Background

Korea is divided into two countries, the communist North (Capital: Pyongyang) and the democratic South (capital: Seoul). This division was a result of a 1945 “after war” agreement between the World War II Allies. The North was put under the control of the now defunct Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) while the South was under American control.

The USSR has since been dissolved but the political differences it laid between the two Koreas have remained. In 1950 civil war erupted between the Soviet-backed North and the U.S. backed South. Though open hostilities ended in 1953, no peace agreement has been signed, making the two nations still theoretically at war. This unusually set situation has turned the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) or “ceasefire line” between the two nations into a major tourist attraction.

In encouraging developments during the last few years, there have been increasing dialogue between the two governments and it seems likely that railway lines between the two nations may be re-opened in the near future.

But for the moment, most travelers opt to stay South of the border because the North still largely limits the number of foreign visitors in a year.

Climate

South Korea has temperate climate. The best time to go for a visit is from September to November and also from April to June.


Places of Interest

For visitors, South Korea’s most popular attractions are the hundreds if not thousands of forest hiking trails through its mountainous national parks.

 

A huge part of the country is filled with tree covered mountain ranges. In late October, the autumn colors fill these mountains, making for a very spectacular and breathtaking sight especially during late afternoons and sunsets.

Springtime likewise brings a similarly breathtaking display of Cherry Blossoms.

Other popular places to visit in South Korea are the ancient capital of Gyeongju, the modern day capital of Seoul, and the Village of Panmunjom, which stands on the DMZ.
 

For visitors wanting a taste of the really traditional Korea, the Southern Island of Jeju-do is ideal for it has maintained traditions that have long disappeared from the mainland. Besides being a popular tourist destination, Jeju-do is now also a favorite for local honeymooners.

 

Must Do Activities in South Korea:

1.  Go on the three-hour boat ride from Busan to Yeosu.  This is one of the country's most scenic journeys with gorgeous views of the coastline and numerous islets.  The whole area is so beautiful that it has come to be known as the Hallyo Waterway National Park.

2.  Hike the island of Ullung-do and visit the famous 2000-year old juniper tree. 

3.  Take an open-air bath at the Seorak Waterpia.  Take a long hot soak at one of the spa resort's natural hot springs or soak away those cares at a lemon-flavored pool.

4.  Take a step back in time and visit the fifteenth century village of Yangdong where everything has been perfectly preserved.

5.  Go bargain hunting at the Namdaenum Night Market in Seoul.

6.  Spend the night at one of the traditional guest houses called "yogwan."