1.Gyeongbokgung Palace – Seoul’s Royal Powerhouse
Wear a hanbok (free entry alert!) and transport yourself back to the Joseon Dynasty. Catch the hourly Changing of the Guard ceremony, wander the grand courtyards, or opt for a nighttime stroll when soft lights bring the palace to life. With over 56 million visits since 2005 and 1.8 million hanbok-clad guests in 2024 alone, it’s Seoul’s top historical draw
2.Bukchon & Namsangol Hanok Villages – Live Like a Local
These neighboring traditional districts offer a peek into old-world Korea: narrow alleys, family-run tea houses, and charming hanok architecture. Bukchon drew 6.4 million visitors in 2024 and now manages guided hours to respect residents
3.Insadong – Traditional Vibes & Souvenir Dreams
A colorfully alive mix of old Korea meets modern artistry. Expect teahouses, galleries, street performances, and winding literal treasure troves of crafts. It’s known for its calligraphy demos, pansori singing, and quirky cultural finds—and yes, even a Starbucks with a hanok-style façade
4.Myeongdong & Namdaemun Markets – Shop & Snack Till You Drop
For street food fans: hotteok, tteokbokki, and Korean fried chicken await. Myeongdong also doubles as the beauty-shopping mecca of Seoul, while Namdaemun offers a more traditional market vibe with local eats and daily bustle
5.Namsan Seoul Tower – Skyline, Romance & Sunset Feels
A short cable-car ride or hike up Namsan Mountain leads to panoramic city views. At sunset, the tower lights up, and the “Locks of Love” deck offers that quintessential couple’s moment
- Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) – Seoul’s Fashion & Design Nexus
Zaha Hadid’s architectural gem pulses with midnight markets, light shows, and ever-changing exhibitions. It’s the centerpiece for trend hunters and night-owl shoppers
7.Jeju Island – Island Paradise Off the Coast
Think tropical vibes and volcanic beauty. Hike Hallasan, chase sunrises at Seongsan Ilchulbong, explore lava tubes, and savor the island’s famed black pork and fresh seafood
8.Gyeongju & Andong Hahoe – Ancient Heartbeats of Korea
Walk ancient tomb fields, marvel at Bulguksa Temple, and soak in Hahoe Village’s mask dance performances. Think “museum without walls”—history breathing around every corner
9.DMZ Tour – Take a Peaceful Dip into the Past
Visiting the Demilitarized Zone offers an unforgettable journey. Highlights? The eerie Third Tunnel, Dora Observatory, and a rare glimpse into North Korea. Deeply moving, surprisingly serene
10.Busan’s Haeundae & Gamcheon Village – City Meets Sea
Hop over to Busan for sandy beaches, spa cafes, and Gamcheon’s Instagram-ready streets full of art and sea views. Easy weekend getaway with its own coastal personality .
Ready for the adventure of a lifetime?
Whether you’re craving sizzling street food, ancient palaces, or relaxing hot springs, Korea has a little something for everyone. So pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and come see why millions fall in love with Korea every year.