The Top 17 Must-Visit Tourist Destinations in South Korea

When you visit South Korea, shopping is a must! While Seoul offers plenty of attractions, have you ever visited Seomyeon in Busan? This area features an expansive underground shopping center with a wide range of products! As the second-largest city in South Korea, Busan is filled with diverse attractions, and Seomyeon's underground shopping mall is right in the city center, offering affordable clothing and more.

If you're taking the subway, simply get off at Seomyeon Station (서면역) and follow the underground passage to the shopping area. For bus riders or pedestrians, you can enter through Gate 15. The shopping mall is quite spacious, similar to the ones in Seoul, making it a perfect spot to shop to your heart's content! This area combines the excitement of shopping with the modern, vibrant beauty of Busan. Seomyeon is also the intersection of two subway lines, with rows of shops lining the streets.

Not only is Seomyeon famous as a shopping paradise for women, but it's also a great place to satisfy your culinary cravings. From upscale restaurants to street food stalls, from traditional dishes to modern meals, the only thing you need to worry about is your wallet and stomach to fully enjoy everything on offer.

One of the must-visit attractions in Daegu is the Woobang Tower. Standing at 202 meters tall and 312 meters above sea level, Woobang Tower was once the tallest tower in Asia and remains a popular tourist destination. From the top of the tower, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Daegu and its surrounding areas.

At the base of the tower, you'll find a classy bar and a restaurant where visitors can enjoy delicious meals while taking in the stunning cityscape. The area around the tower is also picturesque, featuring a waterfall surrounded by lush flowers.

Throughout the year, the tower hosts various entertainment activities to delight tourists. In winter, visitors can enjoy skiing, while spring brings a beautiful flower festival. During the summer and fall, there are vibrant performances, exhibitions, and other attractions that keep guests entertained.

Palgongsan Mountain is located in the northeast of Daegu, about 20 km from the city center. This breathtaking destination is perfect not only for avid hikers but also attracts many Buddhist pilgrims. The mountain's natural beauty offers visitors a peaceful escape and the chance to enjoy fresh, clean air while immersing themselves in nature.

The path leading to Palgongsan is also a popular spot for young people who love to capture the beauty of nature, especially with the towering trees lining the route. The vibrant red and yellow leaves during autumn create a stunning seasonal backdrop at the base of the mountain. Palgongsan is also a hotspot for mountaineers and adventure enthusiasts, offering many peaks to conquer.

From the top, visitors are rewarded with majestic views of the land below and a sense of achievement, standing close to the sky atop the mountain. The experience of reaching the summit gives a powerful feeling of conquering both nature and the landscape.

Located on Gaumjeong Mountain, Beomeosa Temple boasts a history of over 1,300 years. Originally established in 678 AD during the reign of King Munmu of the Silla Kingdom, the complex was destroyed in 1592 during a Japanese invasion. The temple as it stands today was rebuilt in 1713 and remains a beautiful sight, especially in the spring when the wisteria blooms.

The main hall, built in 1614, is regarded as one of the finest examples of Joseon-era architecture. It also features a royal palace-style archway and a three-story pagoda, both of which are worth visiting. For a truly unforgettable experience in Busan, consider staying overnight at Beomeosa Temple, which offers visitors a unique insight into monastic life in South Korea.

Yuseong Hot Springs is one of South Korea's most popular tourist attractions. The spring runs along the road surrounding the Daecheongho reservoir, with water temperatures ranging from 52°C to 56°C, rich in sodium, chloride, and silicic acid, all of which contribute to a refreshing, revitalizing experience. Historical records tell us that Yuseong once served as a refuge for kings of the Joseon Dynasty. Today, it attracts more than 20 million visitors annually, with hundreds of guesthouses and hotels built in the area.

The Joseon kings frequently visited these hot springs, known for their health benefits. Every May, a royal wedding procession is reenacted during the hot spring cultural festival. The mineral-rich waters are said to soften the skin and are believed to treat various skin conditions and, in some cases, even stomach ailments. An outdoor foot soak with traditional herbal remedies provides a soothing relief for tired feet, making for a truly memorable experience.

Busan is located in the southeastern part of South Korea, about 400 km from Seoul. It is a popular tourist destination offering visitors a perfect vacation with stunning natural landscapes, pleasant climate, rich cultural diversity, and excellent tourist services. In terms of transportation, Busan is one of the best-connected cities in South Korea, with Gimhae International Airport, a convenient subway system, and an extensive ferry network, making the port city bustling yet maintaining its peaceful beauty with the vast, unspoiled sea.

As a port city, Busan is considered the ‘gateway’ to South Korea with a thriving maritime trade industry. The city's seafood markets are a notable feature, and it is often referred to as the ‘summer capital of Korea,’ thanks to its numerous beautiful beaches, including the famous Haeundae Beach.

One of the city's major annual cultural events is the “Busan International Film Festival,” which attracts not only top Korean celebrities but also a large number of tourists from around the world.

Daegu is South Korea's third-largest city and one of its most famous tourist destinations. This modern city is full of stunning skyscrapers, but a short walk into the narrow alleyways will reveal peaceful spots that offer a sense of serenity. The best time to visit Daegu is between September and November, when the weather is cool and perfect for exploring. Winter is also a great time for snow sports enthusiasts.

Daegu is home to many high mountains and is considered a spiritual haven for Buddhists. Visitors can also enjoy exciting activities at Bongmu Park, located at the foot of the mountains. One of the city's must-see attractions is the Woobang Tower, once the tallest tower in Asia. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Daegu and indulge in delicious meals at the restaurants or sip on drinks at the bar at the tower's base.

Not only is Daegu known for its rich history, but it is also famous for its vibrant shopping streets that feature top global fashion brands. Every year, these streets host fashion festivals, and if you're lucky enough to visit during one, you can enjoy a shopping spree with fantastic discounts.

The landscape of South Korea has a unique charm that captivates travelers planning a visit. In addition to the famous landmarks that define the country, the traditional villages, with their centuries-old homes, moss-covered rooftops, lush green trees, and winding paths, offer a peaceful and nostalgic experience. Once you step into these areas, you’ll want to return again and again.

Located on the outskirts of Seoul, this traditional Korean village has been carefully restored to preserve its 17th-century appearance. If you've ever watched Korean dramas, you'll likely recognize scenes filmed in this village, which has served as the backdrop for many popular shows (such as Dae Jang Geum). Here, you can experience the traditional way of life, explore the layout of Korean homes, and witness fascinating cultural performances, such as traditional dances, wedding ceremonies, and other exciting cultural displays. This charming destination is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Gyeryongsan, also known as Rooster-Dragon Mountain, gets its name from the shape of the mountain's ridge, which resembles a dragon’s body, while the sharp peaks resemble the comb of a rooster. The mountain's unique 15 peaks and terrain give it an air of mystery.

Gyeryongsan has long been regarded as a sacred mountain in South Korea, honored as a central site for various dynasties, from the Baekje Kingdom to the Joseon Dynasty. The mountain is located just a 15-minute drive from Yoseung and is considered one of the most stunning mountains in the country, known for its deep valleys and picturesque scenery, making it an attractive destination for hikers and explorers. Since 1967, Gyeryongsan has been designated a national park, and it remains a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists who visit the mountain's temples.

Bokcheon Museum is a popular first stop for many visitors to Busan. This fascinating site has been excavated and surveyed more than eight times, uncovering over 10,000 artifacts, including spears and various weapons.

The museum showcases nearly 3,000 significant relics, offering a glimpse into the political, military, and social development of ancient Busan. It also preserves information from the excavation of ancient tombs from the Gaya and Dhila periods of the 14th to 15th centuries. Visitors are captivated by the ancient swords, helmets, and paintings, where the noble spirit of past kings is still vividly felt, even in the rusted relics.

The name “Haeundae” for this beach was given by a Silla scholar named Choi Chi-Won (57 BC to 935 AD) when he visited and was captivated by the beauty of Dongbaekdo Island. He inscribed the name “Hae Un Dae” on a stone wall on the island. Haeundae Beach stretches approximately 1.5 km in length, with a width ranging from 30 to 50 meters, expanding over an area of 58.4 km², featuring coarse golden sand that tends to stick to the skin. The sand here is primarily deposited by the Chuncheon stream, gradually worn down by wind and time.

In addition to its natural beauty, Haeundae Beach is famous for the cultural events and festivals that take place almost year-round. The beach also hosts a folk cultural square where visitors can try traditional Korean games such as hopscotch, wrestling, arrow throwing, and tug-of-war.

Moreover, the area includes a Beach Cultural Center and a beachside library, which attract visitors from June to August. A visit to this popular destination is a must for anyone traveling to South Korea.

Changdeokgung is the oldest of the five palaces in Seoul and was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. The palace's exquisite architecture blends harmoniously with the surrounding nature, earning it praise as a prime example of East Asian architecture. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Korea, Changdeokgung is especially mesmerizing during the night, with the moonlight illuminating its grandeur, particularly during the full moon. This architectural masterpiece was built by the Joseon kings between 1935 and 1910.

Today, Changdeokgung remains one of the most well-preserved royal sites. The palace covers an area of 580,000 square meters, including a secret garden that spans 120,000 square meters. The buildings were carefully designed to integrate with the natural environment, creating a fresh, comfortable, and peaceful atmosphere. The palace grounds showcase outstanding examples of Eastern palace architecture and garden design, particularly the layout of buildings that seamlessly blend into the surrounding landscape, taking full advantage of the terrain and preserving native tree cover.

As South Korea's largest and most modern amusement park, Everland is located about an hour's drive from Seoul in Yongin, Gyeonggi-do. The name Everland evokes a sense of endless adventure, making visitors feel like they are exploring the entire world in one place. The park has continually evolved, offering an even better and more immersive experience.

The American Adventure area is designed to replicate a miniature version of America, offering thrilling attractions, festivals, and artistic performances such as the Bullfight Festival and Rock Music Shows. For those seeking excitement, rides like the Roll-Xtrain roller coaster and Ferris wheel are sure to deliver an adrenaline rush.

The legendary Magic Land is a popular destination for young visitors, transforming dreams into reality. The Aesop’s Village, inspired by the classic Aesop’s fables, is like stepping into a fairy tale world.

For high-speed thrills, the European Adventure area features the famous T-Express wooden roller coaster, the fastest of its kind in the world. With a 77-degree drop and speeds of 104 km/h, this ride promises an unforgettable experience for thrill-seekers.

Don't miss Zoo Topia, the zoo area within Everland, where you can encounter a variety of fascinating wildlife.

Gyeongbokgung Palace is the first royal palace built during the Joseon Dynasty (the final feudal dynasty of Korea), located at the heart of Seoul. It is the largest and most prominent of the Five Grand Palaces, symbolizing the power and dominance of the Joseon Dynasty. With its feng shui design, the palace is backed by mountains and faces the sea. Gyeongbokgung has become one of South Korea's most popular tourist attractions and a prime example of Eastern architectural style. The palace is designed with five basic colors—blue, white, red, black, and yellow—harmoniously blending with the surrounding nature while still conveying the grandeur of the monarchy.

Visitors to Gyeongbokgung not only marvel at its architectural beauty but also experience the rich history of the royal court. All the palace guards wear traditional uniforms from the Joseon era, standing solemnly at the entrance to various palace areas while holding flags. Stone pillars in the courtyard indicate the ranks of the officials waiting for their audience with the king. The main hall houses the king's throne, with a backdrop painting of five mountains, the sun, and the moon. Below the throne, cushions are placed for the officials who attend royal sessions. The porcelain incense burner known as Sajeongjeon is both an ornamental item in the main hall and a centuries-old historical artifact.

Seoul is the bustling capital of South Korea, known for its vibrant blend of modernity and traditional charm, making it one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the country. The city boasts a diverse range of natural landscapes, historic sites, bustling shopping districts, and impressive entertainment venues.

In Seoul, visitors will find so many exciting places to explore, it can be hard to know where to start. To make the most of your time, you can take a bus and follow different routes to relax and sightsee.

If you're planning to visit Seoul, don't miss these unforgettable attractions:

• The stunning Bukchon Hanok Village with traditional Korean teahouses and an outdoor museum.
  
• The energetic and grand Octagon nightclub.
  
• The Korean Furniture Museum, home to over 2000 antique pieces and traditional house models.
  
• The majestic Gyeongbok Palace, showcasing the royal customs and traditional Korean architecture.
  
• Reflect while walking along the peaceful 6 km long Cheonggyecheon Stream.
  
• Indulge in delicious traditional Korean dishes at a local restaurant.
  
• Shop until you drop at the iconic Namdaemun Market.

This island was the filming location for the famous TV drama "Winter Sonata." Due to the success of the show, Nami Island has been a popular tourist destination in Asia since 2001.

Nami Island is one of the most captivating travel spots in South Korea, attracting visitors throughout the year with its ever-changing beauty. Located in the middle of the North Han River, the island is uniquely shaped like a crescent moon. From above, Nami Island looks like a leaf-shaped boat drifting on the river. At the center of the island, there is a lush 260,000 m² grassy field surrounded by a variety of trees, including chestnuts and birches.

On the island, visitors can explore a zoo, a botanical garden, and an exciting amusement area. Each season on Nami Island presents its own charm, drawing travelers to experience its beauty. In particular, autumn and winter are the peak seasons, when the island’s natural landscape transforms, perfectly capturing the romantic essence of the famous Korean drama "Winter Sonata."

Known as the ‘Island of Peace,’ Jeju Island is a captivating destination in South Korea, drawing visitors with its tranquil, untouched beauty that is equally enchanting. Once here, you will be mesmerized by the wonders of nature. Jeju is the first region in Korea to welcome spring. Visitors who arrive in late February will be treated to the sight of vibrant yellow canola flowers in full bloom, lasting until April during the Canola Flower Festival. Additionally, you can take a stroll along the famous Olle Trail, a winding path lined with trees that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of life.

If you're a fan of Korean tea culture, the O'Sulloc Green Tea Museum is a must-visit. The island is also known for its stunning beaches, where visitors can swim or simply relax while admiring the view. For a breathtaking experience, hike to Hallasan, South Korea's highest mountain at 1,950 meters above sea level. This extinct shield volcano offers panoramic views, and in spring, the summit is adorned with beautiful azaleas, while in autumn, golden leaves fall gently, and in winter, snow blankets the landscape, signaling the end of the season.