Top 7 natural destinations in Korea ideal for a summer getaway

If you are looking for nature destinations in Korea for your next trip, this list is the ideal luggage. Discover 7 beautiful places for a truly “green” vacation, where you can breathe fresh air, trek through the mountains or see the pristine sea in the middle of an inspiring summer.

1. Seoraksan National Park – Symbol of green tourism in Korea

Summer trekking at Seoraksan, one of the eco-tourism destinations in Korea famous for its majestic mountain scenery. (Photo: Collected)

Seoraksan National Park is an indispensable destination in the journey of traveling close to nature in Korea . With spectacular rocky mountains, forests that change color with the seasons and waterfalls murmuring between the ravines, this place is a favorite trekking spot for domestic and international tourists.

In the summer, Seoraksan becomes the top choice for those who want to avoid the heat and enjoy the cool space. This is also an eco-tourism destination in Korea that attracts young people who love mountain climbing and exploring nature.

2. Jirisan – Journey to explore the primeval mountains and forests

Explore the primeval forest and hiking trails at Jirisan, a natural tourist destination in Korea ideal for summer travel. (Photo: Collected)

As the oldest and largest national park, Jirisan is the green heart of the country. It offers a summer travel experience in Korea with long trekking routes, primeval forests and fresh mountain air.

You can choose to take the Baemsagol Valley route or try climbing Cheonwangbong Peak, where you can see the panoramic view of the mountains and forests. With its natural space, Jirisan is an ideal nature tourism destination in Korea for a healing journey.

3. Hallasan – Volcanic peak on Jeju Island

Conquering Hallasan Volcano Peak on Jeju Island – Experience a trip close to the enchanting nature of Korea. (Photo: Collected)

Jeju – the “resort paradise” of Koreans is the perfect destination for a summer trip in Korea. And Hallasan , the ancient volcano in the middle of the island, is the soul of nature here.

Trekking up Hallasan Mountain, you will pass through temperate rainforests, tall grasslands, and end at Baengnokdam Crater Lake. This experience deserves to be on the list of eco-tourism destinations in Korea that you should visit at least once in your lifetime.

4. Naejangsan – The enchanting autumn leaves

If you miss the beauty of summer, there is still the enchanting autumn red leaf forest scene at Naejangsan, a famous eco-tourism destination in Korea. (Photo: Collected)

Although most popular in the fall, Naejangsan is still a must-visit destination in the summer with its cool forest space, small streams and stone-paved paths leading to ancient temples. This is an ideal place to “reset” your mind in the middle of nature. If you are looking for a natural tourist destination in Korea near Seoul , not too crowded but still retains its pristine beauty, then Naejangsan is a great choice.

5. Dadohae Haesang – The beauty of the southern ecological islands

Discover Dadohae Haesang Islands – A paradise of islands and an eco-tourism destination in Korea that cannot be missed. (Photo: Collected)

Dadohae Haesang Islands is a place where blue sea, rocky mountains and rare mangrove ecosystems meet. This is one of the eco-tourism destinations in Korea that still retains its wild beauty, suitable for kayaking, island trekking and green resorts.

You can visit ancient fishing villages, experience the life of fishermen and enjoy fresh seafood - a highlight of a trip close to Korean nature with strong local identity.

6. Ulleungdo – The green pearl in the middle of the East Sea

Enjoy the wild beauty of Ulleungdo volcanic island, an ideal destination for a summer trip close to nature in Korea. (Photo: Collected)

Ulleungdo is a great choice for a summer vacation in Korea if you love volcanic islands, steep cliffs and spectacular coastal routes. You can climb mountains, dive, visit caves or simply cycle around the island in the cool air. This is a new type of tourism close to Korean nature that not everyone has tried.

7. Bukhansan – Escape the city and find the forest in the heart of Seoul

Climb mountains and enjoy stunning views right in the heart of Seoul at Bukhansan, Korea's top natural tourist destination. (Photo: Collected)

Although located right in the heart of Seoul , Bukhansan is still considered one of the most attractive natural tourist destinations in Korea . With white granite cliffs, green pine forests and a trail system of more than 130 km long, this is an ideal choice for weekend trekking trips.

You will not expect the feeling of “going up the mountain and down the city” to be so close. This is a testament to the perfect harmony between urban and nature in the modern Korean lifestyle.

From ancient volcanoes to primeval forests, from pristine blue seas to stone paths among maple leaves – Korea is truly an ideal destination for those who love to travel close to nature. If you are looking for a completely "green" vacation, the above eco-tourism destinations in Korea are the places you should plan to visit this summer.