Soon to be EXO’s eleventh destination, Korea, is a country of fascinating juxtapositions.
It is cosmopolitan yet quintessentially Asian. It is modern, even futuristic, but also deeply rooted in tradition. Even its landscapes are a study in contrasts, with bustling urban centres standing alongside serene natural wonders.
For this reason, and more, Korea is brimming with opportunity for the type of immersive, impactful travel that EXO is known for. And as we work on developing our signature experiences and journeys, we want to set the stage for what awaits in this captivating nation.
Read on to get a glimpse into Korea’s multi-faceted allure.
Cultural heritage
Although Korea has one foot firmly planted in the future, it still holds tight to its cultural heritage.
Korea has remarkably well-preserved historic sites, an array of museums covering a diverse range of themes from war history to soju making, performances of traditional dance and theatre, and much more.
The country boasts fourteen properties on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List, including two entire villages (Hahoe and Yangdong) which are still inhabited today.
In Korea, there is deep value placed on traditional culture and people are proud to share it with visitors.
Natural beauty
The bright lights and modern skyscrapers of Seoul may come to mind when thinking of Korea, but the it isalso blessed with spectacular nature with 80% of the country being forested.
Some of the most impressive swaths of nature are Seoraksan National Park, an outdoor paradise with trekking and wildlife-spotting opportunities aplenty and Jeju Island and Suncheon, part of a UNESCO Heritage wetland ecosystem.
Even within cities such as Seoul, nature is never far away: urban forests and parks are common within city limits while foothills and waterways can be found in less than an hour’s drive.
The people
Rooted in over 1,500 years of rich cultural history, the Korean people deeply revere their traditions, with a particular emphasis on the value of scholars and education.
In addition, the warmth and intrinsic hospitality of the Korean people is truly special. It is not unusual for visitors to be invited to participate in age-old customs or to be engaged in discussions about Korea’s storied past.
This blend of genuine hospitality and deep-seated respect for culture offers travellers a uniquely enriching experience.
The food
Korean cuisine, steeped in centuries of tradition, offers a flavorful and diverse gastronomic experience.
A central theme of all dishes is the delicate balance of spicy, sweet and salty, often achieved through fermented ingredients like kimchi, a staple made from fermented vegetables, primarily cabbage. Dishes such as bulgogi (marinated, grilled beef), bibimbap (a rice bowl with vegetables and meat), and various jjigae (stews) showcase the country’s penchant for combining fresh ingredients with bold seasonings.
Fresh seafood and a wide variety of vegetables are also heavily featured in Korean meals.
Interested in Korea? We are gearing up to launch in early November, just ahead of WTM 2023. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our team below.
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