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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.

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.

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 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 5 hours 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 4 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 3 hours 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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Related Destinations

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Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan

Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

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Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.

100% satisfaction guarantee
Kimkim offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are not fully satisfied with us, we’ll work with you to make it right.
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A portion of every kimkim trip goes toward the removal of carbon from the atmosphere. Learn more
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Kimkim is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating.

Seller of Travel Registration number: CST #2136279-40.
Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.

Trip Reviews for South Korea

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

When your trip is different from the standard.
South Korea | Oct 17 - Nov 13, 2024

Kate
Kate S.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Dec 15, 2024
Overall, I had a great trip. My planning was definitely a little different. As I was going to visit my cousin, plus break up my trip with popping over to Thailand for 15 days, when I first put together an idea, Kimkim said that they wouldn't be able to do it. After I contacted customer service, they quickly explained to me that they were more than happy to accommodate what I was wanting for my Korea trip. I did have a problem arise while planning and when I contacted customer service again,... Read more

Overall, I had a great trip. My planning was definitely a little different. As I was going to visit my cousin, plus break up my trip with popping over to Thailand for 15 days, when I first put together an idea, Kimkim said that they wouldn't be able to do it. After I contacted customer service, they quickly explained to me that they were more than happy to accommodate what I was wanting for my Korea trip. I did have a problem arise while planning and when I contacted customer service again, they promptly called me and told me that they would get my agent to contact me so we could get my issue resolved.

Most of my trip was self-guided, but when I went to Gyeongju, I did have a guide. William was an excellent guide and I greatly enjoyed touring with him for the few days. He was able to take me to all of the sites I was wanting to visit in and around Gyeongju. Plus he had the best recommendations for lunch spots. If one is able to get William as a tour guide, one will definitely have a great experience with a very competent guide.

Part of my trip, I researched 2 places I wanted to go: Gyeongju and Jeonju. While researching the cities, I saw the recommendations to stay at 2 different hanoks. When I was putting together my trip, I requested to stay in those hanoks and Kimkim was able to make the reservations. I definitely recommend staying at Siwoowadang. The hanok was situated within walking distance to multiple areas and the hanok village. The restaurants around Siwoowadang were fabulous and my breakfast every morning was delicious. The couple that ran the hanok were amazing hosts and I had all the comforts I needed. When in Jeonju, I definitely recommend staying at Samlockhon as it is in the heart of the hanok village and the host is quick to give you the best restaurant and cafe recommendations. Jeonju was definitely one of my favorite places to visit.

My trip planner did plan my KTX tickets at a perfect time leaving me with a perfect amount of time visit each city. I am so glad that I was able to plan my trip with Kimkim and I will use them for my next vacation planning.

Hotel Reviews
NINE TREE PREMIER HOTEL MYEONGDONG II
Seoul

Met all of my basic needs. The staff was very nice and able to help me out when problems arose. The room satisfied all of my needs. I thought the location was good for places I wanted to visit in Myeongdong.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Siwoowadang
Gyeongju

I cannot recommend this cute hanok enough while visiting Gyeongju. The couple that runs it where very accommodating and made the stay very comfortable. And breakfast every morning was delicious.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Within a decent walking distance to historical places and lots of restaurants to go to that were delicious.
Staff
The couple was so nice and very helpful. They may not have an extensive English vocabulary, but the fact they tried, or used Papago, made interacting with them a pleasant experience.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Samlockhon
jeonju

Samlockhon was a perfect hanok to visit while staying in the heart of the hanok village.

Authenticity & Character
Being able to sleep the traditional way with the heated floors made the character that much more special.
Location
Along the two main streets that make up the hanok village, Samlockhon placed you in the heart allowing for the beauty of Jeonju to shine.
Staff
My host was great at giving the best restaurant and cafe recommendations for delicious food.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Jessica Wang

Unforgettable Beauty and Kpop trip to Seoul
South Korea | Nov 24 - Dec 1, 2024

Maribel
Maribel U.
Redmond, WA | Reviewed on Dec 06, 2024
This was an amazing trip and we had a great time!
The tour with Jones the first 2 days was perfect. Jones did such an amazing job and he always went above and beyond to make sure we had a great time and be safe at all times. We truly missed him the rest of the trip. He’s a great driver and a great guide too.
K-pop class was great.
Color Analysis was great too.
Rides from and to airport were also great. MrNam has such a nice limo van with reclining seats, the most comfortable...
Read more

This was an amazing trip and we had a great time!
The tour with Jones the first 2 days was perfect. Jones did such an amazing job and he always went above and beyond to make sure we had a great time and be safe at all times. We truly missed him the rest of the trip. He’s a great driver and a great guide too.
K-pop class was great.
Color Analysis was great too.
Rides from and to airport were also great. MrNam has such a nice limo van with reclining seats, the most comfortable ride.
Alicia, our driver, was great too. She drove us the day of the snow storm. She was well prepared and she was a great driver even with the snow conditions.
Hotel was good. Nothing too fancy, but a great location. Staying in Myeongdong was a great decision. I think we went to the shops and market daily.

Thanks again for making this an unforgettable trip.

Hotel Review
Lotte City Hotel Myeongdong
Seoul

Great location. Good breakfast buffet with a great variety of Korean and non-Korean food.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Sightseeing in Seoul: Gyeongbokgung Palace and Jogyesa Temple
Sightseeing in Seoul: Gyeongbokgung Palace and Jogyesa Temple
Seoul

Jones was the best driver and tour we could have ever had.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Christine Liu
Christine
Christine Liu
Local specialist in Seoul and China | Replied on Dec 12, 2024
Dear Maribel, Hope you are doing great.Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback. We're thrilled to hear that you had an amazing trip and enjoyed your time with us. It’s fantastic to know that Jones made such a positive impact during the first two days. We take pride in our guides, and it’s great to hear that he went above and beyond for your safety and enjoyment. We’ll be sure to pass on your kind words to him. We're glad you enjoyed the K-pop class and Color Analysis sessions. ... Read more

Dear Maribel,

Hope you are doing great.Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback. We're thrilled to hear that you had an amazing trip and enjoyed your time with us.

It’s fantastic to know that Jones made such a positive impact during the first two days. We take pride in our guides, and it’s great to hear that he went above and beyond for your safety and enjoyment. We’ll be sure to pass on your kind words to him.

We're glad you enjoyed the K-pop class and Color Analysis sessions. It’s always nice to hear that our activities resonate well with our travelers.

We're happy to know Alicia handled the snowstorm like a pro. Safety is our priority, and it’s great to hear she was prepared.

Myeongdong is indeed a fantastic location for shopping and exploring, and we’re glad you took full advantage of it. Thank you once again for choosing us for your trip. We hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable experience in the future.

Best regards,
Christine

A Bespoke Asian Adventure
South Korea | Nov 2 - Nov 17, 2024

W
William R.
Corona, NY | Reviewed on Nov 23, 2024
This was my second time planning a trip with KimKim, and it easily matched the stellar experience I had the first time. Christine truly did listen to my individual preferences in planning a trip to South Korea and Beijing that felt very bespoke in the end. I personally find 5-star hotels very isolating but adore private tours, which is probably an odd combination. Nevertheless, Christine listened and accommodated my wishes. She was also the first to suggest China as a secondary... Read more

This was my second time planning a trip with KimKim, and it easily matched the stellar experience I had the first time. Christine truly did listen to my individual preferences in planning a trip to South Korea and Beijing that felt very bespoke in the end.

I personally find 5-star hotels very isolating but adore private tours, which is probably an odd combination. Nevertheless, Christine listened and accommodated my wishes. She was also the first to suggest China as a secondary destination. It was a segment that turned out to be the highlight of the trip - although everything was pretty much perfect from beginning to end.

What I failed to fully appreciate my first time with KimKim was how comforting and luxurious it is to have someone checking in on a routine basis as the tour progresses. As a solo traveler, it’s nice to know someone is there looking over my shoulder in case I run into trouble.

During this trip, I did encounter a couple of minor hiccups involving daily tours. I was able to reach out to Christine both times, and she quickly resolved the situations, leaving me free to enjoy myself. If I’d planned everything myself, I would have had to set aside a portion of my vacation to make alternate arrangements on the fly while in unfamiliar lands.

I’m sure this is only the start of a long relationship with KimKim, and I can’t wait to begin scoping out other destinations.

Hotel Review
Imperial Palace Botique hotel itaewo

The Imperial Palace Boutique Hotel Itaewon was fine. It's not luxurious, but I don't seek that when I travel. It had character and was a decent place to stay. Plus, it was in a great location.

Activity Reviews
MBC DRAMA STUDIO One Day Tour from Seoul
MBC DRAMA STUDIO One Day Tour from Seoul
Seoul

The MBC Drama Studio One Day Tour was a pleasant surprise and ended up being much more interesting than expected. Initially, it was a substitution for a K-pop tour, which got canceled, but I found it fascinating to see the depth of production they manage. Even though it turned out to be a large group tour, contrary to what was scheduled, it was still enjoyable.

 Small Group Korean DMZ Tour
Small Group Korean DMZ Tour
Seoul

The Small Group Korean DMZ Tour was disappointing due to the size of the group. It was larger than what I consider a small group, and it ended up with guides spending too much time tracking people down rather than providing in-depth information.

Local specialist: Christine Liu
Christine
Christine Liu
Local specialist in Seoul and China | Replied on Nov 28, 2024
Dear William, Thank you so much for your wonderful review. We're thrilled to hear that your second experience with KimKim was just as stellar as the first. It's so happy to know that I was able to craft a bespoke trip to South Korea and Beijing that suited your unique preferences. We're particularly pleased that you found comfort in having someone check in on your trip and we're glad we could provide that reassurance. We’re excited to be part of your travel journey and can’t wait to help... Read more

Dear William,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review. We're thrilled to hear that your second experience with KimKim was just as stellar as the first. It's so happy to know that I was able to craft a bespoke trip to South Korea and Beijing that suited your unique preferences.

We're particularly pleased that you found comfort in having someone check in on your trip and we're glad we could provide that reassurance.

We’re excited to be part of your travel journey and can’t wait to help you explore more destinations in the future. Safe travels, and we look forward to planning your next adventure.

All the best,
Christine