A tapestry of beauty unveils the harmony of earth and boundless sky with the arrival of summer in Korea. The East Asian monsoon brings occasional cold showers, tempering what might seem like a hot and humid summer. Stretching from the months of June till August, summer in Korea is a great time to visit the country.
In the rhythm of summer’s jubilee entwines the many flavours of Korea that behold an enchanting experience. As the splendid colours of spring start to fade, the exuberant summer ignites the spirit of people with many vibrant festivals and celebrations. Here are some of the awesome summer destinations in Korea for a lively retreat.
Beaches and Coastal Escapes
Korea’s stunning coastline and breathtaking coastal scenery make it a highly sought-after destination for coastal getaways. The most popular among them– Haeundae Beach, located on the southeastern coast of Busan, is known for its plethora of water activities such as Jet skiing, paddle boarding, and banana boat rides.
The golden sand and the crystal clear waters of Gyeongpo Beach are another perfect location to catch the seaside serenity of South Korea. Situated on the East Sea coast, the magnificent Gyeongpo beach is famed for its stunning sunrise spots. Enjoy a lovely evening under the cerulean summer skies of Gyeongpo beach collecting a bucket full of unforgettable moments.
Naksan Beach in Sokcho, nestled in the northeast, offers a serene summer getaway with its gentle waves and tranquil waters. It is also home to the famous Naksan Park which offers mesmerising seaside sceneries. Along with the nearby Naksansa temple, this beach is a great option for the ones looking for a less crowded tranquil experience.
Traditional Temples and Cultural Experiences
Take a glimpse beyond the horizon into the vastness of Korean cultural and traditional experiences this summer. Spanning centuries and encompassing over 900 traditional temples, Korean Buddhism holds a profound place within modern South Korea.
The grand Haedong Yonggung temple standing on the rocky coastlines of Busan is a magically painted building dating back to the 14th century. And for the seekers of tranquillity, the Tapsa Temple camouflaged among the secluded mountain chains of the peninsula should be an awesome summer destination.
South Korea’s vibrant cosmopolitanism blends well together with its cultural grandiosity. Nowhere else is this ever more visible than in Seoul. Built in the 14th century, the Gyeongbokgung Palace is a wonderfully crafted architectural monument that showcases the royalty of the Joseon dynasty. If you want a place to get a wholesome experience of Korean culture this summer, then don’t miss the evergreen Jeonju Hanok village during your trip.
Explore the Island Adventures
In the pristine islands of South Korea, the constant notice of waves hitting the shores calms your soul. With the white and blue waves embracing the vast shores under the cerulean skies, visitors flocks to get soaked in the sun. The island chains of Korea also specialize in catering seafood delicacies found nowhere else. Immerse yourself in the soulful tranquillity of these islands and try some of the most famous local dishes during this summer holiday.
Located off the coast of Jeolla Namdo province, Bogildo is a relatively quiet and unknown island to the outside world. Discovered by Confucian scholars during the Joseon era, this island has everything from fishing hotspots and beaches to scenic hiking trails and historical temples. Surrounded by greenery and a pond, Seyeonjeong Pavillion is a perfect spot on the island for a quiet summertime getaway.
Discover the picturesque landscapes of the most famous among the many scattered islands in Korea– Jeju Island. The photogenic beautiful beaches and the volcanic formations make this island a perfect summer destination to explore some island adventures. Nami Island is another great option to experience the stunning scenery by walking along the tree-lined paths.
Mountain Getaways
Given its vast biodiversity and stunning landscape, the Korean peninsula is abundant with some of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world. From mountains and national parks to vast stretches of grasslands the list goes on for the best vacation spot to embrace the serene solitude. As nature adorns different colours with the arrival of summer in Korea, the time is perfect to witness the country’s stunning natural landscape up close.
South Korea is known for its incredible conservational approaches to safeguarding its unique natural wonderland. Established in 1967, Jirisan national park is the largest mountainous national park in Korea. Along with the Seoraksan national park, surrounded by many sky-high peaks, these are some of the greatest spots to discover the breathtaking landscape the country has to offer.
Away from the crowd are the adventurous hiking trails of Naejangsan, Bukhansan, and Juwangsan, some of the best-suited locations for exploring the lush green sceneries. Touring the Boseeng green tea fields to get a taste of freshly minted green tea or the incredibly gigantic bamboo trees at the Damyang Bamboo forest is also highly recommended.
Enjoy the vibrant summer festivals
The arrival of summer provides a unique opportunity to get lost in the spirit of many vibrant festivities across the country. The soul of any nation is its people and culture. And for a country like South Korea, ornated with a rich cultural legacy, the summer festivals offer a glimpse into the essence of local traditions. The Busan International Film Festival is globally acclaimed for celebrating Korean cinema, a perfect start to this amazing journey.
The Boryeong mud festival‘s frenzied atmosphere drowns out the noise and heat of modern Korea. Renowned across the world for its one-of-a-kind experience, the festival allows participants to wrestle, slide, swim and play with mud. More than just a unique mud festival, the fireworks and music add more excitement to the celebration. Boryeong is also widely known for being home to the famous Daecheon beach, all the more reason to not miss this awesome summer destination!
Thrill-seekers can enjoy an exciting experience at the Sinchon Water Gun Festival. With the slogan of ‘Making Korea More Fun Through Festivals’, this festival usually takes place in the month of August. Daegu Chimac Festival, renowned as one of Korea’s liveliest events, is an ideal conclusion to your exciting journey.
Unpack the South Korean Urban Exploration
From towering skyscrapers to ancient temples, South Korea’s urban wonders offer contrasting pictures for travellers. In the heart of South Korea are its modern cities that seamlessly blend modern pop culture with its rich cultural traditions. With people from all over the world residing in these urban clusters, these are some of the best summer destinations in Korea to explore the vibrant colours of the lively cityscape.
There is no better place to begin this spirited urban exploration than the city of Seoul–the ever-charming Korean wonderland. Dive into the sprawling commercial streets of Myeongdong and Hongdae to experience the vibrant nightlife. With the great Han river cutting across the heart of Seoul there exist a plethora of Instagram-friendly scenes and picnic spots all around the city.
On the southeastern coast of Korea, the port city of Busan is an easygoing summer destination in Korea to catch a glimpse of the high-rising towers along with its relaxing serene beaches. Hosting the majestic Haedong Yonggungsa temple, Busan attracts tourists from all over the world. Incheon, situated on the shores of the yellow sea and neighbouring Seoul, is another great holiday escape for a laid-back summer vacation.
Evening at the Food and Night Markets
To wrap up your captivating South Korean summer adventure, leisurely stroll through night markets and food vendors for a perfect ending. Once the sun and the summer heat come down the uniquely themed stores and souvenir shops welcome the wandering tourists all night long. Trying out traditional food and shopping for souvenirs are the best way to embrace the culture and Identity of any society.
South Korea’s well-known culinary diversity spreads across the world, with food stalls cradling every nook and corner of its cities. Jagalchi Market in Busan is a hotspot to feast on fresh seafood and experience the bustling atmosphere of the nightlife. Namdaemun Market is another great option for food lovers to feast on the culinary delights of South Korea.
Some of the most delicious and refreshing dishes to try out during this nightlife exploration is Naengmyeon– a kind of cold noodles, Samgyetang, also known as chicken soup, Tteokbokki and the many varieties of mouth-watering street foods. There is never a dull moment in the tempting and upbeat night markets in Korea.
Summer in Korea: An Allegory to Joy
These are not all but only a few of the summer destinations in Korea that any traveller can easily venture out without any difficulties. A window of opportunity to experience a refreshing and soul-filling holiday is what this season offers. All the above-mentioned destinations are some of the best celebrations of several hues that make up the kaleidoscope of summer in Korea.
Don’t miss out on this dream journey through the wonderlands of Korea that will leave memories etched in the hearts of its visitors forever!
