South Korea High-tech cities, old traditions and rural escapes
South Korea may be small, but its captivating array of attractions (it’s home to no fewer than 10 World Heritage Sites) belies its size. It’s a land of pulsating cities, pine forests, rice paddies, karaoke bars, an ever-growing K-pop culture and over 3,300 islands. All told, South Korea is a multi-faceted East Asian destination – whether you want to rub shoulders with Seoul’s trendsetters or be alone in nature, we can tailor a private tour that is just right for you.
Where it is
East Asia
When to go
March to May; September to November
Why go there
Culture and history
Dramatic landscapes
Great food
What to see
Seoul
The Demilitarised Zone (DMZ)
Jeju Island
A dynamic city
Past meets future in South Korea’s capital, Seoul, where traditional teahouses and wooden hanoks sit alongside trendy cocktail bars and shiny skyscrapers.
A dangerous border
A remnant of the Cold War, the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) that divides North and South Korea is a sinister place. Surreally, it’s also a tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the secretive state.
An island delight
The island of Jeju is part of Korea, but with its volcanic lava caves, palm trees and crystal-blue waters, it doesn’t always feel like it. Let Cosa show you another side of South Korea.
A hot bath
Locals love soaking in South Korea’s jjimjilbangs (traditional bathhouses), which can be found all across the country. They’re places to unwind in saunas or steam rooms and to socialise. And Cosa knows the best ones.
Travel in South Korea
South Korea is a relatively small country – albeit, with a population of 52 million, a crowded one – and an easy nation to explore. Its network of well-run railways and buses will whisk you wherever you want to go in no time at all. It’s also an extremely safe country to travel around, although English isn’t widely spoken. Cosa tip: consider downloading a translation app before you go.
South Korea facts
The country is officially known as the Republic of Korea (ROK), because it claims to be in charge of the whole of Korea and does not recognise North Korea as a separate entity. However, Korea has been divided since the peninsula became a casualty of the Cold War, which led to the Korean War in the 1950s. Since partition, South Korea has developed into one of Asia’s most affluent nations and brought K-pop and K-dramas to the world.
Time zone
UTC +9
Flight time
11.5 hours from Switzerland
Local currency
South Korean won
Dialling code
+82
