Trips from Seoul: Where to Go Next and How to Get There

While Seoul offers endless urban entertainment, leaving the capital reveals Korea's varied geography, coastal culture, and deep historical sites within just a few hours. High-speed rail connects travelers to entirely distinct environments across the peninsula.

• Coastal vibrancy: Head southeast along the Gyeongbu rail corridor to Busan, Korea's second largest metropolis, for open sea views and southern harbor life.
• Lakes and forest escapes: Travel east into Gangwon-do toward Chuncheon and Gapyeong for scenic reservoir cruises, lake cable cars, and tranquil river islands, which shine especially during autumn foliage.
• Historical and border landmarks: Journey north toward Paju and Imjingak along the Civilian Control Zone to see the DMZ, or head south to Suwon to explore massive Joseon dynasty fortifications and traditional folk culture.

Each destination offers distinct attractions accessible by straightforward public transit:

• Busan: Anchoring the southern coast, this maritime hub features expansive beaches and vibrant port districts, reached directly via high-speed rail.
• Chuncheon & Gapyeong: Chuncheon is the only Gangwon city linked to the metropolitan subway. Signature highlights include the Samaksan Mountain Lake Cable Car, Soyang Dam, Cheongpyeongsa Temple (reached by ferry across the reservoir), and Nami Island. Accessing Nami Island requires a ferry (19,000 won / ~$14 for adults) or an adrenaline-filled Zip Wire ride (55,000 won / ~$39) from the Gapyeong pier.
• Paju & Imjingak (DMZ): Located along the Imjingang River, this historic border area features the Imjingak Peace Gondola and Dorasan Station (2,500 won / ~$1.79 entry), situated only 55 kilometers from Seoul and 205 kilometers from Pyeongyang.
• Suwon & Yongin: Suwon showcases Suwon Hwaseong Fortress and Haengnidan Street. Nearby Yongin hosts the Korean Folk Village, offering traditional madangnori performances and snacks like yeopjeon yakgwa starting from 10,000 won (~$7.14).
• Pocheon & Yangpyeong: Nature lovers can visit Pocheon Art Valley's granite quarry lake and the Hantangang UNESCO Geopark canyon, or try paragliding from Yumyeongsan Mountain (860 meters) in Yangpyeong.

Public transit options range from 300 km/h bullet trains to standard regional subways.

Seoul's departure points depend entirely on your destination and chosen mode of travel. Using the wrong station is an easy mistake to make.

• Train Stations: High-speed KTX trains heading along the Gyeongbu Line to Busan depart primarily from Seoul Station. Trains heading south along the Honam and Jeolla lines (Gwangju, Mokpo, Yeosu) depart from Yongsan Station. SRT high-speed trains depart exclusively from Suseo Station in southeastern Seoul. ITX-Cheongchun trains serving Gapyeong and Chuncheon depart from Yongsan and Cheongnyangni stations.
• Express Bus Terminals: The main Express Bus Terminal is divided into two separate buildings: the Gyeongbu/Yeongdong wing (serving Busan, Daegu, and Gangneung) and the Central City/Honam wing (serving Jeonju, Gwangju, Mokpo, Yeosu, and Chuncheon). Eastern regional buses often depart from Dong Seoul Terminal at Gangbyeon Station.
• Booking Windows: KTX tickets can be booked up to 60 days in advance via Korail or station counters, while ITX-Cheongchun tickets open 30 days prior. Friday through Sunday KTX departures carry higher fares than Monday through Thursday trips.