Personalized trips to South Korea
for independent travelers

How it works
Chat with specialist icon Step 1
Tell us what kind of trip you want
Complete our quick travel quiz
Chat icons Step 2
Chat with a local travel specialist
Work out the details together
Credit card icon Step 3
Securely book your trip
100% satisfaction guaranteed

Travelers love kimkim

- ., traveled to in

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
View article
Map 10 Days in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 1 Week in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for South Korea
Travel specialist Jessica Wang
active 22 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...

read more...
Travel specialist Christine Liu
active 34 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...

read more...
Travel specialist Lisa Sun
active 10 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...

read more...
Travel specialist Judy Zhang
active 2 hours ago

Judy Zhang

My travel story began with a solo backpacking trip to Singapore—what started as a personal escape quickly became a lifelong passion. Since then, I’ve helped travelers discover the heart of East...

read more...

Related Destinations

Travelers who visit South Korea also visit these destinations

Trip Reviews for South Korea

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Jessica created a wonderful tour for us in Ko...
South Korea | Oct 23 - Oct 29, 2025

Kathleen
Kathleen N.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Nov 11, 2025
Jessica created a wonderful tour for us in Korea. We were met at the airport and guided throughout our stay which made this so very easy and not the least bit stressful. This was our first time having a private tour and I highly recommend it. One guide we had, Michael was especially impressive. He took us to visit historical sights, villages and the must see street food markets in Seoul. Jessica arranged our transportation on the high speed train to Busan for a few nights and that was amazing... Read more

Jessica created a wonderful tour for us in Korea. We were met at the airport and guided throughout our stay which made this so very easy and not the least bit stressful. This was our first time having a private tour and I highly recommend it. One guide we had, Michael was especially impressive. He took us to visit historical sights, villages and the must see street food markets in Seoul. Jessica arranged our transportation on the high speed train to Busan for a few nights and that was amazing as well. I would not hesitate to use Kimkim travel in the future, they truly make touring a seamless experience, well worth the cost!

Hotel Review
Avani Central Busan
Busan

Central location with amazing views of both the city and the nearby ocean. Very well stocked and comfortable room with a helpful staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Jessica Wang
Jessica
Jessica Wang
Local specialist in South Korea | Replied on Nov 12, 2025

Hi Kathleen!

Welcome back! Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback, and it truly made my day! I'm so happy to hear you had such a great time in Korea and that everything went smoothly.

It was such a joy helping plan your journey, and I’m so glad you enjoyed the experience from start to finish :)! I'll be sure to share your kind words with Michael; he'll be thrilled to hear them!!!

All the best🥰,
Jessica

a wonderful experience
South Korea | Oct 30 - Nov 5, 2025

villamondial
villamondial ….
Germany | Reviewed on Nov 07, 2025
This has been an overall very positive experience. Christine was very helpful. The interaction was great and she always was able to adjust & finetune our wishes. We changed the itinerary a few times, but she always stayed friendly & professional. Even when we made a mistake, they were able to correct it last minjte.
In the excursions, the cooking class in Seoul was a great experience. In Jeju, the driver & guid Mr. Jimmi Koh has been truly wonderful, friendly & knowledgeable.
Thank You... Read more

This has been an overall very positive experience. Christine was very helpful. The interaction was great and she always was able to adjust & finetune our wishes. We changed the itinerary a few times, but she always stayed friendly & professional. Even when we made a mistake, they were able to correct it last minjte.
In the excursions, the cooking class in Seoul was a great experience. In Jeju, the driver & guid Mr. Jimmi Koh has been truly wonderful, friendly & knowledgeable.

Thank You for a good cooperation !

Activity Reviews
Discover Jeju with Seongsan Ilchulbong and Seongeup Folk Village
Discover Jeju with Seongsan Ilchulbong and Seongeup Folk Village
Jeju Island
Guides, Drivers and Staff
the guide & driver Mr. Jimmie Koh was wonderful
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
Local specialist: Christine Liu
Christine
Christine Liu
Local specialist in Seoul and Japan | Replied on Nov 12, 2025
Hi Villamondial,
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to share such positive feedback.
I am so happy that your friend enjoyed the trip. It was my genuine pleasure to help fine-tune the plans until they were just right for you. Your patience and cooperation throughout the process were also greatly appreciated!
Also, I would like to say thank you when reading comments about Mr. Jimmi Koh – I've let him know directly how much they enjoyed his tour, and he sends his warmest...
Read more

Hi Villamondial,
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to share such positive feedback.
I am so happy that your friend enjoyed the trip. It was my genuine pleasure to help fine-tune the plans until they were just right for you. Your patience and cooperation throughout the process were also greatly appreciated!
Also, I would like to say thank you when reading comments about Mr. Jimmi Koh – I've let him know directly how much they enjoyed his tour, and he sends his warmest regards. He is indeed a fantastic guide. I'm also glad the Seoul cooking class was a hit!
Thank you again for your trust and your kind partnership. I would be delighted to welcome you anytime!
With best wishes,
Christine

A trip worthy of memories
South Korea | Oct 17 - Nov 1, 2025

Nikhil
Nikhil K.
France | Reviewed on Nov 06, 2025

I cannot be thankful enough for all the patience, ideas, support and recommendation shown by Jessica and the team.
The experience and vacation turned out to be the most memorable and joyful ones for me and my wife.
Words cannot express what a lovely time we had and we will definitely re visit South Korea again :)

Local specialist: Jessica Wang
Jessica
Jessica Wang
Local specialist in South Korea | Replied on Nov 12, 2025

Hi Nikhil,

Thank you so much for your kind words. It has been such a pleasure assisting you with your travels in South Korea, and I’m deeply touched that you felt supported and cared for throughout your journey.

I also want to say that you have been an absolutely wonderful traveler — so understanding, thoughtful, and easy to communicate with.

I’ll be so happy to help you again whenever you and your wife return to South Korea — it would be wonderful to plan your next adventure together.

Wishing you all the best always!

Warm regards,
Jessica

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.

Secure & easy booking

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.