Arrival & Free Time

Arrival at Incheon International Airport→ Transfer to Hotel & Check-in→ Rest at the Hotel or Personal Exploration

Accommodation: Swiss Grand Hotel, Seoul

Seoul – The Path of Martyrs & Korean Culture

Breakfast at the Hotel→ Move to Myeongdong Cathedral→ Myeongdong Cathedral (Mass at 10:00)→ Seosomun Shrine Historic Museum→ Lunch→ Gyeongbokgung Palace – Royal Guard Changing Ceremony→ Bukchon Hanok Village→ Gwangjang Market – Traditional Food & Market Tour→ Return to Hotel & Rest

Accommodation: Swiss Grand Hotel, Seoul

Myeongdong Cathedral

Myeongdong Cathedral is a symbolic church of the Catholic Church in Korea and one of the oldest Catholic cathedrals in Seoul, located in Myeongdong. It is the first parish church in Korea and was completed in 1898. Built in Gothic style, it is also famous for being one of the oldest brick buildings in Korea.

Myeongdong Cathedral is not only an important religious center for Korean Catholics but has also played a significant role in modern Korean history. During the 1970s and 1980s, when Korea's democratization movement was active, the cathedral served as a sanctuary for human rights and democracy activists.

Today, Myeongdong Cathedral remains a major religious site where Mass and sacraments are held. It is also a significant cultural heritage site visited by many believers and tourists alike.

Seosomun Shrine Historic Museum

The Seosomun Shrine History Museum in Seoul, South Korea, honors Catholic martyrs who were persecuted during the Joseon Dynasty. It stands on what was once the largest execution ground, where many of the 103 Korean Saints canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1984 were martyred.

Opened in June 2019, the museum preserves Korea’s Catholic history, featuring exhibitions on religious persecution and martyrdom. Its red-brick architecture, with open spaces for natural light, symbolizes hope and faith. The site is also part of the Vatican-approved Seoul Pilgrimage Routes, attracting pilgrims from around the world.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is commonly referred to as the Northern Palace because its location is furthest north when compared to the neighboring palaces of Changdeokgung (Eastern Palace) and Gyeonghuigung (Western Palace). Gyeongbokgung Palace is arguably the most beautiful, and remains the largest of all five palaces.

Remarkably, the most representative edifices of the Joseon dynasty, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and the pond around Hyangwonjeong Pavilion have remained relatively intact. The raised dias and stone markers of Geunjeongjeon showcase the representative art style of their time.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village is surrounded by Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Jongmyo Shrine. It is home to hundreds of traditional houses where nobles lived during the Joseon Dynasty. The name Bukchon translates to "northern village" as it lies north of two significant Seoul landmarks, Cheonggyecheon Stream and Jongno. Today, many of these hanoks operate as cultural centers, guesthouses, restaurants, and tea houses, allowing visitors to experience and immerse themselves in traditional Korean culture.

Seoul & Gyeonggi – Martyr Shrines & DMZ Visit

Breakfast at the Hotel→ Move to Jeoldusan Martyrs’ Shrine→ Jeoldusan Martyrs’ Shrine & Museum→ Transfer to Paju DMZ→ Lunch→ The 3rd Infiltration Tunnel & Dora Observatory (View of North Korea)→ Return to Hotel & Rest

Accommodation: Swiss Grand Hotel, Seoul

Jeoldusan Martyrs' Shrine (Seoul)

Jeoldusan Martyrs’ Shrine is a significant site in Korean Catholic history, where many believers were martyred during the persecution of Catholics in the late 19th century. Located along the Han River in Seoul, the name Jeoldusan means "Beheaded Mountain," symbolizing the executions of Catholic believers during that time.

During the Byeongin Persecution in 1866, many Catholics were executed at this site. This persecution was a result of the Joseon government's crackdown on French missionaries and Catholic followers, leading to mass martyrdom.

Today, Jeoldusan Martyrs’ Shrine serves as a sacred place to honor these martyrs. It houses the Jeoldusan Martyrs’ Memorial Hall and Jeoldusan Martyrs’ Church. Visitors can see relics and remains of the martyrs and learn about the history of Catholic persecution in Korea. The shrine remains an important pilgrimage site for Korean Catholics.

The 3rd Infiltration Tunnel (Paju)

One of the secret underground tunnels dug by North Korea for a potential invasion of South Korea. Discovered in 1978, this tunnel is a significant Cold War relic. Visitors can walk inside the tunnel and experience its historical importance

Dora Observatory (Paju)

Dora Observatory, located near the DMZ in Paju, South Korea, offers a close-up view of North Korea, including Kaesong and the Propaganda Village. Visitors can use binoculars to observe North Korean farmlands and daily life. The site symbolizes Korea’s division and hopes for reunification, making it a key stop on DMZ tours.

Seoul & Gyeonggi – Martyr Shrines & Traditional Culture

Breakfast at the Hotel→ Move to Mirinae Shrine→ Mirinae Shrine→ Transfer to Yongin Korean Folk Village→ Lunch & Korean Folk Village→ Namyang Virgin Mary Shrine→ Return to Hotel & Rest

Accommodation: Swiss Grand Hotel, Seoul

Mirinae Shrine (Anseong)

Mirinae Shrine is an important Catholic pilgrimage site in Korea, located in Anseong, Gyeonggi Province. The name "Mirinae" means "Milky Way" in Korean and refers to a place where Catholics secretly gathered to practice their faith during the persecution of Christianity in the Joseon Dynasty.

This shrine is most famous as the burial site of Saint Andrew Kim Taegon, the first Korean Catholic priest. He was martyred in 1846 for spreading the Catholic faith, and his remains were later moved to Mirinae. The shrine was established to honor the martyrs and serves as a sacred place for prayer and reflection.

Today, Mirinae Shrine features the tomb of Saint Andrew Kim Taegon, the Martyrs’ Memorial Church, the Way of the Cross, and a statue of Saint Andrew Kim. It remains a significant pilgrimage site for Catholic believers and visitors alike.

Korean Folk Village (Yongin)

The Korean Folk Village is an open-air museum where visitors can experience traditional Korean culture. Located in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, it was established in 1974 and features a recreated Joseon-era village with traditional houses, crafts, and folk performances.

Visitors can enjoy various cultural performances, including traditional wedding ceremonies, Korean folk music (nongak), and martial arts on horseback (masang muye). Skilled artisans demonstrate traditional paper-making (hanji), pottery, and blacksmithing, bringing the daily life of the Joseon Dynasty to life. Additionally, guests can wear hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) and taste authentic Korean traditional foods.

The Korean Folk Village is a beloved destination for both locals and international visitors, offering an immersive way to learn about and experience Korea’s rich cultural heritage.

Namyang Virgin Mary Shrine (Hwaseong)

Namyang Virgin Mary Shrine is one of Korea’s significant Catholic martyrdom sites, located in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province. This sacred place commemorates the many believers who lost their lives for their faith during the persecution of Catholics in the Joseon Dynasty. 

In particular, during the Byeongin Persecution of 1866, many Catholics were martyred, and the shrine was later established to honor their sacrifices. Today, the shrine features the Martyrs’ Memorial Church, the Way of the Cross, the Martyrs’ Cemetery, and the Garden of Peace, providing a place for prayer and reflection for pilgrims. 

For Catholic believers, Namyang Shrine serves as a place of prayer and spiritual reflection. For general visitors, it offers an opportunity to learn about the history of Catholicism in Korea and the spirit of martyrdom. The Namyang Shrine is a building designed by the world-renowned architect Mario Botta.

Chungcheongnam-do – Catholic Martyr Shrines

Breakfast at the Hotel & Check-out→ Move to Gongseri Church→ Gongseri Church→ Shinri Martyrs’ Shrine→ Lunch→ Haemi Martyrs’ Shrine→ Transfer to Jeonju→ Hotel Check-in & Free Time

Accommodation: Jeonju Lahan Hotel, Jeonju

Gongseri Catholic Church (Asan)

Gongseri Catholic Church is one of the oldest Catholic churches in Korea, located in Asan, Chungcheongnam-do. Built in 1894, the church has played a significant role in Korean Catholic history and is often referred to as "the Montmartre of Korea" due to its picturesque surroundings.

The church features a unique blend of Gothic architecture and traditional Korean elements, reflecting the early missionary activities in Korea. During the persecution of Catholics in the Joseon Dynasty, it also served as a refuge for believers. Today, it remains a major pilgrimage and historical site, attracting both worshippers and tourists.

The church grounds include the Way of the Cross, a Martyrs' Memorial, and a Marian Garden, offering spaces for prayer and reflection. With its stunning scenery, especially in spring and autumn, Gongseri Catholic Church continues to be a beloved destination for visitors.

Shinri Martyrs' Shrine (Dangjin)

Sinri Catholic Martyrs' Shrine is one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in Korea. It is located in Dangjin, Chungcheongnam-do, and commemorates the many Korean Catholics who were martyred for their faith during the persecution of the Joseon Dynasty.

In the 19th century, Catholicism was banned in Joseon, and believers faced severe persecution. Sinri Shrine is especially known as a place where many Catholics were martyred during the Byeongin Persecution of 1866. To honor their sacrifices, the shrine was established as a sacred site of remembrance.

Sinri Shrine is an essential site for reflecting on the roots of Korean Catholicism. Many believers visit the shrine to deepen their faith and remember the spirit of the martyrs. It is recognized as a symbol of the Korean Catholic Church’s history of sacrifice and attracts both domestic and international pilgrims.

Haemi Martyrs' Shrine (Seosan)

Haemi Martyrs' Shrine is one of the most significant Catholic pilgrimage sites in Korea.

During the 19th century, Catholicism was strictly banned in Joseon, and believers faced severe oppression. Haemi was a major center for the persecution of Catholics, especially during the Byeongin Persecution of 1866. It is estimated that around 1,000 to 2,000 Catholics were executed here without trials. Many were imprisoned, tortured, and ultimately put to death simply for their faith.

Haemi Martyrs' Shrine stands as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by early Korean Catholics. It serves as a place of pilgrimage, prayer, and reflection for many believers. The shrine is also recognized internationally as an important historical and spiritual site, with Pope Francis visiting Haemi in 2014 during his trip to Korea.

Jeollabuk-do – Catholic Heritage & Traditional Culture

Breakfast at the Hotel & Check-out→ Jeondong Cathedral→ Jeonju Hanok Village→ Lunch at rest stop in high way→ Manna CEA→ Transfer to Seoul→ Check-in & Rest

Accommodation: Swiss Grand Hotel, Seoul

Jeonju Jeondong Cathedral (Jeonju)

Jeondong Catholic Church is one of the most beautiful and historically significant Catholic churches in Korea.

Jeondong Catholic Church was built in 1914 on the site where Korean Catholics were martyred during the persecution of the Joseon Dynasty. It was constructed to honor these martyrs and to serve as a place of worship for Catholics in the region. The church is especially meaningful because Jeonju was one of the first places where Catholicism was introduced to Korea.

Jeondong Catholic Church is not only a place of worship but also a major tourist attraction in Jeonju. It is considered one of the most beautiful churches in Korea and is often visited by both Catholics and non-Catholics alike. Its historical and architectural value has made it a Registered Cultural Heritage Site of Korea.

Jeonju Hanok Village (Jeonju)

Jeonju Hanok Village is one of the most famous traditional Korean villages, located in Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do. It is home to over 700 hanok (traditional Korean houses) and is a popular destination for visitors who want to experience Korea’s rich cultural heritage.

Jeonju Hanok Village was preserved to maintain Korea’s traditional architecture and lifestyle. Jeonju itself is historically significant as it was the capital of the Joseon Dynasty’s founding family. The village allows visitors to experience how Koreans lived in the past while blending modern attractions with historical charm.

Jeonju Hanok Village is not just a historical site; it is a living cultural space where visitors can immerse themselves in Korean traditions, food, and history. It is a must-visit destination for those who want to experience the charm of Korea’s past while enjoying a beautiful and peaceful atmosphere.

Manna CEA (Jincheon)

Manna CEA is a pioneering smart farming company based in Jincheon, Chungcheongbuk-do, South Korea. Founded in 2013 by KAIST graduates Aaron Park and Jeon Taebyeong, the company specializes in aquaponics, a sustainable farming method that combines aquaculture (raising fish) with hydroponics (cultivating plants in water). In this system, fish waste provides organic nutrients for plant growth, and plants naturally filter and purify the water, creating a symbiotic environment.

Beyond technological advancements, Manna CEA is committed to promoting sustainable agriculture and revitalizing rural communities. They offer farm tours at their Jincheon facility, educating visitors about aquaponics and sustainable farming practices.

Free Time in Seoul

Personal Exploration (Examples)

•      Shopping in Myeongdong & Café Streets or Namdaemun Market

•       Exploring Traditional Culture in Insadong

•       Visiting Namsan Seoul Tower

•       Visiting National Museum of Korea

•       Strolling Along Cheonggyecheon Stream

Accommodation: Swiss Grand Hotel, Seoul

Departure

Hotel Check-out & Transfer to Airport→ Depart from Incheon International Airport