Top 10 Things to Do in South Korea: A Complete Traveler’s Guide

From vibrant cities and historic temples to serene nature and dazzling street food, South Korea is a destination that blends the old and new like nowhere else. Whether you're visiting for K-pop, kimchi, or centuries-old culture, this dynamic country offers something for every traveler.

If you're planning a trip to South Korea from Singapore or anywhere else, here’s your essential list of the Top 10 things to do in South Korea. And if you’re looking for a curated experience, check out these Seoul & Busan Korea Tour Packages to make planning easy and worry-free.

Start your journey in Seoul, South Korea’s buzzing capital. Visit iconic neighborhoods like:

• Myeongdong for shopping and street food

• Insadong for traditional tea houses and crafts

• Gangnam for high-end shopping and entertainment

Don’t miss:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace

• Bukchon Hanok Village

• N Seoul Tower for a panoramic view of the city

South Korea is a street food paradise. Must-tries:

• Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes)

• Hotteok (sweet pancakes)

• Odeng (fish cake skewers)

• Gimbap (Korean sushi rolls)

Top spots: Gwangjang Market (Seoul), Nampo-dong Street (Busan)

Plan your trip between late March and early April. Top cherry blossom spots:

• Yeouido Park, Seoul

• Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival

• Bomun Lake, Gyeongju

Unplug and reset at a temple stay. Learn meditation, join tea ceremonies, and sleep in traditional rooms.

Best options:

• Haeinsa Temple

• Beomeosa Temple (near Busan)

• Golgulsa Temple (Gyeongju)

One of Korea’s most beautiful natural areas. Hike trails like:

• Ulsanbawi Rock

• Biryong Falls

• Sinheungsa Temple

Best time to visit: Autumn for vibrant foliage

Seoul’s shopping districts are legendary:

• Dongdaemun: Night markets, malls, and local brands

• Hongdae: Street fashion, cafes, live performances

Jeju offers volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and beautiful beaches. Highlights include:

• Hyeopjae Beach

• Manjanggul Lava Tube

• Hallasan Mountain (highest in Korea)

Travel from Seoul to Busan in under 2.5 hours at 300 km/h.

Benefits:

• Time-saving

• Scenic

• Affordable and comfortable

Pairing both cities? Browse our Seoul & Busan Korea Tour Packages for guided and self-guided options.

Known as the “museum without walls,” Gyeongju is rich in ancient architecture.

Sites to visit:

• Bulguksa Temple (UNESCO)

• Seokguram Grotto

• Cheomseongdae Observatory

• Anapji Pond (especially at night)

For K-pop, drama, and Hallyu fans, Seoul is the ultimate playground.

Don’t miss:

• K-Star Road in Gangnam

• SMTOWN Museum

• K-pop dance studios

• Live music shows (Music Bank, Inkigayo)

• Visa: Singaporeans can visit visa-free for up to 90 days

• Currency: Korean Won (₩)

• Transport: Use T-money cards for subway/buses

• Best Time: Spring (Mar–May) or Autumn (Sep–Nov)

South Korea has a rhythm and personality all its own. Whether you’re soaking in a temple's silence, dancing at a K-pop concert, or hiking scenic cliffs, it’s an adventure full of flavor, tradition, and innovation.

Explore it your way — or let experts handle the plan with customized Seoul & Busan tour packages that make travel stress-free and unforgettable.