South Korea is a country where ancient palaces sit beside futuristic skyscrapers, where mountain temples overlook neon-lit cities, and where tradition and innovation are constantly in dialogue. Whether you’re drawn to natural landscapes, historical sites, or modern marvels, Korea offers a diverse set of landmarks that reflect its layered identity.
In this post, we’ll explore some of the most iconic and culturally significant landmarks in South Korea, organized by category and location. If you’re a first-time traveler, this guide will help you plan your route through the country’s most unforgettable sights.
Historical Landmarks
These are the places that tell the story of Korea’s past — from the royal court of the Joseon Dynasty to traditional villages that preserve centuries-old ways of life.
Gyeongbokgung Palace (Seoul)
Built in 1395, this is the largest of the Five Grand Palaces of the Joseon Dynasty. Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony held twice daily at the main gate, Gwanghwamun. Visitors wearing hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) can enter for free.
Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden (Seoul)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this palace is known for its elegant integration with nature. The Secret Garden (Huwon) behind the palace is especially beautiful in spring and autumn and can be accessed via guided tour only.
Bukchon Hanok Village (Seoul)
A traditional residential neighborhood filled with well-preserved hanok (Korean houses). It’s a great place to take photos and experience traditional architecture up close. Many homes now operate as galleries, cafes, or guesthouses.
Hwaseong Fortress (Suwon)
A massive walled fortress from the late 18th century, also recognized by UNESCO. Visitors can walk along the walls, visit the gates and pavilions, and even try archery inside the grounds.
Andong Hahoe Folk Village (Gyeongsangbuk-do)
A riverside village that has preserved the lifestyle and architecture of the Joseon elite. Traditional mask dances and Confucian academies add depth to your visit.
Religious and Spiritual Landmarks
Korea’s religious history is deeply tied to its landscapes, with many of the most significant temples located in mountains and forests.
Bulguksa Temple (Gyeongju)
One of Korea’s most important Buddhist temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It houses two national treasure pagodas and serves as the gateway to Seokguram Grotto, a stone-carved Buddha shrine in a mountain cave.
Jogyesa Temple (Seoul)
Located in central Seoul, this vibrant temple is the center of Korean Zen Buddhism. Colorful lanterns often decorate the grounds during holidays like Buddha’s Birthday.
Haeinsa Temple (Gayasan National Park)
Home to the Tripitaka Koreana, a set of 80,000 wooden printing blocks containing Buddhist scriptures. The temple complex offers temple stay programs and is surrounded by serene hiking trails.
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple (Busan)
A rare seaside Buddhist temple offering panoramic views of the ocean. Early morning visits are especially peaceful and photogenic.
Modern and Architectural Landmarks
These locations showcase Korea’s rise as a modern, high-tech nation — a contrast to its ancient sites.
N Seoul Tower (Namsan, Seoul)
One of the best places for panoramic views of Seoul. Couples often leave love locks along the fences, and visitors can ride a cable car to reach the base or hike through Namsan Park.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP, Seoul)
A futuristic architectural icon designed by Zaha Hadid, housing exhibitions, fashion shows, and nighttime light installations. The surrounding Dongdaemun area is a fashion and shopping hotspot.
Lotte World Tower (Seoul)
The tallest building in Korea, with an observation deck on the 123rd floor. It includes luxury shops, a hotel, an aquarium, and a rooftop café with stunning views.
Busan Cinema Center (Busan)
The official venue for the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), featuring the world’s largest cantilevered roof. The area lights up at night and frequently hosts public film screenings.
Cheonggyecheon Stream (Seoul)
A public recreation space created by uncovering an old stream under downtown Seoul. It’s popular for evening walks, seasonal festivals, and art installations.
Natural Landmarks
Korea’s geography ranges from volcanic islands to pine-covered mountains and scenic coastlines.
Jeju Island (Jeollanam-do)
South Korea’s top honeymoon and nature destination. Landmarks here include Hallasan (a dormant volcano), Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak), and the scenic Olle hiking trails. It’s also home to the Manjanggul Lava Tube and Jeongbang Waterfall.
Seoraksan National Park (Gangwon-do)
One of Korea’s most stunning mountain parks, known for its dramatic peaks, fall foliage, and Buddhist temples. Visitors can take a cable car to Gwongeumseong Fortress or hike to Ulsanbawi Rock.
Jirisan National Park (Jeollanam-do / Gyeongsangnam-do)
Famous for misty mountains, remote temples, and a bear restoration project. Jirisan is one of Korea’s oldest national parks and ideal for serious hikers.
Ulleungdo and Dokdo Islands
Located in the East Sea, these remote volcanic islands offer striking natural beauty. Dokdo is a politically sensitive area claimed by both Korea and Japan, but Koreans view it as a symbol of sovereignty.
Cultural and Memorial Landmarks
These are sites that capture moments of modern Korean history or offer cultural insight beyond tourism.
Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
A visit to the DMZ offers a sobering view of the Korean conflict. Tour packages often include the Third Infiltration Tunnel, Dora Observatory, and Dorasan Station — the last train stop before North Korea.
War Memorial of Korea (Seoul)
An extensive museum documenting Korea’s military history, including the Korean War. Outdoor displays feature tanks, aircraft, and statues. Admission is free.
National Museum of Korea (Seoul)
The largest museum in Korea, covering prehistoric to modern history. It’s well-curated with English explanations and free entry, making it a great stop on a rainy day.
Gwanghwamun Square and King Sejong Statue (Seoul)
A cultural focal point in the city, home to the statue of King Sejong (inventor of the Korean alphabet). The underground museum tells the story of Hangul and Korea’s scientific legacy.
South Korea’s Landmarks Reflect a Country of Contrast
What makes traveling in South Korea so rewarding is the contrast between old and new, sacred and secular, nature and technology. You could be meditating in a mountain temple one day and watching a K-pop hologram concert the next. The country’s landmarks reflect that dynamic duality.
Whether you’re spending a few days in Seoul or doing a full cross-country trip, these landmarks offer a wide spectrum of experiences. They help you understand Korea not just as a destination, but as a nation with deep history, unique identity, and a future-facing spirit.
If you’re just starting to plan your trip, consider mixing two or three types of landmarks — perhaps a palace, a nature site, and something modern — to get a well-rounded impression of the country. You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of South Korea’s complex and compelling story.