What's the rationale behind ignoring South Korea?
While many inquired about our plans to visit South Korea, the usual response was a mixture of amusement and skepticism: "South Korea? Why?" Often asked with a touch of logic, it suggested Japan would be a more logical choice. However, our trip to this Asian republic confirmed why South Korea can compete with more popular destinations.
With a population of 10.2 million in Seoul alone, gigantic metropolises aside, South Korea offers endless possibilities for sun-kissed beaches, pastoral hikes, culinary adventures, and more. From K-pop, K-beauty, and Botox, there is something for everyone in this diverse and vibrant nation.
Questions regarding the unusual choice of destination can likely be traced back to the shadow cast by neighboring North Korea. During our visit to the demilitarized zone (DMZ), it was evident that such misconceptions persist. Our guided tour of this buffer zone between the two countries allowed us to examine the North Korean village located 1.4 km away with fascination.
Our exploration of South Korea did not begin and end with Seoul. Jeju Island is a haven for haenyeo, or elderly female divers, who practice traditional underwater fishing without equipment. Visitors can watch these resilient women in action at the foot of the Seongsan Ilchulbong volcanic cone.
Museum-goers will find a wealth of diverse exhibitions on Jeju, ranging from teddy bears to African art, aerospace, Christmas decorations, and more. Some of these museums even combine disparate themes, such as the World Automobile & Piano Museum.
Busan, the second-largest city in Korea, exudes a sweet scent of vacation with its beaches and vast Spa Land, described as Asia's largest spa. After an immersive healing experience at Spa Land, visitors can enjoy Haeundae Beach during the day or Gwangan Beach in the evening, where the Diamond Bridge is illuminated.
South Korea's temples, pagodas, and traditional villages are worth mentioning. From the folk village of Hahoe in Andong, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, to the Gyeongbokgung royal palace in Seoul, where guests can rent period clothing to immerse themselves in history, traditional and modern South Korea coexist beautifully.
The country's growth extends beyond its physical attractions. South Korea is the third-largest cosmetic exporter, with K-beauty exploding in popularity in recent years. Botox clinics offering inexpensive treatments have also seen a rise among travelers looking to enhance their vacations. However, the effects are temporary, making this an original yet temporal souvenir.
South Korea's true charm lies in its hidden gems, such as Hanam City's double cherry blossom and tulip displays, Gyeongju's ancient temples and royal tombs, Seoraksan National Park's natural beauty, and Jinhae's immersive cherry blossom festival. These lesser-known destinations provide travelers with captivating cultural experiences, stunning natural landscapes, and authentic local culture, making South Korea an underrated and undeniably appealing destination.
- Amidst the forest of sun-kissed beaches, pastoral hikes, and culinary adventures, South Korea's unique culture and vibrant lifestyle have created a diverse and alluring tapestry for travelers.
- Beyond the exciting contrasts of modernity and tradition in Seoul, South Korea's hidden gems like Hanam City, Gyeongju, Seoraksan National Park, and Jinhae offer captivating cultural experiences, untouched natural landscapes, and authentic local culture, establishing the nation as an underrated and undeniably appealing travel destination.
