Seoul K-Pop Discovery

Upon your arrival at Incheon International Airport, you will be welcomed by a local English speaking guide then transferred into Seoul.

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a harmonious blend of ancient tradition and cutting-edge innovation. As a sprawling metropolis, it boasts historic palaces, bustling markets, futuristic architecture and a vibrant arts scene, making it a cultural, technological and historical hub in East Asia.

The rest of the day is free to relax or explore on your own.

Accommodation: Mercure Ambassador Seoul Hongdae

Get ready to live like a local as you travel around Seoul using the city's sophisticated public transportation system. Travel to Gwanghwamun plaza where you'll find the statue of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-Sin. Continue to Gwanghwamun gate, the main gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace (famous shooting site for BTS and EXO music videos), through which the kings come. You'll have a chance to witness the guard changing ceremony there. This tradition has been performed for centuries in Korea and is a symbol of the nation's rich culture and history.

At the palace, rent the traditional Korean dress called Hanbok and experience a taste of Korean culture and capture memorable photos from your palace visits.

Continue your morning tour with a visit to the National Museum of Contemporary Korean History for insights into how Korea propelled itself from being an agricultural society to the modern economic powerhouse that it is today.

Later you will visit the Bukchon Hanok Village, an enclave housing more than 900 restored hanoks. As you explore this historic district, it's essential to show due respect to the local residents. Immerse yourself in the unique ambiance of this neighborhood, where traditional houses evoke a sense of timeless charm.

End your day at Gwangjang traditional market, one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in Korea. The most popular section of the market is the food street that caters to a wide range of menus like Gimbap, Mung Bean Pancake, Tteok-bokki and Eomuk. It's time for a taste of traditional Korean cuisine.

Today, you will be exploring the locations related to the biggest K-pop stars. Meet your guide at the hotel and begin your journey with a walking tour along the picturesque Cheonggyecheon Stream.

Next stop is HiKR Ground, a vibrant and interactive zone for Global Kpop and K-drama fans.
It's designed to be an immersive experience, blending physical exhibits with digital technology. You can watch K-Pop music videos and dance along, and even create your own K-Pop-inspired content.

Next, continue to the Hongdae area for the iconic YG building of YG Entertainment that has worked with many superstars including BLACKPINK, BIGBANG, 2NE1 and Psy. Make a stop at the SameE Cafe, selling their artists' limited merchandise and infamous Old Ferry Donuts. After browsing the store, take a stroll around the block passing by the X Academy, the dance and vocal academy of YG Entertainment.

Then continue to the famous Han River to end your day. Han River is home to many riverside parks and offers spaces for relaxation, exercise, and entertainment. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverbank.

Continue your k-pop journey with a view of HYBE Entertainment, home to K-pop superstars BTS, and known as the most successful K-pop company in the industry today (visiting inside the property is not available).

Head out to the Gangnam area and take a stroll along the K-star Road, a high end shopping area filled with cafes and luxury brands along the road. Take a snap with adorable bear-shaped sculptures, each adorned with the logos and mascots of popular K-Pop groups, scattered along the avenue.

Then to the old Big Hit Building around the block, following the memories of early days of BTS. Enjoy a moment of relaxation and reflection at Cafe Hyuga, the previous dorm of BTS members, recently renovated into a cafe and bakery, where fans and coffee lovers alike can come to appreciate its drink and food offerings. You'll also have a chance to see Yoo Jung Sik Dang Restaurant (where the BTS boys frequently visited during their pre-debut era).

Final stop of the day is Coex Mall with a stop at Coex east gate to visit the statue of Gangnam Style, a popular dance pose from Psy's Gangnam Style. Inside the mall lies one of the most captivating libraries in Seoul, Starfield Library, a popular shooting location of many k-dramas. Continue to fuel your fan spirit at KTown4U, the ultimate source of K-pop goods. Snag your faves' newest album and score some epic merch to level up your collection.

This morning, join a hands-on workshop to create a craft with traditional Korean paper, called Hanji. During the 2-3 hour course, a master artisan will help you create and design a beautiful Hanji hand-crafted souvenir.

Continue to explore the Insadong area , which is a cultural gem in the heart of Seoul. This neighborhood is steeped in tradition and boasts a plethora of art galleries, antique shops, craft stores, and traditional teahouses. It's the perfect place to immerse yourself in Korean culture and explore traditional arts and crafts. We suggest you take fun pictures at a self photo booth.. Capture and print out your memorable moments!

Next stop is Myeongdong Underground, a must-visit for K-pop lovers where you can find all sorts of memorabilia including socks, nail decals, key chains, umbrellas, calendars and more.

Then continue to one of South Korea's distinguished UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Hanyangdoseong Wall, also known as the Seoul City Wall. This was originally constructed in the 14th century to safeguard the city against external threats and spans an impressive 18 kilometers. Take a leisurely walk or embark on a scenic hike along the wall's elevated path, from which you can relish panoramic vistas of Seoul's sprawling urban landscape.

Finish the tour at one of the must see sites for K-culture lovers, the Namsan Tower. Located on top of a peak in Namsan Park, the tower offers a panoramic view over the city.

This morning, drive to Nami Island, a river island renowned for its natural beauty, captivating scenery as well as a shooting location of a very popular K-drama, Winter Sonata. An interesting thing about the island is that it has its own national flag, anthem, currency, passport, phone cards, stamps, orthography, and even a certification of citizenship. Nami Island offers a variety of activities and attractions to cater to diverse interests like a leisurely boat ride around the peninsula, or a leisurely stroll along the romantic tree-lined avenues.

Afterwards, return to Seoul and make a stop at a traditional Korean bathhouse or Jjimjilbang. These bathhouses offer a unique experience that combines relaxation, culture, and health benefits. Jjimjilbangs typically feature hot and cold baths, saunas, and various types of massage services. Your guide will share the essential bathhouse etiquette before your visit.

Buckle up for an exciting K-pop dance lesson. Learn the moves to your favorite songs and music videos from real K-pop back-up dancers who will lead the class. At the end of class, you'll receive a certificate and a video of your experience.

Then it's time to party in Korean style at a Noraebang (a Korean-style karaoke room). It's a form of releasing stress as you belt out songs. Choose from a wide selection of songs and hold your own concert in a private room while downing some soju and snacks.

The rest of the day is at leisure.

Day at leisure until your transfer to Incheon airport for your departure.