South Korea

While South Korea has long been known as the “Land of the Morning Calm,” its tumultuous modern history stands directly at odds with this serene sobriquet.  Yet in spite of the adversity that South Korea has faced, from the colonial Japanese occupation to the divisive Korean War and subsequent dictatorships, the country has managed to overcome innumerable obstacles and establish itself as one of the world’s economic powerhouses. In the 1990s, South Korea, along with Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore, was named one of the Four Asian Tigers. 

Today, South Korean corporations, including electronics giant Samsung and manufacturer Hyundai, have become household names around the globe; at the same time, Korean culture, particularly pop music, has slowly risen to prominence, first across Asia, and later the world.  Indeed, South Korea is an energetic, creative nation capable of great innovation, and is already a major player in the global economy and culture.

South Korea Regions

Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.

South Korea Itineraries

Classic South Korea

Discover the best that South Korea has to offer on this fascinating 9-day luxury tour of the country’s must-see destinations. You’ll stay in some of the country’s best hotels as you visit ancient temples and palaces in Seoul, explore Gyeongju National Park, learn to make kimchi, and explore lava cave tubes.

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $14,500
See Itinerary

Busan and Seoul By Night

Indulge in the energetic nightlife in two of South Korea’s trendiest cities, Seoul & Busan. Dine on kimchi and BBQ pork belly, belt out K-pop songs at a norebang (Korean karaoke), hop around the many pojangmachas (drinking tents) and discover the unique flavors of makgeolli and soju, staple Korean spirits.

Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Price Per Person
From $11,900
See Itinerary

Culture, Food, and White Sand Beaches: A Honeymoon to South Korea and Okinawa

Embark on an exhilarating honeymoon through South Korea and the Okinawa islands of South Japan, two fascinating destinations for newlyweds to experience together. From the high-energy cities of South Korea to the secluded semi-tropical islands of Okinawa, this 12-day itinerary promises a spectacular mix of adventure, relaxation, and romance.

Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
From $16,700
See Itinerary

Korean Winter Sports Vacation

Experience the best winter activities South Korea has to offer on this exhilarating 7-day luxury trip. You’ll carve up the slopes at the nation’s largest ski and snowboard park, Yongpyong Ski Resort, skate on the massive rink at Lotte World, and soak in hot springs surrounded by snow and ice in Asan. 

Duration
7 days / 6 nights
Price Per Person
From $8,200
See Itinerary

Pursue Your Passion: Celebrate the Arts in Five of Asia's Most Captivating Capitals

In just 12 days, experience Asia’s most influential art capitals in resplendent style – stunning galleries, world-class collections and irresistible exhibits awash in history. Join us for a one-of-a-kind adventure to five beautiful, classic Asian capitals, where ambitious travel meets celebrated art culture, and inspiration abounds.

Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
From $66,200
See Itinerary

Revitalization, Korean Style

Indulge in some of South Korea’s best health and relaxation facilities on this rejuvenating 9-day luxury journey. You’ll savor fresh, healthy Korean dishes, hike in Bukhansan National Park, soak up the aromas of a rare green tea sauna, while staying in some of the country’s best hotels, like The Shilla in Jeju. 

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $12,000
See Itinerary

Seoul: Riding the Korean Wave

Bring your friends and form your very own K-pop group on this jam-packed four day deep-dive into South Korea’s dominating pop culture. Discover the depths of the entertainment industry that delivers picture-perfect entertainment, taste your way through popular street food markets, dabble with the latest Korean skincare, and shop in Korea’s trendiest and finest neighborhoods. 
 

Duration
4 days / 3 nights
Price Per Person
Extension: Optional add-on to your itinerary
See Itinerary

The Ultimate Korean Cultural Experience

Gain deep insight into the culture and history of the two Koreas on this fascinating 14-day luxury journey. You’ll step inside age-old palaces and temples, visit the famous Demilitarized Zone, roam the world’s largest shopping complex in Busan, and relax on the UNESCO-listed island of Jeju in luxury. 

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $20,300
See Itinerary

South Korean Summer Adventure

Frolic under the warm South Korean sun on this exciting 8-day luxury adventure. You’ll windsurf in the Han River, camp in Gangwondo, skydive in Ansan, dive at a famous site in Jeju, and visit age-old cultural relics, all while you rest your head in some of South Korea’s best hotels, like The Shilla. 

Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Price Per Person
From $13,800
See Itinerary
Banyan Tree Club & Spa
Preferred Hotel

Banyan Tree Club & Spa

Seoul, South Korea

The Banyan Tree Club & Spa is centrally located at Mount Namsan, just 10 minutes from downtown Seoul. The hotel was renovated from the Tower Hotel which was created by the first generation of Korean architects. Each of the rooms and suites offer contemporary accommodations that includes a walk-in closet, a private pool, complimentary Wi-Fi, and high levels of privacy as each floor contains a maximum of four rooms per floor. Guests may dine at any of the 12 establishments...
Conrad Seoul
Preferred Hotel

Conrad Seoul

Seoul, South Korea

The five-star Conrad Seoul is located in the Yeouido financial district with fantastic views overlooking the Han River and city. The hotel offers a huge year-round indoor swimming pool, spa, well-equipped gym, a rooftop garden and even a golf driving range. The spacious executive lounge outshines other five-star lounges with comfortable seating and a generous happy hour promotion. There are 434 spacious rooms with air-conditioning, a deep bathtub, rainfall showerhead, double sink, luxury aromatherapy toiletries, Apple entertainment systems, a Nespresso...
Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
Preferred Hotel

Four Seasons Hotel Seoul

Seoul, South Korea

Reflecting the unique city it sits in the center of, the Four Seasons in Seoul is a combination of traditional Korea and modern cool. Located in the central business district and yet within walking distance of the city’s historic sites, it’s the ideal choice for those traveling for work or pleasure. Fully equipped with a range of beautiful new facilities, guests may opt to stay in the hotel, making use of the pools, sauna and spa, not to mention state-of-the-art...
JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa
Preferred Hotel

JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa

Jeju, South Korea

The JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa is located in the center of Seogwipo, it’s clifftop setting providing beautiful vista views while being a convenient 7-minute walk to Soggol Beach. The 197-room retreat is the work of architecture studio WATG with interiors by the award-winning Bill Bensley. Rooms feature plush furniture, marble bathtubs, with many including balconies with ocean views. Guests can enjoy four distinctive dining venues to choose from that offer extravagant brunch experiences, afternoon tea sets, wood fire...
Paradise Busan
Preferred Hotel

Paradise Busan

Busan, South Korea

Tucked along the coastline, Busan is the second largest city in South Korea. It is home to picturesque mountains, glimmering beaches, and the Paradise Busan, which is located right along the lively Haeundae Beach.This upscale hotel features rooms with fantastic views, its own on-site casino, and an expansive spa. The polished, modern rooms start at 377 square feet and include views of either the ocean or the city. Many come with private, seaward-facing balconies. The suites offer more space and...
Signiel Busan
Preferred Hotel

Signiel Busan

Busan, South Korea

Perched between the third and 19th floors of the new LCT Tower building on the coast of Busan, the Signiel Busan is comprised of 260 luxurious guest rooms and suites. Room types range from Premier Rooms to the prestigious Presidential Suite Room, many of which boast sea views. Hotel facilities include a fitness center with a sauna, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a spa, business center, garden terrace and a kids lounge. For dining, guests can choose from a range...
Signiel Seoul
Preferred Hotel

Signiel Seoul

Seoul, South Korea

Seoul may have its fair share of five-star options when it comes to lodging, but Signiel Seoul brings luxury travelers unsurpassed expertise and premium hospitality services in a complete package that also features some of the city’s top dining and wellness facilities. Signiel Seoul’s 235 rooms all have panoramic views of the surrounding cityscape, and the extra-spacious accommodations also have modern, tasteful furnishings and incorporate Super Premium Bedding Systems that have been co-developed with Simmons Bedding for maximum comfort. Where...
Accommodation in the DMZ

Accommodation in the DMZ

Dmz, South Korea

Due to its proximity to Seoul, visiting the DMZ is a simple day trip.

Bukchondaek

Bukchondaek

Andong, South Korea

Bukchondaek is a traditional hanok home belonging to a distinguished Korean family located in Andong Hahoe Folk Village. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this home was built in strict observance of traditional hanok architecture and has remained virtually unchanged since its construction in 1862. The home consists of 72 rooms and is the largest house in the village. The family-owned property now operates as a homestay, allowing for visitors to experience Korean traditional culture by staying in the traditional structure, enjoying a traditional Korean breakfast served by the household, and see how people live in the village.

Camping

Camping

Odaesan National Park, South Korea

Leave the metropolis and experience Korea’s camping culture at Odaesan National Park, the nation’s largest natural forest and home to many native Korean species and scenic hiking trails, as well as temples. There are many campsites throughout for travelers venturing deep into the park for longer treks.  Campsites typically host restrooms, show facilities and communal kitchens. After a day’s hike, travelers can bed down in cozy, comfortable tents and wake up to crisp mountain air.

Why Remote Lands?

Exclusively Asia

With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

Seasonality & Festivals

Browse a month-by-month breakdown of suggested itineraries, seasonal activities, climate considerations and festivals.

When to Go
When to Go
Festivals
Festivals

Weather in South Korea

The best time to visit South Korea is between April and June, and also between September and November.

  • Due to its position, South Korea is one of the relatively few countries in Asia that has four distinct seasons: spring from mid-March to late-May, summer from June to August, autumn from September to November, and winter from December to mid- March. Of course, the actual weather doesn’t always fit into these neat categories.
  • Winter, from December to March, is dry but often bitterly cold, particularly in northern parts. Siberian winds drag January temperatures in most of the country (except on Jeju Island in the south) down to below zero. Temperatures range from 32°F to 46°F (0°C to 8°C) during the day and 17°F to 28°F (-2°C to 8°C) at night.
  • Spring, from April to June, is a beautiful time to visit South Korea, with generally mild temperatures and cherry blossoms spreading north across the country in April. Camellias, azaleas, and other plants and trees flower, but as with autumn, some days can be cold, so bring warm clothing. Temperatures range from 62°F to 81°F (17°C to 27°C) during the day and 41°F to 60°F (5°C to 16°C) at night.
  • Try to avoid peak summer, from late June to late August, which starts off with the monsoon season. This is when the country receives some 60 percent of its annual rainfall and is followed by unpleasantly hot and humid weather. There is also the chance of typhoons. Temperatures range from 81°F to 88°F (27°C to 31°C) during the day and 60°F to 72°F (15°C to 22°C) at night.
  • The best time of year to visit South Korea is in the autumn between September and November, when the weather is fine and clear. Temperatures range from 52°F to 79°F (11°C to 26°C) during the day and 32°F to 60°F (0°C to 15°C) at night

Multi-Country Specialists

South Korea Goes Well With

Travelogues

An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.