Monday, January 20, 2025
On January 20, South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, in collaboration with the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO), revealed the much-anticipated Top 100 Korean Tourism Attractions list for 2025-26. This annual biennial ranking, now in its seventh edition, showcases the nation’s most sought-after tourist destinations, spotlighting both cultural and natural attractions.
A Mix of Cultural and Natural Wonders
The new list includes a total of 100 locations, with 61 focused on cultural tourism and 39 dedicated to nature and ecotourism. The cultural attractions span historical landmarks, architectural wonders, and leisure facilities, while the natural sites offer experiences with Korea’s forests, beaches, and wetlands. The diversity in the list reflects a wide range of experiences that cater to both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Regional Highlights and New Additions
The Greater Seoul area remains the dominant region in the rankings, boasting 22 of the top 100 attractions. This is followed by Gyeongsang-do with 28, Jeolla-do with 18, and Gangwon-do with 11 attractions. Additionally, Jeju Island, a popular tourist destination in South Korea, contributes six sites to the list. The inclusion of regional hotspots underscores South Korea’s commitment to diversifying its tourist offerings, highlighting the unique attractions each region has to offer.
Notably, 27 new places have been added to the list for the 2025-26 period, reflecting South Korea’s dynamic and ever-evolving tourism landscape. These fresh entries include some exciting and interactive spots. Among the highlights are locations where visitors can experience life “like a local,” such as eating instant noodles at a park by the Hangang River in Seoul, and shopping at the Sokcho Central Market in Sokcho, Gangwon-do. Additionally, fans of popular culture will find Gyodongdo Island off Incheon’s coast, a filming location for the hit Netflix series “Squid Game.” For those seeking serenity, the peaceful garden of Sayuwon in Daegu has also made its debut on the list, providing an ideal location to seek inner peace.
Enduring Favorites and Classic Attractions
While new additions make their mark, the list also recognizes several longstanding favorites that have made repeated appearances, including Seoul’s five royal palaces. These historic sites, which have been included in every edition of the list since its inception, continue to attract tourists for their rich history and magnificent architecture. Other staples include the Buguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto in Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, as well as Jeonju Hanok Village in Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do Province, all of which have become synonymous with Korean culture and heritage.
Impact on the Global Travel Industry
The release of the 2025-26 list is expected to further enhance South Korea’s status as a premier travel destination, with both international and domestic travelers eager to explore the country’s most iconic sites. By emphasizing a balance between cultural and natural attractions, South Korea is catering to the growing trend of ecotourism and cultural immersion, allowing travelers to experience both traditional and modern aspects of the nation. This diverse mix also positions the country to appeal to a wide range of tourists—from those seeking historical insight to those wanting to explore scenic, natural beauty.
In particular, the listing of new and interactive locations could have significant global appeal, attracting a younger audience keen on unique and immersive experiences. The incorporation of pop culture destinations like the Squid Game filming locations may draw international visitors interested in connecting with the country’s entertainment industry. Furthermore, the increasing interest in eco-friendly travel is likely to boost the popularity of South Korea’s natural attractions, promoting sustainable tourism options.
Exciting Events and Challenges for Travelers
To celebrate the release of the new list, the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has planned several events aimed at engaging tourists during the upcoming Seollal (Lunar New Year) holidays. From January 24 to February 3, visitors will be encouraged to participate in “surprise verification” photo challenges at some of the newly announced top attractions. Additionally, a trip review challenge will run from January 24 to February 9, where travelers can share their experiences at these must-see locations.
In the first half of the year, a “traveler’s passport” will be released, featuring all 100 of the listed destinations. This initiative will allow tourists to collect stamps at each site they visit, turning exploration into a fun and rewarding adventure. This stamp-collecting tour promises to not only increase engagement with the newly highlighted attractions but also offer travelers an incentive to explore lesser-known gems across the country.
Global Implications for Tourists
For global travelers, the updated list of Korea’s top attractions provides a compelling reason to visit the country. The broad regional distribution of the attractions ensures that visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences, whether they are interested in the urban energy of Seoul, the historic charm of Gyeongju, or the natural beauty of Jeju Island. Additionally, for tourists planning extended trips, the inclusion of both traditional and new sites on the list allows for an enriched and diverse itinerary, offering something for every type of traveler.
The creation of events and incentives tied to the Top 100 list further enhances South Korea’s appeal, especially for tourists looking for interactive and engaging experiences. By celebrating both the old and the new, the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism is strengthening South Korea’s reputation as a forward-thinking destination that values both its past and future.
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