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South Korea is an interesting and unusual country, and visiting it will remain in your memory for a long time. It is rare to find such a harmonious combination of modern technology, ancient heritage and preserved wildlife. You can have a long vacation in Korea, and you won’t be bored. Many people do not even consider it necessary to leave Seoul — it is so multifaceted and rich in attractions. But there is also something to see in other cities and provinces. We have compiled the top attractions of South Korea with photos, names and descriptions. Study it before your trip, and you’ll know exactly what you can’t miss during your vacation.

Ancient buildings
There are hundreds of ancient buildings in Korea. Many of them were built in the early Middle Ages during the time of the Korean states of Goguryeo, Baekje and Silla. Others were in the XV—XVI centuries and later during the second Joseon Dynasty. Let’s list the most interesting palaces, temples, fortresses and other structures.
The Five Great Palaces of the Joseon Dynasty
There are many palaces in Seoul, but the most famous are the five complexes of the Joseon royal dynasty. This dynasty ruled Korea from 1392 to 1897, and many of its palaces were built more than 500 years ago. Wooden structures have suffered from fires and been rebuilt more than once, but they are still beautiful and interesting.
Gyeongbokgung, also known as the Northern Palace, is located in the northern part of Seoul. It was built at the end of the 14th century, almost as soon as power passed to the Joseon dynasty. During the same period, Seoul became the capital of the state. In the 16th century, the complex was largely destroyed in the war with the Japanese, later rebuilt, and demolished again in 1911. Some buildings of the 19th century survived during the annexation of Korea by Japan and later during the Korean War, they have survived to the present day. Gyeongbokgung is now a complex with museums in historical buildings and a beautiful park. The changing of the guard ceremony takes place here twice a day. The lake in the park is covered with blooming lotuses in July.
Although Gyeongbokgung is the largest and most famous of the five palaces of the Joseon dynasty, you should not limit yourself to it alone. The remaining four are also interesting and are among the main attractions of Korea.
- Changdeokgung. This palace served as the summer residence of the ruling family, and it is the only one that has retained its original appearance. Although it was rebuilt several times, each time the craftsmen repeated the architecture of the early 15th century. In addition to the halls and pavilions, the Huwon Garden with a central pond and 300-year-old trees has become the pride of the complex. Tours to Changdeokgung are conducted not only during the day, but also after sunset.
- Gyeongkhigun. This palace has another name, Sogwol, which means “Western Palace.” It was built in the 17th century and is now one of the most beautiful palace complexes in Korea. Initially, it included about 100 buildings, at the end of the 20th century, about 30% of them were restored. One of the buildings is occupied by a hotel, while the Seoul Historical Museum operates in the other. The entire territory is a garden and park area suitable for walking.
- Changgyeonggung. The fourth monarch of the Joseon dynasty, Sejong the Great, built Changgyonggong Palace for his father. At the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, the Japanese authorities largely destroyed the complex in order to build a large amusement park with a botanical garden and a zoo in its place. At the end of the 20th century, the zoo was closed, and the palace buildings were restored and renovated. As in other palaces, there is a large beautiful pond on the territory of Changgyonggong, and a botanical garden has been preserved behind it. This complex often becomes a venue for concerts, festivals and theatrical performances.
- Toksugun. The palace was built later than others, at the end of the XVI century. It was not intended for the monarch, but for his brother, and therefore was not the largest. But during the Japanese invasion at the end of the 16th century, other palaces were destroyed, and Toksugun became the main residence of the royal family. Now the palace complex has 12 buildings. Of these, two buildings stand out, built at the beginning of the last century in the style of European neoclassicism. They have museums with works of art and palace treasures. A changing of the guard ceremony takes place at the Toksugun Gate twice a day, and in the evenings it is illuminated.

Haedong Yongsa Temple
Located on a rocky seashore, the Buddhist temple was built in the 14th century and rebuilt after being destroyed by the Japanese in the 1930s. It is an important tourist destination in South Korea and one of the symbols of Busan city. It is worth going here to admire the beautiful views from the outside and the Buddhist statues inside, and at the same time to pray for good luck and fulfillment of desires. There are stalls with delicious street food and ice cream around and on the territory of the temple, and you can have a snack in the cafe. Yonggunsa’s Hedong is especially beautiful during the celebration of Buddha’s Birthday, when the grounds are decorated with paper lanterns. Cherry blossoms bloom here in late March and early April.
Temple of Pomosa
Another famous Busan temple is one of the largest and oldest in Korea. It is a monastery complex founded in 678, but almost completely destroyed during the Japanese invasion at the end of the 16th century. Later, it was gradually restored and completed, now the oldest buildings date back to the 17th century, there is one three-story pagoda of the 9th century.
Pomosa Temple is located at the top of Busan’s highest mountain, Geumjongsan. A lot of wild wisteria grows around it, which in May is covered with bright lavender flowers.
Pulgux Temple
Not far from the city of Gyeongju there is a temple, which is one of the main attractions of South Korea. This is the heritage of Silla, protected by UNESCO. The foundation date of the temple is considered to be 528. During the war with Japan between 1592 and 1598, all the wooden structures burned down, but the stone ones survived. For example, there are two stone pagodas, presumably built in 751. They symbolize Yin and Yang or heaven and earth, and therefore are noticeably different. Sokkathap Pagoda has a simple design with almost no decoration. The Tabothap Pagoda, on the other hand, is decorated with intricate ornaments in a unique sculptural technique for its time. The main hall of the temple dates back to 1765.
In 1966, the oldest printed book in the world was found on the territory of the Pulgux complex. It was printed on Japanese paper using wooden molds found here in the early or mid-8th century.

Cheomseongdae Observatory
Asia’s oldest astrological observatory was built in the first half of the 7th century during the time of the Kingdom of Silla. This is not a very large structure: its height is less than 10 m. But all the elements of the observatory are filled with symbolic meaning: the 12 stones at the base represent the number of months in the year or the signs of the zodiac, and the four sides of the platform in which these stones are stacked represent the seasons and cardinal directions. There are 362 granite blocks in the cylindrical structure, according to the number of days of the lunar year. The base of the tower is twice as large as its top, and the viewing window divides it exactly in half. The combination of round and square shapes symbolizes heaven and earth.
One of the oldest scientific sites in the world was used for astronomical research. For example, the days of the equinoxes and solstices were determined here. But astronomy in those days was not yet separated from astrology, so stargazing was also used for predictions.
Hwaseong Fortress
What else can lovers of ancient architecture visit in South Korea? 30 km from Seoul, there is the city of Suwon, which is home to one of the most famous Korean fortresses. It was built by the Joseon dynasty in the 18th century, and has been restored to its original appearance in modern times. Three of the four fortress walls have been preserved, with a height of 4-6 m and a total length of 5.7 km. The fortress has gates on each side of the world, observation and guard towers, bastions, and command posts. It will take hours to inspect everything. For those who do not want to walk a lot, the Hwaseong themed train runs — from it you can see various sights of the fortress. If desired, you can even go on a hot air balloon flight over the fortress.

Natural attractions
The nature of Korea is beautiful and diverse. Koreans are very sensitive to its preservation. About 70% of the country’s territory is occupied by mountains — the kingdom of rocks, animals and plants. 22 national parks have been created to protect them, and there are even more provincial parks. There are also wild islands, and even cities have large gardens and park areas. Here are just a few of the most beautiful places in South Korea.
Pukhansan National Park
A 45-minute drive from Seoul, there are not very high, but picturesque mountain ranges. In the 1980s, they were turned into a national park along with the adjacent forest. Due to its proximity to the capital, Pukhansan can be quite crowded, especially on weekends. More than 5 million nature lovers come here every year. There are many routes of varying length and complexity on the territory. The ascent to the highest peak of the park, Bagundae Peak (836.5 m), is especially popular. The ascent takes about 4 hours, and there is an observation deck at the top with magnificent views of Seoul and its surroundings.
There are many gorges, streams and waterfalls in Pukhansan. There are also about 100 Buddhist temples here. Maple trees grow everywhere in this area, which turn bright in autumn. The landscapes are no less beautiful in spring during flowering.
Soraksan National Park
If you are ready to get away from the capital in search of beautiful nature, go to the coast in the northeastern part of the country. It is home to the Soraksan National Park, which has become the hallmark of South Korea. It is almost 400 thousand square kilometers with mountain peaks, gorges, dense forests and waterfalls. There are more than just natural attractions in the park. Here you can see ancient temples of the Silla era, statues of Buddha, ruins of an ancient fortress.
The territory of Soraksan is divided into three unrelated parts. The most popular one is the eastern one, closest to the sea. There are many hotels, private houses for rent, shops, restaurants and even karaoke. The western part is the most remote from civilization. The southern part is famous for its mineral springs.

Namisom Island
Another interesting place for tourists in South Korea is the crescent—shaped island on the North Han River. It was formed after the construction of the dam in 1944 and eventually turned into an amusement park. You can also come here with children, for whom play areas are provided. The island has beautiful nature with majestic redwoods, pines and ginkgo trees, among which stray deer, chipmunks and numerous birds live. There are also many art objects here, and exhibitions of paintings and photographs are often held. Thrill seekers will love the 940 m long zipline.
In 2002, the filming of the South Korean television series Winter Sonata took place on the island. The show was a success and attracted even more tourists from different countries to Namisom.
Jeju Island
Jeju Island is the largest island in South Korea. It is home to the highest point of the country, the extinct volcano Hallasan. Its height is 1947 m. Since 2007, the island’s nature with a subtropical monsoon climate has been protected by UNESCO.
Jeju is famous for its sandy beaches, bizarre rock formations, craters of old volcanoes, groves and waterfalls. For example, there is the Chongjeon Falls Park with three picturesque waterfalls and a beautiful bridge over the gorge. Another waterfall, Chongban, flows directly into the sea. Its height reaches 23 meters. Also on the island is the Manzhangul Cave, a huge black tunnel with bats and stalactites. The cave stretches for many kilometers, but there is a 1 km long illuminated area for tourists.

Markets and shopping districts
The list of places to visit in Korea will be incomplete without large urban markets. They attract both locals and numerous tourists. You can go shopping at the market, and also get acquainted with the local cuisine. Every seaside town has a fish market, where freshly caught seafood is immediately prepared. It is worth trying local sweets from the products, you can bring good tea home. Korean cosmetics, pearl jewelry, and traditional lanterns are popular among inedible souvenirs.
Namdaemun Market
One of the oldest markets in Korea is located next to the main south gate of the old city in Seoul. It has been operating since 1414. Now it occupies many blocks with more than 5,000 stores. Namdaemun is famous for its excellent street food. Since it also works at night, many people come here to have dinner. Here you can try dishes with noodles, meat, rice, and there is a separate alley for fish dishes. In addition to food, you can buy inexpensive clothes, accessories, handmade handicrafts and much more. You can spend several hours or even a whole day at the market. This is one of the best places to buy souvenirs and gifts.
Myeongdong Quarter
Another place in South Korea that a shopping enthusiast should visit is Myeongdong Street, which attracts up to two million people every day. It sells clothes for every taste: a global mass market, inexpensive Chinese items, and products by local designers. Famous Korean cosmetics are also sold here in abundance, and many products can be tested before purchase. And, of course, Myeongdong offers a variety of street food – fried dumplings, sushi rolls, octopus tentacles, homemade sausages, and more. Ice cream balls in waffle cones have become one of the symbols of the market.

Norianjing Fish Market
The capital’s fish Market is located near Seoul Railway Station, in a large 8-storey building with escalators. The lower floors sell all kinds of seafood, from live fish in aquariums to giant crabs, algae, and ready-to-cook steaks. The upper floors are occupied by restaurants, where the fish you bought will be quickly cooked in any way. Noryangjing Market is open around the clock seven days a week, and it gets especially crowded in the evenings and at night. In the evening, residents and guests of Seoul come here to have dinner and chat with friends. Seafood wholesale auctions are held at night.
Chagalchi Fish Market
The seafood market in Busan is considered the largest in the country and one of the largest in all of Asia. It appeared in this place in the 19th century and greatly increased after 1945, when many residents of the northern Korean regions moved to Busan. At some point, the market grew so much that there were problems with the city administration. To protect their interests, fish and seafood traders founded a trade union. As a result, the problem was solved by the construction of a large three-storey building capable of accommodating everyone.
In 2006, the building was rebuilt, now it has 7 above-ground floors and 3 underground with parking. And the market has become a place not only for buying fish, but also for recreation and entertainment. Fresh and even live fish are sold on the ground floor and on street stalls. On the second floor you can buy dried and pickled fish, and numerous eateries offer sashimi and other ready-made fish dishes. If you want something more refined, there are fish restaurants on the fifth and sixth floors.

Colorful settlements
Some of the most interesting places for tourists in South Korea are villages that have preserved their ancient architecture and traditional way of life. Once in one of them, you can get an idea of how people lived during the Joseon dynasty. One of the most famous is the village of Hahwe, founded in the 16th century. It was built in accordance with the principles of Korean feng shui and resembles a lotus flower. Interestingly, the village was founded by one Ryu clan from Phunsan, and even now, representatives of this clan account for 70% of the population.
The buildings in the old architectural styles, which were lost in the cities due to rapid modernization, have been preserved in Hahwa. You can also see ancient rituals such as masked dance performances here. Another attraction is a 650—year-old tree, a local variety of elm. The village attracts about a million tourists a year, and in 1999, the British Queen Elizabeth II even visited here. In Hahoe, you can attend a mat weaving workshop and learn calligraphy. People usually come here on a day trip, but you can stay overnight in one of the traditional houses.
Hahoe is not the only village worth visiting in South Korea. Here are a few more places to go.:
- Minseokcheon. A folklore village where you can get an idea of the life of Koreans in the late Joseon Dynasty. Farmhouses, a school, a blacksmith shop, rooms for drying herbs and an aristocrat’s mansion have been preserved here. There is also an exhibition center, an outdoor cinema, and restaurants. Traditional games are held on public holidays.
- Bukchon village. This village is easily accessible, it is an area in the center of Seoul. Here, too, you can get acquainted with traditional Korea. Old stone houses have been preserved on the narrow streets, which now house restaurants, cultural centers and mini-hotels.
- Kamcheon Cultural Village. This settlement in the suburbs of Busan was first inhabited by dockworkers, and during the Korean War, refugees joined them. For decades, these were slums with a maze of narrow streets and houses huddled close together. In 2009, professional artists and students from Busan, with the support of the Ministry of Culture, transformed this place. They created many art installations on the streets, and all the houses were painted in bright colors. Now it is a great place for walking with numerous cafes, galleries and photo spots.

Modern attractions
Many of the best places in South Korea have appeared relatively recently, as the country is rapidly developing. Incredible amusement parks, bridges, museums and other interesting objects are being built here. To name just a few of them:
- Lotte World Amusement Park. The huge entertainment complex is not to be missed if you are traveling with children. There are roller coasters and many other attractions, music and theater shows, an ice rink, a cinema, an aquarium, a shooting range, a shopping center, restaurants and much more. There is also a hotel if you want to stay in the Korean version of Disneyland for a few days.
- Everland Amusement Park. Korea’s largest theme park was opened in 1976. In addition to all kinds of attractions for all ages, there are many gardens where you can safely walk and admire nature. Various festivals are often organized — on the occasion of cherry blossoms, tulips or roses, on Halloween or during the holidays. The park is very beautiful after sunset, and in the evening, if the weather is good, you can see fireworks.
- Olympic Park. After the 1988 Summer Olympics, Seoul was left with a park, the largest in the capital. It is located in a hilly area, so walking on its territory helps to maintain good physical fitness. The park has museums and art galleries, a zoo, a musical fountain, bicycle rental, and many cafes and restaurants. There are about 200 sculptures scattered throughout the territory, some of them are several meters high.
- Banpo Bridge, or “Rainbow Fountain”. Light and music fountains can be seen in parks and squares around the world, while light and music bridges are much rarer. Seoul has the longest of them. It was once quite a traditional bridge over the Khan River. Then another tier was built on top of it, and LED lights, pumps and injectors were installed on both sides of it. Since 2009, an installation with water jets has been operating, which are thrown 20 m high and more than 40 m away from the bridge to the beat of the music. The show lasts for 20 minutes and is held several times a day in good weather.
- Lium Art Gallery. What places in South Korea can art lovers visit? It’s a good idea to visit the Lium Gallery, which occupies two spacious buildings. One of them contains antiquities: Buddhist art, ceramics, painting and calligraphy. In the second one, you can get acquainted with Korean and foreign art of the XX-XXI centuries: painting, sculpture, installations.
- Seoul TV tower. The first TV tower in Korea was built in 1971, its height is 236 m. It is located on the top of Namsan Mountain in the city center. You can climb to the tower on foot, by funicular or by cable car. The area next to the TV tower is decorated in a romantic style, it is a popular place for dating. Inside there is an observation deck with incredible views of Seoul, several panoramic cafes and restaurants, museums and souvenir shops.

You can come to South Korea to see interesting sights in any season. The weather is most favorable in spring and autumn, and nature becomes especially picturesque during these months. It can be hot and humid in summer, but many festivals and holidays are held at this time, and it is convenient to combine sightseeing holidays with beach holidays. Ski resorts are open in winter, and if you wish, you can go to a strawberry farm and enjoy ripe berries. The harvest is harvested throughout the winter months.
An experienced guide will help you make a top list of places in South Korea that are interesting to you and visit them at a convenient pace. You can find it on our website. Choose a suitable tour on the Guides Club and book it online!