South Korea

Travelers to South Korea will find a captivating blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. In Seoul, historic palaces like Gyeongbokgung sit alongside vibrant shopping districts such as Myeongdong and bustling nightlife in Gangnam. Most will start there, but don’t forget to venture beyond Seoul as well. The coastal city of Busan is known for its beautiful beaches, seafood markets, and stunning temples like Haedong Yonggungsa. For nature, hike the scenic trails of Seoraksan National Park or head to Jeju Island’s for sandy beaches and volcanic landscapes. And at every stop, don’t forget to savor the country’s cuisine and try everything from savory bulgogi and kimchi to sweet patbingsu.

Everything You Need to Know About Korean Banchan

Photo by Jun Michael Park

Overview

Planning your trip

Use these articles, resources, and guides to plan and inspire your next trip to South Korea.

Related guides
Read Before You Go
Hotels
AFAR’s picks for the 31 best new hotels in the world.
Resources to help plan your trip
These places are perfect for a postwinter trip.
Make the most of your readerly passions at these global cities recognized for their vibrant literary communities.
With everything from street food to Michelin-starred cuisine, Seoul boasts an extensive culinary scene. Be sure to sample specialties like bulgogi (barbecued meat), japchae (stir-fried noodles), and comforting soups, all served with kimchi.
The new airline plans to fly through Alaska and will offer both domestic routes throughout the United States as well as connections to Japan and South Korea.
Author Lauren Shockey’s colorful book presents hangover cures and remedies found across the globe, in the form of traditional and delicious dishes.
In Seoul, South Korea, a writer explores the origins—and resurgence—of one of the country’s richest culinary traditions.
What you need to know about the history, etiquette, and ingredients behind banchan, the small dishes that accompany most Korean meals.
Dad loves travel. Teen loves Blackpink. Put them together and what do you get? A musical journey through South Korea’s capital city.
Seoul’s neighborhoods are a hodgepodge of consumer endeavors. Looking for souvenirs? Cultural hotspot Insadong has got you covered. Need a new party dress? Add the fashion district of Myeongdong to your must-go list. Check out our favorite neighborhoods, streets, and shops curated from the depths of Seoul’s labyrinthine nooks and crannies.
Seoul’s concrete towers punctuate the skyline like the rat-a-tat-tat of Morse code. In this uncompromisingly massive megalopolis, at first it can seem impossible to find a moment’s peace. But under the surface of modernity lies a place of healing with wellness traditions that date back a thousand years.
From ancient palaces to the futuristic new city hall, Seoul is a marvel of architecture and design. Evidence of this modern way of thinking is everywhere. Just take a stroll in downtown Seoul to discover it for yourself.
Buddhist temples and grand palaces meet neon skylines in Seoul. The city’s hotels are just as varied, ranging from design properties with no-fuss amenities to over-the-top luxury resorts with Michelin-starred cuisine. Here are some of the highlights.
Sign up for our newsletter
Join more than a million of the world’s best travelers. Subscribe to the Daily Wander newsletter.