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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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Why travelers love kimkim

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Trip Reviews for South Korea

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

From the planning stage, the service was very...
South Korea | Aug 12 - Aug 22, 2024

Lillian
Lillian G.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Aug 29, 2024
From the planning stage, the service was very good. The attention of our specialist, Jessica, was excellent; very good guidance, suggestions. The location of the hotels they chose was very good. The drivers and transfers from airport to hotel to airport were good, punctual and without any problems. We had 3 guides, each one in their own style was very good, attentive, helpful and sharing their country and culture. But I want to highlight our guide in Busan: Jade Kim, her service, her... Read more

From the planning stage, the service was very good. The attention of our specialist, Jessica, was excellent; very good guidance, suggestions. The location of the hotels they chose was very good.

The drivers and transfers from airport to hotel to airport were good, punctual and without any problems.

We had 3 guides, each one in their own style was very good, attentive, helpful and sharing their country and culture. But I want to highlight our guide in Busan: Jade Kim, her service, her accent, her knowledge, her energy, her suggestions, her guidance, everything was excellent!

Also our master chef in Busan with the cooking class: hee-young Jang, excellent, fun, her space very nice.

And at the end the locals (agency) give us a very nice present from Korea, big thanks!

It is the first time I use Kimkim's service and I will definitely make future plans with them.

Activity Reviews
Half Day Gamcheon Village, BIFF Square and Jagalchi Market
Half Day Gamcheon Village, BIFF Square and Jagalchi Market
Busan

We really enjoyed the visit to this area of Busan. We do not have too much time, but our guide give us a great experience and search for great photo locations.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Amazing guide and his english accent is very good.
Transport
Full Day Korean DMZ and The Hybe Building Tour
Full Day Korean DMZ and The Hybe Building Tour
Seoul

We like to visit DMZ and have the experience. The HYBE building it seems is close since the end of 2023, permanently.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide give us a nice option because Hybe building was close. and during the visit to DMZ he was always very attentive to us
Transport
Jeju Western and Southern Routes Sightseeing Day Tour
Jeju Western and Southern Routes Sightseeing Day Tour
Jeju Island

We really enjoyed Jeju and the visits and different areas. A very beautiful views and very pleasant place.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide give many suggestions about change itinerary, like trying to skip a visit. I do not feel that like that
Transport
Half Day Cooking Experience
Half Day Cooking Experience
Busan

A great experience to learn about food, culture and locals. I really recommend the chef and school were great!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Haedong Yonggungsa, Sky Capsule, and Traditional Market Tour
Full Day Haedong Yonggungsa, Sky Capsule, and Traditional Market Tour
Busan

A perfect day and with our guide suggestions about food and drone show, creat a perfect day

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Gyeongju City Tour
Half Day Gyeongju City Tour
Gyeongju

Historic and very nice city., our guide excelent.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide Jade is excelent, I learn a lot from him
Transport
Half Day Golgulsa Temple Stay
Half Day Golgulsa Temple Stay
Gyeongju

My experince was very nice and funny, but does not feel like a real temple, only for tourists.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Changdeokgung Palace & Bukchon Hanok Village & N Seoul Tower
Full Day Changdeokgung Palace & Bukchon Hanok Village & N Seoul Tower
Seoul

These visits are basic in Seoul, we really enjoyed

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Jessica Wang
Jessica
Jessica Wang
Local specialist in South Korea | Replied on Sep 04, 2024

Hi Lillian,
Thank you for your feedback and for trust and cooperating with my work. All my best wishes to you and your family , Hope to meet you on our next trip soon.
Best wishes
Jessica

We are just back from our wonderful trip to S...
South Korea | Oct 5 - Oct 17, 2024

Lina
Lina S.
Spain | Reviewed on Jun 14, 2024
We are just back from our wonderful trip to South Korea. We were really happy to have you as our trip organizer. From the very first contact till the end of the trip everything was smooth and easy. Our local specialist was amazing, supervising taking care of us during all our trip. All the drivers and guides, all our tours were according the plan. High level of service! Thank you and we are going to be back for having our next adventure together with you :) Read more

We are just back from our wonderful trip to South Korea. We were really happy to have you as our trip organizer. From the very first contact till the end of the trip everything was smooth and easy. Our local specialist was amazing, supervising taking care of us during all our trip. All the drivers and guides, all our tours were according the plan. High level of service! Thank you and we are going to be back for having our next adventure together with you :)

Hotel Review
NINE TREE PREMIER HOTEL MYEONGDONG II
Seoul

Very good location

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Jessica Wang
Jessica
Jessica Wang
Local specialist in South Korea | Replied on Jun 17, 2024

Dear Lina,

Hope you are doing fantastic and thank you so much for your kind words.

We're thrilled to know that you had a wonderful trip to South Korea and that everything went smoothly from start to finish. It was a great pleasure organizing your trip and ensuring you had a great experience with our drivers, and guides. We look forward to welcoming you back for your next adventure.

Best regards from South Korea,
Jessica

From the moment I decided to use kimkim for a...
South Korea | May 25 - Jun 6, 2024

B.
B. W.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Jun 08, 2024
From the moment I decided to use kimkim for a trip to South Korea for myself and a son who graduated, it was the best decision made! Jessica Wang worked with me over the many months before our travel date. She provided recommendations and insights on hotels and cultural experiences, while kindly changing the itinerary based on additional requests we had. It was a seamless experience from the planning stages to our time in Korea. There was even a room issue with our hotel on Jeju... Read more

From the moment I decided to use kimkim for a trip to South Korea for myself and a son who graduated, it was the best decision made!

Jessica Wang worked with me over the many months before our travel date. She provided recommendations and insights on hotels and cultural experiences, while kindly changing the itinerary based on additional requests we had.

It was a seamless experience from the planning stages to our time in Korea. There was even a room issue with our hotel on Jeju Island and she reached out to hotel staff and got us upgraded to a better room.

What I loved about Jessica while we were in Korea, were her daily check-ins and reminders. She worked hard and professionally to make sure our experience was exceptional—and it truly was! I'll actually miss our communications.

I'd like to mention our private tour guide Mr. Micky Park when we were in Seoul. He was funny, informative, patient, on time, and surprised us with our lunch menu both days we were with him. He also got us to our destinations safely and he takes the best pictures ever! I highly recommend visiting the Demilitarized Zone in South Korea.

A shout out to Kayla Kim for our large group tour to Gyeongiu Palaces during our time in Busan. She had high energy and wonderful suggestions for lunch and souvenir shopping. She took photos of our entire group and individually. I was amazed at how well she managed a group of 39 people.

Lastly, our small group tour guide Henry, in Jeju. This was a special moment of our trip because we were his only clients on the 2nd day with him. He tailored the trip per my request to see some sites from a Kdrama that was filmed on Jeju Island. He discovered new areas he hadn't been to on the Island and loved it. They weren't huge touristy areas, so it was more peaceful and seemingly breathtaking. We also met a local Jeju native, who mentioned eating at a local village restaurant that ended up being fabulous. Henry said the cooking was authentic and reminded him of his mother's cooking. We got to share a special bond with Henry we will never forget.

All three guides checked in with us a day or two before our tour took place, to include pickup location and drop-off, along with the itinerary.

South Korea is a wonderful country to visit, from tasty cuisine and hospitality to advanced technology and cultural experiences. We knew basic phrases in Korean and got around just fine, since there are Korean-English signs in most of the big cities. Many Koreans speak English (although, they don't want to admit it). Both my son and I loved it there so much we could live there.

I will definitely use kimkim for another trip to Japan. Hopefully, Jessica Wang will still be there!

Hotel Reviews
Paradise Hotel Busan
Busan

Location, location, location! I really feel this was the best located hotel in Busan. It is right on the beach in Haeundae. It's a little pricy, but worth every penny spent! The staff are so kind, and they really want to make sure you have a wonderful stay. We especially loved the bell boys. I left my phone in a lobby bathroom and realized it 40 mins later, so I ran back to the hotel and there was a staff member in the lobby waiting with my phone! I thank the guest who kindly turned it into the front desk.

Authenticity & Character
A bit dated but the location and comfort made up for that.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The beds were comfortable and we had a private balcony.
NINE TREE PREMIER HOTEL MYEONGDONG II
Seoul

This was a budget friendly, 4-star hotel, yet surprisingly nice! The location was central and close to subway stations. The staff were warm, inviting and professional. From the time we checked in, the front desk staff, house cleaning and restaurant staff maintained a welcoming and friendly attitude. The breakfast was good. I highly recommend this hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Modern amenities
Location
Quiet (good insulation) close to subways, shopping, and centrally located in Seoul.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
They have 6 different types of pillows to chose from at check-in.
Lotte City Hotel Jeju
Jeju

The hotel could benefit from updating their rooms. The first night we were there, we were placed on the 8th floor. There was a stong mildew smell and the insulation isn't the best, so you can easily hear your neighbors. We reached out to Jessica and she contacted the hotel staff. They kindly upgraded us to a 17th floor room that was slightly larger, cleaner and odor free. We were extremely grateful! If you stay at this hotel, it appears the higher floors are cleaner and better maintained. We also had a window we could crank open for ventilation.

Authenticity & Character
Location
It's centrally located in Jeju city, but not accessible to sites outside the city, so you will need to plan in advance for taking a bus, taxi, or tour.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The pillows are uncomfortable and mushy. You might want to consider bringing your own or buying one when your there. The hotel has a beautiful rooftop garden and seating area. The pool is not included in the reservation. You will need to purchase a daily pass if you want to use it, which is 12,000 KRW per day.
Activity Reviews
Full Day Seoul City Tour with Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village
Full Day Seoul City Tour with Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village
Seoul

The palace is majestic. We learned there are centuries of drama surrounding it. Our tour guide also told us some funny stories. Side note: If you get there at the right time, there is a changing of the guard ceremony.

Quality of Experience
Would recommend moving through the palace quickly and heading to the gardens if your short on time or have an itinerary.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Mr. Park is the best! He also has funny stories and takes wonderful pictures.
Transport
Jeju Island UNESCO Day Tour (South Course)
Jeju Island UNESCO Day Tour (South Course)
Jeju Island

Small group tour. We loved climbing the stairs up Eoseungsaengak Trail, visiting a Buddhist temple, waterfalls, then ending the day at a green tea farm. We packed a lot, but it was worth it.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Henry is very warm, kind and patient.
Transport
Gyeongju The Old Capital of Korea One Day Tour
Gyeongju The Old Capital of Korea One Day Tour
Busan

Although it was a large group tour, the tour guides managed it well. It starts and ends later, but there is a surprise that is worth the later hours!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Large tour bus.
Jeju Island UNESCO Day Tour (East Course)
Jeju Island UNESCO Day Tour (East Course)
Jeju Island

This was our favorite day on Jeju Island. We were the only tourists booked this day for the small group tour, so our guide, Henry, was able to tailor the experience (per my request) to visit sites from a Kdrama that was filmed in Jeju. Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak was a nice hike and vantage point of Jeju. If your lucky, you might see Hayneos (women see divers), which we did this day. Loved the foot bath at the end of our day. Henry made this day a truly unforgettable experience. Even he, loved it because it wasn't his usual itinerary.

Quality of Experience
Food
We got to experience authentic Jeju cuisine at a local village. So amazing!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Henry is the best! He is authentic, so cool and chill.
Transport
 Korean DMZ Tour
Korean DMZ Tour
Seoul

Everyone should add this to their itinerary when visiting Seoul. It is unforgettable.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Jessica Wang
Jessica
Jessica Wang
Local specialist in South Korea | Replied on Jul 29, 2024
Hi Briana, Hope you have a great weekend and thanks a lot for your detailed account of your experience with us to South Korea which it is truly inspiring. According to the exceptional service provided by Mr. Micky Park, Kayla Kim, and Henry, it's evident that every aspect of your journey was carefully crafted to ensure an unforgettable adventure. It's heartwarming to hear about the personal touches, like Henry's tailored tour based on your interests. Your enthusiasm for South Korea's... Read more

Hi Briana,

Hope you have a great weekend and thanks a lot for your detailed account of your experience with us to South Korea which it is truly inspiring. According to the exceptional service provided by Mr. Micky Park, Kayla Kim, and Henry, it's evident that every aspect of your journey was carefully crafted to ensure an unforgettable adventure. It's heartwarming to hear about the personal touches, like Henry's tailored tour based on your interests. Your enthusiasm for South Korea's cuisine, technology, hospitality, and cultural experiences is contagious, and it's clear that you and your son had an amazing time. I'm thrilled to hear that you're already planning your next trip with Kimkim, this time to Japan. It is my great pleasure to be here to assist you.

Thank you for sharing your hotel experiences and Your insights will undoubtedly help future guests in making informed decisions.You are so considerate and kind.

Warmest regards from South Korea,
Jessica