10 Hidden Gems in South Korea That Must Be on Your Travel Bucketlist (2024)

When we talk about South Korea, what is the first thing that comes to your mind? All the beauty, glamour and glitz, right? But there is way more to South Korea.

South Korea is a fascinating country that offers a rich blend of ancient and modern culture, stunning natural scenery, and diverse attractions. While most travelers flock to the popular destinations like Seoul and Busan, there are many hidden gems that are worth exploring for a more authentic and memorable experience.

So let's explore the hidden gems of South Korea with Tripoto

10 hidden gems of South Korea

Gyeongbokgung Palace

The Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest and most impressive of the five grand palaces built by the Joseon dynasty in Seoul, and also one of the must-visit places in South Korea. It was the main royal residence and the center of politics and culture for centuries. The palace complex boasts magnificent architecture, exquisite gardens, and fascinating museums. You can also witness the changing of the guard ceremony, wear a traditional hanbok, and enjoy the night view of the palace.

● How to Reach: Take subway line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station and exit 5.

● Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) for the best weather and scenery.

● Things to do: Explore the palace grounds and buildings, visit the National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum, watch the changing of the guard ceremony, rent a hanbok and take photos, see the palace illuminated at night.

Experience what a village in South Korea feels like at Ikseondong Hanok Village. It is a charming neighborhood that preserves the traditional Korean houses called hanok. It is located near the Gyeongbokgung Palace and offers a contrast between the old and the new. The village in South Korea is filled with cozy cafes, trendy shops, and art galleries that showcase the creativity and diversity of the local artists. You can also enjoy the street performances, festivals, and cultural events that take place here.

● How to Reach: Take subway line 3 to Jongno 3-ga Station and exit 4.

● Best Time to Visit: Anytime, but especially during the spring and autumn when the village is decorated with flowers and lanterns.

● Things to do: Wander around the narrow alleys and admire the hanok architecture, visit the cafes, shops, and galleries, watch the street performances and join the festivals, try the local food and drinks.

Must Read: 10 Must To Do things in South Korea

Sky Bridge Tour at Lotte World Tower

Lotte World Tower is the tallest building in South Korea and the fifth tallest in the world. It is a landmark of Seoul in South Korea and a symbol of modernity and innovation. The tower has various facilities, such as a mall, a hotel, an aquarium, and an observation deck. But the most thrilling attraction is the Sky Bridge Tour, where you can walk on top of the tower and enjoy the panoramic view of Seoul from 541 meters above the ground. The tour is only available for a limited number of people per day, so make sure to book in advance.

● How to Reach: Take subway line 2 to Jamsil Station and exit 1 or 2.

● Best Time to Visit: Anytime, but especially during the sunset or night time for the best view.

● Things to do: Experience the Sky Bridge Tour and feel the adrenaline rush, visit the Seoul Sky Observatory and see the city from different angles, enjoy the shopping, dining, and entertainment options at the Lotte World Mall, explore the Lotte World Aquarium and see the marine life.

Jeongseon Hwaam Cave

Jeongseon Hwaam Cave is a unique attraction and also a hidden gem in South Korea that combines nature and history. It is a limestone cave that was once a gold mine in the 20th century. The cave is now open to the public as a mining museum and a tourist attraction. You can learn about the mining process, see the gold veins and artifacts, and admire the stalactites and stalagmites. You can also enjoy the scenery of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

● How to Reach: Take a bus from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal to Jeongseon Bus Terminal, then take a taxi to the cave.

● Best Time to Visit: Anytime, but especially during the summer when the cave is cool and refreshing.

● Things to do: Explore the cave and learn about the mining history, see the gold and other minerals, marvel at the natural formations, take photos and videos, visit the nearby attractions like the Skywalk and the Rail Bike.

This was once a metalworking district, but now it is home to various artists, musicians, and performers who have transformed the old factories and warehouses into creative spaces. You can see colorful murals, sculptures, and installations, as well as enjoy live shows, workshops, and exhibitions.

● How to Reach: Take subway line 2 to Mullae Station and exit 7.

● Best Time to Visit: Anytime, but especially during the weekends when the village is more lively and active.

● Things to do: Discover the hidden art and culture of the village, visit the studios and galleries, watch the performances and events, try the local food and drinks.

Jeju Island

This is the largest island and a popular vacation spot in Korea. It is famous for its natural beauty, such as volcanic mountains, waterfalls, beaches, and forests. Jeju Island also has a rich cultural heritage, with many museums, temples, and folk villages. Some of the must-see attractions are the Hallasan National Park, the Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, the Manjanggul Cave, and the Jeju Loveland.

● How to Reach: Take a flight from Seoul or Busan to Jeju International Airport, then take a bus, taxi, or rental car to your destination.

● Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) for the best weather and scenery.

● Things to do: Enjoy the diverse nature and landscape of the island, visit the cultural and historical sites, experience the local cuisine and lifestyle, have fun at the theme parks and attractions.

Must Read: Must Visit Places in South Korea

Korea Furniture Museum

This is a hidden gem in South Korea that showcases the beauty and elegance of traditional Korean furniture and architecture. It is located in a serene and secluded area, surrounded by gardens and forests. The museum consists of 10 hanok buildings that display over 2,000 pieces of furniture from different periods and regions. You can also see the exquisite craftsmanship and design of the doors, windows, floors, and roofs.

● How to Reach: Take subway line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station and exit 3, then take bus 1020, 1711, or 7018 to Buam-dong Community Service Center, then walk for about 15 minutes.

● Best Time to Visit: Anytime, but you need to make a reservation in advance, as the museum only accepts a limited number of visitors per day.

● Things to do: Appreciate the beauty and history of Korean furniture and architecture, learn about the culture and lifestyle of the past, relax in the peaceful and natural environment.

Seochon Village

This is a historic neighborhood located in the heart of Seoul, near the Gyeongbokgung Palace, also known for its traditional Korean houses, called hanok, that line the narrow alleyways. Seochon Village also has a vibrant cultural scene, with various cafes, shops, galleries, and museums. You can enjoy the old and new aspects of Korean culture and lifestyle here.

● How to Reach: Take subway line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station and exit 3, then walk for about 10 minutes.

● Best Time to Visit: Anytime, but especially during the spring and autumn when the village is decorated with flowers and lanterns.

● Things to do: Wander around the hanok village and admire the architecture, visit the cafes, shops, and galleries, watch the street performances and join the festivals, try the local food and drinks.

Damyang

This is a county in Jeollanam-do, South Korea. Notable local products include bamboo goods and strawberries. Damyang is famous for its bamboo forest, which is one of the most northern places where bamboo can grow in Korea. The forest is a tourist attraction and a natural wonder. You can also enjoy the scenery of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

● How to Reach: Take a bus from Seoul Nambu Bus Terminal or Dong Seoul Bus Terminal to Damyang Bus Terminal, then take a taxi or a local bus to your destination.

● Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) for the best weather and scenery.

● Things to do: Explore the bamboo forest and learn about its history and culture, see the bamboo and other plants and animals, marvel at the natural formations, take photos and videos, visit the nearby attractions like the Metasequoia Road and the Damyang Resort.

Andong

The city has maintained aspects of the traditional culture of Korea for over 2,000 years. This is the capital of the province and the largest city in the northern part of it. Andong is a center of culture and folk traditions. Over 280 cultural assets are scattered around the city. Andong is also known as a center of Confucianism and has produced many leading scholars.

● How to Reach: Take a train from Seoul Station to Dongdaegu Station, then transfer to a local train that goes to Andong Station.

● Best Time to Visit: Anytime, but especially during the Andong Mask Dance Festival in late September or early October.

● Things to do: Visit the cultural and historical sites, such as the Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Bongjeongsa Temple, the King Sejong Stone Plaque, and the Confucian Culture Museum, see the Andong masks and other folk arts and crafts, experience the local cuisine and lifestyle, such as the Andong soju, the Andong jjimdak, and the heotjesabap.

South Korea will never stop surprising you. Be it the palaces or the small quaint villages - the beauty of South Korea is one of its kind. More to that, these 10 hidden gems of South Korea add the cherry on the top and make your trip even more memorable.