Daejeon

Daejeon, South Korea’s Silicon Valley, is a popular travel destination in its own right. The city’s developed a reputation as a high-tech HQ, as over 230 research institutes make their home within Daedeok Innopolis on Daejeon’s industrial outskirts, including the Korea Research Aerospace Institute, the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, and many government agencies. A must-see is the National Science Museum and Expo Park, which offers sweeping views of Daedeok Techno Valley from the top of the needle-like Hanbat Tower.

Daejeon also offers plenty of things to do for travellers without a scientific bent. You can cycle along the trails of Mount Gyejoksan, unwind in the rejuvenating waters of Yuseong Spa, tour the temples of Sikjangsan Mountain Forest, and soak up the autumnal colours on Mount Gubongsan. Situated between Seoul and Busan, Daejeon is more than just a way station for travellers on the KTX high-speed rail.