Agoda Unveils Seoul, Jeju, and Busan as South Korea’s Popular Romantic Destinations for Valentine’s Day 2025

Published on February 12, 2025

With Valentine’s Day 2025 falling on a Friday, couples across South Korea are seizing the perfect opportunity for a romantic weekend getaway. Digital travel platform Agoda has unveiled its list of the top five most romantic domestic destinations, offering couples an array of dreamy experiences, from city staycations to tranquil coastal retreats.

As per Agoda’s latest travel insights, there has been a 54% surge in accommodation searches for Valentine’s Day getaways, highlighting the increasing trend of short, romantic escapes within South Korea. Whether it’s a stroll by the Han River in Seoul, a sunset moment on Jeju’s scenic beaches, or a coastal retreat in Busan, South Korea offers plenty of choices for couples looking to celebrate love.

The Five Most Romantic Destinations in South Korea

1. Seoul: The Perfect Urban Love Escape
South Korea’s vibrant capital is the top choice for couples looking for a romantic mix of modern city life and historic charm. The Han River’s riverside paths, Namsan Tower’s breathtaking night views, and the city’s endless selection of cafés and fine dining spots make it the ultimate date destination. From exploring traditional hanok villages to enjoying a bike ride along the river, Seoul offers something for every type of couple.

2. Jeju: A Natural Paradise for Romance
For those looking to escape the hustle of city life, Jeju Island is an idyllic haven of love. With its majestic Hallasan Mountain, dramatic coastlines, and stunning sunsets, Jeju is a dreamy setting for couples. Romantic experiences include walking hand in hand on pristine beaches, hiking scenic trails, or watching the sunset from Jeju’s famous oreums (volcanic cones).

3. Busan: Coastal Romance with Stunning Views
The vibrant coastal city of Busan is another top choice for couples seeking a mix of urban energy and ocean serenity. Haeundae Beach’s golden sands, Gwangandaegyo Bridge’s dazzling night views, and romantic seaside cafés create the perfect atmosphere for love. Whether enjoying a seaside dinner or watching waves crash against the cliffs of Taejongdae, Busan offers countless magical moments.

4. Incheon: A Unique Blend of Culture and Romance
Incheon’s hidden charms make it an underrated romantic escape. Couples can enjoy a charming stroll through Chinatown, explore the serene beauty of Songdo Central Park, or take a scenic drive along Wolmido’s coastal roads. The combination of modern waterfronts, cultural heritage, and seaside tranquility makes Incheon a perfect setting for a romantic retreat.

5. Gangneung: Sunrise, Coffee, and Seaside Love
For a more tranquil and scenic getaway, Gangneung is the ideal choice. Famous for its beautiful beaches and thriving coffee culture, this city provides a laid-back yet romantic escape. Watching the sunrise over the East Sea, exploring Gangneung’s Coffee Street, and enjoying long walks along the coastline make it a paradise for couples who love nature and relaxation.

How This Impacts South Korea’s Travel Industry

The rise in domestic travel for romantic occasions showcases a growing trend in South Korea’s tourism market. With an increasing number of couples choosing weekend getaways over elaborate international trips, destinations are focusing on curating experiences tailored to romantic travelers.

• Luxury hotels and boutique stays are seeing increased demand for Valentine’s Day packages, including private dining experiences, spa retreats, and customized room decorations.
• Coastal and nature-based destinations like Jeju and Gangneung are benefitting from the rise in eco-conscious and wellness-focused travel trends.
• City staycations in Seoul, Busan, and Incheon highlight the popularity of convenient, experience-driven short trips over traditional long vacations.

Agoda’s Role in Making Valentine’s Day Special

As a leading digital travel platform, Agoda provides travelers with over 5 million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities, making it easier for couples to plan seamless and unforgettable Valentine’s getaways. With exclusive Valentine’s Day deals available on Agoda’s mobile app, travelers can book romantic accommodations and experiences at the best prices.

Lee Joonhwan, Country Director for Agoda South Korea, emphasized that Agoda’s extensive range of accommodations and activities across South Korea’s most romantic destinations ensures that every couple can find the perfect experience to celebrate their love.

The Future of Romantic Travel in South Korea

With domestic travel booming, South Korea is set to see further growth in romantic tourism experiences, including:

• Tailored romantic travel packages, featuring exclusive stays, candlelit dinners, and personalized services.
• Increased demand for scenic coastal escapes, driving growth in Jeju, Busan, and Gangneung’s hospitality sector.
• A shift towards experiential luxury, where couples seek more than just accommodation—they want unique, memory-filled journeys.

With South Korea’s diverse and breathtaking landscapes, Valentine’s Day in 2025 is shaping up to be a memorable experience for lovebirds across the country.