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What makes South Korea a fantastic destination in July? Explore the top attractions in Seoul, Busan, and Jeju, and enjoy an unforgettable vacation with friends and family.
South Korea remains a captivating summer destination, offering warm weather, stunning islands, vibrant festivals, and exciting outdoor activities. It’s the perfect time to stroll through Seoul’s tree-lined streets, feel the refreshing sea breeze in Busan, or unwind amidst Jeju Island’s picturesque landscapes.
Additionally, countless other thrilling experiences await you in the “Land of Kimchi.” Join Mytour as we uncover famous spots and share essential tips for traveling to South Korea in July. Read the article now and prepare for a memorable and adventure-filled getaway!
Top Travel Destinations in South Korea for July
South Korea, officially known as the Republic of Korea, is an East Asian nation located in the southern part of the Korean Peninsula. Renowned for its rich cultural heritage, distinctive cuisine, and globally influential entertainment industry, it’s a fascinating destination. So, what makes summer travel to South Korea so exciting?
Discover the vibrant capital of Seoul, where towering skyscrapers, bustling shopping centers, and ancient historical landmarks coexist. Alternatively, visit famous islands like Jeju and Nami, offering diverse natural landscapes ranging from volcanic peaks and waterfalls to pristine forests. Additionally, the coastal city of Busan is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and seafood lovers.
Below are the destinations that promise unforgettable experiences for your July trip to South Korea.
1. Jeju Island, South Korea
Jeju Island, renowned for its unique natural scenery and diverse tourist activities. Located in the southern part of South Korea, Jeju attracts visitors with its towering peaks, waterfalls, caves, and stunning beaches like Woljeongri, Hamdeok, and Gwakji.
Especially in summer, when the weather is warm, Jeju becomes an ideal destination for outdoor activities such as watching the sunrise at Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak or exploring the volcanic rock cliffs of Jusangjeolli. For adventure seekers, the lava caves of Manjanggul or hiking up Hallasan, South Korea’s highest mountain, are must-try experiences.
Don’t miss the chance to savor Jeju’s specialties like black pork, abalone, and seaweed. Jeju Island is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories for your summer getaway.
2. Lotte World Park - Seoul
With a wide array of exciting activities, Lotte World is a must-visit destination for all ages in Seoul. Located in Sincheon-dong near Seokchon Lake, it’s easily accessible by bus, subway, or taxi.
Lotte World Park is divided into two main areas: Lotte World Adventure, an indoor theme park, and Magic Land, an outdoor amusement zone. Visitors can explore over 40 attractions, including the Lotte World Aquarium, Ice Rink, and Folk Museum. Additionally, you can stay overnight at the Lotte World Hotel.
The park operates from 9:30 AM to 10:00 PM daily, with extended hours until 11:00 PM on weekends. To avoid long queues, Mytour recommends purchasing Lotte World Seoul tickets and Magic Passes in advance via the mobile app for priority access.
3. Gyeongbokgung Palace - Seoul
Situated in the heart of Seoul, Gyeongbokgung Palace is a significant historical and cultural landmark of South Korea. Built in 1395, the palace spans 400,000 square meters and is surrounded by Namsan and Bugaksan mountains.
The palace’s architecture blends classical Chinese styles with the traditional aesthetics of the Joseon Dynasty. It is divided into several sections, including Geunjeongjeon Hall, Gwanghwamun Gate, Gangnyeongjeon Hall, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, and Gyotaejeon Hall.
Visitors touring the palace in summer can witness the changing of the guard ceremony at Gwanghwamun Gate at 10 AM, enjoy a royal meal at Sojubang, and watch traditional Korean music performances. Don’t forget to visit the National Folk Museum of Korea and try on hanbok at Hanboknam Gyeongbokgung for memorable photos.
4. Namsan Tower - Seoul
Namsan Tower, also known as N Seoul Tower, is a must-visit landmark in the heart of Seoul. Situated atop Namsan Mountain, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city from over 480 meters above sea level.
July is the perfect time to witness Seoul’s stunning sunset from the tower’s 360-degree observation deck. At night, the tower is illuminated by a modern LED lighting system, creating a romantic and magical atmosphere.
One of the highlights here is attaching a “love lock” on the terrace, symbolizing eternal love for couples. Additionally, you can experience wearing hanbok and capture beautiful souvenir photos. Don’t hesitate to grab your tickets for N Seoul Tower this summer.
5. Everland Park - Gyeonggi Province
Everland, located in Yongin, Gyeonggi-do, is South Korea’s premier amusement park, just an hour away from central Seoul. Spanning 70 hectares, Everland is often referred to as a "mini Disneyland" and ranks among the top 10 most visited theme parks globally.
Everland is divided into five unique themed zones: Global Fair, American Adventure, Magic Land, European Adventure, and ZooTopia. Each area offers distinct experiences, from thrilling rides and enchanting fairy tales to a wildlife sanctuary featuring rare animal species.
From July to August, Everland comes alive with exciting summer festivals. Secure your Everland tickets or join a day tour with round-trip transportation from Seoul for an unforgettable adventure.
6. DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) - Gangwon Province
The DMZ, situated between South Korea and North Korea, is one of the most heavily guarded borders in the world. Established by the 1953 Korean Armistice Agreement, the DMZ stretches 248 km long and 4 km wide, effectively dividing the Korean Peninsula. Located about 50 km north of Seoul, it attracts approximately 1.2 million visitors annually.
The DMZ captivates visitors with its historical significance and unique landscapes, offering a serene and tranquil atmosphere. In summer, especially July, the area becomes even more striking with lush greenery and fresh air. Key activities include visiting the Joint Security Area (JSA) and the Dora Observatory. To explore one of South Korea’s most historic and unique sites, book a DMZ tour from Seoul with Mytour.
7. Nami Island - Gangwon Province
Nami Island, located in the middle of the North Han River and just 63 km from Seoul, is a must-visit destination in South Korea. Its unique crescent shape, resembling a leaf boat, creates a captivating view from above.
With its lush vegetation, Nami Island is especially vibrant in summer, attracting visitors with its sunny charm. You can cycle under shady trees, enjoy a boat ride on the lake, or try thrilling activities like canoeing, ziplining, and bungee jumping.
Don’t miss the iconic statue of the couple from the famous drama "Winter Sonata." Nearby attractions include the Garden of Morning Calm, Alpaca World, and scenic rail bike routes. For convenient travel from Seoul to the island, make sure to purchase Nami Island tickets.
8. Gamcheon Culture Village - Busan
Nestled on a sloping hillside in the coastal city of Busan, South Korea, Gamcheon Culture Village transformed into one of the nation's top tourist attractions after its renovation by local authorities in 2009. Every nook of the village serves as a lively art gallery, adorned with vibrant murals and innovative street art installations.
In the summer months, particularly July, Gamcheon comes alive with outdoor art displays and cultural festivities. Travelers can meander through quaint alleyways, explore cozy cafes, and snap pictures at iconic landmarks such as the statue of The Little Prince and the Fox or the artwork titled 'Fish Swimming Through the Alley.
To make the most of your visit to Busan, the Visit Busan Pass paired with a one-day city tour offers a comprehensive experience, including a ride on the Songdo Sea Cable Car, a visit to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, and other exciting destinations.
9. SEA LIFE/Brickman Aquarium - Busan
Situated along Haeundae Beach, SEA LIFE/Brickman Aquarium is a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists in Busan. Covering 36,000 square meters, it recreates the enchanting beauty of the ocean, housing over 250 marine species and more than 10,000 individual creatures.
A July visit to the aquarium promises exciting activities like strolling through a 180-degree glass tunnel and observing marine life up close. Additionally, engaging performances such as the Mermaid Story, otter feeding sessions, penguin encounters, and shark presentations offer unforgettable entertainment.
When visiting the aquarium, you can also explore nearby attractions such as Haeundae Beach, Jagalchi Fish Market, and Haedong Yonggungsa Temple for a full day of discovering Busan.
10. Daecheon Beach - Daejeon
Daecheon Beach, the largest beach on Korea's west coast, is renowned for its -kilometer stretch of white sand, 100 meters wide. The southern part of the beach features unique rock formations, offering a distinctive landscape to explore. The area also boasts the lush Haesong Forest, perfect for camping and enjoying the fresh sea breeze.
The highlight is the annual Boryeong Mud Festival held every July at Daecheon Square, attracting thousands of visitors with activities like mud massages, mud baths, and various exciting games.
Additionally, visitors can savor fresh seafood at coastal restaurants or engage in activities such as surfing, kayaking, and fishing. If you're planning a trip to Korea in July, book the Boryeong Mud Festival and Daecheon Beach Tour to ensure you don't miss this special event!
11. Woljeongri Beach - Jeju Island
Woljeongri Beach, located on the eastern side of Jeju Island, South Korea, is a perfect destination for enjoying natural beauty and engaging in recreational activities. With its fine white sand and turquoise waters, Woljeongri captivates visitors with its stunning scenery and refreshing atmosphere.
A standout feature here is the massive wind turbines, which add a unique touch. During summer, Jeju Island enjoys the most sunny days of the year, making it ideal for water sports like surfing, snorkeling, and kayaking.
Along the coastal road, you'll find restaurants, cafes, and accommodations where visitors can savor local cuisine and relax after a day of exploration. To fully experience Jeju's beauty, consider taking the Gimnyeong cruise and dolphin-watching tour.
Traditional Korean Festivals in July
July is the perfect time to immerse yourself in Korea's vibrant traditional and cultural festivals. Here are some notable events in July that you shouldn't miss:
1. Buyeo Seodong Lotus Festival
- Location: Seodong Park, Chungcheongnam-do Province
- Event Dates: Annually from July 6th to 15th
This festival celebrates the beauty of lotus flowers in Buyeo, showcasing breathtaking fields of blooming lotuses. Visitors can enjoy artistic performances, participate in hands-on activities like making lotus seed necklaces, and immerse themselves in the legendary love story of Prince Seodong and Princess Seonhwa.
2. Jeju Hydrangea Festival
- Location: Jeju Island
- Event Dates: Late June to Early August
This festival offers visitors the chance to admire the vibrant purple hues of hydrangeas spread across Jeju Island. Some of the best spots to view the flowers include Hueree Park, Hallim Park, Camellia Hill, and Ilchul Land. You can also experience traditional music and dance performances, as well as a variety of food and drink stalls.
3. Pohang International Fireworks Festival
- Location: Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk
- Event Dates: Late July to Early August
Held annually at Hyeongsangang Sports Park and Yeongildae Beach, this festival features dazzling fireworks displays, bringing together top teams from around the globe. Visitors can also enjoy vibrant activities like light parades, live music performances, and sand sculpture exhibitions.
4. Boryeong Mud Festival
- Location: Daecheon Beach, Chungcheongnam-do Province
- Event Dates: July 13th to 22nd
Taking place at Daecheon Beach, this famous mud festival offers fun activities like mud massages, mud baths, and mud-based games. It attracts thousands of visitors who come to enjoy the lively atmosphere and participate in cultural and sporting events.
5. Jeongnamjin Jangheung Water Splashing Festival
- Location: Jangheung, Jeollanam-do
- Event Dates: Annually from July 27th to August 2nd
This festival combines fun and education about the value of water, held at Tamjingang River and Cypress Forest. Activities like herbal baths, water slides, water biking, and hand fishing provide a refreshing and enjoyable experience during the hot summer days.
What Is the Weather Like in South Korea During July?
South Korea in summer is not excessively hot, with average temperatures ranging from 23 to 30°C and high humidity. The skies are generally clear, and the climate is stable, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
In July, visitors can enjoy warm sunshine and participate in various exciting activities. You can relax and swim at famous beaches like Haeundae in Busan or explore the pristine beauty of Jeju Island. The long stretches of white sand and clear blue waters are perfect for swimming, surfing, and water sports.
Additionally, July is the season for many unique festivals in South Korea. By joining these events, travelers not only experience traditional culture but also get to engage in fun and captivating activities.
To make exploring the capital of Korea more convenient, you can use the Discover Seoul Pass and Mytour Pass Seoul to visit numerous attractions, or the Busan Tour Card when traveling to the coastal city of Busan. These cards offer various discounts and benefits, ensuring a fulfilling travel experience in Korea.
Transportation Options in South Korea
South Korea boasts a highly developed and modern public transportation system. Here are some popular options for travelers:
- Taxi: A flexible and convenient option for city travel. Note that there are various taxi companies with different colors and pricing structures.
- Subway: The subway systems in major cities like Seoul are extensive and efficient, making it easy to travel between central locations and suburban areas.
- Bus: Buses cover the entire country, serving both intra-city and intercity travel. Options include city buses, suburban buses, and premium buses.
- Car Rental: Ideal for those who prefer the freedom to explore at their own pace, with options for self-drive rentals or chauffeur-driven services in Seoul and surrounding areas.
Additionally, to save on travel costs between major cities, the Korail Pass is an excellent choice. Don’t forget to use a prepaid 4G SIM or high-speed eSIM for reliable internet connectivity throughout your July trip to Korea.
In summary, traveling to South Korea in July allows visitors to enjoy pleasant summer weather, participate in traditional festivals, explore famous landmarks, and savor the country’s unique cuisine.
To ensure a perfect trip, explore the helpful travel guides on Mytour Blog about South Korea: Independent Travel to South Korea in 2024, How Much Does a Trip to South Korea Cost? Tips for Budget Travel, DIY Travel Guide to South Korea, Everland South Korea: The Ultimate Entertainment Destination, Seoul Subway: A First-Timer’s Guide. Don’t forget to check out affordable South Korea tours to maximize your experience without breaking the budget!
Now that you have the tips for traveling to South Korea in July, why wait? Pack your bags and set off for an unforgettable adventure in Korea!
