Hwaeomsa temple
It is founded in 754, in Baekje Kingdom. It is located in Jiri Mountain which is famous for hiking. It was unforgettable experience to hike for the sunrise on the summit. After the hike, I recommend to take the road to this temple. It is very peaceful and tranquil area. Each Buddhist temple has its story and different architecture reflecting its era. On Buddha’s birthday, you can find nice lotus lanterns with people’s wish. http://www.hwaeomsa.com/index3.php
https://goo.gl/maps/MLgcFiHN8Yo
Museum of modern history of Korea
http://www.kmhm.or.kr/bbs/page.php?hid=leaflet_eng
https://goo.gl/maps/T7LwVmPUC9u
This is my favorite museum in Korea. It is located in Heyri Art Village. You can see the trace of Korea’s development including the sad part of the history. All exhibits are from personal collection and original items. You can see how much Korea has changed over 5 decades. This is a must if you like modern history. Heyri Art Village has other small galleries, coffee shop, restaurants and good to take a walk inside of the village too.
National Museum of Korea
https://goo.gl/maps/DUgE6vLKvGw
This is public museum, where you can see the general history of Korea from its birth. Well organized with volunteers and can ask guided free tour. Personally I like 3rd floor where you can see porcelains from Goryo kingdom and Joseon Dynasty. Those have the ultimate beauty. The Pensive Buddha made in Gold is also marvelous.
Gyeongju Seokguram
https://goo.gl/maps/zEFKSqFVFBU2
Gyeongju used to be the most popular city for students as a school field trip. City is World Heritage itself. This city used to be a capital in Shilla Kingdom more than 1000 years. Everywhere in the city you can find any kind of monuments from Shilla. Near the city, you can also find the ocean grave of King Munmu, who wanted to protect his kingdom, Shilla from the ocean, even if he passed away. It is very unique royal grave. Seokguram is the Buddha statue. In order to prevent from the damage, it is surrounded by glasses now. Highly recommend to visit Gyeongju if you plan to stay long or visit Korea second time.
Imjingak DMZ
https://goo.gl/maps/u8kbaKKzY1z
From Seoul, Imjingak is the closest frontier between 2 Koreas. You can actually see the North Korean territory with bare eyes. You can also visit the immigration at Dorasan train station and visit the tunnel where North Korea prepared to attack South. There is 10-15 min DMZ movie session, in which you can see the untouched DMZ area with full of wild animals and beautiful flowers. You can join the DMZ tour on the spot at Imjingak kiosk, except on Mondays.
Ganghwa Island
https://goo.gl/maps/4Wserum9oqR2
In 19C, many Western countries tried to invade Asia including Korea. This island was the main target for them as an entrance. Therefore, there are still the historic traces of those times. Churches, Cathedrals, Temples, battle fields, etc, all kind of past are still remained. French, American and other Battleship were there and you might easily find some trace here. In summer, many people visit this area for the beach.
