Five Cities Worth Exploring in South Korea Beyond Seoul

The capital Seoul is a popular destination, but many other cities such as Busan, Gyeongju, Gangneung... in the Land of Kim Chi are "making a name" with their charming "hidden" beauty.

The garden of Seongyojang House in Gangneung (South Korea). (Source: Alamy/National Geographic)

Seoul is a popular destination, but it's not the only major city in South Korea worth visiting. Scattered across the country are urban areas with skyscrapers lining the coast, cities with temples and pagodas that preserve the country's ancient history, and modern, technologically advanced urban centers.

Some cities, like Busan, are starting to make a name for themselves on the international stage, but many remain hidden in plain sight.

Busan

Spend at least a weekend exploring this modern seaside city in southeastern South Korea, whether you want to surf, explore a seaside park or rent a sun umbrella and lounge around all day.

The city is home to Jagalchi, the country’s largest fish market, where you can sample all sorts of seafood. Don’t miss Haedong Yonggungsa, one of the few temple complexes in the country that is located on the coast. And when night falls, head to Gwangalli Beach to see the Gwangandaegyo Suspension Bridge sparkle with every colour of the rainbow.

Gyeongju

Be sure to make time to explore the “museum without walls” on the southeast coast. Gyeongju was the capital of Silla, one of Korea’s three ancient kingdoms – a dynasty that came to power in 57 BC, unified the peninsula in AD 668 and continued to rule for nearly three centuries.

Countless temples, palaces, shrines and Buddhist artworks are preserved here, leading some to compare them to Kyoto in Japan. Admire the temples and royal tombs before visiting the UNESCO-listed Bulguksa Temple, a 30-minute bus ride away.

From here, it's a two-mile (3.2km) hike to the Seokguram Grotto hermitage, famous for its Buddhist sculptures and ocean views.

Daejeon

You'll hear Koreans refer to Daejeon as their Silicon Valley: This central city is the heart of the country's science and technology industry, home to research institutes from Samsung, LG, and some 200 other companies.

For visitors, this is a rapidly developing place. There is a futuristic pedestrian bridge that lights up at night and Skyroad, a dining and shopping street covered in LED panels.

Themed experiences include the National Science Museum, which showcases Korean inventions and futuristic technologies.

Just outside the city, but seemingly a world away, is the mountainous Gyeryongsan National Park - a favorite hiking spot for Daejeon residents.

Gwangju

Located near the southwestern tip of the country, this “kimchi city” claims to have invented spicy banchan (side dishes) – and makes the best.

It's home to the World Kimchi Institute, which studies the science of fermentation; Kimchi Town, an interactive museum; and its own local festival, which takes place every November.

Attendees can participate in kimjang – the community kimchi-making process, and sample different varieties: It is said that there are as many as 200 varieties.

In addition to kimchi, it's home to art galleries and museums. You'll also find the country's largest food court, as well as a nightlife scene that's significantly cheaper than Seoul.

Gangneung

Gangneung is isolated on the east coast, where the scent of pine trees spreads in the sea breeze. The city is surrounded by mountains with forested edges, and in front of it is the sea.

Take in sweeping views of the urban center from Daegwallyeong Ridge, then end the day with soju cocktails on the long white sands of Gyeongpo, one of the many beaches in the area.

Gangneung's historical background has set it apart from the rest of the peninsula and the locals remain more culturally conservative.

Seongyojang House, an 18th century upper-class traditional hanok house, surrounded by pine forests is a wonderful combination of historical heritage and the surrounding nature of the city.

The content of the above article was published in National Geographic Traveler Magazine (UK) November 2024 issue.

(Vietnam+)

Source: https://www.vietnamplus.vn/nam-thanh-pho-dang-kham-pha-cua-han-quoc-ngoai-thu-do-seoul-post995634.vnp