6 national parks you must visit in South Korea
South Korea may be best known for its K-dramas, beauty, and pop culture. However, the country is also home to several national parks. Whether you are looking to simply take a stroll, a multi-day expedition across some of the peninsula's most difficult mountain passes, or even a boat ride on the coast, South Korea's national park system has it all.
Juwangsan National Park
The national park is densely packed with limestone peaks and several temples. Located in North Gyeongsang province as part of the Taebaek mountain range, it is home to thousands of animal and plant species. Aside from admiring the natural beauty of the park, you can also visit Daejeonsa Temple or attend the annual Juwangsan Royal Azalea Festival here.
Seoraksan National Park
The major highlight of Seoraksan National Park is its beautiful mountain ranges, waterfalls, and natural landscape. Located in the northeastern stretches of the country, the park is filled with large pine trees and oak trees. People visit this place to catch the Sun rising over the Land of Morning Calm and to catch the foliage colors changing in fall.
Hallasan National Park
Hallasan National Park, South Korea's southernmost national park, is one of Jeju Island's most popular attractions. Hallasan is not only the highest point in the country, but it is also a shield volcano that developed millions of years ago. In the park, visitors can explore seven distinct hiking trails ranging in difficulty (from 1.3 kilometers to nearly 10 kilometers long).
Dadohaehaesang National Park
Dadohaehaesang National Park, the largest in the country, is also one of only four marine and coastal national parks in South Korea. You can see a variety of plant species, birds, and ocean water fish here. The main attractions are the three islands of Hongdo, Heuksando, and Baekdo. Notably, the rock formations here are in an amazing red color.
Bukhansan National Park
One of the most popular national parks in South Korea, Bukhansan reportedly welcomes more than five million visitors annually. A mountainous place, the park features scenic hiking routes along with temples and fortresses in the area. The most prominent mountains here include Baekundae, Insubong, and Mangnyeongdae. Visitors can also stay inside the temples among the monks and experience the Buddhist lifestyle.
Songnisan National Park
Located in the middle of the Sobaek Mountains range, the park gets its name from the 3,471-foot Songnisan mountain. The park features rugged terrain and lush green trees. It also contains three beautiful valleys: Hwayang, Seonyu, and Ssanggok. Another main attraction is the ancient Beopjusa Temple at the foot of the mountain range. The place is most visited during spring.
