Best Places to Hike in South Korea: Where Nature and Culture Meet

Why Hiking in Korea Feels Special

South Korea is one of the most mountainous countries in Asia, which means great hiking spots are never far away. Whether you're exploring a quiet forest trail or climbing dramatic rocky peaks, the country offers an incredible variety of scenery.

Top Hiking Destinations You Shouldn’t Miss

Seoraksan National Park — The Classic Must-Visit

Seoraksan in Gangwon Province is the most iconic hiking spot in Korea.

What makes it unique: Sharp granite peaks, deep valleys, and stunning fall foliage.
Difficulty levels: From easy cable-car view points to demanding summit routes like Daecheongbong.
Good for: Beginners, photographers, experienced climbers.

Tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds, especially in October.

Bukhansan National Park — Hiking Inside Seoul

You don’t even have to leave the capital to enjoy a real mountain.

Highlights: Baegundae Peak with panoramic city views, fortress walls, forested trails.
Why visitors love it: Multiple access points from the subway, great for half-day hikes.
Difficulty: Moderate but includes steep rocky sections.

Example: Gireum Station → Baegundae Peak (about 3–4 hours round trip).

Hallasan — Korea’s Highest Mountain on Jeju Island

Hallasan is a shield volcano rising right from the center of Jeju.

What to expect: Lava landscapes, crater lake, rare plants.
Best trails: Seongpanak for distance hikers, Gwaneumsa for scenic views.
Weather note: Strong winds and sudden temperature drops are common.

Jirisan — The Deep Mountain of the South

Jirisan is part of a massive mountain range stretching across southern Korea.

Why it stands out: Wide ridgelines, ancient temples, long multi-day trails.
Popular spots: Cheonwangbong Peak, Nogodan, Piagol Valley in autumn.
For whom: Hikers who enjoy remote, peaceful nature.

Taebaeksan — Winter Wonderland

Taebaeksan transforms into a snowy ridge in winter.

Reason to go: Snow-covered fir trees, sunrise views above the clouds.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate depending on the trail.
Season tip: January is the most beautiful time.

Hidden Gems Worth Exploring

Chiaksan — Less Crowded but Beautiful

Located near Wonju, Chiaksan has dramatic cliffs and quiet forests. Perfect if you want a calmer hike compared to crowded national parks.

Dobongsan — Sharp Peaks North of Seoul

Part of Bukhansan but with a different atmosphere. Its granite towers attract climbers and photographers.

Mudeungsan — Unique Rock Pillars in the South

Gwangju’s local mountain famous for its natural stone columns called Ipseokdae.

Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing Your Hike

Step 1: Decide Your Difficulty Level

Beginner: Bukhansan (easy courses), Taebaeksan, coastal trails in Busan
Intermediate: Seoraksan (Ulsanbawi), Chiaksan
Advanced: Hallasan summit, Jirisan long ridge trails

Step 2: Check the Season

Spring: Azaleas in Jirisan
Summer: Shaded forest paths in Chiaksan
Autumn: Peak foliage in Seoraksan, Odaesan
Winter: Taebaeksan snow festival area

Step 3: Prepare Essentials

Water, snacks, layered clothing
Hiking shoes with grip
Portable battery
Navigation app: Korea’s official map service KakaoMap or NGII thematic maps
External link (NGII): https://www.ngii.go.kr/kor/main.do

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Hike

Start early to avoid crowds and finish before sunset.
Weather changes quickly—check forecasts for mountain-specific alerts.
Korean trails often have steep rocky steps; trekking poles help a lot.
Weekends are crowded around Seoul, so consider weekday outings.

Conclusion: Korea Is a Hiking Paradise

From volcanic landscapes in Jeju to rocky peaks in Seoul, South Korea offers some of the most diverse hiking experiences in Asia. Whether you're looking for a casual walk or a challenging summit, the country’s mountains provide endless choices for every type of hiker.
Exploring these trails isn’t just about exercise—it’s one of the best ways to experience Korea’s nature, culture, and breathtaking views.

Best Places to Hike in South Korea: Where Nature and Culture Meet