What to do in South Korea?
Browse by category and by region through the hundreds of places we love most in Korea, and mark anything that catches your eye straight to your personal itinerary.
🏯 Palaces & history
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Wartime Submarine Base (Sammal) ★ 5.0 · Jeju
The Japanese wartime submarine tunnels in the cliffs of Songaksan
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UN Memorial Cemetery ★ 4.8 · Busan and the south
The only UN cemetery in the world, quiet and moving
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Changgyeonggung Palace ★ 4.7 · Seoul and around
The quiet palace of the four, gorgeous in autumn leaves and lit up in the evenings
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The Secret Garden (Huwon) ★ 4.7 · Seoul and around
The most tranquil corner of Seoul, entry by guided tour only
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Gyeongbokgung Palace ★ 4.6 · Seoul and around
The main palace of the Joseon dynasty, changing-of-the-guard ceremony at 10:00 and free entry in hanbok
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Deoksugung Palace ★ 4.6 · Seoul and around
A small palace opposite City Hall with the romantic stone-wall walk in autumn
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Changdeokgung Palace ★ 4.6 · Seoul and around
A UNESCO site with the Secret Garden, book the garden tour ahead
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Suwon Hwaseong Fortress ★ 4.6 · Seoul and around
A 5.7 km wall encircling a whole city, UNESCO, a lovely walk at sunset
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Third Infiltration Tunnel ★ 4.6 · Seoul and around
A tunnel North Korea dug under the border, by guided tour only
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Namdaemun Gate (Sungnyemun) ★ 4.6 · Seoul and around
Korea's National Treasure No. 1, the restored wooden gate
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May 18th Square (Gwangju) ★ 4.6 · Jeolla and the southwest
A memorial to the 1980 democracy uprising, a defining chapter in history
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Gunsan (Time-Stopped Street) ★ 4.6 · Jeolla and the southwest
The preserved colonial town, Japanese houses and the old Lee Sung Dang bakery
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Wolji Pond (Anapji) ★ 4.5 · Gyeongju
The palace pavilions reflected in the pond, the most beautiful spot in Korea after dark
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Cheomseongdae Observatory ★ 4.5 · Gyeongju
The oldest astronomical observatory in East Asia, from the 7th century
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Hwaseong Haenggung Palace ★ 4.5 · Seoul and around
King Jeongjo's secondary palace in the heart of Suwon, sword shows in the courtyard
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Dora Observatory ★ 4.5 · Seoul and around
You look through binoculars into North Korea, an experience like no other
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Dosan Seowon Academy ★ 4.5 · Gyeongju
The Confucian academy of the scholar Toegye (on the 1,000-won note), UNESCO
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Daereungwon Tumuli ★ 4.5 · Gyeongju
Silla royal tombs as grassy mounds in the city center, including the open Cheonmachong tomb
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Cheongju (Sangdangsanseong Fortress) ★ 4.5 · Chungcheong and the center
A green stone wall for an afternoon walk, the capital of ancient printing
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Gongju (Gongsanseong Fortress) ★ 4.5 · Chungcheong and the center
The capital of the ancient Baekje kingdom, a wall over the river, UNESCO
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Jongmyo Shrine ★ 4.5 · Seoul and around
The royal ancestral shrine, UNESCO, living rites once a year
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Geumjeong Fortress ★ 4.5 · Busan and the south
The longest wall in Korea along the mountain ridge, a trek with makgeolli at a village on the way
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Buyeo (Jeongnimsa Temple and Gungnamji Pond) ★ 4.5 · Chungcheong and the center
The oldest lotus pond in Korea, a lotus festival in July
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Ojukheon House (home of Shin Saimdang) ★ 4.4 · Gangwon and the northeast
The 15th-century wooden house of the mother and son who appear on the banknotes
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Haemieupseong Fortress (Seosan) ★ 4.4 · Chungcheong and the center
A complete 15th-century fortress, a Catholic pilgrimage site
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Jeondong Catholic Church ★ 4.4 · Jeolla and the southwest
The most beautiful Romanesque church in Korea, opposite the hanok gate
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DMZ Museum and Unification Bridge (Goseong) ★ 4.4 · Gangwon and the northeast
The eastern DMZ point by the coast, the Goseong Unification Observatory
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Gochang (Gochang-eupseong Fortress) ★ 4.4 · Jeolla and the southwest
A complete stone fortress and the UNESCO dolmens nearby
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Namhansanseong Fortress ★ 4.4 · Seoul and around
The UNESCO mountain fortress where the king sheltered from the Manchus
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Luna Bridge (Yeongdo drawbridge) ★ 4.4 · Busan and the south
The historic lift bridge that opens once a day, a symbol of the city's revival
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Donggureung Royal Tombs ★ 4.4 · Seoul and around
Nine Joseon royal tombs in one forest, UNESCO without the crowds
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Imjingak and Peace Park ★ 4.3 · Seoul and around
The gateway to the DMZ area, the Freedom Bridge and the train halted in 1950
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Goseong Unification Observatory ★ 4.3 · Gangwon and the northeast
You can see the Geumgang Mountains of North Korea along the coastline
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Namwon (city of the Chunhyang love story) ★ 4.3 · Jeolla and the southwest
The gardens of Korea's great romantic legend, Gwanghallu Pavilion
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Tomb of King Muryeong (Gongju) ★ 4.3 · Chungcheong and the center
The royal tomb found intact with its treasures in 1971
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Gyeonggijeon Shrine ★ 4.3 · Jeolla and the southwest
The portrait hall of the Joseon dynasty's founder in the heart of the hanok village
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Underwater Tomb of King Munmu ★ 4.3 · Gyeongju
The world's only underwater tomb, the king who became a guardian dragon
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Nakhwaam Rock (Buyeo) ★ 4.3 · Chungcheong and the center
The cliff of Baekje's three thousand court ladies, a boat cruise on the Baengma River
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Woljeonggyo Bridge ★ 4.3 · Gyeongju
The restored covered wooden bridge, dramatically lit at night
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Soswaewon Garden (Damyang) ★ 4.2 · Jeolla and the southwest
The 16th-century scholars' garden, the peak of Korean garden aesthetics
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Dorasan Freedom Village (Dorasan Station) ★ 4.2 · Seoul and around
The last station before the North, the 'To Pyongyang' sign waiting for peace
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Ganghwado Island ★ 4.2 · Seoul and around
UNESCO dolmens, seaside fortresses and Bomunsa Temple
⛩️ Temples
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Bulguksa Temple ★ 4.6 · Gyeongju
The pinnacle of Silla architecture, UNESCO, the two famous stone pagodas
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Bongeunsa ★ 4.6 · Seoul and around
A 1,200-year-old temple facing the Gangnam skyscrapers, a perfect contrast
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Beomeosa Temple ★ 4.6 · Busan and the south
Busan's great mountain temple, stone gates and a bamboo forest
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Woljeongsa Temple (Fir Tree Path) ★ 4.6 · Gangwon and the northeast
A meditative one-kilometer forest walk to a nine-story pagoda
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Haedong Yonggungsa Temple ★ 4.5 · Busan and the south
The only temple in Korea built on the rocks by the sea, come at sunrise
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Jogyesa Temple ★ 4.5 · Seoul and around
Seoul's Buddhist center, the lantern festival in May circles it
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Hyangiram Hermitage ★ 4.5 · Jeolla and the southwest
A sunrise hermitage on a cliff at the tip of the peninsula, among giant rocks
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Beopjusa Temple (Songnisan Mountain) ★ 4.5 · Chungcheong and the center
The 33-meter bronze Buddha and the only surviving wooden pagoda, UNESCO
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Bongseonsa Temple ★ 4.5 · Seoul and around
A serene lakeside temple near the royal tombs, with a temple-stay program
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Mihwangsa Temple Stay ★ 4.5 · Jeolla and the southwest
A temple stay facing the Dalmasan cliffs at the southern tip of the mainland
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Sinheungsa Temple and the Bronze Buddha ★ 4.5 · Gangwon and the northeast
The giant Unification Buddha at the gate to Seoraksan, where the trails begin
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Seokguram Grotto ★ 4.4 · Gyeongju
The granite Buddha in an artificial grotto facing the sea, an 8th-century wonder
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Sudeoksa Temple (Yesan) ★ 4.4 · Chungcheong and the center
The 14th-century wooden prayer hall, one of the oldest buildings in Korea
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Magoksa Temple ★ 4.4 · Chungcheong and the center
The UNESCO temple on the winding river, a sought-after temple stay
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Palgongsan Mountain and Donghwasa Temple ★ 4.4 · Gyeongju
A giant stone Buddha and a cable car to the city view, famous autumn leaves
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Seonunsa Temple (Gochang) ★ 4.3 · Jeolla and the southwest
A temple of camellias and autumn leaves in a stream valley, one of the loveliest in the south
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Girimsa Temple ★ 4.3 · Gyeongju
A quiet forest temple on the way to the sea, without the tour buses
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Guinsa Temple ★ 4.2 · Chungcheong and the center
The vast monastery of the Cheontae order, built up a narrow canyon
🏘️ Traditional villages
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Seochon (the western hanok village) ★ 4.9 · Seoul and around
Bukchon's quiet sister, small galleries and cafes without the crowds
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Gamcheon Culture Village ★ 4.4 · Busan and the south
The colourful hillside village, art alleys and the Little Prince statues
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Bukchon Hanok Village ★ 4.4 · Seoul and around
Living hanok alleys between two palaces, come before 9 am
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Korean Folk Village ★ 4.4 · Seoul and around
270 traditional houses and horse shows, where the historical dramas are filmed
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Namsangol Hanok Village ★ 4.4 · Seoul and around
Five restored hanok houses with free entry at the foot of Namsan
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Naganeupseong (Walled Village) ★ 4.3 · Jeolla and the southwest
A walled town still lived in, thatched houses in daily use
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Hahoe Village (Andong) ★ 4.2 · Gyeongju
A living 16th-century village on a river bend, the Hahoetal masks, UNESCO
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Asan (Oeam Folk Village) ★ 4.2 · Chungcheong and the center
A living stone village with noble houses, less touristy than Hahoe
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Jeonju Hanok Village ★ 4.1 · Jeolla and the southwest
700 hanok houses, the capital of bibimbap, rent hanbok and shoot photos all day
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Gyochon Hanok Village ★ 4.1 · Gyeongju
The village of the wealthy Choi family with the national Gyodong liquor brewery
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Ihwa Mural Village ★ 4.1 · Seoul and around
A mural village on the slopes of Naksan Mountain with views over the city
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Yangdong Village ★ 4.1 · Gyeongju
Korea's largest Confucian noble village, a living UNESCO site
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Abai Village (Sokcho) ★ 3.9 · Gangwon and the northeast
A North Korean refugee village with a hand-pulled cable ferry and ink-filled sundae
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Seongeup Folk Village ★ 3.8 · Jeju
A living stone and thatch village, black-stone houses and Jeju's black pigs
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⛰️ Nature, mountains & hikes
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Seoul City Wall (Naksan Section) ★ 5.0 · Seoul and around
An evening walk on the ancient wall with the whole city lit below
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Hallasan Yeongsil Trail ★ 4.8 · Jeju
The dramatic volcanic scenery for half the effort, azaleas in spring
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Ulsanbawi Peak ★ 4.8 · Gangwon and the northeast
808 steps up to the jagged granite ridge, the best view in Seorak
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Ilsan Lake Park ★ 4.8 · Seoul and around
Korea's largest man-made city lake, a flower festival in spring
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Danyang Paragliding Park ★ 4.8 · Chungcheong and the center
Korea's tandem paragliding capital, above the river and hills
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Yeouiseo-ro Blossom Road ★ 4.8 · Seoul and around
1,800 cherry trees along the river, Seoul's cherry blossom festival
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Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) ★ 4.7 · Jeju
A tuff cone rising from the sea, UNESCO, a 30-minute climb to a once-in-a-lifetime view
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Inwangsan Mountain ★ 4.7 · Seoul and around
A two-hour urban trek with the best view over the palaces
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Yeongrangho Lake ★ 4.7 · Gangwon and the northeast
A lagoon lake with a floating bridge and a bike path, Seoraksan reflected in the water
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Namsan Mountain of Gyeongju ★ 4.7 · Gyeongju
An open-air museum mountain, dozens of Buddhas carved in the rocks along the trails
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Cheonggyecheon Stream ★ 4.6 · Seoul and around
A restored 11 km urban stream, magical after dark
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Seoul Forest ★ 4.6 · Seoul and around
The local Central Park with a deer enclosure, perfect for a spring picnic
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Taehwagang Bamboo Park ★ 4.6 · Gyeongju
A national garden along the river with a large riverside bamboo grove
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Ulsan (Daewangam Rock Bridge) ★ 4.6 · Gyeongju
A cliff park and a bridge over the sea near the industrial city, sunrises
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Sejong (National Library and Hosu Lake) ★ 4.6 · Chungcheong and the center
The new administrative city with the largest leisure lake in Korea
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Seokchon Lake Park ★ 4.6 · Seoul and around
The blossom lake at the foot of Lotte Tower, peak cherry blossom in April
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Igidae Coastal Park ★ 4.6 · Busan and the south
A cliff trail facing the Haeundae skyline, the loveliest walk in the city
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Bukhansan Mountain ★ 4.6 · Seoul and around
A national park within the city limits, granite peaks and temples
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Gwanaksan Mountain ★ 4.6 · Seoul and around
A half-day trek with Yeonjuam Hermitage clinging to the cliff
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Olle Trail 10 (Songaksan) ★ 4.6 · Jeju
The southwest section with Mount Sanbangsan and the black cliffs
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Yongnuni Oreum Hill Trek ★ 4.6 · Jeju
The photogenic crater of photographer Kim Young-gap, soft lines and horses
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Mudeungsan Mountain ★ 4.6 · Jeolla and the southwest
The Jusangjeolli basalt columns at the summit, Gwangju's mountain
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Han River Park (Yeouido) ★ 4.5 · Seoul and around
A picnic with vending-machine ramen on the grass by the river, a true Seoul experience
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Jeongbang Waterfall ★ 4.5 · Jeju
One of the few waterfalls in Asia that falls straight into the sea
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Haneul Sky Park ★ 4.5 · Seoul and around
A pampas-grass park on a reclaimed landfill, gold in October's autumn leaves
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Suncheon National Garden ★ 4.5 · Jeolla and the southwest
Korea's first grand garden, the Dream Bridge and the spiral hill
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Songdo Central Park ★ 4.5 · Seoul and around
Korea's city of the future with a water canal, rent boats among the skyscrapers
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Seoraksan National Park ★ 4.5 · Gangwon and the northeast
Korea's dramatic mountains, legendary October autumn leaves and a cable car to Gwongeumseong
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Autumn-Leaf Lake in Odaesan Park ★ 4.5 · Gangwon and the northeast
Woljeongsa Temple and the thousand-year-old fir tree avenue
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Udo (the island off Seongsan) ★ 4.5 · Jeju
A small island of white beaches and peanut ice cream, a 15-minute ferry
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Gyerim Forest and Flower Fields ★ 4.5 · Gyeongju
The legendary forest of the Kim dynasty's birth, flowers changing every season
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Nami Island ★ 4.4 · Seoul and around
The tree-lined avenues from the dramas, bike rental and picnics, peaks in autumn leaves
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The Garden of Morning Calm ★ 4.4 · Seoul and around
The most beautiful botanical garden in Korea, a festival of lights in winter
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Damyang (Metasequoia Road and Bamboo Forest) ★ 4.4 · Jeolla and the southwest
The Juknokwon bamboo forest and the photographed avenue, a perfect green day
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Suncheon Bay (Reed Reserve) ★ 4.4 · Jeolla and the southwest
Endless reed fields and cranes, the sunset view from Yongsan
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Taejongdae ★ 4.4 · Busan and the south
A cliff park at the tip of Yeongdo Island, a Danubi train and a lighthouse over the ocean
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Boseong Tea Fields ★ 4.4 · Jeolla and the southwest
Korea's photographed green-tea terraces, May is the peak
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Sangumburi Crater ★ 4.4 · Jeju
A huge sunken crater ringed with silver grass, peaks in autumn
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Dongbaek Island and APEC House ★ 4.4 · Busan and the south
A camellia trail around the island with the summit pavilion facing Gwangan Bridge
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Cheonjiyeon Waterfall ★ 4.4 · Jeju
The illuminated waterfall of Seogwipo, an easy and lovely evening walk
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Odongdo Island ★ 4.4 · Jeolla and the southwest
A camellia island connected by a breakwater, red blooms in winter
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Rocking Rock (Heundeulbawi) ★ 4.4 · Gangwon and the northeast
A giant rock that sways but never falls, the must-stop on the Ulsanbawi route
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Yangpyeong (Dumulmeori River Trail) ★ 4.3 · Seoul and around
Where the two Han rivers meet, morning mist and wedding photos
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Cheonjeyeon Waterfall ★ 4.3 · Jeju
Three waterfall pools in a subtropical forest in Jungmun
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Hwanseongul Cave ★ 4.3 · Gangwon and the northeast
The largest limestone cave in Asia, underground waterfalls and a monorail
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Jusangjeolli Cliffs ★ 4.3 · Jeju
Hexagonal basalt columns facing the waves, Jeju's version of the Giant's Causeway
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Geoje (Geoga Bridge and Bay) ★ 4.3 · Busan and the south
The southern cliff island, an hour from Busan, turquoise bays and a botanical park
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Hallasan (Seongpanak Trail) ★ 4.3 · Jeju
Korea's highest peak with a crater lake, set out at dawn
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Manjanggul Lava Tube ★ 4.2 · Jeju
A kilometer walk inside a lava tube, always cool, UNESCO
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Danyang (Dodamsambong Rock Bridge) ★ 4.2 · Chungcheong and the center
The three painterly river cliffs, cruises and pedal boats
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Gosu Cave (Danyang) ★ 4.2 · Chungcheong and the center
A 1.7 km stalactite cave, one of the most impressive in Korea
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Hongdo Rock Islands (Dadohae cruise) ★ 4.2 · Jeolla and the southwest
The red island, a cruise between cliffs in the remote island reserve
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Saryeoni Forest (Forest Trail) ★ 4.2 · Jeju
A mystical cedar avenue in the morning mist, a flat and easy walk
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Olle Trail 7 (Seogwipo) ★ 4.2 · Jeju
The most beautiful of the coastal sections, cliffs, villages and springs
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Cheongpung Lake Resort (Jecheon) ★ 4.2 · Chungcheong and the center
A cruise between the cliffs of the great central lake
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Naejangsan Mountain (autumn leaves) ★ 4.1 · Jeolla and the southwest
The most famous red maple tunnel in Korea, November
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Ahopsan Bamboo Forest (East Busan) ★ 4.0 · Busan and the south
A private 400-year-old bamboo forest, one of the secret drama locations
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Yeomiji Botanical Garden ★ 4.0 · Jeju
The giant greenhouse of Jungmun with themed gardens and an observation tower
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Donggang River (Yeongwol rafting) ★ 4.0 · Gangwon and the northeast
The best rafting in Korea through limestone canyons, spring to summer
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Dawon Green Tea Farm (Osan) ★ 3.9 · Seoul and around
Lakes and bike paths in the heart of rural Gyeonggi
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Pocheon Art Valley (quarry lake) · Seoul and around
A granite quarry turned into a clear lake and an art center
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Jungdo Island (Chuncheon) · Gangwon and the northeast
A lake island with Legoland Korea and kayak rental
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Oga Island (Chungju Dam) · Chungcheong and the center
The dam lake with bike paths and picnic spots
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Wando (Cliff Bridge and Island Ferries) · Jeolla and the southwest
The gateway to the southern islands, seaweed and ferries to Bogildo
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Jindo Island (the Miracle Sea Parting) · Jeolla and the southwest
The sea path revealed at the great low tide, the famous spring festival
📸 Viewpoints & bridges
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Lotte World Tower (Seoul Sky) ★ 4.6 · Seoul and around
The highest observatory in Korea, the 117th floor with a glass floor
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Gwangan Bridge (Photo Spot) ★ 4.6 · Busan and the south
The illuminated bridge that is Busan's poster, light shows on weekends
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Yudalsan Hill (Mokpo) ★ 4.6 · Jeolla and the southwest
The little mountain that sees the whole archipelago, the historic port city
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Jungmun Glass Bridge (Seonimgyo) ★ 4.6 · Jeju
The Nymph Bridge over Cheonjeyeon canyon, gilded dragons
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Cliff Cafe (Moronde) ★ 4.6 · Busan and the south
A glass viewpoint over the sea at Cheongsapo, beside a beach cafe
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N Seoul Tower ★ 4.5 · Seoul and around
The classic city viewpoint, ride the cable car up or walk the Namsan forest trail
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Cheongpung Lake and Cable Car ★ 4.5 · Chungcheong and the center
A cable car to Bibong Peak above Jecheon's blue lake
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Banpo Bridge (Rainbow Fountain) ★ 4.5 · Seoul and around
A musical fountain show from the bridge on summer evenings, free
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X the Sky (Haeundae Observatory) ★ 4.5 · Busan and the south
The tallest beachfront building in Korea, the 100th floor over Haeundae
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Pohang (Space Walk) ★ 4.5 · Gyeongju
The steep walkway sculpture over Yeongildae Bay, the steel city
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Sarabong Peak Viewpoint (capital sunrise) ★ 4.5 · Jeju
The sunrise hill of Jeju City, walk up from the port
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Mokpo (Marine Cable Car and Bridge) ★ 4.5 · Jeolla and the southwest
Korea's longest cable car crosses the harbor to the island, 3.2 km
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Buyongdae Cliff (Hahoe Viewpoint) ★ 4.5 · Gyeongju
The view over the river bend and the village, a 10-minute climb
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Suwolbong Cliffs (Wild West) ★ 4.5 · Jeju
The layered tuff cliffs of Suwolbong at sunset, living geology
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Songdo Beach and the Air Cruise ★ 4.4 · Busan and the south
A bay-crossing cable car with a glass-floor cabin, Korea's oldest beach
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Donghae (Chuam Candlestick Rock) ★ 4.4 · Gangwon and the northeast
The candle rock that appears at sunrise in the national anthem, Donghae
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Homigot Lighthouse (Hand of Sunrise) ★ 4.4 · Jeolla and the southwest
The hand sculpture rising from the sea at the eastern point, New Year sunrise
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Boseong (Little Tea Train) ★ 4.4 · Jeolla and the southwest
The viewing pavilion above the tea terraces, green-tea ice cream at the kiosk
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Seoraksan Cable Car (Gwongeumseong) ★ 4.3 · Gangwon and the northeast
An effortless ride up to the granite-cliff viewpoint, book in the morning
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Oryukdo Skywalk ★ 4.3 · Busan and the south
A glass floor over the cliffs facing the Oryukdo islets
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Majang Lake Suspension Bridge ★ 4.3 · Seoul and around
A long suspension bridge over Majang Lake, an afternoon trip from Paju
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Yeosu (Night Promenade and Cable Car) ★ 4.3 · Jeolla and the southwest
A cable car over the sea in the city whose song swept Korea, a romantic night
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Gyeongju Observation Tower (Donggung) ★ 4.3 · Gyeongju
The silhouette of the inverted golden pagoda in Expo Park
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Omokdae Viewpoint (Jeonju) ★ 4.3 · Jeolla and the southwest
A pavilion overlooking the hanok rooftops, a 5-minute climb
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Busan Tower (Yongdusan Park) ★ 4.2 · Busan and the south
The classic view over the harbor, especially beautiful after dark
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63 Building ★ 4.2 · Seoul and around
The gold tower of Yeouido with an art gallery on the observation floor
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Wonju (Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge) ★ 4.2 · Gangwon and the northeast
A suspension bridge between cliffs in Ganhyeon Park, with a plank trail on the cliff
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Jecheon Glass Bridge (Oksunbong) ★ 4.2 · Chungcheong and the center
A suspension bridge to the bamboo cliff over Cheongpung Lake
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Sebitseom Islands ★ 4.2 · Seoul and around
Three illuminated floating islands on the Han, especially lovely at night
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Han River Cable Car (Ara Bridge) ★ 4.1 · Seoul and around
A glass viewpoint over the Ara Canal and the Han River
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Andol Oreum (secret photo crater) ★ 4.1 · Jeju
A green crater with a secret cypress avenue, a local photo spot
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Byeongbangchi Skywalk (Jeongseon) ★ 4.1 · Gangwon and the northeast
A glass viewpoint over the bends of the Donggang River
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Soyanggang Glass Bridge ★ 3.9 · Gangwon and the northeast
174 meters of glass floor over the river, with the Soyang Girl statue
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Ara Canal West Terminal (yacht cruise) ★ 3.9 · Seoul and around
A sunset cruise on the Ara Canal out to the Yellow Sea
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Bukchon Cafe Viewpoint (Eunhyeon) ★ 3.8 · Seoul and around
The famous photo spot of the hanok rooftops with the tower behind
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Tongyeong (Mireuksan Cable Car) · Busan and the south
The loveliest port city in the south with a cable car up Mireuksan and honey pancakes
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Songaksan Mountain · Jeju
A double crater on a cliff edge facing Marado Island, an easy loop walk
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🏖️ Beaches
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Pyoseon Beach (the flat beach) ★ 5.0 · Jeju
A giant lagoon at low tide, a natural children's pool at high tide
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Gwangalli Beach ★ 4.7 · Busan and the south
The sunset beach facing the lit Gwangan Bridge, a row of cafe-bars on the water
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Hyeopjae Beach ★ 4.7 · Jeju
The famous turquoise water facing Biyangdo Island, the best sunset on the island
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Haeundae Beach ★ 4.6 · Busan and the south
Korea's most famous beach, a kilometer and a half of sand facing the skyscrapers
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Hamdeok Beach ★ 4.5 · Jeju
Shallow, clear and family-friendly, with Seowoobong Hill above
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Dadaepo Beach and Molundae Sunrise ★ 4.5 · Busan and the south
Huge sunsets and the world's longest dream fountain, at the southern tip
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Woljeongri Beach ★ 4.4 · Jeju
The cafe beach, sit with an americano facing turquoise water
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Gwakji Beach ★ 4.4 · Jeju
A wide western beach with a freshwater spring rising through the sand
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Songjeong Beach ★ 4.4 · Busan and the south
Korea's surf beach, surf schools and a young vibe
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Gangneung (Gyeongpo Beach) ★ 4.4 · Gangwon and the northeast
The big beach of the east coast with a lake and a historic pavilion
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Gimnyeong Beach (Sehwa) ★ 4.4 · Jeju
A quiet lagoon among black lava rocks, fewer tourists
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Sokcho Beach ★ 4.3 · Gangwon and the northeast
The city beach with sunrise by the observation tower, open all year
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Anmyeon Horse and Flower Farm (Taean) ★ 4.3 · Jeolla and the southwest
A sunset beach with the Grandfather and Grandmother rocks, the west coast
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Gampo Beach and Cliffs (Gyeongju coast) ★ 3.7 · Gyeongju
A working fishing port and a rocky shoreline on the way to the king's tomb
🍜 Markets & street food
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Mangwon Market ★ 4.3 · Seoul and around
The market the locals actually eat at, next to Hongdae and without the tourists
Full guide → -
Nambu Market and Night Market ★ 4.3 · Jeolla and the southwest
A Friday-Saturday night market with young chef stalls
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Gwangjang Market ★ 4.2 · Seoul and around
The old food market, bindaetteok and gimbap, come hungry
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Namdaemun Market ★ 4.2 · Seoul and around
Korea's largest market, everything under one roof, from pipes to glasses
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Seomun Market (Daegu) ★ 4.2 · Gyeongju
A huge market with a famous night market, the historic textile capital
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Yangdong Market Gwangju (food) ★ 4.2 · Jeolla and the southwest
The big market of Jeolla, mung-bean pancakes and ginseng chicken
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Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market ★ 4.1 · Jeju
The tastiest covered market on the island, hallabong tangerines and grilled fish
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Bupyeong Night Market (Can Market) ★ 4.1 · Busan and the south
Korea's first night market, food from all over Asia at one stall
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Gukje Market (International Market) ★ 4.1 · Busan and the south
The giant market from the war films, the Sianseon-dong food alley inside
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Seongdong Market ★ 4.1 · Gyeongju
Gyeongju's food market, ssambap and eggplant by weight
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Dongmun Market (Jeju City) ★ 4.1 · Jeju
The capital's night market, street-food stalls until midnight
Full guide → -
Jagalchi Market ★ 4.0 · Busan and the south
Korea's largest fish market, pick downstairs and eat on the second floor
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Sokcho (Central Fish Market) ★ 4.0 · Gangwon and the northeast
The coastal town at the gate to Seoraksan, sauced chicken and dried fish
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Jeongseon (Arirang Market) ★ 4.0 · Gangwon and the northeast
An authentic mountain market, the capital of the Arirang song and wild-herb dishes
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Noryangjin Fish Market ★ 3.9 · Seoul and around
Pick a live fish downstairs and eat it as sashimi upstairs
Full guide → -
Tongin Market Street Food ★ 3.8 · Seoul and around
You buy old coins and fill a lunchbox with them at the stalls
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Jukdo Market (Pohang) ★ 3.8 · Gyeongju
The giant crab market of the east coast, king crab in season
🍽️ Food & restaurants
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Dwaeji-galbi (Seomyeon Pork Street) ★ 5.0 · Busan and the south
The old galbi alley, the barbecue of the dock workers
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Chicken and Beer Street (Hongdae) ★ 4.9 · Seoul and around
Chimaek, Korean fried chicken and beer, the real national celebration
Full guide → -
Hwangnidan-gil Cafe Quarter ★ 4.9 · Gyeongju
The hip hanok street facing the tumuli, cafes and design souvenirs
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Tangerine Street (Hallabong orchards) ★ 4.7 · Jeju
Picking sweet hallabong oranges in season (November to February)
Full guide → -
Dwaeji-gukbap Street ★ 4.7 · Busan and the south
Busan's famous pork soup, the dish that defines the city
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Aewol Beach (Cafe Street) ★ 4.6 · Jeju
The cafe promenade of the west, G-Dragon opened a cafe here and everyone came
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Sung Sim Dang Bakery (Daejeon) ★ 4.5 · Chungcheong and the center
The most famous bakery in Korea, an hour-long queue for the fried soboro bun
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Cheongsapo Fishing Village ★ 4.5 · Busan and the south
Grilled clams over coals in a real fishing village, between Haeundae and Songjeong
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Innisfree Jeju House (green-tea) ★ 4.4 · Jeju
The Innisfree brand house in the tea fields, soap and coffee workshops
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Huam-dong (Books and Coffee) ★ 4.4 · Seoul and around
The hillside neighbourhood facing Namsan, small bars and rooftop views
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Jeonju Bibimbap (Gaeksa) ★ 4.4 · Jeolla and the southwest
The national dish in the city that invented it, with the local mung-bean sprouts
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Anmok Coffee Street ★ 4.3 · Gangwon and the northeast
Korea's coffee capital, a row of roasteries facing the waves
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Gijang Seaside Cafe Strip (East) ★ 4.3 · Busan and the south
A strip of seaside cafes in Gijang, the weekend brunch
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Majang-dong Meat Street ★ 4.3 · Seoul and around
Seoul's meat market, pick a cut and they grill it for you
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Gyeongju Bread (Hwangnam) ★ 4.2 · Gyeongju
The red-bean pastry the city is famous for, since 1939
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Dolsan Bridge and Night Market ★ 4.2 · Jeolla and the southwest
Romantic pojangmacha stalls on the water, butter shrimp and soju
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Mokpo Food Market ★ 4.2 · Jeolla and the southwest
The capital of croaker fish and the seafood cuisine of the south
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Osulloc Tea Garden ★ 4.1 · Jeju
The green-tea plantations with a museum and famous green-tea ice cream
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Lee Sung Dang Bakery ★ 4.1 · Jeolla and the southwest
Korea's oldest bakery (1945), a legendary bean bun
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Incheon Chinatown ★ 4.0 · Seoul and around
The birthplace of jajangmyeon, the noodles in black sauce, and a painted fairy-tale street
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Andong Jjimdak (Food Street) ★ 4.0 · Gyeongju
Chicken braised in sweet soy sauce, the dish the city gave Korea
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Chuncheon (Dakgalbi Alley) ★ 3.9 · Gangwon and the northeast
The dak-galbi capital, spicy chicken on a griddle, an hour from Seoul
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Cheongdo (Wine Tunnel) ★ 3.9 · Gyeongju
An old railway tunnel turned into a persimmon-wine cellar
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Sindang-dong Tteokbokki Alley ★ 3.8 · Seoul and around
The street that invented pot tteokbokki, an institution since the 1950s
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Millak Fish Market (Sashimi Town) ★ 3.7 · Busan and the south
Sashimi facing Gwangan Bridge, buy downstairs and sit on the water
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Daepo Crab Fishing Port ★ 3.7 · Gangwon and the northeast
King crab and fried shrimp of the east coast, near Sokcho
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Makgeolli Alley (Jeonju) ★ 3.6 · Jeolla and the southwest
The makgeolli alley, one kettle and the table fills with free dishes
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Itaewon · Seoul and around
The international district, world restaurants and a lively nightlife hub
Full guide → -
Ikseon-dong · Seoul and around
Hanok alleys turned into designer cafes and restaurants, the most Instagram spot in Seoul
Full guide → -
Jeong-dong (Cafe Street) · Seoul and around
The historic coffee street by Deoksugung, golden autumn leaves in November
🎨 Culture & museums
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Dol Hareubang Grandfather Stones (Stone Park) ★ 5.0 · Jeju
Jeju's stone-culture park and the famous grandfather statues
Full guide → -
National Museum of Korea ★ 4.7 · Seoul and around
One of Asia's largest museums, the Silla crown, free entry
Full guide → -
War Memorial of Korea ★ 4.6 · Seoul and around
The Korean War explained superbly, free, relevant before a DMZ tour
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Gyeongju National Museum ★ 4.6 · Gyeongju
Silla treasures including the golden crown and the Emille Bell
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Lotte Concert Hall ★ 4.6 · Seoul and around
One of the best classical halls in Asia, tickets at friendly prices
Full guide → -
Leeum Museum of Art ★ 4.6 · Seoul and around
The Samsung collection, traditional and contemporary under one roof
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Busan Cinema Center ★ 4.5 · Busan and the south
The largest cantilever roof in the world, home of the Busan Film Festival
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National Gugak Center ★ 4.5 · Seoul and around
Traditional Korean music and dance in weekly performances
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Paju Book City ★ 4.5 · Seoul and around
A whole city of publishers, library-cafes and architecture
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Dongdaemun Design Plaza ★ 4.4 · Seoul and around
Zaha Hadid's spaceship, design exhibitions and night markets around it
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Haenyeo Diving Women Village (Haenyeo Center) ★ 4.4 · Jeju
The haenyeo museum, the diving women in their 80s, UNESCO
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Early Printing Museum (Jikji) ★ 4.4 · Chungcheong and the center
Where the world's first metal-type book was printed, before Gutenberg
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Kimchi Museum (Kimchikan) ★ 4.4 · Seoul and around
All the secrets of kimchi including tastings, in Insadong
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Busan Museum of Contemporary Art ★ 4.3 · Busan and the south
Contemporary art on the river island, architecture worth the visit alone
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Yuseong Hot Springs ★ 4.3 · Chungcheong and the center
An old hot-spring quarter with a free public foot bath
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Kim Kwang-seok Street ★ 4.2 · Gyeongju
A mural street for the beloved singer, wall paintings and street performances
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Hahoe Mask Museum ★ 4.2 · Gyeongju
Dance masks from around the world beside Hahoe Village
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Cheonggyecheon Book Alley ★ 4.2 · Seoul and around
Second-hand bookshops stacked to the ceiling, a nostalgic corner
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Yangnyeongsi Oriental Medicine Street ★ 4.1 · Gyeongju
350 years of a herbal-medicine market, the smell of ginseng in the air
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Icheon Ceramics Museum ★ 4.1 · Seoul and around
Korea's ceramics capital, wheel-throwing workshops with the artisans
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Gwangju (Yangdong Art Street) ★ 4.0 · Jeolla and the southwest
The capital of the southwest, galleries and the cradle of Korean democracy
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Haenyeo Diving Show (Seongsan) ★ 3.9 · Jeju
A live haenyeo dive at the foot of Sunrise Peak, buy from the catch
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Jeonju Food Museum (Makgeolli House) ★ 3.9 · Jeolla and the southwest
The traditional-liquor museum with tastings
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Texas Street (Russia Street) ★ 3.8 · Busan and the south
The multicultural port quarter opposite Busan Station, living history
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Onyang Hot Springs ★ 3.7 · Chungcheong and the center
Korea's oldest hot springs, a neighbourhood-priced spa, a direct train from Seoul
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Jeju Loveland Sculpture Park ★ 3.5 · Jeju
The adults-only sculpture park, a famous Jeju curiosity (18+)
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Insadong · Seoul and around
The street of galleries and tea, quality souvenirs and not just kitsch
Full guide →
🛍️ Shopping
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Seomyeon Youth Street ★ 4.8 · Busan and the south
The heart of Busan nightlife and shopping, endless food alleys
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Shinsegae Centum City ★ 4.6 · Busan and the south
The largest department store in the world by Guinness, including the famous Spa Land
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Samseong-dong ★ 4.5 · Seoul and around
The COEX mall, the aquarium and the photographed Byeolmadang Library
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Goto Mall (Underground Shopping) ★ 4.3 · Seoul and around
600 shops underground at the Express Bus Terminal, cheap and fast
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Apgujeong Rodeo ★ 4.2 · Seoul and around
The luxury and celebrity street, where the lookbooks are shot
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Paju Premium Outlets ★ 4.1 · Seoul and around
The big outlet of the Seoul area, brands at half price
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Gangnam ★ 4.1 · Seoul and around
Seoul's upscale side, the COEX mall and the famous library
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Myeongdong · Seoul and around
The cosmetics and street-food street, the stalls wake up in the evening
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Garosu-gil Fashion Street · Seoul and around
The ginkgo-lined avenue of independent designers in Sinsa
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Hyundai Outlet Space 1 (Paju) · Seoul and around
An art-outlet with galleries, the new generation of shopping
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Daegu (Dongseongno Street) · Gyeongju
The heart of Korea's third city, shopping and street food between Seoul and Busan
🎡 K-culture, experiences & family
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Busan Fireworks Festival (Gwangalli, October) ★ 4.7 · Busan and the south
Korea's biggest fireworks show over the bridge, save a spot from midday
Full guide → -
Jumunjin Beach (the Goblin Rock) ★ 4.7 · Gangwon and the northeast
The breakwater from the Goblin series, the photo spot with the flowers
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Hongdae ★ 4.6 · Seoul and around
The student neighbourhood, street performances and nightlife, the weekend evening is the peak
Full guide → -
Toy and Childhood Museum ★ 4.6 · Seoul and around
An interactive children's museum in the big Children's Grand Park
Full guide → -
HiKR Ground ★ 4.6 · Seoul and around
The tourism board's free K-pop experience center, make your own music video
Full guide → -
Jinju Lantern Festival (Nam River) ★ 4.6 · Jeolla and the southwest
Thousands of lanterns floating on the river in October, among the loveliest in Korea
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Everland ★ 4.5 · Seoul and around
Korea's largest theme park, the T Express is one of the best in the world
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Gyeongju World (Theme Park) ★ 4.5 · Gyeongju
The scariest coasters in Korea, the local version of a theme park
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Gwacheon National Science Museum ★ 4.5 · Seoul and around
The national science museum with a giant planetarium, a kids' paradise
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Blue Line Sky Capsule (Haeundae) ★ 4.5 · Busan and the south
Colourful capsules on the coastal rail from Haeundae to Cheongsapo
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Gimnyeong Fishing Port (Glass Boats) ★ 4.5 · Jeju
Yacht cruises and fishing off the northeast coast
Full guide → -
Gwangmyeong Cave ★ 4.5 · Seoul and around
An old gold mine turned into an experience cave with wine and lights
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Seoul Grand Park Zoo ★ 4.4 · Seoul and around
Korea's largest zoo and safari with a lake cable car
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Aqua Planet Jeju ★ 4.4 · Jeju
Korea's largest aquarium, near Seongsan, including a haenyeo show
Full guide → -
9.81 Park (Gravity Karting) ★ 4.4 · Jeju
Gravity-powered karting with mountain views, high demand, book ahead
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Jangsaengpo Whale Bay ★ 4.4 · Gyeongju
The whale-culture village and museum, a whale-watching cruise in season
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Gocheok Sky Dome ★ 4.4 · Seoul and around
Korean baseball or K-pop concerts, a wild group experience
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Alpensia Resort ★ 4.4 · Gangwon and the northeast
The Olympic ski jumps and family slopes
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Spa Land Centum ★ 4.4 · Busan and the south
Korea's most luxurious jjimjilbang experience, 22 baths from hot springs
Full guide → -
Lotte World ★ 4.3 · Seoul and around
The largest indoor theme park in the world, perfect for a rainy day
Full guide → -
Yongpyong Resort (Ski) ★ 4.3 · Gangwon and the northeast
The oldest and largest ski resort, the Olympic runs and the summit gondola
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Caribbean Bay ★ 4.3 · Seoul and around
The water park next to Everland, one of the largest in Asia
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Legoland Korea ★ 4.3 · Gangwon and the northeast
The first Lego park in East Asia, on an island in Chuncheon's lake
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Alive Museum ★ 4.3 · Jeju
Optical illusions and trick art, a fun rainy-day shelter for families
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Pyeongchang (Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm) ★ 4.3 · Gangwon and the northeast
An alpine sheep farm on the windy ridge, the Korean Switzerland
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Gapyeong Rail Bike ★ 4.3 · Seoul and around
Pedal along old railway tracks by the river on the way to Nami
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Samcheok Coastal Rail Bike ★ 4.3 · Gangwon and the northeast
Pedal along the rail past coves and lit tunnels
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Anseong Farmland ★ 4.3 · Seoul and around
An experience farm with flower fields that change by season
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SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium (Haeundae) ★ 4.2 · Busan and the south
An aquarium beneath Haeundae Beach, a rainy-day saver with kids
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Seorak Waterpia (Hanwha) ★ 4.2 · Gangwon and the northeast
The thermal water park of Seorak, hot pools even in the snow
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Daejeon (Expo Science District) ★ 4.2 · Chungcheong and the center
Korea's science city, the Expo Bridge and the National Science Museum
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Seoul Lotus Lantern Festival ★ 4.2 · Seoul and around
The Buddhist lantern parade in May, living-culture UNESCO
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Taean (Mallipo Beach and Flower Garden) ★ 4.2 · Chungcheong and the center
The largest tulip festival in Asia in spring, the west coast
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BIFF Square ★ 4.1 · Busan and the south
The film-festival square with handprints and sweet hotteok stalls
Full guide → -
Suncheon Drama Village ★ 4.1 · Jeolla and the southwest
Sets of old Seoul from the 60s to 80s, Korean nostalgia
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Wolmido Island ★ 4.1 · Seoul and around
A nostalgic seaside amusement park and promenade walk, near Incheon port
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Samsung D'light Gallery ★ 4.1 · Seoul and around
Samsung's innovation showcase, free, for gadget lovers
Full guide → -
Shinhwa Theme Park (Jeju) ★ 4.0 · Jeju
A compact theme park without the Everland queues
Full guide → -
Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village ★ 3.9 · Seoul and around
A whole neighbourhood painted like a storybook, next to Chinatown
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Petite France ★ 3.9 · Seoul and around
A colourful French village inspired by The Little Prince, near Nami
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Hwacheon (Sancheoneo Ice Festival) ★ 3.8 · Gangwon and the northeast
Korea's biggest winter festival, catching fish through holes in the ice by hand
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Sea Train (Gangneung to Samcheok) ★ 3.8 · Gangwon and the northeast
A panoramic train with every seat facing the sea
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Seongsu-dong · Seoul and around
The Brooklyn of Seoul, old factories turned into cafe-galleries
Full guide →
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Common questions
What are the best things to do in South Korea?
It depends on your taste: the royal palaces and hanok villages in Seoul, the food markets and beaches in Busan, the ancient sites in Gyeongju, the nature and island beaches of Jeju, and K-pop culture and shopping. On this page you can browse by category and by region, and add any place that catches your eye straight to your personal itinerary.
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