8 Reasons Why Travellers Keep Going Back to South Korea

South Korea captures the imagination of travellers with its seamless blend of cutting-edge modernity and time-honoured traditions. From neon-lit cityscapes to misty mountains, sizzling street markets to tranquil temple courtyards, every turn reveals a new facet of this dynamic nation.

Whether you’re an intrepid foodie hunting down the perfect bowl of kimchi-studded stew, a culture buff eager to wander centuries-old palaces, or a night-owl ready to dance until dawn, Korea offers endless reasons to return. Over the coming pages, you’ll discover why first-timers fall in love and seasoned visitors keep coming back for more.

Also read: 8 Things to Expect When Studying in South Korea

1. A Paradise for Food Lovers

Korean food tops the list of reasons why I’m definitely going back to Korea. Koreans place a huge emphasis on meals, and every meal is a feast, both for the eyes and stomach. There are usually no less than 4 banchan (side dishes) at every meal. Yep, even breakfast. I was fortunate enough to be able to stay at a native ahjumma’s (middle-aged woman) apartment, and every morning my companions and I would be greeted with a table laden full of small dishes, most of them made from scratch.

That’s not all. Korean cuisine is varied, and there is always something to match every taste. If you like spicy food, you can indulge in Kimchi present at every meal. If you can’t take the spice, you can always have samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) or oxtail bone soup. If you don’t take meat, you can opt for a healthy vegetarian meal at one of the many Buddhist temples around Korea. If you’re looking to step out of your comfort zone, have a taste of beondaegi (silkworm pupae). You can even take it one step further and experience the ticklish feeling of sannakji (live octopus) wriggling in your mouth!

2. A Land with Scenic Landscapes

Unlike the cement jungle we face, Korea has greenery and scenic landscapes abound. In Korea, it is very convenient to immerse yourself in nature: Simply travel to the countryside and you will be greeted by the sight of majestic mountains, breathtaking beaches, and serene seas.

3. An All-Day Shopping Paradise

If you’re into fashion on a budget, Korea is the place to be. Browse through the laden racks at Ewha Womans University Shopping Street, hunt for unique finds in Hongdae, and get a year’s worth of cosmetics at Myeongdong. Then, put down all that shopping, go for a good dinner, and get ready to shop throughout the night at Dongdaemun, where shops are open till about four or five in the morning. Yep, you read that right. You can literally shop till you drop – Asleep, that is. And you can buy anything here, from clothes and shoes to bed linens and wedding paraphernalia!

4. A Hotbed of Treasure for History and Culture Buffs

Many history and culture buffs find Korea to be an understated hotbed of treasure, especially since Korea’s history is not as well-known as that of neighbouring China and Japan. I personally find Korea to have an eclectic mix of old and new, traditional and modern. Very rarely does one see traditional buildings such as the Gyeongbokgung of the Joseon dynasty in mismatched harmony with skyscrapers in the background.

The Bukchon Hanok Village, for instance, is a medieval village that is still fully functioning and liveable. There are many ancient temples and residences available for viewing, besides the preserved palaces and villages. Another cultural spot is Insadong, where you can do some shopping for cultural souvenirs and taste traditional Korean delicacies and sweets.

5. Home to Cities that Never Sleep

Insomniacs will love Korea. I mean it. On top of the usual plethora of pubs, clubs, and bars available to patron, Korea has tons of nightlife activities guaranteed to spice up your every night in Korea. If you’re travelling with a group of friends, I highly recommend a night of karaoke at noraebang.

Of course, if you’re an insomniac shopaholic, head straight for Dongdaemun, and shop all you want. In fact, you can continue until the sky is bright once again – Oh, what a way to welcome a brand new day! If your legs get tired during the shopping spree, you can always take a break in one of the many 24-hour cafes around.

Those who prefer to spend the nights showering and soaking in water can head straight to a jjimjilbang. A jjimjilbang (bathhouse) has various spa and sauna facilities available, and you can simply lounge around with your friends and chat the night away. The affordability of these bathhouses is a huge plus. In fact, many travellers and locals stay in jjimjilbangs overnight to save on accommodation costs.

6. Where You Can Find Cheap Booze and Soju Bombs

With food come the drinks. Koreans love their alcohol so very much, especially soju which is also one of the world’s best-selling liquor.  It is almost inevitable to see a bottle or two of soju on tables of restaurants or eateries where locals were seated. A huge bonus is that alcohol is pretty cheap. Sip on your choice of poison as you sit by the Hangang and enjoy the breeze and water show.

Or try the soju bomb – Drop a shot of soju into a cup of beer and down it. Lightweights should be careful though, as friends have told me that soju bombs hit you pretty hard afterwards.

7. Easy to Travel Around

Ease of travel is a huge consideration for independent travellers. Korea’s public transportation system is convenient and easy to navigate, even more so in the main cities such as Seoul and Busan. Intercity buses and trains are affordable and frequent too, and this is the same for buses to further-flung places in the countryside, such as mountains and beaches.

To move around the country, you can take your pick from buses, high-speed bullet trains, or the slower but more scenic trains.  If you have money to blow and want to travel in comfort, you can also opt to fly from city to city – you can find domestic and international airports all over the country. If all else fails, flag a cab;  cab fares in Korea are much cheaper compared to many other cities.

8. Friendly for Budget Travellers

If you haven’t already noticed, there is a recurring theme in all the aforementioned points: budget. Yes. Although the cost of travel in Korea is definitely higher than most Southeast-Asian countries such as Myanmar or Thailand, it is one of the more affordable travel destinations that is further from home.

If you’re looking for a place steeped in modernity and technology, yet still retaining its distinct cultural and traditional character, go to Korea. Food, transport, shopping and leisure activities are quite affordable, and it is a great destination for backpackers or students on a shoestring budget.

Your Next Korean Adventure Awaits

Ready to write your own Korean story? Map out your food-centric pilgrimage through Seoul’s alleyway eateries, chase autumn foliage along Busan’s coastal cliffs or lose yourself in the neon glow of a noraebang at 3am.

Whatever your passion — hiking, history, shopping or soaking in sauna spas — Korea’s efficient transport network, budget-friendly prices and unparalleled hospitality make exploration effortless. Well, it’s time to pack your suitcase and your sense of adventure and head to Seoul! See you in Korea!

Also read: Seoul Food: The Ultimate Singaporean Foodie’s Guide to South Korea’s Capital