From Burnout to Jeju: The Tour Guide Helping the World Discover Korea's Most Magical Island | Soraya Ho
What happens when you leave behind a successful corporate career, board a plane with no clear roadmap, and allow curiosity to guide your next chapter? You become the Goddess of Jeju obviously!
In this episode of The Holly Hughes Podcast, I sit down with Soraya Ho (허소라), a multilingual tour guide, podcaster, former software developer, and one of Jeju Island's most passionate cultural ambassadors. Her story is a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful opportunities appear when we're willing to step away from certainty and embrace the unknown.
After spending years working in South Korea's demanding corporate IT industry, Soraya reached a turning point. Following a personal loss, she made the bold decision to leave her career behind and embark on what was intended to be a six-month journey through Latin America. That trip ultimately transformed the course of her life.
Today, Soraya calls Jeju Island home, where she introduces visitors from around the world to the island's rich culture, history, traditions, and natural beauty.
Leaving Corporate Life Behind
Like many high-achieving professionals, Soraya built a successful career in software development and information technology. But success on paper didn't necessarily translate into fulfillment.
During our conversation, she shares what life was like inside South Korea's corporate culture and how burnout, combined with personal reflection, led her to question whether the path she was on was truly the one she wanted.
Instead of mapping out a perfectly detailed plan, she chose something far less predictable: travel.
That decision became the catalyst for an entirely new life.
How Travel Changed Everything
What began as a temporary adventure through Latin America soon evolved into a deeper exploration of language, culture, and human connection.
Soraya discovered a natural gift for bringing people together, helping travelers navigate unfamiliar places, and creating meaningful experiences. Before long, she found herself leading international tours and guiding travelers through countries and cultures she had once been exploring herself.
Her story demonstrates that reinvention doesn't always arrive through a carefully calculated strategy. Sometimes it begins with a willingness to follow curiosity.
Discovering the Magic of Jeju Island
For many people outside of Korea, Jeju Island remains one of the world's best-kept travel secrets.
Often referred to as the "Hawaii of South Korea," Jeju is known for its volcanic landscapes, breathtaking coastlines, unique traditions, and distinct cultural identity.
During our conversation, Soraya explains why Jeju feels different from anywhere else in Korea and why so many visitors fall in love with the island's slower pace and deep connection to nature.
She also shares practical insights about the best times to visit, common misconceptions travelers have about Jeju, and what makes the island such a special place to call home.
The Legendary Haenyeo Women Divers
One of the most fascinating parts of our discussion centers around Jeju's famous Haenyeo women divers.
For generations, these remarkable women have harvested seafood from the ocean without scuba equipment, relying on skill, endurance, and knowledge passed down through generations.
Soraya explains the cultural significance of the Haenyeo community, the challenges they face as the population ages, and why preserving this tradition matters not only to Jeju but to the world.
She even shares her own experience training to become a Haenyeo diver, offering a firsthand glimpse into one of Korea's most extraordinary living traditions.
Building a Life Around Curiosity
Throughout our conversation, one theme emerges again and again: curiosity.
Whether learning new languages, navigating unfamiliar countries, becoming a tour guide, launching a podcast, or embracing life on Jeju Island, Soraya has consistently followed her interests rather than trying to force a predetermined outcome.
Her story serves as a powerful reminder that not every life-changing decision comes with certainty attached.
Sometimes the next step only becomes visible after we're willing to take the first one.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
- Why Soraya left her corporate IT career in South Korea
- How traveling through Latin America changed her life
- The connection between travel, language learning, and reinvention
- What makes Jeju Island unique
- The truth about Jeju's legendary Haenyeo women divers
- Korean culture, mythology, and island traditions
- The art of being a great tour guide
- Reading people and managing travel groups
- Why curiosity is one of life's most valuable skills
- Building a life around adventure rather than expectations
Listen to the Episode
If you've ever felt called to make a major life change, travel somewhere new, or step outside the path others expect you to follow, you'll find inspiration in Soraya's journey.
Tune in to this fascinating conversation and discover why Jeju Island continues to capture the hearts of travelers from around the world.
Connect with Holly Hughes
Subscribe to The Holly Hughes Podcast for inspiring conversations with creators, entrepreneurs, artists, authors, innovators, and people who have built extraordinary lives by following their own path. Want to make a pivot in your own life? Read Holly's book, Real, Not Perfect How to Become Your Happy Authentic Self. It's a self-help step-by-step guide to discover your voice, passion and self-worth. Stop living for everyone else and find your own path.
Crisis Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 anytime. Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is free and confidential.
Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis Counselor. Free, confidential support is available 24/7.
