When I first landed in South Korea , I thought I knew what to expect: skyscrapers , K-pop , crowded streets in Seoul . But within days I discovered something deeper — places where silence, sea, temples , and small alleys whispered stories that no guidebook fully captures. If you’re planning a trip to Korea and want more than just the usual highlights, let me take you by the hand and lead you through the spots that touched my heart. These aren’t the most famous places (though some overlap), but those that unexpectedly became my favorites. In this article, I’ll share my personal experiences—why these sites moved me, what they felt like in the moment, and practical tips you can use. By the end, you’ll want to trace your own paths through mountains, riversides, and historic towns. 1. Escape to Nature: Bukhansan National Park — Seoul’s Green Secret Many visitors don’t realize that Seoul is cradled by gentle mountains. Bukhansan is one peak that always stayed with me. At first, I ass...