South Korea is often overlooked by Western travelers, who might fly through Seoul en route to other destinations in Asia. Indeed, Seoul's Incheon Airport is one of the largest hub airports in the world, but it's a mistake to stay at the airport. South Korea -- "the Land of the Morning Mist" -- deserves a couple of weeks of exploration, and while you're in the country, check out a few famous places.

Dongdaemun, Seoul

Dongdaemun is a collection of shopping centers, outdoor markets and restaurants in Seoul. The area is home to specialized streets, on which all of the vendors sell the same types of items. Visitors will find a pet store street, a shoe street, an adult entertainment street: Everything is available in Dongdaemun, the largest market in South Korea. The area also has three high-rises, 24-hour shopping centers, a few all-day theatres and food stalls serving up some of Korea's tastiest late-night snacks. Spend a day or a night around Dongdaemun; you will find lots to see and almost more to eat.

Haeundae Beach, Busan

South Korea isn't known as an Asian beach destination, but that may only be because the beaches are so crowded on Korea's busiest beaches in the summer that you can't see an inch of sand. The southern city of Busan is home to Korea's busiest beach, Haeundae Beach, which attracts millions of visitors each summer who crowd the mile-long stretch of sand, under parasols, to snack on fried chicken and pizzas (delivered to your mat) and slurp fresh drafts of beer. Arrive early during July or August to assure a seat at Haeundae, and when the sun goes down, take in the nightlife around the area, known locally for its trendy restaurants and all-night drink fests.

National Parks

South Korea's unofficial national sport is hiking, and the country has well-maintained hiking trails throughout most cities and, most notably, in its two largest national parks: Jirisan in the south near Gwangju and Seoraksan in the northeast, near Sokcho. Both parks are massive and open for hiking and camping year-round, though caution is advised in winter. Korea doesn't get much snow, even in its mountains, but what little snow falls makes trails slippery and dangerous. Both national parks have well-marked trails. You can bring a tent and try camping where you find flat ground, but the national park system provides a few hike-in cabins in the more remote regions. These sites sometimes require reservations, so ask at the park gates before departing. Both Jirisan and Seoraksan are well-served by frequent intercity bus routes.


Not to be confused with Korea's fourth-largest city, Gwangju, Gyeongju is a small city north of Ulsan and Busan in the southeastern corner of South Korea. Gyeongju is home to Bulguksa Temple, famous throughout Korea as the site that was once depicted on its paper money (the old 5,000 won note). Bulguksa, which is perched atop a mountain, is a classic example of Korean Buddhist architecture, but it is just the crown jewel of Gyeongju's living history; you can also walk over the grass-covered and gigantic burial mounds of former dynastic rulers. Gyeongju is best seen in springtime, when the miles of cherry trees lining the main streets burst into life. A tourist destination for Koreans and travelers alike, Gyeongju is easily accessible by bus or train. You can rent bicycles from any number of vendors just outside the train or bus station and tour the city in a couple of hours.

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