Seven Reasons to Visit South Korea

Thursday, July 6, 2023

South Koreainfo-icon is a popular holiday destination. So, if you are wondering where to take your next vacation, bump this one to the top of the list. Many tourists visit south Korea on a regular basis after their first exciting trip as there is an endless array of things to do and see. Here are some reasons you should travel to South Korea. 

1. The Architecture

The capital of South Korea is the city of Seoul, an immense metropolis. It has stunning examples of modern architecture that rely heavily on engineering, such as Ewha Women’s University and the Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a symphony of abstract work. Seoul also showcases a more historical and cultural architecture. For example, the traditional settlement of Bukchon Hanok Village with its charming pointed rooves displays how homes were made in the past. You can also enjoy the seventh century designs of the city of Gyeongju’s observation towers, the Woljeong Bridge that lights up at night, and tomb hills set in place in honour of kings.

2. South Korean Cuisine

While you may have dined on south Korean cuisine at home, nothing is as authentic as eating it in its original setting. A South Korean barbecue involves socialising with your travel companions while the food is grilled at your table. This whets the appetite as you wait to be served. 

The staple diet in South Korea includes tteokbokki rice cakes and kimchi. The latter are fermented vegetables. An unusual but tasty staple is bibimbap. This is made from rice, seaweed, and mixed greens, served with a topping of egg. South Korea is also famous for its kimchi noodle soup and soymilk noodle soup, which are cold dishes.

3. Perfect for Nature Lovers

The ultimate nature lover’s treat is a visit to Bukhansan National Park. It boasts magnificent peaks, forest ranges, and many temples. The park is situated close to the capital city of Seoul.

If you want to see an entirely different panorama, be sure to make a trip to the Taeanhaean National Park. It lies on the west coast with views of beautiful beaches and entrancing hiking trails. The animal life is plentiful with over 1, 200 different species to see.

All-in-all, South Korea offers the visitor a choice between 22 national parks. This makes it perfect for nature lovers. It also offers plenty for you to do.

4. The Nightlife in South Korea

If your idea of fun is to party until sunrise, you will definitely enjoy the Hongdae district. Situated in Seoul, you have a huge choice of bars and underground clubs to dance the night away. Daegu offers a similar nightlife but also caters to classical music lovers at the Daegu Opera House. Finally, Busan has numerous night clubs, pubs, and dining options with views over the city. Alternatively, you can attend a concert at The Grand Theatre.

5. Active City Life

It is not only at the nightlife that South Korea excels. Contrasting with its abundance of nature venues, city life is always happening. The capital, Seoul, has so much to feast the eyes on with its stunning architecture and historical sites. Gyeongbokgung Palace (one of several) is the place to be to witness the changing of the guards. Or view the city of Seoul from the observation deck of the North Seoul Tower.

Busan is also a very popular city. It has magnificent beaches, and you can get freshly caught fish at its seafood market. Gamcheon Cultural Village is a must-see with its multi-coloured houses. 

You can admire ancient architecture in Gyeongju. Then there is Daegu, with its abundance of Buddhist temples. It also has fascinating markets that feel like time has stood still there and never moved into the modern day.

6. Plenty of Islands

If you have ever wanted your own island, South Korea has many pristine islands that no person on earth has ever been to. In total, the number of islands in south Korea exceeds 3, 000. Many of these are populated and you will be able to visit them. 

The volcanic archipelago, Jeju, is one of the best-known islands in South Korea and also contains its tallest mountain peak. This is Mount Hallasan, which towers over everything at 6,387 feet. Jeju features numerous waterfalls. Other islands to visit are Gapado and Marado and can be reached from Jeju via a ferry. These two islands have fields of flowers worth seeing and beautiful hiking trails. Additionally, they house many dolmen tombs, which consist of a horizontal slab of stone placed on top of two vertical ones and used to honour the dead. 

7. Ease of Travel in South Korea

It is pretty easy to get around South Korea. You have the options of buses, trams, and metros, as well as very cheap flights between cities. Planning is a breeze. Simply visit iVisa.com to find about visa requirements, book your flight, and pack your bags.

Even the solitary traveller will love a vacation in South Korea.

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second city centre East of Busan with a high density of high skyscrapers
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having a beer in a crowded pub right behind Seoul's busy business district
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great place to spend your summer evening at the beach, next to Busan
Han River - crossing Seoul's most important river, where many Koreans jump into death
crossing Seoul's most important river, where many Koreans jump into death
From top to bottom, South Korea is packed with culture and creativity
Seoul Metro - a convenient and fast way to move around South Korea's capital
a convenient and fast way to move around South Korea's capital
Gyeongbokgung Palace - many Koreans in traditional dresses at the ancient royal palace in Seoul
many Koreans in traditional dresses at the ancient royal palace in Seoul
Deoksugung Palace - hiding from the rain in Seoul's royal palace and national arts museum
hiding from the rain in Seoul's royal palace and national arts museum