Author
profile Tolulope Ayileka

Tioluwa is a lover of all things good story telling and adventure, so it's no surprise she's officially hooked to all things Korean. She believes learning and having fun is synonymous and prides herself a K-drama guru. From Korean lifestyle to history, she's all over it like sauce on kimchi.


7 Beach Destinations You Should Visit In South Korea - featured image

7 Beach Destinations You Should Visit In South Korea

South Korea is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world. Their beautiful coastlines and islands straight from Disney fairy tales are major hotspots for both locals and tourists to relax, take pictures, and let go. I mean what’s not to like?

Many of these beautiful beaches have served as backdrops for some of our favorite moments in K-dramas, especially break-up scenes and watching the sun rise. How the blue sea, soft sands, and sea shells scream “We should break up”, I would never know.


Regardless, beaches help us have fun, relax, and sneak a little romance in if you’re with someone special.

Let’s explore some of the most famous beaches in South Korea, including those that have made their way into the hearts of K-drama enthusiasts around the world.

Haeundae Beach

Located in the second most popular place in South Korea, Haeundae Beach is possibly the most famous beach in South Korea and one of the major hotspots of Busan. In 2008, it was awarded the world record for having the most beach umbrellas in the world, and it was once the biggest beach in South Korea.

It is a popular spot for local beachgoers and tourists all year round for its romantic scenery, festivals, sports events, and beach sports. It has been the venue for the only sand-related eco festival in South Korea themed “Haeundae Sand Festival”. The festival features artworks only made of sand as a means of spreading awareness about human effects on the environment.

The Polar Bear Festival, and Busan International Film Festival are some of the other festivals hosted at this beautiful beach.

Haeundae Beach also featured in iconic scenes in popular hit K-dramas such as “Fight My Way” and “Secret Garden” in romantic, heartwarming scenes. Its beautiful sunset, clear waters, beautiful festivals, and vibrant daylife are some of the reasons Haeundae Beach should be on your first bucket list. (I assume you have a lot of buckets like me)


Gwangalli Beach

Standing proud and 1.4 kilometers long is the stunning Gwangalli Beach. It is another beautiful attraction of Busan and is famous for its stunning views of the Gwangan Bridge, which lights up the night sky in beautiful colorful displays. Apart from the beautiful scenery, soft sand to sink all your problems into, and a stunning beachside view, The beach offers a huge range of cafés and restaurants that line the shore.

Gwangalli Beach has also featured prominently in dramas. For example, a major car chase scene from the film, Black Panther was filmed there. It has also been in Kdramas such as The King: Eternal Monarch, DP, and Tidal. The Busan International Fireworks Festival is also held there annually.

If you are in for a romantic evening with beautiful lit-up lights on the beach side, Gwangalli is perfect for you.


Jungmun Saekdal Beach

Located on the picturesque Jeju Island, Jungmun Saekdal Beach is one of the island’s most popular coastal destinations. It is very famous for its multi-colored sand ranging colors in shades of black, white, red, and gray can be found along the shore, making it a unique and visually striking beach. In 1999, this beach was chosen as one of the best uncontaminated beaches in South Korea earning it the prestige of hosting several events, and it still holds on to its title till present. Some of the events include the International Surfing Competition, Winter Sea Penguin Swimming Competition, and the Summer Shore Movie Expo.

It is also a very popular surfing spot in South Korea, a title it held since 2005. An annual surfing tournament is hosted at the beach every year, so if you are into surfing, don’t forget your board because you’re sure to find others like you shredding the waves and looking cool (probably, we don’t judge). Jungmun Saekdal Beach is a native home to wangbadageobuk, an endangered sea turtle species which is pretty cool. It also has an oceanarium, botanical garden, and waterfalls amongst other incredible sights


Woljeongri Beach

Also located on Jeju Island is Woljeongri Beach. Woljeongri means “The Moon Stays” and is famous for its emerald-blue waters and pristine white sand. Aside from its beautiful movie-like scenery making it ideal for those looking for a calm, serene environment to relax and take in that beautiful beach-side beauty, you can also enjoy water sports such as kayaking, surfing, and even parasailing. You are certain to love this beach. The beach's tranquil vibe, beautiful backdrop, and simplicity are some of the reasons this beach stands out.


Eurwangni Beach

This beach is located near Incheon International Airport, Seoul, making it a pretty convenient and popular destination for travelers looking to unwind before or after a flight. It really is no surprise that it is usually packed all year long as it has the title of being a family-friendly destination. Eurwangni Beach is known for its soft sand, shallow waters, and wide tidal flats, also offering beautiful sunset views, making it a favorite spot for couples and photographers. I mean who needs a studio when the beach says hi?

With its proximity to Seoul, Eurwangni Beach is an easy getaway for those looking to escape the city and enjoy some beachside relaxation.


Naksan Beach

This 4-kilometer-long beach is located in Gangwon Province. Known for its golden sands and crystal waters, it’s the best spot for swimming, beach sports, and taking long walks by the sea. The beach is also famous for its proximity to Naksansa Temple, a beautiful Buddhist temple famous in the area which overlooks the sea. The combination of outside beach fun and cultural exploration makes Naksan Beach a well-rounded travel destination.

Naksan Beach was a major filming location for the hit K-drama *"Autumn in My Heart"*. The emotional scenes that took place at the beach, set against the stunning coastal scenery, left a lasting impression on viewers. The beach also appeared in "My Name Is Kim Sam-soon", cementing its status as a beloved K-drama spot. Whether you’re there for the beach or to explore Daecheon the nearby temple, Naksan Beach offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and nostalgia.


Daecheon Beach

Ever wanted to just go for a mud bath with your friends in public? Then Daecheon Beach is more your speed. Located in Boryeong, Seoul, and famous for being 3.5km with beautiful white sands and calm waters, this is not the reason this beach is popular in South Korea. Daecheon Beach is best known as the venue for the famous Boryeong Mud Festival, which attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every summer.

Apparently, the mud around this beach is rich in minerals and used in manufacturing cosmetics, and eventually, this festival was created around this theme, and it has attracted millions of both locals and tourists over the years. This festival transforms the beach into a huge playground and features everything from mud wrestling, mud slides, mud pools, and mud skiing competitions. Colored mud is usually on sale at Daecheon Beach for body painting. You can also catch live music and several other visual attractions during your visit.

So if you are up for a little bit of fun in the sun covered by mud, Daecheon is your spirit animal.


South Korea's beaches offer a perfect mix of relaxation, natural beauty, and cultural experiences with the perfect dose of “vitamin sea.” So whether you are looking for a perfect destination with the sun, sand, beautiful nightlife, and amazing sunrise, or you’re visiting to relive your K-drama-infused nostalgia, Korean beaches have gotyou.

`