Source: Pinterest

South Korea has always been a cultural powerhouse and paradise for tech junkies. The land of the morning provides tourists with everything they could desire in a vacation spot, all in one convenient location. South Korea has a rich and interesting history, a lovely culture, mouth-watering cuisine, kind and welcoming people, and a superb tourist infrastructure (including a new high-speed rail system). As of the year 2022, South Korea has a total of 15 World Heritage Sites, with an additional 12 sites being considered for inclusion.

How To Reach South Korea From India 

By Air 

Incheon International Airport, which is located near Seoul and roughly an hour’s bus ride, is accessible by direct or layover flights from all major metro areas in India. New Delhi has the quickest flight to South Korea. 

The flight from Delhi (DEL) to Incheon (ICN) takes roughly 9 hours 44 minutes and travels over 4655 kilometres. On top of that, you have an average layover duration of 1h 42m. Many airlines, including Air India, Asiana Airlines, and Korean Air, provide these services. There are usually 12 flights each week. However, this might change over the weekends and holidays, so be sure to double-check the schedule in advance.

By Sea

Travellers who are in for long holidays can also consider cruising to South Korea. There are no cruise lines that operate direct routes between India and South Korea. Nevertheless, there are departure ports in China, Singapore, and Australia. Therefore, if you find yourself at any of these locations, you should make reservations for a cruise and make it a point to fly back to India from South Korea. However, travelling to South Korea from India by plane is without a doubt the simplest and most convenient option.

We have compiled a list of some of the most incredible South Korea tourist places that you can explore in 2022. Let’s get started. 

2o Best South Korea beautiful places to visit

• Seoul

Source: Pinterest

The sparkling capital city is sure to leave an impression on you with its head-spinning combination of contemporary architecture, party atmosphere, pop culture, gorgeous parks, and gleaming promenades. This city that never sleeps is always bustling with activity, and its work-hard, play-hard culture exemplifies the tenacious can-do spirit that permeates the whole country. In this multidimensional city, you can’t turn a corner without stumbling into a friendly tourist information desk, packed night markets, busy subway stations, and marvellous architecture.  

The whole of Seoul has an irresistible cool factor. The National Museum and War Memorial will walk you through the country’s history, while the hip retail area of Gangnam will offer you a flavour of the swanky side of the city when it comes to your list of reasons to travel to South Korea.

 

See also: 15 world’s best places to visit

• The Korean Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) 

Source: Pinterest

To acquire a better knowledge of the struggle between North and South Korea as well as the present state of things, one of the most popular sites to visit in South Korea is the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ). It is also one of the most recognised attractions in South Korea. The Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) is rife with fascinating sights that will make learning about recent history quite exciting. 

At the Observation Post, you will have the opportunity to get a glimpse of what life is like in North Korea, and the Infiltration Tunnel will provide you with a thrilling sense of discovery. Going on a guided tour that takes you to the Joint Security Area (JSA) at some point during your travels is highly recommended.

• Gyeongju

Source: Pinterest

Gyeongju is a fascinating city on the coast of South Korea. It is the place to go if you want to see fantastic ancient sites. It is frequently said that the ancient capital city of the Kingdom of Silla was like a museum without boundaries. This description makes perfect sense as you begin making your way from one significant antique site to the next. The Bulguksa Temple, a Buddhist temple that dates back to the sixth century and is protected by UNESCO, is perhaps the most well-known attraction in this area. 

You’ll also discover the Seokguram grotto, which is home to an impressive Buddha statue. The Anapji Pond and the Bomun Pavilion are also important tourist attractions in this area of the city. The Bomun Pavilion is particularly famous for showcasing the springtime beauty of Korea with its cherry blossoms.

• Andong Hahoe Folk Village

Source: Pinterest

Have you ever wondered what a typical Korean town or hamlet looked like back in the day? Then you will surely want to make your way to the Andong Hahoe Folk Village, which is located near the middle of the nation and has been meticulously kept to ensure that it continues to represent the traditional folk culture of the area. 

Andong Hahoe Folk Village is located on the banks of the Nakdong River, and in 2010 it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site because of how it has preserved the architecture of the Joseon period as well as a variety of local traditions. Not only will visitors get a glimpse of what Korean towns of old looked like, but they are also allowed to experience other Korean customs and traditions, such as a performance of the Hahae Mask Dan.

• Jeju Island

Source: Pinterest

Jeju Island is a stunning volcanic island located in the Korea Strait, and it is often considered to be one of the most beautiful spots in all of Korea. The fact that Jeju Island was selected as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature should give you some idea of how remarkable this location is. 

The natural scenery of the island, which includes serene beaches, towering cliffs, and magnificent mountains like Hallasan, and which can be explored through walking routes that encircle the island, is often the primary attraction for visitors. Visit Seongsan Sunrise Peak for breathtaking panoramas, or travel to the coast at Seopjikoji by its beach and lighthouse for the greatest views of the peak itself. Both locations provide excellent vantage points.

 

• Pyeongchang

Source: Pinterest

The province of Pyeongchang, which was home to the Winter Olympics in 2018, is an excellent place to go if you want to explore the mountains of Korea. Pyeongchang features a variety of exciting outdoor activities that allow visitors to make the most of the city’s breathtaking surroundings. During the winter, you will, of course, be able to choose from a wide variety of ski resorts, such as Alpensia and Yongpyong, where you can go skiing and snowboarding. 

In addition, the region is well-known for the Daegwallyeong Snow Festival, which takes place every year in February and features a variety of exciting snow activities such as snowman building contests and snow sledging. When the weather becomes warmer, Pyeongchang transforms into a fantastic location for going trekking, particularly on the paths that are located inside Odaesan National Park.

 

• Busan 

Source: Pinterest

Busan, a port city, is one of the finest places to visit in South Korea since it offers visitors an experience that is quite different from that of many of the other renowned metropolitan locations. The city of Busan is recognised for its numerous beautiful beaches, with Haeundae Beach and Gwangalli Beach being the two beaches that get the most attention from tourists. 

But there are also many places of cultural interest in Busan, such as the historic Beomeosa Temple and the Gamcheon Culture Village, which is becoming more well-known. Gamcheon Culture Village is a vibrant and colourful area that was once a slum in the city. The second facet of Busan that is worth discovering is the hiking routes that go through the adjacent mountains, including Geumjeongsan, which are known for their serene landscape.

• Jinhae

Source: Pinterest

While Japan is the most well-known place to witness cherry blossoms, places like Jinhae demonstrate that Korea is just as deserving of attention as its neighbour. The fact that Jinhae is not a very large town makes it all the more remarkable to see such large numbers at the annual Jinhae Gunhangje Festival. 

You only need to take one glance at the cherry blossom tunnels that grow over the Yeojwacheon Stream to understand why there are so many people who prefer to come and view them. Then there’s the charming Romance Bridge, which, although being a reference to a Korean television drama called Romance that aired in 2002, really lives up to its name with the stunning beauty that it offers at this particular time of year.

• Suwon

Source: Pinterest

The city of Suwon in South Korea is sometimes eclipsed by other locations in the country, such as Seoul and Gyeongju; yet, the city’s magnificent beauty makes it well worth a visit. Suwon is a city that has a history that dates back centuries, and the city is packed with enormous monuments that are guaranteed to amaze. The impressive Hwaseong Fortress, which is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is the most well-known location. 

Within its vast walls, you’ll find Haenggung Palace, Hwahongmun Gate, and Paldalmun Gate; each of these landmarks contributes in its own unique way to the unique character of this location. You may learn about the history of Samsung Electronics by paying a visit to the Samsung Innovation Museum in Suwon, which is the city’s claim to fame for being the origin of the global technology giant Samsung Electronics. Suwon also has a more contemporary side to it.

• Nami Island

Source: Pinterest

Nami Island is known for its beautiful foliage. The construction of the Cheongpyeong Dam in 1944 resulted in the isolating of this island, which has the form of a half moon and was previously connected to the mainland. Although it is feasible to go to Nami Island at any time of the year, the fall season is when the island’s gorgeous trees and winding forest pathways present their most breathtaking appearance. 

Since the island was used as a shooting site for the well-known television programme Winter Sonata, it has become an exceptionally popular domestic destination. In addition to that, Nami Island is built with children in mind. It has a miniature railway and playgrounds, in addition to a zipline for adults who are still kids at heart.

• Jeungdo Island 

Source: Pinterest

The laid-back island of Jeungdo, which is located off the coast of the country’s southwest, is home to many remarkable natural wonders. This modest island is chock full of surprises and is sometimes referred to as a “slow city” owing to its emphasis on ecological principles. 

To begin, there is the Taepyeong Salt Farm, which is known for having the most extensive salt fields in the whole nation. Then there are the tidal mud flats, which are characterised by their brightly coloured flora and can be explored employing a boardwalk in any season of the year. Other things to do on Jeungdo Island include unwinding on the island’s peaceful beaches and trying a variety of freshly caught seafood that is located just off the shore.

• Seoraksan National Park

Source: Pinterest

It is highly recommended that tourists visit the Seoraksan National Park to see some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the nation. This national park should not be missed since it is home to Daecheongbong, the third highest mountain peak in the country. It’s a world apart from the bustling cities that most tourists see for the first time when they arrive in the nation, with its towering ridges of granite and thickets of vegetation. 

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that hiking is the most popular activity in this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve because of its winding ridgelines and craggy peaks; in fact, it should come as no surprise at all. One of the most recognisable landmarks in Seoraksan is the so-called “Dinosaur Ridge,” also known as the Gongryong Ridge, which gets its name from the stone peaks that can be seen there.

• Naejangsan National Park

Source: Pinterest

Naejangsan National Park is another fantastic location to visit if you are interested in the natural side of South Korea. This national park is famous for the fall foliage, waterfalls, and several temples that can be found across its territory, which is centred on Naejangsan Mountain. 

Although the fall foliage at Naejangsan National Park is particularly beautiful, the park is open throughout the year and can be visited at any time. However, when the mountains are covered in snow during the winter, trekking on the park’s trails can be difficult. Further highlights include Deodeok Falls and Naejangsan Temple, which stands out owing to the lovely trees that lead up to it. 

• Dadohaehaesang National Park

Source: Pinterest

It should come as no surprise that Dadohaehaesang National Park is South Korea’s biggest national park since it encompasses approximately 1,700 separate islands along the southwestern coast of the Korean Peninsula. It might be difficult to determine where to begin when dealing with Dadohaehaesang National Park since it encompasses such a large landmass, in addition to the sea region that lies in between. 

Hondo, Heuksando, Geomundo, and Baekdo are often the islands that get the most number of visitors each year. You will be treated to breathtaking vistas that are strewn with islands, an abundance of animals both on land and in the sea, and picture-perfect beaches when you are here. 

• Darangee Village

Source: Pinterest

Visit the Darangee Village in the Namhae area to get a glimpse of the more peaceful side of life in the nation. This little town in Korea is home to a stunning hillside slope that is covered with more than one hundred rice terraces and looks out over the seashore that is located nearby. The landscape is breathtakingly gorgeous to look at and a photographer’s dream come true, as you can probably picture it to be already. You can fully appreciate this wonderful stretch of shoreline from every vantage point as the region around the settlement has both walking paths and panoramic vistas.

• Jeonju

Source: Pinterest

When searching for new areas to visit, it is frequently helpful to check out the destinations frequented by people from your own country. The explanation might be found in the fact that Jeonju is such a tiny city. Jeonju attracts a large number of domestic tourists in large part because of the significant contributions it has made to Korean cuisine, even though it is not very well recognised outside of Korea. 

After all, this is the city that is responsible for the creation of the traditional meal known as bibimbap. Then there is the contemporary culinary scene, which is a delight to explore since it features both street food and cafés. In addition, there are sites to see in Jeonju, such as the historical links to the Joseon Dynasty that are shown at Gyeonggijeon Palace and the traditional architecture that can be seen in the Jeonju Hanok Village.

• Boseong Green Tea Fields

Source: Pinterest

A trip to the breathtaking tea fields of Boseong is an excellent opportunity to see the Korean countryside. This can be done in conjunction with a tour of the Korean open country. Around forty per cent of all the tea that is produced in Korea comes from the Boseong region, which is known for its undulating tea plantation fields. 

Although spending time here gazing at the seemingly never-ending rows of tea leaves is a wonderful way to pass the time, guests may also indulge in a wide variety of delights flavoured with green tea, ranging from green tea ice cream to a green tea version of the traditional Korean meal bibimbap. If you visit the region during May, you could be able to take part in the green tea festival, while in the wintertime, the landscape will be adorned with little lights that will make you smile. 

• Daegu

Source: Pinterest

Daegu, the third biggest city in South Korea, has been recognised for a long time as a critical economic hub of the nation. However, the city often impresses tourists with its wide variety of attractions. This city in the southeast has a lot to offer its visitors, regardless of whether they are looking to relax, learn about culture, or experience history. 

The Donghwasa Temple and the Seonbosa Temple are two of the most important cultural sites in the area surrounding Palgongsan Mountain. There is also the surprise Gyesan Cathedral. The E-World amusement park and the Daegu Spa Valley are two examples of the city’s more lighthearted offerings, which are available if you find yourself in need of a respite from touring.

• Upo Wetlands 

Source: Pinterest

People have a tendency to associate South Korea primarily with its mountains; nevertheless, the Upo Wetlands demonstrate that there is a great deal more to the nation. The Changnyeong County Marshes are the biggest inland wetlands in Korea, encompassing 2.3 square kilometres (just under one square mile). This huge natural ecosystem is located in Changnyeong County. 

As a result of the marsh and swamp providing a home for around 1,500 distinct types of plants and animals, Upo is an excellent location for seeing migrating birds from all over the globe. A large number of people go through the Upo Wetlands by either walking or cycling along one of the many routes that are located throughout the region.

• Ggotji Beach

Source: Pinterest

This location on Jeju Island, which is one of the top places in South Korea, is not to be missed by anybody who has a passion for watching gorgeous sunsets. It is home to stunning volcanic landscapes, subterranean caverns, hiking routes, and picturesque beaches, and it is inscribed on the Unesco World Heritage List. It is also hailed as South Korea’s counterpart to Hawaii. Instagram users will find it to be pure gold. H Beachgoers, especially infants, find great pleasure in the soft, white sand.  

The sunsets you’ve seen in other places are nothing compared to the ones you’ll see here. Granny and Grandpa Rocks are two enormous rock formations located on the seashore and are recognised by their respective names. There is also a fascinating tale hiding behind each of the names. According to the tales, the wife of a commander from the Shilla Dynasty turned herself into a rock so that she could wait patiently for her husband. When the sun goes down between the two cliffs, the view is really breathtaking, and the sky takes on a brilliant orange hue. 

FAQs

What time zone does South Korea fall under?

South Korea is 3 and a half hours ahead of India.

When is the ideal time to go to South Korea for a vacation?

Korea has four different seasons, so spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) are the finest times to visit the country. Cherry blossoms and abundant sunlight are two things that tourists can look forward to experiencing throughout the springtime. The bulk of the most important celebrations take place in the fall when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most brilliant.

Is English widely used in South Korea?

As a second language, English is being taught in many schools. However, don't assume that every person you encounter will be able to communicate in English.

How is the transportation in South Korea?

Rail, bus, and ferry travel are just some of the options available within Korea's vast and well-developed public transit network. To utilise Seoul's public transit systems, passengers must have a T-Money card. One of the best ways to see the many regions is by train. A KORAIL pass can be bought in advance to make train travel more affordable.

What are the most important Korean festivals and events?

Festivities tend to take place in the early spring or late fall. Chilseok is the major Korean festival and falls on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month. Over a hundred traditional performances and activities are held during the Baekje Cultural Festival in October of each year. October is also the month when the Pusan International Film Festival is held.

Is tipping expected in South Korea?

Tipping is not required in South Korea but is appreciated.

What clothing should I bring to South Korea?

Summer is hot and humid, so bring lightweight clothes and a rain poncho or umbrella in case it rains. Spring and fall are temperate and sunny, so wear comfortable clothing and a light jacket. Winter temperatures are below freezing point, so wear appropriate winter gear.