There are two states that bear the same name, but are irreconcilable enemies. Countries with different political, cultural and economic conditions have viewed each other as occupiers of their ancestral territory for more than 70 years. Korea is united only by people of the same nationality and a common historical past.

DPRK

Located in the northern part of the Korean Peninsula, it is considered one of the most closed and mysterious in the world. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea lives by its own rules, which are strikingly different from the usual standards. It is possible to take a trip that will take you back to the distant Soviet past as part of a tour, but independent trips are prohibited.

Features of tourism in North Korea

There are restrictions on movement: you can bring a laptop and a camera, but you will have to hand over your mobile phone at the airport (it will be returned before departure). You won't be able to leave the hotel to go for a walk on your own in search of local attractions. The entire route is drawn up in advance, and you cannot deviate from it. The receiving party is very concerned about what impression the foreigner will have after the trip, so everything that the tourist sees is carefully thought out.

The Republic of Korea

South Korea, whose attractions are varied and very interesting, appeared after the division of the state and at one time came under the jurisdiction of the United States. The chosen course towards a democratic system and a thriving economy attract numerous travelers from the farthest corners of our planet. In recent decades, this destination has become incredibly popular among tourists. In fairness, it must be admitted that the name South Korea is colloquial, and it does not appear in any official document.

Colorful Seoul

The attractions of which are of particular interest to European guests are an ultra-modern paradise with entertainment for every taste. One of the ancient cultures left its traces on architectural monuments, most of which are concentrated in the capital - Seoul. The colorful metropolis that connects the incongruous makes an indelible impression on all tourists. The city, home to about 10 million people, is recognized as the most high-tech in the world, but the traditional culture remains as intact as it was several centuries ago.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

So, what should a tourist visiting the bustling city for the first time see in Seoul? The main palace complex, which is the pride of local residents, consists of open pavilions that communicate with each other. Built for the ruling Joseon dynasty in 1395, the historical and architectural monument was destroyed and rebuilt several times. Three hundred and thirty buildings originally made up Gyeongbokgung Palace, and now local architects have restored almost half of the majestic structures.

The pentagonal building houses two national museums that welcome visitors. Tourists admired by the beauty of the complex will find luxurious apartments, picturesque gardens and incredibly elegant ponds, which are so pleasant to walk near in the heat. Korea is rightfully proud of the open-air museum, called the pearl among the historical palaces of Seoul. The attractions occupying an area of 432 thousand hectares will surprise even travelers who have seen a lot.

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Eleven years ago, local authorities restored the river canal, long hidden underground. Flowing in the historical part of the city, today it is visible to all vacationers. Local residents and surprised tourists walk along the banks of the Cheonggyecheon stream. Here original fountains gush out, creating a comfortable microclimate, and couples in love freeze on bridges colored with lights in the evenings. Therefore, when guests of the metropolis have a question about what else to see in Seoul, we recommend going to the recreation area open to everyone in the very center of the city.

Entertainment center

Forty years ago, a theme park appeared, owned by the famous company Samsung. Divided into five zones, it is on the list of must-see tourist routes. Located in the city of Yongin, Everland is visited by more than six million people every year.

The entertainment complex includes not only spectacular attractions, but also a huge water park; in addition, in the summer, laser shows, colorful festivals, and costume processions are held that will be remembered by guests of South Korea. And in winter, visitors can expect no less interesting snow performances.

Castles of South Korea

Not far from Seoul is the Namhansanseong fortress, which appeared in 672. Once upon a time, monks who protected the king took refuge in it from the enemy, but over time it lost its significance and began to collapse. More than 50 years ago, it and the surrounding area were declared a national park.

Korea, whose sights remind of military actions that took place over many centuries, did not destroy the objects built by the invaders. One of these buildings is the castle, which is located in the metropolitan city of Ulsan. Built by the Japanese during the invasion of Korea, the stone structure of Sosenpo Vaesong will surprise you with its architectural style, which is unusual for the country.

Lesser-known Korean cities with their own flavor

Of course, Seoul, with its unusual sights, impressive shopping malls, super-fast subway, and ideal roads, is adored by foreign visitors, but there are also lesser-known cities in Korea that are definitely worth a visit. For example, ancient Incheon attracts with its picturesque coastline, thermal springs and numerous Buddhist temples.

One cannot ignore the so-called summer capital of the state - Busan. This is where the most famous beaches and equipped embankments are located. The city that hosts hundreds of thousands of tourists will find something to do for everyone. You can go to a huge fish market offering a variety of delicacies, stroll through the famous natural park, and visit the national marine reserve. Therefore, try to build your route so as not to pass by this Korean city, which has a developed infrastructure.

UNESCO-protected museum villages are located in Andong, a major cultural center of the country. Considered the birthplace of philosophers, it was completely destroyed during the war, but was rebuilt, and if tourists want to immerse themselves in ancient history, then there is no better place.

In our article we talked about the sights of South Korea - a hospitable state that boasts an abundance of interesting places for tourists. A variety of ancient and modern monuments, unique nature, and excellent shopping attract Russians who want to relax in an exotic country.

South Korea is a beautiful and prosperous country, with many forests, mountains, rivers, ancient castles and temples with a centuries-old history. The capital of South Korea is Seoul.

This is one of the most popular cities in the world. Today, South Korea, along with Japan, is considered a country with the most developed advanced technologies. Also, Korea can boast of quite high-quality cosmetics, and most fashionistas prefer to buy cosmetics there.

Thanks to the legacy of our ancestors, who left behind enough historical monuments, Korea really has something to see. In addition to ancient attractions, modern buildings are being actively erected here - the famous Olympic Park, beautiful fountains, various shopping centers and much more.

The list contains the most interesting and best vacation spots in South Korea, which will certainly appeal to all travel lovers.

1. Myeongdong Street (명동)

Myeongdong is a long street in the center of Seoul. Myeongdong is rightfully considered the busiest street in Korea. Life here is always in full swing and full of young people. There are many boutiques, shops and shopping centers where you can buy anything - from a modest souvenir to expensive equipment.

Also, there are eateries on every corner where you can taste real traditional Korean food - tok pokey, octopus in spicy sauce and the legendary kimchi.

2. Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁)

Those who want to plunge into Korean history should definitely visit the palace called Gyeongbokgung. Previously, ruling dynasties lived in these majestic buildings. Now the palace complex has been turned into a museum, and anyone can walk around its territory.

3. Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon Garden (창덕궁과 후원)

Another palace where the royal family previously lived. Now it is a park complex with beautiful gardens and landscapes.

4. Rainbow Fountain Bridge (반포대교)

A very beautiful structure is the fountain bridge on the Han River. It looks especially mesmerizing in the evening and at night, when the fountain is illuminated in all the colors of the rainbow.

5. Seoul Tower (N서울타워)

One of the famous and more commonly recognized places in South Korea is the Seoul TV Tower. Inside there are several observation platforms, offering stunning views of the city, cafes, restaurants, a museum and souvenir shops.

6. Bulguksa Buddhist Monastery (불국사)

Fans of temples and monasteries should visit the Bulguksa Buddhist Monastery. It is considered the most popular among tourists and the oldest in Korea. On the territory of the monastery there is a beautiful park, original bridges and statues.

7. Everland Resort (에버랜드)

If you have children on the trip, it is recommended to visit a Korean amusement park with them, which is located in the suburbs of Seoul. This is a huge park with many different attractions, a water park and even a zoo. The park is decorated with flower beds with colorful flowers. A good mood and positive emotions are guaranteed not only for children, but also for adults.

8. Hwaseong Fortress (수원화성)

A famous landmark built in the 18th century, which was destroyed more than once. It was successfully reconstructed, and now this fortress is considered a valuable historical object. The structure consists of towers, as well as high and long walls, the length of which is more than 5 km.

9. Jeju Island (제주시)

When traveling around South Korea, you should definitely stop by the stunningly beautiful Jeju Island. Tourists will be pleased with the abundance of local flora and fauna, the presence of sandy and pebble beaches, as well as the purest sea water.

During the summer season, the beach is never empty - those who wish can go diving, surfing, or explore the island on a yacht. On the island you can visit the Yomiji Botanical Garden, which is rich in rare and exotic species of flowers, admire the waterfalls and go to the local green tea museum.

The Republic of Korea, informally known as South Korea, is located on the Korean Peninsula in East Asia. The history of its origin is connected with the agreement between the USSR and the USA regarding spheres of influence on this peninsula. The territory located south of the 38th parallel, according to this treaty, fell under American jurisdiction. That part of it that remained to the north was under the jurisdiction of the Soviet Union.

South Korea has had a difficult journey. If in 1960 it was one of the poorest countries, then by the end of the last century it had become an industrialized democratic state. The country has a huge number of architectural monuments, evidence of its rich culture. This makes it attractive to a huge number of tourists coming here.

This complex of Buddhist temples and buildings is the oldest and most famous in the country. It is located on a huge territory with a very beautiful park, brilliant pagodas, statues, bridges and other unique objects. Some of them are included in the list of treasures of the Korean nation. And the temple complex itself is a heritage of humanity and is protected by UNESCO.

Not far from the city of Pomos on Mount Komojon there is an ancient Buddhist temple - one of the largest in the country. It covers an area of several square kilometers, on which there are over one and a half hundred buildings characteristic of the traditional architectural style of the Joseon Dynasty. Some of them have a thousand-year history.

The capital of the country has a huge museum complex dedicated to the military history of the Republic of Korea. It is housed in the building that was occupied by the General Headquarters of the Korean Army.

In addition to the museum building with six thematic halls, it includes a well-equipped area with a large park. A platform has been created on it where aircraft, tanks and other military equipment and weapons are demonstrated. There are memorials and sculptural compositions dedicated to military themes. On the main square there is a sculptural composition symbolizing the brotherhood of North and South Korea.

Location: 29 - Itaewon-ro, Namyeong-dong.

This building is one of the five largest palaces in the Korean capital. For four centuries it was a royal residence. It is an excellent example of exquisite national architecture with an extraordinary landscape park. Particularly popular here is the Huwon secret garden, where every tourist strives to visit.

Location: 99 - Yulgok-ro, Waryong-dong.

It was built in the 16th century for the Jeongseon royal dynasty that ruled the country at that time. This open-air museum has a huge number of valuable exhibits that are a national treasure.

It stands out for its sophisticated national architecture and the surrounding park with rich landscape design, as well as an artificial lake in which lotuses bloom. This is the largest of the five palaces built more than five centuries ago.

Location: 161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Seoul.

This smallest of Seoul's royal palaces was for some time the official residence of the ruling royal family. It has a poetic name translated as “palace of lasting virtue.” Its architectural structures are surrounded by an unusually beautiful garden.

This is the only city palace on the territory of which European-style buildings were built. The complex houses two famous museums with extensive collections - the Arts and the Imperial.

Location: 57 - Namdaemun-ro 1-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul.

For over fifty years, the Korean Peninsula has been divided into northern and southern parts along the 38th parallel. They are demarcated by a demilitarized zone, which has become an important landmark and popular destination for tourists. The area in which it is located is rich in picturesque wild nature, untouched after the war. This object represents an element of the border between the two Koreas.

There is a special area for tourists, from where you can use binoculars to see the adjacent side and the erected fortifications. On the site there is a symbolic sculptural composition that shows two families trying to connect a cut-up map of the Korean Peninsula.

At the end of the 18th century, a majestic fortress surrounded by a 6-kilometer wall was built on top of the hill. It is a unique example of fortification architecture, which includes defensive towers and fortress walls with gates. Repeatedly destroyed and restored. It is on the list of UNESCO protected sites.

Location: Maehyang-dong, Suwon.

Rainbow Fountain Bridge

On the Han River there is the longest bridge in the world with a unique fountain system. Ten water cannons are built into its design, throwing jets of water tens of meters away. They form picturesque arches of water drops. It is typical that the fountain filters the water collected from the river.

It creates an amazingly beautiful spectacle, especially at nightfall, when the water jets are illuminated with all the colors of the rainbow. In 2009, after the opening of the fountain, it was recognized as the longest in the world and included in the Guinness Book of Records.

Location: Banpo 2-i-dong, Seoul.

This favorite vacation spot for Koreans and guests of the country is located within the city limits. Its territory consists of picturesque mountains covered with dense forest, among which there are Buddhist temples. There is an abundance of rare plants, a huge variety of birds and animals. Many paved routes for tourists.

This huge reserve, which is one of the most valuable UNESCO natural heritage sites, reveals the amazing natural world of South Korea. It was created in 1970. Here you can get acquainted with deep waterfalls, rocks of rare beauty, Buddhist temples and geothermal springs.

The park is a place through which many fascinating tourist routes run. A modern infrastructure has been created for tourists, including hotels, equipped places for overnight stays, cafes and restaurants. The mountains of this national park are considered the most beautiful in the country and are a national treasure.

Yuksam Skyscraper - Building

This skyscraper was inaugurated in 1985 in the business center of Seoul on Yeouido Island. This 249 meter building was the tallest in Asia at that time. It has 60 ground floors, three floors are underground. It is built in the form of an irregular parallelepiped tapering at the top.

One of the fastest elevators in the world takes visitors to the observation deck on the roof of the building. The skyscraper has a huge oceanarium, museums of wax figures and celestial art, shops and restaurants.

Location: 50 63-ro, Yeoeuido-dong.

It is considered the oldest scientific building in the world. It was built in the 7th century to observe the stars. The observatory, which is located in the city of Gyeongju, is housed in a seven-tiered stone tower ten meters high. It has a cylindrical shape and is made of 362 rectangular stone slabs, which is equal to the number of days in the lunar year. The structure is included in the list of National Treasures of Korea. This is one of the popular places for Korean schoolchildren to visit.

Location: 169-5, Gyeongju-si, Cheomseong-ro.

This volcanic island is the largest in the country and is its own province. There is a unique microclimate, beautiful nature and extraordinary landscapes. The island is located in the south of the country and has beautiful beaches. Newlyweds and numerous tourists love it very much.

This palace stands out with its blue-green roof and is one of the main symbols of the country's capital. The official residence of the country's president is often called the "Blue House".

This unusual color effect is created by custom-made 150 thousand tiles. They provide smooth curves of the building's roof, symbolizing the harmony of the building with the surrounding nature and its beauty. The building is built in classic Korean style and combines seasoned elegance with strict respectability.

Location: Jongno-gu, Sejong no - 1.

This Seoul monument of ancient history was the place where mourning rituals were performed for members of the royal families. It is the longest building of its kind in Asia and the oldest Korean shrine.

More than one generation of ancient rulers of Korea rests here. Here, for more than five centuries, on the first Sunday in May, a ceremony to honor ancestors has been held with the participation of members of the royal dynasty.

Location: 157 - Jong-ro, Seoul.

For the Olympics, which took place in Korea in 1988, a complex of sports and other facilities was built in the city park. After the competition, it became a favorite place for residents and guests of the city for sports and active recreation. There are museums here, a park with sculptures, and an original musical fountain. On a large, well-landscaped area there is an ancient fortress and a picturesque artificial pond.

Location: 424 - Olympic-ro, Bangi-dong.

This tallest building in the capital is the main symbol of post-war Seoul and its main attraction. The tower was built in the very center of the city on Nam Sam Mountain. This is not only a radio engineering facility, but also a modern entertainment complex. There are observation decks, an observatory, a teddy bear museum, and restaurants. There is even a Wishing Pond.

Location: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan 2-i ga-dong.

This is the central shopping thoroughfare of the country's capital, along which there are shops of famous brands. The local flavor is enhanced by the combination of huge shopping complexes with small shops of small merchants offering a huge number of local souvenirs and national food.

3. Seoraksan National Park (Sokcho)

Bright colors of the mountain landscape of Seoraksan Park in Sokcho

Seoraksan National Park is a cozy corner of nature. Travelers who have not decided what to visit in South Korea can safely go here to enjoy the incredible scenery. The park has become famous throughout the world for its waterfalls and geysers. The Buddhist temples, which date back centuries, did not go unnoticed. It is interesting that territory was allocated for this landmark of South Korea in four neighboring cities. Local residents consider the park the main advantage of the country.

The national park successfully combines jagged peaks, beautiful waterfalls, deep caves and dense forests. While walking around Seoraksan, tourists can come across the Shinheungsa Temple, which is one of the most ancient Buddhist buildings of religious significance.

Many travelers come to the park to enjoy the wildlife. They are fascinated by the amazing mountain slopes with non-standard shapes and outlines. The forests of Seoraksan look most advantageous in the autumn, when the foliage of the trees begins to change color. On the mountain slopes you can see many rare representatives of the flora world, which you will not find anywhere else.

4. Hwaseong Fortress (Suwon)

Watchtower and part of the fortress wall of Hwaseong Fortress

When traveling to South Korea, be sure to set aside a whole day to visit the “blooming castle” in the provincial capital of Gyeonggi-do. You will need exactly one day to be around the fortress to your heart's content. After all, Hwaseong is so large in scale that it could be a worthy competitor to the Moscow Kremlin.

On the territory of the “Diamond Fortress” (another name for the castle) there are numerous palace buildings and tall former watchtowers - 40 buildings in total. You can get inside by passing through the majestic gates located along the perimeter of the castle to all four cardinal directions. It is still possible to explore the walls, which are more than five kilometers long, on foot, but walking around them is not an easy task.

Some of the fortress buildings are located on the top, while the other part is on steep hills. Although a special tram may arrive to help travelers.

The title of “blooming” was awarded to the fortress for its picturesque panoramic views. The mighty stone walls of the castle rise proudly among the green gardens. If you haven't seen Hwaseong, then you haven't seen the real sights of South Korea .

5. Hahoe Village (Andong)

This picturesque place, located on the banks of Naktong, is called what name. This is a “folklore” village or land near a “winding river”, and they identify the village with a “lotus flower floating on the water”, and even talk about Hahoe as a symbol of the unity of two polar principles. All these names and descriptions actually reflect the world that opens before the eyes of a tourist who finds himself in the atmosphere of an ancient era.

In terms of the number of cultural heritage items that the village stores, all other attractions of South Korea pale in comparison. . There is a real school of Confucianism and architectural structures from the Joseon Dynasty here. The air in Hahoe is steeped in tradition, so be sure to take a tour to learn the history straight from the scene. . Another pride of the village is wooden carnival masks. Local residents master the craft of making them perfectly and still practice it today. These works of art can be purchased as souvenirs. The village of Hahoe gives every tourist the opportunity to take a piece of history with them.

6. Jeju Island (Korea Strait)

Stone sculptures made of black basalt on Jeju Island

If you are wondering what to see in South Korea, then you have not been to the “Island of Three Abundances” yet. Countless treasures are stones of volcanic origin that have absorbed the history of more than four hundred million years. The island is home to several extinct volcanoes, the most famous of which is called Hallasan.

Another natural feature of Jeju is a real riot of elements, when powerful gusts of wind roam freely among the rocks. The island has also become famous for the distinctive national character of the local residents. After all, here the main breadwinner is the woman, and the man takes care of the housework and raises the children. And the islanders themselves are already like specific attractions of South Korea, with their curious local dialect, which sometimes even native Koreans do not understand.

In addition to the breathtaking island nature, with its waterfalls and mountain caves, tangerine plantations, bonsai and orchids, here you can admire unusual stone sculptures - giant three-meter tolharubans, which are considered the guardians of Jeju. You should also definitely visit the famous Bridge of the Seven Nymphs. You definitely need to see all this with your own eyes!

7. Hyedong Yeongungsa Temple (Busan)

Buddha statue at Hyedong Yeongungsa Temple in Busan

The attractions of South Korea are very diverse: architectural monuments, natural parks, historical heritage and much more. A good example is Hyedong Yeongungsa Temple, located on the outskirts of the city.

The Hyedong Yongungsa Buddhist Temple is considered one of the most beautiful among those that can be seen in the south of the state. But this is not the only thing that makes him popular. There is an ancient belief according to which every sincere prayer or wish made from the bottom of the heart within the walls of the temple will certainly come true. You can ask for anything: health, financial well-being, family happiness and much more.

Another feature of this attraction is its unusual location. Most of these buildings occupy a place somewhere in the mountains. Hedon Yongungsa is located a few meters from the sea. According to one legend, the sea king, who appeared to the monk in a dream, advised him to build it here. The latter in desperation asked for help for the country, which was suffering from severe droughts, famine and crop failure. The sea king said that a temple built by the sea would make Korea happy forever. Thus, in 1376, the foundation of Hyedong Yongungsa was laid.

On the territory of the temple you can see a lot of interesting things: altars, pagodas, healing springs, sacred Buddha statues, etc.

8. Namisom Island (Chongpyeong Dam)

Colorful autumn landscape of Namisom Island

The natural attractions of South Korea begin with Namisoma Island. In area it occupies more than 450,000 m2 and is a crescent. Namisom owes its appearance to the Jeongpyeong Dam.

The island has a lot of features and interesting places:

Burial of General Nami, who lived from 1441 to 1468. He is responsible for suppressing the uprising that occurred in 1467, when King Sejo of the Joseon Dynasty ruled the country. By the way, the name of the island comes from the name of this general.
A cable car that was installed to draw attention to eco-tourism. It is considered the largest road in all of Asia. Its height reaches 80 m.

Another distinctive feature of the island is the complete absence of telegraph poles. The wires are carefully routed through the ground. Thanks to this, Namisom looks very natural.

What to visit in South Korea on Namisom Island? In addition to sightseeing, tourists can engage in active recreation, such as swimming in the pool, water skiing or rides in the park. You can also take a walk through the forest to see with your own eyes the huts, similar to the dwellings of ancient Koreans. And, of course, tourists have the opportunity to try amazing Korean cuisine.

9. Demilitarized Zone (4 km zone between South and North Korea)

Demilitarized Zone facility

Another must-see attraction in South Korea is the facilities located in the demilitarized zone. This is an area covering 4 km. It is located between two states - South and North Korea. The DMZ appeared in the summer of 1953, during the period when a temporary truce was declared in the Korean War.

DMZ is 7 cities. It is almost impossible to visit them all in one day due to the abundance of interesting places:

Imjingak Peace Park. It can accommodate more than 20,000 people at a time. Contains a large number of various exhibits and artifacts related to the Korean War.
Tunnel No. 3. It is a structure for the transition from North Korea to South Korea. They first learned about it in 1978. The length of the tunnel is impressive - 1635 m.
Panmunjom. This village, formerly called Nolmuri, is located on the military demarcation line. There are two buildings on the territory of the village: one building is white, and the other is blue. The first is run by the UN military, and the second by the North Korean army.

When deciding what to see in South Korea, the demilitarized zone should not be the last place. It's a reminder of how far war can take you.

10. Jongmyo Temple (Seoul)

Ancient Jongmyo Temple in Seoul

If you are sightseeing in South Korea, you need to start from the capital. is a city that harmoniously combines history and modernity, religion, architecture and beautiful nature. And one of the interesting and beautiful places is Jongmyo Temple.

This building is part of the world cultural heritage. According to scientists, Jongmyo is the oldest Confucian temple that has survived to this day. It was erected back in 1394 by King Taejo. It was then that Seoul received the status of the capital of the state.

Jongmyo was once the longest building in all of Asia. But during one of the wars it was destroyed. After restoration in 1601, only part of the buildings survived. And this despite the fact that the temple was always restored first.

Now Jongmyo consists of two large halls and several additional buildings that perform economic functions. One of the halls is called Jeongjong. Funeral ceremonies are usually held there. The second hall is called Yeongnyeongjeong or the Room of Calm and Peace. In front of the entrance there is an amazingly beautiful park where tourists can relax and hide from the bright sun.

Jongmyo Temple is open to both tour groups and individual tourists.

Sights of South Korea: what else to visit while in South Korea

In addition to well-known monuments and parks, the country has many tourist sites about which there is not much information. So that you can choose taking into account all your preferences, we offer descriptions and photographs of truly unusual places. You can visit them either independently or with an experienced guide.

11. Seoul Tower (Seoul)

What to visit in South Korea? When answering this question, every guide will mention the Seoul Tower. This building is included in the list of the ten most popular places in the Korean capital. What's so special about it?

Seoul TV Tower is a kind of observation deck. It is located on Mount Namsan at an altitude of more than 240 m. The height of the tower is 236 m. It turns out that it allows you to admire Seoul from a height of 479 m.

Construction of the structure began in 1969. Just 2 years later it was ready, and after another 4 years a cafe, museum, observation deck, etc. opened there. The first visitors appeared here in 1980.

A visit to Seoul Tower is an unforgettable experience. The view it offers of the capital will amaze even the most experienced tourists. This explains the fact that more than 8 million people visit it every year.

The structure consists of 3 parts, each of which has its own characteristics. For example, Lobby N has a living museum and gift shop. In Tower N there is a unique Teddy Bear Museum, and in Plaza N, which occupies 2 floors, you can relax on the terrace and have a snack in the cafe.

All the sights of South Korea, including the Seoul Tower, help you get to know not only the history of the state, but also the life of modern people.

12. Myeongdong Cathedral (Seoul)

Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Seoul

What to see in South Korea in its capital? A great option is Myeongdong Cathedral. Its second name is the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It belongs to the Archdiocese of Seoul. The Virgin Mary is the patroness of the city, so the cathedral is the main shrine of Korean Catholics. In addition, the cathedral is one of the most interesting examples of the neo-Gothic style in architecture.

Myeongdong Cathedral has many features:

The height of the structure is 23 m. If we take into account the spire with the clock hanging on it, then the height is 45 m.
In the fall of 1977, the temple became part of the list of National Historic Monuments, which includes many other attractions in South Korea.
Stained glass windows attract special attention from tourists. They depict the birth of Jesus, the wise men bringing gifts, and Jesus along with the 12 apostles.
The remains of Christian martyrs who accepted death for their religious views are kept on the territory of the cathedral. These people were canonized by the Pope in 1984.

There are not many ancient artifacts on the site of Myeongdong Cathedral. By the standards of the Christian religion, he is still very young. But, as religious scholars say, its construction in Korea in the 19th century is a real breakthrough.

13. Pul Guksa Temple (Gyeongju)

Pul Guksa Temple was created during the prosperity of the United Kingdom of Silla. He became the personification of the concept of Buddhism. Like many other similar religious buildings, the temple surprises with the sophistication of its forms and unique beauty.

The gate of Pul Gux is guarded by eternal guards - painted giants made of wood. Each of them faces one of the cardinal directions. Behind the gate there is a stream with a bridge across it. It is believed that this is the path between reality and the world of Buddha. The stream itself originates in the pond. There is one beautiful legend associated with it that has existed for many centuries. You can hear it from local residents.

The monastery, which tourists can see today, is a restored version of the temple. In the last century, the president issued a decree to reconstruct this landmark of South Korea, but only the main premises, which were a small part of the entire complex, were restored. But even this restored part makes it possible to understand the beauty of the Pul Guksa Temple in its time. It still evokes genuine admiration among city guests, as it allows you to plunge into the history of this place.

14. Olympic Park (Seoul)

To find out what to see in South Korea, you need to look at a tourist guide. In it, the traveler will definitely find the Olympic Park in Seoul, which is of great interest to guests of the country.

In 1988, Korea was honored to host the next Olympic Games. It was for this occasion that the Olympic Park was built. It houses gyms, health centers and various equipment rental centers. The park covers an area of at least a thousand hectares. Especially for guests of Seoul, museums were built in this landmark of South Korea to make its visit not only interesting, but also educational.

Tourists take great pleasure in taking photographs near the architectural structures that are located throughout the Olympic Park. There are more than two hundred sculptural and other figures that were created by the best masters of modern art.

In the very center of the park square there is a unique composition of various stones. They differ in size and origin. Each stone bears the signature of one of the participants of the past Olympics. For many, this composition has become the personification of the sports spirit and record victories.

15. Korean National Village (Yongin)

Ethnographic Museum Korean National Village in Yongin

The city of Yongin has a unique attraction that is definitely worth seeing. The ethnographic museum, located right in the open air, received a lot of positive feedback. It was called the Korean National Village.

A huge territory was allocated for this attraction of South Korea. It is noteworthy that not only tourists, but also local residents come here. For many, the village has become a family holiday destination. The purpose of creating a national village was to show visitors from other countries the life and culture of the Korean people. The idea was realized thanks to the placement of a huge number of exhibition items in the tourist area. In the village there are exact replicas of houses that belonged to people of different social circles. The craftsmen have not forgotten about the market, where traders offer traditional treats and outfits for sale.

Talented dancers and performers are responsible for the entertainment part. The national village often hosts all sorts of traditional ceremonies, including weddings. They allow guests of South Korea to become more familiar with the daily life of the indigenous people.

16. Myeongdong Street (Seoul)

Central shopping street of Seoul

South Korea has long positioned itself as a country of fashion and style. Tourists from all over the world flock to its capital not only to explore the sights, but also for grand shopping. In addition to the already sensational South Korean cosmetics, there is a lot of things here that you will want to fork out for. What is worth visiting is the large shopping district of Seoul - Myeongdong. An area of 0.91 square kilometers is home to a multitude of boutiques and branded stores that sell clothes, shoes and accessories of high-quality and well-known brands, and all this can be bought at relatively affordable prices. In addition to boutiques, you can also see here: Chinatown, where national cosmetics, food and medicine are sold, numerous beauty salons, restaurants with national and European dishes, theaters, hotels and much more interesting things.

17. Rainbow Fountain Bridge (Seoul)

Rainbow Fountain Bridge in color design in the center of Seoul

Nowadays, few people can be surprised by fountains. But the Korean masterpiece will surprise the most sophisticated tourist. The Rainbow Fountain Bridge is both a bridge and a fountain, combined into an original design and creating an indescribably beautiful spectacle. From the pipes installed on both sides of the Banpo Bridge along its entire length, streams of water burst out, which, describing a huge arc, noisily fall into the Han River. This spectacle is complemented by the illumination of water streams, which shimmer with different colors of the rainbow and create a truly enchanting spectacle. Therefore, this creation is especially beautiful in the evening and at night, if you observe it from the southern bank of the river. The Banpo Bridge has two tiers, and it is also interesting to be on its lower tier to feel as if you are inside a waterfall.

18. Deoksugung Palace Complex (Seoul)

Traditional Korean building of Deoksugung Palace complex in Seoul

Panorama of the Deoksugung Palace complex in Seoul

There is a palace complex in Seoul that includes 5 royal palaces. Deoksugung is the smallest of them and is the only one decorated in European style. The remaining buildings have traditional South Korean facades. It is also noteworthy that on the territory of Deoksugung Palace there are several buildings designed by a Russian architect at the beginning of the last century. In total, the castle complex once included 180 structures, but most of them were destroyed during the Japanese colonial period and in a fire in 1904. Today, in the western wing of the castle you can visit a branch of the National Art Center, and in the eastern wing you can see a collection of palace treasures.

19. Pomos Temple (Busan)

Colorful Buddhist statues at Pomos Temple

Buddhist temple complex Pomosa on the edge of Mount Geumjeongsan in the city of Busan

Religion, like the culture of South Korea, is based on ancient traditions and customs that have their own unique history. Buddhism, being the main religion of the country, has absorbed the ancient interpretations of Confucianism. The holy places of South Korea testify to the history of the formation of the Buddhist religion, which dates back more than 2 thousand years. The top five most important South Korean shrines include the Pomos Temple in Busan. The temple complex covers an area of about 8 square kilometers, on which there are 160 different structures - priests' huts, rooms for solitude and other buildings. There are also a number of valuable cultural relics here, such as the 3-story pagoda, Iljumun Gate or the main building of Duencheon, which is an example of the beautiful architecture of wooden structures from the Joseon era.

20. Cheomseongdae (Gyeongju)

“Star Observation Tower” in Gyeongju National Park

The famous Cheomseongdae Observatory in the Wolseong area of Gyeongju National Park

Despite the fact that Seoul is a real treasure trove of valuable historical, cultural and natural monuments, other cities in South Korea also deserve attention. For example, the city was the capital of the state for a thousand years, during the reign of the Silla dynasty. Among its attractions is the Cheomseongdae Astronomical Observatory, which is included in the list of national treasures of the country. This structure was erected back in the 7th century AD. during the reign of Queen Seondeok, from 362 granite blocks (according to another version - 366), the number of which symbolized the number of days in the lunar year. At one time, the observatory was used not only for observing the stars, but also for weather forecasting.
Panorama "Unicorn" at the Busan Museum of Illusions Indiway.com

The Optical Illusion Museum is a Busan landmark that is loved by both locals and visitors to the city. The establishment, opened in 2013, has gained enormous popularity in its short period of existence. Because the exhibits of the museum are 3D paintings that you can not only look at, but also take part in the three-dimensional scenes drawn. These paintings are all interesting and funny in their own way, and the photos against their background turn out to be as realistic as possible, thanks to the authors’ skillful use of perspective features. Both adult visitors and children are delighted with the opportunity to become the hero of a scene with a sea monster, sit next to the “real” Mona Lisa, launch Angry Birds from a slingshot, feel like a prince on a white horse or find yourself inside a soap bubble. The largest ice skating rink in the indoor area of the underground level of the Lotte World SJ Yang amusement park

Like a number of other unique objects, the world's largest indoor park is located in the capital city of Seoul. True, the Lotte company, which created the Lotte World amusement park, did not limit itself to only creating an indoor area. An outdoor complex was also built - an entire island with countless attractions. The total area of the park is 128 thousand square meters, and every year new entertainment, cafes, and souvenir shops appear on its territory, so the complex continues to delight even those who have been there dozens of times already. The indoor area includes four above-ground floors with attractions, food courts, restaurants, and one underground floor with an ice skating rink. The outdoor area features a variety of attractions and cafes, as well as the fabulous Aurora Castle, where you can simply walk and watch a show.

23. Bukhansan National Park (Seoul)

Bukhansan National Park is popular among nature and tourism lovers

Sometimes the sights of North Korea and South Korea are so close that it would seem that you can cover both in one trip. But, alas, the political regime of these countries makes its own adjustments, and crossing the border, which is very close, is very problematic. Very close to the border, in the north of Seoul, right within the city limits, there is the beautiful Pukhasan Nature Reserve. You can quickly get from the bustling city to the picturesque mountain landscapes by metro, and you can climb to the heights along one of the many routes - all of them are so well thought out that you can master any of the trails without special preparation. The height of the mountains reaches 1000 meters, and from there there are magnificent views of numerous gorges with crystal streams and waterfalls. Trading and preparing fish dishes at the Jagalchi fish market in Busan yeowatzup

One of the most colorful places in the Republic of Korea is the Jagalchi market in Busan, one of the largest markets in the entire Asian space. Its territory stretches for as much as 11 kilometers and has become not only a shopping area, but also a place of numerous entertainments, holidays, festivals and even rock concerts. As for products, the shelves of this market offer a wide variety of seafood - the emphasis is mainly on trading in the freshest, most often live, marine life. This is where Korean restaurateurs most often stock up on seafood to offer their visitors excellent national dishes. Any visitor can stock up on some delicacy here and take it to the restaurant, where a delicious dish will be prepared literally before his eyes.

25. Cheonggyecheon (Seoul)

Cheonggyecheon Stream is a popular walking spot in central Seoul among locals and tourists.

If you are traveling to South Korea in the spring and are looking for what to see in Seoul in May, it is worth noting that it is too early to start a beach holiday during this period, but visiting beautiful parks and various natural monuments is the right time. This is facilitated by the most comfortable weather of the year, with a predominance of sun and average daily temperatures of 20-25 degrees. Cheonggyecheon Park is one of the most suitable places: a recreation area about 10 kilometers long is located right in the center of Seoul, along the stream of the same name. This is a real oasis among the concrete jungle of the metropolis: almost along the entire length of the stream there are alleys, benches, beautiful fountains, and in the evening and at night this place becomes truly magical, thanks to thoughtful lighting and flickering from the surrounding skyscrapers.

Next to South Korea is the country of sakura - Japan. While in Korea, think about visiting the land of the rising sun. Read about and be inspired for your further journey through Southeast Asia!