Korea’s Rise: A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation
May 20-May 31, 2026
From palaces and ancient temples to street markets and futuristic skylines, Korea is a nation of striking harmony — deeply rooted in tradition, yet always looking forward. It’s a place that honors its past while constantly reinventing its future.
Join us as we journey to Seoul, Wonju, and Suwon to experience that dynamic balance firsthand. Explore world-class museums, historic landmarks and traditional performances that tell Korea’s remarkable story. Then step into the pulse of modern life, where style, tech and K-pop culture collide in ways uniquely Korean.
Discover how Korea is shaping the future while staying connected to its rich cultural heritage. Your next adventure begins here!
Trip Details
Our adventure in Korea will be a go once we reach a minimum of 10 registrations. Secure your spot before the Nov. 20, 2025, deadline. If the trip doesn't move forward due to low registrations, deposits will be refunded. See Terms & Conditions for more.
Itinerary
| Note: Travelers should arrange for their flight to depart from the U.S. on May 19 and arrive in Seoul on May 20. |
May 20 | Welcome to Seoul
Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the evening unwinding and getting a first glimpse of the city's vibrant energy.
May 21 | Palaces, Markets, and Seoul’s Historic Core
Visit the storied Blue House, official residence of Korea's president, and then ride by cable car up to N Seoul Tower where panoramic views of the city and mountains await. Feast on sizzling street food at Kwangjang Market, Seoul's oldest and most famous food market. End the day at the majestic Gwanghwamun Gate and enjoy a peaceful evening stroll along Cheonggyecheon Stream, a restored waterway blending nature and city life.
May 22 | Museums and Modernity
Explore the vast Korean National Museum, home to centuries of history, art, and artifacts. In the afternoon, visit Itaewon, Seoul’s vibrant multicultural district, where international influences meet Korean style, cuisine, and street culture.
May 23 | Tradition Come to Life
Don a traditional hanbok as you tour the grand courtyards of Gyeongbokgung Palace. Visit the Korean Folk Culture Museum, then explore the charming Bukchon Hanok Village, where centuries-old homes pay homage to Korean craftsmanship. End the day in Insadong, the city's cultural heart, lined with antique shops, art galleries, and tea houses.
May 24 | Gangnam Style
Start in Gangnam, the district immortalized in pop culture for its trendsetting style. Visit the Lotte World Tower, Korea's tallest building, and head to the Sky Deck for its panoramic views. Stop at the stunning Starfield Library, a testament to Korea's reverence for learning and design, and proceed to the high-tech Hyundai Motorstudio for a look at how engineering meets artistry. In the evening, take in the views of Banpo Bridge and the Saebit Floating Islands, where the Rainbow Fountain show transforms the Han River into a spectacle of light and color.
May 25 | At the Edge of History
Travel to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) to witness Korea's divided past. View North Korea from the Dora Observatory, walk through the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, and visit the Unification Village. In the afternoon, learn more at the Paju Modern History Museum. Returning back to Seoul, enjoy an evening of artistry and levity at the internationally acclaimed Nanta Show.
May 26 | Innovation and Tranquility
Head to Suwon to visit the Samsung Innovation Museum, where Korea’s tech evolution is on full display. Later, slow down at Bongeunsa Temple and learn the quiet rituals of Buddhist monastic life. Temple experiences include meditation, a tea ceremony and a conversation with a Buddhist master.
May 27 | Discover Wonju
Travel to Wonju, a city steeped in tradition and natural beauty. Start at the Hanji Paper Museum to learn the ancient craft of Korean paper-making — an art once prized by kings and scholars — and create your own Hanji piece in a hands-on workshop. In the afternoon, hike the Sogeumsan Suspension Bridge for breathtaking views of forested valleys, rivers, and mountain cliffs.
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DID YOU KNOW? |
May 28 | Life in a Joseon Village
Step into living history at the Korean Folk Village in Suwon. Here, meticulously restored traditional homes and immersive demonstrations of ancient customs offer a vivid look at life in Korea’s last imperial dynasty. The site is such a faithful recreation it has become a favored backdrop for acclaimed K-dramas — a unique bridge between Korea's storied past and vibrant present.
May 29 | Memory and Modern Design
Begin at the Korean War Museum, a powerful tribute to Korea’s history and resilience. Then, roll up your sleeves for a hands-on cooking class and learn the stories behind classic cultural dishes. In the afternoon, visit the Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a landmark of Seoul architecture known for its futuristic design and creative exhibitions. Cap off the evening with a peaceful cruise on the Han River under the city lights.
May 30 | Choose Your Own Adventure
Enjoy a free day to explore at your own pace. Revisit favorite spots, relax in a tea house or discover hidden boutiques. It's a perfect way to soak up these final moments in Korea.
May 31 | Departure
After breakfast, check out and head to the airport, taking with you unforgettable memories and a deeper understanding of Korea’s unique balance of tradition and transformation.
Pricing
RATES
Trip rates start at $5,500 per person for double-occupancy bookings. For single-occupancy bookings, a supplement of $1,200 applies.
PAYMENTS
Deposit of $800 will be due by Nov. 20, 2025. Balance will be due by Jan. 12, 2026.
This trip is limited to 16 participants, and registration will be on a first-come, first-served basis.
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
- 11 nights lodging
- All breakfasts
- All lunches
- 2 dinners
- All cultural activities as listed in the itinerary
- All in-country transportation
- Guide services and local support
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED?
- Airfare to Seoul
- Transportation from airport to hotel in Seoul
- Visa fee ($10; see Terms & Conditions)
Faculty Guide
Dr. Stella Xu is a scholar of East Asian history and the author of "Reconstructing Ancient Korean History: The Formation of Korean-ness in the Shadow of History." She has shared her expertise at institutions such as Yale University, the Library of Congress, and the United States Institute of Peace. At Roanoke College, Dr. Xu has been instrumental in advancing global education and deepening the college’s historic ties to Korea, which date back to the 1890s, when Roanoke became one of the first U.S. institutions to welcome Korean students.
Dr. Xu’s work has shed fresh light on that legacy and inspired new partnerships with the Korean Embassy, as well as new student research opportunities in Korea. Her scholarship not only bridges past and present but also fosters deep cross-cultural dialogue. As a guide, she offers travelers more than just a trip — her programs are immersive, historically rich journeys that open up Korea’s complex history, vibrant culture, and modern life in unforgettable ways.
Registration
Ready for a new adventure?
Experience the heart of Korea — where history meets modern wonders.
Registration link coming soon. Please note travelers with food allergies should contact us before registering. See Terms & Conditions for more.
Terms & Conditions
Allergies
Travelers with food allergies should contact us before registering for the trip. Some allergies can be difficult to manage in Korea due to common ingredients used in a variety of dishes.
We can help you review your options and determine if the trip is a good fit for your needs. For more details, please review our allergy information sheet.
Refunds
Deposits are non-refundable unless the trip is canceled by Maroon Passport due to low registrations. In that event, deposits will be refunded in full.
No refunds can be offered for other circumstances or for balance payments.
Travel Arrangements
Travelers are responsible for booking their flights to and from Seoul (see: General FAQs) and for arranging transport between the airport and the hotel.
All other in-country travel will be arranged by Maroon Passport as part of your tour package.
Passports should have at least six months of remaining validity at the time of the trip. Visa costs must be paid by the traveler ($10 USD). Information about the visa process will be shared by your faculty guide.
Photos & Videos
Maroon Passport may take photos and/or videos of activities during your trip. Roanoke College reserves the right to use this content for future promotions or other college-related purposes.
Acceptance of Risk
Participants acknowledge that travel involves risks. Waivers must be signed and returned to Maroon Passport before departure. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself in the event you need to cancel a trip, lose luggage, fall ill or face other unexpected circumstances.
Contact Us
Questions?
We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us at travel@roanoke.edu.