He made a 427-mile journey through Japan, then returned to the United States over land, via Korea, Siberia, and Europe.

On the longer journey, which lasted 43 days, his visit included Gongju, Gwangju, Haeinsa, Busan, Daegu, and Mungyeong.

A coup occurred in Seoul during the latter part of this journey and the Koreans' hospitality turned to hostility from those who took him to be a Japanese spy.

The United States government considered the situation so serious that a squadron of naval vessels was diverted to intercept Foulk's passenger liner and return him to Korea as soon as possible.

George Foulk was finally recalled several months later and relieved by Hugh A. Dinsmore with the U.S. acting at the behest of the Chinese government.