Whether you are motivated by K-pop and K-dramas or by the culture and history of the country, a visit to South Korea is un-miss-able, without a doubt.
Unlike its other Southeast Asian neighbors, tourism in South Korea has just begun steaming and therefore has so many things to offer and keep you amazed and enthralled.
So without much ado, let us begin our list of the must-visit places in South Korea to add to your itinerary. Are you ready for this?
Know Your South Korea
Time: GMT +9
Telephone Code: +82
Languages: Korean (Pyojuneo)
Currency: Korean Republic won (₩) (KRW)
Visa: Visa requirements are depending on the nationality of your passport. Check visa requirements here.
Weather: The average January temperature range can be between −7 to 1 °C (19 to 34 °F), and the average August temperature range can be between 22 to 30 °C (72 to 86 °F)
Best time to visit: March to May; September to November
Clothing & Personal Care: Choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothes, especially if you plan to do outdoor activities. You may have to remove your shoes when you go to some restaurants that have floor-style seating.
Places to visit in South Korea
Seoul
No trip would be complete without a visit to the capital city, Seoul which has so many diverse choices. It offers a wide array of options for every kind of visitor - be it a history snob or gastronomist. There is something for everyone in this tiny Asian country.
Do not miss your chance to take a trip to its palaces and war museums, which will leave you mesmerized.
Jeju Islands
When you get to the famous Jeju Islands, the first thing that you will realize is that the pictures do not do justice to their beauty. No wonder it is one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.
The pristine, white beaches, volcanic craters and lava caves, and pine forests are must-see when you are in the country.
The Korean Demilitarized Zone
The Korean Demilitarized Zone or DMZ is one of the most famous to visit in South Korea to understand the history and present political conflict between North and South Korea. It is not just history buffs because it can offer a thrilling, adrenaline pump as you walk into the infiltration tunnel.
Make sure you abide by the rules and follow the safety precautions as advised when you are at the DMZ.
Gyeongju
The coastal city of Gyeongju was the historical capital of the ancient Silla kingdom for several hundreds of years. It is no shocker that this city is called an open-air museum and is filled with heritage and cultural sites.
It is one of the UNESCO world heritage sites and is a must-visit to glimpse into the cultural roots of South Korea.
Busan
The second largest city in South Korea has more than breathtaking skyscrapers and bustling markets. Busan is well known for its majestic mountains and beautiful beaches as well as several historical temples.
One can also relish seafood and other local delicacies of the city that are quite unique to it.
Have we covered all the places you want to visit in South Korea? Let us know in the comments.
Must-Do Things In South Korea
Trek or ski in Pyeongchang
This former 2018 Winter Olympic host city is naturally a great place to visit during the colder times of the year. This sleepy little town is a paradise for adrenaline junkies and skiers.
While skiing and snowboarding are the prime attractions during the winters, this alpine town has its charm during the warmer days too. The Korean Alps or Taebaek Mountains provide excellent terrain for hikers and trekkers to enjoy the vivid greenery.
If you are feeling a little adventurous, you can chase some sheep on the farms and roll around in the buckwheat flower field.
Lotte World Adventure, Seoul
Don’t miss visiting the world's largest indoor amusement park in Seoul when you are around. Complete with an outdoor theme park (Magic Island), a luxury hotel, an ice rink, shopping malls, a movie theater, and a folk museum, the Lotte World Adventure has it all.
The theme is open all through the year and has more than 50 rides to enjoy if you want an adrenaline boost. There are several live, themed shows that are made to match each season and give you a chance to explore the cultural side of South Korea.
Korean Folk Village
Take a trip to ancient Korean history by stepping into the Korean Folk Village. Both local and international visitors can enjoy learning about the history and culture of the late Joseon period alike at the Korean Folk Village.
Discover the traditional Korean houses from the yesteryears and catch up on some cultural music performances, and see sides of Korean history many visitors do not normally get to see.
From martial arts on horseback to a traditional wedding ceremony, the Korean Folk Village can surprise you aplenty.
Pyeonghwa Nuri Park, Paju
Located close to the DMZ, Imjingak Pyeonghoa-Nuri Park is a place where North meets South. It is one of the most visited and recognizable parts of Korean war history.
It offers a glimpse into the war history as well as life in North Korea through several photographs and artifacts.
There are several tourist attractions nearby that are fun and family-friendly, so you can make a day trip out of Paju.