Korean Coastal Highway
South Korea
South Korea's southern coastal road (Route 2 / 77) sweeps past terraced rice paddies, cliffside Buddhist temples, haenyeo diving villages on Jeju, and the fortress walls of Suwon, where ancient Korea meets hypermodern.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Seoul
Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Han River anchor a city of 10 million that leads Asia in food, design, and relentless creative energy.
- Suwon Hwaseong Fortress
A UNESCO-listed 18th-century fortress wall encircling an entire hillside city. The battlements and towers glow warm gold after dark.
- Busan
Korea's great port city. Jagalchi fish market, Gamcheon Culture Village, and Haeundae Beach make it the country's most visceral urban experience.
- Tongyeong
The Naples of Korea, draped across a peninsula of 570 islands. Cable cars rise above the harbor and oyster stew warms every dockside table.
- Namhae German Village
Bavarian-style cottages built by returning Korean miners perch on cliffs above the island's turquoise southern shore. Surreal and oddly beautiful.
- Hadong Tea Fields
Korea's oldest tea region, terraced on riverine slopes. In spring, cherry blossoms line the road in a famous double-canopy tunnel of white.
- Yeosu
A harbour city scattered across 317 islands. Jinnamgwan Hall overlooks the water and a neon-lit night market lines the waterfront promenade.
- Mokpo
The southern terminus where the land dissolves into 1,700 islands. Ferries depart for Jeju and the Dadohaehaesang Marine National Park.
Where to Eat
- Jagalchi MarketSeafood
Bustling seafood market in Busan offering fresh catches and local delicacies.
- Suwon Galbi AlleyBarbecue
Famous for Korean-style grilled ribs, offering authentic flavors in Suwon.
- Tongyeong Jungang MarketStreet Food
Vibrant market in Tongyeong known for fresh seafood and local street food.
- Yeosu Fish MarketSeafood
Popular market in Yeosu offering a variety of fresh seafood and local dishes.
Things to Do
- Haedong Yonggungsa TempleHistoric Site
Beautiful seaside Buddhist temple in Busan with stunning ocean views.
- Odongdo IslandNature
Scenic island in Yeosu known for its camellia flowers and coastal trails.
- Daraengi VillageScenic Viewpoint
Terraced rice fields in Namhae offering picturesque landscapes and hiking trails.
- Mokpo Modern History MuseumMuseum
Museum in Mokpo showcasing the city's history and cultural heritage.