Korea 2025

Spartans Taekwondo Korea 2025 - Diary

Day 1

Our journey began with the trip down from Lincolnshire to Heathrow airport. In order to keep costs down we travelled individually and had arranged to meet and greet one another at departures in Terminal 2, for our 3 hour airport adventure and an evening flight. Once our party of 23 had said hello, we were quickly into a reasonably seamless group check-in process with Asiana Airlines.

Day 2

An 11.5-hour flight to Incheon ensued and although it sounded like it would be a difficult process for the group, all reported that the time passed quickly whilst they enjoyed films and games on board. Upon arrival, we were greeted by our Taekwondo tour guides and introduced to our personalised executive bus, which we discovered was for our personal use for our entire two week trip. We were transferred to the Inspire Resort. After a group photo, we discovered Le Space, an immersive light installation simulating a journey through uncharted galaxies. It was a stunning showcase of South Korea’s cutting-edge technology. Later, we also watched the Aurora show - an extraordinary light display across the resort’s ceiling that left us all amazed.Dinner was a delicious introduction to Korean cuisine: beef bulgogi. Afterwards, we settled into our hotel (4 nights) and prepared for the days ahead.

Day 3

Today we visited a traditional folk village. The architecture and performances brought Korean heritage vividly to life, and we could have spent much longer exploring. We enjoyed a traditional beef and vegetable soup for lunch, followed by a stroll through a local market before heading to Chinatown.There we sampled Korean-style doughnuts and admired the colourful streets before climbing to a viewing platform with magnificent views. Dinner in Chinatown featured Pork in black bean noodles, a rich and plentiful satisfying dish.The evening highlight was Wolmido Beach in Incheon. Watching the sun set over the harbour together was a beautiful sight to behold, with the Incheon Daegyo Bridge in the background.

Day 4

After breakfast, we visited the Kukkiwon, the headquarters of Taekwondo and after watching the Kukkiwon demonstration team train which was inspiring. We were treated to a very personal meeting organized by our hosts with the President of the Kukkiwon Lee Dong Sup. This for many was the absolute highlight of our trip and a huge honour. We also explored the museum and shopped for keepsakes.The afternoon took us to the National War Memorial and Museum in Seoul, a remarkable site that chronicles thousands of years of Korean history. The exhibits on the Korean War were especially thought-provoking.We ended the day with a superb seafood bulgogi dinner in Gangnam, followed by exploring Myeongdong Market, full of vibrant stalls ranging from street food to beauty products. A truly full and rewarding day.

Day 5

Today began at Gyeongbokgung Palace, where we arrived in time to witness the changing of the guard. Jay, our English speaking guide, shared the fascinating history of this iconic palace, whose unique layout of multiple halls and courtyards reflects Korea’s ancient architectural style.For lunch, the group was allowed to split into smaller parties so they could enjoy some freedom to explore Gwangjang Market.  We enjoyed traditional Korean street food of our choosing. Later, we explored Insadong Market, where we purchased traditional gifts at cheaper prices than the tourist trail would suggest. In the evening, we strolled through Hongdae, a lively shopping district, and shared a fun photo booth session before enjoying dinner together.

Day 6

We travelled to the DMZ today, a powerful and moving experience. Our guides shared their personal reflections on national service, adding great depth to our understanding of the site.We continued on to a coastal viewing tower at Boryeong Beach before heading to our hotel. The day closed with a delicious chicken dinner.

Day 7

The Boryeong Mud Festival was today’s highlight—an energetic and joyful event filled with inflatable rides, obstacle courses, and plenty of laughter. Afterwards, we travelled to Jeonju, a town steeped in traditional Korean culture.We explored a palace in Hanbok, the elegant traditional dress of Korea. The outfits were stunning and made the experience truly special. Later, we painted our own fans and admired the creativity within the group.Our accommodation tonight was a traditional Hanok, where we experienced authentic Korean living. In the evening, we gathered by a riverside bridge, enjoyed live music, and even performed our Taekwondo patterns to warm applause from local Koreans—an unforgettable night.

Day 8

After a traditional breakfast, we travelled through the mountains to Taekwondowon. The breathtaking scenery was more like the Tirol in Europeset the stage for an inspiring day.

Taekwondowon is every Taekwondoins dream. A Mecca for all things Taekwondo, from its indoor stadium, to its catering facility, it is very immersive and incredibly awe inspiring.

The accommodation is first class and it is the only professional Taekwondo venue on earth. We explored the museum, detailing the history of Taekwondo, and watched an exciting Taekwondo performance before enjoying training sessions with Grandmasters Do and Song. Their teaching was insightful, blending traditional techniques with practical applications. It was a privilege to learn from them.

After visiting the Viewing platform at the top of the park accessed by a very steep monorail, across the Yellow, Blue, red and black bridges. We all found it incredibly difficult to get back on the bus when it was time to leave.

Day 9

We began with visits to Korea’s unique wine caves, tasting local varieties including red and rice wine. In the afternoon, we experienced traditional Korean bullfighting in Cheongdo, observing this long-standing cultural practice. It was a demonstration in strength and stamina, not like any of us were anticipating at all. Even the kids in our party enjoyed placing small bets on the outcome of each match, more comparisons could be drawn to Taekwondo like a sport and even Red v Blue -  not a bloodsport in any stretch of the imagination.Dinner was a highlight: Sam Yop Sol - Korean barbecue, cooked at our own tables. Sharing soju with our tour guides and instructors made for a memorable evening.

Day 10

After breakfast, we spent the morning at a water park, enjoying the lively atmosphere. Later, we took a cable car up a misty mountain, where clouds and rain created an almost mystical landscape.That evening, we trained at G.Master Do’s dojang in Daegu. His students welcomed us warmly, beginning with impressive demonstrations. We shared a friendly poomsae competition and exchanged gifts, creating bonds that transcended language. It was one of the most meaningful and joyful experiences of the trip.

Day 11

The day began with a visit to an oriental medicine centre, where we experienced health assessments, treatments, and acupressure therapy. It was fascinating to explore these traditional practices.In the afternoon, we visited Keimyung University for a seminar with the Korean National Poomsae Team. Their skill and discipline were extraordinary, yet they were gracious and supportive as they coached us through challenging routines. Training alongside Korea’s best athletes was humbling and inspiring.The evening ended with lively karaoke and another delicious dinner.

Day 12

We explored the serene Bulguksa Temple, beautifully restored after centuries of history, followed by the Seokguram Grotto, home to an ancient Buddhist statue carved into the mountainside. Both sites radiated peace and reverence.In the afternoon, we began our temple stay at Golgulsa Temple. We watched a Sunmudo demonstration, practised meditation, and took part in traditional Buddhist rituals. It was a unique and contemplative experience, offering insight into both discipline and spirituality.

Day 13

The day began with sunrise meditation at the temple, followed by stretching and Sunmudo training. Later, we enjoyed tea with a monk, who shared thoughtful perspectives on Buddhism.We then travelled to Andong, exploring Hahoe Village and its mask traditions. In the evening, we attended the Seongu Jubul Nori Festival. Lanterns floated along the river, traditional mask dancers entertained the crowd and a spectacular ancient firework display lit the night sky. It was a magical and very memorable celebration of Korean culture where not a single firework explosion was heard.

Day 14

Our final full day in Korea took us to Sunbee Korean Culture World, a theme park village dedicated to heritage. We tried traditional archery, took part in a tea ceremony, and enjoyed performances of music, martial arts, and weaponry.In the evening, we gathered for a farewell Korean barbecue meal, beautifully prepared and shared in great company. It was the perfect way to conclude our trip of a lifetime.

Day 15

The journey home began at 4:30 a.m. with a long day of travel back to the UK. Though exhausting, it gave us time to reflect on an extraordinary adventure.The early start the next morning for our long trip home with many sad faces gave us the chance to reflect on our extraordinary adventure. it has been a truly unforgettable experience—rich in culture, history, friendship, and personal growth. We return home eternally grateful, already looking forward to the chance to visit Korea again in the future.

All accommodation, entry fees, transport and food was included in our package, together with Doboks, 2x T-shirts and a Hoody. (The only thing that we had to settle separately was drinks and gifts).

We are already planning our next trip to Korea in the summer of 2028, to include Jeju Island and Japan. 32 students have already paid their deposits.

British Taekwondo have gone on to sign an MOU with this travel agency in Korea headed up by two Taekwondo 8^th Dans. Grandmasters Do and Song. They are personal friends of Master Paul Timms the Owner of Spartans Taekwondo Academy and referee chair of the Sport Referee department, his recommendation led to the meeting which secured their services and offer to all British Taekwondo clubs. If anyone requires any help, guidance, advice or planning for their own trip, please do not hesitate to contact Paul on chair.sportreferees@britishtaekwondo.org

Disclaimer: 3 of the 4 Non-Taekwondo attendees – Parents and partners are now Spartans Taekwondo Students.

Thank you’s

G.Masters Do and Song – Taekwon Travel

Ben Church – Spartans student, for allowing me to steal his diary.

Gail Timms – for helping to plan, organize and keep me sane.

For all students that attended – Helping to shape my memories.