South Korea moves confidently between centuries of tradition and a distinctly modern culture. In Seoul, royal palaces, old city walls and traditional markets sit alongside contemporary galleries, design districts and the bright lights of neighbourhoods such as Hongdae. Further south, Busan brings a different perspective, where Buddhist temples overlook the sea and seafood markets, beaches and makgeolli bars shape life along the coast. Beyond the mainland, Jeju Island feels different again, with volcanic landscapes, coastal trails and the remarkable traditions of its haenyeo divers.
The beauty of South Korea lies in how much changes over the course of a single journey. High-speed rail makes it easy to move from Seoul’s palaces and neighbourhoods to the coast at Busan, before continuing to Jeju’s volcanic landscapes. Along the way, experiences reveal a country through its food and traditions, from exploring markets with a local guide and tasting Korean barbecue to discovering Busan’s makgeolli culture and learning about the generations of women who have free-dived off Jeju’s shores.
Speak with our Travel Designers to shape a luxury holiday to South Korea around its cities, coast, cuisine and culture, with carefully chosen hotels, private guiding and thoughtful planning throughout.
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