South Korea
Go Learn



South Korea


May 08-18, 2025
Double Occupancy: $7050 per person
Single Occupancy: $7375 per person
Airfare is not included.

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Join Go Learn for our inaugural trip to beautiful South Korea! Led by David Roh, English professor and Chair of the English Department at the University of Utah, we’ll take you on an unforgettable journey where you’ll experience this booming country’s unique and rich history and culture through the lens of literature.

How can we account for the rise of South Korean popular culture over the past twenty years?  Ever in the shadow of its neighbors Japan and China, South Korea has recently emerged as a cultural juggernaut in the fields of film, literature, video games, consumer electronics, and, of course, pop music. Before that moment, South Korea was often overlooked and largely forgotten in the American imaginary, despite being the site of a major Cold War conflict, a continuing U.S. military presence, the subject of numerous films, and a large-scale transnational adoption regime. On this trip, we’ll examine South Korea’s food, history, and popular culture to map how its aesthetics have found an audience on a global stage.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Tour Highlights Include:

  • Daily morning lectures with trip leader David Roh.
  • Experience South Korea’s famous Gwangjang Market and Seoul’s famous street food scene.
  • Visit historical Gyeongbokgung Palace and Gwanghwamun Square.
  • Enjoy a scenic river cruise down the Han River.
  • Spend two days on beautiful Jeju Island with accommodations on the beach.
  • Explore South Korea’s K-Pop and digital culture with visits to Hongdae District, T1 Base Campy, League of Legends Park, and more!
  • Tour the DMZ and learn about this historical area and the ongoing tensions with North Korea.
  • Visit the U of U Asia campus.

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: May 8, 2025

Today, you arrive at the beautiful Seoul Incheon airport. Upon your arrival, you will be greeted and provided transportation to your hotel in Seoul. After check-in, feel free to relax and settle in.

We’ll meet in the hotel lobby at 5:30 PM to be taken for a welcome dinner of Korean fried chicken!

After dinner, we suggest having the quintessential Seoulite experience of stopping by a convenience store (there’s a GS25 and 7-11 near the hotel), grabbing a dessert or adult beverage (it’s legal to drink in public spaces), and walking over to Cheonggyecheon river (a 6-minute walk) to enjoy the scenery, public art, and people-watch.

Then the rest of the evening is yours. Get some rest, tomorrow is a busy day!

Hotel: Koreana Hotel opens a new window
Meal: D
Activity Level: Moderate

Seoul's skyline
Seoul's skyline

Day 2: May 9, 2025

Today we’ll focus on Korea’s colonial history, democratization, and repression.

We’ll breakfast at the hotel while our trip leader David prepares us for the day’s learning!

We’ll take the subway to Independence Gate (Dongnimmun) in Seoul. Inspired by Paris's Arc de Triomphe, it stands as a powerful reminder of Korea's desire to break free from foreign influence. Next, we’ll make our way to Gwanghwamun Square. This iconic square serves as a cultural and historical hub, and is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike.

Next, we’ll visit the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History. Offering a comprehensive look at the country’s journey through history, the museum is a significant cultural institution that chronicles Korea’s modern history from the late 19th century to the present.

Then we’ll make our way to Gwangjang Market for lunch. Established in 1905, Gwangjang Market is one of Seoul’s oldest and most vibrant traditional markets, famous for its bustling food stalls and lively atmosphere. You can find textiles, vintage clothing, and handmade goods here making it a popular stop for both locals and tourists. We’ll spend time exploring the market and finding delicious treats! (You can check out Netflix’s Street Food series to get a preview!)

Following lunch, it’s off to Gyeongbokgung Palace. Commonly referred to as the “Northern Palace” because of its location, Gyeongkokgung Palace is arguably the most beautiful and largest of the five historic palaces located in Seoul. (It’s also the filming site of many historical K-Dramas.)

Afterward, it’s back to the hotel! You’ve had a very full and productive day, time to take it easy. The rest of the evening is yours!

We’ll see you in the morning!

Hotel: Koreana Hotel opens a new window
Meals: B, L
Activity Level: Moderate to Strenuous (lots of walking and stairs)

Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace

Day 3: May 10,2025

Today is all about consumerism, K-beauty, and hyper-capitalism! We will breakfast at the hotel before setting off on another walking tour of Seoul!

First, we’ll make our way to Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP). Serving as both a cultural and commercial center, DDP has become a symbol of modern Seoul, blending contemporary design with the city’s dynamic spirit and has become a landmark in Seoul.

Next, we’ll head to nearby Dongdaemun Market. As one of Seoul’s largest and most vibrant shopping districts, Dongdaemum Market is renowned for its vast selection of fashion, textiles, and accessories, and offers everything from the latest trends to unique, custom-made items at competitive prices. We’ll allow plenty of time to shop and explore before we head off for a group lunch.

Then it’s time for our visit to Myeongdong Street. Lined with trendy boutiques, global brand stores, and countless cosmetic shops, Myeongdong Street is a bustling shopping district in the heart of Seoul, famous for its vibrant mix of fashion, beauty, and street food. You’ll have the afternoon to wander the shops and stalls to find your treasures.

Afterward, the rest of the evening is yours. Grab some dinner at a local restaurant (look for the ones that are busy, those are where the locals eat!) or head back to the hotel and put your feet up.

Hotel: Koreana Hotel opens a new window
Meals: B, L
Activity Level: Moderate to Strenuous (lots of walking and stairs)


Myeongodng Street
Myeongodng Street

Day 4: May 11, 2025

Today we’ll focus on US intervention/relations, military presence, North Korean international tensions, and propaganda.

After we breakfast at the hotel, we’ll board a private coach and make our way to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). The DMZ is a strip of land that runs across the Korean Peninsula, serving as a buffer zone between North and South Korea. Established in 1953 after the Korean War armistice, the DMZ is one of the most heavily fortified borders in the world, yet it has also become a symbol of peace and a popular tourist destination. We’ll explore key sites such as the Joint Security Area, and the Third Infiltration Tunnel. Afterward, we’ll have a group lunch of army stew before heading back to Seoul.

Once back in the city we’ll make our way to visit the Korean War Memorial. Dedicated to Korea’s military history and honoring those who have served in the nation’s armed forces, visitors are able to explore the extensive collection of artifacts, exhibits, and memorials throughout the museum’s six indoor exhibition rooms as well as an extensive outdoor area.

Then, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish.

Hotel: Koreana Hotel opens a new window
Meals: B, L
Activity Level: Moderate

War Memorial of Korea
War Memorial of Korea

Day 5: May 12, 2025  

After breakfast we’ll make our way via the subway to Bukchon Hanok Village, home to hundreds of traditional houses, called hanok, which now operate as tea houses, cultural centers, guesthouses, and restaurants. This charming neighborhood provides visitors with an opportunity to experience, learn, and immerse themselves in traditional Korean culture.

Then it’s on to Insadong Antique Street, a charming cultural district in central Seoul known for its history and vibrant arts scene; the unique blend of history, culture, and art, provides an immersive experience into Korea’s past and present. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the unique shops and stalls along the street and enjoy lunch on your own at one of the many food stalls or restaurants that can be found in the area.

Next, we’ll make our way to Leeum Museum of Art where we’ll be able to view a diverse collection of traditional Korean art as well as modern and contemporary works.

We’ll cap our exciting day with a Han River cruise. We’ll journey down the river while we sit back and enjoy the picturesque and relaxing views of the city’s scenic beauty and vibrant skylines as we pass by.

Afterward, the rest of the evening is yours.

Hotel: Koreana Hotel opens a new window
Meals: B, D
Activity Level: Moderate to Strenuous (lots of walking)

Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village

Day 6: May 13, 2025

Today is dedicated to Korea’s digital culture, games, and techno-orientalism.

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll once again board our private coach and head to Hongdae District. This vibrant and eclectic neighborhood is known for its youthful energy, artistic flair, and bustling nightlife. We’ll find a thriving indie music scene, street performances, and unique art galleries. Here is where we’ll meet Seoul’s more dynamic culture and creative spirit.

Then it’s a short walk to T1 Base Camp. This global e-sports organization is where we’ll immerse ourselves in gaming! Equipped with high-end PCs and comfortable chairs, you’ll be able to play any game you want, view tournaments, and do some shopping.

Next, it’s the League of Legends (LoL) Park. Inspired by the Colosseum in Rome, this arena and theme park is dedicated to the multiplayer online game League of Legends, putting spectators close to the stage and making them feel like they’re part of the game.

We’ll grab a group lunch before heading to the Seongsu District. Often referred to as the “Brooklyn of Seoul”, Seongsu is a “must-visit” for anyone interested in exploring Seoul’s cutting-edge and artistic trends. The district features a mix of repurposed warehouses and contemporary spaces housing cafes, boutiques, art galleries, and unique dining spots. Nearby Seoul Forest (Kwangya) is a captivating and innovative space that blends nature with modern design and serves as a refreshing destination for those looking to explore the intersection of nature and contemporary culture.

Once we return to the hotel the rest of the evening is yours. Don’t forget we’re moving hotels tomorrow so pack up before you get some sleep.

Hotel: Koreana Hotel opens a new window
Meals: B, L
Activity Level: Moderate to Strenuous (lots of walking)

Seoul Forest
Seoul Forest

Day 7: May 14, 2025  

Today we’ll focus on Jeju’s place in the war, migration, and democracy.

We’ll breakfast at the hotel before checking out and boarding our private coach. The coach will drop us at the airport where we’ll catch our flight to Jeju Island.

Once we arrive on the island, we’ll make our way to Seongsan Ilchul Peak (Sunrise Peak). This UNESCO World Heritage site, with its peak rising dramatically from the sea, offers a relatively easy hike to the top where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and ocean. Next, we’ll visit the picturesque coastal area of Seopjikoji. Renowned for its stunning coastal beauty, this area is also known for its distinctive lighthouse and dramatic cliffs, which add to its charm and allure.

Once we return to the hotel, the rest of the evening is yours to enjoy.

Hotel: Utop Ubless opens a new window
Meals: B, L
Activity Level: Moderate to Strenuous (lots of walking)

Seopjikoji
Seopjikoji

Day 8: May 15, 2025   

We’ll breakfast at the hotel and then make our way to Jeju National Museum. This prominent cultural institution is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the island’s rich history and heritage. We’ll then make our way to 4.3 Peace Park, a poignant memorial dedicated to the victims of the Jeju 4.3 incident (a violent conflict that occurred in the 1940s) that aims to promote reconciliation and peace.

We’ll have lunch as a group before making out way to the Haenyeo Museum. This museum is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the unique heritage of the haenyeo, Korea’s traditional female divers who harvest seafood from the ocean.

Next up, Seongeup Folk Village is a well-preserved traditional village offering a glimpse into Korea’s past, showcasing Jeju’s architecture and providing an authentic glimpse of Korean rural life.

Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel and the rest of the day is yours.

Hotel: Utop Ubless opens a new window
Meals: B, L
Activity Level: Moderate

Twin idols on Jeju island
Twin idols on Jeju island

Day 9: May 16, 2025

After we breakfast at the hotel, we’ll once again board a private coach and make our way to the airport to catch our flight to Incheon.

After we check into the hotel, the rest of the day is yours to explore the city. We may have a surprise or two in store.

Hotel: Orakai Songdo opens a new window
Meal: B
Activity Level: Moderate (lots of walking)

Day 10: May 17, 2025

Today we’ll focus on Korea’s education system, internationalization, and corporate oligarchies.

After breakfast we’ll board our private coach to make our way to the University of Utah’s Asia campus. Once there, we’ll meet the UAC administrative team and professors, tour the facilities, and perhaps visit some classrooms.

A nearby mall is the perfect place to grab a lunch on your own before we make our way to the hotel in Incheon.

Tonight, we’ll meet for our farewell dinner and discuss what we’ve seen, experienced, and learned.

Hotel: Orakai Songdo opens a new window
Meals: B, D
Activity Level: Moderate

University of Utah Asia Campus
University of Utah Asia Campus

Day 11: May 18, 2025

Today we say goodbye to South Korea!
After breakfast we’ll get you to the airport to catch your flight home or to your next destination. We’ve loved showing this amazing country to you and can’t wait to see you at the reunion.

Meal: B
Activity Level: Moderate

David S. Roh

David S. Roh

David S. Roh is Professor and Chair of the Department of English at the University of Utah, where he specializes in Asian American literature and Digital Humanities. He spent several years teaching and researching in Japan and Korea, and taught literature at UC Santa Barbara and Old Dominion University before arriving at the University of Utah. Beyond his travels in Asia, his favorite destinations also include Havana, Isla Mujeres, and Crete.



Details and What to Expect

Pre-Departure

Like all Go Learn journeys, the adventure begins at home. At our Pre-Departure meeting, we'll make sure you have all the information you need before you arrive in South Korea—you’ll meet your trip leaders and we'll answer questions about what to pack, how to get around, and our daily itinerary. We want you to arrive ready to learn!

Post-Departure

A trip reunion about a month or so after returning will be the perfect conclusion to our journey. We’ll exchange pictures and stories while remembering the highlights of our tour. Go Learn expeditions are designed to be small, boutique experiences where one returns with a group of friends for life. Good food, drink, and company await us at this reunion.

Weather

May is one of the best months to visit South Korea! We can expect low humidity, warmer temps, and spring flowers. With highs between 73°F and 77°F and lows around 55°F, we are in for some beautiful weather. Mornings and evenings will be a bit chilly so you’ll want to bring a light jacket.

Activity levels and restrictions

This trip includes multiple walking tours though the city and use of public transportation. Seoul is famous for its hill, stairs, and narrow streets. There will be a group flight to and from Jeju Island and a river boat cruise in Seoul. We will explore historic and modern sites on foot so make sure you’ve got good walking shoes and are getting your steps in well in advance of the trip!

We may average 5 miles of walking per day, some with an incline or uneven surfaces. All group travel is by public transport, private coach (included in the trip price), or plane and participants should be able manage their own luggage. Our exciting itinerary and daily learning adventures will keep you happily exhausted.

This is an Activity Level 2 trip. Learn more about our .

Dates
May 8-18, 2025

Size
Group Size is limited to 20 participants

Cost
Double occupancy: $7050.00 per person
Single occupancy: $7375.00
Payment options are available upon request. Contact golearn@utah.edu for information.
See for payment and cancellation details.

Included

  • All guides, tips, and entrance fees
  • Hotel accommodations in the heart of the city
  • Airfare to and from Jeju Island
  • All breakfasts
  • River cruise down the Han River
  • Entrance to historic and cultural sites noted in itinerary
  • Tour guide and translator
  • Private coach
  • Airport transfers
  • Group meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Subway card

Not included

  • Airfare to and from Seoul
  • Meals that are not specifically noted in itinerary
  • Any travel costs incurred outside of the trip dates
  • Cancellation and lost luggage insurance
  • Any costs outside of the itinerary