The 11 Must-See Experiences in South Korea

South Korea boasts an impressive variety of experiences for its size – from the vibrant nightlife in the city that never sleeps to mountain treks followed by soothing forest bathing, not to mention a delectable and diverse cuisine that will keep you returning for more.

Regardless of the type of vacation you desire, this charming peninsula has something to enchant everyone. Here are our top, must-experience moments in South Korea.

1. Experience the Cherry Blossom Festival in Jinhae

In late March and early April, South Korea transforms into a canvas of pink and white as millions of cherry trees burst into bloom. While blossoms can be admired throughout the country, the most renowned viewing location is the small southern coastal area of Jinhae. With around 360,000 trees—some over a century old—Jinhae's cherry blossom festival is the largest in the nation.

During the 10-day festival, visitors can enjoy the blossoms at the historic Gyeonghwa-yeok train station, admire them illuminated at night by Yeojwacheon Stream and Romance Bridge, partake in the opening ceremony and various performances, and shop from the street vendors at Jungwon Rotary. It's simply enchanting.

Planning tip: This festival draws huge crowds, with visitors coming from all over the globe to witness the cherry blossoms. Expect large gatherings, but don’t worry—people are usually very polite, and you'll have your chance to snap stunning photos at the prime locations.

2. Take a Leisurely Walk Along the Cheong-gye-cheon in Seoul

On a warm, sunny day in Seoul, there’s nothing quite like wandering along Cheong-gye-cheon, the nearly 11km (6.8-mile) stream that runs through the heart of downtown from east to west. This Joseon-era waterway, once covered by a highway, has been beautifully restored as part of an urban renewal initiative. Strollers can visit the stream's museum, enjoy art installations, watch street performances, or simply relax on the steps with a snack. Cheong-gye-cheon flows beneath 22 bridges before joining the Jungnangcheon tributary and ultimately the Han River. Take your time and relish every moment.

3. Embrace the cha cha

No, not the dance—it's about drinking! In South Korea, cha refers to each round of festivities throughout the night, and it’s one of the key aspects to understand when diving into Korean nightlife. Il cha, or round one, usually kicks off with barbecue, where diners savor somaek (a mix of soju and maekju, or beer) alongside samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly) and other meats. After that, you might move on to a pub for round two, a bar for round three, and then a club for round four.

For those who make it to the end of the night, the final round often involves noraebang (private karaoke), where you can order more drinks and snacks while belting out your favorite songs—test your Korean skills with a K-pop hit or two, if you can keep up with the lyrics!

4. Experience a jjimjilbang, the traditional Korean sauna

A cornerstone of Korean culture is visiting the local jjimjilbang. Translating to 'heated rooms,' these traditional saunas are places where Koreans relax and participate in various health and beauty rituals. Some jjimjilbang are paired with hot springs, allowing you to soak in mineral-rich, thermally heated waters.

Saunas are usually maintained at temperatures between 50°C (122°F) and 90°C (194°F), creating a truly enjoyable experience. As you lie on mats made of hemp (or sometimes salt or jade crystals), the heated stones gradually warm your body. After 15 to 20 minutes, you’ll begin to sweat. It’s tempting to doze off, but try to resist to avoid dehydration. Similar to other spa traditions worldwide, jjimjilbang follow specific etiquette, including the crucial rule of washing thoroughly before entering the baths.

After your sauna session, relax in the common areas of the jjimjilbang, where you can play video games, watch TV, or simply take a nap (many jjimjilbang even allow overnight stays). Finish off your steam session with sikhye—a sweet fermented rice drink typically available at jjimjilbang—and enjoy hard-boiled eggs steamed in the saunas.

5. Support your favorite city or team at a baseball game

Baseball is the most beloved professional sport in South Korea, and whether you're an avid fan or a casual observer, attending a Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) game is a blast. The KBO league features ten teams, many owned by major conglomerates, including recognizable names like Gwangju's Kia Tigers, Daegu's Samsung Lions, and Seoul's LG Twins, who clinched the 2023 league title.

Before rooting for your favorite city or team, familiarize yourself with their unique fight songs, chants, and the line-up of star players. One of the highlights of KBO games is the concession offerings: fried chicken, pizza, and various snacks are reasonably priced, convenience stores like 7-Eleven are conveniently located, selling beer at standard rates, and you can even bring your own food and drinks into the stadium. What better excuse to enjoy a ballgame?

Planning tip: The baseball season runs from April to October, and tickets for popular games tend to sell out fast. To boost your chances of snagging a ticket, arrive early at the box office. Weekday games generally have more availability.

6. Shop to your heart's content at traditional markets

Korea's sijang (traditional markets) are a lively mix of vendors peddling their goods, shoppers enthusiastically placing orders, fish splashing in tanks, and kitchenware clanging. Just when you feel at ease, a cyclist rings his bell to signal he’s passing through. Exploring the nation’s bustling markets offers a glimpse into daily Korean life as you browse for clothing, accessories, home goods, fresh produce, and more.

In Seoul, Namdaemun Market and Gwangjang Market stand out as two of the oldest and most frequented spots, ideal for grabbing a bite while you shop. If you're in Busan, don't miss Gukje Market, where countless stalls offer an astonishing variety of items, from leather goods to traditional Korean drums. For a taste of more classic markets, check out Dongmun Market in Jeju-do and Jungang Market in Daejeon.

7. Discover the vibrant cafe culture

For Instagram enthusiasts, South Korea’s cafe culture offers something for everyone. Pet cafes invite you to enjoy your coffee alongside live dogs, cats, raccoons, meerkats, kangaroos, and a variety of other delightful companions. Themed cafes abound, showcasing everything from books and movies to flowers, 2D illusions, travel, vinyl, and more. Just brace yourself for some eye-popping prices; it's not unusual for a simple Americano to cost around ₩7000.

8. Hike with makgeolli and jeon

With 70% of the landscape blanketed in mountains, hiking is a cherished pastime in South Korea and a vibrant culture of its own. On the trails, you'll encounter enthusiastic trekkers sporting the latest mountaineering gear. At the summit, many take the opportunity to enjoy packed picnics featuring gimbap (seaweed rice rolls) and various snacks.

After a rewarding hike, you’ll find hikers relaxing with a beloved mountain treat: jeon (savory fried pancakes) paired with makgeolli (fermented rice wine). Embrace this tradition at one of South Korea's 22 national parks or, if you're in Jeju-do, along the picturesque Olle Trail that circles the island.

9. Admire the bamboo groves in Damyang

Bamboo forests are scattered throughout the southern region, with the largest located in Damyang, North Jeolla province. Spanning 16 hectares (39.5 acres), Juknokwon features beautiful trails, an art gallery, a cultural village, and a nearby bamboo museum. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to sample some bamboo ice cream.

10. Satisfy your caffeine cravings in Boseong

Known as the green tea capital of South Korea, Boseong County in North Jeolla province boasts a breathtaking landscape of terraced fields, producing over 40% of the nation’s nokcha. Explore the 500-hectare (1235 acres) Daehan Dawon, the oldest and largest tea plantation in the area, where you can wander through tea fields surrounded by cedar and juniper forests. Don't forget to visit the green tea shop for souvenirs and the restaurant offering nokcha-infused takes on traditional Korean dishes like bibimbap and naengmyeon (cold noodles). Next door, the Tea Museum of Korea is a must-visit for any tea lover.

11. Savor the signature dishes of each city

From Andong's jjimdak (soy-braised chicken) to Suwon's galbi (beef short ribs), each South Korean city boasts its own signature dish, often with streets lined with vendors offering their unique takes on local recipes. In Uijeongbu, visit Budaejjigae Street near Jungang Station for a hot pot of budae jjigae, a dish of Spam, canned beans, kimchi, and instant noodles that emerged after the Korean War from leftover American rations—its name translates to 'army base stew.'

In Chuncheon, don’t miss Dakgalbi Street to taste the city’s famous spicy stir-fried chicken. Meat lovers in Jeju-do should try the renowned black pork, known for its tenderness compared to the usual pink variety. In Jeonju, the iconic bibimbap stands out as the rice is simmered in beef broth and often topped with raw beef and egg yolk, served tartare-style. When visiting South Korea, make sure to come hungry!