20 Awesome Photos to Inspire You to Visit South Korea

It’s no secret I love many things about the Land of the Morning Calm. It has been a privilege to call South Korea home since 2015. I know it’s a hot spot destination for many around the globe due to Korean dramas, Korean music, and Korean food. What’s not to love about a peninsula full of people that has remained proud of their culture for thousands of years?

Time are hard and what better way to feel better than to look at ridiculously pretty photos? I’ve been upping my photography game lately and I just want to share amazing photos of South Korea. Look no further for Korea travel inspo. After looking at these, I’m sure your wanderlust will go up x1000 and you’ll be excitedly planning your next trip here. 

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63 Building Aquarium

Probably one of the coolest experiences I’ve had in Seoul is seeing a mermaid show. I love the ocean and I think it’s wonderful how women combine the beauty of legends with the depths of the sea. The 63 Building also features the highest art gallery in the world. You can book a ticket for the 63 Aquarium and Gallery here.

Autumn Foliage in Seoul

Autumn is my absolute favorite season in Korea. The city comes alive with the cooler weather and the beautiful changing leaves. The unique vibes of the modern and traditional really make Seoul breathtaking.

Banpo Floating Islands

The Banpo Floating Islands are truly a wonder to behold. At night, they light up with all colors of the rainbow. In late spring, summer, and early Autumn you can even take a fun yacht experience along the Han River. In winter, extraordinary Christmas illuminations are displayed.

Bogwangsa Temple in Autumn

Located in Paju, this is perhaps one of the most beautiful temples I’ve ever seen in Korea. If you’re keen to make the trip up there, it’s especially wonderful in the Autumn when all the flowers the monks cultivate are put on display.

Cheonjeyeon Waterfall in Jeju

The name of this waterfall means “sky connected with land.” On even numbered years, the festival of the Seven Nymphs is held there. It was believed for a long time on the 15th day of the lunar calendar that swimming in the falls could cure any disease.

CoEx Starfield Library

Looking for a good book to read? Or better yet looking to escape the rain, hot, or cold weather? Then look no further. The Starfield Library at the CoEx has thousands of titles to choose from in many different languages.

Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliff Jeju

The rock formations of these cliffs were made when Hallasan exploded and the lava flowed toward the ocean. The rocks are shaped like cubes and hexagons making it a very interesting wonder of nature. The water here is incredible because of the green, clear and crisp waters. The emerald of the water really contrasts with the sky and makes it easy to stare at.

Deoksugung

Deoksugung means palace of virtuous longevity. Throughout the years, it alternated between an official residence of the royalty and official residence. King Gojong enjoyed drinking coffee on the grounds. Sometimes beautiful art exhibits are shown like the one behind me.

Garden of the Morning Calm

In all the world, this is one of my absolute favorite winter illuminations. Every winter, the Garden displays thousands of lights to transport visitors into a winter wonderland. You can book a Garden of the Morning Calm tour here.

Gwangmyeong Plum Blossoms

The peach blossoms are the first to blossom in Korea. Called maehwa in Korean, an entire mountain fills up with their beauty. The festival offers delicious food, the opportunity to buy your own mini maehwa tree, and much more. You can book a tour to see the Gwangmyeong Maehwa Blossoms here.

Gyeongbukgung in Spring

There’s nothing quite like taking a cherry blossom stroll through one of Seoul’s famous grand palaces. Pro Tip: If you wear hanbok you get free entry to the palaces! I also highly recommend renting a hanbok from Flowery Hanbok and booking a photoshoot with them as well. It makes for incredible memories and a great experience in Seoul.

Jogye-sa for Buddha’s Birthday

Buddha’s birthday is a time in spring where everyone comes out of hibernation and blossoms like the nature in Korea. Every lantern doused the temple in a rainbow and it was truly breathtaking. Check out this complete guide to Buddha’s Birthday in Korea.

Korean Markets

A Korean market will truly make you feel like you’re in Korea. With the hustle and bustle, Instagram worthy locations, and ajhummas calling to you to eat fried foods, all five senses will be ignited. You’ll find desserts and even Korea’s second favorite pastime, cafe hopping.

Rose Garden at Seoul Olympic Park

This is one of my favorite places in Korea and I find myself visiting in all four seasons. In summer and autumn, the roses go into full bloom filling the air with their sweet scents. There are also other flower gardens, lush green lawns for picnics, basketball and tennis courts. You can even rent a bike and explore the park that way.

Secret Garden at Changdeokgung

You have to pay a fee to enter, but believe me, it’s so worth it and beautiful in ever seasons. The staff offer tours in English, Chinese, and Japanese. You’re only allowed to enter in a tour block with your language so make sure you go on time.

Seokchon Lake in Spring

Every spring without fail, I get up before the butt crack of dawn to take photos in front of Lotte Island. This is the only part of Lotte World that is outdoors. The cherry blossom trees lining the lake make it a very popular place for couples to go on a date. It’s also just peaceful to walk under the blossoms. If you’re interested in visiting Lotte World, you can book tickets here.

Seoulism in Spring

Since I live near the east side of Seoul, I often find myself visiting all the fun cafes nearby. My favorite cafe of them all is Seoulism and it’s popular because of it’s magnificent views of the Lotte Tower.

Seoulism at Night

Need I say anymore? Look at the stunning views of the tower from behind me. It really lights up the Seoul skyline.

Seoul Sky

As the fifth tallest building in the world Seoul Sky is truly a marvel. They have several observation decks and even a deck with a glass floor. Go on it if you dare! Book your tickets to Seoul Sky here and get a discount!

Seoul Night Views

Taken at a little bookstore gem called Chegrow, the night views here are unbelievable. This establishment is a bookstore, cafe, and restaurant.

Seongju in Autumn

Seongju is a quaint Korean village with a lot of history to offer. Kings past used to have their placenta buried on the mountainsides of Seongju. It was believed the sun and nutrients would bring health and prosperity to the kings. In addition, during Japanese occupation, many national treasures were stolen from here. Miraculously, many of them still stand.

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