Top 17 Must-See Tourist Destinations in South Korea

When you think of Jinhae, the first thing that comes to mind is the annual cherry blossom festival in spring, where the entire city is covered in blooming cherry blossoms for about 10 days. The best spots to enjoy the blossoms are at Kyeonghwa Train Station and Yeojwa Stream. During this period, many cultural and artistic performances take place, drawing large crowds of visitors.

Jinhae is home to the famous annual cherry blossom festival, attracting millions of visitors each year. If you ever get the chance to visit, you’ll be mesmerized by the breathtaking beauty of the cherry blossoms in full bloom. This place is truly one of the most stunning destinations in South Korea.

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Address: Changwon City, South Korea.

Area: 120.2 km²

Damyang is renowned for its vast bamboo forests. Located in the southernmost part of South Korea, Damyang is home to many small towns and villages. Tourists flock to Damyang to enjoy the stunning bamboo landscapes, including parks, museums, and bamboo forests that span over 100 square meters. Additionally, visitors have the chance to purchase handcrafted bamboo goods and savor unique bamboo wine.

Visiting Damyang feels like stepping into a serene natural oasis, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. However, the dense bamboo forests can be quite dark, so it's best to visit during the day. A photo op surrounded by towering bamboo is a must!

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Address: Jeolla Nam, South Korea.

Area: 455.1 km²

Nami Island is an unmissable destination in South Korea, attracting tourists from all over. Famous for its stunning autumn scenery, Nami is home to rows of vibrant ginkgo trees. This island is also known as the filming location for the beloved TV drama 'Winter Sonata.' Nami is the perfect spot for those who appreciate romance, tranquility, and peaceful surroundings.

The island is crescent-shaped and is located near Seoul. Each of the four seasons brings its own beauty: spring features blooming cherry blossoms, summer is filled with lush greenery, autumn turns the leaves bright red, and winter blankets the island in snow. No matter when you visit, there's always something to enjoy and plenty of photo opportunities.

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Address: 1 Namisum-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea.

Area: 0.43 km²

Yeongam Gurim Village, located near the Wolchulsan National Park, is a place steeped in South Korea's rich history. The highest point of the park is 800 meters above sea level, offering visitors a panoramic view of the beautiful village below. Yeongam Gurim is known for its ancient buildings and pottery, preserving the charm of its historical past.

The village's scenic beauty might seem familiar as it is frequently used as a filming location for historical dramas. Despite its age, the village remains as picturesque and pristine as ever, offering a glimpse into Korea's past. Once you visit, you'll feel compelled to stay and soak in its timeless beauty.

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Address: Near Wolchulsan National Park.

Bukchon Hanok Village is nestled within the heart of Seoul, a traditional village preserved amidst the bustling metropolis of over 600 years old. It is renowned as the cultural hub of the Joseon dynasty. The village is unique, with narrow lanes and single-story traditional homes, offering a glimpse into Korea's rich history and heritage.

A visit to Bukchon Hanok will leave you in awe of its beauty and timeless charm. The village's historic atmosphere is perfect for those seeking to immerse themselves in Korea's past. To make your visit even more memorable, consider wearing vintage traditional clothing for stunning photos that capture the essence of this ancient place.

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Address: Gahoe-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea.

Located on the northwestern coast of South Korea, Deokjeokdo is a small island known for its serene beaches and scenic hiking trails. This peaceful retreat is quite remote compared to other areas. Its beautiful beaches and pine forests provide the perfect backdrop for leisurely walks, fresh air, and weekend camping. Deokjeokdo is truly a haven for nature lovers seeking an escape into tranquility.

Unlike the bustling cities, Deokjeokdo offers a calm, serene atmosphere in every corner. Spending some time here will rejuvenate your spirit and help you leave behind the stresses of daily life. The local community leads a simple, peaceful lifestyle, from fishing to local markets and everyday routines. The warm, welcoming vibe will make you feel at home.

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Address: Ongjin District, Incheon Metropolitan City, South Korea.

Area: 20.8 km²

Cheongsando is a picturesque island located off the southern coast of South Korea, renowned for its charming fishing villages and vast fields of blooming canola flowers, bordered by distinctive low stone walls. The island is also home to expansive barley fields and beautiful chrysanthemum gardens that attract many visitors. In Cheongsando, you'll find yourself immersed in the peaceful golden hues of the flower fields, inhaling the fresh scent of nature, and feeling as though there's nothing more serene than this.

Visitors are often left in awe by the endless canola flower fields, where the yellow blossoms blend with the blue sky in a stunning display. The island appears as a perfectly woven tapestry of nature. What makes it even more special is the simple daily life of the locals, from farming and fishing to raising livestock, which creates the feeling of being transported to a completely different world, far from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

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Location: The main island of Cheongsan-myeon, Wando County, South Jeolla Province.

Area: 3 ha

No discussion of eco-tourism in South Korea would be complete without mentioning Jeju. Located at the southern tip of the country, Jeju is a subtropical island known for its breathtaking natural landscapes. The island is home to Hallasan, the highest mountain in South Korea, making it a popular spot for hiking and enjoying the surrounding scenery. Cheonjiyeon Falls is another must-see natural attraction. Jeju's tranquil, picturesque beaches also add to its growing fame as a travel destination.

Jeju's clean, fresh climate makes it perfect for extended vacations or outdoor activities. The island is also famous for its use of natural ingredients in the production of cosmetics by many well-known brands. If you ever have the chance to visit, you're sure to be amazed by the island's beauty.

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Location: Located in the southwest of Jeollanam-do, near the Korea Strait.

Area: 1,849 km²

Located on the eastern coast of South Korea, Gyeongju is an ideal destination for exploring traditional architecture and historical landmarks from past dynasties. The city boasts numerous must-see attractions, including the Bulguksa Temple, the National Museum, the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, and the Cheomseongdae Observatory, along with scenic walking trails.

Visiting Gyeongju allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the past, where you can don traditional Hanbok clothing, take pictures against the backdrop of cherry blossoms, and stroll through ancient streets reminiscent of the historical dramas. This is a destination that should not be missed when traveling to South Korea.

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Location: Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

Area: 1,324 km²

Boseong is a picturesque district in South Korea, renowned for its sprawling tea fields. Visitors can marvel at the endless, traditional terraced tea plantations stretching as far as the eye can see. With a rich history of over 1,600 years, the tea produced here is considered to be of exceptional quality. Boseong is also surrounded by impressive mountainous scenery, including towering 20-meter-high cedar trees.

The endless, lush green tea hills are truly a sight to behold. When you visit, you’ll find yourself snapping hundreds of photos of these simple yet stunning landscapes. Tourists come not only to admire the beauty but also to immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere of the region. This is definitely a must-visit spot in South Korea.

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Location: Jeollanam-do, South Korea

Area: 663.4 km²