Most travellers to Korea visit Seoul, and for good reason. It has pretty much everything you could want: buzzing neighbourhoods, great food, K-pop, historic spots, and more.
But if you’ve already explored the capital or you want to experience a different part of the country, there’s plenty more waiting beyond Seoul. And with direct flights from Calgary, Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, there’s never been a better time.
From seaside cities to historic villages and volcanic landscapes, Korea’s many cities and regions all offer something a bit different. Plus, there’s a very well-connected network of trains and buses, so getting from one destination isn’t difficult.
With that in mind, here are five Korean cities and destinations worth adding to your itinerary.
Busan
Perfect for: Beach people and big city lovers
Busan is sort of like Seoul’s laid-back seaside counterpart; it’s a chilled-out place where you can enjoy exploring beaches, but it’s also got bustling markets and a rich nightlife scene. You could say it’s the best of both worlds!
It’s Korea’s second-largest city, and it wraps right around the coast, so there’s no shortage of ways to get your ocean fix.
For a classic Busan afternoon, head to Gwangalli Beach, which is famous for its golden sands and picturesque views of Gwangandaegyo Bridge. It is worth sticking around here after dark to see the iconic illuminated bridge light up the skyline.
Another must-visit is Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a Buddhist temple that sits dramatically against the East Sea. You can take photos with the stone guardians of the 12 Zodiacs, watch the sunrise (if you want to get up early, that is) and make a wish, because local legend says it might just come true! When you’re done, take in the sights of the rocky coastline aboard the Haeundae Beach Train at Blue Line Park.
Another standout in Busan is the food. Wander through Busan’s traditional markets for all kinds of local street food — and since you’re by the coast, be sure to try some fresh seafood at Jagalchi Market.
Film buffs should also keep an eye out for Busan’s connection to the screen. Every October, the city welcomes filmmakers and movie lovers from around the world for the Busan International Film Festival, one of Asia’s biggest film festivals.
Gyeongju
Perfect for: History buffs
If you want to step into Korea’s past, Gyeongju is a must. Known as Korea’s “museum without walls,” the city is filled with temples, royal tombs, pagodas, and historic sites. Instead of spending a day inside moving between museum exhibits, you can wander through centuries of history in the open air.
Check out Bulguksa Temple, home to Buddhist art and architecture from the golden age of the ancient Silla kingdom, and the Seokguram Grotto, a remarkable stone-carved grotto overlooking the East Sea. The Gyeongju Historic Area is another must-see, with historic sites dotted throughout the city.
The best thing about Gyeongju is that history is everywhere! You can spend the morning wandering through streets where the old and new exist side by side, stop for lunch or grab a coffee, and get straight back into it.
And if you want an even deeper glimpse into traditional Korean life, make time for Yangdong Village, a historic village known for its traditional homes and cultural heritage.
Jeonju
Perfect for: Foodies and K-drama fans
Come to Jeonju hungry! Jeonju is Korea’s first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, and it is a dream destination for anyone who plans their travels around the local food.
The city is famous for dishes like Jeonju bibimbap, kongnamulgukbap (bean sprout and rice soup) and hanjeongsik, a traditional Korean full-course meal with an array of small dishes.
Of course, food is only part of the appeal here. You should also check out Jeonju Hanok Village, which is home to more than 700 traditional Korean hanok houses. The best time to go is evening, when the village takes on an alluring glow as traditional lanterns light up the streets.
The city is also a good pick for travellers interested in K-culture. It hosts the Jeonju International Film Festival each spring and the Jeonju International Sori Festival in autumn, while film and K-drama fans can seek out filming locations from productions including Parasite, Our Beloved Summer, and Twenty-Five Twenty-One.
Sokcho
Perfect for: Outdoor lovers
If you’re someone who prefers markets, mountains, and seascapes to busting streets and skyscrapers, Sokcho is for you. This coastal city is best known for its proximity to Seoraksan National Park, one of the country’s most magnificent natural areas.
You could spend the day exploring Seoraksan’s rugged peaks, dense forests, and dramatic valleys, then head back into town to experience Sokcho’s maritime side.
Yeongnangho Lake sits between the city centre and the sea, while the surrounding waters offer opportunities for marine activities when you’re looking to get out on the water.
No trip to Sokcho would be complete without a wander through one of its traditional markets, either. Here, you can pick up fresh local ingredients, sample regional specialities, and then make a meal out of your discoveries.
Jeju
Perfect for: Those who love an island escape
Last but not least: Jeju. Korea’s famous island escape, this is where volcanic landscapes, turquoise waters, and a food culture unlike anywhere else in the country come together.
The island is a destination in its own right, and it is reached by Jeju International Airport. Once you arrive, you’ll find everything from black-basalt coastlines and sandy beaches to volcanic craters, lava tubes, and mountains.
Head to Hamdeok Beach for its turquoise water and views, or Hyeopjae Beach for bright blue-green water with white sands. Or, for something a little more unusual, visit Soesokkak Estuary to take a ride on a traditional tewoo raft.
The island is famous for its seafood, Jeju black pork, and tangerines. It’s also known for the haenyeo, who are traditional women divers who free-dive for seafood and make up an integral part of the island’s cultural identity. You might recognize this tradition from the Apple TV documentary The Last of the Sea Women.
If you want to see the haenyeo in action, you can head to the coast near Seongsan Ilchulbong, where these incredible divers demonstrate their skills.
Ready to explore Korea? Whether you’re dreaming of Busan’s beaches, Gyeongju’s ancient history, Jeonju’s food scene, Sokcho’s mountain views, or Jeju’s volcanic landscape, there’s a Korean destination waiting for you.
Head to the Visit Korea website to start planning, and follow @ktocanada on Instagram for even more inspiration.