Transport

All internal flights and bus tickets during the trip

Guide

English-speaking Adventure Leaders

Meals

Most meals are not included on this tour but your Adventure Leader will recommend incredible local restaurants to allow you to try as much of the local food as possible. Any meals that are included come as part of an unmissable activity

Others

- Entry, transport and Adventures Leaders to some of Korea’s unmissable attractions - All taxes and charges. The following activities are included: Welcome dinner of Korean barbeque (Seoul) Enjoy the great views of Seoul from Namsan Mountain (Seoul) Visit the Demilitarized Zone and have the chance to talk to a North Korean defector (Seoul) Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace (Seoul) Walk around the historic Bukchon Hanok Village (Seoul) Pay a visit to Insadong art street (Seoul) Visit Seoroksan National Park, Sokcho town, Abai Village via a cable pulley boat, then walk to the Lighthouse Observatory for breathtaking views (Sokcho) Spend the night at Jjimjilxbang the traditional bathhouses (Sokcho) Take a cycling tour of Gyeongju (Gyeongju) Overnight stay at Golgulsa Temple: take part in meditation and chanting services, traditional arts performance and Kunmudo lesson, drink tea with a Buddhist monk and enjoy traditional Buddhist meals (Gyeongju) Ride Busan’s Marine Cable Car (Busan) Take part in a Haenyeo Divers Experience (Jeju) Traditional Liquor Making Workshop (Jeju) Hike to the top of Seongsan Ilchulbong (Jeju) Witness a Haenyeo Divers performance by the beach (Jeju) Day trek along the Jeju Olle Trail (Jeju) Enjoy a BBQ party by the beach (Jeju) Activities listed in bold are regarded as unmissable activities on our tours.

Accommodation

This tour includes shared Dorm accommodaiton. Upgrades to private rooms are possible throughout the trip except for the temple. We can arrange additional nights accommodation in Seoul or Jeju Island if you plan on arriving early or staying on at the end of your trip. Accommodation is in Hostels, guesthouses & temples. They are in clean, safe and well-located hostels which meet The Dragon Trip’s high standards on a multi-share basis. All of our accommodation has its own unique Korean charm, and at the same time are safe, clean, and hygienic. One night is spent in a temple.

Not included:

Flights

International flights are not included This tour includes airport transfers to Jeju Airport at 10.30am on the last day of your tour. If you would like us to help you arrange a flight back to Seoul, the we can do so at the fixed price of £80. The flight we recommend is T’way Air 13:30-14:40 TW718 Jeju – Seoul Gimpo. There are two airports in Seoul and this flight arrives at the domestic airport. If you are looking to connect to an international flight, you may have to transit to the international airport.

Insurance

Travel Insurance is not included but compulsory

Optional

Want to take your adventure further? Check out the South Korea & Japan Odyssey in 24-Days. Fly from Jeju to Tokyo and spend an extra 13 days in Japan.

Others

Flights to and from South Korea Airport transfers in Seoul Transport from Jeju Island back to Seoul Aside from the many unmissable activities The Dragon Trip offers you, we also offer some extra activities which are great value for money, safe and fun Any Food and Drink Any train/bus tickets for journeys made after the trip Any hostels for after your trip has ended

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Meet Your Fellow Dragons + Namsan Mountain
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Meet Your Fellow Dragons + Namsan Mountain

Seoul: - In the afternoon, meet your guide at the hostel ready to start your South Korea adventure! Listen to a pre-departure briefing as you find out everything you need to know throughout your trip. Enjoy an exciting Taekwondo Class before you head out for your first dinner and tuck into a Korean barbeque. After dinner, you will make your way to the top of Namsan Mountain, via Cable Car, where you can enjoy spectacular views of Seoul lit up at night. Hop on public transport back to the district of Hongdae where your hostel is located. Take some time to stroll around and explore the hip area or get an early night ready for your first full day tomorrow!
Day 2 Korean Demilitarized Zone + Talk To A North Korean Defector
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Korean Demilitarized Zone + Talk To A North Korean Defector

Seoul: Wake up and make your way to the Korean Demilitarized Zone. Hop on a bus which will take you an hour north of Seoul to Imjingak, where you’ll have the chance to grab some breakfast. After you will continue your journey to Dorasan Station and then pay a visit to Dora Observatory where you can see the nearest North Korean villages. Next, descend into the 3rd Tunnel created by North Koreans! After you will then make your way back to Seoul and get the opportunity to talk to a North Korean defector on the bus. Back in Seoul, try out a fun K-Pop Dance Class and then enjoy a night out in Hongdae, experiencing the endless bars and restauarants they have on offer.
Day 3 Gyeongbokgung Palace
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Seoul: DWake up early and hop on the metro to Gyeongbokgung Palace where you’ll have the chance to watch the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony. Then, make your way to Bukchon Hanok Village, stopping by the Blue House and the White House of South Korea on the way. Here, you can take part in an optional activity - (Change into hanbok, traditional Korean clothes for an additional cost and walk around the historic village). Then enjoy a group lunch with your fellow travellers at Tongin Market, or grab something yourself from the nearby area. Next, take a walk down the Cheonggyecheon stream. Afterwards, explore Insadong Art Street where you can take part in an optional activity - (Kimchi tasting session at Museum Kimchikan). In the evening you will have some free time to explore more of Seoul. We suggest a few activities such as; Walk around Ikseon-dong Hanok Street, immerse yourself in local life with a group dinner at pojangmacha - soju drinking tents with delicious food – or head back to Hongdae Street for a night out on a pub crawl.
Day 4 Seoraksan National Park
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Seoraksan National Park

Seoul: In the morning you will check out of your hostel and depart for day-trip to Sokcho. When you arrive at Seoraksan National Park you will pay a visit to Sinheungsa Temple and then hike to Ulsanbawi Rock for spectacular views over the national park. For people who don’t want to hike they can board a cable car to another peak. After, you will take the bus back to Sokcho town where you’ll climb aboard a gatbae to cross the river to Abai. Here you will explore the historic village before climbing to the Lighthouse Observatory for incredible views of Seoraksan Mountain. In the evening you can go out for dinner with the rest of the group in and around the local fish markets. Take the chance to visit one of the most recommended, famous Korean fried chicken restaurants in the area, Manseok, known for its sticky sweet and sour boneless fried chicken.
Day 5 Take The Train To Gyeongju + Explore Cheonmachong Ancient Tombs
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Take The Train To Gyeongju + Explore Cheonmachong Ancient Tombs

Gyeongju: In the morning it is time to get the bus to Gyeongju. Quick stop on the way to visit the popular BTS bus stop on the beach. After you arrive you will check into your hostel and have some lunch in the surrounding area. In the afternoon you will travel around Gyeongju by bike! You will explore the Cheonmachong Ancient Tombs, the Cheomseongdae, an astronomical observatory. In the evening you can take part in some optional activities - (Eat a local authentic restaurant that serves traditional Korean meals or take a walk around the Anapji Pond where you’ll get to experience great views of the palace at night).
Day 6 Golgulsa Temple + Community Work At Temple
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Golgulsa Temple + Community Work At Temple

Gyeongju: In the morning you can either have a lie in or take part in an optional activity - (Visit the Bulguksa Temple, a UNESCO World Cultural Asset). After you will grab some lunch and then make your way to the Golgulsa Temple which is where you will sleep for the evening. After checking into the temple you will take part in a meditation class and relax. In the evening you will indulge in a Buddhist dinner with other temple visitors and take part in an evening chant and meditation session. You will also get the opportunity to learn the basics of Sunmudo (a type of martial arts). Tonight you will sleep on the floor (blankets, linens and a pillow will be provided).
Day 7 Talk To A Buddhist Monk + Explore Busan Nightlife
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Talk To A Buddhist Monk + Explore Busan Nightlife

Busan: Wake up in the morning and take part in another chanting service and mediation session. You will then enjoy some breakfast and after you will take part in another Sunmundo lesson. Have some lunch and then hop on a bus back to the city. Then, make your way to Gyeongju bus station where you will begin your journey to Busan. Arrive in the late afternoon and head straight to your accommodation, after which you will visit the unmissable Gamcheon Village. After admiring the street art, head over to Songdo Marine Cable Car and admire the city from up high. Finish the day at BIIF Square the city’s famous movie district and home to the annual Busan International Film Festival.
Day 8 Jagalchi Market + Virtual Reality Gaming Experience (Optional)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Jagalchi Market + Virtual Reality Gaming Experience (Optional)

Busan: Head out for a day exploring Busan. First up, visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a Buddhist temple hidden in the coastline’s cliffs. Feeling in need of some more rejuvenation? Visit Spa Land in Centum City, located in Busan’s biggest shopping complex! Make the most of South Korea’s high-quality jjimjilbang while you’re here and enjoy the saunas, cold rooms, jacuzzis and more. Take the subway to Gwangan Beach and enjoy dinner with your fellow travellers. Try the Korean delicacy, jokbal (pigs feet) or hit up Slice of Life for the tastiest New York-style pizza around. Once the sun sets, be sure to take in the light show on Gwangan Bridge. Another chance for an optional activity- join an evening boat party to end the day.
Day 9 Korean Cooking Class (Optional)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Korean Cooking Class (Optional)

Busan: Day 9 - ndulge in a leisurely morning to explore Busan at your own pace or engage in suggested activities. Consider a ride along the scenic coastal railway, Haeundae Blueline. Alternatively, visit the observatory in Korea’s second-tallest building or traverse the Igidae Coastal Walk and Oryukdo Skywalk. Or perhaps simply unwind with a tranquil morning on the beach!

For a final taste of Korean culture in Busan, dive into a cooking class and master the art of preparing bibimbap, a traditional favorite!

Later, gather your belongings from the hostel and head to the airport for your flight to Jeju Island. Upon reaching your Seogwipo accommodation, use the evening to explore Olle Maeil Market or delve into the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Day 10 Haenyeo Divers Experience
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Haenyeo Divers Experience

Jeju Island: Day 10 - You will eat breakfast on board the ferry in the morning. Once you have reached Jeju, head to Seongsan Ilchulbong and enjoy a morning hike for some amazing views. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a unique formation that was formed by hydrovolcanic eruptions over 5,000 years ago! Once you are back down the mountain, try out some sailing on yachts, enjoying the fresh sea air. The afternoon is then free for your own exploration and you can ask us for our recommendations.
Day 11 Long Trek Along The Jeju Olle Trail
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Long Trek Along The Jeju Olle Trail

Jeju Island: Day 11 - Today you will depart in the morning for a day trip to Jeongbang Waterfall. You will begin your day at the waterfall, which only flows directly into the ocean. After this, you will then start your day-long trek along the Jeju Olle Trail. During your trek, you will take a break and have some lunch in Seogwipo city. You will then continue your trek to Oedolgae Rock. After your trek, you will then return to your hostel and take this time to relax. We suggest that you take this time to either try some surfing or paddleboarding. In the evening you will have a barbeque dinner and enjoy your last night with your fellow dragons.
Day 12 Say Your Goodbyes!
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Say Your Goodbyes!

Jeju Island: Day 12 - Today marks the end of your South Korea trip. Depending on your plans you will either head back to Seoul or continue exploring the wonders of Jeju Island.

12 days tour

12-Day South Korea Adventure: From Seoul To Jeju Island

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip 12-Day South Korea Adventure: From Seoul To Jeju Island

Meet Your Fellow Dragons + Namsan Mountain

Korean Demilitarized Zone + Talk To A North Korean Defector

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Seoraksan National Park

Take The Train To Gyeongju + Explore Cheonmachong Ancient Tombs

Golgulsa Temple + Community Work At Temple

Talk To A Buddhist Monk + Explore Busan Nightlife

Jagalchi Market + Virtual Reality Gaming Experience (Optional)

Korean Cooking Class (Optional)

Haenyeo Divers Experience

Long Trek Along The Jeju Olle Trail

Say Your Goodbyes!

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