Planning to hit up the South Korean capital? Get ready to discover the top adventure activities in Seoul with this guide.
Seoul is a city that has something for everyone, from history and culture lovers to foodies and fashionistas. But did you know that Seoul is also a great place for adventure seekers?
It’s true, we promise. There are a number of adrenaline-pumping activities to choose from – whether you want to glide through the skies or hike in a gorgeous national park.
Ready? These are the top adventurous things to do in Seoul…
Adventure Activities in Seoul
Seek Thrills at Lotte World
For thrill-seekers, Lotte World should be your first stop when you visit Seoul. It’s the largest indoor theme park in South Korea (though there’s an outdoor section, too) and we fell in love during our first visit.
It’s home to over 40 rides, including roller coasters, water rides, and a carousel that gets even more adorable as the sunsets and the indoor lights illuminate the park. Outside is where you will find the bigger rides like Gyro Drop and Atlantis – these are knee-wobbling attractions not for the faint of heart.
Hike in Bukhansan National Park
Strap up your boots because it’s time to hit up Bukhansan National Park, a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
This national park is home to numerous hiking trails, including some that are suitable for beginners – like the trail to Sumeun Falls and Songchu Village Road. Though, tackling Baegundae’s peak is one of the most coveted trails in the park.
There are also a number of temples and shrines in the park, such as Jingwansa and Samgaksan Doseonsa. You should also make a pitstop at Eunpyeong Hanok Village, a traditional Korean village bursting with character.
Read Next: Our Guide to Bukhansan National Park
Go Skiing at Yongpyong
Think you can’t ski in South Korea? Think again. Yongpyong is a ski resort located in the Taebaek Mountains, not too far from Seoul. It’s one of the largest ski resorts in South Korea, offering an abundance of slopes for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
The resort is located in Pyeongchang, which was home to the 2018 Winter Olympics. The slopes at Yongpyong were used for a number of events, including downhill skiing, slalom, and snowboarding.
The slopes at Yongpyong are divided into three areas: Alpine Zone, Nordic Zone, and Speed Zone. The Alpine Zone is the most popular area, and it offers a variety of slopes for all levels. The Nordic Zone is home to cross-country skiing trails, and the Speed Zone is the site of the Olympic downhill course.
Ride the Mt. Balwangsan Cable Car
Mt. Balwangsan Cable Car is a cable car that takes you to the top of Mt. Balwangsan. The mountain offers stunning views of Seoul, and it is a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and even camping.
But this isn’t just any cable car, this one is the longest cable car course in Asia, stretching over 7.4 kilometres. The ride to the top takes about 15 minutes and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The cable car ascends to the summit of Mt. Balwangsan, where there is a skywalk that offers even more panoramic views.
Spend a Day in Everland
If you’re exploring Korea with your family and want to enjoy a fun day out, you need to visit Everland. This outdoor theme park is even bigger than Lotte World – and has just as many (if not more) thrills to seek.
Everland is divided into five themed areas: Zootopia, Magic Land, European Adventure, Western Land, and K Pop Square. The park boasts more than 50 rides, including roller coasters, water rides, and a zoo.
Soar Through the Sky on the Nami Island Zipline
Ready for one of the coolest adventure activities in Seoul? The Nami Island Zipline is a great way to see the beautiful scenery of Nami Island, a popular destination in South Korea for locals and tourists alike. The island is known for its beautiful scenery, its cherry blossom trees, and its romantic atmosphere.
The zipline takes you across the Han River, and the views from the top are incredible. This zipline is a great activity for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike.
Head to the DMZ
Visiting the DMZ is one of the coolest adventure activities in Korea. Sounds familiar? This is the demilitarised zone that separates North Korea from South Korea.
While you won’t be able to wander over the border into North Korea (security is, understandably, very strict), this is a fascinating place to learn about the history of the Korean War. There are a number of tours that you can take of the DMZ, and some even offer the opportunity to go hiking or bungee jumping nearby.
Visit Seoul Sky & Sky Bridge at Lotte World Tower
Fancy seeing the city from a different perspective? Seoul Sky is an observation deck that offers stunning views of Seoul. While you’re there, you need to take a walk on the Sky Bridge. Suspended 500 metres above the ground, it offers even more amazing views of the bustling metropolis below.
Head inside Gwangmyeong Cave
For those who want to delve deeper into the geology of South Korea, head to Gwangmyeong Cave. This is a former gold mine that has been transformed into a tourist attraction.
The cave is home to a variety of natural and cultural attractions, including stalactites and stalagmites, a waterfall, a wine cellar, and even a super creepy horror house. You’ll also be able to learn about the important history of the cave and its role in the Korean War.
Ride the Cable Car to Seoul’s N Tower
Seoul’s N Tower is a popular tourist destination, and for good reason. The tower offers stunning views of the city, and it is a great place to see the city at night. But what many people don’t know is that there is a more unique way to get to the tower: by taking the cable car.
The Namsan Cable Car is a short but scenic ride that takes you up to the top of Namsan Mountain, where the tower is located. The cable car offers stunning views of the city, and it’s a stellar way to see Seoul from a different perspective.
In addition to the views, the cable car is also a great way to experience Korean culture. The cable cars are decorated with traditional Korean motifs, and the ride itself is accompanied by traditional Korean music.
Make a Splash at Caribbean Bay Waterpark
Caribbean Bay Waterpark is the largest waterpark in South Korea – it’s actually part of the Everland Resort, but requires a separate admission fee.
This epic water park is one of the top adventurous things to do in Seoul and features a variety of water slides, pools, and even a wave pool. Our favourite rides are Tower Boomerang Go and Mega Storm (even though this one is pretty terrifying!)
There’s also a lazy river, a hot spring, and a children’s water park if you’re travelling with little ones.
Cycle Along the Gyeonggang Rail Bike
Gyeonggang Rail Bike is a great way to experience the beauty of Gangwon-do. This unique bike ride takes you along a former railway track, offering stunning views of the Bukhangang River and other natural landmarks.
The Gyeonggang Rail Bike is a four-seater bike, so it’s perfect for families or groups of friends. The best part? This ride is relatively easy, so no prior biking experience is necessary.
The Gyeonggang Rail Bike is a relaxing and scenic ride, but it’s also a lot of fun. You’ll have the chance to see some of the most beautiful parts of Gangwon-do, and you’ll get some exercise in the process.
Take Part in Water Sports on the Han River
Flyboarding and paddleboarding are two popular water sports that can be enjoyed on the Han River in Seoul. Flyboarding is a relatively new activity that involves being propelled by a jetboard through the water. Though paddleboarding is a more traditional watersport that involves standing on a board and paddling through the water. It’s pretty simple and great for all abilities.
Kayaking is another popular water sport that can be enjoyed on the Han River. Kayaking is a great way to explore the river and see some of the sights that Seoul has to offer.
Tubester is a new water sport that is becoming increasingly popular in South Korea, and especially on the Han River. Not sure what it is? Don’t fret – Tubester is a type of inner tube that is attached to a motorboat which pulls the ring through the water. In other words, it’s a thrilling ride.
Brave Tandem Paragliding in Yangpyeong
Looking for the best adrenaline-fuelled adventure activities near Seoul? Tandem paragliding in Yangpyeong is the perfect way to experience the thrill of flying high above the city. Located just an hour away by subway, Yangpyeong is home to one of the highest mountains in Korea, making it the perfect spot for paragliding.
With a tandem paragliding experience, you’ll be paired with an experienced pilot who will take you soaring through the sky. No experience is necessary, and you’ll be able to enjoy the views of the city and surrounding countryside from a bird’s-eye view.
Try Rock Climbing at The Climb
There’s a pretty big rock climbing scene in Korea, and Seoul in particular, so you’ll find plenty of climbing centres across the capital.
The best centre is The Climb, which dubs itself as the largest climbing gym in Asia. While we can’t verify this, we do agree that it is huge. It’s a playground for climbers and boulderers looking to find a community in Seoul. Not to mention that some of the instructors are from the Korean national team, so you’re getting support from the very best in the biz’.
With soaring walls for climbing and new bouldering problems each week, there’s plenty of reason to keep coming back for more. There are 9 locations in and around Seoul, so you won’t ever be too far from a gym.
Seoul Adventure Activities: What to Know Before You Go
How long should I spend in Seoul?
To fit all these adventure activities in Seoul you would need to spend a couple of weeks in the capital. Though, we recommend at least five days in Seoul to give you time to explore Bukhansan National Park and at least one theme park.
When’s the best time to visit Seoul?
Summer gets extremely hot in Seoul, while winter is bone-chillingly cold. Therefore, spring and autumn/fall are the best times to visit. We recommend May or October for the best weather.
