Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – -: With its inviting family-friendly atmospheres and unique entertainment and shopping experiences, South Korea has become a favored travel destination for many Saudis and GCC nationals. Known as ‘The Land of Morning Calm,’ Korea defies its thousand-years-old reputation with vibrant mornings, lively nights, and a bustling cultural scene.
South Korea is also a prominent hub for medical and beauty tourism, as well as the center of a thriving K-culture scene that includes music, film, and drama. Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) has been keen to showcase these elements when approaching travelers form the GCC and Middle East.
The country’s allure has proven effective amongst a wide spectrum of travellers, especially from Saudi Arabia; the fastest-growing outbound market in the GCC for Korean tourism.
From natural beauty landscapes that inspire throughout the four seasons of the year, to stylish Korean shopping sprees and rich cultural experiences, here are ten reasons why Korea deserves a top spot on every Saudi family’s travel itinerary:
1- Safe and Welcoming
Renowned for its safety and world-class hospitality, South Korea offers a welcoming environment that guarantees peace of mind for Middle Eastern travelers and families exploring its destinations, day and night. Korean culture is characterized by warm nature upheld through ancient customs and traditions that foster social harmony.
Kindness is paramount in all interactions, whether among families, friends, colleagues, or visitors, illustrating the enduring values that define Korean society. Once in South Korea, you will quickly appreciate the local traditions, customs, and basic Korean etiquette such as speaking respectfully to elders and being courteous to strangers. These practices will enrich your interactions with locals and ensure a delightful and memorable experience in South Korea.
2- Natural Beauty
If you and your family prefer being closer to nature, South Korea is the perfect destination for you. Korea has diverse landscapes of mountains and seas. The destination offers a variety of experiences depending on where you visit. The eastern coast boasts refreshing coastlines and some of the best beach resorts, while the western coast features expansive pristine coastline that is perfect for water sports and outdoor adventures.
In mountainous regions, vibrant colors change with the seasons, offering spectacular views to enjoy and contemplate. From the emerald green beaches of Jeju-do Island to the captivating white cliffs of Geryongan National Park, and other natural wonders, South Korea offers an abundance of natural beauty to explore.
3- Diverse Seasons
South Korea’s climate offers something for everyone with its four distinct seasons. Summer is warm, ranging from 23°C to 30°C — perfect for outdoor adventures and family-friendly tours. Winters are cold and dry, transforming cities into mini winter wonderlands draped in snow, ideal for activities like snowboarding, skiing, or ice fishing for fresh trout. Comfortable springs and autumns complement the holiday season, drawing many visitors to witness vibrant autumn leaves and cherry blossoms.
There are noticeable variations in temperature and rainfall between urban centers like Seoul and Busan and rural areas, each boasting unique charms and climate.
4- Different Accommodations
Accommodations play a major role in determining the overall quality of one’s trip in South Korea, and it’s no surprise travelers including those coming from Saudi Arabia become more thoughtful and meticulous when choosing the right place to stay.
South Korea offers a variety of special accommodations such as hanok stays (traditional Korean house accommodations), glamping, and guesthouses that exceed the simple purpose of providing a place to sleep. Of course, there are other familiar options like luxurious five-star hotels, business hotels, and motels.
Whether you’re seeking the opulence of a luxury hotel, the cultural immersion of a hanok stay, the community vibe of a guesthouse, or the cozy charm of a pension, South Korea boasts a diverse array of accommodations to cater to every traveler’s preference.
Kid-Friendly
South Korea offers an abundance of attractions and adventures tailored specifically for kids and families. Theme parks such as Everland and Lotte World feature thrilling rides, colorful parades, and engaging shows that promise hours of fun and excitement for children of all ages.
Beyond these adrenaline-pumping experiences, South Korea’s cultural offerings provide a valuable educational experience for young visitors. Families can explore ancient palaces in Seoul, observe traditional ceremonies, and participate in hands-on activities such as hanbok (traditional Korean attire) programs. Additionally, the country showcases its technological prowess at venues like the Samsung Innovation Museum, where interactive exhibits trace the evolution of technology.
6- Public Transportation
South Korea boasts an amazing, convenient, and affordable public transportation system. Consistently ranked among the world’s best for its user-friendliness, cleanliness, and frequency of service, the Seoul subway system in particular stands out as one of the most efficient ways to navigate the capital.
Operating from approximately 5:30 am to midnight, the subway runs non-stop. Each subway line is color-coded, and stations feature signage in South Korean and English languages. Additionally, a single payment card can be used in south Korea for public buses and subways across many urban areas, sparing travelers the hassle of purchasing tickets for each ride.
Fare calculation is based on distance and time traveled. For those seeking extra comfort, deluxe and luxury taxis are also available for a slightly higher fare, offering more enhanced services.
7- Korean Shopping
Shopping in South Korea offers an unforgettable experience, blending cultural nuances with modern flair. From bustling street markets like Myeongdong, filled with vibrant fashion boutiques and cosmetics stores, to sleek shopping districts such as Gangnam adorned with luxury brands and chic cafes, here every corner presents a unique shopping adventure.
What really distinguishes South Korea is its seamless fusion of tradition and innovation, where centuries-old markets harmoniously coexist with cutting-edge shopping malls and contemporary Asian fashion. Here, shopping isn’t just about acquiring goods; it’s a cultural immersion where trends are born and style is redefined.
Whether exploring the latest K-beauty products or indulging in traditional handicrafts shopping, South Korea delights in its diversity and creativity, offering every shopper a journey into the heart of Korean lifestyle and fashion.
8- Delicious Food
Gastronomic delights in South Korea offer a tantalizing journey through vibrant and different culinary landscapes that marries tradition with innovation. From bustling markets brimming with street food like spicy tteokbokki and savory hotteok to elegant restaurants serving up classics such as bibimbap and bulgogi, every dish tells a story steeped in history and regional flavors.
Korean cuisine is celebrated for its emphasis on freshness and balance, with each meal accompanied by an array of banchan (side dishes) that add depth and variety.
Whether exploring the bustling food stalls of Gwangjang Market in Seoul or savoring a seafood feast in Busan’s Jagalchi Fish Market, dining in South Korea is a celebration of community and tradition and an immersive experience that invites you to taste the heart and soul of Korean culture.
9- Beauty Tourism
South Korea has become a premier destination for medical tourism, attracting visitors worldwide who seek top-tier healthcare services and advanced beauty and medical technology. Renowned for its world-class hospitals and skilled medical professionals, Korea offers a wide range of specialized treatments, including cosmetic surgery, dermatology, and other advanced and complex medical procedures.
The destination’s competitive pricing compared to other destinations makes it an appealing choice for medical tourists seeking both affordable and high-quality healthcare solutions.
Beyond medical excellence, Saudi medical and wellness travellers can also enjoy Korea’s rich cultural heritage, modern amenities, and the convenience of comprehensive medical tourism packages that provide personalized care. This integration of medical expertise, technological innovation, and a holistic patient experience has firmly established South Korea as a leading global medical hub.
10 Year-Round Festivities
South Korea’s year-round festivities offer a vibrant tapestry of cultural celebrations that captivate locals and visitors alike. From the colorful lantern festivals in spring to the exhilarating Dano Festival celebrating the arrival of summer, each event showcases the country’s rich heritage and community spirit.
Fall brings the Chuseok harvest festival, a time for families to reunite and share traditional foods, while winter illuminates with the twinkling lights of Seoul’s Christmas markets and the dazzling spectacle of the Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival.
Throughout the year, these events not only highlight Korea’s diverse traditions but also warmly invite everyone to partake in the Korean lifestyle and love of musical entertainment. Embedded within some of these celebrations is the dynamic influence of K-pop culture, infusing modern rhythms and trends into traditional festivities.
Plan Your Next Family Adventure in South Korea!
South Korea offers a wealth of experiences that cater to every member of the family, from its safe and welcoming environment to its diverse seasons, K-pop culture, and rich cultural scene.
Whether you’re drawn to its natural beauty, vibrant shopping districts, or world-class medical facilities, South Korea promises an unforgettable travel experience for Saudi families and Middle Eastern travellers.
Plan your next family trip to South Korea and explore all that the destination has to offer. For more information on planning a family trip to Korea
