Whether you’re a nature-lover or hardcore shopper, here’s a list of things to do for your first trip to Korea!
1. See Cherry Blossoms In Full Bloom
If you’re visiting in Spring, the cherry blossoms at the Halla Arboretum in Jeju is a sight not to be missed. For the rest of the year, nature lovers can enjoy the lush greenery and beautiful gardens, or even hike up to the top of the hill for stunning views of the whole city.
2. Explore Bukchon Hanok Village
Nestled in the heart of Seoul between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, the traditional houses (hanok) in the village date back to the Joseon Dynasty. A portion of the houses are still occupied by residents, while others are converted into chic galleries, restaurants and shops.
3. Stroll Down One of Korea’s Most Beautiful Roads
Named one of the most beautiful roads in Korea, the Metasequoia-lined Road in Damyang, Jeollanam-do looks like a scene straight out of a fairytale. The 8.5 kilometre-long boulevard is also perfect for some leisure cycling to admire the beautiful scenery all year-round.
4. Take A Dip In A Hot Spring
Owing to their excellent water quality and health benefits, Icheon’s hot springs are frequently visited by the kings of the Joseon Dynasty. Termeden is one such hot spring resort complex that is popular for its luxurious facilities.
5. Hop Onboard A Steam Engine Train
Located in Jeonnam, the Gokseong Train Village is one of the must-visit tourist spots in the area, where you can ride a steam engine train along the Seomjingang River.
6. Visit A Theme Park
If your life motto is go big or go home, we suggest starting with Korea’s largest amusement park, Everland. On top of the dozen of rides and attractions, the park also houses the a zoo called Zootopia, as well as a waterpark.
7. Shop Till You Drop
Shop all night long at Dongdaemun, a labyrinth of shopping complexes which include shopping complexes like Doota and Migliore that open till late. The shopping district is home to a whooping 26 shopping malls and over 30,000 specialty shops.
8. Visit A Folk Village
The Oeam-ri Folk Village is occupied by the families who have settled down more than 500 years ago. See for yourself the daily artifacts of the Joseon Period such as treadmills, millstones, and thatched roof houses. Don’t forget to sip on the folk wine Yeonyeopju which used to be offered to the Korean royalty.
9. Fully Embrace Nature By Going On A Hike
Defined by the grandiose rock peaks of Macheondae Summit and Janggunbong, Mount Daedunsan Provincial Park offers one of the most spectacular views in Korea. Daedunsan Mountain is especially beautiful in the fall when its rock peaks are painted over by the autumnal tints of turning leaves.
10. Don A Hanbok
Located in the heart of Myeong-dong is the Seoul Global Cultural Centre, you can partake in a hanbok fitting experience, where you can wear traditional outfits such as a guard’s uniform, a royal serving girl, or even the formal dragon robe of a Joseon Dynasty king.
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