8 Outdoor Activities in South Korea for Fun Under the Sun

When you think about South Korea, you might picture its vibrant metropolitan capital of Seoul, teeming with modern marvels and rich culture. But that’s only the beginning of what travel to Korea can offer!

For all its advancements, the Land of the Morning Calm has abundant strips of breathtaking nature and stunning landscapes perfect for outdoor activities. So for our outdoorsy friends out there, get ready to bask in the sunlight and feel the breeze with these must-try things to do in South Korea!

The island province of Jeju is one of the best places to visit in Korea, boasting incredible beaches, volcanic landscapes laden with caves and lava tubes, impressive forests, and other natural wonders. The exciting way to explore it? Go on the Jeju Off-road ATV Adventure! Feel the rush as you speed through the unpaved paths of a dense forest, all the while getting much-needed fresh air and a dose of breathtaking sights.

Another fun thing to do in Korea is going to Jeju 9.81 Park, a gem amidst the nature-filled island with its motorless, eco-friendly go-kart racing that will leave you smiling from ear to ear! Feel the excitement while admiring the surroundings of Jeju, all thanks to the track designed for the karts to run at 9.81m/s² a.k.a. the speed of gravity.

After a two-hour trip from Seoul, you can already walk the tree-lined Nami Island, spot the masterfully sculpted plantlife of Garden of Morning Calm, and have a taste of Europe through the buildings at Petite France and Italian Village. Do all of this and more on this Nami Island tour! You can even opt to include other destinations like Alpaca World and the Gangchon Rail Bike as well. It’s gonna be a packed day with outdoor activities that will recharge your batteries!

You don’t have to stray far from Seoul to enjoy fun under the sun, especially with the Golden Blue Marina Kayak experience. Discover a whole new side to South Korea’s from its glimmering waters. Whether you choose to paddle during the day or during sunset, you’re sure to be mesmerized by breathtaking views that will leave lasting memories!

If you’re traveling with your family, then one of the best things to do in Korea is visiting the theme park Everland. There’s something for everybody: thrill-seekers can get a dose of adrenaline on South Korea’s first-ever wooden rollercoaster T Express, animal lovers can see eye-to-eye with two giant pandas at Panda World, while everyone can hop on the Sky Cruise gondola for some SSBB—sightseeing but better!

Gear up for an adventure fit for a superstar like RM from BTS, known for riding his bike along Han River! Whether you're a dedicated member of the BTS Army or simply an enthusiast of outdoor activities, you can pedal along the scenic Hangang River Cycling Trail to enjoy picturesque landscapes within the busy city of Seoul.

Sans bike, you can trek through the craggy cliffs and unpaved paths of the country’s numerous mountains. With 70 percent of South Korea being mountainous, there are plenty of hiking trails to choose from, making trekking and hiking two of the top outdoor activities in the country! When deciding where to go, Jirisan National Park is a solid pic with many trails ranging from short and long to multi-day hikes.

Korea also welcomes loads of happy campers, especially since safe and one-of-a-kind campsites abound here. Enthusiasts of all things stars and space will love the National Land Administration Central Observatory in Yanggu, which has a  planetarium where you can learn about the stars and evens sleep beneath them! Wildlife lovers, on the other hand, can go to Samnak Ecological Park Camping Site on Busan’s Nakdonggang River so you can see numerous wildflower colonies and migratory birds (during the winter months). 

Are you inspired to put on your walking shoes or bring your hiking shoes and head to South Korea for these fun outdoor activities? You can choose all or just a few, but you’re guaranteed priceless memories no matter what!