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15 Tourist Places To Visit In South Korea

Last Updated At: 09-Aug-2024

15 Tourist Places To Visit In South Korea 2024

South Korea, nestled in East Asia, boasts a diverse landscape filled with verdant hills, cherry blossoms, and ancient Buddhist temples. Alongside its natural beauty, the nation's coastal fishing communities, subtropical islands, and advanced metropolises, like the capital city of Seoul, make it the best place to visit in South Korea. It presents a captivating blend of age-old traditions and cutting-edge technology.

Choosing where to visit South Korea can be challenging, given its rich offerings. From buzzing nightlife in major cities to the latest tech innovations, the country is a modern-day wonder, ensuring that tourists always have something exciting to explore. To make the most of your visit, it's crucial to be aware of the top tourist attractions in South Korea. This way, you can effectively plan your itinerary and experience what the nation offers.

List Of 15 Best Tourist Places To Visit In South Korea 2024

South Korea is well known for its Gangnam Style and has much to explore. Prepare yourself for the virtual trip to the numerous South Korea tourist spots.

  • Seoul | Birthplace of K-Pop
  • Busan | Largest Port City
  • Incheon | Gateway to the Sea
  • Jeju-si | Emerald Waters and Sandy Beaches
  • Gyeongju-si | The Museum Without Walls
  • Daegu | Introducing Western Music
  • Jeonju-si | Perfect Region
  • Gwangju | City of Light
  • Suwon-si | The Only Walled City
  • Seoraksan National Park | UNESCO Biosphere Protection Site
  • Dadohaehaesang National Park | Largest National Park in South Korea
  • Namiseom Island | Half Moon-Shaped River Island
  • Bukchon Hanok Village | Old World Charm
  • The DMZ | De Facto Border Barrier
  • Daejeon | Celebrating its Natural Environment

1. Seoul | Birthplace of K-Pop

The dazzling capital city, Seoul, is considered the most worthy tourist place, most famed for Gyeongbokgung Palace and N Seoul Tower. It is a unique metropolis showcasing the amalgamation of modern skyscrapers, high-tech subways and pop culture with Buddhist temples, palaces and street markets.

  • Top sights: Changdeokgung Palace, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Lotte World amusement park, Bukhansan National Park, N Seoul Tower.
  • Best for: Nightlife, Shopping, Culture, Architecture.
  • Location: Seoul Capital

2. Busan | Largest Port City

Busan has something for everyone, like Haeundae Beach, temples and mountains. This second-largest city in South Korea hosts Asia's largest International Film Festival. Busan presents a captivating combination of skyscrapers, magnificent mountains, alluring beaches and majestic Buddhist temples.

  • Top sights: Haeundae Beach, Beomeosa Temple, Gwangalli Beach, Diamond Bridge, Hurshimchung Hot Springs.
  • Best for: Beaches, Culture, and Food.
  • Location: Yeongnam

3. Incheon | Gateway to the Sea

Incheon's transportation hub is known for Incheon Airport, Ganghwa-do and Jayu Park. The popular Incheon Fish Market is the starting point of several boat tours. Incheon is also well famed for its beach-lined islands: Yeongjong and Muui-dong.

  • Top sights: Incheon Grand Park, Eurwangni Beach, Wolmido Island, Chinatown, Ganghwa Island.
  • Best for: Scenic vistas.
  • Location: Seoul Capital

4. Jeju-si | Emerald Waters and Sandy Beaches

A stunning island with a Folklore Museum and seawater saunas, Jeju-si has been voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature due to its pristine beauty, which will leave your heart racing.

  • Top sights: Seongsan Sunrise Peak, Halassang national park, Seopjikoji Promontory, Hyeopjae & Hamdeok beach, Cheonjiyeon Waterfalls.
  • Best for: Nature, Photography.
  • Location: Jejudo Island

5. Gyeongju-si | The Museum Without Walls

Gyeongju-si is a coastal city, historically known as Seorabeol, well known for Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto. It is a treasure trove of cultural sites. That is why it is called an open-air museum, making it one of the must-see places in South Korea.

  • Top sights: Anapji Pond, Tumuli Park, and the majestic Seokguram Grotto.
  • Best for: Culture, History, Nature.
  • Location: North Gyeongsang

Read More : Famous Festivals Of South Korea 

6. Daegu | Introducing Western Music

Daegu, one of the biggest cities in South Korea, is known for the Oriental Medicine Center and Daegu Museum. It is coupled with scenic views of mountains and historical sites dating back to the Silla periods and the Joseon Dynasty. Known to be one of the hidden gems in South Korea, Daegu introduced the country to Western music.

  • Top sights: E - WORLD 83Tower, Seomun Market, Apsan Park, Duryu Park, Palgongsan.
  • Best for: History, Hiking, Nightlife, and Shopping.
  • Location: North Gyeongsang

7. Jeonju-si | Perfect Region

With a rich and fascinating history, Jeonju-si is mainly famous due to the Gyeonggijeon Shrine and Jeonju Wine Museum. It is also well known for the Jeonju Hanok Heritage Village and its centuries-old hilltop pavilions having sweeping views.

  • Top sights: Jeonju National Museum, Jeondong Cathedral.
  • Best for: Historic sightseeing
  • Location: Jeollabuk-do

8. Gwangju | City of Light

Gwanju, the breadbasket of Korea, is known for its verdant tea plantations. It is famous for its 5-18 memorial park and Mudeungsan Mountain. It is also known for its thriving youth and arts culture. You would find a population of fashion-conscious people here.

  • Top sights: Mudeungsan National Park, Gwangju National Museum, May 18th Memorial Park.
  • Best for: Cuisine.
  • Location: Honam

9. Suwon-si | The Only Walled City

Home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Suwon-si is well known for its unique Hwaseong Fortress and Yeonmudae Post. Shopping in Suwon cannot be missed! It is considered one of the top South Korea vacation spots with many exciting things to do.

  • Top sights: Suwon Hwaseong Museum, Hwaseong Fortress, Gwanggyosan Mountain, Samsung Innovation Museum.
  • Best for: History, Architecture.
  • Location: Gyeonggi-do

10. Seoraksan National Park | UNESCO Biosphere Protection Site

A tentative world heritage site, Seoraksan National Park, is well known for its hiking and wildlife. It is home to many rare species of flora and fauna, making it popular among tourists and nature enthusiasts.

  • Top sights: Baekdamsa Buddhist temple, Gyazo-am hermitage, Yukdam-Pokpo waterfall.
  • Best for: Hiking, Adventure, Photography, Nature.
  • Location: Inje County

Read More : Best Places To Celebrate New Year In South Korea 

11. Dadohaehaesang National Park | Largest National Park in South Korea

The largest national park in Korea, Dadohaehaesang National Park, is well known for Hongdo, Heuksando and Baekdo. It is home to 1700 big and small islands of surreal landscapes.

  • Top sights: Bulguksa, Naejangsan National Park, Hallasan National Park, Ganjeolgot Cape, Busan, Jeju-do, Wolchulsan National park, Jeonju-si, Gyeongju-si, Jirisan National Park.
  • Best for: Nature enthusiasts, Hikers, Photographers.
  • Location: Jeollanam-do

12. Namiseom Island | Half Moon-Shaped River Island

Namiseom Island, or Nami Island, has now become an amusement park. The natural beauty of this island mesmerises people and is hence globally recognised. It is one of the best places to visit in South Korea!

  • Top sights: Garden of Morning Calm, Petite France, Elysian Gangchon Ski.
  • Best for: Photography, Adventure, Strolling, Cycling.
  • Location: Chuncheon

13. Bukchon Hanok Village | Old World Charm

A traditional Korean village, Bukchon Hanok Village preserves a long history on the top of a hill. It showcases a 600-year-old urban environment. It's a great attraction for tourists interested in Korea's traditions and history.

  • Top sights: Gyeongbok Palace, Changdeok Palace, Jongmyo Royal Shrine.
  • Best for: Culture, Architecture
  • Location: Seoul

14. The DMZ | De Facto Border Barrier

Engage with modern history at the Korean Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a border barrier that divides the Korean Peninsula roughly in half. It is one of the most famous places to visit in South Korea to peek into North Korea.

  • Top sights: Freedom Park, Dorasan Station, Observatory.
  • Best for: Historical Sites.
  • Location: Gyeonggi-do

15. Daejeon | Celebrating its Natural Environment

Daejeon is known for both its technology and research institutions. It celebrates its natural environment, with most mountains, hot springs, and rivers open for public use. These attract the attention of tourists towards Daejeon.

  • Top sights: Skyroad, Yuseong Hot Springs Public Foot Booth, Hanbat, Arboretum, KIGAM Geological Museum, Currency Museum.
  • Best for: Nature.
  • Location: Hoseo

Read More : Places To Visit In South Korea In December 

Hope you liked reading about the South Korean vacation places that provide a glimpse into the vibrant history and culture of the nation as well as breathtaking natural scenery. For more engaging blogs like this one, visit our other blogs. Write your inquiries in the comments section below if you have any. So, as the vacations approach, immerse yourself in this vibrant cultural odyssey brought to you by Adotrip. Your arrival will take you to a variety of South Korea tourist spots!

With us, nothing is far!

Frequently Asked Questions about Places To Visit In South Korea

Q1. What sprawling capital city mixes modern skyscrapers with traditional temples?
A1.
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a sprawling capital city that mixes modern skyscrapers with traditional temples.

Q2. What major port city was one of Korea's first open ports for international trade?
A2.
Busan, a major port city, was one of Korea's first open ports for international trade. Busan has something for everyone, like Haeundae Beach, temples and mountains.

Q3. Where will you find royal palaces and renowned museums?
A3.
You will find royal palaces and renowned museums in the capital city of South Korea, Seoul.

Q4. What historic city has well-preserved ancient temples?
A4.
The historic city of Gyeongju has well-preserved ancient temples. It is famous for its 5-18 memorial park and Mudeungsan Mountain.

Q5. Where can you enjoy natural hot spring baths?
A5.
You can enjoy natural hot spring baths at Daejeon. It celebrates its natural environment, with most mountains, hot springs, and rivers open for public use.

Q6. What coastal city has beaches and temples?
A6.
The coastal city of Busan has beaches and temples. Busan has something for everyone, like Haeundae Beach, temples and mountains.

Q7. What traditional folk village showcases historic Korean architecture?
A7.
Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional Korean village, showcases historic Korean architecture.

Q8. Where can you hike impressive volcanic rock formations?
A8.
You can hike impressive volcanic rock formations at Jeju Island. A stunning island with a Folklore Museum and seawater saunas, Jeju-si has been voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature due to its pristine beauty, which will leave your heart racing.

Q9. What former capital mixes modern and traditional architecture?
A9.
The former capital of Kaesong mixes modern and traditional architecture.

Q10. Where can you explore lava tubes and mountain temples?
A10.
You can explore lava tubes and mountain temples at Jeju Island. A stunning island with a Folklore Museum and seawater saunas, Jeju-si has been voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature due to its pristine beauty, which will leave your heart racing.

1. Seoul | Birthplace of K-Pop

Seoul | Birthplace of K-Pop

The dazzling capital city, Seoul, is considered the most worthy tourist place, most famed for Gyeongbokgung Palace and N Seoul Tower. It is a unique metropolis showcasing the amalgamation of modern skyscrapers, high-tech subways and pop culture with Buddhist temples, palaces and street markets.

  • Top sights: Changdeokgung Palace, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Lotte World amusement park, Bukhansan National Park, N Seoul Tower.
  • Best for: Nightlife, Shopping, Culture, Architecture.
  • Location: Seoul Capital

2. Busan | Largest Port City

Busan | Largest Port City

Busan has something for everyone, like Haeundae Beach, temples and mountains. This second-largest city in South Korea hosts Asia's largest International Film Festival. Busan presents a captivating combination of skyscrapers, magnificent mountains, alluring beaches and majestic Buddhist temples.

  • Top sights: Haeundae Beach, Beomeosa Temple, Gwangalli Beach, Diamond Bridge, Hurshimchung Hot Springs.
  • Best for: Beaches, Culture, and Food.
  • Location: Yeongnam

3. Incheon | Gateway to the Sea

Incheon | Gateway to the Sea

Incheon's transportation hub is known for Incheon Airport, Ganghwa-do and Jayu Park. The popular Incheon Fish Market is the starting point of several boat tours. Incheon is also well famed for its beach-lined islands: Yeongjong and Muui-dong.

  • Top sights: Incheon Grand Park, Eurwangni Beach, Wolmido Island, Chinatown, Ganghwa Island.
  • Best for: Scenic vistas.
  • Location: Seoul Capital

4. Jeju-si | Emerald Waters and Sandy Beaches

Jeju-si | Emerald Waters and Sandy Beaches

A stunning island with a Folklore Museum and seawater saunas, Jeju-si has been voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature due to its pristine beauty, which will leave your heart racing.

  • Top sights: Seongsan Sunrise Peak, Halassang national park, Seopjikoji Promontory, Hyeopjae & Hamdeok beach, Cheonjiyeon Waterfalls.
  • Best for: Nature, Photography.
  • Location: Jejudo Island

5. Gyeongju-si | The Museum Without Walls

Gyeongju-si | The Museum Without Walls

Gyeongju-si is a coastal city, historically known as Seorabeol, well known for Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto. It is a treasure trove of cultural sites. That is why it is called an open-air museum, making it one of the must-see places in South Korea.

  • Top sights: Anapji Pond, Tumuli Park, and the majestic Seokguram Grotto.
  • Best for: Culture, History, Nature.
  • Location: North Gyeongsang

Read More : Famous Festivals Of South Korea 

6. Daegu | Introducing Western Music

Daegu | Introducing Western Music

Daegu, one of the biggest cities in South Korea, is known for the Oriental Medicine Center and Daegu Museum. It is coupled with scenic views of mountains and historical sites dating back to the Silla periods and the Joseon Dynasty. Known to be one of the hidden gems in South Korea, Daegu introduced the country to Western music.

  • Top sights: E - WORLD 83Tower, Seomun Market, Apsan Park, Duryu Park, Palgongsan.
  • Best for: History, Hiking, Nightlife, and Shopping.
  • Location: North Gyeongsang

7. Jeonju-si | Perfect Region

Jeonju-si | Perfect Region

With a rich and fascinating history, Jeonju-si is mainly famous due to the Gyeonggijeon Shrine and Jeonju Wine Museum. It is also well known for the Jeonju Hanok Heritage Village and its centuries-old hilltop pavilions having sweeping views.

  • Top sights: Jeonju National Museum, Jeondong Cathedral.
  • Best for: Historic sightseeing
  • Location: Jeollabuk-do

8. Gwangju | City of Light

Gwangju | City of Light

Gwanju, the breadbasket of Korea, is known for its verdant tea plantations. It is famous for its 5-18 memorial park and Mudeungsan Mountain. It is also known for its thriving youth and arts culture. You would find a population of fashion-conscious people here.

  • Top sights: Mudeungsan National Park, Gwangju National Museum, May 18th Memorial Park.
  • Best for: Cuisine.
  • Location: Honam

9. Suwon-si | The Only Walled City

Suwon-si | The Only Walled City

Home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Suwon-si is well known for its unique Hwaseong Fortress and Yeonmudae Post. Shopping in Suwon cannot be missed! It is considered one of the top South Korea vacation spots with many exciting things to do.

  • Top sights: Suwon Hwaseong Museum, Hwaseong Fortress, Gwanggyosan Mountain, Samsung Innovation Museum.
  • Best for: History, Architecture.
  • Location: Gyeonggi-do

10. Seoraksan National Park | UNESCO Biosphere Protection Site

Seoraksan National Park | UNESCO Biosphere Protection Site

A tentative world heritage site, Seoraksan National Park, is well known for its hiking and wildlife. It is home to many rare species of flora and fauna, making it popular among tourists and nature enthusiasts.

  • Top sights: Baekdamsa Buddhist temple, Gyazo-am hermitage, Yukdam-Pokpo waterfall.
  • Best for: Hiking, Adventure, Photography, Nature.
  • Location: Inje County

Read More : Best Places To Celebrate New Year In South Korea 

11. Dadohaehaesang National Park | Largest National Park in South Korea

Dadohaehaesang National Park | Largest National Park in South Korea

The largest national park in Korea, Dadohaehaesang National Park, is well known for Hongdo, Heuksando and Baekdo. It is home to 1700 big and small islands of surreal landscapes.

  • Top sights: Bulguksa, Naejangsan National Park, Hallasan National Park, Ganjeolgot Cape, Busan, Jeju-do, Wolchulsan National park, Jeonju-si, Gyeongju-si, Jirisan National Park.
  • Best for: Nature enthusiasts, Hikers, Photographers.
  • Location: Jeollanam-do

12. Namiseom Island | Half Moon-Shaped River Island

Namiseom Island | Half Moon-Shaped River Island

Namiseom Island, or Nami Island, has now become an amusement park. The natural beauty of this island mesmerises people and is hence globally recognised. It is one of the best places to visit in South Korea!

  • Top sights: Garden of Morning Calm, Petite France, Elysian Gangchon Ski.
  • Best for: Photography, Adventure, Strolling, Cycling.
  • Location: Chuncheon

13. Bukchon Hanok Village | Old World Charm

Bukchon Hanok Village | Old World Charm

A traditional Korean village, Bukchon Hanok Village preserves a long history on the top of a hill. It showcases a 600-year-old urban environment. It's a great attraction for tourists interested in Korea's traditions and history.

  • Top sights: Gyeongbok Palace, Changdeok Palace, Jongmyo Royal Shrine.
  • Best for: Culture, Architecture
  • Location: Seoul

14. The DMZ | De Facto Border Barrier

The DMZ | De Facto Border Barrier

Engage with modern history at the Korean Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a border barrier that divides the Korean Peninsula roughly in half. It is one of the most famous places to visit in South Korea to peek into North Korea.

  • Top sights: Freedom Park, Dorasan Station, Observatory.
  • Best for: Historical Sites.
  • Location: Gyeonggi-do

15. Daejeon | Celebrating its Natural Environment

Daejeon | Celebrating its Natural Environment

Daejeon is known for both its technology and research institutions. It celebrates its natural environment, with most mountains, hot springs, and rivers open for public use. These attract the attention of tourists towards Daejeon.

  • Top sights: Skyroad, Yuseong Hot Springs Public Foot Booth, Hanbat, Arboretum, KIGAM Geological Museum, Currency Museum.
  • Best for: Nature.
  • Location: Hoseo

Read More : Places To Visit In South Korea In December 

Hope you liked reading about the South Korean vacation places that provide a glimpse into the vibrant history and culture of the nation as well as breathtaking natural scenery. For more engaging blogs like this one, visit our other blogs. Write your inquiries in the comments section below if you have any. So, as the vacations approach, immerse yourself in this vibrant cultural odyssey brought to you by Adotrip. Your arrival will take you to a variety of South Korea tourist spots!

With us, nothing is far!

Frequently Asked Questions about Places To Visit In South Korea

Q1. What sprawling capital city mixes modern skyscrapers with traditional temples?
A1. 
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a sprawling capital city that mixes modern skyscrapers with traditional temples.

Q2. What major port city was one of Korea's first open ports for international trade?
A2. 
Busan, a major port city, was one of Korea's first open ports for international trade. Busan has something for everyone, like Haeundae Beach, temples and mountains.

Q3. Where will you find royal palaces and renowned museums?
A3.
 You will find royal palaces and renowned museums in the capital city of South Korea, Seoul.

Q4. What historic city has well-preserved ancient temples?
A4.
 The historic city of Gyeongju has well-preserved ancient temples. It is famous for its 5-18 memorial park and Mudeungsan Mountain.

Q5. Where can you enjoy natural hot spring baths?
A5.
 You can enjoy natural hot spring baths at Daejeon. It celebrates its natural environment, with most mountains, hot springs, and rivers open for public use.

Q6. What coastal city has beaches and temples?
A6.
 The coastal city of Busan has beaches and temples. Busan has something for everyone, like Haeundae Beach, temples and mountains.

Q7. What traditional folk village showcases historic Korean architecture?
A7.
 Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional Korean village, showcases historic Korean architecture.

Q8. Where can you hike impressive volcanic rock formations?
A8. 
You can hike impressive volcanic rock formations at Jeju Island. A stunning island with a Folklore Museum and seawater saunas, Jeju-si has been voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature due to its pristine beauty, which will leave your heart racing.

Q9. What former capital mixes modern and traditional architecture?
A9.
 The former capital of Kaesong mixes modern and traditional architecture.

Q10. Where can you explore lava tubes and mountain temples?
A10.
 You can explore lava tubes and mountain temples at Jeju Island. A stunning island with a Folklore Museum and seawater saunas, Jeju-si has been voted as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature due to its pristine beauty, which will leave your heart racing.

--- Published By  Adotrip

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