Top 3 Cities for Tourists in South Korea, Besides Seoul

Gamcheon Culture Village, South Korea
Gamcheon Culture Village, South Korea. Photo by Valentin on Unsplash

Seoul is a must-visit destination if you are traveling to South Korea for the first time. However, returning tourists should look beyond the country’s capital. Continue reading to find out which are the top cities for tourists in South Korea besides Seoul.

Busan

Busan is South Korea’s biggest city in terms of population after Seoul. Foreign visitors are drawn to Busan due to its beautiful beaches throughout the whole country and scenic mountains, as well as a number of cultural institutions and historical sites. Some of the tourist attractions you should check out include Taejongdae Resort Park, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, and Gamcheon Culture Village.

Jeju City

Located on Jejudo Island, Jeju City offers a similar type of tourist attraction compared to Busan but in slightly different surroundings. The city has a more expressive touristic vibe thanks to summer resorts, casinos, and other attractions built entirely for tourists. But you don’t have to just stick to the beaches, spas, and fancy restaurants. The city is surrounded by stunning natural beauties and has plenty of cultural offerings to keep you occupied.

Gyeongju

History buffs will love Gyeongju. Once a capital of an ancient kingdom named Silla, the city is now full of historical remains, archaeological sites, and other places of cultural importance. Often referred to as a “museum without walls,” Gyeongju has several of its historical areas designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including an astronomical observatory Cheomseongdae and Yangdong Folk Village.