South Korea

South Korea: Where Ancient Traditions Meet K-Culture Innovation

K-pop and K-drama have made Korea globally famous, but the country delivers far more than its pop culture exports: ancient palaces, excellent hiking, extraordinary food, and one of the most dynamic cities in Asia.

South Korea occupies the southern half of the Korean Peninsula, sharing its only land border with North Korea to the north. It has the Yellow Sea to the west, the Sea of Japan (East Sea) to the east, and the Korea Strait to the south. Despite its relatively small size, South Korea is one of the world’s leading economies, a global technology and manufacturing powerhouse, and in recent years one of the most significant sources of global popular culture.

Seoul, the capital, is one of the great cities of Asia. It is enormous — with the greater metropolitan area home to around 25 million people — and extraordinarily dynamic. The coexistence of 14th-century royal palaces, neon-lit shopping districts, world-class contemporary art, deep Buddhist traditions, and one of the most vibrant street food scenes in Asia makes it a city that rewards extended exploration.

Why Visit South Korea

South Korea has become one of the most sought-after destinations in Asia for a new generation of travelers, many of whom first connected with the country through its music and television. But the country delivers genuine experiences across history, nature, food, and city life that stand completely on their own.

The food is one of Korea’s greatest assets. Korean cuisine is built around fermented foods, bold flavors, communal eating, and extraordinary variety. Kimchi, the fermented vegetable dish that appears at every meal, is just one of hundreds of banchan (side dishes) that accompany a typical Korean meal.

Korean BBQ, where meat is grilled at the table, is one of the most sociable and delicious dining experiences in Asia. Bibimbap, tteokbokki, jjimjilbang (Korean spa) culture, and the extraordinary variety of street food stalls in Myeongdong and Gwangjang Market all deserve attention.

Top Places to Visit South Korea

1. Seoul

The five grand palaces of Seoul, built during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1897), give the city its historical anchor. Gyeongbokgung is the largest and most impressive, with guards in traditional costume and guided tours in English.

The Bukchon Hanok Village nearby preserves traditional Korean architecture. The Han River waterfront, the N Seoul Tower, the shopping of Gangnam and Myeongdong, and the contemporary art of the Leeum Museum are all essential Seoul experiences.

2. Busan

South Korea’s second city on the southeast coast has beautiful beaches, dramatic hillside neighborhoods, excellent seafood markets, and a completely different atmosphere from Seoul. The Gamcheon Culture Village, painted in bright colors on a steep hillside, is one of the most photogenic sites in the country. The Jagalchi Fish Market is excellent for fresh seafood.

3. Gyeongju

The ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, which unified Korea in the 7th century, Gyeongju is sometimes called “the museum without walls.” Royal tombs dot the city center, Buddhist temples are carved into the surrounding mountains, and the reconstructed lakeside pavilion of Anapji reflects a long-gone royal pleasure garden.

4. Jeju Island

South Korea’s most popular domestic island destination has dramatic volcanic scenery, including Hallasan, the highest mountain in the country, beaches, lava tube caves, and a well-developed tourist infrastructure. The haenyeo, female free-divers who harvest seafood without equipment, are a Jeju cultural tradition recognized by UNESCO.

Korean Food and Culture

Korean food culture centers on the concept of sharing: communal dishes placed in the center of the table, multiple small side dishes alongside a main course, and the expectation that food is a social activity. The barbecue restaurants, often open until very late, are a defining part of Korean nightlife culture.

Travel Tip for South Korea

Citizens of most Western countries can enter South Korea without a visa for stays of 90 days. The Korean won is the currency. Korean is the official language, with English widely spoken in Seoul and tourist areas. The public transit system is excellent and easy to navigate with English signage.

The best time to visit is spring (April to May) for cherry blossoms or autumn (September to November) for fall foliage. Summers are hot and humid. Winters are cold and can be quite harsh.