South Korea Holiday Travel Guide | Food

South Korea is located on the southern coast of the Korean Peninsula. The country’s geography is mountainous and rugged. It borders the Yellow Sea and the Sea of ​​Japan to the east and west, respectively. South Korea also boasts important islands such as Jeju Island. Approximately 52 million people call South Korea home, with the majority living in Seoul and its surrounding major cities. Korean is the official and most widely spoken language in South Korea. English is widely understood in populous cities and popular tourist destinations. Economically, South Korea is a major global player, leading in innovation, technology, and the automotive sector. International companies such as Samsung, LG, and Hyundai are headquartered in the country.

What to Eat in South Korea?

Kimchi: Known as the national dish of South Korea, kimchi is a type of pickle made from fermented cabbage (mostly white cabbage) and spices. Kimchi is a side dish at every meal.

Bulgogi: Bulgogi is a dish made by grilling thinly sliced ​​meat (usually beef) marinated in soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and other spices. Bulgogi is eaten wrapped in leaves and rice.

Bibimbap is a rice dish made by topping cooked rice with various vegetables, meat or tofu, kimchi, and sauces. These ingredients are combined and consumed together.

Rice cakes (tteok) are fried and served with red pepper sauce (gochujang) in a dish known as tteokbokki.

Bulghur: Various grains are processed to create bulgur, which is usually eaten with meat, vegetables, and spices.

Japchae: Glass noodles, vegetables, and meat are used in this dish. Sesame oil and soy sauce are typically used for flavoring.
Samgyeopsal is a dish of thickly sliced ​​pork grilled and served in leafy wrappers. Family members or close friends often attend.
Jjigae: Jjigae is a type of soup popular in South Korea. Other varieties include doenjang jjigae (fermented soybean soup) and kimchi jjigae (kimchi soup).
Haemul Pajeon: This thin and crispy seafood dish is made with squid, shrimp, mussels, and green onions. Sauces are often served on the side.
Mandu: Also called South Korean dumplings, mandu is a type of stuffed pastry. It is available steamed, boiled, or pan-fried.

Where to Visit in South Korea?

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a hybrid of a modern metropolis and a traditional city. You can visit historical and cultural sites such as Bukchon Hanok Village, Changdeokgung Palace, and Gyeongbokgung Palace. You can also visit well-known landmarks such as Seoul Tower, Myeongdong, and the Gangnam neighborhood. Gyeongju is considered the historical capital of Korea and is home to numerous ancient temples, tombs, monuments, and artifacts. Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto are worth visiting. Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, is home to numerous popular tourist destinations, including Haeundae Beach, a famous fishing port, and the Jagalchi Fisherman’s Market. Jeju Island, South Korea’s largest island, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. Here, you can explore sites such as Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, Jeju Mani Trough, and Hallasan Mountain.

The DMZ, located on the border of South and North Korea, offers tourists the opportunity to see remnants of the Korean War. A DMZ tour in Panmunjom and Inje is a popular way to explore this region. This city is renowned for its preservation of traditional Korean culture. You can visit places like Hahoe Village, Gyeongsangbuk-do Museum, and Andong Hanchong Makguli Street. Dadohae Sea National Park on South Korea’s southern coast is home to islands, rocky beaches, diving sites, and other natural wonders. Popular vacation spots in this area include Tongyeong and Geoje Island. Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the city’s claim to fame. Suwon’s historic streets and traditional hanok villages also offer tourists a glimpse into the city’s past.

Things to Do in South Korea

Visit historical sites like Bulguksa Temple, Changdeokgung Palace, and Gyeongbokgung Palace. Visit Bukchon Hanok Village to see traditional Korean houses. Visit historic settlements like Hahoe Village in Andong. Korean cuisine encompasses a wide variety of flavors and spices. Try dishes like Samgyeopsal, Bulgogi, Bibimbap, Kimchi, and Tteokbokki. Taking Korean cooking classes will teach you how to prepare your own meals. Discover the breathtaking natural beauty of Jeju Island. Explore the stunning beaches, Jeju Mani Valley, and Hallasan Mountain.

Visit well-known retail districts like Myeongdong and Dongdaemun to learn about Korea’s famous cosmetics and clothing creations. To unwind, visit a jjimjilbang, a type of Korean sauna. Hot stone massages, cold pools, and saunas of various temperatures are available. Climb or hike to natural attractions like the Kumgang Mountains or Seoraksan Mountains. Enjoy the ocean and islands of Dadohae Sea National Park. Try wearing a hanbok to learn about traditional Korean clothing. Participate in traditional Korean tea rituals to learn more about the culture.

Attend K-Pop concerts and see live performances by well-known K-Pop groups. Watch some of the famous Korean dramas produced in South Korea for a few hours. Take advantage of the nightlife in major cities like Busan and Seoul. Visit bars, clubs, and live music venues. Discover traditional dances, snacks, and events at festivals held in South Korea.

How much money do you need to travel in Korea?

Koreans are incredibly respectful and kind people. I recommend spending at least four days in Seoul. Due to its size, we only spent four days exploring the places I mentioned above. Even a week would be a good time to visit Seoul. Seoul boasts a wide variety of tourist attractions and sites.

How many days should you stay in South Korea?

Turkish citizens traveling to South Korea do not require a visa. Turkish citizens are granted visa-free entry for a total of 30 days within a 180-day period.

How long is the travel time from South Korea to Turkey?

Flights from Istanbul to Seoul take an average of 9 hours and 54 minutes.

What month is the best month to visit South Korea?

The most popular times to travel to South Korea are September and November, when the weather cools and the trees shed their leaves, revealing breathtaking natural landscapes. Hikers are advised to visit South Korea during June, July, and August.