7 Best Lakes In South Korea

lakes in south korea
Pallavi
Pallavi 
Published
| 4 min read

South Korea is a popular destination that attracts tourists wanting to experience the rich culture, visionary technology, and innovative beauty products. Plus, the Korean peninsula also includes impressive natural attractions such as national parks, walking trails, and lakes. Due to the natural lay of the land, South Korea has constructed several man-made lakes such as Paldang along her rivers. Meanwhile, Beopjusa Temple Lake is a natural lake located within Songnisan National Park and is perfect for those looking for a cultural as well as a natural attraction in one trip.

A visit to any of these scenic lakes will allow tourists to leave the major cities behind and experience a different side of South Korea. Plan day trips or an overnight visit near the lakes and partake in activities such as boating and fishing. For an off-beat holiday experience, continue scrolling to learn about the best lakes in South Korea.

1. Jinyang Lake; Tongchuan

Jin Yang lake viewpoint
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Kang Byeong Kee used under CC BY 3.0

This is a man-made reservoir lake built at the confluence of Gyeonghogang and Deokcheongang Rivers. Visitors can drive, take a bus, or a train to reach the lake from Seoul. It is recommended that visitors stay overnight so that they can witness both a sunset and a sunrise at the lake. There is also a zoo, a dense cypress forest, and parks near the lake, making the attraction perfect for a getaway. However, if you are not feeling up to exploring, the lake viewpoint is another stellar option.

The 482-m (1581.36-ft) Worasan Mountain, around two-and-a-half hours away from the lake via car, is a popular hiking route for families. The reward is panoramic views across the area.

Jinyang Lake

Address: Yaozhou District of Tongchuan, South Gyeongsang Province

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2. Tangeum Lake; Chungju-si

Korea Chungju Rowing 15 (9610265231)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Republic of Korea used under CC BY-SA 2.0

This scenic man-made lake has played host to several premier rowing competitions and is often described as an ‘ideal rowing lake.’ Tourists can also visit the lakeside Chungju Jungangtap Park, which includes the seven-story Jungang Pagoda and sculpture pieces from renowned South Korean artists. It also has a lakeside walking track that is well-lit at night, allowing visitors to experience the lake at various times during their stay.

This popular tourist attraction is a wonderous site even during the winter months when the area surrounding the lake is under a cover of snow.

Tangeum Lake

Address: Tapjeongan-gil, Jungangtap-myeon, Chungju, Chungcheongbuk-do 27447 South Korea

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3. Cheongpyeong Lake; Gapyeong-gun

Chungpyeong lake on August 4th, 2018
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Choi2451 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

This artificial lake is located on the Bukhangang River and is framed by the majestic Homyeong Mountain. Those looking for a sustainable holiday experience here can pick from several hiking trails from where they are guaranteed spectacular views of Cheongpyeong Lake and the surrounding areas.

Since there are 30 boating areas available around the lake, it is a popular spot for water skiing and other water-based activities. Visitors who are not confident in their skills can book a lesson. Watercraft rentals are also available for some variety. Prefer something more relaxing? Over the years, the lake has also become a popular fishing area, as young fish are often released here. What’s more, if you feel like staying here for a bit, Cheongpyeong Lake area is a popular vacation spot with numerous holiday accommodations that can also be rented.

Cheongpyeong Lake

Address: Hoegog-ri, Seorak-myeon, Gapyeong-gun

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4. Suseong Lake; Daegu

Suseong Lake Trail on April 7th, 2017
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Choi2451 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

This is a beautiful man-made lake in Daegu that is surrounded by lush greenery and is one of the biggest draws to the city. The lake includes South Korea’s largest musical fountain where visitors can witness two nightly shows from May to October. A restoration project in 2013 helped transform Suseong Lake into an eco-friendly recreational area. Since then, the lakeside park has become quite popular with families.

The lake also hosts the annual Suseong Lake Festival on the last weekend of September, which is one of the biggest events in Daegu.

Suseong Lake

Address: Dusan-dong, Suseong-gu, Daegu, South Korea

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5. Paldang Lake; Gyeonggi-do

Paldang Dam and Lake Paldang
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Apeopleswiki used under CC BY-SA 4.0

This is the largest dam lake in South Korea and lies between Toechon-myeon and Namjong-myeon townships near Seoul. Paldang Lake is a top day-trip attraction near the Korean capital. While visiting the lake, tourists should also plan a stop at Paldang Observation Platform for some picturesque views of the lake.

Visitors can walk or enjoy a scenic drive along Paldang Lake. If you’re looking for more places to explore nearby, Dasan Ecological Park is a popular attraction when visiting the lake. It includes a hiking trail and Dasan Heritage Site. Several other smaller parks also line the lake.

Paldang Lake

Address: Namjong-myeon, Gwangju-si, Gyeonggi-do

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6. Bomun Lake; Gyeongju-si

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

The fantastic Bomun Lake is at the center of Bomun Tourist Complex, which includes a bird park, land and water-based activities, and an amusement park. The complex was built to promote tourism and includes several luxury hotels and condos. To do complete justice to the lake as well as the surrounding complex, tourists should plan an overnight stay at a lakeside accommodation.

April is one of the most popular months to visit the lake when the cherry blossom trees around Bomun Lake are in full bloom. The lake and the surrounding area are open year-round and offer a variety of thrilling and relaxing activities. These include all-terrain-vehicle rides, K-POP Museum, and walking trails, among others.

Bomun Lake

Address: South Korea, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Gyeongju-si, Bomun-ro, 446

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7. Giheung Lake; Yongin-si

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Giheung Lake is located close to Kyung Hee University in Giheung-gu. Maemisan Ecological Park borders one side of the Giheung Lake while there is a golf club on the opposite side.

The 9.2-km (5.72-mi) well-maintained loop trail is the best way to experience the lake from all its glorious angles. This trail takes approximately two hours to complete and can also be used by bikers. It is also possible to cycle the route. Since there are not many who frequent the trail, it is best to embark on this with a trail buddy.

Giheung Lake

Address: 566 Giheung-dong, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea

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Spend your holiday exploring the beautiful lakes of South Korea

South Korea is a popular destination for trendy travelers who want to be surrounded by latest fashion, beauty, and K-Pop. At the same time, the country offers a host of stunning natural attractions that should also be explored. This is an excellent guide to visiting some of the best lakes in South Korea for a remarkable stay.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Raised in Bangkok and now living in India, Pallavi loves planning and going on road trips around the country. She believes they are the best way to understand a region!

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