South Korea

South Korea: general info for travelers

South Korea is a country located in East Asia, known for its advanced technology, remarkable economic growth, and unique culture. It has a population of roughly 51 million people with Seoul being its capital city. The country's culture is a blend of ancient traditions and modern influences, making for a fascinating experience. South Korea is home to many beautiful attractions such as traditional markets, historic temples, seaside resorts, and towering skyscrapers. The food is an important aspect of South Korean culture as well, with dishes like kimchi, bulgogi, and bibimbap being popular worldwide. South Korea is also famous for its entertainment industry and K-pop music and dramas, which are enjoyed worldwide.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in South Korea, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

South Korea: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the main places to visit in South Korea along with their descriptions: 1. Seoul: The capital city of South Korea, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to this country. It is a city that blends well the traditional aspects of Korean culture while keeping its modern side alive. It is home to numerous attractions and landmarks, including Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Tower, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Myeongdong street.
2. Jeju Island: Also known as the "Hawaii of South Korea", Jeju Island is a volcanic island that boasts of natural beauty, sandy beaches, waterfalls, and many more. The island is home to the Hallasan National Park, Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, and Manjanggul Cave.
3. Busan: Busan is South Korea's second-largest city, located on the southeast coast of the Korean Peninsula. The city is well known for its beautiful beaches, busy port, and seafood. Some of its popular attractions include the Gamcheon Culture Village, Haeundae Beach, and the Jagalchi market.
4. Gyeongju: Known as the "Museum Without Walls", Gyeongju has long been considered a cultural capital of Korea. It is home to numerous relics from Korea's ancient Silla Dynasty, including the Gyeongju National Museum, Bulguksa Temple, and Seokguram Grotto.
5. Pyeongchang: Host to the 2018 Winter Olympics, Pyeongchang boasts some of the best ski resorts and winter sports facilities in the world. Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities at the Yongpyong ski resort, one of the largest ski resorts in Asia. These are just a few of the many amazing places to visit in South Korea. Each of them is unique in its way and offers something different to explore and experience.
There is more to see and do in South Korea: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

South Korea: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in South Korea, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
South Korea experiences four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters, and mild spring and autumn. Spring (March to May) is considered one of the best times to visit, with pleasant temperatures, cherry blossom festivals, and vibrant colors across the country. Summer (June to August) is hot and humid, with occasional thunderstorms, but this is the peak season for beach resorts and outdoor activities. Autumn (September to November) is known for its crisp temperatures, clear skies, and stunning fall foliage. Winter (December to February) is cold and snowy, but it's a great time to enjoy winter sports and festivals. In general, the best time to visit South Korea depends on your interests and preferences. If you want to see the cherry blossoms, you should plan your visit in April. For the fall foliage, late October to early November is recommended. If you prefer milder temperatures for outdoor activities, the months of March to May, and September to November are a good option. Conversely, if you want to enjoy the beaches, summer would be the best choice.

South Korea: activities and what to do

South Korea offers a range of activities and sports that you can enjoy on your holiday. Some popular options include: 1. Hiking: South Korea has numerous hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and waterfalls.
2. Skiing and snowboarding: During the winter season, ski resorts in South Korea offer a variety of courses for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
3. Surfing: The coastal regions of South Korea offer some great surfing spots for both beginners and experienced surfers.
4. Taekwondo: If you are interested in martial arts, it is an excellent opportunity to learn Taekwondo, the national sport of South Korea.
5. Baseball: Baseball is a very popular sport in South Korea, and you can catch a game if you are in the country during the season.
6. K-pop dance classes: K-pop is a massive part of South Korean culture, and you can learn some of the famous dance moves by taking a K-pop dance class.
These are just a few options; there are many more activities and sports to choose from in South Korea depending on your interests.

South Korea: few words on history and culture

South Korea has a rich and vibrant history and culture that has evolved over thousands of years. The earliest recorded history of the Korean peninsula dates back to the Gojoseon period, which existed from around 2333 BC until 108 BC. Throughout the centuries, different kingdoms and dynasties emerged, such as the Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla, and eventually unified into the Joseon dynasty in 1392.
In terms of culture, South Korea has a strong emphasis on traditional values, such as respect for elders and family unity. This is evident in their cultural practices, such as Confucianism, which is still widely practiced today. Korean art, including pottery, fine arts, and music, also reflect a sense of humility and the appreciation of nature.
In more recent times, South Korea has become a global leader in popular culture, particularly through its entertainment industry, including K-pop music and Korean dramas. The country's history and culture have also been preserved through many museums, palaces, and historical sites that are popular tourist attractions. Overall, South Korea offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern influences, making it a fascinating destination for travelers interested in history and culture.

South Korea: how to move around on holiday

There are several means of transport to reach and visit South Korea. Here are some of the most popular options: 1. By plane: The fastest and most convenient way to reach South Korea is by air. The country is served by two major international airports, Incheon International Airport and Gimpo International Airport, which are both located near the capital city of Seoul. There are several airlines that fly to South Korea including Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, and Delta Air Lines.
2. By train: South Korea has a well-developed railway system, which connects the major cities throughout the country. The KTX (Korea Train Express) is the high-speed train that runs from Seoul to Busan, making stops at various other cities along the way. There are also slower, more affordable trains available.
3. By bus: Buses are a popular means of transport in South Korea, especially for short trips. They are affordable and well-connected, with regular services running between major cities and towns.
4. By car: Renting a car is also an option in South Korea, with several international car rental companies available. However, driving in South Korea can be challenging for foreign visitors, as the road signs are mostly in Korean.
Overall, the best means of transport depends on your itinerary and budget. If you are traveling long distances, flying or taking the KTX may be the best option, while buses or car rental may be more suitable for shorter trips. To hire a car to visit South Korea, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

South Korea: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit South Korea with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the main typical foods of South Korea: 1. Kimchi - A traditional fermented vegetable dish made with cabbage, radishes, garlic, onions, and other seasonings. It is usually spicy and served as a side dish with almost every meal.
2. Bulgogi - Thinly sliced beef marinated in a sweet and savory sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and sesame oil. It's usually grilled or stir-fried and served with rice.
3. Bibimbap - A rice bowl topped with various vegetables, beef, egg, and chili pepper paste. It's usually mixed together before eating.
4. Jjajangmyeon - A popular noodle dish made with thick wheat noodles, black bean sauce, and meat (usually pork) and vegetables.
5. Tteokbokki - A spicy street food made with chewy rice cakes and a spicy chili pepper sauce.
6. Samgyeopsal - Thick slices of pork belly cooked on a grill and served with lettuce leaves, garlic, and other condiments. It's usually eaten by wrapping the pork in lettuce and adding other seasonings.
7. Korean fried chicken - A popular crispy fried chicken dish usually served with a spicy sauce.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious traditional Korean dishes that you can try!

South Korea: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

South Korea can be a moderately expensive country for tourists, depending on your travel style and budget. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs can be comparable to other popular tourist destinations in Asia. However, there are plenty of affordable options for travelers on a budget, such as staying at hostels, eating at local street food vendors, and using public transportation. Moreover, there are many free attractions and activities to enjoy in South Korea, such as visiting traditional markets and parks. Overall, with proper planning and budgeting, a trip to South Korea can be both affordable and enjoyable.

South Korea: where to find accodation

There are several ways to look for accommodation in South Korea: 1. Online booking platforms: Websites such as Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, and Airbnb have a wide variety of options for accommodations in South Korea. You can read reviews and compare prices to find the best deal.
2. Korean travel agencies: You can also look for accommodations through Korean travel agencies, some of which have English websites. These agencies can sometimes offer exclusive deals or package tours that include accommodations.
3. Local tourist information centers: Most cities in South Korea have tourist information centers that can provide information about local accommodations. They can help you find the right accommodation based on your budget, preferences, and travel plans.
4. Hostels: If you're on a budget and looking for a social atmosphere, hostels are a great option. There are many hostels in South Korea, especially in major cities like Seoul and Busan.
5. Traditional Korean accommodation: If you're looking for a more traditional Korean experience, you can stay at a hanok guesthouse or a temple stay. These offer a unique experience and cultural immersion.
You can check hotel prices in South Korea here:
Booking.com

South Korea: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Korea Tourism Organization, South Korea received approximately 17 million tourists in 2019. The country has become a popular destination in recent years due to its unique culture, food, and attractions.
There are certain periods when South Korea can be quite crowded with tourists, such as during major holidays and festivals, particularly the Korean Lunar New Year in January or February, the Chuseok holiday in September or October, and the peak summer season from June to August. It's best to plan your trip ahead of time and book accommodations and attraction tickets in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
South Korea is generally considered a safe country for tourists. The crime rate in South Korea is relatively low compared to many other countries, and violent crime is rare. However, like any other country, tourists should still take basic precautions to ensure their safety, such as keeping an eye on their belongings and staying aware of their surroundings.
While there are no specific places that tourists should avoid, there are areas where tourists might want to exercise caution. For example, some areas of Seoul may be slightly riskier than others after dark, such as those surrounding certain nightclubs or bars. It's also important to note that political tensions between North and South Korea can occasionally flare up, and tourists may want to avoid areas close to the border between the two countries during times of heightened tension. Overall, however, South Korea is a safe and welcoming destination for tourists.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in South Korea on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

South Korea: events for tourists

South Korea offers a diverse range of cultural, traditional and modern events throughout the year that attracts tourists from all over the world. Here are some of the most interesting events for tourists in South Korea: 1. Boryeong Mud Festival 2. Seoul Lantern Festival 3. Jeju Fire Festival 4. Andong Mask Dance Festival 5. Busan International Film Festival 6. Cherry Blossom Festivals 7. Gwangju Biennale 8. Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival 9. Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival 10. Pusan International Motor Show There are many more events happening in South Korea all year round, so it's worth checking the latest schedule of events when planning a trip.

South Korea: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in South Korea, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly! Here's a suggested two-week itinerary for South Korea: Day 1-3: Seoul - Explore the city's top attractions such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Seoul Tower, and Bukchon Hanok Village - Try traditional Korean food like bibimbap and Korean fried chicken - Walk along the Cheonggyecheon Stream and visit the Myeong-dong shopping district Day 4-5: Gangwon Province - Visit the Seoraksan National Park and take in the breathtaking views - Experience traditional Korean life at the Naksansa Temple Day 6-7: Gyeongju - Take a stroll through the picturesque Bulguksa Temple - Witness the beauty of Anapji Pond Day 8-9: Busan - Check out the stunning Haeundae Beach and its surroundings - Visit the Busan Tower and Jagalchi Market Day 10-12: Jeju Island - Explore the island's unique lava tube caves and waterfalls - Hike up Hallasan Mountain - Relax on the beautiful beaches Day 13-14: Daejeon - Tour the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) campus and learn about cutting-edge technology - Visit museums and galleries like the Yuseong Hot Springs and the Daejeon Museum of Art Of course, this itinerary is just a suggestion and you can always customize it based on your interests and preferences. Have a great trip in South Korea!

South Korea: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in South Korea described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Anapji Pond is a historic site in Gyeongju, South Korea, which was built during the Silla Dynasty in the 7th century. It is a man-made pond located at the center of an ancient palace complex that serv... CONTINUE here for a trip to Anapji Pond
- Sure, Andong is a city located in the province of Gyeongsangbuk-do, in the southeastern part of South Korea. It is known for its traditional Korean culture and architecture, especially the Hahoe Folk ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Andong
- Boseong Green Tea Fields is a famous tourist attraction located in the southern part of South Korea. It is one of the largest green tea plantations in the country, spread over an area of around ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Boseong Green Tea Fields
- Boseong is a county in South Jeolla Province, South Korea. It is located on the southern coast of the Korean Peninsula, and is well-known for its picturesque green tea fields. Boseong is a popular tou... CONTINUE here for a trip to Boseong
- Bukhansan National Park is a popular national park located in South Korea. It is situated in the northern part of the city of Seoul and covers an area of over 80 square kilometers. The park is home to... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bukhansan National Park
- Busan is a city in South Korea located on the southeastern part of the country on the coast of the Korea Strait. It is the second-largest city in South Korea, and one of the most important port cities... CONTINUE here for a trip to Busan
- Cheongju is a city located in the central region of South Korea. It is a bustling city with a population of over 800,000 people. The city is known for its historical and cultural significance, as well... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cheongju
- Chuncheon is a city located in the northeastern region of South Korea, in the province of Gangwon. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including mountains, lakes, and rivers. The city is ho... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chuncheon
- Daegu is a metropolitan city located in the southeastern region of South Korea. It has a population of over 2.5 million people, making it the fourth-largest city in the country. Daegu is known for its... CONTINUE here for a trip to Daegu
- Daejeon is a city located in the central region of South Korea. It is the fifth-largest city in the country, with a population of over 1.5 million people. Daejeon is known for its universities and res... CONTINUE here for a trip to Daejeon
- Gangneung is a city located on the eastern coast of South Korea, in the province of Gangwon-do. It has a population of approximately 230,000 people and is known for its beautiful beaches, natural scen... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gangneung
- Gangwon-do is a province located in the northeastern region of South Korea. It is known for its spectacular natural beauty, including the Taebaek Mountains, numerous rivers and lakes, and the eastern ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gangwon-do
- Gapyeong is a beautiful rural county located in the Gyeonggi Province of South Korea, just an hour's drive from Seoul. It is situated in a scenic mountainous region and is known for its pristine lakes... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gapyeong
- Gwangalli Beach is a popular destination located in Busan, South Korea, known for its stunning views of the Gwangan Bridge and clear waters. It is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, offeri... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gwangalli Beach
- Gyeongbokgung is a royal palace located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea. It was built in the late 14th century and was the main palace of the Joseon dynasty. The palace is known for its stunning tr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gyeongbokgung
- Gyeongju Bulguksa Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the city of Gyeongju, South Korea. It was built in the 8th century during the Silla Dynasty, and it is considered one of the most im... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gyeongju Bulguksa Temple
- Gyeongju Historic Areas is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the city of Gyeongju, South Korea. It was once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Silla and is rich in historical and cultural rel... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gyeongju Historic Areas
- Gyeongju is a city located in the southeastern part of South Korea. It was once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Silla from 57 BC to 935 AD, and it has a rich history and cultural heritage.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gyeongju
- Haeinsa is a Buddhist temple located on the slopes of Mount Gaya in South Korea. It was founded in the year 802 during the Silla Kingdom and it is known for being the home of the Tripitaka Koreana, a ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Haeinsa
- Hahoe Folk Village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Andong City, South Korea. The village features traditional Korean houses, known as hanok, that are over 500 years old. The village is kn... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hahoe Folk Village
- Hwaseong Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Suwon, South Korea, that was built in the late 18th century during the Joseon Dynasty. It is a massive wall that spans over 5.7 kilometers ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hwaseong Fortress
- Incheon is a coastal city located in the northwestern part of South Korea, facing the Yellow Sea. It is the third-largest city in the country and serves as a major transportation hub for both air and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Incheon
- Jeju is a beautiful volcanic island located in the southern part of South Korea. It is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural landscapes, including beaches, waterfalls, forests, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jeju
- Jeonju Hanok Village is a popular tourist destination located in Jeonju, South Korea. It's a traditional Korean village that's known for its historical houses, narrow alleys, and traditional Korean cu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jeonju Hanok Village
- Jeonju is a city located in the southwestern part of South Korea. It is the capital of Jeollabuk-do province and has a population of approximately 660,000 people. Jeonju is known for its rich cultural... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jeonju
- Jinhae is a small coastal city located in the southeastern part of South Korea. It is famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms which bloom in early April, attracting many visitors from all over the wo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jinhae
- Jirisan National Park is a beautiful natural park located in South Korea, and it is the largest national park in the country. It covers over 470 square miles of land, and it is home to various wildlif... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jirisan National Park
- Nami Island (also known as Namiseom Island) is a scenic tourist destination located in Chuncheon, South Korea. It is a small half-moon shaped island that was formed as a result of the construction of ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nami Island
- Seongsan Ilchulbong is a natural volcanic cone located on Jeju Island in South Korea. It is also known as Sunrise Peak because it is a popular spot to watch the sunrise. The volcanic cone was formed o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Seongsan Ilchulbong
- Seongsan Sunrise Peak, also known as Seongsan Ilchulbong, is a volcanic cone formation located on the eastern coast of Jeju Island in South Korea. The peak rises up to 182 meters above sea level and i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Seongsan Sunrise Peak
- Seorak-dong Valley is a picturesque destination located in Seoraksan National Park in South Korea. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including clear rivers, deep valleys, and steep cliffs s... CONTINUE here for a trip to Seorak-dong Valley
- Seoraksan is a mountain range in South Korea, known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. The range is located in the eastern part of the country, near the city of Sokcho. Seoraksan Na... CONTINUE here for a trip to Seoraksan
- Seoul is the capital and largest city of South Korea, with a population of over 10 million people. It's located on the Han River in the northwestern part of the country and is home to many historical ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Seoul
- Songnisan National Park is a beautiful scenic area located in the central part of South Korea. It covers an area of approximately 275 square kilometers and is known for its stunning natural beauty, in... CONTINUE here for a trip to Songnisan National Park
- Suncheon is a city located in Jeollanam-do province, in the southwestern part of South Korea. It is a popular tourist destination because of its beautiful natural scenery, including the Suncheon Bay W... CONTINUE here for a trip to Suncheon
- Suwon is a city located in the Gyeonggi Province of South Korea, approximately 30 kilometers south of Seoul. It is known for its rich history, culture, and traditions, as well as for being home to som... CONTINUE here for a trip to Suwon
- Tongyeong is a city located in the southern part of South Korea. It is situated on the coast and is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes such as mountains, islands, and beaches. Tongyeong is know... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tongyeong
- Ulsan is a city located in the southeastern part of South Korea, on the coast of the Sea of Japan. With a population of over 1.1 million people, it is the seventh-largest city in South Korea. Ulsan is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ulsan
- Yeosu is a coastal city located in the southern part of South Korea. It is known for its beautiful ocean views, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hallyeohaesang National Park. The city also ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yeosu
- Yongin is a city located in the Gyeonggi Province of South Korea, about 40 kilometers south of Seoul. It is known for its many attractions, such as Everland, which is one of the largest theme parks in... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yongin


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