About South Korea
- Largely reconstructed following the extensive damage of the Korean War in the 1950s, South Korea is home to the headquarters of leading global corporations as well as to both restored and preserved traditional temples and spacious gardens.
- The country is in the southern half of the Korean Peninsula, in East Asia. South Korea has coastlines along the Indian Ocean as well as the East Sea.
- South Korea’s population is expected to exceed 51 million by 2023, according to World Population Review data.
- Seoul, along with Incheon, Busan and Daegu are considered among the most economically and culturally vibrant in the country.
- Seoul is known for its traditional temples and modern skyscrapers, as well as its rich cultural heritage. Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village are two of the most popular destinations for history and culture buffs. On the other hand Jeju Island, at the southern tip of the country, is home to national parks.
South Korea’s location
South Korea is in the southern half of the Korean Peninsula. Its only land border is with North Korea; the Yellow Sea and the Korea Bay are on the northern and west coasts, the Korea Strait lies to the south, and the East Sea to the east. With water on three sides, South Korea has a thriving maritime trade.
When to visit South Korea
There’s no “best” time to visit, as even the summer season, while hot and humid, is bearable. Spring, with cherry blossoms and blooming tulips, and autumn, with its colorful foliage, tend to be the most popular times to visit South Korea, but the winter months also offer exciting opportunities, particularly in terms of winter sports.
Getting to South Korea
Turkish Airlines operates daily direct flights from Istanbul to Seoul. The flight from Istanbul to Seoul takes around 10 hours. Check out the link for more information on South Korea flight tickets.
Seoul and other cities
Seoul, South Korea’s capital and largest city, is an intriguing blend of ancient temples and palaces, traditional markets and modern skyscrapers. Among the city’s highlights:
- Gyeongbokgung Palace: While much of this 14th-century structure was destroyed in the early 20th century, the Palace is being carefully restored. The complex also includes the National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum.
- Bukchon Hanok Village: This neighborhood features hundreds of traditional wooden Korean houses (‘hanok’). Although some houses have been converted into shops or hotels, the district is still largely residential.
- Myeongdong and Dongdaemun: These districts are popular places to stay. Dongdaemun houses several shopping malls while Myeongdong is known for its markets.
- Gangnam District: Centrally located, this trendy, upscale neighborhood was the inspiration for the song “Gangnam Style” and is known for its restaurants and nightlife.
Busan: A city of sea and culture
Busan, South Korea’s second largest city, is a bustling port city, as well as the destination in the acclaimed 2016 film, Train to Busan. Among the city’s highlights:
- Haeundae Beach: With a backdrop of skyscrapers, this white-sand urban beach is popular among locals as well as tourists, especially during the summer months.
- Jagalchi Fish Market: On the seaside road in the Jung-gu, neighborhood, Jagalchi is the largest seafood market in the country.
- Busan Tower: This former radio tower in Yongdusan Park is 120 meters tall and has an observation deck that offers views of the Busan port.
Daegu: The harmony of old and new
Daegu, an industrial and commercial center, offers the following highlights, among others:
- Seomun Night Market: A traditional Korean market offering local dishes and handmade products.
- E-World Amusement Park: A popular entertainment destination with notably colorful lighting.
- Duryu Park: Built in 1977, this park is ideal for picnics and nature walks.
Dining in South Korea
South Korean cuisine is renowned around the world. Some of the local specialties include:
- Kimchi: a variety of spicy pickled dishes that can include cabbage and vegetables.
- Bulgogi: thinly sliced meat, grilled and caramelized.
- Bibimbap: A hearty rice dish composed of vegetables with the addition of sliced meat, a fried egg and/or seafood, mixed together and served with gochujang, a delicious spicy sauce.
- Kimbap (gimbap): Rice rolls wrapped in seaweed that can be filled with a variety of ingredients.
- Tteokbokki: long, tube-shaped rice cakes, usually served with boiled eggs and a spicy sauce – one of the country’s most famous street foods.
Practical information on South Korea
South Korean capital: Seoul
South Korea official language: Korean
South Korean currency: South Korean Won
We wish you a memorable trip filled with delectable flavors!
