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South Korea

Travel & Adventure Guide

Exploring South Korea

Discover the best of South Korea with my collection of blog posts tailored for adventure seekers, outdoor enthusiasts, and curious travelers. From world-class ski resorts and scenic trekking spots to dog-friendly itineraries and insider travel tips, this page has everything you need to plan your next trip.

Explore breathtaking landscapes, practical guides for getting around, and unique experiences that go beyond the usual temples and kimchi.

Whether you’re carving down the slopes, hiking coastal trails, or uncovering hidden gems across the country, you’ll find all the inspiration and firsthand advice right here.

Discover the best of South Korea with my collection of blog posts tailored for adventure seekers, outdoor enthusiasts, and curious travelers. From world-class ski resorts and scenic trekking spots to dog-friendly itineraries and insider travel tips, this page has everything you need to plan your next trip.

Explore breathtaking landscapes, practical guides for getting around, and unique experiences that go beyond the usual temples and kimchi.

Whether you're carving down the slopes, hiking coastal trails, or uncovering hidden gems across the country, you’ll find all the inspiration and firsthand advice right here.

A couple with their black and white dog on a ferry to Jeju Island, South Korea, with the ocean and mountains in the background at sunset.
BeachesFeaturedPaw VenturesSouth Korea Adventures

Jeju Island Ferry Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

If you’ve decided to visit Jeju Island, South Korea, you’ll soon confront a crucial question: How do I get there? Unless you’re an Olympic swimmer, you essentially have two options: fly or take a ferry. I share my personal experience and explain why opting for the ferry might be your best choice. I’ll also guide you through the process, including how I brought my own car and dog along, to help you decide if Jeju Island Ferry travel is the best option for you.

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A skier stands outside of Dragon Castle at the top of Mona Yongpyong Resort in South Korea, with the Olympic rings in the background.
BoardsFeaturedSki & Snowboard South KoreaSouth Korea Adventures

Yongpyong Resort: A Guide to South Korea’s Premier Skiing and Snowboarding Destination

Explore the Olympic-quality slopes of South Korea’s Mona Yongpyong Resort in this detailed guide.

Whether you’re a beginner, advanced skier, or snowboarder, discover which of the resort’s four zones best matches your style.

Find tips on ski lessons with English-speaking instructors, trail maps, dining, and more.

Let me help you plan your ultimate winter adventure in South Korea!

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Man standing at the top of the Hera Lift (Mountain Top) at High 1 Resort, South Korea, under the lights for night skiing.
BoardsFeaturedSki & Snowboard South KoreaSouth Korea Adventures

High 1 Resort: A Complete Guide to Skiing and Snowboarding in South Korea

Planning a ski trip in South Korea? High1 Resort is a top destination for skiing and snowboarding, with a variety of trails, lift ticket options, gear rentals, and lessons.

This guide covers everything from accommodations and dining to dog-friendly stays at the ‘Pet Club’ Hill Condo.

Get insider tips to make the most of your trip!

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A woman in a bright pink ski suit and a white helmet with a shiny blue visor is skiing down a beginner slope at Muju Deogyusan Resort.
BoardsFeaturedSki & Snowboard South KoreaSouth Korea Adventures

A Complete Guide to Muju Deogyusan Resort: a Hidden Gem in South Korea

Muju Deogyusan Resort is a hidden gem resort destination in South Korea’s Jeollabuk-Do province. Compared to the popular resorts in Gangwon-Do, Muju’s distance from Seoul makes it a more quaint alternative ski destination. This laid-back resort caters to all skill levels and offers diverse accommodation options. Check out this guide and review with terrain highlights, and practical tips for visitors.

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Colorado Saram and dog (Winnie) at Conan Beach, Jeju Island - South Korea.

John Buckley

I grew up in the renowned ski resort town of Vail, Colorado, but I’ve lived in South Korea for over 15 years, working as an English teacher.

For over 20 years, I’ve explored the globe, maintaining my adventurous Colorado spirit while traveling extensively in Asia and beyond.

I write about international skiing, hiking, outdoor adventures, dog-friendly travel, and gear to help you bring the Colorado lifestyle to your travels.

Follow me on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, or join my free Facebook group for tips, inspiration, and conversation about outdoor travel in Asia and Oceania.

Read more about my journey and the creation of Colorado Saram!

Essential South Korea Travel Info

Time in South Korea: KST

16 Hours Ahead of MST

Denver: Saturday, 3:00 pm

Seoul: Sunday, 7:00 am

16 Hours Ahead of MST

Denver: Saturday, 3:00 pm

Seoul: Sunday, 7:00 am

South Korea Currency:

Korean Won ₩ (KRW)

USD $1.00 = ₩ 1,327 

* Subject to fluctuation

Capital: Seoul

Primary Int’l Airports: Seoul/Incheon (ICN), Gimhae/Busan (PUS), Jeju Island (CJU), Daegu (TAE)

Spoken Language: Korean

Written Language: Hangul 한글

Population: 51.3 million

    Seoul: 10 million

    Busan: 3.7 million

    Incheon: 2.6 million

    Daegu: 2.5 million

    Daejeon: 1.5 million

Capital: Seoul

Primary Int'l Airports: Seoul/Incheon (ICN), Gimhae/Busan (PUS), Jeju Island (CJU), Daegu (TAE)

Spoken Language: Korean

Written Language: Hangul 한글

Population: 51.3 million

Seoul: 10 million

Busan: 3.7 million

Incheon: 2.6 million

Daegu: 2.5 million

Daejeon: 1.5 million

    Family fun at the base of Muju Deogyusan Resort
    Korea Life and Travel. Temple near Daegu, South Korea
    Colorado Saram and his border collie, Winnie, hike in South Korea.
    Seongsan Ilchulbong UNESCO site - Jeju Island, Korea.