Beyond Seoul: 5 South Korean cities worth exploring

Seoul is a justly popular destination, but it’s hardly the only large city in South Korea that warrants visiting. Scattered around the country are metropolises where skyscrapers edge the coastline, cities of temples and pagodas that preserve the country’s ancient history, and urban centres at the cutting edge of modern technologies. Some, like Busan, are starting to make a name for themselves on the international scene, but many remain charmingly under the radar. 

1. Busan

Best for a seaside break
Factor in at least a weekend to explore South Korea’s modern city-by-the-sea in the south east, whether you want to ride the waves, explore a coastal park or rent a beach umbrella and sit back for the day. The city is home to Jagalchi, the country’s largest fish market, where you can feast on all manner of seafood. Don’t miss Haedong Yonggungsa, one of few temple complexes in the country to be set on the seaside. And when night falls, head to Gwangalli Beach to watch the Gwangandaegyo Suspension Bridge twinkle to life in all colours of the rainbow.

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2. Gyeongju

Best for history
Make sure to schedule time for exploring the ‘museum without walls’ on the southeastern coast. Gyeongju was the capital of Silla, one of Korea’s three ancient kingdoms — a dynasty that came into power in 57 BCE, unified the peninsula in 668 CE and continued to rule for almost three centuries. Countless temples, palaces, shrines and works of Buddhist art are preserved here, leading some to draw comparisons with Kyoto in Japan. Marvel at pagodas and royal tombs before visiting UNESCO-listed Bulguksa Temple, a 30-minute bus ride away. From here, a two-mile hike leads to the hermitage of Seokguram Grotto, famous for its Buddhist sculptures and views out over the sea.

3. Daejeon

Best for innovation
You’ll hear Koreans call Daejeon their Silicon Valley: this central city is the heart of the country’s science and technology sector, hosting research institutes for Samsung, LG and some 200 other companies. For travellers, this translates into a sense of a place rapidly on the rise. There’s a futuristic footbridge that lights up at night, and Skyroad, a dining and shopping thoroughfare topped with LED panels. Themed experiences include the National Science Museum, where exhibits explore Korean inventions and future technologies. Just outside the city but seemingly a world away is mountainous Gyeryongsan National Park — Daejeonites’ favourite escape for a spot for hiking.

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4. Gwangju

Best for kimchi
Located near the country’s southwestern tip, the so-called ‘city of kimchi’ claims to have invented the pungent banchan (side dish) — and to produce the tastiest. It’s home to the World Institute of Kimchi, which studies the science of fermentation; Kimchi Town, an interactive museum; and a dedicated festival, which takes place each November. Attendees can participate in kimjang, the communal kimchi-making process, and sample different varieties; up to 200 are thought to exist. Beyond kimchi, it’s a place of galleries and art museums. You’ll also find the country’s largest pedestrianised dining and drinking district, as well as round-the-clock nightlife that’s notably cheaper than Seoul.

5. Gangneung

Best for nature
In Gangneung, secluded on the east coast, the fragrance of pine cuts through the briny air. This city is ringed by forested mountains and fronted by the sea. Take in sweeping views over the urban centre from Daegwallyeong Ridge, then end the day with soju cocktails on the long stretch of white sand at Gyeongpo, one of many beaches in the area. Gangneung’s setting has historically left it isolated from the rest of the peninsula, and locals have remained more culturally conservative. Seongyojang House, an 18th-century upper-class hanok (traditional house) surrounded by pines, beautifully merges the city’s natural surroundings and historical legacy.