korea tour length

 KOREA TOUR LENGTHS

Good information if you are Hot for a Remote..

 1. Request widest dissemination of this message. 2. The under secretary of defense (personnel and readiness) approved tour length changes for service members permanently assigned to Korea.

Tour lengths now include the following:

• Korea (except as indicated) - 36/24 months accompanied; 12 months unaccompanied
• Chongju AB - na accompanied; 12 months unaccompanied
• Dongducheon (Camp Casey, Hovey, Mobile, Castle) - 24 months accompanied; 12 months unaccompanied
• Gwangju AB (ROK) - na accompanied; 12 months unaccompanied
• Joint security area - na accompanied; 12 months unaccompanied
• Kunsan AB - na accompanied; 12 months unaccompanied
• Mujak/pohang - na accompanied; 12 months unaccompanied
• Uijeongbu (Camps Jackson, Red Cloud, and Stanley) - 24 months accompanied; 12 months unaccompanied

3. Members will be eligible to serve accompanied tours only when offered and accept command sponsorship. Service members not eligible to serve accompanied tours will serve unaccompanied tours. 4. To increase volunteers for extended service and promote unit/personal stability, eligible members may elect Korea Assignment Incentive Pay (KAIP). $300.00 monthly payments will be authorized for members agreeing to serve the following tours:

• 24 months unaccompanied
• 36 months unaccompanied
• 24 months accompanied (offered and accept command sponsorship) in Dongducheon and Uijeonbu
• 36 months accompanied (offered and accept command sponsorship) detailed program requirements and application/processing procedures will be specified in subsequent message.

5. Members assigned to locations with limited command sponsorship benefits (Dongducheon and Uijeonbu) are required to be counseled/acknowledge in writing limited benefits and may be eligible to request an overseas housing allowance (OHA) waiver if applicable. 6. AF implementation is scheduled for 2 Jun 09. A PSDN outlining complete program specifics will be forthcoming from AFPC/DPA. 7. This is a coordinated AF/A1P and AFPC/DPA message.

Copyright © 2009 AFMENTOR. All rights reserved.  View Terms and Conditions of Use . Revised: 10/21/09.

Everything you want to know about South Korea

How many days in Korea is enough?

Introduction.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the question of “How many days in Korea is enough?” and provide you with an in-depth analysis of the factors that determine the ideal length of a trip to Korea. Whether you’re planning a short visit or a longer stay, we’ve got you covered with tips and insights to help you make the most of your time in this fascinating country.

Factors that Determine the Ideal Length of a Trip to Korea

There are several factors to consider when deciding how many days you should spend in Korea. These include your travel goals, interests, budget, and travel style. Some travelers may be content with a brief visit to see the highlights of Seoul, while others may want to explore more remote regions or immerse themselves in Korean culture for an extended period.

Exploring Seoul: 1-3 Days

For those with limited time, a short visit to Seoul is a great option. In just a few days, you can see the city’s top attractions, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Tower, and Myeongdong shopping district. You can also enjoy the delicious local cuisine and experience the vibrant nightlife.

Discovering Korean Culture: 4-7 Days

If you’re interested in Korean culture and history, plan to spend at least four days in Korea. This will give you time to explore cultural landmarks such as Bukchon Hanok Village, Changdeokgung Palace, and the traditional Korean village of Andong. You can also attend a traditional Korean performance or try your hand at making kimchi.

Exploring Remote Regions: 7-10 Days

For travelers who want to venture beyond Seoul, plan to spend at least seven days in Korea. This will allow you to explore more remote regions such as Jeju Island, the Gyeongju Historical Area, and the Seoraksan National Park. These areas offer stunning natural beauty, ancient temples, and unique cultural experiences.

Experiencing Korean Nightlife: 2-4 Days

Korea is known for its vibrant nightlife, so if you’re interested in partying or enjoying some of the local music scene, plan to spend at least two to four days in Korea. This will give you time to explore popular nightlife districts such as Hongdae or Gangnam and attend a concert or club event.

Visiting with Family: 5-7 Days

If you’re traveling with family or children, plan to spend at least five to seven days in Korea. This will allow you to enjoy family-friendly attractions such as Lotte World amusement park, the COEX Aquarium, and the Seoul Zoo. You can also take a day trip to Everland theme park or Nami Island.

Experiencing Winter Sports: 3-7 Days

Korea is a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts. If you’re planning to hit the slopes, plan to spend at least three to seven days in Korea. Popular ski resorts include Yongpyong Ski Resort and High1 Ski Resort. You can also enjoy other winter activities such as ice fishing and sledding.

Attending Cultural Festivals: 3-5 Days

Korea is known for its many cultural festivals throughout the year, such as the Seoul Lantern Festival and the Boryeong Mud Festival. If you’re interested in attending one of these festivals, plan to spend at least three to five days in Korea. This will give you time to fully experience the festival and explore the surrounding area.

Traveling on a Budget: 7-10 Days

Korea can be an affordable destination for budget travelers. If you’re traveling on a tight budget, plan to spend at least seven to ten days in Korea. This will give you time to find affordable accommodations, enjoy street food, and take advantage of free attractions such as museums and parks.

In conclusion, the ideal length of a trip to Korea depends on your travel goals, interests, and budget. Whether you’re planning a short visit or a longer stay, Korea offers something for everyone. With this guide, you can plan a trip that suits your needs and make the most of your time in this fascinating country.

Is 7 days enough for South Korea?

Spending a week in Seoul is recommended as it allows for a more relaxed and leisurely pace, perfect for exploring hiking trails, parks, and cafes. Additionally, if you happen to indulge in too much Soju the night before, you can take it easy without feeling guilty.

How many days should you stay in Korea?

We suggest taking a two-week trip to South Korea in order to fully enjoy and appreciate all that the country has to offer. This amount of time will allow you to visit all of the major attractions, enjoy leisurely shopping, and savor the delectable local cuisine.

Is 5 days in Korea enough?

Although staying longer is always preferable, five days is an adequate amount of time to tour Seoul’s popular tourist destinations at a comfortable and leisurely pace. This advice is valid as of Oct 27, 2022.

Is 10 days in Korea enough?

Although 10 days might be sufficient to see many of South Korea’s main attractions and famous landmarks, this itinerary has been updated to include a 12-day trip that enables tourists to visit other iconic towns and cities in the country. In addition to the usual places, travelers can now explore the beautiful cities of Daegu and Gyeongju.

Which month is best to visit Korea?

Typically, the optimal time to travel to South Korea is during spring (April, May, June) and autumn (September, October, November) when the weather is generally pleasant with sunny, dry days and moderate temperatures.

What month is the cheapest to fly to Korea?

Here are some helpful hints for locating inexpensive flights to South Korea. For the lowest prices, book your tickets at least five weeks ahead of your trip. June and July are the busiest months, so rates are higher. If you’re looking to save money, April is the least expensive time to fly to South Korea.

Combining Multiple Factors: 10-14 Days

If you’re interested in combining multiple factors, such as exploring Seoul, experiencing Korean culture, and venturing into remote regions, plan to spend at least 10 to 14 days in Korea. This will give you enough time to enjoy all of the different aspects of Korea and fully immerse yourself in the country’s unique culture and history.

Language Barrier

One thing to keep in mind is that there may be a language barrier in Korea, as English is not widely spoken outside of tourist areas. However, most signs and menus are translated into English, and many Koreans are eager to help visitors navigate the country. Learning a few basic Korean phrases can also be helpful.

Transportation

Getting around Korea is relatively easy thanks to its efficient public transportation system. The subway and bus systems in Seoul are extensive and affordable, while intercity buses and trains connect major cities throughout the country. Taxis are also readily available, but can be more expensive.

Weather Considerations

Another factor to consider when planning your trip to Korea is the weather. Korea has four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, making them popular times to visit. However, if you’re interested in winter sports or attending winter festivals, then visiting during the colder months may be ideal.

Final Thoughts

Overall, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how many days in Korea is enough. Your ideal length of stay will depend on your individual interests and travel goals. With its rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and delicious cuisine, Korea offers something for everyone. By using this guide as a starting point, you can plan a trip that allows you to experience all that Korea has to offer.

Related posts:

• How many days is enough for Korea?
• How many days should I visit South Korea?
• Is 7 days in Korea enough?
• Is it cheap to visit South Korea?

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Gates discusses Korea tour lengths, Army deployments

CAMP CASEY, South Korea: Tour lengths for servicemembers assigned to South Korea and the Army’s deployment cycles were on the minds of Soldiers from the 2nd Infantry Division’s 1st Heavy Brigade Combat Team when they met with Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates here today.

After making prepared remarks to about 300 Soldiers at this post about 20 miles from Korea’s demilitarized zone, Gates opened the floor to questions.

One Soldier wanted to know if the standard tour length for unaccompanied servicemembers would be doubled to two years.

Gates replied that he approved the idea of “tour normalization” in South Korea a couple of years ago. “What we’re looking at is a two-year tour for single members of the service and three-year [tours] for families,” he said. “We’re proceeding with the first phase in terms of families.”

It’s a long-term process, the secretary explained, partly because greater numbers of command-sponsored families means more infrastructure is needed to support their needs.

“We think the circumstances are such … that this is a place where American families would be comfortable and would be safe,” he said, “and would make the service of our men and women in uniform more bearable for the families.”

Gen. Walter “Skip” Sharp, commander of U.S. Forces Korea, pointed out to Gates that the decision has begun to have an effect. Two years ago, about 1,600 U.S. military families were living in South Korea, a number that has reached more than 4,200.

“Even up here at 2nd Infantry Division, they have about 600 families that are command-sponsored right now,” Sharp said. “[We’re] making sure that we build the infrastructure in order to be able to have even more families come, to the point where we can eventually allow all families to come, to get to about 14,000 families [in South Korea].”

Another Soldier wanted to know what Gates thinks about Army Chief of Staff Gen. George W. Casey Jr.’s desire to reduce combat deployments for Soldiers, which now are a year long, to nine months.

“One of the reasons that the Army has had 12-month tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, in contrast to [the other services], among other things, has just been the logistics,” Gates said. “Trying to move as many forces as the Army had in Iraq and Afghanistan on nine-month centers has just been beyond our capability.”

Gates said he believes Casey expects that as stress on the force comes down with drawdowns in Iraq and upon reaching the authorized strength in Afghanistan, the Army can go to one-year combat tours followed by two years at home stations, and then work from there toward a 1-to-3 ratio.

“And I know that it is his goal, once we’re not involved in these two wars simultaneously, to be able to get to nine-month deployments, which would obviously be a lot easier on troops and their families,” Gates said.

“But I won’t kid you,” he added. “I still think it’s a long ways away.”

Gates, who had begun his formal remarks by offering his thanks to the Soldiers for their service and to their families for supporting them, took time after the question-and-answer session to shake hands with each Soldier, pose for pictures with them, and present them with his commemorative coin.

The secretary later met with Defense Minister Kim Tae-young in the South Korean capital of Seoul, and tomorrow he’ll join Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton in Korea’s demilitarized zone. The two cabinet officers are visiting South Korea this week to participate in the first “Two-plus-Two Talks” between the long-time allies.

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South Korea Tours & Trips from Seoul

Find your perfect adventure! We have 71 tours of South Korea that start in Seoul, South Korea. The most popular month is October, and tour lengths range between 1 and 17 days.

71 South Korea tour packages from Seoul with 467 reviews

• In-depth Cultural

CLASSIC SOUTH KOREA LUXURY TOUR

"A really good tour with nice food and great itinerary" Tweet, traveled in May 2024

12-Day South Korea Adventure: From Seoul to Jeju Island

"Was excellent tour guide was the best" Susan, traveled in February 2024

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Premium South Korea

Ancient South Korea - 7 Days

"great overview of Korea, value for money as many delicious and authentic meals were included." Cameo, traveled in March 2024

South Korea DISCOVERY TOUR

"We felt that we were truly immersed in Korean History and came away with a much better understanding of that history." Leslie, traveled in October 2023

Best of South Korea

"The Best of Korea tour's itinerary was very full. I think many of us enjoyed the itinerary and the experiences we had." Mia, traveled in April 2024

Exploring South Korea

"The intenary was amazing as well I feel that there was something for everyone." Pranya, traveled in April 2023

• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year

South Korea Express

"My dream travel just came true. From beginning till the end perfect organized." Sonja, traveled in September 2022

Essential South Korea

Golden route by K-shuttle

"The KShuttle agency was just arranged perfectly. We enjoyed everything from booking, pickup, hotels, the comfy bus and all the beautiful cities we went exploring." Sehel, traveled in April 2024

What people love about South Korea Tours from Seoul

A really good tour with nice food and great itinerary

All the things we did do were great. There is a lot of extra pay for activities and more activities in general would be great

great overview of Korea, guide was knowledgable and friendly, value for money as many delicious and authentic meals were included. Hotels were modern and comfortable. My only complaint was the hotel in Seoul was not as well located as it could have been a bit far from the main sites. However for the price this was an extremely good value tour and I enjoyed it very much and would have no hesitation in recommending it.

Tours starting from Seoul

• Seoul to Seoul tours (61)
• Seoul to Jeju-do tours (5)
• Family from Seoul (41)
• In-depth Cultural from Seoul (36)
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South Korea Tours & Vacations

South Korea has emerged from history as a dynamic destination full of spirit and surprises.

Enchanting travelers with temples full of mystique, markets brimming with divine handicrafts, and some of the most beloved cuisine in the world - isn't it about time you surrendered to South Korea's charms?

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South Korea at a glance

Capital city.

Seoul (9.9 million)

51.385 million

(GMT+09:00) Seoul

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type E (French 2-pin, female earth) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about South Korea

Geograhy and environment.

South Korea is located at the south end of the Korean Peninsula, between the Sea of Japan and the Yellow Sea. Separated from   Japan   by the Korean Strait and demarcated from the state of North Korea by Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), South Korea's terrain is a mix of flat lowlands and forested mountains. The coasts of South Korea are rocky and jagged, with thousands of islands (mostly inhabitable) scattered off the coastline.

Culture and customs

South Korea draws some traditions and customs from other neighboring countries in Asia, with a culture that stems from Confucianism. This system of philosophical and ethical teachings was introduced to South Korea in the 4 th century through Chinese scholars and was quickly embraced by the wider population until it officially became the state ideology in the early 1900s.

Confucianism emphasizes respect for aging, elders and ancestors, an intrinsic hierarchy that runs through work and social life, and upholds traditional family roles so you’ll often see families living together in one house.

During your travels around South Korea, you’ll also see plenty of traditions such as the act of bowing when greeting people, women wearing traditional dress (hanbok) and the practice of taekwondo (Korean martial arts). As well as ancient beliefs, new generations of South Koreans are embracing a modernized culture, one full of K-pop, Korean cosmetics and popular foods like kimchi and tteokbokki.

History and government

South Korea’s had an often turbulent history dating back to around 8000 BC when it was known as just Korea, but the country’s most impactful conflict began in the 1500s with the attempted Japanese invasion. Korea went on to become a Japanese colony in 1910 following its annexation of the Korean Empire, which ended in 1945 at the conclusion of World War II.

The country was then divided into two parts, the northern part which was protected by the Soviet Union and the southern part which was protected largely by the United States. Both the northern and southern parts of Korea officially became North and South Korea in 1948 when the two regions failed to agree on forming one, united government.

In 1950, North Korea set in motion the Korean War which was intended to unify the two countries under communism. But after much destruction to infrastructure and loss of human life, a cease-fire was called in 1953 with both countries signing the 1953 Korean Armistice Agreement. The two countries have since agreed to work towards a final settlement (The Peace Treaty on the Korean Peninsula) to formally and officially end the Korean War.

South Korea now enjoys a fully prosperous economy with a capital economic standing similar to that of countries such as the United States, Japan, and various countries in Western Europe.

You can’t go to South Korea for shopping and not stop in Seoul – the country’s premier destination for all things fashion, electronics, street food and skincare. In this shopper’s paradise of a city, you’ll find traditional Korean items perfect for souvenirs to tech gadgets not yet available on Australia’s shores.

Some notable districts/destinations where you can shop ‘til you drop include:

• Myeongdong (shopping district)
• Dongdaemun Market (shopping center)
• Cheongdam-dong (luxury boutique area)
• Pyeonghwa (wholesale market)

Top 5 culinary delicacies of South Korea

1. bibimbap.

As one of Korea's standout dishes, bibimbap is a tasty concoction of meat, vegetables, egg, and rice. Soy sauce, chili paste, garlic, and sesame oil all add flavor to this amazingly colorful dish found everywhere in Korea.

Kimchi is hailed as a nutritional powerhouse - packing a healthy punch of nutrients, vitamins, and beneficial bacteria that makes it one of the world's healthiest superfoods. But most people don't eat these fermented vegetables for health reasons - it's the uniquely, tasty flavor and versatility that makes kimchi so popular in Korean cooking.

These delicious, savory pancakes are a standard of Korean cuisine. With hundreds of different varieties, jeon can be served with red meat, chicken, seafood, vegetables, tofu, and even edible flowers.

Similar to sushi, these highly popular rice-based morsels feature fish, beef, or crab, wrapped in seaweed with pickled or fresh vegetables. Available all over Korea, they are the perfect snack on the run or quick, cheap lunch to enjoy between sightseeing.

Arriving in Korea by the way of Mongolia, mandu are essentially boiled, steamed, or pan-fried dumplings. A cheap, street food favorite, mandu can be filled with everything from pheasant to tofu, cucumber, beef, and beyond. Try out these foods on our 8 day South Korea Real Food Adventure.

Top places to visit in South Korea

Whether you want to take a street food tour of the renowned Gwangjang markets, go shopping among the vibrant streets and check out some high-tech gadgetry or admire this city's soaring skyscrapers from Naksan at nighttime, Seoul can't be missed.

Explore the bustling city of Seoul on our 8 day South Korea Family Holiday.

Visit the fascinating Haedong Temple, explore the colorful Gamcheong Culture Village and take in the all 'round beauty of the second largest city in South Korea.

Travel to Busan on our 9 day South Korea Highlights tour.

Experience Jeonju like a local as you wander the Hanok Heritage Village in search of souvenirs, tasty treats, traditional houses and craft shops.

Admire the culture (and food) in Jeonju on our 9 day Essential South Korea tour.

4. Jeju Island

Wander South Korea's first ever UNESCO World Heritage listed site, Jeju Seongsan Sunrise Mountain/Castle, on the beautiul Jeju Island. And with volcanic landscapes and coastal rock formations, this laidback slice of heaven is well worth a visit.

Marvel at the beauty on Jeju Island on our 9 day Premium South Korea tour.

Festivals and events

Public holidays that may impact travel include:.

• New Year's Day
• Movement / Independence Movement Day
• Buddha's Birthday
• Children's Day 
• Memorial Day
• Liberation Day
• Chuseok / Korean Thanksgiving
• National Foundation Day (Gaecheonjeol)
• Hangeul Day

*Please note dates of  South Korean public holidays may vary.

Further reading

Similar destinations.

Thinking about a trip to South Korea but still browsing other destinations? Check out tours to neighboring locations:

South Korea travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit South Korea?

Autumn and spring are considered the optimal times to holiday in South Korea, as the extreme temperatures that are present during summer and winter can make travel uncomfortable at times. During autumn and spring expect moderate temperatures, a mild climate and less rain and humidity than at other times.

Do I need a visa to travel to South Korea?

SOUTH KOREA Australia: No - not required Belgium: No - not required Canada: No - not required Germany: No - not required Ireland: No - not required Netherlands: No - not required New Zealand: No - not required South Africa: No - not required Switzerland: No - not required United Kingdom: No - not required USA: No - not required

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into South Korea. . Most travelers do not need visas for Korea for stays of up to 30 days. You must also have an onward or return ticket.

If you are a male of Korean origin whose name appears on the Korean family register, you may be liable for military service even if you are traveling on your foreign passport.

The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 20/11/2023

Is tipping customary in South Korea?

Tipping in some establishments (particularly more traditional ones) is considered impolite, and is sometimes indicated with a 'no tipping' sign! Western-style, tourist-orientated places, however, usually welcome and receive tips. Use your discretion.

What is the internet access like in South Korea?

With one of the most developed internet infrastructures in the world, accessing the internet is easy in South Korea. Wi-Fi hot spots and cyber cafes are easily found in the cities, although when traveling in remote areas please be aware that internet access may be harder to find.

Can I use my cell phone while in South Korea?

Travelers should be able to use their cell phones in South Korea's cities and urban areas, as coverage is good. As in other countries, rural and mountainous areas may have less mobile phone receptivity. Ensure global roaming is activated with your service provider before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in South Korea?

South Korea has a combination of squat toilets and western-style flushable toilets. It's a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer or soap while on holiday, as these are rarely provided in public toilets.

Can I drink the water in South Korea?

Tap water is considered safe to drink in many parts of South Korea unless otherwise marked. Ask your leader for guidance if you are unsure whether to drink tap water in the area you are traveling in.

Are credit cards accepted widely in South Korea?

Credit cards are usually accepted by hotels and large retailers. Smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards, so always carry enough money to cover purchases, as paying with a credit card may not always be an option in South Korea.

What is ATM access like in South Korea?

ATMs are plentiful in large cities and urban centers, although not all ATMs accept foreign cards. Look for Global or Citibank ATMs, which usually accept cards from other countries.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation