South Korea
Discover South Korea, where the intricately painted eaves of mountain temples meet the vibrant neon lights of Seoul. We’ve curated the finest routes to experience the rich history diverse culture, and stunning wilderness that this remarkable country has to offer.
When to visit
Each of South Korea's four seasons offers its charm, but spring and autumn truly steal the spotlight. Ideal conditions for hikers prevail during these months, with warm, dry spells and minimal rainfall. For cherry blossoms, plan your visit between mid-March and early April, as they bloom first in Jeju and gradually move north. In contrast, autumn foliage begins in the north in October and continues south into November, with Seoul peaking in colour during the last two weeks of October. Expect a significant temperature range, from winter lows of -20°C to summer highs in the 30s°C), with summer being the wettest season.
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Getting there & around
Korean Air (koreanair.com) and Asiana (flyasiana.com) are the only airlines offering direct flights from the UK to South Korea, departing from London Heathrow to Incheon International Airport, just 45 minutes by express train from Seoul. Round-trip flights start at around £800 and have a travel time of approximately 12.5. While the Korean Trains (KT;atrains.com) rail network is somewhat limited by the mountainous terrain, modern high-speed trains (KTX) can travel the length of the country in under three hours. Major cities like Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Daejeon, and Gwangju have metro systems, with Seoul being one of the most advanced and extensive globally, featuring 768 stations across the metropolitan area. The bus network is extensive as well, though some knowledge of Korean may be helpful in navigating the destinations.
A Heritage Journey
Immerse yourself in ancient temples, vibrant folk culture, and sacred shrines as you travel from the serene rural landscapes of South Korea to its bustling megacities.
Ideal for:
Architecture, history, treasures, crafts and heritage
Reasons to visit:
Explore South Korea's cultural treasures, from Joseon palaces to Buddhist temples, across a range of stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Route: Gyeongju; Andong; Seoul; Suwon; Jeju Islan
Gyeongju, the former capital of the Silla Kingdom (57 BC–935 AD), is a captivating city steeped in ancient charm. The landscape is dotted with burial mounds, the resting places of Silla royalty. Visit Tumuli Park to see 23 of these tombs and discover artefacts at the Gyeongju National Museum. Nearby, the historic Donggung Palace beside Wolji Pond a beautiful sunset view, while the seventh-century Cheomseongdae,’s oldest observatory, showcases an impressive understanding of astronomy. Together, these landmarks form a UNESCO World Heritage site, and further south, Bulguksa Temple invites visitors to admire its restored Silla-era architecture. From Gyeongju, take a bus north to Andong, known as Korea’s spiritual capital, where Confucian traditions persist in the form of traditional hanok homes. Visit the Municipal Folk Museum Andong Folk Village, but don't miss the UNESCO-listed Hahoe Folk Village, which provides a glimpse into Joseon-era life within a living community. Next, board a direct train from Gwangju to Seoul, where half of the country's population resides. South Korea’s historical explorations often begin here, with UNESCO sites like the Jongmyo Shrine showcasing ancestral tablets of the 27 Joseon kings. Attend the Jongmyo jerye on the first Sunday in May for a unique cultural experience of music and dance honouring royal ancestors. Among the city's five royal palaces, Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung lie to the north, while Gyeongbokgung is further west. Seoul’s National Museum of Korea displays many of the country's 354 National Treasures, with the National Palace Museum located on Gyeongbokgung's grounds. Two UNESCO-listed fortresses south of Seoul recount the challenges posed by late 16th-century Japanese invasions. Namhansanseong served as an emergency fortress for besieged Joseon monarchs, while Suwon is encircled by the impressive Hwaseong Fortress, originally intended for a new capital that never materialized. On Jeju Island, a unique culture flourishes within its biosphere reserve, renowned for its lava tubes. Discover the Haenyeo, female divers recognized by UNESCO for their traditional free-diving practices, at the Jeju Haenyeo Museum.
Top three experiences
1. Discover a historic temple and grotto near Gyeongju
Bulguksa Temple is set amidst the forests southeast of Gyeongju, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Its stone pagodas and gilt Buddha statues rank among South Korea's most extraordinary, recognized as National Treasures. Originally constructed in 528 AD, the current structure, featuring a picturesque stone staircase and bridges, was built on the hillside several centuries later. Around the same period, the nearby Seokguram Grotto was artfully carved into the mountainside, displaying stunning granite Buddha sculptures. These UNESCO-listed sites together exemplify some of the best-preserved examples of Silla architecture, with the temple playing a vital role in Jogye Buddhism in South Korea. Notable attractions include the nine-pillared Museoljeon hall, the 10.4-meter-tall Dabotap pagoda, and the guardian deities that embellish the temple grounds.
2. Wander the Korea of yesteryear at Hahoe Folk Village
Hahoe Folk Village is not only a glorious showcase for Joseon-era architecture, which unravels all around you as you wander its quiet lanes, it is also a living community of people. Unlike other folk villages, which tend to be purposely preserved or restored, Hahoe has naturally remained unchanged over the last century, earning it World Heritage status alongside the village of Yangdong.
Hahoe belonged to the Ryu clan for six centuries, a noble lineage that produced notable Confucian scholars and a prime minister during the Joseon era. Among its 124 houses, you can see simple thatched-roof peasant homes as well as wood-framed yangban mansions, with their fish-scale or ribbed tile roofs. At the heart of the village stands a 650-year-old elm tree, said to be inhabited by a goddess, onto which visitors pin scraps of paper bearing their deepest wishes.
Don’t miss the village’s Hahoe Byeolsingut Tallori mask dance. Part ritualised drama, part slapstick comedy, performances are held on weekend afternoons at the amphitheatre. Also look out for the Seonyu Julbul Nori fire festival, which takes place one night a year, usually in October.
3. Visit Seoul's royal palaces
Seoul became the capital of Korea at the beginning of the Joseon dynasty's 500-year rule, resulting in an abundance of imperial palaces. Among them, Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, constructed in the early 15th century, are the oldest. Situated just a kilometer apart in the northern part of the city, Changdeokgung was particularly favored by the Joseon kings and remains the best preserved, showcasing lavishly decorated throne rooms and living quarters. Its grounds also house Changgyeonggung Palace, originally built for King Taejong by his son, King Sejong, in 1418. The grandeur of the palaces is reflected in their lush surroundings, with Changdeokgung boasting around 26, trees, many of which are located in the Biwon (Secret Garden), featuring charming bridges and octagonal pavilions. After touring the palaces, take the time to wander through the Bukchangdong and Samcheongdong districts, where you can find remnants of traditional hanok houses, now transformed into delightful restaurants and boutiques.
Into the Woods
Breathe in the earthy scent of South Korea’s forest-covered mountain and the salty breeze of the coastline.
Best for:
Mountain trails, seasonal festivals, forest-temple stays, wildlife and coastal island parks
Why go:
Thrilling hikes along well-trodden and maintained trails are the best way to experience Korea’s lively seasonal landscapes and mountain temples
Route:
Jirisan; Changwon; Seoraksan NP; Bukhansan NP; Suncheon Bay Nature Reserve; Pyeongchang
While 70% of South Korea is mountainous, these peaks are not the ice-covered granite formations of the Himalayas. Instead, they are mostly enveloped by dense forests, with about two-thirds of the country dominated by deciduous trees. Jirisan, at 1,915m, stands as the highest mountain on the mainland, characterized by its lush environment, while Hallasan, a shield volcano on Jeju Island, is slightly taller at 1,947m and often hosts wild deer in its sub-alpine forests leading to the crater lake.
Given the challenging landscape, hiking is a serious pursuit for Koreans, with many joining walking clubs and equipping themselves with the necessary gear. The Jirisan Ridge Trail (45km) is a classic dulle-gil (mountain trail), but the 688km Baekdu-Daegan trail is the ultimate example, stretching from Samcheong near Jirisan in the south to the North Korean border. These mountains are so revered that pungsu-jiri, a local version of feng sh, suggests that the nation’s energy radiates from this mountain range.
Spring and autumn transform South Korea into a vibrant spectacle. Planning your visit around one of its nature festivals will enhance your experience. Cherry blossoms fill the forests with pink hues, especially during the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival in Changwon, while the Gangneung Danoje in May features shamanistic dancing and lively rituals.
In autumn, the mountains burst into shades of orange and red. Seoraksan National Park, like Jirisan, offers trails for all skill levels, including the scenic Biryongpo Waterfall Trail and the more demanding Ulsanbawi Rock Trail. The path to Sinheungsa, one of many mountain temples (sansa) in South Korea, is easier. Notable temples the eighth-century Beopjusa and Haeinsa, where visitors can stay overnight.
Though South Korea’s national parks can be challenging to reach without a car,ukhansan National Park offers accessible day hikes from Seoul. The trek to the smooth rock formations of Dobongsan rewards hikers with stunning views of the expansive capital.
Surrounded by ocean on three sides, South Korea boasts a 2413km rugged coastline filled with traditional fishing villages where squid is dried in the sea breeze. The southern coast is particularly untamed, with the mainland giving way to numerous islands. Ferries from Mokpo can take you to Hongdo, a remote island within Dadohaehaesang National Park.
The long cold winters of South Korea made it an ideal location for the2018 Winter Olympics, showcasing the trails and slopes of the Taebaek Mountains near Pyeong. Seonjaryeong in Gangwon-do is a winter hiking haven, offering ample opportunities for snowshoeing along pristine, snow-covered trails.
1. Hike to the summit of Hallasan volcano
Mount Halla (with the suffix -san meaning "ain" in Korean) is the centrepiece of Jeju Island. Some might say that this volcano defines the island due to its geological significance. Hallasan is not only the tallest peak in South Korea, but it also offers a tremendous vertical climb starting from sea level. Various trails to the summit cater to different skill levels: the north and south routes are more challenging, while the well-maintained east slope hike is the easiest. The ideal time for this hike is in May, when the lower slopes are adorned with blooming azalea fields in pink. Another popular option is the Jeju Olle Trail, a 437km loop around the island divided into 21 main routes along with smaller spurs like Route 10-1, which a straightforward 2.2km trek on picturesque Gapa Island.
2. Multi-day hiking along the Jirisan Ridge Trail
According to ancient stories, people once journeyed to Jirisan in search of truth, living as hermits on its slopes. When it became South Korea’s first national park in 1967, visitors began coming for its hiking trails, although the area still holds a significant place in local legends. The challenging 45km Jirisan Ridge Trail, taking three to four days to complete, reaches the peaks of the Sobaek Range, with several mountains exceeding 1,700m. The of hiking here lies in its diverse wildlife, including frequent sightings of elk and deer, and it is also home to the nation’s only wild population of Asiatic black bears, thanks to a successful reintroduction program. During this and other multi-hikes in Korea’s national parks, hikers can spend the night in a despise, a basic mountain shelter that requires advance booking (blankets are typically available for rent). Some shelters, like Byeoksoryeong Shelter, which is ideal for your first night on Jirisan Ridge Trail, can accommodate over 100 guests.
3. Unwind with a Haeinsa temple stay
Many travellers venture into South Korea's forests to find peace of mind amidst nature. A stay at Haeinsa, located an hour from Daegu by bus, offers a serene escape from urban life, nestled in the picturesque Gayasan National Park However, be sure to plan, as accommodations are typically available only on select nights throughout the year. During your stay, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy traditional Korean temple cuisine, part of a sustainable, organic food movement that dates back 1,700 years. The highlight of the experience is the Janggyeong Panjeon, housing the Tripitaka Koreana, the most comprehensive collection of Buddhist texts in Hanja script. This remarkable collection, carved onto around 81,000 wooden blocks in the 13th century, has withstood the test of time, surviving numerous fires.
From Hanbok to Hallyu
Ride the wave of Korean culture, from past traditions to modern-day music and film
1. Take in the view from N Seoul Tower
N Seoul Tower is a significant national landmark featured in numerous Korean dramas and films. It sits atop Namsan Mountain (meaning South Mountain; 243m), which is located in the capital and surrounded by lush parkland that includes remnants of the old city wall. You can take a cable car from Myeongdong, the vibrant commercial district known for Hallyu and the Star Avenue tunnel, a local version of Hollywood's Walk of Fame showcasing signed celebrity handprints. The tower nearly doubles the height of the mountain, offering stunning views of Seoul from its observation deck. Here, you can gaze at the mountains framing the city to the north and the expansive Han River to the south. If you're in need of a snack after your exploration, consider stopping by Korea House, a traditional restaurant located in a historic building just outside Namsangol Hanok Village.
2. Get a taste of the Korean countryside on Nami Island
To explore the stunning nature reserve of Nami Islandalso known as Namiseom), take a train from Seoul to Gapyeong, near Chuncheon, and then to the wharf for a ferry ride – the island is man-made and situated in the heart of the Han River Your ticket serves as a playful "visa" to the ‘Republic of Naminara’, as the island embraces its identity as a cultural micronation. For the more adventurous, consider arriving vialine, soaring over the riverside for nearly a kilometerOn Nami Island, the lack of traffic allows nature to flourish. Tree-lined paths are adorned with ginkgo that bloom pink in spring and turn golden in. This serene beauty has made it a popular filming location, with signs highlighting spots from the famous K-dr Winter Sonata. Just north of Nami lies Jade Garden, another filming site for numerous K-dramas and movies, including That Winter, the Wind Blows. Chuncheon also serves as the gateway to Korea's lake district, featuring a series of reservoirs formed by dams along the North Han River.
3. Explore South Korea's Second City
During the fighting phase of the Korean War (1950–53), Busan became the de facto capital of the south. Today it exhibits much of the same modern spirit as Seoul but enjoys a distinct character defined by its links to the sea. You can even see this in the city’s cultural scene – whether in the stone bridges and lantern-strung courtyards of Haedong Yonggungsa temple on the headland or in the National Maritime Museum. Many come just to see Jagalchi Fish Market, the most-visited market in the country, or style it out on the city’s beaches, which have been featured in countless films. Even the train journey to Busan from Seoul spawned its zombie-horror movie franchise. Inland, forest-clad mountains give way to artistic communities such as Huinnyeoul and Gamcheon culture villages, where brightly painted homes and murals have transformed these formerly rundown areas. Don’t forget to unwind at one of Busan’s legendary spas, set over multiple floors, including SPA LAND Centum City and Heosimcheong Spa.
Overlooked cities and wild frontiers
Discover the sides of South Korea that most visitors miss, from rolling tea plantations to groundbreaking museums, plus the wilder stretches of the Korean Demilitarised Zone
Gwangju serves as an excellent example, featuring a National Museum that showcases vital aspects of South Korea's history through its collection of Joseon dynasty scroll paintings and Ne artifacts. If you're a kimchi enthusiast, plan a in early autumn for the annual Kimchi Festival, where you can enjoy numerous cooking classes and sample a wide variety of South Korea's beloved dish.
Next, catch a bus north to Jeonju a UNESCO City of Gastronomy that celebrates Korean cultural traditions. Visit the Hanji Museum see how traditional Korean paper is crafted, and explore woodworking and ceramics at the Korea Traditional Culture Center. For a contemporary twist, check out the creative exhibits at the Factory of Contemporary Arts.
, take a train to Daejeon, often referred to as Korea’s Silicon Valley. This city which once flourished due to its rail connections, is now recognized as the ‘Science City,’ featuring attractions like the National Science Museum and the innovative structures at Daejeon Expo Science Park. Don't miss the Daejeon Museum of Art, home to one of the country’s premier contemporary art, including Nam June Paik’s interpretation of a ‘turtle ship’ made entirely of video screens.
From Daejeon cross-country trains can take you east to Daegu, South Korea’s fourth city, showcasing the contrast between traditional rural values and modern urban life. Here, you explore Yakjeon Alley and the Museum of Oriental Medicine, which into traditional medicine's aromatic ingredients, while the nightlife around Seomun Shijang, a traditional market, offers a taste of contemporary excitement.
Finally, conclude your journey in Yanggu, easily accessible from Seoul and renowned for its stunning autumn foliage. Located just a few kilometers south of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), this, mountainous area was the site of some of the Korean War's fiercest battles, and visitors can now delve into this history through enlightening tours and treks.
1. A day trip from Gwangju
There are numerous green spaces to discover around Gwangju. Notably, Mudeungsan, a mountain with picturesque trails, provides stunning views of the city and its beautiful countryside. the north-east, Damyang is known as the heart of bamboo cultivation in the country. The Bamboo Museum showcases the diverse uses of bamboo, while the impressive bamboo forest nearby offers fantastic photography opportunities. Heading south, you can visit the Boseong tea fields, where lush tea bushes gracefully line the hills; the Green Tea Festival is typically held in May. To the east, you'll find Soswaewon Garden, a serene oasis dating back to the Joseon era.
2. Visit a stretch of the DMZ
The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) stands as a significant reminder of unresolved history. Spanning approximately 4km, this military area divides two distinct nations once unified until the aftermath of World War II, when the north fell to Soviet forces and the south to American troops. In the town, you'll find the Yanggu War Memorial Hall, dedicated to those who served in the Korean War. Head north to discover The Fourth Tunnel, excavated by the North Korean Army beneath the DMZ, and the Eulji Observatory, which offers views into the Hermit Kingdom. For breathtaking scenery, hike along the73km DMZ Punch Bowl Trail, which winds through mountains named after the intense battles there.
