Top 20 Attractions in South Korea

896
31 931

South Korea is a rapidly developing country in East Asia. Skyscrapers of business centers coexist in it with palaces and temples. A high level of economy allows tourists to receive all kinds of benefits of civilization, and natural resources will delight with the brightness of colors and picturesque landscapes.

Ancient history has left many historical monuments in Korea, and modernity is actively adding its interesting objects. The grandiose buildings of the Olympic Park, entertainment complexes and a 250-meter TV tower are of great interest to tourists. Shopping centers and colorful markets will diversify the program of the visit.

The long coastline of the peninsula offers a choice of beach holidays, both on it and on many neighboring islands. The country's thermal springs are also very popular. Korean traditional cuisine is popular all over the world and the opportunity to taste it locally is provided to every guest. The best time to visit the country is spring, the time of flowering.

What to see in South Korea?

The most interesting and beautiful places, photos and a brief description.

gyeongbokgung

The palace complex in Seoul is an open-air museum. Built in the 14th century for the ruling royal family of the Joseon Dynasty. Stores many valuable exhibits, including those from the list of national treasures. It is interesting for its bizarre architecture and landscape design of its park.

Gyeongbokgung

Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03141, South Korea

Phone: +82 2-3700-3900

Opening hours: 09:00 - 18:00

Rainbow Fountain Bridge

The world's longest fountain bridge is located on the Hangang River. Fountains are arranged along its edges, forming water arches between the building and the river. The spectacle is impressive both day and night. At night, the jets of water are illuminated and acquire all the colors of the rainbow.

Rainbow Fountain Bridge

Address: Banpo-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Opening hours: 19:30 - 21:30

Myeongdong street

The central shopping street of the capital of South Korea. Large multi-brand stores and boutiques of famous international brands are located along its entire length. The best place for shopping. Small shops adjacent to the trading giants will provide an opportunity to choose souvenirs and plunge into the local flavor.

Myeongdong street

Address: Myeongdong, Seoul, South Korea

Opening hours: 10:00 - 22:00

Republic of Korea War Memorial

A whole complex of buildings dedicated to the military history of the country. Includes a museum building and equipped area around it. Inside there are 6 thematic halls dedicated to various aspects of the country's military past. Around the building you can see military equipment, memorials, sculptures, a park.

Republic of Korea War Memorial

Address: 29 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 04353, South Korea

Phone: +82 2-709-3114

Opening hours: 09:00 - 18:00

Seoul TV Tower (N Seoul Tower)

Located on Namsam Mountain, in the center of Seoul. The tallest building in the city. The symbol of modern Seoul and its number one attraction. It is an entertainment complex that has several viewing platforms, restaurants, souvenir shops, an observatory, a teddy bear museum and even a Wishing Pond.

Seoul TV Tower (N Seoul Tower)

Address: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 04340, South Korea

Phone: +82 2-3455-9277

Opening hours: 10:00 - 23:00

Changdeokgung Palace

One of the Five Grand Palaces of Seoul - Included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. For four centuries the palace was the residence of the royal family. It is a beautiful architectural and park complex. The Secret Garden of Huwon Palace is a particularly popular attraction.

Changdeokgung Palace

Address: 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03072, South Korea

Phone: +82 2-762-8261

Opening hours: 09:00 - 18:00

Hwaseong Fortress

The majestic building on top of the hill is a unique example of defensive architecture. The fortress was built at the end of the 18th century, was destroyed and restored. It is currently a UNESCO protected site. It is a complex of towers, gates and long walls (their total length is 6 km).

Hwaseong Fortress

Address: Nongseo-dong, Hwaseong-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea

Phone: +82 31-228-2752

Opening hours: 09:00 - 18:00

Deoksugung Palace Complex

One of the palace complexes in Seoul. At one time it was the official residence of the ruling dynasty. The palace and other buildings of Deoksugung are surrounded by a beautiful garden. Inside there are two large museums - Imperial and Arts.

Deoksugung Palace Complex

Address: 99 Sejong-daero, Taepyeongno 1-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul 04519, South Korea

Phone: +82 2-773-1090

Opening hours: 09:00 - 18:00

Jongmyo Shrine

Historical monument in Seoul. Place of burial rituals for members of the royal families. The oldest sanctuary of its kind, the longest building in Asia. Several generations of rulers and queens of Korea are buried here.

Jongmyo Shrine

Address: 157 Jongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03161, South Korea

Phone: +82 2-765-1775

Opening hours: 09:00 - 18:00

Pomos Temple

An ancient Buddhist temple, one of the largest in Korea. Located on Mount Komodjon, near the town of Pomos. Some objects of the complex have more than a thousand years of history. There are 160 buildings in the traditional architectural style of the Joseon Dynasty on an area of ​​8 km².

Pomos Temple

Address: 1734-1 Dongguk-ro, Geochang-gun, South Korea

Phone: +82 55-945-4700

Opening hours: 09:00 - 17:00

Bulguksa Buddhist Monastery

The most famous and ancient Buddhist temple complex in Korea, protected by UNESCO. On the territory of the complex there are seven objects included in the list of National Treasures. These include pagodas, bridges, statues. There is a beautiful park around.

Bulguksa Buddhist Monastery

Address: 385 Bulguksa-ro, Gyeongju, South Korea

Phone: +82 54-746-9093

Opening hours: 09:00 - 18:00

Cheomseongdae Observatory

One of the country's national treasures. It is the oldest scientific building in the world. Built in the 7th century to observe the stars. The height of the stone tower is a little less than 10 meters. Located in the city of Gyeongju.

Cheomseongdae Observatory

Address: 102-2 Noseo-dong, Gyeongju, South Korea

Phone: +82 54-749-7200

Opening hours: 09:00 - 18:00

Saraksan National Park

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It contains rocks, waterfalls, hot thermal springs, Buddhist temples. Large in area, divided into three parts. Many organized tourist routes (paths). There are places for overnight stays, hotels and catering points.

Saraksan National Park

Address: Sarak-san, Yangyang-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea

Phone: +82 33-670-2211

Opening hours: 06:00 - 20:00

Bukhansan National Park

A natural oasis within the city, a favorite vacation spot for locals and tourists. It is a mountainous landscape covered with forest. It is home to many birds and rare plants. The views are picturesque. There are also many Buddhist temples in the park.

Bukhansan National Park

Address: Bukhansan National Park, Seoul, South Korea

Phone: +82 2-909-0494

Opening hours: 06:00 - 18:00

Demilitarized Zone (Korea)

A special protected object is the border between South and North Korea. It is a solid concrete wall reinforced with additional protection. A special site has been equipped for tourists, which allows you to personally explore the fortification and even look through binoculars at the "northern neighbor".

Demilitarized Zone (Korea)

Address: Panmunjom, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea

Opening hours: 09:00 - 16:00

Olympic Park (Seoul)

A complex of sports facilities located in the park. It was built for the 1988 Olympics. Museums, a sculpture park, a musical fountain, an ancient fortress and an artificial lake are located on a large green area. A place for active sports and recreation.

Olympic Park (Seoul)

Address: 424 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul 05540, South Korea

Phone: +82 2-410-1114

Opening hours: 05:00 - 22:00

Jeju Island

The largest island of South Korea, is a separate province. Volcanic origin, has a peculiar landscape and nature. It has a unique microclimate - this is the southernmost part of the country, there are excellent beaches. An attractive object for tourists, very popular with honeymooners.

Jeju Island

Address: Jeju Island, South Korea

Opening hours: 24/7

Jagalchi fish market

One of the largest fish markets not only in Korea, but throughout Asia. Located in Busan city. Nearly a hundred years of history. A modern high-rise building, part of the area given to merchants, part - for restaurants and offices. Many shops are still located on the street, and allow you to feel the specifics of the fish market of the past.

Jagalchi fish market

Address: 52 Jagalchi-ro, Busan, South Korea

Phone: +82 51-245-2257

Opening hours: 05:00 - 22:00

cheonggyecheon

Walking area in the center of Seoul, arranged along the banks of the stream. The water artery has always been here, but was in a deplorable state. After the renovation, Cheonggyecheon turned into a long, cozy park in the heart of the capital. Ten kilometers of the embankment are decorated with decorative elements, landscape "oases", fountains. The stream bed looks very impressive in the dark, as the water cascades are highlighted.

Cheonggyecheon

Address: Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Opening hours: 24 hours

Everland amusement park

Located in the suburbs of Seoul, the largest in Korea. It is a large modern entertainment complex, including attractions, a zoo, a water park. Each zone has unique characteristics and attracts a huge number of tourists. In the season, a grand flower festival is held here.

Everland amusement park

Address: 199 Everland-ro, Pogok-eup, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea

Phone: +82 31-320-5000

Opening hours: 10:00 - 22:00

FAQ – Answers to popular questions

When to go to South Korea?

The best time to visit South Korea depends on the type of experience you're looking for. Here are some ideal seasons:

  • Spring (April to June): Cherry blossoms and mild weather.
  • Summer (July to August): Hot and humid, with vibrant festivals.
  • Autumn (September to November): Stunning fall foliage and comfortable temperatures.
  • Winter (December to February): Cold weather, great for skiing and winter sports.

What are the things to do in South Korea when it rains?

When it rains in South Korea, there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy. Here are some popular options:

  • Visit museums, such as the National Museum of Korea or the War Memorial of Korea.
  • Explore shopping destinations like COEX Mall or Lotte World Mall.
  • Experience traditional Korean spas (jjimjilbang) for relaxation.
  • Enjoy a cooking class to learn about Korean cuisine.
  • Attend theatrical performances, like Nanta or Jump shows.

What are the things to do in South Korea with family?

When visiting South Korea with family, there are plenty of exciting activities to enjoy together. Here are some recommended things to do:

  • Explore Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul
  • Visit Lotte World, a large indoor amusement park
  • Discover the vibrant streets of Myeongdong for shopping and street food
  • Enjoy the scenic views and hiking at Bukhansan National Park
  • Take a day trip to the historical city of Gyeongju
  • Relax at Jeju Island’s beaches and waterfalls
  • Experience traditional Korean culture at a Hanok village

What are the things to do in South Korea in the evening?

South Korea offers a vibrant nightlife with a variety of activities to enjoy in the evening. Here are some popular things to do:

1. Explore Night Markets: Visit famous night markets like Gwangjang Market in Seoul or Dongdaemun Night Market to sample street food, shop for clothes, and enjoy a bustling atmosphere.

2. Visit Traditional Villages: Bukchon Hanok Village is beautiful in the evening. You can stroll through the narrow alleys lined with traditional Korean houses.

3. Enjoy Karaoke (Noraebang): Experience a noraebang, a popular Korean pastime where you can sing your heart out in private rooms with friends.

4. Go Bar Hopping: Areas like Hongdae and Gangnam are known for their bars and clubs. Enjoy a variety of themed bars, lounges, and clubs featuring live music or DJs.

5. Stroll Along the Han River: Many locals enjoy walking, cycling, or picnicking along the Han River. Rent a bike or simply enjoy the beautiful night views of the city skyline.

6. Visit Temples: Some temples, like Jogyesa in Seoul, are open in the evening and offer a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.

7. Attend Cultural Performances