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South Korea, K-Pop & Kimchi

Save up to 15% today
9 days

Embark on a rhythmic journey through South Korea's K-Pop scene with our K-Pop & Kimchi tour! Explore iconic landmarks linked to idols like BTS in Seoul, groove through the K-Star Roads of Gwangju, and uncover the roots of this global phenomenon in cities like Busan. Dance through lively markets, capture memories at famous murals, and join a once-in-a-lifetime makeup masterclass to capture that K-Pop idol glow. This tour blends the K-Pop fandom with Korean cultural exploration across diverse cities for an unforgettable experience.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Tour Overview

Duration

9 days

Starts

Seoul

Ends

Seoul

Range

Essentials

Tour Guide

Escorted by a bi-lingual adventure leader

Group Size

Min 4 / Max 20

Minimum age

18 (maximum age 55)

Departs

Hostels

Hotel Rating

Saturdays

Countries

South Korea

Arrival Transfer

No - can be booked on request

Departure Transfer

No

Meals included

None Provided
Per person from
USD$2,061.25
Save 15% today
Total From
$4,850.00
USD$4,122.50
Deposit From
Final payment
USD$800.00
$3,722.50

Tour Highlights

Seoul - Explore the nations captivating capital. Shop for Kpop goods in Myeongdong, visit Gyeongbokgung Palace and enjoy a cable car ride to N Seoul Tower on Mt. Namsan
Classes - Dance to choreography taught by K-Pop experts at a Kpop dance class & enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime makeup masterclass with leading Seoul MUAs
DMZ - Peek into the secretive state of North Korea from the Observatory and meet a North Korean defector
HIKR Ground - Explore the futuristic cultural center and create your own music video
Gangnam Style - Get excited for Hallyu K-Star Road, COEX Mall, and stroll through BTS RM Forest
Gwangju - visit Chungjang K-Pop Star Street, see the Hope World sculpture and explore Penguin Village
Busan - Explore the stunning Gamcheon Culture Village, hop on the Songdo Marine Cable Car for stunning Busan coastline views and visit Busan Citizen Park, known for a famous visit from BTS’s V

Included

8 nights in hostel accommodation
Escorted by a bi-lingual adventure leader
Guided touring in Seoul, Gwangju & Busan
All transportation via public transport, including the KTX from Busan to Seoul on Day 8
Namsan Mountain Cable Car ride in Seoul
Kpop Dance Class in Seoul
Entry to Gyeongbokgung Palace
DMZ excursion and chat with a North Korean defector
Songdo Marine Cable Car ride in Busan
Makeup Masterclass in Seoul

Not Included

Tipping - an entirely personal gesture
Optional activities
International flights and visas
Airport transfers
Items of a personal nature and meals

Itinerary

Day 1 - Welcome

Saturday. Welcome to Seoul, the bustling capital city of South Korea! Make your own way to your hostel and meet your Adventure Leader for a briefing of your adventure ahead.

Spice up the night with an optional group dinner in Myeongdong, followed by a visit to the Myeongdong Underground Shopping Center – renowned for its K-pop merchandise bargains.

Come evening, we'll take public transport to Namsan Mountain, where a cable car ascent awaits. Elevate your experience by taking a trip up to Seoul N Tower for stunning views so stunning of Seoul.

Overnight: Seoul

Day 2 - The Demilitarized Zone

Today kicks off with a journey northward to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). Your first stop is the Dora Observatory, offering a unique perspective as you peer across the border to catch glimpses of the North Korean villages. Grab those binoculars for an up-close view! Then, descend into the third tunnels, coming as close as a mere 170m to North Korea!

As we make our way back to Seoul, get ready for a unique opportunity to engage in a Q&A session with a North Korean defector.

Prepare for an afternoon that grooves to a different beat as you delve into the world of K-Pop. Join an incredible dance class where K-Pop choreographers will guide you through the moves step by step. Get ready to dance like a pro and unleash your inner idol! The day concludes with an optional night out in Hongdae.

Overnight: Seoul

Day 3 - Gyeongbokgung Palace & HIKR Ground

This morning we'll take public transport to Gyeongbokgung Palace, arriving just in time for the impressive 10am Royal Guard Changing Ceremony. For an extra touch of tradition, head to the nearby hanbok rental store where you can dress in beautiful traditional garments before exploring the palace.

As the early afternoon unfolds, venture to Insadong, strolling through the charming Bukchon Hanok Village. Marvel at rare K-Pop treasures in KTown4U and then set your sights on the futuristic HIKR Ground. Learn about the K-Wave culture and try your hand at creating your own music video!

Cap off the day with an optional group dinner and drinks in the vibrant district of Itaewon - you may recognize it as the setting of famous K-Drama 'Itaewon Class!'

Overnight: Seoul

Day 4 - Oppa Gangnam Style!

Get ready for a K-Pop extravaganza, as we visit Hallyu K-Star Road and encounter the legendary Gangnam Dolls. Capture the moment by posing with your favorite group's doll!

Around midday, we'll head to COEX Mall, where endless restaurants, stores, and K-Pop memorabilia await. Don't miss the iconic library and the famous Gangnam Style statue. While here, try to keep an eye out for HYBE Insight in the nearby Samseong district.

In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the enchanting BTS RM Forest, a living tribute planted in celebration of the rapper's birthday and a testament to his dedication to environmental conservation.

As the day winds down, enjoy a free evening to explore the district of Jamsil.

Overnight: Seoul

Day 5 - Gripping Gwangju!

Seoul - Gwangju. Gear up for a morning transfer to your next destination – Gwangju. In the afternoon, check into your hostel - just in time for a visit to Chungjang K-Pop Star Street. This road stands as a tribute to K-Pop idols from Gwangju! While you're here, view handprint art with imprints from idols, wander through the star memorial hall, and explore the fan zone where idols have donated personal items for fans to admire.

If you're part of the BTS ARMY, this next stop is for you! Visit the Hope World sculpture, a celebration of BTS's J-Hope, a proud Gwangju native. This monument is inscribed with over 21,000 messages from ARMYs worldwide. Nearby, explore the whimsical Penguin Village – a mural village featuring arts, crafts, and even more murals paying homage to J-Hope.

End the day with the option to explore the vibrant 1913 Songjong Station Market.

Overnight: Gwangju

Day 6 - BTS & Busan

Gwangju - Busan. Today, hop on a bus bound for the vibrant city of Busan! Upon arrival, our first destination is the picturesque Gamcheon Culture Village, renowned as a popular filming location. Keep an eye out for the vibrant mural dedicated to Busan's own BTS members, Jimin and Jungkook – a must-see for fans!

Next, head to the scenic Songdo Beach, where you'll embark on the Songdo Marine Cable Car for breathtaking views of the Busan coastline. Return inland to the BIFF Entertainment Square, a trendy area perfect for street food and shopping, before enjoying a free evening at your leisure.

Overnight: Busan

Day 7 - Beaches & Bathhouse

Kick off your morning with a visit to the renowned Busan Citizen Park, a familiar spot for fans thanks to a notable visit from BTS's V. Capture the moment with a photo opportunity at the exact spot where V left his mark.

Following this, relax at a Korean jjimjilbang, a traditional bathhouse or opt for a visit to Dadaepo Beach, Jimin's favourite place in Busan! Located at the Nakdonggang estuary meeting the South Sea, this scenic sandy beach features a grand fountain at its entrance.

As the night unfolds, you can opt to join your tour group for a session of K-Pop karaoke in Haeundae.

Overnight: Busan

Day 8 - Makeup Masterclass

Busan - Seoul. We'll make our swift and stylish return to Seoul this morning via high-speed rail (KTX).

Upon your arrival back in the city, get ready for the grand finale – a makeup masterclass led by a team of top-notch Seoul MUAs. Delve into the realm of cosmetics as they guide you through the use of products and expertly demonstrate application techniques, allowing you to achieve the iconic looks sported by your favorite K-Pop and K-Drama stars!

Overnight: Seoul

Day 9 - Goodbye

Sunday. Sadly, today marks the end of your unforgettable South Korea, Kimchi & K-Pop tour. Say your goodbyes and make your way to the airport for your onward flight. May your departure be as smooth as a perfectly choreographed K-Pop dance!

Extras and add-ons

If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.

Pre and Post Tour Accommodation

Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.

Pre-Accommodation Seoul SKKK

Double

$85per passenger

Twin

$85per passenger

Single

$175per passenger

Post-Accommodation Seoul SKKK

Double

$85per passenger

Twin

$85per passenger

Single

$175per passenger

Additional Excursions

Enhance your tour with these optional extras, helping you to get the most from your adventure.

Seoul Private Airport Transfer (max 2 pax)

$175

per passenger

Seoul Private Airport Transfer (max 4 pax)

$295

per passenger

Seoul Private Airport Transfer (per vehicle, max 2 pax)

$175

per passenger

Seoul Private Airport Transfer (per vehicle, max 4 pax)

$295

per passenger

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.

If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.

Step Inn Myeongdong 1
Seoul

Step Inn Myeongdong 1, centrally located in Seoul near the popular Myeongdong shopping area, provides well-equipped private rooms on the 15th floor with captivating city views. Air-conditioned rooms offer essential amenities like a dressing table and fridge, complemented by private bathrooms featuring a shower and electronic bidet-equipped toilet. Guests enjoy free WiFi throughout the property. The accommodation includes a full kitchenette with dining tables, a shared lounge with PCs, and a 24-hour front desk.

Our Rating
Simple
Local Rating
Hostel

Prices & Dates

All departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 persons. Prices shown are per person travelling and the 'Dorm' prices shown are based on mixed dormitory rooms. There is also a 'Twin / Double' Room Upgrade and a 'Single' Room upgrade for solo travellers. Twin / Double room upgrades are based on two people travelling together and are subject to availability.

2025
Twin/Double
Single
10 Mar - 18 Mar
Save 15%
$2,425$2,062
$3,135$2,665
12 May - 20 May
Save 10%
$2,425$2,183
$3,135$2,822
11 Aug - 19 Aug
Save 10%
$2,425$2,183
$3,135$2,822
20 Oct - 28 Oct
Save 10%
$2,425$2,183
$3,135$2,822

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