COUNTRY IN FOCUS

South Korea 

South Korea, an East Asian nation on the southern half of the Korean Peninsula, shares one of the world’s most heavily militarized borders with North Korea. It’s equally known for its green, hilly countryside dotted with cherry trees and centuries-old Buddhist temples, plus its coastal fishing villages, sub-tropical islands and high-tech cities such as Seoul, the capital.

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What is Famous in South Korea

In the past few years, South Korea has gained popularity with its traditions, magnificent places, K-pop and K-drama. But besides everything, do you know some of the best places to visit in South Korea? South Korea is known for its rich cultural heritage, technological advancements, culinary delights and stunning natural beauty.

Seoul

The world knows about Seoul; it is the heart of South Korea—a city with a touch of tradition and modernity. From the iconic futuristic skyscrapers to the historical treasures like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul is a city that should be on the top of your bucket list for South Korea. You can take a walk to the ever-bustling markets in South Korea, such as Dongdaemun and Namdaemun, which offer a bundle of traditional and modern items. Seoul is full of rich heritage, culture, thriving culinary delights and lively nightlife and tops the list of must-visit places in South Korea.

Busan

Busan is South Korea's second-largest city, and it attracts tourists from all over the world with its beautiful beaches and lively street food delights. Some of the famous beaches of Busan are Haeundae Beach and Gwangalli Beach, which surprise its visitors with its stunning coastal views and a package of water sports.

Another iconic attraction of Busan is the Jagalchi Fish Market. It is famous for its fresh seafood and the vibrant environment of a traditional fish market. Suppose you are looking to have an authentic South Korean experience, Busan has the perfect balance of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and delicious cuisine, and this is what makes Busan one of the top destinations.

Jeju Island

Jeju Island - the "Hawaii of South Korea," is known for its volcanic terrain. This Island has lush green forests, stunning waterfalls like Jeongbang and Cheonjeyeon and crystal clear beaches such as Hyeopjae and Jungmun. There's another top attraction on the Island, known as Seongsan Ilchulbong, which is a volcanic tuff cone and gives a panoramic view of the Island to its tourists.

The unique lava tube caves of Jeju Island, like Manjanggul, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Tourists from all over the world visit Jeju Island to witness its stunning natural beauty, balanced climate, and outdoor recreational activities.

Gyeongju

Gyeongju is widely recognized as a "museum without walls." It is a city that holds history within, and with a rich legacy of ancient temples, royal tombs, and historical sites, Gyeongju is one of the best places in South Korea. The architectural masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple, make it the best cultural getaway. Also, the Anapji Pond (An artificial pond), which once belonged to a palace and is now a peaceful tourist spot.

DMZ

The Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is one of those unique and historic destinations that reflects the longstanding tension between North and South Korea. The DMZ is famous for being one of the most heavily secured borders in the world. You can explore the Third Infiltration Tunnel, which was then dug for potential military aggression.

You would be surprised to know the fact that the Joint Security Area (JSA) allows travelers from around the world to step into North Korea while remaining on the South Korean side. The DMZ is a symbol of a divided Korea, which still lives in the hope of reuniting. If you are a history enthusiast, then this place will leave a lasting impact on your life.

Haeinsa Temple

Haeinsa Temple is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, that houses the oldest Buddhist canon in Hanja Script - the Tripitaka Koreana. These Buddhist scriptures were carved onto thousands of wooden blocks during the 13th century and are a living witness to the devotion and craftsmanship of the ancient Buddhist monks.

Haeinsa Temple is one of those beautiful South Korean places that promise spiritual solace and a connection with the rich religious history. The peaceful environment of the temple, including lush forests and sparkling streams, complements this place and makes it an ideal place for meditation. You would not only think about the historical significance of the Tripitaka Koreana but also can't get your eyes off the magnificent architectural beauty and cultural richness of the temple.

Andong

Andong is another South Korean City full of traditional culture & history. This city is known for preserving South Korea's rich cultural heritage. The city has a UNESCO World Heritage site, Hahoe Folk Village, which is well-preserved and celebrates the traditional architecture and lifestyle of the Joseon Dynasty. Another attractive thing in Andong is the Andong Mask Dance Festival, a perfect combination of music, dance, and intricate masks.

These masks, popularly known as "Hahoe masks," are significant in Korean culture as they represent multiple human characters and emotions. South Korea and its cities have preserved their customs and traditions very well, and this is the reason why South Korean tourism has been on the rise since the last few years.

4 Popular Things in South Korea

K-Pop & K-Drama>

For the last few years, the music & cinema industry of South Korea has changed drastically, and now they have become a global powerhouse in the entertainment industry. K-pop is popularly known for its catchy tunes and mesmerizing choreography, which has given the world some international sensations like BTS and BLACKPINK.

On the other hand, K-Dramas have a massive following across the globe. The engaging characters & brilliant storylines are the window to modern Korean culture.

Traditional Drink - Soju

Soju is the lifeline of traditional South Korea. South Koreans enjoy Soju at social gatherings and other traditional festivals. It has a relatively mild taste as compared to its higher alcohol content.

Kimchi

Seasoned with spices & other delicious seasonings, Kimchi is a delicious side dish with fermented vegetables, mainly cabbage and radishes. Again, Kimchi is not just a dish; it's a cultural symbol served at every Korean meal. Additionally, Kimchi also has many health benefits.

Hanbok

The Hanbok is South Korea's traditional attire. This vibrant-colored Hanbok is a way to reflect South Korea's rich cultural heritage. South Koreans often wear this conventional attire during auspicious celebrations and ceremonies, such as weddings and festivals.

South Korea is one of the most famous destinations in the world. Its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural wonders, delicious cuisines and globally acclaimed pop culture attract thousands of tourists annually.

                                                        SOMA