Custom travel to South Korea

South Korea is one of Asia's most fascinating destinations — a country blending 5,000 years of history (Goguryeo, Baekje, Silla kingdoms, 500-year Joseon dynasty) and ultra-connected modernity (5G everywhere, K-pop, K-drama, Samsung and LG technologies). 51 million inhabitants on the Korean peninsula, separated from North Korea since 1953 by the DMZ (demilitarized zone). Seoul (capital, 10 million, 25-million metropolis with suburbs) — Gyeongbokgung Palace (1395, Joseon dynasty), Bukchon hanok village (traditional houses), ultra-modern districts (Gangnam, Hongdae, Myeongdong). Busan (2nd city, southern port, beaches, Jagalchi fish market). Jeju (UNESCO volcanic island, Mount Hallasan, beaches, lava tubes). Gyeongju ('open-air museum', former Silla capital, UNESCO, royal tombs, Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto). DMZ (border with North Korea, one of the world's most monitored). Iconic cuisine (kimchi, bibimbap, bulgogi, Korean BBQ). One of the most complete destinations for a tradition-modernity Asia trip.

Highlights

  • Seoul: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon, Gangnam
  • Busan: south coast, Haeundae beach, Jagalchi market
  • Jeju: volcanic island (UNESCO), Mount Hallasan
  • Gyeongju: Silla capital (UNESCO), Bulguksa
  • DMZ: border with North Korea
  • Gastronomy: Korean BBQ, kimchi, bibimbap

Frequently asked questions

When?

April-May (cherry blossoms) and September-November (maples). Avoid July-August (monsoon) and winter (-10 °C).

How long?

10 days for Seoul + Gyeongju + Busan. 12 days to add Jeju.

Budget?

€2,600-€3,600 per person for 10 days in comfort, excluding flights. Premium: €4,200-€6,000. Flights: €700-€1,100.

Visa?

K-ETA mandatory (online electronic authorization, €7, 3-year validity). No visa < 90 days.

English spoken?

Limited outside Seoul and tourist zones. Learn a few Korean words. Papago (Naver app) very useful for translation.

Family?

Yes, from age 6. Total safety, theme parks (Lotte World, Everland), Korean BBQ fun for kids.

How to get around?

KTX (TGV) between major cities (Seoul-Busan 2 h 30). Seoul metro one of the world's best. Jeju domestic flights 1 h.

DMZ: should I go?

Yes, unique geopolitical experience. Half-day from Seoul. Premium JSA (Joint Security Area) option to see the demarcation line.

Combine?

Yes: Korea + Japan (Seoul-Tokyo 2 h 30 flight), Korea + Taiwan, Korea + Vietnam.

Tips?

No, not customary. Sometimes frowned upon. Service included in prices.