Top 11 Things to Do in South Korea

Seoul’s magnificent royal palaces are the historic heart of the nation, grand complexes of elegant throne halls, serene lotus ponds, and intricate living quarters where kings once ruled. To walk through these grounds is to step back into the Joseon Dynasty, but a private guide transforms a visit into a vivid and intimate encounter with history, away from the bustle of the crowds.

Arrange an exclusive tour of Gyeongbokgung Palace with an architectural historian who can reveal the secrets of its design and the stories of its royal inhabitants or gain special access to the Huwon, the “Secret Garden” of Changdeokgung Palace. This venue features a stunning landscape of pavilions and ancient trees once reserved for the royal family and allows you to experience the profound peace and beauty of these spaces as they were intended.

What to Expect

When embarking on a private palace tour, expect:

• Exclusive Access: Visit areas or enjoy after-hours tours that are inaccessible to the general public.
• Expert Historical Context: Your guide will bring the architecture, rituals, and royal intrigue to life.
• A Serene Atmosphere: Experience the tranquility of the palace grounds without the usual crowds.
• Deeper Cultural Insight: Understand the principles of Confucianism and Feng Shui that shaped the layout.

Best Places for Palace Tours

• Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul: The grandest of the Five Grand Palaces.
• Changdeokgung Palace, Seoul: Famed for its stunning and exclusive Secret Garden.
• Deoksugung Palace, Seoul: Known for its unique blend of Korean and Western architecture.
• Gyeongju, various sites: Explore the former palace sites of the ancient Silla Kingdom.

Korean cuisine is a global sensation, but its pinnacle is the elegant and elaborate Hanjeongsik, or Korean royal court cuisine. This is a holistic experience, a riot of flavors, textures, and colors served in a procession of exquisite dishes. To savor this tradition in a private setting is the ultimate luxury culinary indulgence.

Arrange for a private dinner in a restored hanok, or traditional house, or a Michelin-starred restaurant specializing in royal cuisine. You will be served a dazzling array of perfectly balanced dishes, from delicate porridges and savory pancakes to complex stews and grilled delicacies, all presented like works of art. The experience is a journey through centuries of culinary refinement, once reserved only for kings.

What to Expect

When indulging in a royal court dinner, you can anticipate:

• A Multi-Course Culinary Journey: Experience dozens of small, artfully prepared dishes.
• Exquisite Presentation: Admire the beauty of the food, served in fine ceramic and brassware.
• A Private and Elegant Setting: Dine in a secluded room for an intimate and unhurried meal.
• Expert Staff: Learn about the history and ingredients of each dish from knowledgeable servers.
• Harmonious Flavors: Discover the five essential tastes that define Korean culinary philosophy: sweet, salty, sour, spicy, and bitter.

Best Places for Royal Cuisine

• Gangnam and Insadong, Seoul: Home to several Michelin-starred restaurants reinterpreting royal cuisine.
• Bukchon Hanok Village, Seoul: Dine in an authentic, beautifully restored traditional house.
• Gyeongju: Experience regional variations of aristocratic cuisine from the Silla Dynasty.

The border between North and South Korea is one of the most fascinating and tense places on Earth. Visiting the DMZ is a powerful, surreal experience, and a private tour provides the essential context and nuance to understand this poignant symbol of the Cold War’s last frontier.

Travel with a private guide, often an expert in geopolitics or military history, who can provide a deep and balanced narrative. Enjoy a flexible itinerary that can include a visit to the Joint Security Area (JSA), where soldiers from both sides stand face-to-face.

What to Expect

When taking a private DMZ tour, expect:

• Expert, Nuanced Commentary: Gain a deep understanding of the Korean War and inter-Korean relations.
• Flexibility and Comfort: Travel in a private vehicle and customize the tour to your interests.
• A More Intimate Experience: Avoid the crowds and engage directly with your guide.
• Potential for Exclusive Access: Depending on the political climate, visit areas like the JSA.
• A Profound and Moving Day: Confront the stark reality of a divided nation in a respectful manner.

Best Places for DMZ Tours

• Panmunjom, JSA: The iconic blue conference rooms that straddle the border. Access is restricted and must be pre-arranged through your travel specialist.
• The Third Infiltration Tunnel: An actual tunnel dug by the North, discovered in 1978.
• Dora Observatory: Peer through binoculars into a North Korean village.

Korea has a rich heritage of traditional arts and crafts, from elegant calligraphy to world-renowned ceramics. A private workshop with a master artisan offers a rare opportunity to connect with this legacy, engage your creativity, and create a beautiful, personal memento of your journey.

Arrange for an exclusive, hands-on session in the serene, ink-scented studio of a calligraphy master, learning the art of the brushstroke. Or, spend an afternoon with a ceramicist in a pottery village, learning the techniques used to create the celadon pottery that has been prized for centuries. These intimate encounters provide a deep appreciation for the discipline, philosophy, and skill behind these timeless art forms.

What to Expect

When visiting a private artisan, you can anticipate:

• One-on-One Instruction: Receive personal guidance from a master of their craft.
• A Hands-On Experience: Create your own piece of art, whether it’s a scroll or a ceramic bowl.
• Cultural and Philosophical Insight: Learn the meaning and history behind the art form.
• A Tranquil, Inspiring Setting: Work in the artist's authentic, private studio.
• A Unique and Personal Souvenir: Take home a masterpiece you created yourself.

Best Places for Artisan Workshops

• Insadong, Seoul: Home to many calligraphy and traditional papermaking studios.
• Icheon Ceramic Village: A hub for master potters and traditional kilns.
• Bukchon Hanok Village, Seoul: Find artisans specializing in traditional knot-making and embroidery.
• Jeju Island: Local artists offer workshops in ceramics and natural fabric dyeing.

The volcanic island of Jeju is home to one of the world's most remarkable cultural traditions: the Haenyeo, or women divers. For centuries, these women have made a living by free-diving to incredible depths to harvest seafood, a sustainable practice recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. A private, respectful encounter with this community is an unforgettable experience.

Arrange for an exclusive culinary experience where you can enjoy a meal of abalone, octopus, and sea urchin freshly harvested and prepared by the Haenyeo themselves. A local guide can facilitate a conversation, allowing you to hear their stories and understand the incredible resilience of this unique, matriarchal culture.

What to Expect

When meeting the Haenyeo, you can expect:

• An Authentic Cultural Encounter: Meet and interact with the divers in a respectful, intimate setting.
• The Freshest Seafood Imaginable: Taste the bounty of the sea just hours after it was harvested.
• Powerful, Personal Stories: Hear firsthand about the challenges and traditions of a unique way of life.
• A Stunning Coastal Setting: Enjoy your meal with breathtaking views of Jeju’s volcanic coastline.
• Support for a Living Heritage: Your visit helps preserve this incredible and diminishing tradition.

Best Places for Haenyeo Encounters

• Seongsan Ilchulbong, Jeju: Watch a demonstration of the divers' work at the base of the famous "Sunrise Peak."
• Hado-ri Village, Jeju: Home to the Haenyeo Museum and opportunities for intimate dining.
• Udo Island, Jeju: A small island off the coast where the Haenyeo tradition is very strong.

South Korea is at the forefront of global wellness and beauty, and its spa culture is a serious affair. While the communal jjimjilbang, or bathhouse, is a famous local experience, a more exclusive and rejuvenating journey can be found in a private luxury spa, where ancient herbal medicine meets cutting-edge techniques.

Indulge in a bespoke spa ritual at a five-star hotel or a high-end wellness clinic in Seoul’s Gangnam district. Experience a signature treatment featuring prized local ingredients like red ginseng, bamboo salt, and restorative medicinal herbs. From invigorating body scrubs to meticulous, multi-step facials, this is an opportunity to experience the height of Korean wellness culture in a serene and private setting.

What to Expect

On a private spa experience, you can expect:

• A Secluded, Tranquil Oasis: Enjoy your treatment in a private suite with luxurious amenities.
• Bespoke Treatments: Receive a consultation and a ritual tailored to your specific needs.
• Traditional Korean Ingredients: Experience the healing properties of ginseng, herbs, and minerals.
• Expert Therapists: Be cared for by highly skilled professionals trained in modern and traditional techniques.
• Complete Rejuvenation: Emerge feeling refreshed, revitalized, and deeply relaxed.

Best Places for Luxury Spas

• Gangnam and Apgujeong, Seoul: The epicenter of high-end beauty and wellness clinics.
• Seoul’s Five-Star Hotels: Home to world-class spas.
• Busan: Coastal luxury hotels offer spas with ocean views and marine-based treatments.

The Korean Wave, or Hallyu, has become a global phenomenon, and K-Pop is its vibrant, high-energy heart. For fans or the culturally curious, a private, behind-the-scenes tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of this multi-billion-dollar industry.

Arrange for a private dance class with a choreographer who has worked with famous K-Pop idols, learning the moves to a hit song in a professional studio. Or, visit a recording studio for a vocal coaching session with an industry professional and even record your own track. This is a fun, high-energy way to connect with the passion and precision that defines modern Korean culture.

What to Expect

When exploring K-Pop culture, anticipate:

• Exclusive, Private Sessions: Enjoy one-on-one instruction from industry professionals.
• An Insider’s Perspective: Learn about the rigorous training and production process of K-Pop.
• A Fun and Active Experience: Get moving and learn the intricate choreography seen in music videos.
• A Unique Souvenir: Leave with a video of your dance performance or a professionally mixed audio track.
• Exploration of Key Districts: Visit the Gangnam area, home to many major entertainment agencies.

Best Places for K-Pop Experiences

• Gangnam and Hongdae, Seoul: The main hubs for entertainment agencies, dance studios, and fan culture.
• K-Star Road, Seoul: A street in Apgujeong dedicated to the biggest Hallyu stars.
• HiKR Ground, Seoul: An immersive cultural space where you can create your own K-Pop content.

South Korea's serene mountains and bustling cities are dotted with ancient Buddhist temples, each a tranquil sanctuary offering a profound connection to the nation's spiritual heritage. A private tour of these sacred sites provides a peaceful and personalized way to explore this rich history, allowing for a deeper understanding than a casual visit might permit.

In Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, a private journey with a cultural expert could lead you to Bulguksa Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of 8th-century religious art, and your private guide will illuminate the symbolism of its stone pagodas and wooden prayer halls. The experience might continue with a visit to the nearby Seokguram Grotto to witness its monumental stone Buddha, a powerful sculpture considered one of the finest in the world.

What to Expect

On a private temple tour, you can expect:

• Expert Cultural and Religious Context: Understand the history and tenets of Korean Buddhism.
• A Peaceful, Contemplative Pace: Soak in the serene atmosphere without being rushed.
• Architectural Insight: Appreciate the artistry and symbolism of the temple design.
• Access to Prime Viewing Spots: Your guide will know the best locations for reflection and photography.
• A Deeply Spiritual Experience: Connect with centuries of faith and devotion in a sacred space.

Best Places for Temple Tours

While Gyeongju offers incredible options, stunning temples worthy of a private tour can be found across the country.

• Bulguksa Temple, Gyeongju: An architectural marvel and one of Korea’s most important temples.
• Seokguram Grotto, Gyeongju: Home to a stunning and monumental stone Buddha.
• Haeinsa Temple, Gayasan National Park: A remote temple that houses the Tripitaka Koreana, a complete collection of Buddhist scriptures carved on over 80,000 woodblocks.
• Jogyesa Temple, Seoul: The chief temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, located in the heart of the city.

The stunning landscapes of Jeju Island were forged by fire and the best way to experience its raw, volcanic power is on foot. A privately guided hike on Hallasan, the dormant volcano at the island's center, is an invigorating journey through a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.

An expert mountain guide will tailor a route on Hallasan to your fitness level, leading you through its diverse and changing ecosystems. You will ascend from lush forests into sub-alpine meadows carpeted with wildflowers in spring, all while enjoying panoramic views of the island's 360-plus parasitic volcanic cones, known as oreum. A private guide ensures your safety and enriches the experience with geological and ecological insights.

What to Expect

When embarking on a private volcano hike, expect:

• Expert Local Knowledge: Your guide knows the best trails, the weather patterns, and the island’s unique geology.
• A Customized Route: A hike tailored to your abilities and interests, from gentle slopes to summit climbs.
• Stunning Panoramic Views: See the island's dramatic landscape from its highest point.
• Safety and Comfort: Navigate the mountain with a professional who can ensure a safe and enjoyable trek.

Best Places for Guided Hikes

• Hallasan National Park, Jeju: The highest peak in South Korea, with multiple scenic trails.
• Seongsan Ilchulbong, Jeju: A shorter but steep hike up a dramatic tuff cone for iconic sunrise views.
• Jeju Olle Trails: A series of scenic walking paths that trace the island’s beautiful coastline.

To truly understand the golden age of the Silla Kingdom, explore its capital, Gyeongju, with a guide who can read the landscape like a history book. Touring this "open-air museum" with a local historian or archaeologist transforms a scenic visit into a thrilling intellectual adventure.

Have your expert guide lead you through Daereungwon Tomb Complex, explaining the treasures found within these grassy royal burial mounds. Visit the 7th-century Cheomseongdae, the oldest astronomical observatory in East Asia, and learn how its very stones represent the cosmos. A private guide can connect the dots between these scattered sites, weaving them into a single, compelling story of a lost golden age.

What to Expect

When exploring Gyeongju with an expert, anticipate:

• A Cohesive Historical Narrative: Understand how the different tombs, temples, and palace sites are connected.
• Archaeological and Astronomical Insight: Learn the science and symbolism behind the ancient structures.
• Efficient and Comfortable Touring: Travel between sites in a private vehicle, maximizing your time.
• A Deeper Appreciation for Silla: See beyond the beautiful scenery to the sophisticated civilization that created it.
• Exclusive Anecdotes: Hear stories and theories that you won't find in any guidebook.

Best Places for Historical Exploration in Gyeongju

• Daereungwon Tomb Complex: The serene final resting place of Silla kings and queens.
• Cheomseongdae Observatory: A symbol of Silla’s scientific achievements.
• Gyeongju National Museum: Home to the stunning gold crowns and treasures of the Silla Kingdom.
• Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond: The stunningly beautiful site of the former Silla crown prince's palace.

South Korea’s traditional markets are a thrilling feast for the senses, a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and smells. Navigating these bustling labyrinths with a professional chef or culinary expert transforms a chaotic experience into a curated and delicious journey.

Arrange for a private tour of Seoul’s Gwangjang Market, famous for its mung bean pancakes and hand-cut noodles, or Busan’s Jagalchi Fish Market, the largest in the country. Your chef-guide will introduce you to the best vendors, help you sample authentic specialties, explain the importance of key ingredients like gochujang and doenjang, and finish with a curated meal made from the very ingredients you just discovered.

What to Expect

On a chef-led market tour, expect:

• An Insider’s Guide: Navigate the market with a professional who knows the best vendors and hidden gems.
• A Curated Tasting Experience: Sample a variety of authentic, high-quality street food and ingredients.
• Culinary Education: Learn about the fundamentals of Korean cuisine, from fermentation to seasonality.
• Interaction with Local Vendors: Your guide will help you communicate with the friendly market sellers.
• A Delicious Final Meal: Enjoy a lunch or dinner featuring the fresh products from your market tour.

Best Places for Market Tours

• Gwangjang Market, Seoul: One of the oldest and most famous, known for its incredible street food.
• Noryangjin Fish Market, Seoul: A massive wholesale market where you can pick your own seafood and have it prepared on-site.
• Jagalchi Market, Busan: Korea’s largest and most famous fish market, right on the waterfront.
• Dongmun Traditional Market, Jeju: A great place to sample Jeju’s local specialties, like black pork and citrus.

South Korea truly has it all: ancient kingdoms that whisper tales of a golden age, vibrant cities that are full of futuristic energy, and stunning natural wonders that captivate the soul. Each of these diverse landscapes and cultural centers offers a wealth of activities designed to enthrall visitors with varied interests.

Whether you're looking for the thrill of a private tour to the DMZ or an intimate culinary journey through royal cuisine, our experts are ready to help you plan your trip. For more inspiration, take a look at our trips of a lifetime series.