South Koreas Stunning Sights Really Are A Must-see

Beauty spots:

South Korea has many beautiful sites, from futuristic modern buildings to old hilltop temples. Whether you want to explore Seoul's fashionable cityscapes, Gangneung's top K-drama filming spots, or the pristine landscapes of Jeju Island, we have you covered. As part of Visit Korea Year, citizens from 22 countries can visit South Korea without a visa until December 2024. Now is an excellent opportunity to add this Asian country to your trip itinerary. Let's take a look at South Korea's most breathtaking views.

Bukchon Hanok Village, Seoul:

Bukchon Hanok Village, located between the Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces, is a tranquil residential area with hundreds of hanoks (traditional Korean buildings) that either date from or are fashioned to resemble the 14th century. The steep, narrow roads provide spectacular views of the city, particularly with the hanoks in the front, big apartment buildings behind them, and the N Seoul Tower in the distance.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Busan:

While many of Korea's most stunning temples are hidden away in the mountains, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is located directly by the sea. This 14th-century masterpiece in Busan has been renovated and reconstructed throughout the years, but it still exudes elegance. There are 108 stairs lined with stone lanterns that take you down the rocky shore to the temple's brightly coloured facades.

Jinhae, Changwon:

Jinhae, a district in Changwon City, is a cherry blossom hotspot. Every year, the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival takes place here (usually from the end of March to early April), and hundreds of Yoshino cherry trees convert the landscape into the pastel-pink stuff of dreams. Its popularity has brought crowds; however, weekdays might be quieter. Gyeonghwa Station is one of the most picturesque locations, with trains passing beneath a canopy of blossoms.

Sangsaeng’s Hand, Homigot Sangsaeng’s Hand, Homigot:

This beautiful bronze sculpture can be seen in Homigot, on Korea's easternmost tip, and it's no accident that this town is the site of South Korea's earliest sunrise every year. The best time to observe the hand silhouetted against the sun is in the early morning. The right hand (shown) emerges from the water, while the left hand is situated on the shoreline.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Seoul:

Is this Seoul's coolest building? The Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is one of Zaha Hadid's architectural triumphs, and it exemplifies the capital's sleek, modern design. Its spaceship-like design is divided into five zones, which contain cutting-edge markets, art galleries, and exhibition spaces. Spacious walkways run around and around the structure, allowing you to view its fluid curves from any perspective. DDP also stands for 'dream, design and play'.

Songdo Central Park, Incheon:

Incheon is best renowned for its international airport, which will most likely be your point of entry into the country, but there are a few other things worth seeing. The port city has a rich nautical heritage, but it also has a modern edge; head to Songdo Central Park to see gigantic skyscrapers mirrored in a huge waterway.

Jaman Mural Village, Jeonju:

Jaman Mural Village, located on a steep hill, exudes unique appeal. You'll ride down winding lanes and view murals depicting scenes from classic anime films like Spirited Away and My Neighbour Totoro, as well as some western influences like The Beatles and The Wizard of Oz. This colourful, unusual region is full of cute cafés and is close to Jeonju Hanok Village, where you can return for a more traditional experience.

Woljeonggyo Bridge, Gyeongju:

Woljeonggyo Bridge, a replica of a 7th-century original and South Korea's largest wooden bridge, is stunning inside and out. A wooden walkway flanked by red columns and topped with a low-sloping tiled roof. The covered bridge is even more stunning at night, when it illuminates and reflects its beauty on the clean water's surface beneath.

The Garden of Morning Calm, Gapyeong:

With over 5,000 plants and 20 themed zones linked by walkways, the Garden of Morning Calm is a horticulturalist's dream. The Sunken Garden is fashioned like the Korean peninsula and displays flowers that symbolize a hopeful reunification of North and South Korea. Set amid a towering pine forest, it's an appealing area to spend time, and each season brings something new. Look for the bright yellow adonis flowers that bloom in the spring, or attend themed light festivals in the winter.

Ojukheon House, Gangneung:

The Ojukheon House is one of the oldest wooden residential buildings in the country. Today, the facility works more like a classic open-air museum, with well-kept gardens and visitors free to walk the grounds. The Gangneung landmark was previously the home of Sin, a famous 16th-century artist, and her scholar son, Yi, who appeared on the 50,000 and 5,000 Korean won notes.