Travel to Seoul and Experience the Heart of South Korea
If Korea already owns your playlist and screens, imagine what happens when it owns your travel plans, with new ways to get there launching soon. From K-dramas to Korean BBQ, K-beauty to favoured K-pop anthems, Korea’s influence is global and it’s a culture Canadians know and love. But there is nothing quite like experiencing Korea at the source. This summer, step off a direct flight and right into the heart of Seoul.
Stepping Into Seoul: From Palaces to Pop Culture
Seoul is a city where the past and present share the same streets. Visitors can explore the Five Royal Palaces, including Gyeongbokgung, where wearing a traditional hanbok earns you free admission. Just a short walk away, the Insa-dong and Ikseon-dong neighbourhoods blend traditional hanok houses with trendy cafes and boutique shops.
In Hongdae, Seoul’s creative heartbeat, live music and street performances spill out onto the sidewalks every night. K-drama fans can follow curated itineraries through real filming locations, while K-pop fans can trace BTS’s story through Visit Korea’s dedicated Seoul itinerary. With BTS kicking off their 2026 “Arirang” world tour, named after a centuries-old Korean folk song, there has never been a better time to visit the city where it all began. Lastly, Bukchon Hanok Village, featured as a filming location in the movie “K-pop Demon Hunters”, is a great place to experience traditional Korean culture.
A Taste of Korea
Korean cuisine has captivated food lovers and chefs alike. While it is embraced and loved globally, there is nothing quite like indulging from the source. From sizzling Korean BBQ to street food favourites like tteokbokki and hotteok, Korea offers something special at every turn. When summer hits, naengmyeon, Korea’s cold noodle dish, is how locals beat the heat. After dark, the Pojangmacha street stalls come alive with everything from grilled skewers to seafood stews. And for those who want to take the experience home, Seoul’s cooking classes let you learn to make kimchi and bibimbap from scratch.
Beyond Seoul: Coastal Charm and Island Escapes
Korea’s KTX high-speed train gets you from Seoul to the coastal city of Busan in under three hours. Busan is home to Gamcheon Culture Village, a colourful hillside neighbourhood that’s become one of Korea’s most photographed spots, along with Haeundae Beach and the ocean-side Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. Jeju Island is a different world entirely with volcanic hiking trails, sunrise views at Seongsan Ilchulbong, and quiet coastal walks along the Olle Trail. In the summer months, the famous Boryeong Mud Festival draws visitors from around the world for one of Korea’s liveliest outdoor celebrations.
Festival Season Hits Different in Korea
If your ideal summer includes music, water fights, beach chaos, and fried chicken under the stars, Korea does not hold back. Beyond its iconic landmarks and coastal escapes, the country’s festival scene turns all the way up when the weather heats up.
The Jeongnamjin Jangheung Water Festival in Jangheung is exactly what it sounds like: an all-out water playground. Think river slides, massive public water fights, and live performances that feel like a summer block party on another level.
Then there’s the globally famous Waterbomb Festival, which brings celebrity DJs and full-scale water battles to cities like Seoul and Busan. It is part music festival, part splash zone, and fully chaotic in the best way possible.
For those who prefer their summer loud and guitar-driven, the Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival delivers major international acts and serious K-rock energy. It is one of Korea’s biggest live music events and draws fans from around the world.
If food is your love language, the Daegu Chimac Festival is a must. “Chimac” means chicken and beer, and this festival turns that iconic pairing into a massive outdoor celebration complete with live performances and thousands of people toasting under the summer sky.
And back in Seoul, even history gets a summer glow-up. Gyeongbokgung Palace Night Viewing offers limited-entry evening access to the royal palace, where illuminated courtyards and traditional architecture create a cinematic atmosphere you will not forget.
Your Way to Korea
Getting to Korea has never been easier. Starting March 30, 2026, Korean Air is increasing its non-stop service from Vancouver to Seoul’s Incheon International Airport, growing from 11 to 14 weekly flights, with night flight options expanding from four to seven per week. Fly in style on the luxurious Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner.
In addition, Air Canada continues to offer non-stop service between Vancouver and Seoul, providing convenient connections from major Canadian gateways (7 weekly flights.) Travellers can also explore options with T’way Air, expanding access between Vancouver and Seoul with competitive fares and additional capacity during peak travel seasons (4 weekly flights.)
With more direct flights and expanded schedules than ever before, planning a summer escape to Korea is seamless and accessible for Canadian travellers.
Plan Your Trip
Are you ready to immerse yourself in one of the most vibrant destinations in Asia? Start with a visit to english.visitkorea.or.kr where you will find curated itineraries, cultural experiences, and everything you’ll need to plan your summer in Seoul. Your summer Korean adventure awaits!
Stay up to date with the latest travel information about Korea by following @ktocanada on Instagram, or visit english.visitkorea.or.kr to learn more!
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