South Korean popular culture focuses on what is new, technology advanced and brandable. What is mass popular is music and sport, food and holidays. You must unearth their Buddhism and Christianity religious beliefs and traditions. Throughout South Korea are Buddhist temples in villages and towns and cities. Worship is part and parcel of every Korean's life.
Fuss over the drama and pop sure but immerse yourself in what's not glossy, as well.
Read on to discover the best summer destinations to South Korea, before making plans of your own. It's difficult for us to decide where we enjoyed our time in South Korea. What is certain we enjoyed every place we visited. It's irrelevant to single out one city. That's because culture and tradition go beyond one location. Finally, we did arrive at 10 places. We've put together these 10 best summer destinations travel guide.
Let's begin with the festivals. Traveling anywhere it's vital you can experience local customs and traditions. Festivals reinforce lasting memories. You feel part of the event, the dance and music. It's the party atmosphere, the food and common closeness.
South Korea has a dazzling history and vibrant culture. You sense this playing out each of their festivals. Modern bustling city life mingles with an ancient past that plays out; it seems almost weekly. There is always something to celebrate, elaborate as it appears to be. Let's look at what we have for you this summer.
First off for fun and laughter is the Boryeong Mud Festival held in July. It's a massive event attracting millions from around the globe, you must be here. Arrive wearing an old pair of shorts and t-shirt and get ready to roll in it.
Also towards the end of July is the Pohang Fireworks Festival held on the Yeongilbae beach. Included with the many live performances, there is an international firework competition. and:
There are also the customary beach food and beer parties. Very unique to South Korea is the Muju Firefly festival. The August night sky lights up like Blackpool Illuminations. It's an unbelievable sight as fireflies begin glowing, to attract a mate.
And then there is the Jindo Festival. This celebrates the parting of the sea, resulting in a brief sandy path. It's "as if Moses himself parted the sea" as local lore tells it. This natural event happens at the end of March each spring and it's an incredible sight for your eyes. Rather difficult to believe in fact but it happens. There is almost a 3km path clear of sea between the Island and the mainland.
Towards the wrong end of the year for this guide, a worthy mention in passing. The Seoul Lantern Festival takes place in November. If you can't get to Seoul during the summer, can you later in the year? If you can you'd want to see this festival, for sure.
Many Korean dishes are seasonal, more so than other cultures. Of the best pick of South Korean Street food for a festive summer snack, we've gone for a tuna Tataki cold salad. Keep it simple we say, their summers can be sweltering hot.
South Korea is ultra-modern. One of the most technology sophisticated societies in the world, in fact. To learn of the top destinations in South Korea, we've created a top 10 list for you. The Korean people are traditional, particularly the older generation. If you find yourself lost and asking for directions or help it is polite to give a slight bow of your head, first. When traveling good manners will always break the ice for you.
A lot of your interest will be the cultural landmarks and architecture. Also, by the shopping. Shopping in Seoul City is fun and exciting, but it can be expensive too, and not only for luxury items. Set a budget and stick to it.
Top experiences creating lasting memories for you are the food and karaoke bars. It would be a shame to leave and not have put on a performance to talk about afterwards. In fact, you will find that for many Koreans they favor karaoke bars for meeting friends and family. Another beautiful thing about South Korea is the weather. Throughout the year but in particularly the summer is the weather.
It can be very hot. You won't even baulk at walking in the rain because it will be warm on your skin. You'll be wet, sure but not cold and you'll dry off soon afterwards, anyway. The nightlife is buzzing too, and Seoul is always on the move 24 hours a day. With our introduction coming to its end let's look at what and where South Korea has waiting for you.
More likely than not this will be where you start your holiday from. Seoul has everything. The nightlife and shopping. The authentic Korean street food is a must try travel experience. Luxurious hotels with their spa and wellbeing experiences, of course. No matter what your expectations, South Korea far exceeds your expectations.
Even backpacking in South Korea is something else. There's a mountain right on the back door of Seoul waiting for you. We'll not go into great detail but for fun activities for children in tow you may wish to think about:
The camping forest has many interesting outdoor activities. For every generation young and older, including obstacle courses. and ziplines. If you love the outdoors or physical activities, you'll enjoy this forest park. A great experience for families. In fact, you notice immediately about South Korea is the family friendliness.
The sports complex forms part of the former Olympic Stadium. The complex plays host to go carting, by entering from the West side gate. The Boramae Park offers rock climbing experiences for beginners to experts and professionals. All in all, a good thing for families. If you're stuck for something to do after a meal in the evening, go for a walk in this park.
It sparkles during the day and glitters at night. The Hangang River flows into the city, creating the city's most popular park. If climbing a wall isn't your thing then imagine what if there was a park promising you water activities? Hangang Park is such a place and there are many parks scattered all over the city. Enjoy them all.
If you want, spend a few hours learning about Korean history. How important was archery to the Koreans? By the late 17th century, very important. A visit to the Hwanghakjeong Korean Archery Gallery is our recommendation. Part of the Gyeonghuigung Palace, the site offers you the chance of bow and arrow making. Afterwards to visit the exhibition hall to hone your own archery skills.
The city is never dull for tourists, why seasoned travelers keep coming back. Why we'll keep coming back, again and again.
From the many trips we've made to South Korea, we know the best time for visiting Seoul is in May. It isn't summer yet, but spring and the rains haven't arrived yet, they'll follow in June. If you can travel a month or two earlier, then May could be what you're looking for? July and August are the worst months for heavy rain in South Korea. Yes, temperatures remain the highest between June and September, but the wettest too.
Weigh up the pros and cons and if the wet season is too much for you, plan to travel to South Korea in May. Or later, in October for a fall vacation.
The Island is South Korea's ticket into the tropics. An hour's flight from Seoul and you're thinking "Why not?" Koreans jump on a plane for all year-round warmth regular, especially on the weekends. If you're thinking what we thought that there's a hidden gem of a paradise you'd be correct.
There are several UNESCO World Heritage sites recognized for the natural environment. The volcanic Island also lays claim to being one of the 7 new wonders of nature. From the black colored sand on the beaches to the restaurants. And more besides the fresh delicious seafood there are many attractions to Jeju:
Climb the mountain for Seongsan Ilchulbong Crater. Over 600 meters in width there's an amazing sight waiting for you. Often you may hear that Jeju is South Korea's answer to Indonesia's Bali. Your storyteller will not be far wrong. The weather gives you a hot, baking summer and a warm, cozy winter.
It's South Korea's only remaining city with a fortress wall left still standing. A 40-minute train ride south of Seoul brings you into the city. Walking around Hwaseong fortress you cannot help but feel transported back in time. Eerie but in a pleasant way. The important of the fortress is in protecting the tomb of Prince Sado.
Another must see location is the Hwaseong Palace. It's where many of Korea's most famous dramatizations have taken place. Actually, Suwon City enjoys growing popularity due to the city's cafes and restaurants. Many found on Haenggung-dong Street draw in fans who love taking selfies for social media. Nearby you can enjoy peaceful scenic walks and picnics at Banghwasuryujeong.
With easy access, you can expect to have a nice day out and away from Seoul.
Seoul grabs all the attention. But South Korea's other largest city is catching up and fast. But why? Could it be the long walks on some of the best, most beautiful beaches? We recommend you get stay at least 2D1N in Busan. Get around by bus and avoid the subway. We found it rather daunting, to be honest. And the subway doesn't always take you close to an attraction.
And talking about attractions. We'll get to the beaches of course but first let's look at:
The market is South Korea's largest fish market. And one of Busan's most popular attractions. There you will see sea creatures you never knew existed. The market is huge, spread over seven floors in the main building. And were that not enough, the market spilling out onto surrounding streets. You will find the best seafood restaurants on the second floor.
If you're not a fan of seafood don't panic. Plenty of street food vendors congregate on Gwangbokdong Food Street. The narrow alley leads onto two other food courts:
One thing not short on in South Korea is the food and, in most establishments, have agreeable prices. The cultural village is an intriguing prospect, offering an insight into Korea's history. This is Busan's must-see top attraction in our opinion.
Traditional houses of many colors jump out at you as you stroll through the streets. Famous for the small size of houses and built on steep gradients. No two streets are the same as they take you in this turn and then another. A shanty town during the 1950's Korea war but now a magnet for tourists. Because since then government spending on the village has had a complete makeover.
This investment has transformed people's lives. To the north of the Busan coastline, you'll discover the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. There are four reasons for going out of your way to visit. Those being, the Buddha, the Sanctuary and a Shrine and a cave acting as a Sanctum. A tall pagoda with four lions each looking out at the ocean is worth seeing too.
One lion represents joy with another anger. A third sadness and the fourth happiness. There is an interesting history of course and more besides to see. Busan has two beaches we recommend: Gwangalli Beach and Haeundae Beach. Gwangalli offers soft sand under your feet. Of course, there are fantastic views and quality restaurants within easy reach. Go for a slow walk along the 1.4km shoreline and you will forget all about the metropolis in the background.
Relaxing watching the sun set on the distant horizon is memorizing by the way. So is looking back at the glittering city lights. Dare to say there is romance in the cool night air? Haeundae Beach draws in the locals as well as tourists in the summer months, being the most popular beach. The length and breadth are what makes it special and as well as space is at a premium. If you are fortunate enough there are fireworks and music performances after nightfall.
Be prepared to travel. Visiting this city from Seoul is a two-hour journey by the high-speed bullet trains. A small city and one that is peaceful, far less noise immediately obvious. But you can't return to Seoul without visiting Gwanghallu Park. It was the setting for Korea's own rendition of Romeo and Juliet. The first screening was in 2000, depicting traditional Korean 18th century folklore.
One more fetching attraction to the area is the Jirisan Mountain. What South Korean's love more than anything else is escaping the city. Thousands of Korean's head for the great outdoors to enjoy hiking mountain summits. There are many trails and starting points from various villages on the city limits. For such a small city, Namwon has a lot on offer. So many things to do, we couldn't fit them all in on our visit.
A small city that deserves greater attention.
Ulsan is home to the world's largest shipyard and car assembly plant. But there is an attractive side to this industrialized landscape and that is why it's in our top ten.
Out of the city on the slopes of Mount Gaji is Seoknamsa Temple. Built in the 9th century and rebuilt after the Japanese invasion of Korea in the 17th century. The three-level pagoda greeting you is one of the very few pieces of 9th century Korea surviving today.
There are trails leading to the top of Mount Gaji through sparse woodland. Part of scenic Ulsan there is the Paraeso Falls. A 40-minute taxi ride from Ulsan, the 15m waterfall creates a beautiful pool below. But a word of warning: it's forbidden to swim at this waterfall. Instead, you continue to follow the river trail leading away from the waterfall. It's a favorable trail for sightseeing birdlife and mammals.
The real reason for staying in Ulsan for a few days is the Taehwagang River Grand Park. This "green corridor" has cafes, exercise areas, pavilions and child play areas. As you cycle along the corridor you come across the tall bamboo. Have your smartphone ready to snap photos. Planted to mitigate flooding from the river, the bamboo forest creates beautiful scenery. Make up a picnic and rent a bicycle and enjoy a day out.
Superb for families. You can be in your hotel, having traveled from Seoul by train in only a few hours.
You never tire of the sea and the sound of the waves. One thing you cannot but notice are the many cafes and eateries serving delicious bakery products. There are endless beaches:
Yeongildae Beach is the largest in South Korea and is worth visiting for the Hanok Pavilion Peer. There's also a canal and a museum in the area. Chilpo Beach is less crowded. The waves are suitable for intermediate to experienced surfers. Otherwise, it's good enough for a romantic stroll for couples.
Hwajin Beach is the only beach that is family friendly in Pohang. Jangsa Beach has a pine forest on the beach front making it ideal for nature lovers. Enjoy a stroll through the woodland before settling down to sunbathe and swimming. Look out for the "Hand of Coexistence", a sculpture at Homigot Plaza beachfront. There are a pair of them.
Whilst near the plaza, be on the Homigot Plaza Square before sunrise. Sitting there with a coffee watching the sun rise over the horizon feels like magic. As tasted elsewhere in South Korea local seafood is gorgeous, and when in Pohang, crab is a specialty. Be sure to try the crab before returning to Seoul, as the specialty isn't the same elsewhere.
Suncheon is generally little known to the world of travel outside South Korea. That is changing, as tourists to Korea look for natural wonders. The city is growing in stature as an eco-tourism magnet. What pulls in nature lovers is the mudflats of Suncheon Bay. The bay has a wetland reserve and a national garden. Both raise the attractiveness of Suncheon for the international tourist.
One thing is sure. You will lose yourself in the garden. It is quite huge, and you will spend hours walking around it is enjoying the scenery and nature. The garden has 4 distinct areas. There is an Arboretum, a World Garden, a Wetland and a center for the Wetland. From Suncheon Express Bus Terminal, take the bus. If you want to take in both the bay and garden, then get dropped off at the east gate.
Otherwise get dropped off at the west gate for the Wetland reserve only.
The World Garden in itself has 11 individual gardens. What's so great an experience is each garden depicts characteristics of a country. The garden landscapes have an artistic flair about them. There are also three Korean gardens, Palace Garden, the Noblemen’s Garden, and the Garden of Hope. There are even views from the mountain top.
The bay and garden are perfect for nature lovers, as we've said. For history enthusiasts there is the Nagan Fortress Folk Village. Suncheon was once a fortress city, to defend against invading Japanese pirates.
These villages were the lifeblood of local communities during the period. Nagan is of the very few remaining in South Korea. Preserved for its historic value the village remains important for all Korean's. Well worth a visit to appreciate the history before it is gone for good.
Serving a domestic market, Sokcho City is South Korea's top holiday hotspot. Why is that so? The best hiking in South Korea happens around this city. On the doorstep of this amazing city is the Seoraksan National Park. Once you do reach the summit of Seoraksan Mountain you enjoy grand views of the city from afar. If hiking isn't in your blood, then there's a cable car that'll save you any inconvenience.
Actually, if you hiked the trail up to the top it would be more rewarding for you to take the cable car back down. For those stunning views you see out the window, we found the cable car going down best. Or do it the other way around and hike down the trail. It's up to you.
From walking distance of the express way bus terminal there is Sokcho Beach. Go for a stroll along the sandy beach as the sound of crashing waves is relaxing and mindful. If you enjoy long walks, keep walking south past Oeongchi Hill to reach Daepohang Port. There are street vendors preparing sashimi. It's one of Japan's most delicious dishes. At some point in the day, go for a dip in the crystal-clear waters. Sokcho has a nice breeze that is cooling in the warm sunshine, perfect for a moody picnic.
This beach is like the beaches on Jeju Island. In other words, it's the perfect holiday beach.
When you have hunger pangs, we recommend you go to the Sokcho Jungang Market. Delicious seafood dishes that are fresh, along with fruit in season. In Sokcho the dish you don't want to miss is Manseok Chicken. Boneless, the chicken is very tender. The flavor is both sweet and spicy as well. By the time you've finished one serving you'll want another.
Pro Tip: Any market in southeast Asia is a dining experience for holiday tourists. Don't let the market's customary hustle and bustle put you off. It's the crowds that generate the great atmosphere for your holiday experience.
By our estimation Jeju is the most popular Island for South Korean's but it's not their only Island. There is Geoje Island, and you can get to it via Busan. Busan is a little over 2 hours by bullet train from Seoul, for those who are wondering. Travel to Geoje from Busan is convenient thanks to an 8km bridge and tunnel system.
We found Geoje Island to have a more laidback, slower pace, compared to Jeju. You may find that's to your liking as well? There are a lot of reasons to visit for the outdoor enthusiasts. For backpackers especially if you can appreciate beauty in natural surroundings. The Island has many trails taking you to amazing views and attractions. One such attraction is Goeje's much touted Windy Hill. A gentle trail leads you to the top for views onto the blue sea below, observing some smaller Islands.
In the hot summer you welcome the constant gentle breeze blowing in off the ocean. It's one of Korea's saving graces in the summer's humidity, is the breeze. There is a bus service hourly from Busan Seobu Terminal or hire a taxi. Arrive at the small village of Dojangpo. Find your bearings and head towards the breakwaters for the steps to the attraction. From Windy Hill you enjoy picturesque views onto the blue ocean and rocks.
There is a trail taking you down onto the rocks below for a better impression. The sights onto the waters are memorizing. The sound of waves against the rocks is therapeutic. We sat there for hours, glued to the spot.
There are several beaches on Geoje Island. Gujora Beach is a favorite and our recommendation. Because of its warm shallow waters, you have wishes to stay forever more. Another popular beach is Hakdong Mongdol Beach but is without sand. It's a pebble beach is still popular, nonetheless. There are several smaller satellite Islands off the coast of Geoje:
Oedo Island is a small Island. Very rocky but beautiful, located within the Hallyeo National Marine Park. At the foot of the mountains and the clear blue waters is a well-maintained garden paradise. The Island is also known as Oedo Botanica Island for a reason.
If you feel you cannot leave behind all the modern convenience and amenities, South Korea is a best bet. You'll like the history and culture as much as you would the luxurious shopping malls and spas. Seoul is a great base from where you can spread your wings. Bullet trains take you anywhere in the country and doing so in a matter of hours. With so many city destinations in South Korea there are no excuses for not wanting to explore.
Of the 10 listed cities, they're the best South Korean cities you could hope for. Any of the top city destinations in this travel guide results in a best holiday vacation. What we enjoyed a lot from our time in the country is how fast you can get from one city to another. And speed isn't the only thing that pleases you, the low-ticket cost does too. If you love traveling by train, then you'll love South Korea.
Hello, we are George and Elle Mae Melyre.
Over the years, amidst work and family life, we have traveled extensively throughout Asia. Any chance to briefly escape or properly holiday in our beloved Asian destinations is eagerly seized, motivated by the enduring dream of leaving behind the UK's dreary cold for tropical climes.