Where to Travel in Korea During Summer?

The vibrant summer is coming – and what could be better than flying around the world and refreshing your summer spirit with a journey to explore Korea? From the cool blue beaches of Jeju Island, the bustling city streets of Seoul, to the traditional Hahoe Folk Village in Andong, Korea in summer paints a perfect picture of nature, culture, and cuisine.

If you're still wondering whether to book your flight to Korea, check out the article below to help you make the decision that will ignite your summer of 2025!

1. Where to Travel in Korea During Summer?

Summer in Korea lasts from June to August and is considered an ideal time to explore the country’s vibrant natural scenery and modern urban rhythm.

1.1 Capital Seoul

Seoul is the heart of Korea, impressing visitors with its blend of tradition and modernity. In summer, the city comes alive with festivals, green parks, and iconic attractions.

N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower)

Located atop Namsan Mountain, N Seoul Tower (236.7m tall) is a symbol of the capital, offering stunning panoramic views, especially at sunset when golden light blends with city lights. Nicknamed the “Tower of Love,” couples can attach love locks to the railings here. The observation decks on the 3rd and 4th floors provide 360-degree views of Seoul. There are also restaurants, cafés, souvenir shops, and other amenities inside.

Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM from Sunday to Friday, until midnight on Saturdays.

In summer, Namsan Park around the tower is an ideal place for a walk and to enjoy the cool breeze.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Built in 1395 under the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung is the most magnificent royal palace in Seoul. It shines year-round with colorful paints, trees, and skies. In summer, the palace grounds glow under the sunlight, and the royal guard changing ceremony (10 AM and 2 PM daily) draws many tourists.

Opening hours (summer): 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM, closed on Tuesdays.

Renting a hanbok and taking photos in this historical space is a must-do experience.

Lotte World Seoul

Another unmissable summer destination in Seoul is Lotte World Seoul – one of Korea’s largest amusement parks with a vast indoor area. In summer, it becomes a paradise for families and young people with thrill rides, an ice rink, parades, and performances. The park also includes diverse shopping and dining options.

Opening hours: 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM daily, extended to 8:30 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Coex Aquarium

Located in the COEX Mall in Gangnam, Coex Aquarium is Korea’s largest, featuring 83 display tanks and over 40,000 marine creatures from 650 species. The underwater tunnel and 16 themed zones offer a magical ocean experience, especially enjoyable for kids. The cool interior makes it an ideal summer hideout.

Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (last entry at 7:00 PM).

The feeding shows of marine animals are a highlight at Coex Aquarium.

1.2 Coastal City of Busan

Busan is Korea’s largest port city. For those wanting to cool off with a beach vacation in Korea, this is a perfect summer destination with stunning beaches, vibrant festivals, and a rich culture.

Haeundae Beach

The most famous beach in Busan, Haeundae boasts 12km of fine white sand and clear waters. In summer, the sea is pleasantly warm (around 22–25°C), perfect for swimming. Visitors can rent surfboards or try parasailing to view the beach from above. Along the coast are many fresh seafood restaurants — don’t miss trying raw fish sashimi or steamed king crab.

Gwangalli Beach

Quieter and more peaceful than Haeundae, Gwangalli is famous for its view of the Gwangan Bridge. It’s ideal for those who prefer a relaxing vibe, sipping coffee by the sea, and enjoying Busan’s nightlife. At night, the bridge is illuminated with colorful LED lights, creating a romantic scene. You can take photos from the beach or stroll along the coastal walkway.

Gamcheon Culture Village

Perched on a hillside, Gamcheon Culture Village is a colorful maze of vibrant houses, murals, and charming alleyways. Nicknamed the “Santorini of Korea,” it’s a must-visit for art lovers and photographers. In addition to capturing murals, sculptures, and installations scattered across the village, visitors can also join craft workshops (like making paper lanterns) at small local studios.

Korea’s "Santorini" is famed for its beloved Little Prince statue, attracting countless visitors for a perfect check-in photo.

SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium

Located right next to Haeundae Beach, SEA LIFE Busan is a modern aquarium home to over 35,000 marine creatures across 250 species. It’s an ideal place to cool off during summer, especially for families or first-time ocean explorers who want to experience marine life without diving. You can walk through an 80-meter tunnel while watching sharks, rays, and sea turtles swim around you.Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily, extended to 8:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.

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1.3 Andong City

Known as Korea’s "capital of traditional culture," Andong is the perfect destination for first-time visitors seeking serene, historical charm. Located in Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, Andong offers fresh summer air, lush scenery, and unique cultural heritage.

Hahoe Folk Village

Hahoe is one of Korea’s best-preserved ancient villages, dating back to the Joseon Dynasty (14th century) and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its tiled-roof hanok houses, green rice paddies, and the winding Nakdong River, Hahoe feels like stepping back in time. The village has around 130 traditional houses, ranging from yangban (noble class) homes to farmers' cottages.

This is a fantastic place to learn about traditional Korean culture and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.

Bongjeongsa Temple

Built in the 7th century, Bongjeongsa Temple lies hidden among pine forests and mountains. As one of Korea’s oldest wooden temples, it features exquisite architecture and a tranquil ambiance, making it ideal for exploring Korean Buddhism and relaxing in the cool summer air.

Woryeonggyo Bridge

A romantic symbol of Andong, Woryeonggyo is the longest wooden bridge in Korea (387 meters), stretching across the Nakdong River. Its traditional design adorned with lanterns creates a dreamy summer setting. Walk at night to see the lanterns reflected in the water, or visit during the day for breathtaking river and mountain views.

1.4 Jeju Island

A summer trip to Korea wouldn’t be complete without visiting Jeju – a perfect harmony of wild nature and vibrant modern life. In summer, the island comes alive with turquoise beaches, majestic volcanoes, and colorful flower fields. With temperatures from 24–30°C, Jeju is warm and sunny, with occasional refreshing rain showers.

Start with a hike up Mount Hallasan, Korea’s highest peak. The 4–5 hour trek takes you through lush pine forests and blooming azaleas, rewarding you with the sight of the crater at the summit.

For beach lovers, Hyeopjae Beach is a dream come true, with its white sands and crystal-clear waters. Other summer gems include Cheonjiyeon Waterfall and the stunning Jusangjeolli Cliffs.

What makes Korea’s summer unforgettable? It’s the serene, beautiful Jeju Island.

1.5 Nami Island

This is an ideal escape from the hustle of city life, offering tranquil paths lined with birch, pine, and metasequoia trees. One of the most popular activities on Nami Island is strolling under the shady tree canopies while enjoying the scenery and snapping “Instagrammable” photos. For extra fun, rent a tandem bike and explore the island’s peaceful corners.

Made famous by Winter Sonata, this charming island enchants visitors with towering metasequoia trees and lush green leaves.

1.6 Sokcho Beach

Located in Gangwon Province, Sokcho Beach offers a serene escape surrounded by majestic nature. With soft white sand, gentle waves, and the Seoraksan Mountains in the background, Sokcho is cool and pleasant in summer, with average temperatures of 25–30°C. Visitors can bask in its raw beauty, go swimming, sunbathe, surf, or feast on fresh seafood at the beachside restaurants.

Sokcho Beach is the perfect destination to relax and explore at the same time.

2. What Summer Festivals Are Not to Miss in Korea?

Summer in Korea isn’t just about blue beaches or flower-filled paths — it’s also when the country bursts with colorful, energetic festivals.

2.1 Boryeong Mud Festival

Held from July 25 to August 10 at Daecheon Beach in Chungcheongnam Province, this famous festival draws millions from around the world to splash in mud, play games, and pamper their skin. Boryeong mud is rich in minerals, said to soften and nourish the skin.

At sunset, the festival transforms into an epic outdoor party with DJs, live bands, and dazzling fireworks lighting up the night sky.

2.2 Haeundae Beach Festival

Taking place from August 1–7 in Busan, this festival turns Haeundae into a giant summer stage. Activities include beach volleyball, boat races, surfing, and more – all with super fun rental options. At night, Haeundae Plaza lights up with street food stalls where you can indulge in tasty Korean delicacies.

A highlight of the festival is the synchronized fireworks show set to music, lighting up the sea sky and leaving the crowd in awe.

2.3 Muju Firefly Festival

If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle, the Muju Firefly Festival will transport you into a fairy-tale world. Usually held in late August in Muju, Jeollabuk-do Province, this festival celebrates the magical glow of thousands of fireflies lighting up the nighttime forest. As dusk falls, visitors stroll along forest trails under what feels like a starlit sky on earth, thanks to the flickering glow of fireflies.

Besides the firefly viewing, the festival also offers family-friendly activities such as making paper lanterns and playing traditional Korean games.

2.4 Pohang International Fireworks Festival

Every year in late July, Yeongildae Beach in Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do, turns into a grand stage for the Pohang International Fireworks Festival. Teams from countries like Japan, Canada, and France compete in mesmerizing 20–30-minute firework displays, accompanied by symphonic music and lighting effects that make it impossible to look away.

3. What to Eat During a Summer Trip to Korea?

Summer in Korea isn’t just for beach days and colorful festivals — it’s also a great time to enjoy refreshing and culturally rich dishes.

3.1 Naengmyeon (Cold Noodles)

On a hot summer day, naengmyeon is the go-to dish for many Koreans. This signature cold noodle dish features chewy buckwheat noodles in icy broth.

There are two popular versions: mul-naengmyeon (cold broth, often beef-based with pear slices and boiled egg) and bibim-naengmyeon (spicy version mixed with red chili paste).

A bowl of naengmyeon typically costs around 10,000–12,000 won (approx. 185,000–222,000 VND) and is usually served with crunchy kimchi.

3.2 Makguksu (Buckwheat Noodles)

Makguksu, a regional specialty from Gangwon Province, is another buckwheat noodle dish that’s enjoyed both in summer and winter for its light flavor and digestive benefits.

The noodles are slightly chewy with a light brown color and are typically served cold with a spicy-sour sauce made from Korean chili paste, soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil. Common toppings include julienned kimchi, cucumber, Korean pear, boiled egg, green onion, and seaweed.

Makguksu has a refreshing, mildly spicy, and tangy taste, made even more delightful by the combination of sauce and toppings.

3.3 Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup)

Despite the heat, Koreans love eating samgyetang during summer, believing in the principle of "fighting heat with heat." A young chicken stuffed with glutinous rice, garlic, jujube, and ginseng is slow-boiled to perfection. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also highly nutritious, helping to restore energy and improve health during sweltering days.

3.4 Bingsu (Shaved Ice Dessert)

Nothing beats a bowl of bingsu when you’re looking to cool off. This snow-like shaved ice dessert is topped with a variety of sweet ingredients like red bean paste, fresh mango, vanilla ice cream, and condensed milk.

Bingsu isn’t just dessert — it’s how Koreans savor the sweetness and refreshment of summer.

“Fly around the world, refresh your soul” — let this summer be a memorable journey where you rediscover yourself amid Korea’s vibrant colors.To make your Korean adventure even more inspiring and energizing, book your flight to Korea from Vietnam with Vietjet today and start planning in detail.Don’t forget to follow the 0 VND domestic and international ticket promotions held daily between 12:00–14:00 for the best deals. See full details [here] .

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