Flights from Siem Reap (REP) to South Korea

Discover South Korea

Discover South Korea

Why visit South Korea?

South Korea offers a striking blend of high-tech cities, historic palaces, and dramatic mountains and coastlines. You will find fast-paced urban energy alongside calm temples, traditional villages, and scenic national parks.

What to expect

Expect vibrant city life in Seoul and Busan, atmospheric old quarters, and efficient public transport that makes exploring easy. From K-culture and beauty to design, hiking, and seaside escapes, each region has a distinct character.

Plan your trip

Use Seoul as a base for first discoveries, then add on Busan or nearby coastal towns for a change of pace. South Korea is also a convenient gateway to North-east Asia, with excellent rail and air links to surrounding countries.

Top experiences in South Korea

Explore Seoul’s royal palaces

Wander through grand courtyards, pavilions, and gardens at Seoul’s historic palaces, where quiet corners sit just steps from the modern skyline.

Stroll Busan’s beaches and coastal trails

Enjoy the sea breeze along Haeundae and Gwangalli beaches, then follow coastal walks to viewpoints, cafés, and art-filled neighbourhoods.

Discover traditional hanok villages

Step into lanes of wooden hanok houses, tea rooms, and craft shops that preserve a slower way of life within the city.

Hike in Korea’s national parks

Follow well-marked trails through rocky peaks, forested valleys, and temples tucked into the mountains for rewarding day hikes.

Immerse yourself in K-culture districts

Browse K-beauty stores, music shops, and fashion streets, and watch street performances in buzzing youth neighbourhoods.

Relax in jjimjilbang bathhouses

Unwind in hot pools, saunas, and resting rooms at traditional bathhouses, a staple of local wellness culture.

Ride scenic cable cars and city viewpoints

Take cable cars or hilltop walks for wide city and harbour views, especially striking at sunset and after dark.

Visit colourful seaside temples

Explore cliffside and seaside temples where sea views, painted halls, and stone statues create a memorable coastal setting.

Experience South Korea’s way of life

Getting around

High-speed and regional trains link major cities efficiently, while extensive metro and bus networks make it easy to move within Seoul and Busan. For shorter distances, taxis and local buses are widely available and well signposted.

Local life & culture

Daily life flows between sleek cafés, neighbourhood parks, and bustling streets lined with small shops and cultural venues. You will notice strong respect for design, pop culture, and etiquette, alongside longstanding customs in traditional quarters.

Where to unwind

Take a quiet break in riverside parks, mountain trails close to the cities, or landscaped gardens that glow with seasonal colours. Coastal promenades and city viewpoints offer calm moments, especially in the early morning or evening.

A taste of South Korea

National dishes & specialties

Across South Korea you will find dishes built around rice, vegetables, and grilled meats, accompanied by an array of side dishes. Cities and regions each add their own twist, from hearty stews to fresh seafood and seasonal favourites.

Casual & modern dining hubs

Seoul and Busan brim with casual eateries, cafés, and contemporary restaurants serving both Korean and international flavours. Food streets and late-opening districts make it simple to pick up a quick meal between sightseeing.

Signature & scenic dining

Make time for a meal with city or ocean views, whether at a hillside restaurant or a sleek rooftop in the heart of town. Tasting menus and chef-led dining rooms highlight creative interpretations of Korean ingredients.

Retail therapy in South Korea

Malls & lifestyle hubs

Large malls in Seoul and Busan bring together global brands, local labels, and lifestyle zones with cinemas, food courts, and cultural spaces. Many are connected directly to metro stations for convenience.

Markets & local crafts

Traditional markets and craft alleys showcase textiles, ceramics, stationery, and everyday goods, often at lively street-side stalls. Look for smaller workshops and design stores for meaningful souvenirs.

Evening retail scene

Shopping streets in major districts stay bright and active well into the night, with beauty stores, fashion boutiques, and cafés remaining open late. The atmosphere is energetic, with plenty of places to pause for a drink or snack between shops.

Best time to visit South Korea

Spring shoulder season (April to June) brings mild weather, with average temperatures around 10–22°C (50–72°F) and blooming landscapes, making it ideal for city walks and light hiking. Summer peak season (July to August) is warm and humid, typically 24–30°C (75–86°F), suiting beach days and late-night city explorations. Autumn shoulder season (September to November) offers clear skies and crisp air between about 8–22°C (46–72°F), with colourful foliage drawing many visitors to parks and mountains. Winter low season (December to March) is cold, often -5–8°C (23–46°F), appealing to travellers who enjoy quieter sights and wintry scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions