South Korea is a country of contrasts — and that’s exactly what makes it unforgettable. The best places to visit in South Korea jump from high-speed cities to mountain temples, from neon-lit K-pop hubs to peaceful hanok villages where time slows right down.
One moment you’re ordering tteokbokki at a street stall in Seoul, the next you’re hiking misty trails above Buddhist monasteries or soaking in a jjimjilbang spa. There’s history in every tiled roof, and innovation in every subway station. This is a place where tradition and tech don’t clash — they dance.
South Korea doesn’t beg for attention. It just gets under your skin — with late-night eats, quiet moments, and a sense that beneath the gloss, something deeply authentic is always humming.
Best places to visit in South Korea
12 places to visit in South Korea
Questions about the best places to see in South Korea
What is the best place to visit in South Korea?−
Most travelers start with Seoul, and it’s a must, a high-energy mix of street food, palaces, tech, and trendsetting neighborhoods. But it’s just the start.
Busan adds beaches and seafood to the mix, Gyeongju is all history and temple calm, and Jeju Island offers volcanic scenery and a different vibe. South Korea is small, so you can see a lot in one trip.
For a first visit, combine Seoul with at least one other region, and you’ll get much more out of it.
