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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.

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.

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 27 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 14 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 6 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...

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Trip Reviews for South Korea

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

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

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
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
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
NINE TREE BY PARNAS SEOUL MYEONDONG 2
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
Local specialist: Jessica Wang
Jessica
Jessica Wang
Local specialist in South Korea | Replied on Jan 03, 2025
Dear Kate, Greetings from Jessica.Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience. We're thrilled to hear that you had a great trip and that our team was able to accommodate your unique travel plans. It's wonderful to know that William provided you with such an excellent guided experience in Gyeongju and that you enjoyed staying at the hanoks in both Gyeongju and Jeonju.Your feedback about the KTX arrangements and the hosts at the hanoks will surely help future travelers. We... Read more

Dear Kate,

Greetings from Jessica.Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience. We're thrilled to hear that you had a great trip and that our team was able to accommodate your unique travel plans. It's wonderful to know that William provided you with such an excellent guided experience in Gyeongju and that you enjoyed staying at the hanoks in both Gyeongju and Jeonju.Your feedback about the KTX arrangements and the hosts at the hanoks will surely help future travelers. We look forward to helping you plan your next vacation and creating more unforgettable memories for you.

Yours sincere,
Jessica

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
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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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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.