Experiencing Korea Through K-Teambuilding Programs

The COVID-19 pandemic has put international exchange “on hold” for much of the past two years. However, in spite of the spread of new variants of the virus, many countries around the world are preparing to return to a more normal way of life as global vaccination rates continue to rise, and with oral antivirals for treatment of COVID-19 making their way onto the market. Korea is no exception, as the country is busy preparing to greet visitors for the new era of “living with COVID-19.” 

Korea's extensive and reliable transport network allows for travel to all major Korean cities within three hours by road, rail or air at an affordable price. Tourism is once again gaining steam as preventive COVID measures are being applied to major tourist attractions. In various regions in Korea, hundreds of themed teambuilding programs are offered, ranging from K-culture experiences, traditional culture, handicrafts and temple stays, to village residence programs, races, performing arts experiences, outdoor activities, watersports and survival games. 

Experience the Content Powerhouse That Is Korea | Running Man Game, Nanta

COVID-19 has reduced the opportunities for face-to-face cultural exchanges, but the pandemic has also served as an opportunity for Korean content to reach the world online. As evidenced by the Academy Award-winning film Parasite and the widely popular Netflix series Squid Game, Korean content is in high demand in the global market. Korean entertainment TV programs are also wildly popular, with one of the most prominent programs being Running Man.

Teambuilding programs inspired by the popular Korean TV variety show are being well-received by overseas visitors. In these programs, participants have a hands-on experience of the team missions they have seen on the show. By working their way together through the team games, local food experiences, technical tours and outdoor activities, the participants feel as if they are actually starring in a Running Man episode.  

International visitors are also fond of the Korean performing arts, most notably the musical Nanta that is now in its 25th year. Teambuilding programs are offered to those who wish to experience a performance of the former Broadway musical hands-on. In these programs, participants learn to play Korean beats and rhythms on the actual drums used for the live performances, and each team chooses its own music and rhythms to create an ensemble. Teams of up to 30 people can participate in each session.  

The Powerhouse of Popular Culture: A Taste of Korean Music | K-Pop Dance 

Global media including the BBC in the U.K., ESPN in the U.S., PNN in Taiwan and the South China Morning Post of Hong Kong have all covered the global K-Pop phenomenon. Of course, K-pop hails from Korea—and Korea offers you and your team opportunities to learn to dance in the K-pop style in the place where it all began. The K-pop Dance Experience is a teambuilding program that does not require Korean language skills and prior dancing experience and helps you to dance like K-pop stars in no time. 

Beauty in Tradition: Experience the Korea of the Past | Gyochon Village in Gyeongju

Gyeongju is a city that is alive with the history and traditions of Korea. In fact, the entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gyeongju is home to more UNESCO-designated cultural heritage sites and artifacts than any other Korean city, so it is the perfect place to experience and learn about many aspects of Korean tradition and history. 

Gyochon Village in Gyeongju offers some beautifully preserved hanok neighborhoods and Confucian schools, as well as handicraft experiences, pottery workshops and Korean cooking experiences for you and your team. Choose from a wide range of programs that are designed to accommodate both large and small groups. 

Near the village, you will find a wealth of cultural heritage sites, including Wolseong Palace Siteii that dates back to the Silla Dynasty, the beautiful Gyerim Forestiii and Woljeonggyo Bridgeiv, which is famous for its breathtaking appearance at night. Bike tours are available too, providing visitors with a guided experience of the history and culture that the village and surrounding areas have to offer.

Experience Korea’s Nature | Jeju Olle Trail Tour and Hyeongjeseom-Hopping Tour in Jeju 

While Korea’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic has been nothing less than textbook, the persistence of the virus has left many in Korea feeling tired and frustrated. In these circumstances, Jeju Island has proven to be a haven for those who want to escape, with its treasure trove of UNESCO Natural World Heritage Sites, including Mount Hallasan and Seongsan Ilchulbong Peakvi.

Above all, the most celebrated natural experience programs that the island offers are its Olle Trail tours. These 26 trails extend for 425 km and take walkers on a scenic journey along the Jeju coastline in what is perhaps the best way for children and adults alike to enjoy the island’s natural wonders. Along the trail, you will also find a host of indigenous Jeju cultural experiences. 

If crystal-clear ocean waters are more to your liking, sign up for the island-hopping tours around Hyeongjeseom Islandvii just off the southwestern coast of Jeju Island. Leave COVID-19 behind for a while, and indulge in snorkeling, boat rides and diving in the waters of these uninhabited islands that will provide an unforgettable experience for you and your team.  

With less in-person meetings, all of us around the world have gained better appreciation for the simple act of “meeting up.” If you’re tired of interacting through cameras and monitors, we recommend a visit to Korea, one of the safest places to be during the pandemic. Enjoy a wealth of activities and culture in this unforgettable, and above all, safe destination. 

Learn More: www.koreaconvention.org