Where do you want to go next time you visit Korea? Gangnam? Myeongdong? Of course, hanging out in Gangnam and shopping in Myeongdong can be fun additions to your itinerary.
If you have time, however, I recommend visiting other places to explore more of Korean culture. Here are ten places beyond those two Seoul neighborhoods. Several are well-known attractions, so do not assume they will be quiet.
강릉 경포해변과 경포대 / Gyeongpo Beach and Gyeongpodae, Gangneung
강릉 (Gangneung) is a city on South Korea’s east coast in Gangwon. 경포해변 (Gyeongpo Beach) faces the East Sea, also known internationally as the Sea of Japan. It is a popular destination, so it can be busy in summer.
경포대 (Gyeongpodae) is the nearby historic pavilion overlooking Gyeongpo Lake, not the name of the beach itself. You can combine the beach with a visit to the lake and pavilion.
수원 화성 / Hwaseong Fortress, Suwon
수원 (Suwon) is in 경기도 (Gyeonggi-do), south of Seoul. Travel time depends on your starting point and route.
화성 (Hwaseong Fortress) was built under King Jeongjo between 1794 and 1796. Its development was connected with the king’s commemoration of his father, Crown Prince Sado, as well as defensive and administrative aims.
The fortress surrounds Suwon’s historic center. Parts of the structure have been restored. Its walls and gates stand alongside the modern city. Read more about its history on UNESCO’s Hwaseong page.
용인 한국민속촌 / Korean Folk Village, Yongin
한국민속촌 (Korean Folk Village) in 용인 (Yongin) is an open-air cultural attraction that recreates aspects of traditional Korean village life.
You can see traditional buildings and crafts, along with scheduled performances and historical reenactments. Performers may portray Joseon-era characters, but not every person wearing hanbok is an employee.
Check the official program for performances, activities, and opening information for your visit.
춘천 남이섬 / Nami Island, Chuncheon
남이섬 (Namiseom, or Nami Island) is administratively part of 춘천 (Chuncheon), though visitors commonly approach it from the Gapyeong side.
The island is known for tree-lined paths, including its metasequoia avenue. Its “Naminara Republic” branding is a tourism concept, not a separate country. Check the island’s current admission and transport options before traveling.
It can be pleasant for walking, but it is also a popular attraction and may be crowded.
전주 한옥마을 / Jeonju Hanok Village
전주 한옥마을 (Jeonju Hanok Village) is in Jeonju, in Jeonbuk in southwestern Korea. 한옥 (hanok) means a traditional Korean house.
The area has many hanok buildings, with accommodation, restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. Not every structure or business is a traditional house.
Jeonju also hosts an international film festival, typically in spring rather than summer. Check the festival’s official dates when planning a visit.
동해 무릉계곡 / Mureunggyegok Valley, Donghae
동해 무릉계곡 (Donghae Mureunggyegok) is a scenic valley in Donghae, a city on Korea’s east coast. The name 무릉 evokes an idyllic paradise; it is not simply the Korean word for “heaven.”
The valley offers walking and hiking scenery. Another attraction in Donghae is 천곡동굴 (Cheongok Cave), a limestone cave in the city. Check access and operating information before visiting.
서울 어린이대공원 / Children’s Grand Park, Seoul
어린이대공원 (Children’s Grand Park) in Seoul is for visitors of all ages. It has gardens, paths, a zoo, playgrounds, and amusement facilities.
Park admission is free, but rides and some programs or facilities may have separate charges. Check the current visitor information rather than assuming everything is included.
It is also a popular place to enjoy cherry blossoms in spring, when blooming conditions allow.
서울 매헌시민의숲 / Maeheon Citizens’ Forest, Seoul
Formerly known as Yangjae Citizens’ Forest, 매헌시민의숲 (Maeheon Citizens’ Forest) is in Yangjae-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul. It offers wooded paths and green spaces.
The nearby station is Yangjae Citizens’ Forest on the Shinbundang Line. See the official visitor page for directions.
인천 차이나타운 / Incheon Chinatown
인천 차이나타운 (Incheon Chinatown) is on Korea’s west coast. It is a place to explore Korean-Chinese food and the history of Incheon’s port area.
The neighborhood’s origins date to the opening of Incheon’s port in 1883 and the Chinese settlement that followed, well before the Korean War. Its restaurants and museums offer a way to explore this history.
수원 월화원 / Wolhwawon Garden, Suwon
월화원 (Wolhwawon) is a Chinese-style garden in Suwon, near Suwon City Hall Station. Its paths, water features, and pavilions make it a pleasant stop for a walk and photographs.
Conclusion
These are ten places in Korea to consider visiting. Have you visited any of them already? If you have not, I strongly recommend visiting these places when you come to Korea. Some work well as day trips from Seoul; others require more travel time. Check your route and allow enough time at each destination.
Check out our list of Basic Korean Phrases for Travelers and Beginners that can come in handy.