Are you planning your first trip to South Korea?
Whether you're into culture, food, nature, or K-pop—Korea has it all.
In this guide, we’ll show you the Top 5 places you must visit in Korea, hand-picked for first-time travelers.
📌 Bonus: Useful links and tips included for your easy travel planning.
🏯 1. Gyeongbokgung Palace – Feel the Royal History of Korea
One of Korea’s most iconic landmarks, Gyeongbokgung Palace is a must-visit.
You can rent a hanbok (Korean traditional dress) and walk around like royalty!
- 📍 Location: Seoul, near Gwanghwamun
- 🎟️ Admission: Around 3,000 KRW
- 📸 Instagram spot: Gwanghwamun Gate with guards!
🔗 Official Korea Travel Guide - Gyeongbokgung
🌸 2. Namsan Tower (N-Seoul Tower) – The Best View of the City
Want a romantic view of Seoul’s skyline?
Namsan Tower is perfect for photos, cable car rides, and love locks.
- 🚠 How to get there: Cable car or hike
- 💡 Tip: Go during sunset for the best lighting
- 🧡 Don’t forget to try the famous "Love Locks"
🏖️ 3. Busan – Beaches, Seafood, and Culture
Korea’s second-largest city, Busan is a coastal paradise.
Enjoy sandy beaches, vibrant markets, and colorful temples.
- 🏖️ Must-visit: Haeundae Beach, Jagalchi Market, Gamcheon Culture Village
- 🦐 Try this: Live seafood at Jagalchi!
- 🚄 Tip: Take the KTX train from Seoul (~2.5 hours)
🔗 Busan Travel Guide (Visit Korea)
🌿 4. Jeonju Hanok Village – Experience Traditional Korea
Step into the past with Jeonju Hanok Village, filled with traditional Korean houses, food, and culture.
- 📸 Rent a hanbok and take beautiful photos
- 🍲 Must-try dish: Jeonju Bibimbap!
- 🛏️ You can even stay overnight in a hanok (Korean house)
🌊 5. Jeju Island – Nature, Volcanoes, and Peace
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jeju Island offers lava tubes, waterfalls, and peaceful nature.
- 🌋 Visit: Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak), Hallasan Mountain
- 🍊 Try: Jeju tangerines and black pork BBQ
- ✈️ Flight time: ~1 hour from Seoul
🔗 Jeju Travel Info (Visit Korea)
🧳 Bonus: Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
✔️ Download KakaoMap or Naver Map for easy navigation
✔️ Buy a T-Money card for public transport
✔️ Learn 3 basic Korean words:
- 안녕하세요 (Hello)
- 감사합니다 (Thank you)
- 얼마에요? (How much is it?)
🎯 Final Thoughts
Korea is a mix of modern vibes and rich tradition.
Start with these five destinations to truly feel the spirit of Korea.
💬 What place do you want to visit first? Let me know in the comments!
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