Seoul: Riding the Korean Wave

Arrive in Seoul, the bustling capital of South Korea, where you will be met at the airport and whisked via private car to your hotel. Settle in and relax before stepping out this afternoon. Begin with some pampering at Sulwasoo’s flagship store in the ritzy Gangnam neighborhood. Sulwasoo is one of South Korea’s most luxurious skincare brands, often endorsed by celebrities. Get the VIP treatment and be treated to tea and refreshments as you are guided through the store and introduced to exclusive products. Then, enjoy a spa treatment that combines traditional Korean ginseng with modern science and techniques. After getting recharged, explore the affluent Gangnam which is full of luxury fashion houses, celebrity plastic surgery clinics, Maseratis and Mercedes tucked into every street, and homes of Korean celebrities. Don’t miss the famous Hallyu K-Star Road which is filled with various idol-related attractions, restaurants, and stores. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a few celebrities. This evening, we recommend you cap your first day with a quintessential Korean BBQ dinner. This popular dining style can be found everywhere around the capital and ranges from casual to premium. 

Jumpstart the day with a K-pop dance lesson. Learn the moves to your favorite songs and music videos from real K-pop back-up dancers who will lead the class. At the end of class, receive a certificate and a keepsake video of your experience. Afterwards, spend the day exploring some of Seoul’s trendiest neighborhoods. Hongdae is known as a youth neighborhood, built around Hongdae university, and is constantly buzzing with life and students. Discover the trendiest Korean fashion, sip on banana milk at a cafe, try a claw machine in a gaming hall, and pick up cute accessories, cosmetics, and face packs from countless colorful boutiques. In Myeongdong, get ready for a tasting tour of some of Seoul’s best street foods. The pedestrian-friendly streets are lined with rows of stalls hawking favorites and quirky creations such as egg bread, omelette burgers, grilled cheese and rice cake sticks, giant meatballs, seaweed rolls, and much more. Not just a food paradise, Myeongdong is a shopping mecca. Myeongdong Underground is a must-visit for K-pop fans where you can find all sorts of memorabilia including socks, nail decals, key chains, umbrellas, calendars and more. This underground shopping complex is so large it connects three different subway stations. Those seeking more traditional culture will want to swing by artsy Insadong where the narrow back alleys are lined with art galleries, wooden tea houses, and small shops selling arts and crafts. This neighborhood is best for finding tea, calligraphy materials, folk crafts, ceramics, and traditional hanbok clothing. 

Today is the day you transform into a K-pop star. Start off with a K-style makeover from one of the finest Korean makeup artists and hair stylists. After getting all glammed up, head to the studio to meet an industry photographer who will show you how to strike poses just like your favorite stars. After your mini photoshoot, it’s time to work on your vocals. At a music studio, choose your favorite songs and receive vocal training from professionals who have worked with K-pop stars. When you are ready, lay down the track and make your music video. In a few days, you’ll receive your newly mixed and mastered recording. While you’re playing the part of a K-pop star, take a tour of top entertainment companies such as YG Entertainment, SM Town, JYP Entertainment, and Big Hit Entertainment. These talent agency buildings are where your favorite idols practice and record their songs. During your visit, keep your eyes open for your favorite stars who may be at work. Make tonight a night to remember and try out your new vocal skills at a noraebang, where you and your friends can sing in a private room and have food, snacks, and drinks catered to your room. 

After one final breakfast at your hotel, relax at your hotel. If you have time, you may want to squeeze in a visit to an idol-owned restaurant or cafe. If you’re lucky, you might bump into the celebrity themselves. Super Junior Choi Siwon has a cafe named after his French bulldog Bugsy, while BTS Jin manages a Japanese restaurant, and Jay Park’s Cafe Dudart is perpetually busy. Come time, your private vehicle will transfer you to the airport in time for your flight home.