John Buckley Jan 24, 2026 16 min read
South Korea Travel Guide
Skiing, Hiking & Outdoor Travel in KoreaI’ve lived in South Korea for nearly 20 years, and most of my ski trips and mountain hikes start here. From winter laps at local resorts to summer trails and road trips around Jeju Island, this page brings together the outdoor side of Korea that I return to again and again.
Many of these trips include our border collie, which influences where I stay and how I plan.
If you’re looking for skiing, hiking, seasonal travel, and practical logistics beyond the temples, palace grounds, and traditional market circuit, start here.
🏔️ Skiing in South Korea
I’ve skied across South Korea for years, from smaller regional hills to the country’s best-known resorts. These posts break down terrain, lift access, seasonal timing, and what to realistically expect compared to North America or Japan.
John Buckley
I grew up in Vail, Colorado — home to some of the best skiing in the U.S. — but I’ve spent the past 15+ years living and working in South Korea as an English teacher and outdoor adventurer.
From skiing deep powder in Japan to trekking in the Himalayas and hiking in Korea, I’ve explored much of Asia with a backpack, a plan, and an open mind.
Through Colorado Saram, I share travel guides, gear tips, and firsthand advice to help you plan unforgettable outdoor adventures across Asia and beyond.
👉 Follow me on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube, or join the free Facebook group for outdoor travel tips, stories, and inspiration.
Read more about my journey →
🌋 Jeju Island
Most trips to Jeju revolve around Hallasan, South Korea’s highest peak. This section includes my Hallasan hiking guide, a five-day Jeju itinerary, and practical information on ferry access to the island.
🥾 Hiking & Summer in South Korea
In winter, these are ski destinations. In summer, the same mountain regions offer hiking trails, lift-access access points, and quieter regional exploration.
This section covers Yongpyong, High 1, and trekking routes around Daegwallyeong.
🧭 South Korea Travel Logistics
Gear up for your trip with practical advice on driving, SIM cards, and travel logistics.
Essential South Korea Travel Info
Time in South Korea: KST
South Korea Currency:
Korean Won ₩ (KRW)
USD $1.00 = ₩ 1,425
* Subject to fluctuation
