Korea Travel Guide: Exploring South Korea's Hidden Gems and Fascinating Destinations

Korea Travel Guide: Exploring South Korea's Hidden Gems and Fascinating Destinations

South Korea is a country where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously, offering travelers an unforgettable experience. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the serene nature of Jeju Island, the opportunities to explore Korea's diverse attractions are endless. In this guide, we'll dive deep into the many facets of Korean travel, introducing must-visit destinations and activities that should not be missed. Through this guide, you'll discover Korea's hidden treasures and immerse yourself in unique cultural experiences.

Exploring Korea offers a chance to understand the country's deep history and rich culture through various activities. Each city in Korea has its own unique atmosphere and culture, with each region showcasing distinctive food, traditions, and natural landscapes. Additionally, Korea is a country with four distinct seasons, each offering a different charm, making it a satisfying destination to visit at any time of the year. Now, let's explore Korea's essential courses and hidden gems, one by one, to fully appreciate the country's allure.

Seoul: Feel the Heart of Korea

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is the center of its economy, culture, and politics, brimming with attractions and activities. Here, ancient history seamlessly blends with cutting-edge technology, creating a unique cityscape. From historical sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace to leisurely walks in Hangang Park, you can experience firsthand how Seoul harmonizes tradition and modernity. Shopping in trendy districts like Myeongdong or Gangnam, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife in Itaewon or Hongdae, further enriches the city's appeal.

One of the must-visit attractions in Seoul is Gyeongbokgung Palace, a representative royal palace from the Joseon Dynasty. A tour of the palace, along with the experience of wearing traditional Hanbok and taking photos, is highly recommended. Particularly, Gyeongbokgung offers a special opportunity to experience Korea's unique tradition through the daily morning changing of the guard ceremony. Another unmissable experience is ascending Namsan Seoul Tower to enjoy panoramic views of the city. Whether at sunset or nighttime, you'll be captivated by Seoul's vibrant charm.

Recommended Attractions:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace: A royal palace from the Joseon Dynasty, where you can deeply feel Korea's history and culture.
• Bukchon Hanok Village: A village with traditional Hanok houses where you can enjoy the quaint, old Korean atmosphere.
• Namsan Seoul Tower: The best observation deck for panoramic views of Seoul.
• Myeongdong: The heart of trendy shopping and street food in Seoul.
• Hongdae: A street alive with the culture of young people, art, and music.

Busan: A City Where the Sea and Urban Life Coexist

Busan, Korea's second-largest city, is a charming travel destination where beautiful beaches and a bustling city coexist. This city combines the sea, mountains, and modern urban life, offering a unique landscape and a diverse range of experiences for travelers. Relaxing at Haeundae and Gwangalli beaches, and tasting fresh seafood at Jagalchi Market, are essential parts of a Busan trip. Especially, Busan offers different attractions each season, from cool water activities in the summer to enjoying the city's nature in pleasant autumn weather.

Busan is particularly ideal for visiting in the summer, as it's the perfect place to enjoy the blue sea and warm weather. Additionally, during the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), film fans from around the world gather, turning the city into a cultural festival hotspot. If you visit Busan during this time, you'll have the chance to participate in various film-related events and activities. Furthermore, explore Busan's unique culture in artistic places like Gamcheon Culture Village, known for its brightly colored houses and artistic vibe.

Recommended Attractions:

• Haeundae Beach: Korea's most famous beach, where the blue sea meets skyscrapers in a beautiful landscape.
• Gwangalli Beach: A beach known for its stunning night views, with the dazzling lights of Gwangan Bridge being especially impressive.
• Gamcheon Culture Village: A village where art and history coexist, filled with various murals and artworks.
• Jagalchi Market: Busan's representative seafood market, where you can buy and taste fresh seafood.
• Taejongdae: A natural park offering breathtaking views of the sea, showcasing Busan's beauty in one glance.

Jeju Island: Enjoying Nature's Beauty

Jeju Island is South Korea's premier vacation spot, boasting beautiful natural landscapes that are recognized as UNESCO World Natural Heritage sites. This island is a paradise for nature lovers, featuring unique geological formations created by volcanic activity and a rich diversity of plant life. You can enjoy various natural experiences like watching the sunrise at Seongsan Ilchulbong, hiking up Hallasan Mountain, or relaxing on Hyeopjae Beach. Jeju is a popular destination among Koreans as well, attracting visitors year-round. In summer, you can cool off by the beach, and in winter, you can enjoy the snowy landscapes of Hallasan.

On Jeju Island, you can also enjoy an Oreum (small volcano) trek or take in the dramatic views from coastal cliffs like Seopjikoji. The Oreum trekking is one of the best ways to deeply feel Jeju's nature; as you climb uphill, the expansive landscape of Jeju unfolds before you, making you feel as if you've entered another world. Additionally, tasting traditional Jeju dishes like gogi guksu (noodle soup with pork) or seafood dishes is one of the great pleasures of the trip. Jeju's cuisine is characterized by fresh ingredients and unique seasonings that offer a special flavor you can't find elsewhere.

Recommended Attractions:

• Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak): The best place to watch the sunrise, offering a majestic and beautiful morning view.
• Hallasan National Park: The highest mountain in Korea, with various trails where you can fully enjoy nature.
• Hyeopjae Beach: A beach with emerald green waters, popular among family travelers.
• Seopjikoji: A representative coastal cliff in Jeju, famous as a filming location for dramas.
• Udo Island: A small island perfect for a leisurely bike ride around the island.

Gyeongju: Encountering a Thousand Years of Silla History

Gyeongju was the capital of the Silla Kingdom, a city filled with relics and cultural heritage that preserves a thousand years of history. This city is famous for its numerous historical sites where you can directly experience the culture and history of Silla, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in Korean history. It's recommended to explore Gyeongju's various tombs and royal graves, along with UNESCO World Heritage sites like Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, to immerse yourself in Silla's culture. Additionally, spending a night in a traditional Hanok guesthouse scattered throughout Gyeongju's city center will be a special experience, offering you the opportunity to experience Korea's unique architectural style.

Gyeongju is especially recommended for travelers interested in Korean history, as it offers a deep dive into ancient Korean history through its museums and historical sites. Particularly in spring, Gyeongju's scenery is stunning with blooming cherry blossoms, making it a favorite location for photographers. Gyeongju's cherry blossoms create a picturesque scene that, together with the serene atmosphere, leaves visitors with unforgettable memories. Moreover, Gyeongju is also a very attractive travel destination in the autumn foliage season, where the mountains and parks are covered in autumn leaves, allowing you to fully enjoy the deepening autumn mood.

Recommended Attractions:

• Bulguksa Temple: A representative temple of the Silla era, famous for its splendid architecture and beautiful gardens.
• Seokguram Grotto: A stone temple listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site along with Bulguksa, known for its delicate statues and stone architecture.
• Cheomseongdae Observatory: The oldest astronomical observatory in Asia, offering a glimpse into Silla's scientific achievements.
• Gyeongju Wolseong (Gyeongju Fortress): The site of the Silla royal palace, with attractive walking trails that blend history and nature.
• Hwangnyongsa Temple Site: The site of Hwangnyongsa, a representative temple of the Silla period, where you can feel the grandeur of the past.

Jeonju: A City of Tradition and Taste

Jeonju is one of the cities in South Korea that best preserves traditional culture, particularly at the Jeonju Hanok Village, where you can fully enjoy its charm. Wearing a Hanbok and drinking traditional tea in the Hanok Village, or tasting Jeonju's famous dish, bibimbap, are experiences you can't miss on a Jeonju trip. Jeonju Hanok Village is well-preserved, making it feel like a trip back in time. Here, you can enjoy a relaxing time drinking traditional tea or directly experience wearing Hanbok, Korea's traditional clothing.

Jeonju is also famous for its annual Jeonju International Film Festival, providing opportunities to watch various independent and art films. It is also recommended to experience how traditional and modern cultures are harmoniously integrated in this city. The Jeonju International Film Festival is a gathering place for film enthusiasts from around the world, offering a special opportunity to share various opinions about films. Additionally, in Jeonju, you can participate in hands-on experiences such as making traditional Korean crafts, leaving special memories from your trip.

Recommended Attractions:

• Jeonju Hanok Village: A village where traditional Korean Hanok houses are well-preserved, offering a deep experience of Korean traditional culture.
• Gyeonggijeon Shrine: A museum displaying royal portraits and artifacts from the Joseon Dynasty, where you can feel the history of Jeonju.
• Jeonju Hyanggyo: A Confucian school from the Joseon Dynasty, a historical site where you can glimpse traditional Confucian culture.
• Jeonju Traditional Wine Museum: A museum where you can experience the history and manufacturing process of traditional Korean wine, with various tasting opportunities.
• Jeondong Catholic Church: The first Western-style church in Korea, known for its beautiful architectural style.

Gangneung: A Coastal City Blending Nature and Culture

Gangneung, located on Korea's east coast, boasts beautiful beaches and a rich cultural heritage. Here, you can experience the sunrise at Gyeongpodae Beach or learn about Korea's history and culture at Ojukheon. Gangneung is particularly associated with Korea's coffee culture, with Gangneung Coffee Street lined with unique cafes, making it a paradise for coffee lovers. Enjoy a leisurely café tour here, and experience Gangneung's distinctive coffee culture.

Gangneung is also the location of Korea's most famous winter festival, the Gangneung Danoje Festival, which offers visitors plenty of wintertime fun. The festival features snow sculpture exhibitions, various winter sports activities, and traditional games. In summer, you can enjoy water activities and marine sports at the beach, while in winter, you can engage in various winter sports in the snowy mountains. Additionally, at Jeongdongjin, you can experience a special New Year’s sunrise, a unique way to welcome the new year.

Recommended Attractions:

• Gyeongpodae Beach: A representative beach in Korea, ideal for summer swimming and beach walks.
• Ojukheon House: The birthplace of the historical figure Yulgok Yi I, where you can admire the beauty of traditional Korean architecture.
• Anmok Beach Coffee Street: A street lined with various cafes, offering the best place to enjoy coffee with a view of the sea.
• Daegwallyeong Sheep Ranch: A pastoral scene with vast green meadows, where you can spend time with sheep.
• Jeongdongjin: The most famous sunrise spot on the east coast, perfect for welcoming the New Year while watching the sunrise.

DMZ: Experience the Reality of Division

The DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) is a region symbolizing the division between North and South Korea following the Korean War, offering a unique travel experience to directly witness the world's only divided country. Through a DMZ tour, you can experience Korea's modern history and the reality of division firsthand, and feel the desire for peace. Although this region is highly sensitive militarily, it is also the place where you can most strongly feel Koreans' hopes for peace and reunification.

In the DMZ area, you can visit various historical sites, such as the Third Tunnel, Dora Observatory, and Panmunjeom (JSA), where you can directly observe a region of military tension. The Third Tunnel, secretly built by North Korea to invade South Korea, is particularly striking in its scale and depth. The DMZ tour requires prior reservations and strict security procedures. The experience in this area will be an opportunity to understand the painful scars of modern Korean history and deeply appreciate the importance of peace.

Recommended Attractions:

• The Third Tunnel: A secret tunnel built by North Korea to invade South Korea, now open to tourists.
• Dora Observatory: One of the closest observation points to North Korea, offering a unique experience of directly viewing North Korean territory.
• Panmunjeom (JSA): The place where North and South Korea directly face each other, allowing you to feel the reality of the division most closely.
• Imjingak Peace Park: A symbolic park dedicated to peace, featuring various art installations and exhibitions.
• Dorasan Station: A station built with the hope of reunification between North and South Korea, now serving as a tourist attraction.

Enjoying Korea's Four Seasons

Korea is a country with four distinct seasons, each offering a unique charm. In spring, cherry blossoms and various flowers bloom, providing stunning landscapes; in summer, you can enjoy cool water activities at the beach along with exciting festivals; in autumn, you can appreciate the colorful foliage in the mountains and parks; and in winter, you can engage in winter sports like skiing and sledding while enjoying snowy landscapes. Korea's autumn foliage, in particular, is renowned worldwide, and travelers visiting Korea during this season will be awed by its beauty.

In spring, cherry blossom festivals are held nationwide, with especially beautiful cherry blossoms to be seen in Seoul's Yeouido, Jinhae Gunhangje, and Gyeongju's Bulguksa Temple. In summer, you can cool off at the beaches of Haeundae in Busan or Gyeongpodae in Gangneung, and enjoy various marine sports. In autumn, it is recommended to enjoy leaf peeping at famous spots like Seoraksan, Naejangsan, and Odaesan. Seoraksan's vibrant autumn foliage is considered the highlight of autumn travel. In winter, you can enjoy snow activities at ski resorts in Gangwon-do and unique winter experiences like ice fishing. Pyeongchang's Alpensia Resort and Yongpyong Resort in Gangwon-do are popular among winter sports enthusiasts for their world-class ski slopes.

Recommended Destinations:

• Seoraksan (Autumn Foliage): A mountain with stunning autumn foliage, considered one of Korea's most beautiful autumn leaf destinations.
• Naejangsan (Autumn Foliage): A mountain that turns vibrant with autumn colors, where you can enjoy the foliage along with traditional temples.
• Yongpyong Resort (Winter Sports): One of Korea's top ski resorts, where you can enjoy various winter sports.
• Inje Ice Fishing Festival: A popular winter festival where you can enjoy ice fishing, ideal for family travelers.
• Busan Fireworks Festival (Summer): A large-scale summer fireworks festival in Busan, where the night sky is beautifully lit up with fireworks.

Experiencing Korean Traditional Culture

Korea is a country with a long history and rich traditions, offering various opportunities to experience its traditional culture firsthand. Trying on Hanbok, participating in a traditional tea ceremony, making pottery, and watching traditional performances are some of the representative cultural experiences. These experiences allow you to deeply understand Korea's unique culture and further feel the everyday life and values of Koreans. Especially, wearing traditional Hanbok and strolling around Gyeongbokgung or Jeonju Hanok Village, while experiencing Korea's old-world charm, will be a very special experience.

In Seoul's Insadong or Jeonju Hanok Village, various traditional culture experience programs are available year-round, with English guides provided for foreign tourists. In Insadong, you can enjoy traditional tea and make pottery, while in Jeonju Hanok Village, you can participate in traditional music instrument performances and Hanbok experiences, allowing you to deeply experience Korean culture. Additionally, directly tasting various Korean foods at traditional markets or purchasing traditional crafts also creates special memories.

Recommended Experiences:

• Hanbok Experience: Wear traditional Hanbok and stroll around Gyeongbokgung or Jeonju Hanok Village to feel the old-world charm of Korea.
• Traditional Tea Ceremony Experience: Participate in a program where you can experience Korean tea culture in Insadong while drinking traditional tea.
• Pottery Making: Participate in a hands-on activity where you can make pottery under the guidance of a pottery master.
• Korean Traditional Music Performance: Enjoy a performance of Korean traditional music (Gugak), offering an opportunity to understand Korea's music culture.
• Traditional Craft Making: Experience making traditional crafts, allowing you to deeply understand Korea's unique craft culture.

Enjoying Modern Korean Culture

Korea is a country where modern culture, including K-pop, dramas, and movies, has gained global popularity. In Seoul's Gangnam, Hongdae, Itaewon, and other areas, you can directly experience Korea's youth culture and trends, with various shopping malls and entertainment facilities abundant. Korea's modern culture blends with tradition to create a unique atmosphere, offering another attraction for travelers visiting Korea. Especially, you can enjoy Korea's unique café culture and delicious desserts while immersing yourself in the vibrant city culture.

Particularly, Korea's entertainment industry is globally recognized, and while visiting Korea, you can have the special experience of attending popular K-pop concerts or visiting drama filming locations. At SMTOWN Coex Artium in Seoul, you can watch performances and exhibitions of K-pop stars, making it a dream destination for Hallyu (Korean Wave) fans. Additionally, it's recommended to visit trendy clubs and bars in Itaewon and Gangnam to experience Korea's nightlife. These modern cultural experiences will help you discover another facet of Korea's appeal.

Recommended Places:

• Gangnam District: A street where you can feel Korea's latest trends, with various shopping and entertainment options.
• Hongdae District: A place where young artists and musicians gather, offering various art performances and exhibitions.
• Itaewon: A district with a cosmopolitan atmosphere, famous for its diverse international restaurants and unique club culture.
• Coex Mall: A representative shopping mall in Seoul, filled with various brands and entertainment facilities.
• SMTOWN Coex Artium: A venue for K-pop fans, offering various performances and exhibitions related to K-pop stars.

Useful Tips for Traveling in Korea

Knowing a few useful tips while traveling in Korea can make your trip more convenient and enjoyable. First, Korea's public transportation is very well-organized, making it easy to move around major tourist spots in large cities like Seoul and Busan by using the subway and buses. The subway, in particular, is connected to most tourist attractions, allowing for quick travel, avoiding the complexities of road traffic. Additionally, you can easily access travel information through various mobile apps in Korea, and using apps like Naver Maps, KakaoMap, and subway apps will make your travel more efficient.

Moreover, most shops and restaurants in Korea accept credit cards, but small amounts of cash might be necessary for street vendors or small shops. Therefore, it's good to prepare both credit cards and a small amount of cash. If you're not fluent in Korean, learning basic greetings and simple Korean phrases can be very helpful in communicating with locals during your trip. For example, phrases like "Annyeonghaseyo" (Hello) and "Gamsahamnida" (Thank you) can leave a good impression on locals. Also, Korea is well-equipped with free Wi-Fi, making internet access very convenient during your trip. It’s also important to note down key contact numbers and your hotel address in case of emergencies.

Useful Tips:

• Use Public Transportation Apps: Utilize apps like Naver Maps, KakaoMap, and Seoul Subway apps to navigate easily.
• Prepare Credit Cards and Cash: Most shops accept credit cards, but small amounts of cash may be needed for certain purchases.
• Learn Basic Korean Greetings: Learning simple phrases like "Annyeonghaseyo" (Hello) and "Gamsahamnida" (Thank you) can facilitate communication with locals.
• Take Advantage of Free Wi-Fi: Korea is well-connected with free Wi-Fi, making internet access convenient during your travels.
• Keep Emergency Contacts and Hotel Address: Always have key contact numbers and your accommodation’s address on hand in case of emergencies.

Special Experiences in Korea

Korea offers unique activities in each region, providing travelers with diverse experiences. For instance, you can enjoy a Hanok stay in Jeonju, a seafood market tour in Busan, or an Oreum trek in Jeju Island. These special experiences allow you to deeply understand Korea's regional cultures and feel closer to the everyday lives of locals. In Jeonju Hanok Village, you can stay in a traditional Hanok house and experience Korea's old housing culture, while in Busan's Jagalchi Market, you can taste fresh seafood and experience the lively market culture of Korea.

Additionally, many cities in Korea host festivals and events that blend tradition and modernity, allowing you to experience Korea's rich cultural diversity. Enjoy Korea's unique charm by participating in various festivals such as the Jeonju Bibimbap Festival, Busan Fireworks Festival, and Jeju Canola Flower Festival. These festivals offer special opportunities to immerse yourself in Korea's authentic culture by mingling with local residents. At the Jeonju Bibimbap Festival, you can taste various types of bibimbap, and at the Busan Fireworks Festival, you can marvel at the dazzling fireworks illuminating the night sky.

Recommended Experiences:

• Jeonju Hanok Stay: Experience Korea's traditional culture by staying in a Hanok house in Jeonju Hanok Village.
• Busan Seafood Market Tour: Explore Jagalchi Market and enjoy a special experience tasting fresh seafood.
• Jeju Oreum Trekking: Trek up the Oreum in Jeju Island and spend time in close connection with nature.
• Traditional Tea Making Experience: Participate in a tea-making experience in Insadong to deeply understand Korea's tea culture.
• Korean Traditional Music Performance: Watch a traditional Korean music performance and appreciate the depth and beauty of Korean music.

Korean Food Exploration

One of the highlights of traveling in Korea is undoubtedly the food exploration. Korea offers a variety of unique regional dishes, and you can experience these in numerous restaurants across the country. In Seoul’s Gwangjang Market, you can enjoy various street foods, in Busan, you can taste fresh sashimi and seafood dishes, and in Jeonju, you can savor the famous Jeonju Bibimbap. At Gwangjang Market, you can indulge in the lively atmosphere of a traditional market while enjoying Korean street foods like bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and sundae (blood sausage). In Busan's Jagalchi Market, you can enjoy fresh sashimi directly from the seafood stalls.

Korean cuisine is known for its spicy flavors, but it also offers a wide range of dishes that combine sweet and savory tastes. Particularly, Korea's traditional kimchi and various side dishes are also popular among foreigners, providing a deep understanding of the country's culinary culture. In Jeonju, you can enjoy traditional Korean meals, including Jeonju Bibimbap, at various restaurants, and in Jeju, you can indulge in fresh seafood, such as sashimi and sea urchin bibimbap, at seafood restaurants. This food exploration will undoubtedly enhance your enjoyment of traveling in Korea.

Recommended Food Destinations:

• Gwangjang Market in Seoul: A traditional market where you can enjoy various street foods and deeply experience Korean flavors.
• Jagalchi Market in Busan: A representative seafood market in Busan, where you can enjoy a wide variety of seafood dishes.
• Jeonju Hanok Village Restaurants: A place where you can taste Jeonju’s famous bibimbap and traditional Korean meals in various restaurants.
• Seafood Restaurants in Jeju Island: Restaurants in Jeju where you can enjoy fresh seafood, with sashimi and sea urchin bibimbap being especially famous.
• Gangneung Coffee Street: A haven for coffee lovers, offering a variety of cafes where you can enjoy coffee and desserts.

Choosing Accommodations in Korea

In Korea, you can choose from a wide range of accommodations that suit your budget and preferences. From traditional Hanok stays to modern hotels and budget-friendly guesthouses, there are options for everyone. In major cities like Seoul or Busan, there are many hotels that combine tradition and modernity, while on Jeju Island, you can enjoy resort stays close to nature. These accommodations offer convenient locations and excellent services, making your travel more comfortable.

Staying in a traditional Hanok is a particularly special experience that allows you to directly experience Korea's traditional culture. Hanok, a traditional wooden house in Korea, offers a serene atmosphere where you can enjoy a relaxing time. In areas like Jeonju Hanok Village or Insadong in Seoul, there are many Hanok accommodations converted into hotels, allowing you to enjoy modern amenities while still experiencing traditional vibes. Additionally, staying in a Hanok provides an opportunity to understand Korea's traditional housing culture. On Jeju Island, resort stays surrounded by nature are very popular, while in Gangneung, it is recommended to stay in a hotel near the beach.

Recommended Accommodations:

• Hanok Hotels in Insadong, Seoul: A blend of tradition and modernity, allowing you to experience Korean traditional culture in the heart of Seoul.
• Haeundae Beach Resort in Busan: A representative resort in Haeundae where you can relax while enjoying views of the sea.
• Hanok Stay in Jeonju Hanok Village: A special place where you can experience staying in a traditional Hanok, feeling the old vibes of Jeonju.
• Nature Resorts in Jeju Island: Resorts in Jeju Island offering rest and relaxation in the midst of beautiful nature.
• Hotels Near Gyeongpodae Beach in Gangneung: Accommodations near Gyeongpodae Beach, making it easy to access the beach, particularly popular in summer.

Exploring Korean Traditional Markets

Korea's traditional markets offer great opportunities to purchase various items and observe the daily lives of locals up close. Visit various traditional markets like Namdaemun Market in Seoul, Jagalchi Market in Busan, or the Hanok Village Market in Jeonju to experience fresh produce, traditional crafts, and a variety of Korean foods. These markets are places where you can deeply understand Korea's everyday life and culture, offering opportunities to purchase various items at affordable prices.

In traditional markets, you can directly interact with locals and enjoy the fun of bargaining while purchasing a variety of items at low prices. Especially in Korea's traditional markets, you can encounter regional specialties and unique foods, providing new experiences for travelers. For instance, at Namdaemun Market, you can enjoy various traditional crafts along with Korean street food, while at Jagalchi Market, you can buy fresh seafood or taste dishes cooked right at the market's eateries. Jeju’s Dongmun Market offers a great opportunity to buy Jeju’s specialties at affordable prices.

Recommended Traditional Markets:

• Namdaemun Market in Seoul: One of Korea's traditional markets, where you can purchase various goods at affordable prices, with plenty of food stalls.
• Jagalchi Market in Busan: Busan’s representative seafood market, where you can buy or taste fresh seafood.
• Hanok Village Market in Jeonju: A traditional market located around Jeonju Hanok Village, where you can buy various traditional foods and souvenirs.
• Central Market in Gangneung: A representative traditional market in Gangneung, where you can purchase fresh seafood and Gangneung specialties at low prices.
• Dongmun Market in Jeju Island: Jeju Island’s representative traditional market, where you can purchase a variety of Jeju specialties at affordable prices.

Enjoying Korea's Night Views

Korea's major cities reveal a different charm at night. The night view from Namsan Seoul Tower, the nightscape of Gwangan Bridge in Busan, and the beach night view in Gangneung are special sceneries that can only be experienced in Korea. Especially along the Han River in Seoul or Haeundae Beach in Busan, you can enjoy various events and beautiful night views. These night view spots combine the city’s dazzling lights with nature, creating a highly attractive scenery and great places for taking photos.

Korea's nightscapes are very appealing with a blend of city lights and nature, making them ideal spots for photography. From Namsan Seoul Tower, you can take in a panoramic view of Seoul, with the city’s twinkling lights creating a spectacular scene at night. At Gwangan Bridge in Busan, a splendid light show unfolds, while at Anmok Beach in Gangneung, the lights from the cafes along the beach create a romantic atmosphere. Additionally, the night view at Yongduam Rock in Jeju, where waves crash against the rocks, is particularly impressive.

Recommended Night View Spots:

• Namsan Seoul Tower: The best observation deck for a panoramic view of Seoul's nightscape.
• Gwangan Bridge in Busan: A representative night view spot in Busan with a dazzling light show.
• Anmok Beach in Gangneung: A romantic spot where the lights from cafes along the beach create a beautiful night view.
• Jeonju Hanok Village Nightscape: A scenic spot where traditional Hanok houses are beautifully illuminated, creating a charming night view.
• Yongduam Rock in Jeju: A striking night view spot where waves crash against the rocks, creating an impressive sight.

Important Things to Note When Traveling in Korea

Knowing a few important things when traveling in Korea can make your trip safer and more enjoyable. First, Korea has four distinct seasons, so it's important to prepare appropriate clothing according to the weather. Summers are hot and humid, while winters can be very cold, so make sure to pack clothes suitable for the season. In winter, it's especially important to prepare warm clothing and pay attention to keeping warm, while in summer, light clothing and sunscreen are essential.

Additionally, while Korea's public transportation system is very advanced, the complex subway lines and bus systems may be somewhat challenging for first-time foreign visitors. Therefore, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with public transportation routes in advance or use mobile apps to plan your travel routes. Using apps like Naver Maps or KakaoMap will be very helpful for navigating real-time traffic information and finding your way. Korea is a relatively safe country, but it's important to keep your valuables secure while traveling and to be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places. It is also recommended to purchase travel insurance to prepare for any unexpected situations.

Things to Note:

• Prepare Season-Appropriate Clothing: Pack light clothing and sunscreen for summer, and warm clothing and items for keeping warm during winter.
• Familiarize Yourself with Public Transportation Routes: Learn subway and bus routes in advance, and use mobile apps to plan your travel routes.
• Take Care of Valuables: Keep your valuables secure in crowded places, and be cautious of pickpockets.
• Beware of Pickpockets in Crowded Places: Especially in tourist hotspots, be vigilant against pickpockets.
• Purchase Travel Insurance: It's a good idea to purchase travel insurance to prepare for any unforeseen circumstances.

Representative Festivals in Korea

Korea is a country with various festivals held throughout the year, ranging from traditional events to modern celebrations. Representative festivals include vibrant flower festivals in spring, cool beach festivals in summer, bountiful harvest festivals in autumn, and enchanting snow festivals in winter. These festivals provide special opportunities to deeply understand Korea's culture and to mingle with local residents. Moreover, Korea's festivals reflect the unique characteristics and traditions of each region, offering distinctive experiences.

One of the representative festivals is the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), held every October, which is a major event that attracts film fans from around the world. During BIFF, the entire city of Busan is immersed in the atmosphere of a film festival, with various film screenings and events taking place. Additionally, the annual Jeonju Bibimbap Festival and Seoul Drum Festival are great opportunities to enjoy Korean food and music culture. At the Jeonju Bibimbap Festival, you can taste a variety of bibimbap, and at the Seoul Drum Festival, you can enjoy performances by famous drummers from Korea and abroad.

Recommended Festivals:

• Busan International Film Festival (BIFF): A major film festival in Busan that attracts film fans from around the world, with various screenings and events.
• Jeonju Bibimbap Festival: A festival centered around Korea's representative dish, bibimbap, offering opportunities to taste various kinds of bibimbap.
• Gangneung Danoje Festival: A large winter festival held in Gangneung, offering various snow sculptures and winter sports.
• Seoul Drum Festival: A music festival featuring performances by famous drummers from Korea and abroad, showcasing a variety of drum performances.
• Jeju Canola Flower Festival: A spring festival held on Jeju Island, featuring beautiful canola flower fields and various events.

Shopping in Korea

Korea is a shopping paradise with a variety of shopping spots. From Myeongdong and Dongdaemun Market in Seoul to Shinsegae Centum City in Busan and specialty stores in Jeju, you can buy the latest Korean fashion, traditional crafts, and various souvenirs at these locations. Myeongdong and Dongdaemun Market are especially popular with those looking for trendy fashion items, while Shinsegae Centum City is one of the world's largest department stores, offering a wide range of brand products in one place.

Korean cosmetics and fashion items are particularly popular worldwide, and they are well-loved by foreign tourists visiting Korea. Moreover, Korea's traditional markets offer unique shopping experiences, where you can purchase a variety of goods at affordable prices. In Jeju, you can buy local specialties and souvenirs that can only be found on the island. These shopping locations provide small delights during your travels and offer great opportunities to glimpse Korea's diverse culture.

Recommended Shopping Spots:

• Myeongdong in Seoul: A shopping hub where you can find the latest Korean fashion items and cosmetics.
• Dongdaemun Fashion Town: A shopping area where you can buy a variety of fashion items at affordable prices, popular among young people.
• Shinsegae Centum City in Busan: One of the world's largest department stores, where you can find a wide range of brand products in one place.
• Souvenir Shops in Jeonju Hanok Village: Shops around Jeonju Hanok Village where you can buy traditional souvenirs.
• Specialty Shops in Jeju: Shops where you can buy Jeju-only specialties and souvenirs.

Wrapping Up Your Korea Trip

Korea is an attractive country where tradition and modernity coexist, offering experiences of diverse cultures and histories. Each region has its own unique charm, with various activities to enjoy throughout the year. Use this guide to enrich your trip to Korea and create unforgettable memories. Your journey in Korea will be an adventure in itself, allowing you to gather diverse experiences in different cities and regions.