Things to do in South Korea based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
N Seoul Tower, South Korea
Overview: N Seoul Tower is a landmark communication and observation tower in Seoul, offering panoramic city views and cultural exhibits.
History: Constructed as a broadcast tower, it has become a major tourist attraction featuring restaurants, observatories, and light displays.
Since When: Opened to the public in 1980.
Review: Visitors praise the breathtaking views, romantic atmosphere, and interactive exhibitions.
When to Go: Late afternoon to sunset for city skyline views transitioning into night lights.
How to Go: Accessible via cable car from Namsan Park or by bus and taxi from central Seoul.
What to Do: Enjoy panoramic views, visit cafes, participate in the “Locks of Love,” and explore cultural exhibitions.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with additional fees for observatory access.
Everland, South Korea
Overview: Everland is South Korea’s largest theme park featuring thrill rides, animal exhibits, parades, and seasonal festivals.
History: Developed by Samsung C&T Corporation to offer entertainment and recreational experiences for families and tourists.
Since When: Opened in 1976.
Review: Widely praised for its diverse attractions, scenic landscaping, and entertaining shows.
When to Go: Weekdays or during off-peak seasons to avoid long lines.
How to Go: Reachable by shuttle bus from Seoul, subway to Everland station plus shuttle, or private car.
What to Do: Ride roller coasters, watch parades, visit the zoo, and enjoy seasonal festivals.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Lotte World Tower, South Korea
Overview: Lotte World Tower is a 123-story skyscraper in Seoul featuring observation decks, luxury hotels, shopping, and entertainment facilities.
History: Built as a mixed-use complex to combine shopping, business, culture, and tourism in a single landmark.
Since When: Completed and opened in 2016.
Review: Acclaimed for its architectural elegance, panoramic views, and modern amenities.
When to Go: Late afternoon to evening for cityscape and sunset views.
How to Go: Accessible by subway (Jamsil Station) or taxi from Seoul city center.
What to Do: Visit the observation deck, shop in luxury stores, dine in restaurants, and enjoy cultural exhibitions.
Free or Paid: Paid entry for observation deck; shopping and restaurants have separate costs.
Lotte World, South Korea
Overview: Lotte World is an indoor and outdoor amusement park in Seoul with rides, parades, ice skating, and themed attractions.
History: Established to provide year-round entertainment regardless of weather, targeting families and tourists.
Since When: Opened in 1989.
Review: Popular for its variety of rides, indoor attractions, and family-friendly environment.
When to Go: Weekdays or mornings to minimize crowds.
How to Go: Accessible via Jamsil Station (subway) or taxi from central Seoul.
What to Do: Ride attractions, watch parades and shows, explore themed zones, and enjoy the ice rink.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Gyeongbokgung Palace, South Korea
Overview: Gyeongbokgung Palace is a historic royal palace in Seoul showcasing traditional Korean architecture and cultural heritage.
History: Originally built as the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty, it has been reconstructed after periods of destruction.
Since When: Built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty.
Review: Visitors admire its grand architecture, serene gardens, and cultural exhibits.
When to Go: Morning or early afternoon for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
How to Go: Accessible via Gyeongbokgung Station (subway) or taxi from central Seoul.
What to Do: Explore palace halls, watch the changing of the guard, visit museums, and photograph gardens.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Nami Island, South Korea
Overview: Nami Island is a scenic half-moon shaped island famous for its tree-lined avenues, natural landscapes, and cultural events.
History: Developed as a cultural and ecological tourist destination, it became widely known through Korean dramas.
Since When: Opened to the public in 1965.
Review: Visitors appreciate its romantic scenery, cycling paths, and family-friendly activities.
When to Go: Spring and autumn for cherry blossoms and fall foliage, or early morning to avoid crowds.
How to Go: Take a train to Gapyeong Station followed by a ferry or zipline to the island.
What to Do: Stroll along tree-lined paths, cycle, enjoy art installations, and attend seasonal festivals.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Gamcheon Culture Village, South Korea
Overview: Gamcheon Culture Village is a colorful hillside neighborhood in Busan featuring art murals, narrow alleys, and creative studios.
History: Originally a poor fishing village, it was revitalized through a public art project to become a cultural and tourist hub.
Since When: Became an official cultural village in 2009.
Review: Visitors love its vibrant murals, photo spots, and quirky cafes.
When to Go: Weekdays to avoid crowds, preferably during spring or autumn.
How to Go: Reachable by subway to Toseong Station, then a short bus ride or walk uphill.
What to Do: Explore alleys, photograph murals, shop for crafts, and enjoy local cafes.
Free or Paid: Free to enter; some attractions inside may charge a fee.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), South Korea
Overview: Dongdaemun Design Plaza is a futuristic cultural complex in Seoul known for architecture, exhibitions, and fashion events.
History: Designed by Zaha Hadid to serve as a hub for design, culture, and technology.
Since When: Completed in 2014.
Review: Highly praised for its unique architecture, vibrant night markets, and diverse exhibitions.
When to Go: Evening for illuminated architecture and bustling night market experience.
How to Go: Accessible via Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (subway).
What to Do: Visit design exhibitions, attend events, shop at markets, and photograph the architectural marvel.
Free or Paid: Free to enter the plaza; exhibitions may have a fee.
Jeonju Hanok Village, South Korea
Overview: Jeonju Hanok Village is a traditional Korean village with over 800 hanok houses, showcasing cultural heritage and local cuisine.
History: Preserves traditional Korean architecture while promoting tourism and cultural experiences.
Since When: Recognized as a cultural heritage village since 1970s, gaining popularity in the 2000s.
Review: Visitors enjoy walking through hanok streets, tasting local food, and engaging in cultural activities.
When to Go: Spring and autumn for comfortable weather and scenic beauty.
How to Go: Accessible by bus or train to Jeonju city center followed by a short walk.
What to Do: Explore hanok houses, try traditional food, participate in crafts, and photograph picturesque streets.
Free or Paid: Free entry; some workshops and attractions may have fees.
National Museum of Korea, South Korea
Overview: The National Museum of Korea is the country’s premier museum showcasing Korean history, art, and archaeological artifacts.
History: Established to preserve and display Korea’s cultural heritage and national treasures.
Since When: Opened in 1945; relocated to its current site in Yongsan in 2005.
Review: Acclaimed for its vast collections, modern facilities, and educational exhibits.
When to Go: Weekdays to avoid crowds, preferably morning for ample time to explore.
How to Go: Accessible via Ichon Station (subway) or taxi.
What to Do: Explore galleries, attend special exhibitions, join guided tours, and enjoy outdoor sculpture gardens.
Free or Paid: Free entry; special exhibitions may charge a fee.
Jagalchi Market, South Korea
Overview: Jagalchi Market is South Korea’s largest seafood market in Busan, famous for fresh catches and vibrant market atmosphere.
History: Established as a central hub for local fishermen to sell seafood, evolving into a major tourist attraction.
Since When: Operating since the early 20th century, officially recognized in the 1960s.
Review: Visitors praise its lively vibe, variety of seafood, and street food stalls.
When to Go: Early morning for the freshest seafood and to see fishermen’s auctions.
How to Go: Reachable via Jagalchi Station (Busan Metro Line 1), Exit 10.
What to Do: Explore seafood stalls, try raw and cooked seafood, and photograph the bustling market.
Free or Paid: Free entry; food purchases are paid.
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, South Korea
Overview: Haedong Yonggungsa is a scenic seaside Buddhist temple in Busan known for its cliffside location and ocean views.
History: Built to honor the sea and Buddhist deities, serving both religious and cultural functions.
Since When: Originally constructed in 1376 during the Goryeo Dynasty.
Review: Visitors love the peaceful atmosphere, dramatic coastal views, and photogenic architecture.
When to Go: Early morning or weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy serene surroundings.
How to Go: Accessible by bus from Haeundae Station followed by a short walk.
What to Do: Explore temple grounds, enjoy ocean views, and participate in Buddhist rituals.
Free or Paid: Free entry; donations welcome.
Bukchon Hanok Village, South Korea
Overview: Bukchon Hanok Village is a traditional Korean village in Seoul featuring hundreds of preserved hanok houses.
History: Historically a residential area for high-ranking officials during the Joseon Dynasty, now a cultural heritage site.
Since When: Preservation efforts began in the 1960s, with tourism increasing since the 2000s.
Review: Visitors enjoy the blend of traditional architecture and urban scenery, along with cultural experiences.
When to Go: Weekdays to avoid crowds, preferably in the morning.
How to Go: Accessible via Anguk Station (Seoul Metro Line 3), Exit 2.
What to Do: Walk through alleys, take photos, visit tea houses, and participate in cultural workshops.
Free or Paid: Free entry; some cultural experiences may have fees.
Cheomseongdae Observatory, South Korea
Overview: Cheomseongdae is an ancient astronomical observatory in Gyeongju, recognized as the oldest in East Asia.
History: Built to study celestial movements and support agricultural planning during the Silla Dynasty.
Since When: Constructed in the 7th century under Queen Seondeok.
Review: Visitors appreciate its historical significance and simple yet enduring architectural design.
When to Go: Spring or autumn for pleasant weather and clear skies.
How to Go: Accessible by bus or taxi from Gyeongju city center.
What to Do: Explore the site, learn about Silla astronomy, and photograph the historic structure.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Deoksugung Palace, South Korea
Overview: Deoksugung Palace is a historic royal palace in Seoul known for its unique mix of traditional Korean and Western-style architecture.
History: Served as a royal residence for several Joseon kings and the site of significant historical events.
Since When: Established in the 15th century, with major reconstructions in the late 19th century.
Review: Visitors enjoy the palace grounds, changing of the guard ceremony, and cultural exhibitions.
When to Go: Weekdays, preferably in spring or autumn, for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
How to Go: Accessible via City Hall Station (Seoul Metro Line 1 & 2), Exit 2.
What to Do: Tour palace halls, witness the guard ceremony, and stroll through gardens.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond, South Korea
Overview: Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond is a historic royal complex in Gyeongju featuring a beautifully illuminated pond surrounded by traditional architecture.
History: Originally built as a secondary palace for Crown Princes during the Silla Dynasty and used for state banquets.
Since When: Constructed in the 7th century, with restorations in the 1970s.
Review: Visitors admire the serene ambiance, scenic night illuminations, and historical significance.
When to Go: Evening for illuminated views or during spring for cherry blossoms.
How to Go: Accessible by bus or taxi from Gyeongju city center.
What to Do: Walk around the pond, take photographs, and learn about Silla royal culture.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
BIFF Square, South Korea
Overview: BIFF Square is a bustling cultural and entertainment hub in Busan, named after the Busan International Film Festival.
History: Developed to promote cinema and tourism, hosting film-related events and local markets.
Since When: Established in the early 2000s alongside the rise of the BIFF festival.
Review: Visitors enjoy the vibrant street life, celebrity handprints, and local street food.
When to Go: Evenings or weekends for lively atmosphere.
How to Go: Accessible via Nampo Station (Busan Metro Line 1), Exit 7.
What to Do: Explore street food stalls, shop for souvenirs, and view celebrity handprints.
Free or Paid: Free entry; purchases optional.
Seomun Market, South Korea
Overview: Seomun Market is one of Daegu’s oldest traditional markets, famous for textiles, clothing, and street food.
History: Established as a central marketplace serving local communities and traders.
Since When: Operating since the Joseon Dynasty (17th century) and modernized in recent decades.
Review: Visitors enjoy the authentic local experience, diverse products, and lively environment.
When to Go: Mornings or weekdays to avoid large crowds.
How to Go: Accessible via Banwoldang Station (Daegu Metro Line 1 & 2), Exit 5.
What to Do: Shop for textiles, taste local foods, and explore cultural goods.
Free or Paid: Free entry; shopping is paid.
PLK Travel, South Korea
Overview: PLK Travel is a professional travel agency in South Korea offering curated tours, travel packages, and transportation services.
History: Established to cater to both domestic and international tourists seeking guided travel experiences.
Since When: Founded in the early 2010s.
Review: Travelers appreciate its organized itineraries, friendly service, and local insights.
When to Go: Booking available year-round with peak travel seasons in spring and autumn.
How to Go: Accessible via major city centers or through online booking.
What to Do: Book guided tours, transportation, and travel packages.
Free or Paid: Paid services.
Yeouido Hangang Park, South Korea
Overview: Yeouido Hangang Park is a large riverside park in Seoul along the Han River, popular for outdoor recreation and scenic views.
History: Developed as part of urban beautification and recreation projects along the Han River.
Since When: Opened to the public in the late 1980s.
Review: Visitors love its cycling paths, picnic areas, and seasonal cherry blossom festivals.
When to Go: Spring for cherry blossoms, weekends for outdoor activities.
How to Go: Accessible via Yeouinaru Station (Seoul Metro Line 5), Exit 2.
What to Do: Cycle, picnic, stroll along the river, and enjoy water sports.
Free or Paid: Free entry; activity rentals may be paid.
War Memorial of Korea, South Korea
Overview: The War Memorial of Korea in Seoul is a comprehensive museum and memorial dedicated to the history of Korea’s military conflicts and sacrifices.
History: Established to honor soldiers and educate the public about Korea’s military history.
Since When: Opened in 1994.
Review: Visitors praise its extensive exhibitions, realistic displays, and educational value.
When to Go: Weekdays for a quieter experience, and spring or fall for comfortable weather.
How to Go: Accessible via Samgakji Station (Seoul Metro Lines 4 & 6), Exit 12.
What to Do: Explore indoor and outdoor exhibits, military equipment, and memorial halls.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Garden of Morning Calm, South Korea
Overview: Garden of Morning Calm is a beautifully landscaped botanical garden showcasing Korea’s native plants and themed gardens.
History: Designed to promote horticulture and provide a peaceful retreat near Gapyeong.
Since When: Opened in 1996.
Review: Visitors enjoy its scenic paths, seasonal floral displays, and photography opportunities.
When to Go: Spring for cherry blossoms or winter for light festivals.
How to Go: Accessible by bus from Cheongpyeong Station or by car from Seoul.
What to Do: Walk through themed gardens, take photos, and attend seasonal events.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Seoulland, South Korea
Overview: Seoulland is a major amusement park in Gwacheon featuring rides, shows, and themed zones for all ages.
History: Developed to provide a family-friendly entertainment destination near Seoul.
Since When: Opened in 1988.
Review: Guests enjoy the variety of rides, family activities, and seasonal events.
When to Go: Weekdays or non-peak seasons for fewer crowds.
How to Go: Accessible via Seoul Grand Park Station (Seoul Metro Line 4), followed by a short shuttle or walk.
What to Do: Ride attractions, watch live performances, and explore themed zones.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Changdeokgung, South Korea
Overview: Changdeokgung is a historic royal palace in Seoul known for its harmonious architecture and secret garden.
History: Built as one of the “Five Grand Palaces” during the Joseon Dynasty and preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Since When: Constructed in 1405.
Review: Visitors admire its historical significance, beautiful gardens, and guided tours.
When to Go: Spring for blossoms or autumn for foliage.
How to Go: Accessible via Anguk Station (Seoul Metro Line 3), Exit 3.
What to Do: Take guided tours, explore the Secret Garden, and photograph traditional architecture.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Seoul Children’s Grand Park, South Korea
Overview: Seoul Children’s Grand Park is a family-friendly park with a zoo, botanical gardens, amusement rides, and playgrounds.
History: Established to provide educational and recreational opportunities for children in Seoul.
Since When: Opened in 1975.
Review: Visitors appreciate its variety of attractions, clean facilities, and suitability for families.
When to Go: Weekends or school holidays for full activities.
How to Go: Accessible via Children’s Grand Park Station (Seoul Metro Line 7), Exit 2.
What to Do: Visit the zoo, ride attractions, enjoy picnic areas, and explore the gardens.
Free or Paid: Mixed; park entry is free, zoo and rides are paid.
Seoul Metro, South Korea
Overview: Seoul Metro is a vast and efficient urban subway system connecting most districts of Seoul and surrounding areas.
History: Developed to improve urban mobility and reduce traffic congestion in Seoul.
Since When: Began operations in 1974.
Review: Commuters and tourists praise its punctuality, cleanliness, and extensive network.
When to Go: Early morning or off-peak hours for a more comfortable ride.
How to Go: Access via multiple stations throughout Seoul city; maps and apps help navigate.
What to Do: Use it to reach major tourist attractions, shopping districts, and neighborhoods.
Free or Paid: Paid service with single-ride tickets or rechargeable T-money cards.
SEA LIFE COEX, Seoul Aquarium, South Korea
Overview: SEA LIFE COEX Aquarium is a large marine-themed attraction featuring diverse aquatic species and interactive exhibits.
History: Established to promote marine education and entertainment in Seoul’s COEX Mall.
Since When: Opened in 2010.
Review: Visitors enjoy its immersive tanks, walk-through tunnels, and educational displays.
When to Go: Weekdays or mornings to avoid crowds.
How to Go: Located in COEX Mall, accessible via Samseong Station (Seoul Metro Line 2), Exit 5.
What to Do: Explore marine life, interactive zones, feeding shows, and photo opportunities.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Bugak Palgakjeong, South Korea
Overview: Bugak Palgakjeong is a scenic pavilion on Bugaksan Mountain offering panoramic views of Seoul.
History: Built as a traditional Korean pavilion for relaxation and sightseeing.
Since When: Established in the early 20th century.
Review: Visitors love its tranquility, sunset views, and photographic potential.
When to Go: Late afternoon for sunset and cityscape photography.
How to Go: Accessible by hiking trails from Samcheong-dong or via taxi to nearby entrances.
What to Do: Hike the trails, enjoy scenic views, and take cultural photos.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Gyeongju World, South Korea
Overview: Gyeongju World is a theme park in Gyeongju featuring thrill rides, water attractions, and family entertainment.
History: Developed to provide a modern amusement destination near historical Gyeongju.
Since When: Opened in 1985.
Review: Guests appreciate the variety of rides, water park section, and family-friendly facilities.
When to Go: Spring or autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
How to Go: Accessible via taxi or local buses from Gyeongju city center.
What to Do: Enjoy roller coasters, water rides, live shows, and themed zones.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Seoraksan Cable Car, South Korea
Overview: The Seoraksan Cable Car provides visitors with stunning aerial views of Seoraksan National Park and surrounding mountains.
History: Built to facilitate easier access to the scenic peaks of Seoraksan.
Since When: Opened in 1968.
Review: Tourists praise its panoramic views, smooth ride, and accessibility to hiking trails.
When to Go: Morning for clear skies or autumn for colorful foliage.
How to Go: Accessible via local buses or taxis from Sokcho city to Seoraksan National Park entrance.
What to Do: Ride to the peak, take photos, and hike nearby trails.
Free or Paid: Paid service.
죽녹원 (Juknokwon), South Korea
Overview: Juknokwon is a serene bamboo forest park in Damyang offering tranquil walking paths and cultural experiences.
History: Developed to promote eco-tourism and highlight Damyang’s traditional bamboo culture.
Since When: Opened in 2003.
Review: Visitors enjoy its peaceful atmosphere, scenic bamboo groves, and cultural exhibitions.
When to Go: Spring and autumn for mild weather and lush scenery.
How to Go: Accessible via Damyang Bus Terminal with local taxis or buses to the park.
What to Do: Walk along bamboo trails, take photos, and participate in traditional craft experiences.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Oryukdo Skywalk, South Korea
Overview: Oryukdo Skywalk is a glass-floored observation deck offering dramatic views of the sea and rocky coastline in Busan.
History: Built to promote coastal tourism and provide a unique viewing experience.
Since When: Opened in 2013.
Review: Tourists praise the thrilling glass floor, scenic cliffs, and panoramic ocean views.
When to Go: Early morning or sunset for optimal lighting and fewer crowds.
How to Go: Accessible by bus or taxi from Busan city center to the Oryukdo area.
What to Do: Walk on the glass bridge, take photos, and enjoy the coastal scenery.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Suncheon Bay Nature Reserve, South Korea
Overview: Suncheon Bay is a protected wetland featuring reed fields, migratory birds, and ecological walking trails.
History: Established to conserve coastal biodiversity and wetland ecosystems.
Since When: Designated as a nature reserve in 2003.
Review: Visitors appreciate the rich wildlife, peaceful walks, and scenic landscapes.
When to Go: Autumn for migratory birds and picturesque reed fields.
How to Go: Accessible by bus or taxi from Suncheon city to the wetland area.
What to Do: Walk on boardwalks, birdwatch, and photograph natural scenery.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Myeongdong Shopping Street, South Korea
Overview: Myeongdong is a bustling shopping district in Seoul known for fashion, cosmetics, street food, and entertainment.
History: Developed as a commercial hub and tourist hotspot in central Seoul.
Since When: Popular since the 1960s, with rapid growth in the 1990s.
Review: Tourists love its vibrant atmosphere, diverse shops, and food stalls.
When to Go: Weekdays for a slightly less crowded experience.
How to Go: Accessible via Myeongdong Station (Seoul Metro Line 4), Exit 6.
What to Do: Shop for fashion and cosmetics, taste street food, and enjoy urban sightseeing.
Free or Paid: Free to access; shopping and food are paid.
Seoul Forest Park, South Korea
Overview: Seoul Forest Park is a large urban park combining ecological zones, recreational areas, and cultural exhibits.
History: Developed to provide green space and promote environmental awareness in Seoul.
Since When: Opened in 2005.
Review: Visitors enjoy walking paths, deer feeding, art installations, and picnic areas.
When to Go: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and colorful scenery.
How to Go: Accessible via Seoul Subway Line 2, Ttukseom Station, and local buses.
What to Do: Walk trails, visit deer enclosure, ride bicycles, and enjoy outdoor activities.
Free or Paid: Free entry; some attractions inside may require payment.
Skyline Luge Tongyeong, South Korea
Overview: Skyline Luge Tongyeong is an adventure park offering gravity-fueled luge rides and scenic chairlift experiences overlooking Tongyeong.
History: Developed to provide a thrilling outdoor activity that combines entertainment with panoramic coastal views.
Since When: Opened in 2018.
Review: Visitors enjoy the adrenaline-pumping rides, safety measures, and stunning vistas.
When to Go: Spring through autumn for pleasant weather and clear views.
How to Go: Accessible by taxi or local bus from Tongyeong city center.
What to Do: Ride the luge, take chairlift rides, and capture scenic photographs.
Free or Paid: Paid entry for rides.
Namsangol Hanok Village, South Korea
Overview: Namsangol Hanok Village is a cultural village in Seoul featuring traditional Korean houses, gardens, and cultural experiences.
History: Preserved to showcase Joseon-era architecture and traditional Korean lifestyle.
Since When: Opened to the public in 1986.
Review: Visitors enjoy the authentic hanok houses, cultural performances, and tranquil gardens.
When to Go: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and cultural events.
How to Go: Accessible via Seoul Subway Line 3, Chungmuro Station, Exit 4.
What to Do: Explore hanok houses, participate in traditional crafts, and watch cultural performances.
Free or Paid: Free entry; some workshops may require a fee.