Places in South Korea
Discover the best of South Korea, from unforgettable stays and local flavours to inspiring experiences and so much more. Explore our growing collection of guides and find your next favourite.
Jeon Somi
Seoul, South Korea
Jeon Somi, born Ennik Somi Douma on March 9, 2001, is a Korean-Canadian singer, songwriter, and television personality. She gained widespread recognition through her participation in the reality survival show "Sixteen," which was organized by JYP Entertainment in 2015 to select the members of the girl group TWICE. Although she did not make it into the final lineup, her talent, charm, and potential as an entertainer captured the audience's attention. Subsequently, Somi participated in another survival show, "Produce 101 Season 1" in 2016. Her standout performances and endearing personality helped her secure the top position, making her the winner and earning her a spot in the project group I.O.I. This catapulted her into the spotlight and established her as one of the most promising young idols in the K-pop industry. Following the disbandment of I.O.I, Somi embarked on her solo career. In 2019, she debuted as a solo artist under The Black Label, a subsidiary of YG Entertainment, with the single "Birthday." The song showcased her vibrant personality and showcased her versatility as a performer. Somi's career is marked by her bubbly and approachable demeanor, which has made her a beloved figure among fans. Her multilingual abilities (fluent in Korean, English, and proficient in other languages) have contributed to her appeal on an international scale. She has also appeared on various television programs and reality shows, further solidifying her presence in the entertainment industry. Her musical style often encompasses pop, R&B, and dance elements, and she continues to experiment with different sounds and concepts to establish her own unique artistic identity. Somi's journey in the K-pop industry reflects her determination, talent, and potential for long-term success, making her a notable figure among the younger generation of Korean entertainers.
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Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
South Korea
Mingles
South Korea
Explore Seoul's royal palaces
South Korea
Signiel Seoul
South Korea
Lee Yoo mi
Jeonju-si, South Korea
Lee Yoo-mi born July 18, 1994) is a South Korean actress. She is known for her roles as Ji-yeong in Squid Game (2021) and Lee Na-yeon in All of Us Are Dead (2022). She won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series for her role as Ji-yeong in Squid Game, making her the first Korean actress to win in the category. She began her acting career in 2010 with her debut in the action thriller film The Yellow Sea. In the following years, her work was limited to minor roles in several film and television series. On September 28, 2020, it was announced that Lee has signed an exclusive contract with Varo Entertainment. In 2021, Lee rose to prominence outside South Korea for her role of Ji-yeong (Number 240) in the Netflix series Squid Game. Following the series' international success, Lee's follower count on Instagram increased from 40,000 to over 6.5 million in a matter of days. Her performance made her the first Korean actress to win the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series. In 2022, Lee starred as Lee Na-yeon in the Netflix zombie-themed series All of Us Are Dead. Her realistic acting as the villainous, selfish and arrogant rich student (which contrasted with the sympathetic and selfless Ji-yeong from Squid Game) further propelled her to fame, in combination with her earlier popularity from Squid Game. Philanthropy On July 20, 2022, Lee donated cosmetic products worth ₩3 million to a public foundation for burn patients.
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Discover Bukchon and traditional hanok neighbourhoods respectfully
South Korea
Onjium
South Korea
The Shilla Seoul
South Korea
Lee Hyeri
Gwangju, South Korea
Lee Hyeri is a South Korean singer and actress, best known as a member of the girl group Girl's Day. Born on June 9, 1994, in Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, she has gained recognition for her talents in both the music and acting industries. Girl's Day: Lee Hyeri debuted as a member of Girl's Day, a popular South Korean girl group formed by DreamT Entertainment. The group gained attention with songs like "Twinkle Twinkle," "Expectation," and "Something." Lee Hyeri contributed to the group's success as a vocalist and visual. Variety Show Appearances: Lee Hyeri has made appearances on various variety shows, showcasing her personality and charm. Notably, her participation in the reality show "Real Men" garnered positive attention and displayed her adaptability in different situations. Acting Career: Lee Hyeri has ventured into acting and has been part of several television dramas. Notable works include "Reply 1988" (2015-2016), where she played the character Sung Duk-seon. Her performance in the drama received acclaim, contributing to her rising popularity as an actress. Individual Projects: Apart from her group activities, Lee Hyeri has engaged in individual projects, including endorsements and solo ventures. Her endorsements for various brands have added to her visibility in the entertainment industry. Public Image: Lee Hyeri is known for her bright and cheerful image, both on and off-screen. Her positive public image has contributed to her popularity among fans. Multifaceted Talents: Lee Hyeri has showcased her multifaceted talents, demonstrating proficiency not only in singing and dancing as a K-pop idol but also in acting and variety show appearances.
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Jungsik
South Korea
Eat through Seoul's traditional markets
South Korea
Lalisa Manobal
Seoul, South Korea
Lalisa Manobal, better known as Lisa, is a globally acclaimed K-pop idol, rapper, dancer, and fashion icon. Born on March 27, 1997, in Thailand, Lisa gained prominence as a member of the South Korean girl group BLACKPINK, formed by YG Entertainment in 2016. Lisa's rise to fame began when she joined YG Entertainment as a trainee in 2011, showcasing her exceptional dance skills and stage presence. After BLACKPINK's debut, Lisa quickly garnered attention for her powerful rapping, captivating dance performances, and unique fashion sense. As a member of BLACKPINK, Lisa contributed to the group's immense success with chart-topping hits like "Boombayah," "Whistle," "DDU-DU DDU-DU," "Kill This Love," and "How You Like That." The group's global recognition and record-breaking achievements solidified Lisa's position as a leading figure in the K-pop industry. Her charismatic stage presence and versatility have earned her admiration not only from fans but also from various brands and fashion houses. Lisa has become a prominent figure in the fashion world, landing ambassadorial roles for luxury brands like Celine and Bulgari, making her the first non-ethnically Korean global ambassador for the latter. Lisa's influence extends beyond music and fashion. Her popularity on social media platforms, especially Instagram and YouTube, where she shares glimpses of her daily life, dance covers, and behind-the-scenes moments, has contributed significantly to her massive fan following. She possesses a strong international fan base, often referred to as "Lilies" or "Lisaphans," who admire her talent, humility, and dedication to her craft. Lisa's impact as a global influencer continues to grow, making her a celebrated figure in the world of entertainment and fashion.
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Park Hyatt Seoul
South Korea
Mosu Seoul
South Korea
Explore Busan's coast and seafood culture
South Korea
Akira Back
South Korea
Grand Hyatt Seoul
South Korea
Discover Gyeongju's ancient royal heritage
South Korea
Park Shin hye
Gwangju, South Korea
Park Shin-hye is a highly acclaimed South Korean actress and singer known for her versatility, talent, and widespread popularity. Born on February 18, 1990, in Gwangju, South Korea, she has built a successful career in both television and film. Early Career and Hallyu Star Status: Park Shin-hye started her acting career in 2003 with the drama "Stairway to Heaven." Her breakthrough role came in 2009 with the drama "You're Beautiful," which contributed significantly to her rise as a Hallyu star. Notable Dramas: Park Shin-hye has been featured in numerous successful television dramas, including "Heartstrings" (2011), "The Heirs" (2013), "Pinocchio" (2014-2015), and "Doctors" (2016). These dramas have showcased her acting skills and solidified her status as one of the top actresses in South Korea. Film Career: In addition to her television success, Park Shin-hye has made a mark in the film industry. Some of her notable films include "Cyrano Agency" (2010), "Miracle in Cell No. 7" (2013), and "The Royal Tailor" (2014). International Recognition: Park Shin-hye's popularity extends beyond South Korea, particularly in Asia. She has gained international acclaim for her roles and has participated in various fan meetings and events worldwide. Musical Career: Apart from acting, Park Shin-hye has showcased her singing talents. She released several singles for the soundtracks of the dramas she starred in, including "My Dear" for "You're Beautiful." Endorsements and Philanthropy: Known for her wholesome image, Park Shin-hye has been a sought-after celebrity endorser for various brands. She is also involved in philanthropic activities, supporting causes related to children's welfare and healthcare. Educational Background: Park Shin-hye attended Chung-Ang University, where she studied Theater and Film. Personal Life: Park Shin-hye has generally kept her personal life private. She is known for her down-to-earth personality and has maintained a positive public image throughout her career.
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Yu Yuan
South Korea
Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel
South Korea
Moon Ga young
Seoul, South Korea
Moon Ga-young is a South Korean actress known for her versatile performances in television dramas and films. Born on July 10, 1996, in Karlsruhe, Germany, she later moved to South Korea to pursue her career in acting. Early Career: Moon Ga-young began her acting career at a young age, appearing in various television dramas and films. She gained recognition for her roles in projects like "The Merchant: Gaekju 2015" (2015-2016) and "Mirror of the Witch" (2016). Breakthrough Role - "Tempted": Moon Ga-young received widespread attention and acclaim for her role as Choi Soo-ji in the television drama "Tempted" (also known as "The Great Seducer") in 2018. The series showcased her acting skills and established her as a rising star in the Korean entertainment industry. Youthful and Vibrant Image: Moon Ga-young is known for her youthful and vibrant image, which contributes to her popularity among viewers. Her performances often reflect a range of emotions, from light-hearted moments to more intense and dramatic scenes. Diverse Genres: Moon Ga-young has demonstrated her versatility by taking on roles in various genres, including romance, comedy, and historical dramas. This diversity has showcased her ability to portray a wide range of characters. Notable Projects: Some of Moon Ga-young's notable works include "Welcome to Waikiki 2" (2019), "Find Me in Your Memory" (2020), and "True Beauty" (2020-2021). "True Beauty" in particular gained popularity, and Moon Ga-young's portrayal of the lead character contributed to the drama's success. Film Appearances: In addition to her television career, Moon Ga-young has also been involved in films, adding depth to her portfolio as an actress. Positive Public Reception: Moon Ga-young has earned positive reviews for her acting skills and has garnered a growing fanbase both in South Korea and internationally.
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Walk Jeju's volcanic landscapes
South Korea
The Westin Josun Seoul
South Korea
Bicena
South Korea
Visit a Buddhist temple through an organised temple-stay
South Korea
Kim Sejeong
Gimje-si, South Korea
Kim Sejeong is a South Korean singer, actress, and television personality. Born on August 28, 1996, in Jeonju, South Korea, she gained prominence as a member of the girl group I.O.I, formed through the survival show "Produce 101." Produce 101 and I.O.I: Kim Sejeong participated in the first season of "Produce 101" in 2016, where she garnered attention for her vocal and performance skills. She finished in the first place and became the center of the project group I.O.I, which gained immense popularity during its limited promotional period. Gugudan: After I.O.I disbanded, Kim Sejeong debuted as a member of the girl group Gugudan under Jellyfish Entertainment. Gugudan released several albums, and Kim Sejeong's versatility as a singer and performer became evident through the group's diverse concepts. Solo Career: Kim Sejeong embarked on a solo career, releasing solo music and showcasing her talents as a singer-songwriter. Her solo work includes singles like "Flower Way" and "Plant," demonstrating her ability to convey emotional depth through her music. Acting Career: In addition to her activities in the music industry, Kim Sejeong pursued acting and gained recognition for her roles in television dramas. Notable dramas she has been a part of include "School 2017" (2017), "I Wanna Hear Your Song" (2019), and "The Uncanny Counter" (2020). Variety Shows: Kim Sejeong has appeared on various variety shows, showcasing her charming personality and wit. Her appearances on shows like "Produce 101" and "King of Masked Singer" further solidified her popularity. Recognition and Awards: Throughout her career, Kim Sejeong has received accolades for her contributions to the entertainment industry, including awards for her acting performances and musical achievements. Endorsements: Kim Sejeong has also become a sought-after celebrity endorser, securing endorsement deals with various brands. Positive Public Image: Known for her down-to-earth personality, talent, and positive image, Kim Sejeong has garnered a substantial fanbase both in South Korea and internationally.
Source ranking order preserved from https://10bestsouthkoreainfluencers.com/; staged for editorial review
An Yu Jin
Daejeon, South Korea
An Yu Jin is a South Korean singer and actress who gained recognition for her participation in the South Korean survival reality show "Produce 48." Born on September 1, 2001, in South Korea, An Yu Jin is associated with the entertainment company Starship Entertainment. "Produce 48": An Yu Jin gained widespread attention as a contestant on the third season of the "Produce" series, titled "Produce 48," which aired in 2018. The show aimed to create a project girl group by combining trainees from South Korea and Japan. An Yu Jin showcased her talent and skills throughout the competition. Debut with IZ*ONE: Following her participation in "Produce 48," An Yu Jin successfully debuted as a member of the project girl group IZONE. The group, formed through the show, included members from both South Korea and Japan. IZONE released several albums and gained popularity for their music and performances. Activities with IZ*ONE: As part of IZ*ONE, An Yu Jin was involved in various promotions, including music releases, variety show appearances, and fan meetings. The group's popularity extended beyond South Korea, making them a notable presence in the K-pop scene. Individual Projects: In addition to group activities, An Yu Jin may have been involved in individual projects, such as endorsements, collaborations, or appearances in various entertainment programs. Transition to Acting: Given the multifaceted nature of many K-pop idols' careers, An Yu Jin might have explored opportunities in acting or other entertainment realms.
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Explore Jeonju's hanok streets and regional cooking
South Korea
Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul
South Korea
La Yeon
South Korea
Hike Seoraksan's marked trails
South Korea
Hyuna Kim
Seoul, South Korea
HyunA Kim, commonly known as HyunA, is a South Korean singer, dancer, songwriter, and model. Born on June 6, 1992, in Seoul, South Korea, she gained prominence as a member of the girl group Wonder Girls before leaving and later joining 4Minute. HyunA rose to international fame with her solo career, characterized by her bold and charismatic stage presence. Here's a brief overview of HyunA's career: Early Career: HyunA first gained attention as a member of Wonder Girls but left the group due to health concerns before they released their debut album. She later joined Cube Entertainment and became a member of the girl group 4Minute. 4Minute: As a rapper and sub-vocalist of 4Minute, HyunA contributed to the group's success with hits like "Hot Issue" and "Volume Up." The group disbanded in 2016, leading HyunA to focus on her solo career. Solo Career: HyunA's solo debut came in 2010 with the single "Change," featuring Yong Jun-hyung of Beast. Since then, she has released numerous successful solo singles and albums, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Notable Solo Releases: Some of her popular solo tracks include "Bubble Pop!," "Red," "Ice Cream," and "Babe." These songs are known for their catchy tunes, energetic performances, and often provocative concepts. Troubles and Comebacks: Throughout her career, HyunA faced some controversies, including her departure from Cube Entertainment in 2018. Despite these challenges, she continued to release music and remained a prominent figure in the K-pop industry. Public Persona: HyunA is recognized for her confident and bold image, challenging traditional norms of femininity in the Korean entertainment industry. She has a significant fan following both in South Korea and internationally. Personal Life: In 2018, HyunA publicly confirmed her relationship with fellow artist Dawn (formerly of Pentagon). Their openness about their relationship sparked discussions about idol dating and relationships in the K-pop industry.
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Cornerstone
South Korea
Conrad Seoul
South Korea
Joo Ok
South Korea
Song hye kyo
Daegu, South Korea
Song Hye Kyo is a renowned South Korean actress who has achieved widespread recognition for her talent and beauty. Born on November 22, 1981, in Daegu, South Korea, she has become a prominent figure in the Korean entertainment industry. Early Life and Career Beginnings: Song Hye Kyo began her career as a model before transitioning to acting. She gained early recognition for her roles in various television dramas and quickly became a sought-after actress. Breakthrough Role - "Autumn in My Heart" (2000): Song Hye Kyo rose to fame with her role as Eun-suh in the immensely popular drama "Autumn in My Heart." The success of the series helped establish her as one of Korea's leading actresses. Career Highlights: Over the years, Song Hye Kyo has been a part of numerous successful television dramas and films, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Some of her notable works include "Full House" (2004), "The World That They Live In" (2008), and "Descendants of the Sun" (2016). International Recognition: "Descendants of the Sun" brought Song Hye Kyo international fame, especially in Asia, contributing to her status as a Hallyu (Korean Wave) star. The drama was widely praised for its success in various countries. Film Career: In addition to her television work, Song Hye Kyo has appeared in several films, including "My Girl and I" (2005) and "The Grandmaster" (2013), where she starred alongside renowned Hong Kong director Wong Kar-wai. Endorsements and Philanthropy: Song Hye Kyo has been a sought-after brand ambassador, endorsing various products and brands. She has also been involved in charitable activities, contributing to causes related to children and education. Personal Life: Song Hye Kyo's personal life, particularly her relationships and marriage to actor Song Joong-ki, has been a subject of public interest. The couple married in 2017 but later divorced in 2019. Timeless Beauty and Style: Known for her timeless beauty and elegant style, Song Hye Kyo has become a fashion icon in South Korea and beyond. Her influence extends to the world of beauty and fashion.
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Discover contemporary Korean art and design in Seoul
South Korea
Andaz Seoul Gangnam
South Korea