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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.

Discover South Korea's history as you tour sights like the Buddha monument of Sinheungsa Temple in Sokcho
Map of South Korea Highlights: Nature & History From Seoul to Busan to Sokcho - 14 Days
South Korea Highlights: Nature & History From Seoul to Busan to Sokcho - 14 Days

Discover South Korea's past and present on this two-week loop from Seoul. Bookending your trip, you'll have five nights in the capital, exploring palaces like Gyeongbokgung, savoring street food, and discovering the North and South Korean conflict at the DMZ. You'll travel south to reach coastal Busan and nearby islands, then north to Seoraksan to see Sinheungsa Temple. Step back in time in Suwon, admire the natural wonders at Suncheon Bay, and walk across the waves at Songdo Beach.

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

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.

Enjoy a sunset over Seongsan Ilchulbong, Jeju island
Map of 2 Weeks in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in South Korea - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks is enough time to tour South Korea's highlights, including natural and historical attractions in Seoul, Busan, and Sokcho. Travelers seeking outdoor adventures and cultural exploration will enjoy a traditional market, hiking, and beach time at Jeju Island as well as temples and river rafting in Pyeongchang. A wellness escape brings you to Yeongju to visit a healing center and Suncheon for its national garden and bamboo forest, while a highlights tour allows you to see the best of South Korea and Japan.

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

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
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
Seoul Highlights & K-drama Tour
Seoul Highlights & K-drama Tour
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
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
Local specialist: Jessica Wang

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

Our 10 day trip to Korea was absolutely amazi...
South Korea | Apr 7 - Apr 17, 2024

David
David G.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Apr 21, 2024
Our 10 day trip to Korea was absolutely amazing. Our travel planner, Jessica, worked with us to cater to our every desire from hotels, private tour guides, private car service, and plenty of recommendations on what to see and do. We spent six days in Seoul, two in Busan and two in Jeju. At every step, from pre-planning, to booking, to checking in with us during the trip, Jessica was checking in to ensure all of needs were being met. Our tour guide in Seoul, Don Lee, was fantastic. Jade Park... Read more

Our 10 day trip to Korea was absolutely amazing. Our travel planner, Jessica, worked with us to cater to our every desire from hotels, private tour guides, private car service, and plenty of recommendations on what to see and do. We spent six days in Seoul, two in Busan and two in Jeju. At every step, from pre-planning, to booking, to checking in with us during the trip, Jessica was checking in to ensure all of needs were being met. Our tour guide in Seoul, Don Lee, was fantastic. Jade Park expertly showed us around Busan. And Suzie was a wonderful guide in Jeju.

We couldn't be more impressed with everything Korea had to offer - it's incredibly clean, the people are friendly and many speak English so language wasn't a problem, the sights are amazing, and the food scene is off the charts. It was a trip my family will remember forever. And I'll look to KimKim to set me up with all of our future vacation plans.

Activity Reviews
Full Day Gyeongbokgung Hanbok Experience and Gwangjang Market
Full Day Gyeongbokgung Hanbok Experience and Gwangjang Market
Seoul

A must see. Definitely rent the traditional wardrobe for an elevated experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Haedong Yonggungsa and Haeundae Beach Tour
Half Day Haedong Yonggungsa and Haeundae Beach Tour
Busan
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Manjanggul Cave and Seongsan Ilchulbong Tour
Half Day Manjanggul Cave and Seongsan Ilchulbong Tour
Jeju Island
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Gamcheon Village, BIFF Square and Jagalchi Market
Half Day Gamcheon Village, BIFF Square and Jagalchi Market
Busan
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Petite France and Nami Island Tour For Families
Full Day Petite France and Nami Island Tour For Families
Seoul

Zero stars for Petite France. 5 stars for Nami Island. Anyone who has actually been to France will likely find Petite France a little silly and not worth spending any time there. Nami Island was absolutely amazing so spend as much time there as possible.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Hyeopjae Beach, Spirited Garden and Green Tea Plantation Tour and Arte Museum
Half Day Hyeopjae Beach, Spirited Garden and Green Tea Plantation Tour and Arte Museum
Jeju Island
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Jessica Wang
Jessica
Jessica Wang
Local specialist in South Korea | Replied on Apr 23, 2024
Dear David, Hope you are doing fantastic. Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience. It's fantastic to hear that your 10-day trip to Korea was so amazing.It is my great pleasure to provide you and your family an enjoyable and memorable trip from accommodations to recommendations. Your detailed descriptions of Seoul, Busan, and Jeju make me very proud of them. It's also wonderful to hear about the exceptional tour guides you had throughout your journey. I'm glad you enjoyed the... Read more

Dear David,

Hope you are doing fantastic. Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience. It's fantastic to hear that your 10-day trip to Korea was so amazing.It is my great pleasure to provide you and your family an enjoyable and memorable trip from accommodations to recommendations. Your detailed descriptions of Seoul, Busan, and Jeju make me very proud of them. It's also wonderful to hear about the exceptional tour guides you had throughout your journey. I'm glad you enjoyed the cleanliness, friendliness of the people, and the incredible food in Korea.

Thanks a lot for sharing your feedback on the Full Day Petite France and Nami Island Tour. It's helpful to hear your perspective on the attractions. It sounds like Nami Island left a lasting impression with its amazing experiences. Your insights on Petite France provide valuable context for travelers considering the tour. We appreciate this a lot.

I'm so delighted to learn that you're considering KimKim for your future vacation plans. Looking forward to your next family adventure soon.

Wish you and your family happy all the time.

Warm regards,
Jessica