South Korea

Places to visit in South Korea

Despite its size, South Korea is a country of spectacular contrasts. Visitors will find a neon-lit metropolis in Seoul, buzzing with K-Pop energy, endless shopping opportunities, and an array of important temples and palaces. Although more laid-back, its second city, Busan, is just as fun for families, with restaurants on every corner, the popular glass Sky Capsule, a bustling nightlife, and the golden sands of Haeundae Beach. Step outside the cities, however, and the countryside is picturesque with paddy fields, misty mountains and traditional villages.

Food stalls in Seoul’s Gwangjang Market

South Korea’s capital city is one of the greatest cities in Asia and is home to over 20 million people. It is an exhilarating metropolis teeming with bustling markets, oodles of eateries, intoxicating bright lights, and a treasure trove of historical sites. Located in the northwest of the country not far from the North Korean border, Seoul’s buzzing energy make it a fabulous place to explore 24/7.

Visit the COEX Mall, the largest in Asia, watch a live K-Pop show at Inkigayo, and whizz up the Seoul Sky Tower. From Seoul, you can also visit the infamous DMZ for a peek into North Korea.

High energy shopping is central Seoul, Myeongdong city district, South Korea

Seoul’s streets are buzzing with lights, music, and nonstop shopping

Nami Island found fame as a filming location for the popular K-drama ‘Winter Sonata’ and is beautiful year-round. Sokcho is a gateway to Seoraksan National Park, packed with stunning mountains, gorgeous rivers, dramatic waterfalls and hiking trails. Take the cable car ride to the top of Gwongeumseong Peak, then visit the fishing village of Abai, formerly populated by refugees from North Korea.

Seoraksan National Park

A key cultural highlight of any family holiday to South Korea, Gyeongju is known as ‘the museum without walls’ and offers a real insight into Korea’s past. Bulguksa Temple is one of the most important UNESCO sites in the country, Gyochon Folk Village showcases life during the Joseon period and the Daereungwon Tombs are an iconic collection of 23 burial mounds.

At the Wolji Pond, you can enjoy a stunning sunset along with some beautifully orchestrated lighting effects in front of the impressive Donggung Palace.

Wooden Korean Guardian sculptures in Bulguksa Temple

Korea’s second city is also referred to as ‘Seoul by the sea’ and offers families a more laid-back urban experience. Here you’ll find an abundance of markets, including Busan’s 600-year-old Jagalchi Fish Market, and the far less smelly Gukje market. Busan is home to South Korea’s most famous sandy bay, Haeundae Beach and Haedong Yonggunsa Temple, where wishes apparently come true. Or for a hidden gem, discover the Dakbatgol Mural Village by cable car.

Skyscrapers in the background of Haeundae beach in Busan - places to visit in South Korea

Haeundae Beach in Busan with its backdrop of skyscrapers

A short flight from the mainland, Jeju Island is a jewel in the archipelago of South Korea’s southern coast, and its largest island. It is known for its volcanic scenery, idyllic waters, coral seascapes, golden, palm-fringed beaches – and the famous Haenyeo, all-female free divers, most of whom are over 60 years old! Hike Mount Hallasan, explore Seongsan Ilchulbong and its volcanic crater, kayak Soesokkak estuary, and cool down in the mist created by the 23-metre high Cheonjiyeon Waterfall.

There are hundreds of stunning beaches to enjoy, from the famous ‘insta’ spot of Hyeopjae to the more peaceful sandbanks of Geumneung. Known as the Hawaii of Korea, this subtropical island is the perfect place for a few days, as busy or relaxing as you wish!