Baekje Kingdom’s Historic Areas

Mid-Western Korea, since 2015

With fortresses, royal palaces, and Buddhist temples, this UNESCO site unveils the architectural and cultural legacy of Baekje, one of Korea’s ancient Three Kingdoms. In Korea’s mid-western mountains, UNESCO-listed Baekje Kingdom sites, dating from 475 to 660 CE, showcase cultural and artistic exchanges among ancient East Asian kingdoms. Notable locations include Gongsanseong fortress and royal tombs, Busosanseong Fortress, Jeongnimsa Temple, Naseong city wall, and Wanggung-ri palace with Mireuksa Temple.

Changdeokgung Palace Complex

Seoul, since 1997

Seoul’s Changdeokgung Palace Complex, a masterpiece of Joseon Dynasty architecture, stands as a testament to Korea’s regal past and originally was built under the order of King Taejong in the 15th century. The delicate balance between nature and human design is unique on display in the palace’s official and residential buildings and the Secret Garden, that seamlessly blends with the landscape.

Gaya Tumuli

Hapcheon, since 2023

These burial mounds are the newest addition to the list of Korea’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is a testament to the rich burial practices of early Korean civilizations from the 1st to the 6th century CE and offers a glimpse into the rituals and customs and the evolving structure of the Gaya confederacy over time.

Getbol [Korean Tidal Flats]

Southwestern Korea, since 2021

Showcasing the dynamic interplay of tides and ecosystems the unique habitat around the Korean Tidal Flats became UNESCO World Heritage in 2021. This natural wonder in the eastern Yellow Sea serves as a critical habitat for diverse marine life, highlighting Korea’s commitment to environmental conservation. In the four distinct parts Seocheon Getbol, Gochang Getbol, Shinan Getbol, and Boseong-Suncheon Getbol you can find a rich biodiversity of 2,150 species, including 22 globally threatened, and serving as a sanctuary for 47 endemic migratory bird species.

Gochang, Hwasun and Ganghwa Dolmen

Western Korea, since 2000

The dolmens – prehistoric tombs – are scattered across Gochang, Hwasun, and Ganghwa and stand as guardians of Korea’s ancient past from the 1st millennium BC. They are constructed of large stone slabs and became a significant part of the Megalithic culture – found in many parts of the world, but nowhere in such a concentrated form.

Gyeongju Historic Areas

Gyeongju, since 2000

The often called “Museum Without Walls” boasts a treasure trove of cultural heritage in South Korea. From the intricate artistry of Bulguksa Temple to the contemplative Seokguram Grotto, these historic areas showcase the brilliance of the Silla Dynasty (7th to 10th Century). Sculptures, reliefs, pagodas, remains of temples and palaces – in Gyeongju you can find endless amazing historical and cultural sites to explore.

Haeinsa Temple Janggyeong Panjeon

Seongju, since 1995

Nestled in the serene surroundings of Mount Gaya, Haeinsa Temple safeguards a cultural gem—the Tripitaka Koreana woodblocks: a collection of around 80,000 buddhist texts. Janggyeong Panjeon, the depository for these woodblocks from the 15th century, is a testament to Korea’s dedication to preserving its Buddhist heritage.

Hahoe & Yangdong Historic Villages

Andong & Gyeongju, since 2010

Step back in time to the 14th and 15th centuries as you wander through the historic villages of Hahoe and Yangdong. These well-preserved communities offer a living testament to traditional Korean architecture, lifestyle, and Confucian values. Close to them you can also find another UNESCO World Heritage: the Confucian Academies mentioned later in this article.

I especially recommend the Hahoe Village in Andong during the Mask Dance Festival or Fall Foliage!

Hwaseong Fortress

Suwon, since 1997

This fortress from the end of the 18th century is a symbol of innovation in military architecture. The walls, gates, and bastions of this UNESCO site not only protected the city and King Jeongjo’s father’s tomb but also showcase the strategic brilliance of Korea’s historical engineers.

Jeju Volcanic Island & Lava Tubes

Jeju Island, since 2007

If you follow me on Instagram you for sure saw the stunning nature of Jeju Island in my Posts and Stories. Jeju is one of my all time favorite travel destinations and a natural wonder shaped by volcanic forces. From the towering Hallasan Mountain to the intricate underground world of lava tubes, Jeju’s unique geology and rich biodiversity make it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and became UNESCO World Heritage for a reason.

Jongmyo Shrine

Seoul, since 1995

In the heart of Seoul, south of Changgyeonggung and Changdeokgung Palace lies the Jongmyo Shrine, a sanctuary dedicated to the ancestral spirits of the Joseon Dynasty. It actually is the oldest and most authentic of the Confucian royal shrines.

Namhansan-seong

Gwangju (Gyeonggi Province), since 2014

Perched on a mountain ridge in Gyeonggido, Namhansanseong served as a strategic fortress defending Seoul. This well-preserved fortress complex and its surrounding landscapes offer visitors a glimpse into Korea’s historical military architecture from the Joseon Dynasty (14th-19th century).

Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty

Seoul & Gyeonggi Province, since 2009

Scattered in Seoul and its surrounding areas, the over 40 Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty are a testament to the royal traditions and burial practices of Korea’s last dynasty. They served to honor ancestors, acknowledge their accomplishments, assert royal authority, safeguard ancestral spirits, and deter vandalism.

Sansa [Buddhist Mountain Monasteries]

Nation wide, 2018

Spanning various mountainous regions of Korea, the Sansa Buddhist Mountain Monasteries are centers of spiritual practice. These monastic enclaves with their temples, halls, and pagodas – built between the 7th and 9th centuries – showcase the enduring influence of Buddhism on Korean culture. Most of them are still active temples for Buddhist’s daily religious practice and offer temple stays to Koreans and often also to foreigners.

• Tongdosa
• Buseoksa
• Bongjeongsa
• Beopjusa
• Magoksa
• Seonamsa
• Daeheungsa

Seokguram Grotto & Bulguksa Temple

Gyeongju, 1995

Nestled on Mount Toham, Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple are celebrated icons of Buddhist grandeur close to the city of Gyeongju and built in the 8th century. The meticulous craftsmanship of these structures reflects the zenith of Silla Dynasty artistry and devotion. The Grotto houses a monumental Buddha statue in the bhumisparsha mudra position, gazing towards the sea – often called a masterpiece of Buddhist art in the Far East.

The Bulguksa Temple also offers temple stays for tourists (with English guidance) during weekends. You can make a reservation >here.

Seowon [Neo-Confucian Academies]

Nation wide, 2019

Scattered across Korea, Seowon, Korean Neo-Confucian Academies, played a crucial role in shaping the intellectual and cultural history of the Joseon Dynasty. These centers of learning, set against stunning natural backdrops, invite contemplation and reflection.

I visited three of them since I moved to South Korea and let me tell you, you can feel what used to be their purpose the second you arrive: The Appreciation of Nature & Cultivation of mind and body!

• Dosan Seowon, Andong (in the Video)
• Sosu Seowon, Yeongju
• Namgye Seowon, Hamyang 
• Oksan Seowon, Gyeongju
• Piram Seowon, Jangseong
• Dodong Seowon, Daegu
• Byeongsan Seowon, Andong
• Museong Seowon, Jeongeup
• Donam Seowon, Nonsan