Hidden Gems of Korea: Buyeo’s Hot Air Balloon Adventure Over Ancient Baekje
When travelers search for unique places to visit in South Korea, most of them end up following the same well-trodden paths: the neon streets of Seoul, the volcanic beaches of Jeju Island, or the vibrant seafood markets of Busan.
But what if I told you there’s a place just two hours from Seoul where you can drift above an ancient kingdom, float over tranquil rivers, and witness sunsets that even many Koreans have never seen?
Welcome to Buyeo, the hidden capital of Korea’s Baekje Kingdom, and my home as a local hot air balloon pilot.
I’ve been flying over Buyeo for years, yet every sunrise and sunset still move me deeply.
Buyeo is more than just a destination.
It’s a place where Korea’s ancient history, untouched nature, and authentic local experiences come together in the sky.
Why Buyeo is Korea’s Hidden Gem (Even Koreans Don’t Know)
Buyeo, once the flourishing capital of the Baekje Kingdom, quietly rests along the Geumgang River in Chungcheongnam-do.
While most guidebooks skip over it, this small, charming town holds treasures that offer a glimpse into Korea’s ancient soul.
For travelers searching for interesting places in Korea that locals actually visit, Buyeo reveals:
- Peaceful walks along the Geumgang River, especially during sunrise
- Baekje Historic Areas, recognized by UNESCO, whispering tales of ancient royalty
- Gungnamji Pond, Korea’s oldest manmade pond, reflecting the sunset in gold and pink hues
- The iconic Busosanseong Fortress, standing guard over the riverside cliffs
And perhaps most uniquely, Buyeo offers Korea’s only commercial hot air balloon ride over a UNESCO heritage site, an experience you can’t find anywhere else in the country.
https://www.google.com/maps/place/백마강레저파크/@36.264183,126.912607,17z
My Sky: What It’s Like to Fly Over Korea’s Lost Kingdom
As a pilot at Baekmagang Leisure Park, I get to introduce visitors to a side of Korea few have seen – from the sky.
The experience is not about adrenaline.
It’s about peaceful moments suspended between the earth and sky, feeling the heartbeat of an ancient kingdom beneath your feet.
During spring, the rice fields surrounding Buyeo burst into vibrant greens, and the river sparkles under the clear blue sky.
Autumn paints the entire valley in fiery reds and golds, turning our sunrise flights into a breathtaking canvas of colors.
Even winter has its charm, with misty mornings that make Buyeo look like an ancient kingdom wrapped in mystery.
✨ Pilot’s Tip:
For the most unforgettable flight, try to book during the Baekje Cultural Festival in fall.
The town lights up with lanterns, traditional performances, and the skies become even more magical.
How to Get to Buyeo and Join a Hot Air Balloon Flight
🚍 From Seoul:
Express buses from Seoul Express Bus Terminal reach Buyeo Terminal in about 2 hours.
🚗 By car:
A scenic 2-hour drive along the Seohaean Expressway, offering views of Korea’s countryside.
Once in Buyeo, visit Baekmagang Leisure Park, located near the riverside, where we operate flights daily (weather permitting).
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends and during festivals.
Beyond the Balloon: Explore Buyeo Like a Local
Buyeo isn’t just about the balloon.
After your flight, I always recommend visitors explore the local gems that make Buyeo truly special:
- Enjoy a slow walk through Buyeo Traditional Market, tasting Baekje-style grilled fish or sweet rice pancakes.
- Visit the Baekje Cultural Land, a life-sized reconstruction of the ancient Baekje city.
- Sip tea at one of the cozy riverside cafes, where you can watch the sunset over the Geumgang.
- If you have time, explore nearby Jeongnimsa Temple Site, where history and spirituality blend into a quiet space.
For those who want to experience Korea’s slow travel culture, Buyeo offers the perfect escape from the fast-paced streets of Seoul.
Why Buyeo Deserves to Be on Every Korea Travel Blog
Over the years, I’ve had the joy of meeting travelers from the US, Canada, Australia, and Europe who told me:
“I had no idea Korea had this kind of place.”
And they are right.
That’s exactly why Buyeo deserves a place in every Korea travel blog, not just as a historical site but as one of the most unique experiences in Korea.
It’s where you can float above history, walk alongside locals in peaceful markets, and feel the soft, forgotten side of Korea that rarely makes it to Instagram feeds.
Final Words from a Korean Pilot
As a Korean, it’s my privilege to help people see my country from a new perspective.
Buyeo is more than my workplace – it’s my home, my sky, and the place where history, culture, and nature meet in perfect harmony.
So next time you search for South Korea places to visit, think beyond Seoul’s skyscrapers and Jeju’s beaches.
Come fly with me over Buyeo, and I promise you’ll discover Korea’s most beautiful, untouched face.
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How to Get to Buyeo – Your Peaceful Escape from Seoul
Getting to Buyeo is easier than most people think.
Whether you’re coming from Seoul, Busan, or even Incheon Airport, Buyeo is well connected by bus and car, making it a perfect destination for a day trip or a relaxing overnight stay.
🚍 By Express Bus from Seoul
- From Seoul Express Bus Terminal (Line 3, 7, 9), take the direct bus to Buyeo Bus Terminal.
- Buses run frequently throughout the day, and the journey takes about 2 hours.
- Once you arrive at Buyeo Bus Terminal, it’s a 10-minute taxi ride or 20-minute walk to Baekmagang Leisure Park, where the hot air balloon flights take place.
🚗 By Car from Seoul
- From Seoul, take the Seohaean Expressway (Expressway No. 15) southbound.
- Exit at Seocheon IC and follow signs to Buyeo.
- The drive is about 2 hours, offering scenic countryside views along the way.
🚍 From Incheon International Airport
- Take the Airport Limousine to Seoul Express Bus Terminal.
- From there, follow the same bus route to Buyeo.
✨ Pilot’s Local Tip:
For the smoothest journey, I always recommend visitors take the early morning bus from Seoul to catch our sunrise flights and enjoy the entire day exploring Buyeo’s hidden gems.