5 Hidden Gems in South Korea

Speak of South Korea and, chances are, the bustling capital city Seoul and the charming island of Jeju would be the first destinations to come to mind—and for very good reasons. But while these top tourist draws are definitely worth the visit, the rest of the country is dotted with many more gems often unheard of to outsiders. Here are a few of them.

Namhansanseong Fortress in Gwangju, Gyeonggi Province

Located just 25 kilometers south of Seoul, Namhansanseong, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a popular spot for hiking and driving around. Climb the highest peak, Iljangsan, and enjoy a view of the Nakjo area in Incheon, downtown Seoul, and the surrounding Gyeonggi area.

Credits: joyceyjoyce

The city of Gyeongju in North Gyeongsang Province

Touted as an “outdoor museum,” Gyeongju, the capital of the Silla Dynasty (57 BC – 935 AD), boasts of the many historic areas collectively declared by the UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2000. The Gyeongju Historic Areas include temples, palaces, pagodas, tumuli (giant mounds that serve as burial grounds to kings), statues, and other artifacts from this dynasty.

Credits: yokekei & afterain

Haeundae Beach in Busan Metropolitan City

Haeundae is a popular summer destination located in Busan, South Korea’s largest port city and second largest city after Seoul, which is also home to the annual international film festival that bears the city’s name, one of the world’s largest shopping malls, and, of course, more historical sites.

Credits: kimdaehyun, wallflowersforjane & bravebird

Hallasan National Park in Jeju Province

The Hallasan National Park is home to the Hallasan, or Halla Mountain, South Korea’s highest mountain which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes. A magnificent sight all year round, Hallasan looks particularly magical in winter.

Credits: stratski, nasil & coolbig

Ulleungdo Island

This pentagon-shaped “mysterious island” a 217 km boat ride from the city of Pohang in North Gyeongsang Province entices visitors with its clear, turquoise waters, impressive rock formations, and the Nari Basin.

Credits: syan

See more photos of South Korea.

Previously: 5 Hidden Gems in Japan

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Additional references: CNN Travel, Tripologist (1, 2), UNESCO (1, 2, 3), Namhansanseong, Ulleung-gun, and Visit Korea.

2015-11-07 #places #location #south-korea #gyeongju #haeundae #hallasan #namhansanseong #ulleongdo

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