South Korea is a country located in East Asia, sharing a land border with North Korea to the north, and surrounded by the Sea of Japan to the east, the Yellow Sea to the west, and the Korea Strait to the south. Its capital and largest city is Seoul, and it is located on the southern half of the Korean Peninsula.
Rich culture and history, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Delicious and varied cuisine, with must-try dishes like Korean barbecue
Modern and vibrant cities with excellent shopping, nightlife, and entertainment options
Beautiful natural scenery, including beaches, mountains, and national parks
Convenient and safe transportation and a low crime rate
There are many activities to do in South Korea, and here are some must-do activities to add to your itinerary
Attend a K-Pop concert or visit one of Korea's many music venues
Participate in a traditional tea ceremony
Visit a traditional Korean market like Gwangjang Market in Seoul
Watch a traditional Korean performance, like a Nanta show or a Pansori performanc
Hike to the top of Seoraksan Mountain in Seoraksan National Park
Visit the bamboo forests and waterfalls in Juknokwon in Damyang
Walk along the trails in Boseong's green tea fields
Shop for Korean beauty products and fashion in Myeong-dong
Visit the Namsangol Hanok Village in Seoul to see traditional Korean houses and architecture
Visit the Namsan Tower in Seoul that offers incredible views of the city and surrounding areas
Visit Busan's Jagalchi Fish Market for fresh seafood and local delicacies
Walk through the Haeundae Beach area in Busan for a vibrant nightlife scene and delicious food
South Korea has a rich cultural heritage, which is evident in its ancient temples, palaces, and traditional villages
As the capital and largest city in South Korea, Seoul offers a wide range of cultural experiences, including historic palaces, museums, and traditional markets. Some must-visit cultural attractions include Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, the National Museum of Korea, and Insadong Antique Street.
Located in the southwest region of the country, Jeonju is known for its traditional culture and is often referred to as the "spiritual capital of Korea." Visitors can explore the Jeonju Hanok Village, where traditional Korean houses and cultural experiences are on display.
This city was the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom and has a wealth of historical and cultural sites, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto. Gyeongju is also home to the Gyeongju National Museum, which features exhibits on Korean history and culture.
As the second-largest city in South Korea, Busan offers a unique blend of traditional and modern culture. Visitors can explore the Gamcheon Culture Village, a hillside neighborhood with colorful houses and art installations, and visit the Busan Museum of Art, which showcases contemporary Korean art.
This city is known for its traditional culture, including its famous mask dance, Hahoe Folk Village, and traditional cuisine. Visitors can also experience Korean tea ceremonies and try their hand at traditional crafts like pottery and paper-making.
South Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and diverse ingredients. Here are some popular South Korean dishes you should try when visiting
A crispy and juicy fried chicken dish coated in a sweet and spicy sauce
Thinly sliced beef marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, and grilled or stir-fried
A spicy stir-fried chicken dish made with vegetables and a spicy sauce
A cuisine where meat is grilled and served with lettuce and side dishes
A type of chewy, cold noodle dish that is often served with a spicy sauce and vegetables
A beef short rib soup that is typically simmered for hours with various vegetables and spices
A spicy tofu stew that is typically served with rice and various side dishes
A chicken soup with ginseng, garlic, and other medicinal herbs and it is believed to have restorative properties
A spicy stew made with kimchi, pork, tofu, and other ingredients
A noodle soup made with handmade knife-cut noodles and often served with seafood or chicken broth
A popular street food made from rice cakes, fish cakes, and a spicy red sauce.
A popular street food made from rice cakes, fish cakes, and a spicy red sauce.
Fish cakes that are typically served on skewers and boiled in a savory broth
Salted and fermented vegetables, known for its tangy, spicy, and slightly sour taste and health benefits.
A stir-fried noodle dish made with sweet potato starch noodles, vegetables, and meat or seafood
Korean-style dumplings that are filled with meat and vegetables and are fried, steamed, or boiled
A savory pancake made with scallions and seafood such as shrimp or squid
A type of Korean pancake that is filled with sweet syrup, cinnamon, and nuts
A shaved ice dessert that is topped with sweetened red beans, fruit, and condensed milk
A traditional Korean sweet made from flour, honey, sesame oil, and rice wine, and typically shaped like a flower
A small, walnut-shaped pastry that is filled with sweet red bean paste
A fish-shaped pastry that is filled with sweetened red bean paste, custard or chocolate
A type of rice cake filled with sweet bean paste or other fillings, and shaped into a half-moon or ball shape
Here are some YouTube channels that you might find interesting and informative about Korean culture