An Introduction to South Korea: From Seoul to Jeju Island

11 days from £9,500 per person

• Seoul
• Busan
• Jeju Island

This perfectly paced introduction to South Korea captures the essence of a country where ancient tradition and cutting-edge modernity exist in effortless harmony. From the royal palaces and artisan quarters of Seoul to the coastal charm of Busan, the timeless treasures of Gyeongju and the volcanic beauty of Jeju Island, this journey reveals Korea’s remarkable diversity. With a thoughtful blend of culture, cuisine, nature and contemporary design, it offers an inspiring overview of a destination that continues to surprise and delight at every turn.

Your journey begins in Seoul, a city of dazzling contrasts where glass towers rise beside serene palace courtyards. Explore the grand Gyeongbokgung Palace, once home to the kings of the Joseon dynasty, before delving into the artisan-lined streets of Bukchon Hanok Village, where centuries-old homes now house teahouses and craft studios. A private Korean cooking class in a traditional hanok offers an authentic taste of the country’s culinary soul, while time at Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden reveals the refinement of Korea’s royal heritage. Finish with a specialist-led exploration of in Seoul’s contemporary art scene, where modern galleries stand as bold counterpoints to the city’s timeless traditions.

From Seoul, travel by high-speed train to Busan, Korea’s vibrant southern port city where mountains meet the sea. Visit the UN Memorial Cemetery, the only one of its kind in the world, and reflect on the sacrifices of the Korean War. Wander through the colourful hillside lanes of Gamcheon Culture Village, once a refugee settlement and now a hub of creativity, before sampling the city’s freshest seafood at Jagalchi Market. Take a stroll along Haeundae Beach, or visit F1963, a beautifully reimagined industrial space that embodies Busan’s fusion of heritage and innovation.

A day trip takes you to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage city often described as a “museum without walls”. Explore Bulguksa Temple, an exquisite Buddhist complex dating to the 8th century, and wander through the royal tombs of the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, where grassy mounds conceal treasures from Korea’s golden age. Here, layers of history rest quietly beneath the hills, connecting visitors to a thousand years of spiritual and artistic legacy.

End your journey on Jeju Island, a volcanic paradise of black-sand beaches, lava cliffs and lush forests. Walk the Olle coastal trails, visit the Bonte Museum and Glass House designed by renowned Tadao Ando, and admire the panoramic crater of Seongsan Ilchulbong, one of Jeju’s most iconic landmarks. Meet the island’s legendary haenyeo, female free divers who embody Jeju’s matriarchal traditions, and unwind in a traditional jimjilbang spa. With its blend of myth, nature and artistry, Jeju is a serene and poetic finale to a journey through Korea’s past, present and future.

I dislike feeling at home when I am abroad.
George Bernard Shaw