A Guide to the Best Historic Sites in South Korea

Though many visit South Korea for its K-Dramas and K-Pop, the peninsula and islands also feature numerous cultural charms and historic sites as well. South Korea has an expansive history, and tales of monks, soldiers, indigenous peoples, and royalty linger in these locations. From majestic stone parks to ocean-side temples, here is a list of the most unmissable places with links to the country’s storied past.

An island off the south coast of South Korea, Jeju, is a honeymoon hotspot. Known for its white sand beaches and volcanic sites, the island is a great place to visit for any hiker or beach lover. Being just an hour’s flight away from Seoul, it is easy to reach as well, making it perfect for any South Korean travel itinerary.

Located in the Island’s northeast, Jeju Stone Park is a must-visit. Tourists often overlook the site in favor of the island’s beaches, but it hosts one of the best museums that South Korea has to offer. The park celebrates Jeju’s geological history and traditional culture, holding an extensive collection of stones and featuring open-air exhibits that transport visitors back in time.

Assumed to originate from the Joseon Period (1392-1897), the Dolharubang statues have become symbolic of the island. Carved out of abundant porous rock, they are human figures with bulging eyes, a broad nose, and a hat that resembles a mushroom. They act as protectors, warding off evil spirits at the entrances of villages and temples, and, due to their phallic shapes, also represent fertility.

These statues are celebrated at Jeju Stone Park, as well as those of Seolmundae Halmang, the creator goddess of the island. Visitors can wander among these statues throughout the park, as well as experience a traditional village, and a museum dedicated to the natural features of the island.

The Korean War (1950-1953) ultimately led to the division of the Korean peninsula, creating both North Korea and South Korea. The war lasted for three years and became an international affair, demanding the involvement of the United Nations. South Korea and its allies eventually fought off the invading communist north, which threatened to engulf the entire peninsula.

At times during the war, Busan was one of the only safe places for South Koreans, making it a fitting place for a memorial cemetery. The cemetery was built in 1951 and was designated by the UN as the resting place for soldiers from the eleven countries that fought under the UN command. There are 2,300 graves of servicemen from countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and France. Alongside the graves, there is a Memorial Service Hall, a Wall of Remembrance, for those with no known graves, and national monuments.

The cemetery is a peaceful place to visit, its gardens are carefully maintained and the memorials allow time for reflection. It educates us about the sacrifices made during the Korean War, and the importance of international cooperation to maintain peace. Those who gave their lives are celebrated, and it is an important site to visit when learning about South Korea’s history.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple was established in 1376 during the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392). However, like many historic sites in South Korea, the temple was destroyed during Japanese occupation (1692-1598) and rebuilt in 1930. The temple enjoys a rare seaside location, wrapping the temple’s Buddhist architecture in picturesque, wave-swept scenery. Visitors can experience the peaceful surroundings of both the temple and the natural beauty of the ocean. It is one of the most beautiful temples in South Korea due to its coastal views.

The temple’s name translates as “Korean Dragon Palace Temple,” reflecting the Dragon King to whom it is dedicated. This is a deity that helps people who are looking for safety at sea and the fulfillment of their wishes. Due to its location on the east of the peninsula, it is a great spot to watch the sunrise, and many come to the temple to witness the first dawn of the new year, believed to bring good luck and prosperity.

Named a UNESCO Heritage Site, Bulguksa Temple originates from the Unified Silla Period (668-935). This was a prosperous time in Korea, known for its advanced culture and art. Buddhism became the official state religion of the Silla Kingdom in 527 and began adapting Buddhist art from India and China. During this time, a lot of Buddhist architecture appeared in Korea too. The temple is in the mountains near the ancient Silla capital Gyeongju, southeast of the peninsula.

The temple complex represents paradise or the land of Buddha. It has several halls, including the Main Buddha Hall, dedicated to Sakyamuni Buddha, Geungnakjeon Hall, dedicated to Amitabha Buddha, and Museoljeon Hall, which is used for ceremonial purposes. It also holds some famous stone pagodas and bridges, which symbolize the path to enlightenment. The temple is a prime example of Unified Silla architecture, due to its use of symmetry and other design features.

Daereungwon Tomb Complex

Another site that draws on the history of Unified Silla is the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, which is also in the ancient capital of Gyeongju. Preserving the tombs of previous kings and queens, it is one of the most enduring archeological sites of this period. The site is known for its large grassy mounds, exemplary of the burial practices of the Silla people for royalty and nobility. There are around 30 large burial mounds in the complex.

Not only are the exteriors of the tombs impressive, but the treasures they hold are also a sight to behold. On entering one of the mounds, the Cheonmachong Tomb or “Heavenly Horse Tomb,” you can encounter replicas of artifacts found during the tomb’s excavation in 1973, including a shining golden crown, armor, and weapons. These artifacts highlight the skill of Silla artisans, as well as the importance of gold as a symbol of royal power.

The largest and most famous of the palaces of the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1897), Gyeongbokgung Palace was constructed in 1395 by King Taejo at the start of the period. During this time Seoul was established as Korea’s new capital, where the palace was built. The period was characterized by the influence of Confucianism, the state ideology, which dictated power structures, education, and family life. There was a rigid class structure and society operated around an agrarian economy. It was also during this period that the Korean alphabet, or Hangul, was created in 1443.

Gyeongbokgung means “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven,” celebrating the power of Korea’s monarchy. The palace was destroyed at the end of the 16th century and was only reconstructed in the 19th century, with restorations continuing into the present day.

Visitors can see where the king met with officials, where official ceremonies and banquets were held, and the living quarters of Joseon royalty. The palace exemplifies traditional Korean architecture. Many visitors choose to wear traditional Korean clothing, or hanbok to take their cultural immersion to a deeper level.

The Demilitarized Zone 

For those brave enough, a visit to the Demilitarized Zone between North and South Korea is essential to understand the country. This area is a buffer zone that separates both Koreas and provides visitors with an insight into the history, ongoing tensions, and hopes for peace on the Korean peninsula. Peace talks at the end of the Korean War settled on the 38th Parallel as the official demarcation line between the two countries. It was established at the end of the Korean War in 1953, stretching around 160 miles. You can only visit on a specific guided tour.

Upon arrival, visitors are escorted to a series of important areas. The Joint Security Area marks the border between North and South and is the only place where soldiers from both countries face off against each other. It is also both a historic and contemporary venue, where armistice discussions were once held and diplomatic meetings take place to this day.

Another site to visit is the Dora Observatory, which provides visitors with a view of a town in North Korea, which has empty, uninhabited buildings. You can also visit the Third Infiltration Tunnel, a tunnel dug by North Korea under the DMZ.