South Korea is a country that offers a rich blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. It is also known for its modernity and innovation, which is reflected in the wide range of fun and exciting activities available for visitors. Whether you are an adventurous traveler seeking new experiences or simply looking to add some excitement to your vacation, South Korea has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore 11 of the most unique and enjoyable things to do in South Korea, catering to both outdoor enthusiasts and those who prefer indoor activities. So, join us as we take you on a tour of the captivating and extraordinary experiences that South Korea has to offer.
1. Embark on a journey aboard the world’s first battery-charged eco-friendly train
The Haeundae Beach Train, also known as the “Blue Line,” is a popular tourist attraction in Busan. This train operates on a 4.8-kilometer rail track, offering stunning coastal views and taking passengers to notable destinations such as the Dalmaji Tunnel, Daritdol Skywalk, and Cheongsapo. Step inside the train and you’ll find yourself in a fairytale-like setting with 12 wooden benches, each accommodating up to eight people. All the seats face the sea, allowing passengers to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the coastal landscapes. The second row of benches is elevated to provide an unobstructed view of the vast open sea. The Haeundae Blue Line Park beach train has quickly become a must-visit spot for tourists in Busan.
Location: 116, Cheongsapo-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan Timings: 09:30 – 19:00
2. Indulge in a unique wine experience inside an abandoned cave in Jeollanam-do
Gwangmyeong Wine Cave is a cultural and art complex situated within a refurbished railway tunnel. This captivating venue offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy wine and art experiences. The Wine Cave, located within the complex, boasts an impressive collection of 170 different wines from 50 wineries across South Korea’s 27 cities. All the wines available at the Wine Cave undergo blind tasting tests and are carefully selected through on-site inspections of the wineries and production processes. Gwangyang Wine Cave serves as the epicenter of Korean wines, providing the perfect setting to unwind and savor a diverse range of local and international wines.
Location: 33, Gangjeong-gil Gwangyang-eup, Gwangyang-si, Jeollanam-do Timings: 10:00 – 16:00
3. Indulge in high-end healing products at the Sulwhasoo Flagship Store
Sulwhasoo, a highly esteemed herbal cosmetics company in Korea, produces premium products that have gained popularity both domestically and internationally. The Sulwhasoo Flagship Store, located near Dosan Park in Seoul, offers a luxurious spa, exhibition space, and a Sulwhasoo boutique where customers can experience and purchase their exceptional products. The spa at the Flagship Store combines traditional Asian beauty practices with modern techniques, providing treatments that nourish tired skin, restore balance to the body, and rejuvenate the mind. The spa programs range from seventy to ninety minutes in duration. Products purchased at the Flagship Store are beautifully presented with hanbok ribbons and wrapped in exclusive Sulwhasoo patterned cloths called jihambo, which symbolize wisdom and unity. These cloths are truly one-of-a-kind.
Location: Gangnam-gu, Seoul
4. Discover the benefits of Medicinal Herbal Foot Baths
The Korean Medicine Experience Town is a hub of oriental medicine activities, offering a variety of paid programs for visitors to enjoy. These include medicinal herbal foot baths, oriental medicine and beauty experiences, and more. If you’re interested in exploring oriental medicine for free, the ICT Korean Medicine Experience Hall is the place to go. They offer a range of programs and activities, including immersive VR and AR experiences like Sasang constitution diagnosis, chiropractic healing, and Chi exercises.
When it comes to medicinal herbal foot baths, you have two options: wet and dry. The wet foot bath involves immersing your feet in a warm herbal infusion, which raises your body temperature and promotes relaxation. On the other hand, the dry foot bath utilizes far-infrared radiation instead of water. By placing your feet on a special surface that emits gentle heat and infrared rays, the dry foot bath stimulates blood circulation and supports detoxification. This option is ideal for those with sensitive skin or who prefer a waterless experience.
5. Attend the Boryeong Mud Festival
One of the top summer destinations in Korea is Daecheon Beach in Boryeong, Chungcheongnam-do. This beach attracts a large number of international visitors each year, particularly during the Boryeong Mud Festival. The festival showcases the benefits of Boryeong’s mud and offers a fun-filled experience for attendees. Visitors can fully immerse themselves in the mud and enjoy various activities and programs.
The festival takes place in the areas of Boryeong Mud Theme Park.
6. Experience the Value of Slowness at Jeonju Hanok Village (Slow City)
Located in the city of Jeonju, Jeonju Hanok Village encompasses the neighborhoods of Pungnam-dong and Gyo-dong. The village is home to 735 traditional Korean hanok houses, which have been carefully preserved amidst the city’s industrialization. These hanok houses feature a unique floor heating system called ondol, as Koreans traditionally sit, eat, and sleep on the floor. To experience living in a hanok house, visitors can either book hanok accommodations or visit the Hanok Life Experience Hall.
The address of Jeonju Hanok Village is 99, Girin-daero, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do.
7. Indulge in Convenience Store Food
Convenience stores in South Korea are a popular destination for a quick and convenient meal or snack. They offer a wide range of food and drink options to cater to different tastes. From sandwiches, pastries, and snacks to hot and cold beverages, you’ll find plenty of choices to satisfy your cravings.
In addition to the usual items, convenience stores in South Korea are known for their selection of ready-to-eat meals. These meals are perfect for a quick bite on the go. You can find popular options such as instant noodles, rice bowls, and kimbap (Korean sushi rolls). If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try different spice levels for cup noodles, including mild options like Jin Ramen, flavorful Tempura Udon Noodle Soup, or satisfying Sari Gomtang Noodles.
