Captivating TV series and films, exciting pop bands, world-famous skincare – and most recently, the Nobel Prize in Literature. South Korean culture is stronger than ever. This also makes South Korea one of the hottest destinations right now.
Each season in South Korea offers its own unique experiences, from the cherry blossoms in spring to winter sports in snow-covered landscapes during the winter months – with exciting festivals in between. The metropolises of Seoul and Busan naturally offer experiences regardless of the season. Innovative fashion, modern architecture, and cutting-edge technology are blended with ancient temples, markets, and traditional neighbourhoods that have been brought back to life with restaurants, shops, and galleries.
South Korea has something for everyone – all year round.
Winter Skiing, sunrises – and camellias
South Korea is blessed with mountains and deep valleys, thus offering fantastic skiing – and magically beautiful winter views.
Pyeongchang is famous for hosting the Winter Olympics and is popular with both skiers and snowboarders. If you are in Seoul and want to take a day trip, Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort is perfect, it is just an hour from Seoul by subway. The Seoul region and Gangwon Province are also counted among the most snow-sure places.
If winter sports aren't your thing, then visit one of South Korea's many hot springs and spas. A dip in the mineral-rich water will both warm you up and melt away stress in no time.
South Korea's winter season is also filled with – light. In December, cities are adorned with colourful lights, and as the year draws to a close, people gather at festival venues across the country to welcome the first sunrise of the new year.
Don't forget either that winter is the camellia's season in South Korea. The best places to enjoy the beautiful flowers are along the southern coast and on Jeju Island.
Spring – when the cherry blossoms bloom
In South Korea, it's never far to the next beautiful nature experience. And it's extra beautiful when the cherry blossoms bloom in spring. The weather is also mild and pleasant, perfect for energising hikes after a long winter.
The volcanic island of Jeju is particularly renowned for its stunning cherry blossom trees and picturesque landscapes. The ”Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival" is celebrated here every year to honour the beauty of the island's cherry blossoms. Jeju is often described as the Hawaii of Korea and has been designated as one of the natural wonders of the world. Both honeymooners and nature lovers are drawn to the island. While you are here, you must try one of the island's delicacies, heukdwaeji, pork from the local black pigs.
But the whole of South Korea offers magical hikes, with exciting sights as a bonus. Mudeungsan National Park is home to the historic Jeungsimsa Temple, and on Namsan Mountain in central Seoul, you'll find temples and Buddha statues. Also visit Andong, South Korea's oldest preserved village, and the historic city of Gyeongju, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Summer – city life, beach lounging and festivals
Busan, the port city on the south coast, is just as exciting to visit as Seoul. It's also home to one of the country's most famous beaches: Haeundae Beach. The long, crescent-shaped sandy beach stretches between the sea and the city's tall buildings. To the east, you can see the forests of Dalmaji Hills. If possible, the beach is even more spectacular at sunset. Why not take the Busan Sky Capsule, which runs for two kilometres along the coast and offers stunning views? And visit Jagalchi Fish Market, which is one of South Korea's largest seafood markets.
If you want to combine lazy days on the beach with hiking in beautiful landscapes, head to the city of Sokcho. Here you will find the popular Sokcho Beach, and the beautiful Seoraksan National Park is located nearby.
Naturally, you can top off your summer stay with a visit to one of the many summer festivals: the Busan Food Film Festa is a unique festival dedicated to film and food. The Chicken and Beer Festival is one you absolutely must not miss… In Korea, people love ”chimac,” a combination of fried chicken and beer. The best place to enjoy this combination is the city of Daegu, which is the centre of ”chimac” culture and hosts the Chimac Festival. If you like fireworks, you should visit the Busan Fireworks Festival on Gwangalli Beach in Busan.
Autumn - colourful experiences
Many believe that autumn is the most beautiful season in South Korea, when the leaves change colour and the mountains shimmer in golden and red tones, and the air is crisp and clear. The national parks are perfect for exploring in autumn: the mountains, the lakes, the waterfalls, the streams…
Uhwajeong Pavilion in Naejangsan National Park is a particularly beautiful place to visit in autumn: the pavilion's blue tiled roof and the colourful leaves reflecting in the nearby pond are reminiscent of a painting and are etched onto your retina. The magnificent display of colours from the maple trees in Seoraksan National Park is another main attraction (there are also many hiking trails along the mountainside here). Seoul is also enveloped in the different colours of autumn, so enjoy a picnic under a canopy of red maple leaves in the afternoon sun.
Autumn is also a perfect time to travel around the country – perhaps to take part in one of the many exciting autumn festivals. For those who want to understand more of the country's culture, the Andong Mask Dance Festival is a sure bet.
Climate check!
South Korea's climate is characterised by four distinct seasons. Spring and autumn offer clear and mild weather, summer is hot and humid, and winter has cold and dry climatic properties.
Winter December – February. Skiing and hot springs.
Spring Mars-maj. Wander among cherry blossoms.
Summer June – August. Festivals and beach lounging.
Autumn September – November. Enjoy cool temperatures and beautiful autumn colours in forests and countryside.
From Kina Andersson
