Captivating TV series and films, exciting pop bands, world-famous skincare – and most recently, a Nobel Prize in Literature. South Korean culture is stronger than ever. This also makes South Korea one of the hottest travel destinations right now.
Each season in South Korea offers its own unique experiences, from the cherry blossoms in spring to winter sports in snow-covered landscapes during the winter months – with exciting festivals in between. The metropolises of Seoul and Busan naturally offer experiences regardless of the season. Innovative fashion, modern architecture, and cutting-edge technology are mixed with ancient temples, markets, and traditional quarters that have been brought back to life with restaurants, shops, and galleries.
South Korea has something for everyone – all year round.
Winter Skiing, sunrises – and camellias
South Korea is blessed with mountains and deep valleys, thus offering fantastic skiing – and magically beautiful winter views.
Pyeongchang is famous for hosting the Winter Olympics and is popular with both skiers and snowboarders. If you're in Seoul and fancy a day trip, Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort is perfect, located just an hour from Seoul by underground. The Seoul region and Gangwon province are, incidentally, among the most snow-sure locations.
If winter sports aren't your thing, then visit one of South Korea's many hot springs and spas. A dip in the mineral-rich water will both warm you up and melt away stress in no time.
South Korea's winter season is also filled with – light. In December, cities are adorned with colourful lights, and as the year draws to a close, people gather at festival sites across the country to welcome the first sunrise of the new year.
Also, don't forget that winter is the season for camellias in South Korea. The best places to enjoy the beautiful flowers are along the southern coast and on Jeju Island.
Our – when the cherry blossoms bloom
In South Korea, it's never far to the next beautiful nature experience. And it's especially beautiful when the cherries bloom in spring. The weather is also mild and pleasant, perfect for energising hikes after a long winter.
The volcanic island of Jeju is particularly known for its stunning cherry blossom trees and picturesque landscapes. The ”Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival" is celebrated here every year to mark the beauty of the island's cherry blossoms. Jeju is also often described as the Hawaii of Korea and has been designated one of the natural wonders of the world. Both honeymoon couples and nature lovers are drawn to the island. While you're here, you must try one of the island's delicacies, heukdwaeji, pork from the local black pigs.
But all of South Korea offers magical hikes, with exciting sights as a bonus. In Mudeungsan National Park you'll find the historic Jeungsimsa Temple, and on Namsan Mountain in central Seoul, you'll discover temples and Buddha statues. Also visit Andong, South Korea's oldest preserved village, and the historic city of Gyeongju, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Summer – city life, beach lounging and festivals
The port city of Busan on the south coast is as exciting to visit as Seoul. It is also home to one of the country's most famous beaches: Haeundae Beach. The long, arc-shaped sandy beach stretches between the sea and the city's tall buildings. To the east, you can see the forests of Dalmaji Hills. If possible, the beach is even more spectacular at sunset. Consider taking the Busan Sky Capsule, which runs for two kilometres along the coast, and enjoy the view. And visit Jagalchi Fish Market, which is one of South Korea's largest seafood markets.
If you want to combine lazy days on the beach with hiking in beautiful landscapes, head to the city of Sokcho. Here you'll find the popular Sokcho Beach and the beautiful Seoraksan National Park is located very close by.
Of course, you can top off your summer stay with a visit to one of the many summer festivals: the Busan Food Film Festa is a unique festival dedicated to film and food. You absolutely must not miss the Chicken and Beer Festival… In Korea, people love ”chimac,” a combination of fried chicken and beer. The best place to enjoy this combination is the city of Daegu, which is the centre of ”chimac” culture and hosts the Chimac Festival. If you like fireworks, visit the Busan Fireworks Festival on Gwangalli Beach in Busan.
Autumn – colourful experiences
Many believe that autumn is the most beautiful season in South Korea, when the leaves change colour and the mountains shimmer in golden and red hues and the air is crisply clear. The national parks are perfect for exploring in autumn: the mountains, lakes, waterfalls, streams…
Uhwajeong Pavilion in Naejangsan National Park is a particularly beautiful place to visit in autumn: the pavilion's blue tiled roof and the colourful leaves reflected in the nearby pond are reminiscent of a painting and an image that imprints itself on your mind. The magnificent play of colours of the maple trees in Seoraksan National Park is another major attraction (there are also many hiking trails along the mountainside here). Seoul too is enveloped in the various colours of autumn, so enjoy a picnic under a canopy of red maple leaves in the afternoon sun.
Autumn is also the perfect time to travel around the country – perhaps to take part in one of the many exciting autumn festivals. For anyone wishing to gain a deeper understanding of the country’s culture, the Andong Mask Dance Festival is a sure-fire recommendation.
Climate check!
South Korea's climate is characterised by four distinct seasons. Spring and autumn offer clear and mild weather, summer is hot and humid, and winter has cold and dry climatic features.
Winter: December – February. Skiing and hot springs.
Spring: March-May. Wander among cherry blossoms.
Summer: June – August. Festivals and beach lounging.
Autumn: September – November. Enjoy cool temperatures and beautiful autumn colours in forests and countryside.
More information about South Korea here: www.visitkorea.or.kr
