After watching over 30 Korean television series and movies as of February 2024, I began searching for a company that could bring my dream trip to life. I was looking for a K-drama tour that would take a small group to filming locations while also letting us sample some of the country’s best food.
Out of several companies and over 20 itineraries reviewed, The Dragon Trip’s 10 Day Premium Tour came the closest to what I was looking for. With a few adjustments and an additional location added, our itinerary was finalised in June 2024. I put together a custom list of dramas filmed in Seoul, Busan and Jeju Island, included food famous in each city and a few fun facts along the way. Nicole Stirling from The Dragon Trip was supportive and professional throughout the entire process. Our October departure came with its challenges due to the holidays, but Nicole coordinated everything with the South Korea team to make the tour a success.
So off we went on a trip of a lifetime in October 2024. My friends have travelled all over the world, but they said that the Private Tour Nicole and I put together was one of the best, if not the best, they have ever been on. This certainly will not be the last Private Tour.
Highlights from Our K-drama and Foodie Adventure
Wearing a hanbok while visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace was a memorable experience. We felt like stars in a historical drama. We were impressed that our Adventure Leader, Sam Kim, brought us to a hanbok rental place with beautiful royal costumes. The ladies in the shop even styled our hair, which we were delighted to know was part of the rental price. We stood out amidst a field of tourists in costumes of aristocrats and scholars during the Joseon Dynasty. What a special start to our Kdrama tour.
Each activity on our Private Tour was carefully selected to match our K-drama and food theme, as well as our preferred pace. As a result, we had several favourite moments every day.
Yachting in Jeju Island was a favourite moment, straight out of a scene from a famous 2022 Kdrama. While two of us tried fishing, the rest of us were content to simply enjoy the ride. The coastline of Jeju Island is breathtaking. As we got closer to the dock, the crew served fresh sashimi from the fish they caught during our cruise. What an unexpected treat.
The hotel we stayed at in Jeju was the best accommodation of our tour. It was one of the film locations for a 2023 Kdrama. The view from the lobby was spectacular, but not as amazing as their breakfast buffet. Yes, any foodie would love to wake up to their impeccable selections.
The Unexpected Highlights
Busan’s skyline at night was stunning. Each boat tour set out some fireworks that sparkled against the backdrop of a serene but dazzling city. Of course, our phone cameras were not able to capture this amazing sight but we will always remember our brief visit to Busan.
Another unexpected highlight was our cooking class in Busan. We made our own Bibimbap.
Picking a Favourite Place
Seoul, Busan and Jeju each had their own charm so it is difficult to choose. We enjoyed the sights and the food each place offered.
We liked Nami Island as well. The lunch we had before we boarded the ferry was delicious. What made that restaurant’s Samgyeopsal chicken special were the homemade sauces and side dishes. Nami Island, Petite France and Garden of the Morning Calm are all film locations of old and new dramas.
And then there’s Busan, a gorgeous seaside city which has been featured in various Kdramas and an international movie. Jeju, with its natural beauty, was a delight.
A Food Lover’s Paradise
Samgyeopsal grilled pork belly and chicken were our favourites. The broth in different cities was good too. We enjoyed the dumpling soup at the Netflix Lady’s stall in Gwangjang Market.
A Few Tips for Travelling in South Korea
If you are travelling from the US, plan to arrive at least a day before the start date of the tour. This will give you time to relax after a long flight. And if you can, stay a couple of days after to enjoy more of Seoul.
Unless you only have a carry on, plan to store your large suitcase so you can travel light to Busan and Jeju.
A little knowledge of the country’s customs and pleasantries goes a long way. If you are a Kdrama fan, you’ll know how to say “hello” and “thank you”.
