Must visit sights in South Korea

MUST VISIT IN SEOUL
The Five Royal Palaces in Seoul
The five palaces of Seoul are royal palaces of the Joseon Dynasty and symbols of Korea’s culture and history. Each palace has its unique charms: Gyeongbokgung Palace, the royal residence; Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site inscribed in 1997 with remarkable beauty; Deoksugung Palace, a combination of Korean aesthetics and Western architecture; Changgyeonggung Palace, now restored from the damages caused by Japanese Occupation; and Gyeonghuigung Palace, humble and simple.

Hongik University (Hongdae) Street
The heart of Seoul’s youth culture is this eclectic collection of cafes, restaurants, bars, clubs, art markets, galleries, and shops. Its numerous alleys wind through the area, carrying unique themes like clubbing, art, and murals (Picasso Street). Busking, performances, events, and the powerful energy of youthful freedom draw numerous youths to the area, especially on weekends.

Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA)
Opened in 1988, SeMA moved to its present location in May 2002. The new building maintains the 1920s facade of the Supreme Court building, and the access road to the museum is especially beautiful. Its program covers the entire spectra of internationality and regionality, fine arts and pop art, as well as educational programs and international exchange.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
This cultural space and design platform is a hub of exhibitions, fashion shows, conferences, and events both domestic and international. Its distinct curves and mega-sized roof are a triumph of 3D asymmetrical architecture. This design, which symbolizes Dongdaemun area in the state of flux, was designed by the British Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid. The area includes Dongdaemun Market and other interesting sights.

Lotte World
This urban landmark’s popularity comes from its massive indoor complex, which can be enjoyed regardless of weather, and its excellent accessibility. The massive glass dome houses “Adventure” and its many attractions and performances, while the “Magic Island,” located at Seokchon Lake, offers a fantastic view and rides. Other interesting sights include the Folk Museum and ice rink.

N Seoul Tower
Itaewon was the first designated special tourist zone in Seoul. In addition to an array of clothing, shoe, and bag stores as well as restaurants and tourist hotels, there are lots to see and enjoy at the Antique Furniture Street and World Food Street. Gyeongnidan-gil Road between the Armed Forces Financial Management Corps and Grand Hyatt Hotel is particularly popular among tourists because of the unique and interesting restaurants and cafes on either side of the road.

Seodaemun Prison History Hall
Seodaemun Prison was a modern prison built by the Japanese colonial regime in 1908. Until its abolishment in November 1987, it remained in operation for 80 years. Many independence activists were incarcerated in the prison during the Japanese Occupation, and after the liberation the prison incarcerated many democratic activists. It was re-opened as the Seodaemun Prison History Hall in 1998 as a site of remembrance for Korea’s will for freedom and peace.

Ikseon-dong
This urban hanok village was created in 1920s and 30s as a lower-income residential complex. Unlike the hanok villages of Bukchon or Seochon, the houses here tend to be smaller and more humble. Today’s Ikseon-dong is a quirky collection of cafes, restaurants, and shops, mostly with retro aesthetics, and its popularity spread like a wildfire following the newtro revival among the youths.

COEX (Starfield)
COEX is a cultural complex housing shops, film theaters, an aquarium, a large bookstore, and a library. Starfield Library in particular is a beloved location for photo ops for its two-story, 13 m-high bookstores. It is designed as an open space of communication through books, and it hosts many literature-themed cultural events.

MUST VISIT IN INCHEON
Yeongjongdo Island
This natural getaway at the West Sea is reachable in an hour from Seoul Metropolitan Area. A 7.8 ㎢ stretch of “Seaside Park,” connecting Yeongjongjin Park, Yeongjong History Museum, and Incheondaegyo Bridge offers campsites, rail bike, and swimming facilities, while a 6 ㎞-long coastal trail winds through mud flats and reed beds. Yonggungsa Temple founded by Silla’s Buddhist Monk Wonhyo is a notable sight as well.

Open Port Cultural District & Incheon Chinatown (Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village)
This district remembers the modern architecture and culture brought to Incheon by the opening of its port in the late 19th Century. The unique historic background informs today’s museums and cultural facilities in the district. Incheon Chinatown originates from a legation designated in 1884, in today’s Seollin-dong area. In 1902, a Chinese elementary school was built here, signifying its ascent as a premier settlement of Chinese diaspora in Korea.

Gangwha Old Town Story Walk
This walking tour takes one along the old town of Ganghwa-eup, which led the Korean textile industry until the 1970s. Sights include an ancient ginkgo tree said to be planted around 1300; Sochang Experience Hall, housed in a remodeled derelict textile plant; Joyang Bangjik, the oldest modern textile plant in Korea; and Ganghwa Anglican Church, a unique mixture of Korean and European architecture.

Sorae Port
Sorae Port was first established as a ferry point for laborers and salt makers during the Japanese Occupation. Its expansion began with the opening of the Suin Line in 1937, the only narrow gauge train service in Korea. Today’s Sorae Port is a mishmash of modernized city and 70-year-old pier facilities, and serves as a romantic destination for trips to the West Sea and its seafood. Sorae Railroad Bridge is now a park and is used as a pedestrian bridge.

Songdo Central Park
This is the first park in Korea to have an artificial sea canal. It is made up of five gardens with their unique themes and contains a walking park that transforms dynamically according to the changes in topography. A 12-person water taxi circulates the park along the artificial canal, which is 1.8 km in length and 110 m in maximum width. A combination of open space, pedestrian roads, and green spaces bring a breath of nature’s vitality to the grey landscape of the city.

MUST VISIT IN GYEONGGI-DO
Hwaseong Fortress, Suwon
This planned city, built during the reign of King Jeongjo of Joseon with cutting-edge technologies and knowledge at that time, is considered the pinnacle of Korean fortress construction. Hwaseong Fortress was designated as a Historic Site No. 3 in 1963, and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage in 1997. The Construction Records of Hwaseong Fortress, which documents the entire construction process of the fortress, made the restoration of Hwaseong Fortress possible, and it was also inscribed as UNESCO’s Memory of the World Programme.

Korean Folk Village
This theme park presents the traditional lifestyle and culture of Korea, in a Joseon-era village formed with restored or relocated houses from throughout Korea. It is made up of a local government office, educational buildings, traditional medicine shop, Buddhist and shamanist temples, and a commercial district that includes a souvenir shop and permanent exhibition spaces.

Everland, Yongin
Everland offers a suite of interesting sights, from theme park attractions and animals in Zootopia to Lost Valley, the largest ecological safari in Korea, and Plantopia, a garden of nature. It also hosts seasonal festivals like Cherry Blossom Festival, Tulip Festival, Rose Festival, Summer Holiday, and Halloween, sometimes with flowers, sometimes with music, but always with fun.

Seoul Grand Park
(Seoul Land)
This theme park has served as a land of adventure and dreams for many years. Its attractions are organized into themes, such as World Plaza, Fantasy Land (Character Town), and Adventure Land. There are about 50 rides, all inspired by Korean animated films, and outdoor swimming pool and sled slope can be found in summer and winter, respectively. The park also hosts festivals, events, and performances each season.

Gwangmyeong Cave
This is a former mining shaft that opened during the Japanese Occupation in 1912, yielding gold, silver, bronze, and zinc until its closure in 1972. It is 7.8 km long, and 275 m in depth. The city of Gwangmyeong purchased this area in 2011 and created a “Miracle of an Abandoned Mine.” Today, it is a cave theme park hosting nearly a million visitors each year, offering experience programs, performances, and regular exhibitions.

Hwadam Botanic Garden
Hwadam Botanic Garden was created as a CSR ecological garden project by LG Foundations in service of ecological restoration and protection. It is home to 17 thematic gardens, hosting nearly 4,000 species of flora from around the world. Visitors can navigate through the gardens via a wooden walking deck or a monorail.

Imjingak and Paju DMZ
Imjingak symbolizes the tragic history of the Korean War and the aspiration of peaceful reunification of the Korean people. It is home to Mangbaedan Altar, Freedom Bridge, and National Memorial for Abductees during the Korean War. Paju DMZ was the site of the Armistice and Inter-Korean Summit. A trip to Paju starts at Seoul’s Yongsan Station via DMZ-train, which runs until Dorasan Station. Visitors proceed via bus to Dorasan Peace Park, Dora Observatory, and The 3rd Tunnel.

Dumulmeori
Dumulmeori is the point of confluence between Bukhangang River from Geumgangsan Mountain, and Namhangang River from Geumdaebong Peak, Gangwon-do Province. The two rivers meet to form the Hangang River. It is a beloved tourist site for its exceptional scenery, from the early morning mist to the old-fashioned yellow hemp sailboat and a 400-year-old Zelkova tree, documented well by numerous films and TV shows. It is also famous for its winter scenery and sunset. The nearby Semiwon Garden became the 1st Regional Garden designated by Gyeonggi-do in June 2019.

Jebudo Island
Twice a day, the sea separates and allows passage to this island. Jebudo Island has beaches and tidal flats, while fans of architecture will no doubt find joy in rest areas with unique designs and Red Dot Design Award recipient Jebudo Art Park. Cafes and small parks add to the convenience of the visitors. Viewpoints from Tapjaesan Mountain in front of Jebuhang Port and the deck road are longstanding favorites among artists for their scenery.

The Garden of Morning Calm, Gapyeong
This garden was created among the dense nut pine forests of Chungnyeongsan Mountain. 22 thematic gardens, including Bonsai Garden and Herb Garden, house nearly 5,000 species of plants. Its design makes heavy use of asymmetrical balance and graceful curves drawn from Korean nature. It was included in CNN’s “50 Beautiful Places to Visit in South Korea” list in 2012.

Heyri Art Valley, Paju
This was the first private art village to be established in Korea, from a collective of 380 artists, who gathered here in the 1990s. Today, it hosts museums, galleries, small theaters, workshops, and other working spaces, as well as restaurants, cafes, and art shops for visitors. Its popularity comes from its quirky and beautiful architecture, its unique atmosphere, and a large variety of instructions and experience programs on offer.

NACF Anseong Farmland
The origins of Anseong Farmland can be traced back to a Korean-German cooperation project in the 1960s. It has about 800 livestock from 25 species, including bovine farm animals and geese, and offers an interactive experience of life on a farm. Its landscape features rye in spring, sunflower and lavender in summer, and cosmos flowers in fall. Other activities include cycling, horse riding, and archery.

MUST VISIT IN GANGWON-DO AREA
Nami Island
This resort is known for its beautiful scenery across the four seasons. To many visitors both domestic and international, the island is best known for its appearance in the popular TV show Winter Sonata. The main draw of Nami Island is its forest trails, ranging from ginkgo to nut pine, birch, reed, and its most famous sight, Metasequoia Road. Other attractions include the Picture Book Library, The Song Museum, as well as hotels and restaurants.

Ganhyeon Tourist Area (Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge)
Ganhyeon Tourist Area is best known for its beautiful scenery, of the blue Seomgang River and white sand beaches, and the cliffs of Samsancheon Valley surrounding the area like a screen. Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge is a pedestrian bridge of 200 m in length, 1.5 m in width, floating between the mountains. Skywalk Observatory, which offers a view of the Seomgang River 100 m below, and mountain trails round out the experience here.

Museum SAN
Museum SAN, designed by the master architect Tadao Ando, is located in the 275 m-high mountain within Hansol Oak Valley. It consists of the Flower Garden, Water Garden, Stone Garden, and a permanent exhibition of the works of James Turrell. The name SAN symbolizes the museum’s pursuit of harmony between Space, Art, and Nature.

Jumunjin
This is the northernmost beach in Gangneung, located 1.5 km away from the city. Its shallow and gentle slope makes it popular among families and surfers. The area is also home to the seaside bus stop that served as the album cover of the BTS album You Never Walk Alone; Jumunjin Port, Gangneung’s largest port; Jumunjin Lighthouse, Gangwon-do’s first lighthouse; Jumunjin Embankment, which served as a filming site in the TV Show Guardian: The Lonely and Great God; and Sodol Park.

Gangneung Coffee Street
This is one of the most famous places in Anmok Beach—a seaside street full of cafes facing the sea. The street has a rather humble beginning in coffee vending machines that lined the beach in the 1980s. After that, cafes began to establish their foothold here, culminating in today’s specialist coffee culture.

Hantangang River UNESCO Geopark
This is the first geopark in Korea to be centered around a river, which houses columnar joint formations and basalt cliffs formed by a river flowing in hardened lava flow from a volcanic eruption 540,000 to 120,000 years ago. In July 2020, an area of 1,165.61 ㎢ spanning Pocheon and Yeoncheon in Gyeonggi-do and Cheorwon in Gangwon-do was designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark, including 26 sites such as Hwajeogyeon Pond and Bidulginang Falls.

Seoraksan National Park
Seoraksan Mountain is the third highest mountain in South Korea, with its main peak Daecheongbong standing at 1,708 m. Its portion in Inje is known as Naeseorak, Hangyeryeong Pass to Osaek as Namseorak, and Oeseorak for the portion to the east in Sokcho, Yangyang, and Goseong. Its seasonal scenery and value as a habitat of numerous flora and fauna have led to its designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Vivaldi Park (Ocean World)
This comprehensive leisure complex is made up of a large ski resort (13 slopes, 1 gondola, 10 ski lifts), a Water Park, golf course (9 holes), pitching and putting range (18 holes), a condominium, and a youth hostel. Ocean World is a water park equipped with a wave pool, flowing pool, bade pool, and children’s playgrounds as well as jjimjilbang sauna, therapy center, and outdoor baths.

Daegwallyeong
Daegwallyeong is a highland plateau surrounded by Barwangsan Mountain, Seonjaryeong Peak, and Hwangbyeongsan Mountain. It is the main site of the 2018 Winter Olympics and hosts the Daegwallyeong Snow Festival every year. Winter is the time of snow that spreads as far as eyes can see, while summers are dominated by herds of sheep grazing on the green carpet. There is also an outlandish sight of massive white windmills turning in a wind farm.

Wondae-ri Birch Forest
The birch tree is known for its unique sound when its bark is burnt, which also inspires its Korean name. It thrives in cold regions, such as Baekdusan Mountain and Gaema Plateau. These “nobles of the forest” come together to form a scenery that is quite rare in Korea. The forest itself is located about 3.2 km into the mountain from the parking lot, and has a number of trails ranging from 30 min to 1 hr 50 min in expected duration.

CHUNGCHEONG-DO AREA
Daejeon
Gyejoksan Red Clay Trail
This is the first forest trail in Korea to introduce barefoot walking, located within Jangdong Forest Park. With a total length of about 14.5 km, visitors can walk barefoot on a red clay trail and awaken their senses to the forest. Every May, it hosts the Gyejoksan Barefoot Festival, which includes a marathon, barefoot walking, and music performances.

Jangtaesan Recreational Forest
Jangtaesan Recreational Forest is the first privately-owned forest to be recognized as a Recreational Forest in Korea, thanks to its breathtaking Metasequoia forest. It is indeed an ideal location for a forest getaway, served by facilities like campgrounds, forest adventure programs, and suspension bridges. It is also home to two of Daejeon’s flagship species, Siberian flying squirrel and Korean crevice salamander, which made it the first National Forest Cultural Asset to be designated by Daejeon Metropolitan City in 2019.

Chungcheongbuk-do
Cheongpung Cable Car
This 2.3 km-long cable car service opened in March 2019, connecting Multae-ri of Jecheon to Bibongsan Mountain summit (531 m) and its view of Cheongpungho Lake. Despite being an indoor location, the 9-min ride offers a beautiful view of both the mountain and the lake. From the summit of Bibongsan Mountain, one has a view of Woraksan and Juheulsan Mountains to the south, Jakseongsan and Geumsusan Mountains to the north, and ridges of Sobaeksan Mountain to the east.

Uirimji Reservoir
This reservoir dates back to the Three Kingdoms period, making it a valuable testament to the agricultural culture of ancient Korea. It was designated as a Scenic Site No. 20 of Korea in 2006, and is located close to Uirimji History Museum, Yongchu Falls, and Solbat Park. It is the first spawning grounds for smelts in Korea, and hosts Jecheon’s famous Festival.

Cheongnamdae (Presidential Villa)
After its completion in December 1983, Cheongnamdae hosted six presidents of Korea as the only presidential villa in the country. It is located in Daecheongho Lake, which is said to be the “sea in the land,” and is surrounded by Oksaebong Peak, Wolchulbong Peak, and other mountain peaks like a screen. In fall, a Chrysanthemum Festival is held here, and since its opening to the public in 2003 it draws more than 800,000 visitors each year.

Mancheonha Skywalk & Danyanggang Jando Trail
This observation deck is located 120 m above Manhakcheon Peak (340 m). It overlooks a cliff about 80-90 m above the Namhangang River, and one feels as if walking on the air. There are plenty of extreme sports activities on offer, too, such as zip wire, alpine coasters, and slides. One can also walk the Danyanggang Jando Trail, along the rock walls of the mountain, for a thrilling trekking experience.

Chungcheongnam-do
Yedangho Suspension Bridge & Musical Fountain
Opened in April 2019, this suspension bridge is 402 m in length. It makes for a beautiful picture with the Neurinhosugil Trail (5.2 km), which opened in October of the same year. There is a large floating musical fountain on the lake, which is registered along with the suspension bridge in the Korea Record Institute. At night, both the suspension bridge and the musical fountain light up in a festival of light and water.

Daecheon Beach
This is the largest beach on the west coast of Korea, developed as a resort since the 1930s. Its sand beach is made up of powdered seashell, which washes off quickly and doesn’t stick to one’s body. The average depth of the beach is 1.5 m, and its gentle slope makes it ideal for families with children. It is the First Sight of Nine Sights of Boryeong, and it serves as the host of numerous festivals and events, including the famous Boryeong Mud Festival.

Anmyeondo Kkotji Beach
The name of the beach, Kkotji, comes from the beautiful field of beach roses along the shoreline. Its gentle slope and clear water make it a highly popular destination for summer vacation. The view of the sunset beyond the sea, with the silhouette of Halmi and Harabi Rocks on the horizon, is said to be the first and the foremost in the beautiful scenery of Taean.

Baekje Historic Areas,Buyeo
(Busosanseong Fortress, Gungnamji Pond)
The Baekje Historic Areas in Gongju are a great place to see the traces of Baekje culture, as there are the “Ancient Tombs in Songsanri,” widely known as the Royal Tombs of Baekje, and the Tomb of King Muryeong, as well as Gongsanseong Fortress that was built to protect Gonju, the capital of Baekje.

Baekje Historic Areas, Gongju
(Gongsanseong Fortress, Ancient Tombs in Songsan-ri)
Gongsanseong Fortress (Historic Site No. 12) was a mountain fortress dedicated to the defense of Baekje’s capital. Originally an earthen fortress, it was fortified as a stone fortress during the Joseon period. Baekje’s last king, Uija, stayed here for a short time after the end of Baekje, while King Injo of Joseon fled here during Yi Gwal’s Rebellion. Ancient Tombs in Songsan-ri (Historic Site No. 13) is a collection of seven royal tombs from Ungjin’s period. Tomb of King Muryeong, whose construction can be dated specifically, offers a valuable perspective into Baekje’s society and culture.

Yesan Stork Park
This park was established to assist in the restoration of the endangered stork (Natural Monument No. 199) population in Korea. After the release of 8 storks in 2015, about 60 storks have been returned to nature by 2020. Visitors can take a closer look at the lives of stork through the cultural hall, propagation facilities, and trails, and enjoy experience programs and hosting events with the residents of the area.

Oeam Folk Village, Asan
Oeam Village was formed about 500 years ago, and still retains most of the thatched houses and houses of yangban (aristocracy) of the time. The view of the alleys with stone fences and the surrounding nature helps to enhance the historicity of the village. The coexistence of multiple social classes in terms of housing in a single village makes this village highly valuable for research. It was designated as a Folk Cultural Heritage No. 236 in 2000, and was included in the tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage in 2011.

Sindu-ri Coastal Sand Dune
This is the largest sand dune in Korea, formed along a 5.4 km-long coast. Called the “desert of Korea,” it is thought to have been formed over a long period of time, starting from approximately 15,000 years ago after the end of the Ice Age. The dune is thought to have been formed by an accumulation of sand through the sea breeze. It was designated as the Natural Monument No. 413 in 2001.

Sejong-si
Sejong Lake Park
This urban green space of 2,750,000 ㎡ is a leisure and relaxation space connecting the Lake Park, Jungang Park, and Sejong National Arboretum. The Lake Park offers a unique bicycle rental service, allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful view of the park on two wheels. It also hosts triathlon competitions and regional marathon events in the Chungcheong-do area.

GYEONGSANG-DO AREA
BUSAN
Taejongdae Cliffed Coast
Located at the southern trip of Yeongdo Island is one of Busan’s most well-known sights. Centered around a 250 m-high hill, Taejongdae is home to nearly 120 species of plants, and cliffs and rock formations to the sea. Visitors can navigate on foot or opt to take cruise ships or tourist trains. On clear days, one has a view of the Tsushima Island 56 km away. It was designated as a Scenic Site No. 17 in November 2005 and was recognized as a National Geopark in December 2013.

Haeundae Beach
Busan’s Haeundae Beach is one of the most well-known beaches in Korea thanks to its shallow waters, low tidal range, and beautiful scenery. A variety of events and festivals accompany its annual opening in summer. Visitors also have access to five-star hotels and other accommodations in the nearby areas, cafes and restaurants that line the roads, and beautiful nighttime illuminations, making this place a favorite across the four seasons.

Yongdusan and Jagalchi Special Tourist Zone
This is the heart of Busan’s old city, where markets such as Jagalchi Market, Gukje Market, and Bupyeong Kkangtong Night Market share space with Yongdusan Park, Yeongdodaegyo Bridge, Bosu Book Street, and Forty Stairs. It served as the filming site of a number of notable Korean films, such as Ode to my Father and Friend. The area also hosts a great variety of interesting events, headed by the Jagalchi Festival.

Gamcheon Culture Village
Gamcheon Village began as a temporary settlement for war refugees during the Korean War. In 2009, local artists and residents came together to implement a wildly successful urban regeneration project that transformed the entire village into a pastel-toned “art museum without a roof.” Perceptive visitors can also note that the village is built into the slope of a mountain, and all alleyways in the village connect with each other.

Songjeong Beach
This shallow and gently-sloping beach is a favored summer hangout served by numerous cafes and restaurants along the shoreline. More recently, it became a gathering point for surfers as well. Surfing schools and rental shops have become a common sight, and courses cater to even the most green of beginners, making this place the best place to begin surfing in Korea. It also holds various festivals like the Busan Mayor’s Cup International Surfing Championship, Songjeong Seaweed Festival, and Songjeong Beach Festival.

Dadaepo Beach & Dadaepo Sunset Fountain of Dream
Dadaepo Beach has a shallow slope and comparatively warm waters, all ideal conditions for children and water sports like paddleboard and kiteboarding. Dadaepo Sunset Fountain of Dream, installed at the entrance plaza of the beach, conducts music fountain shows from April to October. It was registered as the “world’s biggest floor fountain of its kind” in the Guinness World Records in March 2010.

Huinnyeoul Culture Village
This village on a cliff started off as a settlement of war refugees from the Korean War. The name of the village comes from how the brook that passes through the village from Bongnaesan Mountain appears like white snow. The village was made famous for its appearance in films like The Attorney and Nameless Gangster: Rules of the Time, and its beautiful scenery, along with the nearby Jeoryeong Coastal Trail and Huinnyeoul Coastal Tunnel, one of the most popular sights in Busan in recent years.

Songdo Beach & Yonggung Suspension Bridge
Songdo Beach became the first public beach to be opened in Korea in 1913. It is close to other interesting sights like Songdo Cloud Walk, Songdo Sea Cable Car, and Yonggung Suspension Bridge. Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge connects Amnam Park with an uninhabited island across the sea, Dongseom Island. It is a great place to take in the view of the coastal cliff formation and the sea. At night, the bridge lights up, resembling will-o’-the-wisps floating on the sea.

Daegu
Palgongsan Mountain
This is one of the most prominent mountains in the Yeongnam region with majestic view of its Birobong Peak (1,192 m), Dongbong and Seobong Peaks, and Byeongpung Rock. It also houses significant sites in the history of Korean Buddhism, such as Gatbawi Rock and Donghwasa and Pagyesa Temples. Donghwasa Temple in particular has a 1,500-year-long history and significant treasures such as the Stone Standing Bhaisajyaguru Buddha of Unification, and offers temple stays and other events.

Seomun Market
This is the largest market in Daegu, and one of the three greatest markets of the Joseon period, called the “Daegujang Market.” It is close to Daegu’s city center, Dongseongno Street, as well as other attractions like Modern Culture Alley and Yangnyeongsi Market. The market offers time-tested favorites like Daegu-style noodle soup, and after its closure at 7 p.m., the market transforms into the massively popular Seomun Night Market.

Suseongmot Lake
Suseongmot Lake is a popular hangout for Daegu’s school children and families from spring to fall, and in winter the lake is transformed into a massive ice rink. Dungjiseom, a diminutive island at the center of the lake, serves as a habitat for grey heron and sparrow hawk. Known for the setting of the nationalist poet Yi Sang-hwa’s poem Will Spring Come to The Stolen Field, this island was restored through an ecological restoration project in 2013. It was also selected as one of the 100 night tour spots by the Korea Tourism Organization in 2020.

Ulsan
Taehwagang National Garden
With the restoration of Taehwagang River, once polluted severely from industry, and its ecosystem, this was designated as the 2nd National Garden in July 2019. It is one of the most well-known ecological tourist sites in Korea, serving as a sanctuary for egrets in summer and rook in winter. Simni Bamboo Grove, located on both sides of Taehwagang River, is the largest bamboo population in Korea. Eunhasu Trail and Eunhasu Bridge in the bamboo grove have become one of the defining sights of Ulsan at night.

Daewangam Park
This park is located at the southeastern point of the Korean peninsula, jutting out toward the sea. It is home to Ulgi Lighthouse, the navigation point for the East Sea, and seasonal flowers that bloom along the trail. At the end of the 15,000 black pine trees lie Daewangam Rock, which has a thousand-year history. The Daewanggyo Bridge that connects Daewangam Rock with the land lights up in the evening, inspired by the legend of a dragon ascending to the sky.

Yeongnam Alps
This is a collection of nine peaks, each exceeding 1,000 m in height, named so because its view is comparable to the Alps in Europe. It is a significant part of the Baekdudaegan Mountain Range’s Nakdong Ridge, and the greatest mountain tourism destination in southeastern Korea. It is most famous for its “spring royal azalea, summer valley, fall silver grass, and winter snow flowers,” but other attractions include mountain sports like mountain climbing, MTB, and paragliding.

Cape Ganjeolgot
This is said to be the first place in Northeast Asia to see the sunrise, and draws a huge crowd on New Year’s Day every year. It also enjoys consistent popularity as a scenic point throughout the year. If one writes a letter and puts it into the gigantic mailbox, the mail will actually be delivered. There are a number of photo zones along the Ganjeolgot Somanggil Trail, along with cafes with a view of the sea.

Petroglyphs of Bangudae Terrace
This is a collection of petroglyphs, located on a rock 10 m wide, 3 m high at Daegokcheon Stream, depicting sea and land animals and humans. It is thought to be one of the most significant prehistoric art in Korea, depicting both hunting and religious themes and providing insight into the lives, traditions, and hunting culture of ancient humans. It is designated as a National Treasure No. 285 of Korea, and one can visit the Ulsan Petroglyph Museum at the entrance to learn more.

Gyeongsangbuk-do
Daereungwon Ancient Tomb Complex, Gyeongju
(Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, Cheomseongdae Observatory)
Daereungwon Ancient Tomb Complex (Historic Site No. 512) is a collection of Silla-era tombs, including the famous Cheonmachong Tomb. Nearby lies Cheomseongdae Observatory (National Treasure No. 31) and Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond (Historic Site No. 18), Gyeongju’s most popular spot at night. Cheomseongdae Observatory is made up of about 365 stones, namely the number of days in a year, and 27 stone terraces, referring to the 27th queen of Silla, Queen Seondeok. Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond was the site of a secondary palace in the Silla period.

Bulguksa Temple & Seokguram Grotto
Bulguksa Temple was the first place in Korea inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage in 1995. The entrance to the temple complex is adorned by the Beomyeongnu Pavilion, which symbolizes Mt. Sumeru in the Buddhist universe center, and Cheongungyo and Baegungyo Bridges (National Treasure No. 23), staircases to Buddhist enlightenment. After passing through the bridges and the Jahamun Gate, one can see the Daeungjeon Hall, Dabotap Pagoda (National Treasure No. 20), and Seokgatap Pagoda (National Treasure No. 21). Seokguram Grotto is an artificial grotto with a stone Buddha, the pinnacle of Silla Buddhist art.

Ulleungdo and Dokdo Islands
The center of Ulleungdo Island is occupied by Seonginbong Peak (986.7 m), and Nari Basin to the north. Between the two lies a virgin forest and forest trails. It is a good place to enjoy trekking in spring, water sports in summer, camping and rock climbing in fall, and extreme sports in winter. It takes about 1 hr 30 min to reach Dokdo from Ulleungdo Island by sea, and the island can be seen from Ulleungdo Island on a clear day. The two islands were designated as National Geopark in 2012.

Byeongsanseowon Confucian Academy
Originally located in Pungsan-hyeon, the academy was relocated to its present site in 1572 (5th year of King Seonjo’s reign during the Joseon Dynasty) by Confucian scholar and official, Seoae Ryu Seong-ryong. In 1614 (6th year of King Gwanghaegun’s reign), local scholars built a monument to Ryu Seong-ryong, marking its ascent to become one of the greatest academies in Joseon. It is famous for its scenery and architectural excellence, and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage in July 2019.

Hahoe Village, Andong
This is a village of the Pungsan Ryu clan, its name Hahoe originating from how Nakdonggang River winds around the village. It is surrounded in three sides by mountains, and the front of the village is adorned by Nakdonggang River, Buyongdae Cliff, endless sand beaches, and pine grove. It is the best place to get a feel of Andong’s traditional culture, and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage in July 2010.

Buseoksa Temple
This is the center of the Hwaeom school of Buddhism in Korea, founded by Monk Uisang in 676 (16th year of King Munmu’s reign of Silla). The temple has a well-known foundation legend of Monk Uisang and Lady Seonmyo. The temple complex is home to numerous cultural heritage, including Stone Lantern at Muryangsujeon Hall (National Treasure No. 17), Muryangsujeon Hall (National Treasure No. 18), Josadang Shrine (National Treasure No. 19). Along with Tongdosa and Beopjusa Temples, it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage under the category “Sansa, Buddhist Mountain Monasteries in Korea” in June 2018.

Changnyeong Upo Wetland
This is the largest inland wetland in Korea, home to 800 species of plants, 209 species of birds, 28 species of fishes, and 17 species of mammals. It was registered as a Ramsar Wetland in March 1998, and as a nature reserve (Natural Monument No. 524) in January 2011, culminating in the first recognition as a Wetland City in the COP13, October 2018.

Hwangmaesan County Park
Hwangmaesan County Park’s long period of obscurity allowed this park to retain its valleys, ridges, and plains in great condition. From royal azaleas in spring to summer plains, silver grass in fall, and snow-covered winter, the park impresses with a beautiful view of nature. Campers will find a choir of flowers and silver grass waiting for them at Hwangmaesan Auto Campground. From April to October, the park also offers a great view of the night sky. It was designated as a county park in 1983.

Namhae German Village
This village was set up as a place for Korean miners and nurses, who emigrated to Germany as guest workers in the 1960s, to settle back in Korea. The construction of the village’s German-style houses with orange rooves began in 2001, and offers a striking image against the clear blue sea. When standing on Deutscher Platz, the highest point of the village, one has a wonderful view of the Windbreak Forest of Mulgeon-ri (Natural Monument No. 150) far away.

Windy Hill, Geoje
This heart-shaped hill, jutting out to the sea, commands a wonderful view of the sea and the windmill standing on the hill. Its claim to fame was its role as the filming site of TV shows and films, like Garden of Eve, Merry Go Round, The Windmill Palm Grove, and KBS show 2 Days & 1 Night. Along with Sinseondae Terrace across the shore, it is one of the most popular tourist sites in Geoje.

Haeinsa Temple, Hapcheon
Haeinsa Temple is one of the three greatest temples in Korea along with Tongdosa and Songgwangsa Temples, and the home of the Printing Woodblocks of the Tripiṭaka Koreana (National Treasure No. 32), a Buddhist archive of incomparable value. It is said to have been founded by two pupils of Buddhist Monk Uisang, Suneung and Ijeong, in 802 (3rd year of King Aejang’s reign of the Unified Silla). Janggyeongpanjeon Depositories, the building housing the Printing Woodblocks of the Tripitaka Koreana, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage in December 1995.

JEOLLA-DO AREA
Gwangju
Mudeungsan National Park
This is the 21st national park in Korea designated in March 2013 as the guardian mountain of Jeolla-do and Gwangju region. Along with the Columnar Joint in Mudeungsan Mountain (Natural Monument No. 465), it is known for its clear seasonal scenery, from the spring flowers to summer valleys, fall colors, and snow-covered winter. It also serves as a habitat for Siberian flying squirrel, Eurasian otter, and cyrtosia septentrionalis. The shape of the mountain, which seems to embrace the area, gave its moniker “Mother’s Mountain.”

Asia Culture Center
This cultural center, tasked with preserving Gwangju’s historic memory and to engage in conversations with the rest of the world, is based in the former Jeollanam-do Provincial Government building. The complex is made up of five centers, including ACC Culture Exchange and ACC Children, and public spaces like Hanul Madang and Asia Plaza, serving as venues for exhibitions, performances, and other domestic and international events. The building was designed by the Korean architect Woo Kyusung under the theme of “Forest of Light.”

Jeollabuk-do
Kim Byung Jong Art Museum, Namwon
This public art museum is located within Chunhyang Theme Park and was opened in March 2018 with the donation of artist Kim Byungjong’s works. The museum is set up as a garden and includes a book cafe with nearly 2,000 books, as well as experience programs, lectures, and art camps. The architecture of the museum is organized around the theme “Solace to the Contemporary Human,” and instantly became a hot theme in SNS.

Maisan Provincial Park
Maisan Mountain (lit. horse ear mountain) is named after the two peaks of Ammai Peak (687.4 m) and Sumai Peak (681.1 m) forming a shape of a pair of horse ears. It is most famous for the tafoni formations, and a collection of nearly 80 stone pagodas formed to the southern side of Ammai Peak. Tapsa Temple is one of the “33 of South Korea’s most beautiful temples,” and is famous for its 2.5 km-long cherry blossom tunnel in April.

Naejangsan National Park
Called “Geumgangsan Mountain of Honam,” this is Jeongeup’s representative mountain as one of the 5 mountains of Honam region with breathtaking fall colors. Notable sites include Byeongnyeonam Hermitage, a site where Chusa Kim Jeong-hui is said to have meditated in; Uhwajeong, a legendary pavilion that is said to have flown away with wings; Yonggul Cave, a place of refuge for the Joseon wangjo sillok (Annals of the Joseon Dynasty) and the portrait of King Taejo of Gyeonggijeon Shrine during the Japanese Invasion of Korea in 1592; Eunjeogam and Biraeam Hermitages.

Okjeongho Gujeolcho Theme Park
This is the largest collection of gujeolcho (Siberian chrysanthemum) in the East with a total area of 120,000 ㎡, set against the pine forest of Okjeongho Lake. This theme park serves as a nature-friendly “slow tour,” and in fall the pine forest is set awash in white from gujeolcho flowers. Visitors also have access to walking trails, rest areas, and plazas, and in October, more than 300,000 visitors come to see the festival.

Jeonju Hanok Village
This village’s call to fame is its collection of about 700 hanok houses in this village, but the village also serves as a cultural center of Korean traditions in costume, food, and medicine. The origins of the village are traced back to the Japanese Occupation, where the people of Jeonju, displaced by the Japanese colonists in the city, formed a hanok village near Gyo-dong and Pungnam-dong areas. There are about 20 cultural sites in the area, from important cultural heritage like Gyeonggijeon Shrine and Omokdae Historical Site to museums like Jeonju Crafts Exhibition Hall and Jeonju Sori Cultural Center.

Mireuksa Temple Site, Iksan
Mireuksa Temple was the greatest temple in the Baekje Kingdom, created during the King Mu’s reign. The temple complex has a unique arrangement, where a wooden pagoda stands between the east and west stone pagodas, and three halls located behind the tower. The temple is a true testament to Baekje’s excellence in architecture and crafts. Eight Baekje Historic Areas, including Mireuksa Temple Site, were registered as a UNESCO World Heritage in July 2015.

Jeollanam-do
Mokpo Marine Cable Car
This cable car connects Mokpo’s North Port with Yudalsan Mountain and Gohado Island. With a height of 155 m and a length of 3.23 km, the cable car passes over an 820 m-long stretch of the sea. In every 40-min round trip, visitors have a panoramic view of the romantic port of Mokpo and Dadohae.

Odongdo Island & Yeosu EXPO
Odongdo Island is connected to the mainland with a 768 m-long embankment. It is famous for its camellia, lush forests, and unique rock formations. In March and April, the entire island blooms red with camellia flowers, as befitting its nickname “flower island on the sea.” Yeosu EXPO has numerous sights for visiting, but don’t miss the leisurely walk along the waterside park.

Suncheonman Wetland
(Suncheonman National Garden)
Suncheonman Wetland is an ecological treasure trove that is home to tidal flats, reed beds, Eco-Museum, and Suncheonman Observatory. Suncheonman Bay’s immaculate natural beach serves as a habitat for rare migratory birds, whose flight in sunset from Yongsan Observatory is counted the splendid sight. Suncheonman National Garden is connected to Suncheon Literary Museum Station through a 1 km-long unmanned shuttle train. It is the first National Garden of Korea, made up of 55 gardens.

Juknokwon
This bamboo garden has eight walking trails that wind through the refreshing atmosphere of the bamboo forest. Restored literary buildings like Songgangjeong and Myeonangjeong Pavilions testify to Damyang’s history as a center of gasa poetry culture in Joseon period. There is also a jukro tea room, made with green tea grown from dew falling from bamboo leaves. The nearby Hanok Experience Center offers lodging for visitors. From the observatory, one has a great view of Damyang’s other attractions like Gwanbangje Forest and Metasequoia Tree Road.

Boseong Green Tea Plantation
(Daehan Dawon Tea Plantation)
Boseong is the greatest tea region in Korea, home to the tea plantations spreading out like a green carpet along National Road No. 18. Daehan Dawon Tea Plantation in particular is the largest tea plantation in Korea that opened in 1939 and the only tourist tea plantation in Korea recognized in 1994. It is famous for the exquisite scenery of the green tea field spreading across the hillside, blending into the lovely sea at Deungnyangman Bay.

Ssukseom Island
(Aedo Island)
Ssukseom Island (“mugwort island”) is a small island in Goheung, Jeollanam-do, with a small, 1 km-long coastline. The name of the island comes from the fragrant mugwort that grows on the island every spring. It takes only three min to get to the island from Narodo Coastal Ferry Terminal. The island is home to a primordial temperate forest with populations of machilus, muku tree, and camellia trees. A sea garden located 80 m above sea level greets the visitors with hundreds of flower species, including zinnea elegans and surprise lily.

Purple Island
The most famous sight of Sinan County is accessed by an ocean bridge (Purple Bridge, Moon Bridge) that connects Duri, Bakji, and Banwoldo Island area. Purple Island, like its name, is full of purple flowers like lavender, aster, and bigleaf hydrangea. At night, the bridge comes alive with lights that illuminate the sea with a romantic glow. Visitors in purple clothes, hats, bags, or umbrellas can enter the island free of charge.

JEJU-DO AREA
Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone
Originally an island, the accumulation of sand and gravel connected this tuff cone to Jeju Island proper. There is a shallow crater at the summit, in which silver grass and other vegetation can be found. The name Seongsan (“fortress mountain”) comes from how the crater resembles a fortress, and Ilchulbong (“sun rising peak”) refers to the wonderful view of the sunrise. True to its name, it also offers a wonderful view of Hallasan Mountain and other oreum (parasitic cones) around the area.

Hallasan National Park
Hallasan Mountain is counted as one of the three sacred mountains of Korea, along with Jirisan Mountain and Geumgangsan Mountain. It is the highest mountain in South Korea with a height of 1,950 m above sea level, and an ecological sanctuary of Jeju’s nature. In December 2002, it was designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, followed by UNESCO World Heritage Natural Site designation in June 2007 as “Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes.” There are seven climbing courses to the peak, two of which (Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa; reservation required) bringing the visitors to the Baengnokdam Crater Lake.

Jeju Olle Trail
This is a walking trail that circles the entire island, passing through alleyways, mountains, seaside roads, and oreum (parasitic cones). There are 21 routes on the island, and 5 routes on nearby islands. The trail connects visitors not only with the beautiful nature of Jeju, but with the lives of Jeju’s residents through traditional markets and villages. “Olle” is a Jeju Language word referring to the narrow alley that connects each house with the road, and symbolizes the first road crossed by the people of Jeju to access the world at large.

Cheonjiyeon Falls
Even in Seogwipo, a city of many waterfalls, Cheonjiyeon Falls’ beauty and size stands above the rest. The name Cheonjiyeon means “the union between heaven and earth.” It serves as the Natural Habitat of Elaeocarpus (Natural Monument No. 163), and hosts other rare plants. As such, the entire valley is designated as a nature reserve. Temperate plants like Elaeocarpus and camellia form the forest here, and basalt walking trails offer a convenient way to take in the sights.

Camellia Hill
This is the largest camellia arboretum in the East, and a slice of Jeju’s nature in a protected environment. There are nearly 6,000 camellia trees here, 500 species coming from 80 countries, flowering in different time periods from fall to spring. It is home to six species of fragrant camellia as well. Other plants include 250 native species of Jeju, which combine with camellia to create a unique and beautiful scenery each season.

Udo Island
Udo Island (“ox island”) was known as Soseom or Sweseom (also meaning “ox island”) since the old days because of its shape, which is said to resemble an ox lying down. It is the largest island in Jeju’s 63 subordinate islands. Being a volcanic island, it is blessed with fertile soil, gentle slopes, and abundant fishery. It also attracts nearly 2 million visitors each year, who come to the island to see the Eight Sights of Udo and nature.

Bijarim Forest
This is the largest forest of Japanese torreya in the world, home to nearly 3,000 trees, and the Natural Monument No. 374 of Korea visited by close to a million people each year. Along with Japanese torreya, the forest is also home to maple, Sickle neofinetia, and East Asian thrixspermum. Most of the forest trails here are lined with red volcanic clusters and tend to be flat in incline.