Democratic South Korea has been split with dictatorial North Korea since 1945. The border is still militarily guarded on both sides. The southern Republic of Korea is a country where you can enjoy an excellent holiday as a tourist. South Korea has, among other things, a number of special places that you will encounter on Unesco’s list of world heritage sites. The Joseon dynasty has left a special legacy with impressive palaces and temples. And the landscape of South Korea is also worth mentioning. The mountainous landscape, the green hills, the many islands and beautiful lakes offer enough variety from the sometimes very busy cities. Seoul and Pusan in particular can seem very overwhelming, but are definitely worth a visit. And did you know that you can even go on winter sports in South Korea? Gangwon-do has a total of 125 kilometers of slopes. South Korea can therefore truly be called a destination that is at home in all markets. Check topmbadirectory for how to get to South Korea.
Top 10 sights of South Korea
#1. Seoul
The city of Seoul (in Dutch: Seoul) is the largest and most vibrant city in South Korea. This huge metropolis is for many people the first introduction to the beautiful Asian country. What makes Seoul so interesting is that on the one hand you have quite a lot of relics from previous centuries that you can admire and on the other hand you are dealing with a city that has developed into a huge metropolis in a few decades where there is always something to do somewhere. Visit one of the old royal temples, enjoy street food in the lively Myeongdong district or wander the old streets of Bukchon Hanok Village.
#2. Hwaseong fortress
Beautiful remnants of the past can be admired in the South Korean city of Suwon. Hwaseong Fort and its city walls are an excellent example of the Joseon dynasty, which lasted from 1392 to 1897. The defensive Hwaseong Fort was built during the eighteenth century, under the direction of the architect Jeong Yak-yong. Several watchtowers, four city gates and a number of secret entrance gates were also realized in the wall, which is almost six kilometers long. During the Korean War, Hwaseong Fort suffered a lot. The war clearly left its mark. With various reconstructions, attention has been paid to the original design as closely as possible. However, some access roads have been modified. It should come as no surprise that the Hwaseong Fort is now part of Unesco’s World Heritage Sites. At the Suwon Hwaseong Museum you can learn more about the history of the fort and its inhabitants. Check simplyyellowpages for mass media and culture of South Korea.
#3. Seoraksan National Park
The immensely large Seoraksan National Park is located in the northeast of South Korea. It is a habitat for many animals. The nearly 400,000 square kilometer park is home to, for example, the Asian black bear, the Korea goral, musk deer, otters and various bird species. In various visitor centers you can obtain information about various activities, such as eco-tours, walking tours, hiking tours and excursions to, for example, the Biryoung waterfalls. Seoraksan is South Korea’s only national park to be listed as a World Heritage Site.
#4. Jeju
Close to the south-west coast of South Korea, you can visit the beautiful island of Jeju. The island, also known as Jeju Island or Jeju-do, attracts many nature lovers and peace seekers. The mix of a volcanic landscape with whimsical rock formations, waterfalls and romantic sunsets gives the island its own unique character. It is therefore not surprising that many newly married couples stay here. But the island is also ideal for an active holiday. You can go on nice cycling and walking tours or visit historic cities such as the house of Kim Cheong-hi or the open-air museum in the mountain village of Seongeup.
#5. DMZ
The separation between North Korea and South Korea has created a special landmark: the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). This is a buffer zone between the two countries that have been at odds since the split of Korea. The DMZ was established in 1953 when an armistice was signed at the end of the Korean War. Since then, the DMZ has run along the 248-kilometer border between the two countries. As a tourist you can visit this almost surrealistic sight through an organized excursion. This takes place in the Joint Security Area where both parties jointly monitor security. Tourists can visit the DMZ under supervision and according to strict rules. You will first receive a briefing in which it is clearly explained what is and what is not allowed. Highlights include the Third Tunnel, the Dorasan Station platform and the opportunity to have your photo taken with guards.
#6. Andong
Do you want to get acquainted with authentic Korean culture? Then you should plan a visit to Andong Hahoe Folk Village. Visit traditional houses that can be admired in a picturesque setting and imagine yourself back in the days of former Korea. Andong Folk Village is located on the waterfront at the foot of Mount Hwasan. The historic village was founded in the 14th century AD and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Yangdong Village. The best time to visit Andong Folk Village is early in the morning before the flood of tourists starts.
#7. Jeju-do
The island of Jeju and a number of surrounding islands form Jeju-do, a small province south of mainland South Korea. The literal and figurative highlight of Jeju-do is the dormant volcano Hallasan. This volcano occupies a large part of the main island of Jeju and is a national park. Here you can fully enjoy an almost untouched nature. For hikers, this is one of the better destinations in South Korea. What also attracts visitors is the relaxed atmosphere that prevails here.
#8. Chuncheon
The city of Chuncheon is located in the province of Gangwon-do, in the north of South Korea. The location on the lakes Uiamho and Soyangho make the city very accessible for tourists and day trippers. In addition, it is also possible to visit one of the small islands such as Jungdo Island and Namiseom Island. Culture vultures should definitely pay a visit to the Cheongpyeongse Temple. The temple is mentioned in a beautiful legend in which a serpent and a princess play the leading role. The city of Chuncheon is well known in South Korea for the many fantastic festivals that are organized there. For example, the Chuncheon Puppet Festival and the Soyanggang Culture Festival attract thousands of visitors every year.
#9. Busan
After Seoul, Busan (Pusan) is the second largest city in South Korea. Pusan is an interesting destination for tourists because of the traditional markets, beautiful beaches and a number of beautiful temples. Pusan is also a good destination for gourmets. In Pusan you can discover all facets of Korean cuisine, both on markets and in sometimes very luxurious restaurants. Its location on Busan Bay makes the city a popular beach destination. Here is also the largest beach in Korea: Haeundae Beach.
#10. Everland
The Everland theme park knows how to charm its visitors. The park, which opened its doors in 1976, is divided into five zones: Global Fair, American Adventure, Zootopia, European Adventure and Magic Land. It is a place where young and old can get acquainted with East and West. The park is decorated with different architectural styles from all over the world. Among the attractions are a number of roller coasters, of which the T Express is the largest. In between you can relax in one of the eateries or during a dazzling show.
