South Korea may be one of the most popular destinations to visit in Asia, but there’s more to it than Seoul, Busan, and Jeju — and travellers are ready to discover lesser-known parts of the country.

According to a 2023 Global Travel Trends Report by American Express, 68% of respondents take pride in discovering hidden vacation spots before they gain popularity.

For travel agents and advisors seeking to enrich their South Korean itineraries, the North Gyeongsang Province, also known as Gyeongsangbuk-do or Gyeongbuk, presents a captivating selection of both modern and cultural gems, especially in these five places.

1. Gyeongju

Cheomseongdae, also known as the "star-gazing tower," is the oldest surviving observatory in Asia and potentially the world. Photo Credit: Korea Tourism Organization

Capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, Gyeongju City is nicknamed “the museum without walls” for its abundance of archaeological sites and cultural riches — so much so that Gyeongju National Park, South Korea’s only historical national park, is composed of protected areas scattered across the city.

Gyeongju is known for the UNESCO-listed Bulguksa Temple & Seokguram Grotto, which together house eight National Treasures of Korea including several Buddha statues and iconic pagodas. It’s also home to Cheomseongdae Observatory, the oldest surviving astronomical observatory in Asia.

Modern touch: In between long walks around the city, recharge at Hwangnidan-gil, a shopping street where boutiques, snack stands, and cafés are housed in traditional-style Korean buildings.

2. Pohang

Hwanho Space Walk is a 333m surreal art installation featuring winding trails and loops, reaching a peak with a 360-degree loop. Photo Credit: Korea Tourism Organization

While Pohang is today the most populous city in Gyeongbuk, it was once a fishing town popular among Japanese fishermen during the Empire of Japan’s occupation of Korea from the 1900s. Testament to this is Guryongpo Japanese House Street, where tourists can visit traditional Japanese houses that have been conserved and converted into shops, cafés, and the Guryongpo Modern History Museum.

Modern touch: Pohang offers splendid coastal views, be it from its K-drama famous beaches or from the new Hwanho Park Space Walk, a steel “rollercoaster” with walkable steps reflecting the city’s heritage as the heart of South Korea’s steel industry.

3. Andong

Hahoe Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a famous Korean folk village known for its Ryu clan inhabitants and cultural treasures, including the renowned Hahoe Masks. Photo Credit: Korea Tourism Organization

As the provincial capital of Gyeongbuk, Andong’s claim to fame is its legacy as a centre of folk traditions, particularly the Andong Hahoe Folk Village — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and the Andong Hahoe mask dance. Andong was also vital in propagating Confucianism during the Joseon era; two Confucian academies, Dosan Seowon and Byeongsan Seowon, are part of a serial UNESCO World Heritage property.

Modern touch: Foodies will get to try several unique local dishes which reflect the Andong region’s mountainous terrain.

4. Mungyeong

Mungyeongsaejae Open Set has served as the backdrop for renowned productions, showcasing replica houses and structures that transport visitors to the past. Photo Credit: Korea Tourism Organization

Mungyeong is an under-the-radar destination ideal for those who seek “insider” knowledge of South Korea. The Mungyeong Saejae, a mountain pass and gateway on the old road from Seoul to Busan, remains unchanged from its Joseon Dynasty state; nearby is an open film set where historical dramas are filmed. The city is also renowned for its ceramics and is home to the annual Mungyeong Traditional Tea Bowl Festival.

Modern touch: Mungyeong is a nature lover’s paradise, with ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and even paragliding. Be sure to stock up on popular juices, tea, and even liquor made from local apples and omija (five-flavour berry).

5. Daegu

The lively Daegu Chimac Festival at Duryu Park in Daegu combines the beloved Korean pairing of chicken and beer, offering performances and EDM parties. Photo Credit: Korea Tourism Organization

While it’s an independent metropolitan city today, Daegu was formerly the capital of Gyeongbuk province until the 1980s and served as a vital trade centre for the region. A stroll along the city’s Modern Cultural Alley will transport visitors through time as they explore the city’s Yangnyeongsi (Herbal Medicine Market dating back to 1658), Gyesan Catholic Church (built in 1903), and much more.

Modern touch: Don’t miss the Daegu Chimac Festival, an annual summertime festival in Duryu Park celebrating the beloved combination of seasoned fried chicken and beer complete with live music stages and playgrounds.