35 Photos That Will Make You Want to Visit Korea
If you are looking for some inspiration to visit South Korea, then this is the post for you. These are photos that will make you want to visit Korea! From the rich culture to the stunning vistas, to the beautiful nature, Korea has it all and more.
Recently I have seen a lot of photo lists around. From ’38 photos that will make you want to visit Korea’ to ’12 photos of the stunning autumn colours in South Korea’. Image lists seem to be the new trend in inspiring people to travel to a country.
Since I already have a lot of images from South Korea and Seoul, I thought it would be a cool idea to make an addition to these lists. If you are someone who is looking for motivation to visit Korea, this list is for you! This is my list of photos that will make you want to visit Korea!
A large portion of these images are from Seoul. This is only due to the fact that I live in Seoul and photograph here very often. There are a lot of other wonderful places in Korea also, both cities and countryside.
1. Yeouido Sunset
A summer sunset at Yeouido.
Perhaps expectedly, one of my favourite pictures of all time begins this list. Yeouido is a (sort of) island located on the Han River, and a very popular place for picnics and enjoying the view. It also has some stunning sunsets and some which have to be seen to be believed! On top of all this, it also provides some stunning views of the Seoul skyline. This is a must-see sunset if you visit Seoul!
Looking for a nice way to spend an evening? Or one of the best date locations in Seoul? Hire a tent and spend the evening on the river banks!
2. Hajodae Beach
Hajodae Beach as seen from the lighthouse.
Korea is renowned for its world-class, hyper-modern cities. But it also has some stunning natural scenery! This image was taken on a recent trip to Yangyang, a town on the north-east coast of the country. It is a fantastic place to learn to surf and avoid the summer heat!
If you are looking to visit, make sure to check out this package which includes everything from transport to surfing lessons.
3. Naksansa
Naksansa, a Buddhist Temple on the Korean coast.
Naksansa is perhaps one of the most beautiful temples in the country, although, there are a lot of beautiful temples! This Buddhist temple is located near Sokcho, a city on Korea’s east coast.
The temple is very famous and has now become a popular tourist attraction. If you haven’t had the chance to visit yet, I highly recommend it. It’s stunning!
Book a tour to Seoraksan & Naksansa now!
4. Korean Countryside
The countryside becomes so colourful in fall!
While you can see the colours come out all over the country in fall, they are especially obvious in the countryside. I’ve seen some drone photos of the fall, and they are almost unbelievably colourful! If you come to Korea, make sure to not only visit Seoul.
5. Ttukseom View
Looking across the Han from Ttukseom.
Ttukseom is another very famous Han River Park, and perhaps the one with the most beautiful view. Not only this but in summer there are a lot of festivals, making it the ideal place to hang out and enjoy the evening. If you are at a loss for what to do in Seoul, I highly recommend it!
6. Gyeongbokgung Gates
Gyeongbokgung Palace main entrance.
Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the most visited places in Seoul. For good reason too, as it is a beautiful and expansive palace. Gyeongbokgung is easily one of the most unique things to see in Seoul. A lot of visitors also enjoy dressing in traditional Korean clothes called Hanbok. If you are interested in a traditional Korean experience, this is one of the best!
7. Hanbok
A couple wearing traditional Hanbok.
Dressing up in Hanbok and exploring the palaces in Seoul is a unique experience that can’t be had anywhere else. Not only that, but the clothes are beautiful and make for some fantastic photo opportunities!
Check out this post for a comparison of the best hanbok rentals in Seoul!
8. Namsan Tower View
Sunset view from Namsan Tower.
As I mentioned earlier, Seoul has some stunning sunsets. These are best witnessed from any high-point in the city, and Namsan Tower is one of the most accessible places to witness the spectacle. Not only in the evening but at day and night the cityscape is breathtaking. On top of that, Namsan also has one of the best views of the Seoul skyline.
Even better, Namsan can be experienced for less than $5!
9. Lake Reflections
Reflections on the lake at Seoul Forest.
Nature is something that isn’t lacking in Seoul. With fantastic parks like Seoul Forest, there is always some nature close by.
10. Korean DMZ
View over the Korean DMZ, as seen from Dorasan.
The reminder of a sad reality, the Korean DMZ is one of the eeriest places I have ever visited in my life. Empty apart from a few patrols, patriotic music blasts across an otherwise silent landscape. If you travel to South Korea, make sure that you get the chance to visit the DMZ.
11. Cafe Seoulism
The view from Cafe Seoulism.
If you want cafes with stunning views, exotic animals, or flowery decors, then Seoul is the place for you! ith a unique and fascinating coffee culture, it’s a great place for coffee lovers! Seoulism is a cafe famous for its stunning views over the city. It is one of the best things to see in Seoul!
12. The Han River
The Han River in the evening sun. Taken from Dongho Bridge.
The Han River is one of the most beautiful places in Seoul. Flowing through the centre of the city, it divides old Seoul from the new Seoul. It is a large part of Seoul’s identity. The river has always been one of the highlights of Seoul for me – It’s stunning.
13. Seoul Cityscape
The sunset over Myeondong in Seoul.
Being one of the biggest cities in the world, Seoul also features some of the best skylines that the world has to offer. If you are on a Seoul trip, make sure to take the time to see some of the city views and sunsets!
14. Crystal Ocean
The stunningly clear water at Hajodae Lighthouse.
The water was almost unbearably tempting. I just wish I could jump in and go snorkelling! Taken on the north-east coast of Korea, near Yangyang.
15. Neon Streets
Asia is known for its neon streets. Seoul is no exception!
At night Seoul comes to life. Filled with neon billboards and signs, life never really stops in this incredibly large city!
16. Nightlife
Nightlife in Seoul. Taken in Sungshin.
Being as large and busy as it is, the nightlife is fantastic in Seoul. There is always something to see and do, and many stores are open 24 hours. Experiencing the nightlife should be on everyone’s Seoul travel plans!
17. Kwangjang Market
Kwangjang Market is one of the oldest markets in Seoul.
While it’s true that a lot of Seoul is incredibly modern and futuristic, there is also a lot of the city that is still in the past. Exploring the endless markets of Kwangjang and Namdaemun always leads to pleasant surprises.
Gwangjang is also very famous for its food market. If you want a truly unique Korean experience, check out a food tour!
18. Cheonggyecheon Stream
The stream in spring.
Cheonggyecheon stream is a great place to stroll and is always a pleasant relief from the bustle of the city.
Cheonggyecheon is not only one of the big tourist attractions in Seoul, but it is also popular with the locals. Providing a nice relief from the city, it is easy to see why!
19. Seoul Botanic Park
An indoor waterfall at Seoul Botanic Park
While the city of Seoul is beautiful, so is nature. With many parks and more being added constantly, nature is never far away in Seoul. Seoul Botanic Park recently opened and adds another fantastic park to the city’s list.
20. Seoul Forest
Some friends and a couple enjoying the summer evening at Seoul Forest.
Seoul Forest is one of the best outdoor spots in the city. With playgrounds, a lake, many animals, and more, it is a great spot to visit anytime in the year. It is especially pleasant in spring and summer!
21. Street Food
A couple enjoys street food in Hongdae.
Korea also has a very rich food culture. As long as you don’t mind spicy or sweet food, Korean food is easily some of the best in the world. If you are asking yourself ‘why should I visit Seoul?’ the food alone is a good reason!
22. Namdaemun Market Vendors
A man sells his doughnuts at Namdaemun Market.
There are a lot of hotspots for food in Seoul. From Kwangjang market for general food to specialised markets such as Noryangjin and Majang, there is so much food to experience!
23. Namsan Tower in the Setting Sun
Namsan Tower from Ttukseom Resort.
Wherever in the city you visit, there is always a beautiful view awaiting. I think I would be justified in saying that the city is one of the most beautiful in the world! Namsan in the setting sun is one of the most beautiful things to see in Seoul.
24. Daedunsan in Fall
Daedunsan in Fall
Korea is stunning in fall. In fact, I think it’s even more beautiful than in spring… That’s saying something! While much of Korea is beautiful in this season, I especially love Daedunsan.
The mountain is located about three hours away from Seoul and it is a trip that is well worth it. Although the mountain is a great hike in any season, the fall period can’t be beaten.
Want to experience the Daedunsan fall foliage yourself?
25. Summer at the Beach
Learning to surf at Surfyy Beach.
I didn’t think I’d be learning to surf in Korea, but that’s what ended up happening! The beaches are crystal-clear and (in the summer) pleasantly warm. This is one of the best Seoul getaways if you need some time away from the city!
26. Udo Lighthouse
Udo Island Lighthouse.
Jeju is known for being the paradise within Korea. However, I would go even further and say that Udo is the paradise within Jeju. That is to say, it is the paradise within paradise!
Want to visit Udo? You can get tickets here!
27. Olympic Park
Olympic Park view of Lotte Tower.
Olympic Park is known for the famous ‘lone tree’. But that’s far from the most beautiful view that the park has to offer!
28. Golden Skies
Golden skies over the Han River.
Yet another stunning Seoul sunset. I don’t know what it is, but I love the sunsets here. But I don’t think anyone can blame me, they have been my personal Seoul highlight.
29. Seoraksan
Seoraksan, a mountain near the east coast of Korea.
Seoraksan is another stunning mountain in South Korea and also one of the most famous. The mountain is located only a few hours outside of Seoul, and has many different hiking paths. Whether you want an easy or difficult walk, or a walk that takes 10 minutes or 10 hours, this mountain has something for you!
Seoraksan & Naksansa day trip tickets can be purchased from Klook.
30. Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul
If you come to Korea, make sure to experience the culture. It’s one of the Korean must-do’s! The Korean culture is incredibly rich and deep, and one of the easiest ways to experience it is to visit Bukchon (or another) Hanok Village.
The village is also located close to Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palace, this makes it very convenient for visitors to the country to add to their own itinerary.
31. Han River Sunset
A Han River Sunset as seen from one of the many Han River bridges.
By now you’ve probably guessed that I really like sunsets. I can say for certain, you are not wrong!
This particular sunset was taken from the Han River in fall 2019. While a red sunset like this is quite exceptional, a beautiful sunset at the river isn’t. If you are looking for something to do one evening, why not head down to the river and watch the sunset? You won’t regret it!
32. Gyeongbokgung Palace Hanbok
A couple hugs in front of Gyeongbokgung Palace
There are some sights that can only be found in Korea (quite a lot of them actually!), and both hanbok and Korean Palaces are among them. Although Gyeongbokgung is a favourite among visitors to the country, there are also many other fantastic palaces located both inside and outside of Seoul.
Check out this guide if you want to learn everything there is to know about hanbok in Seoul.
33. Ikseondong Flower Store
Ikseondong is one of the most unique areas in Seoul. It’s a traditional hanok village located in central Seoul and it feels quite unlike anywhere else. The flower-filled streets and traditional feel make it a great spot for Instagram photos.
There are many different activities in the area. Whether you are looking to chill at a cafe or to eat some fantastic food, Ikseondong has you covered. It even has some nice arcades and boutiques!
34. Cheonggyecheon at Night
Cheonggyecheon Stream in Gwangwhamun has already made this list once. However, the night view deserves an additional mention because it’s absolutely stunning! Enjoying the stream is free and there are many events hosted at the stream throughout the year.
35. Snowing in Seoul
One of the most exciting times of the year in Seoul (and Korea!) is when it snows. While snow is quite rare – it normally only snows once or twice per year, it can be stunning when it does eventually come! If you are planning on visiting Korea in winter, make sure to check out this post on Christmas in Korea.
Photos That Will Make You Want to Visit Korea
That concludes my list of photos. For now! I will keep adding to this list in the future, to show off more of Korea to the world. It’s a beautiful country, and I think it is often overlooked. Remember to check back on this post in the future to see if more images have been added!
If you enjoyed this post please feel free to share it on social media. Every share helps, and I hope that as many people can see how beautiful Korea is as possible.
FAQ
Where Is the Best Place to Take Photos in Korea?
There is no single answer to this question. However, I do have some suggestions! Firstly, I highly recommend visiting the mountains of Korea. More great choices are the beaches and coastline around the country.
Where Is the Best Place to Take Photos in Seoul?
There are many great spots in Seoul. However, some that I recommend are Cafe Seoulism, Namsan Tower, the Han River, and Chonggyecheon.
Where Is the Best Sunset Spot in Seoul?
I have a whole post dedicated to this topic! Best sunsets in Seoul.
What Is the Best Travel Camera?
The best travel camera is the camera that you have! On a more serious note, this really depends. For me, the best travel camera is a small mirrorless camera such as the Sony A6500.
What Is the Best Season for Korea Travel Photos?
Although every season has its charms, I would say the best season to visit Korea for photos is fall, closely followed by spring.
Beautiful photos. You managed to get a nice balance between urban dynamism and rural serenity with this collection. Great work.
Thank you William! I appreciate your kind words. That was my main aim – I wanted to capture some of the extreme, yet beautiful, contrasts of South Korea.