Five Beautiful Places to Visit in South Korea Outside of Seoul
Don’t get me wrong, Seoul is great! Seoul, the capital of South Korea is a dynamic city that offers a unique blend of modernity with tradition. Be it shopping, history, nature, food or the Korean Language, Seoul has something for everyone. However, are you tired of hearing about the same old places to visit or simply bored of cliché tourist destinations, then this article is for you! Travel like a local and venture off the beaten track to uncover the hidden beauty of South Korea.
1. Geomun Oreum in Jeju
Address: 569-36 Jocheon-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
Jeju has long been the local’s favourite domestic holiday destination and has been increasingly known as the ‘Hawaii of South Korea’. THe island is well known for its natural wonders, such as the Geomun Oreum, which was designated as a UNESCO’s world heritage site. The lava expelled during volcanic eruptions flowed down the slopes to the coast and created a variety of caves, which is what is now known as the Geomun Oreum Lava Tube System. It was regarded as the most impressive and significant series of protected lava tube caves in the world!
Named after its unusually black colour of its rocks and dirts, Geomun Oreum is definitely a must-visit site for anyone who loves nature and those who wish to experience the true essence of Jeju Island!
2. Mt. Seorak Gwon Geum-Seong in Gangwon
Gwon Geum Seong Fortress is the site of a castle ruin located on Seoraksan. Legend has it that 2 generals, Kwon and Kim, erected the walls overnight to prevent the Mongolians from invading during the Goryeo Dynasty. You can ride up to the fortress via cable car to enjoy a picturesque view of the mountains. The scenery as seen from the fortress is regarded as one of the best to see the city of Sokcho, the east sea and the grand beauty of Mt Seoraksan National park.
3. Suncheon Bay in Jeollanam
Location: 513-25 Suncheon-gil, Jeollanam-do
Suncheon Bay is a coastal wetland. The mudflat covers an area of 22.6 square kilometers, a quarter of which comprises of endless fields of thickly covered reeds. Due to its natural coast, Suncheon Bay attracts over 140 species of birds, including internationally rare birds and birds designated as national treasures, as well as many plants and animals. Walking along the well-built walkway is an amazing experience only found in Suncheon Bay. If you follow the pathways, you will find Yongsan observation deck where you can enjoy an unobstructed view of Suncheon Bay’s waterways that bends into an S shape and take in the gorgeous birds eye view of the vast field of reeds, mudflats and animals.
4. Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju
Location: 385 Bulguk-ro, Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Bulguksa Temple, located at the foot of Mt. Tohamsan in Gyeongju, was built in 528 during the reign of King Beopheung of the Silla Dynasty and was rebuilt by Kim Dae-Sung. Unfortunately, most of the pavilions were burnt down during the Japanese Invasion of Korea in 1592. The current building was restored through rebuilding and reparations works conducted from 1969 to 1973. In Dec 1995, Bulguksa Temple was designated as a world cultural asset by UNESCO. Visit the temple to experience a blast from the past and you’ll easily find yourself spending half a day there exploring the gorgeous gardens and ancient buildings!
5. Haeundae Beach in Busan
Location: 264 Haeundae Beach, Busan
Haeundae Beach is famous for its beautiful half-moon shaped beach, making it the perfect summer vacation spot. In addition, Haeundae beach is famous for its various cultural events and festivals held throughout the year including the Moonlight Hot Spring Festival. Catch the sunrise or sunset at Haeundae beach to enjoy a spectacular view. While at the beach, don’t forget to drop by Dongbaek Island, located west of Haeundae. Dongbaek Island contains a dense forest of pine and camellia trees, a scenic spot where you can take a walk with the sea and forest on both sides. Tip: Visit it in the evening for enjoy a spectacular view of the sunset and we also think the night view at the beach is truly lovely!
As the first Korean language school established in Singapore by native Koreans, Daehan Education Centre has a pool of experienced and qualified teachers who are dedicated to guide you through your learning journey. Our syllabus is well-structured, easy-to-follow and continuously improved with the feedbacks from our students. Whether you are here just to learn basic conversational skills or looking to certify your mastery of the language by taking the TOPIK examinations, look no further in starting your Korean learning adventure with us