Divided by the demilitarized zone after the Korean War which came to a halt in 1953, the southern end of the Korean Peninsula is better known for its technology and heavy industries (such as ship & industrial equipment) than as a travel destination. But outside of the modern towers of major urban centers such as Seoul and Pusan, you’ll fine temples amongst the pine covered mountains, emerald coloured rice fields and friendly locals who never seem to miss an opportunity to make an outsider feel welcomed.
Seoul certainly is a regional powerhouse yet you don’t have to look far to discover a deep sense of history, whether it be the 600 year old city walls, Buddhist temples or the splendor of Gyeongbokgung Palace and museum. The uber modern transport infrastructure and relative compactness of the country means you can rest assure that getting about won’t be stress inducing and that the tranquility of a meditating at a Buddhist temple retreat is close at hand if the hustle and bustle of one of the worlds major economic centers over stimulates you!
Most of the following pictures are from a week I spent in Seoul for a work trip, they may offer you some ideals or inspiration to visit yourself!
"I have found out that there ain’t no surer way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them." ~ Mark Twain