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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 · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 13 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 iconic sights of Seoul and spend a peaceful night in the tranquil Geumsunsa Temple
Map of Signature Seoul & Geumsunsa Temple Stay - 6 Days
Signature Seoul & Geumsunsa Temple Stay - 6 Days

Experience the highlights of South Korea's capital, including an immersive temple stay, with this six-day Seoul getaway. See the traditional changing of the guard at the palace of Gyeongbokgung, learn about more recent Korean history at the DMZ, and take in the views from atop the iconic N Seoul Tower. Spend a night with the monks at Geumsunsa Temple, then end your trip amid the city's best cafés, bathhouses, and street food markets.

Indulge in savory pork bone hot pot with traditional Korean "banchan"
Map of South Korea Culinary Adventure: Seoul, Jeonju, Gwangju, Busan & Jeju - 13 Days
South Korea Culinary Adventure: Seoul, Jeonju, Gwangju, Busan & Jeju - 13 Days

Love exploring new cultures through your taste buds? You'll explore local markets in five different cities and learn to cook plenty of traditional dishes with this 13-day foodie adventure through South Korea. Start by following tantalizing smells and sizzling sounds in Seoul's markets and alleyways before moving on to the country's culinary capital, Jeonju. Continue making your way south, exploring seaside Busan, before wrapping things up among the tangerine groves and tea fields of Jeju Island.

Explore South Korea's UNESCO-listed sites, such as Namhansanseong, during this 10-day tour
Map of South Korea's UNESCO Treasures & Temple Stay - 10 Days
South Korea's UNESCO Treasures & Temple Stay - 10 Days

Discover some of South Korea's UNESCO-listed wonders during this 10-day journey. See palaces and temples in Seoul, make your own Korean name stamp, and learn some traditional recipes before admiring ancient relics in Gongju and Buyeo. Spend a memorable night at the Beopjusa Temple in Songnisan National Park before transferring to Gyeongju, South Korea's "museum without walls." Finally, return to Seoul via a walk along the ancient fortress walls of Namhansanseong.

South Korea Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 2 Weeks in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 10 Days in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days 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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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for South Korea
Travel specialist Jessica Wang
active 24 mins ago

Jessica Wang

My philosophy is that travel is about personal reflection and growth, about meeting people of different cultures, taking in the beauty of nature, and experiencing authentic activities. Let me know...

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Travel specialist Christine Liu
active 27 mins ago

Christine Liu

I have a deep passion for exploring and traveling, as it allows me to encounter new cultures, meet new people, and witness the incredible diversity of our world. I have traveled to more than 30...

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Travel specialist Lisa Sun
active 43 mins ago

Lisa Sun

As a China English-speaking tour guide with 20 years of experience in the tourism industry, I have a deep passion for the travel profession and am dedicated to introducing China's rich culture and...

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Trip Reviews for South Korea

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Amazing memories made in Japan and S. Korea
South Korea | Jun 18 - Jul 1, 2025

Christina
Christina K.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Jul 09, 2025
We really enjoyed the tours provided by our local guides in Japan. Our first guide Nick came very well prepared to provide current and historical information on the sites we visited which included the Meiji Jingu Shrine, and the Sensoji Temple. At lunch time, he navigated the crowded Tsukiji Outer Fish Market to lead us to a restaurant with delicious sushi: Sushizanmai Honten. Zumi was our guide in Osaka who took us to see the impressive Umeda Sky Building along with the Osaka Castle. The... Read more

We really enjoyed the tours provided by our local guides in Japan. Our first guide Nick came very well prepared to provide current and historical information on the sites we visited which included the Meiji Jingu Shrine, and the Sensoji Temple. At lunch time, he navigated the crowded Tsukiji Outer Fish Market to lead us to a restaurant with delicious sushi: Sushizanmai Honten.

Zumi was our guide in Osaka who took us to see the impressive Umeda Sky Building along with the Osaka Castle. The day ended with a visit to Nara Park. Zumi was very kind and easygoing; our family connected with him over our shared love of baseball. Both guides were considerate of the high temperature and humidity and provided breaks to rest and hydrate which we really appreciated.

Clover, our guide in Jeju, was a joy. Among many of the sites, she took us to see Jeju's beautiful beaches on differing sides of the island: Woljeongri Beach and Hyeopjae Beach. Throughout both tour days, she displayed thoughtfulness and consideration of everyone in our family such as helping my elderly mother navigate Dongmun Traditional Market and carrying all of her purchases. She even helped by providing tips for our self guided day on Udo Island.

This kindness and consideration were further extended by Jones, our guide in Seoul. My husband and I had visited Gyeongbokgung Palace before but we learned so much more about its history and architectural symbolism from Jones. We mentioned our impromptu interest in visiting a bookstore in Seoul and Jones gladly accommodated our wish; while at the bookstore he helped our family find the topics of books we were searching for.

Though it was our first time meeting each of our guides, upon arriving in Japan and Korea, we felt like we had friends waiting for us to show us hospitality. Our family left Japan and Korea with so many amazing memories thanks to our guides.

Hotel Review
Jeju Sun Hotel and Casino

Please note that I provided the following review on TripAdvisor as well: My family and I enjoyed a five night stay at Jeju Sun Hotel and Casino and loved our experience there. The staff were so warm and welcoming each time we arrived back at the hotel from an excursion. Special shout out to Ahn Tae Young who went out of his way to help our family find a delicious naengmyeon (cold noodle) restaurant! The location of the hotel is conveniently located to bustling shops and restaurants all within walking distance. There is nearby bank where you can convert your currency. There was even a nearby park that held a free concert featuring young Korean artists on a Friday night. The hotel boasts a beautiful, bright and open lobby area which lifts your spirits after a long day of sightseeing. If you view other nearby hotel lobbies on the same street, they are rather bleak and bare. There’s really no comparison to Jeju Sun’s lobby and reception area. To the right of the lobby, you will find the Garden Buffet which served the most delicious breakfast buffet offering both Western style breakfast (eggs, sausage, bacon) and Korean cuisine. The freshness, quality and presentation of the food shows how much effort the chefs and staff put into the food. There was a green fruit compete dressing that I couldn’t get enough of; I wish I could get the recipe to make at home. Our room consisted of a spacious two bedroom, two bathroom suite that fit five people. After five days in cramped hotel rooms in Tokyo and Osaka, our room at Jeju Sun provided room to breathe. It was clean and comfortable and great for spending time together. One recommendation I would make is for the hotel to offer beach towels for guests who plan to visit Jeju’s beautiful beaches. I saw that most other Asian tourists spent the day at the beach dressed up to take pictures. We came to Jeju to actually swim in its lovely waters.

Authenticity & Character
Bright and inviting lobby area, decor, fixtures.
Location
Nearby shops and restaurants within walking distance.
Staff
One staff member went out of his way to make sure we found a delicious cold noodle restaurant.
Cleanliness & Comfort
I appreciate how clean the bathrooms were on a daily basis.
Activity Reviews
Explore Seoul Highlights
Explore Seoul Highlights
Seoul

We really appreciate the tour of Kwangjang market. While we're not hungry to eat because of lunch, high temperatures and upcoming dinner, we enjoyed seeing all of the delicious street food options. We have this market bookmarked to re-visit on our next trip to Korea.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Jones broke up the market into separate sections (seafood, pancake area, textiles).
Transport
Osaka-Nara day trip with Osaka Castle
Osaka-Nara day trip with Osaka Castle
Osaka

We loved Nara deer park. We fell asleep on the way to Nara and when we arrived, we were surprised to see so many deer frolocking about. The Todaiji Temple was set in a beautiful and serene setting. And having Zumi guiding us along the way was a treat!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Horseback Riding and Kayaking Experience
Half Day Horseback Riding and Kayaking Experience
Jeju Island

Our itinerary was adjusted so that horseback riding and kayaking were split into two separate days but I would say these were my favorite activities. The first day we rode horses in light rainfall crossing the street to reach a UNESCO site - a beach that had the most stunning views. The rain, the clacking of the horses as they walked, and the views made it a special experience. Kayaking was great exercise! It was fun to be out on the water with your family. I enjoyed the clear kayak where you should fish swimming beneath you!

Quality of Experience
Stunning views of the landscape near the horseback riding business are priceless!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Staff at the horseback riding business were considerate; they offered to take family photos while on horses.
Transport
Comfortable, clean air-conditioned van. Clover brought us water to ensure we were all hydrated.
Local specialist: Jessica Wang
Jessica
Jessica Wang
Local specialist in South Korea | Replied on Jul 12, 2025

Hi Christina and family,

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled to hear that our team was able to provide you with a mostly smooth experience. It’s especially heartening to know that all your local guides made such a positive impact on your trip. Their ability to accommodate your family’s needs and offer flexible solutions truly highlights the care we aim to provide.

We also greatly appreciate your feedback about the hotels. Your insights are incredibly valuable to us, and we hope to welcome you back for your next adventure in the future!

Best wishes always.
Jessica

We had a wonderful time in South Korea. Our g...
South Korea | Apr 17 - Apr 30, 2025

E
Eva W.
Portland, OR | Reviewed on May 11, 2025
We had a wonderful time in South Korea. Our guides Sophia, Luke and Clover were great. Read more

We had a wonderful time in South Korea. Our guides Sophia, Luke and Clover were great.

Hotel Reviews
Shilla Stay Jeju

Great location. Nice breakfast and room.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lavalse Hotel
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Pension Gyeongju Hanokstay Darak 경주 한옥스테이 다락

Great location. Cozy room.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lotte City Hotel Myeongdong
Seoul

Nice location and great breakfast.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Very close to restaurants and shopping.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Full Day Mt. Hallasan, Tea Plantation and Spirited Garden Tour
Full Day Mt. Hallasan, Tea Plantation and Spirited Garden Tour
Jeju Island
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Women Diver Museum, Sunrise Peak, and Seongeup Village Tour
Full Day Women Diver Museum, Sunrise Peak, and Seongeup Village Tour
Jeju Island
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Gamcheon Cultural Village, Songdo Sky Walk and Jagalchi Fishery Market Tour
Gamcheon Cultural Village, Songdo Sky Walk and Jagalchi Fishery Market Tour
Busan
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Haedong Yonggungsa, Haewundae Beach and Traditional Market Tour
Full Day Haedong Yonggungsa, Haewundae Beach and Traditional Market Tour
Busan
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Bulguksa and Seokguram Grotto Tour
Half Day Bulguksa and Seokguram Grotto Tour
Gyeongju
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Gyeongju National Museum and Tumuli Park Tour with Night View
Half Day Gyeongju National Museum and Tumuli Park Tour with Night View
Gyeongju
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Korean Full-Course Meal Cooking Class at Local Home with Local Market Experience
Korean Full-Course Meal Cooking Class at Local Home with Local Market Experience
Seoul
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Spring Colors: Garden of Morning Calm and Nami Island
Spring Colors: Garden of Morning Calm and Nami Island
Seoul
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Gyeongbokgung Hanbok Dressing & Namsan Tower
Full Day Gyeongbokgung Hanbok Dressing & Namsan Tower
Seoul
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Korean DMZ and Hongdae Shopping Street Tour
Full Day Korean DMZ and Hongdae Shopping Street Tour
Seoul
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Christine Liu
Christine
Christine Liu
Local specialist in Seoul and Japan | Replied on May 14, 2025

Hi Eva,

I'm absolutely delighted to hear how much you enjoyed your trip to Japan—truly, your happiness brings me even greater joy!
Thank you so much for your kind words and for recognizing the efforts of both myself and our driver/guide team. It was our pleasure and privilege to be part of your journey.

I sincerely hope our paths cross again in the future—it would be a true pleasure to welcome you back for another unforgettable experience.

Wishing you all the very best, always.
Warmest regards,
Christine

Seoul Sweet Second Time Around
South Korea | Apr 1 - Apr 7, 2025

Bernadine
Bernadine D.
Cooper City, FL | Reviewed on Apr 14, 2025
This was my second trip to Seoul and second time working with Jessica…and both of exceeded my expectations. The only part I would advise to pass is on the DMZ experience which was underwhelming. Head to the Gamaksan suspension bridge and unification park, grad Korean BBQ in Pagu, then head back to Seoul. Read more

This was my second trip to Seoul and second time working with Jessica…and both of exceeded my expectations. The only part I would advise to pass is on the DMZ experience which was underwhelming. Head to the Gamaksan suspension bridge and unification park, grad Korean BBQ in Pagu, then head back to Seoul.

Hotel Review
JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Full Day Korean DMZ and Hongdae Shopping Street Tour
Full Day Korean DMZ and Hongdae Shopping Street Tour
Seoul

Avoid the full tour and enjoy the suspension bridge and Pagu instead.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Jessica Wang
Jessica
Jessica Wang
Local specialist in South Korea | Replied on Apr 14, 2025

Dear Bernadine,

Hope you are doing fantastic.Thank you so much for your wonderful review.

It was truly a pleasure to work with you on your two trips to South Korea, and your feedback is very helpful for our future guests. It’s always our goal to create unforgettable experiences, and your feedback makes everything worthwhile.

We look forward to helping you plan your next adventure with Kimkim.
Wishing you all the best and warmest regards from South Korea.
All the best
Jessica

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