Sizzling Summer in South Korea / Top Destinations and Culinary Delights

 

Jeju Island (제주도)

Often referred to as the "Hawaii of South Korea", Jeju Island offers beautiful natural attractions, including Hallasan Mountain, Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, and several beautiful beaches where you can cool off. Don't forget to explore the lava tubes, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The weather during summer is warmer and suitable for outdoor activities.

Jeju Island: An Island of Natural Wonders and Fresh Seafood

• Attractions: Start with a hike up South Korea's highest mountain, Hallasan Mountain, and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view of the island from the top. Take a leisurely walk along the stunning Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, especially beautiful at sunrise. Don't miss out on exploring the unique Manjanggul Lava Tube, one of the longest in the world.
• Culinary Spotlight: Head over to Jeju Haemul Bab, a well-known local restaurant that serves fantastic seafood dishes. Here, the Abalone Rice Porridge is a must-try - it's a comforting dish packed with the fresh flavors of the sea.

Busan (부산)

As Korea's second-largest city, Busan is a major summer vacation spot known for its beautiful beaches, notably Haeundae Beach and Gwangalli Beach. Busan also hosts the Busan Sea Festival in summer, where you can enjoy water sports, concerts, and fireworks.

Busan: Beachside Fun and Exciting Night Markets

• Attractions: Bask in the sun on Haeundae Beach, one of the most popular beaches in South Korea, or stroll along Gwangalli Beach to enjoy the view of the Gwangan Bridge. Take time to visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a rare coastal temple offering stunning views of the sea.
• Culinary Spotlight: Visit the bustling Gukje Market and Bupyeong Kkangtong Market for a wide variety of street food. For seafood lovers, a trip to the Jagalchi Fish Market is essential - it's the largest seafood market in Korea where you can enjoy fresh seafood dishes on the spot.

Gyeongju (경주)

As the ancient capital of the Silla Dynasty, Gyeongju is rich in history and culture. Though it can be visited year-round, summer allows for comfortable sightseeing of the numerous outdoor archaeological sites and temples.

Gyeongju: A Walk Through History and Traditional Delicacies

• Attractions: Step into the past at the Gyeongju Historic Area, which includes Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Explore Cheomseongdae, the oldest surviving astronomical observatory in Asia, and the Royal Tomb of King Naemul.
• Culinary Spotlight: Enjoy a traditional Korean meal at Mahun, a restaurant situated in a beautiful hanok (traditional Korean house). Don't miss their bibimbap and bulgogi, and wrap up the meal with some omija tea.

 

Incheon (인천)

Known for its seaside parklands like Wolmido Island, and China Town, the city also hosts the Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival in summer where you can enjoy music and the vibrant atmosphere.

Incheon: Harmonious Blend of the Old and New

• Attractions: Explore Wolmido Island with its theme park and coastal walkway. Wander through Incheon's Chinatown, the only official Chinatown in South Korea, to see its vibrant murals and traditional Chinese architecture.
• Culinary Spotlight: Try Chinese-Korean fusion dishes like jjajangmyeon (noodles in black bean sauce) and tangsuyuk (sweet and sour pork) at Gonghwachun, the oldest Chinese restaurant in South Korea.

Seoul (서울)

Seoul is a bustling metropolis that combines modern skyscrapers, high-tech subways, and pop culture with historic sites such as the Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Jongmyo Shrine. In summer, you can also visit the Hangang River Parks for various outdoor activities, or try out the city's numerous patbingsu (shaved ice dessert) shops to beat the heat.

Seoul: A Metropolis of Palaces, Parks, and Patbingsu

• Attractions: Marvel at the grandeur of Gyeongbokgung Palace, and stop by Jongmyo Shrine, the oldest and most authentic of the Confucian royal shrines. Relax and unwind at the Hangang River Park with numerous outdoor activities.
• Culinary Spotlight: Visit Sulbing, a popular dessert café known for its patbingsu, a shaved ice dessert topped with sweet toppings. Try their signature injeolmi (rice cake) bingsu for a refreshing sweet treat. For a taste of contemporary Korean cuisine, dine at Mingles, a Michelin-starred restaurant with an inventive menu that changes with the seasons.

DMZ (Demilitarized Zone)

While the DMZ can be quite chilling in the winter, it's much more comfortable in the summer. The DMZ, which splits North and South Korea, is one of the most heavily fortified borders in the world and a significant historical site. Make sure to book a guided tour for a safe visit.

DMZ: A Glimpse of Tense History

• Attractions: A guided tour of the DMZ will take you to landmarks such as the Joint Security Area, the Third Tunnel of Aggression, and the Dora Observatory, where you can peek into North Korea.
• Culinary Spotlight: There aren't many restaurants in the DMZ area, but nearby Seoul offers a myriad of dining options. Try Yukjeon Sikdang in Seoul for its dwaeji-galbi (marinated pork ribs), a beloved local dish.

 

Boryeong (보령)

This city is well-known for its annual Mud Festival. Tourists and locals flock to the Boryeong Mud Festival to participate in various mud-related activities, enjoy music performances, and simply have a great time. The festival typically takes place in July.

Boryeong: Fun in the Mud and Tasty Seafood

• Attractions: Participate in the famous Boryeong Mud Festival, one of the country's most popular summer events, where you can enjoy mud baths, mud sliding, mud wrestling, and even a mud marathon.
• Culinary Spotlight: Visit the Boryeong Fish Market, where you can choose your own fresh seafood and have it prepared for you on the spot. For a sit-down experience, Daechun Haemultang is famous for its spicy seafood stew.

Visit South Korea this summer and explore the richness of its culture, history, and cuisine. Pack your sunscreen, ready your taste buds, and be prepared for a memorable journey!