South Korea Catholic Pilgrimage Tour

Your Catholic Pilgrimage of South Korea begins in the vivacious capital city of Seoul.

Arrive at the Incheon International Airport, where your tour guide will greet you. A private transfer will then take you to your first hotel in Seoul.

Catholicism in South Korea has an arduous past, as its early years were marked primarily by persecution and martyrdom. Today you’ll have the opportunity to visit the very first Roman Catholic parish church in South Korea, the Myeongdon Cathedral in Seoul, a fitting start to your Catholic pilgrimage!

Later in the day, you’ll make your way to the Saenamteo Holy Ground, where several critical South Korean catholic figureheads were martyred in the 19th century.

Your exploration of Seoul continues with visits to Gwanghwamun Plaza, Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Folk Museum of Korea, and the colourful Insadong District.

With your appetite well worked up, finish off the day at the Gwangjang Market, seeking out some tasty Korean snacks from the nearly 5000 vendors that call this bustling street market home!

This morning you’ll say farewell to Seoul (for now), as you drive to Gwanju. Here you’ll visit the Cheonjinam Temple, where Korean Catholicism was born in the year 1780.

Your spiritual journey continues as you set back out on the road, heading to Baeron Holy Ground, an area of immense spiritual significance when it came to the spreading of Catholicism across the country.

Later, you’ll visit the Yeonpung Martyrs Shrine, where you’ll learn about an early Catholic settlement and the persecution they endured. The day ends as you arrive at your accommodations in Suanbo.

This morning you’ll hit the road with your sights set on Andong. Known as a stronghold of Confucianism, Andong is full of unique cultural experiences, both fascinating and informative.

Your time in Andong begins with a visit to Hahoemaeul Village, a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 15th century, providing visitors with a glimpse into South Korea’s cultural heritage. Explore several traditional Korean houses as you navigate the village’s narrow streets and alleys, brimming with rustic charm.

This afternoon you’ll continue to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of Silla. Gyeongju is often referred to as a “museum without walls,” and tomorrow you’ll find out why!

Today’s itinerary is dedicated to exploring the fascinating coastal city of Gyeongju! Home to several ancient temples, royal tombs, stone pagodas and fortress ruins, this city is the perfect place to spend a full day exploring.

Explore the sacred Seokguram grotto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where a serene stone Buddha dating back to the 8th century lords over the temple complex.

Up next, you’ll visit the main Bulguksa Temple and its impressive gates and symbolic bridges before heading to the Gyeongju National Museum and the Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond.

The day wraps up with a stroll through the Seongdong Market, where you’ll experience another traditional Korean street market.

Today you’ll make your way to South Korea’s second-largest city, Busan, a vibrant coastal city bordered by ocean on one side and mountains on the other.

Your exploration of Busan begins with a visit to the Oryundae Martyrs Shrine. Here you’ll find a martyrs cathedral as well as a fascinating museum featuring the history of Catholicism in South Korea.

Next, you’ll learn about the Korean War and pay tribute to the 2,300 soldiers that lost their lives at the UN Memorial Cemetery.

Busan’s highlights continue as you visit the Yongdusan Park, Gwangbokro Street, BIFF Square, and the Jagalchi Fish Market.

Today’s journey has you travelling from Busan to Gwanju, via Jinju, Gokseong, and Naju.

The main highlight of today will be a visit to the Okbong Catholic Church in Jinju. The church, built in 1911, served as a Catholic center and was affiliated with Masan Cathedral.

Heading to Jeonju this morning, you’ll have a chance to appreciate South Korea’s rich cultural and artistic heritage as you explore the Jeonju Hankok Village, a well-preserved ancient Korean housing complex.

Next, you’ll visit the stunning Jeondong Catholic Church, where you’ll marvel at the Byzantine and Romanesque-inspired architectural design.

On to Buyeo, you’ll find a fascinating melting pot of Baekje culture! Explore the county and its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, like the Jeongrimsa Temple and its 5-story stone pagoda.

Later, you’ll learn about brilliant Baekje culture as you explore archeological relics at the Buyeo National Museum.

Today is dedicated to visiting several holy grounds as you make your way from Buyeo to Suwon, via Boryeong, Haemi, Dangjiin, and Anseong.

Highlights include the Hongju Holy Ground, Haemi Fortress and Holy Ground, Solmoe Holy Ground, and Mirinae Holy Ground.

Before departing from Suwon, you’ll start the day with a visit to another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hwaseong Fortress, dating back to the 18th century. The 50-structure complex is acknowledged as the best of its kind in South Korea. Enjoy a short walking tour here before hitting the road for Seoul.

Once in Seoul, you’ll have a free afternoon to explore at your leisure!

It’s time to say farewell this morning as your Catholic pilgrimage in South Korea comes to an end. A private transfer will take you to the airport to depart.