Seoul is home to cutting-edge businesses and ancient temples—it's an exciting and historic place to visit. Most tourist sights are in Gangbuk (north of the Han River), but if you want to find the hipster crowd, they're south of the river in Gangnam. Don't miss Changdeokgung Palace, a lovely 15th-century structure.

South Korea’s second-largest city, Busan is known for its beaches and hot springs. Its most popular beach, Haeundae Beach, is lined with hotels, shops and restaurants, as well as the Busan Aquarium. Busan has everything a city dweller could want, including museums, events and shopping. Although a big city, Busan appeals to nature lovers, too. Hikers can take a break from city life and head to the easily accessible mountains.

Arts, entertainment, fashion, history and nature: Incheon has it all (and more)! The city is undergoing an extravagant real estate development, with a projected finish date of 2015. It also expects a large number of visitors for its 2014 Asian Games. Visitors can peruse designer shops in the Bupyeong district, enjoy events at the Arts Centre or discover local history at Liberty Park and Independence Memorial Hall. Head to the country's only official Chinatown for authentic cuisine and souvenirs. A ferry rides to the nearby islands is the perfect escape from the excitement of the city.

Jeju is a hot tourist spot booming with unique attractions, including the popular and outrageous adult sculpture park, Loveland, created by Hongik University Graduates. It’s not for the bashful! Above all, Jeju is a popular honeymoon destination because of its romantic sunrises and sunsets, mild climate and beautiful sandy beaches. Adventurers can hike to Baeknok Lake at the top of Mount Halla, South Korea’s highest peak. Keep an eye out for the “haenyeo,” female divers gathering fresh seafood, and the iconic “grandfather statues” displayed outside of many restaurants.

Pyeongchang-gun is the host city for the 2018 Winter Olympics. Is it any wonder why? Well known for its gorgeous snow-covered mountains and unspoiled nature, Pyeongchang-gun is the ski hub of Korea and home to Korea’s first ski resort, Yongpyong Resort. Today, Alpensia is Pyeongchang-gun’s most popular resort for both skiing and snowboarding. Pyeongchang-gun is a true haven for outdoor enthusiasts, who can enjoy hiking and trekking, fishing and rafting.

On the south side of Jeju Island, Seogwipo offers swanky hotels, rugged cliffs, popular beaches and gorgeous waterfalls. The volcanic-rock cliffs located around Jungmun beach are a wonder. Make sure to visit the viewing platform to take in the spectacular vistas. A coastal city, Seogwipo's many activities revolve around the ocean, including diving and submarine tours. Many of the restaurants specialize in fresh, local seafood. There's also much to see and do inland, including temples, art museums, amusement parks and botanical gardens.

Daegu is the fourth-largest city and the third-largest metropolitan area in South Korea. People from all over the country visit the stone Buddha called Gatbawi. It is believed that the Buddha will grant one’s desire. Nearby Apsan mountain offers many trails, temples, a museum and a gondola ride to the peak. Shopping for famous brands is popular in Dongseongno, the downtown area, while Suseong-gu is known for excellent restaurants.

Gwangju has played an important role in South Korea's history. There are many memorials and monuments throughout the "shrine of Korean democracy." Travelers will notice right away that Gwangju is also a fashion-forward city with a thriving art scene. Art lovers from all over come to Art Street on Saturdays to shop at the flea market. Famous for its cuisine, Gwangju has many traditional Korean restaurants but also offers international cuisine, including Italian and Nepalese. To work off the food, catch the 1187 bus to Mudeung Mountain for a hike. But make sure to hold on tight; it’s a twisty ride!

Paju, northwest of Seoul, has a rich history. Discover the city's past at Imjingak Park, Dorasan Station and The 3rd Infiltration Tunnel. The Odusan Unification Observatory, one of Paju’s most popular attractions, offers visitors a clear view of North Korea. Another favorite is a tour on the Imjingang River in a Paju Hwangpo Sailboat, an important mode of transportation during the Joseon Dynasty.

Suncheon, both an agricultural and industrial city, is considered an “eco-city” due to its rich land and clean waters. Suncheon has served as the location for many Korean films and has the largest open film set in Korea. Many travelers stay in Suncheon while also exploring the nearby scenic villages, countryside and mountains. Visitors can take a tour of the Suncheonman Bay and its virtually untouched ecosystem. Another popular attraction is the Songgwangsa Temple, one of the "Three Jewels of Buddhism."