From tranquil botanical gardens and lush forests to traditional healing therapies, South Korea is home to a diverse range of wellness attractions to satisfy every sense.
South Korea's stunning natural beauty provides the perfect setting for rejuvenating and therapeutic wellness activities, such as at Hwadam Botanical Garden.
Provided by Korea Tourism Organization
South Korea's stunning natural beauty provides the perfect setting for rejuvenating and therapeutic wellness activities, such as at Hwadam Botanical Garden.
Known for its trendy shopping destinations, hearty and flavoursome cuisine and vibrant K-Pop culture, South Korea is also a top wellness destination.
There are a number of calming and therapeutic wellness experiences designed to invigorate the mind, body and soul whilst surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
Here are some top spots:
Gyeonggi-do Hwadam Botanical Garden: Forest of Five Senses
The beautifully landscaped gardens of Hwa Dam Botanical Garden offer a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Wander through thematic gardens, each showcasing a unique collection of plants, and experience the healing effects of nature.
Located just 40 minutes from Seoul, Hwadam Botanical Garden spans 165,265 square metres and is a rich experience for the senses. Opened by the LG Evergreen Foundation to protect natural ecosystems, the gardens are home to South Korea's largest pine tree sanctuary and a wide variety of trees, insects and birds. Visitors can explore 17 thematic gardens showcasing around 4,000 species of plants or walk the easily accessible 5.3 km of trails. Advance online reservations are required.
Ulsan Yeongnam Alps: A Treasure of Nature and Culture
Gongetsurei Pass in the Yeongnam Alps, known for its beautiful hiking trails
Adventure awaits in the Yeongnam Alps, a breathtaking mountain range known for its scenic hiking trails and panoramic views. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, the Yeongnam Alps is the perfect getaway for anyone looking to get some exercise in the midst of stunning natural beauty.
This spectacular mountain range in the southeastern part of the Korean peninsula is made up of nine peaks over 1,000 meters above sea level. It is home to important cultural heritage sites such as Tongdosa, Unmunsa, Seongnamsa and Pyochungsa. The Gonwoljae trail is an accessible 6-hour trekking trail that offers breathtaking views of the mountains and Ulju County. Rich in natural beauty and filled with legends, the Yeongnam Alps are a must-see for nature lovers and culture seekers alike.
Juknokwon, Damyang, Jeollanam-do: A sacred place for bamboo and fertile culture
Experience the healing powers of nature at Juknokwon Temple in Damyang
Experience the tranquil atmosphere of Damyang Juknokwon, stroll through the towering bamboo forest and breathe in the fresh air.
Located in Damyang city, Damyang Juknokwon is a sanctuary for bamboo and traditional Korean culture known as pungryu, which includes art appreciation, singing and dance. While the forest resembles a fortress from the outside, inside it is a pristine landscape of dense, tall, straight bamboo. Featuring high levels of negative ions that are said to purify the air, the 2.4km trail is a rejuvenating walk.
Seogwipo Healing Forest: A place to relax amidst Jeju's nature
Seogwipo Healing Forest is an ideal sanctuary for self-reflection and healing amidst the diverse and serene environment of Jeju Island. Known for its stunning natural beauty, the forest stretches from 320 meters to 760 meters above sea level and is home to a coexistence of temperate and temperate flora. Visitors can explore a variety of plants, including 60-year-old cypress and cedar trees, and take part in forest healing programs. For those with busy schedules, the forest is a true hideaway with phytoncide-rich air, abundant sunlight, gentle breezes, and breathtaking views that will leave you feeling deeply healed and tranquil.
Healing Songmaul: Reduce your stress levels through meditation
Nestled among the tranquil mountains of Hongcheon, Gangwon Province, Healience Songmaul is a “well-aging” resort designed to actively enhance guests' health and prevent illness. The resort combines healing and science, emphasizing four healthy habits: exercise, a balanced daily schedule, a nutritious diet, and mental regulation.
The property is free of TVs, air conditioning and smartphones, and guests are free to choose from yoga, meditation, exercise, walking and healthy meals. Activities include trekking, meditation and yoga, all of which are designed to significantly reduce stress. Other facilities include detoxifying carbonated springs, rock therapy and a red clay jimjilbang Korean sauna.
SPA 1899: Rejuvenate with 6-year-old red ginseng
SPA 1899 incorporates six-year-old red ginseng into its revitalizing treatments.
Historically, Korean women would drink ginseng tea and bathe in ginseng-infused water to enhance the health and beauty of their skin. SPA 1899, run by the famous Cheong Kwangjang and owned by the Korea Ginseng Corporation, continues this tradition by using six-year-old red ginseng in all of its spa treatments.
The spa offers a unique skin care program that combines the therapeutic benefits of aged red ginseng with traditional Asian healing practices. Incorporating the wisdom and aesthetics of Korean beauty practices, SPA 1899 offers the ultimate relaxation with luxurious services at its locations in Daechi-dong and Haeundae (Busan).
Tea Therapy: Relax with Traditional Herbal Teas
Soothe your soul with traditional tea therapy
Experience the ancient Korean tradition of tea therapy, where the soothing properties of herbal teas promote good health. Tea Therapy in Seoul offers a convenient and elegant way to enjoy traditional herbal teas, known for their effectiveness in preventing colds, relieving fatigue, improving blood circulation, and enhancing skin care.
Housed in a renovated hanok house that's listed as a cultural heritage site, this rustic teahouse offers a tranquil atmosphere where visitors can receive tea recommendations tailored to their physical condition and taste preferences. Tea Therapy also offers classes to experience the taste and aroma of 10 different tea ingredients, as well as a relaxing herbal foot bath.
We Hotel Wellness Center: A unique water world
We Hotel in Jeju Island is a wellness retreat surrounded by forests known for their high levels of phytoncides. The hotel's natural volcanic rocks are extracted from 2,000 metres underground, providing pure drinking water and for use in water therapy.
The Wellness Center offers comprehensive health screenings, water therapy, and a variety of healing and health care programs aimed at providing a holistic alternative to modern health care. Guests can take part in the Healing Forest program to learn about the surrounding trees and forests, or participate in aqua exercises and other educational wellness activities.
South Korea is the perfect destination for a wellness trip, with a variety of wellness attractions that perfectly blend natural beauty and traditional practices. Plan your next rejuvenating vacation to Korea and check out Visit Korea for more travel inspiration.
