Korea 2026

✈️ AGT Korea 2026 Travel Story

Day One – Blossoms & Traditions in Seoul

We arrived in Seoul just as the cherry blossoms started to flower. The morning began at Seoul Forest and Eungbongsan Mountain, where pink/yellow petals framed the skyline. By afternoon, we wandered through Bukchon Hanok Village, learning traditional crafts at the Donglim Knot Workshop and tasting royal rice cakes at Biwon Tteokjip. The highlight was carving our own Hangeul signature stamps before ending the day with tea in a serene Insadong garden.

Day Two – Island Escape

A bus, train, and ferry carried us to Jangbongdo Island, a quiet retreat near Incheon. We walked coastal paths past fishing villages, stopping for sea views and a swim when the tide allowed. Back in Seoul, we gathered for a temple-style vegetarian dinner at Sanchon, joined by local friends who shared stories of Korean life.

Day Three – Quirky Seoul

The abandoned amusement park Yongma Land set the tone—rusting rides turned film sets. We picnicked at a heritage eco park, then crossed the Han River to sip coffee at House Plant Café, a whimsical spot filled with greenery. Evening brought a stroll along Seoullo 7017, a highway reborn as a sky garden.

Day Four – Borderlands Adventure

Driving north to Cherwon, we followed the Hantan River Walk, tracing waters that flow from North Korea. Wooden bridges and floating pontoons made the 11km trek unforgettable. Dinner was sashimi at a friend’s restaurant, paired with a hands-on kimbap-making demo.

Day Five & Six – East Coast Treks

In Donghae, we walked coastal trails to Mangsang Beach, then tackled the stair-filled climb to Ulsanbawi Rock in Seoraksan National Park. The temple halfway up offered a peaceful pause before panoramic views at the summit.

Day Seven to Nine – Busan’s Coastline

The road to Busan wound through Gyeongju’s historic sites and bamboo forests in Ulsan. Once in Busan, we explored Haeundae Beach, then walked the Igidae Coastal Trail, pausing for seaside picnics. Some trekkers challenged themselves with Jangsan Mountain, while others feasted at Jagalchi Fish Market.

Day Ten to Twelve – Islands & Tea Country

We crossed to Gadeokdo Island, wandering mural-filled fishing villages, then swam at Heungnam Beach. Later, in Jeonju, we explored artisan shops and shrines before tasting Korea’s best pizza at CheeseOn. A tea lady’s home in Ssanggye offered a glimpse into Korea’s tea heritage.

Day Thirteen – West Coast Walks

From Mongsanpo Port, we hiked 15km through farms, beaches, and fishing villages, ending with octopus and crab by the sea. That night in Cheongju, we celebrated with Korean BBQ and karaoke.

Day Fourteen – Farewell in Suwon

Our final day brought us to the Hwaseong Fortress, walking its walls before visiting the golden Buddha at Daeseungwon Temple. The journey closed with a night in a traditional Seoul Hanok, blending modern comfort with old-world charm.

For more adventures check out Auckland Global Trekkers Event Page