South Korea is a fantastic destination with a rich culture, delicious food, and plenty of activities for both adults and kids. Here’s a fun and engaging 6-day itinerary for your group of 16, including two kids. I’ll also sprinkle in some budget details to help you plan!

Day 1: Arrival in Seoul

Morning:

• Arrive at Incheon International Airport.
• Take the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) to Seoul Station (about $10 per person).

Afternoon:

• Check into your hotel (budget around $100-$150 per room per night for a family-friendly hotel).
• Lunch at a local restaurant (around $10 per person).
• Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace. Kids will love the changing of the guard ceremony! Entry is about $3 per person.

Evening:

• Stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village, where you can see traditional Korean houses.
• Dinner at a nearby restaurant (around $15 per person).
• Optional: Visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza for some evening lights and shopping.

Day 2: Explore Seoul

Morning:

• Breakfast at the hotel or a local café (around $5 per person).
• Head to Namsan Tower (N Seoul Tower). Take the cable car up (about $10 round trip per person). The view is stunning!

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Myeongdong (around $10 per person). Try some street food!
• Explore Myeongdong shopping district. Great for souvenirs and snacks.

Evening:

• Visit the Cheonggyecheon Stream for a relaxing walk.
• Dinner at a Korean BBQ restaurant (around $20 per person).
• Optional: Check out a K-Pop concert or performance if available!

Day 3: Day Trip to DMZ

Morning:

• Early breakfast and then take a guided tour to the DMZ (around $50 per person). This is a fascinating experience for everyone, especially the kids!

Afternoon:

• Return to Seoul and have lunch (around $10 per person).
• Visit the War Memorial of Korea (free entry).

Evening:

• Dinner at a local restaurant (around $15 per person).
• Relax at your hotel or explore a local night market.

Day 4: Travel to Busan

Morning:

• Breakfast and then take the KTX train to Busan (about $50 per person, 2.5 hours).
• Check into your hotel in Busan (budget around $100-$150 per room).

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Jagalchi Fish Market (around $15 per person). Kids will love seeing all the seafood!
• Visit Gamcheon Culture Village for colorful houses and art.

Evening:

• Head to Haeundae Beach for some fun in the sand.
• Dinner at a beachside restaurant (around $20 per person).

Day 5: Explore Busan

Morning:

• Breakfast at the hotel or a local café (around $5 per person).
• Visit Beomeosa Temple, a beautiful and serene spot.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a local restaurant (around $10 per person).
• Spend the afternoon at Busan Sea Life Aquarium (around $20 per person).

Evening:

• Dinner at a local restaurant (around $15 per person).
• Optional: Visit the Busan Tower for a night view of the city.

Day 6: Return to Seoul and Departure

Morning:

• Breakfast and then take the KTX train back to Seoul (about $50 per person).
• Last-minute shopping in Insadong for traditional crafts and souvenirs.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Insadong (around $10 per person).
• Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance to visit the National Museum of Korea (free entry).

Evening:

• Head to the airport via AREX (about $10 per person).
• Departure!

Budget Summary:

• Accommodation: $100-$150 per room x 3 rooms (for 16 people) = $300-$450 per night
• Food: Approximately $10-$20 per person per meal x 3 meals x 6 days = $5400-$7200 for the group
• Transportation: KTX and AREX = $50 x 16 + $10 x 16 = $960
• Attractions: $3-$50 per person for various attractions = approximately $800-$1000 for the group

Total Estimated Budget:

Around $7,200 - $9,600 for the entire trip, depending on your choices and preferences.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable trip to South Korea! If you have any questions or need adjustments, feel free to ask! Safe travels! 🌏✈️