south korea travel tips 2023

April 13, 2024

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South Korea Travel Guide

Where to go, what to see & how to stay on budget.

By Patricia Liu and Joel Marinan

There has never been a better time to visit South Korea. Clean, modern, sophisticated, and ultra safe, Korea is a destination that you will want to come back to again and again. With the rise of Korean culture and entertainment throughout the world, the country is experiencing a renaissance of sorts, especially for foreigners who wish to experience all that Korea has to offer.

Korea has always been a fascinating country to visit and deserves a place on everyone’s travel bucket list. Known for its stunning blend of tradition and modernity, Korea features futuristic technology, bustling markets, and a thriving pop culture scene. There are no guns or drugs allowed in Korea, and visitors can expect a high level of safety and cleanliness while exploring the country. Also of note is that Korea is a no tipping culture, so savoring the delicious cuisine is extra affordable, as are the cab rides to restaurants and other destinations.

Speaking of affordability, the exchange rate between the Korean won and the US Dollar has been very favorable for Westerners, which is another perk of traveling to Korea right now.

Our South Korea Travel Guide shows you where to go, what to see, and when to travel. Start your journey with itinerary ideas and pre-travel tips, the best day trips, and lots more essential Korean travel advice. Let’s go!

Here are some of our most popular articles that will help you make the most of your trip to South Korea.

A Local’s Guide to Gyeongju

What To Do in Korea in May: The Family Month

19 Did-You-Knows About Korea

10 Ways to Spend a Magical Christmas in Korea

Hiking in Seoul, the Top 5 Mountains You Must Try

Jeju Island: Top 10 Places You Must See

19 Best Things to Do in Seoul Right Now- An Insider’s Guide

23 Reasons Seoul Will Be Your New Favorite City

Latest travel updates.

• Vaccination is NOT a requirement for entry into Korea.
• There is no requirement on the passport’s remainder validity for entry. You may travel to Korea as long as your passport remains valid throughout your stay in Korea.
• From April 1st, 2023, travelers from the USA, Canada, and 21 other countries no longer need to apply for the K-ETA to travel to Korea. This will run at least until 31st December, 2024 and is designed to make it easier to travel to Korea.

Planning Your Trip To Korea

Check the Korean Embassy for any possible travel restrictions.

• If you’re not sure where to stay, check out our guide to the  best hotels in Seoul  . You can find our recommendations for the best luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels in Seoul, as well as long-term apartments that you’ll love.
• For the best flight deals to South Korea, Best of Korea recommends  Skyscanner  and  Expedia . You  can find the cheapest prices and most convenient flights and buy the one that suits you best.
• For the best hotel prices in Seoul, Best of Korea recommends  Klook  0r  Agoda  – they cover most hotels in Seoul and the rest of Korea and offer great prices without hidden fees.
• Before you travel to Korea, it’s a good idea to order an eSim card, regular  sim card  or  portable WiFi router  to collect at the airport so you’re connected as soon as you arrive. You can change a small bit of money before you travel, but you can also use the airport ATM to get some Korean won.
• There are large differences in exchange rates so you will need to do some comparing before you exchange a large sum of money. You can exchange USD to KRW easily at banks or money exchange shops in all major tourist areas like central Seoul (Myeongdong and Namdaemun are good places but the Coex Center also offers money exchange. You can also negotiate the exchange rate with the vendor if you think it is too high.
• You can withdraw cash from bank ATMs. Alternatively, use a pre-paid travel card like the one offered by  Wise , which allows ATM withdrawals and payments and works perfectly in Korea.
• Don’t forget to bring a  travel adapter for your electronics and leave plenty of extra space in your suitcase for the many Korean souvenirs and goodies you’ll buy on your tri

Do US Citizens Need A Tourist Visa?

No, travelers from the USA don’t need a tourist visa to enter South Korea. You can visit for up to 90 days visa-free.

Current COVID-19 Rules In Korea

Most COVID-19 rules in Korea have been dropped and now there are only 2 main rules to be aware of. First, face masks are mandatory when visiting medical facilities (hospitals). There is no longer a 7-day mandatory quarantine for people in South Korea. If you’re infected with COVID, the Korean government recommends a 5 day self-quarantine, but it’s not enforced. Travelers to Korea should follow the current restrictions or may be liable for fines or deportation.

Korean Tourism Support Hotline

If you have any concerns or problems when traveling in Korea, you can call  1330 . This is a dedicated tourism support hotline where trained specialists provide tourist assistance and is available in Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Vietnamese, Thai, and Malay.

US Government Travel Advisory For Korea

The U.S. Department of State currently has a level 1 travel advisory (Exercise Normal Precautions) for the Republic of Korea (ROK). Find out more about current travel advisories for South Korea on the  Department of State  website.

6 Best Destinations In Korea

South Korea is truly a country of contrasts. From the bustling, modern city of  Seoul , with cutting-edge designer buildings, VR labs, and AI robots, to peaceful UNESCO World Heritage cities like Jeonju  and  Gyeongju , there are many unique places to explore.

There’s nothing worse than coming back from vacation and hearing about incredible places you missed that you wished you’d seen, such as a beautiful Buddhist temple by the beach (Haedong Yonggungsa Temple) or a leafy island getaway where deer and rabbits roam freely (Nami Island).

Here are 6 of the best destinations in Korea that you absolutely must visit, as well as some of the sights you’ll want to check out while you’re there. We’ll be bringing you lots more detailed destination guides in the future, so be sure to visit again soon.

Korea’s Busy Capital

Seoul is Korea’s largest city, capital, and first, stop for most travelers to Korea. There are  many beautiful places in Seoul , including landmarks, relics from ancient kingdoms, towering skyscrapers, Buddhist temples, Michelin-starred restaurants, and some of the best street food you’ll find in the world. If you see only one city in Korea, you should definitely visit Seoul.

You’ll never be bored in Seoul. Whether you’re traveling as a family, as a couple, or by yourself, there’s so much to do. Be sure to plan lots of time to check out Korea’s capital.

This  Full Day Tour  of Seoul will show you some of the hottest spots in the city, while this  Customized Private Tour of Seoul will allow you to choose where to go.

Here are 10 of the best Seoul attractions:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Bukchon Hanok Village
• Starfield COEX Mall
• Bukhansan National Park
• Myeongdong Street Markets
• Lotte World Tower
• Secret Garden (Changdeokgung Palace)
• Dongdaemun Design Plaza
• N Seoul Tower
• Yeouido Hangang Park

Korea’s Second City

Busan, Korea’s second city, is a thriving port city far away from Seoul both physically and culturally. This popular summer destination features some of Korea’s most popular beaches and bars. Explore Busan and you’ll find sprawling markets, fresh seafood, film festivals, the world’s largest shopping mall, coastal temples, and lots more.

Busan is a city with some very photogenic sights. See the sunrise on the beach, hike around leafy coastal streets on the side of cliffs, and marvel at the wide range of (living!) seafood in the markets.

This  Full Day Tour  of Busan will show you the best beaches, markets, and local sights, while this  Customized Private Tour of Busan  will allow you to choose where to go.

Here are 10 of the best Busan attractions:

• Haeundae Beach
• Gwangbokdong Food Street
• Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
• Huinnyeoul Culture Village
• Gamcheon Culture Village
• Oryukdo Sky Walk
• Lotte World Busan
• Jagalchi Fish Market
• BIFF Square & Centum City Mall
• Taejongdae Resort Park

UNESCO City

Gyeongju is the former capital of the Silla Kingdom, part of the Three Kingdoms part of Korean history. These days, Gyeongju is an open air museum housing Korea’s finest history and monument. This UNESCO World Heritage City is a must-see for those who want to learn more about Korea’s deep cultural past.

Gyeongju is packed with temples, palaces, historical sights, and monuments. But it’s not just the history that draws the crowds, the city is an area of natural beauty, lined with cherry blossoms and shadowed by misty mountains.

This  Full Day Tour of Gyeongju  from Busan will take you around Korea’s open-air museum city, showing the top UNESCO sites along the way, while this  Customized Private Tour of Gyeongju  will allow you to choose where to go.

Here are 10 of the best Gyeongju attractions:

• Gyeongju Historic Area
• Bomun Lake Tourist Complex
• Bulguksa Temple & Seokguram Shrine
• Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond
• Yangdong Folk Village
• Cheomseongdae Astronomical Observatory
• Gyeongju National Museum
• Gyochon Traditional Hanok Village
• Woljeonggyo Bridge
• Gyeongju National Park

Natural Wonder

Jeju Island is Korea’s semi-tropical island that’s a popular vacation destination for locals and tourists alike. This area of outstanding natural beauty offers up rugged coastal walks, sandy beaches, green hills, and a volcano to hike up for those who enjoy a challenge. Culture and cafe lovers will also find Jeju Island a charm.

From snorkelling under the sea, to hiking above the clouds, sampling Jeju’s black pork BBQ, and drinking local green tea, there’s so many exciting activities, sights, tastes, and experiences waiting for you on Jeju Island.

This  Full Day Tour of Jeju Island  will show you some of the most incredible UNESCO World Heritage sites on Jeju’s East Coast, while this  Customized Private Tour of Jeju Island  will allow you to choose where to go.

Here are 10 of the best Jeju Island attractions:

• Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak
• Jusangjeolli Hexagonal Lava Cliff
• Hallasan Mountain (Volcano)
• Hamdeok Beach
• Jeju Folk Village
• Hyeopjae & Geumneung Beach Areas
• Cheonjeyeon & Jeongbang Waterfalls
• Udo Traditional Island
• Yakcheonnsa Coastal Buddhist Temple
• O’Sulloc Green Tea Fields

Traditional Korea

Jeonju is famous for its historical and cultural sights, including the sprawling Jeonju Hanok Village, packed with more than 700 traditional  hanok  houses. Jeonju’s many impressive sights are close to each other and perfect for a day trip from Seoul or Busan. You can even stay overnight in one of the traditional houses.

Jeonju is a tourist hotspot so there are plenty of things to keep travelers entertained and places to experience traditional Korean food and drinks. Be sure to check out the Jeonju bibimbap, one of Korea’s national dishes. Rent hanbok (traditional clothes), take lots of pictures, and see the sights.

This  Full Day Tour of Jeonju  will show you around the beautiful  hanok  houses and traditional Korean restaurants, while this  2-Day Tour of Jeonju  includes an overnight stay in a  hanok  and lots of delicious Korean meals.

Here are 10 of the best Jeonju attractions:

• Jeonju Hanok Village
• Gyeonggijeon Shrine & Portrait Museum
• Jeongdon Catholic Church
• Jeonju Hyanggyo Confucian School
• Nambu Traditional Market
• Jaman Mural Village
• Omokdae Viewpoint
• Deokjin Park
• Hanbyeokdang Pavilion
• Taiji-ro & Hyangoyo-gil Shopping Streets

Rural Attractions

Gapyeong County is an area just outside of Seoul that’s home to several interesting attractions celebrating Korean and foreign culture. The lush green hills and blue rivers of Gapyeong make it a great place to immerse in Korean nature.

You’ll find some of the hottest day trip locations here. Explore Gapyeong County on a day trip from Seoul. You can see romantic tree-lined streets and cafes on Nami Island, explore one of Korea’s most beautiful gardens, take a trip to Petite France, and enjoy cycling through the hills on an abandoned railway track.

This  Full Day Tour of Gapyeong  will show you around Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm, and the Rail Bike Park.

Here are 10 of the best Gapyeong attractions:

• Nami Island
• Garden of Morning Calm
• Petite France
• Ganchon Rail Bike Park
• Edelweiss Swiss Village
• Cheongpyeong Lake
• Jarasum Island
• Kalbongsan Recreational Forest
• Gapyeong Sledding Hills
• Nami Island Zip Line

There are loads of locations to visit in Korea that make for a perfect day trip from Seoul. Hop on a coach, train, or tour bus in the morning and explore one or more of these unique destinations.

Here are 10 of the best day trips from Seoul to discover on your next journey to Korea:

• DMZ (North Korean Border)
• Suwon Hwaseong Fortress
• Everland Theme Park
• Jeonju Historic City
• Seoraksan National Park
• Korean Folk Village
• Alpaca World
• Gwangmyeong Cave

Most travelers to Korea arrive at Incheon Airport and then travel into Seoul (it’s only 40 minutes away) to begin their journey. Seoul is certainly an incredible place to start traveling, but it definitely shouldn’t be your only destination. Korea has a lot to offer, including a lot of seasonal activities and events that you should take into consideration.

Spring and fall are the best seasons to visit Korea and during these times the traditional cities like Gyeongju and Jeonju look amazing. They’re covered with cherry blossoms or fall foliage and this creates some postcard-like scenes. Gapyeong area is packed full of natural sights to enjoy, so definitely check out these areas.

If you’re visiting during summer, head towards the coastal areas, including the north-east coastal towns of Gangneung & Sokcho, or the south-east coastal areas of Busan and the nearby islands, such as Geoje, Tongyeong, and Yeosu. You’ll find lots of winter activities to enjoy in these areas.

Winter is cold and dry and, ironically, a great time to visit Jeju Island. This semi-tropical island is warmer than the mainland, but still gets snow on the mighty Hallasan Mountain. You can sit on a sunny beach one day and then hike knee-deep in snow the next. Jeju is also famous for its citrus, with thousands of tangerine trees dropping their juicy fruits in early winter.

Where To Stay In Seoul

South Korea is truly a country of contrasts. From the bustling, modern city of  Seoul , with cutting-edge designer buildings, VR labs, and AI robots, to peaceful UNESCO World Heritage cities like Jeonju  and  Gyeongju , there are many unique places to explore. If you’ve decided on Seoul, here are some of the best hotels that are well located and highly reviewed.

Choosing the best destinations to visit in Korea can be a challenge, especially if you don’t know what there is to see. You might not have heard of some of these destinations, which is not surprising. Korea is a country of undiscovered wonders that are waiting to be found.

If you want the best Seoul has to offer, these luxury hotels are for you. Located in Seoul’s glitziest neighborhoods, these hotels are within walking distance of Michelin-starred restaurants, chic boutiques, galleries, museums, and the finest shopping experiences available.

Expect nothing but the best in terms of service and style at these luxury hotels. Silky soft sheets, immaculate rooms with the finest fixtures and fittings, and true 5-star service from the hotel staff. These hotels have sports, dining, and entertainment facilities to make you comfortable during your stay.

Airport transfers are available with these hotels, making your journey into and out of Seoul a breeze. Located in popular upmarket districts in Seoul, these neighborhoods have lots of local charm for you to discover, as well as allow easy access to other parts of the city with excellent transport options nearby.

Not only are these beautiful, comfortable hotels inside, but they are also located in some of the most iconic buildings or districts and provide amazing views over some of Seoul’s most interesting districts. The view from the first hotel is worth the cost alone.

Recommended Luxury Hotels In Seoul

Here are 3 of the best luxury hotels in Seoul that we recommend for an unforgettable stay in Korea’s capital:

Families. couples and other travelers that want to experience the best of Seoul without breaking the bank can sleep easy with these mid-range hotel recommendations in some of Seoul’s trendy, vibrant districts, including Hongdae, Gangnam, and Myeongdong.

Encounter stylish accommodation in Seoul’s Hongdae districts, which is full of street culture and artistic scenes from the district’s eponymous Hongik University – one of Korea’s leading art centers.

Fashion lovers and shoppers will find lots to love in downtown Gangnam, with its wide streets and glassy storefronts bracketing narrow side streets and hidden delicacies.

Myeongdong is famous for its budget and mid-range accommodation options, including several hotels by the famous Lotte chain – one of Korea’s best mid-range brands.

Whichever mid-range hotel you choose in Seoul, you can be sure you’ll have fantastic city views, convenient subway access, and lots of unique cultural sights, sounds, and tastes to experience.

Recommended Mid-Range Hotels In Seoul

Here are 3 of the best mid-range hotels in Seoul that we recommend for an comfortable stay in Korea’s capital:

Seoul has a wealth of budget accommodation options that will help make your money go further. These hotels are all around $100 or less but offer the comfort and convenience that you’d expect to find in a mid-range hotel. One even has a beautiful rooftop pool.

Although these hotels are cheaper, don’t lower your expectations. You’ll always find great service in Korea. Save on sleeping to spend more on shopping, souvenirs, sights, and all the other fun things there are to do in Seoul.

These budget hotels in Seoul are also in great locations for shopping, enjoying local culture, and seeing the real side of Seoul and Korea. Hongdae offers bargain hunters the chance to get boutique fashion at market prices, Gangnam has plenty of cafes and cheap eats tucked away off the main avenues, and Myeongdong is a budget traveler’s paradise full of $1 street food and bargain souvenirs.

You won’t be disappointed with a night at any of these hotels. If you want to make your budget go further so you can spend more on some of the incredible day trips Seoul has to offer, definitely book a night at one of these hotels.

Recommended Budget Hotels In Seoul

Here are 3 of the best budget hotels in Seoul that we recommend for an affordable stay in Korea’s capital:

Korean Travel Tips

Korea is a unique country with a written language that looks nothing like English, fascinating etiquette rules , and an always busy lifestyle. Travelers may be lost trying to do even the simplest things.

These travel tips include the best options for staying connected, how to use public transportation easily and cheaply, great discount cards that will save you money as you travel, where to exchange money, and how to learn some basic Korean phrases for when you travel.

These essential Korean travel tips have been crafted by experienced travelers who love to save time and money. Only the best quality services and products are recommended here.

Here are our Korea travel essentials that’ll help you get around more easily, save you money, and let you get the most out of your trip.

Plan ahead now and you’ll have fewer troubles on your travels, giving you more time to enjoy your time in Korea.

If you’re traveling to Korea, you’re almost certainly going to want to get access to the internet to help you navigate, translate Korean, or even book tickets to attractions. Korea has one of the world’s best mobile internet and the prices are very reasonable. 5G mobile internet services are available across the country and Korea was one of the first to get the super-fast service. You won’t have problems connecting with a sim card or WiFi router when you travel.

Sim Cards & Data Plans

A Korean sim card is a great way to get access to all your usual cellphone services when you travel to Korea. Sim cards come with data-only packages, or data and phone services combined.

Buying a Korean sim card will give you access to a Korean phone number, which is useful when using Korean apps. If you want to order food online in Korea, you need to have a Korean phone number to complete the order.

Korean Sim Card Costs

Prices start at W5,900 ($5) for a 1-day sim. You can also get 10-day sim cards (W34,700/$28) and 30-day sim cards (64,400/$52). These all come with unlimited data, domestic calls, and texts.

You can purchase a  Korean Sim Card  From Klook and collect it at the airport. This is a very convenient option as you can use it immediately to help navigate and check in back home.

Portable WiFi Routers

A Korean portable WiFi router will give you access to mobile internet throughout Korea by connecting to WiFi hotspots run by the major phone companies in Korea and comes with great coverage.

The major benefits of a portable WiFi router include a lower cost than a Korean sim card and also the ability to connect up to 3 devices to 1 router. That means that families and groups will be able to share the service.

Korean Portable WiFi Router Costs

The cost of a Korean portable pocket WiFi router is W3,200 ($2.60) per day. You can rent the WiFi router for as many days as you require and pay in advance and pay any excess days when you return it.

You can also purchase a  Korean Portable WiFi Router From Klook and collect it at the airport. You can book online before you travel so that it’s guaranteed to be waiting for you.

Should I Get A Sim Card Or WiFi Router In Korea?​

Both a sim card and WiFi router are great options for travelers to Korea and will almost guarantee a great reception for mobile internet. The choice between whether you should get a sim card or WiFi router in Korea really comes down to the costs involved and if you need a Korean phone number.

WiFi routers are cheaper and allow you to connect 3 devices, so they’re perfect for families. However, a sim card gives you a Korean phone number, which means you can call people and also register for Korean apps which require a phone number.

Check out our detailed article about the  Best Sim Card & Portable WiFi  options for traveling to Korea.

Korea is a safe, modern country and one that has pushed hard for the mass adoption of cards. Almost every location that deals with money is required to accept card payments. This is great news for travelers to Korea as you can use a card to pay for meals out, entrance tickets, trains, and lots more.

Cash is still needed for some things, such as topping up transportation cards like the T-Money Card (more on that soon) and for paying for small things like street food. Please note, as Korea doesn’t have a tipping culture, you don’t need cash for leaving a tip. In fact, if you try to leave a cash tip, it’ll be returned to you in most places.

Read on to find the best tips to avoid getting ripped off when exchanging money and how to pay the lowest fees when you use a card to pay in Korea. Be a smart traveler and save more money for shopping and souvenirs.

Korean Money Exchange Options​

Once you arrive in Korea, there are several options for exchanging money. First, you can exchange money at a money changer in tourist areas such as Myeongdong. These money changers used to have the best rates in Seoul.

However, a better option these days is to use the currency exchange machines from WOW Exchange. These machines are located all over Seoul’s most popular tourist spots, stations, and hotels. They allow you to exchange foreign cash directly to Korean won, with better rates than at the airport. You can also use these machines to claim a tax refund for your shopping before heading to the airport. Both options require a passport.

Should I Change Money At The Airport?

Exchanging money at the airport is easy and convenient as you can instantly get cash to use for shopping, transportation, and general use. However, the exchange rate at the airport is usually much worse than you’ll find in other places in Korea, as mentioned previously. If you need cash as soon as you land, withdraw a small amount ($50) and then exchange the rest in Seoul.

Travel Money Cards For Korea

While cash is useful and familiar when traveling, a much better option is to use a travel money card (also known as a currency card). Travel money cards, such as the Wise Travel Money Card, allow you to pay for travel expenses without the need to carry cash or convert money.

A travel money card offers the convenience of using a credit card without high fees that a regular bank could charge. It also allows you to withdraw cash from an ATM without a fee (up to a limit), so you can avoid carrying any cash on the flight or using a money exchange. The exchange rate is the mid-market rate, meaning it’s better than you’ll find even at the money exchanges listed before.

Can I Use My Bank Card In Korea?​

Credit cards are widely accepted in Korea. Visa and Mastercard users shouldn’t face a problem, but other cards aren’t as widely accepted. Debit cards and cash withdrawals might not work depending on the bank. Your bank may charge a fee when using it overseas, or give a bad exchange rate. Check with your bank before traveling.

The best option for travel money in Korea is to have a mixture of cash and cards, with a backup credit card just in case. Taking some USD with you is always a good option as you can find plenty of places to exchange it to Korean won and probably at a better rate than you’ll get in the US. If you want to withdraw money in Korea, look for the global ATMs in tourist areas.

Taking a  travel money card  will be safer, cheaper, and more convenient than relying on your own bank or credit card, too. These cards offer competitive rates and are widely accepted around the world so you can use them to visit other countries, too. If you use a travel money card and it gets lost or stolen, you can freeze the card instantly with the app and not have to worry about losing the balance on the card.

When you visit Korea, you’ll notice that most people pay for goods with a card or payment app, even for small purchases like a bottle of water. Unfortunately, the payment apps that are common in the US, such as Apple Pay or Google Pay, aren’t available in Korea. Korean apps, such as Kakao Pay, require a Korean bank account, and therefore aren’t an option for travelers.

T-Money For Public Transport

The T-Money Card is an essential purchase for every traveler to Korea. The T-Money Card is a transportation card that allows contactless travel on Korea’s buses and subways. Simply buy a T-Money Card, top-up the card, then use it to travel.

Not only is this transportation card really convenient, it also saves you money. You’ll receive a discount on every bus or subway journey when you pay with the T-Money Card. These discounted fares are available in all cities across Korea, not just Seoul.

This isn’t the only use of the T-Money Card. You can also use to buy a coffee from Starbucks, get lunch in McDonald’s, shop for Korean cosmetics, and even to watch a baseball game. It’s a very useful card that can be used anywhere you see the T-Money Card.

You can get the  T-Money Card in Korea from subway stations and at certain transport centers, including Seoul Station and Incheon Airport. The card costs 2,500 KRW. You can buy the card with a credit card, but to top-up the card, you need to use cash. If you buy a Discover Seoul Pass, this card includes the T-Money functions.

Save With The Discover Seoul Pass

Travelers to Seoul have a lot of options for incredible attractions to enjoy and experience. However, tourists, especially families, can find that the cost of these attractions quickly add up, especially when you are visiting many locations in a short time.

A great way to save money when you travel in Seoul is to buy a  Discover Seoul Pass  – a special card that offers you big savings on some of Seoul’s top attractions, as well as other benefits.

If you plan to visit Seoul’s Royal Palaces, N Seoul Tower, Lotte World Adventure Theme Park, the COEX Aquarium, Alive Museum, Seoul Zoo, or other premium attractions, you can gain free entry when you purchase a Discover Seoul Pass.

Not only that, you can also get a free river cruise, free hanbok rental, free ride on the Airport Express from Incheon Airport to Seoul, free City Tour Bus Ride, free T-Money Card and lots more.

The Discover Seoul Pass is valid for 24 | 48 | 72 hours and is valid from the moment you first use it until that many hours later.

Things To See & Do In Korea

If you want to build your own itinerary for South Korea, then this section of the South Korea Travel Guide will provide the building blocks you need to craft the perfect trip.

South Korea is a country packed with famous landmarks and sights, unique culture – modern & historical,  family-fun activities, outdoor adventures, cozy cafe districts, and natural wonders. There’s more to do in Korea than you could imagine and it’s impossible to explore it all in one trip. Try to plan your itinerary by cities and locations. For example, plan your day in Seoul stay by district.

Here are some of the best things to see and do in South Korea, broken down into different themes so you can find things that interest you the most. The location of each of these attractions is included, too, so you can create a city by city itinerary, seeing the best South Korea has to offer.

These attractions are available all year round so whenever you go to Korea, you can enjoy them. There are plenty of things to see and do in Korea that only happen during certain seasons. Check out the  Season Guide  in this South Korea Travel Guide for more information about Korean festivals and seasonal events.

Here are 10 of the best Korean landmarks:

• Lotte World Tower (Seoul)
• Bukchon Hanok Village (Seoul)
• Nami Island (Gapyeong)
• Banwol ‘Purple Island’ (West Coast)
• N Seoul Tower (Seoul)
• Dongdaemun Design Plaza (Seoul)
• Seoraksan National Park (Gangwon Province)
• Hwaseong Fortress (Suwon)
• Cheonggyecheon Stream (Seoul)
• Gamcheon Cultural Village (Busan)

Why travel to a diverse country such as Korea and not embrace the local culture? Here are 10 of the best unique Korean experiences you can only enjoy fully in Korea. Be brave, try something new and create lasting memories of your Korean adventure.

Here are 10 of the best uniquely Korean experiences:

• Wear Traditional Korean Hanbok (Royal Palaces)
• Sing In A Korean Noraebang (Everywhere)
• Sleep In A Korean Hanok House (Hanok Villages)
• Visit The Kimchi Museum (Seoul)
• Eat Street Food (Traditional Markets)
• Experience A Korean Temple Stay (National Parks)
• Drink Makgeolli – Korean Rice Wine (Everywhere)
• Visit The World’s Most Dangerous Border – The DMZ
• Relax In A Korean Sauna (Everywhere)
• Visit A Korean Green Tea Field (Boseong, Jeju)

Here are 10 of the best Korean historic sights:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace (Seoul)
• The Secret Garden (Seoul)
• Bulguksa Temple (Gyeongju)
• Jeonju Hanok Village (Jeonju)
• Seoul Fortress Walls (Seoul)
• Haedong Yonggungsa Temple (Busan)
• Andong Hahoe Folk Village (Andong)
• Gyeongju Historic Area (Gyeongju)
• Baekje Historic Area (Gongju, Buyeo)
• Jangsaengpo Whale Museum (Ulsan)

Here are 10 of the best modern K-Culture spots:

• K-Pop Headquarters (Seoul)
• HYBE Insight (Seoul)
• COEX Artium (Seoul)
• K-Style Hub (Seoul)
• Hongdae Shopping Street (Seoul)
• Hallyu K-Star Road (Seoul)
• Asia Culture Center (Gwangju)
• Busan International Film Festival Square (Busan)
• MBC World Theme Park (Seoul)

As you’ll see, there’s just so much to see and do in Korea. You could spend a whole week in Seoul and not run out of exciting activities to do and sights to explore. Our advice is to try to avoid planning to do too many things in one day and adding in plenty of free time.

There’ll be many random things that catch your eye, such as a curious side street, or your nose, like the delicious smells from a food stall. Make sure you’ve got flexibility in your schedule to investigate these surprises and to take a rest if you need to – walking and traveling for days on end can get tiring.

Korea comes alive at night and markets and city streets are often best explored after the sun goes down. Drab concrete buildings come alive with neon signs, lanterns, and electric lights and are quite a sight to be seen. Visit popular tourist attractions such as the royal palaces and hanok villages during the morning as they’ll be less crowded.

If you plan to visit the Secret Garden in Changdeokgung Palace (you really should!), tickets are available on the day and sell out fast. Getting to these places early can guarantee you get tickets, see the sights unobstructed, and have time in the evening to soak up the night life and culture.

Here are the 10 best family-friendly activities in Korea:

• Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm (Gapyeong)
• Seoul Grand Park & Zoo (Seoul)
• Lotte World Adventure (Seoul, Busan)
• Alive Museum & Dynamic Maze (Seoul)
• Seoul Children’s Grand Park (Seoul)
• Seoul Children’s Museum (Seoul)
• Everland & Caribbean Bay Theme Parks (Near Seoul)
• Sea Life Busan Aquarium
• Jeju Dinosaur Island (Jeju)
• Alpaca World (Gangwon Province)

Here are the 10 best museums & galleries in Korea:

• National Museum of Korea (Seoul)
• Seoul Museum of Art (Seoul)
• Gyeongju National Museum (Gyeongju)
• War Memorial of Korea (Seoul)
• National Folk Museum of Korea (Seoul)
• National Maritime Museum (Busan)
• Seodaemun Prison History Museum (Seoul)
• Seoul Museum of History (Seoul)
• Museum Kimchikan (Seoul)
• Daegu Art Museum (Daegu)

Here are the 10 best cafe areas in Korea:

• Ikseondong Hanok Village (Seoul)
• Gyeongui Line Hongdae (Seoul)
• Samcheondong Cafe Street (Seoul)
• Jeonpo Cafe Street (Busan)
• Hwangnidan-Gil (Gyeongju)
• Gangneung Coffee Street (Gangneung)
• Sinsa-Dong / Garosugil Road (Seoul)
• Jukjeon Cafe Street (Seoul)
• Hwaseong Haenggung Area (Suwon)
• Kim Kwang Seok Gil Street (Daegu)

Here are 10 of the best Korean markets and shopping areas:

• Gwangjang Market (Seoul)
• Myeongdong Market Area (Seoul)
• Jagalchi Fish Market (Busan)
• Centum City Mall (Busan)
• IFC Mall (Seoul)
• Starfield COEX Mall (Seoul)
• Nambu Market (Jeonju)
• Seomyeong Underground Shopping Center (Busan)
• Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market (Jeju)

Here are 10 of the best natural sights in Korea:

• Hallasan Mountain (Jeju)
• Jirisan National Park (Jeollanam Provice)
• Seoraksan National Park (Gyeonggi Province)
• Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak (Jeju)
• Damyang Juknokwon Bamboo Forest (Damyang)
• Boseong Green Tea Plantation (Boseong)
• Haeundae Beach (Busan)
• Udo Island (Jeju)
• Hwaamdonggul Cave (Gangwon Province)

Travel Itinerary For Korea

When planning a travel itinerary for South Korea, it’s best to think about what kind of experience you want when you travel to South Korea and build your itinerary from that. What kind of traveler are you and what do you want to take away from your Korea trip? Are you planning a trip for yourself, for your family, or as a romantic escape?

Do you want to learn about traditional Korean culture and history? Are you visiting to immerse yourself in modern Korean culture and maybe meet your idols? Are you planning to get out into Korea’s mountains to hike and join a Buddhist Temple Stay? Or are you going to eat, drink, shop, and make the most of Korea’s discounted goods? Or all of the above?

This section of this South Korea Travel Guide will offer some of the best one-week and two-week itineraries for South Korea. These itineraries are rough guides, created to help you begin planning your trip. Feel free to pick and choose the parts from them that you like to create your own travel itinerary for South Korea. We’ll be adding more great itineraries soon, be sure to check back for the latest ideas.

Classic 1 Week Itinerary For Korea: Seoul, Busan, Gyeongju

This is one of the most popular of the 1-week itineraries for South Korea and will take you to the most famous and interesting places that are top of most travelers’ South Korea bucket lists. Starting in Seoul, Korea’s capital, you’ll explore the best sights in this city before taking a day trip out to the lovely Gapyeong County to get a breath of fresh Korean countryside air.

From day 4, zip across the whole of Korea on the high-speed KTX train and explore Korea’s second city, Busan. See coastal temples, fish markets, wide beaches, and more in Busan before taking a day trip to Korea’s historic UNESCO World Heritage City, Gyeongju. On the last day, it’s time to return to Seoul to pack your bags full of the best souvenirs and snacks and say farewell in the highest part of the city.

Afternoon : Dressed in your hanbok, enjoy more traditional Seoul with a walk around the narrow streets of the Bukchon Hanok Village. Visit traditional Korean teahouses, galleries, markets, and more.

Evening : Check out the stalls and shops of artsy Insadong, contemplate Jeogyesa Temple, and take an evening stroll along the Cheonggyecheon Stream before dining in Myeongdong or the Jonggak Avenue of Youth. This  Full Day Tour  of Seoul will show you some of the hottest spots in the city, while this  Customized Private Tour of Seoul  will allow you to choose where to go.

Afternoon : Head back to central Seoul and witness the bustling sights and delicious smells of Seoul’s traditional Gwangjang and Dongdaemun Markets. Try delectable Korean street foods here.

Evening : Take the Namsam Cable Car to the top of Namsan Mountain and watch the sunset from N Seoul Tower. See some of Seoul’s fortress walls before heading back down to go late-night shopping at Myeongdong Market.

Afternoon : Zip line or sail over to Nami Island for impressive nature, bike rides, leafy walks, and cozy cafes. See popular scenes from K-dramas and even some wild animals, like deer and rabbits.

Evening : Pedal your way along an abandoned railway at the Gangchon Rail Bike Park before heading back to Seoul for fine dining in Gangnam’s Apgujeong Rodeo district.

Afternoon : Head to the Nampo-dong near Busan Station and visit Jagalchi Market for a fresh seafood lunch. Then explore cosy Bosu-dong Book Alley or take a taxi to the Huinnyeoul Culture Village.

Evening : Take the subway up to Haeundae Beach for Busan’s best night-scenes. Grab dinner overlooking the beach, or at one of the market stalls. If you’re feeling brave, visit BUSAN X the SKY to see breathtaking views over the coast and city.

Afternoon : Head to the Gyeongju Gyochon Traditional Village for a traditional meal and to see the stunning Woljeonggyo Bridge. Gyeongju National Museum is nearby, too.

Evening : See the tranquil night views of Wolji Pond where palace buildings reflect perfectly in still waters. Stop at Hwangnidan-gil area for dinner and drinks before returning to Busan.

Afternoon : Explore the artistic shopping streets of Hongdae for last minute souvenirs and gifts for yourself. Take a break in one of the unique animal or artsy cafes.

Evening : Either take a night cruise along the Han River from Yeouido Hangang Park or dine in style at the Lotte World Tower in Jamsil, the world’s 6th tallest building. Both offer great night views of Seoul and unforgettable memories to take home.

Korean Seasons Guide

The best time to visit South Korea is during the warm spring or fall seasons. The weather is mild and clear, there’s a range of festivals and seasonal activities to enjoy, and you can travel to Korea comfortably.

The best months to visit are April, May, September, and October. These months are all during the Korean school semester, so there won’t be as many local travelers around during the weekdays. However, expect the weekends to be busy as people leave the cities to travel within Korea.

Large public holidays, including  Chuseok (mid-autumn festival) in September / October) and Buddha’s Birthday (May), provides travelers with the opportunity to experience Korean culture and celebrations. These holidays change each year based on the lunar calendar.

Korean Weather & Climate

South Korea is a country that experiences four very distinct seasons, with temperatures ranging from 100 Fahrenheit in the summer to below 0 Fahrenheit in the winter. Each of South Korea’s seasons brings opportunities to see unique natural views and enjoy the different climates in Korea.

Spring has some of the gentlest weather, with light rain and a quick jump in temperature to the 60s and 70s by late March. Summer begins with the rainy season in late June and becomes extremely humid and hot throughout July and August before cooling again in September.

Fall has the best weather in Korea, with many warm, sunny days. Cold winter weather appears very quickly in mid-November and the first snow usually appears by late November. Winter is dry and sunny with the lowest chance of rainfall but is also very cold. Snow isn’t constant, but can fall for several weeks on and off during winter.

Visiting in spring offers the chance to see beautiful cherry blossoms stretch across the country, as well as many other spring flowers that brighten up Korea after a cold winter.

Spring starts in late March with the awakening of the cherry blossoms and ends in early June with the start of the rainy season. South Korea is a country with a close connection to nature, which can be witnessed in the many spring festivals and celebrations that happen throughout the year.

Some of the best spring festivals include the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, Damyang Bamboo Forest Festival, Yeon Deung Hoe Lotus Lantern Festival, Jindo Sea Parting Festival, and Boseong Green Tea Plantation Festival.

The weather in summer is perfect for getting outside and relaxing on one of Korea’s many beaches. Some of the best activities include spending a weekend camping or glamping by the beach, hiking in shaded valleys in the national parks, and water sports such as surfing, kayaking, and scuba diving.

Unfortunately, the heat may put off some travelers, and high humidity makes it uncomfortable to move around too much. Fortunately, Korea is a modern country with lots of air-conditioning and ways to deal with the hot weather, including delicious summer dishes.

Cool down with a bowl of Korean bingsu (shaved ice dessert) or a cool latte in one of the many cozy Korean cafes in popular beach destinations.

Travelers to Korea in the fall are treated to spectacular fall foliage creeping far and wide. You can see it falling on palace grounds, sprawled on mountains in national parks, and along city streets.

The start of the fall foliage season in Korea coincides with the end of the hot and humid summer, with clear skies and cool weather, making it the perfect time to travel in Korea. Like spring, the fall season in Korea is one of the festivals and celebrations.

The Chuseok holidays in late September / early October are the biggest public holidays of the year, with cultural events held in popular tourist destinations. There’s also a range of cultural festivals, such as the Andong Mask Festival, Baekje Culture Festival, Jinju Namdang Yudeung Lantern Festival, Jeonju Bibimbap Festival, and the Seoul Kimchi Festival.

Winter, like summer, has more extreme weather than spring and fall, with temperatures often in the 20s and 30s and below. This season, however, is also one of the best for travelers who want to see clear, blue skies and experience good weather.

Winter is the driest season and it very rarely rains. If you don’t mind the cold weather, it’s perfect for traveling around South Korea. One of the biggest draws during winter is the chance to see snowy Korean landscapes, from snow-bedecked royal palaces to frosty peaks atop Korea’s many mountains.

Winter sports are popular in Korea, with ski and snowboard resorts aplenty. Winter also offers the chance for family fun with winter attractions including sledding, winter illuminations, and Christmas parades.

Cost To Travel To Korea

The cost to travel in South Korea largely depends on your personal style of travel. You can travel on a low budget in Korea, for under $50 per day, or you could also travel for 10 times that amount if you wished to.

Food costs range from a few dollars for a bowl of  jajang  (black soybean) noodles to hundreds for premium  hanwoo (Korean beef) steak. The same applies to accommodation, with budget hostels costing $10 per night and premium 5 stars hotels costing hundreds.

Most travelers to Korea will already know what they want to prioritize their spending on. Some travel to Korea to eat, others to shop, and many more to experience the unique culture and history that Korea has to offer.

The costs in this section of our South Korea Travel Guide are based on the latest costs in Korea from this year. Examples of different costs have been covered to give you an idea of what to expect when you try to budget.

Please note, these prices are based on traveling in Seoul during non-peak times. Prices may be higher in peak times, which include cherry blossom season (Apr) and fall foliage season (Oct). Popular tourist cities, such as Gyeongju and Jeonju, may also have higher prices on weekends.

How Much Does It Cost To Travel In South Korea?

Travelers may find they want to spend more on hotels and less on eating out, or vice-versa, so don’t feel like you have to only follow the costs for one section. This is only a guideline to help you plan based on your own personal preferences.

To make it easier to figure out your expected costs to travel in Korea, this South Korea Travel Guide has broken down the costs into 3 different categories. These categories loosely fit 3 different types of travelers, as described below:

• Accommodation:  $200+ per night, per room (double)

Korea has a wide range of luxurious hotel options, including rooms in the Lotte World Tower, historic hanok houses, and glamping for those who want to escape to the countryside.

• Food & Drink:  $100+ per day, per person

It’s easy to spend a lot on food and drink in Korea as there are so many delectable restaurants. Fresh seafood, Korean steak, or the finest foreign foods are all available.

• Transportation:  $20+ per day, per person

Taxis and transportation are relatively cheap in Korea. A taxi journey across Seoul can cost less than $20 for 30 minutes and even the 1st class options on Korea’s high-speed trains are under $100 for the longest journey (Seoul to Busan).

• Accommodation:  $100 ~ $200 per night, per room (double)

You can book 4-star hotels in Seoul for very reasonable prices and enjoy both comfort and lower prices than you’d find at home. Korea has a wide range of comfortable mid-priced hotels.

• Food & Drink:  $50+ per day, per person

With all-you-can-eat Korean restaurants that serve unlimited Korean BBQ and other dishes for under $20 or $30 per person, it’s easy to enjoy the best food Korea has to offer without breaking the bank.

• Transportation:  up to $15 per day, per person

Use the subway and buses to get around the big cities and trains to travel further around Korea without breaking the bank. You can even splash out on a taxi and pay only a few dollars per person when traveling as a group for a few dollars extra.

• Accommodation:  up to $100 per night, per room (double)

Hostels and guesthouses can be found for under $50 per night and are perfect for somewhere to rest and recharge. If that’s all you need, save money here and spend it elsewhere.

• Food & Drink:  $20 – $30 per day, per person

If you budget well and stick to street food, free hotel breakfasts, and convenience store foods, you can eat well and still have enough to splurge on good food for dinner.

• Transportation:  up to $10 per day, per person

Walking and buses are cheap and convenient ways to travel around Korea’s biggest cities. Traveling from city to city is also cheap, with intercity buses costing less than $10 for 1-2 hour journeys.

Further Costs To Travel In South Korea

Besides these everyday costs to travel in South Korea, there are other costs that you’ll need to cover from time to time. These costs include internet & phone access, day trips, activities, souvenirs, travel insurance, and flights. These costs will be broken down into low and high-end costs that you can expect to pay in Korea.

Museums and galleries offer unique (and authentic) Korean souvenirs such as pottery, painting, tea & soju sets, and more. If you want something a bit more special, head to the underground markets near Gwangjang Market in Seoul and get your own handmade hanbok, which you can get posted back home to save luggage space.

• Small Souvenirs: $5+
• Korean Cosmetics: $5+
• Korean Artworks: $10+
• Korean Tea (box of): $10 to $20
• Korean Soju Set: $10 to $20
• Korean Handcrafts: $10+
• Tailored Hanbok: $200+

The day trip prices quoted below are the prices you can expect to pay with a reputable tour company like  Klook  or  Trazy . Hiring a private guide will be a lot more expensive and might come to $200+ per day.

Please note:  The prices quoted below are estimates and may change depending on the season or tour services.

• DMZ Tour – $50 to $120
• Nami Island Area – $40 to $70
• Everland Theme Park – $30 to $50
• Jeonju Hanok Village – $50 to $70
• Korean Folk Village – $50 to $60
• Seoraksan Mountain – $70 to $150

As mentioned earlier in this South Korea Travel Guide, buying a  Discover Seoul Pass  is a great way to save money on Seoul’s premium attractions.

• Royal Palaces – $3
• N Seoul Tower – $10
• Hanbok Rental – $10+
• Seoul City Tour Bus – $10
• Han River Cruise – $15 to $30
• Seoul Sky Observatory – $30 to $50
• Aquariums – $20 to $30
• Seoul Zoo & Seoul Grand Park $10
• Amusement Parks – $30 to $40

The cost to fly to Korea is more than twice the normal price right now. Fortunately, Korea ended the restrictions on the number of flights into the country from June 2022 and flight costs and availability should be improved in the near future.

Best of Korea recommends  Skyscanner  and  Expedia  for the best flight deals to Korea.

Why Travel To South Korea?

In recent years, travelers from around the world have been increasingly drawn to South Korea. The country is a must-see destination in Asia, with more than 17 million travelers in 2019. After reading this South Korea Travel Guide, you’ll understand what draws so many people to the Land of The Morning Calm, as Korea is also known.

There are myriad reasons why people visit Korea. Many come to experience life in a unique country, packed with historical and cultural sights that you won’t find elsewhere in the world. In the afternoon you can walk through a royal palace dressed in  hanbok  (traditional Korean clothes), sip green tea in a  hanok  (traditional Korean house), and pass Buddhist monks walking peacefully through an ancient temple.

Modern South Korean culture is conquering the world, with chart-topping acts that include BTS and Black Pink, Oscar-winning movies like Parasite, and phenomenally successful TV shows like Squid Game. This brings in legions of fans flocking to shooting locations and film sets to relive their favorite K-Culture moments. Some lucky travelers even get to catch sight of their favorite K-Stars walking around Gangnam, a hotspot for Korea’s most famous citizens.

Not only is Korea a beautiful country, it’s a country that will make you beautiful, with some of the world’s best fashion and beauty shops. Korea is famous for its K-Beauty products and is a beauty and fashion shoppers paradise. From the street fashions of Hongdae, to the luxurious fashion malls of Gangnam, and the wall-to-wall malls with discount clothes in Dongdaemun, you’re guaranteed to find something you can’t resist at a great price. If you prefer a cultural shopping experience, there are traditional markets all over Korea, where you can experience street food, buy novel gifts, and see how locals live and socialize.

There’s so much more to South Korea than what you’ll find in the cities, however. South Korea, a country that’s 70% mountainous with coasts on three sides, offers so much to nature and adventure lovers. Hiking, South Korea’s national pastime, is a popular way to see more of the Korean countryside, looking down over rice fields, forested valleys, and pockets of urbanization. Skydiving, parasailing, scuba diving, water sports, cycling, rock climbing, white water rafting, and lots more are on offer and very reasonably priced. South Korea is a great place to enjoy the great outdoors.

The real jewel in South Korea’s natural crown, however, has to be Jeju Island – one of the New 7 Wonders of the Natural World. Explore lava caves, hike to the peak of the central dormant volcano (Hallasan Mountain), trek around the rugged coast, relax on a sandy beach in a modern cafe, and even try your hand at horse riding.

Whatever your reason to travel to South Korea, you’re sure to find more and more reasons to return again and again. Let this South Korea Travel Guide whet your appetite for your first trip, inspire you to plan a follow-up trip, and guide you to the best things to see and do in South Korea.

South Korea Travel Guide FAQs

Not sure about the South Korea travel restrictions and want to know more about visas, vaccinations, and what the rules are? This next section covers some of the most frequently asked questions about traveling to Korea now. If you have more questions that aren’t covered below, feel free to write to us on the  Best of Korea  Facebook page.

Do I need a visa to travel to South Korea?

US citizens and tourists from 111 other countries, including Canada and Mexico, don’t need a visa to travel to South Korea. The US government and South Korea have a visa-free travel arrangement and tourists can stay for up to 90 days.

What happens when I arrive in South Korea?

From September 2022 onwards it is no longer necessary to provide any vaccination status or take any PCR or RAT tests. A mandatory health check will be required, but this is only a simple form you can fill in on arrival.

What happens if I get a positive PCR result?

If you test positive for COVID-19 while in Korea, you will need to quarantine for 7 days at government facilities. Travelers who break the quarantine rules are subject to deportation or fines.

Can I travel to Korea if I'm unvaccinated?

Yes, you can still travel to South Korea if you’re unvaccinated. South Korea no longer restricts travel based on vaccination status (as of October 2022).

However, if a traveler (vaccinated or unvaccinated) tests positive for COVID-19 in Korea, they will have to self-quarantine until negative.

South Korea is a dynamic and culturally rich country that deserves a place on everyone’s travel bucket list. Known for its stunning blend of tradition and modernity, Korea features futuristic technology, bustling markets, and a thriving pop culture scene. Perhaps most importantly, visitors can expect a high level of safety and cleanliness while exploring the country and savoring its delicious cuisine.

This South Korea Travel Guide shows you where to go, what to see, and when to travel. Start your journey with itinerary ideas and pre-travel tips, the best day trips, and lots more essential Korean travel advice. Let’s go!

LATEST KOREA TRAVEL UPDATES

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6/1/23 From June 1st, 2023, there is  no longer any mandatory quarantine  for COVID-infected people in Korea – both locals and travellers. The Korean government now recommends that infected people showing symptoms should self-isolate (voluntarily) for 5 days.

4/1/23 From April 1st, 2023, travelers from the USA and 21 other countries  no longer need to apply for the K-ETA  to travel to Korea. This will run until 31st December, 2024 and is designed to make it easier to travel to Korea.

3/20/23 From March 20th, 2023, the indoor mask mandate has been removed for public transport, including buses, trains, subway, taxis, and flights. The only remaining mask mandate is for medical facilities, including hospitals, care homes, and pharmacies.

How To Travel To Korea

Current Travel Restrictions For South Korea 2023

If you’re suspected of infection when you arrive (high temperature, feverish signs), you may be asked to take a PCR test. PCR tests are now free for travelers suspected of being COVID-19 positive within the first 3 days of arrival. This South Korea Travel Guide is regularly updated with the latest Korean travel restrictions.

Requirements To Travel To Korea

Here’s a simple 2-step guide about how to travel to Korea right now. Most restrictions have been lifted so travel to Korea is easier than ever. This applies to travelers from the US, Canada, and many other countries . As mentioned, it doesn’t matter whether you’re vaccinated or not.

Check the Korean Embassy if you’re not sure in either situation.

• When you travel to Korea, you will be asked to complete a self-check health questionnaire to show you’re not sick. You can do this when you arrive or complete it before you depart on the  Q-Code website .
• You don’t need to do any testing before you fly, but it is a good idea to take a self-test to make sure you’re safe. If you’re infected in Korea, it’s necessary to do 7 days self-quarantine. You don’t need to bring copies of your vaccination records but printing a copy of the K-ETA is recommended.

No, travelers from the USA don’t need a tourist visa to enter South Korea. You can visit for up to 90 days visa-free. However, you must apply for the K-ETA before traveling and upload your travel plans and hotel details.

Here are 6 of the best destinations in Korea that you absolutely must visit, as well as some of the sights you’ll want to check out while you’re there. We’ll be bringing you lots more detailed destination guides in the future, so be sure to visit again soon

This  Full Day Tour  of Seoul will show you some of the hottest spots in the city, while this  Customized Private Tour of Seoul  will allow you to choose where to go.

Korea is a unique country with a written language that looks nothing like English, interesting  Korean Cultural And Etiquette Rules , and an always busy lifestyle. Travelers may be lost trying to do even the simplest things.

If you’re traveling to Korea, you’re almost certainly going to want to get access to the internet to help you navigate, translate Korean, or even book tickets to attractions. Korea has one of the world’s best mobile internet and the prices are very reasonable. 5G mobile internet services are available across the country and Korea was one of the first to get the super-fast service. You won’t have problems connecting with a sim card or WiFi router when you travel

Traveling to any country involves potential scams, bad exchange rates, mistakes, and confusion when it comes to dealing with foreign currency. Fortunately, travelers to Korea have a wide range of options for travel money both before and while they travel.

South Korea is a country packed with famous landmarks and sights, unique culture – modern & historical,  family-fun activities, outdoor adventures, cozy cafe districts, and natural wonders. There’s more to do in Korea than you could imagine and it’s impossible to explore it all in one trip. Try to plan your itinerary by cities and locations. For example, plan your day in Seoul and stay by the district.

Here are some of the best things to see and do in South Korea, broken down into different themes so you can find things that interest you the most. The location of each of these attractions is included, too, so you can create a city-by-city itinerary, seeing the best South Korea has to offer.

Any South Korea Travel Guide would be incomplete without thee top landmarks & famous areas in Korea. These unmissable Korean attractions offer some of the best sights in Korea, showing you Korean history, culture, design, and sense of humor.

Learning about Korea’s past is not only enjoyable, it’ll also open your eyes to how modern Korean culture has evolved. Witness the majesty of grand palaces and the humble Buddhist temples and gain an insight into life in Korea with these fascination historical sights.

Are you a fan of Korean culture? Then check out these 10 modern K-Culture locations in Korea. Whether you’re ARMY or an arthouse cinema fan, you’ll love these sights. K-Drama fans, check out these  K-Drama Filming Spots in Seoul .

If you’re traveling to Korea with your family, you don’t need to worry about the kids getting bored. There are plenty of family-fun attractions in Korea to keep them amused and to show them what Korea’s really like.

Culture lovers will find no shortage of places to learn about Korean, Asian, and world history & culture. Korea has a rich history and displays this through a range of museums. Learn about traditional life, Korean wars, the democracy struggles, and even  kimchi .

Once a land of teahouses, Korea has now fully embraced coffee culture. Korea’s late-night culture makes cafes a great place to gather and chat. The rise of social media has also led to hundreds of insta-worthy cafes with photogenic decor, unusual coffee designs, and delicious desserts.

Many people travel to Korea just to shop, thanks to the low prices, haggling in the markets, and good quality items. From traditional markets to high-end designer goods, there’s somewhere to shop for everyone. Be sure to try authentic Korean street foods in the markets, too.

Korea is a country surrounded by sea on 3 sides and 70% mountainous, giving it a wealth of natural beauty. Besides  Korean cherry blossoms , flowers, and fall foliage, there are sculpted gardens, shimmering ponds, riverside parks, and a volcano to see.

Morning : Explore Seoul’s historic royal palaces starting with Gyeongbokgung or Changdeokgung Palace in central Seoul. You get free entry if you’re wearing a Korean hanbok, so be sure to pick one up from the rental shops outside.

Morning : Learn about Korea’s history at the National Museum or War Memorial in Yeongsan. These fascinating museums have interactive exhibits and feature 1000’s of years of Korean history.

Morning : Take a day trip from Seoul to explore Gapyeong County. See the wonders of the Garden of Morning Calm and its idyllic nature. This is one of the most beautiful gardens in Korea.

Morning : Grab an early breakfast at Seoul Station and ride the high-speed KTX train directly to Seoul. It takes less than 4 hours and rides past rice fields, mountains, and the Korean countryside.

Morning : Take a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Gyeongju and roam the Gyeongju Historic Area. See Daereungwon Tomb Complex and Cheomseongdae Observatory.

Morning : Pack your bags and ride the KTX back to Seoul. Head to Hongdae for street food snacks or Michelin-starred delights in famous restaurants.

March to May

June To August

September to November

December to February

Korean Souvenir Costs

The best places to buy souvenirs in Korea are in the traditional markets and tourist areas. Insadong in Seoul has a lot of art and souvenir shops, as do the market streets around Bukchon Hanok Village. Hongdae offers lots of bargain snacks and souvenirs to take home.

Day Trip Costs From Seoul

A day trip from Seoul is a must to see a different side of Korea from what you’ll experience in the capital. Taking a day trip is a great chance to experience Korea’s countryside, nature, and hard-to-reach cultural attractions.

Korean Activity Costs

Seoul and other Korean cities have so much to offer to tourists. From historical palaces to exciting theme parks and attractions, it’s easy to have fun, explore, and discover more about Korea’s history.

Flight Costs To Korea

Flight costs depend on which airports you’re traveling from. A flight from Los Angeles to Incheon Airport (Korea’s main airport) costs around $1370 right now. Flight costs vary depending on the season and time of day.

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17 South Korea Travel Tips (From a Longtime Resident)

Last Updated: Nov 12, 2023 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · 2 Comments

When I first came to Korea, I made the mistake of thinking that I could just wing it and survive in a totally different culture without almost any preparation. Within my first week, I’d read every article on South Korea travel tips available on the internet.

It was embarrassing coming to Korea without knowing how to do the simplest of things by myself, so I went into observation and Korean language study mode. In the meanwhile, I definitely looked ignorant making mistakes I could have easily avoided had I prepared myself beforehand.

For instance, one of the biggest mistakes I ever made was wearing tank tops to school my first few weeks as an English teacher. In the US, it’s nothing to comment on. But in Korea? I was embarrassingly pulled aside at a school assembly and told I was making other teachers uncomfortable, yet I’d been dressing the same for weeks and nobody had said a word. I was mortified.

A smaller error I made during my first week was in assuming that you can just say anything in any way in Korea. But due to Confucian social conventions, there are important levels of formality I should have been mindful of.

Imagine how offended my teacher looked when I replied “ Annyeong ” without the “ haseyo !” It was such an embarrassing moment that, again, I could have avoided had I read some Korea cultural tips before arriving.

We don’t want you to offend the locals, so to ensure that you do not make the same mistakes I did, I made a list of my top South Korea travel tips to help you on your trip.

Basics of Travel in South Korea

What to know before visiting korea (tips from locals).

Visa: Most travelers will need a K-ETA ( Korean Electronic Travel Authorization ), applied for at least 72 hours before departure. If you needed a visa before, you'll need a K-ETA now. Note that from April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, passport holders from 22 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and several EU nations, can visit visa-free – no K-ETA required!

Currency: South Korean won ( KRW or ₩ )

Arrival in Korea: all international flights arrive at Incheon Airport (ICN), one of the best-rated airports in the world. It usually takes about 1 hour to get through security & pick up checked bags.

Getting Around: Korea has an extensive & reliable public transport system. A refillable T-Money card is your ticket to buses and trains across the country; you can buy and refill yout TMoney card at any subways station or convenience store in Korea.

Internet & SIM Cards: Rent a Wi-Fi egg or purchase a prepaid SIM card at the airport, available for up to one month of connection.

Travel Insurance: always recommended, though some credit card companies offers limited coverage when booking.

Asking about your age is okay

You might feel offended if a Korean person suddenly asks about your age, but this is a totally normal thing to them. Refusing to answer this question also gives them great stress, because then they don’t know how to properly address you; there’s an explicit social hierarchy in Korea.

So as much as this question might make you uncomfortable, understand that this is their custom, and they primarily use it to learn how they should talk to you.

Know the proper honorifics to use

The worst thing about conversing with people is that you don’t know whether you’re using the right honorifics, and there’s always a chance you might use the wrong one.

Even if you’re speaking with them in English, there are different ways to address someone depending on their status (usually relative to yours). So if you’re unsure where you might fall in the hierarchy, you can prepare yourself with this guide on how to properly address people in Korea first. 

Don’t forget to bow!

One of the things I’ve learned here in Korea is that: “when in doubt, bow.” Koreans bow whenever they greet, thank, and even apologize. Sometimes I wonder if I’m bowing too much, or if I’m bowing lower than I should.

But Koreans don’t really expect you to bow at all, especially if it’s totally obvious that you are not from their culture, but it’s still respectful and appreciated if you try.

Remove your shoes as soon as you enter a home

One fascinating thing about Korean homes is the existence of the ondol system, or the traditional method of keeping their floors warm. This is why Koreans find winters tolerable and comfortable; their feet are never cold.

The issue with Westerners is that they oftentimes forget this, and they walk into places with their shoes on, leaving grimy bits of dust and pebbles that sully the pristine floors. But shoes are not acceptable in most Korean homes or restaurants, so if you are not comfortable with exposing your bare feet, at least keep your socks on.

Koreans eat from the same bowl

You might think this is unhygienic, but in Korea, this is absolutely normal. Sharing is a massive part of the culture, and if you do not participate in this custom, they may take it personally. Also, while we’re talking about bowls – never lift it up while eating!

Your bowl should stay in front of you at all times, which is why you generally see Koreans stoop over their bowls and scoop food using a soup spoon. 

Never stick chopsticks in your food

While sticking our chopsticks in a bowl of rice is not really a big deal to us, to them it’s an insensitive act. This is because it replicates a jesa , or a funeral ritual that Koreans do to offer food to the dead.

The eldest eats first

Koreans love to eat together, but remember that age matters in Korea, so if the eldest person is not ready to eat yet, you really have to wait.

Also, the seating arrangement when eating is also different in Korea, but my trick here is to wait for everyone else to be seated and then wait for their gesture to tell me where to sit. Works like a charm.

Even if it’s too spicy for you to handle, don’t blow your nose at the table

Koreans are known for their spicy food, and we have a tendency to sniffle if we are not used to it. But Koreans find it rude to blow your nose at the table (and you don’t want to send your snot to the food ), so as much as possible, hold it in or excuse yourself to the bathroom. That way you can blow as much as you want without getting flak for it.

If you’re drinking with the elderly, turn your head away when taking a shot

There are so many drinking rules in Korea , and one thing you have to keep in mind is always to mind the seniority. If you have to clink glasses with somebody older than you, make sure your glass is slightly lower than theirs. Then you turn away and take the shot, not looking back until you’re all done.

Don’t pour your own drink

You should never serve drinks to yourself in Korea, though if you’re the youngest, you should pour for everyone else. Instead, you should wait until someone pours it for you, and always receive it with both hands.

You should also keep a lookout for whether those who are older than you need a refill, and when you pour, never forget to use both hands.

Don’t tip in Korea!

Koreans do not like it when you tip, as it imbalances a careful power dynamic between customers and proprietors. In Korea, they hold the strong belief that the customer is King, and that they should uphold the highest quality of standards whenever they serve you.

So if you find yourself impressed by someone’s service, just thank them and leave a nice review in Kakao Maps (and offer them a compliment, if you can!).

Writing people’s names in red ink is a big no-no

Koreans love receiving handwritten letters, and if you want to show your gratitude and appreciation for a new friend, a helpful Korean tip would be to avoid red ink. You’ll actually rarely see red ink pens for sale in Korea, because writing names in red ink is believed to bring death upon the person whose name was written.

Don’t be part of the problem: toss your trash properly

Korea has a serious littering problem. Even if there are clear, established rules on how to properly segregate trash, you’ll still see bottles, plastic cups, and cigarette butts on the side of the road across the country.

What you can do, however, is to bring your trash with you wherever you go, and throw it in proper bins in the public spaces. 

Don’t give gifts in fours

Giving gifts is a big thing in Korea. People seem to love exchanging things as a sign of appreciation, hence Teacher’s Day, Single’s Day, and White Day (all gift-giving holidays). However, if you give them something that comes in a set of 4, they might freeze for a moment, as the number four is inherently connected to death in Korea.

This is because this number sounds a lot like death in their language, so avoid this unlucky number by choosing just one thoughtful gift. There are plenty of places where you can buy gifts in Korea !

Take the time to appreciate a business card

While in Korea, you’ll likely encounter interesting people, many of whom may offer you a business card. This is a common way to non-threateningly try to connect with foreigners, so remember to receive it with both hands.

Then make an effort to at least appreciate the fine details of it before storing it; rushing to pocket these things often rubs them the wrong way.

Don’t cross your legs in the presence of other people

This is another custom I never knew was rude, since I grew up being told as a woman that I should keep my legs crossed if I don’t want to look improper. In Korea, however, crossing your legs is a sign of disrespect, though foreigners sometimes get a pass.

If you have to sit across from somebody and you’re wearing a skirt that’s too short for your liking, instead of crossing your legs, aim to straighten your posture and keep your hands on your lap.

Shoving is okay

I know this is something that may confuse you, because in most cultures, shoving is rude. But in Korea they don’t like getting held back or blocked.

So if people shove you in Korea, they may do it with such force that it throws you off balance – but here’s the rub: if you get mad, people will think you’re making a scene. This is totally normal behavior to most Koreans, especially from the elderly, but this fact took me years to accept.

Now that you’ve seen all my most important Korea tips, I hope that my advice will help keep you away from trouble and speed up your acclimating process.

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Max Ritchie says

October 01, 2022 at 8:23 pm

Hi Max, I'm a Max as well and love all things Korean. I'm planning a trip early next year and will concentrate just on Seoul (as I'll be back). I found your information very helpful and will keep reading. I'm planning the trip alone and I'm a very active 73yr old female, if i fitted the criteria I would have loved to teach english there so I could experience the country more fully than just a trip.

regards max

October 01, 2022 at 8:48 pm

Awww thanks, Max! I'm glad you've found it helpful, and please let me know if you have any questions. My mom (an active 69-year old, herself!) had a similar sentiment when she came to visit me in Korea for the first time. I hope you have a wonderful trip!

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

South Korea Travel Guide

Last Updated: July 17, 2023

Though South Korea is small (about the size of the US state of Indiana), it punches well above its weight in terms of things to see and do. Boasting a vibrant culture, incredible history, natural beauty, delicious food, and a wild nightlife, it’s home to both major cities and untouched nature, offering something for every traveler.

Seoul, the capital city and fourth-largest metropolitan area in the world (over half the country’s population of 50 million is concentrated here), is a lively hub for food lovers and partying. But while it gets all the attention, there is much more to explore, including 22 national parks, lush Jeju Island, and the infamous Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) bordering North Korea.

Best of all, since South Korea is a manageable size, you can see a good portion of it in a limited amount of time. The transportation here is modern, clean, and efficient, so it’s easy to get around quickly.

The country is also a foodie’s paradise, with cheap street food and delicious dishes like bibimbap, kimchi, and the famed Korean barbecue.

It’s one of my favorite countries in the world and one that I think is super under the radar and often overlooked by travelers. You never see the tourist crowds found in other Asian countries.

This travel guide to South Korea can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on South Korea

Top 5 Things to See and Do in South Korea

1. Explore Seoul

Korea’s capital has a little bit of everything. It’s a bustling metropolis and global technology hub, with sleek and modern neighborhoods like Gangnam and iconic sights like the Lotte World Tower, the sixth-tallest building in the world. Yet there is a lot of history here too, including many museums, palaces, and temples, among them five UNESCO World Heritage Sites. When you’re done exploring for the day, Seoul has a robust street food scene, countless trendy restaurants, and fast-paced, soju-driven nightlife. You could easily spend weeks here and never get bored.

2. Tour the DMZ

The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separates North and South Korea and, despite the name, is the most militarized border in the world. You can only visit the Joint Security Area (JSA), which has military personnel from both sides, on a guided tour, but it’s a unique experience and an important way to learn about this ongoing conflict (the war started in 1950 and has not officially ended). On the tour, you’ll be able to actually stand in North Korea, visit the Third Tunnel of Aggression (which North Korea dug to sneak soldiers across the border), see the Freedom Bridge, and catch glimpses of North Korea from the Unification Observatory. Guided tours of the DMZ start from 80,000 KRW.

3. Visit Jeju Island

This volcanic, semitropical island is a popular domestic vacation spot. It’s accessible via cheap daily flights from Seoul that take just one hour. Known as “the Hawaii of Korea,” it’s a natural paradise, home to the tallest mountain in Korea (Mount Hallasan), lava tubes, beautiful beaches, and countless hiking and walking trails. Other attractions include visiting mythic Jeju Stone Park, wandering the Yeomiji Botanical Gardens, and watching the haenyeo divers — women who dive without any protective equipment to gather underwater treasures like shellfish and seaweed, which they then sell on the beaches. You can visit the Jeju Haenyeo Museum as well to learn more about this cultural practice that dates back centuries.

4. Sing karaoke

Known as noraebang , this is a cultural phenomenon and something worth experiencing at least once while visiting Korea. While the karaoke machine was originally invented in Japan, Koreans have adopted the pastime and made it their own. Here, you rent out a private room with a group of friends (instead of singing in a public bar, as is often the case in Western countries). Pricing is determined by the hour, with rates varying wildly depending on the number of people, time of day, day of the week, and whether snacks and drinks are included. Average group karaoke rates range from 5,000 to 15,000 KRW.

5. Step back in time at a hanok village

Other things to see and do in south korea, 1. visit changdeokgung palace.

One of the Joseon dynasty’s Five Grand Palaces, this 15th-century complex in Seoul was built in harmony with the natural environment at the foot of Bugaksan Mountain. Changdeokgung, or “Palace of Prospering Virtue,” was the main royal residence for 13 kings over the course of three centuries. The complex sprawls over 110 acres, 60% of which is taken up by the beautiful Huwon Secret Garden, home to over a hundred species of trees, flowers, and other plants (some of the trees here are over 300 years old!). The main draw is wandering around the exterior, with its restored buildings and gates, though you can also go inside Injeongjeon Hall, the palace’s throne room. Admission to the complex is 3,000 KRW; the Secret Garden is an additional 5,000 KRW. There are guided tours in English as well.

2. Explore Busan

Korea’s second-largest city is located just two hours from Seoul on the KTX high-speed bullet train. A coastal city, Busan boasts great beaches, such as Haeundae Beach, with its miles of sand, and Gwangalli Beach, known for its sunsets. Gamcheon Culture Village, the “mural village of Korea,” is a hillside neighborhood rich in street art and covered in murals, and nearly all the houses are painted bright colors. It’s a great place to wander around for a few hours, popping into the unique shops, cafés, and restaurants.

3. See the National Museum of Korea

If you visit only one museum in Korea, make it this one. Located in Seoul, it covers all aspects of Korean culture, art, and history, from prehistory to the early modern era. It also contains many national treasures and artifacts that have been designated as having special importance and value in Korean culture and history. Some of the most important ones include the sixth-century inscribed Bukhansan Monument, detailing military expansions; sixth-century gilt-bronze Buddhist statues; and the 10-story Gyeongcheonsa Pagoda, which dates to the 14th century. Don’t miss the exterior gardens, which feature indigenous plants, reflecting pools, and traditional Korean sculptures and lanterns. Admission to the main exhibitions and children’s museum is free.

4. Take a food tour

As a foodie, learning about a culture through its food is one of my favorite things to do while traveling. Korea has an incredible variety of amazing dishes to try, as well as a bustling (and delicious) street food scene. Taking a food tour with an experienced guide is one of the best ways to gain a deeper understanding of Korean cuisine. O’ngo Food offers a variety of tours in Seoul, Busan, Jeonju, and Jeju, with prices starting from 70,000 KRW per person.

5. Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace

Originally built in the 14th century by the kings of the Joseon dynasty, this palace in Seoul served as the seat of the government for two hundred years until it was destroyed by a fire and abandoned for centuries. Since the 19th century (and still today), it has been undergoing renovations to restore the complex to its former glory. It is considered the most stunning of all five royal palaces in Seoul, featuring grand gates, open courtyards, and terracotta-topped buildings set against the backdrop of Mount Bugak. In addition to wandering through the complex, you can also go into the many administrative halls and residential chambers set up to resemble the palace’s heyday. You can watch the changing-of-the-guard ceremony as well, every day except Monday. The National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum are also located in the complex. Admission is 3,000 KRW.

6. See the cherry blossoms

While cherry blossoms are often associated with Japan, festivities surrounding the blooms are incredibly popular in Korea as well. Here, the season runs from late March to late April, with many festivals throughout the country. Just be prepared for crowds at the more popular ones, like the Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival in Seoul.

7. Try taekwondo

Korean’s native martial art, taekwondo, is characterized by high kicks and punches and, like all such disciplines, emphasizes mental training. An Olympic event since 2000, taekwondo has only grown in popularity in recent years and is a point of pride in Korean culture. Kang’s Global Taekwondo in Seoul offers classes to adults and foreigners that cost around 43,000 KRW for one hour.

8. Learn to cook classic Korean foods

If you’d like to take your knowledge of Korean food one step further, take a cooking class, where you’ll learn to prepare classics like bibimbap, kimchi, bulgogi, and Korean pancakes. Hello K Cooking in Seoul offers a class where you’ll learn how to cook three main dishes and one stew — recipes and skills that you can bring home with you. Classes are 107,000 KRW.

9. Go hiking

Korea is an incredibly mountainous country, so hiking is a favorite pastime for locals. Be sure to immerse yourself in nature while visiting this lush land. There are even hiking spots near the bigger cities if you don’t have enough time or don’t want to venture too far afield. Bukhansan National Park, just outside Seoul, is a popular place to go hiking, offering panoramic views over the capital (expect crowds due to its proximity to the city, though). Yet with 22 national parks spread across the country, there are plenty of opportunities to escape the crowds (including lots of guided hikes if you don’t want to organize one yourself). For a multiday hike, the Jirisan Ridge Trek in Jirisan National Park is one of the most famous — a four-day walk from mountain shelter to mountain shelter.

10. Wander around Seoul Olympic Park

In 1988, Seoul hosted the Summer Olympics, which was only the second time the summer games had been held in Asia (the first was in Tokyo in 1964). Today, you can visit the massive park where the games were staged, and while Olympic Park does have many sports facilities, there’s much more to explore here as well. The park is divided into four sections, focusing on the arts, history, nature, and sports. In the arts section, you’ll find the SOMA Museum of Art and a park with over 200 sculptures, while in the history section, you can see the third-century defensive Mongchontoseong Earthen Fortifications, excavated dugout huts and storage pits left in the state in which they were uncovered. You can easily spend an entire afternoon here. Admission to the park is free.

11. Discover Jirisan National Park

Located in the southern part of the country (Namwon is the nearest city), this park is named after Jirisan (Mt. Jiri for short), the tallest mountain on mainland Korea. As it’s South Korea’s first national park (as well as its largest), hiking trails and cultural sites abound. You can visit seven major Buddhist temples and see several of Korea’s national treasures of ancient carved stonework from the seventh to the tenth centuries. One of the most important sites here is Samseonggung, or Three Sages Palace, a mountainside shrine dedicated to the legendary founders of Korea. Admission to the park is 1,600 KRW.

South Korea Travel Costs

Cheap hotel rooms start at 28,000 KRW for a room that sleeps one, while a double room generally costs at least 40,000 KRW. Expect basic amenities like Wi-Fi, a TV, air conditioning, and an electric teapot. Breakfast is usually not included at budget hotels.

Airbnb is available around the country, with private rooms starting at 25,000-30,000 KRW. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 50,000-70,000 KRW per night.

While wild camping is illegal in Korea, there are plenty of campgrounds should you want to pitch a tent. Expect to pay 7,000-20,000 KRW for a plot with access to bathroom and shower facilities, and usually even Wi-Fi.

Food – Korean cuisine has developed its own traditions and flavors over the centuries, with a unique emphasis on using uncooked, fermented, and pickled vegetables. Traditional Korean meals are often composed of a variety of side dishes, eaten with short-grain rice. A meal isn’t considered complete unless there’s kimchi on the table.

Common dishes include bulgogi (marinated, grilled beef), samgye-tang (chicken and ginseng soup), bibimbap (a mixed rice bowl), chap chae (a glass noodle dish), and many other noodle and rice dishes. Popular street foods include hotteok (a sweet, filled pancake), tteokbokki (spicy cylindrical rice cakes), and bungeo-ppang (a fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean paste).

Dining out in South Korea is relatively inexpensive. A meal at a casual restaurant serving traditional Korean food is around 9,000-15,000 KRW, while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant is around 25,000-30,000 KRW. Expect higher prices in larger cities.

Western food is more expensive. Expect to pay at least 20,000 KRW for a pasta dish at an Italian restaurant.

In terms of fast food, a combo meal (think McDonald’s) is around 7,000 KRW, while a burger is around 4,500 KRW. A typical Korean street food dish is 1,500-3,000 KRW.

A pint of beer is 4,000-5,000 KRW, a glass of wine is 6,000 KRW and up, and a cocktail is 7,000 KRW and up. A latte or cappuccino is 5,000 KRW.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay 50,000-70,000 KRW per week for basic staples like rice, pasta, vegetables, and some meat. Shopping at local markets is the best way to get great fresh produce for cheap.

Backpacking South Korea: Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 75,000 KRW per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, use public transportation and intercity buses to get around, skip the alcohol, and do mostly free activities like walking tours and hiking.

On a mid-range budget of 135,000 KRW per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or cheap hotel, eat out for most meals at casual restaurants, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi as well as trains between cities, and do more paid activities like museum visits and food tours.

On a “luxury” budget of 255,000 KRW or more per day, you can stay in a nicer hotel or entire Airbnb apartment, eat out pretty much anywhere you want, drink at the bar, get a high-speed rail pass, and do as many guided tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury, though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in KRW.

South Korea Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

I find South Korea to be one of the best value countries out there. It’s a really affordable place to visit. Accommodation can add up but food and drinks are generally cheap. Here are some ways to save money when you travel around South Korea:

• Visit the free attractions – With countless museums, shrines, temples, historic neighborhoods, and parks, Korea is filled with opportunities to become immersed in its culture. Many of the nation’s museums and cultural attractions are free, so don’t pass them up!
• Purchase a KORAIL Pass – If you want to travel by train, getting a rail pass is the most economical way to do so. You’ll get unlimited train travel for the time period you choose (2-5-day increments). Prices start at 121,000 KRW.
• Get a transit pass – Most major cities in Korea offer a day pass for public transit, which means great savings if you plan to hop around using buses and subways. Seoul’s day pass costs 15,000 KRW, though the longer you stay, the more you’ll save (a seven-day pass is 64,500 KRW).
• Buy a city pass – If you plan on visiting a lot of attractions, buy a city pass . Seoul and Busan both offer ones that include admission to popular sights, a transit pass, and discounts to restaurants and other attractions. A one-day pass starts at 33,000 KRW.
• Eat from the convenience stores – Convenience stores in Korea offer not only snacks and drinks but prepared boxed meals and cheap alcohol. If you’re on a tight budget, shop in those.
• Take the bus – While the trains are fun, the cheapest way to get around Korea is by bus. They take longer but are much cheaper, so if you have the time, opt for long-distance buses. Just show up at the bus station to reserve your tickets in advance, as most websites and apps are in Korean.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing lets you stay with a local for free, cutting your accommodation costs drastically. You’ll get to spend time with someone who can share their tips and advice in exchange for your own travel stories and culture. You can also use the app to meet people for activities (coffee, museum visits, etc.) if you don’t feel comfortable staying with a stranger.
• Drink like the locals – Soju, the national alcohol of Korea, is incredibly cheap, as is domestic beer. Just be careful to not let it sneak up on you — both monetarily and physically. Korea’s drinking culture is infamous!
• Stay in capsule hotels – If you don’t want to Couchsurf or stay in hostels but still want to save money, capsule or pod hotels are great options. These offer just what you need to sleep (a small, basic pod) yet can be surprisingly comfy and much more affordable than a traditional hotel. Prices start as low as 45,000 KRW per night.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand, as its bottles have built-in filters to ensure that your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in South Korea

South Korea has plenty of budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of my recommended places to stay when you visit:

• Time Travelers Relax Guesthouse (Seoul)
• Zzzip Guesthouse (Seoul)
• Time Travelers party Hostel (Seoul)
• INSIDE Busan (Busan)
• Jeju Hiking Inn (Jeju)
• Backpacker’s Home (Jeju)

How to Get Around South Korea

Bus – Taking a long-distance bus is the cheapest and most popular way to get around the country. There are two types: express (which makes few to no stops) and intercity (which travels between smaller destinations and makes more stops).

Your best bet for reserving tickets in advance is to go directly to the bus terminal, as most bus websites and booking apps are in Korean and only accept Korean credit or debit cards.

Pricing depends on what class ticket you choose: standard, luxury, or premium. The four-hour bus ride from Seoul to Busan costs around 36,000 KRW for a standard ticket, Incheon to Busan takes just over four hours and costs 38,000 KRW, and Seoul to Daegu is 29,000 KRW and takes just under four hours.

Train – South Korea has a robust train system that can take you all over the country. Korean Train Express (KTX) is the country’s bullet train, regularly running at speeds up to 305 kilometers (190 miles) per hour. However, these only go between major cities, have limited schedules, and are more expensive, so KTX may not always be the most convenient choice.

KORAIL (the national railway service) operates slower-speed, intercity trains that offer a wider range of schedules and destination choices. You can also get the unlimited KORAIL Pass, which is offered exclusively to international tourists. A two-day adult pass is 121,000 KRW; a five-day adult pass is 210,000 KRW.

As a comparison of the two train types: the journey from Seoul to Busan on a KRX train costs around 90,000 KRW and takes 2.5 hours, while on a regular intercity train, it takes 5.5 hours and costs 47,500 KRW.

The further out you book, the cheaper KTX train prices get, while intercity prices stay about the same. You can book up to a year in advance.

Flying – South Korea is so small that flying around the country doesn’t really make sense. Trains can get you anywhere pretty quickly. However, if you’re very pressed for time and have cash to burn, there are a few budget airlines offering domestic flights between major cities. Most are around one hour long.

The flight from Seoul to Busan is around 30,500 KRW, Seoul to Jeju is 55,000 KRW, and Busan to Jeju is 22,000 KRW. However, you can find flights even cheaper when you book further in advance.

Low-cost airlines in South Korea include the following:

Car rental – Renting a car isn’t incredibly cheap in South Korea. However, it is one of the best ways to explore all the natural wonders that the country has to offer, many of which are inaccessible by public transportation. Expect to pay around 50,000-55,000 KRW per day on a multiday rental. Drivers need to be at least 21 years old.

When to Go to South Korea

Generally, the best times to visit South Korea are March-May and September-November. During these periods, the weather is mild, with temperatures of 10-24°C (50-75°F); prices for accommodation and transportation are lower; and there are fewer crowds.

In the spring, the cherry blossoms are in bloom all over the country, while the fall brings the beautiful colors of the changing leaves. Also, if you plan on doing a lot of hiking, the fall is the best time to visit.

The summer starts with monsoon season, from June through mid-July, and the rest of the summer is hot and humid in the cities (though it cools down in the mountains and along the coasts). Prices for accommodation are also very high during this time.

Winters in South Korea get very cold, with temperatures dipping as low as -6°C (21°F), so unless you plan on skiing, visiting from December through February might not be the best option (though the temples and landscapes look beautiful covered in snow).

How to Stay Safe in South Korea

South Korea is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel around. Petty crime is rare here, though it never hurts to be cautious on public transportation and around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your wallet and valuables secure and out of reach, just in case. Violent crime is even more rare.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here. However, the standard safety precautions apply as always. For specific tips, consult one of the many solo female travel blogs on the web.

While scams are super rare in South Korea, to avoid getting ripped off, you can check out this list of common travel scams to avoid .

When hiking, always bring water and sunscreen. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

Earthquakes occur regularly in the region, so it’s best to be prepared and download the Emergency Ready app, which the Korean government developed to provide information in English to foreign residents and tourists. It has all kinds of advice and tips for natural disasters, shows you where nearby emergency shelters are, and sends out warnings and notifications should a disaster occur.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, and forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

South Korea Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

South Korea Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 5 Best Hotels in Singapore

The 7 Best Hotels in Bangkok

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

Where to Stay in Singapore: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 13 Best Things to See and Do in Taipei

The 23 Best Things to Do in Hong Kong

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Seoul Itinerary: Ultimate DIY Travel Guide for South Korea for 5 Days (More or Less)

by Aileen Adalid Itineraries , South Korea 134 comments

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One of my recent adventures was to the dynamic metropolis of Seoul in South Korea — a bustling city that not only holds a strong presence in Asia but also in the rest of the world. To date, this influence is largely due to Seoul’s cutting-edge technology, a strong economy, and vibrant culture (I’m sure that a majority of you have encountered K-pop , K-dramas, Korean cosmetics, and Korean food among many others at least once in your life!) (Seoul Itinerary)

TRIVIA : Seoul has 25 districts ( gu ) that are further subdivided into 522 sub-districts ( dong ), and with the Han River that runs through the middle of the city, there are distinct 2 sections: Gangbuk (the northern area that’s more traditional) and Gangnam (southern area that’s more modern). But… asking for the “center” of this whole metropolitan area is a difficult thing to answer because Seoul’s districts can somehow each function like a city center itself.

It actually baffles me that I didn’t go to Seoul sooner; nevertheless, the important thing is, I’ve finally seen this city for myself, and well… I just LOVED it! I am totally smitten about how it is constantly brimming with incredible things-to-do of sorts — all of which are enough to satisfy any kind of traveler out there.

Where to Stay in Seoul?

Come and check out my list of the ‘ Best Hotels in Seoul ‘ which features the top recommended choices for cheap to luxurious accommodation choices PER district.

Clearly, the days I spent there were not enough and I would have absolutely loved to stay longer. And now, as I recall the vast array of activities and sights that could be done and seen, I’ve decided to whip up this comprehensive Seoul itinerary travel guide that spans 5 days/nights to help travelers (like you) to plan a trip with ease and speed.

Rest assured, the Seoul itinerary below is totally customizable to fit any number of days that you might be spending — but first, here are some important tips for your travel to South Korea!

Table of Contents

South Korea Travel Guide

» quick travel planning.

• Top tours & experiences
• Find flights to Korea
• Visa requirements
• Best hotels & hostels
• Travel insurance (5% discount)
• Stay connected

– – –

» Best Time to Visit

I suggest coming during autumn to see the amazing fall foliage , but of course, if you want to witness cherry blossom season then spring is a considerable option too.

• Spring : The city becomes a hit with all the flora that start to bloom and bud. And of course, much like Japan, the city has cherry blossoms which tourists often seek. Given this demand, there tends to be a slight increase in costs, but the weather and season are quite desirable.
• Summer : This is arguably the peak season in the city so things get busier and costlier. It doesn’t help either that this is the vacation month of schools and Korean companies so everyone is out and about. That’s why if I were you, you should avoid these months — also because the weather can get quite humid with occasional downpours.
• ★ Autumn : (This is the best time to visit Seoul because the weather is pleasant, prices are more affordable, and crowds are thinner. Not to mention the number of great destination must-sees for viewing vibrant leaves of autumn in South Korea . However, do take note to avoid Chuseok or Korea’s autumn harvest festival.
• Winter : As the temperatures drop, prices and airfare also drop. Take note though that it can get very chilly; but, supposing you’re not that sensitive to the cold, this can be a fun time given all the amazing ski resorts and festive atmosphere.

Other South Korean blooms to watch out for?

See this list of the most popular spring flowers in Korea — when to see them and where to go!

ADDITIONAL TIP: Arrive and start your Seoul itinerary before the weekend. For example, if you’re visiting for 5 nights, make sure to come from Wednesday to Sunday. I say this because most places, museums, and shops close on Mondays and Tuesdays. Moreover, a lot of cosmetic stores hold sales starting on Thursdays and up to the weekend .

• WINTER: Dec to Feb
• SPRING: March to May
• SUMMER: June to Aug
• AUTUMN: Sept to Nov

» Getting in to South Korea

International visitors typically arrive at the main airport called Incheon International Airport (ICN) . To get here, I recommend browsing through Skyscanner to find the best flight deals from your point of origin. If you’re from the Philippines like me, Skyscanner also scans through budget airlines such as Air Asia and Cebu Pacific in order to find which of the 2 has the cheapest rate on the dates you choose.

From ICN, below are the following modes of transportation to get to Seoul…

By train. AREX (Airport Railroad Express) or ‘airport train’ connects ICN to Seoul station and Gimpo Airport, operating from 5:20AM to 12:00AM (midnight). There are 2 types of AREX, namely ‘express’ and ‘all-stop’. As the name suggests, ‘express’ is fast as it goes directly to Seoul Station (43 minutes) whereas ‘all-stop’ will arrive at 12 stations before finally arriving at Seoul Station (53 minutes). ‘Express’ tickets typically cost ₩8,000 but if you purchase online , you can get it at a discount for about ₩6,500~ only — and if you use code AILEEN5OFF , you’ll get an additional 5% off! Contrarily, in case you hold a Discover Seoul Pass , you can avail of one (1) FREE one-way ride.

By private transfers . If you want the utmost convenience and ease, especially without having to drag your luggage around, I recommend booking a private transfer to your hotel for only $63~ (or Php 3,300~ / ₩67,000~). This works best if you’re coming together with other people so that you can share the cost and save more. Otherwise, there are taxis at the airport that charge around ₩60,000 to ₩90,000 depending on your destination (take note that if the taxi passes by a road toll, you’ll have to pay for it).

By airport limousine/bus or shared transfers. There are limousine buses that travel directly to major areas and big hotels in Seoul and are a great option when you’re traveling with a lot of luggage. To get a discounted rate on this at about ₩14,000~ only, book with KAL or via shared transfer .

» Visa for South Korea

If you’re NOT a citizen of any of South Korea’s exempted countries , you are then required to avail of a visa beforehand. (If you’re from the Philippines, you can read my guide on how to get a South Korea visa in Manila here .)

• Check full visa requirements here as per your nationality.

» Where to Stay (South Korea Accommodations)

To search for the best hotel accommodation in South Korea at the best prices, I suggest cross-checking hotel prices between Agoda and Booking.com . But if you’re rather interested in renting comfortable houses or apartments, you should search through AirBnB .

Otherwise, if you’re interested in seeing the top picks per district in Seoul, see here .

» South Korea Currency

South Korean Won (KRW / ₩) wherein KRW 1,000 is equal to about USD $0.9~, €0.7~ or Php 49.00~ (this is as of May 2021). In the event that you want to exchange your money for KRW, I highly advise that you do NOT exchange your money at the airport since the rates there are not competitive.

• How to best exchange your currency? Either exchange your money at a bank or at a money exchanger in your home country or in Seoul’s city center. Better yet, just withdraw from an ATM with your debit/credit card (do one big withdrawal to minimize fees with your bank) . Speaking of cards, a lot of Seoul’s establishments accept credit cards but it’s always advisable to have cash on hand.

» Cost of Travel in Korea

While the cost of living in South Korea is far from being cheap, your trip doesn’t have to break the bank! To give you an idea, you should expect to travel in South Korea with an average daily cost of about USD $35~ per person on a budget, or at least $100~ if you want to experience more comfort on activities, tours, hotels, and more. (Values below show low budget to medium budget ranges).

• Hotels: $20 to $100 USD / day
• Food: $10 to $30 USD / day
• Fun: $10 to $25 USD / day
• Transport: About US$1 per subway ride*

*Buy a T-Money card that saves you ₩100 on all trips.

» How to Get Around Seoul

I would recommend using Naver Map ( iOs / Android ) for researching your day-to-day route on your Seoul itinerary because it will show in detail the fastest connections you can do (by walking, by car, by bus, and by subway). To make this work, get your own pocket WiFi or SIM Card .

You might be wondering why I am not recommending Google Maps which is the app that I typically use in my travels. Well… this is because Google Maps’ driving and walking directions don’t work in South Korea. This is mainly due to the country’s old security laws that were set after the Korean War (I guess, as a way to protect their detailed topography from North Korea).

By subway . Seoul’s metro is impressive, well-connected, and cheap. To save time and make the most of the fares during your stay, it’s best to buy a T-Money card which is basically a stored value smart card that you can recharge and use between buses, trains, and subways while saving you ₩100 on all trips. You can buy this online beforehand at a cheaper rate — otherwise, it can be purchased at most of Seoul’s subway stations, newspaper kiosks, and convenience stores.

Take note that a T-money card is applicable to other locations as well in South Korea such as Gyeonggi-do, Incheon, Busan , Daegu, Daejeon, and Gwangju buses — plus Incheon, Busan, Daegu, Daejeon, and Gwangju Metropolitan Subway networks.

However, if I may give you a tip, you can actually avoid paying the cost of acquiring this card (₩3,000) if you have a Discover Seoul Pass (which I will discuss in the next section below).

NOTE : Single-ride cards cost about ₩1,200~ and they can be purchased on vending machines which accept coins and bills only. Reloading your T-Money Card can also only be done with cash. Meanwhile, remember that the last train usually departs by midnight (the subway does NOT operate for 24 hours).

By bus. The city also has an extensive and well-connected bus service that similarly makes use of the T-Money card. Just always remember to tap your card before exiting the bus or else you’ll be charged the maximum fare possible on that bus’ route. If you’re rather looking for an unlimited hop-on-hop-off bus to the city’s major spots, you can check this out.

By foot . Seoul technically isn’t too huge of a place and most of the city highlights can be reached by foot.

By taxi. There are various taxi types in Seoul and in order to learn more about them and their corresponding fares, read here . (It’s also possible to book an Uber car) .

» Money-Saving Tips in Seoul

I advise that you purchase a Discover Seoul Pass for your Seoul itinerary because it is an amazing cost-effective card that is offered only to foreigners. To illustrate, below are the range of benefits that you can get from this pass:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Deoksugung Palace
• Changgyeonggung Palace
• Changdeokgung Palace
• Jongmyo (Royal Shrine)
• N Seoul Tower Observatory
• Seoul City Tour Double-Decker Bus
• COEX Aquarium
• TrickEye & Ice Museum
• Hello Kitty Island in N Seoul Tower
• PooPoo Land
• Lotte World Adventure
• Eland Cruise
• LOTTE Duty Free
• NO WORRIES! Using your Discover Seoul Pass as a T-Money card for public transportation does NOT activate it. The Discover Seoul Pass will only activate when you first use it on its listed attraction s.

To get the best rate for a Discover Seoul Pass, you can purchase it online (it’s available in 24H and 48H options), and then pick it up either at Incheon International Airport or at Myeongdong’s Tourist Information Center.

• TIP : The last Wednesday of each month has been designated as a “Culture Day” in Korea since 2014. During this day, participating museums, galleries, and other cultural facilities will offer FREE or discounted admissions. Examples are the royal palaces, Jongmyo Shrine, National Museum of Korea, Korean National Ballet etc.

» Staying Connected in South Korea

South Korea is said to have the fastest internet in the world (and yep, it’s true!) so you’ll be assured of great connection wherever you go. To add, most places even offer FREE WiFi — but in order to consistently stay connected online during your Seoul trip, I recommend getting your own pocket WiFi or SIM Card ; otherwise, consider getting an eSIM for a hassle-free experience.

» Safety in South Korea

The Republic of Korea or South Korea remains to be one of the safest countries in the world — and also one of the safest countries for solo female travelers . Petty theft may happen but they are quite rare; so, just practice common sense at all times and you’ll be fine!

• HOW TO: Find the right travel insurance for you

» Helpful Korean Phrases

English is not widely spoken in South Korea even if it is taught in a lot of schools, but you’ll have better luck in the capital of Seoul where a lot of people put time, effort and money in learning English. Nevertheless, it doesn’t hurt to learn a bit of the local language!

• RELATED READ: Best translation apps for travel

Hello (formal): Annyeong haseyo Hello (informal): Annyeong Thank you: Gamsahamnida You’re welcome: Cheonmanyeyo Yes: Ye/Ne No: Aniyo Goodbye (to person leaving): Annyeonghi gaseyo Goodbye (to person staying): Annyeonghi gyeseyo Goodbye (informal): Annyeong

Excuse me (getting attention): Sillyehamnida I’m sorry: Joesonghamnida Is there someone here who speaks English?: Yeogi-e yeong-eoreul hasineun bun gyesimnikka? Help!: Dowajusipsio! Cheers!: Geonbae!

Other F.A.Q.

It is not customary in South Korea to tip, and sometimes, much like in Japan, they consider it as an insult so tipping is not recommended at all. In hotels and some restaurants though, you will sometimes see a 10% service charge on your bill.

South Korea typically uses type F (two round pins). The country operates on a 220V voltage and a frequency of 60Hz.

 Please check their  latest travel advisories  page for more details.

All visitors to South Korea must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after the period of their intended stay (as well as have 2 blank pages).

There is and you can easily claim a tax refund for being a tourist; simply read this page for more info.

It is legal to fly a drone in the country but one of the top restrictions is to NOT fly above 150 meters and if your drone is more than 250 grams, it needs to be registered. For more info, see here .

Seoul Itinerary Guide

Take note that the 5-day Seoul itinerary below does not take into account your arrival day in Seoul — at any rate, if you’re staying longer in the city, you can make use of the last tab called ‘ Extra Days ‘ to see the other activities or trips you can do for filling up the rest of your vacation days.

TIP: It’s best to arrive and start your Seoul itinerary trip before the weekend. So for example, if you have 5 whole days, make sure to arrive on Tuesday and then start your whole tour from Wednesday to Sunday . I say this because most places, museums, and shops close on Mondays and Tuesdays. Moreover, a lot of cosmetic stores hold sales starting on Thursdays and up to the weekend so it would be a good idea to take advantage of that.

NOTE: The following section is in a tabbed format; so, in order to see the next day’s contents, just click the headings below.

DAY 1: Explore and enjoy Korean culture in a hanbok!

Photo by: Shutterstock

◘◘ Rent a hanbok and explore some of Seoul’s cultural highlights

(Nearest subway station: Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit #4) You must never leave the city without trying on the elegant Korean traditional clothing called ‘ hanbok’! Much like how Japan has kimono rental shops, South Korea has hanbok rental shops for tourists. Through these places, you can borrow and wear hanbok for a day (or more ) whilst you venture out to the cultural spots in Seoul to snap wonderful photos.

This is certainly a MUST-do activity in your Seoul itinerary because aside from the fact that you can have the chance to feel as though you’ve been transported back to the Joseon period or to a set of an old K-drama, the experience itself is also supported by the Koreans as a part of promoting their history (so yes, it’s one way of immersing yourself with their vibrant culture too). And if those reasons are not enough, wearing a hanbok grants you FREE entry to the palaces in the city!

TRIVIA : The term ‘hanbok’ literally means “Korean clothing” but it just basically refers to the traditional clothing for both men and women from the Joseon period.

There are a LOT of hanbok rental shops in Seoul but if you want the best, I highly recommend renting with Seohwa Hanbok . Apart from its prime location, it has more intricately-designed hanbok garments that are set at an affordable price! For a more comprehensive guide on this, read my ‘ Hanbok Rental ‘ post here .

As you would see on the online booking platform , Seohwa Hanbok has 3 rental options: 4 hours, 1 day, or 2 days .

NOTE: If you have purchased the Discover Seoul Pass (no matter if it’s the 24H or 48H option), it’s preferable that you do NOT activate it on this day because you’ll already be given FREE entry to 4 of the ‘Five Grand Palaces’ if you’re wearing a hanbok. Not to mention that this whole hanbok activity will already likely fill up your whole day, so it’s best to activate the pass the next day. . Unless of course, you plan to avail the FREE hanbok rental use instead that’s under the Discover Seoul Pass’ perks. Personally, I think it’s best that you avail a hanbok rental separately for longer hours because the free hanbok rental under the pass is only for 90 minutes).

Once you are clad in a hanbok of your own choosing, I recommend doing the following route:

• The Changing of the Royal Guard ( Sumunjang ) ceremony is held for FREE daily, except Tuesdays, at 10:00AM and 2:00PM in front of Gwanghwamun or the main gate of Gyeongbokgung. If you can’t make it to these time slots, you can also witness a Guard-on-Duty Performance at Gwanghwamun gate at 11:00AM and 1:00PM or a Sumungun (Gatekeeper) Military Training in Hyeopsaengmun Gate at 09:35AM and 1:35PM.
• If you’ve got time, you can check out the huge golden King Sejong Statue at the nearby Gwanghwamun Square. (King Sejong is best remembered as the inventor of ‘Hangeul’ or the Korean alphabet.)
• ★ Changdeokgung: This was the 2nd palace that was built after Gyeongbokgung and it has since been recognized as a World Cultural Heritage site by UNESCO in 1997. An interesting feature of this place is its ‘Secret Garden’ because there are only a limited number of admission slots per day that are given out. If you’re lucky, you can get the chance to go in if you want to!
• Deoksugung: This palace is famous for its picturesque stone-walled road (which is often featured in K-dramas like Goblin). And much like Gyeongbokgung, Deoksugung Palace has a Changing of the Royal Guards Ceremony and it is held at 11:00AM, 2:00PM, and 3:30PM daily, except on Mondays.
• Changgyeonggung: This used to be the residential quarters for queens and concubines of the king, and it later became a park with a zoo and a botanical garden during the Japanese colonial rule (today though, the zoo and garden are relocated to Seoul Land ).
• Gyeonghuigung: Located near Deoksugung Palace, this site served as the secondary palace for the king in the latter half of the Joseon period. For a time, Gyeonghuigung was of considerable size but most of its major structures have long been disassembled and moved to other parts of Seoul. .
• To get here, look for Bukchon-ro street. It will be hard to miss because the tourism board had recently appointed staff there in red clothing to help tourists and distribute maps. Basically, there are 8 major viewpoints to see in Bukchon Hanok Village and those that you must NOT miss are the Gaehoe-dong areas that are typically appointed as Views #3 to #7. If you’re coming with elderly companions, take note that there are a few uphill climbs in this area.
• Unlike other hanok villages (like Namsangol Hanok Village), Bukchon was not built for tourists as it is rather a residential village inhabited by Seoulites. Therefore, make sure to keep quiet so as not to disturb the locals.
• As you leave Bukchon, drop by the nearby neighborhood of Ikseon-dong . Much like Bukchon, it’s one of the oldest hanok villages in Seoul; but in case you want to escape the crowds, it would be a great idea to explore this hidden gem! .
• Lunch: You can either have it at Bukchon Hanok Village or at Insa-dong. There are a lot of cafes and restaurants in these areas so you won’t have a difficult time picking a place; though if I may put in my two cents, do check out Jokagbo at Bukchon (across the street near the entrance to the village) or Gogung at Insa-dong for their bibimbap (mixed rice bowl). For other food or restaurant options, click the “Extra Days” tab on top of this section — or go to this link to see a list of restaurants that you can book online at special deals. .
• Drop by Insa-dong: (Nearest subway station: Anguk Station, Exit #6) As you make your way to the last stop of this route, you must not skip on the neighborhood of Insa-dong in the Jongno-gu district of Seoul. After all, its streets are one of the best places in Seoul when it comes to culture and crafts (perfect for souvenirs!). If I may also share another tip, try to stop by Ssamziegil which is a unique building wherein each of its levels is connected in the form of a spiraling walkway! .
• (OPTIONAL) Visit Namsangol Hanok Village: (Nearest subway station: Chungmuro Station, Exit #3) Located at the foot of Namsan, this village was built to feature 5 traditional houses of different social classes from the Joseon era, all relocated to this spot from different locations in Seoul in order for guests to understand the daily lives of its past people. Of all these 5 houses or hanok, only one is open to the public which is the house of Yoon-ssi of Okin-dong. It has been transformed into ‘Yoon’s Tearoom’ where visitors can learn about Korea’s tea culture. If you’re interested, you could join the tea ceremony program for only ₩7,000. (For a list of other activities in this village, see this link ).

Is it possible to just try on a hanbok for FREE? Yes. If you hold a Discover Seoul Pass , you can wear a hanbok of your choice outdoors for 90 minutes via HANBOKNAM, or take photos with a hanbok in the indoor studio of Namsan Seoul Tower Hanbok Experience Center . However, if you do not have a Discover Seoul Pass, Korea Tourism Office’s Main HQ allows you to wear simple hanbok and take shots of yourself in it indoors. . Is there a service where I can just rent a hanbok indoors and have a professional photographer take photos of me? Of course! You can book this kind of experience online for just ₩15,000~ (or USD$14~ / Php 730~). It even has the option of doing outdoor shots.

◘◘ Visit the awe-inspiring structure of Dongdaemun Design Plaza

(Nearest subway station: Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, Exit #2)

Also called “DDP”, this structure is a new major urban landmark in the heart of Seoul which has a distinctly futuristic design made by world-renowned architect, Zaha Hadid. As such, it’s not strange that it is one of the most Instagrammed locations in Korea.

Other than enjoying its grand outer architecture for your Seoul itinerary, you can also stroll through DDP’s huge 5 halls namely, Art Hall, Museum, Design Lab, Design Market, and Dongdaemun History and Culture Park — places where you can shop and watch various exhibitions, fashion shows, and performances among many others.

• From late May to late October every year, Seoul Bamdokkaebi (Goblin) Night Market will open in DDP from 6:00PM to 11:00PM, so don’t forget to make a stop here to not only buy a variety of food and goods but to also enjoy the various performances made available during this event.
• TRIVIA : This display was first put up on National Liberation Day in 2015 which is in celebration of Korea’s 70th year of independence. Hence, the number of 25,550 comes from 365 days multiplied by 70.

BONUS: If you still have some time, drop by Ihwa Mural Village, a picturesque neighborhood in Seoul that is famous for its amazing murals — as well as for its fascinating cafes and shops. It’s no wonder that a lot of K-dramas and movies have started to do their filming here. You can basically find this near Naksan Park (which also yet another hidden gem that provides great views of the cityscape).

◘◘ Eat and shop through any of Seoul’s night markets

Like the rest of Asia, Seoul has no shortage of vibrant night markets, so for dinner, go and drop by any of the following spots ( it’s best to choose only one! )

• Bamdokkaebi (Goblin) Night Market: (Nearest subway station: *various spots*) Like I’ve written above, this night market opens from May to October. It originally opened in Yeouido (Yeouinaru Station, Exit #3) but has since expanded to several locations such as DDP. The other remaining places would be Cheonggyecheon Stream (Jongno5(0)ga Station, Exit #7) and Banpo Hangang Park (Express Bus Terminal Station). .
• Dongdaemun Night Market: (Nearest subway station: Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, Exit #4) Take note that this is different from the night market found in DDP. Apart from the retail haven found in this vicinity, you will also find the ‘Open market’ with its bright yellow tents, all selling various apparel, souvenirs, and items at affordable prices starting from 10:00PM up to 5:00AM. If you’re rather looking for delicious Korean eats during your Seoul itinerary, drop by Mukja Golmok (“Let’s Eat Alley” at exit #8 of Dongdaemun Station) to feast on snacks like tteokbokki (rice rolls). .
• ★ Myeongdong Night Market: (Nearest subway station: Myeongdong Station, Exit #7) Even if this is not one of those ‘traditional’ night markets, it remains to be a popular destination for travelers as it is set in the bustling shopping district of Myeongdong that holds some of the biggest stores like Lotte and Shinsegae as well as cosmetic brands of all kinds. Starting from 5:00PM and onwards, you will start to see food stalls filling up the main street with fares like gyerangbbang (Korean egg bread), dak-galbi (spicy stir-fried chicken), etc. .
• ★ Namdaemun Night Market: (Nearest subway station: Hoehyeon Station, Exit #5) Open from 11:00PM till 4:00AM, this traditional night market is the largest in Seoul and it holds every possible thing that you can think of — from food to clothing, they have it all! .
• Gwangjang Market: (Nearest subway station: Jongno 5(o)-ga Station, Exit #8) If Namdaemun is the largest, then Gwangjang would be the oldest in Seoul, making it a common go-to place for many Korean shoppers. You can actually find this close by Dongdaemun and DDP so it’s possible to check off several of those night markets in the same night if you will it so! (TIP: This place is best if you’re looking to buy a hanbok for yourself). .
• ★ Noryangjin Fish Market: (Nearest subway station: Noryangjin Station, Exit #1) Operating 24 hours a day, this place is more than just a night market. If you come in the early morning, you can witness a bustling fish auction (reminiscent of Japan’s Tsukiji Fish Market). Anyhow, the fun part about this place is that you can buy some fresh seafood and then have it cooked by a restaurant located on the 2nd floor — and if you’re brave enough, maybe you can try the infamous Korean activity of eating a LIVE octopus?

TIP : Want a hassle-free foodie experience? With the help of a local guide, you can join a Korean Food Walking Tour or a Korean Night Dining Tour .

◘◘ Watch the famous Nanta Show

If there’s one show that you should NOT miss for your Seoul itinerary, it will be witnessing the award-winning long-running NANTA Show at Myeongdong Theatre. This is basically a non-verbal comedy show (so it’s fine even if you don’t know Korean) that incorporates traditional ‘ samul nori ‘ rhythm (which is a genre of percussion music distinct to Korea) as they do a slapstick play that mimes the story of cooks who are preparing for a wedding.

I’ve seen this show myself and it was quite entertaining as I saw knives fly and fire blasting from pots — but don’t worry, it’s all safe! But I must say that it did have a distinct sense of humor that may or may not work for you. Either way, it’s an energetic performance that has garnered distinctions and awards from Edinburg Fringe Festival and on New York’s Broadway, so I say: give it a try!

NEAREST SUBWAY: Myeongdong Station, Exit #7 BOOK: Online to get 30% off on tickets

DAY 2: “Discover” more of Seoul!

NOTE: If you have purchased the Discover Seoul Pass (no matter if it’s the 24H or 48H option), this would be a good day to start its activation.

◘◘ Explore and shop in Myeongdong and Hongdae

Myeongdong: (Nearest subway station: Myeongdong Station) This is is arguably the shopping mecca of Seoul and its 2 main streets meet in the center — the first spanning from Myeongdong Subway Station and the second from Lotte Department Store at Euljiro.

For the shopaholics, there is a wide range of branded shops and department stores that line Myeongdong’s streets and alleys (e.g. Lotte Department Store, Shinsegae Department Store, Noon Square, etc.), and they are often set relatively cheaper than the other shopping areas in the city like Cheongdam-dong.

Of course, let’s not forget that Myeongdong is a beauty lover’s dream too given the number of Korean cosmetic stores that regularly hold insane sales for their high-quality products.

As an example, I went here to shop for face masks and one piece averaged at only USD$0.40~ or Php 20~! Some of the top stores you need to check are: Innisfree, Nature Republic, Holika Holika, Tony Moly, Nature Republic, and Laneige. (If you have heard of the Instagram-famous place called as Style Nanda Pink Hotel , you can find it here in this neighborhood or ‘dong’).

TIP : Try to NOT buy from the first shop that you set foot into because most of the time, they will hand out free samples and masks, which could be quite a treat! In fact, I know that some people would hop from store to store just to collect samples, haha. Anyhow, in case you want to check out other places because you’ve got some time, shops in Hyehwa and Sincheon neighborhoods can have cheaper cosmetic products too. And oh, of course, do NOT ever forget claiming your tax refund!

Hongdae: (Nearest subway station: Hongik University Station, Exit #9) It’s no surprise that this area is often compared to Japan’s Harajuku because of its hip and youthful ambiance — with a dash of unique cafes and indie fashion shops here and there. Aside from strolling through ‘ Hongdae Walking Street’, ‘ Picasso’s Street ‘ and ‘ Club Street’ , below are some of the places in and around Hongdae that you should consider stopping by for your Seoul itinerary:

• Hongdae Free Market: Open on Saturdays from March to November at Hongik Children’s Park. You will find here an array of local artist works.
• Trickeye and Ice Museum: TrickEye museum is an interactive 3D space that gives off impressive optical illusions; whereas Ice Museum, as the name implies, is a space where you can enjoy a cool icy environment (e.g. a living room with a TV and couch made of ice and more). Entering these places is free if you hold a Discover Seoul Pass , but if you don’t have the pass, you can reserve your tickets online .
• If you’re looking to spend some time in cute cafes, go to ‘ Chuu ‘ or ‘ Zapangi’ .

BONUS: Ewha Woman’s University is an educational institute with picturesque grounds, but more than this, it’s actually smacked in a shopping area that sells a variety of affordable and stylish clothes for young people; therefore, this is also a good place to shop.

◘◘ Get lunch

It’s time to feast on a delicious Korean BBQ meal! While you’re already in Hongdae, try out either of these places: Gogigo or Old House Charcoal Meat Restaurant .

For other food or restaurant options, click the “Extra Days” tab on top of this section — or go to this link to see a list of restaurants that you can book online at special deals.

◘◘ Make full use of your Discover Seoul Pass

If you’ve followed my advice and got yourself a Discover Seoul Pass , you can enter any of the establishments below for FREE during your Seoul itinerary! Take your pick from any of the following to fill up the rest of your day ( best to pick 2 at most ).

For a complete list of FREE admissions under the Discover Seoul Pass, you can also visit this page .

• MBC World: (Nearest subway station: Digital Media City Station, Exit #9) Are you a fan of K-pop, K-dramas, or Korean stars — or just ‘ hallyu ‘ (Korean Wave) in general? Then MBC World is a great destination for your Seoul itinerary, as it will give you the chance to experience hologram K-pop concerts, virtual reality drama sets, and more. (If you don’t have the Discover Seoul Pass and want to separately book a ticket, go here ) . .
• SM Town Museum: (Nearest subway station: Samseong Station, Exit #6) Still in line with the ‘hallyu’ fever, this place is dedicated to famous K-pop artists under the powerhouse of SM Entertainment in South Korea. Avid fans can tour through their training rooms, recording rooms, and so much more. (If you don’t have the pass and want to separately book a ticket for this, go here ) . .
• Grévin Museum: (Nearest subway station: Euljiro 1-ga Station, Exit #1) This is like Korea’s version of Madam Tussauds. You can find about 80 wax figures of Korean and international celebrities, as well as several thematic interactive experiences. (If you don’t have the pass and want to separately book a ticket, go here ) . .
• 63 Square: (Nearest subway station: Yeouinaru Station, Exit #4) Other than gaining access to panoramic views of Seoul, you can also enter in 63 Square the first aquarium in Korea called Aqua Planet 63. If you’re a K-drama fan, this is actually the aquarium used in ‘Legend of the Blue Sea’ and where a Mermaid Show is regularly held. (If you don’t have the pass and want to separately book a ticket, go here for combination tickets or here for the aquarium only. .
• COEX Aquarium: (Nearest subway station: Bongeunsa Station, Exit #7) This place has the largest collection of marine life in Korea and you can watch feeding shows and interactive exhibits here too. (If you don’t have the pass and want to separately book a ticket, go here ). .
• Seoul City Tour Double-Decker Bus: Go on a hop-on-hop-off bus tour through the center of Seoul to get a glimpse of all of its past and present glory. (If you don’t have the pass and want to separately book a ticket, go here ). .
• Alive Museum: (Nearest subway station: Euljiro 3(sam) Station, Exit #1) This place is similar to TrickEye Museum but it is arguably larger with several other exhibits such as the ‘Dynamic Maze’ (where participants must work together to overcome challenges) and the ‘Black Wonderland’ (where fairy tales like Alice in Wonderland, Frozen, Cinderella and Aladdin can be experienced in the dark ). If you don’t have the pass and want to separately book a ticket, go here . .
• Seoul Zoo and Skylift: (Nearest subway station: Seoul Grand Park Station, Exit #2) Seoul Zoo is South Korea’s largest zoo with over 330 species of animals, inclusive of a botanical garden and a forest park. The icing on the cake? You can even ride the Sky Lift which can transport you to several places such as the Seoul Land theme park and more. (If you don’t have the pass and want to separately book a ticket for your Seoul itinerary, go here ). .
• Running Man: (Nearest subway station: Euljiro 1-ga Station, Exit #3) Do you want to be a part of Korea’s popular variety show, Running Man? Well with this thematic experience, you can do so! This will surely be a hilarious and fun adventure for you and your travel companions as you make your way through 6 zones, including Maze Battle. (If you don’t have the pass and want to separately book a ticket, go here ). .

◘◘ Visit Namsan Park and N Seoul Tower

(Take Namsan Shuttle Bus, Circulation Bus No. 2, 3, or 5)

Mt. Namsan’s Namsan Park is a symbolic place in the center of Seoul. To get up here, you can ride a cable car, a bus, or just simply walk up its stairway path. Most visitors come to this place to enjoy nature, to see the city skyline, or to do some of the hiking trails — but a majority makes a stop at the famous N Seoul Tower which is the first tower-type tourism spot in South Korea.

Rising at almost 480m above sea level, it is certainly one of the tallest towers in Asia. Once you set foot on its premises during your Seoul itinerary, you can explore its other attractions such as the LED tunnel, Hello Kitty Island, Ssentoy Museum & Showroom, and more.

• BOOK: Online to get a discounted ticket to the tower’s observatory as well as grab great combo deals.
• TIP : Other than N Seoul Tower, you can also find Palgakjeong Pavillion (octagonal hall) and Bonghwadae (beacon mounds that were used to signal incoming enemy invasions in the past).

◘◘ Grab dinner

I have two options for you, depending on what you fancy:

• A traditional royal Korean cuisine dinner: Feast on fresh and high-quality Korean cuisine set in a traditionally-styled restaurant called Myongdongjeong . What’s more? You can also rent their hanbok for free while eating to really feel as though you’ve been transported to a royal palace. .
• A cruise buffet dinner through Hangang River: Hangang or Han River is a major river in South Korea, and it is best enjoyed during the night with Eland Cruise as you glide through the waters and taste a delectable food buffet. Before the end of your cruise, you can even witness a firework show and a front-row view on the colorful Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain Show. To reserve your spot, go here .

For other food or restaurant options, click the “Extra Days” tab on top of this section — or go to this link to see a list of restaurants that you can book online at special deals for your Seoul itinerary.

◘◘ Walk through Cheonggyecheon Stream

(Nearest subway station: Jongno5(0)ga Station, Exit #7 )

Cheonggyecheon is a picturesque 11 km-long modern stream that runs through a total of 22 bridges before flowing into the Hangang or Han River. Some examples of the beautiful bridges that it has are the Narae Bridge (which represents a butterfly) and Gwanggyo Bridge (depicting the harmony of the past and the future).

A lot of Seoulites wind down to this spot to chill and bask under the city lights, the lush ambiance, and the surrounding man-made waterfalls, if not partake in the Bamdokkaebi (Goblin) Night Market from May to October — so why not do the same during your Seoul itinerary?

DAY 3: A chill kind of day

◘◘ Do a “ Discover Seoul Pass ” or “Extra Days” activity

I recommend that you pick up an activity that you prefer from any of the previously listed things to do that I’ve written under Day #2’s ‘Discover Seoul Pass’ options of this Seoul itinerary. If not, you can also browse through the “Extra Days” tab above.

If you ask me, doing a cooking class , a kimchi class or a K-pop dance class will be a LOT of fun! (Read more about my Kpop dance class experience here ).

Did you ever want to try spending a day with a Korean ‘oppa’ (older brother)? Join this walking tour that’s led by a local guide!

◘◘ Grab lunch

• Hangaram: (Nearest subway station: Express Bus Terminal Station) Hangaram is a great choice if you want to taste some of the beloved Korean staples like bibimbap (mixed rice bowl), bulgogi (stir-fried beef), japchae (stir-fried glass noodles), kimchi (fermented vegetables) , etc. .
• Tosokchon Samgyetang: (Nearest subway station: Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit #2) Another Korean dish that you need to taste is samgyetang or ginseng chicken soup, and this restaurant is often lauded as the BEST place to eat in.

For other food or restaurant options, click the “Extra Days” tab on top of this section — or go to this link to see a list of restaurants that you can book online at special deals for your Seoul itinerary .

◘◘ Shop for highly discounted Korean food and snacks at Lotte Mart!

(Nearest subway station: Seoul Station, Exit #4 ). Naturally, going through any of the night markets I’ve listed under Day #1 will already grant you access to the cheapest food and snacks possible. However, other than those, I think that you should also go on a crazy chow shopping spree at Lotte Mart’s Seoul Station Branch! Why so? Well… as one of the leading discount store chains in South Korea, they sell ridiculously low-priced goods.

I swear to you, I bought only USD$20-worth of snacks here, yet it was enough to gift them to more than 20 people! (On top of the discounted items, you can get at most an 8% tax refund, and more to that, they also provide a free self-packing station so that you can pack all your purchased items in sealed boxes).

• For the must-buy snacks? It would be tteokbokki junk food, Binggrae banana-flavored milk, choco pies, yogurt jelly, honey butter chips, fire noodles (called also Buldak Bokkeum Myeon ), Lotte stick biscuits, and honey butter almond among many others!
• TIP: While you’re here, don’t miss dropping by the nearby newly-opened sky garden walkway called Seoullo 7017!

◘◘ Walk around Gangnam

(Nearest subway station: Gangnam Station)

There’s probably not a soul in this world who hasn’t heard of ‘Gangnam’ (and we have PSY to thank for that) .

For your info, Gangnam is Seoul’s upscale modern center that is home to high skyscrapers, designer brands, high-end restaurants, and pulsating nightclubs — so yes, it’s the home to many wealthy Koreans. In fact, you can think of it as the ‘Beverly Hills’ of Seoul. To make the most of your visit here during your Seoul itinerary, stop by the following ( it’s best to pick 3 at most ).

• Gangnam Terminal Underground Shopping Centre: You’ll find this from the moment that you step foot in Gangnam Station’s subway. With an array of accessories, clothing, cosmetics, and shoes, I have found a lot of sweet bargains here myself! .
• Gangnam Square: Right outside Gangnam Station’s Exit #5 is the spacious Gangnam Square which has a small section built as a tribute to PSY’s ‘Gangnam Style’ hit song, as well as the Gangnam-daero Road that’s speckled with various shops. .
• Apgujeong Rodeo Street and Cheongdam Fashion Street: (Nearest subway station: Apgujeong Rodeo Station, Exit #1 and Exit #3 respectively.) If you haven’t had enough of shopping but are looking for more upmarket shops. .
• Hallyu K-Star Road: K-pop fans must not skip this! Found between Apgujeong Rodeo Station and Cheongdam Station are adorable GangnamDols that are each autographed by K-pop groups like EXO, BTS, Super Junior, and more. For a detailed list, you can check here . .
• Garosu-gil Road: (Nearest subway station: Sinsa Station, Exit #8) This Gingko tree-lined street is a popular, trendy street in the city of Seoul and it is even often called an ‘artists street’ due to the number of quaint cafes and designer stores. Some charming cafes that you can choose from are Gingko Avenue, Line Friends Cafe, Cafe de Paris, and IKOVOX . .
• Starfield COEX Mall: (Nearest subway station: Bongeunsa Station, Exit #7) This mall is a shopping mecca, but more than this, it has interesting amenities too that are not limited to the COEX Aquarium and the Starfield Library. The latter is the newest built facility on the premises and it features 50,000 books and magazines in a grand yet relaxed setting. .
• SM Town Museum: (Nearest subway station: Samseong Station, Exit #6) This place is dedicated to famous K-pop artists under the powerhouse of SM Entertainment in South Korea. Avid fans can tour through their training rooms, recording rooms, and so much more. (If you don’t have the pass and want to separately book a ticket, go here ) . .
• Lotte World: (Nearest subway station: Jamsil Station) As Seoul’s largest indoor and outdoor amusement theme park, you will actually need a full day to enjoy this place — but I still felt like including this here, just so you know that it’s located in this Gangnam area. So if you have a spare day in your Seoul itinerary, it would be great to visit Lotte World. Another theme park choice would be Everland , but if you want other options, check the “Extra Days” tab above.

◘◘ Go up to Lotte World Tower

Towering at 554 meters, this new 123-floor skyscraper just opened last 2017 and it is currently the tallest building in Seoul and the 5th tallest in the world. It contains several cafes, galleries, a luxury hotel, a skywalk, and an observation deck.

Obviously, this is the best place for viewing panoramic views of the cityscape and I highly suggest that you go up to the observatory not only to enjoy the view with a cup of coffee but to also experience its glass floors! Though it was nerve-wracking at first, it was really cool to feel as though I was floating up in the air like that! (Another thing you can enjoy nearby is Lotte World Mall).

NEAREST SUBWAY: Jamsil Station, Exit #2 BOOK: ₩27,000 for adults and ₩24,000 for children (Pay less if you book online ).

BONUS : From April to October, head over to the Han River’s Banpodaegyo Bridge by 8PM (plays every 20 minutes until 9PM) to watch their famous Moonlight Rainbow Fountain show.

I think it’s time to have a meal with the guidance of a local during your Seoul itinerary, so why not try a Seoul street food tour for instance? If you’re not game for that, you can find other food or restaurant options under the “Extra Days” tab on top of this section — or go to this link to see a list of restaurants that you can book online at special deals for your Seoul itinerary.

DAY 4: All About JSA

◘◘ Visit the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

It’s no news that the Korean peninsula has long been divided into two countries: North Korea and South Korea. Unfortunately, it was not at all a peaceful separation given the infamous 250km-long buffer zone of the Demilitarized Zone ( DMZ ) that separates the two since 1953.

Today, it is referred to as the most heavily guarded area in the world with battle-ready armies, fences, landmines, and fences on both sides — it’s absolutely one of the scariest places in the world! …And yet, it continues to be a popular major tourist attraction in South Korea that attracts a lot of history buffs and curious folks worldwide who are seeking to witness this surreal land for themselves (people like me).

The available tours currently being held are as follows:

• Panmunjom Joint Security Area (JSA) Tour: This is the most sought-after tour by travelers to South Korea’s DMZ because this is the closest place to North Korean soil that anyone can step into without getting arrested or shot. A tour to JSA will only be possible through an organized tour that is approved by the government and it will basically take the guests to the iconic blue UN building that is smacked on the border — with both North and South Korean soldiers facing one another (as if they’re on a staring showdown). .
• North Korea Center of Unification Board: Shows over a hundred photos and documents showing the stark reality of North Korea.
• Mangbaedan Alter: The spot where Koreans separated from their families in the North. Koreans typically visit this place on New Year’s Day and Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) to perform ancestral rites to their home and relatives in the North.
• Bridge of Freedom: Where South Koreans crossed when they were released from North Korea. You will witness a lot of ribbons tied to the fences that each contain messages of hope, peace, and love.
• Dora Observatory: From here, visitors can look closer into North Korea with binoculars as they witness things like the North Korean propaganda village, Kaesong city, and others.
• Dorasan Station: This is the northernmost train stop on South Korea’s railway line and locals hope that it would one day connect North and South Korea when peace finally prevails.

It is possible to combine the two tours above for a whole-day experience during your Seoul itinerary (see here ).

BOOKING LINKS (use promo code AILEEN5OFF to get a 5% discount ) :

• Panmunjom Joint Security Area Tour (JSA) only = ₩85,000~
• Third Tunnel of Aggression only = ₩63,800~
• Panmunjom Joint Security Area Tour (JSA) & Third Tunnel of Aggression combo = ₩130,000~

◘◘ Visit a spa or a jjimjilbang

After your tense morning tour to DMZ, how about you relax and pamper yourself with Korea’s well-liked spa services? Apart from getting a Korean massage , I urge you to experience jjimjilbang or a large gender-segregated public bathhouse complete with hot tubs, showers, traditional Korean kiln saunas, and massage tables.

If you’re a fan of K-dramas, you will probably be familiar with this because it’s a common place that Koreans frequent for spa services. For this, you can visit Dragon Hill Spa (or if you hold a Discover Seoul Pass , it gives you free admission to Sealala jjimjilbang).

NEAREST SUBWAY STATION: Itaewon Station, Exit #3 BOOK: Go to this link to get a discounted rate

ALTERNATIVE : If you rather want to relax in nature during your Seoul itinerary, go over to the World Cup Park, a humongous space that used to be a landfill but has now been turned into a park with 5 different sections: Pyeonghwa (Peace) Park, Haneul (Sky) Park, Noeul (Sunset) Park, Nanjicheon Park, and Nanji Hangang Park. A crowd favorite would be Haneul Park as it’s the highest elevation of the five parks.

I have two options for you for your Seoul itinerary, depending on what you prefer:

• Buffet: Taste all kinds of gourmet food at Tavolo 24 .
• Korean gopchang: Taste the popular stir-fried Korean dish made up of small intestines from cattle or pork (often best paired with soju ) at Aunt’s Grilled Intestines Restaurant .

TIP : You can also check this link to see a list of restaurants that you can book online at special deals.

DAY 5: Day tour to Gapyeong County

◘◘ Explore Gapyeong County’s wonders

It’s time to venture out of Seoul’s busy metropolis to get some fresh air and tranquility. For this, a day trip to Gapyeong County’s top attractions is recommended for your Seoul itinerary!

READ: My detailed guide on this tour by clicking [ here ].

• Petite France: This is a charming place that serves as both a cultural village and a youth training facility with over 16 French-styled buildings. Petite France is also recognized as a top filming location for Korean dramas like ‘Secret Garden’ and ‘My Love from the Star’. With its European ambiance, it is also somewhat of a tribute to Saint-Exupery, the author of the famous French Novel: ‘Le Petit France’. ~Entrance fee: ₩10,000 adults / ₩5,000 children .
• Nami Island: A half-moon-shaped island nestling inside an artificial lake known for being the filming grounds of the well-known K-drama ‘Winter Sonata’. Nami Island is home to rows of majestic trees, roaming animals, and art exhibits, making it a sought-after destination in every season! I highly recommend that you rent a bike when you’re here; otherwise, there are other activities you can do such as water sports, trying on the roller skating rink, going to the shooting range, and more. ~Entrance fee: ₩13,000 .
• Garden of Morning Calm: This grand 30,000 sqm garden is open all year round and it is regarded as the oldest private garden in Korea with an artistic space that’s sure to leave anyone in awe. The Garden of Morning Calm becomes even more magical during winter (December to March) when they set up hundreds of multi-colored lights to create themed gardens, so make sure that this is on your Seoul itinerary! ~Entrance fee: ₩9,500 adults / ₩6,000 children .
• Gangchon Rail Bike: Built on a discontinued trail line, Gangchon Rail Bike is a fun attraction where you can pedal through old railroad tracks while taking in the amazing Bukhangang River scenery. Rest assured, it doesn’t require much effort to pedal the makeshift carts because the rail lines are slightly sloping downhill. ~Entrance fee: ₩30,000 for a two-seater .
• Edelweiss Park: Edelweiss Park is similar to Petite France, but instead, it focuses more on being a Swiss-based cultural village, so it’s filled with Swiss architecture, establishments, and sceneries. ~Entrance fee: ₩10,000 .

For a hassle-free experience on your Seoul itinerary, it would be advisable to go on a guided tour. Nowadays, there are different packages so feel free to take your pick from any of the combinations below (they often already include a delectable dak-galbi lunch, but there is also a halal option ; don’t forget to use promo code AILEEN5OFF to get a 5% discount ):

• (2 stops) Nami Island + Alpaca World
• (2 stops) Nami Island + Petite France
• (2 stops) Nami Island + The Garden of Morning Calm
• (3 stops) Nami Island + Alpaca World + The Garden of Morning Calm
• (3 stops) Nami Island + The Garden of Morning Calm + Gangchon Rail Bike
• (3 stops) Nami Island + Petite France + The Garden of Morning Calm
• (3 stops) Nami Island + Petite France + Gangchon Rail Bike
• (3 stops) PRIVATE TOUR: Nami Island + Petite France + Gangchon Rail Bike
• (4 stops) Nami Island + Petite France + The Garden of Morning Calm + Gangchon Rail Bike

If not, you can take the ‘Gapyeong Tourist Bus’ which can bring you to all of these locations for only ₩6,000 — the downside though is that the buses run only once every hour, and with the crowds that go to all of these places, it’s likely that the spots get filled quickly. (This is why I suggest going on a guided tour instead.)

I have two options for you, depending on what you prefer:

• Samgyeopsal : Taste this hearty grilled pork belly dish at Palsaik which is very popular with locals.
• Jokbal: Try this Korean dish consisting of soft pig’s trotters cooked in soy sauce and spices at Manjok Ohyang Jokbal .

TIP : You can also check this link to see a list of restaurants that you can book online at special deals for your Seoul itinerary. (Use promo code AILEEN5OFF to get a 5% discount).

Explore other TOP destinations in South Korea

BUSAN Known for its colorful houses, mountains, and the largest fish market in Korea!

JEJU ISLAND South Korea’s top island destination beloved by tourists and locals alike.

TIP : Check out all of the top Instagram spots in Busan to fill up your feed and Seoul itinerary!

◘◘ Family Fun ◘◘

Everland Park South Korea’s largest attraction park.

Lotte World Large indoor and outdoor theme park.

Poo Poo Land Unique and fun place for photo-ops and learning.

Love Museum Seoul’s first and only museum for adults!

◘◘ K-Drama & K-Pop ◘◘

MBC Dae Jang Geum Park Tour Largest historical drama open set in Korea.

K-pop Dance Studio Class Learn popular K-pop dances and choreography.

Seoul Hallyu Kpop Tour Ultimate KPop experience for your Seoul itinerary!

SBS MTV “The Show” Package Backstage access to live sets and broadcasts.

Everland Park Record your own K-Pop song at King Studio.

Korean School Uniform Rental Day rental of a Korean school uniform.

“Oppa” Tour Tour Seoul with an attractive “oppa”!

◘◘ Korean Performances ◘◘

Fireman Show Action-comedy show full of stunts.

CHEF: Bibap Show One of the best Korean musical shows..

The Painters HERO Famous live painting non-verbal performance.

Finding Mr. Destiny Korean musical with subtitles.

Jump – Martial Arts Show Seoul’s favorite martial arts theatre show.

Fanta Stick Show Powerful percussion show.

◘◘ Beauty ◘◘

KPop Shoot & Makeover Full makeover at a famous studio.

Pre-nup Photoshoot Pre-nup shoot with makeup, hair, and clothes.

Korean ID Shoot ID shoot in Korean style makeup and hairstyle.

Korean Salon Service Style your hair in Gangnam’s top salon.

Professional Korean-Style Beauty Consultation Learn about your own personal color based on your skin, etc.

◘◘ Workshops ◘◘

Cooking Class Cook authentic Korean dishes with a local.

Perfume-Making Class Create your own signature scent.

Ring-making Workshop Create your own unique accessories!

Kimchi Class Learn how to make kimchi and topokki!

Handmade Jewelry Experience Learn hands-on exquisite art of jewelry making.

Handmade Stamp Engraving Create your own Korean-style hand engraved seal.

◘◘ Food & Restaurants ◘◘

Assorted Grilled Beef Enjoy a Korean BBQ meal

Budae Jjigae Try budae jjigae, the iconic Korean ‘Army Stew’.

Gogung Bibimbap Specializes in authentic Bibimbap dishes!

Puffer Fish Set The first puffer fish restaurant in Seoul.

Korean Street Food Experience Korean eating and drinking culture!

VIP Seoul Pub Crawl Experience Seoul’s vibrant nightlife!

◘◘ Day Trips from Seoul ◘◘

Minsok Korean Folk Village + Gwangmyeong Cave & Uiwang Rail Bike Day Trip.

Busan Experience the best of Busan.

Booking Essentials

TIP: It’s a good idea to crosscheck the prices with other popular travel insurance providers like World Nomads and HeyMondo (as my reader, you get 5% off)! . However, take note that a travel insurance’s affordability typically means lesser coverage; so please always ensure that you read the fine print in order to decipher which travel insurance company is the right fit for you and your trip!

The Best Tours in South Korea?

Come and check out this list of the top things to do in South Korea which features the best activities and tours to do in Seoul, Busan, Jeju and more!

There’s still so much to see in Seoul! …But I believe that my Seoul itinerary travel guide here is already a good start.

Please feel free to tweak this itinerary and make full use of my extra activity suggestions in order to make your trip shorter or longer and better fitting for your travel style. Enjoy and do let me know how your trip goes!

Have you seen my latest vlog?

Hey there! I am Aileen Adalid. At 21, I quit my corporate job in the Philippines to pursue my dreams. Today, I am a successful  digital nomad  (online entrepreneur, travel writer, & vlogger) living a sustainable travel lifestyle.

My mission?  To show you how it is absolutely possible to  create a life of travel no matter the odds — and I will help you achieve that through my detailed travel hacks, guides, resources, tips, and MORE!

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Your Seoul itinerary guide is a dream come true for wanderers like me! Planning a trip can be overwhelming, but your detailed 5-day plan simplifies everything. From activities to sights, you’ve covered it all. Seoul, here I come—thanks to your fantastic guide! ❤❤❤❤

Going to Paju would be another great option for a day trip from Seoul, especially during the week. It is close, easily reached by bus, and offers amazing landscapes no matter the season.

Seoul is one of my favorite cities in the world! I’m dying to return and explore it more.

If I was given a chance, I would love to go to Seoul. Seoul is one of my dream places to go in the near future and your blog really helps and encourages me to never stop dreaming. Thank you for this :))

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19 Travel Tips for South Korea in 2023

Plan your South Korea trip with confidence using our comprehensive travel tips guide. From cultural etiquette to transportation hacks, discover insights to make the most of your journey. Explore South Korea like a local!

TRAVEL TIPS

12/2/2023 6 min read

Korean Currency Conversion

South Korean Currency is the KRW (won). 1000 KRW is currently the equivalent of $0.77. There are numerous ATMs in South Korea, however when you first land, there is a currency exchange located inside Incheon International Airport! The ATMs have an English option and the exchange clerks do speak English! Simply hand them your currency and ask for a conversion amount!

Do we have to carry cash throughout South Korea?

Absolutely not! South Korea is a fully digital country! Everything from taxi's, cafes and even street vendors all have wireless pay options! Carrying currency is just a safety measure if your bank thinks you are committing fraud and decides not to process a transaction! We have seen how awkward it can be when you are stuck in a busy line trying to solve a bank issue!

How safe is South Korea?

South Korea is one of the safest nations in the world! The citizens of the Morning Calm are some of the most friendly and peaceful you can ever meet! It has been said that you can leave a whole wallet on a table and walk away for about an hour, that wallet will still be there! Our personal experience was with a credit card that we forgot on a table and the clerk actually found me at a nearby shop and returned it to me! This does not however take away from the fact that there are criminals out there in every nation, so remain vigilante and be wary of your surroundings!

What about the safety of female travelers?

We are always together as we are a traveling couple, however we have many female friends who do travel South Korea by themselves and they feel South Korea is one of the safest countries for Solo Female travelers! One of our friends claim she fell asleep outside a bar drunk and she woke up just fine with all her belongings still with her!

Fashion and Beauty Standards

South Korea is known for setting trends and having the most beautiful women due to their strict beauty standards! If you are insecure about yourself not being able to meet their standards, guess what? These standards aren't for travelers, they are just for their citizens! Do not be scared if you missed one strand of loose hair or forgetting to put on makeup, the citizens are able to pick you out for a foreigner easily and they won't bully you about it!

South Koreans love their personal space

South Korea is similar to the big apple (NYC) in that the citizens always have places to be! They will almost never stop and strike a conversation with you! South Korean citizens are usually in their own little world and they greatly respect that you do not burst their bubble unless its for assistance!

Learn Basic Korean Phrases

Knowing how to say a few basic phrases in Korean goes a long way with the locals as they see it as an attempt at education and understanding Korean culture. Practice saying hello 안녕하세요 (An-yeong-ha-se-yo) or thank you 감사합니다(gam-sa-hab-ni-da)!

Ride local transportation to your destinations

Take a taxi or ride the subway around South Korea! South Korea has one of the most extensive and speediest subway lines in the world! The subway kiosks have an English option and the subway attendants all speak English and are there to guide you if you are confused! After your first ride, you will feel like a subway surfer pro! Read this guide for more info on the Seoul Subway System!

Be Courteous on Public Transportation

As stated previously, the Koreans really do love their personal space so if you are riding the subway or the bus, please be mindful of the noise you make! Don't bunch up against strangers and do not try to strike a conversation with any of the riders! Do not take the handicapped seats and do try giving your seat up to an elderly.

Do not use Google Maps!

Google Maps cannot navigate South Korea at all! You must utilize Kakao Nav to get around South Korea! Kakao Nav is free and also tells you which buses and subways get you to which destination!

Consider a Discover Seoul Pass

This little card doubles as an admission ticket for all the major tourist attractions in Seoul and as a T-Money card for the Subways! Gain entry to Gyeongbokgung Palace, Lotte World Adventure, Coex Aquarium and so much more with the Discover Seoul Card! It is nearly a $200 value for the price of $70!

If you purchase food to-go, please take it to-go

South Korea has a major plastic issue going on in their waters and they are limiting the use of plastic! So it is now LAW that if you dine in-doors, your food must be served on a dish! The only time you are allowed to have plastic is if you are getting a meal to-go! We made this mistake inside a Lotteria and got called out for it, later did we find out about this law!

Is Korea expensive?

South Korea is one of the cheapest places to explore, eat and sleep! The hotels we stayed in averaged only $50 a night and they were all 4-5 star hotels! A 4-star hotel in the United States would easily be $250 minimum! A sit and dine meal for 2 averaged 35000 KRW which is $27. Also, there is no tipping required in South Korea! Majority of attractions in South Korea are under $15 so visiting South Korea will definitely not break your bank account!

There are no trash cans sitting around in public!

If you are actively eating snacks or drinking while exploring South Korea, expect to hold onto your trash for a prolonged period of time. There are no trash cans anywhere in sight for the public! You will either be using the trash bag you bought your snacks in or carrying it until you find the nearest public building to throw out trash!

South Korea is extremely clean

As stated above, there are no trash cans in public which is part of the reason why South Korea is so clean! Public bathrooms are also extremely clean compared to many other countries and no matter where we explored, there was not a speck of dirt anywhere! Not even inside restaurants or even dirty grills for the street vendors! Korea really has a different standard when it comes to cleanliness!

Bathroom Squatters

We all have seen the movies where people go to the bathroom just to find out the toilet is just a hole in the ground! Well, South Korea has mostly done away with that and replaced them with Bidets! It is rare for you to see a squatter nowadays! The only areas that still have them are rest stops between Major Korean Cities!

Cafe Culture

If you've seen K-Dramas, you almost always see the main love interests getting a coffee at a local cafe. Well guess what, cafe culture is everywhere in South Korea. Be prepared to see at least 2 cafes on each block in South Korea! Also, there are a wide variety of cafes ranging from Boba Cafes, Cafe Bakeries and Animal cafes which were our personal favorite!

There are Tourist Police at every popular attraction!

Tourist Police are exactly what they sound like! They are there to help tourists navigate the city and help out with any issues you may run into! Say you might be lost or you don't know how to call a taxi, the tourist police can help you! They are designed to help tourists feel even more comfortable being in an already welcoming country! Do not worry! The tourist police have a requirement to learn Korean, English and Chinese to help tourists!

A lot of Koreans Speak English!

English is offered as a second language in South Korea and it is very popular as you can see when you navigate South Korea! Majority of signs and pictures are in both English and Korean! Do not be surprised if you meet someone who speaks perfect English as we did when we purchased food from 7/11!

Come and Visit

South Korea is a beautiful country waiting for you to explore! With some of the friendliest people and the most welcoming Asian Country, South Korea will easily make you feel like you belong! So come on down to the Land of the Morning Calm and start your adventure!

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Discover the Wonders of South Korea in 2023: An Enthralling Guide to Exciting Adventures and Iconic Locations

Explore the Vibrant Beauty of Korea: 2023's Must-Visit Destinations

South Korea, a country where the pulse of tech-innovation beats amidst a rhythm of rich culture and tradition, offers a delightful fusion of past and future. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, a shopping enthusiast, or a nature admirer, Korea’s diverse landscapes and cities are ready to fascinate you. As we gear up for an exciting travel-filled 2023, let’s delve into the best destinations this dynamic country has in store for us.

Seoul: Korea's Epicenter of Culture and Technology

Time travel between centuries.

Seoul, South Korea’s capital, is where the magic of time travel becomes almost believable. Imagine walking by towering skyscrapers and high-tech subways one moment and finding yourself amidst ancient palaces and traditional markets the next. This cosmopolitan city is home to five grand palaces from the Joseon Dynasty, including Gyeongbokgung, the most famous among them. Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony for a unique cultural spectacle.

The Nightlife Scene

Known for its energetic nightlife, Seoul is a paradise for night owls. Visit the bustling streets of Hongdae, filled with clubs, bars, and live music venues, or enjoy a serene night stroll along the Cheonggyecheon Stream.

Busan: The Stunning Port City

Picturesque beaches and fresh seafood.

Busan, the country’s second-largest city, is a dream for beach lovers and seafood aficionados. Spend a day soaking in the sun on Haeundae Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Korea, and later satiate your taste buds with the freshest catch at Jagalchi Market, Korea’s largest seafood market.

Temple by the Sea

Don’t miss the chance to visit Haedong Yonggungsa, a rare seaside Buddhist temple, offering stunning views of the sea, especially at sunrise.

Jeju Island: Korea's Paradise

The hawaiian vibe of korea.

Known as the ‘Hawaii of South Korea,’ Jeju Island promises an enchanting blend of volcanic landscapes and relaxing beaches. Enjoy a scenic walk up the UNESCO World Heritage site Seongsan Ilchulbong, or ‘Sunrise Peak,’ and marvel at the beauty of Jeju’s highest mountain, Hallasan.

Exploring Local Life

Savor the unique flavors of Jeju’s local cuisine, including the renowned Jeju black pork barbecue. Visit the quirky museums, like the Teddy Bear Museum, or explore traditional thatch-roof houses at Jeju Folk Village.

Gyeongju: An Open-Air History Museum

Historical treasures.

Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, offers an in-depth look into Korea’s historical and cultural heritage. The city is dotted with ancient sites and architectural treasures, including Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Royal Tombs, housing the Silla Kingdom’s kings and nobles, are a must-visit.

The Hanbok Experience

Immerse yourself in Korean traditional culture by trying on a Hanbok, Korea’s traditional dress. Walking around the scenic Anapji Pond or the vast Donggung Palace in a colorful Hanbok is an unforgettable experience.

Incheon: The City of the Future

A city on the forefront of innovation.

Incheon, known for its futuristic cityscape and high-tech Songdo International Business District, showcases Korea’s advanced technology and infrastructure. Besides its modern vibe, Incheon is home to relaxing green spaces like Incheon Grand Park, perfect for a picnic or leisurely walk.

An Enchanting Cultural Blend

Explore Incheon’s Chinatown, the oldest and largest Chinatown in Korea, for a unique fusion of Korean and Chinese cultures. The city also houses the Fairy Tale Village, where colorful murals depict scenes from popular fairy tales and folk stories.

Suwon: Where Tradition Meets Modernity

Hwaseong fortress: a unesco world heritage.

In Suwon, history comes alive at the Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site that symbolizes the Joseon Dynasty’s architectural prowess. Walking along the fortress’s walls, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Korean Traditional Food

Try Suwon’s famous Galbi (Korean BBQ ribs) and finish off with a bottle of local Soju, a popular Korean spirit.

Daegu: The Textile City With a Warm Heart

Rich textile heritage.

Daegu, known for its textile industry, is also famous for its warm-hearted people. Explore Seomun Market, one of the country’s largest markets, where you can find a range of textiles, clothes, and traditional Korean snacks.

Explore Daegu From the Sky

For a unique perspective of the city, you can take a cable car up to Palgong Mountain, where the panoramic view of Daegu city is truly breathtaking. In the vicinity, you can also visit the ancient Buddhist temple of Donghwasa

Gangneung: A Coastal Retreat

The perfect getaway.

Gangneung is a serene city located on the east coast of Korea. Known for its stunning beaches and the famous Gyeongpo Lake, Gangneung is a popular destination for those looking for a peaceful retreat away from the bustling city life.

An Olympic City

Gangneung is not only known for its tranquil beauty but also for its significant role during the Winter Olympics 2018. The city was ready to stage the men’s hockey tournament, which shows its capability of holding large-scale international events.

South Korea Travel FAQs

Q1: When is the best time to visit Korea? A: The best time to visit Korea is during the spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most picturesque.

Q2: Do I need a visa to travel to Korea? A: Most foreigners, including US and EU citizens, can stay in Korea without a visa for up to 90 days. Always check the latest visa regulations before your travel.

Q3: What’s the currency in Korea? A: The official currency of Korea is the Korean Won (KRW). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.

Q4: Is Korea safe for travel? A: Yes, Korea is generally considered very safe for travelers. As with any destination, exercise normal precautions, particularly with your belongings.

From bustling metropolises to serene nature retreats, and from historical landmarks to innovative modern attractions, Korea offers a plethora of unforgettable experiences. Start planning your 2023 adventure with this guide to the best travel destinations in Korea.

Ian Trekker

Globe-trotter, blogger, and your go-to guide for unforgettable journeys. With years of exploring the world's hidden gems, Ian's travel insights and tales ignite the wanderlust in us all. Be ready to be inspired and start your own adventure.

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First-Timer’s Ultimate South Korea Travel Guide – Things to Know Before Traveling to South Korea

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Before making your travel plans South Korea, check out this South Korea travel guide that will help you in finalizing your travel itinerary!

South Korea is a country of juxtaposition. You can find serene mountain valleys bumping against pulsing lights and rush of 24-hour cities. Korean tradition collides with ultra-modern fashion and design. To experience the depth and vibrancy of the country, you must see the serene countryside as well as rapidly changing cities. 

There is something for everyone in the country, whether you like city-life, mountains, beaches, or anything in between. Planning can become a bit difficult as there is so much to see and do in South Korea. 

Traveling to a new country like South Korea can be very exciting. It’s a whole new adventure waiting for you, but the entire planning and going to a different country can be a bit distressing. The culture, the people, and the laws governing the country are probably very different from where you are from. This is why we have compiled a guide for you of what to expect when you visit South Korea for the first time. 

Table of Contents

South Korea Travel Guide

Most travelers do not need to get a visa to travel to South Korea. You can check the visa requirements on your country’s State Department website. Citizens from many countries have visa-free entry for a limited period under certain conditions. To check whether you can enter Korea without a visa issuance, please contact a Korean Embassy or consular offices in your country or visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to confirm.

There are some changes to visa requirements for Jeju Island in lieu of COVID-19 situation worldwide.

The local language is Korean, and it script is Hangeul. But there is no need to worry! There are lots of signs in and around the city in English as well. A lot of restaurant menus also include translations of main dish ingredients. 

You can always learn a little Korean before you travel from apps like Duolingo . The locals are definitely going to appreciate your efforts! 

Money Matters

The official currency of South Korea is ‘ Korean Won .’ Most places accept credit cards too. Small stores and mom-n-pop food outlets generally accept cash only.  

Getting around in South Korea is very easy. There are domestic airlines, trains, and intercity buses. It’s easy to move around within the country. Even intercity travel is very convenient with all the available public transportation. 

We have covered transportation in detail in the guide about understanding Korean culture. 

Travel Apps

For first time travelers to South Korea, travel Apps are handy and can be useful as guide. The train and bus maps might look complicated, but you can use maps with English translations. Apps like KAKAO Maps and Naver Maps are especially for use in South Korea and are the preferred travel Apps. For more traveling tips, you can download the VisitKorea App. It can provide you with suggestions regarding food, tourist destinations, and many more. 

Read More: 10 Best Apps for South Korea Trip You Must Download

There are quite a number of public toilets wherever we go, and they are generally clean. If you can’t find one right away, you can search in any of the travel map Apps “화장실,” which means toilet in Korean. On the other hand, it is challenging to find dustbins around, so you may have to carry your trash for quite a distance before you find one bin.

Read More: Understanding Korean Culture: Hygiene Culture in South Korea

South Korea has four distinct seasons — Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Each season has something unique to offer visitors to the country, but depending on what you want out of your Korean experience, sometimes are better to travel than others. The best time of year to visit South Korea is generally the spring months of April, May & June, and the autumn months of September, October & November. During these two seasons, days are typically sunny and dry with comfortable average temperatures.

Read More: South Korea Travel Guide – When is The Best Time of Year to Visit South Korea?

Drinking-Water

Tap water in South Korea is drinkable. If you are not comfortable with it, you can purchase bottles of water from convenience stores or vending machines. 

Accommodation  

No matter what your budget is, you will find amazing places to stay during your trip to Korea. You can stay anywhere, ranging from a youth hostel to a luxurious hotel. For a unique cultural experience, you can also arrange a homestay like hanok stay via the Korea Tourism Organization. 

Tour and Travel Services

Some places are only accessible with a tour guide or a tour bus to bring you around. The added benefit is that you can relax on the bus while you are going from one destination to the next. 

Internet Connectivity

South Korea is a well-connected country. Wherever you are, you will have access to mobile data and public Wi-Fi. Did you know that you can get free WiFi in most of the buses in Seoul? 

Read More: Korean Sim Card Guide for All the Travelers

Most tourists are familiar with Korean barbeque and look forward to having the authentic dish right from the source. You can find it in abundance no matter where you go in Korea! To avoid any goof-ups in restaurants, you can check out our restaurant guide . You can also check out the post on Netflix-fame street food places. 

Read More: What to Eat in Seoul – Best Korean Food

Shopping Tips

The prices are pretty much fixed in stores. Most store owners hardly speak in English, even in tourist places. You won’t face such problems in popular shopping areas with big brand stores. Some of the shopping places in Seoul include Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, Common Ground , and many others. 

Read More: 10 Exquisite Handmade Gifts You Can Buy in Seoul

Travel During COVID-19

The South Korean government raised the coronavirus disease threat alert level to its highest on February 23, 2020. Many attractions have been temporarily closed, and festivals have been postponed or canceled throughout the country. Travelers are recommended to check the attractions’ official website before visiting. 

Korea aggressively maps and tracks infected cases. Self-quarantine is strictly monitored and enforced. The country also prohibits individuals who have been in contact with confirmed cases from exiting Korea during the day 14-day self-quarantine period. Korea provides advanced medical care to confirmed patients. The treatment is free-of-charge for both Koreans and foreign nationals. 

The KCDC has urged everyone to participate in an enhanced social distancing campaign for the next 15 days (March 22 – April 5). The KCDC strongly recommended that all non-urgent international travel plans be canceled or postponed. Persons who are unable to avoid traveling for a critical reason are advised to refrain from visiting any enclosed facilities or healthcare facilities.

Starting March 22, the KCDC is conducting COVID-19 diagnostic testing for every inbound traveler entering from Europe. Asymptomatic Korean nationals (with domestic residence) will be directed into self-quarantine at home and get tested at their local public health center within 3 days of arrival. Foreigners will be quarantined at the facility and tested. 

Apps to Track COVID-19 in South Korea

You can use a locally developed App like ‘Corona 100m,’ which, as its name implies, alerts users if they breach a 100-meter (328-foot) radius of the latest tracked whereabouts of the coronavirus patient. The person using the app can see how close they are to coronavirus patients. It also allows people to see the date that a coronavirus patient was confirmed to have the disease, along with that patient’s nationality, gender, age, and where the patient visited. It was launched on February 11 and had a million downloads in the first 17 days.

‘Corona Map’ is another such app that tracks the locations of people know to have COVID-19. Like Corona 100m, Corona Map plots the places where people known to have had COVID-19 have been, to make avoiding these areas easier. 

These are some of the essentials that you need to know before making your travel plans to South Korea and this travel guide will be helpful in making your itinerary!

KoreaTravelPost Editor

Hello there! I'm the Features Editor for KoreaTravelPost.

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South Korea Travel Tips: 30 Things You Need to Know Before Your Trip

Figuring out everything you need to know before visiting South Korea? This in-depth guide will teach you the 30 best South Korea travel tips to hit the ground running.

Planning a trip to South Korea may feel overwhelming if it’s your first visit. I admit I reached for my Korean phrasebook for pretty basic expressions my first time there.  But I encourage you to visit. Not only is South Korea a stunning country, it’s relatively easy to navigate –  you’ll just want to do your homework ahead of time.

I just got back from South Korea, where we travelled extensively throughout the country. The whole trip ran as smoothly as I could’ve hoped for, and it definitely can for you, too.

How? I took some time to lay out the most important details, like resources for learning basic expressions, how to get around, and what to expect when dining in restaurants.

Ready to embark on your own discoveries in South Korea? Here’s a list of the best travel tips for your visit.

South Korea Travel Tips 

Convert your cash to the local currency.

South Korea uses the Korean Won ( ₩ or KRW), and you’ll want to carry some cash when you travel (especially when you take day trips to smaller cities and villages). 

You can swap your currency in most major cities, though I think the best exchange rates are in Seoul, particularly in Myeongdong, at a local bank.

When you take out your cash, see if they’ll give you some different size bills. They come in 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, and 50,000 notes. Having smaller bills is often appreciated by business and restaurant owners whenever possible.

You’ll spend about ₩65,000  to ₩130,000 (£40 to £80) cash per day, so having a mix of large and small bills will come in handy. 

Most Travellers From the USA and Europe Don’t Need a Visa

One of my favourite things about travelling to South Korea is that you can take a last-minute trip without worrying about pesky paperwork (if you live in the USA or most of Western Europe).

You won’t need to file for the K-ETA or a visa, as long as you’re staying for under 90 days, have citizenship, and have a valid passport from a country exempt from the programs.

Still not sure if you need to apply? You can learn more about documentation requirements here .

You’ll Want to Practise Reading and Speaking Korean

When you visit places like Seoul, you may find people speaking English at hotels and some restaurants and bars. But as you get out of the more touristy areas within the city (and outside of it), it’s best to know at least some basic Korean expressions. 

If you don’t have much time to prepare, a pocket guide to Korean is a great way to learn on the fly. But if you have more time, I suggest downloading a language learning app like Duolingo to practise while preparing for your holiday (or on the long flight over).

Familiarise yourself with the usual suspects of basic phrases like asking for directions or finding a loo (even the one with a view at N Seoul Tower). You should also study restaurant menus beforehand to know how to order the best dishes.

It’s actually easier than you may think to grasp, and there are plenty of videos online that you can watch to learn the Korean alphabet basics in around 60-90 minutes.

Best Time to Visit South Korea

Looking for one of the best tips for visiting South Korea? Plan your visit for the Spring or Autumn/Fall.

The high temperatures are usually around 18.3°C (65°F). You’ll also benefit from shoulder season when the hotel and airfare drop into surprisingly low territory. 

But you can also lock into specific months, depending on what you’re visiting for. Here are a couple of suggestions.

Seoul: December is a special time in Seoul when a light dusting of snow covers the trees, palaces, and pavilions at Changdeokgung Palace, and you won’t wait as long at museums or restaurants.

Jeonju International Film Festival: Plan your trip for May 1-10  if you’re visiting Jeonju in 2024. Jeonju Hanok Village is already rich in tradition, and this film festival only adds to the festive charm with locals and tourists strolling the area in their best hanbok dress.

Safety in South Korea 

Is it safe to travel to South Korea? That’s a resounding yes.

One thing I noticed while travelling in South Korea is how safe of a country it really is. Even when I was exploring restaurants and bars late at night (Seoul really never sleeps), I never felt unsafe.

That said, make sure to practise basic safety measures, like walking with friends at night whenever possible, keeping your personal belongings in a safe place, and staying in well-lit areas on the tourist track, especially when travelling solo .

Tipping is Not Customary in South Korea

If you’re visiting from a country where tipping is expected, this might be a hard one to get used to. But trust me, you’re not winning over any bartenders or making friends with your masseuse by leaving extra cash; in fact, it’s often the opposite.

Tipping in South Korea is not something locals do and not something you should do while visiting. Many locals may feel confused, or even insulted if you get pushy trying to leave a tip.

How do you show them you appreciate the service? Easy. Express your gratitude when you sit down for a meal and leave as locals do with a smile, and a thank you (감사합니다 or gamsahabnida).

How Long Should I Visit South Korea?

I think a 10-day itinerary allows you to see the best of South Korea while giving you enough time to really explore the cities and everything they offer.

But if you only have one week, I’d still recommend going to Seoul , Busan , and Jeonju so you can see a few different areas of the beautiful country.

Spend the Perfect 10 Days in South Korea with this Itinerary

Fly Into Seoul

Almost any trip to South Korea will begin and end in Seoul. While there are 15 airports in the country, you will find the best flight deals if you book a flight to Seoul’s Incheon International Airport (ICN).

Not sure when to book your flight? Like always, if you want to score a great deal on a flight , look early and often and try to plan at least 3-5 months out when travelling internationally.

Getting Around South Korea

Once you land in South Korea, you’ll love how convenient public transportation is.

Larger cities have wonderful local subways and buses, which make it easy to zip around town from place to place (although “zipping” around can take up to an hour in the sprawling city of Seoul).

And when you’re planning a longer journey from one city to another on your South Korea itinerary, the bullet train (KTX) is affordable and v. fast. We used it on my most recent trip between Jeonju and Seoul, and it was super comfy, with great views for most of the ride.

Charge Your T Money Card at a Local Store

Riding the local buses and trains is easy, but you’ll want to have your card charged up so you’re ready to tap in and out at the relevant locations around town.

While you can add money at the train stations, this can be a bit stressful if you’re rushing to catch a train or bus. I found it easiest to charge up at convenience stores to carry me over for a day or 2.

I got around town for less than £4 ($5) per day and was happy to have a full card when I got into the busy train stations during commuter hours.

Ditch Google Maps

All apologies to the company that seems to be everywhere, all the time – but Google Maps just doesn’t work in South Korea. Facts.

Naver or Kakao are 2 local options you can choose from that are free, easy to use, and far more reliable when walking or using public transportation from place to place.

What Part of South Korea Should I Visit

You’re likely going to Seoul (you definitely should, but where else should you plan a visit? 

I just planned a 10-day itinerary that covers many of the best spots in the city.

My favourites? You need to see Jeonju for its insane food scene and traditional Hanok Village , Busan for historical Korean War sites like the UN Memorial Cemetery, and Andong to explore a traditional Confucian school at Dosan Seowon Confucian Academy.

But there are brilliant things to do all over the country, and you can read more about them here .

Get a SIM Card Ahead of Time

Ever landed in a country and frantically scrambled to set up international roaming in the terminal, wishing you could find directions to your accommodations? Reserve a SIM Card ahead of time, and you won’t have this problem.

Having your SIM card ready to go means you can check texts, call your hotel, and look up where to get on a subway train near you without incurring staggering charges the minute you get off the plane.

LG U+ is considered one of the fastest, and you can get a 7-day pass for around £20 ($25). 

Take Off Your Shoes in Someone’s Home

If you’re lucky enough to tour a traditional hanok (or any Korean local’s home), you’ll want to take your shoes off immediately when you arrive.

This same rule may apply at some traditional restaurants and tea houses with floor seating.

Don’t Rely on Rideshare

You won’t find Uber or Lyft easily in South Korea, so while you can try to book a ride, don’t be surprised if it doesn’t find anything in your area.

You can find local companies like Kakao T that offer rideshares, but generally, public transportation is a much faster option and extremely cheap at around £1 per ride (give or take).

Use Travel Resources Wisely

I understand it can be intimidating to visit a country where you don’t know the language or culture. Luckily, there are some brilliant travel apps, and tools you can use that will make your South Korea trip run as smoothly as possible.

If you don’t feel comfortable travelling solo, group tours are a great way to go. Which one to choose? G Adventures offers a popular 8-day tour from Seoul to Busan and back .

Or, you can use a travel app like Nomadher to make friends with resident

online and maybe see South Korea with a local. 

Pack for the Different Seasons

South Korea travel tips are generally pretty straightforward, but this one requires a bit more narrowing in on when exactly you plan to visit. 

Average highs range from -6.6°C (20°F) in the winter to 26.6°C (80°F) in the summer, and Spring and Fall can fluctuate a bit from warm to cool and damp. Needless to say, what you bring along can vary dramatically from one season to the next.

Your best bet is to use PackPoint and fill in the dates and activities you plan to do.

Upgrade to First Class on the KTX

Taking a bullet train is a must when you’re travelling cross-country in South Korea. Do yourself a favour and upgrade to first class when you book a ticket.

It’s extremely reasonable for a standard ticket at £28 ($35). But for only £8 ($10) extra, I thought the journey from Jeonju to Seoul was particularly comfortable, and you get more legroom and a better chance at a window seat with a stunning view.

There’s an Alternative for a Traditional DMZ Tour

The DMZ is a 4 km (2.5 mi) x 250 km (160 mi) region that has been neutral territory ever since the Korean Armistice Agreement in 1953 – at the end of the Korean War.

Contrary to some South Korea travel tips I’ve read elsewhere, booking a guided tour isn’t the only way to see the area.

Aegibong Peace Ecopark is a relatively new spot and an alternative way of seeing the DMZ, and it only takes about 1.5 hours from Seoul. On a clear day, the views of Pyongyang are beautiful; just be sure to reserve a ticket here .

Learn More About Local Culture Before Your Visit

Learning more about Korean culture goes a long way when you’re planning a trip to South Korea. You can split this up into 2 different lessons.

First, hit the history books and learn about the Joseon Dynasty era, which will help you understand the wood, stone, and tile hanok houses, beautiful patterns and pieces of traditional hanbok dress, and which royal palaces to visit during your stay.

But researching popular culture is just as important, as it will help you make the most of visiting K-culture pop-ups at The Hyundai Seoul, where you can load up on gifts from your new favourite K-drama and K-pop stars to bring back to your friends.

Try Local Coffee

Want to discover the best coffee scene you haven’t heard of? Visit a local cafe for a coffee (try one on ice, like the locals) when you visit South Korea.

My favourite city to cafe hop was Gangneung, with almost all coffee shops in the area roasting their own beans – it is well-recognized as the “city of coffee.”

But if you don’t make it that far, you can find plenty of exciting options in Seoul, like KOTTON.SEOUL in Insadong. 

Locals Dress Conservatively… Even at the Beach

If you don’t want to be the subject of bombastic side-eyes from locals, I’d recommend dressing relatively conservatively on your trip.

Most locals cover their upper bodies, even on the beach.

So instead of wearing your favourite bikini, pack a one-piece, some shorts, and a cover-up for your shoulders – especially if you plan to go to a restaurant or bar afterward. 

Stay in a Hanok Village

You’ll find traditional hanok villages throughout South Korea, including some of my favourite areas like Andong, Seoul, and (of course) Jeonju.

The best part is you can actually stay in the traditional Joseon-era houses with their charming courtyards and unique Ondol heating system (which uses fire and a large stone beneath the home’s structure to heat the floor).

I found Andong Gurume Resort to be a beautiful place that’s distinctly Korean, as it gives you a chance to stay in a traditional hanok village on the outskirts of town.

Bring Your Universal Travel Adaptor

Yes, you’re going to need that always-handy universal travel adaptor when you visit South Korea. You’ll find both Type C and Type F plugs in major cities and smaller towns throughout the country.

But if you forget one, you should be able to find a convenience store that carries a travel adapter in most major cities. 

Avoid Travelling During Lunar New Year

While travelling in January is generally an excellent time to book local and international holidays, you may want to skip a trip to South Korea during Korean New Year.

The exact dates change every year but are typically in late January or early February (February 10 in 2024).

It’s a very popular time for locals to take holidays themselves, so you’ll likely compete for hotel rooms and transportation to the most popular locations on the days before and after the new year. This is also a time when tourist attractions are among their busiest, due to local residents being off work for holiday. 

Plan to Bring Home K-Beauty Products

K Beauty has taken the world by storm – there’s nowhere better to stock up on products than in South Korea itself! 

The sunscreen, makeup, and other skincare products aren’t just affordable, they’re often made with all-natural ingredients that tend to work very well.

Olive Young’s flagship in Myeongdong is hands-down my favourite spot for its wide selection and great deals.

Pollution is a Problem in Major Cities

If you have allergies, pre-existing medical conditions, or are generally sensitive to air pollution, you may need to mask up when you visit South Korea.

Rural areas are far better than cities, but I was surprised by the air quality on my last visit to Seoul.

Winter is typically the worst time for pollution, so you may want to rethink a visit late (or early) in the year if you’re affected by poor air quality or plan indoor activities.

Restaurants Won’t Automatically Give You a Bill

Unlike many places in Western culture, you may find that your server isn’t waiting around for you to drop the check after your meal.

Why not? Generally, you just pay at the counter for your meals.

But at some restaurants, you may need to call for help. While I admit it wasn’t a natural response, I quickly learned to wave my hand and say “저기요” (jeogiyo) in a loud voice when I needed my check. 

Don’t Forget to Pack Your Hiking Boots

No matter when you visit South Korea, packing your hiking gear is a great idea. Locals love to hike, so it’s a fun way to get out and see areas and maybe make a friend or 2 on the trails.

Even in larger cities like Seoul, you can climb 550 feet at Inwangsan for some epic views.

Expect to Share Food and Eat A Lot

Korean food is absolutely delicious. From Korean BBQ spots that sizzle up freshly cut meats at your table to large bowls of traditional seafood soups, many of the best dishes aren’t only tasty but also come with more bonchon than you’ll know how to handle in one sitting. No joke, some restaurants will give you over a dozen small plates of grilled fish, kimchi, fresh veg and rice to eat with your meal (usually at a really affordable price). If you can travel with a group, you’ll be able to get the most value for your money, as 1-2 dishes can easily feed a few people at the table.

Read More Guides for Travelling in South Korea 

10 Days in South Korea: The Perfect South Korea Itinerary

• 22 Things to Do in South Korea

A Complete Guide to Visiting Jeonju’s Hanok Village

• 15 Unmissable Things to Do in Busan

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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50 South Korea Travel Tips

This post will cover all the Korea travel tips I can think of, from what to do before you come to accommodation tips to safety concerns and more.

I’ve been meaning to write some sort of practical guide with tips for visiting South Korea for ages now, but I just never got around to it! I think when you live in a country vs. visiting for a short time, you just don’t think about certain things.

Anyhow, since ending my last teaching contract in 2018, I’ve been back a handful of times as a tourist and had to think about things I didn’t have to consider when I had an E-2 visa and a residency card (ARC). If you’re traveling to South Korea for the first time, here are 50 tips you may want to keep handy!

I’ve divided it up by:

What to Do Before Traveling to South Korea

• Korea Itinerary + Things to Do

Where to Stay in Korea + Tour Options

Korea transportation guide.

• What to Eat
• Safety + Sanitary Concerns

Little Things to Know About Korean Culture

• What to Buy in Korea
• Final Notes

Feel free to click the link to jump to each section if you don’t want to scroll.

Once you’ve decided to visit South Korea, there are a few things I suggest doing so you can get from Point A to Point B with little to no issue.

1. Learn Hangul + some key phrases.

I cannot emphasize enough how much easier it will be if you just learn Hangul, the Korean alphabet. It was literally created to be easy enough for commoners to learn to read under King Sejong, so trust me you can learn it.

It took me an afternoon of watching a Youtube video on loop and copying the sounds and letters down. I even have a handy guide to start learning.

2. Try to book with Asiana or Korean.

It’s a  long journey to get from most places in the U.S. to Seoul, which is where you’ll most likely fly into. I’ve made the journey multiple times now and used a different airline each time: American, United, Asiana, and Japan Airlines.

I honestly don’t remember Japan because I was so tired that I think I just fell asleep for most of it. American and United were hellish to put it lightly, but Asiana has always been my favorite. I flew it to and fro my first time in 2011 and then again coming from Denver.

Book with Asiana or Korean as much as you can. It’s SO worth it. Usually, this means flying from San Francisco or Los Angeles (not sure of their other main US hubs), so if you want a little California side trip before you go, it’s the perfect excuse!

3. Read up a bit on Korean history

I think to really enjoy a new country, you should do at least a  little research into the country’s history and culture. Even if you just pop on a Crash Course video to get the gist, it gives you more of a connection with a place than not.

If you really want to get in depth, feel free to again browse Amazon’s Korean history section . Look for things about the  Joseon dynasty and the  Korean War if you want something specific to focus on.

3. Watch some Korean dramas, movies, or K-pop music videos.

This is totally NOT necessary, but, hey, I love both of these things, so I’m biased. While Korean dramas are incredibly glossy versions of this country, they do still give you a general idea of the modern culture, beautiful scenery, and some of the quirks. I recommend:

• Reply 1997 or 1988 to learn more about Korea’s own nostalgia period
• Taegugki –  a SUPER good movie about the Korean War
• Boys Over Flowers , Secret Garden , or My Love from the Star are some more recent insanely popular shows
• She Was Pretty is a personal favorite, and I think the message of it is so lovely
• Two newer movies:  1987 and  I Can Speak

4. Do you need a SIM Card?

This honestly depends! If you’re a good planner and can speak decent Korean, then you can get by without needing one.

In general, I’d probably recommend it, especially if this is your first time. Whether it’s translating something on the fly, trying to pull up KakaoMap, or fiddling on your phone for the duration of a long bus ride, it’s worth it. Korea’s data plans and wifi are insane, and you might get a little spoiled.

The fun thing is NOW Korea has a thing called an eSIM ! This means you don’t even have to physically buy one at a kiosk, but can sign up online and just snap a picture of the QR code (or manually input the info, which is a pain). I JUST did this on my most recent trip and it makes life so much easier not having to worry about my US SIM card.

Get one online here . It’s much cheaper than waiting until you’re in the airport and buying one off your phone or at the kiosk.

5. Best Time to Go to Korea

Fall or spring.

The weather is the best during these seasons, and the country is absolutely beautiful. Early spring has the cherry blossoms while autumn has the gorgeous foliage . Winter and summer aren’t bad but if you have the freedom, don’t come during those seasons. Summer is so humid , you’ll never want to leave your hotel room, and winter is, well, winter.

6. Exchange + Money Matters

Korea uses the won, and 1,000 KRW is roughly $1 USD. There are 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, and 50,000 notes and 500, 100, 50, and 10 coins.

You can use a card mostly anywhere in the country, though smaller places may prefer cash. Every convenience store should have an ATM that works with a foreign card.

7. Is Korea expensive?

I’m not the best person to dole out budget advice because I suck at budgeting , but I’d say Korea falls in the middle for Asian countries. It’s a  lot cheaper than traveling Japan , but you’ll be in for a bit of a shock if you’re used to Cambodia or Vietnam prices. In general:

• A Korean meal can be anywhere from 5,000 KRW to 20,000 KRW depending on where you go, but typically 5,000-10,000. Korean BBQ usually costs between 10,000-15,000 KRW per person, but they often want you to buy more than one serving.
• Drinks in bars can be pricey, sometimes up to 7,000 KRW, so what some people do is pregame at one of the convenience stores and then buy one drink there.
• Club cover fees are around 10-15,000 KRW
• A regular hostel can range from 15,000-20,000 KRW/night while a franchise hotel can be 150,000 KRW+.
• Street food can be 1,000 – 5,000 KRW
• Entrance fees are 1,000-3,000 KRW, sometimes 8,000-10,000 KRW for bigger nature areas like Suncheon Bay or the Camelia Hill in Jeju .
• A subway or local bus ride is usually between 1,000-2,000 depending on how far you go.

Korea Itinerary Tips + Things to Do

Before I get into this section, if you want some inspiration on where to go exactly, I have a massive post outlining 102 beautiful places in Korea , and I re-organized them so they were grouped by similar location.

8. Where to go if you have…

If you only have one week, then I recommend basing yourself out of Seoul or Busan . If it’s your first visit, then definitely choose Seoul . There’s plenty in the city to keep you occupied, and even after studying there and spending too many weekends to count, I  still haven’t scratched the surface of things to do .

You’ll have time for a day trip or two and not feel too rushed. I’ve heard of some people opting to do an overnight trip to Busan, but honestly, that’s just a  lot . Check here for my Korea itinerary for 7 days.

If you have 2 weeks, then you have a little more wiggle room! I’d choose to either spend the 2nd week in Busan, Gwangju, or Jeju depending on what you want to see. If you want a full breakdown, I have a post with four sample 2-week itineraries.

Busan is a beautiful city, and you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied. It’s also more laid back, so if you want to go enjoy the beach or relax, then save your rest days for here. Gwangju is great if you want to see more of the Korean countryside. It’s a huge city itself, but it’s a good hub for day trips like  Suncheon , Yeosu , Namwon , Boseong , and more. Jeju is great if you want Korea’s version of an island experience. It’s personally one of my favorite places in the country, but you definitely need to rent a car and  not stay in Jeju City.

4 Weeks/ 1 Month

This is honestly the best option if you really want to get a full idea of Korea, but I get that most people don’t just have 4 weeks of vacation! I would split my time up so I have 1 week in Seoul, Busan, Gwangju, and Jeju. Bookend your trip with Seoul and Busan (or reverse) depending on where you’re flying to next. For a more detailed guide, check this 1-month itinerary guide .

9. Major things to do in Seoul

Okay, Seoul is overwhelming. Once you get used to it, though, it’s an awesome city to explore. And the subway system is one of the best in the world. I actually have been working on a crazy long “Things to Do in Seoul” post but I just keep adding to it! Here are some things to get you started:

• Traditional Culture – Check out the palaces, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Jongmyo Shrine, do a temple stay
• Trendy Things to Do – Look up all the random cafés , visit the filming locations of your favorite dramas, go to a K-pop show (hey, no judgment, I almost cried when I couldn’t get tickets to Kyuhyun’s solo concert), visit the many funky museums or outdoor parks… The sky is really the limit in a city where the poop cafe isn’t even the most random cafe!
• Scenic views – Head up to Namsan tower, hang out the manmade stream, Cheonggyecheon, hike Bukhansan, stroll near the city walls, go to Pocheon Herb Island , take a day trip out to Gapyeong or Suwon … the list goes on!
• Things related to the Korean War –  Visit the DMZ/JSA and spend the afternoon at the War Memorial Museum of Korea

For more on Seoul, check these guides:

• Where to Stay in Seoul: Best Neighborhoods
• 15 Fun Day Tours in Seoul and Nearby

10. Some other good hubs to base yourself out of:

• Sokcho – Good if you want to hike Seoraksan and travel Gangwondo.
• Jeonju – Good for Jeollabukdo and a lot of big outdoorsy/hiking spots
• Gwangju – Good for Jeollanamdo and popular countryside spots — Boseong Green Tea Fields , Suncheon Bay , Damyang Bamboo Forest , Yeosu, Gokseong Rose Festival , Namwon + Jirisan , Hwagae Cherry Blossom Festival , and more.
• Busan – other fairly close by spots include Tongyeong , Gyeongju, and Ulsan, also a good place for the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival .
• Seogwipo – Good place to stay in Jeju that isn’t Jeju City! Check here for  where else to stay in Jeju  if you don’t want to be in a city.

11. Go hiking!

No, seriously. It always irks me how underplayed Korea’s hiking culture is to those visiting from the outside. This peninsula is  mostly mountainous! There are tons of beautiful hikes no matter where you’re staying, so bring your sneakers and dedicate a few days to the mountains. Most of the popular mountains have trails to follow, and you really don’t even need special hiking boots.

Here are some of my posts on hiking:

• Daedunsan near Jeonju
• Jirisan’s Baemsagol Course near Namwon
• Wolchulsan near Mokpo
• Jogyesan near Suncheon

12. Check out the big festivals for when you visit.

If there’s a statistic out there for the countries with the most festivals, I’m going to bet Korea is on there somewhere. You name it, there’s probably some sort of festival for it. I would look up any big festivals for when you visit because they can be a lot of fun, and many are the biggest events of the year for the smaller town.

Namwon’s big event, for example, is the Chunhyang Festival sometime in May. From the beauty pageant to the Gwanghallu performances and more, it’s a huge deal!

13. Is the cafe culture really a thing?

It is, and it’s amazing. I really don’t think you could walk too far without stumbling across at least  one cafe, and with Korea’s wifi availability, this is actually a great country for digital nomads.

If you want quirkier cafes, just imagine any kind and look it up.

Here are some cafes I’ve specifically covered:

• Zapangi: The Pink Vending Cafe in Seoul
• Stylenanda Pink Pool Cafes in Seoul
• Dreamy Camera Cafe near Seoul
• Enrogel Teapot Cafe
• Grand Garden near Mokpo (sadly no longer exists)

14. Is a love motel what I think it is?

It is, and they’re probably more plentiful than actual hotels or hostels!

Love motels are exactly what the sound like — hotels for couples to have some private time. I’ve heard of them even being rented by the hour.

While some can be on the grungier side, there are actually a lot of nice love motels, and they’re a good middle ground if you want something more private than a hostel but don’t want to pay the hotel prices.

15. How is the hostel culture in Korea?

It’s a lot better than the U.S! There’s at least one hostel in most towns, and they usually come to around $20/night. Chances are you  will have to share a room  and a bathroom.

Keep in mind, the “whole bathroom is the shower” will be the case in most places. I’ve gotten used to it with my two apartments here, but it can be a bit of a shock for a foreign traveler! Yes, the whole bathroom gets soaked, and there’s usually a small window that’s always cracked to let the place dry out.

It’s fine, though I will say my hostel bathroom in Hyeopjae was a little gross. It was perpetually wet because 6 girls shared one normal bathroom  and there wasn’t a window to air it out…

16. Can I get an Airbnb in Korea?

You can! Airbnb is on the rise here, so you’ll find plenty of options! I’ve written about my little apartment stay in Seoul ages ago (unfortunately that apartment is no longer listed), and I’ve stayed at this studio one weekend in Seoul, this cute home in Jeju, and this apartment in Ulsan.

17. How are the hotels?

The hotels are  really  nice but the price gap between hostels and hotels is a lot higher than you’d expect. I did a sponsored stay at Holiday Inn in Gwangju , and the price for our room would be at least $300+. I can’t imagine a Holiday Inn in the US costing that much or being quite that fancy.

There  are guesthouses that have decent prices, but they’re more concentrated in bigger cities.

18. Do you recommend taking a tour or is it easy to DIY?

It depends on where you’re going and who you’re with. For some of the hikes, I’d definitely recommend a tour if you’re solo traveling just because you’ll be with other people and someone who can translate if anything happens.

Also, some places like Naejangsan are much easier to get to if you go on a tour than alone, especially if you’re coming from Seoul.

A lot, though, is easy to do on your own. For example, it’s super easy to organize your own itinerary for Seoul and any of the bigger cities.

I’d figure out what you want to do and look at the different tour packages to see for yourself.

19. What are the best websites for tours?

If you want to take a tour, I’m affiliated with:

• Trazy  – mainly for Korea with some Thailand options
• Klook – mainly for Asia, and I also compare prices for Korea options
• And I went on a tour in Jeju with Indieway.

I’d check all three sites to compare tours for what you want to do. Sometimes one is slightly cheaper than the other!

20. Don’t rely on Google Maps.

Korea’s not a huge fan of outside companies, so they block them as much as feasible in this day and age. While I won’t get into how that can be both good and annoying here, let’s just say this mindset manifests itself the most in Google Maps.

Google isn’t allowed access to Korean information in order to update their maps, and I heard 2009 was the last update. I just checked to see for any updates in 2018, and it’s still pretty bad.

On the plus side, my favorite app is KakaoMap and it even has an English interface! Another option is Naver Maps, but I discovered in one of my classes that it’s not nearly as detailed as Kakao.

Check my post on which apps to download for travel in Korea

21. Using KTX

There are a few different train options in Korea, but the KTX is the nicest and fastest. For example, the KTX takes me about 2 1/2 hours from Seoul’s Yongsan Station to Suncheon Station. Another train would take 4 1/2 hours. The one downside, of course, is how much more expensive it is.

The website is a little tricky to use if it’s your first time, so here’s a super quick guide:

• Go to www.letskorail.com
• Choose “ENGLISH” in the top right corner
• In the center tabs, hover over “RAIL TICKETS”
• Then click “TICKET RESERVATION”
• I usually just pick: Normal Type, Direct, “All” for Type of Train
• Hit Inquiry.
• You can see  all the train times so you know when you need to be at the station, and if you want, you can book online. I usually just book in person at the station, but if I’m going somewhere at a busier time or I just want to do it then, I book online with my US credit card. You also have to input your Passport Number to buy and will need some form of ID to get your ticket (which is just a piece of paper).

Below I have a screenshot of what it looks like if I’m traveling from Suncheon to Seoul. There are two stations in Seoul (Yongsan station and Seoul station), so if nothing comes up when you search “Seoul,” try looking up “Yongsan. The site will show you all the different train options, not only the KTX.

21. Intercity buses

Another option that I typically use is the intercity buses. I use them because the KTX is twice as expensive, they take as much time to get to Seoul as the slow trains, and they actually stop in between for a 15-minute break.

I’d also much rather kill time in Seoul’s Express Bus Terminal, which is connected to a Shinsegae Department Store and has a million things to do, while Yongsan is much more limited. Also if you miss a bus, it’s cheaper to get a refund and a new ticket than with a train. Learned that one from experience…

I buy mine at the kiosks in the terminals, but you can get them online too at www.kobus.co.kr and www.bustago.co.kr .

22. Tips for booking flights

And yet another option is flying! There are a few smaller airports around Korea, but the main ones you’ll probably want to use are Incheon and Gimpo in Seoul, Gimhae in Busan, and Jeju International Airport. I usually just book on Expedia or Kiwi, but if you want specific Korean airlines, they are:

• Asiana Airlines
• T’Way Air

I’ve flown Korean, T’Way, Asiana, Air Busan, Eastar Jet, and Jeju personally. They’re all fine, some obviously nicer than the more budget-friendly ones, but the longest flights around the country are only an hour or less, so save your money and get the cheapest one with the best luggage policy.

23. Using Seoul’s subway

Seriously, this subway is the best, and I’ve ridden many a subway in my travels. It’s clean, fairly cheap, and will get you everywhere in Seoul and nearby.

You can get a T-Money card from any convenience store and fill it up as you need. The machines are in English too, so don’t worry about making a mistake. You can also use the same card for local buses both in Seoul and the rest of the city.

They’re also clean! Like super clean! Download the Subway Korea app before you go, and it’ll help you plan your route out.

24. Using local taxis and buses

Everywhere in Korea pretty much has a local bus system, but some cities are way more reliable than others. Another nice thing is that there are taxis everywhere, and there’s usually a stand at every train station and bus terminal.

Taxi drivers are generally fine and some are even lovely and friendly, but it’s the same thing as any city you’d take a taxi in. Sometimes it can be a frustrating experience! I’d just screenshot the Korean address and name of where you want to go and show them that.

Most I’ve seen start at 2,800 KRW ($2.80 USD) with that number being a little higher in the countryside areas.

Tips on What to Eat in Korea

26. so…. the dog thing..

Dog soup does exist here. No, I haven’t tried it nor do I have any desire to, but I won’t judge someone who chooses to try it. Here’s the thing: Yes, the story behind how dog soup is made here is pretty horrifying, but so are the stories we hear about farms in the U.S. and around the world.

I choose not to eat dog soup, but I’m still not able to say no to Korean BBQ or lamb skewers. How can I judge someone who wants to eat dog soup just because culturally I was brought up loving them as extended family members?

For the record, though, dog soup is quickly dwindling in popularity and if my elementary students are anything to go by, it’ll be out of fashion in one or two generations. It’s already quite rare to see them in bigger cities, and the only 보신탕 restaurants I’ve seen are in the countryside.

26. What food should I eat while I’m here?

Korean food is one of my favorite styles along with Vietnamese and Italian. Here’s a quick list of food to try:

• Naengmyun in the summer
• Gamjatang in the fall and winter
• A Buddhist temple meal (great for vegetarians)
• Korean street food! There are so many, and I don’t even know the names of all of them
• Pajeon, especially after a hike

Pro and also slightly biased tip: Korean food outside of Seoul is 10000x better than in it!

If you want, while you’re here, try a Korean cooking class in Seoul or even a food tour if you just want to eat and not cook.

27. How is vegetarian and vegan-friendly Korea?

Um… It’s not. Korean food by nature relies heavily on meat or fish. While Seoul may have a lot of options, you’re going to struggle. I’d always look at Happy Cow for restaurant ideas.

28. Any unique drinks to try?

Ha! Yes! I’ve tried these at least once even if I don’t drink:

• Soju – Korea’s alcohol of choice. You can get different mixes of it too, from yogurt soju to fruit soju. I’ve heard that Hallasan soju is the best tasting on it sown
• Makgeolli – Especially with pajeon, it’s a sweet rice wine type alcohol and you drink it from little bowls
• Cider – This is my favorite soda, and you can get it at any restaurant or grocery store. I don’t know what it is, but I always get addicted
• Omijacha – This is a really yummy tea you can get at cafes. It’s supposed to have five different flavors in it, so it tastes a bit tart and sweet at once.
• Hallabong drinks – Hallabong are the orange fruits from Jeju, and they’re delicious in drink form.

29. What’s the deal with the takeout culture?

Korea loves takeout. It’s amazing. In bigger cities, you can order to the exact place you’re at, even if you’re not in a building or home! The most popular things to order are fried chicken, pizza, pig’s feet, and random Korean dishes that are easy to transport.

If you can use Hangul, then download the 배달요기요 app.

Safety and Sanitary Concerns

31. is it safe to travel to south korea now.

Short answer: YES!

I wrote about it in a post on  the Department of Wandering  with more details. You can read it in full here.

32. Sooo… North Korea…

The North Korean threat is kind of blown out of proportion by the Western media. At this point, I’d be more concerned about living in NYC or LA.

Now…if you’re asking about visiting North Korea while you’re here, well, I have some strong opinions on that.

33. How safe is public transportation?

Super safe. I can’t tell you how many subways, buses, and trains I’ve taken here, and I’ve never felt uncomfortable.

34. How safe is Korea for a solo female traveler?

One of the safest places. Korea is honestly one of the safest countries in the world.

Of course, be as cautious as you’d be anywhere. Watch your drink, don’t get too inebriated if you’re on your own, and, you know, keep an eye out for your fellow female! I feel like there’s a silent solidarity of women around the world against creepy, drunk men, so if you ever feel uncomfortable, just go towards a woman and quietly let her know your situation.

35. How clean is Korea?

Overall, it’s clean. There are some areas that are kind of gross, but it’s no different than any other super industrialized country.

36. What’s the deal with this squat potty? Am I going to have to squat?

Ahhh, the squat potty. If you don’t know what it is, you’re blessed. I  know it’s actually more hygienic than regular toilets, but I just can’t get used to the idea.

Fun fact, in the 3 years I lived there, I never once needed to use one. Regular toilets are far more common, especially for most of the places you’re visiting.

Some more rural areas may only have a squat potty, such as hiking trails or campgrounds, but major places will have normal ones. And hey, the fancier buildings even have the seat bidets, which are truly the greatest toilet invention since indoor plumbing.

These are just some things I and other friends have noticed, and that I think you might be surprised by if you’ve never been here. I should preface this section with this: Of course, not ALL Koreans are like this, and many of these things you may not even experience. This is from my personal point of view and some trends I’ve seen with other foreign friends who live here.

37. You will get stared at.

Maybe not in Seoul, but in the rest of the country, just be prepared. There’s the episode of Conan when he goes to Korea and all the kids are craning their necks and just staring. That’s pretty common even if you’re not a tall ginger with a camera crew.

If you hear “wayguk,” they’re just pointing out that you’re a foreigner. I had a friend who would reply in the same awed tone, “hanguk saram,” or Korean!

38. Here’s a typical line of questioning:

• Korean: Where are you from?
• Me: America.
• Korean: Are you Korean?
• Me: No, I’m Chinese-American.
• Korean: Ahhh you speak Korean well.
• Me: Thank you.
• Korean: Are you married?
• Korean: Ahhh.

Couple culture is also very real here, and you’ll probably see  plenty  of couples out and about enjoying their day in matching gear. Elissa and I always joked that if you’re not sure where exactly to go on your way to a major site, just follow the couples! Works like a charm.

39. Are Koreans actually racist?

Ummmm, for the most part, no. And the more they see of foreign visitors and travel, the less likely they are. There are a few, especially from the older generation, who might be racist. Once in a blue moon, you might come across a bar that bans foreigners, but that’s super rare.

I will say, MANY of my friends have pointed out that the xenophobia in Korea really, really jumped out during COVID. However, this is not something I think you’d have to deal with as a visitor, but it maybe be something you start to get frustrated by if you’re here long term.

40. A note on the introverted nature of many Koreans.

A lot of Koreans keep to themselves. Don’t get me wrong, they can be insanely nice and kind, and I’ve had complete strangers stop to lead me to my next destination. But you have to  ask for that to happen.

Also if you’re in trouble, such as feeling harassed by a drunk old man, they won’t help on their own. They’ll kind of stare and avoid the general area.

41. What the heck is an ahjumma and ahjussi?

Okay, so technically:

• Ahjumma – married woman
• Ahjussi – married man

However, that’s not quite accurate. If you called a 22-year-old married woman an ahjumma, she’d be pretty offended!

Ahjummas are considered tough as nails mothers with cropped perms, comfy pants, and a brusque attitude that can be helpful or frustrating depending on the situation. If you ever need to get through a crowd, follow the ahjumma openly just pushing her way through.

Ahjussis are middle-aged men, and the connotation is that they’re soju drinking, sometimes grumpy, sometimes nice men. A lot of times they drive taxis. Now,  gaejeossis are something else entirely.

42. Do you Koreans really get drunk all the time?

No, though you’d think that, wouldn’t you? While the drinking culture is huge in Korea, the country is not a giant group of alcoholics.

However, some of my friendliest interactions with Koreans have been while they were drunk singing norebang. I guess I could say the same for America too.

43. Treatment of animals in Korea.

Animal treatment is getting  so much better, even in the time I’ve been here. However, I do think I should warn any diehard animal lovers that you’re not going to love what you see, especially out of the cities.

It’s very common to see bigger dogs chained up outside their homes all year round, and one of my adult students told me that near her apartment building, people were feeding the stray cats poisoned food to kill them.

Again, things are seriously improving, and there are so many great groups around the country that help strays. In Suncheon, there’s a cate cafe that’s strictly for helping stray cats!

44. What should I know about the suicide culture?

The suicide culture is a really unfortunate part of Korean culture, but it’s not something you’re really going to encounter unless you’ve been living here, and even then it’s fairly rare.

I wanted to make note of it, especially with SHINee’s Jonghyun passing and because it’s just something to be aware of, but I feel like to really discuss it, I’d have to dedicate a whole post which I’m not ready to delve into researching.

What to Buy for Souvenirs

On a much lighter note, here’s a fun section of what to buy in Korea for souvenirs!

45. The deal with Korean skincare products

Korean skincare is top notch, and it’s all I really use. There are  so many brands compared to the U.S., and they all have their own marketing and store locations. I personally  love Innisfree the most, so I buy from there for classic products. I like Etude House for make-up, and I just pop around to the different brands if I want something trendy or quirky to give as gifts. Some other brands are:

• Nature Republic
• The Face Shop
• Dr. Jart (check Olive Young)
• Peripera (check Olive Young)

If you have time, do research on what kind of products you want for your skin type, but as gifts, my go-to buy is face masks.

46. Clothes + Accessories

There are a ton of clothing stores in Korea, and the two big areas are Myeongdong and Dongdaemun in Seoul. I’m not really that big into clothes shopping here because everything is free size, so it’s either too small or a sack, but it’s worth looking around if you’re on the slim, petite side.

If you want something quirky, then I recommend getting either something with Hangul on it or, for fun, get one of the super bad English motto shirts!

Another clothing item that could be really lovely is a modern hanbok. Instead of buying a regular hanbok, which is crazy expensive, you can buy a modern looking one. Sometimes they’re really subtle details, so you can wear them in normal life without it feeling like a costume.

47. Food and drinks to buy for home

Soju bottles, Korean snacks found in any convenience store or grocery store, specialty teas… The only two specific things I can think of are Pepero and brown rice green tea packets.

48. Any other unique souvenirs to know about?

Hmm, there are quite a lot! Most souvenir shops have similar items that are supposed to be more for traditional Korea. If you have friends getting married, you could get them cute wedding ducks.

The cute culture is very real, so you could always get cute versions of everyday items like stationary or pens. If you’re a fan, go to the Naver Friends or Kakao friends stores and pick up one of their mascots.

There are a lot of adult coloring books too, so if you can find ones for Korean places, then I think those would make super cute gifts.

Other souvenirs would be, of course, K-pop related things if you have friends who love specific groups. I bought the physical CDs of a few groups and singers I like.

Final Notes on Traveling Korea

49. koreans  are actually really lovely and kind..

As a whole, Koreans are the bomb. They’re so kind, and even if some things can feel frustrating, they’re always polite and try to be as helpful as they can. I’ve had frustrating moments here, but, in all honesty, my overall frustration levels living in Korea are less after 3 years than the semester I spent living in Madrid, so that should say something.

50. Ultimately, traveling this country is what you make of it.

If you come in thinking you’re going to have a meet-cute with some perfect-skinned chaebol oppa, you’re probably going to leave pretty displeased.

My best advice is to take Korea for Korea and not compare it to other places. It’s pretty unique, for better or worse, and it  so wants to be better known for welcoming foreign travelers! I’ve been here, cumulatively, for 3+ years, and I wouldn’t keep coming back if I disliked my time.

And there you have it! Fifty things to know about traveling to South Korea. Let me know if I’m missing anything or if you’re planning your own trip here this year!

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37 Comments

Thank you for providing such a wealth of information. I was born in Busan circa 1980 and have lived in the States for 41 years. I am planning to bring my husband and our two sons back in the next year or so and have no idea what to expect!

Ahh have an amazing time!! Busan is so lovely – I don’t think I’ve ever had a bad time there. Gamcheon Culture Village is one of my favorite places in all of Korea!

Great tips! I’m making a list of the things to prepare before going to Korea. You don’t know how helpful it is to me. I’m becoming a lot more excited. Thank you! What do you think of getting a tour guide in South Korea? Found a guide that offers customized tours Do you think I should also consider this?

Hi! Think it depends on how you like to plan. Sometimes it’s nice to have someone else plan for you altogether, but I personally like researching every aspect of my trips!

Rock on. This is a really great blog with so many useful tips, thank you so much for all the details! I’m looking forward to visiting Korea and this has helped a lot!

Thank you for all the awesome tips and helpful information. We’ll be going in April, 2023 and will be visiting Jeju Island. In Seoul we’re planning use subway and train, but while in Jeju Island we are thinking renting a car. Is it expensive and easy to rent a car there? How are the road there? Do you have a car rental place you recommend in Jeju? :)

Hi! Fun! I might be in Korea around that time too depending :)

For Jeju I definitely recommend a car, though the bus system is pretty robust (way better than when I first went). I rented one the last time I went and it wasn’t too bad! I used Trazy – https://thereshegoesagain.org/korea/jeju/car-rental and while April is too far in the future, it looks like it’s around $40 a day.

Hi Samantha! Thank you for your helpful articles. My question is when at Incheon airport the priorities are to get just enough KRW till you get to myundeong (i hope im right T T) but to get there using public transportation, you do need cards for subway/train/bus? Or not necessary? Do you buy them at kiosks or machines near the terminals? Do you just buy an adequate plan card according to your stay (3 weeks in seoul)

Hi Maha! I promise the subway system is really, really easy to use and tourist-friendly in Incheon! (Like easily the best I’ve ever seen). Honestly, when you take out cash, I’d do like 100,000 KRW max. Korea is really card-friendly, so you really only need cash for subway/bus tickets and food stands! Everywhere else takes CC even if it’s only buying a water bottle.

When you arrive, follow signs for the metro. It’ll take you down a level or two and then you’ll see the entrance to the subway. There are literally arrows on the floor! In front are kiosks to buy tickets – you’ll need cash for them. If you just buy a single journey, you can get it there and it’ll pop you out a little ticket. If you want to get a subway card, you can buy one in one of the convenience stores like GS25. Ask for a TMoney card, and then you can just recharge that at any kiosk. Subway cards are super cheap and so easy to use and have on hand; I’d recommend getting one if you’re visiting for 3 weeks.

There’s also at least one or two stands/travel centers to help you if you get truly lost!

I love buying at stores in Korea and getting lots of free samples

Agree, the free samples are so fun!

We are taking our daughter to Seoul for the fall semester as an exchange student to Yonsei University. We are equally excited for her and also fearful at the same time. She has severe food allergies to fish and all tree nuts and peanuts. She already had a few anaphylactic reactions here at home while on college campus so when she said she applied to study abroad, my worry meter just shoot up!!! Anyways, we are set to fly with her and plan to spend a week in Seoul. Your blog and tips are extremely helpful. Thank you!

Ahh enjoy your week in Seoul! I think as long as she has everything she needs on her and explicitly avoids any restaurants using fish/tree nuts/peanuts she should be ok. Luckily most Korean cuisine doesn’t use anything peanuts or tree nuts.

i’m going to south korea next september and you blog has been so useful! thanks a lot <3

Aw yay, I’m glad it’s been helpful!!

So happy I came across your site. So many great articles. My partner and I will be travelling to South Korea (3 weeks) with our 6-month old. We are still struggling on the logistics: rental car or train/bus. I think it all comes down to the question what can we carry comfortably. Q / Is a infant car seat required for taxis and distance buses? I struggle to find reliable and up to date information. Q / Feom your travelling experience in South Korea what would you recommend?

So the only time I’ve driven in South Korea is on Jeju because I’m too scared to drive otherwise haha. BUT I highly recommend reaching out to my friend, Hallie – https://thesoulofseoul.net/ ! She has a daughter in Korea, and she’ll know all the ins and outs of carseats, etc. I think your best bet is DMing her on Instagram or joining our FB group ( https://www.facebook.com/groups/108958789789483 ) and asking there!

Great information! My husband and I are planning to spend a week in Seoul next year. I’m Black and he is Filipino American. Do you think we will encounter any racial issues?

Hi Stephanie! Good question. Racism in Korea is a pretty loaded topic. Essentially everyone who doesn’t look Korean or East Asian has a good chance of experiencing some sort of micoaggression at least. However, because you’re in Seoul for only a week (aka a short time and in the most progressive part of the country used to seeing international visitors), you’ll most likely be fine.

Thank you for this info. Love the content! This is very helpful for those people like me who’s planning to go to Korea. Hopefully I can visit there next year! May I ask what are the requirements to get Korean Visa?

Hi Juliet! Depends on the visas. I recommend checking out the Korean embassy website in your country for specific details. The E-2 visa for teachers is a whole process!

Hi thank you so much for a detailed outline for tips on traveling to south korea, this helped a lot!

Traveling soon there, do I need to know someone in South Korea as a list of contact or do they ask that when first time travelers arrive there? What if i do not know anyone?

Thank you! I don’t think so, but I’m not sure how things have changed with COVID!

Thank you for this! I am planning my 40th birthday for 2022 and this came up in my search!

Ooh so exciting!! I hope you have fun planning!

I loved this so much! I’m hoping to go to korea next year on my own and i’m so excited but very nervous. and this has been so helpful! I’m not sure if you have already but do you have an article or any advise on getting visas or how it works depending on how long you plan on staying. Thank you x:)

Aw you’ll love it!! I have one on getting the E-2 visa but I’m not familiar with the rest. You’ll want to check out some of the Facebook groups for Korea for that :)

So detailed and so impressive! There are lots of articles of Korean travel tips, but I haven’t seen like this one :) Thanks for your post!

Hi! Thank you :) This means so much to me!

This is so helpful, I’ll be going next year and I can’t wait! When you first traveled to South Korea; did you have to book a hotel and give them the hotel information?

Hi! That’s so exciting; I hope you have the best time!!

Yes! So when you go through immigration, they’ll have you fill out the typical form and it’ll ask for an address and phone number. If I’m not staying with friends, I’ll book an Airbnb in Hongdae or hotel and use their address and phone number on the form.

Hi! I’m going to South Korea this year with 4 other girls (2 of whom are my sisters). I came across your post and it gave a very usueful insight to visiting South Korea for the first time. Thank you!

I cannot wait for my trip in 3 weeks!

Thank you so much :). I hope you ladies have such a fun trip! If your timing is just right, I think you should see the cherry blossoms!

Hi, I’m a Korean preparing to be a tour guide for foreign travelers.

I’m impressed by this post full of affection for Korea. I love it! I think most of, no, all of tips you wrote in this post are super helpful to travelers considering trip to Korea. And actually this post is a good text for me to take a foreigners’ perspective, too.

I’m keeping to see your other posts that is so worth to study(!). Nice to meet your posts. :)

Hi Narae, thanks so much for your kind words :) Good luck with your tour guide prep!

I’m a Korean In this post, I think that you got realistic Korean knowledges and useful tips. I didn’t think about foreigner’s perspacetive. And I am amazed by your tips that is most right thing. Thx for your post :)

Thank you, Jae Youl! I’m glad you like the post :)

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10 Days in South Korea: A Mini Travel Guide (2023)

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South Korea is a destination I’ve always been semi-interested in. It never topped my bucketlist, but it was also far from the bottom. My hesitation has always been my pension for remote undeveloped destinations rather than a modern metropolis. But I love Bangkok, Cairo, and Mumbai. So, why not add Seoul to my list?

We spent 10 days in South Korea and while that’s not nearly long enough to be any kind of expert on the country, it was long enough to gain some valuable insight and recommendations worth passing along. Here’s our mini travel guide for a quick trip to South Korea.

Our Mini Travel Guide to South Korea (10-Day Itinerary)

This is not a be-all-end-all list for the country. But it is a collection of my favorite destinations, food, and some helpful tips to make getting around the country a bit easier for first-timers.

Important Tips for Traveling in South Korea 

Fall is the perfect time to visit Korea. Specifically, early to mid-October when the hills are alight in gold, orange, and red leaves. Leaf-peeping here rivals Vermont. The entire countryside is covered in forested hills that change with the season. Add to that the mild temperatures and blue skies, and this is the best season to visit. 

I’ll divide the rest of the tips into two separate categories…tips for making travel easier and tips to make the rich culture of Korea more digestible.

Tips to Make Travel Easier 

1. make sure your flight arrives before 11 pm. .

Night flights into Seoul are rare but they do happen. I know because we were on one. Arriving late into Seoul, where the airport is an hour-long drive from the city center means you have to taxi rather than use the super easy and cheap metro. Taxis from the airport to the city cost around $55. 

2. Download KakaoMap

For whatever reason google maps and  maps.me  are basically useless in Korea. This map will save your skin though. The only downside is it’s not offline compatible (that I know of) so you’ll still need a Korean SIM card to use it for directions outside the hostel. We found things on Kakao and then plotted them on Maps.me so we could skip the SIM card.

3. Screenshot the front of the building so you can actually find it. 

Most of the time the name of restaurants will be in Korean, not English so it’s helpful to know what the place looks like rather than what it’s called. We were especially sure to do this with our accommodation.

4. You don’t NEED a T-Money card but it will save you time. 

A T-Money card is essentially a reloadable public transport card. You can use the disposable trip cards each metro use but since we used the metro several times per day in Seoul it seems like it makes the most sense to just get a card. Each metro ride is about 75 cents per person. Buses take cash as well as T-money cards. 

5. Watch out for Mondays.

Museums, restaurants, and shops are often closed on Monday. Think Sunday hours in the USA. 

6. Inter-city bus tickets can be bought the day of, but on the weekends should be purchased in advance. 

There are little kiosks with English menu options that should be able to help you secure tickets at each bus station. We bought all of ours on the day of travel with no problems. But during high season or weekends, you could have problems securing a seat day of on the more popular or less serviced routes.

7. “Express Buses” don’t actually get you there any faster.

Because roads are so well maintained in South Korea the “Intercity” buses and “Express” buses have little to no time difference between destinations. The big difference is in the type of bus. Express buses are a little more expensive, located in slightly less convenient areas, and a little nicer with larger seats and more recline. But the intercity buses are super comfy too.

The most important factor in deciding which you should use is where the respective bus stations are in relation to your accommodations. For us, we pretty much exclusively used the intercity buses because the terminals were all within walking distance from our accommodation.

Cultural Tips 

1. know the polite way to give and receive something. .

You should always receive things with two hands. You should always hand things to another person while using one hand and the other gently touching your elbow or forearm area. 

2. Korea isn’t super solo traveler friendly. 

This is arguable I suppose. Here’s the deal. There are a lot of dorms and it’s very easy to make friends in South Korea because there is a huge number of solo travelers. BUT a lot of Korean food is meant to be eaten in groups. To the extent that some restaurants won’t even let solo travelers be served certain meals (Korean BBQ for example). Portions in Korea are HUGE.

It’s also good to know that if a dish is 15-20,000 won you can expect it to be large enough to serve two hungry people. Meals in Korea are just meant to be shared and if you do eat solo you’ll end up spending more on food and having tons of leftovers. 

Our Suggested South Korea Itinerary 

This is how we filled our 10 days in Korea and how I would alter it if we could do it all again.

Seoul (4+ days) 

If I could spend more time in Seoul just to eat all the glorious food…I would have. But Seoul is rather expensive. We found two dorm beds for $13 each at a lovely hostel in Hongdae called Time Travelers Relax Guesthouse . Hongdae is a young “nightlife” neighborhood but the hostel was quiet and it’s well connected to the rest of the city by metro. 

There’s a lot to do and see if you like parks, exceptional food, history, and museums. It’s also a city extremely popular with expats and those doing a work exchange while going to school. Digital nomads as well. 

If you’re planning to go from Seoul to Sokcho by bus (you should, especially in the Fall) you should depart from DongSeoul Station . Not only is it easier to reach than the express bus terminal from Hongdae but it drops you off nearer the water (and likely your lodging) in Sokcho so you can walk. 

Sokcho (2 Days) 

It takes about 2.5 hours to reach Sokcho from Seoul. Take the bus from the Daegu station. It’s less popular with foreign tourists but it drops you at the intercity bus terminal in Sokcho which is closer (usually within walking distance) to most lodging. 

Sokcho itself is a big summer beach + seafood destination. The streets are lined with crab tanks and stands BBQing little Mackerel. The city is much larger than I expected and other than the central market and lovely coastline at sunset doesn’t have all that much to offer. The main appeal is Seoraksan National Park. 

Take bus 7 from town to the end of the line and pay the $3 entrance fee for some of the best hiking in South Korea. Be sure to arrive before 7:30 AM to beat the crowds. And avoid weekends in the peak Spring, Summer, and Fall months. 

If you only have time for one hike make sure it’s Ulsanbawi Rock. A 7-mile round trip uphill hike to an incredible viewpoint of Sokcho and the smooth boulders forming a ridge in the park. This one hike wiped us out and made us wish we had one more day in the park. So if you want to see it all and do the waterfall hikes or the walk through the valley to Geumganggul cave I would plan for one more day in the park. 

Hostel: I recommend James Blue Hostel . James was super helpful in planning our trip, offers free coffee and breakfast, lovely rooms, and was right near all the bus stops we needed. 

Jeonju (2 days) 

Getting here from Sokcho via bus is a half-day venture. It can take anywhere from 5-6 hours and only a few departures per day that don’t route you back through Seoul. Plan to head to the bus station early.

The capital of culture and food in South Korea. Specifically, Bibimbap. During fall the streets of Jeonju are covered in the golden wings of ginkgo leaves and brilliantly yellow ginkgo, some over 600 years old, rim the old town. Jeonju is also known for its numerous festivals and being home to South Korea’s largest traditional village with more than 600 Hanok homes decorating the city skyline.

Many travelers miss Jeonju unless they’re foodie focused. But eating is Korea’s main attraction and it is a very pretty city.

Busan (2 days) 

The bus from Jeonju to Busan is 4 hours and super easy. There are tons of buses leaving from both the intercity and express stations in Jeonju.

I hesitate to recommend two days in Busan. If you are going to cut one day out of your itinerary make it one from here. It’s not that I don’t like the city. I do. But as far as attractions and food go…the other destinations in Korea have more to offer. Busan is dirtier, more chaotic, seedier (not in a dangerous way), and I found the attractions a little more gimmicky. I feel like you could cram the beaches of Busan, Gamcheon Cultural Village, and food in Busan all into one day.

But judging by other travelers’ ravings about Busan, it appears that I’m in the minority.

There are plenty of other destinations you could add to your itinerary, popular ones include Jeju Island or the Gyeongju burial mounds. With limited time (and money) we decided to stick to just these 4 in the 10 days that we allotted for South Korea. This gives you a very well-rounded look at the country. 

Sights We Recommend  in South Korea

South Korea would be an amazing place to live. It’s no wonder so many digital nomads and English teachers spend a year or two getting to know the country. But not all of us have years to gallivant around the country. 

Here’s a look at a few things you should definitely do on a short trip. 

Best Sights in Seoul, South Korea

• Hike to Namsan Tower. The hike is only about 2.5 miles round trip and has great views of the city. We didn’t feel the need to go up into the tower because the views from the summit were impressive enough.
• Visit the War Memorial of Korea Museum. It’s free and a great way to learn about the history of the Korean Peninsula. 
• Gyeongbokgung Palace. This offers a great look at ancient architecture in Seoul. It’s photogenic and a nice way to spend a morning. You can also rent a traditional Hanbok for $6 and enter the palace for free. 
• Namdaemun Market. This outdoor market has everything. Tasty street food and all kinds of goods, it was one of my favorite places to visit in Seoul. Lunch is the best time to visit. 
• Gangnam. This is a popular wealthy neighborhood in Seoul that’s worth walking through late at night. 
• Enjoy the nightlife in Itaewon. This is a late-night club spot. If that’s you’re thing, you’ve got to check it out. 
• Traditional Hanok Village. Get here early to see a beautifully preserved traditional neighborhood and photograph the steep streets. 

We skipped the DMZ. At $60 per person, DMZ tours are pretty expensive and it’s not like you get to set foot in North Korea. If you’re super interested in the current state of the demilitarized zone between the two countries the tour could be a good add-on to this list. I just felt like it wasn’t worth it to us. 

Attractions to see outside of Seoul

• Seoraksan National Park (Sokcho) . Ulsanbawi Peak is one of the more difficult trails but still doable in a long morning. I recommend getting to the park when it opens at 7 AM and starting this 7-mile hike right away.
• Igidae Coastal Walk (Busan). This is a lovely seaside walk to enjoy the pretty coastline of Busan.
• Gamcheon Cultural Village (Busan). This is a pretty touristy spot. But it’s worth an early morning visit to beat all the people and see the colorful neighborhood from above.
• Jeonju Hanok Village. This is the largest in South Korea. There are plenty of viewpoints throughout the city to photograph the iconic rooftops.
• Jaman Mural Village (Jeonju). Near the Hanok village is a small neighborhood covered in cute Korean murals. There’s a really tasty deep-fried rice cake gimbap in there too.

Food We Recommend  in South Korea

Food is one of the main reasons to visit South Korea. I mean, the country is extraordinary, with excellent nature preserves and sprawling livable cities filled with parks. But the food is a major draw for travelers. Here are a handful of my favorites. 

You would have to spend more than a month in Seoul to hit all the best places. My 4-days were nowhere near enough. Normally, I wouldn’t even bother making food recs having been in the city so short of time. But thanks to Will Fly For Food and several other blogs I was able to compile a list of the best of the best. 

Don’t forget to look up all these places on KakaoMap because Google Maps work so poorly in Korea.

Some Must Eats in South Korea

• Hyodo Chicken. (Seoul)  Hands down the best friend chicken in the world. I mean it. I don’t care where you are staying — make the journey to it and get the original + soy-soaked bone-in. This place is owned by two Michelin chefs but costs the same as any other classic chicken and beer joint in Korea. 
• Woo Lae Oak.   (Seoul) Korean BBQ, the best kimchi I had in the country, and the must-eat dish — Pyongyang North Korean Noodles. Made from buckwheat and in a cold broth. 
• Sokcho Seolong. (Sokcho) Stepping outside of Seoul, this Hawaiian/Japanese fusion is incredible. Get the Tonkatsu. 
• Dok Galbi. (Seoul) The name of the restaurant is in Korean so just put (37.555987, 126.925378) into your GPS and that should find it. Massive portions and best served with an order of udon scrambled into it. 
• Gyeongdong Market. (Seoul) This is THE street food market in Seoul. Many of the dishes are Michelin-starred or featured on various Netflix shows (like Street Food). You have to get Kimchi dumplings, potato pancakes, and hand-cut noodle soup. Come for lunch rather than dinner and be sure to pick the place with the longest line. 
• Grandma Yus Bibimbap. (Seoul) The best in Seoul. Jeonju is renowned for its bibimbap through.
• Yeontabal Korean BBQ. (Seoul) If you need the best Korean BBQ in the country. 
• Sooni’s Store. (Seoul) I recommend the Kimchi stew if you can handle the spice or a delicious rice cake and cheese ramen. 
• Manjok Ohyang Jokbal. (Seoul) Pig trotters and pork belly. 
• The Best Bibimbap (Jeonju). Okay, again the restaurant is in Korean so you’ll have to make do with the GPS coordinates and look for the big line outside. Coordinates: 35.817573, 127.1458
• Veteran Noodle (Jeonju). This locally famous shop serves kalguksu noodle soup and dumplings with heated floor seating.
• Dongducheon Budae Jjigae (Busan) . If you haven’t found a good army soup yet (spicy stew with Spam, hotdog, ramen, tofu, and other American-style canned non-perishables) this is your chance. I promise it’s far better tasting than it sounds.
• Daily Beer Nampo (Busan) . It’s always good to have another chicken and beer joint on hand in South Korea. This one serves its signature beer from a Pyrex glass and has above-average chicken.

Skip Tosokchon Samgyetang Chicken Soup. This place is touted as “the best soup in Korea” but honestly, we found it quite bland and not even close to our favorite meal in South Korea. It’s right in the heart of the tourist district, the line can be over an hour long, and it costs nearly $14 for a single soup. Maybe it’s because we ordered the soup to-go (because we weren’t about to wait in the lunch rush line) but we weren’t impressed. I get it’s an indigenous recipe with ginseng and jujube* but I would say not worth the wait.  

Street food is actually very common in Korea. But it’s all mostly the same. Tteokbokki rice cakes, steeped fish cakes, meat sticks, walnut puffs, and egg/cheese bread. It’s also not that cheap. I found that most items were at least $1 per piece.

Budget for 10 days in South Korea

Here’s exactly how much we spent in South Korea for two travelers over the course of 10 days.

Daily Accommodation Cost: $26

Daily Food Cost: $37

Total Spent on Transport: $150 + $55 Airport taxi

Amount Spent on activities in South Korea: $11

Total Spent in South Korea: $899.08

Total Spent Per Person Per Day in South Korea: $44.95

Considering we try to stick to a budget of $50 per day for the two of us ($25 pp per day) this is an expensive country for us. We found it difficult to save money when the bulk of our expenses was on food that we wanted to try. Korean food culture is very unique and we didn’t want to miss out on that experience. But unlike Japan where you can just share one single dish to save money–Korean cuisine is typically charged per person with a min of two people eating the same dish. This meant we had to eat out for every meal to try it all and spend way more than we wanted to.

How to Save Money in South Korea 

We visited South Korea and Japan back to back. While some things in Japan were definitely more expensive (transportation, mostly) I found South Korea, surprisingly, to be equally if not more expensive day-to-day as Japan. Here are a few ways to make South Korea a little more affordable.

1. Participate in a work exchange. 

This is super popular in South Korea and usually consists of spending 1-4 hours per day helping at your hostel in exchange for free accommodation. You can ask around upon arrival if any hostels are looking for volunteers.

2. Street food or 7/11. 

This is the cheapest way to eat in the country. Hot food in Asian 7/11’s is actually quite good. And super affordable. I recommend the bao buns, hot ramen, and all the grape-flavored gummy snacks.

3. Try lunchtime at fancier restaurants. 

This can be a great way to try smaller dishes or specials at lower prices than the set dinner menus. 

4. Go out in groups. 

Certain meals should be eaten in groups. Korean BBQ for one. This is one of the meals most restaurants won’t even serve to a single traveler. Although some places charge per person, it’s often a little cheaper to dine with more people and share. 

I really enjoyed my time in Korea. I felt like the 10 days we spent in the country was the perfect amount of time to get to know the culture on a really basic level and enjoy the best attractions, food, and destinations. South Korea is going to unseat any of my favorite countries to visit any time soon, but those who really love efficient and clean cities might feel differently.

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Seoul Is One of the Best Places to Visit in 2023 — Here's Why

Plan the perfect trip to South Korea's capital — cool cocktail bars, Michelin-starred restaurants, and hip boutiques included.

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

“If you visit Seoul now, you will discover a city that feels newer, richer, and fresher than ever.” 

While my friend and music producer-turned-fragrance designer Soohyang Kim of The Perfume Club has watched her hometown go through ups and downs like any other city, she wasn’t expecting it to emerge from the pandemic more compelling than before.

Neither was I. And I couldn’t have summed up my recent solo trip to South Korea’s capital — named one of the best places to visit in 2023 — any better. Over 10 days at a dizzying pace — locals embrace a ppalli ppalli (meaning quickly, quickly) lifestyle — I explored the megacity with wider eyes than usual, while discovering new and under-the-radar spots proving Seoul is much more than K-pop, barbecue, and Gangnam.

JanDee Kim/Courtesy of The Perfume Club

Few neighborhoods are more emblematic of the city’s new wave of creativity than Seongsu-dong. Flocked by Seoul’s young and stylish set, the industrial district was once home to shoe factories, but now brims with hip restaurants ( Cafe Onion , Popina , and Grandmother’s Recipe are worth checking out), bars, and boutiques occupying many of the original historic buildings. Set in a former manufacturing facility of Kim’s, The Perfume Club is an experiential, design-driven space that’s equal parts atelier, retail shop, and social hub for fellow fragrance lovers. Next door is Nudake , a dessert concept by Korean eyewear company Gentle Monster specializing in provocative baked treats such as its signature Peak Cake, a ring of black squid-ink croissants you pull apart and dip into a pea-green matcha cream center. Independent creatives aren’t the only ones who’ve planted themselves here, though. In May, Dior unveiled a stunning, three-year pop-up concept combining a cafe, garden, and boutique in an open-air, greenhouse-like structure.

Though plenty of up-and-coming talent shapes Seoul’s ever-evolving arts and crafts scene, few are turning heads more than Hyung Jun Kim and Seo Seok Man of Goyang’s THR-Ceramic . Visit their studio for a full-day class to learn the significance of Joseon Dynasty pottery and paint your own keepsake in the period’s distinctive cobalt blue. And if your luggage permits, nab as many of duo’s original Naldak pieces (chickens managing the best they can in awkward situations) and Dogabis (goblins wearing exaggerated expressions that are as unsettling as they are hilarious). Both ceramic collections are rooted in indigenous mythology and folklore, and make for one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Courtesy of THR Ceramic

Department stores also remain an integral part of Korea's social fabric. They’re typically massive, multifloor buildings with each one dedicated to a different department, like food halls (almost always in the basement) or luxury goods. Opened last year, The Hyundai Seoul in Yeouido is the city’s buzziest and largest, with a minimalist, futuristic design incorporating natural elements (trees, a soaring waterfall, and floating “islands”) to bring the outdoors in and an impressive roster of international and emerging domestic brands such as Thelma and Mo-no-ha .

As for Seoul’s culinary landscape, it still beckons with a dynamic mix of everything you’d want to sink your teeth into, from affordable street foods to Michelin-starred establishments elevating traditional cuisine to new heights. Thankfully, many city stalwarts, including Woo Lae Oak — get the Pyongyang naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles) — Gwangjang Market , and Miro Sikdang were spared during the pandemic.

Courtesy of Four Season Seoul

A notable recent trend, however, has been an increased interest in artisanal jeontongju (traditional rice-based spirits) from independent producers reimagining the category with domestic fruit, longer fermentation periods, and whimsical packaging. One of the best spots to experience jeontongju (and much more) is Oul at the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. A celebration of Korea’s dynamic drinking culture, the lively bar and lounge pours lesser-known drinks like bokbunja (fruit wines) alongside imaginative anju (drinking snacks) of crunchy kimchi bombs and spicy-creamy lobster tteokbokki , making it more than easy drink in Korean culture — past and present.

The Partying Traveler

Survival of the littest.

The Backpacker’s Travel Guide to Seoul, South Korea | 2023

Seoul, the dynamic heart of South Korea, is one of my favorite cities in the world. It is a vibrant and breathtaking crossroads of cultures, blending South Korea’s storied past with an electric taste of the future. Seoul often felt like a contradiction, with centuries-old palaces juxtaposed with skyscrapers grasping at clouds, and underground traditional markets lying beneath its ultra-modern streets and its towers of silver. I can’t say enough amazing things about this city that had me pushing my return flight further and further back.

South Korea as a travel destination never particularly enthralled me, but after making a friend who lived in Seoul, I decided to stop by. The flight from the Philippines was only $50, and I’m a sucker for a cheap flight. I came in with few expectations and left feeling like I’ve just said goodbye to a home I’ve known all my life. Seoul is elite, boasting rich cultural heritage, mouthwatering cuisine, and a pulsating nightlife scene. This city truly captured my heart. If you’re planning a trip to Seoul, do not hesitate. Here’s everything need to know before taking on this unforgettable city.

And hey, if this post helps you out, show some love and support for the blog and help keep my adventures going by  buying me a beer ! My adventures are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated. It allows me to keep providing free travel guides and creating travel content to help you all travel the world.

Table of Contents

Things to know before going to seoul.

• The Best Neighborhoods in Seoul

Hostel Recommendations for Seoul

From the airport to seoul, public transportation in seoul, taxis in seoul.

• Exploring Seoul on Foot

How Many Days To Spend in Seoul

The best things to do in seoul.

• Nightlife in Seoul
• Final Thoughts

Buy Me A Beer!

Seoul can be an excellent destination for travelers of all levels. It is safe, modern, and filled with incredible things to see and do. While South Korea is a very traveler-friendly destination, there are a few basics to know before visiting this East Asian country.

The currency is the Korean Won . Most places will accept credit cards, but it is always a good idea to have cash handy. There are plenty of ATMs and money exchanges, so withdrawing cash won’t be an issue. For navigating, you’ll want to have the apps Kakao and Naver downloaded. Google Maps kind of works here, but these apps are much more reliable and widely-used. Kakao is also the local taxi app, so use that instead of Uber in case you’re struggling to hail a cab off the streets.

The spoken and written language is Korean, and I’ll admit, there was more of a language barrier than I expected. Outside of tourist hotspots, it will be difficult to find English speakers and few places will have English menus. I had no problem getting around and figuring things out on my own, but it can be tricky until you become familiar with how things work. I’d recommend picking up a few basic Korean phrases and downloading a translation app like Google Translate that allows you to point your camera and translate menus and other text in real-time. The people of South Korea often keep to themselves, but are kind and will help however they can if you find yourself lost.

Staying connected in Seoul can be tricky, as SIM cards aren’t easily available. I’d recommend using one of the eSIM services offered at the airport and tourist areas, or using an eSIM app like Airalo . Use ELIJAH933 to get $3 off your first eSIM with Airalo, which offers an unlimited data plan for South Korea.

And of course, it’s always important to have travel insurance handy when out adventuring the world. I use  SafetyWing  to keep me covered throughout my travels for as low as $45 a month, and their coverage includes South Korea among the 190+ countries that they cover.

Where To Stay in Seoul

Seoul is a sprawling city with countless different neighborhoods. Each can feel like a different city altogether. One of the most crucial aspects of planning your trip to Seoul is choosing which neighborhood to serve as your home base. It can truly make or break your trip. I love Seoul, and believe that anyone who doesn’t simply hasn’t found the right neighborhood for them. I’d even recommend hopping around between neighborhoods and staying in each one to get a feel for the different personalities of Seoul.

The Best Neighborhoods for Travelers

As a backpacker, I’d prioritize three neighborhoods in Seoul. If you plan on fast-paced sightseeing, look to Myeongdong . Staying in Myeongdong will put you within walking distance or a short train ride to the main palaces, temples, and markets.

If you are looking to shop, cafe-hop, and experience Korean nightlife , check out Hongdae . This trendy and upscale neighborhood is home to countless coffee shops, restaurants, vintage stores, and nightlife spots. It is not a great district for sightseeing, but for aimless wanderers, I can’t recommend it enough. Hongdae is also well-connected by trains and buses to the rest of the city, so sightseeing is still pretty doable from here.

Itaewon is my third suggestion. It is similar to Hongdae but a bit more compact and more international. It is excellent for nightlife, and considering that trains stop running at midnight, a great option for night owls who’d prefer their drunken journeys home to be short and sweet. Itaewon is not as flashy and fancy as Hongdae, but there is a certain charm to it that made me fall in love.

Of course, there are plenty of other neighborhoods in Seoul. Gangnam is popular among travelers, but for my fellow budget backpackers, I’d recommend it as a day trip instead of a home base. It can be pricy and quite frankly, I didn’t find it all that exciting if you don’t like spending money.

I stayed at quite a few hostels in Seoul. I’ve heard rave reviews about Zzzip Guesthouse , but never managed to actually snag a room since I was always booking things with little notice. If there’s any availability, give it a go, as many of my followers on social media highly recommended it as the place to stay. The first hostel I stayed at was Time Traveler Party Hostel with the intention of making friends and being close to the nightlife of Hongdae. It was an okay hostel in terms of quality, but pretty good if you are looking for a more social scene. The best hostel I stayed at was Batwo Stay. It had a great location and amazing facilities, as well as nightly events including family dinners, cooking classes, K-pop dance classes, calligraphy classes, and more. All three of these are in Hongdae, my favorite neighborhood to stay in as a traveler.

If you’re looking for a cheap hotel, I also stayed at One Minute Guesthouse in Myeongdong. It was very basic, but at $30ish a night for such a central location, I truly couldn’t complain. It was close to multiple subway stations, as well as within walking distance of many of Seoul’s top attractions. I ended up staying there twice, for about eight days total. I spent two nights in Itaewon at G Guesthouse Itaewon , which was okay if you just wanted to be close to the nightlife scene without caring much about quality. It had a great rooftop, but besides that, was pretty mediocre compared to the other hostels I stayed at.

For a complete list of hostels in Seoul , check out Hostelworld.

How To Get Around Seoul

Seoul has two airports, Incheon and Gimpo. Incheon is the major international airport, while Gimpo is mainly for domestic flights. Both are easily accessible by public transport, and one can take the train all the way to Seoul Station from Incheon. It takes about an hour. Just head to the basement of arrivals and follow th esigns until you find the train station.

Upon arriving in Seoul, be sure to get the T Money transportation card. It makes getting around a lot quicker and easier than buying a ticket each time you need a train. The transportation card works with buses and the metro system, both of which are reliable and efficient. You can truly get almost anywhere within Seoul and the surrounding suburbs just by public transportation. They also have fun little jingles to announce when the train is coming, which always hyped me up and made me feel like I was going on a grand adventure. Wherever the train can’t take you, buses can pick up the slack. Although I was fine using Google Maps for navigating, most locals use the Naver app. The only problem with Google Maps is that it did not show me walking directions, but it worked fine for public transportation routes and time tables.

I’d only recommend taxis if public transportation is no longer running. I was surprised at how affordable taxis were, especially in comparison to nearby Japan. You can order taxis online with Kakao or the Uber app. It can be tricky communicating your destination, or even typing it on the app itself as most place names will only be in Korean and occasionally in the wrong place entirely. I only used taxis coming home from nights out, and that’s basically the only time I’d recommend using them.

Exploring Seoul On Foot

And lastly, walking. Some neighborhoods in Seoul are very pedestrian-friendly. I walked the majority of my time in Seoul. It is a great way to explore the city and stumble into some surprising hidden gems. One of my favorite parts about Seoul were all the walking trails and parks that served as both escapes from the city life and convenient ways to get to your destination. There’s an 11-kilometer long canal lined with trees and greenery that runs through the city and is perfect for walking to your destination without dealing with cars or crosswalks.

It all depends on how much you want to see, and the pace of travel you are comfortable with. I visited Seoul on the eighth month of an exhausting trip where I roared through North Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. I was burnt out by the time I reached Seoul, and the comforts and luxuries of a big city were calling my name. I spent three weeks in Seoul, although less than half of them were spent actually sightseeing. The others were spent wandering aimlessly or nursing a hangover from a night out in Hongdae or Itaewon.

To knock out the main things to do in Seoul, I’d recommend spending around five days. The reliable public transportation system makes it easy to explore multiple neighborhoods per day. However, if you’ve got time, Seoul is a great city for taking it slow. It’s a great city for digital nomads, with excellent infrastructure for working and plenty of things to keep you busy on your off-time. It all depends on you. I’ve met a handful of backpackers who avoid big cities, and happily skipped town after two days. On the other hand, I’ve met other travel bloggers and nomads that lamented not being able to stay longer. As a starting point, I’d recommend booking three nights in one part of the city, and tacking on an extra two or three days in another district if you feel like you need more time to explore.

Seoul is home to stunning historical sites, national parks, charming neighborhoods, and countless dining, shopping, and nightlife districts. It will be difficult to keep this concise, as there are so many things to do in this city. For first-timers visiting Seoul, these are my top fifteen things to do in Seoul. This wide range of activities will help you experience every aspect of Seoul, from its historical sites, bustling markets, and nightlife districts.

Visit the Imperial Palaces of Seoul

There are five royal palaces in Seoul , with the most iconic being Gyeongbokgung Palace. They are all located relatively close to each other, so it’s easy to see them all in one day if you start early enough. Changdeokgung, Changyeounggung, and Deoksugung, and Gyeonghuigung. I’ve been to all of them except for Gyeonghuigung. My favorite is Gyeongbokgung by far, but since all of them cost like $2 to get in, I’d say each one is worth visiting.

Wander through the traditional Hanok Villages

Close to the palaces, you’ll also find some traditional Hanok villages . These historic houses and streets are also nice for a wander back in time. Bukchon is the most famous one, but there are a few others that won’t have as many tourists. The villages are mostly residential houses, with a few cafes, restaurants, and boutiques among them. Keep in mind that people live in these villages, so be respectful.

Go Hiking in Bukhansan National Park

Bukhansan National Park is an easy day trip from Seoul’s city center, with plenty of public transportation options dropping you off at the National Park. This national park is free to enter, and boasts a number of hikes ranging in length and difficulty. If you are up for the challenge, I’d recommend Baegundae , the tallest peak in the national park. It’s almost like a mini-Half Dome, down to the ladders and wires that you’ll have to hold onto for dear life to reach the summit.

Hang out at the Hangang River Parks

One of my favorite things to do in Seoul was hang out along the river. This is a popular post-work activity among locals, and you’ll find countless Seoul-ites having a picnic or taking a stroll at one of the many parks along the Hangang River. Some parks will even have food stalls and places to rent picnic blankets.

Hike up to Seoul Namsan Tower

My favorite view of Seoul is from the iconic Namsan Tower park. You don’t necessarily have to pay to get into the tower. The view in the park surrounding the tower is gorgeous, and it’s a relatively easy hike that won’t take more than an hour from Myeongdong. Come up here for sunset if you want some golden color over the vast white fields of Seoul’s skyscrapers.

Feast on Food at Gwangjang Market

Eat, eat, eat. Korean food is among my favorite cuisines in the world. It’s famous especially for Korean BBQ, bibimbap, bulgogi, but there is so much more. From classics like gimbap and kimchi, to more adventurous options like squirming octopus , raw beef, and blood sausages, Gwangjang Market is your one stop shop for experiencing Korea’s food culture.

Roam Around Trendy Hongdae and Experience Korean Nightlife

Hongdae is my favorite neighborhood of Seoul. While it is great for exploring during the day, it truly comes alive at night. This area is filled with cafes, restaurants, boutique shops, vintage stores, and countless Korean quirks such as their endless selection of photo booths, karaoke rooms, and arcade games.

Visit the DMZ

A day trip to the Demilitarized Zone is a popular activity for tourists visiting Seoul. It’s a good way to get an understanding of the conflict and current relations between North Korea and South Korea.

Experience Itaewon’s Nightlife

Itaewon is Seoul’s international district, with a large amount of expats and foreigners calling this lively neighborhood home. You’ll find restaurants and shops ran by people from all over the world, including the Middle East, Africa, and many other Asian nations. Itaewon is the most unique neighborhood in Seoul, and the hub of the LGBTQ+ and foreigner communities. I highly recommended grabbing some soju and strolling the streets at night before popping into a nightclub and dancing until the trains start running again.

Explore Myeongdong’s Night Market and Feast on Street Food

Sometimes, you just want something quick, convenient, and fresh off the grill. Myeongdong walking street is a lively area filled with shops, restaurants, and most importantly, an abundance of street food stalls. Fried baby crabs, grilled octopus, and Korean essentials like fish cakes, tteokbokki and egg bread can all be found in Myeongdong. For street food lovers, Myeongdong’s Night Market can’t be missed.

Visit Noryangjin Fish Market

Those who follow in Anthony Bourdain’s taste buds will be familiar with Noryangjin Fish Market. This market is where you’ll find the freshest fish in Seoul. It’s one heck of an experience, regardless of if you actually plan on eating anything or not. Here, you’ll find all sorts of sea creatures, including some that you’ve likely never seen before. It’s a sensory overload, with sights and sounds and of course, smells, pummeling every orifice of your body.

Go Thrift Shopping at Dongmyo’s Flea Market

This sprawling flea market is your best bet for actual vintage and thrift shopping. It’s right outside of Dongmyo station and extends for many streets and alleyways. It’s a far cry from the fancier boutiques of Hongdae and Gang Nam, but if you’re looking for some bargain finds, Dongmyo can’t be missed.

Visit the Museums of Seoul

I can’t say that I really went out of my way to visit museums in Seoul, but I’d often step into one if it was close by. The National Folk Museum of Korea was my favorite, and its proximity to Gyeongbokgung Palace definitely makes it worth visiting. Another random museum I visited was the Hansangsoo Embroidery Museum, which is free to enter if you find yourself in the neighborhood of Seongbuk. The displays of Korean embroidery here are nothing short of breathtaking. Aside from those, the National Museum of Korea, Leeum Museum of Art, and the War Memorial are the most visited in Seoul, although I didn’t make it to any of them.

Visit the Dongdaemun Design Plaza

This marvel of modern architecture is one of Seoul’s most iconic structures. It’s nice to wander through for half an hour or so, but there isn’t much else to do around this area. Regardless, it’s worth checking out if you want to pretend you are in a spaceship for a little while.

Lotte World

I never made it here, but this is basically Seoul’s answer to Disney World. It’s an amusement park complete with a castle that rivals Disney World’s. Not really my thing, but something worth considering if theme parks are your jam.

Check out Gangnam

Whether you know anything about Seoul or not, you know the name Gangnam. The world was taken by storm by Psy and his catchy hit Gangnam Style that was ubiquitous during my freshman year of college back in 2012. The song has been encapsulated with its own statue in the Gangnam neighborhood of Seoul.

Despite the song captivating me all those years ago, I can’t say the actual neighborhood of Gangnam did the same. It’s home to a big shopping mall, highlighted by the beautiful Starfield Library and an aquarium. I also enjoyed the Bongeunsa Temple just north of the Starfield complex. However, it only took me about two hours before I was bored of Gangnam. Considering that it’s a long journey from the more central neighborhoods of Seoul, it’s up to you to decide if it’s worth the effort. Gangnam is also great for shopping and nightlife, but more expensive and less foreigner-friendly than Hongdae.

There are countless things to do in Seoul, and this list is only scratching the surface.

Nightlife Guide to Seoul

Seoul has a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene that caters to a wide range of tastes and interests. I loved Seoul’s nightlife because it was always unpredictable and could lead you anywhere. Karaoke rooms, photo booths, arcades, Latin bars, techno clubs, Seoul truly had everything and I miss my unhinged nights of chaos here. Here’s a glimpse of what nightlife in Seoul is like.

Nightlife in Seoul is spread throughout the city. However, as a traveler, you’ll likely be looking to Hongdae or Itaewon. Both of these neighborhoods have a good mix of foreigners and locals looking to have fun. There are many Korean-only clubs and bars in Seoul, so your best bet would be in Hongdae or Itaewon. Gangnam is also an excellent choice for nightlife, but can be quite pricy and many bars and clubs are Korean-only.

I’d recommend starting the night off with some Korean barbecue. Drinking culture and eating culture in South Korea are intertwined. It’s criminal to have dinner without a bottle of soju alongside. Grab some friends, head to a KBBQ spot, and down shots of soju as the pork belly sizzles on the grill. Afterwards, it’s time to hit a noraebang. Sneak a bottle of soju in from the convenience store, rent a private booth and sing your heart out as the soju flows. One or two hours at the karaoke joint should do it, and it’s time to hit the clubs.

If you’re not quite ready, it’s time for another bottle of soju while you browse the streets looking for a lively spot. A cup of ice, a bottle of soju, and a mixer from the supermarket will keep the buzz going. If you truly want to drink a local, mix that soju with mekju (beer) to make somek, a surprisingly refreshing bev that’ll get you going in no time. Drinking on the streets in Seoul is fair game, and as long as you aren’t belligerent or unconscious, no one is going to step in.

Half of my time in Seoul was spent at the clubs, but I couldn’t tell you which ones I liked most because there are just so many of them. There was one night in Hongdae where my friend and I just decided to go into every club we saw, as long as they weren’t charging cover. My right hand was covered in stamps when I woke up the next morning. Anyway, I’ll try my best to come up with some suggestions.

Nightlife in Hongdae

In Hongdae, a good starter bar is Corner Pub or Thursday’s. They play loud music, but it’s still primarily a place to chat, get a few drinks, and meet people. Afterwards, head to Juntos, La Bamba, or Mike’s Cabin if you’re into Latin music, which I very much am. If hip-hop is more your thing, never fear. 90% of the clubs in Hongdae are underground hip-hop clubs with red lighting. I guess that must be a working formula if all of them are like that. NB2, B1, XX, and Sinkhole are a few that I’ve been to. Jumble is another good one, but I think it’s usually Korean only. The only techno place I know in Hongdae is Candy Shop, but it’s always empty and the music kinda sucks.

Honestly, the best course of action is to just roam around and feel out as many places as you can until you find one you like. FF, for example, ended up being one of my favorites despite rolling my eyes at the One Direction playlist that was bumping as we walked in. It had the best crowd of people just looking to have fun instead of hook up, which made for a much better vibe than the seedier, underground, dimly lit clubs of Seoul.

Here’s my complete guide on nightlife in Hongdae .

Nightlife in Itaewon

Now, on to Itaewon. I’ll keep it brief, as we had a much more streamlined stepping stone of clubs here. We’d start off with a bottle of Soju at the Itaewon G Guesthouse Hostel . It’s open to the public, I think, so we’d start on their rooftop just grabbing drinks from the 7-Eleven nearby as we needed them. Afterwards, we’d head to Itaewon-ro, the main strip of bars and clubs. We’d always try out a few different bars, but at the end, we’d inevitably find ourselves at Fountain. There is also a Thursday’s and Juntos branch in Itaewon.

In general, I loved Itaewon for the chaos of the streets. You never knew what was going to happen, and you’d end up making lots of strange friendships that lasted up until the trains started running again, only to never see them again until the next night out in Itaewon. I don’t know how to describe it here. It just is simply the most fun I’ve had in a nightlife area in a long time. I’m not saying it’s going to be like that for everyone, because at first glance, Itaewon definitely isn’t glamorous or fancy. It’s just fun.

Again, I’m only scratching the surface here because there is so much to Seoul’s nightlife beyond these two districts, but these are the two I know best. Say hi to Hongdae and Itaewon for me :’).

Final Thoughts on Seoul

Embrace the weirdness. There are many things in Seoul that upon first glance, seemed strange. By the end of my time in Seoul, I couldn’t imagine life without them. Hop into a photobooth with your friends and dress up. Learn some K-pop dances and jam out with the locals. Have a coffee while live sheep hang out in the same cafe . Hit up a noraebang and sing your heart out. Anything is possible in Seoul, and I hope you fall in love with this wonderful city and all its quirks.

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• South Korea

South Korea itinerary 7 days — What to do & how to spend 7 days in Korea perfectly?

Traveling to Korea at this time is so beautiful because fall and spring are the two best times to come to Korea. Especially in the fall, one of the most romantic and charming season to go when the leaves are gradually changing to yellow, brown, and red everywhere. If you’re so enchanting and don’t go “virtual living” right away, how long will you have to wait? Let us suggest an 8-day, 7-night fun itinerary in Korea for you refer to. Except for one day for traveling, you will have 7 full days to explore the country of these gentle hanboks.

• Gyeongju 1 day itinerary — How to spend one day in Gyeongju, South Korea
• When is the best time to visit Busan? — The best, worst, affordable & best season to visit Busan
• When is the best time to visit Seoul? — The best, worst, cheapest & best season to visit Seoul
• When is the best time to visit South Korea? — The best, worst, affordable & best season to visit Korea
• Seoul cherry blossom 2024 forecast — 9 best places to see cherry blossoms in Seoul

So, how many days in South Korea is enough? Let’s check out our suggested South Korea itinerary 7 days (Korea itinerary 7 days, South Korea itinerary 1 week, South Korea travel itinerary 7 days, 7 days in Korea itinerary, 7 days in South Korea itinerary, 1 week in South Korea) on how to spend 7 days in Korea perfectly in the land of Kimchi as follows!

Itinerary summary of 8 days of traveling to Korea

• Day 1: Fly to Incheon (Seoul)
• Day 2: Stroll at Hwadam Botanical Garden & explore central Seoul
• Day 3: Explore Jeonju Hanok Village & Tangjaesan Garden
• Day 4: Stroll in Seoul Forest & traveling to the ancient capital Gyeongju
• Day 5: Explore Gyeongju & traveling to Busan
• Day 6: Explore Gamcheon Culture village, Jagalchi fish market and Haeundae Blue Line park
• Day 7: Explore Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Gwangalli Beach and watch the sunset at Huinnyeoul Culture Village
• Day 8: Fly back from Gimhae (Busan)

According to the South Korea itinerary above, you will have 7 full days to explore the beautiful country of Korea.

Day 1: Fly to Incheon (Seoul) (# south korea itinerary 7 days)

From Vietnam, there are many options for you to fly to Incheon (Seoul), so within the scope of this article, my departure place is Saigon, so flight time frame are for reference only. With flight search and compare sites such as Google Flights, Skyscanner or Kayak, you can easily find suitable flight times with just a few touches, just a few clicks. You should also purchase 4G Korean SIM card or 4G pocket WiFi , especially T-Money magic card for traveling, or transfer service from the airport to the city center on Klook in advance.

After many times of flying to Incheon, here are a few tips I’ve learned:

• You should take daytime flights to feel better, in particular for your health. Because, with night flights (around 11pm – 1am), you have to wait hard at the airport late at night, and then you don’t get much sleep on the plane because the flight lasts about 4.5 hours.
• When the plane lands in Incheon around 7am (Korean time), if you arrive in central Seoul and the hotel around 9-10am, you won’t be able to check in at the hotel because it’s usually around 3pm. These things can easily make you tired all day long, making you miss everything you do.
• You should fly on a wide-body plane to sit more comfortably, have a screen to watch entertaining movies, have adequate meals so you don’t get hungry from staying up late, and have preferential check-in baggage so you can freely bring clothes and accessories… For these reasons, I chose Vietnam Airlines, Korean Air for this trip to Korea to fly on a genuine Boeing B787 or Airbus A350.

After completing immigration procedures, you go to AREX train station to buy a train ticket to downtown Seoul, then getting to the hotel. Travel time is about 43-53 minutes, depending on the type of train you choose.

Arrive at the hotel, check in, have dinner and rest.

Day 2: Stroll at Hwadam Botanic Garden & explore central Seoul (# south korea travel itinerary 7 days)

You should come to this Hwadamsup garden early (around 8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.) to have a chance to buy a ticket to visit this place. This is a garden with thousands of trees in the season of changing leaves, making the space here brightly colored yellow and red in the cool weather of Korean autumn.

This Hwadam botanical garden was established in 2013 by the LG Evergreen Foundation with the purpose of creating an ecological space where people and nature can have a conversation with each other. Anyone who loves flowers, plants and small animals will definitely love this place!

There are about 17 gardens with different themes, such as: birch garden, firefly garden, fern garden,… spread throughout the vast space here. Among them, there is the largest moss garden and pine tree garden in Korea.

If you are too lazy to walk, you can combine it with the monorail to explore around this garden.

Afternoon (# south korea itinerary 7 days)

Back in Seoul, you can go to Gyeongbokgung Palace – the largest palace in Seoul, where the royal court is located, where the king’s throne is, and where the king and queen once live. When you come here, don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony, this ceremony takes place every hour from 10am to 3pm, for 15 minutes. Very spectacular.

Next is the second largest palace in Seoul – Changdeokgung – where there is an open courtyard for the coronation of Joseon kings and a place to welcome foreign envoys.

Well, when you come to Gyeonbokkgun palace area, remember to visit Bukchon Hanok Village right nearby. Here there are hundreds of traditional Korean houses – also known as Hanok – waiting for you to visit, experience and learn more about Korean culture when visiting Bukchon.

Evening (# south korea itinerary 1 week)

You can explore Myeongdong night market, the most famous shopping street in Seoul. From around 5pm onwards, Myeong dong is like “turning over” after a day’s sleep. In the middle of the road is a row of carts selling street food, snacks, etc. Just like that, smoke rises up, so you can stop and eat a little to relieve tired legs. Don’t miss the boiled intestines and hot fish cakes that everyone can see in Korean movies.

Day 3: Explore Jeonju Hanok Village & Jangtaesan Recreational Forest (# korea itinerary 7 days)

Although located more than 3 hours away from Seoul, this Jangtaesan Recreational Forest always attracts a large number of tourists to visit in the fall, when the whole forest turns yellow and red leaves.

This is the place I want to go back to the most because when I arrived today, the leaves were still very green, around the 2nd week of November it would be absolutely beautiful. However, with the inherent beauty of the forest, blue also has its own appeal… but red is much more beautiful, lol.

I was fascinated by the straight and tall rows of Dawn redwood trees (Metasequoia), maple trees, etc. here. Walking around these forests in the cool autumn air, It was so relaxing.

But perhaps many people come here because they want to experience the feeling of walking on the suspension bridge “through space” through the two forests here, then climbing about a hundred more stairs to reach the legendary virtual living rock of this place. From here, you can stand to see the panoramic view of the forest here (it’s still a shame because the leaves haven’t changed color yet) or sit on the cliff to take really cool photos.

You can buy a one-day return tour via this LINK .

In the evening, you take time to explore the Hongdae neighborhood.

I like Hongdae because the vibe here is very youthful, artistic and stylish. From cafes, fashion and accessory stores… to groups performing, dancing, and singing on many different street corners. I also like to go to Hongdae to hang out with friends, there is a variety of food here and the prices are also reasonable.

Day 4: Stroll in Seoul Forest & traveling to the ancient capital Gyeongju (# 7 days in south korea itinerary)

You can spend the morning going to Seoul Forest and enjoy the fresh air here. Seoul Forest is a place where Seoul people often bring food and drinks to spread out under the trees and watch the forests change color in the fall or cherry blossoms in the spring.

This forest is also worthy of comparison with Central Park in New York, USA. Surrounding this forest are towering office buildings.

After having fun, drag your suitcase to Seoul Station to board the KTX train to Gyeongju.

Day 5: Explore Gyeongju & continue journey to Busan (# 7 days in korea itinerary)

The younger siblings who went with me said: “I like Gyeongju more than Seoul”, I just smiled lightly. Obviously, the ancient capital always has something that attracts tourists more than the city. Such as: larger natural landscape, fresher air, more winds that make me shiver, more traditional houses,…

Here are a few places you can visit or see more details through this article:

Fields with types of grass: pink grass, reed grass, foxtail grass,… in the Gyeongju historical site. I went when it was sunny – around noon – the color of the grass, especially the pink grass.

Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond: This is the Crown Prince’s palace of the Silla period. My first impression when I arrived here was the airy, quiet space and very poetic landscape. I was fascinated by the rows of forests in the changing season of leaves in this palace, I could only stand “dumbfounded” when I saw the yellow and red leaves gently falling every time there was a breeze. How many times do I have to click my tongue: “So damn beautiful!” when walking in Donggung palace here and there.

Bulguksa temple is more than 1000 years old and is recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site. Ignoring stories about history or Buddhism, this is a place with very beautiful scenery. There are many Dawn redwood trees, maple trees, persimmon trees, etc. that have been planted for a long time, so the roots and tree shapes are very beautiful. The leaves here are gradually turning red, very beautiful.

In addition to “hunting” for red leaves, you can wander on Poseok-ro street to enjoy the youthful space with many lovely restaurants, cafes, clothing stores, accessories,… with young Korean people. Vibe is so interesting!

Then in the late afternoon, you drag your suitcase to the KTX train station or Gyeongju Express Bus to move back to the coastal city of Busan.

Day 6: Explore Gamcheon village, Jagalchi fish market and Haeundae Blue Line park

Gamcheon culture village.

This place used to be a “slum” for refugees during the Korean War. Gradually, the population of this place decreased a lot because young people left the village to go to other places to do business and live.

It was not until 2009 that the Korean Ministry of Culture launched a project to renovate the village and invited many artists and art students to come here to beautify the village, making it much more lively. Thanks to that, Gamcheon has now become an extremely hot tourist destination in Busan.

Jagalchi fish market

Jagalchi is the largest fish market in this country, and is also a whole sale market to supply a huge amount of seafood to all of Busan and neighboring cities. Saying it’s a fish market, it’s not smelly at all but very clean.

This fish market is very large, divided into many separate areas and operates day and night. Fresh seafood processing and selling area, dried seafood area, and dining area for both residents and tourists. They are very neat and organized. Remember to enjoy the seafood dishes at this fish market before leaving.

Haeundae Blue Line Park

This park was formed on the previously closed Donghae Nambu Line train station area, and is now built into a nature-friendly tourist destination with trains running continuously with a green forest on one side. high up in the sky and on one side is a beautiful blue beach.

The total distance of this Blue Line park is 4.8km. The most beautiful route I think is: You go to Mipo station, take the Beach Train to Songjeong station, then walk back to Cheongsapo and take the Sky Capsule cabin to return to Mipo station. If you don’t mind walking, you can take the Beach Train to Cheongsapo station.

You should buy tickets in advance on the bluelinepark website, change the language to ENG and then book tickets. You should book tickets as early as possible. If the time you want to go is sold out, you can go to the ticket counter early to buy a ticket to go on the same day. In particular, Sky Capsule tickets often sell out quickly. Ah, if you go at sunset time, it’s so beautiful.

Day 7: Explore Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Gwangalli Beach and watch the sunset at Huinnyeoul Village

Younggungsa temple.

Probably one of the few temples located right on the coast in Korea, because most temples here are usually located in the mountains. Thanks to that, Younggungsa has become an interesting highlight for Busan as it is located on the beautiful Gijang coast.

This temple was first built in 1376 with the name Bomunsa. However, the temple was destroyed during the war with the Japanese invaders in 1592. And after more than 300 years, in 1930, the temple was rebuilt with the name Yonggungsa (meaning: Palace Dragon) as at present. As for the main hall of the temple, it was completed in 2005.

This temple attracts a large number of locals who come here on New Year’s Day to watch the first sunrise of the year and pray for a lucky year.

Gwangalli Beach

This beach has become a destination that attracts young people everywhere not only because it is a beach in the center of Busan, beautiful and peaceful, but also because of the photos with the Gwangandaegyo bridge standing out in the background. There are many cafes and restaurants with sea views around here for you to relax with friends and family.

Huinnyeoul Cultural Village

This is a place whose “specialties” are tiny alleys along the coastal slope, with many cafes with views straight to the Busan bridge, Namhang port and towards the setting sun. Therefore, in the afternoon, this village is much more bustling, although it is not as well known as Gamcheon Cultural Village.

The beautiful small houses with many outstanding colors also make every corner in Huinnyeoul become very “impressive”. This is a hiding place for refugees from the Korean War.

Then in 2011, artists came here and began to revive this area as it is today – this story is quite similar to Gamcheon village. Until recently, many Korean movies came here to film, so many people knew and invited each other to this village to chill.

When I came here, I just wanted to wander back and forth through the alleys and chill with a cup of coffee to watch the sunset. Gently, slowly, chill. What more can you expect from an afternoon like this in Busan?

Day 8: Return to Vietnam from Busan

Bring your suitcase to Gimhae International Airport in Busan and fly back to Vietnam.

Where to stay when traveling to Korea?

I’ve just given you full information for the South Korea itinerary 7 days, you already have enough information, so where to stay? Here are some suggestions about the area for you to search on Booking.com yourself. If you find a room price that suits your budget, then boldly click to book and you’re done. It’s as easy as eating ice cream!

• Seoul : Just find a hotel around Myeongdong , Dongdaemun, Hongdae, Itaewon or near Seoul Station. Convenient to travel but still bustling at night.
• Gyeongju: You can find hotels near Cheomseongdae and Gyeongju National Museum. Going exploring is easier, taking the bus to the KTX train station is even easier.
• Busan : You can find a hotel near Haeundae night market, Haeundae beach or Gwangalli beach to stay there. Right in the entertainment center.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and from Seoul you can refer to

• Private Incheon International Airport Transfers (ICN) for Seoul
• Private Incheon Airport Transfers (ICN) for Seoul
• Incheon International Airport (ICN) Limousine Bus Transfers for Seoul (Gangnam District)
• Klook Exclusive Seoul 5 Day Pass
• Discover Seoul Pass (BTS Edition Available)
• [SALE] Instant Ticket! Korea Rail Pass (KR PASS) 2/3/4/5 Days to travel around the cities in Korea
• Private Incheon Airport (ICN) and Gimpo Airport (GMP) Transfers for Seoul by S.A Tour
• Everland Private Car Charter with Admission Ticket by Wondertrip
• KAL Limousine Bus Ticket for Seoul
• [Limited Offer] AREX Incheon Airport Express Train One Way Ticket in Seoul
• Bukchon Oneday Hanbok Rental Experience (4/24 Hrs)
• Nami Island, Petite France, Garden of Morning Calm, and Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour from Seoul
• Seoul City Sightseeing Bus (Downtown Palace Namsan Course/Seoul Panorama Course)
• [Limited Offer] Incheon International Airport (ICN) Luggage Services (Between Airport and Hotel) by Safex
• 4G Prepaid SIM Card (SK Airports Pick Up) for South Korea
• [Sale] Hanbok Experience (Hanboknam Gyeongbokgung Store) with Korean Hairstyling
• [SALE] South Korea 4G Pocket WiFi (KR Airports Pick Up) from KT Olleh
• 4G WiFi (MY Airport Pick Up) for South Korea (Unlimited Data)
• 4G Portable WiFi for South Korea from Uroaming (Unlimited Data)

Are you finding more top things to do in Seoul: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here .

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South Korea Travel Guide

14 September, 2023 0 Comments 184 Views

SOUTH KOREA – In recent years, South Korea has become a renowned tourist destination worldwide. The country boasts a temperate climate with distinct four seasons, offering a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere. South Korea also captivates visitors with its grand architecture, rich cultural heritage, and diverse culinary delights.

Four seasons in south korea.

South Korea experiences four distinct seasons. Spring, from March to May, offers warm and pleasant weather. If you choose to travel during this season, you’ll fall in love with South Korea all over again due to its beautiful weather and nature. It’s an ideal time for outdoor activities, and the country hosts numerous flower festivals nationwide.

Jeju in Spring. Photo: KTO Vietnam.

“Kkotnori” (flower viewing) and “sangchungaek” (flower picking) are everyday phrases as people travel across the country to admire vibrant and colorful flowers. Some famous spring flower festivals include the Yeouido Spring Flower Festival, Jinhae Gunhangje Cherry Blossom Festival, Gurye Sansuyu Flower Festival, Goyang International Flower Festival, and Jeju Canola Flower Festival.

Summer, from June to August, is a time for beach lovers. South Korea boasts numerous beaches with beach festivals happening all around. While Boryeong Mud Festival at Daecheon Beach is internationally renowned, the beaches of Haeundae and Gwangalli also attract many visitors with fireworks displays and lively concerts. Yangyang in Gangwon-do is an ideal spot for surfers. Daegu, famous as South Korea’s hottest city, hosts the Chimac Festival, offering unforgettable experiences with fried chicken and cold beer.

제주도 봄 (Spring on Jeju Island)

Clear blue skies blanket South Korea during the autumn season. Travelers should venture into the forests during the autumn season in South Korea to witness the vivid and enchanting red, yellow, and orange foliage. Seoraksan, Naejangsan, and Jirisan are famous destinations for autumn foliage enthusiasts.

Winter, from December to February, brings cold weather and is the perfect time for winter sports enthusiasts, especially skiing and snowboarding. Travelers can also experience ice fishing at the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival and salmon fishing at the Pyeongchang Salmon Festival. Winter is also an ideal time for hiking in Seonjaryeong Pass and Taebaeksan Mountain in Gangwon-do. Both routes offer breathtaking landscapes that extend into early March.

Entry Requirements

The South Korean government has resumed issuing short-term C-3 visas for travelers from Level 1 countries starting from June 1. South Korea has lifted many disease prevention restrictions; however, international visitors are still required to present a negative Covid-19 test result (PCR or rapid test) before entry. Within 72 hours after arrival in South Korea, travelers must undergo a PCR test. The country has also lifted the requirement to wear masks outdoors.

Passengers can purchase tickets from South Korean airlines such as Asiana Airlines or Korean Air to Seoul.

Upon arrival, travelers can use the AREX express train, connecting Incheon Airport Terminals 1 and 2 to Seoul Station and vice versa. The travel time is approximately 43 minutes, and the ticket price is 9,500 won per person.

In-country transportation options include subway trains, buses, and taxis.

Subway Trains : In major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Incheon, tourists can use Google Maps or subway finder apps to locate the nearest station. The subway operates from 5:30 AM to midnight. Advantages include no traffic jams, safety, speed, and a chance to experience a unique mode of transportation. Disadvantages include crowded trains during rush hours or special events, mainly in large cities.

Buses : Buses are available in most provinces. Travelers can simply use Google Maps to find the nearest bus stop. Buses typically run every 10-15 minutes, or travelers can check electronic signs at the bus stops. Advantages include convenience, access to various destinations, and affordable fares. Disadvantages include potential wait times that could affect travel plans.

Taxis : Taxis can be hailed on the street, called through a dispatch service, or booked via mobile apps. From midnight to 4 AM, a 20% fare surcharge applies. Advantages include cleanliness, comfort, reasonable prices, and flexible scheduling. Disadvantages include being the most expensive transportation option. Make sure to check if the meter is running when you get in.

Tourist Attractions

Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) : This area not only holds haunting memories of the Korean War from seven decades ago but also boasts pristine natural ecosystems. It’s one of the must-visit destinations during your stay in South Korea.

Famous Tourist Sites in Seoul : These include palaces like Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, and Deoksugung; the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art; Gwanghwamun Square; Bukchon Hanok Village; Namsan Park and Namsan Tower; the Blue House (the residence of the President of South Korea), which offers guided tours with four tours available daily. Travelers must register online at least three weeks before their visit. Additionally, Seoul is renowned for its many districts such as Dongdaemun Fashion Street, Itaewon, Insangdong, Hongdae, and more.

Changgyeonggung Palace, Seoul, illuminated at night. Photo: KTO Vietnam.

Tourist Attractions in Busan : Haeundae Beach and Gwangalli Beach; Sea Life Aquarium; BAY 101 – the best spot for admiring the city by night; Suyeongman Yacht Center; Shinsegae Centum City – a Guinness World Record holder as the “world’s largest department store” in 2009; Joseon Tongsinsa Historical Museum; Hwangnyeongsan Observatory; Busan Tower, and more.

Tourist Attractions in Gangwon Province : Nami Island; Chuncheon Myeongdong Dakgalbi Street; Chuncheon Joongang Traditional Market; Ocean World Water Park, and more.

Tourist Attractions in Jeju : Udo Island; Aqua Planet – the largest aquarium in the country; Seopjikoji – known for its canola flower fields in March-April; Bijarim Forest; Maze Land Theme Park, and more.

Hiking Trails in South Korea: Ansan Jarakgil Trail in Seoul, Jeju Olle Trail, Hanyangdoseong Trail, and more.

Seomun Market, Daegu. Photo: KTO Vietnam.

Nightlife Experiences

South Korea is a country that never sleeps; the streets are lit up throughout the night, so evenings here are just as vibrant and bustling as daytime. Many shopping districts and night markets stay open late, allowing travelers to enjoy shopping and entertainment.

Night Shopping : Dongdaemun Fashion Market is located in the capital city of Seoul. It’s an excellent place to shop for trendy clothing at affordable prices. One of the most famous shopping areas here is Doota Mall.

Night Food Tours : Depending on where you are, travelers can indulge in a variety of local dishes.

In Jeollabuk, you can enjoy fried chicken, stir-fried beef, steamed pork intestines, and more late at night at Jeonju Nambu Night Market. At Busan Bupyeong Kkangtong Night Market, you’ll find numerous local specialties like stuffed fried tofu, seafood, and noodles; fish-shaped pastries, and more. If you visit Daegu Seomun Night Market with over 80 food stalls, you can savor dishes like pork intestines, skewers, sushi, grilled meat, and more. Other night markets that travelers can explore include Daein Art Market in Gwangju, Bamdokkaebi Market in Seoul, and more. At the Noryangjin Wholesale Seafood Market, Seoul’s largest fish market, travelers can enjoy seafood until midnight.

Night Sightseeing : Cultural heritage sites in central Seoul become tranquil and serene when night falls. Naksan Mountain’s Hanyangdoseong Seoul City Wall stretches from Hyehwamun Gate to Heunginjimun Gate and offers an interesting nighttime walking route. The approximately 1-hour walk along the fortress wall, illuminated under warm lights, is an unforgettable experience.

Deoksugung Palace and Changgyeonggung Palace remain open until 9 PM (ticket sales end at 8 PM) and are beautifully illuminated at night. Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a “Moonlight” tour from spring to autumn. By joining this tour, travelers have a guide accompanying them and can watch traditional performances. Gyeongbokgung Palace also opens in the evening from spring to autumn. You can even take a hot air balloon ride and admire the stunning fortress views from a height of 150 meters.

Gaming : South Korea is famous for its gamers and esports teams worldwide. Online gaming is a popular form of entertainment among the country’s youth. You can visit internet cafes equipped with high-end gaming computers. These cafes typically have the latest and fastest computers, top-quality keyboards, and headphones. Customers at these cafes often receive complimentary instant ramyeon (noodles) and spicy rice cakes. South Korea has youth protection laws, so minors are not allowed to play games from 10 PM to 9 AM. Therefore, travelers may need to carry their passports to enter these establishments after 10 PM.

Jjimjilbang : Jjimjilbang is a Korean-style sauna and bathhouse. Here, you can eat, relax, and even sleep. Locals often enjoy boiled eggs with sweet rice wine while chatting with friends at jjimjilbang.

Beautiful Photography Locations

Ganmun Beach in the Gangneung area of Gangwon Province may not be very large, but it offers many charming photo spots for capturing perfect shots.

The coastal city of Woljeongri on Jeju Island is an ideal place to admire the emerald blue ocean. Tewoo Beach on Jeju Island is famous for its unique horse-shaped lighthouse and spectacular sunset views.

Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan provides a picturesque backdrop for beautiful photos, thanks to its colorful houses perched on the mountainside.

Bukchondaek, a traditional house in Andong city. Photo: KTO Vietnam.

Dongpirang Mural Village in Tongyeong, Gyeongsangnam Province, is a small port town. When you visit, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a different world with its vibrant and colorful walls.

The Railroad Village in Gunsan , Jeollabuk Province, is a photography hotspot due to its rows of houses facing each other across the disused railway tracks.

Penguin Village in Gwangju features houses and alleys adorned with charming little jewelry-like decorations.

Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongsangbuk Province is also a beautiful tourist destination in South Korea. Photo: KTO Vietnam.

New Destinations

Ikseondong, Seoul : Located in the heart of the capital, Ikseondong boasts numerous narrow alleyways lined with hanok houses, traditional Korean dwellings dating back to the 1920s. Today, these houses have been beautifully restored and converted into restaurants, cafes, and Korean-style bars.

Euljiro, Seoul : This area was once a maze of winding alleyways. Nowadays, it’s bustling with shops featuring historic architecture, but modernized interiors. Nogari Alley in this district is home to many restaurants specializing in beer and delicious nogari (young pollack) dishes for tourists.

Geahangro, Incheon : Old buildings have been revitalized and transformed into businesses such as art galleries, and a 100-year-old house is now a fried chicken shop. Incheon is the closest city to Seoul, making it very convenient for visitors to explore.

Hwangnidangil, Gyeongju : Once the capital of the Silla Kingdom for nearly 1,000 years, Hwangnidangil is now famous for its rooftop cafes where travelers can admire hanok houses from above. After taking in the scenery, you can also enjoy shopping at various souvenir shops along the street.

Unique Accommodation Options

To gain a deeper understanding of South Korea’s culture and nature, consider immersing yourself in a full day and night experience at these traditional lodging facilities, as recommended by KTO Vietnam.

Myeongjae Old House in Chungcheongnam Province. Photo: KTO Vietnam.

Gyeong Won lae Ambassador: These standout traditional houses amid the modern landscape in Songdo, Incheon, offer visitors the feeling of staying in a traditional hanok-style home. However, since many travelers are not accustomed to sitting on the floor, this hotel provides beds and modern-style tables.

Gurume Resort in Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do: This is a genuine hanok, converted into a guesthouse. During your stay, you can visit a book café for relaxation and entertainment.

Ragung Hotel in Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do, features an outdoor bathing area that is still private, allowing you to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.

Hanok Villages provide you with the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking sea views through traditional-style fences. Besides the mentioned hotels, there are numerous hanok guesthouses in Seoul and Jeju.

A small corner in Bukchon Hanok Village. Photo: KTO Vietnam.

Shilla Jeju offers a luxurious glamping experience with spacious tents that feel like living rooms, complete with beds, sofas, and tables. Despite being outdoors, these tents are fully equipped and provide a comfortable experience. You can also stay in a similar setting at Kensington Flora Hotel in Pyeongchang, Gangwon, or Mangsang Auto Camping near Mangsan Beach.

Soju: South Korea’s most famous alcoholic beverage. Soju is readily available in convenience stores, typically diluted, and is popular for its affordability.

Makgeolli: This low-alcohol traditional rice wine has a sweet, fragrant taste. It is often enjoyed with pajeon (green onion pancakes) made from flour, meat, and vegetables.

Craft Beer can be found nearly everywhere in South Korea, including Gangneung, Jeju, Andong, and Sunchang. You can easily purchase craft beers at convenience stores and supermarkets.

Signature Dishes

Bibimbap is a visually appealing and much-loved dish made with various fresh vegetables, beef, gochujang (red pepper paste), rice, and sesame oil. Served in a hot stone bowl, it’s a highly popular dish.

Fried Chicken is a dish often seen in Korean movies. It features crispy skin and tender meat inside. It’s popular due to its combination of various traditional seasonings and is often enjoyed with cold beer.

Bulgogi consists of thinly sliced beef marinated in a sweet soy sauce with sugar and garlic, then stir-fried or grilled over charcoal. Seoul-style Bulgogi is prepared differently, using a special grill. The lower part of the grill is used to cook the meat, while the upper part is used to cook the sauce, which typically includes mushrooms, vegetables, and glass noodles. Different regions have their own variations of Bulgogi.

In the people’s meals, kimchi is an essential dish. Photo: KTO Vietnam.

Other famous dishes include spicy rice cakes (tteokbokki), samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly), hongeo samhap (fermented skate with pork and kimchi), small octopus marinated in sesame oil, and cold noodles.

Royal Korean cuisine refers to dishes exclusively prepared for the royal family during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). These dishes use the finest, freshest ingredients gathered from all over Korea to create 12 dishes consisting of vegetables, meat, and seafood. Sinseollo is a hot pot dish with beef broth, meatballs, various vegetables, and gujeolpan, which are thin crepe-like pancakes filled with beef and vegetables. These are two famous dishes in royal Korean cuisine.

A royal cuisine cooking program in Gyeongsangbuk province. Photo: KTO.

Patbingsu : Made from shaved ice, milk, sweet red bean paste, fruits, rice cakes, syrup, and various toppings.

Tteok, or rice cakes , are made by steaming rice flour and molding it into various shapes. It’s one of the most popular traditional snacks in Korea and is a staple during traditional holidays and special occasions.

What to Buy in Korea?

Cosmetics: Korean skincare products are highly regarded for their effectiveness. Face sheet masks are among the most widely used products. Shopping districts like Myeongdong and Hongdae have many cosmetics stores.

Ginseng: Korean ginseng is renowned worldwide for its exceptional quality, especially red ginseng that has been steamed and dried. It’s processed into various products such as candies, jellies, and extracts, which can be purchased at duty-free shops, Namdaemun Market, and popular tourist areas.

Traditional Souvenirs: Traditional lacquerware with handles, mother-of-pearl keychains, lucky silk bags, and porcelain cups with intricate designs.

Palace shops and museum stores are ideal places to buy traditional souvenirs. Cheongwadae Sarangchae and the National Souvenir Center in Insa-dong are two examples. For travelers seeking unique and memorable items, Namdaemun Market is a perfect choice.

Useful Information

Wi-Fi Heaven: Subway stations, cafes, shopping centers, and most tourist spots offer free high-speed Wi-Fi.

Cashless Society: All you need is a credit card. Except for a few small businesses that deal in cash, most places accept credit cards, even for small transactions.

Convenient Public Transportation: A extensive subway system, a nationwide railway network, and rapid intercity buses make it easy to travel around South Korea.

Easy and Fast Food Delivery: From popular restaurant chains to cafes and bakeries, you can have food delivered almost anywhere, including parks along the Han River.

Safe Streets, Low Crime Rates: Instances of robbery, theft, or attacks are rare. Tourist areas usually have tourist police to assist.

The Land That Never Sleeps: Many convenience stores, restaurants, shopping districts, and ATMs are open 24/7. You can buy food, withdraw cash, and top up your transportation card even late at night.

Tourist-Friendly Signage: Most public spaces such as subway stations and bus stops have signs in English. Tourist spots often have signs in multiple languages, including English, Japanese, and Chinese.

• South Korea Tourims

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2023 The latest Travel guide and tips for South Korea.

【 South Korea Tour Packages 】 7-Day From Seoul to Hiroshima Tour: Jeonju | Busan | Suwon.  From USD $1641 /person

Nestled on the Korean Peninsula, South Korea offers a captivating blend of rich history, modern cities, and breathtaking landscapes. In 2023, South Korea stands as a diverse and dynamic destination that seamlessly merges traditional culture with technological advancements. From exploring ancient palaces and indulging in mouthwatering cuisine to discovering K-pop culture and serene natural wonders, South Korea promises an unforgettable journey of discovery. In this essay, we will provide the latest travel guide and essential tips for trip to South Korea , highlighting its iconic attractions, diverse activities, and cultural nuances.

South Korea Tours – Planning Your Trip

a. Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are ideal times to visit, offering pleasant weather and beautiful foliage. Avoid the humid summer and chilly winter months.

b. Duration of Stay: A trip of at least one to two weeks allows you to explore major cities, historical sites, and natural attractions. Longer stays enable a deeper immersion into the culture.

c. Transportation: South Korea has a well-developed transportation system, including efficient trains, buses, and subways. The KTX (Korea Train Express) offers high-speed travel between major cities.

d. Visa Requirements: Check visa requirements based on your nationality. Many countries are eligible for visa-free entry for up to 90 days.

South Korea Tours – Must-See Attractions and Activities

a. Seoul: Explore the vibrant capital city of Seoul, home to historic sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace, bustling markets like Dongdaemun, and modern shopping districts like Myeongdong.

b. Jeju Island: Discover the natural beauty of Jeju Island, known for its stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and unique volcanic formations.

c. Busan: Visit the coastal city of Busan, famous for its picturesque beaches, lively seafood markets, and cultural festivals.

d. DMZ (Demilitarized Zone): Gain insight into the Korean War’s impact by visiting the DMZ, where you can observe the heavily fortified border between North and South Korea.

e. Gwangju: Immerse yourself in South Korea’s art and culture scene by visiting Gwangju, known for its vibrant arts district and historical significance.

f. K-pop and Entertainment: Experience South Korea’s K-pop culture through themed cafes, live performances, and interactive experiences.

South Korea Tours – Tips for Traveling

a. Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs, such as bowing as a sign of greeting and using both hands when giving or receiving items.

b. Language: While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning basic Korean phrases can enhance your interactions and show appreciation for the culture.

c. Currency: The Korean Won (KRW) is the official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash on hand is useful in smaller establishments.

d. Public Transportation: Utilize South Korea’s efficient public transportation system, including the subway and buses, for convenient travel within cities.

e. Dining Culture: Embrace South Korea’s unique dining culture, where sharing is common. Be prepared to remove your shoes when entering traditional restaurants.

f. Safety: South Korea is generally safe for travelers. Crime rates are low, and public places are well-maintained.

South Korea Tours – Conclusion

South Korea , with its captivating blend of tradition and innovation, promises an enriching and memorable travel experience in 2023. From exploring historic sites to indulging in culinary delights and engaging in cultural exchanges, South Korea offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every traveler’s interests. With this latest travel guide and essential tips, you are now well-prepared to embark on an extraordinary journey through South Korea. So pack your bags, immerse yourself in the culture, and create cherished memories in this captivating destination that will leave you in awe of its beauty and cultural richness, while also filling you with a deep sense of appreciation for the warmth of its people. Your South Korea adventure awaits, inviting you to uncover the treasures of this remarkable nation and leaving you with a sense of wonder and gratitude for the authenticity and charm that make South Korea an exceptional travel destination.

【 South Korea Tour 】 5-Day Circle Course Tour from Seoul: Gongju, Buyeo, Jeonju, Gwangju, Suncheon, Yeosu, Jinju, Busan, Gyeognju, Andong, Wonju, Pyeongchang and Mt. Sorak.  From USD $874 /person

2023 The latest Travel guide and tips for South East Asia.

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South Korea

Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

South korea - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in South Korea.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to South Korea.

If you decide to travel to South Korea:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
• Review the  Country Security Report  for South Korea.   
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.   
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .    

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid at time of entry

One page per stamp

No – From April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, the Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is not required for US citizens traveling for short-term business or tourism purposes.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy seoul.

188 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03141, Korea Telephone: +(82) (2) 397-4114 (from within Korea, dial 02-397-4114)  DSN:721-4114 Fax: +(82) (2) 397-4101 Email:  [email protected]

U.S. Consulate in Busan

Lotte Gold Rose Building #612, Jungang-daero 993, Jin-gu Busan 47209, Korea Telephone: (+82) 51-863-0731 Email:  [email protected]

The Embassy and Consulate are closed on weekends and on  American and Korean holidays .  Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +82 (2) 397-4114.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

• You must have a valid U.S. passport to enter Korea. From April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, the  Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA)  is not required for US citizens for stays of 90 days or less that are for tourism or business purposes.
• Visa required for all other purposes, including employment, teaching English, and for stays longer than 90 days.

Exceeding your authorized stay or not possessing a valid visa may result in detention and fines.

• In the event of an overstay, apply for a visa extension from the  Korea Immigration Service (KIS)  before attempting to leave the country. Also consult with KIS regarding changes in visa category.

Military Personnel/DOD and their families on orders:

• Consult  DOD Foreign Clearance Guide , and follow all instructions.
• Enter Korea with DOD identification and travel orders.
• Do not transit other countries such as China without a passport and appropriate visas.
• Family Members/Dependents of Military Personnel/DOD on orders must present upon arrival passports valid for at least six months .

U.S. Government Executive Branch personnel on official business and DOD personnel assigned to the U.S. Embassy  (Including family members/dependents):

• Employes assigned to Mission Korea should enter Korea with a diplomatic or official passport and a diplomatic or official Korean visa obtained through their sponsoring agency.  Check with your sponsoring agency about other requirements. 
• TDY visitors traveling to Korea for up to 90 days on diplomatic or official passports do  not  require Korean visas and do  not  require a K-ETA. TDY visitors must obtain country clearance using  Department of State's eCC system  or  DOD APACS system .

HIV/AIDS Restriction:  The Department of State is unaware of any such entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents in Korea.

• Visit the  Embassy of Korea  website for current visa information. Please read our  Customs Information page .

COVID-19 Requirements :

• There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.
• Travel regulations and restrictions are subject to change, sometimes with little notice. You should review the information available on your nearest Korean Embassy or Consulate’s webpage before traveling.

Safety and Security

Public Demonstrations:  Demonstrations and rallies are common in South Korea, particularly near the U.S. Embassy, Seoul City Hall, and areas surrounding military installations. You should avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or rallies. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.

North Korea (The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, DPRK):  An armistice agreement, monitored by the United Nations, has maintained general peace on the Korean peninsula since 1953. Tensions occasionally flare up because of provocative acts by North Korea, including ballistic missile and nuclear tests and limited armed incursions into ROK-held territory. Some provocations have escalated into geographically limited skirmishes. South Korea routinely conducts military training exercises and civil defense drills. North Korea often issues strongly-worded and threatening messages, frequently in connection with these exercises. Please see our  Fact Sheet on North Korea .

Weather-related Events:  Heavy rains and flooding may occur during the June - August monsoon season or the May - November typhoon season. See general information about natural disaster preparedness at the U.S.  Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  website.

Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ):  To receive security messages by email and make it easier to locate you in an emergency, register in STEP. 

If the Embassy becomes aware of any specific and credible threat to the safety and security of U.S. citizens, we will inform you through our website, social media, and email.

Crime:  For most visitors, South Korea remains a very safe country. Common crimes occur more frequently in major metropolitan areas, tourist sites, and crowded markets.

• Take routine safety precautions.
• Pay attention to your surroundings.
• Report any concerns to local police.

Violent crime is not common; however, remain vigilant:

• Exercise caution in crowded entertainment, nightlife, and shopping districts.
• If traveling at night, consider traveling in groups.
• Use legitimate taxis or public transportation only.

Victims of Crime:  Call 112 for emergency assistance or to report a crime to local authorities. Call 02-397-4114 to contact the U.S. Embassy. We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care;
• Assist you in reporting a crime to police;
• Contact relatives or friends on your behalf;
• Explain Korean judicial procedures in general terms;
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
• Help you find accommodations and flight arrangements to the United States;
• Replace a lost or stolen passport.

Sexual Assault:   The Embassy regularly receives reports of sexual assault from U.S. citizens. Most cases involved young women assaulted by acquaintances they met on social media, dating, or messaging apps. Alcohol is often involved, and Korea’s low overall crime can create a false sense of security.  Specialized hospital units and police are available in South Korea to assist victims, however services in English and responsiveness to the crime are not always consistent. In general, sex crimes are not punished as harshly in South Korea as in the United States and the road to prosecution is a challenging one for victims.

Domestic Violence:  Victim’s assistance resources or battered women’s shelters exist in Seoul and other urban areas but may be limited in rural areas. Most are government administered and require a police referral. Call 112 for emergency assistance or 1366 to reach Korea’s 24-hour domestic violence hotline. Victims may also contact the Embassy, tel. (+82) 2-397-4114.

Lost or Stolen Passports:  If your passport is stolen, file a report at the nearest police station.

Don't buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if widely available.  It is against South Korean law to purchase these goods and against U.S. law to bring them into the United States. The  Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Division in the U.S. Department of Justice  has more information.

Avoid fraud and scams:  See  Department of State  and  FBI  websites for more information.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  While in Korea, you are subject to local laws. If you violate Korean laws, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Be aware that:

• Immigration violations can lead to arrest, fines, and deportation.
• There is little tolerance for illegal drugs.
• If you mail illegal drugs to/ from Korea, you will be prosecuted.
• Commercial disputes may lead to criminal charges being filed under local laws.

Be aware that some crimes are prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the Embassy. See our  webpage  for further information.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES

Dual Nationality and Military Conscription:  Dual national males (including U.S. service members) may be subject to compulsory military service. If you have family ties to South Korea, consult the nearest Korean Embassy or Consulate or the  Korean Military Manpower Administration  regarding potential citizenship obligations  before entering South Korea .

Passport Seizures and Exit Bans:  If you are involved in a criminal investigation or commercial dispute, authorities may seize your passport and/or block your departure. While we may reissue a passport, we cannot lift an exit ban.

Exit Permits:  Exit permits are not generally required. However, if a parent requests a travel restriction on his/her child, Korean authorities may prevent that child from departing even when traveling with the other parent. As of June 1, 2020, foreigners who are long-term residents of the ROK are required to obtain a re-entry permit four business days prior to departure from Korea. The permits are available online through an e-application at the  www.hikorea.go.kr  website.

International Child Abduction:  See our website for information related to the  prevention of international child abduction . 

Working in South Korea:  If working, including teaching or modeling, you must enter with the appropriate work visa. It is not possible to change your visa status without leaving the country. If you begin work without the appropriate visa, you may be arrested, fined, and/or deported. If you are working without a valid work permit and get into a contractual dispute with your employer, you have little legal recourse.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

ROK National Security Law:  Authorities may detain, arrest, and imprison persons believed to have committed acts intended to endanger the “security of the state,” including statements deemed to praise the political system and/or officials of the DPRK. 

Customs Regulations: There is strict enforcement of regulations on importing and exporting items such as firearms, narcotics and prescription drugs, non-prescription health supplements, radio equipment, and gold. Importation of materials deemed to be obscene, subversive, or harmful to the public peace is also restricted.

• Amphetamines are illegal in Korea. Do not bring amphetamines or other prescription narcotics into the country without obtaining advance permission in writing from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. See the  U.S. Embassy Seoul, Health Information page .
• Traveling with Pets: See  Korea’s Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency  website.

See the  Korean Customs Regulations website for complete information.

LGBTI Travelers:  Consensual same-sex sexual activity is not criminalized. Korea is a conservative country in regards to LGBTI issues. However, there are an increasing number of LGBTI-oriented clubs, festivals and NGOs advocating for LGBTI issues. The ROK National Human Rights Commission Act prohibits discrimination against individuals because of their sexual orientation, but there are no laws specifying punishment for persons found to have discriminated on this basis. Same-sex marriages are not recognized. Korean citizens can legally change their gender identity.

See   our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of the  Department of State's Human Rights report  for further details.

Mobility Issues:  Korean law mandates access to transportation, communication, and public buildings. Cross walks typically have audio and visual signals. Older buildings and streets are generally less accessible than modern ones. Metro cars and buses in Seoul offer priority seating for the disabled and most metro stations have elevators. Metro platforms include Korean Braille information. Contact individual bus companies and subway associations for specific information. Foreign residents are eligible for disability assistance from local ward offices; assistance varies by ward.

Quality of Care : Western-style medical facilities are available in most large cities. However, not all doctors and staff, are proficient in English. A  list of hospitals  and medical specialists who speak English is available on our website. For emergency ambulance service dial 119. Ambulance services are widely available. For information on medical evacuation from South Korea, please see the State Department’s brochure on  Air Ambulance/MedEvac/Medical Escort Providers . 

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. Verify your health insurance coverage before traveling overseas. See our webpage for information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage . In most cases, health care providers will require payment in advance of treatment or will not release a patient until hospital bills are paid. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to include coverage for medical evacuation.

Medication:  Carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Most prescription medications, except psychotropic types, can be obtained at Korean pharmacies (brand names often differ). Local pharmacies will require a prescription from a Korean doctor.

Update  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

For further health information go to:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Roads are well-paved, traffic signals functional, and most drivers comply with basic traffic laws. South Korea has a significantly higher traffic fatality rate than the United States. Causes of accidents include excessive speed, frequent lane changes without signaling, running red lights, aggressive bus drivers, and weaving motorcyclists. It is recommended that you photo document any traffic accidents.

Be aware that motorcyclists may drive on sidewalks, and drivers do not always yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks.

Traffic Laws include:

• International driving permit (or ROK license) is required for all drivers.
• Left-hand turns prohibited except with green arrow.
• Seat belts and car seats are mandatory.
• Motorcycle passengers must wear helmets.
• Automobile drivers are presumed to have some fault in accidents involving pedestrians.
• Expect long waits at police stations while police investigate any incidents.
• Police may take your passport or detain you during an investigation.
• Even if negligence is not proven, criminal charges may be filed.
• Blood-alcohol content of 0.03% or higher is considered legally intoxicated.
• Police regularly set up DUI checkpoints. Drivers are required to submit to breathalyzer tests; refusal can result in cancellation of your license.

For information about driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance, refer to our  Road Safety page . You may also visit the  Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) website.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of the Republic of Korea's Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the ROK's air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA's Safety Assessment Page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to South Korea should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at the U.S. Department of Transportation’s  Maritime Security Communications with Industry Web Portal . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and as a broadcast warning on the  National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s website .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

South Korea was cited in the State Department’s 2022 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  South Korea.  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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• Ultimate Travel Guide to South Korea 2024

The Ultimate South Korea Travel Guide 2024

Are you thinking of travelling to south korea.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the vibrant landscapes and captivating culture of this stunning country. Our guide is your go-to resource for discovering the most charming cafes, delectable restaurants, and irresistibly photogenic spots that South Korea has to offer. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a food enthusiast, or a photography aficionado, our meticulously curated content ensures you’ll experience the essence of South Korea like never before. From bustling urban hubs to serene countryside escapes, let us be your companion as you explore the hidden gems and iconic landmarks that make South Korea a must-visit destination. Your adventure starts here – let’s dive into the enchanting world of South Korea together!

Welcome to our Ultimate Travel Guide for South Korea 2024!

FIRST TIME TRAVELLING TO KOREA?

Navigating a new country can be overwhelming, especially for beginners, which is why we’ve designed these guides to provide you with step-by-step insights and essential tips. Make sure to read these listicle guides before travelling to Korea!

BEST RESTAURANTS AND CAFES IN KOREA

What’s a trip without some good food? You’re in luck because Korea is full of tasty restaurants and instaworthy cafes. If you’re thinking of what to eat in Korea, here are some recommendations to check out. Click the link in the photos to read more!

28 Aesthetic Cafes in Seoul To Visit in 2024

House of vinyl (하우스오브바이닐): coffee break in style, cafe in mangwon-dong is interior goals, ramyun library: more than 100 types of ramyeon at this cu convenience store in hongdae, seoul.

• Artist Bakery: Popular Salt Bread Bakery Cafe By The Folks Behind London Bagel Museum
• Inamjang (이남장): Seolleongtang Restaurant Established in 1977, Broth Takes 48 Hours To Make

Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival: A Guide To The Most Popular Cherry Blossom Festival In Korea

• A Guide To Huinnyeoul Culture Village: Photo-Worthy Attraction In Busan That Captured Our Hearts
• Haeundae Blueline Park: A Guide To Taking The Sky Capsule & Beach Train in Busan
• Sonmokseoga (손목서가): Quaint Busan Cafe in Huinnyeoul Culture Village Perfect For A Quick Break
• Seonyudowon (선유도원): Bakery Cafe in Busan Next To Lesser-Known Hoedong Reservoir
• The Ultimate Jeju Spring Guide: Where To See Cherry Blossoms & Canola Flowers
• Beryl (베릴): Ocean Cafe in Jeju with Gorgeous View of Hyeopjae Beach
• Gasirim (가시림): New Aesthetic Garden Cafe in Jeju Filled With Blooming Camellia Flowers in Winter
• Batdam House (밭담집): Stone House Stay In Jeju With Personal Jacuzzi And Outdoor Pool
• Slow Boat (슬로보트): Enjoy Hand Drip Coffee At This Ocean View Cafe in Jeju

JEOLLANAM-DO

• Things To Do in Jeollanam-do: From Relaxing Salt Rooms to Adrenaline Pumping Ziplines
• Suncheonman Bay National Garden: A Gorgeous Garden That’s More Than Just Flowers & Trees
• Yeosu Travel Guide: 5 Must-Visit Attractions & Things To Do In Yeosu, Korea
• Gangjin Travel Guide: Experience Slow Life and A Farm Stay In This Part Of Jeollanam-do
• Jeollanam-do: Discover Amazing Sights At This Unexplored Part of South Korea
• Visiting Korea During Winter: Experience A Winter Wonderland Filled With Snow & Fun!
• Ultimate Korea Summer Guide: Fun Things To Do In Korea For Summer
• 5 Gorgeous Spots You Must Visit When Travelling to Korea in Autumn
• Sokcho Travel Guide: What To Do, See & Eat in Sokcho
• Cafe Tacit (태시트): Ocean View Cafe Beside Cheongan Beach Near Sokcho

GYEONGGI-DO

• 4D3N Gyeonggi-Do Itinerary: Best Things To Do In This Region Only 1 Hour Away From Seoul
• 7 Family-Friendly Activities In Gyeonggi-do, Korea: Strawberry Picking, Outdoor Parks & More
• Pocheon 2D1N Itinerary: An Overlooked City 1 Hour Drive Away From Seoul
• Sangdong Lake Park in Bucheon Is Filled With Red Poppies Near End-May

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Korea is not only the land of kimchi, but it’s also filled with the most aesthetic cafes with some having unimaginable concepts and interiors. If

Located in Mangwon-dong is the newly opened House of Vinyl, an LP cafe that passersby might mistake for a house due to its exterior. However,

If you’re headed to Korea for spring and you happen to be in Busan, you must participate in the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival! It’s known as

You’re probably no stranger to Korean ramyeon, with brands like Shin Ramyun and Buldak taking the world by storm. These brands can be seen even

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• South Korea’s Insider Travel Guide From India

23 Mar 2023

Nestled in the southern half of the Korean peninsula, the nation of South Korea is an underrated gem that is gaining more global traction than ever in the current tourism landscape. The country is home to some of the world’s most beautiful and challenging topography. There are plenty of incredible spots to visit in South Korea.

From remote wilderness areas to crowded urban centres, travellers can experience various cultures and experiences at different times of the year.

The ultimate guide to South Korea from India

Here’s an expansive guide to what you’ll need to know before planning your trip to this exciting destination, starting with some of the best places to visit.

1. Gangwon-do

Gangwon-do, the most northeast province in South Korea, is home to a variety of spectacular destinations, including mountainous terrain, white-sand beaches, ski resorts, cable cars, and so on. Pyeongchang, where the 2018 Winter Olympics were held, has made it easier to access the province. The east has Seoraksan National Park, where mountainside temples and hot springs are found. Chiaksan National Park, on the other hand, has steep cliffs that require more challenging travel. The region has something for everybody, and there’s a lot to see.

11 Fun and Unusual Things To Do In South Korea

Daegu has an estimated population of 2.5 million, making it the third most populous city in South Korea. In 757, it was named Dalgubeol, and in 1957 it was renamed Daegu. It was an electronics trade centre in the 1960s and 1970s. It is known in Korea as the Apple City because of its weather, which is conducive to growing high-quality apples. Daegu is now recognised for its technological accomplishments, but it is also famous for textiles and fashion. You can start with a visit to the Daegu Aquarium, and make your way to Dongseong-ro Spark Land and Spa Valley & Nature Park which are some of the popular attractions in the city.

Incheon, a wonderful city in South Korea, is home to a lot of history. It’s got a Chinatown where you can see the country’s diverse past. There are a lot of activities to do in Incheon, including sightseeing at Grand Park, Eurwangni Beach, Wolmido Island, and the Sinpo International Market, as well as relaxing in the Spasis spa and sauna centre and dining at Buam Galbi Korean barbecue restaurant.

Top 10 Things To Do In South Korea To Experience The Essence Of The Vibrant Country

Busan is home to both traditional villages and gorgeous beaches and international events like the Busan International Film Festival, so there are plenty of unforgettable experiences here. As South Korea’s port city, Busan has a unique charm that makes every tourist want to return. No matter what the weather is, you’ll enjoy Busan’s multitude of places to go, eat, and stay because you’ll never get tired of exploring this destination. If you are planning a trip to South Korea from India , this is a must-add destination to your itinerary.

5. Gyeongsangnam-do

Gyeongsangnam-do, located on the southernmost part of the Korean peninsula, is favoured by the warmest winter winds. The northwest winds of winter are blocked as well as the coldest region on the Korean peninsula, high mountains lie to the northwest. The coastline in the south is a ria coastal region with deep sea water and numerous islands with huge and small ports and bays and promontories are present. The Haeinsa Temple, which houses the Tripitaka Koreana (Eighty-Thousand Tripitaka, part of UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register) is located in this area, as well as the Tongdosa Temple, which has Buddha relics.

8 Hotels In South Korea That Are All About Class, Comfort, And Convenience!

Things to do in South Korea

1. visit the samnak ecological park.

Samnak Ecological Park is a park located by a river in Samnak-dong, Sasang-gu. It offers a variety of ways to experience nature, including the Lawn Plaza, Wildflower Garden, Nature Learning Center, Four Seasons Flower Park, a natural meadow, and a wetland. The Four Seasons Flower Park features different types of flowers throughout the year, including canola flowers in the spring, sunflowers in the summer, and cosmos in the fall. The Wildflower Garden has a variety of wildflower species. In addition, the Samnak Wetland Park within the park has a lotus colony, a reed experience centre, a rice paddy experience centre, a small wildflower garden, and a common reed colony.

2. Take a tour of the Unification Observatory in Gangwon-do

70 metres above sea level, the Unification Observatory is located on the border between North and South Korea. You can see the Goseonbong Peak of Geumgangsan and the Haegeumgang Mountains nearby. On a clear day, Ongnyeobong, Chaehabong and Ilchulbong Peaks are visible. The checkpoint, which faces North Korean counterparts right over the barbed-wire fence on the ceasefire line, vividly illustrates the tension between North and South Korea.

8 Best Places To Visit In Incheon Your South Korea Trip Is Incomplete Without

3. Immerse yourself in the Cherry Blossom season

During cherry blossom season in South Korea, the country shrugs off the winter chill and re-emerges in pretty colours and scents, making it a magical time. The blossom typically comes into full bloom for one or two weeks, so make sure to mark the dates and plan to visit the country when it turns positively pink.

Looking To Book An International Holiday?

Where to eat in South Korea

1. sinpo dakgangjeong.

Sinpo Dakgangjeong is a dish that is well-known for being sold at the Sinpo Market in Incheon. It is a popular place for people to buy take-out, even during the week, and there are often long lines to get it. This dish consists of chicken that has been deep-fried and then braised in a sweet and spicy sauce. It is delicious both when it is hot and when it has cooled down.

Cuisines: Asian, Korean Location: 3, Uhyeon-ro 49beon-gil, Jung-gu, Incheon

6 Places To Visit In Seoul For A Spellbinding Trip To South Korea In 2022

2. Vegenarang

Vegenarang is a vegan restaurant that serves dishes inspired by temple food with a modern twist. They offer a range of vegan dishes in Western, Korean, and Chinese styles. In addition, they have various menus and events that provide tasty and enjoyable vegetarian food for customers who love vegan foods.

Cuisines: Asian, Korean, Vegan Location: 9-32, Gwanganhaebyeon-ro 370beon-gil, Suyeong-gu, Busan

3. Wonjo Andong Jjimdak

Andong Jjimdak is a dish that originated in the city of Andong. It is made by braising chicken pieces and vegetables in a sauce. The dish is cooked at a high temperature, which gives it a clean, non-greasy taste. The various ingredients used in the dish create layers of flavor, making it a great choice for everyone.

Cuisines: Asian, Korean Location: 47, Beonyeong 1-gil, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

8 Highly Interesting Things To Do In Seoul For A Trip To South Korea In 2022

Where to stay in South Korea

1. gyeong won jae.

Gyeong Won Jae Ambassador Incheon is a five-star hanok hotel offering elegant old-world hotel services at a prestigious five-star hanok hotel in Songdo, Korea’s high-tech international city with modern skyscrapers. The hotel has 30 guestrooms equipped with mini-bars and free Wi-Fi connections; a Korean restaurant providing the best Korean culinary experiences; conference rooms and banquet halls with the aesthetics of grand hanoks; and a vast outdoor garden with various traditional experiences, such as hanbok dress-ups and traditional games.

Location: 200, Techno park-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon

2. PARK ROCHE Resort & Wellness

Image Courtesy: Booking.com

At PARK ROCHE Resort & Wellness, guests can immerse themselves in blissful seclusion and revitalization. Wood and stone are used to create this rustic retreat, which is situated in close proximity to Gariwangsan Mountain, Dutasan Mountain, and Odeacheon Stream. Yoga, meditation, and fitness classes are available.

Location: 9-12, Jungbong-gil Bukpyeong-myeon, Jeongseon-gun, Gangwon-do

10 Places Near Seoul That Are Must-Visit Attractions In South Korea

3. Old Guamseowon Confucian Academy

The Daegu Modern Cultural Street Tour course chose the Old Guamseowon Confucian Academy for the 2012 Korea Tourism Award as one of the highlights. This serene seowon (Confucian academy) features traditional cultural experiences and holds a KTO Hanokstay Certification.

Location: 492-58, Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu

Best time to visit South Korea

The finest months to go to South Korea are March to May and September to November, when the temperature is low (between the mid-70s and mid-80s) and the cost of travel is low. This is the time we would recommend planning your flights to South Korea from India .

6 Best Places To Visit In Suwon For An Eventful South Korea Holiday

Essential Information

Language: Korean is the official language, and English is widely spoken and understood.

Currency: South Korean won (KRW).

Getting Around: Getting around a big city like Seoul or Busan is most accessible and most efficient if you use the subway system. Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, and Daejeon each have their own subway systems. The taxis in South Korea are safe, clean, and reasonably priced.

Travel Tip: To reduce their carbon footprint on an individual level, travellers want to travel in groups, carpool, or take public transit. With an outstanding public transportation network in South Korea, it’s worth looking into this environmentally friendly way of getting around the country.

Flight Duration: India to South Korea travel time can range from 6~7 hours for direct flights.

South Korea is an underrated gem that is gaining more global traction than ever in the current tourism landscape. With its stunning natural beauty, dynamic life and rich culture, there is so much to see and do in South Korea that you will never run out of things to do in South Korea. With so many unique experiences, explore these ESG packages to help find the perfect itinerary for you.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Planning Your Next Holiday In South Korea?

Frequently Asked Questions About South Korea Travel Guide

How many days do you need to explore South Korea?

A 7 to 10-day itinerary is often the most recommended duration for a South Korea trip especially if you are visiting for the first time.

Do they speak English in South Korea?

While English is not a very common language spoken by the locals in the majority of South Korea, you can easily find people who can help you translate in major tourist cities like Seoul or Busan.

What is a typical breakfast in Korea?

In South Korea, typical breakfast at home usually includes soup, side dishes, and rice. Most hotels will have continental breakfast items in addition to Korean dishes.

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13 Most Tourist-Friendly Places Around The World Where You Don’t Have To Worry About Being A Stranger

• Hospitality and tourist-friendliness are key factors to consider when choosing a travel destination. South Korea, Japan, and Greece are among the most tourist-friendly countries in the world.
• South Korea is known for its charm and hospitality, with cities like Seoul and Busan worth visiting. Japan offers a blend of cultures and polite residents, while Greece's culture of hospitality to strangers dates back to ancient times.
• Thailand, Spain, the United States, Australia, Italy, Portugal, the Philippines, Canada, New Zealand, and Iceland are also known for their tourist-friendly atmospheres, welcoming people, and diverse attractions.

Hospitality and tourist-friendliness are some of the most important things to consider before visiting a place. These factors often determine whether one will have an enjoyable experience or a regrettable one. From pedestrian-friendly cities to those who open their arms to LGBTQ+ travelers , the world is much kinder than we're made to believe.

Many destinations around the world become less appealing by not having these qualities. Some, however, have them, and it helps to know that one will not have to worry about being a stranger when visiting the best tourist-friendly destinations around the world. Out of them all, these are perhaps the most tourist-friendly countries in the world to visit as a foreigner. Pack a bag and get those tickets booked ASAP!

UPDATE: 2023/11/17 18:22 EST BY NOAH STAATS

The Most Tourist-Friendly Places On Earth: More Smiles Ahead

This article has been refreshed with two new friendly countries, both in Asia, as well as expanded attractions to see in each respective place. From the East to the West, and everywhere in between, there is more happiness and kind people to meet this year!

Related: 10 Places Where You Can Go If The World Is About To End (Scientifically Speaking)

South Korea

South Korea is one of the friendlier countries/places for tourists to visit. Known for its charm and hospitality, South Korea is the birthplace of K-Pop Korean BBQ and hosts plenty of cities worth booking a hotel in. Per a Pew Research study, nearly 85% of South Koreans have a positive view of Americans and the West, making this a safe choice for travel. Although some countries may not be as welcoming to foreigners, this is not the case in South Korea. Notable cities include Seoul, Incheon, Ulsan, Busan, Gwanju, and so on.

• Top attractions in South Korea : Gyeongbokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower, National Museum of Korea, Bukchon Hanok Village, Bulguksa, Lotte World, War Memorial of Korea

Japan is yet another super-friendly Asian country for tourists, following years of smiling faces and blended cultures being allowed in its neighborhoods. With massive tourist hubs like Tokyo, Sapporo, Kyoto, Osaka, Yokohama, Nagoya, Kobe, etc. Being polite is another major part of Japanese culture, with respect between all age groups and genders, making the country even better for a wide range of visitors. Even for those who don't speak Japanese, Japan's residents are often said to be helpful to foreigners and will help them as much as possible.

• Top attractions in Japan : Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizu-dera, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Imperial Palace, Kinkaku-ji, Osaka Castle

These are a few unique things you can only see and do in Japan .

The culture of hospitality to strangers is ingrained into Greek culture, which is why strangers are often treated with so much respect and care. This culture dates back to ancient times, and Greeks stay true to this as they believe the stranger could be a god in disguise looking to test them.

In addition, Greece is one of the most touristy destinations in the world, and there’s always somebody from every part of the world there, so one will never feel alone or like a total stranger.

• Top attractions in Greece: Acropolis of Athens, Delphi, Parthenon, Meteora Mountains

Related: 10 Must-Try Bucket List Experiences In Greece In 2023

Millions of people visit Thailand every year , so the country's residents have seen enough tourists that they have become used to them. At any time, tourists are scattered all over the country, so no single tourist is ever alone.

This makes it feel kind of safe here, and the locals often look for ways to please visitors however they can. Thai people are also famous for being very friendly and hospitable. After all, Thailand isn't nicknamed "The Land of Smiles" for nothing.

• Top attractions in Thailand: The Grand Palace, Railay Beach, Ayutthaya, Tonsai Beach

Spain is one of the most visited countries in the world , and that's not just because of its numerous historic and natural attractions and the many vibrant Spanish cities worth visiting . The country is also popular among travelers because of its warm and friendly atmosphere.

While English is not commonly spoken in some places, the people always do their best to make tourists feel welcome and comfortable. Also, many expatriates live and work in this country, so one can easily blend into the population.

• Top attractions in Spain: La Sagrada Família, Guggenheim Museum, Plaxa Manor

The United States

The US welcomes everybody with open arms regardless of which part of the world they come from. It is one of the most diverse countries in the world, where people from every culture on the planet can be found.

Whether from Europe, Africa, Asia, India, Polynesia, Latin America, or Australia, everybody is welcome in the US. The country is also tourist-friendly, so one does not have to worry about being a stranger here.

• Top attractions in the US: Grand Canyon, Central Park, Hollywood, Yosemite National Park

The population of Australia is diverse, and the people are welcoming, so tourists will not feel like they're on their toes while visiting. Australians are generally happy and easy-going people, and they have a good sense of humor that benefits everybody.

The only challenge visitors might have in Australia is understanding the accent, but knowledge of popular Aussie slang terms and words will help them get along well. The slang is not really such a huge problem anyway.

• Top attractions in Australia: Sydney Opera House, Great Ocean Road, Fraser Island, Kakadu National Park

People in Italy have been used to foreigners for a long time; they welcome everybody with open arms. Italians are also kind and hospitable and will usually go to extra lengths to help visitors.

Whether visiting on vacation or looking to live in Italy, one will not have to worry about being a stranger in this country.

• Top attractions in Italy: Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Uffizi Gallery Museum

Related: Destination Italy: 10 Things To Do In Italy At Least Once In Your Life

Portugal is a very beautiful, peaceful, and welcoming country. Tourists who visit will agree to the fact that the people are super friendly and always looking to help or start up a conversation. While tourists without knowledge of Portuguese might find it difficult to navigate or get things done in some places, there's usually always an English-speaking person around who's willing to help out.

Those who are fortunate enough to learn even just a little bit of Portuguese can even be adopted into a family before their vacation is over.

• Top attractions in Portugal: Torre de Belem, Geres Mountain Range, Castle of Guimaraes

The Philippines

The Philippines is one of the friendliest countries in the world. The locals are very helpful to everybody, especially tourists, and their smile is warm and contagious. Tourists who are lucky enough can even get shelter and a bowl of rice decorated with eggs, tomatoes, and beef tapa from local people.

There's so much to say about Filipino hospitality - it could fill up a book. It doesn't matter who one is or where one is coming from; the Philippines welcomes everybody.

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Canada is a large and culturally diverse country filled with friendly people, from the streets to the customs office. Whether purchasing something from a shop or asking for directions, visitors to Canada will feel the warmth of Canadians at every turn.

A recent study even placed Canada at the top of a list of the most accepting countries for migrants. This is a reassuring revelation and one that will surely make visitors to the country feel more comfortable.

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New Zealand, like many other Polynesian countries in the world , is a place of warmth and hospitality. Here, it's not difficult to blend into the community, as New Zealanders are generally considered to be friendly and down to earth.

Perhaps the abundant natural wonders in New Zealand have something to do with this? It's not totally certain, but it sure is one more thing visitors will enjoy in addition to the welcoming atmosphere in this beautiful country.

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Iceland has long remained at the top of the list of the tourist-friendliest countries in the world. The people here are open-minded and kind, and there's a strong sense of community. Icelandic people are also considered some of the happiest people in the world, and Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world with low crime rates.

These positive features all combine to make visitors feel welcome and safe enough to enjoy all that Iceland has to offer .

• Top attractions in Iceland: Iceland's famous Blue Lagoon , Golden Circle, Diamond Circle, Hallgrimskirkjs Church

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Reviewing the Past Several Decades

Escalating political confrontation and unstable democracy, ongoing transition and incomplete power shift: lack of long-term national plans, north korea, northeast asian dynamics, and new diplomatic horizons, increasing debt, decreasing economic growth, and peak korea, social challenges: economic hardship, turbulent education community, and extraordinary suicide rate, the dog meat ban, presidential leadership challenges: dual presidency and global pivot state, south korea in 2023 : turbulent yoon suk-yeol administration: democratic challenges and global pivot state.

Kwangho Jung is Professor in the Graduate School of Public Administration, Seoul National University, South Korea.

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Kwangho Jung; South Korea in 2023 : Turbulent Yoon Suk-Yeol Administration: Democratic Challenges and Global Pivot State . Asian Survey 1 April 2024; 64 (2): 222–234. doi: https://doi.org/10.1525/as.2024.64.2.222

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In 2023, South Korea faced turbulence under the Yoon Suk-Yeol administration, which was marked by democratic challenges, foreign policy shifts, and high political tensions. This report examines South Korea’s transformative year, with a focus on ongoing leadership transitions, emerging diplomatic horizons for freedom and human rights, economic challenges stemming from “Peak Korea,” and key social issues, including a high suicide rate, low birth rate, and the controversy over the dog meat ban. It also discusses President Yoon’s challenges as the leader of a global pivot state.

Over the last 60 years, Korea has undergone three major transformations: economic development, democratization, and digital informatization. The compressed legacies of these transformations generate political conflict, social stress, economic disparity, and polarization. The Yoon Suk-Yeol administration is inherently linked to the legacies of the past three decades of democratization, allowing presidential leadership to chart new alternative routes through political and economic reforms. However, Yoon’s envisioned new pathway has yet to emerge.

South Korea faces enduring challenges, including persistent North Korean confrontation, geopolitical risks in Northeast Asia, and democratic issues such as political polarization and frequent election cycles. Simultaneously, declining trust in government and society, coupled with social unease from a high suicide rate and low fertility rate, weakens solidarity, hindering political and social reforms ( Steinberg and Shin 2006 ). Partisan bias in democratic governance generates administrative and judicial politicization, favoring specific political factions ( Yun 2023 ). The tragic suicide of president Roh Moo-Hyun has intensified political retaliation ( Heo and Hahm 2014 ). The aging political landscape and entrenched regionalism obstruct the implementation of national reforms in South Korea ( Jung and Kang 2020 ).

The inception of the Yoon administration stemmed from an unexpected turn three years ago. After the Cho Kuk incident (in which former senior presidential secretary Cho Kuk faced allegations of ethical and legal misconduct, sparking widespread public protests between conservative and liberal groups), Yoon Suk-Yeol, the prosecutor general under the Moon Jae-In administration, aligned himself with conservative political groups. After securing the candidacy of the opposition People Power Party for the 20th presidential election, on March 10, 2022, he defeated the Democratic Party’s Lee Jae-Myung and assumed the presidency on May 10, 2022. This swift and dramatic political trajectory, transitioning to the opposition presidential candidate just eight months after resigning as prosecutor general, anticipated the turbulent nature of the Yoon administration.

The Yoon administration’s divided government sparks unprecedented political confrontation ( Yun 2023 ). Legislative challenges arise with the opposition Democratic Party holding 167 seats (out of 300) and the ruling People Power Party holding 112. In 2023, historic events took place in the National Assembly. The main opposition leader, Lee Jae-Myung, faced legal risks over favoritism in the Daejang-dong development and suspicions of currency transfers to North Korea by Ssangbangwool Group. Despite the National Assembly’s initially rejecting the arrest warrant on February 27, it was eventually approved on September 18. During the plenary session, the motion for the arrest of Representative Lee received 149 votes in favor, 136 against, 6 abstentions, and 4 invalid votes ( Yonhap News 2023a ). On September 21, the Democratic Party made history by passing a motion in the National Assembly to dismiss prime minister Han Duck-Soo, with 175 in favor, 116 against, and 4 abstaining. President Yoon vetoed it—but this was the first time in South Korea’s constitutional history that such a motion had passed ( Yonhap News 2023b ).

The intense confrontation between the ruling and opposition parties is rooted in the Yoon government’s unilateral personnel confirmation process. As of January 8, 2024, 31 out of ministerial 62 candidates (including those who resigned) were appointed without hearings or official hearing reports. Three candidates resigned before their confirmation hearing, two during their hearing, and four were appointed without a hearing. Of the 53 who had hearings, reports for 22 were not adopted. And of the 62 candidates, 31 were found to have disqualifying features, the most in any South Korean administration.

The Yoon government has taken a tough stance on “vested-interest cartels” in sectors such as construction unions and private education, calling them threats to a democratic society ( Seong 2023 ). Another significant concern is the existence of a “legal cartel,” and failure to reform this may undermine the government’s efforts against other powerful cartels.

Despite Yoon’s limited influence in the National Assembly, concerns persist over threats to democracy due to the dominance of the president in Korean politics. One institutional mechanism to check this power is the Special Inspector system, but this, unfortunately, has remained vacant in the last two administrations. Both the former Moon Jae-In and the current Yoon Suk-Yeol administrations have neglected to appoint an inspector.

As of December 2023, despite the Yoon administration’s commencement (2022–2027), officials appointed during the Moon Jae-In administration (2017–2022) continue to serve. According to the public-sector information-disclosure system ALIO (All Public Information In-One), as of December 2022, out of 3,080 people overseeing 350 public institutions, 2,655 (or 86%) were appointed during the Moon administration. Among 36 public agencies, 31 had chiefs that were appointed during the Moon administration; only three were appointed under the Yoon administration. Also appointed during the Moon administration were 85% of the heads of 94 quasi-government agencies (267 individuals) and 84% of the auditors and standing directors ( Chosun Ilbo 2022 ).

Since democratization, South Korea has instituted more aggressive democratic mechanisms, such as frequent election cycles and term limits. This has hindered the implementation of stable, long-term policies across administrations. The Yoon government also lacks comprehensive long-term policies to address significant national challenges. For instance, as the April 2024 National Assembly election draws near, the government has been substantially reshuffled, replacing ministers, vice ministers, and presidential-office staff without consideration of the nation’s long-term plans. Bang Moon-Kyu, minister of trade, industry, and energy, resigned from his position to run in the general election before completing three months of his term. The replacement of five of the six senior presidential secretaries involved in the general election threatens the stability of presidential national management ( Donga Ilbo 2023a ). And the November 2023 proposal to integrate Gimpo into the Seoul area seems rushed. It lacks a strategic long-term vision for Seoul in the context of nationwide balanced growth ( Donga Ilbo 2023b ).

The Yoon Suk-Yeol administration has shifted the foreign policy paradigm by prioritizing human rights and fostering reconciliation with Japan. Yoon’s emphasis on freedom and democracy distinguishes him from the Moon administration, as seen in key speeches, including his UN General Assembly speech and address to the US Congress in 2022.

Over the last two years, tensions between North and South Korea have persisted, primarily due to the continuous threat from North Korea’s missile tests. In September 2023, North Korea formally incorporated its “strengthening nuclear capabilities policy” into its constitution ( Yonhap News 2023c ). Responding to North Korea’s recent provocations, South Korea has, for the first time, declared nuclear weapons a policy option ( Choe 2023 ). President Yoon stated that if North Korea’s nuclear threat increases, South Korea might consider building a nuclear arsenal or ask the US to deploy nuclear weapons in the region. But such a program is not yet official policy.

Under Yoon’s leadership, South Korea actively advocates for human rights, particularly regarding North Korean defectors ( Yeo and Vekasi 2023 ). The 2023 reopening of the China–North Korea border after the COVID-19 closure raised international concern about China’s repatriation of North Korean defectors ( Mao 2023 ). Following the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, around 600 detained North Korean defectors were forcefully repatriated to North Korea ( Mao 2023 ). On October 13, 2023, the Yoon government diplomatically addressed this question ( Kim 2023 ). And on November 30, 2023, the National Assembly of South Korea unanimously adopted a resolution condemning the forced repatriation of North Korean defectors. 1 China classifies North Korean detainees as illegal economic migrants. Economic interests may influence this decision, with accusations that China uses forced labor by North Korean defectors in its coal mines and textile factories ( Kim 2023 ). In contrast to the Moon administration, the Yoon administration has released a North Korean Human Rights Report and actively participated in the UN General Assembly resolution on North Korean human rights.

President Yoon has prioritized clarifying the “strategic ambiguity” between the US and China while strengthening cooperation among South Korea, the US, and Japan. Through “value diplomacy,” he has differentiated between the free world and others, expanding ties with the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. The Yoon government swiftly addressed the forced-labor issue, announcing a resolution involving “third-party restitution” through the Support Foundation for Victims of Forced Mobilization, and improving Korea–Japan relations. This positive trajectory facilitated enhanced trilateral cooperation, which was evident in their first summit, at Camp David in August 2023. At the summit, Presidents Biden and Yoon and Prime Minister Kishida committed to a “political value alliance,” emphasizing strengthened security and economic cooperation to defend against North Korea and counterbalance China ( Baker 2023 ).

Growing government and household debt continues to cast a shadow over the Korean economy. According to projections from the Bank for International Settlements, Korea’s total debt, encompassing household, business, and government sectors, would exceed USD 4.6 trillion in 2023. As of June 2023, South Korea’s core debt-to-GDP ratio stood at 273%. Among OECD members, Korea was the only country experiencing a rise in this ratio, by which it ranked ninth among the 31 members. Japan’s was the highest, at 414% ( Lee 2023a ).

Under the Moon Jae-In administration, the national debt significantly increased, mainly due to an expansionary fiscal policy imposed in response to the COVID-19 crisis. The government debt-to-GDP ratio increased from 36% in 2017 to 46.7% in 2021 and 50.4% in 2023 ( e-Nara Indicator 2023 ). A common principle for fiscal stability is to limit the budget-deficit-to-GDP ratio to 3%. However, the National Assembly is neglecting proposed amendments to the national fiscal law aimed at imposing this fiscal rule.

According to the Bank of Korea, as of the end of 2023, South Korea’s household-debt-to-GDP ratio stood at 105%, surpassing those of the UK (84%), the US (74%), and Japan (68%) ( Kyunghyang Shinmun 2023 ). Ongoing concerns arise from high household debt, with the lowest income quintile experiencing a 22.7% increase in debt during the year up to March 2023, according to Statistics Korea ( Jones 2023 ). The average interest cost households bear each month is more than 50% higher than it was four years ago ( Chosun Ilbo 2023 ).

Over the past two decades, South Korea has witnessed substantial per capita income growth, surging from USD 12,257 to USD 31,721 between 2000 and 2020—an impressive increase of nearly 160% ( World Bank 2023 ). While this growth surpassed that of many other advanced countries during the same period, concerns have emerged due to the stagnation of recent years ( Lee 2023b ), with figures of USD 31,902 in 2019, USD 31,721 in 2020, USD 35,142 in 2021, and USD 32,423 in 2022 ( World Bank 2023 ), leading to discussions of “Peak Korea.” GDP growth was also projected to shrink, from 2.6% in 2022 to 1.4% in 2023 ( Jones 2023 ). The Peak Korea argument is also fueled by the world’s lowest birth rate ( Yoon 2023b ). South Korea’s birth rate has fallen drastically, from 1.24 in 2015 to 0.78 in 2022. Writing in the New York Times , Ross Douthat (2023) asked, “Is South Korea Disappearing?”

In 2023, South Korea’s working class faced challenges, including high interest rates and significant inflation. While the Yoon government faced limitations in controlling price increases for various products, it made efforts to suppress the inflation rate. The Bank of Korea maintained its key policy rate at 3.5%, while the IMF projected 3.6% inflation for the year ( Yonhap News 2023c ). The government actively intervened in market pricing in response to a sharp increase in food prices, especially for staples like ramen, bread, milk, hamburgers, and pizza. These inflation rates were the highest in over a decade.

In 2023, a reduction in teachers’ authority in the Korean education sector triggered widespread protests. The South Korean Student Rights Ordinance limited teachers’ control, resulted in challenges like students sleeping in class and not following instructions, causing dissatisfaction among parents and sparking debates on the ordinance’s legitimacy. It gained critical prominence following the tragic suicide on July 18 of a second-year teacher in Seoul’s Seocho District amid persistent parental complaints. The ordinance was criticized for undermining academic authority by excessively emphasizing student rights. Nationwide, teachers organized Saturday rallies from July 22 to October 28, demanding that their authority be restored ( Yonhap News 2023c ). These nine weeks of protest emphasized teachers’ demands for greater classroom rights and concerns about harassment by parents. In response, on September 21 the National Assembly passed amendments to the Special Act on the Improvement of Teachers’ Status and the Protection of Their Educational Activities, the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, the Early Childhood Education Act, and the Framework Act on Education. The amendments included provisions stating that teachers’ legitimate guidance in personal life should not be considered child abuse and prohibiting the dismissal of teachers without justifiable reasons, even if they were reported for child abuse.

South Korea has the highest suicide rate in the OECD, which suggests high stress and deprivation in Korean society. As of 2021, its suicide rate per 100,000 people was more than twice the OECD average, and this had been true since 2003. The gravity of the issue becomes apparent when compared to COVID-19 deaths. South Korea reported 32,156 coronavirus deaths from January 2020 to the end of 2022; but there were 39,267 suicides in the same period ( Kang 2023 ). The Economist (2023) described South Korea’s suicide rate as a severe social problem and linked it to a profound lack of solidarity, deep relative deprivation (especially for women), significant poverty among the elderly, and intense competition among the youth.

The Moon Jae-In government addressed the dog meat issue in December 2021 by forming a special committee ( Song 2023 ). Despite conflicts with the Dog Breeders Association, some committee members explored alternative paths to address the issue, bypassing the association’s persistent opposition. 2 This alternative approach led to the passage of the Special Law on the Cessation of Dog Consumption on January 9, 2024. The bill was jointly proposed and approved by both ruling and opposition parties (with 208 votes in favor, none against, and just two abstentions), marking a rare successful collaboration. 3 The ban will be enforced from 2027 (providing three-year grace period). Individuals involved in breeding, butchering, distributing, or selling dog meat for human consumption may face imprisonment for up to three years or fines of up to 30 million Korean won (USD 22,800). The legislation does not specify penalties for consuming dog meat but includes provisions to help farmers and industry stakeholders transition to alternative ventures ( Ewe 2024 ; National Public Radio 2024 ).

President Yoon faces a leadership challenge, with consistently low job approval of around 35% ( Korea Gallup Daily Opinion 2023 ). Such low ratings primarily pose a leadership risk with respect to domestic politics. Despite Yoon’s promises of labor, pension, and education reforms for economic and social innovation, progress in these areas has been limited. Powerful interest groups such as the Korean Bar Association and the Korean Medical Association continue to hinder innovative legal and medical startups ( Korea JoongAng Daily 2023 ; Lee 2023b ). With these challenges in advancing domestic issues, President Yoon has been placing more emphasis on the international agenda, marking a transformative shift in foreign policy. This reflects a dual presidency with a more active role in foreign policy than in domestic affairs.

Since his inauguration, President Yoon has taken 16 overseas trips, collectively spanning 60 nights and 90 days ( Yoo 2023 ). Yet he has not been to China. Yoon’s diplomacy and traditional ally-focused engagements have focused on the US and Japan. He has visited the US five times, and Japan, the UK, and France twice each. However, these trips, coupled with low domestic approval, have led to skeptical assessments. Specifically, certain foreign affairs experts have criticized President Yoon’s diplomatic approach, particularly his distancing from China, which they say could provoke diplomatic and economic retaliation.

Yoon’s government faced another leadership setback as the Korea One Team, a joint effort of the national government, Busan City, and the business community, failed to secure the hosting rights for the 2030 World Expo, losing out to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and Rome, Italy. In the Bureau International des Expositions vote of November 28, 2023, Busan received only 29 votes compared to Riyadh’s decisive 119 ( Yonhap News 2023d ). The 2030 Busan Expo had been a critical national agenda item for President Yoon, so this was a significant defeat.

The recent Korean Wave, or Hallyu, has gained global prominence. It has transformative power to reshape Korean identity and amplify “K-impact” worldwide ( Chang and Yun 2022 ; Teo, Singh, and Tan 2016 ). Notably, in 2023 and 2022, South Korea solidified its position as a significant arms exporter during the Ukraine–Russia War ( Yoon 2023a ). Once underestimated among US allies, South Korea demonstrated its significance during this conflict ( Yoon 2023a ). The semiconductor dispute between China and the US also elevated South Korea’s status as a crucial strategic industrial partner for the US ( Liu and Young 2023 ). A State Department spokesperson voiced US support for President Yoon’s vision, positioning Korea as a “global pivotal state,” and noting the recent 70th anniversary of the US–ROK alliance, which is “stronger than ever” ( VOA 2024 ). In 2024, the third year of President Yoon’s term, the nation confronts the Peak Korea crisis, which will require strategic foresight and effective governance for national leadership challenges.

The bipartisan agreement received ayes from 253 of the 260 attending lawmakers. Democratic Party members Kim Jung-Ho, Min Hyung-Bae, Back Hye-Ryun, and Shin Jeong-Hoon abstained, along with Justice Party member Kang Eun-Mi, Progressive Party member Kang Sung-Hee, and independent lawmaker Youn Mee-Hyang ( Christianity Daily 2023 ). Later, Democratic Party members Back Hye-Ryun and Shin Jeong-Hoon changed their votes, citing an electronic voting machine error.

The author has direct experience with these situations, having served as the committee chair.

President Yoon and his wife, who have six pet dogs and are widely recognized for their affection for animals, have been vocal advocates for a dog meat ban, contributing to the positive approval of this legislation.

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Watch CBS News

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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