Recommended 7 Best Tourist Attractions in South Korea

As a country rich in cultural, historical, and natural tourism, South Korea has many interesting tourist attractions. In addition to the obvious tourist attractions, including the large city of Seoul, the country offers wide open spaces that offer extraordinary natural beauty characterized by rock formations, green meadows and dense forests.

Overall, the country has a rich history, where various rulers and kingdoms have dominated throughout the ages. Their reign is still visible in the ruins and restored palaces scattered across the land. South Korea has an interesting cultural landscape to emulate; the country is rich with festivals, cultural events and delicious food.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Located in the heart of Seoul, Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the most iconic buildings in South Korea. This magnificent palace was completed in 1395. However, over the years, various rooms and other structures were added to this magnificent building.

The two museums within the palace walls include the Korea Museum and the National Palace Museum of Korea. There are still a number of ongoing restoration efforts aimed at restoring this magnificent building back to its former glory.

Namiseom Island

Namiseom Island, part of the greater Gapyeong region, is enveloped in beautiful natural scenery. It enjoys distinct seasons and is a very popular destination for domestic tourism. The half-moon island resulted from the creation of the Cheongpyeong Dam, which separates the mainland from the rest of the river.

The island is named after the famous general Nami who was buried here in the 17th century. Apart from the surreal scenery and historical references, the island is known for its delicious fried rice cakes.

Huwon Secret Garden

Changdeokgung Palace in Seoul was the main residence for a number of ruling kings and their royal families throughout history. It is one of the best-preserved palaces in South Korea today.

However, Huwon Secret Garden is one of the stars of this property. This large garden features a magnificent array of plants, trees, rivers, lotus ponds, pavilions and sitting areas. Some of the trees on this property are over 300 years old. The garden was named because it had an air of mystery about it; it was a place where no one except the royal family was allowed to enter without permission.

Hwaseong Fortress

This extraordinary fort is a living testament to Korea's unique history and military might. Built to surround the city of Suwan by King Jeongko between 1794 and 1796, it has since received many battle scars. King Jeongko built a fort in honor of his father, who was killed by his grandfather. The complex features an elaborate palace, nearly six kilometers long fortification walls, and various gate towers. Every fall, the Suwan Hwaseng Cultural Festival takes place; featuring re-enactments and other cultural events and exhibitions.

Hallasan National Park

Hallasan National Park is home to the highest mountain in South Korea: Mount Hallasan. Traditionally, Mount Hallasan is called Mount Yeongjusan, which means 'a mountain high enough to attract galaxies'. This park is located on Jeju Island, South Korea. There are walking trails suitable for every fitness level snaking around the area.

Even the climb to the top of Mont Hallasan is quite relaxing, and suitable for intermediate hikers. This mountain was once an active volcano; at its peak, you can find evidence in the form of an amazing crater lake.

Boseong Tea Garden

The beautiful green hills of Boseong Tea Garden are the only fields of their kind open in Korea, and only asked to be photographed. There are many walking trails and viewpoints where you can enjoy the beauty of the green gardens and watch the skilled workers pick the best tea leaves.

Tea is an integral part of Korean culture and you can experience the traditional Korean tea ceremony while here. This is a great way to learn about Korean culture and get a chance to taste fresh tea too. Before TravelInfo friends leave, don't forget to see the beautiful bamboo forest on the outskirts of the fields.