After a long transpacific flight to Seoul, a group of 11 travelers set out on a nine-day guided tour exploring South Korea’s cultural landmarks and landscapes. Organized by G Adventures and co-branded with National Geographic Expeditions, the “Soul of South Korea” itinerary offers an immersive experience designed for solo travelers seeking structured yet small-group adventures across the country.

The journey commenced with an early morning visit to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the heavily guarded border between North and South Korea and a major tourist destination drawing over half a million visitors annually. Despite the early start aimed at avoiding crowds, the group encountered the usual influx of tourists at the 160-mile-long, 2.5-mile-wide area. Visitors experienced the stark contrast between the bustling South Korean side, complete with restaurants and gift shops, and the somber reality beyond the border, where North Korean soldiers conducted passport checks and guides described the DMZ’s Cold War history.

Beyond Seoul, the tour highlighted South Korea’s rich history and diverse regions. Stops included Gyeongju, known as a “museum without walls” for its numerous royal tombs and UNESCO World Heritage sites dating to the country’s ancient capital period. The coastal city of Busan was another key destination, where travelers enjoyed ocean views, sunset cruises, and a cooking class focused on kimchi with local chef Heeyoung Jang. The itinerary concluded on Jeju Island, whose natural attractions include waterfalls, volcanic formations, and the living tradition of the haenyeo—female divers who harvest marine life without modern equipment. The group received a behind-the-scenes look at a haenyeo school, learning about efforts to preserve this dying cultural practice.

The tour’s small group size—typically 10 to 12 participants—allowed for more personalized experiences and facilitated interaction among solo travelers from various countries including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Germany. The guide, Hyunhwa Lee, was noted for her extensive knowledge and ability to engage the group on topics ranging from culinary traditions to cultural etiquette.

Participants appreciated aspects of the trip not usually accessible to independent travelers, such as taekwondo lessons, donning traditional hanbok clothing in a historic village, and the convenience of a pre-planned itinerary that minimized logistical concerns. However, some expressed a desire for longer stays at individual sites and more free time to explore independently, as the fast pace of moving between locations often left little opportunity for deeper immersion.

While early awakenings and visits to heavily touristed sites were less popular among some group members, the overall feedback suggests that such guided tours offer valuable access and social connections for those traveling alone but preferring the support of a group. The “Soul of South Korea” package starts at about $5,999 per person and includes accommodations, certain meals, and domestic transportation.

This growing trend in travel caters to solo adventurers seeking safety, companionship, and curated cultural experiences without sacrificing independence. Companies like G Adventures and others are responding by designing trips that strike a balance between structure and personal exploration, aligning with increasing interest in solo travel worldwide.