South Korea Adventure

The capital city of South Korea is the perfect place to begin your Korean adventure. You will meet your group in the Myeongdong district, where you will be treated to your first Korean meal during the included welcome dinner.

After having breakfast at the hostel, you will head to the trendy Hapjeong neighbourhood where you will get the chance to learn a K-Pop dance from a professional instructor and visit the HiKR to experience Korea in a hands-on interactive cultural center. You will have the afternoon free to explore.

In your free time, you could enjoy a touch of shopping in Myeongdong. Myeongdong district is known as a shopper's paradise, you'll be able to pick up some K-pop idol merchandise there if you're a fan! Alternatively, visit Myeongdong Cathedral, the oldest Gothic church in Korea, for some peaceful reflection.

Today, you will have the opportunity to experience a tour that you will remember forever. You will be taken to the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) where you can gaze into the Hermit Kingdom of North Korea. As you stand on the border of two worlds, you will witness the stark contrast between North and South Korea. Explore the tunnels dug by North Korea into the south, hear the area's stories, and engage in cultural exchange with a North Korean defector. Return to Seoul by approximately 4 pm, with enough time for everyone to freshen up before enjoying another amazing Korean dinner.

Today, you will be transported back in time to experience the rich cultural heritage of the Joseon Dynasty era in traditional Seoul. Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of the five palaces that survived the Joseon dynasty era and holds a special place for the people of Seoul. You will explore its ancient courtyards, majestic architecture, and serene garden. Also have the chance to wear the traditional ‘hanbok’ while exploring the palace for that extra authentic feel.

Afterwards, you will walk through the perfectly preserved Bukchon Hanok Village and appreciate its traditional Korean architecture. The village is a living museum showcasing how people lived in Korea centuries ago. In complete contrast, we then head to the bustling Insadong art street. Insagong is a lively and vibrant cultural hub, famous for its art galleries, antique and cultural shops.

Later in the evening, your guide will take you on a street food-tasting tour through the famous Gwangjang Market to sample the best street food in the city. Gwangjang Market is a street food haven where you will find an array of Korean dishes, from savory to sweet. Don't miss a few of the iconic dishes like bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak gimbap (mini seaweed rice rolls). Afterwards, you can enjoy the breathtaking night views from the top of Namsan Mountain, where you will see the famous tower illuminated in pink, blue, and green.

Get ready to experience the serenity of a small, working temple nestled in the mountains outside Seoul. With beautifully decorated temples and shrines dotting the grounds, you will be transported to a world away from the noise and neon of the big city. You will be taking part in temple life including evening bell tolling, and prayer chanting. This is your opportunity to reset and recharge before the next leg of your adventure.

After morning chanting and another healthy Buddhist meal for breakfast, we will say goodbye to our little retreat in the mountains and make our way to the small city of Jeonju. Famous for its food, drink, and immaculately preserved traditional village area, we will head out to explore after checking in to our beautiful wooden Hanok guesthouse. You will have the opportunity to taste a variety of Korean rice wines while learning about the unique drinking culture, feel free to explore Makgeolli Alley at your own pace and eat like a local. Here you can try some 'anju', which are special foods specifically made to be enjoyed while having a few drinks.

After we say goodbye to Jeonju, you will take a bus to our next destination, the ancient capital of Gyeongju. This enchanting place is also known as the "Museum Without Walls" because of its collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient temples, and royal tombs. These sites give us a glimpse into the past and share stories of a bygone era. After you check into your accommodation, you will have time to freshen up before we explore the town on bikes, to visit all the destinations which make Gyeongju so famous. In the evening, you will head to the stunning Donggung Palace, which was a detached palace for the Shilla-era royals. Here, you will witness the shimmering reflections of Anapji Pond at night.

Start your day with a kick (literally). After breakfast, we’ll head to a traditional Dojang to learn the famous fighting art of Taekwondo. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, you’ll practice the high-flying kicks, lightning-fast punches, and precise movements that make this Korean martial art world-renowned. It’s a fun, energetic, and cultural experience rolled into one!

After your session, head back to the accommodation to freshen up before we make our way to one of the most important temples in the country, Bulguksa Temple. Nestled amidst lush forests and scenic landscapes, this ancient site is a true masterpiece of architecture, history, and tranquility.

As the day winds down, join the rest of the group for a relaxed evening exploring Gyeongju’s old town. It's the perfect spot to grab dinner and check out some of the local bars.

Today we head to Busan, a city on the water surrounded by beaches and mountains. After checking in right in the centre of downtown, we will check out the famous Jagalchi market and shopping districts before jumping on the Songdo cable car to get the best views over the water and city. The afternoon is yours to explore with visits to the Gamcheon Cultural Village or maybe bathing in the steaming water of a jjimjilbang (public bathhouse) as suggestions. Our night kicks off with a dinner to celebrate an incredible trip together, sharing laughs and memories over delicious local dishes. After dinner, we’ll head to one of the city’s famous karaoke rooms to sing the night away in one of the lively nightlife districts.

Today you will be continuing your journey to the famous volcanic island of Jeju, which is located 90 km off the coast of South Korea. Known as the island of the gods, Jeju boasts countless natural wonders waiting to be explored. You will have the morning to enjoy yourself until we board our flight and reach Jeju by early afternoon. Once you check-in, it will be time to find a place to eat and prepare for the exciting days ahead of exploring.

You’ll need a good breakfast this morning because we’ve got an active day ahead! We’ll kick things off with a journey across Jeju Island to Seongsan Ilchulbong, a volcanic tuff cone formed by ancient eruptions. When you arrive you’ll tackle the short but steep hike to the summit. From the top, expect sweeping ocean views and a serious sense of achievement.

After the climb and some well-earned free time for lunch, you’ll head south to check out the dramatic Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliffs. These geometric volcanic rock formations look like nature’s version of modern art, perfect for a few epic photos.

Last up is Yakcheonsa Temple, one of the most beautiful temples on the island. Tucked beside a healing mineral spring and facing the Pacific, it’s the kind of spot that invites you to slow down and soak in the serenity.

You’ll return to the hotel in the afternoon with time to unwind and do as you wish with some free time.

Today is the day we walk the incredible Olle trail across sections of the island. Expect sweeping views of the ocean and fields, small villages, dramatic rock formations, and the most famous waterfall on Jeju. Jeongbang Waterfall is a 23 meter high waterfall which crashes down onto the rocks on the oceanfront and is pretty jaw-dropping. Explore at your own leisure with the rest of the One Life crew for the afternoon before having an evening together to say goodbye to Jeju and to South Korea!

As your trip comes to an end, you will have one final breakfast before continuing your journey. The memories you have made, the places you have explored, and the friendships you have formed along the way will stay with you forever. Flight departs Jeju Airport and arrives at Gimpo Airport in Seoul in the early afternoon, and then fly from Seoul back home.