The 2025 Leisure Lifestyle Awards by Global Traveler are out, and Seoul has officially reclaimed its title as the Best Leisure Destination in Asia. These annual awards are based on votes from thousands of seasoned readers and travelers around the world who consistently rank destinations based on service, experiences, culture, and how a place makes them feel.
In this year’s poll, Seoul outranked popular cities like Tokyo, Bangkok, Singapore, and Bali — places that have been at the top of people’s bucket lists and long associated with luxury, food, and unforgettable travel experiences. But there’s something about Seoul that keeps calling people back to its vibrant blend of modern attractions and deep-rooted traditions.
From its futuristic buildings and cozy hanok villages to the global reach of K-Pop, the compelling storytelling of K-Dramas, and the global impact of BTS, Seoul isn’t just a stop on people’s itineraries anymore. For many travelers, it has become a place of healing, connection, and transformation as it offers a wide variety of experiences that speaks to both adventure seekers and those longing for reflection.
That’s exactly why our ‘Meet You In Korea healing Tours’ begin and end in Seoul. It’s a city that welcomes you with both excitement and comfort — the perfect start (and end) for healing moments through K-Drama deep dives, shared laughter over Korean meals, and connections that transcend language.
Whether we’re retracing BTS’s steps or hiking to the top of Hallasan, our tours are crafted with intention: to help you fully immerse in Korean culture, connect with a community that feels like home, and return home a little lighter in spirit.
So yes, Seoul may be named the best leisure destination in Asia this year — but for those of us who’ve felt its calling for years, it’s simply a beautiful reminder of what we already knew. And we’d love for you to experience it alongside us!
FAQs
Yes, and the 2025 Leisure Lifestyle Awards backed that up, naming Seoul Asia’s Best Leisure Destination, beating out Tokyo, Bangkok, Singapore, and Bali. It’s a city that blends futuristic architecture with cozy hanok villages, plus the global pull of K-pop and K-dramas.
It depends on what you’re after, since both cities offer very different vibes rather than one being objectively “better.” Seoul actually outranked Tokyo in the 2025 Leisure Lifestyle Awards, credited to its mix of modern attractions, deep-rooted tradition, and the emotional pull of its K-Culture scene.
According to Global Traveler’s 2025 Leisure Lifestyle Awards, Seoul topped the list as Asia’s best leisure destination, ahead of Tokyo, Bangkok, Singapore, and Bali. The ranking was based on votes from thousands of experienced travelers weighing in on service, culture, and overall experience.
Seoul’s draw goes beyond typical sightseeing, since travelers increasingly describe it as a place for healing, connection, and reflection rather than just a stop on an itinerary. Its blend of futuristic city life, traditional hanok neighborhoods, and deep ties to global K-pop and K-drama culture sets it apart from cities like Tokyo or Bangkok.
