South Korea continues to be a highly recommended tourist destination. Affordable travel expenses, K-pop idols, delicious food, and budget-friendly shopping remain as strong draws. Seoul’s Myeong-dong and Gyeongbokgung Palace are classic must-visit tourist spots with immense popularity. In regional cities like Busan and Jeju Island, there are plenty of hidden gems to explore. South Korea is perfect for a quick weekend getaway.
1. [Seoul] Myeong-dong
Myeong-dong, located in the heart of Seoul, is the largest shopping and entertainment district in the city and is a popular tourist destination among young Koreans. This bustling area offers a wide variety of experiences, including food, fashion, beauty, and shopping—everything a traveler would want to do. If you’re looking to enjoy the latest food trends and fashion in South Korea, Myeong-dong is the place to go.
■ Name: Myeong-dong
■ Address: Jung-gu, Seoul
■ Access: Myeong-dong Station (Subway Line 4) / Euljiro 1-ga Station (Subway Line 2)
2. [Seoul] Gyeongbokgung
Gyeongbokgung is a must-visit tourist spot in Seoul, known as the first royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. If you visit while wearing a hanbok (Korean traditional attire), you can enter for free, which adds a unique cultural experience as many tourists dress up in traditional clothing. Hanboks can be rented, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Korea’s cultural heritage while sightseeing.
There are English-language guide services available, so even if you don’t speak Korean, it’s not a problem. If you want to deepen your knowledge of Korean history, this is a great place to visit. The changing of the guard ceremony within the palace is also a highlight. After sightseeing, try the famous bean sprout soup at “Samhae Jip” near Gyeongbokgung Station—a local specialty from Jeonju.
■ Name: Gyeongbokgung
■ Address: Sajik-ro 161, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul
■ Access: Gyeongbokgung Station (Subway Line 3), Exit 5
■ Hours: March-May, September-October: 9 AM-6 PM / June-August: 9 AM-6:30 PM / November-February: 9 AM-5 PM (Last entry is 1 hour before closing)
■ Closed: Every Tuesday (Open on public holidays)
3. [Seoul] Changdeokgung
Changdeokgung is an ancient palace in Seoul and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Although it was rebuilt in 1615 as a secondary palace, it served as the main royal residence for about 270 years due to historical circumstances. This is a highly recommended tourist spot for those who want to learn about the cultural and intellectual history of the Joseon Dynasty. English-language guides are available, making it an excellent place for history enthusiasts. The palace gardens are also a must-see. It’s only a 10-minute bus ride or walk from Gyeongbokgung, so visiting both in one day is a great idea.
■ Name: Changdeokgung
■ Address: Yulgok-ro 99, Waryong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
■ Access: Anguk Station (Subway Line 3), Exit 3 (5-minute walk)
■ Hours: February-May, September-October: 9 AM-6 PM / June-August: 9 AM-6:30 PM / November-January: 9 AM-5:30 PM (Last entry is 1 hour before closing)
■ Closed: Every Monday (Open on public holidays)
■ Official Website: http://www.cdg.go.kr
4. [Seoul] Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village, located between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, is a historically rich area in Seoul where traditional Korean houses (hanok) line the streets. It offers a unique travel experience as if you’ve stepped back in time. The area is filled with charming cafes in a nostalgic setting, perfect for a leisurely walk. Since there are many slopes, it’s best to visit in comfortable clothing and shoes.
■ Name: Bukchon Hanok Village
■ Address: 37 Gye-dong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
■ Access: Anguk Station (Subway Line 3), Exit 3 / Turn left at the first corner and walk straight, past the Bukchon Cultural Center
5. [Seoul] Insadong
Insadong is a cultural district located southeast of Gyeongbokgung in Seoul. It is a popular area for Korean tourists who want to enjoy shopping and food in the heart of the city.
The main street, Insadong-gil, is known for its charming stone pavements, with numerous shops lining the street where you can buy traditional Korean goods. It’s a perfect spot for souvenir shopping. If you're looking for trendy and stylish gifts, Ssamziegil, an art shopping mall, is highly recommended. The nostalgic side streets add to the experience, so make sure to explore them while visiting.
■ Name: Insadong
■ Address: Jongno-gu, Seoul
■ Access: Anguk Station (Subway Line 3) / Jonggak Station (Subway Line 1)
6. [Seoul] Digital Media City (DMC)
Digital Media City is one of Korea's leading entertainment areas, where futuristic buildings such as MBC and SBS are located.
One of the main attractions is MBC WORLD, a theme park located in MBC’s new headquarters. Here, visitors can experience various aspects of Korean TV and entertainment, enjoying cutting-edge technology attractions. For those interested in the music show "M Countdown," the CJ E&M Center is recommended. The park areas around the southern part of the Han River (Hangang) are lush with greenery, providing a perfect spot for a relaxing break during your tour.
■ Name: Digital Media City (DMC)
■ Address: Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul
■ Access: 10-minute walk from Digital Media City Station, Exit 9
■ Official Website: https://x.gd/vmeja
7. [Seoul] Hongdae
If you want to enjoy Korea’s latest art and subculture, head to Hongdae, the area around Hongik University, which is known for its focus on the arts. Hongdae is filled with trendy shops with unique exterior designs, cafes offering creative desserts, and more, making it a perfect destination for tourists. It’s a constantly evolving area, popular among Seoul’s tourist spots.
In the Hongdae area, you can stroll along Parking Street, Shopping Street, or visit the free market at Hongik Park. You can also enjoy street performances and live music at the nearby live houses. Picasso Street, with its mural paintings, is a favorite photo spot among tourists. Hongdae is filled with charm, and you could easily spend a whole day exploring it.
■ Name: Hongdae
■ Address: Seoul
■ Access: Hongik University Station (Subway Line 2) / Sangsu Station (Subway Line 6)
8. [Seoul] Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
Dongdaemun Design Plaza, with its unique curved design, is a massive tourist attraction housing art halls, museums, and design labs. It was designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, who became famous for designing the new National Stadium. The structure features a 3D, non-standard architectural style where the roof and walls blend into one.
The whole facility is impressive, but don’t miss the intricate staircase resembling a cave, the artistic sculptural stairs, and the design promenade. For first-time visitors to Korea, the free DDP tour is a great way to explore the complex. It’s also easily accessible and beautifully illuminated at night, making it a great spot for evening visits.
■ Name: Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
■ Address: Euljiro 7-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul
■ Access: Directly connected to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, Exit 1
9. [Busan] Haeundae and Gwangalli
Busan, located in the southeastern part of the Korean Peninsula, is South Korea's second-largest city. Among Busan’s resort areas, Haeundae and Gwangalli stand out for their beautiful beaches.
Haeundae
Haeundae is a popular destination among tourists, known for its luxurious hotels with casinos and hot springs. Nearby attractions include the SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium located beneath the beach, and Dongbaek Park on the western edge of the beach. You can also visit Nurimaru APEC House, where the APEC Summit was held.
■ Name: Haeundae
■ Address: Haeundae Beach, Jung-dong 1, Haeundae-gu, Busan
■ Access: Dongbaek Station, Haeundae Station, Jung-dong Station (Subway Line 2)
Gwangalli
Gwangalli has a more casual atmosphere compared to Haeundae and is famous for its beautiful night views. The illuminated Gwangandaegyo adds to the beauty of the beach, making it a popular spot for couples and tourists alike.
■ Name: Gwangalli
■ Address: Gwangalli Beach, Gwangalli 2-dong, Suyeong-gu, Busan
■ Access: Geumnyeonsan Station (Subway Line 2), Exit 1 or 3
10. [Busan] Gamcheon Culture Village
Gamcheon Culture Village is a famous tourist spot in Busan, with colorful houses built closely together on the slopes of a mountain, creating a picturesque scene. Due to its maze-like narrow alleyways, it’s also known as the "Machu Picchu of Busan."
Gamcheon Culture Village is especially popular among young women. The village’s colorful stairs and houses are vibrant and make for great photo opportunities. With plenty of art objects scattered throughout the village, the uphill climb feels less tiring as you explore. If you’re visiting Busan, make sure to check out this artistic and unique spot.
■ Name: Gamcheon Culture Village
■ Address: 10-13, Gamcheon-dong, Busan
■ Access: From Jagalchi Station (Subway Line 1), Exit 7. Take Bus No. 17 from the bus stop near Phoenix Hotel and get off at the last stop (about 20 minutes). Then take the local bus (Maeul Bus) from the village entrance. Bus stop name: Gamcheon Munhwa Ma-eul
11. [Jeju Island] Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak)
Jeju Island, a resort island in South Korea, is famous as a filming location for many movies and dramas. It is a volcanic island registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site under "Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes." Located at the easternmost point of Jeju, the cliffside crater of Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) is a highly recommended tourist spot where visitors can easily experience volcanic activity.
It takes about 30 minutes to hike the well-maintained trail from the parking lot to the summit, which is about 182 meters high. From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Seongsan crater and the surrounding breathtaking scenery.
■ Name: Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak)
■ Address: 284-12 Ilchul-ro, Seongsan-eup, Seogwipo, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province
■ Access: Take the eastbound bus from Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal and get off at the Seongsan Ilchulbong entrance (about 80 minutes)
■ Hours: From 1 hour before sunrise to 1 hour before sunset
12. [Jeju Island] Daepo Columnar Jointing Coast
In the southwestern part of Jeju Island, the Jungmun Tourist Complex is a highly recommended resort area with numerous attractions. One of Jeju’s unique scenic spots is the Daepo Columnar Jointing Coast, a famous tourist destination where you can observe large-scale columnar joints formed by lava cooling in the sea. You can safely view the dynamic cliffs of columnar joints and the crashing white waves from the coastal trail. The stunning columnar joints stretch for about 2 km along the southern coastline of the Jungmun Tourist Complex, offering a magnificent sight.
■ Name: Daepo Columnar Jointing Coast
■ Address: Seogwipo, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province
■ Access: About 80 minutes by taxi from Jeju International Airport or 20 minutes by taxi from Seogwipo Intercity Bus Terminal
■ Hours: 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM, varies by season)
13. [Daegu] Apsan Observatory
Daegu, the third-largest city in South Korea after Seoul and Busan, is an important transportation hub with railways and highways passing through it. While the famous 83 Tower, standing at 202 meters in Duryu Park, is a well-known landmark of Daegu, the recently popular tourist spot is the Apsan Observatory.
Located south of Daegu city center, Apsan Mountain is popular for hiking. However, you can also take a cable car to the top, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Daegu. From the Apsan Observatory, which sits at about 600 meters above sea level, you can see 83 Tower, the entire cityscape of Daegu, and even Palgongsan Mountain in the distance.
■ Name: Apsan Observatory
■ Address: 454 Apsan Circulation Road, Nam-gu, Daegu
■ Access: From Dongdaegu Station, transfer to Bus 651 at the bus stop in the Dongdaegu Complex Transfer Center, then transfer to Bus 300 at Seomun Market. Get off at Apsan Park.
14. [Gwangju] National Asia Culture Center (ACC)
Opened in November 2015, the National Asia Culture Center is a massive cultural complex in Gwangju, known as a city of the arts. It was built on the site of the former Jeollanam-do Provincial Office, where the Gwangju Uprising, a historical event in which students and citizens were suppressed by military force, took place. Now, it stands as a forward-thinking international arts institution.
When visiting ACC, a free guided tour is recommended. You can learn about the facility's history while exploring the grounds and buildings. In addition to the regular tour, special seasonal tours such as the Spring Day Tour and Romance Tour are available. As the tours are popular, it is best to reserve in advance on the official website. The center is conveniently located near the Culture Complex Station on the subway.
■ Name: National Asia Culture Center (ACC)
■ Address: 38 Culture Complex Road, Gwangsan-dong, Dong-gu, Gwangju
■ Access: Directly connected to Culture Complex Station
■ Hours: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM / Wednesday, Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
■ Closed: Mondays / January 1st
■ Official Website: https://www.acc.go.kr/jp
15. [Ulsan] Daewangam Park
Ulsan, located about 50 km northeast of Busan and facing the Sea of Japan, is an industrial city known for being home to one of the world’s largest Hyundai car factories. It is also known as a corporate city representing Hyundai Group.
Ulsan is a city with both mountainous and coastal areas. One of the must-visit attractions is Daewangam Park. After a 15-minute walk through a beautiful pine forest that is over 100 years old, you’ll reach the stunning coastline with its towering rock formations. The coast features a variety of uniquely shaped rocks created by erosion, including the massive Daewangam Rock, which resembles a dragon. The walkway along the rocks leads to a bridge connecting to Daewangam itself, allowing visitors to enjoy the dynamic natural landscape.
■ Name: Daewangam Park
■ Address: 155 Lighthouse Road, Ilsan-dong, Dong-gu, Ulsan
■ Access: About 30 minutes by taxi from Taehwagang Station
16. [Pohang] POSCO Factory Nightscape
Pohang, an industrial city facing the Sea of Japan, is known for its steel industry, unlike Ulsan, which is famous for its automotive industry. Pohang is home to the headquarters and factories of POSCO, Korea's largest steel manufacturer, which was established with financial and technical support from Japan.
When thinking of steel manufacturing, the stunning nightscapes of factories often come to mind. Although there are no night cruises available at present, Songdo Beach nearby is a highly recommended spot to view the beautiful nightscape of the factory. You can also see it from the coastal areas near Pohang Passenger Terminal and Yeongildae Beach. While it may not have the same impact as the "Hand of Harmony" at Sunrise Park, the factory nightscape offers a unique and memorable experience during your trip to Pohang.
■ Name: POSCO Factory Nightscape
■ Address: Songdo-dong, Nam-gu, Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do (Songdo Beach)
■ Official Website: https://www1.pohang.go.kr/japan/contents.do?mid=0201000000
17. [Cheongju] Sangdangsanseong Fortress
Cheongju, located between Seoul and Daegu, is a well-known tourist destination in South Korea, and Sangdangsanseong Fortress is a must-visit historical site.
Sangdangsanseong Fortress is located to the east of Cheongju's city center. It boasts three impressive gates, including the Gongnammun. The fortress walls stretch over 4 kilometers, encircling a village, and walking along these walls is a highly recommended sightseeing route. Sangdangsanseong has also served as a filming location for historical Korean dramas like The Legend (Tae Wang Sa Shin Gi).
■ Name: Sangdangsanseong Fortress
■ Address: 70 Seongnae-ro, Sangdang-gu, Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do
■ Access: About 30 minutes by taxi from Cheongju Intercity Bus Terminal
■ Official Website: https://x.gd/hmqAf
18. [Jeonju] Jeondong Cathedral
Jeonju, known as the birthplace of the Joseon Dynasty, is one of South Korea’s most historically rich cities. Its old town is home to popular tourist spots such as Pungnammun, Gyeonggijeon Shrine, and Hanok Village, making it a classic destination for visitors.
In the midst of this traditional royal culture, Jeondong Cathedral stands out. Built in 1914 from red brick, it is a Romanesque-Byzantine style cathedral known for its beautiful stained-glass windows. Located at the entrance to Hanok Village, it has become a popular photo spot for tourists visiting Jeonju.
■ Name: Jeondong Cathedral
■ Address: 200-1 Jeon-dong, Wansan-gu, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do
■ Access: About 20 minutes by taxi from Jeonju Station
■ Hours: Summer: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM / Winter: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
■ Official Website: http://www.jeondong.or.kr/
19. [Yeosu] Yeosu Maritime Cable Car
Yeosu, a port city in southern Korea, is known for its numerous tourist attractions, including the Big-O Fountain Show at Yeosu Expo Marine Park and Odongdo Island, famous for its stunning rock formations. Among these attractions, the Yeosu Maritime Cable Car stands out. It connects the pier near Odongdo Island to the popular night view spot, Dolsan Park, via a cable car ride over the sea.
The one-way trip on the cable car takes about 13 minutes and offers stunning views. The crystal cabins with glass floors are especially popular for the breathtaking views and added thrill! At night, the illuminated Geobukseon Bridge is a beautiful sight, so make sure to enjoy the romantic nighttime scenery from Dolsan Park.
■ Name: Yeosu Maritime Cable Car
■ Address: 332-55 Sujeong-dong, Yeosu, Jeollanam-do
■ Access: From Yeosu Expo Station, head towards the Yeosu MP Hotel near the park
■ Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM (hours may vary)
■ Official Website: http://yeosucablecar.com/
20. [Sacheon] Sacheon Aerospace Museum
Sacheon, a port city characterized by its ria coastline dotted with numerous islands, is also known for its aerospace industry. When visiting Sacheon, in addition to sightseeing by cruise boat or riding the Sacheon Maritime Cable Car, a visit to the Sacheon Aerospace Museum is highly recommended.
The Aerospace Museum has an outdoor exhibit featuring around 30 real aircraft. Visitors can see planes and helicopters manufactured by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), as well as American B-29 bombers and C-124 transport planes used during wartime, including a B-29 bomber, which is the only one displayed outside of the United States. The museum also offers interactive exhibits related to aviation technology and space, allowing visitors to experience simulations and other educational activities.
■ Name: Sacheon Aerospace Museum
■ Address: 802 Yucheon-ri, Sanam-myeon, Sacheon, Gyeongsangnam-do
■ Access: Conveniently reached by taxi from Sacheon Intercity Bus Terminal
■ Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (March-October) / 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (November-February)
◎ Repeat travelers, make sure to explore South Korea’s regional cities too!
When it comes to tourism and travel in South Korea, Seoul, Busan, and Jeju Island are popular, but other cities also offer unique attractions and are highly recommended. For those who haven't visited South Korea yet, these are must-see destinations. In addition to South Korea's UNESCO World Heritage sites, you can enjoy shopping, food, fashion, and beauty at great value. South Korea always has something new to discover, no matter how many times you visit. So, why not plan a quick weekend trip to South Korea?