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Introducing South Korea

South Korea captivates travelers with its unique blend of traditional and modern cultures. This vibrant peninsula nation offers a diverse range of experiences from the bustling metropolis of Seoul, with its high-tech subways and pop culture, to the tranquil Buddhist temples and historic palaces tucked away in the countryside. South Korea's landscapes are equally varied and beautiful, ranging from the volcanic Jeju Island to the stunning Seoraksan Mountain peaks, and the scenic coastal city of Busan. Visitors can immerse themselves in the country's rich history in Gyeongju, sample local cuisine in a Seoul food market, or explore the art scenes in the rustic village of Andong. All these elements combine to create an unforgettable Korean experience that appeals to adventurers, history buffs, and food lovers alike.

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 7 days · 10 days · 14 days

South Korea Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Go for a ride in a Sky Capsule tram at the Haeundae Blue Line Park in Busan
Map of Best of South Korea: Seoul,  Andong, Busan & Jeju Island - 10 Days
Best of South Korea: Seoul, Andong, Busan & Jeju Island - 10 Days

Explore South Korea's cultural highlights and natural wonders on this 10-day itinerary. The adventure begins in Seoul, where you'll explore the urban culture and street food scene. Visit the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) next before continuing to historic temples in Andong. Discover the beautiful coastline of Busan, then fly to Jeju Island to marvel at the spectacular scenery and take in views from the country's highest peak.

Discover South Korean history and culture on a cross-country tour, stopping for views at Busan's Songdo Skywalk
Map of  Best of South Korea & Japan: Seoul, Busan, Tokyo & Kyoto - 14 Days
Best of South Korea & Japan: Seoul, Busan, Tokyo & Kyoto - 14 Days

See the best of South Korea and Japan as you cross the two nations by car, plane, and train. Learn about culinary traditions at busy markets in Seoul and Busan, then explore volcanic Jeju Island's gardens and mountains. Jet off to Tokyo for Mount Fuji views and pop culture, and ride a bullet train to Kyoto for a tea ceremony and hike before indulging in street food in Osaka.

Taste the flavors of South Korea from the islands to the city
Map of South Korea Culinary Adventure: Seoul, Busan & Jeju - 7 Days
South Korea Culinary Adventure: Seoul, Busan & Jeju - 7 Days

Explore South Korea's diverse culinary traditions from cities to islands on this seven-day tour by train, car, and air, from Seoul to Busan to Udo. Learn Korean flavors and ingredients in a cooking class, and explore the vast Gyeongbokgung palace in Seoul. Board a train south to Busan and then join locals at Jagalchi Fish Market, buying seafood cooked to order. Then fly to tranquil Udo for beach time and village life to end your adventure.

Explore K-drama filming locations like the sprawling Gyeongbokgung palace
Map of South Korea K-Drama Tour of Seoul - 5 Days
South Korea K-Drama Tour of Seoul - 5 Days

Experience a taste of South Korea's "Hallyuwood" as you hit the sights of Korean drama scenes on this five-day trip. You'll tour some of Seoul's most famous locations, which feature heavily in popular South Korean movies and TV shows. Visit ancient Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Mountain, and the iconic N Seoul Tower—you'll even have the chance to ride rollercoasters at Lotte World. Head out of the city for more K-drama hotspots, from European-themed villages to the tree-lined parks of Nami Island.

Visit famous K-drama filming locations like Jeonju Hanok Village, with traditional buildings
Map of South Korea K-Drama Tour: Seoul, Jeonju, Gyeongju & Busan - 10 Days
South Korea K-Drama Tour: Seoul, Jeonju, Gyeongju & Busan - 10 Days

Immerse yourself in Korean drama on this 10-day tour of South Korea. You'll visit the country's most famous locations, featured on film, from Seoul to Jeonju, Gyeongju, and Busan. Marvel at the capital's Gyeongbokgung palace and N Seoul Tower, then discover European-themed villages and the UNESCO-listed Seokguram Grotto. More movie-worthy highlights include Jeonju's ancient hanok houses, Daerengwon Tomb Complex, and Busan's Gamcheon Cultural Village.

Damyan Bamboo Forest
Map of Discover South Korea's Western Coast Natural Wonders - 7 Days
Discover South Korea's Western Coast Natural Wonders - 7 Days

From bamboo forests to mountain summits, discover some of South Korea's natural wonders along the peninsula's western coast. Touchdown in Seoul and admire the extensive grounds of Gyeongbokgung palace before heading south to explore Taeanhaean National Park and soaring over Daecheon Beach by sky bike. After checking out the traditional houses of Jeonju Hanok Village and wandering Damyan's lush bamboo forests, you'll take in the extraordinary views of Jirisan National Park.

Make the Most of Your Time in South Korea

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Take in a pansori (genre of musical storytelling) performance of drums and singing
How Many Days to Spend in South Korea

A 10-day visit is recommended for South Korea. The small size of the country, combined with good roads, multiple domestic airports, and excellent public transportation, makes it...

South Korea Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip

Our Latest South Korea Content

See the sights of South Korea with a lovely blanket of snow during this eight-day winter tour
Map of South Korea Winter Adventure: Seoul, Jeju Island, Sokcho & Pyeongchang - 8 Days
South Korea Winter Adventure: Seoul, Jeju Island, Sokcho & Pyeongchang - 8 Days

Grab your ski gear and thermal woolies for an eight-day winter getaway to South Korea. Discover Seoul's iconic sights covered in snow and ice, then fly to scenic Jeju Island to explore a volcanic crater, frozen peaks, and green tea fields before heading to the enchanting, snow-covered pagodas and ginkgo trees of Nami Island. Hike through the stark winter beauty of Seoraksan National Park, visit a mountain-top temple, and then hit the slopes at South Korea's largest ski resort, Yongpyong.

Andong folk village view with traditional wooden thatched roof house in Andong, South Korea
Map of 1 Week in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

One week in South Korea offers enough time to immerse yourself in the country's culture, cuisine, and pristine landscapes. On a highlights tour, you can tick off all three while staying in Seoul, Andong, and Gyeongju or focus on the street food scene of Busan and Jeju Island on a culinary trip. Those looking to discover the rich art of South Korea will find Seoul the place to be, while nature enthusiasts shouldn't miss the opportunity to explore the Western Coast of the Korean Peninsula.

Take in a pansori (genre of musical storytelling) performance of drums and singing
How Many Days to Spend in South Korea

A 10-day visit is recommended for South Korea. The small size of the country, combined with good roads, multiple domestic airports, and excellent public transportation, makes it possible to travel efficiently. Ten days give you enough time for outdoor adventures on Jeju Island, coastal views and traditional markets in Busan, and historical sites and cultural activities in Andong—in addition to urban exploration and street food in Seoul.

South Korea Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 10 Days in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 2 Weeks in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 1 Week in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Trip Reviews for South Korea

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

South Korea 2024
South Korea | Mar 31 - Apr 13, 2024

Maria
Maria F.
Kernersville, NC | Reviewed on May 26, 2024
My husband and I had a terrific vacation in South Korea the first two weeks of April 2024. Throughout 2023, we worked with our Kimkim agent Jessica Wang to plan our tour. From our initial email conversations to the final execution, Jessica made sure all our requests and concerns were addressed. This was our first trip to Korea, so we were eager to take it all in. Our plan included several days in Seoul, a tour of Taekwondowon, a visit to Andong with a stay in a traditional hanok and a... Read more

My husband and I had a terrific vacation in South Korea the first two weeks of April 2024.

Throughout 2023, we worked with our Kimkim agent Jessica Wang to plan our tour. From our initial email conversations to the final execution, Jessica made sure all our requests and concerns were addressed. This was our first trip to Korea, so we were eager to take it all in. Our plan included several days in Seoul, a tour of Taekwondowon, a visit to Andong with a stay in a traditional hanok and a visit to the Hahoe Folk Museum and Folk Village. We went on from there to Golgulsa Temple for a taste of Buddist life and seongmudo martial art. Gyeongju was next with more history of the Silla Kingdom, then on down to Busan. From Seoul to Busan we traveled with "Mr. Jones," our very attentive, friendly and knowledgable driver and guide. The last stop on the trip was Jeju Isalnd. We had some bad luck with some delicious food our first night there, and unfortunately ended up too ill to go out the next day. Jessica was terrific, checking in on us several times.
After flying back to Busan, we boarded the KTX train back to Seoul, an easy 2.5 hour trip.

If you have any interest in martial arts, go to Taekwondowon! It is a beautiful campus, with indoor and outdoor training areas. The theatrical TKD demonstration was really fun, and I think we got VIP'd because after the show, we were invited on stage for a little training! Andong and Gyeongju are great small cities with tons of history going back to the Silla Kingdom. We enjoyed an impromptu tour of the Hangeul Museum in Seoul. Mr. Kim, a docent, took us under his wing and guided us through the invention and development of the Korean alphabet and language. We learned more about 20th century Korea in Busan, especially the development of Gamcheon Culture Village and also Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.

We very much appreciated all the planning and attention Jessica and her team put into our vacation. It made everything flow smoothly with no worries.

Local specialist: Jessica Wang
Jessica
Jessica Wang
Local specialist in South Korea | Replied on May 29, 2024
Dear Maria, Hope you are doing great and thank you for sharing your fantastic adventure with us.It is so pleasant to know that you and your partner had an amazing time in South Korea from exploring historical sites to immersing yourselves in martial arts at Taekwondowon.The personalized touches, like the impromptu tour of the Hangeul Museum and the attentive service of your driver and guide, Mr. Jones, surely added to the overall enjoyment of your journey. We are looking forward to your... Read more

Dear Maria,

Hope you are doing great and thank you for sharing your fantastic adventure with us.It is so pleasant to know that you and your partner had an amazing time in South Korea from exploring historical sites to immersing yourselves in martial arts at Taekwondowon.The personalized touches, like the impromptu tour of the Hangeul Museum and the attentive service of your driver and guide, Mr. Jones, surely added to the overall enjoyment of your journey. We are looking forward to your next trip to south Korea again.

Wish you and your family happy all the time.

Best regards from Asia.
Jessica

Most amazing trip in Seoul, South Korea
South Korea | Apr 8 - Apr 20, 2024

Eliza
Eliza C.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Apr 24, 2024
I had the most amazing wk tour. Originally opted for 5 days but Odynova tours and KimKim suggested 7 for a more comprehensive tour and it worked out really well. The tour guide, Ms Jang, was friendly, courteous and very informative. She was always on time and met me at my hotel each morning. I had a few reschedulings for my departure transfer but Jessica from KimKim/Odynova tours, was able to respond immediately and made the changes for me. I was very impressed by how efficient they were... Read more

I had the most amazing wk tour. Originally opted for 5 days but Odynova tours and KimKim suggested 7 for a more comprehensive tour and it worked out really well. The tour guide, Ms Jang, was friendly, courteous and very informative. She was always on time and met me at my hotel each morning. I had a few reschedulings for my departure transfer but Jessica from KimKim/Odynova tours, was able to respond immediately and made the changes for me. I was very impressed by how efficient they were on resolving curveballs in my end and all with a friendly manner and followed up after as well. I will not hesitate to book through them again and recommend them to anyone looking for a tour in Seoul. South Korea. Thank you. Jessica, KimKim, Odynovs and Ms Jang. I am bringing back memories that will last a lifetime!

Hotel Review
NINE TREE PREMIER HOTEL MYEONGDONG II
Seoul

Bed was a little too firm. Only complaint but that’s my individual preference . The rooms were clean on arrival and always kept clean. Cleaning staff were on top of it and I was very happy. Front desk was helpful, the gym was adequate and the rooftop lounge had a great view and my fav drink - toddy. Very satisfied with the hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Heart of Seoul. Within walking distance to anything.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Full Day Suwon and Yongin Tour From Seoul
Full Day Suwon and Yongin Tour From Seoul
Seoul
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Seoul Food Tour: Street Eats and Korean BBQ
Seoul Food Tour: Street Eats and Korean BBQ
Seoul
Quality of Experience
K
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Seoul Highlights & K-drama Tour
Seoul Highlights & K-drama Tour
Seoul
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Discover K-drama Locations in European Villages & Nami Island
Discover K-drama Locations in European Villages & Nami Island
Seoul
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Jessica Wang
Jessica
Jessica Wang
Local specialist in South Korea | Replied on Apr 25, 2024
Dear Eliza, Hope you have a great day.It is my great honor and pleasure to customize your tour to South Korea and try my best to do recommendation to meet your preference. I'm glad to hear you had such a fantastic tour experience with us. We are also so delighted to know that Ms. Jang made your time in Seoul even more enjoyable with her friendly and informative guidance. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with NINE TREE PREMIER HOTEL MYEONGDONG II as well. It's great to hear... Read more

Dear Eliza,

Hope you have a great day.It is my great honor and pleasure to customize your tour to South Korea and try my best to do recommendation to meet your preference. I'm glad to hear you had such a fantastic tour experience with us. We are also so delighted to know that Ms. Jang made your time in Seoul even more enjoyable with her friendly and informative guidance.

Thank you for sharing your positive experience with NINE TREE PREMIER HOTEL MYEONGDONG II as well. It's great to hear that despite the firm bed, the cleanliness, helpfulness of the staff, and amenities like the gym and rooftop lounge left you satisfied. Your recommendation speaks volumes about the quality of service provided by everyone involved. We are proud of them.

Thanks a lot again for sharing your wonderful trip with us and look forward to the next trip again.

All the best,
Jessica

Jessica planned a great experience for us and...
South Korea | Apr 8 - Apr 14, 2024

S
Steve L.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Apr 23, 2024
Jessica planned a great experience for us and was very attentive to all the details. Read more

Jessica planned a great experience for us and was very attentive to all the details.

Activity Review
Full Day Hiking in Seoraksan National Park - Biryong Falls Course
Full Day Hiking in Seoraksan National Park - Biryong Falls Course
Sokcho

The hiking and national park were stunning. The hike was not to hard but provided great scenery.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Jessica Wang
Jessica
Jessica Wang
Local specialist in South Korea | Replied on Apr 24, 2024

Dear Steve,

Greetings from Jessica and so happy to know that you have a enjoyable and amazing experience with your trip to South Korea. Seoraksan National Park is absolutely stunning and we all love it.It's great to know that the full-day hike along the Biryong Falls Course in Sokcho provided breathtaking scenery without being overly challenging.Thanks for sharing your positive feedback and we look forward to welcoming you back to this lovely country again.

Warm regards,
Jessica