South Korea has emerged as one of Asia's most exciting travel destinations. The country that gave the world K-pop, K-drama and Korean BBQ is also home to ancient palaces, volcanic islands, cutting-edge cities, dramatic mountain scenery and some of the fastest internet on the planet. It's a destination that consistently surprises visitors with just how much it packs in.
When to visit
Spring (April–May) is the most popular time, with cherry blossoms across the country and mild temperatures.
Autumn (September–November) is equally beautiful with vivid foliage and cooler days.
Summer (June–August) is hot and humid, with a monsoon season in July. Korea's beaches and mountain valleys are at their busiest.
Winter (December–February) is cold — sometimes bitterly so — but the ski resorts are world-class and the country is beautiful under snow.
Top destinations
Seoul — One of the world's great cities. Explore the five grand palaces (Gyeongbokgung is the most impressive), lose yourself in the trendy streets of Hongdae and Itaewon, eat your way through Gwangjang Market, and experience the hypermodern glass towers of Gangnam. The Han River park system is wonderful on a sunny day.
Busan — Korea's second city and its beach capital. Haeundae Beach, the colourful Gamcheon Culture Village, and the extraordinary Jagalchi fish market are the highlights. Busan's food scene — particularly its raw seafood — is arguably better than Seoul's.
Jeju Island — Korea's volcanic island in the south. Hallasan, a dormant volcano and the country's highest peak, dominates the landscape. The coastline is dramatic, the tangerine farms are unique, and the haenyeo (female free divers) culture is genuinely fascinating.
Gyeongju — Known as "the museum without walls", this former Silla dynasty capital is dotted with ancient burial mounds, temples and ruins. Bulguksa Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Seoraksan National Park — Dramatic granite peaks, ancient Buddhist monasteries and spectacular autumn colours. One of Korea's most beautiful natural areas.
Getting around
Korea's transport is outstanding. The KTX bullet train connects Seoul and Busan in under two and a half hours. Within Seoul the subway system is one of the world's best — cheap, clean, extensive and in English. T-money cards work on all public transport and in many convenience stores.
Food you must try
- Korean BBQ — The quintessential Korean dining experience. Samgyeopsal (pork belly) and galbi (short ribs) grilled at the table.
- Bibimbap — Rice topped with seasoned vegetables, a fried egg and gochujang (chilli paste). Simple and spectacular.
- Tteokbokki — Spicy rice cakes from a street cart. A Korean obsession.
- Chimaek — Fried chicken and beer. A Korean institution.
- Japchae — Glass noodles stir-fried with vegetables and meat in a sesame-soy sauce.
- Bingsu — Shaved ice dessert topped with sweetened red beans, fruit and condensed milk. Perfect in summer.
Practical tips
- Kakao Maps is more accurate than Google Maps for Korean public transport.
- Convenience stores (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven) are everywhere and sell excellent food around the clock.
- Etiquette: Use two hands when receiving or giving objects. Remove shoes when entering traditional spaces.
- Visa: Many nationalities can enter visa-free for up to 90 days.
Staying connected in South Korea
South Korea has some of the fastest and most comprehensive mobile networks in the world. 5G coverage in cities is near-universal. Get an InstantESIMs South Korea eSIM before you travel — plans start from $2.
