Unpredictable, exotic, South Korea fascinates as much as it intrigues. Behind the neon lights of Seoul or the volcanic landscapes of Jeju, another trip is emerging: that of simple little pleasures, sincere encounters and authentic experiences. For those who dream of novelties and emotions, the country of the calm morning reserves surprises to savor at any age, far from the beaten track and clichés often associated with the peninsula. At a time when French seniors are going more and more in search of originality, this top 10 of “Best things to see and do during a trip to South Korea” reveals hidden gems and combines well-being, immersion and discoveries on a human scale.
Immerse yourself in the effervescence of Seoul: When the capital surprises you
Marvel at the hidden lights of Dongdaemun, far from crowds
When the night falls, the Dongdaemun district reveals a completely different atmosphere. Far from the very busy aisles, the DDP Park offers magical light games Over its contemporary installations. Strolling here is enjoying a discreet, calming spectacle, without the crowd, ideal for admiring Seoul from a serene and relaxing angle.
Get lost in a hanok secreted you quarters the bukchon
Coated streets, curved roofs, timeless silence: Bukchon Hanok Village is full of traditional houses, real architectural treasures. Some are revealed far from the tourist axes, offering Tea and peaceful moments For those in search of Korean authenticity. A rejuvenating detour, to be saved slowly in this Urban oasis.
Vibrate to the underground rhythm of an evening in Hongdae
Hongdae is the temple of youth, but not only. Intimate concerts, small jazz rooms, artistic coffees: the local scene reveals a Effervescent and creative face de Seoul, also accessible to seniors eager for discoveries. An evening in Hongdae is the perfect opportunity to taste musical insolence without getting lost in the crowd.
Go hunting for mystical temples: The Korean soul off the beaten track
Meditate at sunrise Hwagyesa Temple
North of Seoul, the Hwagyesa temple invites calm at dawn. Initiation to meditation, walks in flowery gardens and tea ceremony are at hand, far from urban agitation. A real moment of inner peaceperfect for refocusing and soaking up Buddhist spirituality in a privileged framework.
Discover the unknown frescoes Du Temple Haedong Yonggungsa
Installed on a cliff facing the sea, the Haedong Yonggungsa temple unveils superb frescoes and voluptuous statues still little frequented by tourists. Stroke by the sea, photography, contemplation: The place inspires serenity And truly gives the feeling of having pierced a well -kept secret of Korean culture.
Cap on wilderness: Streshy guarantees
Diccier Le Mont Hallasan to Juju, volcanic pearl
In the heart of the island of Jeju sits Mount Hallasan, a highest point in the country. Several trails, adapted to the capacities of each, allow access to access to spectacular panoramaswithout superhuman effort. The pure air and the splendor of volcanic rocks make the ascent surprisingly accessible and invigorating, even for occasional walkers.
Explore lava tunnels: An unforgettable trip underground
The lava flows that crisscross Jeju today form impressive natural tunnels. Guided in small groups, it is possible to explore these underground galleriesbetween mineral frescoes, welcome freshness and fascinating stories. An exit that is both accessible, original and secure for all ages, offering a unique perspective on the volcanic geology of the island.
Taste authentic Korea: Unpublished flavors and gourmet workshops
Use Kimchi-Jang in the locals, An experience with hands in the dough
Impossible to miss the Kimchi, an emblematic Korean dish. Several families offer Kimchi-Jang workshops, where we learn To prepare the fermented cabbage according to the purest tradition. Good humor, sharing, and rediscovery of taste: a culinary experience which delights as much as it nourishes and allows to bring back an authentic know-how.
Test the Gwangjang market in Seoul, Aventious foodie lair
At the Gwangjang market, smells and colors transport, bindetteok stands (Mungo bean pancakes) at Tteokbokki raised carts. Perfect place to taste everythingwithout language barrier or discomfort: here, we taste while sitting comfortably and we easily exchange with the locals in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Sleep, Dream, live like a room: total immersion
Offer one night in a jimjilbang, The art of the Korean sauna
To sleep differently, nothing like a night in Jjimjilbang, these large Korean baths mixing saunas, relaxation spaces, and rest rooms with a cozy atmosphere. Revitalizing experience And joyfully exotic, even for novices, which makes it possible to rub shoulders with the local population in a moment of shared relaxation.
Stay in an Ecofriendly guesthouse on Jeju: Warm welcome guaranteed
In Jeju, eco -responsible guesthouses combine authenticity, comfort and respect for the environment. We take advantage of Happiness of a personalized welcomeof a preserved nature, and small attentions that make you want to extend the stay. These accommodation on a human scale often constitute the ideal starting point for explorations in all serenity.
Decide for the adventure: Your Korean experience is starting now
Summary of favorites in A few words to inspire your trip
From the soothing silence of the temples on the anthill of Seoul, from the markets flavored to the volcanic panoramas: South Korea offers strong and varied memories, within everyone’s reachadapted to senior desires and rhythms, without ever imposing a frantic pace. Each region offers its own wonders, making it possible to compose a truly personalized route.
Practical advice to book, Organize and dare the unexpected
Many French -speaking guides now facilitate the preparation of the stay. Favor public transport, rely on translation applications, and opt for accommodation with reception in English guarantee comfort and serenity. Allow yourself some detours off the beaten track also allows to live South Korea at its own temposafely and with appreciable freedom.
Rediscovering South Korea, far from the marked routes, allows to embrace all its brilliance. Between urban escapades full of character and adventures on Jeju, it is sometimes enough for a new look to renew the wonder of the trip, even after 60 years. The real discovery perhaps simply lies in the audacity to afford an enriching parenthesis in the country of the calm morning, where millennial traditions and modernity rub shoulders harmoniously.
