6 reasons why South Korea is a must-visit destination
South Korea offers the traveller a plethora of sights and activities to suit every travel style – from luxe to budget backpacker, hiker to the serial shopper. I can’t wait to go back but until then, here are 6 reasons for why South Korea should be next on your bucket list.
1. The nature
Calling all hikers and nature lovers. You may be misled by the hum-buzz of Seoul city’s nightlife to forget about the lush mountainous terrains that surround the city in all directions – the epitome of an urban jungle. Despite being the 3rd biggest city economy in the world, South Korea is made up of approx 70% mountainous terrain. When Travelling from Incheon international airport to Seoul city, you will find yourself surrounded by lush green peaks and valleys of the South Korean mountains. Make sure to visit:
- Seoraksan National Park, approximately 2.5 hours via express bus from Seoul.
- Other popular mountain sights include Bukhansan and Taebaeksan.
- Jeju Island is another fantastic location away from the hum buzz of city life
2. The demilitarised zone (DMZ)
Spanning across the Korean peninsula, the DMZ encompasses the remnants of a sombre war history between North and South Korea. The DMZ refers to exactly that, a strip of land that lays between North and South Korea where all forms of the military are forbidden. It was originally established in 1953 as part of the Korean Armistice Agreement and provided a buffer barrier between the two countries who were at war with each other. Interestingly, since there has been no official peace treaty signed to this day, the mutual cease-fire is the only thing maintaining peace between the two countries. Seeing the DMZ is best done via a booked tour, as you can imagine with the highly strung security. Full and half day tours are available with or without lunch. The DMZ’s 3 common sights include:
- The Dorasan Train Station, which one day aims to connect Pyongyang (North Korea) and Dorasan (South Korea) and stands as a symbol of hope for reunification.
- Dora Observatory offers voyeuristic fulfilment via binoculars, which peer into the streets of North Korea. If you watch long enough, you may spot the seemingly arid land and North Korean residents moving about on foot or bicycle. Y
- Third Infiltration Tunnel – since 1974 four tunnels have been found snaking under the DMZ, dug by North Koreans as part of a surprise military ambush plan. Traversing the third infiltration tunnel will is a highlight of the tour and will challenge your claustrophobic instincts.
- Joint Security Area – here you can see the demarcation line that separates North and South Korea.
I am by no means a history buff or museum lover, but I will say that a tour to the DMZ is a constantly gripping and eye-opening experience – a must when in Korea. I respected its gentle reminders of how fortunate we are to live in free countries. With over 5000 years of history together, I hope that the divide can one day be overcome.
3. The food and drinks – gastronomical adventures!
You could say that South Korea has a dedicated eating and drinking culture involving as many ’rounds’ of sochu and mouth watering food as you can fit into a night. You will find an abundance of meals commonly known in western countries like, bibimbap, bulgogi, Korean fried chicken, and Korean BBQ. However, if you are feeling adventurous, don’t shy away from trying North Korean style cold noodles and other generally weird but delicious dishes. Make sure to visit Itaewon and Hongdae for a younger university and painfully hipster nightlife vibe. If you are a serious foodie, a visit to Myongdang will not be regretted as it offers much authentic Korean food and at cheaper prices. A weird favourite and possibly ’round one’ essential, are the random gaming spots that offer BYO drinks or dedicated retro gaming bars.
4. The beauty and fashion scene
South Korea has become synonymous with being trendsetters for street fashion and beauty. There is something for everyone, from high-end brands to ethical vintage shoppers. Make sure to check out the popular university district of Hongdae, for its buzzing nightlife and fashion markets which also showcase an array of local brands. For higher-end and beauty shopping, stop by Myeongdong. As pioneers of the 10-step Korean beauty regime, the options for all things K-beauty is endless. For all things sheet mask, visit famous K-beauty flagship stores like Innisfree, Etude House and Skin Food in Myeongdong, where you may lose track of time and most likely money.
5. The people
Confucianism is engrained in South Korean culture and this shows in the honesty, kindness and hospitality of its people. The Korean people seem to have a straight-faced genuineness about them that feels free of time wasting pleasantries. You will find locals who go out of their way to direct you when lost and converse with you without much concern about language barriers. Do yourself a favour and learn how to say “hello” and “thank you” in Korean to spark a few smiles.
6. The tattoo culture
Akin to most Asian countries, tattoos are still very much a taboo and largely associated with organised crime and delinquent behaviour. There is much myth that tattoos are illegal in South Korea, however, it is the law that tattoos can only legally be delivered by a licensed medical practitioner (yes a doctor). Despite this, the number of non-medical tattooists continues to grow as there is minimal law enforcement about this. Doctor or not, the artwork of most South Korean tattooists is incredible. Perhaps due to the difficulty and taboo of obtaining a tattoo, more thought and skill goes into developing and delivering the tattoo designs. Most tattooists offer appointments to foreign travellers by booking in advance only since walk-ins are not an option. Do not be shocked if tattooists who err on the side of caution do not provide you with their studio address, but offer to escort you from a meeting point. Some of my favourite South Korean tattoo artists include: @naleak_tattoo @myohwatattoo @dongwa_tattoo
