South Korea is one of those rare destinations that seamlessly blends tradition with technology, serene nature with buzzing city life, and humble street eats with ultra-stylish cafes. Whether it's your fist time or your fifth visit, there's always something new to explore, taste and fall in love with.
Over the years, I've been fortunate to experience South Korea through multiple trips - solo adventures, culture trips with colleagues, and a memorable family vacation. Each visit has revealed a different side of the country, from hidden local eateries to popular cultural landmarks, and peaceful island strolls to late-night food alleys full of energy.
An Ultimate Guide: Where to Go, What to Eat & What Not to Miss in South Korea
In this post, I'm compiling the Top 10 Must-Try Things to Do in South Korea - a well-rounded mix of sightseeing, shopping and eating - based on my travels over the years. Whether you're a foodie, a culture enthusiast, a shopper or just a curious explorer, there's something in this guide for you.
Exploring: Scenic & Instagrammable Sights the Whole Family Will Love
1. Nami Island: Nature, Food & Family Fun All Year Round
Located just 1.5 hrs outside Seoul, Nami is a picture-perfect getaway that transforms with the seasons - fiery red and gold leaves in autumn, snow-draped trees in winter, cherry blossoms in spring and lush greenery in summer. It's perfect for leisurely stroll, bike rides or picnics.
Nami Island isn't just about stunning scenery - it's also a hidden gem for food lovers. We discovered a traditional Korean restaurant on the island that served surprisingly comforting dishes like Kimchi & Pork Dumplings, rich Gomtang (Beef Bone Soup) and flavorful Bulgogi. Beyond the views, the island offers some truly satisfying eats worth exploring.
Nestled in the mountains, this beautifully landscaped garden is a visual feast with over 5000 plant species. In spring and autumn, it's alive with color, in winter, it transforms into a fairy-tale landscape with its light festival at night. Family-friendly and tranquil, it's the perfect spot to slow down and reconnect with nature after days of busy city touring.
3. Pocheon Art Valley: A Hidden Scenic Gem
A former granite quarry turned into an art and cultural space, Pocheon Art Valley is often overlooked by tourists - but it's absolutely worth the visit. The turquoise lake surrounded by stone cliffs makes for a breathtaking photo backdrop, and K-drama fans will recognize it as a filming location in Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo. You'll find interactive art installations, small museums, and even a monorail ride - making it ideal for families.
4. Ikseon-dong: Hidden Hanok Charm Meets Modern Cafe Culture
This historic Hanok Village is now a hip hideaway filled with artisan boutiques, stylish cafes, dessert spots and photo-ready corners. We enjoyed some of the best pastries and drinks here - think Matcha Croissants and Lavender Lattes. It's peaceful yet buzzing with creativity. Just a short walk from here is Insadong, a cultural street where you can shop for traditional crafts, souvenirs and teas.
5. Starfield Library & Gangnam: Trendy, Flashy & Totally Korean
5. Starfield Library & Gangnam: Trendy, Flashy & Totally Korean
Even for those who aren't book enthusiasts, the Starfield Library at COEX Mall is a visual marvel - its soaring bookshelves have made it one of the most photographed and recognizable spots in Seoul. Frequently featured across social media, it lives up to the hype with its striking design and atmosphere. Just outside, Gangnam offers a glimpse into modern, upscale Seoul, with its sleek skyscrapers, luxury boutiques, renowned beauty clinics and undeniable K-pop influence. Be sure to stop by the iconic Gangnam Style Statue - a playful nod to the neighborhood's global fame.
Shopping: From Trendy Streets to Local Markets
6. Myeongdong: A Foodie's First Stop (But Not the Only One)
A mecca for street food lovers and skincare shopping, Myeongdong is a bustling shopping district packed with everything from trendy fashion to iconic beauty brands.
Some of the Must-try foods here:
- Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes)
- Grilled lobster tail
- Egg bread
- Smore's Ice Cream
- Odeng (Fish Cake Skewers)
- Bungeo-ppang (Fish-Shaped Pastry)
Tip: While Myeongdong remains a convenient and lively area, it has become increasingly tourist-oriented and pricey in recent years. Even the once-famous street food scene has seen a dip in value for money, making it less appealing to some visitors. That said, the neighborhood is still home to several well-known restaurants serving highly rated and beloved Korean dishes - from dumpling noodles and Jokbal (braised pig's trotters) to BBQ meats, Korean fried chicken and more. It's worth exploring beyond the street stalls to uncover some truly satisfying local flavors.
7. Namdaemun Market: Authentic, Affordable and Full of Soul
One of South Korea's oldest and liveliest traditional markets, Namdaemun is the place to go if you want to eat like a local and shop on a budget. The energy is electric - narrow alleys buzzing with vendors, the smell of sizzling food in the air, and the sound of local chatter all around.
Food Highlight: Don't miss the famous Savory Hotteok near Gate 2 - this isn't your usual sweet pancake. It's a crispy, golden-brown disk stuffed with glass noodles and vegetables, then dipped in a special soy-based sauce after frying. The result is a deeply savory, chewy and flavorful bite that's truly addictive. It's one of those unexpected street food gems you'll be dreaming about long after your trip. A personal favorite!
Be sure to also wander into the lesser-known alleys - many are run by warm-hearted Korean aunties who serve hearty, home-style meals at unbeatable prices. Expect generous portions, free side dishes, and a vibe that feels like you're being hosted in someone's home.
Tip: Cash is king here and go during the day to catch everything in full swing!
8. Gwangjang Market: Netflix-Famous and Still Delicious
Yes, it's more touristy now, but Gwangjang Market still offers an authentic taste of South Korea's food culture.
Must-try dishes include:
- Bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes)
- Kimbap (addictive mini rice rolls)
- Sundae (blood sausage)
- Live octopus
- Yukhoe (raw beef)
- Twisted Donuts and Hotteok for dessert
And yes, we also tried the famous Kalguksu (Knife-cut Noodles) and Kimchi Mandu from the Netflix-featured stall. Tasty, though not radically different from less-hyped versions elsewhere.
Eating: Korea's Flavors You Can't Miss
9. Noryangjin Fish Market: A Seafood Adventure
This wholesale seafood market is an experience in itself. Rows of tanks hold everything from live crab to sea cucumbers, and you can choose your catch and have it cooked on-site in one of the restaurants upstairs. We had an incredible feast of steamed king crab, grilled shellfish, sashimi and more - all super fresh and flavorful.
Tip: Go with an open mind and an empty stomach. Haggling is welcome!
10. Korean Meat Quartet: Fried Chicken, K-BBQ, Bossam and Jokbal
Don't leave South Korea without indulging in these classics.
- Korean Fried Chicken - crispy, saucy and addictive. There are many known brands to try and most of them deliver on taste and texture. We tried the BB.Q Chicken & Beer in Hongdae - crispy on the outside, juicy inside.
- K-BBQ - a feast of grilled meats and unlimited banchan (side dishes). Hanam Pig in Myeongdong is one restaurant worth trying for its generous servings and lively vibe and Ganggangsullae for quality cuts of meat.
- Jokbal (Braised Pig Trotters) & Bossam (Steamed Pork) - rich, tender and often served with wraps and fermented shrimp sauce. We loved Myth Jokbal in Myeongdong - their dishes were meaty, flavorful and worth the hype.
South Korea is one of the few countries where every corner offers a story, every dish offers a memory, and every market hides a surprise. Every visit is usually packed to the brim, yet I'm always left feeling there was still so much more to experience.
From scenic spots like Nami Island and Pocheon Art Valley to bustling markets like Gwangjang and Namdaemun, and from iconic eats like K-BBQ and Jokbal to lesser-known food alley gems - you simply can't run out of amazing things to do or eat in South Korea.
From scenic spots like Nami Island and Pocheon Art Valley to bustling markets like Gwangjang and Namdaemun, and from iconic eats like K-BBQ and Jokbal to lesser-known food alley gems - you simply can't run out of amazing things to do or eat in South Korea.
If you're planning your next trip, I hope this guide helps you craft an itinerary that's as fun, flavorful and fulfilling as ours. Time is never enough in South Korea - but every minute is worth it.
For more travel inspiration, check out my previous blog posts on other key cities and some of my favorite spots worth discovering across South Korea.
