🌍 7 Places Foreigners Love to Visit in Korea – Discover Korea’s Global Favorites
Korea is no longer just a destination for K-pop fans or drama lovers.
With a growing number of travelers from all over the world, the country has become a hotspot for those seeking a unique mix of tradition and modernity, vibrant city life, healing nature, and rich cultural experiences.
Here are 7 must-visit destinations in Korea that are especially loved by foreign visitors—based on global rankings, SNS trends, and real traveler feedback.
1. 📍 Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul – Timeless Korean Beauty
If you ask a foreigner to name a place that defines “Korea,” chances are they'll say Gyeongbokgung Palace.
- 📌 Located in: Jongno-gu, Seoul
- 💡 Highlights: Royal architecture, Hanbok rental, guard ceremony
Wearing traditional Hanbok and walking through the grand palace grounds is one of the most popular experiences among foreign travelers. Gyeongbokgung offers a magical contrast of ancient beauty surrounded by a modern skyline.
🧡 Instagram hashtag #gyeongbokgung has over 1 million posts!
2. 📍 Haeundae Beach & Gamcheon Culture Village, Busan – City Meets Sea
Busan is Korea’s second-largest city and a rising star in global tourism. From beach lovers to street art explorers, it has something for everyone.
- 🏖 Haeundae Beach: Ideal for sunbathing, seaside cafés, and night views of Gwangan Bridge
- 🎨 Gamcheon Culture Village: A hillside maze of colorful houses, murals, and photo spots
Praised by overseas media as “South Korea’s Naples,” Busan is quickly becoming a must-see destination.
3. 📍 Jeju Island – Korea’s Tropical Paradise
Often referred to as the “Hawaii of Korea,” Jeju Island is a top destination for foreign travelers seeking nature, culture, and relaxation.
- 🌋 Famous spots: Seongsan Sunrise Peak, Hallasan, Udo Island, O’sulloc Green Tea Museum
- 💚 Popular for: Healing nature, unique volcanic landscapes, scenic drives
Jeju appeals to honeymooners, solo backpackers, and wellness travelers alike.
4. 📍 Jeonju Hanok Village – Tradition in Every Corner
Jeonju is the heart of Korean heritage. Its Hanok Village features hundreds of traditional Korean houses, charming alleyways, and authentic cuisine.
- 🏠 Located in: Jeonju, North Jeolla Province
- 🌿 Activities: Hanbok rentals, Korean calligraphy, local food (Bibimbap, Makgeolli)
Jeonju was named one of the “Top 3 traditional cities in Asia” by CNN, and it's a dream destination for those interested in Korean culture.
5. 📍 Jumunjin Beach (BTS Bus Stop) – For the ARMYs
Located near Gangneung, this small beachside stop became world-famous after BTS used it for their "You Never Walk Alone" album cover.
- 📷 The bus stop: Still preserved for fans to visit and take pictures
- 🏞 Surroundings: Blue East Sea, peaceful beaches, coastal cafés
It’s a pilgrimage site for ARMYs and a quiet escape for nature lovers.
6. 📍 Nami Island – Romance in the Forest
Nami Island is a fairytale destination that gained global fame through the hit K-drama “Winter Sonata.” Its serene atmosphere and beautiful tree-lined roads attract couples and families year-round.
- 🚴 Best explored via: Bike, walking tours, riverside picnic
- 🌸 Seasonal highlights: Cherry blossoms (spring), golden ginkgo trees (autumn)
Foreigners especially enjoy the eco-friendly lifestyle and relaxing vibe of the island.
7. 📍 Insadong & Hongdae, Seoul – Culture, Art, and Youth
Looking for an authentic cultural experience? Try Insadong, where tradition meets taste.
Want to explore street music and creative freedom? Head to Hongdae, Seoul’s youthful art district.
- ☕ Insadong: Tea houses, art galleries, calligraphy workshops
- 🎧 Hongdae: K-pop dance covers, fashion shops, indie bands
These two districts show how diverse and exciting Seoul can be—from ancient ink brushes to neon-lit nights.
🌟 In Summary – Korea Through Global Eyes
Foreigners love Korea not just for its famous dramas and K-pop, but because it offers meaningful, immersive, and multi-layered travel experiences.
Whether you're following in the footsteps of BTS, strolling in a Hanok village, or tasting green tea in Jeju—Korea has something unforgettable for every kind of traveler.