Top Things to Do in South Korea

Known as a famous tourist destination in Asia, visitors have many things to do when going there. They can not only visit the beautiful attraction sites such as N Seoul Tower, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Ewha Womans University, but also taste the Korean cuisine including Kimchi, Bibimbap, and local snacks. Besides, tourists can go shopping, experience colorful night life, or participate in famous local events like the Lotus Lantern Festival, Jinhae Gunhangje Festival, or see the wonderful performances including Deoksugung Palace Royal Guard-Changing Ceremony, and folk performances in the Korea House.

Must-go Cities in South Korea

Seoul

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is the country's political, economic, cultural and educational center. Formerly called Hanseong and now the tenth largest city in the world, Seoul is located in the central part of Korean Peninsula, with Han River running through the city. The city has time-honored sites such as Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, and conventional markets to feel the traditional culture, including Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong Street, and Sungnyemun Gate.

Jeju Island

As a holiday paradise about 82 kilometers (51 miles) from the mainland, Jeju Island is situated in the southwest of South Korea and is always praised as the "eastern Hawaii". Jeju Island was formed after the volcanic activities 1.2 million years ago. It is a typical volcanic island consisting of plains, hills and lava. This island with a moderate climate is the warmest place in the country. Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes are listed as a World Natural Heritage by UNESCO. Hallasan with an altitude of 1,950 meters (6,398 feet) on the island is the highest mountain in the country. Seongsan IIchulbong is the best spot on the island to see sunrise.

Busan

Located in the southeast, Busan is the first largest port and the second largest city in the country. Facing Japan in the south, Busan has a perfect location, making it a vital bridge linking East Asia. There are various natural and cultural sites and flourishing shopping areas in the city. Haeundae Beach, Songdo Beach, and Gwangalli Beach are popular destinations for tourists in summer. The city is also where many international events took place, including the 2005 Summer Olympics and annual Busan Film Festival since 1995.

Must-see Attractions in South Korea

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Built in 1394, Gyeongbokgung Palace with a long history of over 600 years was the residential palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Most of the buildings are built along the central axis, extending from Gwanghwamun Gate to Gyotaejeon Hall. At the north end of the palace is Geoncheonggung Hall which was originally the residence of the last empress in the Chosun Dynasty. Tourists can also visit the National Palace Museum and National Folk Museum inside Gyeongbokgung Palace.

N Seoul Tower

Officially known as YTN Seoul Tower, N Seoul Tower located on Namsan Mountain in central Seoul is usually called Namsan Tower or Seoul Tower with a height of 236.7 meters (776.5 feet). Tourists can see the tower from downtown Seoul no matter where they are. Standing on the top of Seoul Tower, they can have a panoramic view of Seoul city. The tower is a renowned attraction to appreciate the night view of Seoul.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon refers to the area between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace. Bukchon Hanok Village with many traditional houses is a good place to learn about Korean history and experience local customs. Many TV soaps were filmed here, attracting many tourists to seek the settings of their favorite TV series. Galleries, traditional workshops, and restaurants of traditional architectural style make here an art district.

Best Korean Food to Taste

The locals mainly eat high-protein bland food and lots of vegetables. They avoid greasy food and favor spicy food. The main food includes rice, porridge, noodles, dumplings and rice cake soup. Kimchi (seasoned and fermented vegetables), hotpot, fried dish, barbecue, pancakes, steamed dish, and vegetable salad are complementary food. The desserts mainly include rice cake, and cookies.

Kimchi

Kimchi is the most representative cuisine in Korea and often refers to pickled cabbage, radish, and cucumber. Kimchi is listed as one of the top five healthiest food by American magazine "Health". There are more than 100 kinds of Kimchi. The spicy cabbage, diced radish and cucumber are the most representative ones.

Bibimbap

Bibimbap is popular among tourists from various countries because of its healthy ingredients and cooking methods. Bibimbap is a fast food made of rice mixed with side dishes. Usually, vegetables and meat are added to rice, well balancing protein, carbohydrate, dietary fiber and other nutrient elements. Jeoju bibimbap as the most representative one is worth a taste.

Top Performances

Deoksugung Palace Royal Guard-Changing Ceremony

The guard-changing ceremony takes place three times a day since it was first held in 1996. This ceremony vividly reproduces the imperial court scenes, giving visitors a good chance to experience the traditional culture of the country. Its scale can be on a par with the guard-changing ceremony of United Kingdom.

Folk Performances in the Korea House

Korea House, a venue for traditional performing arts, provides all kinds of Korean court and folk dances including mask dance, Pansori vocal performance, and Sinawi instrumental ensemble.

Further Reading: 
South Korea Transportation   Useful Travel Tips