If you’re someone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of well-trodden paths, exploring hidden gem destinations can satisfy your wanderlust. Aside from enjoying new experiences, you’ll also be supporting local communities.
For K-drama fans, you’ve probably seen or heard about popular tourist spots in Korea like Namsan Tower or Jeju Island. But beyond those, the country is also rich in hidden gem locations that offer the chance to connect with authentic cultures. These destinations provide an opportunity to appreciate Korea’s unique heritage and beauty.
Want to explore places that differ from the usual tourist routes? Here are some underrated spots in Korea worth visiting:
Hwanho Park Space Walk
For adventurous individuals, spacewalking might be right up your alley. Providing a unique experience, the Hwanho Park Space Walk looks like a “roller coaster” without the actual ride. Intended to be traversed by foot, the Space Walk will get your heart rate up as you climb its 717 steps.
When you reach the peak, the amazing view of the city and beach will surely be worth it. Prepare your camera too, as the Space Walk becomes an attractive photo spot when lit with LED bulbs. And if you feel thirsty after the climb, there are nearby cafes where you can order space-themed beverages.
Mullae Art Village
If you’re an art enthusiast or an artist yourself, Mullae Art Village will surely pique your interest! A trendy area in Seoul, its streets are filled with captivating art murals, quirky iron sculptures, and flowering rooftop gardens. It is a flourishing artistic community where house galleries, workshops, and studios can be found.
Here, you can attend exhibitions and festivals, and even meet local artists. You can also observe steelworkers in action as they create metal or check out cafes with unique concepts.
Seoraksan National Park
One of Korea’s most iconic parks, Seoraksan National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that has been recognized for its natural beauty. Home to Seoraksan, one of Korea’s most beautiful mountains, the park is also known for the Ulsanbawi Rock formation made of six granite peaks.
Seoraksan National Park is renowned for its stunning views, clear mountain streams, and rich flora and fauna. It offers some of the most beautiful trails in Korea. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the very rare Korean musk deer or Korean goral.
Jeongseon Hwaam Cave
A highly recommended attraction with a fascinating mineral museum, Jeongseon Hwaam Cave is Asia’s largest limestone cave. Formerly a gold mine, Hwaam Cave provides insights into early mining techniques and equipment. Visitors can even spot real gold veins concealed within the rocks! The cave can be accessed via a cozy monorail or by hiking the terrain.
Don’t forget to admire the natural stalactites and stalagmites in the cavern—they are the stars of the show. There’s also an enchanting area featuring cute goblins who’ll teach you about gold production.
While these spots aren’t as mainstream, the experiences they offer are just as enriching as those found at other cultural sites in Korea. From modern architecture to natural landscapes, each place promises a memorable experience that celebrates Korea’s local cultures.
