Top 6 Countryside Destinations to Visit in South Korea

Discover the Hidden Charms Beyond Seoul’s City Limits

South Korea’s vibrant cities like Seoul and Busan often steal the spotlight, but venture outside the urban sprawl and you’ll find a landscape filled with history, natural beauty, and cultural depth. For fans of K-dramas such as Welcome to Samdal-ri, My Liberation Notes, and Summer Strike, the countryside represents more than a scenic backdrop—it’s a space of personal transformation, simplicity, and soul-searching.

While you may not be ready to leave it all behind for a quiet village life, these countryside destinations offer the next best thing: a deep dive into South Korea’s rural beauty, traditional culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Pocheon, Gyeonggi Province

Nature, art, and serenity between the city and mountains

Located between Seoul and the northeastern mountain ranges, Pocheon is a lush retreat where more than half of the land is covered in forest. One of the area’s main attractions is the Korea National Arboretum, the largest in the country and a haven for nature lovers.

Also worth visiting is the Pocheon Art Valley, a former quarry turned cultural park, where sculptures meet dramatic natural scenery. Cap off your day with a glass of local makgeolli, Korea’s signature rice wine.

Travel Tip: Since many spots are off the beaten path, consider renting a car and using an eSIM to ensure strong internet connectivity during your trip.

Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province

An open-air museum steeped in history

Often called Korea’s “museum without walls,” Gyeongju is rich with cultural landmarks from the Silla Dynasty. Highlights include the Seokguram Grotto, Bulguksa Temple, and the UNESCO-listed Yangdong Folk Village.

Spring is especially magical here, when cherry blossoms frame ancient pagodas and temples. Be sure to try Gyeongju bread, a beloved red bean pastry, and beopju, a local rice wine with centuries of tradition.

Daedunsan Mountain, South Chungcheong Province

A hiker’s paradise with jaw-dropping autumn foliage

Located in Daedunsan Provincial Park, this mountain is most stunning in the fall, when red and gold leaves blanket the trail. The regular 2km hike is steep and may take up to five hours, though a cable car offers easier access to panoramic views.

Cross the suspension bridge and visit nearby sites like Taegosa Temple, Surakgyegok Valley, and the Daedunsan Recreational Forest.

Seonjaedo, Incheon City

A tidal island with tropical charm

Nicknamed the “fairy island,” Seonjaedo appears accessible only during low tide, when a natural road emerges from the sea. With scenery reminiscent of Bali, it’s perfect for relaxing walks, fishing at Jindu Dock, or swimming at Simnipo Beach.

Nearby Incheon also offers urban nature experiences like Songdo Central Park, Incheon Grand Park, and the historic Chinatown.

Seoraksan National Park, Gangwon Province

UNESCO-recognized beauty and biodiversity

One of South Korea’s most iconic national parks, Seoraksan is home to Siberian pines, Juniper forests, and a diverse wildlife ecosystem. The hiking trails range from gentle walks to rigorous climbs, and the park is open year-round from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Don’t miss landmarks like the Sinheungsa Temple and panoramic views from the Gwongeumseong Fortress cable car. Spring and summer are the best times to visit for favorable weather.

Jeju Island, Jeju Province

A volcanic island with cinematic landscapes

South Korea’s largest island, Jeju, is famous for its volcanic terrain, unique dialect, and matrilineal diving culture. Fans of Welcome to Samdal-ri will recognize locations like Dodubong, Gimnyeong Beach, and Sinchang Windmill Coastal Road.

Must-see natural wonders include:

• Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliff, with its geometric basalt columns

• Sanbangsan Mountain, a UNESCO Global Geopark

• Seongsan Ilchulbong, the sunrise crater of Jeju’s volcanic past

Local Insight: Jeju’s volcanic tubes and unique lava formations are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Why South Korea’s Countryside Is Worth Exploring

Whether it’s sipping makgeolli in a forested valley, crossing a suspension bridge on a mountainside, or watching the tide recede to reveal a hidden road, South Korea’s countryside offers an experience far removed from city life. These destinations blend natural wonder with cultural richness, preserved by local efforts and government initiatives to protect rural heritage.

It’s no wonder the nation’s film and television industries continue to draw inspiration from these locales. If you’re looking for a slower pace, deeper connection, or just a refreshing getaway—South Korea’s countryside delivers.

Ready to experience South Korea like never before?
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