South Korea’s 3 Hidden Gem Cities You Can’t Miss

2025-04-24

From May 15 to 17, the 33rd Guangzhou International Travel Fair (GITF) will witness a spotlight on South Korea, as The Tourism Promotion Organization for Global Cities (TPO) leads three major Korean cities to unveil hidden travel gems and inspire fresh explorations.

Busan：

Korea’s Global Tourism City

Busan is the 2nd largest city and number one traiding hub in Korea, with a population of 3.36 million and an area of 770.07㎢.

The city boasts a rich cultural heritage, beautiful natural landscapes, and a vibrant economy. With a subtropical climate, it is mild in winters while hot in summers.

Its key industries include shipping, manufacturing, and tourism. Busan is a central hub for maritime logistics and a gateway city with a world-class super port.

Busan is home to seven stunning beaches, including the uniquely charming Haeundae and Gwangalli Beaches. Thanks to its beautiful sea and natural surroundings, people who visit them can enjoy marine activities.

The city also offers a unique atmosphere where the legacy of the Korean War meets modern urban life. One of the most popular destinations for both domestic and international tourists is Gamcheon Culture Village.

Global events including the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference, Busan International Film Festival and Busan Fireworks Festival, as well as various sea-related festivals are held throughout the year.

The coastal sightseeing train, which runs along repurposed railway tracks, connects two beautiful beaches and offers breathtaking views. Nearby, the Osiria Tourist Complex is drawing many visitors with a theme park, shopping mall, luxury resorts, and a water park.

The Visit Busan Pass is another special gift for tourists, allowing them to enjoy these diverse experiences more affordably and efficiently.

Pohang：

A sustainable city of the East Sea leaping up to the world through Creation, Convergence and Innovation！

Pohang leads the 4th industry evolving from the steel city, and extends the future values through the advancement of new growth industries. Accordingly, the city is ready to take off towards the top-level city of cutting-edge industries, that is available for the sustainable development.

Iksan:

The Historical and Cultural Gem of Korea

Nestled in the heart of South Korea’s Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province, Iksan is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the "City of Jewelry," Iksan boasts a deep heritage dating back to the Baekje Kingdom (18 BC–660 AD). As a key location along the UNESCO-listed Baekje Historic Areas, Iksan offers visitors a glimpse into Korea’s ancient past while embracing modernity.

A Journey Through History Iksan was a significant cultural and political center of the Baekje Kingdom. One of its most famous sites is the Mireuksa Temple Site, home to the largest stone pagoda of the Baekje era. The Iksan National Museum further preserves this historical legacy, showcasing artifacts that tell the story of the region’s importance in Korean history.

Another must-visit destination is the Wanggung-ri Site, an ancient royal palace complex that provides insight into the grandeur of Baekje architecture. These historical landmarks, along with Iksan’s designation as part of the Baekje Historic Areas, make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Jewelry and Craftsmanship Iksan has earned its title as the "City of Jewelry" due to its long-standing tradition of gold craftsmanship, which dates back to the Baekje era. The Iksan Jewelry Museum highlights the city's expertise in jewelry-making, showcasing exquisite gold artifacts and modern designs that blend tradition with contemporary artistry. Visitors can also explore the Iksan Jewelry Complex, where they can witness artisans at work and even purchase unique handcrafted pieces.

Natural Beauty and Leisure Beyond its historical sites, Iksan offers stunning natural landscapes. The Geumgang River and nearby mountains provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. The city’s parks and gardens, like Seodong Park, offer peaceful retreats where visitors can relax amidst beautiful scenery.

A Taste of Iksan No visit to Iksan is complete without experiencing its delicious cuisine. The city is known for traditional Korean dishes such as bibimbap, Jeonju-style kongnamul gukbap (bean sprout soup with rice), and local seafood specialties. Visitors can explore bustling markets and traditional restaurants to savor authentic flavors.

Modern Iksan: A City of Progress While deeply rooted in history, Iksan is also a thriving modern city with a vibrant local economy and educational institutions. It continues to grow as a cultural hub, hosting festivals and events that celebrate its heritage and innovation.

Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a cultural explorer, Iksan offers a unique and enriching experience. Come and discover the charm of this hidden gem in Korea!

About TPO

The Tourism Promotion Organization for Global Cities (TPO) is an international organization dedicated to promoting global tourism, city-to-city cooperation, and global tourism partnerships. Headquartered in Busan, South Korea, TPO was established in 2002 and now comprises 130 member cities and 56 tourism-related institutions and companies across the globe.

TPO serves as a collaborative platform that connects city governments, and key industry stakeholders to foster innovative and responsible tourism. By facilitating global networking and knowledge-sharing, TPO empowers its members to enhance their tourism capacity and global visibility. 

TPO carries out a wide range of activities to support its members and enhance global tourism cooperation. These include organizing international meetings, implementing joint projects between members, offering capacity-building programs for tourism professionals, and promoting member cities through global campaigns and media partnerships.

Through its guiding vision of “P(Promotion)  E(Expansion) C(Collaboration)” TPO remains committed to supporting sustainable urban tourism and fostering meaningful partnerships among cities worldwide.

Meet you on 15-17 May 2025 

in Guangzhou at GITF2025

C001,Hall16.2 ！