South Korea is a country full of surprises. While most travelers flock to famous landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul or the beaches of Busan, there are hidden gems in South Korea that remain undiscovered by the masses. These secret spots offer stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable experiences for those willing to step off the beaten path.

Whether you’re looking for serene temples, breathtaking hikes, or coastal hideaways, this guide will introduce you to seven must-visit hidden gems in South Korea. Each destination is unique and provides a glimpse into a side of Korea that few visitors get to see. So get ready to uncover some of the country’s best-kept secrets!

1. 📍 Gangjin Celadon Village – A Journey Through Korean Pottery

🏺 The Home of Goryeo Celadon

Located in Jeollanam-do Province, Gangjin Celadon Village is the birthplace of Korea’s most famous ceramic art—Goryeo celadon pottery. The Goryeo Dynasty (918–1392) was known for producing some of the finest ceramics in the world, and Gangjin was at the heart of this tradition.

Unlike other pottery villages in Korea, Gangjin has preserved centuries-old kiln sites, some of which date back over 1,000 years! The village is a living museum, where visitors can explore traditional workshops and witness master artisans at work.

🎨 What to Do in Gangjin Celadon Village

✔️ Try a pottery-making class – Learn how to shape clay and create your own celadon masterpiece.
✔️ Visit the Gangjin Celadon Museum (official website) – Discover ancient ceramic techniques and see priceless artifacts.
✔️ Explore the old kilns – Walk through historic kiln sites where Goryeo celadon was fired.

Every July, Gangjin hosts the Celadon Festival, where visitors can watch live demonstrations, join hands-on workshops, and even buy authentic handmade celadon pieces.

Gangjin Celadon Village is a must-visit hidden gem in South Korea for anyone interested in history, art, and culture.

📍 More Info: https://maps.app.goo.gl/beQKPu4APgcwgRXU7

2. 🌿 Upo Wetlands – A Hidden Natural Paradise

🌎 Korea’s Largest Natural Wetland

Hidden in Changnyeong County, Upo Wetlands is South Korea’s largest and oldest natural swamp, covering over 2.3 square miles. Unlike many of Korea’s well-manicured parks, Upo is completely untouched—a rare sanctuary for wildlife and nature lovers.

This ecological wonderland is home to over 1,500 species of plants, birds, and fish, including the endangered Oriental white stork and Spoonbill heron.

🚣‍♂️ Things to Do in Upo Wetlands

✔️ Walk the scenic boardwalks – Enjoy peaceful wooden pathways that take you through marshlands.
✔️ Go bird-watching – Bring binoculars and spot some of Korea’s rarest bird species.
✔️ Take a kayaking tour – Get an up-close view of the wetlands from the water.

The best time to visit Upo Wetlands is during the early morning or late afternoon, when mist rises over the water, creating an almost mystical atmosphere. If you love eco-tourism and wildlife, this hidden gem is for you!

📍 More Info: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Q2f6Ac8fqiQaP9q98

3. 🏯 Seonunsa Temple – A Tranquil Retreat in a Bamboo Forest

🎋 A Temple Hidden in Nature

Tucked away in Gochang County, Seonunsa Temple is surrounded by a lush bamboo forest, making it one of the most serene and peaceful temples in Korea. Unlike the crowded temples of Seoul, Seonunsa is off the tourist radar, making it a perfect place for quiet reflection.

🧘‍♂️ Things to Experience at Seonunsa

✔️ Explore the beautiful bamboo forest – Walk through towering green stalks and listen to the wind rustling through the leaves.
✔️ Join a templestay program – Meditate, learn about Buddhism, and experience monastic life.
✔️ Visit during azalea season – In spring, pink azaleas bloom all around the temple, creating a breathtaking scene.

Seonunsa is the perfect hidden retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

📍 More Info: https://maps.app.goo.gl/33NQuEu4WAvhQwjR6

4. 🏞️ Daewangam Park – A Coastal Wonderland of Rock Formations

🌊 A Hidden Coastal Treasure in Ulsan

Daewangam Park, located in Ulsan, is an incredible coastal park known for its dramatic rock formations, lush pine forests, and a stunning ocean view. Unlike the crowded beaches of Busan, Daewangam offers a serene and picturesque setting, perfect for a scenic walk or a photography session.

🔍 Why Visit Daewangam Park?

✔️ Walk across the Daewangam Suspension Bridge – A thrilling bridge leading to the ocean.
✔️ Explore the unique rock formations – The park is home to massive rock formations shaped by centuries of ocean waves.
✔️ Enjoy breathtaking sunrise views – The park is one of Ulsan’s best spots for watching the sunrise over the sea.

According to legend, these rock formations were once a queen who turned into stone while waiting for her king to return. This mythical backstory adds a touch of magic to this already spectacular location.

👉 How to Get There: Take a bus from Ulsan Station to Daewangam Park (about 40 minutes).

📍 More Info: https://maps.app.goo.gl/DKxuUReqJ4snFCSz9

5. ⛰️ Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge – A Thrilling Walk in the Sky

🌉 Korea’s Longest and Highest Pedestrian Bridge

Located in Wonju, Gangwon Province, Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge is South Korea’s longest and highest pedestrian bridge.
The bridge stretches 200 meters long and hangs 100 meters above the valley, offering breathtaking views of Sogeum Mountain and the surrounding cliffs.

😱 Why is Sogeumsan a Must-Visit?

✔️ Walk across a glass-bottom section – If you dare, look down through the transparent floor!
✔️ Take in panoramic views – The bridge offers some of the most stunning natural scenery in Korea.
✔️ Explore the hiking trails – The surrounding mountain trails lead to even more spectacular viewpoints.

The best time to visit is autumn, when the valley is painted in shades of red, orange, and yellow. If you love adventure and nature, this is the perfect hidden gem for you!

👉 How to Get There: Take a bus to Wonju and then a short taxi ride to the entrance.

📍 More Info: https://maps.app.goo.gl/EcpqKUJLVvBxLXdv5

6. 🏝️ Bijindo Island – A Hidden Tropical Paradise

🌊 The “Maldives of Korea”

Bijindo Island, located off the coast of Tongyeong, is a hidden gem that few tourists know about.
Unlike Korea’s more popular islands like Jeju, Bijindo is secluded and untouched, making it the perfect escape for those looking for crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches.

🏖️ What to Do on Bijindo?

✔️ Relax on the beach – The island is famous for its twin beaches, where you can see the ocean on both sides.
✔️ Hike to the viewpoint – A short hike up the hill rewards you with a breathtaking panoramic view of the island.
✔️ Go snorkeling – The water is incredibly clear, making it a great spot for snorkeling and swimming.

If you want a peaceful beach getaway away from the crowds, Bijindo is the place for you.

👉 How to Get There: Take a ferry from Tongyeong Port (about 40 minutes).

📍 More Info: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tcPeH5RrZiK5MBiy6

7. 🕍 Jeongdongjin – The Best Sunrise Spot in Korea

🌅 A Coastal Town with a Unique Train Station

Jeongdongjin, a small coastal town near Gangneung, is famous for having the world’s closest train station to the ocean.
It is one of the best places in Korea to watch the sunrise, and every year, people gather here on New Year’s Day to see the first sunrise of the year.

☀️ Things to Do in Jeongdongjin

✔️ Watch the sunrise at Sandglass Park – A giant hourglass counts down the year, making it a popular New Year’s Eve destination.
✔️ Visit the Sun Cruise Resort – A hotel shaped like a cruise ship sits on a cliff, offering one of the most unique stays in Korea.
✔️ Take a scenic train ride – Ride the Jeongdongjin Railbike along the stunning East Sea coastline.

If you’re a fan of romantic coastal views and unique experiences, Jeongdongjin is a must-visit hidden gem!

👉 How to Get There: Take a train from Seoul to Jeongdongjin Station (about 2.5 hours).

📍 More Info: https://maps.app.goo.gl/p5T1sDXtVTNg8smP8

✨ Final Thoughts

Now that you know these 7 hidden gems in South Korea, why not explore beyond the usual tourist spots?
Whether you love nature, adventure, history, or just relaxing by the sea, there’s a hidden treasure waiting for you in Korea.

Next time you plan a trip, skip the crowded hotspots and visit one of these amazing off-the-beaten-path locations!

📌 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the best time to visit these hidden gems in South Korea?
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the best times for mild weather and stunning scenery.

2. Are these places easy to reach by public transportation?
Most are accessible by bus, train, or ferry, but some might require a short taxi ride. Renting a car can also make your trip easier.

3. Do I need to book tickets in advance for any of these sites?
For templestays and guided tours, it’s best to book ahead. For places like Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge, no reservation is needed.

4. Are these locations foreigner-friendly?
Yes! While English may not be widely spoken in rural areas, locals are welcoming, and translation apps can help.

5. What should I pack for these trips?
Comfortable shoes for walking, a camera for amazing views, and a light jacket for cooler mountain or coastal areas.

6. Is it expensive to visit these hidden gems?
Most of these places have low entrance fees or are free! Accommodations and food in rural areas also tend to be cheaper.

7. Can I visit all these places in one trip?
It depends on your itinerary, but if you have 2 weeks in Korea, you could visit multiple locations with careful planning.

8. How can I find more hidden gems in South Korea?
Check out local travel blogs, join expat communities, or ask locals for recommendations!