The Path Less Travelled in South Korea

Inspired by Wendy Wu Tours

South Korea is an unexplored slice of East Asia, often overshadowed by its neighbours. It's a land of ancient ruins, romantic legends, natural wonders, extraordinary landscapes and bustling modern cities, with a history that stretches back half a million years. From timeless temples to cultural festivals and jaw-dropping scenery, South Korea offers experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

Haedong Yonggungsa

Step into serenity at Haedong Yonggungsa, a rare seaside Buddhist temple near Busan. Unlike many temples found tucked into mountain forests, Haedong Yonggungsa is perched dramatically on coastal cliffs, with the rhythmic sounds of waves accompanying your visit. Originally built in the 14th century, it offers a unique spiritual ambience that blends Korea’s Buddhist heritage with spectacular ocean views.

Festivals Like No Other

South Korea’s cultural calendar bursts with colour year-round, thanks to a series of festivals. One of the most visually-striking is Buddha’s Birthday, when temples across the country light up with lanterns and monks lead mesmerising parades. In Andong, witness the global spectacle of the International Maskdance Festival, where dancers from around the world perform traditional masked rituals. Then there’s the Namwon Chunhyang Festival, a heartwarming celebration of Korea’s beloved romantic folk heroine, Chunhyang - think music, costumes and classic storytelling set against the backdrop of spring blossoms.

Explore Jeju Island

South Korea’s slice of paradise, Jeju Island, is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Hike to the summit of Hallasan - South Korea’s tallest mountain and a dormant volcano surrounded by alpine flora - or descend into the depths of Manjanggul Cave, one of the world’s longest lava tubes, with its eerie rock formations and cool, otherworldly tunnels. Chase waterfalls like Jeongbang, which plunges into the ocean and Cheonjeyeon, known for its crystal-clear pools and legend-filled bridges.

Cultural Treasures in Gyeongju

History buffs will find their haven in Gyeongju, often called ‘the museum without walls’. Wander through a city once the capital of the Silla Kingdom and admire thousands of artefacts at the Gyeongju National Museum, home to some of the most valuable treasures of ancient Korea. From ornate golden crowns to intricate pottery, every piece tells a story of a once-glorious dynasty.

Boseong Tea Fields 

For a picture-perfect moment, head to the Boseong Green Tea Fields, where rows of emerald tea bushes ripple across misty hills in South Korea’s Jeollanam-do province. Especially enchanting in April, the landscape bursts into colour as cherry blossoms and canola flowers bloom alongside the green terraces, creating a painterly contrast that’s a dream for photographers and nature lovers alike. Take a stroll through the fields, learn about traditional tea cultivation at the Boseong Tea Museum, and even sample local green tea delicacies like tea-infused ice cream, noodles and cookies.

Suspension Bridge Hikes

Here’s a thrill you might not expect - South Korea’s suspension bridges! Hike across sky-high walkways like the Cheonjangho Suspension Bridge, cheekily dubbed the ‘chili pepper bridge’ for its spicy silhouette or test your nerve on the Wanju Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge, offering stunning views of the mountains and forested valleys. 

Street Food Adventures

No trip to South Korea is complete without trying its legendary food scene. From sizzling Korean barbecue to bubbling pots of kimchi jjigae (spicy stew), every meal is a celebration of bold flavours and time-honoured techniques. Wander through bustling markets like Gwangjang in Seoul or Seomun in Daegu, where sizzling hotteok (sweet pancakes), spicy tteokbokki (rice cakes) and crunchy twigim (Korean tempura) await. And for the adventurous? Try live octopus or a shot of soju with the locals – it's all part of the experience.