South Korea

Types of trips: Religious, Geographical, Historical, Cultural, Adventure, Exploration

Best known for: Samsung/LG, Kimchi, Tae Kwon Do, Computer Gaming

Why Go?: At over 5000 years old, South Korea is a country that can offer groups an extensive mix of culture and experiences like no other - an adventurous and memorable destination for a school trip.

Fact File

Population: 51,000,000

Capital: Seoul

Language(s): Korean

Ties to the UK?: Good political relationship, increasingly popular travel destination

Landscape: High mountain ranges in the east, with a wide coastal plains in the west. 

Climate/Seasons: Short rainy season in June/July, with winters that can get extremely cold. Summer is from May - September and is much warmer, but can be very humid.

When to Go: Autumn is generally the best time to visit as the weather is warm and sunny but less humid than summer, and the autumnal colours of the trees are impressive. 

Reasons to Visit: South Korea has some of the most interesting cultural venues in the world, set against an impressive backdrop of mountains and ocean; it will be an exciting trip for people of all ages and interests.

How to Get There: Air travel is the best way to enter South Korea - there are quite a few international airports you can fly to, with the capital having one of the largest/busiest airports in the world.

Places to Go: National Museum/Folk Museum of Korea, Myeong-dong, Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art

Famous People: Psy, Jung Hong-won, Steven Yeun

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Seoraksan/National Park, Hallasan

History: Communist regime ended with the Korean War in 1953

Architecture: Gyeongbokgung, North Seoul Tower, Korean Folk Village

Culture: 

Sport: Tae Kwon Do, Football, Baseball, Basketball

Events: Ice and Fire Festivals, Summer Food Festivals

Watch Out For: The typhoon season of June - November can be dangerous, make sure you are aware of the risks if travelling during this period.

Medical Issues: Some vaccines and boosters are advised - check here for a general overview and always consult with a doctor.