Want to Visit East Asia

South Korea

Duration 10 days Season March-May (Cherry Blossom), September-November (Autumn Foliage) Currency KRW (South Korean Won) USD 1 USD ≈ 1,450 KRW Lang Korean

“A problem is a chance for you to do your best.”

— Duke Ellington

Planning notes — I haven't been here yet. This page is my personal research for a future trip.

South Korea weaves centuries-old palaces and Buddhist temples with the pulsating energy of Seoul’s neon-soaked neighborhoods and incredible street food.

Why I Want to Visit

Ancient heritage meets technological innovation, with Korean BBQ, dramatic mountain landscapes, Joseon-era palaces, and the unique energy of K-pop culture.

Draft itinerary

My dream 10-day South Korea trip would include:

Seoul (4 days) - Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Myeongdong, Hongdae, Gwangjang Market
DMZ (1 day) - Demilitarized Zone and Joint Security Area
Gyeongju (2 days) - Royal tombs, Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto
Busan (2 days) - Jagalchi Market, Gamcheon Village, Haeundae Beach, Haedong Yonggungsa
Jeonju (1 day) - Birthplace of bibimbap with stunning hanok village

What I’m Most Excited About

Authentic Korean BBQ grilled at the table in Seoul
Autumn hiking in Seoraksan National Park
Royal tombs of Gyeongju at sunset
Hongdae’s indie music venues and themed cafes

Food spots on my radar

Maple Tree House (Seoul) — Celebrated Gangnam Korean BBQ with premium hanwoo beef grilled tableside. 📍 Maps
Gwangjang Market Food Stalls (Seoul) — Seoul’s oldest market with a bustling food alley. 📍 Maps
Tosokchon Samgyetang (Seoul) — Legendary ginseng chicken soup near Gyeongbokgung Palace. 📍 Maps
Gukje Market Food Court (Busan) — Sprawling Busan market with fresh seafood and local specialties. 📍 Maps
Jeonju Hanok Village Bibimbap Street (Jeonju) — The birthplace of bibimbap with sizzling stone-bowl service. 📍 Maps

Hotels I’ve shortlisted

Lotte Hotel Seoul ★★★★★ (Seoul) — Iconic Myeongdong luxury hotel with direct department store access. View →
Hotel28 Myeongdong ★★★★ (Seoul) — Trendy boutique hotel in the heart of Seoul’s shopping. View →
Bukchon Maru Hanok Guesthouse ★★★ (Seoul) — Traditional hanok with ondol-heated rooms. View →
Aventree Hotel Busan ★★★ (Busan) — Modern hotel near Busan Station. View →

Experiences I’m considering

Seoul Palace & Hanbok Tour — Visit Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung in traditional hanbok. 4h. View →
DMZ & JSA Tour from Seoul — Third Tunnel, Dora Observatory, and Joint Security Area at the border. 8h. View →
Seoul Street Food Tour — Markets and street food alleys with tteokbokki, mandu, and fried chicken. 3h. View →
Bukchon Hanok Village Walking Tour — Guided walk through the traditional hanok neighborhood between two palaces. 2h. View →
Busan Day Trip from Seoul — KTX train to Gamcheon Village. 12h. View →