South Korea, the origin of K-pop and kimchi, is also home to some of the most gorgeous ancient palaces and coolest shopping districts in the whole world. A must in anyone’s bucket list, there is so much to see and do in Korea. Whether it’s your first time visiting Korea, or your tenth, your trip wouldn’t be complete without going to these spots. Here are a few of the best places you should visit on your next trip to South Korea with Airlines Northwest.
Seoul
Travelers who want to experience South Korea in just a few days should head to Seoul, Korea’s dazzling capital city. In Seoul, you’ll find yourself enjoying the city’s beautiful contemporary architecture, pop culture, parks, and South Korean hotels.
As much as a modern hub, Seoul is also rich in history. Here you’ll find Korea’s National Museum and War Memorial. But perhaps the most visited attraction in Seoul is none other than the Gyeongbokgung Palace. Gyeongbokgung Palace palace is the legal residence of the royal family. It was first built during the Joseon dynasty.
Travel here for culture, shopping, nightlife, and architecture.
Best tourist spots in Seoul: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukhansan National Park, and N Seoul Tower
Busan
Situated at the southwest tip of the Korean peninsula, Busan is the second-largest South Korean city. A modern city with a rich history, it is also known for annually hosting Asia’s largest international film festivals.
Busan is an exciting region that has everything you want to visit. It has majestic mountains, beaches, temples, and towering skyscrapers. When visiting Busan, don’t forget to drop by the famous Jagalchi fish market, the country’s largest fish market. Here you can enjoy the best local seafood. This market is known for its powerful odor so make sure you have a good tolerance for dried fish smell when you visit.
Travel here for beaches, mountains, and South Korean food.
Best tourist spots in Busan: Haeundae Beach, Hurshimching Hot Springs, and Beomeosa Temples
Suwon
Located northwest of the country, Suwon is the walled city of South Korea and the capital of Gyeonggi Province. Here you’ll find the grand fortress encircling the city along with its huge gates with towering pagodas. Unlike other cities that are known for the vibrant nightlife and culture, Suwon is a quiet place perfect for those who are seeking some time for relaxation and unwinding.
Travel for the fortress, palaces, and museums.
Best tourist spots in Suwon: Hwaseong Fortress, Haenggung Palace, and Suwon Hwaseong Museum
Jeju Island
Jeju Island also known as “Island of the Gods” is an island found on the southern coast of Korea. It is one of the most popular vacation spots in the country, particularly famous for couples on their honeymoon. Jeju has several beautiful beaches, amusement parks, and various tourist attractions. If you’re curious about South Korea’s local culture, you can also go to Jeju’s Seongeup Folklore Village. Here you’ll find the Glass Castle, a theme park that’s made of glass sculptures.
Travel here for honeymoon, amusement parks, and beaches.
Best tourist spots in Jeju Island: Mount Hallasan, Teddy Bear Museum, and Loveland
Gunsan
The paradise city for artists, Gunsan is a beautiful South Korean city nestled on the banks of the Geum River. Once a small fishing village, Gunsan is now one of Korea’s port city. Gunsan is known for its historical area. It’s home to the Dongguska Temple, the only remaining Buddhist temple constructed in Japanese style.
Travel here for history, museums, and art.
Best tourist spots: Hirotsu House, Seonyudo Island, Gunsan Gyeongam-dong Railroad Village
Andong
Located near the Nakdong River, Andong is another great historical South Korean city. Often described as South Korea’s cultural capital, Andong is a wonderful place to experience and learn about old Korea.
Here you’ll find the Folk Museum which showcases some of Korea’s most treasured folklore and traditions. You can also head over to Hahoe Folk Village. A tiny village that servers some of the best traditional South Korean food inside historic buildings.
Travel here for heritage museums, South Korean food, and culture.
Best tourist spots: Hahoe Folk Village, Bongjeongsa Temple, Dosan Seowon
Jeonju
South Korea’s spiritual capital, Jeonju is a city known for its temples and museums. Tourists who go here are here for the place’s local culture and history. In Jeonju, you’ll see some of the best traditional homes built in the early 20th century. Here you can also get the chance to make traditional Hanji paper or drink traditional special soju with locals.
Travel here for culture, history, and soju
Best tourist spots: Jeonju Hanok Village, Jeonju National Museum