Discover South Korea.

Modern marvels meet ancient wonders in glittering, spiritual South Korea

South Korea packs a punch in more ways than one. Its healthy, flavourful cuisine has become increasingly trendy in Western culture, as has much of South Korean culture. Then, bounce between ancient temples, pristine nature and traditional spas.

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Things to do in South Korea.

Vibrant street food markets are the ideal venues for savouring traditional dishes like kimchi and bibimbap in South Korea. For a slower pace, experience the tranquillity of temple culture through meditation and Buddhist ceremonies. Indulge in wellness retreats featuring herbal remedies, hot springs and rejuvenating spa treatments set in beautiful surrounds.

Gastronomy

Korean gastronomy features bold flavours and vibrant colours, with dishes like kimchi, bulgogi and bibimbap. Whether served on the street, a home or fine dining restaurant, it’s always funky, fresh and nourishing.

Korean food

Korean food is a unique fusion of bold flavours and vibrant ingredients. Rice and vegetables are staples and fermented foods a hallmark, adding depth and gut health benefits. Street food, like tteokbokki and hotteok, offers satisfying mouthfuls on-the-go, traditionally accompanied by cold beer. Meals are usually communal, shared with friends, family or colleagues, and often feature several elegant Banchan – pickled and spiced sides. Korean cuisine reflects a rich cultural heritage that celebrates freshness, creativity and a genuine love for gastronomy.

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Vegan food in Korea

With its focus on freshness and arsenal of plant-based dishes, much of Korean cuisine is “accidentally vegan”. Dishes like bibimbap can be easily customised with seasonal vegetables and tofu, while its staple, kimchi, is usually made without fish sauce. Traditional soups, such as doenjang-jjigae, can be easily found in their plant-based forms, as can street food favourites like spicy rice cakes (tteokbokki) and crispy vegetable pancakes (jeon). Slunch Factory in Seoul, Alt.a in Itaewon and Arp in Busan are hotly recommended plant-based restaurants.

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Temple Culture

South Korea’s temple culture is deeply rooted in Buddhism, with centuries-old temples scattered across its mountains and cities. Visitors can experience rituals, explore ancient architecture and engage in mindfulness practices alongside monks.

Buddhist Temple Food

Known as “balwoo gongyang,” temple food is sophisticated, natural and vegan, following Buddhist principles of non-violence and mindfulness. Salty, sweet, sour, bitter, spicy and astringent flavours are perfectly balanced, and circularity promoted: water used to wash rice or blanche vegetables becomes broth for nourishing stews or soups.

Temple Stay

Temple stays in South Korea offer a unique opportunity to experience traditional Buddhist monastic life. Participate in meditation, tea ceremonies, and rituals like the 108 prostrations, while enjoying the tranquility of surrounding nature. It’s an immersive retreat for those seeking mindfulness, spiritual reflection and a deeper connection with Korean culture.

Wellness

Wellness in South Korea blends ancient traditions and modern practices. Experience soothing jjimjilbangs (Korean spas) and hot springs, herbal remedies and meditation retreats, for a relaxing and holistic holiday.

Beauty & Spa

South Korea is a global authority on beauty. Home of the 10-step skincare routine, enthusiasts can try treatments and spa experiences found nowhere else on Earth.

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Korean Traditional Medicine

Find balance and harmony with Korean traditional medicine. Rooted in centuries-old practices, book treatments like acupuncture, moxibustion and tea ceremonies in centres that blend cutting edge modernity with ancient practices.

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Nature & Forest

South Korea’s lush forests and scenic landscapes are beautiful in every season. Its myriad national parks boast dense woodlands, crystal-clear streams and diverse native wildlife.

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Healing & Meditation

South Korea offers healing and meditation retreats in serene locations like temples and wellness centres. Or, ground yourself in nature in one of many beautiful healing forests across the country.

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How to get to South Korea.

An enormous stone statue stands in a cobbled square surrounded by trees facing a Buddhist temple against the skyline.

Getting to South Korea by air.

Seoul’s Incheon International Airport (ICN) airport is served regularly by direct flights from Heathrow airport. Airlines like Korean Air and Asiana Airlines operate along this route.

How long is the flight to Seoul?

Direct flights between major airports in the UK and the South Korean capital of Seoul typically take 10 to 12 hours. Indirect flights can take longer, depending on layovers.

How to get from the airport to the city centre.

Upon landing at Incheon International Airport, go through immigration and customs. From there, you can take the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) to Seoul, which usually takes under an hour, or use other transport options like buses or taxis.

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Accommodations in South Korea.

South Korea offers a wide range of accommodation options, depending on your preferences. Stay in Seoul’s Myeongdong for luxury, or choose Insadong district for more traditional culture. Skiing is a popular holiday option near Seoul, or head down to Jeju island for affordable beach-front properties. South Korea has it all.

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