With an abundance of sea and mountains, South Korea boasts an inspiring array of national parks featuring diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes. These natural reserves are an appealing opportunity to embark on exciting adventures. Here are six Korean parks to explore on your next journey!
They called it the “Land of the Morning Calm,” a place where tradition and technology coexist in harmony.
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Dadohae Haesang National Park is a marine archipelago with islets scattered throughout it.
Allow at least two days to discover this gem of the Korean coast. Situated at the southern end of the peninsula, the park consists of approximately 1,700 islands, some measuring just a few square meters in area! Accessible by boat or ferry, these islands boast breathtaking ocean views with steep cliffs, massive rock formations, and secluded beaches. Heuksan Island, the largest and most inhabited island in the archipelago, can be easily explored on foot or by bike, featuring fishing villages, beaches, and a spectacular coastline.
Seoraksan National Park, a mountain haven for hikers
This country’s most striking national park is Seoraksan, a haven for those who love nature. Situated in the Gangwon region, approximately three hours from Seoul by car, its name reflects its “snow-capped mountains” that cover its vast territory. Although conquering its principal peak, Daecheongbong (1700 metres), may present a challenge that’s not for the faint of heart, there are numerous alternative routes available for less experienced adventurers to explore its majestic granite peaks, gushing waterfalls, lush valleys, and, amidst this untouched landscape of breathtaking natural beauty, ancient temples dating back centuries.
Jirisan National Park, treasures of Buddhism and the wonders of nature
This century-old temple complex boasts stunning architecture in the mountains, featuring Gakhwangjeon Hall, the largest wooden Buddhist structure in Korea.
Jeju Hallasan National Park, the crowning glory of Jeju Island
This national park on Jeju Island is a must-visit destination. Its outstanding geological feature is a well-defined 1,950 meter-high crater, which comprises a series of lava tunnels, volcanic caves, and bizarrely shaped coastal mineral formations that stretch over ten kilometers. The subtropical climate and volcanic soil on the island have led to the creation of a vibrant rainforest with a diverse array of flora, including mandarin trees, palm trees, and azaleas.
Songnisan National Park, the Immortal Mountains
In the heart of the Korean peninsula, Songnisan National Park has long been a place of spiritual renewal. The mountain trails traverse a breathtaking natural setting, offering panoramic views of the dense forests, which take on a particularly vivid beauty in autumn. You can even glimpse the temples rising above the horizon. Founded in 553, Beopju temple is one of the park’s most celebrated temples: the original complex comprised around sixty buildings, a dozen stone monuments and 70 hermitages. Even today, you can appreciate Korean religious art with the subdued Palsangjeon pagoda, with its five perfectly symmetrical levels and the colossal 25-metre-high golden Buddha.
Hallyeohaesang National Park, picturesque ocean vistas
You can reach Yeosu by taking the coastal roads of the large islands or by going on an excursion to its 400 islands and islets, including Tongyeong, known for its lovely harbour town, and Namhaedo, famous for its incredible coastal road with breathtaking cliff and forest scenery that drops into the sea. By boat, you can discover hidden sea caves and observe the rock formations that rise out of the sea, creating a stunning natural setting.
