Top 10 Reasons to Visit South Korea

South Korea, home to K-pop, Kimchi, and Korean BBQ, is quickly emerging as a top travel destination. From fast-paced cities to charming countrysides, this country offers something for everyone. Korea’s vibrant culture and delightful traditions will capture your heart and keep you coming back for more. Here are the top 10 reasons to visit South Korea!

Delicious Food

Nothing beats Korean Food. It is simply amazing. From street food stalls to sit-down restaurants, your taste buds will be in heaven. If kimchi and pickled veggies aren’t your things, don’t fear. You can find some of the best-fried chicken and BBQ that you’ve ever tasted in your life. For the more adventurous eater, delicious stews, flavorful soups, and mouthwatering rice and noodle dishes await you.

Rich History

Korea had a turbulent past, trapped geographically between the political agendas of China, Russia, and Japan. But despite multiple invasions and wars, Korea still has an incredible amount of palaces, temples, and city walls to explore. Visit the historical cities of Gyeongju, Jeonju, and Andong, to get a better idea of how Korea looked in the past. 

Popular Culture

Visiting Korea throws you into the center of various profitable and globally-recognized industries. There’s no better place to experience K-Pop and K-dramas, than Seoul, itself. You’ll also be immersed in a world of cosmetics and fashion. There are so many areas to get excited about. I have recently gotten into Korean skincare and I am having a blast discovering all of the products and brands. You will find a lot in Myeongdong Shopping Street!

Safety

If you are traveling alone for the first time or a new traveler in general, Korea is an excellent choice! During my 2 years of living in Korea, I have never felt unsafe, even at night. The culture is incredibly kind and willing to help. If you look lost on a street, odds are, someone will approach you to help or even lead you to your destination. 

Four Delightful Seasons

Korea experiences all four seasons and it’s hard to pick a favorite. Spring brings gorgeous Cherry Blossoms; Summer means trips to the beach, the famous “Boryeong Mud Festival,” and colorful fields of flowers; Fall turns the foliage into spectacular displays of reds and yellows; and, finally, Winter turns the country into a snowy, white wonderland complete with skiing and other festivities. 

Themed Cafes

Coffee culture is relatively new in Korea, but it has taken the country by storm. Seoul is home to some of the most creative cafes I have seen. Their themes range from sheep cafes to Harry Potter, to poop, to knitting, and more. It’s great to spend some time soaking in their ambiance while drinking a delicious coffee or some green tea. 

Mix of Tradition and Modernization

Korea’s traditions hold strong despite its rapid modernization. The balance of the two is fascinating to witness. With Samsung, Hyundai, K-pop, and many other brands and industries, Korea is at the forefront of the modern world and its growth isn’t stopping any time soon! 

People

Koreans are exceptionally kind and generous people! They are often willing to help or even strike up a conversation with you if they can. Koreans are proud of their heritage and can be seen honoring their culture while wearing Korea’s gorgeous traditional outfit: the hanbok. Koreans are also quite welcoming to foreigners, especially the younger generations!

Incredible Hiking

Did you know Korea is over 70% of mountains? No matter where you visit, odds are, you will be close to a mountain! Before moving to Korea, I had no idea of the incredible hiking trails that awaited me. Due to Korea’s diverse terrain, you can find any sort of trail that suits your liking and experience level. You can find picturesque city hikes, lush green mountain-side treks, and seaside hikes that make your heart flutter. 

Ease of Transportation

Korea is super easy to get around and it is fairly cheap too. With an excellent fast-speed train, you can get from Seoul to Busan in under 3 hours. If you only have a limited time to spend in Korea, the speed and efficiency of the transportation will be a lifesaver to see multiple parts of the magnificent country. 

What are your reasons that come to your mind to visit South Korea? Comment below!

Not enough for South Korea? Don’t forget to check out or South Korea quiz to explore more about this amazing country and test your knowledge!