South Korea combines one of the world’s most technologically advanced societies with thousands of years of history, distinctive cuisine, mountainous landscapes and a culture that has become increasingly influential around the world. I’ve visited the country multiple times, but there is always much more I want to see.
The Korean Peninsula was divided into Soviet and American occupation zones after the end of World War II and Japanese colonial rule in 1945. Separate governments were established in North and South Korea in 1948, followed by the Korean War from 1950 to 1953. In the decades since, South Korea has undergone an extraordinary transformation into a major industrial and technological economy while preserving historic palaces, temples and archaeological sites throughout the country.
On future trips I’d especially like to visit Jeju Island, hike in Seoraksan National Park and spend more time exploring Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city.
Explore Seoul
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a massive city in the northwestern part of the country, only about 50 kilometers (30 miles) from the border with North Korea. Modern skyscrapers and dense commercial districts stand alongside royal palaces, traditional neighborhoods and historic gates. From nightlife and markets to museums and centuries-old architecture, Seoul has an enormous amount to explore.
Explore Gyeongju
Gyeongju is one of South Korea’s great historic destinations and was the capital of the Silla Kingdom for nearly a thousand years. Today the city and surrounding area contain royal tombs, Buddhist temples, archaeological sites and numerous national treasures dating to the Silla period.
One of its most recognizable landmarks is Cheomseongdae, a seventh-century stone astronomical observatory and one of the oldest surviving observatories in East Asia. With so much history spread throughout the area, Gyeongju often feels like an enormous open-air museum.
Explore Naejangsan National Park
Naejangsan National Park is especially famous for its spectacular autumn colors, when the surrounding mountains and forests turn brilliant shades of red, orange and yellow. That reputation also makes autumn an extremely popular time to visit, and the most accessible areas of the park can become crowded during peak foliage.
Fortunately, Naejangsan also has an extensive network of hiking trails climbing into the surrounding mountains. I found that once I left the busiest attractions and started hiking, the crowds quickly thinned out and I could enjoy a much quieter side of the park.
