The Best Korean Scenic Drives

If you're a fan of scenic drives and breathtaking landscapes, then South Korea has a lot to offer. From rugged coastal roads to lush mountain routes, there is no shortage of scenic drives to explore in this beautiful country. Here are some of the best scenic drives in Korea that you don't want to miss.


Seoraksan National Park

Seoraksan National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Korea. The park is famous for its scenic beauty and breathtaking landscapes, including the towering Seorak Mountain and the pristine valleys. The drive to the park is just as breathtaking as the destination itself, with winding roads that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.


Seoraksan National Park. © iStock


Jeju Island

Jeju Island is a beautiful and scenic island off South Korea's coast. The island is known for its stunning landscapes, including its towering cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush forests. The drive around the island is a scenic one, with plenty of opportunities to pull over and admire the views.


Jeju Island. © iStock

Jeju Island. © iStock


East Coast Road

The East Coast Road is a scenic drive along the east coast of South Korea. You can follow National Route 7; the road runs along the coast, offering stunning views of the East Sea and the surrounding countryside. The drive is especially beautiful during the fall, when the leaves of the trees change color, adding to the beauty of the landscape.


Korea East Coast Road. © www.gtdc.or.kr


West Coast Road

The West Coast of South Korea is known for its dramatic landscapes, rugged cliffs, and beautiful beaches. You can take a scenic drive along the coast and enjoy the views, or stop at one of the many scenic overlooks to take in the views.


South Coast Road

The South Coast Road is one of the most scenic drives in South Korea. It takes you along the rugged coastline, past towering cliffs, and through quaint fishing villages. You'll have plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the breathtaking views along the way, so make sure to plan plenty of time for this drive.


Gyeongju

Gyeongju is a historic city located in the southeast of South Korea. This city is known for its beautiful temples, stunning gardens, and picturesque streets. You can take a scenic drive around the city to see all of its beauty or stop at one of the many historic sites to take in history.


Ancient Tombs in Gyeongju. © iStock

Woljeong Bridge in Gyeongju. © iStock


Andong

Andong is a charming city located in the southeast of South Korea. This city is known for its beautiful countryside, traditional culture, and scenic rivers. You can take a scenic drive around the city to see all of its beauty or stop at one of the many traditional villages to experience the local culture.


Wolyeong Bridge in Andong. © iStock

Korean Traditional Village in Andong. © iStock


Yeongdong Expressway

The Yeongdong Expressway is a scenic drive through the heart of South Korea's mountain region. The road runs through the Taebaeksan Mountain Range, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The drive is especially beautiful in the spring when the cherry blossom trees are in full bloom.


Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival

The Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival is a scenic drive through one of South Korea's most famous cherry blossom festivals. The drive takes you through the heart of the festival, offering stunning views of the cherry blossom trees and the surrounding countryside. The festival is held annually in April and is a must-see for anyone visiting South Korea during the spring.


Jinhae Cherryblossom Festival. © iStock


Han River

The Han River is a scenic drive along one of South Korea's most famous rivers. The drive takes you through the heart of Seoul, offering stunning views of the city's skyline and the surrounding countryside. The drive is especially beautiful at night when the city is lit up and the reflections of the lights dance on the river.


Han River at Night. © iStock


N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower)

N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower) is a scenic drive to the top of one of Seoul's most famous landmarks. The drive takes you to the top of the tower, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. The drive is especially beautiful at night when the city is lit up and the tower is lit up with a bright red light.


N Seoul Tower at Night. © iStock


Hwaseong Fortress

The Hwaseong Fortress is a scenic drive through one of South Korea's most famous historical landmarks. The drive takes you through the heart of the fortress, offering stunning views of the fortress and the surrounding countryside. The fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-see for anyone visiting South Korea.


Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon at Night. © iStock