South Korea like you have never seen it before!
Welcome to an exploration of Korea’s hidden treasures, where we venture beyond tourist hotspots to unveil enchanting destinations. Join us as we uncover secluded temples, hidden villages, and breathtaking landscapes, revealing Korea’s rich heritage and natural beauty. Prepare to be inspired by the lesser-known corners of this captivating land.
Here are a few beautiful places that make Korea a truly incredible destination :
1. Mokpo
The Mokpo Tourism Special Zone spans approximately 6.9 kilometers, extending from the North Port to Yudalsan Mountain, encompassing the old downtown area, Samhakdo Island, Gatbawi Rock, and the Peace Plaza in the new city center. It boasts a rich historical heritage dating back to the Japanese colonial era, with notable sites such as the Former Japanese Consulate and the Mokpo History and Culture of Modern Times. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s cultural and maritime history through attractions like the Mokpo Natural History Museum and the Korea National Maritime Museum. As a coastal destination, Mokpo offers an array of delectable seafood dishes, including sliced raw croaker, braised cutlassfish, skate, pork, and kimchi combo, raw thin-legged octopus, and blue crab salad.
2. Namwon Keuneong Coast
The name “Namwon Keuneong Coast” derives from its unique geological feature resembling a hill that appears to “swallow up the sea,” with the Jeju dialect term “-eong” signifying “hill”. The coastal cliffs, rising up to 30 meters in height and stretching 200 meters in length, are adorned with lush green grass. Apart from its two natural caves, the area offers visitors a 2-kilometer coastal walking path, an observation deck, rest areas, and various amenities. Renowned for its fishing opportunities and romantic ambiance, this destination is favored by couples seeking an idyllic date spot.
3. Damyang
While Damyang boasts a thriving tourism industry, it remains somewhat underappreciated, often overlooked when planning a trip to South Korea. Situated in Jeollanam-do, one of the less developed provinces, it might not be the first destination that springs to mind.
Nevertheless, this county offers an abundance of natural beauty waiting to be explored. Among its treasures is Juknokwon, an expansive bamboo forest that’s perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy moments. Additionally, visitors can indulge in bamboo-flavored ice cream while touring an art museum—a unique experience not easily found elsewhere. Another iconic feature of Damyang is its stunning Metasequoia Path, adorned with majestic metasequoia trees, creating a picturesque green corridor.
4. Gwangmyeong Cave
Gwangmyeong Cave stands as the largest themed cave park, situated within a former gold mine once bustling with activity extracting gold, silver, and bronze. Within its depths, visitors are treated to a diverse array of cultural and artistic experiences. From the enchanting Wine Cave to the immersive Cave Aqua World and the majestic Gold Falls, there’s a wealth of attractions to explore, including Gold Road, Gold Palace, Horror Experience, Cave Basement World, Underground Lake, and the nation’s largest dragon sculpture illuminated by LED lights. Additionally, every weekend, visitors can enjoy captivating Black Light Performances. Amidst this rich tapestry of activities, the cave also offers numerous serene spots for visitors to unwind and rejuvenate their spirits while strolling through its labyrinthine passages.
5. Petit France Village
Petite France presents itself as a charming French cultural village nestled amidst the serene Korean countryside. With its thematic focus on “flowers, stars, and the Little Prince,” the village offers a plethora of experience programs, training facilities, and accommodation options. Among its notable attractions is a memorial hall dedicated to Saint-Exupery, the renowned author of the beloved French novella, Le Petit Prince (1943). Visitors can also explore the Orgel House, where a 200-year-old music box fills the air with its enchanting melodies, as well as a French housing exhibition and a gallery showcasing sculptures and paintings of the iconic Gallic rooster, the national symbol of France. The village boasts numerous galleries and shops where visitors can immerse themselves in the essence of French culture. The training facility within Petite France can comfortably host up to 200 guests in rooms accommodating four to ten individuals each, ensuring a cozy and memorable stay.
Korea’s hidden gems offer a tantalizing glimpse into the country’s rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. From secluded temples nestled in misty mountains to charming villages frozen in time, these lesser-known destinations beckon intrepid travelers seeking authentic experiences off the beaten path. As we’ve discovered, venturing beyond the well-trodden tourist trails unveils a treasure trove of enchanting locales waiting to be explored. So are you ready ?
By Tya BERAMICE-DRACAN