the Dragons Wild Shooting game, and the Comet Express rollercoaster for maximum fun and thrills! It’s easily a must-visit in Seoul if only to feel like a kid again. Buy your tickets before you go, so you won’t end up waiting in line.

#4 – Gyeongbokgung Palace – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Seoul

• When you travel to Seoul, you absolutely must not miss this historic building!
• The largest and most important palace in Seoul.
• If you wear a traditional hanbok dress, they’ll let you in for free.

Why it’s so awesome: The Gyeongbokgung Palace is often compared to the Forbidden City in Beijing and is a Seoul must-see. Built in 1395, it was the main royal palace of the Joseon family, who ruled Korea for hundreds of years.

The palace was mostly destroyed by Imperial Japan during the early 20th century but over the following years, it has been meticulously restored. It is now considered to be one of the most beautiful palaces in the world, which is why it’s one of the best places to visit in Seoul.

What to do there: There are lots of places in the city where you can hire a hanbok – a traditional Korean dress. If you turn up at the palace wearing it, they’ll let you in for free. Aside from that, just explore the site. I’d recommend jumping on a guided tour to get to know all of the details about this stunning palace.

Also, make sure you show up to see the changing of the guard or the Gwanghwamun Gate Guard-on-Duty Performance . Either one happens between 10 and 4 pm every hour on every day except Tuesday and it’s a really fun thing to see in Seoul.

#5 – N Seoul Tower – A place to go in Seoul to see the city from a different angle.

• The best place for panoramic views of the city.
• The building also hosts a variety of cultural and entertainment events as well as restaurants and snack bars.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re looking for the top place to visit in Seoul, they don’t get much more “top” than this. The N Seoul Tower is located on Mt. Namsan and has been Seoul’s most iconic site since its opening in 1980. It’s actually a communication and observation tower, but over the last few years, it’s become one of the most important and celebrated sites in the city.

What to do there: Go to the top and enjoy the views. Sometimes, the best way to explore a city is to see it high up and at a distance so you can get an idea of the scale, and this tower offers the best place in the city to do just that.

Afterwards, go down to see a movie or an exhibition in the cultural space, or just grab a table at the upscale restaurants there and enjoy a fantastic meal. If you are passing through Seoul, then you see this (but not climb) on a Seoul transit tour from the airport.

#6 – The Yun Dong-ju Literature Museum – Where to visit in Seoul if you are alone.

• Reading the books and poetry from another culture is a great way to gain a deeper understanding, and this is a great entry point into South Korean Literature.
• If you love books and history, this is a Seoul must do.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a museum built in honor of the beloved South Korean poet Yun Dong-Ju. It’s a three-room museum where you can explore photos from his life as well as first editions of his poems. The space itself is beautiful as well; the indoor space perfectly captures the contemplative, inspiring mood of the poetry and is a Seoul itinerary must for the contemplative travelers.

What to do there: Spend some time exploring the photos and contemplating this poet’s work before going outside. You can take a wall on Poet’s Hill at the back of the museum and get great views of the city and the N Seoul Tower. After your visit, you might even be inspired to get writing!

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

#7 – The Jeoldusan Martyr’s Shrine – An important historical site in Seoul.

• A sobering but beautiful shrine that remembers a very dark time in history.
• Don’t take the kids to this site as some of the displays may upset them.
• If you want to explore Seoul, going back to its roots is a good way to start.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a Catholic shrine on the Han River and marks the Byeonin Persecution of 1866. At this time, nine French missionaries were martyred which led to the French fleet attempting an invasion into Korea. In retaliation, the Jeoldusan government targets, punished and murdered French and Korean Catholics, leading to this site became known as the ‘beheading mountain’. This obviously isn’t a fun site, but it’s an important part of Korean history and must be seen if you want to understand the present.

What to do there: The shrine is especially beautiful at night when votive candles give it an otherworldly glow, but it’s still beautiful and sobering when you go during the day. Don’t bring your kids with you as the Shrine houses a gallery and museum display torture implements that were used on the captured Catholics.

#8 – The Seoul Museum of Art – The perfect attraction in Seoul if you are on a budget!

• One of the best points of interest in Seoul that’s also free!
• The museum is housed in a beautiful and historic building which offers great photo opportunities.

Why it’s so awesome: How about a free thing to do in Seoul! This museum plays host to a range of special exhibitions that can be expensive, but the permanent display is totally free. It highlights the career of the Korean artist Chun Kyung-Ja, who was influenced by African culture and art and is worth the trip to the museum alone.

What to do there: Before you go, check out what special exhibitions they have on during your stay. Korean art is very unique and well worth exploring, so spend some time getting to know their unique style. But make sure you check out the regular display as well because it’s beautiful and soulful.

#9 – The Cheongun Literature Library – Another place in Seoul for the bookworms!

• An amazing place to spend some time if you love books!
• One of the most beautiful museums in Korea.
• If you’re trying to work out what to do in Seoul on a quiet afternoon, this is a site where you can sit back and relax.

Why it’s so awesome: The collection of books at this library is fairly average, but it’s the space that makes it amazing. The reading rooms are located on the second floor of a traditional Korean house which is spacious, sunny, and welcoming. So, if you love to read , this is a perfect place to settle in and do it!

What to do there: Make sure you spend some time exploring this traditional Korean house. This style of Korean architecture is unique and oddly harmonious with the natural surroundings, so it’s worth taking note of it. And then, get away from the busyness of the city by choosing a book and taking it upstairs to read. There’s nothing like reading a good book in an atmospheric space, so take advantage of the opportunity.

#10 – Everland – A very cool place in Seoul for a day trip

• A great place to take the whole family while you’re visiting Seoul
• This park has the steepest wooden roller coaster in the world.

Why it’s so awesome: Seoul breaks a lot of world records and this affects how they build things and what they enjoy. Everland is the largest outdoor theme park in South Korea and has five zones of rides and attractions. This includes the world’s steepest wooden roller coaster and South Korea’s only safari, so come expecting some thrills.

What to do there: Get there early because there’s a lot to do and you’ll need the whole day to fit it all in. If you love roller coasters, make sure you ride the world’s tallest wooden coaster and be prepared to scream your lungs out along the way!

#11 – The NANTA Theater – Seoul and South Korea’s artistic scene is definitely a must-see.

• Another side of Korean culture and one you probably won’t expect!
• The most popular theater performance in the city.

Why it’s awesome: Every culture is different and sometimes it’s great to get a first-hand view of just how different another country can be. The NANTA Theater is the perfect place to get a different view on the modern culture of South Korea. It’s the most popular theatre in the city and has a non-verbal, musical base. Perhaps a little strange, but it’s a terrific window to seeing another side of the city while backpacking in Seoul .

What to do there: This theatre has shows regularly so check out what’s on before you arrive in the city. And once you’re there, just enjoy the culinary-themed comedy performance with acrobatic moves and rhythmic melodies. Chances are that you’ve never seen anything like it and never will again! The shows sell out fast – they’re incredibly popular – so book early to make sure you don’t miss out.

#12 – The Seoul Alive Illusion Museum – Quite the quirky place in Seoul to visit!

• The first museum of 4D optical illusions in South Korea.
• Includes more than 100, slightly quirky exhibits.
• The perfect place to go with friends or with your family while you’re visiting Seoul.

Why it’s awesome: Even if you’ve been to an optical illusion museum before, you probably haven’t seen one like this. A lot of the exhibits in this museum are slightly quirky and unusual, and you’ll probably spend a lot of your visit to this venue laughing your head off at the displays you can become part of. It’s just a little run-of-the-mill Korean madness.

What to do there: Make sure your phone or camera is fully charged before you spend a few hours at this museum because you’ll need it. Even if you’ve seen optical illusion museums before, this one is unique. Make sure that you check out the Disney displays and become a part of popular movies like Frozen and Cinderella in your own personal works of art. Sort your booking in advance to have an even better experience!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

#13 – Tosokchon – A must-do in Seoul to delight your tastebuds.

• Home to one of the most famous dishes in the city.
• Expect queues, but the wait is definitely worth it.
• Buy a ticket  online if you want to skip the line

Why it’s so awesome: Every city has a dish that they’re famous for and one of Seoul’s most famous dishes is known as Samgyetang. This is ginseng chicken soup, and the best place to buy it is at Tosokchon restaurant on Jahamun-ro 5-gil Road. Once you taste the dish, you’ll understand why people queue up to eat it every day.

What to do there: Arrive early if you want to be in the front of the line and just wait patiently. The dish is worth the trouble, as all the locals in line will tell you, so just accept the wait and enjoy your food once it arrives. Make sure you try it though; it’s a must-do when visiting Seoul!

#14 – The Cheonggyecheon Stream – A quiet and romantic place to see in Seoul.

• A chance to take a break from the busy city and enjoy a slice of nature.
• You can also walk the length of the stream, which will take you alongside lots of Seoul’s best tourist attractions.

Why it’s so awesome: Seoul is a busy modern city and sometimes it’s nice to get away from the crowds and pollution and enjoy a bit of nature. And that’s exactly what this stream is for. The locals often visit on hot summer days and spend time sitting in the shade and dipping their feet in the water, and you can do the same when you need a little break.

What to do there: Walk down to the stream and just spend some time relaxing. The stream is like a little oasis in the middle of the city, so take the time to slow down and rest. You can also walk the length of the stream if you’re feeling energetic and stop off at local attractions along the way.

#15 – Bukhansan National Park – The most beautiful nature in Seoul.

• A traditional market where you can find almost anything you want to buy.
• The prices are extremely good, so make sure you check it out if you want something specific.

Why it’s so awesome: While you’re in Seoul, you might find the city can be overwhelming at times. No matter, because just outside the city centre you’ll find the Bukhansan National Park, which is the best place to go hiking in Seoul. Aside from outdoor recreational activities, the national park boasts impressive mountain views and lush forestry. You might also see some ancient temples and fortresses along the way.

What to do there: The reason most people visit the Bukhansan National Park is to do some hiking. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a beginner level hiker, you’ll find a trail suitable to your ability here.

#16 – Gwangjang Market – Seoul’s street food delights!

• One of the best places to eat in Seoul.
• This market is popular with tourists and locals.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want good street food when you visit another country, then you need to go where the locals go. And the locals all know to go to Gwangjang Market. This was the first permanent market in Korea selling local delicacies and fine linen and it also contains some of the best stalls in the city if you enjoy trying street food.

What to do there: You can do some shopping while you’re at this market, but mostly you want to try the food. The market’s open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 10 pm, so bring your appetite and try as much of the street food as you can. Make sure that you try the bindaetteok or mung bean pancake and tteokbokki and noodles for a really unique eating experience.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

#17 – Hongdae – A must-see for foodies!

• Seoul’s nightlife center.
• This area is near the university, which is why it’s filled with young people and fashionable places to eat and party.

Why it’s so awesome: The areas around universities in most cities are beacons for popular eateries and wicked nightlife and Seoul is no different. Just moments from Hongik University, one of the most prestigious in the city, this area attracts students, locals, and tourists who enjoy the best and most fashionable shopping and dining in the city. Some of Seoul’s best hostels are in the area too!

What to do there: This is an area that really comes alive at night, so save it for an evening when you don’t have much to do. Find somewhere to eat, because this is one of the best places to eat in Seoul, and then go shopping. There is a range of clothing stalls and shops selling vintage goods so take your time and see what’s available. And if you enjoy clubbing, you’ll find lots of different options in this area.

#18 – Ikseon-dong Hanok Village – An unknown (but awesome) place to see in Seoul!

• The best place in the city to experience old Korea.
• There are some amazing cafes and pubs in this area too, so make sure you have a meal during your explorations.
• If you’re trying to decide what to do in Seoul off the tourist trail, this is the perfect place to visit.

Why it’s so awesome: This area isn’t usually listed as one of the best places to visit in Korea, but it’s great if you want to enjoy a mix of history, food, and creative shopping options. The area was first established in 1920 and preserves that time almost perfectly. Wandering the alleys could almost make you believe that you’ve moved back in time, and makes for a great afternoon.

What to do there: Just wander the alleys and enjoy the time away from Seoul’s tourist spots. There’s always something hidden to discover and explore in this area, and it’s well worth spending some time there to get a real feel for the past.

But don’t neglect the present either, because the shops are some of the most interesting in the city too. So, do some shopping and then stop at one of the artisan cafes or gastro pubs for a meal. It’s also worth it to join a pub crawl tour with a local guide to get to know the hidden gems of this cool district.

#19 – Insa-dong

• If you want unique souvenirs, this is one of the hotspots in Seoul for them.
• The center of Korean traditional culture and crafts.
• A great place to explore Seoul and support local craftsmen at the same time.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re interested in traditional Korean culture and crafts then this is the place where it’s all gathered together so you don’t miss anything. Insa-dong specializes in goods that can only be purchased or enjoyed in Korea, so it’s the perfect place to grab a souvenir for your loved ones back home!

What to do there: There are about a hundred galleries in Insa-dong and they display every type of Korean craft that you can imagine or have ever heard of. Make sure you check out the hanboks, which is a piece of traditional Korean clothing, traditional teas, and folk crafts. Also, try to go on a Sunday as streets are blocked off to allow for stalls and booths as well as traditional performances and exhibits.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

#20 – Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park – A haunted place to visit in Seoul… maybe…

• A slightly creepy look at the other side of entertainment.
• There are stories going around that the park shut down because of a ghost!
• If you want to find unusual things to do in Seoul, this is the perfect place to start.

Why it’s so awesome: Yongma was built in 1980 and was a small, family-run amusement park. It shut down in 2011, allegedly because of ghosts, though it’s far more likely that the owners had economic reasons for closing their doors. But since then, the park was bought by a savvy businessman who invites visitors to become part of the park’s demise.

What to do there: If you’ve ever wanted to explore an abandoned amusement park, this is your chance. You can clamber over old dodgem cars, try out the carousel, and take pictures next to a sad clown roller coaster.

There’s a small charge involved, and if you get there at night you can pay a little extra and ask the owner to turn on the lights of the merry-go-round while you’re there. Set against the declining rides, it’s a ghostly sight that should be savored. Or you can explore Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park with a guide. You can enjoy the picture at the photo spot for K Drama & K Pop during this Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park + Strawberry Picking tour

#21 – Seodaemun Prison – Possibly one of the most important historical places to visit in Seoul.

• Not a fun place to visit, but an important one if you want to understand South Korean history.
• This was a prison built for Koreans who rebelled against Japanese forces.

Why it’s so awesome: Built in 1908, this prison held Korean rebels who fought against Japan’s invasion and occupation. Before it was created, the country had virtually no penal system, and this location came to symbolize the determination of the Korean people to win their freedom despite the costs. Many Korean patriots died in custody, were tortured or executed at this location, and it’s a sobering reminder of the darker side of humanity.

What to do there: This isn’t a fun place to visit in Seoul. It was designated as a historic site in 1988 and renovated in 1995 and is a stark and sometimes brutal slice of Seoul’s history. As you walk through the prison-turned-museum, you’ll see torture chambers with terrifyingly realistic mannequins of famous Korean patriots and get an idea what it was like for the people who lived and died within the prison’s walls.

#22 – Coffee Hanyakbang – Seoul’s Must-Visit for the Coffee Connoisseurs

• The perfect place for coffee lovers of all ages.
• A nearly hidden gem that only the locals know about.
• If you live for your morning coffee, you’ll find lots of new coffee tastes at this site.

Why it’s so awesome: Almost everyone loves coffee and this tiny shop allows you to celebrate it in style. It’s almost hidden down a narrow, unmarked alleyway but coffee connoisseurs know that it’s there and turn up in droves to get the perfect coffee experience. The shop is decorated in a mix of Korean and Chinese styles and is determinedly rustic, with lots of wood and exposed pipe. And it sells delicious, hand-drip coffee at decent prices.

What to do there: Drink your morning coffee, of course! The owners roast the beans by hand at the back of the shop and grind them on site, so the whole shop has that rich, tongue-tingling smell of fresh coffee. And the making of each coffee is a science too, with everything precisely calculated to create the perfect cup, every time. So enjoy!

#23 – The War Memorial of Korea – A different take on a war memorial.

• A strangely lighthearted look at Korean military history.
• Fun and educational, so it’s a great place to take the kids.

Why it’s so awesome: There are 6 exhibition halls and an outdoor space for war machines too big to fit inside at this site and the place is packed. In fact, there are over 13,000 pieces of military equipment and memorabilia at the Korean war memorial , placed on the grounds of the former army headquarters of Korea.

The focus is on the Korean and Vietnam war and this isn’t the type of museum where you just stand back and look. The displays are designed to be touched and felt, to give visitors a better idea of what the wars were really like.

What to do there: There’s a lot to see at this memorial so make sure you put aside a few hours. The Combat Experience Room is particularly interesting and uses audiovisual effects to surround you with the sounds, sights and smells of the battlefield. Outback, the lines of tanks and heavy artillery are laid out like a metal petting zoo, and if you’re interested in this type of machinery, you’ll have an amazing time exploring it all.

#24 – Jogyesa Korean Buddhist Temple – For some sacred sightseeing in Seoul.

• A Buddhist temple that’s an important part of the locals’ lives.
• The garden surrounding the temple has some ancient trees that are simply amazing.

Why it’s so awesome: Sometimes there’s nothing like exploring a temple that’s still in use in the modern-day if you want to understand a culture better. And this temple in the middle of Seoul’s high-rise district is one of the best places to visit in the city to learn more about its people. This Zen Buddhist temple is always full of locals and tourists, which makes it an exciting, as well as an interesting place to people, watch and spend some quality time.

What to do there: Spend some time just watching the people as they come and go on their everyday business. And when you’re done, explore the compound itself. You could also find yourself a guide that will show you around and explain each statue in detail.

The trees in this area are apparently over 500 years old and they’re strung with banners and streamers in bright colors to make them look even more spectacular! This all combines to make this temple one of the top places to visit in Seoul if only for a quick contemplative meditation.

#25 – Suwon’s Hwaseong Fortress – More of Seoul’s old landmarks!

• If you’re looking for a quick day trip from the city, then make it to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Located only an hour and a half from Seoul.
• One of Seoul’s most important historical sites.

Why it’s so awesome: Built between 1794 and 1796, this fortress was created to house the remains of the King’s father, who had been murdered by his own father. It’s an enormous complex that was meant to be the first step in moving the capital from Seoul to the city of Suwon, where the Fortress is located. This obviously never eventuated, but the fortress remains and was declared a UNESCO site in 1997 .

What to do there: It will take you a couple of hours to see the entire castle, so if you have a spare morning or afternoon while you’re in Seoul then make the trip out to see it. There are a lot of different features including the interior and exterior as well as a palace museum, so make sure you take enough time to see it all.

#26 – Seoul’s Children’s Park – A beautiful place to go outdoors in Seoul.

• A great place to take the kids.
• Even if you don’t have children, you’ll enjoy this massive green area in the central Seoul.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re tired of the skyscrapers and find yourself longing for some greenery, then you can find this park in the middle of the city. Not only does it include a lot of green, open areas, there are also some cool exhibits and attractions in the park that will interest everyone, not just the young.

What to do there: Escape from the city and spend some time in nature. This park also includes amusement rides and playgrounds as well, so if you feel like being a little more active then there are lots of things to try!

#27 – A Lotte Mart – A weird choice of things to see in Seoul but hear me out!

• Lotte Marts in Seoul aren’t like the ones back home, so make sure you stop by for a look and a snack, you’ll be surprised what you’ll find there.
• If you love snacking but want to save some money, you can eat like the locals do with some very unusual meals and snacks from this store.

Why it’s so awesome: It sounds a bit strange to suggest that you go to a supermarket, but this is one experience you really shouldn’t miss because these stores are one of the most famous places in Seoul.

Lotte Marts are iconic in the city and they’re one of the coolest grocery stores in the world. While wandering around you’ll get a much better idea of how important food is in Seoul. And you might also find some new treats to try too!

What to do there: Make sure you take part in the whole experience. Lotte Marts usually have free food samples as well as an incredibly wide range of foods that you’ve probably never seen anywhere else. Just watch your wallet, because it’s too easy to overspend in Lotte Mart, and buy something tasty.

#28 – The Jongmyo Shrine – Another cultural highlight of Seoul.

• A UNESCO-listed site and close by the popular suburb or Insadong.
• A Seoul must-see when you’re in the city.

Why it’s so awesome: This is one of the most popular landmarks in Seoul and it’s also one of the best ways to learn about its ancient traditions. This shrine is the most popular attraction in Seoul and it’s a UNESCO Heritage site;  the perfect way for you to learn more about the history of the city.

What to do there: If you go to the shrine on Saturday then you can explore on your own. Any other day except Tuesday when the shrine is closed, you will need to join a guided tour. There are tours in English every couple of hours. While you’re there, make sure that you pay attention. You’ll learn about ancient customs, music, and even about memorial services during your visit, so it’s worth paying attention.

#29 – National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art – More awesome Korean art!

• The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Seoul is an amazing traditional style building.
• Located on what used to be Seoul’s Defense Security Command.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum is a must-visit on your Seoul itinerary. It’s an enormous museum that’s built on the principles of madang , which encourages people to socialize together by providing a large, communal courtyard just for that purpose. And it works too, which makes it a great place for people watching.

What to do there: The exhibits at this museum change regularly, so find out what’s on while you’re in the city and don’t miss out. Also, spend some time exploring the building while you’re there. Korean architecture is unique and deserves some time and attention.

#30 – Socheon – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Seoul

• If you’re looking for the best food in the city then you need to go to Socheon, which is where the locals go.
• You’ll have some of your best meals in a slightly dingy restaurant in this part of the city.

Why it’s so awesome: Socheon is one of the best places in Seoul for cheap and delicious local food and a good break from the tourist attractions. Located on the west side of Gyeongbokgung, this area caters mostly to locals, so you won’t find as many fancy restaurants and neon lights there. Instead, you’ll find mostly ordinary, slightly run-down restaurants that serve some of the best food you’ve ever tasted.

What to do there: Some restaurants serve great food in this area but they’re a little hard to find. Most of them don’t have a website or even a menu in English, so you’ll have to order your meal from pictures or by what the locals are eating. To get a great meal, walk until you find a place that contains a lot of locals. Figure out what you want and just point – whatever you get, it’ll be delicious!

#31 – Dongdaemun – An awesome neighborhood in Seoul.

• One of the best places in Seoul for bargain shopping!
• Bring cash so you can haggle down the prices.

Why it’s so awesome: Dongdaemun shopping area is a veritable labyrinth of wholesale and retail shops. You could quite literally get lost in this area looking for something, and the crowds of locals and tourists alike enjoying the bargains are evidence of how good the prices and the variety of goods are.

What to do there: If you’re looking for something specific to buy, chances are that you’ll find it in this area. Take cash with you so you can haggle and find something sweet. But if you just want to wander and people watch, this is the perfect place for it too. Many of the shops are open all night, so there’s always something going on for you to observe.

#32 – Dongdaemun Design Plaza – A famous modern landmark in Seoul.

• One of the hotspots in Seoul for shopping and entertainment options.
• The building itself is unusual, stunning, and looks great in photos.

Why it’s so awesome: This building is one of the most eccentric in the city and looks amazing in photographs for you to put on your social media feeds. The long, sinuous curves of the building seem to go on forever and as if that wasn’t enough it also contains countless stores, exhibition spaces, parts of the original Seoul fortress that used to stand on the site, and a design museum.

What to do there: Make sure you take a photo of yourself with this building to show the people back home because the curving lines back for a great background. And then just explore the building. You can shop, explore the history of the site, or just wander the floors looking for anything that looks like fun. It’s the perfect place to go for anyone who’s looking for Seoul vacation ideas.

#33 – Mapo-Gu – A quirky area in Seoul to visit.

• One of the quirkiest places to go in Seoul.
• If you’re looking for weird and wonderful experiences and cafes, this district will exceed your wildest expectations.

Why it’s so awesome: Mapo district is one of Seoul’s 25 districts and it’s also one of the most unusual. It’s home to a large number of themed cafes, so if you want your cup of coffee with a side of cats, dogs or raccoons, you’ll find all that and more in this district.

What to do there: Korea is constantly innovating and looking for new ways to explore old ideas and you can experience that first hand while you’re in Mapo-Gu. Try the poop café if you’re looking for one of the most unusual places in Seoul, or just wander from one café to another hugging cute animals!

#34 – Nami Island

• One of the most popular spots for a holiday break in Seoul.
• It’s usually thronged with tourists so show up early if you want to avoid the lines.

Why it’s so awesome: Nami Island is a lovely nature area close to the city that’s a fantastic place to visit in the winter and summer months. In summer it has rides, zip wires, hiking, and lots of large open spaces to explore. And in the winter, it’s set up for all the winter sports and activities that you’ve ever dreamed of trying.

What to do there: Nami Island is an awesome place to visit in winter as the lake freezes and gives you an amazing view across the lake. It’s also home to a lot of winter sports and activities, which is why tourists and locals alike travel there in throngs to enjoy the colder months. Also, if you like to read, make sure you visit Petite France, which is a village modeled after the famous book The Little Prince.

Get insured for your trip to Seoul!

When you’re travelling to Seoul, having good travel insurance is an absolute essential BEFORE you set off. It means if things go wrong, you’re already in a good position.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Seoul

Is 3 days in Seoul enough?

Three days should be enough to see the main highlights, but there are some gorgeous hikes around the city that are worth staying longer to see.

Is Seoul a safe place to visit?

Yes, Seoul is a safe place to visit and violent crimes are rare.

Is Seoul a cheap place to visit?

No, Seoul isn’t a cheap place to visit, though there are some cheap attractions that will help keep costs down.

What is a free place to visit in Seoul?

The Seoul Museum of Art is a free place to visit in Seoul and a great place for art lovers to explore.

Seoul is an ultra-modern city where you can experience the latest technology alongside ancient traditions and culture. This capital of South Korea is a powerhouse in the world economy at the moment, which makes it a very attractive location for visitors from all walks of life.

South Korea perhaps gets overlooked sometimes by its other East Asian neighbors, however, it is a rich country with an ancient history and vibrant people. Backpacking in South Korea is a rewarding journey, but more than likely you’ll start in Seoul.

Seoul is a city that never sleeps, with ancient palaces next to skyscrapers and night markets, and it’s the perfect location for anyone looking to experience a different side of Asia. And if you use this easy guide to Seoul’s coolest places to visit and the most sobering historical sights, you’ll walk away with memories that last a lifetime.

Share or save this post

Nice list. I am going next week there and this abandoned theme park look like something I will visit

Thanks for the info. Suggestions like “Mapo-Gu” are a bit ridiculous, if you pull it up on google maps that region could take a week or more of 6 hour days walking. I doubt anywhere but a small part of it is of interest, but where? Who knows. Same seems to be the case for Socheon which I don’t know how to pull up. We need like a center point or at least main strip indication please.

Hi Justin. It’s 33 minutes by bus to Mapo-Gu although I suppose you can walk there if you want. We have included this area for it’s general vibe and invite our readers to explore it on their own terms.

Hmm. Sorry what I mean is Mapo-Gu (in English Mapo District) is nearly half the size of Manhattan. Do you get what I mean when I say it wouldn’t make sense to tell someone “you can walk to Manhattan if you want, but once you are there you can experience the vibe and find everything?”

I also explored these fabulous attractions during my last tour and came back with an awesome experience.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

15 Best Cities to Visit in South Korea

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on February 5, 2024

In less than fifty years, South Korea went from being one of the world’s poorest countries to one of its richest. Its thriving cities highlight this change as ancient palaces, and traditional temples lie next to gleaming shopping malls and futuristic buildings.

Despite bordering two larger, more powerful nations for much of its history ( Japan and China ), the country has managed to preserve its unique culture; many of its museums showcase South Korea’s fascinating history, art, and local traditions.

A beautiful country to visit, many of South Korea’s cities are located amongst scenic mountains or next to idyllic islands and beautiful beaches. Hiking and immersing yourself in nature is almost a national pastime such is its popularity. Now known just as much for its delicious food and K-pop as for its impressive historical sights, South Korea and its fun and friendly cities are sure to delight with all they have to offer.

Map of cities in South Korea

A very welcoming and friendly place, Andong is renowned for its delicious cuisine, so foodies will rejoice at all the local delicacies on offer.

Founded over 2000 years ago, Andong boasts many historical and cultural attractions and often markets itself as a spiritual center due to its many temples and local religious sites.

One of the most interesting places to visit is the Andong Hahoe Folk Village, where you can learn all about the local traditions, culture, and history.

14. Tongyeong

Surrounded by sea on three sides, Tongyeong is located right on the southern tip of a peninsula. Most visitors to the city use it as a gateway from which to explore any of the 151 nearby islands.

A sleepy, laidback place, Tongyeong’s harbor is beautiful to behold. Walking along the harbor front or eating a delicious seafood dinner while watching the sunset is a unique experience.

Although there is not much going on in town, the city more than makes up for it with the wealth of beautiful islands nearby. Nature lovers will revel in visiting the spectacular Hallyeohaesang National Park.

13. Daejeon

Having expanded rapidly over the last few decades, Daejeon is now one of the largest cities in South Korea and is a significant science and research center, thanks in part to the large Expo Park complex.

While not particularly pretty to behold due to its urban sprawl, the city is, however, home to lots of interesting museums, with the National Science Museum’s fantastic exhibits making it one of the best on offer.

No visit to Daejeon is complete without a stop at the Yuseong Hot Springs; bathing in the thermal waters is the perfect way to end a day after taking in the city’s sights.

Due to its proximity to Seoul, Suwon is a fantastic day trip option from the capital, although it often gets overlooked by travelers.

Now a major center for industry, the city is home to Samsung Electronics. Its busy streets are packed with bars, restaurants, and shops, while Ingyedong is the place to head if you’re after some fun nightlife.

The main reason that people visit Suwon is for the stunning 18th-century fortress of Hwaseong that lies at the heart of the city; its twisting walls and looming towers are lovely to explore.

Lying on a peninsula of the same name in the south of the country, Yeosu is one of the most beautiful port cities in South Korea and an increasingly popular beachside resort.

Lined by mountains, Yeosu is surrounded by islands and cliffs that look spectacular. One of the best views is from Hyangiram Hermitage – a beautiful cliffside hermitage.

While Yeosu is not big on sights, its lively waterfront is home to lots of brilliant seafood restaurants. Just relaxing on the beach and taking in the view is what most people want from a visit to the city.

More of an island than a city, Geoje has nicknamed itself the ‘Blue City.’ It is surrounded by sparkling clear waters, a gorgeous rocky coastline, and lots of beautiful beaches.

While its scenic charm is what most people come for, Geoje has lots of interesting tourist sites to offer, such as a stunning 15th-century castle and a POW Camp, which used to host North Korean prisoners.

Although the city has more than enough restaurants and bars to keep you occupied, the spectacular scenery is what really steals the show. A boat trip to the breathtaking islands of Haegeumgang and Odeo is a must.

Home to a sizeable student population, Daegu has a youthful feel to it and is surprisingly friendly and welcoming, considering that it is the fourth largest city in the country.

Wandering around its lively downtown is a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. Its fantastic art museums lie side-by-side with beautiful old churches and temples, while its food and nightlife scenes are thriving.

Many people use Daegu as a gateway to the region, and the nearby Palgong Mountain is well worth a visit. It is home to loads of scenic trails as well as numerous temples and Gatbawi – a magnificent stone statue of Buddha.

8. Gyeongju

Boasting more than 2000 years of history, Gyeongju is fittingly known as ‘the museum without walls’ thanks to its endless array of tombs, temples and archaeological sites. Many of them date back to when the city was capital of the Silla Kingdom.

A captivating place to explore, the center of town is full of old tombs, beautiful pagodas, and traditional houses. The Gyeongju National Museum houses a wonderful collection of local artifacts.

Two must-see sights are the stunning Bulguksa Temple, dating back to the eighth century, and the nearby Seokguram Grotto – both of which delightfully show off some rich Buddhist art and highlight how the religion impacted the area.

Once the spiritual capital of the country, Jeonju is full of historical sites and cultural landmarks. It is also home to one of the nation’s most popular tourist attractions in the shape of Hanok Village, which showcases traditional houses, local cultural practices, and artisanal products from around the region.

With lots of beautiful temples to marvel at, Jeonju is fascinating to walk around; its winding alleys are home to atmospheric cafes and restaurants, and no visit to Jeonju is complete without trying bibimbap – a local delicacy.

Before leaving, make sure to visit the excellent Jeonju National Museum, which protects, preserves and promotes the rich local history and culture.

The third largest city in the country, Incheon lies just under 40 kilometers from Seoul. It was at the huge port here that American soldiers landed in 1950 during the Korean War to recapture South Korea’s capital.

An important city to the nation in both historical and economic terms, Incheon is expanding rapidly and has loads for visitors to see and do. Its bustling Chinatown and maze of shops, restaurants, and bars in Bupyeong are just two of the highlights.

With the oldest temple in the country – Jeondeungsa – for you to enjoy, alongside lots of lovely old architecture and some delightful waterfront promenades, Incheon is a great option if you’re looking for a comfortable and accessible day trip from Seoul.

5. Gangneung

Lying on the East coast, Gangneung is the perfect place to head if you’re looking to step off the beaten path and get to know one of the country’s lesser-known cities.

Separated from the rest of South Korea by the Taebaek mountain range bordering it, Gangneung has its own distinctive culture and feel about it, as is evidenced by the delicious local cuisine and cultural events – such as the fascinating Danoje folk festival.

With centuries-old temples for you to visit, alongside the impressive Ojukheon Museum – home to shrines, traditional buildings and memorabilia from famous Koreans – Gangneung also has some lovely nature on offer; one of the nation’s most popular beaches can be found at Gyeongpo.

4. Jeju City

The largest city on the island of the same name, Jeju’s warm, welcoming climate makes it a popular tourist destination. Many people head here during the summer to enjoy the fancy hotels, teeming casinos, and trendy bars.

Although most of the main attractions are found out of town, Jeju City is a pleasant place to visit, with lots of fantastic restaurants, upmarket boutiques and accommodation options on offer.

Many people use it as a base from which to explore the rest of the island . A visit to the nearby Jeju Loveland – an adults-only theme park – will certainly highlight why the island is a popular honeymoon destination.

3. Seogwipo

Located on Jeju Island, Seogwipo is surrounded by some beautiful scenery, including a spectacular rocky coastline, plunging waterfalls, and beautiful beaches.

Consequently, most visitors to the city come primarily for its natural sights; it also boasts the best scuba-diving in the whole country. With lots of great paths and trails snaking their way to the waterfalls and along the coastline, it is also a popular hiking destination.

While the city itself doesn’t have that much going for it, the lovely scenery more than makes up for it. If you are at a loose end, the fun water park and immersive submarine tours are well worth checking out when in town.

The second largest city in South Korea, Busan is home to a bustling port and is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its beautiful scenery made up of forest-coated mountains and gorgeous beaches.

With many different sides to it, Busan is home to both a gritty industrial area and the hillside Gamcheon Cultural Village, full of brightly-colored houses offering delightful views over the city.

While most people come for its beaches, Busan has many interesting historical sites scattered around town: there’s the popular Beomeosa Temple with its numerous hot springs, fantastic seafood restaurants, and wealth of outdoor activities.

A sprawling metropolis that encompasses over 25 million people, South Korea’s capital has everything imaginable on offer. It is an enthralling place to explore, with centuries-old palaces and temples rubbing shoulders with gleaming shopping malls and bustling night markets.

With something for everyone to enjoy, you can be marveling at the intricate architecture of the 15th century Chandeok-gung palace one minute, be hiking in the nearby mountains and numerous parks the next, before later visiting one of the city’s fabulous museums.

Renowned for its excellent cuisine, Seoul has loads of great restaurants and street stalls dotted around. The city is continually pushing the boundaries of what is possible – whether that is in fashion and design or architecture and technology.

As such, there is always something new to see and do in Seoul.

Share this post:

10 Best Places to Visit in South Korea

15 Best Countries to Visit in Asia

15 Top Tourist Attractions in South Korea

10 Best Things to do in Gyeongju, South Korea

12 Top Tourist Attractions in Jeju Island

19 Best Tourist Attractions in Seoul

Visit Meroë: The Mysterious Pyramids of Sudan

10 Best Mauritius Luxury Resorts

21 Best Places to Visit in South America

24 Best Places to Visit in Africa

Reader interactions, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

6 Best places to visit when traveling in South Korea

S outh Korea's rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and rich culture are a traveler's paradise. Each destination oofers a distinct blend of attractions, activities, and culinary treats, guaranteeing the perfect adventure for all travel buffs.

Thanks to the country's myriad of travel experiences, from Seoul's dynamic city life to Jeju Island's serene natural beauty, South Korea is an enigmatic Pandora's box for most travel enthusiasts.

Whether it is scouring the bustling markets, hiking in panoramic national parks, or immersing in the classic Korean traditions and arts, with its modern cities, ancient temples, and delicious cuisine, this destination promises an unforgettable and fable-like trip.

Note: This is purely the writer's opinion. We might have missed a few destinations; let us know your opinion.

6 Best places to visit in South Korea

To make the visitors to South Korea comfortable, Korean is the predominant language, and many locals in tourism communicate in English.

Ahead, Team Sportskeeda has made a curated list of the six best places to visit in South Korea while providing detailed insights into each destination.

• Jeju Island

Seoul, South Korea 's capital, is a mesmerizing mix of modern skyscrapers and ancient palaces. The best time to visit this dynamic metropolis is during the spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant.

Must-visit attractions include Gyeongbokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower, and Bukchon Hanok Village, where travelers can enjoy traditional tea ceremonies, vibrant nightlife, and shopping in neighborhoods like Myeongdong.

There are plenty of options for lodging, from opulent hotels to comfortable homestays, in addition to savoring regional delicacies like bibimbap, kimchi, and Korean BBQ.

Nearest airport: Incheon International Airport

2) Jeju Island

Jeju Island, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes. The best time to explore this picturesque South Korean locale is from April to June, adorned with blooming wildflowers.

Once here, avid travelers can explore local attractions like Hallasan National Park, Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, and Manjanggul Cave, which offer exceptional experiences for nature lovers.

Jeju Island caters to many accommodation options, from upscale resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Further, tasting Jeju's local delicacies, like fresh seafood, black pork, and hallabong oranges , is a must for all travel buffs.

Nearest airport: Jeju International Airport

Read more: 7 Best things to do in Japan in 2024

Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, a blend of modernity and coastal beauty, is famous for its beach activities and delectable seafood. The best time to visit is during the summer for beach recreation and the Busan International Film Festival in October.

Heritage sites along the coast, such as Gamcheon Culture Village, Beomeosa Temple, and Haeundae Beach, are among the city's must-see atractions.

Further, from enjoying comfortable stays in boutique hotels to beach shacks, adventurous souls can dig into Busan's dishes like dwaeji gukbap (pork soup) and milmyeon (wheat noodles).

Nearest airport: Gimhae International Airport

4) Gyeongju

Gyeongju is a South Korean city steeped in historical sites and cultures known as the Museum without Walls.' Spring and autumn are the best times to visit. The traveler can explore the attractions surrounding the vicinity like Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, and the UNESCO-listed Gyeongju Historic Areas. For rest and recoup, they can stay at traditional hanok-style stays in modern hotels and inns while indulging in Gyeongju bread and haejangguk (hangover soup) for a delightful culinary experience.

Nearest airport: Gimhae International Airport in Busan

Read more: 7 Best things to do when visiting Dubai

Andong, nestled in the middle of Gyeongsangbuk-do province and known to be a haven for cultural enthusiasts, is a must-visit place, especially during the Andong Mask Dance Festival in September and the Andong International Folk Festival in October.

Once here, they can explore the Hahoe Folk Village, Andong Confucian School, and Byeongsanseowon Confucian Academy while cooling their heels at the trendy hotels, cozy homestays, or roadside motels. They can indulge in Andong's local cuisine, including Andong jjimdak (braised chicken ) and heotjesabap (lotus leaf rice) for gastronomic delights.

Further, there is no major airport in Andong, and adventure lovers can access the city via transit from nearby areas.

Nearest airport: NA

Yet another home on the UNESCO list, South Korea's Suwon, is an amalgamation of tradition and modernity. Courtesy of the ancient Hwaseong Fortress and the thriving local markets, Suwon acts like a magnet to most adventure love. Autumn and winter are the right time to visit this place. Suwon offers various lodging preferences, from business hotels to cozy guesthouses.

Further, Suwon's local goodies, like dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken) and Suwon galbi (marinated beef ribs), are the authentic gastronomic delights.

Read more: 6 Best European countries to visit in Summer 2024

Whether the reader is a travel enthusiast, a history buff, a nature lover, or a food critic, any of these six places to visit in South Korea is a platter full of surprises for all.

So, without much dilly-dallying, they can initiate their South Korean tour with their boarding passes and backpacks ready to go!