15 Best Places To Visit In South Korea (Locals Love Too)

There’s this strange, almost addictive pull about South Korea. Maybe it’s the way neon cities hum with energy while mountain temples sit quietly just a bus ride away. Or the way centuries-old palaces coexist with hyper-modern cafes that serve matcha lattes in robot-shaped mugs. You can’t help but feel like you’re constantly flipping between timelines… past, future, and something beautifully in-between.

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in South Korea, you’re not alone. Everyone seems to have a list. Some shout about Seoul’s towering attractions or Jeju Island’s volcanic calm. Others whisper about lesser-known gems — spots where locals go when they want to escape the crowds and just… breathe.

15 Best Places to Visit in South Korea Loved by Locals

So here’s a curated mix. Not just 15 of the best places to visit in South Korea from a guidebook’s point of view, but places that locals love too. Some will feel familiar. Others might surprise you. But all of them? Worth it. Even if it’s just for that one perfect memory you’ll talk about years later.

Let’s start.

1. Seoul – The Soul of Korea

Ah, Seoul. It’s where most trips begin — and honestly, where some people never want to leave. The city has this heartbeat you can’t ignore. From the regal stillness of Gyeongbokgung Palace to the ultra-trendy chaos of Hongdae’s nightlife, Seoul somehow manages to be both ancient and brand-new.

You could spend a week just exploring Bukchon Hanok Village, weaving through those narrow alleys lined with traditional homes that seem frozen in time. And just down the hill? Coffee shops that feel more like art installations than cafés. That contrast is… well, kind of perfect.

Locals? They’ve got their own rhythm here. Early morning hikes up Bukhansan before the city stirs. Quiet gallery strolls in Seochon. Late-night bites in hidden pojangmacha (street food tents) where you’re more likely to find ajummas than Instagrammers.

Insider tip: Get to Ihwa Mural Village right after sunrise. The murals glow in that soft light, and for a brief moment, it feels like the whole place is just yours.

2. Jeju Island – Nature’s Paradise

Jeju isn’t just a vacation spot. For many Koreans, it’s where you go to reconnect — with nature, with food, with that slower version of yourself. If you’ve heard of Hallasan Mountain, you probably know it’s South Korea’s highest peak. But honestly, the real charm isn’t just in the altitude… it’s in the quiet.

You’ll find locals walking the Olle Trails barefoot in the morning, sipping tangerine juice along the way. And if you’re lucky enough to stumble on one of those tiny countryside restaurants that serve Jeju black pork? Stay. Even if the menu’s all in Korean and the chairs don’t match.

Sure, the usual suspects like Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) are postcard-worthy, and yes, they’re popular for a reason. But if you veer a bit off the path and head to Woljeongri Beach, there’s this hush… just waves, soft wind, and a sense that time’s slowed down.

Insider tip: Avoid the southern resort strip. Instead, rent a bike and head along the coast near Jeju’s west side. You’ll pass sleepy villages, green fields, and maybe even catch a haenyeo — the island’s legendary female divers — in action.

3. Busan – Beaches and Street Food Heaven

Busan feels different. Looser, warmer… almost like the city took off its tie and decided to enjoy the ocean breeze for a while. It’s South Korea’s second-largest city, but there’s nothing second-place about the way it feeds your senses. Let’s start with the obvious: Haeundae Beach. It’s iconic, sure — but sometimes it feels more like a celebration than a beach.

Then there’s Gamcheon Culture Village, a hillside maze of pastel houses, quirky art, and winding staircases. Locals still live there, going about their day while visitors snap a thousand photos. It’s charming in the kind of way that doesn’t feel curated… just real.

But what makes Busan shine for most? The food. Jagalchi Fish Market is overwhelming in the best possible way — rows of fresh catch, slicing sounds, and the occasional eel wriggling across the tile floor. Grab a bowl of spicy fish stew upstairs and watch the port life unfold.

Insider tip: Don’t miss Gwangalli Beach at night. The view of the bridge lit up, with quiet waves in the background, beats any rooftop bar.

4. Gyeongju – The Museum Without Walls

If Seoul is about what’s new, Gyeongju is a soft, poetic nod to what once was. It used to be the capital of the Silla kingdom, and the moment you arrive, you feel it. There’s a hush here. The kind of stillness that makes you lower your voice, even if you’re just asking for directions.

Bulguksa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, might be the headline, but honestly, the whole town feels like a living museum. You’ll pass ancient tombs rising like gentle hills in Tumuli Park, lantern-lit paths by Anapji Pond, and quiet corners where old meets older.

Locals have their favorite seasons — many say spring, when cherry blossoms turn the city pink and white, is the best time to go. Others swear by autumn when the temples glow under golden leaves.

Insider tip: Rent a bike. Seriously. It’s how locals explore — breezing past royal ruins, tiny cafes, and flower-filled rice fields. And yeah, there’s something magical about it. Even if your legs get sore.

5. Andong – Culture, Masks & Authenticity

Andong doesn’t shout. It just… waits. Like it knows you’ll get curious enough to look its way eventually. Known for its preservation of Korean culture and old traditions, this city is a quiet powerhouse of heritage.

The star here is Hahoe Folk Village, tucked into a river bend and surrounded by forested cliffs. This isn’t some tourist setup — it’s a UNESCO-listed village where real families still live in hanok homes, carrying on traditions from the Joseon dynasty. And the mask dance performances? Both eerie and mesmerizing — like time forgot to move forward.

Food? Try Andong jjimdak. It’s a spicy, saucy, soul-warming chicken dish that clings to your memory longer than it should. Locals often say no two restaurants make it the same… and they’re right.

Insider tip: Stay overnight in a hanok guesthouse. The wooden floors creak. The air smells faintly of pine. It’s not luxury, but it’s real — and weirdly grounding.

6. Incheon – Beyond the Airport

You might’ve landed at Incheon International Airport and immediately darted off to Seoul. Most people do. But if you pause — even for a day — you’ll realize Incheon is more than just a starting point. It’s a place where old harbors meet new ideas.

Take Songdo Central Park. It’s not your typical park. There’s a manmade canal winding through high-rises and sculptures, where you can rent little boats or just sit and people-watch. It’s… oddly peaceful for a city built on reclaimed land.

Then there’s Chinatown, probably the most colorful part of Incheon. Lanterns swaying overhead, red gates welcoming you in, street food sizzling quietly. Try the jjajangmyeon (black bean noodles). It’s not subtle — just delicious.

Wolmido Island brings the nostalgia. There’s a boardwalk, amusement rides that look like they’ve seen some things, and seafood snacks you’ll probably regret not eating more of.

Insider tip: Rent a bike in Songdo and follow the waterfront paths. The breeze, the view, the way the city slowly reveals itself… it’s a surprise most travelers never get.

7. Chuncheon – Romance by the Lake

If South Korea had a love language, Chuncheon would speak it fluently. It’s all soft light, still lakes, and just enough adventure to keep things interesting. Maybe that’s why K-Dramas love this place so much.

The highlight for most? Nami Island. It’s shaped like a leaf and covered in dreamy tree-lined paths — especially magical during autumn, when leaves crunch under your feet like old paper. Touristy? A bit. Still worth it? Totally.

But Chuncheon isn’t just about picture-perfect moments. It’s also about sweat and grins on a rail bike, pedaling along abandoned tracks that cut through forest and riverbanks. There’s something oddly satisfying about it. Like you’re earning your views.

Hungry? Dakgalbi is the thing here. Spicy stir-fried chicken, cabbage, sweet potato, rice cakes… all cooked in front of you. Locals eat it like a ritual. Loud, messy, and joyful.

Insider tip: Come during late October if you can. The fall colors around Soyang Dam and Uiam Lake feel unreal. And if you’re traveling solo? You won’t feel alone here — not really.

8. Tongyeong – South Korea’s Little Naples

There’s something unrushed about Tongyeong. Maybe it’s the sea air or the way fishing boats gently knock against the docks in the early morning. It’s often called South Korea’s Naples, and while the comparison isn’t perfect, it somehow fits.

The cable car ride here is one of the best in the country — not just for the views of Hallyeohaesang National Park, but for the feeling of floating quietly above it all. Once you reach the top? Panoramic bliss. Dotted islands, green peaks, sea shimmering like foil.

Down below, Tongyeong Mural Village adds a splash of whimsy to this coastal town. Painted walls, tiny cafes, narrow stairs… you get the idea. It’s small but honest.

Seafood dominates here, naturally. And if someone hands you a box of Chungmu gimbap — don’t hesitate. It’s minimalist sushi rolls with spicy squid and radish on the side. Messy but addictive.

Insider tip: Skip the tourist port restaurants and wander into the side alleys near the fish market. That’s where you’ll find the stuff locals actually eat.

9. Jeonju – The Culinary Capital

If South Korea had a belly, Jeonju would probably be it. People come here to eat — like, really eat — and somehow end up staying for the history, the hanoks, and that easy, slow-moving vibe you rarely find in bigger cities.

Let’s talk about the obvious first: Jeonju bibimbap. Sure, you can get bibimbap anywhere in Korea, but here? It hits differently. Maybe it’s the gochujang. Or the stone bowl. Or the fact that they’ve been perfecting it for generations.

Then there’s the Jeonju Hanok Village — not a museum, but a functioning neighborhood of traditional Korean hanoks. Locals live, work, and sip tea here like it’s no big deal, while visitors tiptoe around in rented hanbok, hoping to catch a photo that doesn’t feel too posed. It’s sweet, actually. A bit chaotic on weekends, but still charming.

If you drift off the main alleys, you’ll find makgeolli bars serving cloudy rice wine in aluminum kettles and endless plates of banchan. Locals say you never know what snacks you’ll get — and that’s part of the fun.

Insider tip: Go into the tiny back streets behind the main village. That’s where the older tea houses are — the ones that don’t advertise but somehow always have regulars.

10. Gangneung – East Coast Escape

Gangneung feels like that quiet friend who suddenly opens up one day — and surprises you with their depth. At first glance, it’s just a beach town. But spend a couple of days here and you’ll see why so many Koreans treat it like a retreat.

Gyeongpo Beach is the main draw — long, clean, and lined with casual coffee shops that face the ocean like loyal dogs. But it’s the little things that stay with you. Like Anmok Coffee Street, where the scent of espresso drifts over the sea breeze. Locals sip and chat with their feet buried in sand. It’s oddly comforting.

And then there’s Ojukheon, a historic house-turned-museum where Korea’s famous scholar Yulgok Yi I was born. It’s quiet, not flashy, but adds a layer of soul to this seaside escape. Almost like a reminder that the city isn’t just for beach days.

Beach camping is popular too — families pitching tents right by the shoreline, grilling meat, telling stories. It’s simple. Honest. Very Korean.

Insider tip: Visit on a weekday if you can. You’ll feel like you have the whole coastline to yourself… except for the friendly seagulls, of course.

11. Boseong – Lush Green Tea Fields

Rolling hills of green so vibrant they almost look fake. That’s Boseong, home to Korea’s most famous green tea plantations, and one of the most photogenic places in the country. Seriously — even the fog here looks intentional.

The Daehan Dawon Tea Plantation is the main stop, and for good reason. The terraces sweep across the hillside like giant, soft brushstrokes. Mornings are best, when mist clings to the rows and the world feels quiet and green and… just a little magical.

You’ll see families, couples, even solo travelers slowly making their way up the hill, stopping to take it in. No rush. It’s that kind of place.

Locals rave about the green tea ice cream, and okay — it’s not subtle, but it’s refreshing. There are also cozy tea rooms for tastings, where you can sip quietly and pretend you know the difference between first flush and second flush.

Insider tip: Visit right after a rain shower. The leaves glisten, the air smells sweet, and you might just get the place almost to yourself.

12. Daejeon – Korea’s Hidden Science Hub

Daejeon rarely makes the top of traveler bucket lists… which is exactly why it should. Tucked right in the middle of the country, it’s the kind of place locals appreciate for its balance — not too fast, not too sleepy. A little modern, a little earthy.

At the heart of the city is Expo Science Park, a sprawling reminder of Korea’s love affair with innovation. If you’re traveling with kids (or just a curious adult), it’s got that quirky retro-futuristic vibe — think model rockets, vintage tech exhibits, and hands-on science experiments.

Need to unwind? Head to Yuseong Hot Springs. The locals swear by its mineral-rich water, and honestly, after a day of wandering, dipping your feet into warm street-level foot baths feels… oddly luxurious.

Food-wise, Daejeon has quietly cultivated a healing café culture. Think plant-filled interiors, herbal teas, and soft music that makes you question if you’ve accidentally walked into a yoga retreat.

Insider tip: Cap off your day with a visit to a jjimjilbang (Korean sauna). There’s something deeply satisfying about sweating in a salt room after nerding out at a science museum.

13. Sokcho – Gateway to Seoraksan National Park

You don’t just visit Sokcho. You breathe differently when you’re here. Maybe it’s the sea air, maybe the towering peaks of Seoraksan National Park, or maybe just the sense that the rest of the world has paused — at least for a while.

This city is the jumping-off point for some of Korea’s best hiking trails. Seoraksan isn’t just a pretty mountain — it’s a full experience. Steep granite cliffs, temples tucked into valleys, and a cable car that gives you an aerial view you’ll probably dream about later.

But Sokcho has its own coastal rhythm too. The seafood’s fresh, the beaches feel unpretentious, and the whole vibe leans more toward “wander and snack” than “rush and check in.” Especially at Sokcho Beach, where locals set up folding chairs, drink beer, and just… sit.

Insider tip: After a hike, head to Abai Village — a North Korean refugee village turned seafood haven. Order cold buckwheat noodles and take the hand-pulled ferry across the canal. It’s delightfully old-school.

14. Ulsan – Korea’s Industrial Coastal Beauty

Yes, Ulsan is an industrial powerhouse — home to massive shipyards and Hyundai factories that practically hum with output. But look past the smokestacks and you’ll see something else: a rugged coastal beauty that feels almost secretive.

Start with Daewangam Park. It’s not just a park, it’s a fairytale trail. Wooden walkways twist through pine forests and jagged cliffs until suddenly you’re standing on a bridge overlooking the ocean. The rock formations? Strangely poetic. It’s the kind of place that turns skeptics into sunset chasers.

There’s also the Whale Museum, which sounds kitschy — and okay, maybe it is — but it tells a compelling story about Korea’s whaling past and its complicated relationship with the sea. Surprisingly moving, actually.

Locals know the magic is in the little things: tidepool hopping, sunrise scooter rides along hidden trails, and fresh fish dinners on rooftop terraces no one ever tags on Instagram.

Insider tip: Skip the big rental companies and find a local scooter shop. Riding along the cliffside roads with the sea on one side? It’s freedom with a sea breeze.

15. Yeosu – Coastal City of Lights

Yeosu feels like a love letter written in twinkling lights and ocean breeze. There’s something inherently romantic here — even if you’re traveling solo, it kind of nudges your heart a little.

The city’s famed cable car glides silently above the sea, linking two hillsides with views that make people go quiet. At night, it becomes something else entirely… especially during the Yeosu Night Sea Festival, when the bridges light up, music floats through the air, and the harbor becomes a glowing reflection pool.

There are beaches, sure. But it’s the promenades and seaside cafés that steal the show. And the food? Grilled oysters and spicy seafood stews that make you reconsider your loyalty to land-based meals.

Insider tip: Take the night cruise. It’s cheesy, yes, but watching the city lights dance on the waves while a saxophone player busks quietly on deck? Feels like the final scene in a drama — in the best possible way.

Bonus Tips for Exploring South Korea Like a Local

If you want to experience South Korea the way locals do, a few insider tips can go a long way.

Get a T-Money Card: This rechargeable transit card works on subways, buses, and even taxis across major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Daegu. It saves time, hassle, and even a few won on fares.
Use the KTX Train: The Korea Train Express is your best bet for fast, efficient travel between regions. It’s clean, punctual, and offers stunning views between cities like Seoul and Gyeongju.
Learn a Few Basic Korean Phrases: Even simple words like annyeonghaseyo (hello) or gamsahamnida (thank you) can make a huge difference. Locals truly appreciate the effort, especially in more rural spots.
Respect Dining Etiquette: Pour drinks for elders first, never stick your chopsticks upright in rice, and always say jal meokkesseumnida before eating—it’s like saying “Bon Appétit” in Korean.
Avoid Peak Times: Visit major sites on weekdays or early mornings to dodge tourist crowds. Spring (April–May) and autumn (October–November) are ideal for weather and fewer lines.

A bit of cultural awareness and timing will help you enjoy South Korea in a way that’s more relaxed, respectful, and memorable.

Final Words

South Korea is so much more than just Seoul’s bright lights or the famous palaces. From Jeonju’s mouthwatering street food to the serene beauty of Boseong’s green tea fields, the best places to visit in South Korea often lie where the tour buses don’t stop. These 15 best places in South Korea blend iconic sights with hidden gems locals genuinely love.

Whether you’re wandering through traditional hanok villages or sipping coffee at a coastal café in Gangneung, try to mix the well-known with the underrated. That’s how you’ll uncover the true heart of Korea—through its stories, flavors, and quiet corners.

Got a favorite spot in Korea, or one that’s on your bucket list? Share it with us in the comments below!