The Most Beautiful Places You Must Visit in South Korea
If you’re planning a trip to Korea and wondering where the most breathtaking places are, you’ve come to the right place. As a Korean sharing insider tips with global travelers, I can tell you this: Korea may look small on the map, but it’s packed with landscapes and cities that feel like they belong in completely different worlds. From volcanic islands to ancient villages to neon-lit cityscapes, here are the most beautiful places you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
Seoul: Where Tradition Meets Modern Energy
Yes, Seoul is busy, bold, and loud—but it’s also one of the most visually striking cities in Asia.
Walk around Bukchon Hanok Village and suddenly you’re surrounded by traditional wooden houses. A few subway stops away, Lotte World Tower pierces the sky. Palaces, riverside parks, mountain hikes, and endless night views make Seoul a must for first-time visitors.
Don’t miss: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Tower night view, Cheonggyecheon Stream, Seochon neighborhood.
Busan: Korea’s Coastal Beauty
Busan feels like a relaxed cousin of Seoul—sunny, spacious, and full of coastal charm.
Haeundae Beach at sunrise, Gamcheon Culture Village’s colorful hillside homes, and Haedong Yonggungsa Temple perched above the sea make Busan one of Korea’s most scenic cities.
Don’t miss: Haeundae, Gwangalli Bridge night view, Jagalchi Market, Igidae Coastal Walk.
Jeju Island: Korea’s Natural Wonder
Jeju is often called the “Hawaii of Korea,” but honestly, that’s underselling it. The island has waterfalls, lava tubes, black-sand beaches, and Hallasan, a shield volcano sitting right in the center.
Why it’s beautiful: dramatic cliffs, emerald waters, and landscapes that shift every few kilometers.
Don’t miss: Seongsan Ilchulbong sunrise, Hallasan hike, Jeongbang Waterfall, Manjanggul Cave.
Gyeongju: The Museum Without Walls
Gyeongju isn’t just beautiful—it’s historically mesmerizing.
Imagine gentle green hills that are actually ancient tombs, lotus ponds, golden temples, and stone pagodas spread across peaceful parklands.
Don’t miss: Bulguksa Temple, Cheomseongdae Observatory, Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond at night.
Jeonju Hanok Village: Picture-Perfect Tradition
If you want to feel like you walked straight into a Korean period drama, Jeonju is the place. Rows of traditional hanok houses, street food stalls, traditional crafts, and calm winding alleys make it a traveler favorite.
Don’t miss: Hanok Village viewpoints, Jeonju bibimbap, Omokdae Pavilion.
The Korean Alps: Seoraksan National Park
For anyone who loves hiking or dramatic mountain scenery, Seoraksan is unbeatable.
Jagged peaks, crystal-clear streams, lush valleys, and temples perched at the base of cliffs—Seoraksan feels like nature’s masterpiece.
Best seasons: Autumn for fiery foliage, winter for snowy peaks.
Don’t miss: Ulsanbawi Rock, Sinheungsa Temple, cable car to Gwongeumseong.
Andong Hahoe Village: Timeless Korea
A UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by a looping river and forested hills, Hahoe Village is one of Korea’s most peaceful traditional communities. The preserved homes and masks from the famous Hahoe Mask Dance give this area a unique cultural charm.
Don’t miss: Hahoe Mask Museum, Buyongdae Cliff viewpoint.
Boseong Green Tea Fields: Korea’s Green Carpet
Rolling hills covered in endless green tea terraces make Boseong one of the most photogenic spots in the country. On misty mornings, it looks like a scene straight out of a fantasy movie.
Don’t miss: Tea farm trails, Daehan Dawon Plantation, green tea ice cream.
Nami Island: Romantic All Year Round
A tiny island near Seoul, famous for its picturesque tree-lined paths. Every season has its own personality—autumn’s golden ginkgo, winter’s soft snow, spring blossoms, and summer greenery.
Don’t miss: Riverside paths, bike rental, central garden zones.
Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve
This is Korea’s hidden gem for nature lovers.
Golden reed fields, calm wooden walkways, and sunset views over the bay make Suncheon one of the most peaceful places to enjoy Korea’s coastal wetlands.
Don’t miss: Reed fields at sunset, Suncheon Bay Garden.
Final Thoughts
Korea’s beauty isn’t just in the famous landmarks—it’s in the mix of nature, history, and modern culture that blend seamlessly across the country. Whether you’re a photographer, a culture lover, a foodie, or just someone who appreciates a great view, Korea delivers scenery you won’t forget.