which country would you like to visit korea

16 things to know before heading to South Korea

Feb 18, 2024 • 10 min read

South Korea’s public-transport choices – including Busan’s Sky Capsule – are the envy of the world. As you plan your trip, count on using the nationwide network © By f11photo / Shutterstock

Has any place been on a run of late like  South Korea ?

The country is on the lips of travelers around the world, thanks to its cutting-edge technology, world-class cuisine, chart-topping pop bands and some of the most exciting movies and TV series being made anywhere. 

Add to all this centuries of tradition and copious natural blessings, all in a country scarcely larger than Ireland, and you’ve got one of the planet’s great travel destinations.

Safe, friendly and possessing superb infrastructure, South Korea is a truly easy – not to mention rewarding – place to explore. Read on for tips to make your visit even easier.

1. Complete your pre-trip registration three days before your flight

Most travelers – including citizens of the US, Australia and the UK – can visit South Korea visa-free for up to 90 days (up to six months for Canadians). You’ll still need to apply for a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization on the K-ETA website , however, at least 72 hours before departure. It’s a simple process, and your K-ETA is valid for two years from the date of approval.

2. Time your visit with the trees

We recommend planning your visit to South Korea for spring or fall , when the peninsula gets its most temperate weather. Bonus points if you can time it to coincide with one of the country’s two periods of arboreal magic. Korea’s cherry blossoms start blooming in mid-March on Jeju-do Island , off the south coast, and typically appear in Seoul in early April. In late October and early November, the leaves of Korea’s many ancient ginkgo trees turn into brilliant golden torches, giving Seoul and other cities a particularly regal look for several weeks.

3. Mind these two major holidays

The two periods that can cause travelers real problems are the multi-day Lunar New Year and Chuseok (fall harvest) holidays. On these two occasions every year, Koreans hit the road en masse, making booking a bus or train ticket nearly impossible. The dates change each year, so be sure to check when these are before making travel plans. 

If you can’t avoid a holiday, base yourself in Seoul or Busan for its duration. Plenty of businesses stay open, and the cities can be surprisingly peaceful with everyone out of town.

4. Take advantage of Korea’s world-class public transportation

Korea’s subways, trains and buses are clean, convenient and efficient . It can sometimes seem like a new station is added to the Seoul metro every month, and the rail and intercity bus networks will take you to every corner of the country. Public transportation is cheap: bus and subway fares in Seoul start at just ₩1250. In all of South Korea, Jeju-do is the only place where renting a car might make sense, and even there it’s probably not necessary.

With plentiful English information and sensible design, public transportation in Korea makes getting from here to there a breeze. To get moving, start by picking up a T-money transit card at a convenience store or from a vending machine in any subway station. Separate kiosks can be used to load money onto your card. Tap your card both when you board and get off the subway or bus. Fares are calculated by distance, so if you forget to tap when disembarking, you’ll be charged more and won’t be able to transfer for free. You can also use T-money cards in most taxis.

When traveling longer distances, it’s simple enough to just buy intercity bus or train tickets at stations. For the high-speed KTX train and some of the more popular routes and times – departing Seoul on Saturday morning, for example – it’s a good idea to purchase in advance. Bus tickets are typically readily available for purchase from machines and counters in bus stations. Buy train tickets on the website of  KORAIL , the national operator.

5. Stay connected with these essential apps

Wi-fi is so prevalent in Korean cities that you can do without a local SIM card, but if you decide that you want one just in case, or if you plan to head to rural areas, the easiest place to pick one up is at one of the many  telecom roaming centers at Incheon Airport upon arrival. You can also rent a phone if you didn’t bring your own.

Helpful apps to download include Naver Map ( iOS and Android ), which works better than Google Maps in South Korea; MangoPlate ( iOS and Android ) for finding restaurants and cafes; Subway Korea for navigating cities’ metro systems; and Kakao T ( iOS and Android ), which is like Uber but for taxis.

6. Get out of town

There are two Koreas. We don’t mean North and South, but rather Seoul and everything else – or, a bit more broadly, urban Korea and rural Korea. The country has a reputation for being a hyper-paced, highly wired pop-culture dynamo, but its hinterlands present a much different picture, and you’d be missing out big time if you skip them. 

The Korean countryside is beautiful, mountains and rivers make for beautiful vistas, and life is lived differently here than in the cities. The population is older – most people under 40 have decamped to the cities – and the pace is slower. At least once on your trip, get out of the cities and immerse yourself in this more traditional side of Korea.

7. Learn your ga , na , da , ra , ma , bas

Basic English is widely understood in Korea by folks under 50, and signage is almost always in both Korean and English. Yet it’s still a good (and respectful) idea to learn a bit of the language. 

Beyond memorizing a few essential Korean words and phrases, learning hangul, the Korean alphabet, is like gaining access to a secret bonus level of Korean travel. If you can sound out the letters, you’ll find that you already know what things like 카페 모카 ( ka-pe mo-ka ), 비빔밥 (bibimbap) and 사우나 ( sa-oo-na ) are. 

Hangul is easy to learn. King Sejong the Great, who oversaw its creation in the 15th century, declared that a wise man could pick it up before noon and even an idiot could learn it in 10 days.  Let’s Learn Hangul  teaches the Korean alphabet in an interactive, easy-to-follow way.

8. Roll with the nudges

Koreans live life in a hurry, and they do so in a densely populated country, so you shouldn’t expect the same sense of personal space or public courtesies you find in your home country. Koreans won’t hold doors open for you or apologize if they bump into you when walking. When getting on or off the subway, they likely won’t say, “Excuse me” – they’ll just nudge you aside. They’re not being rude, though. 

When you live in a city as crowded as Seoul, it’s just not practical to say sorry every time you knock shoulders with someone – you’d be apologizing constantly. This can be maddening to outsiders, but just accept it and roll with the nudges.

9. Be ready to get personal

The typical greeting here is a quick bow – nothing dramatic, just a head nod deep enough for your gaze to meet the floor – but you’ll sometimes be offered a handshake instead. If you are, expect more of a gentle clasp than the old squeeze-and-pump.

You’ll likely be asked questions more personal than you’re accustomed to by someone you just met. At the top of this list is your age. This data point is essential to Koreans, as it informs how they talk to one another: how formal their verb endings should be and whether to use honorifics. Inquiries about marital status, occupation and your opinion of Korea are also common. Answer politely, and feel free to return the question.

10. Wear what you like, but don’t pack anything too risqué

As a traveler, you can feel free to dress for the weather and comfort. Koreans are pretty relaxed about attire, even if they’re more modest than you might expect. If visiting a temple , while shorts are fine, tank tops and miniskirts are not. Both men and women frequently wear t-shirts at the beach (though it’s best to leave the Speedo or thong at home). Korean women almost never wear low-cut tops, and female travelers could find that doing so brings unwelcome looks. Tattoos are now common among young people, yet even still some bathhouses will deny entry if you show any ink.

11. Eat with others and don’t be afraid to shout for service

Eating is a communal activity in Korea, and many restaurants, especially barbecue joints, don’t offer single servings. So if you’re traveling solo, you might either have to drag someone from your hostel along with you (not a tough sell) or loosen your belt and order pork belly for two (poor thing).

At restaurants, servers won’t come check up on you, and most places have call buttons on each table. Give it a push, and someone will be right over. Otherwise, to grab the waitstaff’s attention, raise your hand and shout, “ Yogiyo !” (“Over here!”) Water is usually self-service, and occasionally side dishes are, too. If your server doesn’t set a bottle of water on your table, look around for a water dispenser and stacks of metal cups. At the end of your meal, take the check to the front counter to pay. There’s no tipping.

12. Is North Korea a concern?

Despite international headlines, South Koreans don’t worry about an attack from  North Korea  – and neither should you. Military clashes are very rare, and danger to civilians is rarer still. A guided tour to the  DMZ can be a fascinating and truly find-it-nowhere-else experience. From afar, North Korea can seem almost comical in its eccentricities, but when you’re looking at South Korean soldiers looking at North Korean soldiers looking at you, the geopolitical stakes hit different. Plus, many tours offer what may be your only chance to actually step foot in the world’s most secretive country.

13. Monitor the air quality

Even in post-pandemic times, it’s a good idea to always carry a mask, as air quality can occasionally drop to pretty nasty levels. This is especially true in spring, when dust blown off the deserts of Mongolia and northern China combines with local pollution to create unhealthy air. Download an app like IQAir Air Visual (for iOS or Android ) to keep track of current conditions and the upcoming forecast across the country.

14. You might have to be flexible about your diet

If you have food allergies or a specific diet, you may have a hard time finding places to eat or getting clear information about ingredients. Vegetarianism and veganism are slowly gaining popularity in Korea, but not many restaurants cater to these diets. Even dishes that you might think are vegetarian are often made with anchovy broth or fermented shrimp.  

15. Recognize that LGBTQI+ acceptance still has a long way to go 

While attitudes are slowly changing, Korea remains a conservative society in many respects, and anti-LGBTQI+ prejudice is common. Even so, LGBTQI+ travelers are more likely to be on the receiving end of curious – if misinformed – questions than any sort of open hostility. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon (though this goes for straight couples, too).

Seoul has small gay districts in Itaweon and Jongno-3-ga, while the Hongdae-Sinchon-Ewha university corridor is another place where LGBTQI+ Koreans feel comfortable being themselves. 

16. Use common sense and keep these numbers handy, just in case

Theft and violent crime are rare in South Korea. Scams and pickpockets targeting travelers are virtually nonexistent, and Koreans typically go out of their way to be hospitable to visitors. Nonetheless – as anyone should anywhere – do exercise basic caution and common sense. South Korea has strict drug laws, and don’t even think about trying to sneak past them. Nightlife often revolves around heavy drinking, so know your limit to avoid putting yourself in a sketchy situation.

If you do have an emergency, call 112 to reach the police, 119 for emergency services or 1330 to reach the Korea Travel Hotline, where an operator will connect you to the appropriate service and serve as an interpreter. That number can also be used to reach the Korea Tourist Police .

This article was first published July 2022 and updated February 2024

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• South Korea
• 15 Reasons Why You Should...

Reasons Why You Should Visit South Korea at Least Once in Your Lifetime

While South Korea might not yet be the number one travel destination for many around the world, there are plentiful reasons why you should visit the country of the morning calm on your next vacation. From history to culture and food to religion, take a look at our guide to the top reasons why you should visit South Korea at least once in your lifetime.

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Sing karaoke in Seoul, go hiking in Seoraksan National Park and eat bibimbap in Jeonju on our 10-day small-group trip to South Korea .

Pulsating culture

Due to their long history, South Koreans have a variety of traditions they have kept alive throughout centuries. Still today, you can watch traditional Korean dance and music performances, while people love to dress in traditional clothes ( hanbok ) – you can rent it to wear around Seoul and Jeonju, for example. Even in modern Seoul, you can still find traditional hanok house neighborhoods with lovely teahouses that have been in existence for decades. This mix of old and new is truly fun to explore when traveling in South Korea.

Rich History

The history of South Korea is long and dating back over a thousand years. Due to the natural isolation of the Korean Peninsula, the country’s culture hasn’t changed as much as in other regions. Still today, you can stand in awe of some of the most significant cultural heritage sites of the country, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main palace situated in Seoul. The city of Gyeongju is also a place of historic value and is often called a ‘museum without walls’. Gyeongju was the capital of Korea during the Silla Dynasty from 57 BC – 935 AD and is home to countless royal tombs, palaces, and temples that are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Year-round Festivals

When you are for the first time in South Korea, make sure you visit a festival. Every year, there are more festivals in South Korea than one could attend, with a couple of main festivities everyone likes to join in with. When the snow melts and the weather gets warmer, pink and white cherry blossoms transform South Korea into a magical wonderland for a short period at the beginning of spring, and thousands of people come to see the blossoms from all over the country. Buddha’s Birthday is another major holiday celebrated in May with lantern parades and performances at local temples, while in fall, Koreans celebrate their own version of Thanksgiving during Chuseok and honor their ancestors during proudly conducted ceremonies. In fact, there are festivals in every month of the year for every taste.

Futuristic Modernity

In contrast to its historic landmarks, South Korea is a pioneer in creating new and innovative structures. Looking at Seoul, for example, you are surrounded by futuristic buildings in one part of the city, such as the Dongdaemun Design Plaza by Zaha Hadid, while traditional hanok neighborhoods lie just around the corner. Earlier this year, Seoul proudly opened the world’s fifth largest skyscraper piercing majestically out of the ground overlooking the Han River. It comes with little surprise that some of the world’s leading companies are also located here, including Samsung, Hyundai and Kia.

Exciting Food

Koreans are very proud of their unique cuisine. This is another result of the country’s natural isolation and climate leading to particular food preparation methods. Take kimchi , for example, the country’s number one side dish made from salted and fermented vegetables that are kept in jars for months, one of many practices used to protect food during harsh winters. Over the centuries, Koreans have created a fascinating and rich food culture made up of meat dishes, stews, soups, noodle dishes, seafood and many vegetable side dishes. Visit South Korea and you should spend an entire day roaming street markets sampling your way through this concert of flavors.

Quiet Countryside

As South Korea is not yet a worldwide popular vacation destination like its neighbors China and Japan, you will find untouched rural areas giving insight into traditional Korean lifestyle. While around 20% of all South Koreans live in and near Seoul, it’s especially the small rural villages where you can find peace and quiet. The well-connected railway and express bus systems make it easy to also explore the less visited areas of the country. You’ll be surprised that you can find lush rice terraces and hidden temples right here in South Korea.

You can find even more tranquility and inner peace when joining a one- or two-day templestay program, which allows you to spend some time living like Buddhist monks in temples across Korea. While the Korean templestay program might not be as heard of around the world, it’s a well-established organization offering English-speaking programs to anyone around the country. Whether you want to experience a templestay in downtown Seoul or in rural South Korea on top of a mountain, the options are endless and the results are incredibly rewarding.

Vibrant cities

While Seoul is arguably the most thrilling city in South Korea, it’s not the only large city that’s worth a visit. Despite its small size, South Korea has plenty of exciting cities from north to south. Busan in the very south, for example, is the country’s second largest city and located on a beautiful coastline with sandy beaches and clear ocean water. Jeonju in the west of the country is one of the last places featuring a traditional old town with Korean hanok houses and a beautiful destination in spring and fall. Each of Korea’s nine provinces has its own local cuisine and attractions that are worth exploring.

K-pop Culture

South Korea is world-famous for its exciting music culture. K-pop is not only a music genre, it’s part of Korean culture that captures people all over Asia and the world. Walking down main pedestrian streets in South Korea, you will hear the latest hits of the industry. K-pop fans visit South Korea in waves and visit their favorite group’s or singer’s music label, get a K-pop makeover or visit K-pop-themed cafés. If you’re not yet into Korean music, we guarantee you that after you visit South Korea, you will be.

Korean Trendsetters

K-pop and Korean fashion go almost hand in hand. However, in recent years, South Korea has not only become known for coming up with quirky outfits for their boy and girl groups but also setting global trends in regular fashion. Seoul Fashion Week, for example, is becoming more and more visited by international designers and fashion labels who visit fashion shows to import Korean fashion lines to their home countries in Europe, America, Africa and all over Asia. Visiting Seoul, visitors will also notice that South Koreans, in general, are very fashionable and love to experiment and show off their hot streetwear on the streets of Seoul. Visit Dongdaemun, Gangnam or Myeongdong to get your own sets of Korean outfits to take home with you.

Make-up and Skincare

Ever wonder why Korean women (and men!) have flawless and stunningly beautiful skin? Koreans see taking care of their skin as an essential part of their daily lives and they spend more money on skincare and beauty than anywhere else in the world. Many Koreans even have a ten-step morning and night routine they strictly follow day after day to maintain their beautiful skin. It’s therefore no wonder that South Korea is home to countless skincare and make-up brands offering the most innovative and futuristic products on the global market. If that’s not a great reason to come to Korea, then we don’t know what is!

Quirky Entertainment Options

Entertainment is very important to South Koreans and they come up with new ways to keep themselves amused almost every month. We have all heard of the quirky themed cafés all over Seoul that offer visitors the chance to pet cats or dogs, play with racoons, cuddle with meerkats and engage with all kinds of other animals. There are also themed cafés that allow you to dress up as a princess and take pictures or eat food shaped like poop. Karaoke rooms have also been part of Korean entertainment for decades and are popular among all age groups. PC rooms are also well-visited, usually by a younger crowd, who compete in a variety of online games with people from all over the world – so much so that South Korea has become a leading force in global e-sports.

Stunning Coastline and Beaches

Due to South Korea being a peninsula, the country offers miles and miles of beautiful coast and stunning beaches. Korea also has a lot of beautiful islands, the most popular and largest one being Jeju Island. Jeju Island is one of Korea’s most visited destinations thanks to its exceptional natural wonders and breathtaking beaches. Another beautiful beach and coastal region is Jeollado in the west of the country. Moreover, the eastern coast is famous for beautiful sunrises, the earliest in the country.

Picturesque Mountain Ranges

South Korean attractions include beautiful national parks. Despite its small size, South Korea is home to 22 national parks with countless mountains. The island of Jeju has the highest peak in South Korea, the shield volcano Hallasan. Another popular hiking area is Seoraksan, the third tallest mountain in the country at 1,708 meters (5,603 feet). You can hike around this national park on Culture Trip’s 10-day adventure around South Korea . It’s exactly this combination of mountains and coast that make South Korea such a thrilling destination.

Four Amazing Seasons

Due to South Korea’s location in East Asia, the country is blessed with changing seasons. This makes Korea an exciting place to travel and live. No matter when you travel to Korea, you’ll be surprised with breathtaking seasonal changes in nature, such as cherry blossoms in the spring, flower fields in the summer, colorful foliage in the fall and a white wonderland in the winter. Besides the changing weather, each season also has special festivals and also dishes, such as the Taebaeksan Snow Festival in winter and cold noodles in summer.

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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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10 BEST REASONS TO VISIT SOUTH KOREA

WHY VISITING SOUTH KOREA? IS THERE ANYTHING SPECIAL ABOUT SOUTH KOREA? WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT KOREA?

The “Land of the Morning Calm”, is one of the last places in the Far East to open up to travelers from all over the world.

You should visit South Korea at least once in your lifetime!

South Korea has a lot to offer: a rich and unique Asian culture, amazing Buddhist temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, delicious and healthy cuisine, and a world-class city: Seoul, with everything from luxury hotels, high-tech stores, and places to go out at night.

In this post, we listed the top 10 reasons why you should visit South Korea at least once in your lifetime!

To start, here is a short video clip showcasing what South Korea has to offer:

10 REASONS TO GO TO SOUTH KOREA

1. south korea has delicious food.

You’ve probably heard of kimchi already (spicy fermented cabbage). In South Korea, you will have it practically at every meal. It is also considered one of the five healthiest dishes in the world.

However, Korean food is much more than that! We even dare to call it a food heaven! Here are some of the most amazing dishes: Ddeokggochi, Odeng, Hotteok, Egg Bread, Tteokbokki, Kimbap, Bibimbap, Soy sauce crab, Jjamppong, Korean BBQ and so much more! Everything is so delicious.

Everyone knows Vietnamese spring rolls, Japanese sushi, and Chinese sweet and sour pork. Unfortunately, the unique Korean cuisine is only starting to become known around the world. Rightfully so, as it deserves to be recognized for its great benefits on the body and mind, but also for its spicy, sweet, and salty flavors.

The good part is that food in South Korea is very affordable. So enjoy as much as you can. Visit South Korea and you should spend an entire day roaming street markets trying those rich and delicious flavors.

2. Visit gorgeous Palaces

Despite being very dense and sometimes stressful Seoul offers travelers havens of peace like temples or royal palaces, surrounded by greenery. The Changdeokgung Royal Palace is a perfect example. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its architecture typical of the Joseon dynasty.

Also worth seeing is the Jongmyo Shrine, the oldest Confucian shrine, the Gyeongbokgung Royal Palace, the National Museum or the Jogyesa, Jingwansa ( more info here ), and Bongeunsa temples.

Spend the night at a temple, with the temple stay program

For a unique experience while you are traveling to South Korea, spend a night at a temple and learn more about the Korean culture from Buddhist monks. You can check out the Temple Stay website, to see available temples and to book your stay. We highly recommend it. You can click here for more information.

3. Korean stunning nature

If you ask us, we prefer nature to big cities. So when we decided to move to Seoul we weren’t quite sure if we would like it.

However, the nature in South Korea, is what impressed us the most, by far. Probably because we had no expectations and had no clue about its natural wonders.

South Korea is made up of 70% of mountains and it is possible to hike many of them throughout the country to enjoy a unique and very preserved nature.

Even Seoul is surrounded by beautiful mountains. Hiking the Bukhansan is a must-do while in Seoul.

As soon as you go outside Seoul, there are so many incredible sights. Take for instance the Boseong Green Tea Plantation , which is for us one of our most memorable trips in South Korea. ( click here to know more about it ).

Also in the Southern area, you can see stunning rice paddies. Head to Namhae , in a place called Gacheon Daraengi village to admire the rice terrace. It looks similar to Bali! We did not expect to see such things when moving to South Korea.

The natural beauty of South Korea is another awesome reason why you should visit this country.

4. Its modern architecture

As contrast with its traditional temples and natural wonders, South Korea is also a very modern society.

In 2010, Seoul was elected as a World Design Capital, demonstrating impressive urban design and implementing a concrete plan to achieve economic, social, and cultural development through design.

Simply head to Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) to understand what design and modernity mean in Korea. DDP is the newest and most iconic landmark of the Korean design industry. It is located in the center of the Dongdaemun area. Once you are there, you will feel like you are in the future.

All around Seoul, you will see many modern buildings each very unique, some extravagant, and some blending perfectly with the traditional Korean culture.

5. Seoul, a fantastic city

When thinking about South Korea, the first thing that comes to mind is probably its capital city, Seoul.

Seoul is currently experiencing a wave of creativity. From fashion to cuisine, architecture, and art, the city has become trendy in the international scene. Its many hip residents have helped create a future-proof city that still honors its distinctive past.

Across the city, temples and skyscrapers coexist, as acclaimed chefs merge traditional dishes with tasty new trends in famous South Korean cuisine.

It truly is a city built for the curious, for anyone who doesn’t like to stand still, and, if you’re still not convinced, here are some good reasons to make Seoul the next destination for your trip .

6. South Korea has some of the most stunning cafes

If you ask a Korean what he would like to do later, the chances are he/she will tell you that his dream is to open a cafe.

In Seoul alone, there are no less than 18,000 cafes, making it the capital with the most establishments! The number of Starbucks per capita is the highest in the world! Impressive right?

It is said that the first Korean to drink coffee was Emperor Gojong in 1896. This drink was long reserved for the elite. It was not until the 1970s, that cafes became very popular in South Korea. Like, very very very popular!

Koreans love real coffee, the one that is roasted, that is bitter but the aroma of which is so addicting. Foreign baristas team up with Korean brands. South Koreans train and compete in international barista competitions… And the coffee-loving country has many world-champion baristas!

It may sound strange that this is one of the reasons why you should visit South Korea. But, oh yes, Cafes in Korea are amazing and with many different and fun themes.

READ: Here, we’ve listed our favorite outdoor cafes in Seoul.

Finding THE best coffee has even become a favorite hobby of some Koreans who post on social media while traveling through the country in various cafes.

7. Its great beaches

You probably didn’t expect that South Korea has stunning beaches . Well yes, and you can even surf in South Korea ( check out the best spots for surfing here ).

Head to Jeju Island , in the south of the country for instance. It is a very calm island compared to the speed of development of the rest of the country. Many don’t know it, but one can spend a few days enjoying the beautiful white sandy beaches in South Korea! If you go to Jeju Island, make sure to check Hamdeok Beach , one of our favorite beaches in South Korea.

In the east coast of South Korea, head to Gangneung . The east coast is absolutely stunning with miles-long beaches. While living in Seoul, we spent many long weekends there. You can check out our post here to visit Gangneung .

On the West Coast, we particularly enjoyed Taean National Park. It is well known by locals for its kilometers-long sandy beaches. It is also popular for camping (especially at Mongsanpo Beach).

We listed the 25 best beaches in South Korea here, check it out!

Another great reason why you should visit South Korea!

8. Shopping and Korean fashion

Seoul has established itself as one of the most avant-garde cities in the world. Fashion Week, showcasing the latest streetwear creations from the city’s elite designers has become a must-see event for industry enthusiasts.

The influential event, which takes place twice a year, in March and October, is the opportunity for established and up-and-coming South Korean designers to showcase their streetwear styles to industry audiences.

Before, we often referred to Japan when it came to Asian fashion. However, Korean fashion today is in the midst of an explosion. Wander around Korean boutiques looking for unique pieces and dig into thrift stores to have a feel for Korean fashion.

Also when it comes to cosmetics, you can stock up on masks, treatments, make-up, etc. South Korea has a huge number of cosmetics stores.

The main shopping areas are Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Gangnam (head to Garuso-gil, our favorite street in Gangnam).

9. Korean culture and its people

Koreans are often compared to the Latins of Asia and for good reason: they are proud, touching, and curious. Koreans will not hesitate to come and chat with you.

The children will come and greet you and the monks to invite you to drink tea in their temple. Expect to make great human encounters during a trip to South Korea and discover about their culture and history.

Make sure to also visit some Hanoks, these traditional Korean houses. You probably know Japanese ryokans or Mongolian yurts. But did you know that there is a traditional house in Korea called Hanok? These establishments made exclusively from natural materials (wood, mulberry paper, thatch) allow a better union with nature.

You can even spend a night in a Hanok. You will then discover the charms of Korean housing and especially its century-old underfloor heating system. Even though sleeping on the floor on a light mattress can be a bit difficult the next morning, the experience is well worth it!

The best place to see Hanoks is in Jeonju Hanok Village. It is easily accessible by train from Seoul. You can check out our post here for more information.

10. Check out the cherry blossoms in Spring

Just like Japan, South Korea offers an incredible cherry blossoms festival in Spring. Simply walk in a park in any of the Korean cities to admire the trees changing colors and turning pink, purple or white. A magical moment in South Korea.

Spring is a wonderful season to discover the land of the morning calm. We highly recommend that you travel to South Korea during Spring or Autumn. Summer or winter wouldn’t be a very good idea. Check out why here .

READ ALSO: 99 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN SOUTH KOREA

BEST TIME TO VISIT SOUTH KOREA?

Getting excited about traveling to  South Korea ? Oh yes, you absolutely should be. However, be aware of the 4 very different seasons, which can make your trip the most amazing one, or the worst one depending on which month you are going to South Korea.

The climate in South Korea is divided into four very distinct seasons. Winters from late November to early March are Siberian cold, and fairly dry, especially in the northern area. The summer, on the other hand, is rather hot and humid and is accompanied by a few sometimes quite dangerous typhoons. Note that during this monsoon period, the rains are generally torrential. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons (cool and sunny).

In general South Korea is rather sunny the whole year except for the months of Summer. The clear blue sky is the norm.

However, because of the extreme change in temperature, it is therefore very important to choose the right time for your trip to South Korea. This will influence drastically what you should pack in your suitcase!

For us no doubt, Spring from April to May, and Autumn from September to October, are by far the best time to visit South Korea. More info on the weather in South Korea here .

IN CONCLUSION ABOUT THE BEST REASONS TO VISIT SOUTH KOREA?

South Korea is a land of captivating contrasts, where history and tradition harmoniously coexist with modernity and innovation.

Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient temples, indulging in mouthwatering dishes, immersing yourself in the world of K-Pop, or marveling at cutting-edge technology, South Korea has something for every traveler.

So, if you’re looking for a destination that offers a kaleidoscope of experiences, South Korea should be at the top of your travel list. Come and discover the magic of this enchanting nation for yourself.

We keep posting new articles about South Korea. You can check out all our posts here .

• UNDERSTANDING THE KOREAN CULTURE
• FINDING A JOB IN KOREA
• LIVING IN SOUTH KOREA
• THE BEST TIME TO VISIT SOUTH KOREA
• BEST SKI RESORTS
• AWESOME DAY TRIPS FROM SEOUL
• BEST THINGS TO DO IN SOUTH KOREA
• BES THINGS TO DO IN SEOUL
• TOP ADVENTURES NEAR SEOUL
• FUN THINGS TO DO IN WEEKENDS IN SEOUL

We are Hammer and Guillaume, a fun couple traveling the world. We will take you to some of the most amazing places on earth. Hammer is a yoga instructor and Guillaume a true water baby, enjoying all kinds of water sports. Follow-us to get the latest update about our travels.

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i am person i want to viset

I bet it will be a excellent experience to try Korean style fried chicken if you visit Korea !!!

I am in South Korea it is very nice

Glad to hear that! Enjoy your trip!

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Home » Asia » South Korea » 26 South Korea Travel Tips You Need to Know! • 2024

26 South Korea Travel Tips You Need to Know! • 2024

South Korea is a tiny country that punches way above its weight in a number of arenas, and that extends to being one of Asia’s greatest travel spots!

The land of KBBQ, the world’s fastest internet speeds, futuristic cities, and a breathtaking mix of ancient and modern, this is one of the best countries in Asia to travel in, and yet it’s criminally underrated.  

I spent a few years calling this country home, and I’ve created the ultimate Korea travel guide to help you navigate your way through this gem of northeast Asia.

Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a return visitor, here’s a list of 26 South Korea travel tips you need to know before stepping off the plane!

26 EPIC South Korea Travel Tips

After years of living and traveling in South Korea , here are some of the most important tips I’ve learned along the way!

1.  Download These Apps!

South Korea is one of the most tech-savvy societies on the planet, and you’re going to need to keep up. These apps are just a few of the essentials you want to have to make your trip to South Korea the unforgettable experience it should be.

Subway Korea

Not the most exciting app to download but crucial all the same, this is going to make your time in Seoul so much easier.

With a full, interactive map of Seoul’s ( Korea’s capital city ) absolutely sprawling subway system, Subway Korea tells you exactly which station you need to begin and end at, which stations to transfer at, and how long it’s going to take you from start to finish.

You can find this on the App Store for both Android and iPhone, and a companion app exists for Busan’s smaller (but still pretty big!) subway system.

When it comes to Korean, Google Translate can give you some hilariously bad translations and while that’s always entertaining, you’re going to need to be able to communicate with more than just hand gestures!

That’s why you need to download Papago . It serves many languages and its Korean translations are far better than Google’s, so this is going to make traveling to South Korea for the first time go much smoother.

You can get around places in Seoul with only English, but beyond that you’re going to need some help which makes Papago a must-download.

In my experience, Google Maps isn’t too helpful in Korea, and that’s why you’ve got to download Kakao Maps!

An app made by a Korean company, Kakao Maps is going to provide you with a level of detail, precision, and helpfulness that Google Maps simply can’t deliver.

Whether you’re exploring the city or out in Korea’s gorgeous countryside, this app is the best option for navigating the country.

2.      Learn Some Basic Korean Phrases

Having a solid translation app is all well and good, but it’s also important to memorize a few basic phrases in Korean just in case your phone doesn’t come through for you.

Anyeong Hasaeyeo – Hello

(You might have heard anyeong as meaning “hello” in Korean before and while that’s true, it’s important to say the full phrase because shortening it to anyeong can be seen as disrespectful.)

Kamsamnida – ­ Thank you

Kohn Bae! – Cheers!

Odi / Odi…? – where / where is…?

Hwajangshil – Bathroom

3. Explore the Dramatic East Coast

Staying in Seoul is great, but the country has SO much more to offer.

Korea’s east coast in particular flies far under the radar for most foreigners and isn’t visited nearly enough. But I can attest that it’s easily one of the most epic regions in Korea!

With tall, jagged peaks rising straight out of the sea, the east coast is the perfect place for travelers looking to escape Korea’s ultramodern cities and get out to explore the country’s natural wonders.

The east coast holds some of Korea’s best hiking spots, and Seoraksan National Park in particular is a favorite of mine, especially during winter and spring.

4. Korea is a Shopper’s Mecca

If you’re keen on shopping for the latest fashion or newest tech, South Korea is pretty much unbeatable.

Between Shinsegae, Lotte World, and a TON more, Korea has limitless options for shoppers of all stripes.

Shinsegae and Lotte are two absolutely massive department store chains in Korea that house countless stores within their walls, and there are so many more on top of those two to choose from and explore.

Your choices really are infinite.

The one thing you need to keep in mind though is that you should be prepared to spend.

Korea is not a cheap country in general, and that extends to its shopping scene. If you’re going to buy a higher-end item here, be ready to shell out a lot of cash.

5.      Avoid Drinking Tap Water

Sadly, Korea isn’t a place where you can drink the tap water worry-free. While many places in the countryside have springs with fresh water straight from the mountains, you will need to have a filtered water bottle for your trip!

That’s why we strongly recommend you invest your hard-earned cash in getting a Grayl Filtration Bottle to accompany you on your travels!

It’s a reusable, zero-waste system that allows you to drink water from pretty much anywhere and in the long run, will save you countless dollars that you would have otherwise spent on water bottles, filters, and purification tablets.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

6. Learn How to Get Around in South Korea

Nearly every corner of South Korea is connected by an intricate web of trains and buses that link large cities like Seoul and Busan in the south with the tiny villages and hamlets in the countryside.

Public transportation in Korea is fantastic: it’s reliable, clean, convenient, and always on time!

Even if you’re waiting at a bus stop in the middle of nowhere, if the schedule says a bus arrives at 8:30, it will be there at 8:30, give or take a few minutes.

On that note, if you’ve got a bus or train ticket departing at a certain time, make sure you’re there early because you will get left behind if you’re not there on time!

That brings me to one of the most important points of this piece: I highly recommend that you do NOT rent a car or motorbike in Korea if you’re considering it.

While the roads are modern, impressive feats of engineering, drivers here can often be very unpredictable and that can lead to some dangerous situations on the road if you’re not used to it.

A one-hour motorbike ride between two cities in Korea felt longer and scarier to me than a nine-hour ride on Pakistan’s Karakoram Highway, and anyone who’s made that trip can tell you how much that statement means!

It’s for that reason that I think you should avoid getting your own wheels in Korea, and that risk combined with the excellent public transportation system makes any rentals a needless expense.

When going between different cities, you can use Trip.com to book your train or bus tickets.

Remember to book in advance because if you show up and try to buy the ticket the day of your intended departure, there’s a good chance you’ll be out of luck.

Simple Seoul Travel Tips You Need to Know

Whether you’re traveling to South Korea for the first time or coming back for more, you’ll be spending a ton of time in Seoul so it’s good to know how to stay on top of things when exploring this behemoth of a city!

7. Invest in a Month-Long Tmoney Card

You’ll probably be using public transportation a lot, so it’s best to invest your money where it counts to get the most bang for your buck.

Bus and train fares in Korea are cheap anyway (about one dollar or less per ride), but the government just launched a new transit card option which allows passengers to spend $49 for a one-month pass and get unlimited access to Seoul’s huge network of trains and buses, as well as public bicycle rentals.

The card is rechargeable, so if you plan on staying in Korea for longer than a month, this is a great option to make your Seoul itinerary easier to execute.

You can get one at any major subway station, but sadly this card only covers public transportation in Seoul for now, so keep that in mind before buying.

If you’re just looking for a good old-fashioned Tmoney card without the month-long plan, you can get one at any convenience store or subway station and charge it with cash.

8. Make Reservations in Advance if Possible

When it comes to accommodations or more popular restaurants/cafés, it can be difficult in Seoul to simply show up to a place and expect to find an open spot, especially in high season.

This is a country where it’s best to make your reservations beforehand. If you don’t, there’s a very good chance that you’re going to miss out and get turned away.

9. Try Seoul’s amazing street food

Korean cuisine has plenty of tasty street snacks that are quick and cheap, making this one way to cut costs in Seoul! There’s no shortage of markets and stalls offering a quick bite, so be sure to check them out.

Kimbap and tteokbokki are two classic Korean eats that are cheap, delicious, and filling.

10. Understand Internet and Data in South Korea

Wifi is everywhere and internet speeds are lightning fast, but you’ll still want to stay connected when you’re on the move!

SIM cards and data plans tend to be pricy by Asian standards, and while you can get Korean e-SIMs at the airports, there’s a better option: a WiFi Egg rental.

You can check out a list of rental options here , and any of them will keep you connected to Korea’s ridiculously fast internet while you’re on the go without breaking the bank.

11. Korea Isn’t Cheap

Expenses in Korea aren’t quite as scary as Western Europe in summer but this isn’t Thailand either, so you need to be prepared to spend a little more.

Hostels will cost at least $15 USD/night but usually a bit more, and proper meals will start at around $8.

Public transportation is cheap, but going to a different city is going to cost a bit more: between $10-$50 depending on how far you’re going.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

12. Bring Masks to Protect Yourself from Pollution

Korea and neighboring China are heavily dependent on coal for their energy needs, and as a result, the skies can occasionally have dangerous levels of smog, especially in big cities.

Masks are technically not an essential, but you’re going to want to have a few masks on hand to help you deal with this problem.

Just to give you an idea of how bad this can be sometimes: I’ve had an easier time breathing whilst hiking in difficult conditions at 5000m+ altitudes than I’ve had while just sitting outdoors at a café in Seoul trying to enjoy my coffee on a day when the pollution is at its worst.

13. Pay Attention to the Rules

Koreans are meticulous rule-followers, and it’s very important to keep this in mind when planning a trip to South Korea.

No matter how ridiculous a rule might seem to you, Koreans will obey it almost without exception. Even if it’s 3am and the roads are completely empty, a pedestrian is going to wait until the crosswalk turns green before they think about venturing out onto the empty road while the sign is red.

Many countries are really loose with the law but this is not one of them, so make sure that you’re completely respectful of the rules when you’re visiting South Korea.

A Few South Korea Cultural Travel Tips

Respecting Korean societal norms are SUPER important. Let’s get into a few of them…

14. Don’t tip

This might come as a huge relief to visitors, especially for Americans, but it’s important to know that tipping isn’t really a thing in Korea. Very rarely a place will ask for tips for its workers, but otherwise you should avoid tipping in all situations.

15. Politeness and respect are non-negotiable

Korean culture is deeply rooted in visibly showing respect for others, and it’s important to adopt that attitude while you’re visiting South Korea. Sass and sarcasm are looked down upon in nearly all situations so it’s best to avoid using those entirely.

16. Koreans tend to be reserved

While Koreans are very polite and hospitable, they are usually pretty reserved and it takes awhile for them to open up, so don’t worry if it seems like they’re not too friendly at first!

17.      Learn to Read Korean

Okay, I realize this might sound insane, but hear me out!

Hangul – the name for the Korean alphabet – is incredibly easy to learn how to read and will take you an hour or two max to get the basics down.

Just a bit of study goes a long way in helping you read signs and menus, making this a great return on investment for your time.

Even if learning languages isn’t your thing, I promise you that this is way easier than it sounds and strongly recommend giving it a try!

18. Understand When to Visit South Korea

Autumn and Spring are majestic.

Japan gets a lot of recognition for its stunning seasonal colors (and rightly so!) but these seasons in Korea are just as magical and can’t be missed.

It’s also way less crowded than Japan, and the colors you’ll see here are simply unreal.

These are not busy seasons in Korea as far as foreign tourism is concerned, so you’ll have a lot more space than you would in summer.

You’ll have to get out of the city to see these colors at their best, and Magoksa Temple is one of the most stunning locations in Korea during peak foliage!

Magoksa Temple is not too far from Seoul so it’s very accessible. If you’re in Korea during Autumn, this spot is a can’t-miss.

If you’re keen on visiting South Korea during Spring, you will see spellbinding cherry blossoms pretty much everywhere you go, but Seoraksan National Park on the east coast is one of the best spots in the country this time of year.

This one’s a bit further out of the way as it’s a 3-hour bus ride from Seoul, but it’s more than worth it! I’ve made the trip out to Seoraksan multiple times and it still isn’t enough.

Going to South Korea in summer is going to be a non-stop sweatfest and while winter can be utterly breathtaking, it’s freezing cold, so Autumn and Spring are the ideal seasons to visit Korea.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

19. Seoul is a Foodie’s Paradise

Not only does Seoul have tons of excellent spots for trying Korean food, but the capital is also home to cuisines from all over the world! Italian, Japanese, Mexican, barbecue of all kinds, and so much more: you name it, Seoul has it.

While you could easily dedicate an entire book to Seoul’s many restaurants, here are a few highlights!

One of the best Mexican restaurants I’ve found anywhere in East Asia is Taco Amigo , located right in the heart of Itaewon.

Just up the road and right on Itaewon’s main street is Vatos , a Mexican fusion restaurant that has a seemingly infinite number of delicious meals to try out.

If you’re craving some classic Texas BBQ, Low and Slow Itaewon has got you covered.

The Royal Food and Drink is a cliffside restaurant with a stunning view of Seoul and serves a majestic brunch that will send you into a food coma.

Not only one of the best brunch places in Seoul but one of the best I’ve been to anywhere, meals here are unforgettable.

Whether you’re looking for izakayas, Levantine restaurants, kebabs, Mexican, or pretty much anything else: this city is a paradise of cosmopolitan cuisine, and taking advantage of that is a must.

Seoul does have unforgettable KBBQ restaurants and countless more excellent Korean restaurants, but the best (and cheapest) Korean food will be found beyond Seoul’s expansive boundaries!

20. Being Vegetarian or Vegan in Korea Isn’t Easy

As with a lot of Asian countries, it can be a challenge to navigate the food scene if you’re vegetarian or vegan. When visiting Busan , Seoul, Daegu, and other larger cities, many restaurants can cater to your diet but in the countryside, you’ll find that your options are much more limited.

Thankfully, Korean food does have some options for those of you who don’t eat meat!

Vegetarian mandu (dumplings), kimbap, and bibimbap are all tasty vegetarian dishes that you can’t miss out on, and jjajangmyeon is one of my personal favorites.

If you’re at a restaurant and ordering food that may or may not come with meat, like dumplings, just ask the waiter for “gogi opsoyo” (“no meat”) and you’ll be all set.

21. Explore Korea’s Amazing Café Scene

Going to South Korea means you get to explore a café scene which is second to none. A massively diverse range of cafés awaits travelers from the traditional to ultra-modern and quirky.

Seoul itself is home to countless unique, very photogenic cafés that you could probably spend a lifetime venturing through.

One of the capital’s most iconic spots is C.Through Café, which you’ll find here . Not only are the drinks delicious, but they also look so good that you almost feel bad for drinking them.

The coffee itself may or may not be what you’re looking for depending on your own personal tastes, but Korea’s cafés and teahouses are so diverse and incredible that I highly recommend you spend some time exploring what they have to offer!

22. Discover Korean Meals You Might Not Know Of!

Korean BBQ, samgyupsal, and kimchi are famous Korean culinary exports for good reason, but there are so many more Korean dishes that any backpacker worth their salt has got to try at least once.

Dakkalbi is a truly epic dish served in a massive pan that contains meat, rice cakes (called dak), vegetables, spices, and more depending on what you request. 

This is the perfect meal to have after you’ve worked up a huge appetite from exploring all day, and best to share with friends.

Quite possibly my favorite Korean meal is jjimdak. Often served in an enormous pan, this dish consisting at its core of chicken, glass noodles, rice, spices, and onions is a gluttonous, decadent meal that everyone should reward themselves with, and you can add more to the pan to mix things up a little.

Hint : add cheese.

23. Get Lost in Seoul’s Insane Nightlife

Seoul’s nightlife is famous and for very good reason: it’s amazing .

Coming out of a difficult few years due to the COVID pandemic, the capital’s bars and clubs are slowly returning to their former glory.

Gangnam, Itaewon, and Hongdae each have an endless supply of bars, restaurants, and clubs to explore that are wild fun, and a visit to Seoul is incomplete without at least a few sleepless nights spent in these districts.

You’ll also find unique escape rooms, board game cafés, and more.

It’s simply not possible to list all the things you can do in Seoul, which is exactly why you should get hopelessly lost in wandering through this amazing city’s nightlife.

24. Get Off the Beaten Path

South Korea is rightly well-known for being a haven of futuristic cities, shopping, and lightning-fast internet, but it’s so much more than that!

This is a country where ancient wonders mix with natural beauty in a way that doesn’t happen anywhere else, and one of the best tips for traveling to South Korea I can give you is to journey away from the typical tourist loop of Seoul, Busan, and Jeju.

That might seem like hard advice to follow in a tiny country that’s so modernized, but venture beyond the confines of the cities and you’ll find a side of Korea that most people don’t see.

Experiencing Korea’s ancient, rich culture and all the gems hiding in its many hills simply can’t be missed out on, and this is what makes going to South Korea an unforgettable experience, far more so than a night out in Seoul or Busan.

25. Know Which Places to Stay/Avoid

Korea has no shortage of great hostels to stay at that range from cozy and classy to social and wild, but here are just a few to keep in mind:

If you’re looking for a good time in Seoul that doesn’t involve much sleeping, The Time Traveler’s Party Hostel in Hongdae is hard to beat. Fun and social with a downstairs bar and a crew that goes out into Hongdae’s vibrant nightlife every night, this is the place to be for all kinds of partiers.

Its sister hostel, Time Travelers’ Relax Guesthouse , is for backpackers looking for something more low-key and restful. Also in Hongdae, this hostel is in a quiet neighborhood that’s just a short distance from the district’s unbelievable nightlife scene, so it gives you the best of both worlds.

Seoul Cube Itaewon is also an incredible hostel with a great reputation, and its location right in the center of Itaewon is basically unbeatable!

When it comes to Seoul – and Korea in general – pretty much any hostel or guesthouse you choose is going to be solid with one exception: the Hongdae Bird’s Nest Hostel. This is the one place I recommend you absolutely avoid at all costs unless you have no other choice.

You might be tempted by its low prices and convenient location (I was!), but the facilities are less than ideal and the management is strange, unhelpful, and at times very unfriendly to guests. Avoid, avoid, avoid.

Time Traveler's Party Hostel

With a basement bar and a perfect location just 7 minutes from Seoul's Hongdae neighborhood, this is the best hostel for those looking to get the most out of the city's epic nightlife. It's super social, and you can even get a taste of authentic Korean BBQ every Friday night at their weekly group dinners.

26. Travel With Good Insurance!

Travel insurance is one of the most essential items all travelers simply should not go without, and you need to make sure you’re covered in the event a disaster happens!

Korean healthcare is some of the best – and most affordable – in the world, but you still don’t want to be stuck paying for 100% of a hospital bill.

That’s where SafetyWings comes in: at $40 per month and contract-free, this is an excellent choice for travelers and digital nomads.

Having that peace of mind that you’re covered in case of emergencies is priceless, so don’t forget to sign up before you set out on your travels: it could make all the difference.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

So is South Korea Worth Visiting?

100%, absolutely, undeniably yes. Not only is it more than worth the effort, I stand by the fact that Korea is one of Asia’s greatest countries to travel in.

Temples, towers, unforgettable nights, delicious food and more await travelers who make the trip to this unique land caught at a crossroads.

Going to South Korea is the experience of a lifetime and when your trip is at an end, no matter how long it is, you’ll find yourself wanting more.

I hope you’ve learned something from these South Korea travel tips. Now all that’s left is to book that ticket.

A wild ride awaits!

• Become a MASTER traveler with our epic travel tips.
• Embrace your backpacker spirit and travel off the beaten path , because… why not?
• Our killer guide to living in hostels will transform your stay. Check it out!
• Get off the couch and into the great outdoors with our hiking guide .
• Or… explore more of the region and go backpack Japan .
• See what most backpackers do not with an epic trip to China .

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Nathan Jordan

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Ultimate South Korea Bucket List: 20 Best Things To Do

Looking for the best things to do in South Korea? Enjoy our South Korea bucket list full of great ideas on how you can plan your South Korea trip! This list features things to do in Seoul, Busan, Gyeongju, Jeonju and more beautiful places around the country. Here’s our bucket list on what to do in South Korea!

South Korea is a country in East Asia known for its K-Pop, Korean food, palaces, Buddhist temples and the famous capital city Seoul. If you love unique culture, views of mountains, bright neon signs and a country with so many modern features then you should start creating your South Korea bucket list now!

There are so many amazing things to do in South Korea and this list won’t even capture it all – but it’s definitely a start and a great introduction to what to do in South Korea on a first trip! If you need any help planning out your route, head over to our 2 week South Korea itinerary to plan the most amazing trip.

This South Korea bucket list includes destinations that are easy to get to by the impressive public transport the country has to offer. We’ll share how to get to these places and a few more tips for South Korea at the bottom of this page!

This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you .

Ultimate South Korea Bucket List

Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)

South Korea is an incredible country to visit with amazing cities, lovely villages, great food and some of the best hikes! In no particular order – here are the 20 best things to do in South Korea!

1. Visit Gyeongbukgung

Gyeongbukgung is one of the most beautiful palaces in Seoul . There are five palaces in Seoul and all of them deserve a visit – but if you only have time for one, make it Gyeongbukgung. It was built in 1395 and was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty.

Make your visit to the palace memorable by renting a hanbok for a few hours. Hanbok rental stores are hard to miss when visiting South Korea and there are a few rental shops right around the corner from Gyeongbukgung. Find the link on Klook here –  Hanbok Rental Klook

If you’re in Seoul for a few days – check out our  5 Day Seoul Itinerary travel guide here !

We use a  Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit  to take photos of us together on our camera, it’s so useful especially when there’s no one around! There’s also a version for a phone –  Joby Phone Tripod  to get the best photos on your South Korea trip!

2. Have a traditional Korean meal

Eating Korean food is one of the best things to do in South Korea and should definitely be on your South Korea bucket list! Enjoy a traditional Korean meal at Osegye Hyang ( location ) in the gorgeous streets of Insadong.

When entering, it’s polite to take off your shoes and sit on cushions on the floor instead of chairs. Along with your meal, you’ll be served lots of little side dishes called Banchan ! The best meal to have when you first arrive in South Korea!

3. Stay in a Temple

Temple stays are a cultural programme in South Korea as a way to experience the Buddhism lifestyle and practices. It’s our favourite thing we did in South Korea and we’d 100% go back to stay in more temples around the country. We highly recommend – Golgulsa Templestay ! (Near Gyeongju & Busan)

Here’s the link to find out more information and book a stay at –  Golgulsa Templestay Reservations . The  price  is  60,000KRW  per night, per person. (30krw for a pre-schooler)

We’ve also shared a Golgulsa Templstay Review so you can find out exactly what it’s like to stay overnight in a South Korean Buddhist Temple. It’s such an amazing and unique experience!

4. Take the train to Busan

If you’ve ever seen the horror/action movie Train to Busan – then taking the train from Seoul to Busan must be on your South Korea bucket list! Remember, it’s just a movie!

You can book your ticket on the KTX  here –   Korail Train Tickets . It’s a quick 2 hour 15 minutes from Seoul to Busan and the tickets are usually around ₩45,000 – ₩65,000. If you’re on a budget, then intercity and express buses are generally cheaper but slower in South Korea.

If you’re taking multiple trains in South Korea, you may want to get a KR Pass to save you money! Find out more details on Klook !

If you’re interested in travel costs and how much to budget for South Korea, here’s our 10 Best South Korea Budget Tips + Travel Costs (2024) !

5. Explore a Hanok Village

Another one of the best things to do in South Korea is to explore the many hanok villages that can be found around the country. Bukchon Hanok Village may be the most popular village to explore in South Korea as it’s located in Seoul. It’s absolutely beautiful and should be on your South Korea things to do list! Find Bukchon Observatory for an impressive view to see the tops of the preserved buildings!

• Jeonju Hanok Village (Jeonju)
• Bukchon Hanok Village (Seoul)
• Andong Hahoe Folk Village (between Seoul & Busan)

6. Visit the DMZ

If you’re spending a few days in Seoul you may be interested to visit the Demilitarized Zone of Korea in between North and South Korea. It’s an important part of the country and there’s so much history to learn about the Korean War. This can only be done on a tour –  book tickets with Klook here !

7. Spend a day in Gyeongju

Wondering what to do in South Korea? Take a visit to the beautiful city of Gyeongju also known as a museum with no walls . This ancient city has preserved remains and tombs from many years ago and it was once the residence of Silla rulers for over 1000 years. You can book a Gyeongju UNESCO World Heritage Tour from Busan on Klook .

Take a browse at 11 Best Things to do in Gyeongju  to plan your trip!

8. Eat Korean street food

We’ve already mentioned that Korean food should be on your South Korea bucket list – and now we want to tell you to try Korean street food! There are so many markets around the country that have amazing choices when it comes to food. Gwangjang Market is our favourite food market in Seoul!

• Tteokbokki (Rice cakes in a spicy sauce)
• Gun Goguma (Roasted sweet potatoes)
• Mandu (Korean dumplings)
• Gamja-Hotdog (Korean-style corn dog covered with potato)
• Dakgangjeong (Korean fried chicken with a sweet spicy coating – There’s vegan options too!)
• Bindaetteok (Mung bean pancakes)

Check out our Vegan in South Korea Guide – Best Restaurants & Snacks (2024) !

9. Hike in Seoraksan National Park

Seoraksan National Park is one of the most impressive hiking spots in South Korea. Sokcho (the city nearby) is only a bus ride away from Seoul and has accommodations to stay in for anyone who wants to spend a day or more in the park.

Hiking Seoraksan ( Snow Rock Mountain ) should be on your things to do in South Korea if you love hiking! Challenge yourself to reach Ulsanbawi – a six-peak formation with gorgeous views of the mountains. It takes around four hours one way or there’s actually a cable car going a similar way.

10. Wander around Insadong

Seoul is a destination that must be on your South Korea bucket list and one of the best things to do in South Korea is to wander around the beautiful streets of Insadong.

Insadong is home to many independent restaurants, cafes and boutique shops – it’s a lovely place to spend a morning or afternoon in South Korea. It also has a few of our favourite places to eat! Plan your Seoul trip here –  5 Day Seoul Itinerary travel guide !

11. Hike to the top of Seoul Tower

Next up on your South Korea bucket list is hiking in Namsan Park (Seoul Tower). Don’t worry, it’s not as long as the hikes in Seoraksan National Park and it’s right in the heart of Seoul. It’s actually possible to get a bus up to the top and the base of the tower.

The views are incredible from the park and one of our favourite things to do in South Korea. You can also go o the top of the tower for a better view of the city. Tickets are really affordable on Klook – so make sure you  buy your ticket in advance!

12. Go to a K-Pop concert

K-pop is very popular in South Korea and people also love it around the world! For some fans, it’s the main reason they visit South Korea! K-pop is short for Korean popular music and is a big part of South Korean culture. Check tickets on InterPark or search the web! It’s such a South Korea bucket list moment to be able to watch K-pop live in the same country it originated from!

13. Try bibimbap

Bibimbap is a big part of Korean cuisine and it’s easily customizable for anyone which means it’s great for vegetarians in South Korea. Bibim means mixing rice and bap refers to the rice.

The Korean dish is usually topped with kimchi, gochujang, vegetables or protein and mixed up before being eaten. It’s one of the tastiest and most nutritious dishes in South Korea and originated in Jeonju!

Browse our guide on 25+ Best South Korea Travel Tips before your trip!

14. Explore Jeju Island

Jeju Island has to be on your South Korea bucket list, unfortunately, we didn’t get a chance to visit the island on our South Korea trip and are definitely planning a visit there next time!

The island is known for its stunning nature, waterfalls, the highest mountain in South Korea and lovely beaches. It’s a popular getaway for Koreans to escape the business of cities on the mainland. The country isn’t short on things to do in South Korea to spend your days!

15. Stay in a Hanok in Jeonju

Jeonju Hanok Village is home to over 700 Hanok homes that are still being used to this day. Some are people’s homes and others have been turned into accommodations for guests. Staying in a hanok is one of the best things to do in South Korea!

We highly recommend staying in the accommodation Jungdam ( Find here on Booking.com ) – right in the heart of the traditional Korean village! In hanoks, the sleeping set-up is Korean Style (on the floor!)

16. Try out Noraebang (Karaoke)

Noraebang is the Korean name for Karaoke (which is Japanese ). South Koreans love Noraebang and you’ll find plenty of Noraebang rooms in cities around the country. Most noraebang will rent a room by the hour to sing your heart out! It’s common to see clips from older K-dramas in the rooms too, so it’s a fun experience!

17. Shop in Hongdae

You can’t take a trip to Seoul without visiting the vibrant and trendy neighbourhood of Hongdae. Visit one of the many cafes in the area to join in with the popular cafe culture in South Korea. Hongdae is also a great place for nightlife and amazing street performers! Add this to your bucket list in South Korea!

Hongdae  is one of the hip and trendy areas of Seoul, with many shops, restaurants and themed cafes. It’s also a great spot for nightlife alongside Itaewon. Street performers

18. Take a trip to Nami Island

Nami Island is a popular day trip from Seoul and one of the best things to do in South Korea in any season but especially in the Fall. The trees and foilage come alive in peak season and it’s a cosy place to visit!

From Seoul catch a train to Gapyeong Station, then a bus and from there it’s a 10-minute ferry over to the island! You can even take a zip wire onto the island! Nami island is also known as the final resting place of General Nami who was part of the Joseon Dynasty and a filming location for K-dramas such as Secret Garden and My Love from the Star.

The best way to get to Nami Island is to book a tour with Klook , prices are usually discounted and you can choose what activities to do. A Nami Island day trip is also included in the Klook Seoul Pass !

19. Gamcheon Culture Village

Visiting Gamcheon Culture Village is another one of the most interesting things to do in South Korea and a must when visiting Busan! The village has come a long way since the Korean war when it was populated by poor residents of Busan.

The Tourism board of South Korea chose to bring the village to life with art and creativity in the hope to attract visitors. It soon became a beautiful attraction with cute cafes and trendy shops and now it’s a spot to add to your South Korea bucket list!

We also have an in-depth 3-Day Busan Itinerary if you’re planning a visit!

20. Learn about history at the National Museum of Korea

Lastly on this South Korea bucket list, is to take a visit to the National Museum of Korea in Seoul – the largest museum in South Korea ! There is a collection of more than 310,000 historic artefacts dating back thousands of years.

The museum is easy to reach by Seoul’s public transport. It’s also free to enter this museum, so it’s perfect if you’re looking for things to do in South Korea!

So that’s our 20 best things to do in South Korea bucket list – it’s definitely not all the best things to do in the country, but now you can add to this to create your perfect trip. Here are a few more suggestions for you!

Best things to do in South Korea (Weather)

December – February ( Winter ) – Go skiing or snowboarding! If you’re visiting South Korea in the winter, it’s the best time to hit the slopes or have fun in the snow! Build a snowman, create a snow angel or go on a winter hike. The winter is pretty cold in South Korea, but it’s definitely worth a visit to see the country magically covered in snow!

March – May ( Spring ) – Once the snow has melted away and nature starts brightening up again, South Korea is covered in beautiful cherry blossoms. Japan is well known for the Sakura season all over the world, but South Korea gets the same lovely blossoms. Visit in Spring to be a part of the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival!

June – August ( Summer ) – This season is pretty different to European summers. South Korea experiences typhoons and the rainy season in the summer months. It’s usually hot and humid with lots of rain, although there will be sunny days too! We visited in early June and it was getting hot but no rain.

September – November ( Fall ) – Another beautiful season to visit South Korea – the foilage in October is absolutely beautiful and should be a season on your South Korea bucket list. Spring and Fall may be the best seasons to come to Korea.

What to pack for South Korea?

Depending on the weather, you’ll want to pack the clothes you usually wear, plus a good pair of footwear! We wear trainers everywhere (even when wearing hanbok oops!) and it’s definitely needed in the cities or on short hikes. Here are a few travel essentials we always carry:

• Stainless Steel Water Bottle  – A refillable bottle is a must when tap water is free & accessible in South Korea!
• Amazon Basics Packing Cubes  – We can’t pack our bags without using packing cubes!
• Rain Mac in a Bag  – Essential for unpredictable rainfall when it’s warm in Korea!
• Anker Power Bank  – Keep your phone charged by carrying around a power bank for your trip!
• Worldwide Travel Adaptor  – The best for visiting multiple countries!
• Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit  – The perfect lightweight tripod to take anywhere in South Korea! We love our  Joby GorillaPod  and use it for our  Sony A600 . There’s also a version for a phone –  Joby Phone Tripod .

Where to stay in South Korea?

• Seoul – Hostel Tommy – Find here on Booking.com !
• Busan – Dynamic Guesthouse – Find here on Booking.com !
• Gyeongju – Doobaki Guesthouse –  Find here on Booking.com !
• Jeonju – Jungdam –  Find here on Booking.com !

Festivals in South Korea

Boryeong Mud Festival – A celebration of water, coolness & covering the body in mud – summer

Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival – A festival to celebrate cherry blossoms – spring

Busan International Film Festival – A movie festival in Busan – fall

Lotus Lantern Festival – A celebration & Buddha’s birthday festival – spring

The Seoul Lantern Festival – A celebration of Korean culture – fall

Boseong Green Tea Festival – To celebrate South Korea’s biggest tea plantation – spring

SafetyWing Nomad Insurance

Don’t forget Travel Insurance! SafetyWing is a totally flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your trip anywhere in the world. You don’t have to be in your home country to start it and you can add months to your trip whenever you need to! Find out more here!

More  South Korea  guides:

• Ultimate 2 week South Korea Itinerary: Best Places (2024)
• 5 Day Seoul Itinerary – Best Things To Do (2024)
• Staying in Golgulsa Temple: The Best Templestay in Korea (2024)
• 3 day Busan Itinerary: What to do in Busan (2024)

11 Best Things to do in Gyeongju: Itinerary (2024)

• 25+ Best South Korea Travel Tips: What to Know
• Vegan in South Korea Guide – Best Restaurants & Snacks (2024)
• 10 Best South Korea Budget Tips + Travel Costs (2024) !
• All our  South Korea  posts!

That’s the end of our  Ultimate South Korea Bucket List: 20 Best Things To Do!  Have an amazing time in South Korea and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!

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Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.

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Ultimate Korea Guide – Everything you need for your Trip!

South Korea – a land of rich traditions, modernity and breathtaking landscapes, known for K-Pop, Korean Drama, Technology, Skin care, Fashion and so much more. It became a favorite Travel destination for tourists all over the world offering an unforgettable travel experience. So in this ultimate guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know for an amazing South Korea trip from Basic Information about the country, weather all around the year, Visa and Entry Requirements, best Korean SIM Cards, Transportation, Must Visit Spots and Recommended Activities in Korea. So let’s dive right into it:

In this post:

South Korea is an East Asian country known for its culture, exceptionally delicious food, and technology-driven economy. It is located on the southern half of the Korean Peninsula and is one of the most densely populated countries in the world with a population of over 51 million people. Of these, approximately 40% live in and around the capital city of Seoul. The country is also known for K-pop music, Korean dramas, Skincare and Fashion and gained popularity worldwide in recent years.

Traveling to South Korea is always a good idea as each season offers a unique and captivating experience. Generally you can say that summers are really hot and humid while winters can be freezing cold. Still I found all seasons to be beautiful and worth visiting, so here a little more details about what to expect.

(March – May)

Spring in South Korea is mild and generally pleasant. Make sure to bring a jacket for the still chilly evenings and nights. Temperatures in March are around 3°C (37°F) to 13°C (55°F), in April ranging from 8°C (46°F) to 19°C (66°F) and in May between 14°C (57°F) to 24°C (75°F). Spring is also known for its beautiful cherry blossoms, attracting many tourists.

(June – August)

Because of the Korean Monsoon, summers in Seoul are hot and humid. June temperature is similar to May between 14°C (57°F) to 24°C (75°F), while July and August are the hottest months of the year. Temperatures ranging from 25°C (73°F) to 35°C (86°F) or even higher. July and August also experience a significant amount of rainfall, so be prepared for occasional showers or thunderstorms.

(September – November)

Autumn in Seoul is mild and in my point of view it’s the best time to visit. September starts with temperatures ranging from 19°C (66°F) to 26°C (79°F) and gradually cools down. October brings crisp and cool weather, with temperatures ranging from 11°C (52°F) to 19°C (66°F). November gets colder, with temperatures ranging from 4°C (39°F) to 12°C (54°F). Autumn foliage is another highlight, with vibrant colors across the country.

(December – February)

Winters in Seoul are cold and often snowy. December starts with temperatures ranging from -3°C (27°F) to 5°C (41°F). January and February are the coldest months, with temperatures ranging from -7°C (19°F) to 1°C (34°F). Snowfall is common during winter, creating a picturesque atmosphere. It’s essential to bundle up and be prepared for icy conditions.

NEXTSTOPKOREA TIP: The busiest times are March to early April because of Cherry Blossom & End of October to November because of the Fall Foliage. If you want to avoid those crowded and overpriced periods, I recommend coming end of April to June or September to Mid of October.

When planning a trip, understanding the entry requirements is crucial. Fortunately, South Korea has made it easier for travelers from various countries to explore its beauty through the K-ETA (Korean Electronic Travel Authorization) system.

This online process allows citizens of eligible countries to obtain a travel authorization before their departure, eliminating the need for a visa for short stays. The K-ETA is valid for up to 90 days (180 days for Canada) and permits tourism, visits for business meetings or visiting relatives. If you want to know how to apply, here the official >K-ETA Application Guide . Also make sure, that your passport has at least 6 months validity when entering Korea.

Here the list of K-ETA eligible nations and the allowed period of stay (last updated August 2023):

• ALBANIA (30)
• ANDORRA (30)
• ANTIGUA-BARBUDA (90)
• ARGENTINA (90)
• AUSTRALIA (90)*
• AUSTRIA (90)*
• BAHAMAS (90)
• BAHRAIN (30)
• BARBADOS (90)
• BELGIUM (90)*
• BOSNIA-HERCEGOVINA (30)
• BOTSWANA (90)
• BRAZIL (90)
• BRUNEI (30)
• BULGARIA (90)
• CANADA (180)*
• COLOMBIA (90)
• COMMONWEALTH OF DOMINICA (90)
• COSTA RICA (90)
• CROATIA (90)
• CYPRUS (30)
• DENMARK (90)*
• DOMINICAN REP. (90)
• ECUADOR (90)
• EL SALVADOR (90)
• ESTONIA (90)
• ESWATINI (30)
• FINLAND (90)*
• FRANCE (90)*
• GERMANY F.R (90)*
• GREECE (90)
• GRENADA (90)
• GUATEMALA (90)
• GUYANA (30)
• HOLY SEE (30)
• HONDURAS (30)
• HONGKONG (90)*
• HUNGARY (90)
• ICELAND (90)
• IRELAND (90)
• ISRAEL (90)
• ITALY (90)*
• JAMAICA (90)
• JAPAN (90 Days)*
• KAZAKHSTAN (30 Days)
• KIRIBATI (30)
• KUWAIT (90)
• LATVIA (90)
• LESOTHO (60)
• LIECHTENSTEIN (90)
• LITHUANIA (90)
• LUXEMBOURG (90)
• MACAO (90)*
• MALAYSIA (90)
• MARSHALL ISLANDS (30)
• MAURITIUS (30)
• MEXICO (90)
• MICRONESIA (30)
• MONACO (30)
• MONTENEGRO (30)
• MOROCCO (90)
• NETHERLANDS (90)*
• NEW CALEDONIA (30)
• NEW ZEALAND (90)*
• NICARAGUA (90)
• NORWAY (90)*
• PANAMA (90)
• PARAGUAY (30)
• POLAND (90)*
• PORTUGAL (90)
• SERBIA (90)
• ROMANIA (90)
• RUSSIA (60)
• SAN MARINO (30)
• SAUDI ARABIA (30)
• SEYCHELLES (30)
• SINGAPORE (90)*
• SLOVAK (90)
• SLOVENIA (90)
• SOLOMON IS. (30)
• SPAIN (90)*
• SOUTH AFRICA (30)
• ST. KITTS-NEVIS (90)
• ST. LUCIA (90)
• ST. VINCENT (90)
• SURINAM (90)
• SWEDEN (90)*
• SWITZERLAND (90)
• TAIWAN (90)*
• THAILAND (90)
• TRINIDAD-TOBAGO (90)
• TUNISIA (30)
• TURKIYE (90)
• TUVALU (30)
• UK-GBR (90)*
• UK – GBD, GBN, GBO, GBP, GBS (30)
• URUGUAY (90)
• VENEZUELA (90)

* K-ETA is temporarily exempted for 22 countries until December 31, 2024 – means you can just travel to Korea without a applying for K-ETA

If your country is not in this list, then it might be, that you need a visa to travel to South Korea or that your home country is having a different agreement with South Korea. Therefore please check the visa requirements on >the Korea Visa Portal .

While South Korea has an advanced healthcare system, it’s wise to take a few steps before you depart. Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date, including measles, mumps, rubella, and influenza. While no specific vaccinations are required for entry, being immunized is recommended by most countries.

South Korea’s healthcare system is highly regarded for its quality and accessibility, with modern facilities and well-trained medical professionals. However, unexpected situations can happen, and that’s where travel insurance comes in. Having >comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses is strongly recommended. It provides peace of mind knowing you’re covered in case of illness or injury.

Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo International Airport (GMP) are the primary hubs that connect South Korea to the world. Incheon International Airport, located around 1 hour from Seoul, is the larger of the two and offers a wide array of international flights. Gimpo International Airport, about 40 minutes from Seoul, mainly handles domestic flights like to Jeju and some short-haul international routes. Both are known for their modern facilities and efficient services.

NEXTSTOPKOREA TIP: I usually book my flights on Kiwi, Momondo or on Skyscanner >here .

Choosing the right accommodation for your South Korea trip sets the tone for a comfortable and memorable stay. From budget-friendly options like guesthouses and hostels ranging from $30 to $60 per night, to mid-range hotels providing a balance between comfort and cost in the range of $60 to $150 per night, and upscale hotels offering luxury from $200 onwards, South Korea caters to all types of travelers.

As you explore different neighborhoods to stay within Seoul, consider Myeongdong (Jungno) for most convenient sightseeing, Heongdae (Mapo) or Itaewon (Yongsan) for nightlife and Gangnam for Shopping. These central locations not only grant easy access to bustling markets, vibrant culture, and historic sites, but they also offer a range of accommodations that suit various budgets.

If you want to save money and don’t mind a daily commute in the subway, you can also check accommodations a bit outside of the city centre. And if you’re looking for the fully traditional Korean experience than have a look at Hanok-Stays – the Korean traditional housing.

NEXTSTOPKOREA TIP: Airbnb, Booking and similar Hotel-Websites work perfectly fine for your Accommodation search in South Korea. A famous Korean app for this is ‘Yanolja’. As everywhere I highly recommend you to check the reviews of the place you’re planning to stay at!

While English is commonly spoken in most tourist hubs like Myeongdong, Gangnam, Hongdae or Itaewon and you can use the translating app Papago to communicate, branching out with basic Korean phrases can truly enrich your Korea experience. Learning a handful of key expressions can help you navigate beyond the popular areas and connect with locals easier and on a deeper level.

Learning the korean alphabet called hangeul is actually easier than you might think and with some basic phrases like “안녕하세요” (annyeonghaseyo) for “hello” and “감사합니다” (gamsahamnida) for “thank you” you can already achieve a lot when talking to Koreans.

Here a list of the best Korean Language Study Resources!

NEXTSTOPKOREA TIP: In case you urgently need a translation for example in a store or taxi, there are luckily services for travelers to help you. You can either use the Korea Travel Hotline or the bbb Korea Service, whose number you can find in the next paragraph. Or check out the bbb App > here .

Important Hotlines

The area code for South Korea is +82, so when calling a South Korean number from abroad, you need to dial this country code before the actual phone number. There also are area codes that vary for different cities and regions (e.g. 02 for Seoul, 051 for Busan, 010 for mobile phone numbers). But for the following numbers those are not necessary either if you are in South Korea:

South Korea uses the Korean Won (KRW) as its currency , so familiarize yourself with the currency and the current exchange rates. When I first came to Korea I used an app to calculate the exchange rates for me, so I had a good feeling of how much I actually spent per day.

Make sure you’ve saved enough funds to cover accommodation, activities, and unforeseen expenses. Flights, Hotels and activities can be quite pricey, but you can save a lot through Korea’s cheap public transportation and food options. Depending on your general budget and standards, I recommend 60-100$ per day per person including accommodation, transportation, food and activities.

Credit cards are widely accepted and offer convenience, security, and favorable exchange rates. Among the credit cards commonly recognized in South Korea are Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, and many more. Remember to inform your bank of your travel plans to prevent any payment disruptions.

I recommend you get some cash , even though you can pay almost anything with your credit card – you know.. just in case. You can either use one of the exchange booths at the airports, in Myeongdong or Itaewon (they usually offer quite bad rates), you can use a >WOWExchange Kiosk or you get cash through your credit card from an ATM, e.g. located in front of most convenience stores.

If you’re too afraid that your Credit Card could be declined, I can highly recommend the Namane Card – a transportation card that works like a korean bank card. Find more about that in the Paragraph about Transportation.

Before embarking on your journey to South Korea, make sure to download essential travel apps that will enhance your experience and make your visit more convenient and enjoyable.

• Papago : The biggest challenge when traveling in Korea is the language. Papago is by far the best Korean to English translator, can also translate websites and even has a conversation and photo feature.
• Kakao/NaverMap: Since Google Maps has limited functionality in South Korea, it is recommended to download one of the Korean map apps. KakaoMaps and NaverMaps are the two most commonly used options.
• KakaoTalk: Koreans mainly use KakaoTalk instead of WhatsApp or Telegram. So when you make a new friend, they usually don’t ask for your cell phone number, but for your KakaolD.
• Naver: Instead of Google, Naver is the most used search engine in Korea. Restaurant reviews, blogs, booking tools can usually be found quickly on Naver. Compared to Google, I tend to find a local recommendation or hidden gem here more easily.
• KoRail: It you are planning a trip to another city in South Korea, you will need a KTX ticket. The easiest way to book this is to use the official Korail app. This way you also avoid the many rip-off websites online.
• TabaKakaoT: Compared to most other big cities, cabs in Korea are much cheaper, so sometimes it’s more convenient to take a cab. With KakaoT that is super easy and you can pay with credit card in the cab.
• Seoul Bike: One of my favorite activities in Seoul is a bike ride along the Han River. Although you can find larger bike rentals at the hotspots, you are much more flexible with the Seoul Bike App. Once set up, you can rent and return a bike within seconds.
• Currency: There are several different apps in the appstore, but they all have similar functions to convert currencies quickly and easily. Especially in the beginning it helped me to get a feeling for how much money I spend.
• AirVisual: In Korea people wear a mask not just because of Covid, but also because of the regularly occurring fine dust pollution. With AirVisual, you can quickly see when it is advisable to wear a mask outside and to do indoor activities.

Here the 10 most important tips you should know and keep in mind to not look rude to Koreans:

• Bowing : Bowing is a common form of greeting and showing respect. The deeper the bow, the more respect is conveyed.
• Shoes Off : It’s customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or certain traditional establishments.
• Tipping : Tipping is not common in South Korea and may even be refused. Exceptional service is already included in the price.
• Use Both Hands: When giving or receiving items, especially money or business cards, use both hands. This gesture reflects politeness and respect for the person you’re interacting with.
• Dining Etiquette: During meals, wait until the eldest or the host starts eating before you begin. Do not start eating or stop eating before everyone is finished. Additionally, avoid sticking chopsticks upright into a bowl of rice, as it resembles a funeral ritual.
• Respect for Elders: Respect for elders is deeply ingrained in Korean society. Use formal language and honorifics (ending sentences with “-yo”) when addressing older individuals. When pouring drinks, hold the bottle with two hands when offering to someone older than you.
• Silence on Public Transport: Maintain a quiet demeanor when using public transport. Loud conversations and phone calls are generally considered rude. Use headphones if you want to listen to music or watch videos.
• Cover Shoulders and Knees at Temples: If you plan to visit temples or religious sites, dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect for the sacred space.
• Queueing Up: Whether you’re waiting for public transport, entering an establishment, or even using an elevator, respect the queue. Cutting in line is considered impolite.
• Trash Sorting: South Korea has strict waste disposal regulations. Sort your trash into different categories, including food waste, recyclables, and general waste. That’s also one reason why there are almost no garbage cans in public as people should bring their trash home to recycle it properly. But no worries: Most subway stations have a trash can 😀

Incheon Airport

When arriving at Seoul’s Main Airport there are some important steps to go through. First, you’ll proceed to immigration, where you’ll need your passport and visa ready for inspection. The process is generally efficient, and friendly immigration officers are there to assist you in English or Korean.

After that, you’ll head to baggage claim to collect your luggage. Incheon Airport is known for its quick baggage handling, so I promise you won’t be waiting long!

Once you have your bags, it’s time to breeze through customs. Please check the latest customs regulations for South Korea when packing your suitcase.

Finally, you’ll step out of the arrivals area into a bustling terminal filled with helpful signs and information booths. Make sure to get a Korean SIM Card and some cash before leaving the airport. Find a map of the Airport Facilities >here or below.

Right after clearing customs, you’ll spot various kiosks and mobile service providers offering SIM cards tailored to your data and duration needs. Whether it’s a short stay or an extended visit, you can easily choose a prepaid SIM card with a suitable data package. I can recommend this SIM card from >Klook or >Woorimobile .

Once inserted into your phone, you’ll be instantly connected to South Korea’s fast and reliable mobile networks, ensuring you can navigate, communicate, and share your Korean adventures with ease.

In case your Phone has a SIM Lock or you’re coming with some friends or stay a few weeks, maybe a >pocket wifi device could be helpful.

TRANSPORTATION

It’s at this point that your Korean adventure truly begins, and you can start exploring this dynamic country. But before I will give you recommendations what to do and see, I want to introduce you to the different Transportation Options in South Korea.

Transportation Cards

But first, let me introduce you to your new best travel-buddy: a Korean transportation card! Those smart cards offer a convenient and efficient way to pay for various modes of public transportation, including subways, buses, taxis, some ferries and even can be used as a payment method at many convenience stores. Users can recharge those cards and use them as often as they want by easily tapping them on card readers when boarding or leaving public transportation. They can be used not just in Seoul, but in the whole country, even on Jeju Island.

You could also buy single ride tickets at the vending machines in every Subway station or get the MPass, which is like a 1 to 7 Day unlimited pass. But for this ticket to be worth it, you have to take the Subway at least 7 times per Day. The Seoul Metro also announced new unlimited 1 Day (5,600 KRW) or 3 Day (11,800 KRW) Passes , but they’re not yet available. So for now I would highly recommend you to get a transportation card, here are two options explained:

T-Money Card

As an originally government founded company this is the most common card in South Korea – you probably heard of this one too. You can basically find them everywhere with different designs, for example by Kakao or Line Friends or the most famous Kpop Groups (around 4,000-7,000 KRW). You can top up money (only by using cash) at convenience stores and at the machines in every Subway Station and then use it in the whole country for public transportation.

Namane Card

Even though many people might not know about this yet, but this is my absolute recommendation! You can not just freely personalize the design of your Namane Card, you can also use it like a normal Korean bank card, top it up with cash or your foreign credit card (with a small transaction fee) and check the remaining amount easily in the app. It’s much more convenient and especially for tourists the best option.

NEXTSTOPKOREA TIP : You can get the Namane Card for 7,000 KRW (printed with your favorite design within a few minutes) at one of the Kiosks in Incheon Airport. Find out more >here .

Navigation Apps

Some people prefer to read the Seoul Subway or Bus Map simply as it is.. That’s absolutely not an option for me 😀 Luckily there are many Apps you can use to find the best way to get from A to B:

• GoogleMaps (works to some extent)
• Seoul Subway App

The last App of this list is the one I use and the one I explain in >my Subway Guide . There is no special reason, why I would recommend NaverMaps in comparison to KakaoMaps, it’s like Apple vs. Samsung.. You always like what you first got used to 😀

Transportation from the Airport

One of the first exciting steps is making your way from Incheon Airport to the vibrant heart of Seoul. There are different options I will just list here. For a full Guide click on the link below!

• Express Train to Seoul Station
• All-Stop Train with many stops
• Airport Limousine Bus (my fav!)
• General Taxi (Orange, White)
• Private Taxi (Black) > AVOID
• International Taxi (fixed price)
• Private Driver

How to get from Incheon Airport to Seoul City?

Transportation within Seoul

From the extensive subway network, various bus routes, well-maintained roadways, comparably cheap Taxis, to the impressive bicycle-sharing system and numerous pedestrian-friendly areas – There are endless ways to explore Seoul. I will explain some in the following paragraphs.

NEXTSTOPKOREA TIP : For all public transportation options: Try to avoid the rush hours during 6:30 – 9am and 4:30 – 7pm, as it can get really really busy and crowded in Subways or on the streets during that time.

The Seoul subway fare system is based on distance, so the first 10 km start from 1,250₩. For longer trips a small additional fee will be applied when leaving the station. Seoul Subways usually start operating at 5am and the last train leaves around midnight or until 1am. After that there are usually only night busses and taxis available.

The Seoul subway system is a marvel of efficiency and connectivity, making it the lifeline of the city’s bustling urban landscape. With over 20 lines crisscrossing the metropolis and reaching even the farthest corners of the city, it’s no wonder that Seoul’s subway is renowned as one of the best Subway Systems in the world. Not only is it the fastest way to beat the notorious traffic jams, but it’s also remarkably cheap, clean and safe.

F ind a detailed Seoul Subway Guide here!

With an extensive network of routes covering virtually every nook and cranny of Seoul, the bus system is a reliable and cost-effective mode of transit. Especially for people that might be too overwhelmed by the Subway system or that want to see Seoul’s lively street scenes while moving from one exciting destination to the next, taking a bus is a great alternative.

You have to enter the bus in the front tapping your T-Money Card on the card reader next to the bus driver. When you want to get out, press the “Stop”-Button and tap your T-Money Card again when leaving through the back doors. I recommend you to keep track of the buses’ route on the map, so you don’t miss your station, as the screen and speaker announcements are often in Korean only.

Good to know: Seoul Buses are color coded. The red buses are going out of the city (e.g. Incheon or other regions in Gyeonggi Province), the blue ones connect different districts within Seoul, green buses mostly stay within the same district and the very tiny yellow ones are local buses making small loops around a neighborhood.

Taxis are comparably cheap in South Korea, so I’m taking a taxi way more often than in Europe. The basic fare of a general Taxi is 4,800 KRW and then the taximeter will keep track of the kilometers travelled.

To grab a Taxi you can either wait on one of the Taxi Stands at big train or bus stations and around the main tourist attractions, use the app KakaoT or simply hail one off the street by raising your hand. Different than in most other countries, the RED sign saying “빈차” in the window of the taxi symbolizes that it is free. Green is taken and blue is done with work for the day, so avoid those.

Like I mentioned in my > Airport Transportation Guide , I recommend you to avoid the black private or “Deluxe” Taxis as they usually offer similar services to normal taxis but for a much higher price. General orange or white taxis are my go to choice^^

The “Seoul Bike” system – called 따릉이 (Ddareungi) – offers a unique and eco-friendly way to explore the city. With a convenient app and a well-organized network of rental stations, it’s easy for both locals and visitors to hop on a bicycle and pedal through Seoul’s vibrant streets. The bikes are not only convenient but also affordable, so you can literally see the green white bikes so often on the street or along the Han River.

Transportation to other cities

While Seoul offers a vibrant and bustling urban experience, I highly recommend travelers to venture beyond the city limits to truly immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of South Korean culture and landscapes. Take a short train or bus ride to discover the country’s hidden gems. By venturing out of Seoul, you’ll unlock a deeper understanding of South Korea’s diverse heritage and natural beauty, creating unforgettable memories along the way.

The high-speed KTX trains are the stars of the show, bringing passengers to other major cities like Busan, Jeonju, Gyeongju or Daegu at speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph). The well-maintained rail network also includes slower, more scenic options, such as the Mugunghwa trains, which provide a leisurely journey through picturesque landscapes making stops at smaller cities too. Korail App oder Pass

Express Bus

Express buses in South Korea are a convenient and affordable way to traverse the country’s diverse landscapes and reach destinations beyond the bigger cities. These comfortable, long-distance coaches offer a well-organized network that connects urban centers to charming rural areas and scenic countryside. The buses are equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a pleasant journey with features like Wi-Fi, spacious seats, and on some routes even onboard restrooms.

Within Seoul: Absolutely not recommended! Driving in and close to Seoul is definitely challenging and stressful due to the insane traffic and parking availability. I would only recommend it to very experienced drivers, but even then I would avoid it on all costs 😀

Going out of Seoul? Totally fine and a fun way to see more of the country’s stunning landscapes. Especially on Jeju Island or if you’re going to a rural area a Rental car is highly recommend to stay flexible and comfortable.

NEXTSTOPKOREA TIP : I usually book my rent cars for anywhere in South Korea via > Klook.com or directly via >Lotte Rentcar . Please be aware that you usually need an international drivers license (on Klook some one except Korean licenses, so check that well) and the credit card that was used when making the booking.

Now that you know how to get around the city and country, here some places I recommend you to visit or activities that will help you experience real Korean culture during your trip.

Must see Places in Seoul

If you travelled a lot you probably learned one thing: You can never see everything! I lived in Korea for 2 years now and still there are so many places on my bucket list.. it’s a never ending story!

So when you come to South Korea, I would recommend you to see some of the “Must Sees” that are tourist hotspots for obvious reasons and mix it up with unique experiences and hidden gems. Here a list of the most famous places in Seoul:

Alternatives

If you are looking for some Alternatives to the main tourist spots mentioned above, here some less famous and a bit less crowded recommendations:

• Tongin Market
• Namsangol Hanok Village
• Deoksugung Palace Changgyeonggung Palace
• Bongeungsa Temple
• Gyeonggui Line Forest Park
• Eunpyeong Hanok Village
• Euljiro Pocha Street
• Jeongdong Observatory
• Ssamziegil Insadong
• Changdeokgung Palace
• Seoul Forest
• Ihwa Mural Village
• Ansan Mountain
• Sejong Village
• Blue House (Cheong Wa Dae)
• Seoullo 7017
• Cheonggyecheon Stream
• Nodeul Island
• Haneul Park

Overwhelmed with things to do? Subscribe to get a free 7 Day Seoul Itinerary in the first Newsletter!

Must do Activities

Other places out of Seoul

Even after 2 years I have an endless bucket list of places I want to visit in this country. Here 10 of my favorite trips from Seoul either short One-Day-Trips or longer journeys if you have enough time:

• DMZ Tour : Take a guided tour to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) to understand the divided history of North and South Korea. Please keep in mind, that many DMZ Tours do not include the most famous part – the Joint Security Area (JSA) – but they are still very much worth a visit!
• Suwon : Explore the impressive Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon – designed in the late 18th century to defend the city – and many other sights very close to Seoul City.
• Nami Island : Known for its natural beauty and tree-lined paths, Nami Island gained fame from K-Drama “Winter Sonata” but a tour to Nami Island is definitely recommend all over the year!
• Busan : Known for its stunning beaches and fresh seafood, this coastal city is a must-visit . It’s one of my favorite places in South Korea!
• Jeonju : A beautiful huge Hanok Village in the middle of the country especially recommended during Cherry Blossom, but also the rest of the year . Must Try: Jeonju Bibimbap & ChocoPie!

• Gangneung : Famous for Coffee and its stunning beaches this East Sea city is a perfect retreat from the crowded and hectic metropolis. Here a recommended tour !
• Danyang : My absolute top recommendation but unfortunately there are not many organized group trips yet. If you’re in to plan it yourself, this is one of the most beautiful spots to visit! (Combine it with the close by city Jecheon for a 2-3 day trip)
• Gyeongju : Often referred to as the “Museum Without Walls,” Gyeongju is a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient tombs, temples, and ruins.
• Jeju Island : A volcanic island with dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular travel destination. Here some organized tour recommendations.
• Yeosu : A picturesque coastal city on the southern coast of South Korea, is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty and the iconic Dolsan Bridge, which provides breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and clear blue waters.

Korea is renowned for its diverse and colorful festivals, which celebrate everything from ancient traditions, contemporary art to korean pop music, providing visitors with unique cultural experiences throughout the year. Here some examples of the most popular festivals per month:

• Chilgapsan Ice Fountain Festival : Snow and Ice Sculptures, grilled potatoes and the best part: a completely frozen waterfall (January)
• Jeongwol Daeboreum Fire Festival : Marks the first full moon of the lunar year with fire-related activities. (February)
• Gwangyang Plum Blossom Festival : 200,000 square metres of plum trees near the Seomjin River, in an area known as Maehwa Village in Gwangyang. (March)
• Cherry Blossom Festivals : Join locals in celebrating spring’s arrival with breathtaking cherry blossoms. Jinhae Gunhangje Festival is one of the most famous. (April)
• Buddhas Birthday Festivals : Lantern Displays, Big parades and my favorite: special temple stay offers in temples all over the country. (May)
• Gangneung Danoje Festival : Traditional festival featuring mask dances, rituals, and cultural performances. (June)
• Waterbomb Festivals : Big music festivals in every bigger city in Korea featuring fun water activities – water guns are a must to bring to cool down. (July)
• Boryeong Mud Festival : Enjoy mud-based activities, music, and fireworks at this unique and lively summer festival. (August)
• Andong Mask Dance Festival : Experience traditional mask dance performances, showcasing Korean folklore and culture. (September)
• Seoul Firework Festival: A stunning fireworks display along the Han River, accompanied by music and performances. (October)
• Geoje Island Flower Festival : Enjoy fall at its best on the beautiful island with this event full of flowers and activities for the family. (November)
• Lantern Festivals: Colorful lantern displays that illuminate the hearts of many cities in South Korea, the biggest one happens in Seoul. (December)

COMING SOON: 50 Festivals in South Korea – all over the year!

When it comes to culinary traditions, South Korea boasts a vibrant and diverse food culture that’s as rich as its history and as varied as its landscapes. Korean cuisine is a delicious reflection of the country’s cultural heritage and its people’s deep connection to the land.

• Kimchi: The Korean National Dish -Fermented Napa Cabbage
• Bibimbap: Rice Bowl with Vegetables, Red Pepper Paste, Beef or Tofu
• Bulgogi: Thinly Sliced Marinated Beef or Pork grilled to Perfection
• Tteokbokki: Spicy Stir-fried Rice Cakes often with Fishcake
• Korean BBQ: Usually Pork belly or Marinated Beef or Pork Ribs
• Jjajangmyeon: chewy Noodles with a thick, savory Black Bean Sauce
• Korean Fried Chicken: the best Fried Chicken of the World.. trust me
• Kimbap: Seaweed Rolls with Rice, Vegetables, Beef, Crab or Tuna
• Naengmyeon: spicy (Bibim 〃 ) or non spicy (Mul 〃 ) Korean Cold Noodles
• Haemul Pajeon: Savory Seafood Pancake (or a Green Onion Version)

Korea is a shopper’s paradise, where traditional markets and modern malls coexist harmoniously, offering an array of unique and trendy products. Whether you’re looking for fashion, cosmetics, electronics, or traditional souvenirs, South Korea has it all.

Before diving into the shopping destinations, it’s essential to be aware of the typical operating hours in South Korea. Most stores and markets open around 10 AM and close between 9 PM and 10 PM . However, some smaller shops might have shorter hours, and certain areas, like Myeongdong, stay bustling well into the night. And of course most Convenience Stores are open 24 hours. Banks, Post offices and government organizations usually open from Monday to Friday 9 AM to 6 PM.

• Myeongdong : Shopaholics will love this bustling shopping district in Seoul, offering everything from cosmetics to fashion. You can get some free samples there, but be aware of clever sales people trying to sell you overpriced product packages!
• Dongdaemun Market: Dongdaemun is a historic market known for its wholesale clothing and fabrics. It’s the place to go for fashion enthusiasts, second hand fans and night owls, as many shops are open until late at night.
• Hongdae Shopping Street : This area close to Hongik University is not just great for busking and party, it’s also the perfect spot for young fashion and the newest trends.
• Namdaemun Market: As one of the oldest and largest markets in Seoul, Namdaemun Market offers a wide variety of goods, including clothing, accessories, electronics, and traditional Korean products.
• Insadong: If you’re looking for traditional Korean crafts, art, tea and antiques, Insadong is the place to go. It’s a hub for Korean culture and heritage.
• Department Stores: Lotte, Hyundai, Shinsegae are some of Korea’s leading department store chains, offering a wide range of luxury brands, cosmetics, and duty-free shopping for tourists.
• Airport Duty-Free Shops: Before departing, explore the extensive duty-free shops at Incheon International Airport, where you can purchase cosmetics, electronics, and luxury items at tax-free prices.

When visiting Korea, you’ll find an abundance of unique and memorable souvenirs to bring back home. Here are ten common souvenirs – besides magnets or postcards – to consider:

• Korean Beauty Products: Innovative cosmetics and skincare products from brands like Laneige, Innisfree, and Tony Moly – Olive Young is perfect for this!
• K-Pop Merchandise: Posters, albums, apparel, and memorabilia featuring your favorite K-Pop idols are usually much cheaper in South Korea.
• Hanji Crafts : Traditional paper-made crafts like fans, lanterns, and stationery.
• Korean Ginseng: Renowned for its health benefits, Korean ginseng is available in various forms, including teas, soaps and supplements.
• Handmade Pottery: Traditional ceramics like tea sets make great gifts
• Mother of Pearl: Exquisite traditional pearl jewelry, boxes, mirrors or the new option: Griptoks.
• Korean Tea: High-quality teas such as green tea or traditional Korean herbal teas – Insadong is the best place to shop for those.
• Korean Snacks: Unique Korean snacks like ginseng candy, honey butter chips, and seaweed snacks.
• Hand Fans: Hand-painted folding fans often adorned with intricate designs or the electric equivalent used by almost all Koreans to survive Korean hot, humid summer.
• Korean Socks : Sounds weird, but they’re just too cute and cheap, but still offer great quality.

TIME TO SAY GOODBYE

I am certain that you will love your stay in Korea and even if you won’t be able to see and explore everything (I lived here for 2 years and there are still endless things I haven’t done) I hope that you will go home packed with great memories! Come back soon ♡

Thinking about moving to Korea? Check the most common Visa Types here.

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I am really interested in going 2024 as a solo traveler and really would like to know more stuff you offer. But wondering if you do like a tour guide type of thing. For the most part I’ve found some and it’s usually men who host it. For personal reason o don’t feel comfortable hence why I am looking for a female travel guide.

I unfortunately am not doing Guide Tours, but maybe check the website Greether for some female guides! Or NomadHer for a travel buddy 🙂

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• A travel guide to South Korea
• < Destinations

Destinations

By David Szmidt May 27, 2022

By David Szmidt | May 27, 2022

Here’s our guide to Seoul and the provinces of South Korea. Discover the food, customs, dos and don’ts, how to travel around the country, where to stay, and the best time of year to visit. Whether you’re a backpacker, city lover, or a solo traveler on a budget, here’s everything you need to know

South Korea has become one of the top destinations for travelers to Asia in the last decade or so. It’s not as expensive as, say, Japan , but it’s also not somewhere you can live on a few pennies each day. It’s great for solo travelers and its size means you can see a lot in a relatively short stay.

There are four distinct seasons as well, so when you go means very different experiences. Spring (March — May) is vibrant and blooming, with pink cherry blossom all around. Summer (June — August) is good for hiking in the high mountains , but hot and humid lower down, and fall (September — November) is warm enough to explore away from the chaos of the cities. Winter is very cold indeed, with skiing in the hills, but it also means there’s not much else going on away from the cities.

With all that in mind, let’s get going!

Seoul is everything South Korea: manic and confusing at first, with customs and habits that seem designed to befuddle, but by being open, honest and friendly, you’ll find that Koreans are the same. Don’t expect English to be spoken everywhere you go, but be amicable and you’ll receive help in return, regardless of the language barrier.

It’s having its pop culture moment right now, attracting more visitors than ever, and Seoul is as exciting and lively as any other major city , but has the unusual advantage of seamlessly threading the 21st century through the fabric of its past. For every neon billboard, there are traditional craft stalls and airy art galleries; for every incongruous Irish bar, there’s a peaceful garden temple .

Step back in time

You’ll almost certainly be drawn to Gyeongbokgung Palace, dating from 1395 and the largest of the Five Grand Palaces built by the Joseon dynasty. Its 7,700 rooms were restored in the 19th century, and the palace is one of the country’s most beloved cultural treasures.

To see how the normal people lived around that time, you can visit Namsangol Hanok Village, a living museum that allows you to see how various strata of society lived and worked, from commoners to royalty. Each dwelling, from humble one-room shack to stately home, is decorated as it would have been during the classical Joseon era, and its scenic surroundings and peaceful atmosphere make this a wonderful trip back in time. It’s closed on Tuesdays, but otherwise, the village is free to enter.

Eating and singing: two of a Korean’s great pleasures

If you are traveling alone, once you’ve spent the day exploring, the best way to meet new people (and make a slight fool of yourself in a good-natured way) is karaoke. Koreans love a bit of karaoke, and when the sun goes down, the neon-drenched streets of the Hongdae neighborhood host all-night sessions known as noraebang . Get some fried chicken and a couple of beers down you, and join the fun!

For other tasty treats, you’ll almost certainly encounter bibimbap (a rice pot with meat, vegetables and egg), bulgogi (marinated barbecue beef), and the ubiquitous kimchi (spicy, pickled vegetable, almost always cabbage). Bear in mind, that vegetarian dishes can be hard to come by; although vegetables, noodles and rice make up a large part of Korean cuisine, there will generally be meat included. You might want to brush up on your chopstick skills for plucking out what you don’t want!

Further afield

South Korea’s fantastic transport network , coupled with its relatively small size, means there’s absolutely no excuse not to cast your net wider. The train journey from Seoul to Busan (the northwest to the southeast), for example, takes just under three hours, and there’s a lot to explore in this rich and fascinating nation.

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Busan itself is the second-largest city and the country’s largest port. Densely built in narrow valleys between mountain ridges and two rivers, the city runs down to the ocean, and spreads out along the coast and into the forest. It’s also the country’s main summer destination, with the city being home to six beaches , including Haeundae, backed with a curved boardwalk, and Gwangalli, bustling with cafes, bars and restaurants. The mountains that surround the city are great for hiking , with miles of trails through the woods, and local conservation efforts are also important: see the Daejeo Ecological Park and its bird sanctuary and river restoration project, for example. 

The train that got you to Busan will probably have gone via Daegu, home to around 2.5 million people and one of the powerhouses of 20th century Korea. Today, an interesting combination of cutting-edge technology and fashion industries, coupled with strong Buddhist beliefs, make Daegu a bit of a magnet for foreign students, English teachers, cultural investigators, and other people looking for a fun, vibrant city that’s maybe not as obvious as Seoul.

Jeonju, in the west of the country, is known throughout Korea as being the birthplace of two important cultural touchpoints that we’ve previously mentioned: the Joseon dynasty, and bibimbap . It somehow absorbs around 10 million visitors a year, with most coming to see Hanok Village. While Namsangol Hanok Village in Seoul is a living museum, Jeonju’s example is an actual village with living, breathing residents, its 800 traditional buildings contrasting wonderfully with the modern city built around it.

Peace and disquiet

The countryside in South Korea is just as worth exploring as the cities, and it will often give you a totally different view on Korean life and hospitality as well. City stays are generally confined to your usual hotels, Airbnbs and the like, but in smaller locations, you may well be able to stay in a hanok, one of the traditional houses mentioned above.

Hanoks are typically wood framed houses, with curved, tiled roofs. Simple in design, with sliding doors, a mattress on the floor for sleeping, and sometimes with heated floors, they’re atmospheric and calm , and many will come with an evening meal or traditional breakfast as part of the package.

Gyeongju and Panmunjom

To continue stepping back in time — even further than the Joseon dynasty — head to Gyeongju, ancient capital of the Kingdom of Silla (57 BCE – 935 CE). For a couple of centuries it was the fourth largest city in the world, and is now referred to as a ‘museum without walls’. So how best to see everything? Take part in a cycling tour connecting all the temples, palaces and other historic sights , led by a knowledgeable guide.

Finally, for something that feels unreal but still casts a surreal cloud over the country, visit Panmunjom. This is the location of the DMZ, the Demilitarized Zone, separating North and South Korea, a four-kilometer strip of land surrounded by landmines, pillboxes, tank traps and troops. It serves as a slightly worrying warning that you’re gazing across into North Korea, and when you head to the JSA (Joint Security Area) and landmarks with names like the Third Infiltration Tunnel, the Freedom House, and the Bridge of No Return, it brings home the fact that this isn’t just playing at soldiers.

To visit the DMZ, you must go as part of a tour, and children under the age of 12 are not allowed. If you wish to cross the Military Demarcation Line (the actual border), you have to sign a waiver accepting that you’re aware you are entering a hostile area, and that enemy action could result in injury or death. You’ll technically be in North Korea and, while the waiver sounds scary, it’s pretty performative: the border acts as a demonstration of peace between the two nations, and tours are encouraged as both history lessons and as a boost to the economy.

Magical nature

Jeju was formed by a single volcanic explosion around two million years ago, and its mighty caldera can be seen from pretty much everywhere on the island. Legend has it that it was home to a race of demi-gods, but they’re clearly long gone, and the island is now devoted to tourism. Indeed, it was so busy in the late 90s that beach pollution became a serious problem. Spurred into action, the island’s government is pushing for the entire place to be carbon-neutral by 2030, and around half of the electric cars registered in South Korea are on Jeju.

It’s a mecca for surfers and beach bums, and is also home to three Unesco World Heritage Sites . Climb the mountains, explore the lava tube caves, and bathe under clear, blue waterfalls in the forest lakes. It’s a great location for island cuisine too, with beach bars serving freshly caught, barbecued seafood .

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Otherwise, try Suncheon Bay, around 4-5 hours south of Seoul. The town of Suncheon is another eco-destination, and the Bay is home to wetlands that house around 140 species of bird. Huge fields of reeds and meandering water make the whole place a wonderfully peaceful scene, and to find out a bit more about the science behind the reserve, there’s an excellent museum.

The nearby Suncheon Bay National Garden is a massive landscaped area involving versions of gardens from other countries, including Thailand , Japan, the Netherlands, Spain , Italy, Turkey, the UK and more. It also has wild areas to help the insect population, and a vast network of pathways, bridges and wooden walkways to help you get around. It’s unlikely you can see it all in one day. Also in the Suncheon region is Seonamsa, a gorgeous Buddhist temple and hermitage, again with huge gardens in which to simply wander and contemplate.

South Korea is packed with things like these. Places you’ve probably never heard of, but which are plentiful, magical , and not to be missed. For such a compact country, there’s so much to do and see, so plan your trip to see a little bit of everything… before coming back with Kiwi.com again to see a bit more!

Did you like this article? For more travel inspiration, visit Kiwi.com Stories .

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11 Reasons Why Korea is Worth Visiting

There are many reasons to visit Korea, today we’re going to talk about the 11 reasons why you should visit Korea.

Many people are wondering every day if it’s Korea that they want to visit. There are many other beautiful countries so, is it really Korea that you want to visit. That question I asked myself many years ago.

After thinking about it for many days, I’ve finally decided to visit Korea, and it was the best choice of my life. There are many places you should visit. We’ll explain below what you should visit Korea . Let’s get right to the juicy info.

1. Seoul 

Seoul should be the first place to visit if you’re going to Korea. It’s the capital of Korea and definitely worth visiting. There are many fun things you can do while you’re in Seoul like, going to the karaoke bar, visiting cafes, or just relaxing.

It might be a bit more expensive if you’re eating out all day so what I did when visiting Seoul was creating a budget. By creating a budget that suits your lifestyle gives you more room to work with. The last thing you want to happen is to run out of money.

I saw that one of my friends I was traveling with didn’t bring enough, so I covered him. He felt pretty bad, so make a budget and stick to it.

Another place you should visit is the Jangseng Geongangwon in the Gangnam District. They have one of the best cocktails that you can get. Try to enjoy it for as long as possible because time flies by, especially if you’re planning to party a lot.

2. The Culture

Korean culture is very traditional, where people still bow to each other. In other countries, you don’t see this happen often. We’d rather give a handshake than bowing, but in Korea, this isn’t the case at all. So, try getting used to bowing, especially when you see elders.

This was a mistake I made in the beginning when I asked where the train station was. It’s pretty disrespectful if you don’t bow, so make sure you do. Another tip is to take your shoes off when going inside a house or apartment.

This is very important because Koreans really dislike walking inside with shoes on. Koreans are known to be very clean, and make sure you keep it like that.

There are also different pronounces to use when talking to people. Older people are called differently. Try learning more about the Korean language if you’re planning to stay in Korea for a very long time.

3. Korean Shopping

Shopping in Korea is very fun because you have a wide range of choices. There are many designer brands you can purchase from. However, the most fun stores are the ones on the market. There are many affordable pieces with very high quality.

The only thing you should look out for is to avoid getting ripped off. It doesn’t happen often but still, in case, make sure to ask yourself if the price is worth it. When I was visiting some other countries, people in street markets tried to rip me off by paying 4x the price other people were paying.

A great tip is to bargain. Another plus that I really liked when shopping in Korea is the online sites. Shopping online on stores like GMarket is extremely easy and fast. The delivery is often within delivered next day.

4. Hanbok (Korean traditional clothing) 

Hanboks are traditional Korean clothing. It’s very fun to wear. You can find these types of clothing pretty much everywhere you go. The best place to wear a hanbok is when visiting a Korean is in Seoul. Yes indeed! You can wear your hanbok everywhere, and people won’t look weird at you.

There are two types of hanboks for men and women:

These hanboks are very popular, and if you have the chance to visit Korea, make sure to wear a Hanbok. It’s really fun, especially if you’ve never worn one before. The most fun experience was when meeting different foreigners wear Hanboks , and you should try to do that too.

5. Korean BBQ 

Korean barbecue is very popular in Korea and other countries. It’s one of the must-try foods when visiting Korea. The meat is on a different level. You might not notice it, but the quality of meat they have in Korea is insane.

It can be a bit more expensive, but if you have the budget, it’s definitely worth it. I’ve been craving wagyu for a long time now, especially in Korea, because that’s really on a different scale. If you like eating Korean barbecue already, then this will blow your mind.

Many people in television programs or game shows often win a pack of high-quality meat. Yes, you’ve guessed it right a pack of high-quality meat from a game show. It’s because of the value, and many people can’t afford to eat it every day.

This reason alone should be enough to visit Korea, the quality of meat is different when you compare it to the USA, Europe, or Canada. Also, Koreans have a different way of cooking meat. They grill it on a plate while foreign countries do this on a regular barbecue.

6. Karaoke Bars in Korea

Karaoke bars are really fun, especially if you’re going with friends. However, karaoke bars are also a place to rest and chill. Many people visit them alone when they want to release stress. It might look lonely at first, but that’s not really the case because hundreds of people visit alone every day.

In Karaoke bars, you can get drinks, food, and snacks. So, it’s a great place to chill and relax. If you’ve never been to a karaoke bar before, make sure you do. You can’t find many karaoke bars in foreign countries because they aren’t popular enough.

In Korea, this is the opposite, and karaoke bars are one of the most popular activities you can do. Another plus is that you can practice your singing skills, it’s not expensive at all.

So, you don’t need a big budget to practice singing, and you don’t have to worry about singing in Korean because there are many English songs you can sing.

7. Fashion – Seoul Fashion Week

Fashion is huge in Korea, and it’s often because of the celebrities promoting new products. Every year there’s a Seoul Fashion Week. This is where the most popular celebrities attend the walkway. It has been one of the most popular fashion activities in Korea all year round.

If you’re really into fashion, this could be a great reason for you to visit. You could impress everyone else by wearing something that no one has ever thought of. 

What I really like about Seoul is that you can wear anything you like and people won’t look weird at you. The fashion styles in Korea are very different from the ones overseas, and that’s really what makes it special.

Make sure to visit Korea if you’re really into fashion and want to attend the Seoul Fashion Week yourself. It’s a great way to expand your network in the fashion industry and build connections.

8. Korean Drama 

Korean Drama is huge in Korea. Hundreds, if not thousands, of people, watch it every day. Korean drama has been expanding to different countries by releasing the episodes on Netflix. This is, of course, very lucrative for Korea itself because it creates another income source.

Streaming Korean drama is very easy, and you might even see one of your favorite actors/actress walking outside. That can really happen because it has happened to one of my friends that saw a huge crowd surrounding an actor.

Many Korean dramas are put together very well, and that’s what the audience likes. Korean drama could be one of the reasons why Korea is worth visiting, and this is probably because you want to visit the same restaurant’s people eat at in dramas.

Another reason could be that you want to visit the places where the dramas are shot at. Well, I’ve done both and must say that it’s definitely worth it.

9. The Weather

The weather in Korea is awesome. Even if it rains, you see hundreds of people walking outside. If you’re planning to visit during the summer, make sure to use lots of sunscreens. Getting sunburned in Korea is very common, and it has happened many times to me.

If you ever have the opportunity to visit Korea during the spring, make sure you do. It’s beautiful with all those cherry blossoms. You can’t find these anywhere else in the world, and this has been one of the reasons why I keep coming back to Korea.

The majority of people that are planning to visit Korea are often visiting during vacations. This is also when it’s the busiest on the streets, but that makes it even more fun. 

10. Easy and Fast Transportation

Using transportation is very easy and fast in Korea. It doesn’t require much knowledge since even people that can’t read Korean can easily travel. I’ve been to Korea multiple times now, and traveling has been one of the most fun trips.

You get to see many beautiful places while also feeling comfortable. Every time I’m traveling to another city in Korea, it’s a pleasure to travel by train. It’s one of the best transportations I’ve ever used, and I hope my other countries will follow.

I highly recommend getting a  Korean rail pass , especially if you’re planning to travel a lot through Korea. Traveling to Jeju island and other smaller villages is easy but make sure to plan in advance. You don’t want to get lost.

What I normally do is plan the whole trip and buying the tickets in advance, which’s less expensive, and the stress is also gone.

K-pop is huge in Korea and has slowly become one of the most popular music genres worldwide. The Kpop boyband BTS has been blowing up lately, which makes K-pop as a music genre also get more popular. If you’ve never heard about this, you’re really missing out.

What I really like about K-pop is that there are many different groups. In fact, there are too many to follow them all. However, the ones that are the most popular often have the best songs. I highly recommend you checking some groups out, especially if you’re planning to visit Korea.

K-pop is one of the main reasons why foreigners visit Korea, and it’s a great destination for tourists . When visiting Korea, make sure to visit a lot of K-pop cafes that are started by idols themselves. 

Which City Should You Visit In Korea?

The city that’s most visited in Korea is Seoul, and the main reason is because of the wide range of activities you can do. It’s affordable, and there are many other foreigners you can meet. Another plus is that there are many students that live in Seoul , which makes it even more attractive.

Why Do People Still Visit North Korea?

The majority of people that still visit North Korea are often the ones that want to know more about the history or find some secret hidden things they don’t show to the outside world. Those people don’t go the North Korea to enjoy and relax because they’re keeping their eyes on you 24/7.

Now that you’ve come to the end of this article, you’ve probably known the 11 reasons why people want to visit Korea. So back to the question, is Korea worth visiting? Yes, in my opinion, it definitely is because of the great activities you can do.

The nightlife, food, and much more things you can do make Korea really special. Even if you’re into fashion, Korea is a great hotspot to build new connections and meet people. Korea has been attracting more tourists every year.

This is probably because of Kpop, BTS has been blowing up lately, and many other Kpop groups. Other reasons could be because people really enjoy visiting Korea and like sightseeing.

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8 Reasons to Love South Korea

I love South Korea.  It’s one of my top 5 favorite countries in the world since it has so much to offer. Whether you’re looking for fantastic shopping, great outdoor activities, festivals, food experiences or lush nature – South Korea offers all that and more!

There’s something about South Korea that makes me long to go back – the friendly people, the fashion, music, events, nature and super delicious food! 

If you’ve been thinking about going to South Korea but not 100% sure about going there or not – then check out this list of the top 8 reasons to love South Korea!

Here’s the list of the top 8 reasons to love South Korea:

Table of Contents

Korean Food

Korean food is simply amazing. The Korean cuisine is one of those cuisines I could get used to with it’s delicious and fresh dishes. Bibimbap, kimchi, kimbap, and Korean BBQ – it’s both cheap and delicious!

It’s many reasons why South Korea is such beautiful country. It’s its mountains, oceans, temples and people that make South Korea to one of the most beautiful countries in Asia. 

In addition to that – Koreans are one of the world’s most beautiful people!

Of course, I had to include K-Pop on this list of reasons to love South Korea. I mean, who doesn’t like K-Pop? It’s fun, sexy, catchy and get’s you into a happy mood! 

One of the best reasons to love South Korea is because you can feel safe walking around during day and night. When walking at night in Stockholm I always feel scared that something’s going to happen – but in South Korea, I didn’t feel scared at all!

It’s a wonderful feeling, as a women, to not have to worry about my safety while walking around at night.

Since I love to be out in nature and hike, I was pleasantly surprised when I saw what the South Korean nature had to offer. Great hiking trails, natural mountains, lush islands and much more! 

I can’t complete this list without mentioning the natives of South Korea. The locals of the country are incredibly friendly, polite and helpful. The Korean culture is a great mix of old Korean traditions and western ideals. 

People of South Korea are proud of where they’re coming from and are also enthusiastic about learning more about the culture of foreigners!

Events & Festivals

South Korea just love festivals, and they’ve got them for just about everything. 

From simple live music events and food shows to the more famous festivals such as the Boryeong Mud Festival, the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, the Jinju Lantern Festival and the Cheongsando Slow Walking Festival – There’s always something going on on the weekends!

Jeju Island

One of the reasons to love South Korea is Jeju Island. Jeju Island is a great island for nature seekers, and is, in my opinion, the world’s most beautiful island. With its friendly people, lush nature, stunning waterfalls, great hiking and delicious food – Jeju Island will take you by storm!

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What a nice post, Christine! I can feel how positive and warm person you are from your writing. I am Hyojeong from Daegu,South Korea. It was a surprise and joy of my day to peep in to outlander’s pespectives on Korea and korean culture! Thanks for that. I was in Sweden for an year of my exchange semester. It was also an experience of wonder to me! I wish, I could have shared what I found and felt in Sweden with you. After reading your post, I am seriously thinking if i need to write about my visits to other countries and share it with others :) Have a nice day!

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Complete Guide for Planning Your First Trip to Seoul, South Korea

Seoul, South Korea is a complex city. It's full of history and culture both new and old. From the complicated dynamics between the two Koreas to the super modern youth compared to the traditional older folks, Korea is full of experiences and opportunities to be had. When we hopped on a place to Korea back in October 2022, we knew enough about Korea to be really really excited to finally visit this country, but we were also pretty unsure what that to expect. Personally, the mystery is half the fun to me! I love being surprised by a destination and approaching with little to no preconceived thoughts or ideas.

While Korea is a safe, modern, and friendly country to visit, you'll want to go prepared, especially if you've never been to Asia before. If you're traveling from the USA or another western country, Korean is the perfect Asian country to visit. It clearly had lots of western influence as it rebuilt after the Korean War, so it's familiar but also completely foreign. It's hard to explain, but if you're nervous about this big leap across the Pacific Ocean, just go in knowing that you'lre going to be FINE and you're going to have so much fun! The people are kind, the city is clean, and no matter what happens, you're never far from wi-fi and a kind person to help you find your way again.

To help you prepare for your trip to Seoul, South Korea, here is everything we recommend knowing before hopping on that plane.

Looking for something specific? Use the links below to jump to a section.

Where is seoul, what is seoul best known for, is it safe to visit korea, is seoul, korea expensive, best time of year to visit seoul, how to get to seoul, do i need a visa to visit korea, money in korea, cell phone service and wifi in korea, where to stay in seoul, transportation in korea, navigation in korea, what to pack for korea.

Seoul is a part of the Asian nation of Korea and is located in the northern part of the South Korean peninsula. While it's a relatively small country by landmass, its population of the city of Seoul is quite large. Seoul, the capital city of South Korea and its largest metropolis, is surrounded by mountains and has a population of over 10 million people. This vibrant city offers visitors an endless array of things to do – from exploring traditional markets to sampling delicious street food.

Seoul is best known for its culture, art, food and nightlife. From traditional palaces to cutting-edge museums, Seoul has something for everyone. Seoul's most popular attractions include the Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul City Wall and Bukchon Hanok Village – all of which feature an abundance of cultural architecture to explore.  Seoul's traditional markets, such as Namdaemun and Insadong, offer an exciting way to experience Seoul's unique culture. Seoul is also renowned for its delicious street food, with some of the most popular dishes including kimchi, bibimbap and Seoul-style fried chicken. Lastly, Seoul has a vibrant nightlife, featuring a wide array of bars and clubs to explore.

Seoul is generally a safe place to visit. As with any large city, it's important to exercise caution when exploring Seoul by being aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables close. We spent three weeks in Seoul and never once felt unsafe. I don't want to give a false impression that nothing bad will happen. We were just very cautious in avoiding bad neighborhoods and we always stuck together. When we traveled to neighborhoods we didn't know anything about, we opted for a taxi instead of the subway so we wouldn't stumble into a bad area.

Like with any new place you travel to, exercise caution, trust your gut, and when in doubt, ask the locals for their advice.

Seoul is a relatively affordable city to visit, even for budget travelers. The cost of living in Seoul is slightly lower than other large cities like London and New York City, with basic items like bread and milk being much cheaper than most big cities. Accommodation in Seoul ranges from cheap guesthouses to luxury hotels depending on your budget. Public transportation is also very affordable, with most trips costing less than $2.

A lot of tourists visit Korea expecting it to be incredibly affordable like nearby Thailand and Vietnam, but it definitely is not. I'd say Seoul is in line with most midsize cities in the USA, with the small towns and villages in South Korea being much less expensive.

When we visited Seoul the dollar was fluctuating significantly and the Korean won was down by about 25%. Because of this, our grasp on how expensive Korea is is slightly more skewed than what you might experience. To check your home country's current currency conversion, checkout Google free calculator HERE .

Seoul is a great place to visit all year round, and depending on your interests, different seasons offer different experiences. Seoul has four distinct seasons – spring (March - May), summer (June - August), autumn (September - November) and winter (December – February).

Spring in Seoul is mild with temperatures ranging from 50-68 Fahrenheit (10-20 Celsius). Seoul in the spring is a great time of year to visit as the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and many outdoor festivals take place throughout the city.

Summer in Seoul is hot and humid with temperatures reaching up to 90 Fahrenheit (30 Celsius) at times. If you're interested in exploring Seoul's parks and outdoor attractions, as well as Seoul's famous beaches and islands, summer might be the perfect time to visit.

Autumn in Seoul is mild with temperatures ranging from 45-68 Fahrenheit (8-20 Celsius). Seoul in the autumn can be a great time to visit due to its vibrant fall foliage, although the weather can get quite cold at night. We visit for the month of October and had perfect weather! It only rained two days and the temperatures were perfect for walking around during the day and required just a jacket and warm shoes at night.

Winter in Seoul can be bitterly cold with temperatures reaching below zero Celsius, but Seoul in the winter is also a great time to visit as many of Seoul's festivals, including the Seoul Lantern Festival and Winter Sonata Music Festival take place during this time. We were advised by the locals to avoid South Korea in the winter because the Siberian winds are brutally strong and cold when they come down from Russia.

No matter when you choose to visit Seoul, there is something for everyone!

Korea is a peninsula with North Korea to the north and only the ocean to the south, so getting to South Korea you’ll need to fly. The only exception is if you’re traveling from Japan, then you’d have the option to take one of the ferries over. All of the ferries from Japan will stop in Busan, which is about a 4 hour train ride from Seoul. This would be a really fun way to travel if you have the time to visit both Japan and Korea in the same trip! We personally haven’t tried the ferry yet but really hope to next time we visit this region of the world. Because we can’t give first hand advice on how to make the journey, we recommend you check out this article for more information.

We flew Delta round trip from Nashville (BNA) which cost ~$1250 per person . The route included a short layover in Seattle both ways which was nice to break up the long haul flight. You can fly direct from the USA to Seoul (ICN) from several major cities including Detroit, Atlanta, New York City, Los Angeles, Dallas, and more. Our long leg of the journey was from Seattle to Seoul which was about 12 ½ hours on the way there, and just under 10 hours on the way home. Not too bad! If you’re like us and like to break up long haul flights, Korea makes a really great stop on your way to other places in Asia. For example, we’d strongly consider visiting Korea again for an extended layover on our way to somewhere like Thailand or Singapore.

Something really important to note: Seoul’s main airport is actually in Incheon (ICN), a neighboring city to Seoul’s west. Most international flights will fly into Incheon (ICN), then you’ll either need to take the 1-1 ½ hour train ride into the city, or catch a taxi. There are plenty of taxis and Ubers going to and from the airport to the city, so don’t worry about being able to catch one! While we love using public transit when we travel, after a long travel day, we typically opt for the taxi or Uber since we’re usually jet lagged and hungry by then.

To answer this question, you'll need to know the passport you hold. Citizens from many countries and regions are able to enter South Korea without a visa for up to 90 days, but there are some exceptions. We recommend checking out the official Korean government website for more information about which passports require a visa, as well as all of the other details.

For us as Americans holding passports from the USA, we are not required to have a visa when traveling to Korea for less than 90 days. However, as of September 2021, all visitors from visa free countries must register their visit via K-ETA before arrival. The websites states that you'll receive your QR code/access to Korea within a few days, but as always, we recommend applying as soon as you know you're visiting to save yourself the headache. I applied just a few days before we departed and had my code within the hour. Super easy to get!

Korean currency

The Korean currency is called the won (KRW). Seoul and Korea in general is an inexpensive place to visit, but prices range depending on where you are. Seoul is definitely more expensive than other cities in South Korea, such as Busan or Daegu.

COVID definitely moved many businesses to being a more credit card friendly place to visit, but there are still a few places that require cash, and it's nice to have on hand to tip throughout your trip.

How to pay in Korea

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Seoul, and most places accept Mastercard, Visa, American Express, etc. Money exchange is available at Seoul Airport (ICN) but not all airports in Korea so it's best to come prepared with some won in your pocket. It's always cheapest to convert money through your home bank a couple of weeks before your trip. We use Bank of America and we just go online to order our cash in whatever currency we need, then pick it up at the local branch.

Should you tip in Korea?

Tipping is not super common in Seoul, so it's not expected but always appreciated if you receive great service. If you do decide to tip, 5-10% of the total bill is appropriate. Just be aware that many restaurants add a 10% service charge to your bill already, so check before tipping extra!

We'd definitely recommend tipping guides if you participate in any sort of food, historical, or DMZ tour. These guides are often working for larger companies and many of the individuals are still recovering from COVID hitting Korea really hard.

If you're visiting Seoul for a few days, you'll either want to purchase a SIM card upon arrival or bring your own unlocked phone with an international plan. I have a Google Fi plan which works well for me both at home in the USA and abroad. I had excellent service in Korea, so if you travel internationally a good bit, I'd highly recommend giving Google Fi a try.

For most though, renting a SIM card (or even an entire phone!) is the best option. You can reserve your SIM card before you even leave home and just pick it up at the airport. If you forget to reserve it ahead of time, no worries, you can still rent one in the airport, just for a slightly higher price. For more information regarding renting SIM cards in Korea, I'd recommend checking out this blogpost .

Public wifi is widely available all throughout Seoul including on the subways, many of the parks, and most restaurants. Korea is incredibly connected so you're never too far from wifi!

Seoul has a variety of accommodations for all budgets, from Airbnbs and hostels to luxury and budget hotels, to even staying in a traditional hanok house . You can find just about every type of accommodation in all the most popular neighborhoods (except for the hanoks which are best found in Bukchon). Instead of looking for a particular type of accommodation, I'd recommend figuring out which neighborhood you'll most enjoy staying in while you're in Seoul.

This neighborhood is close to many of the major attractions including palaces and the Bukchon Hanok Village. This neighborhood has plenty of shops and restaurants to explore, plus it's conveniently located close to multiple subway stops.

If you know the song "Gangnam Style," you know what to expect of Gangnam. It's fashionable, flashy, and expensive. This is the neighborhood we stayed in, but only because we booked late and it was the only hotel we could find in our budget that was dog friendly. Gangnam is incredibly safe, but you will likely pay more to stay here. Unless you're really into Korean fashion or are planning on having any K-beauty treatments performed while you're there, I'd recommend staying in one of the other neighborhoods with more charm. Gangnam definitely feels very new and western compared to other parts of the city.

This was our favorite neighborhood in Seoul! Lots of great restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and overall just a really fun, young environment. There's a large university in Hongdae which certainly has a heavy influence on the neighborhood. It's a young area, but in our 30s we didn't feel too out of place here. There were plenty people of all ages enjoying the little winding streets and city park, perfect for hanging with friends and grabbing a drink after dinner.

Myeongdong is another great neighborhood option if you want to be close to many of the most popular attractions in Seoul. It's situated right between the palaces and Namsan Tower . This neighborhood offers a lot of different hotel options, so if you're planning to stay in hotels instead of Airbnbs, this might be the best place to check.

Itaewon is very popular among expats, especially American expats given its close proximity to the American military base. The neighborhood is famous for its lively nightlife scene and shopping options. If this is your first time to Asia and nervous about feeling too out of sorts as an American, this might be a good option for you. There's still plenty of Korean charm in this neighborhood, but you will see plenty of other expats walking around. Personally, we like immersing ourselves in the culture, but we do have friends who prefer to ease their way into it. There's nothing wrong with that, whatever gets you out there and traveling. Do note that Itaewon is very hilly! If you plan to walk a lot but aren't too athletic or struggle with mobility, keep that in mind.

We most commonly rely on public transit and Uber when traveling, but taxis, buses, high speed rail, and car rentals are all an option, too. Do note that if you plan on renting a car in Korea, you need to get an International Drivers Permit before you leave home.

The subway system in Korea is incredibly clean, safe, and reliable. Oh, and it's very affordable too at just ~$1 per ride. We recommend using the Naver App to help you navigate the complex Subway system throughout Seoul.

Buses are another very affordable and reliable option for getting around Seoul, although we never actually took them. We found the subway to be faster and more direct everywhere we planned on going. The Naver App also works well for helping you navigate the bus system.

Ubers and taxis are both very affordable in Korea and are easily available everywhere in the city. Taxis accept American credit cards and, of course, you pay for Uber in the app. One thing to note though: Uber in Korea will show up as UT.

Car Rentals

You can rent a car in Korea so long as you have an International Driving Permit with you. We did not rent a car in Korea, but just glancing at the availability online, you can pick up rental cars at the airports and in most neighborhoods.

High Speed Rails

Korea has high speed rails which are very safe, efficient, and far faster than driving. If you plan on visiting places outside of Seoul, consider hopping on the high speed rail and check out other cities like Busan .

While Google Maps works well in most of the world, Korea is not one of those places. They have their own apps for navigation, all of which work well. We highly recommend the Naver app because of its subway navigation help. The app easily guides you through the subway tunnels, tells you when to get on and off, and even what place to stand on the platform. The app is available for both iOS and Android .

Like with any place you travel to with fluctuating weather, packing layers is key. Sweaters and jackets are best so you can take them on and off as the weather warms and cools. If you're going to be in Seoul during the fall, winter, or spring, I'd recommend bringing gloves and a hat just in case you get some colder days. If you're like us, you'll be doing a lot of walking in Seoul so be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes for both cooler and warmer days.

Final thoughts

We absolutely loved our three weeks in Seoul. It's a massive, busy, complex, and interesting city. There's so much to see, do, and try any season of the year. If you have a piece of advice or information for other travelers to Seoul, Korea, be sure to drop it in the comments below!

Like this article? Be sure to checkout our other travel guides for South Korea!

• 16 Must Try Foods in Korea
• Renting a Hanbok and Visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Medical Tourism in Korea (SMILE / LASIK Eye Surgery)
• Gwangjang Market - What to eat, when to go, and more

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An Epic Travel Guide To Seoul, Korea For The First Timer

Seoul, Korea is huge and has gained a ton of attention in the past decade for not only a beautiful culture but also the Hallyu wave that has swept over the world. When you begin to plan your trip to the capital city of Korea it can seem overwhelming and you may not know where to begin.

While I’m known for promoting the off the beaten path spots in and around Seoul and promoting new hot spots to check out, I wanted to create an essential guide for the first time visitor to this busy and fun capital of Korea.

Having lived here since 2006 when I first came as an English teacher, you can be assured, this is THE guide to read before you get here. Whether or not it’s your first time to Korea though, read through it and make sure you’ve seen everything there is to see. From Seoul’s quirky cafes to the best spots to get gorgeous views. it’s all here. Make your time in Seoul, Korea the best it can be!

This is a massive travel guide with all of the information you need for any trip to Seoul, Korea. Because it’s so long, definitely feel free to skip around. Here is what you’ll find in this post:

• What To do To Prepare For Your Trip To Seoul
• Is It Safe To Travel In South Korea?

What To Know About Money & ATMs In Seoul

• Which Is The Best Area To Stay In Seoul?
• What Is The Best Time To Visit Korea?

General Travel Tips For Korea

• A Korean palace
• A traditional market
• Rent a Hanbok
• Find the hotspots
• Visit the Han River
• Get a good view
• Visit lots and lots of cafes
• Visit a museum
• Visit a spa
• Visit an amusement park
• See the DMZ
• Check out these notable spots in between

To Join A Tour Or Not To Join A Tour

• Where To Get Out Of Seoul For A Day Trip

Want To Get Off The Beaten Path In & Around Seoul?

Places to take trips from seoul.

(This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.)

Need help with an itinerary? Elevate your travel experience with our downloadable Seoul Itinerary Pack. combine, and conquer the city’s wonders, one unforgettable day at a time.

What To Do To Prepare For Your Trip To Seoul

Are you traveling to Seoul soon? Here are some things to help you prepare for the trip:

Buy Your Plane Ticket: You can get some great deals on flights to Seoul, Korea. If you haven’t tried, check Skyscanner.com for the best rates.

Can I use the Wise Card In Korea? How To Send Money To Korea

Wise Travel Card: Whether you’re looking to travel to Korea for the first time or you’re moving to Korea and want to be able to use your money from home in Korea easily, you should look into the Wise travel card when it comes to converting currencies and getting away from card fees and bad exchange rates. The first time I came to Korea I had difficulty getting my debit card/Mastercard to work. Don’t be like me, come prepared. You can learn more about the Wise travel card in my review .

Get a Visa/Korea Electronic Travel Authorization: The process for coming into Korea has changed during Covid and now everyone must apply for a K-ETA before arrival. The K-ETA is for visa-free foreign visitors and while you’re visa free, they still want to know you’re coming and where you’re headed. Here is a guide to fill out the information for the K-ETA . Go to the K-ETA website to apply. You should find out if you’ve received approval within 24 hours, but usually faster.

Study Korean:  90 Day Languages has a great course on Korean and offers a lot of help if you’re interested in preparing before you come. A little goes a long way here and it actually only takes about an hour to learn how to read Hangul… no joke! You can also check out this guide to learning Korean online and through apps I put together to get some more Korean learning options.

Plan Your Airport Transfer:  There are numerous ways to transfer from Incheon International Airport outside of the city into the city of Seoul from the subway/train and bus to taxis. To be honest, we almost always opt for the private transfer. It’s fast and easy and we don’t have to worry about dragging our bags this way and that and up and down escalators. TaDa is a great company that provides transfers as well as rides within the city.  Book your transfer in advance  to make the trip smooth and easy.

Get Good Hard Case Luggage:  Packing all of the essentials is good only if they get to the other side with you. Make sure to have good luggage to get you and your belongings all the way.  Roam Luggage has awesome customizable bags that will go the distance and look super cool on the way. We highly recommend using hard case luggage for any international flight.

International Driver’s License: To be honest, I wouldn’t recommend driving in Seoul if it’s your first time to this massive city. BUT, if you plan to and will rent a car  while you’re here, then remember to bring your International Driver’s License. I highly recommend renting a car if you’ll be headed to Jeju Island or anywhere aside from Seoul and Busan because it’s much easier to get around that way in those cases.

Where To Buy A TMoney Card For Korea

How To Get A T-Money Card For Kids in Korea

The Discover Seoul Pass: Travel On A Budget In Seoul

The Seoul City Tour Bus Guide: What To See & Do When You Hop On Hop Off

T-Money Card/Discover Seoul Pass/Hop On & Hop Off Bus: To get around using the Seoul Subway System or buses or other public transportation options, you’ll need to get a T-Money card . This card allows you to put money on it and scan it at the turnstiles in subways and when you’re getting on and off buses and even works in taxis.

HOWEVER, if you’ll be doing a lot of touristy things and visiting the touristy sites, then you might be better off getting the Discover Seoul Pass . This pass comes with a variety of perks like access to Hanbok rentals, palaces, view points and other major attractions AND it also works as a T-Money card. On top of that, you get a free ride on the AREX and Airport bus to/from Incheon International Airport. 

SO, if you’ll be touristy,  grab the Discover Seoul Pass to get out and about plus this also acts as a T-Money card. But do know how to use it. Here is a guide and itineraries for using the Discover Seoul Pass to the max. There’s also a great Hop On/ Hop Off Tour Bus option here in Seoul you can use too.

Korea Rail Pass:  If you want to get out of Seoul and plan to use the train more than twice, then the Korea Rail Pass is the economical/budget choice you want to have on hand. You can get back and forth between the popular  Nami Island  nearby the city or go as far as  Andong  or even  Busan . The train line is the limits.  Grab the card here  and just head to the station with your confirmation and it’s as easy as that.

Wifi Eggs/Sim Cards:  While there is great WiFi in many places around Seoul and Korea, nothing beats having your own Wifi Egg so there’s no lag in connection. You can pre-reserve  Sim Cards via Klook so they’re ready and waiting for you when you fly into either Incheon International Airport or into Busan International Airport. You can alco get an eSIM with eSIM Korea which is even’t easier. Here’s a complete guide to the best Korean SIM cards for your trip to Korea.

Top 15 Apps to Download When You Come To Korea

Download Some Useful Apps: The Seoul subway system is super efficient and you can ride it for two hours or more, not pay an arm and a leg, and see a ton. Make sure to download the subway app to know where to go the easiest. The app even tells you which subway car to stand on when.

On the note of apps, do note that Google Maps is horrible when it comes to Korea and will be more difficulty than it’s worth. Another map app that you’ll find useful is Kakao Maps which can be used in both Korean and English. Kakao also has Kakao Taxi which is the best option should you want to get around using local taxis.

Pack The Right Clothes: Seoul has four distinct seasons. The summer is hot hot hot and the winter is cold cold cold! Be prepared. Check out this post for what to pack when you come to Korea . You’ll want to have everything from a fine dust mask to good walking shoes for the best trip you can have in Korea.

Recommended Travel Adapters For Korea

Don’t Forget A Travel Adapter: For some reason travel adapters are easily forgotten among the tourists I’ve met. Remember that not every place has the same plugs/outlets. Make sure you know which travel adapter to bring to Korea so your trip isn’t bumpy at the beginning as you race around trying to charge your devices.

Get Your TEFL:  This is less for travelers than it is for the soon to be teachers. There are a lot of teaching positions available in Korea so to make yourself stand out, definitely make sure you get your TEFL before you come… though you can also get it online once you come too!

Is it safe to travel in South Korea?

Generally, yes, it is very safe in Korea. That said, many foreigners come here assuming that because there is no gun violence or drug issues in Korea it’s MUCH safer than it really is. While you will likely not have any problems while you’re here, certainly don’t put yourself in situations you wouldn’t in your home country.

While I don’t think there is a ton of scamming to look out for, I do want to say you should be wary of cults in Korea that will see tourists coming a mile away. Most vendors aren’t jacking up prices just because you speak a different language, but I would watch out for people that spike drinks. Just be mindful as you should be at all times.

Is it safe to drink tap water in South Korea?

After coming here and seeing how everyone consistently opts for bottled water over tap water, you might be surprised to learn that tap water is indeed potable in Korea and actually tested more than most other places for safety. Yes, you can drink the tap water in Korea, but read this article to find out why Koreans tend to drink bottled water.

The unit of currency is the Korean Won (KRW)

Your cards will likely work, but they will also likely not work. That is to say that for every ATM you find that your card works at, it won’t work at two others and this can be frustrating. While Koreans walk around swiping everywhere now and probably have NO cash in their wallets, as a traveler, you’ll want to have some.

Make sure to let your bank/creditor know that you’ll be traveling to Korea before you come and you will be able to find an ATM that works…. at some point. But bring at least W300,000 = $300.00 in cash to get by at the beginning just in case it takes you longer to find cash.

You could even bring more just to be safe. Most places downtown will also accept your card, but if you’re looking to get into some hole in the wall spots, you’ll probably find spots that won’t take your card. Just be prepared. This is one of the biggest worries for tourists here so better to be safe rather than sorry.

If you want to exchange when you get here, the best spot to do it is in Myeongdong if you have cash and can’t find an ATM that works.

Tipping culture in Korea : Tipping is not a common part of Korean culture. Yes, you can try to tip at restaurants, to taxi drivers, or to your tour guides, but it isn’t expected, though may be accepted. Learn more in this guide to tipping in Korea so you can understand.

Is Korea cheap?

It can be, but it also may not be. For instance, a mistake a lot of new residents and tourists make is heading to expensive bars for drinks or trendy restaurants. Eating out can definitely rack up the bills, however, eating at traditional markets or in small mom and pop shops will definitely make it cheaper.

There are numerous ways to make a trip to Korea more budget friendly like taking advantage of the 40 free walking tours in Seoul. There is even hiking gear available to borrow for free from the city. Find out more ways to save money on a trip to Korea and check out this list of completely free things to do in Seoul to help you if you’re on a budget.

Which is the best area to stay in Seoul?

There are some areas that are definitely better for tourists to stay in if you’re hoping to see the top sites, have the fun, and get in the cultural experiences. Seoul is massive and you definitely don’t want to be in an area that requires a lot of transportation to get to the major sites. I’ve written a complete guide to where to stay in Seoul here. Check it out. More concisely, here are the top areas to stay in and a bit of info about each:

Myeongdong:  Myeongdong is a very central location and a great spot to stay for tourists, especially tourists that want to shop. It’s a big shopping district but that also means all of the restaurants and cafes have Korean AND English menus among other language options. Things open up with the tourists and stay open late with them too.

Transportation on the train, subway, and buses is easy from here and a lot of the tourists sites are within 20 to 30 minutes. I wrote a guide to the best places to stay in Myeongdong , but you can also go directly to Booking.com to find Myeongdong hotels here . If you want to check out the Airbnb options, look here.

Bukchon Hanok Village: If you’re looking for a more traditional Hanok house to stay in, then you’ll want to head to this area. The Bukchon Hanok Village is between the main palaces and near a lot of the cultural experiences. This is also a highly touristed area so restaurants will be able to help you and you’ll see some of the gorgeous older neighborhoods in the city.

You can find Bukchon Hanok Village stays here . If you’re an Airbnb person, then you can check here for some amazing Airbnbs in the Bukchon Hanok Village .

Hongdae: If you’re looking for a younger, hipper area with live music and an arts scene, this is the neighborhood for you. It doesn’t wake up as early as the above areas because it stays awake so late. There are a ton of restaurants and cafes here and it’s an area that best serves the night owls and the people that want to see busking, find a cool pub or bar, or see some live music.

I have culled a list of the best places to stay in Hongdae right here. But, if you want to get right to it, you can find Hongdae hotels here . For Airbnbs in the Hongdae area, look here .

Itaewon: Itaewon is the foreign area of Seoul and where a ton of foreign locals reside so there is GOOD foreign food if you’re looking for that foreign comfort food. I don’t usually recommend this area to tourists because I think the majority of sites you’ll want to see are more north, BUT if you’ll want to split your time between the Hanok villages and palaces and Gangnam which is south of the river, then Itaewon is your best bet so you have the same transportation time from here to there and everywhere.

You can find Itaewon hotels here . There are some great Airbnbs in the Itaewon area, too.

Dongdaemun: Another shopping district, Dongdaemun is very close to the touristy north and also has easy transportation to the south. This is a vibrant neighborhood with a lot of hidden gems and a lot fashionable people. There are quite a few subway line options, buses, and it’s easy to get taxis here too. You can find Dongdaemun hotels here . You can check here if you’re more of an Airbnb person.

What is the best time to visit Korea?

There are four distinct seasons in Korea… well maybe five if you include monsoon season. Since I live here and have gone through every season, I can honestly say that they are all amazing for one reason or another.

Summer (June ~ Mid-September): Summer can be horribly humid. If you aren’t used to humidity, then you definitely won’t want to stay in Seoul the entire time you’re here. Most Seoulites head to the coast whenever they can or up into the mountains to soak in the rivers and lakes because that is just the best way to cool off. There are beautiful beaches on the eastern, southern, and western coasts of Korea so make sure to have time to visit one.

Once you get here, you’ll definitely want to make the time because summer is hot hot hot! Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to summer in Korea for more information.

Autumn (Mid-September ~ November): Autumn is definitely one of the most beautiful times to visit Korea when the fall foliage bursts into an array of colors across the peninsula and the scents of cinnamony hoddeok waft down the streets. Not only do the leaves change, but there are flower fields that burst into bloom as well. You can find some gorgeous flowers in the World Cup Parks as well as at Nari Park .

The only problem with autumn is that it’s difficult to pin down. You can make plans, but the foliage can burst at any time. October is a sure bet and early November for flowers and foliage at the same time. Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to fall in Korea for more information.

Winter (December ~ February): Winter is not easy in Seoul. It can be beautiful if it snows and I know a lot of tourists headed here in the winter are hoping for that winter wonderland they may have seen in Korean dramas. Honestly though, if you definitely want to see snow, make plans to head out of Seoul to the mountains where you can ski or snowboard or just visit a resort with a ton of snow. There are some great options for getting out of the city to see snow if that’s what you’re looking for.

Otherwise, if you’re staying in Seoul this winter, just plan to wear a long parka and jump inside as often as possible. It is freezing especially in January and February. Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to winter in Korea for more information.

Spring (March ~ May): Spring is a gorgeous time to visit… again if it’s planned right. People often come looking for the cherry blossoms and that’s just so difficult to pinpoint early in the year. They’re often blooming on my birthday in mid April, but this year it was still soooo cold and no blooms that early, so it’s hard to say.

However, that said, there are lots of flowers to see around Seoul whether it be cherry blossoms, tulips, or daisies, so just be ready to look for some other bloomers if flowers is what you seek. Also, make sure to bring jackets and cover ups because it can still be quite chilly in the spring. Find out all there is to know in this complete guide to spring in Korea for more information. 

A Guide To Spring In Korea: Cherry Blossoms and More

A Guide to Summer in Korea: Get Ready For Fun

A Guide to Fall In Korea: Foliage and More

A Guide To Winter In Korea: Snow and Ice and Everything Nice

• Tipping is not required or expected in South Korea.
• Water from the tap is potable, safe to drink.
• You won’t find large glasses of water at restaurants but you can find water machines so grab a water bottle to carry along with you.

The Top Things You Must See & Do In Seoul

1. a korean palace.

There are five palaces in the city of Seoul with the largest and most popular being Gyeongbokgung Palace . Gyeongbokgung Palace is beautiful and very much worth the visit. This is THE palace that a first-timer to Korea should see but it does get crowded during high tourist seasons so here’s what you should know about the other palaces nearby just in case.

A lot of tourists rent Hanboks and visit the palaces. Did you know you actually get free entry if you’re wearing a Hanbok? Keep reading to find the best places to go to rent a Hanbok in downtown Seoul.

The nearby Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden require a tour reservation and is known for having gorgeous views in every season. Changgyeonggung Palace is just around the corner from Changdeokgung Palace and actually connects in the back corner and yet most people never even see this one.

If you want a palace to yourself with a beautiful pond and a gorgeous greenhouse built during the Japanese colonization, don’t miss it and then you can walk through the back gate into Changdeokgung Palace. Kind of a two for one experience and a unique one at that.

Deoksugung Palace is one that’s rather well known because it’s easy to find near City Hall and they have a changing of the guard ceremony which is great fun to watch. This palace is unique in that there are numerous architectural styles on the grounds as well as an art museum inside one of the buildings in the grounds. This palace is much smaller than the others and easy to see quickly if you don’t have much time in your schedule.

Gyeonghuigung Palace is the smallest and least popular of the palaces, which doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be visited, so do look at the info for it.

Though that is the five that are well known, there is also a royal residence that is downtown that you could easily walk to and is very different from the others in that it’s unpainted and often used for photos by the locals. The royal residence is called Unhyeonggung Royal Residence. This beautiful spot is great for photos.

2. A traditional market

Gwangjang Market: This is my FAVORITE spot to take visitors and get good authentic eats in the city of Seoul. It is hustling and busy and there are good eats to be had from every vendor there.

If you want to see an awesome traditional market, the oldest traditional market, in Seoul, then go here and check out my guide t o Gwangjang Market if you want to know what to eat. This market was also featured in a Netflix series as well so if you’re a foodie, do not miss it.

Tongin Market: Tongin Market is another traditional market that does it just a bit differently. This market which is just west of Gyeongbokgung Palace , a neighborhood not often visited by tourists but more well known by locals, does a cool thing with old traditional coins and food.

This is a great option if you aren’t sure what you like yet and want to try a little of a lot of different things. Here is some information on how to use the coins at Tongin Market and what you can get.

Noryangjin Fish Market:  If you want to see the largest fish market in Seoul, then Noryangjin Fish Market is the one for you. While it is by no means the ONLY fish market in the city, it is the most popular for tourists to visit.

If you want to see the real action, you’ll have to wake up before sunrise to see the sale, but if you want to some good eats, definitely go later so you can pick out your own fish and then eat it in the market. There is both an old and a new part of Noryangjin Market , so make sure you know where you’re headed.

3. Rent a Hanbok

Renting a Hanbok is one of the most memorable and unique experiences you can have in Seoul. On top of it being a great way to learn more about the culture, it’s also a lot more budget friendly than you might realize and you can even get into traditional sites for FREE when you’re wearing a Hanbok. Learn more about where to rent a Hanbok in Seoul and everything else you need to know about it. 

4. Find the hotspots

Bukchon Hanok Village:  One of the must see neighborhoods in the city of Seoul, the Bukchon Hanok Village is popular for a reason. The residential neighborhood is home to traditional Korean Hanok houses lined up all in a row. They are beautiful and there are a ton of intimate Hanok cafes and traditional experiences.

This is one of those areas that you’ve seen pictures of again and again but will want to visit on your own. Check out this guide to Bukchon Hanok Village to learn more about the area, where to go, and what to eat. Or, check out this Bukchon Itinerary .

Insadong District:  Near Bukchon Hanok Village and Gyeongbokgung Palace, this is a popular district for traditional tea houses and Buddhist restaurants. If you want to prepare for the traditional tea houses, check out this guide to traditional Korean tea options because there are so so many!

This is also THE district to head to if you’re looking to purchase Korean souvenirs to take home to friends and family. If you want to learn more about the area, check out this guide to Insadong that I put together.

Gangnam:  The district that became popular around the world when Psy’s song “Gangnam Style” took over the airwaves, this district is known for a bit of luxury, lots of cosmetic surgery, and some great eats too.

If you’re interested in seeing what there is to see in the area, then check out this guide to Gangnam to see it all from amazing street art to museums and more. Oh, and definitely make sure you see the Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Show .

Hongdae: Full of live music, artistic fun, and plenty of pubs, restaurants, and fun cafes to check out . Check out this guide to Hongdae for all of the best things to do there.

The area has grown and expanded and now when people saying they’re going to Hongdae, they might very well mean they’re headed to Yeontral Park (a play on Central Park) in Yeonnam-dong or they’re headed to the up and coming district of Mangwon-dong . There are buskers and groups of K-pop dancers that make the entire area very vibrant and fun.

Myeongdong Shopping District:  Myeongdong is THE spot to go if you’re looking to get your shopping on while you’re in Seoul and is one of the best districts to try a ton of amazing street food options.

With all of the major international and local brands as well as a TON of K-beauty shops, you can get everything on your list in this area. Find out more in this guide to Myeongdong with some fun things to do in the area.

5. See a show

Nanta: This is the most popular and longest running theater show in Seoul. The show is a hilarious kitchen-based performance with a talented group of performers who have a mix of traditional folk pieces as well as modern skits.

Don’t worry if you can’t understand Korean, this performance is non-verbal and fun fun fun. Get your Nanta tickets through Klook to get an awesome discount.

The Painters: A new concept art performance that combines colorful live drawings with cutting-edge media art has been remodeled and reopened. Actors resembling idols, numbering from 4 to 8, express world-famous paintings such as Michelangelo’s ‘Creation of Heaven,’ Vincent Van Gohee’s ‘Self-Portrait,’ and Gustav Klimt’s ‘Kiss’ with splendid choreography and live drawings.

Their super luxurious stereoscopic images and live performances create a a new impression of painting. G et your tickets to see The Painters online with Klook for the discount.

6. Visit the Han River

The Han River cuts through the center of the city so at some point, you’ll definitely see it either when you’re crossing a bridge or from your tall hotel, but you should definitely take some time to go and visit one of the Han riverside parks. They are gorgeous and there is definitely going to be one near wherever you’re staying. Some of them have beautiful art installations while others are where you can jump on a Eland Hangang River cruise .

There are some great experiences to be had at the river. Check out this complete guide to all of the Han River parks to see which one will be near you. Some have outdoor swimming pools, one even has a beautiful infinity pool that ends at the river and it is super budget friendly. Some have bike rental kiosks, kayaks, sail boats and more.

7. Get a good view

Seoul Sky Tower: Seoul Sky Observatory is the third highest observatory in the world and features the highest glass deck in the world. The views are absolutely stunning and there are multiple floors for viewing from the 117th to the 120th floor. This is just next to Lotte World as well if you want to combine it with some fun and views! Seoul Sky Tower is a bit out of the way compared to a lot of the tourist sites but worth the subway ride.

And, to top it off, if you want to stay in the tallest hotel in Seoul and get the most beautiful views right when you wake up in the morning, then look no further than Signiel Hotel which is right in this tower too!

N Seoul Tower: While Seoul Sky is the newest dazzling spot in the city to get views from, Namsan Tower, also called N Seoul Tower , is older, more central, and a bit more romantic. Take a cable car up to the tower and then sit beneath a beautiful pagoda until your time to head up to the top. This tour is a major highlight in the city and is easy to combine with any bit of the itinerary in central Seoul. It’s an iconic spot that is definitely one of the top three must visit locations in the city.

Other Spots For Views: The two spots above are definitely the most popular for views, but they are not the only places to get views though they are the most iconic. If you want some more ideas though, here are more great spots in Seoul to get amazing views that also happen to be super budget friendly. These are definitely spots that will surprise you and even some that locals don’t know about.

8. Visit lots and lots of cafes

It honestly amazes me how many cafes there are and how interesting they all are. Koreans go all out with aesthetics and creating Instagrammable cafes and you can really find them all over but there are a few neighborhoods that you can literally hop from fun and quirky cafe to beautiful cafe and back again. How many coffees can you possibly drink in one day? Don’t miss the cafes in Mangwon-dong . If you want to know what some of the trendiest cafes are, check out this guide to the awesome greenhouse cafes that have been popping up over the past couple of years.

9. Visit a museum

The Korean War Memorial: There are some really amazing museums in Korea and what’s even better is that they’re budget friendly if not free. The Korean War Memorial is really interesting especially if you’re interested in learning about the Korean War and the numerous other wars in Korean history.

There are also often docents who actually fought in the Korean War available to show you around and offer stories and information. If you have children, it’s also great because there are historic planes and other relics outside that kids can climb up to and through to check out. You can learn more about the museum here .

The National Museum Of Korea: Another great museum that has both free and paid exhibitions, is the National Museum of Korea which also has a substantial park and pond with relics beautiful in all seasons. This is a museum more focused on the historical artifacts of Korea.

This is also a great option to have during monsoon season. Learn more about the National Museum of Korea here. FYI, you can also visit the National Hangeul Museum which is just in front of this one as well.

Seodaemun Prison History Museum:  The Seodaemun Prison History Museum is a former prison that housed martyrs during the Japanese colonization of Korea and is now a museum dedicated to tell the stories about the people that were once housed there.

Again, this is a very impactful museum especially if you are interested in the tumultuous history in Korea. Here is more information about the Seodaemun Prison History Museum.

The War & Women’s Human Rights Museum: A much smaller but no less impactful museum in Seoul is the War and Women’s Human Rights Museum which is dedicated to tell the story about the comfort women. The issue of sexual slavery during WWII is still highly contested by Japan but certainly proven by enough groups at this point.

The Korean comfort women are still fighting to be heard. Go visit this museum to learn more about what they went through and the fight they continue to have today.

The Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art (MMCA): If you’re more interested in the arts, then don’t miss the Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art which is just east of Gyeongbokgung Palace so it’s easy to add to any itinerary in downtown Seoul. This museum uses varying architectural styles and hosts some gorgeous exhibitions. To check out the hours and learn more about the Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art, check out this guide .

Leeum Samsung Museum: The Leeum Samsung Museum is both architecturally stunning and always has some amazing exhibitions to check out. It’s in the easy to visit area of Hannam-dong and is one of my favorite art museums in the city. There are quite a few to choose from, but this is one that should be on your list if you like art museums and architecture.

This is probably a museum that is off the beaten path for most first-travelers but might just be up your alley if you like art and architecture. Here’s more information about Leeum Samsung Museum here .

Seoul Museum of Craft Art: SeMoCA is the first national museum in Seoul created to showcase Korean crafts. The museum is made up of seven buildings so you need to weave in and out and around much like some of the embroidery products you’ll see inside.

Not only is the museum amazing, the children’s museum is just wonderful and offers so many free experiences for kids. Learn more in this guide to the Seoul Museum of Craft Art.

10. Visit a Spa

There are some great options if you want the Korean spa experience. If you don’t want to get all the way nude but want to experience at least a Korean facial , you can do that too! Here are a couple great spas to check out in Seoul if you want the full experience complete with a Korean Italy towel exfoliating scrub.

Yeo Yong Guk Korean Traditional Medicine Spa:  Want something more traditional? Visit this spa which is one of the 25 must visit wellness attractions in Korea as designated by the Korea Tourism Organization. After a quick physical analysis, the staff will provide a customized spa package using natural medicinal plants, pressure point, and massage. It’s a truly unique spa experience here in Seoul .

Hana Mud Spa: If you want a more local experience, check out this Korean bath house. The spa is a bit extra with their mud masks straight from the Boryeong mud that’s rich in minerals, but other than that, it’s a pretty standard spa for women only. Prepare to bare and enjoy the experience. If you want to know more about a Korean bath house and what to do inside, here’s a step by step guide to the Korean bath house culture.

11. Visit an amusement park

Lotte World: Lotte World is the most popular theme park in Seoul and is easy to get to right in the city. Get the Magic Pass to skip the lines and enjoy the rides. The rides to check out are the Conquistador, World Monorail, French Revolution, VR Space, and the Flume Ride. There’s fun, adventure, and more. Take a day and enjoy!

Everland: If you’ve got a bit more time, visit Everland, outside of the city of Seoul, but hop on the shuttle bus and you can get there. It is one of the world’s largest theme parks and features a ton of rides and experiences to be had. Make sure to get your tickets online before you go to get the discount that is available.

12. See the DMZ

While this isn’t technically IN Seoul, most tours to the DMZ start from Seoul . If you don’t know it yet, you’re technically visiting a country that is at war. Have I ever been scared living here? No. Let’s just get that question out the way.

Should you visit the DMZ? If you want to have a glimpse of North Korea and visit the most heavily guarded limit line in the world? Then definitely yes. There is a lot to be learned and some interesting spots to check out.

You can only go INTO the DMZ with a tour. You can get pretty close without one, but you need to be on a government approved tour if you want to go in. Most tours will take you to the DMZ area in Paju where you will first make a stop in the Nuri Peace Park and then head into to see one of the tunnels that the North Koreans dug to try and sneak into South Korea. If you want to go it on your own and try to get in, there is one option.

You can go in to see Camp Greaves which was formerly an American base which was given back to the Korean people and is now a museum featuring art and history information. Another option if you want to go it on your own a bit, head up to the Cheorwon DMZ area where you can enter with an approved taxi. No matter what, you can’t just wander in though so if you want to make it easy on yourself, sign up for a tour early as they do fill up. Here are some good options to choose from:

• Panmunjom & DMZ Tour: Visit the Unification Bridge and Panmunjom along with Imjingak/Nuri Peace Park and the 3rd Tunnel on this full day tour. Join this tour here.
• Imjingak Transfer Service: If you just want to get back and forth to Imjingak/ Nuri Peace Park area where you can get on the bus to Camp Greaves, or just enjoy the unification village, then look into this transfer service which will take you back and forth easily.

13. Check out these notable spots in between

Seoul Botanic Park: Seoul Botanic Park is one of the newest and beautiful parks in Seoul. There is a gorgeously huge greenhouse and if it’s winter, it is warm warm warm inside. If it’s summer, head inside, but then check out the substantial park that surrounds.

This is in an up and coming area of Seoul and it’s super easy to get to right out of the subway station. To learn more about this greenhouse and park, check out this complete post on the Seoul Botanic Park.

Cheonggyecheon Stream: The Cheonggyecheon Stream is another iconic spot in central Seoul. This stream was actually covered over in the modernization of the city after the war but during construction some years later was rediscovered and the high way built atop it was removed.

Not only did it make for a beautiful green space in central Seoul, but it helped in lowering the temperature downtown and birds and fish returned. Now, there are events like the Lantern Festival held here throughout the year. Walk along the stream from Gwanghwamun Square down to Gwangjang Market and even all the way down to Dongdaemun Design Plaza.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): The Dongdaemun Design Plaza was immediately popular upon being built and opened to the public. Now the host of the Seoul Fashion Week as well as numerous other exhibitions and events, this eye catching structure designed by Zaha Hadid was the most Instagrammed location in Korea in 2015.

You’ll have to walk up, down, inside, and outside to really understand what is going on. Want to see some more architectural wonders in Seoul? Check out this list of really interesting architectural spots in Seoul .

Ihwa Mural Village: Ihwa Mural Village is a fun neighborhood in central Seoul near the palaces that provide a great spot to take a walk and area to learn about local communities. The neighbors didn’t ASK for their neighborhood to be turned into an attraction though, so it’s important to know the rules before you go.

Here’s more information on the street murals to see there and how to find it. See the murals and you can walk along a section of the Seoul Fortress Wall for great views out over the city as well.

Seoullo Walkway:  In central Seoul just outside of Seoul Station, is a beautiful walkway that connects the downtown neighborhoods for pedestrians so that they never have to wait for a traffic light.

The walkway used to be an overpass but was renovated into a fun spot to take a walk with outdoor installations, trampolines for kids, tons of plants and greenery and there are often events held on the walkway. If you’re headed to the train station for any reason, this is an easy addition onto the day that doesn’t take too long to enjoy. Here is more info about Seoullo and what you can do there.

Oil Tank Culture Park: I personally like to check out unique spots that show how a city is growing and adapting. The Oil Tank Culture Park is just that. There are six massive oil drums that have been converted through a series of conservation measures to now be a public space.

The drums have been opened up so visitors can use them with one housing a cafe, another a performance space, and more. If you want to see some awesome eco-friendly innovation, this is a must visit. Learn more about the Oil Tank Culture Park here.

In general, it’s easy to get around and you’ll be able to see what you see, but if you really want to learn about a place, know what’s in the food you’re about to eat, and understand Korean culture and history, I’d highly recommend joining a tour or two to get some insight. The other reason to join a tour or at least book tickets for shows, entrance fees, etc, is because online is almost always cheaper.

Koreans use companies online always and that’s because tickets can be 10%-50% cheaper than when you just walk up. Don’t get left out of the discounts. Book what you can in advance. If it’s your first time in Seoul, then find a few tours, maybe one focused on culture, one on food, and one on adventure to join while you’re here.

Here are some ideas I’d recommend:

• History of Joseon Dynasty Tour: Spend the day visiting one of the royal palaces and witnessing a beautiful changing of the guard ceremony. Stop into the Jogyesa Buddhist temple and ginseng center while learning about history and architecture and culture and then end the day in one of the traditional folk villages. It’s an all encompassing tour to see traditional spots and learn a ton about how Seoul was started and built. Check out the tour here on Klook .
• Cooking classes in Seoul : There are a number of cooking classes in Seoul that I think are great not only to try some great food, but to learn about Korea’s culinary history, tradition, and culture and you can ask questions about dining etiquette in Korea and more.

Want help with your itinerary? I have a lot of experience building the perfect itineraries for travelers to Seoul. I’ve created 15 interchangeable daily itineraries for Seoul, Korea that cover the popular spots you must see, some districts that aren’t so touristy but offer great fun, and more.

Where To Get Out Of Seoul For a Day Trip

Daytrips are awesome and there are so many places you can get to if you’ve got a free day on your itinerary. Here are a few ideas, but if you want more, check out my list of “ Best Daytrips to take from Seoul “. There are 25 spots to see and enjoy and I’ll know there is something you’ll want to do.

Nami Island: This is by far one of the most popular day trip options and for good reason. It’s gorgeous. While it’s popular with K-drama fans, I can say, as someone who has NOT seen any drama that was filmed there, that it’s not just a fan that would appreciate this place. There are art installations, restaurants, cafes, and plenty of nature to see.

I’ve visited in the autumn and summer and would definitely go back in the winter and spring too. It’s an easy option for a day trip and can be combined with some other great spots in the area. Read this guide to Nami Island if its on your list.

The DMZ:  At just 60km from Seoul, it’s easy enough to visit the DMZ, but only if you book a tour in advance. Tours do sell out so if you’re at all interested in visiting the border between North and South Korea, you’ll want to plan this ahead of time. The Demilitarized Zone is a 4 kilometer wide buffer zone between North Korea and South Korea.

There are various options from Seoul with the most popular being out to Nuri Peace Park in Paju and into the DMZ. If you do get out there and want to do something really special, visit Camp Greaves, an abandoned military base that’s been converted into an art experience. If you want to visit a spot that’s more off the beaten path but just a bit more involved, check out the trip to the Cheorwon DMZ .

Heyri Art Village: This is one of my favorite spots to take my daughter to, but it’s not just for kids, it is for everyone. There are chic art galleries and museums as well as artistic experiences for children to partake in. There are SO many museums and galleries to check out that you could stay an entire weekend and still not see everything.

We’ve gone and gone again and there’s always something new to do. If you want to know how to get there, and have some ideas on what to do, here is a guide to Heyri Art Village.

Anyang Art Park: The Anyang Art Park is an awesome natural area with art installations and exhibitions throughout the year. There are restaurants and cafes and it’s a great spot to check out if you want to get out into nature and take a walk.

The installations are super fun to find and require a bit of a walk up into a nearby mountain… but not to worry, it’s not really a trek and toddlers can even do it. Here is a guide to Anyang Art Park to help you on your way.

Seongsu-dong

Seongsu-dong has been called the Brooklyn of Seoul. Once a district known for shoe factories, today, many of those factories are being converted into cafes, galleries, and restaurants. This district is hip, it’s cool, and it is THE place to go if you want to do something different in Seoul. There is awesome street art and murals and a ton of hidden gems in this new hot spot in Seoul. If you want some suggestions for where to go, what to do, and what to eat while you’re there, check out this guide to Seongsu-dong .

Mullae-dong

Also a district known for factories, Mullae-dong is still very much filled with the iron works factories it’s famous for. Some years ago, artists from Hongdae that couldn’t afford the rent in the popular district moved south and found homes in Mullae-dong. By day, this area is noisy and gritty with iron workers, but come evening into night, there are galleries and restaurants owned by artists and musicians.

It’s off the beaten path to tourists for sure, but there are some cool things to be found if you like to have a good hunt. Here are my suggestions for what to see in Mullae-dong if you want to head there.

Yongma Land

Yongma Land is a popular abandoned amusement park in Seoul. It’s been showcased in various K-pop videos and dramas and anyone looking for some cool photos can head to the park to take their own photos. It’s a funky spot but a fun one especially if you’ve got some friends that want to get some quirky photos in Seoul or if you are a Hallyu fan and want to take photos in the same spots that you’ve seen in dramas and vids. Here’s more information on the popular abandoned Yongma Land in Seoul.

Ganghwado Island

Ganghwado is an island west of the city of Seoul that is easily accessible with public buses from the city. It used to be a bit more difficult to get to, but in recent years a bridge was added and now more and more Seoulites are making their way out to this island to see what there is to see, like the awesome Royyal Dog mural above.

There are cool restaurants and cafes, a few beaches, and some interesting historical spots to check out. Here are some flower fields and cool cafes to check out if you want to make your way out to Ganghwado.

Hannam-dong

Hannam-dong is the district that’s just up the road from the foreigner district known as Itaewon. Hannam-dong has art museums and a ton of cafes and restaurants with foreign treats if you want something in the American-fare style. Here’s a guide to the Hannam-dong area that has cool cafes, good eats, and a lot of Instagrammable book stores and staircases.

This isn’t a hugely popular spot for tourists but mostly for expats and foreigners in Korea that want to get good authentic foreign food. If you have a hankering for something other than Korean food, then you’ll easily find it over here.

Pocheon is an interesting area northeast of Seoul that has hidden wooden giants in forests, bridges, and lakes. There are some beautiful hidden wonders that are really only accessible if you’ll be renting a car for a day. But if you will be, look into this easy trip from Seoul that is off the beaten path.

Here’s a guide to Pocheon and what to see there. Again, this isn’t a spot that’s usually on the radars of most tourists, but if you want something unique, it’s a good area to get out to where can visit an amazing makgeolli, or rice wine, brewery and find nature too!

Busan is the second largest city in the country and on the southern coast of Korea. It’s the most popular spot to check out for most travelers that want to see something outside of Seoul. The city is easy to get to from Seoul using the KTX fast train and there are beaches, a seaside temple, a colorful seaside village, and a TON more to check out.

Some of the must see spots include Gamcheon Culture Village, Taejongdae , and Haeundae. You could easily spend a couple days or more in this awesome city.

Here’s a guide to Busan to help you on your way! Definitely don’t miss stops into the Huinnyeoul Culture Village and then take a ride on the cable car in Songdo or a ride on the now very popular Busan Sky Capsule . For a real treat, check out the premier spa in the country, Busan’s Spa Land . There’s so much to do, you could fill a week or more!

Gyeongju was the capital of Korea during the Silla Dynasty and the capital before Seoul. It’s one of the most historic, if not THE most historic, cities in the entire country and features more pagodas, relics, and historic sites in one city than any other in the country.

The small city is basically an open air museum as every corner you turn leads to another historic observatory, tomb, palace, or Buddhist relic. It was one of the first trips I made out of Seoul when I first moved here in 2006 and is an easy trip to make using the KTX from Seoul.

It’s a gorgeous area with history and culture and beautiful sites to visit. Definitely look into Gyeongju if you want to learn more about history in Korea and appreciate quite peaceful surroundings. Here is a guide to Gyeongju with more information on what you can find there.

Andong has been called the most traditional place in Korea. There is a beautiful huge traditional village and some amazing food to eat in Andong. It’s gorgeous in the spring when the cherry blossoms bloom and the Andong Mask Festival is an amazing event to check out in the autumn if you’re visiting at the same time.

From delicious food to traditional and cultural spots, Andong has it all. Here’s a guide to Andong , how to get there, and what to do if it sounds like the spot for you.

Most likely you came into Korea through Incheon but you probably didn’t stay too long as you headed into Seoul. You should definitely head back out there. There are some really interesting spots in Incheon including the only legit Chinatown in the country.

Incheon’s Chinatown was first started by the Chinese immigrants that came to Korea to work. Nearby there is also a fun fairytale mural village and a village made entirely of older buildings. It’s a fun area to walk around and makes for a great day trip from Seoul.

You could also plan to see what’s around the Incheon International Airport on your way in or out. The airport is on an island in Incheon and there’s plenty to do just around the airport. If you want to treat yourself on your way in or out, then definitely look into staying at the amazing Paradise City Resort . Even if you don’t stay there, there’s a free art museum and a beautiful pool and sauna that you can visit.

Want to see some amazing architecture, check out the Songdo Central Park where the awesome TriBowl is located. Another great option in Incheon is to take a ferry and visit nearby islands like Modo, Sindo, and Sido ! All of these spots are really in different parts of Incheon so don’t try to see them all in one day. You’ll have to pick one if you just have one day to travel.

Jeju Island is the most popular and largest island in Korea. It has been called the Hawai’i of Korea and is absolutely stunning. The island is bigger than you might expect so know that before you go. You can really only see things in one quadrant; northwest, northeast, southwest, or southeast at a time especially if you’ve only got a weekend. Choose what you want to see and then stay nearby (Here’s a guide to help you figure out where to stay on Jeju Island ) and an absolute must do is hiking up Mt. Halla .

If hiking isn’t your thing though, there’s also a walking trail that follows the entire coast of Jeju. Choose an area and you can walk and enjoy cliff views, black sand beaches, and forests too. If you want to get somewhere easily and have fun, check out Hamdeok Beach . Another hot spot for tourists is the O’Sulloc Green Tea Fields and the gigantic and gorgeous Jeongbang Waterfall .

But if you want my two recommendations, definitely get a ferry out to nearby Gapa Island which you can only leisurely enjoy via bicycle and then walk up Sanbang Mountain to visit a beautiful grotto Nearby you can walk along the rocky but beautiful Yeongmori Coastcoast . Jeju is amazing and there is just so much to do and see there. You can even go island hopping to visit nearby islands like Udo Island or Gapa Island . If you have time, don’t miss a trip there to get a completely different experience from the hustling bustling city of Seoul.

Danyang, Korea is in the central area of Korea so a lot of people pass right by on the way south without stopping. But if you like adventure and maybe have a bit less time, it’s definitely worth a look. Visit the Mancheonha Skywalk and then zipline down.

From there, head to Chungju Lake and ride a ferry to see the gorgeous views. Head down into the Gosu Caves that were formed over 450 million years ago and then end the weekend paragliding off of the mountains. It’s a spot for the adventure loving traveler. Here’s what you should check out in Danyang.

Oido & Daebudo Islands

Maybe you want to see the coast in quick fashion. Oido is an island you can actually reach using just the Seoul subway system! If you’ve got a car, you can go just a bit further to Daebudo Island to see the glass museum and watch the waves come in.

The islands are beautiful and great for a summer’s day. There is seafood to be eaten and a rest stop that even features an observatory. I love getting to the coast whenever I can and this is an easy spot to get to if you just have a day to work with. Here’s what you can find in Oido and Daebudo.

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Amaizing and so useful website! Congratulations! I will arrive in Korea on 20th of May and can’t wait to explore the country.

Michelle Topham

Wow, I just discovered your site and, honestly, it’s probably the best travel site I’ve ever seen.

I’m currently considering moving to Korea within the next 18 months, and was looking for a site that could answer the thousands of questions I have about the country.

And then I stumbled across yours.

(I’ve only been on an airport layover in Seoul a couple of times during the 14 years I lived in Bangkok so, weirdly, never actually visited Korea. But, after 6 years in Europe, I’m desperate to get back to Asia permanently and Korea interests me. A lot),

An absolutely superb site, with SO much useful information. I have you bookmarked and will be back pretty much every day as I read through everything you have written — and maybe with some questions too 🙂

Thanks for this. I couldn’t be happier to hav e found something so darned useful 🙂

I really envy you. I wish I could do the same thing. Thank you for sharing such valuable information. I am planning a trip to Seoul and this is definitely very very useful. thank you.

Hallie Bradley

I hope you have a fantastic trip!

Hi you mentioned a subway app under useful apps to download. I’m curious if you could tell me the name of the app? Thank you!

I am just amazed! What a fantastic job you did here Hallie. Hello from Centerville Ohio!

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30 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting South Korea

Offering plethora of activities ranging from beaches and mountains to the charming countryside and bustling vibrant cities , South Korea is an amazing travel destination and one of the safest countries on Earth. You might think that visiting South Korea is similar to other East Asian countries but it’s actually rather different. There are a lot of things that make South Korea and Koreans unique and there are a lot of things you should know before visiting Korea. Here are some of the things I wish I knew before my trip to Korea.

Getting a Visa

First things first. Before thinking of visiting Korea, you need to check if you need a visa . You can do that here and if you’re coming from a country that needs a visa, you can apply for one on the same page. IVisa is a reputable company with a long history behind them and even though I usually don’t support applying for visas online, I can vouch for them as I have used their services personally.

Learn some basic Korean

One of the most useful things you can do before visiting Korea is to pick up a few words and phrases. Sure, you can try to get by with simply speaking English everywhere you go, but you’d gain so much more out of your experience by learning to fraternize with the locals a little bit. A lot of locals do speak some English but most of them won’t simply because they’re too conscious and uncomfortable with their pronunciation.

If you want to prepare yourself for an immersive experience and learn Korean, you might want to pick up a few lessons with an online tutor. Here are the best Korean tutors online that should help you learn some basics before your trip. You should at least learn how to greet people, order food and drinks, and ask for directions. These are all things that’ll make your time in Korea far more meaningful. I mean, how can you say you experienced what South Korea has to offer without even interacting with its people?

Or if learning the language is too much of a challenge, you should at least try to.

Learn some Hangul (it’s very easy)

Hangul is the  South Korean  language alphabet. Different from Chinese, it’s actually phonetic, which means that it’s made from letters that you can sound out as opposed to having characters that you need to memorize.

When you first look at it, it might seem a bit incomprehensible, but it’s actually rather simple to learn. Some people can even get the hang of it in a single day. If you’re able to learn Hangul, it can make your Korean trip easier, even if you aren’t able to speak the language. This is because you’ll have the ability to recognize the names of food on the menus and even street names and destinations.

Get acquainted with Korean culture

One great way to learn about a new country’s culture is through movies, music, and local pop culture. K-Pop is a very important part of Korean society and some of their movies are severely underrated.

Fortunately, Korean popular culture is easier than ever to get into. There’s the hit movie Parasite, the World-renowned boy band BTS, and you can even find some Korean drama websites to brush up on even more TV and movies. Immersing yourself in these things will do more than just give you a crash course in pop culture though, you can also pick up a few Korean words if you’ve got an ear for languages.

Of course, this isn’t necessary but it can help you relate to and understand Koreans and their ways of doing things. This will also help you converse with Koreans while.

Distinguishing patriotic pride from arrogance

Most Koreans are proud of their country and they aren’t shy to bring up kimchi, soju or famous K-pop stars. As a first-timer, this might seem like Koreans thinking that their things are better than everyone else’s but that’s not true. This is just a way of them showing their patriotic pride. In situations like this, try to show some appreciation or share some positive things you learned about Korea and you might even make some local friends along the way.

Confucianism rules

Korea might be a democratic republic with a president and a Prime Minister but Confucius is still the king. Today, the legacy of Confucianism is a fundamental part of Korean society. In fact, Confucianism is shaping not only the country’s moral system, but also the way of life, all social interactions between Korean people, and is even the basis for much of Korea’s legal system. For many, Confucianism in Korea is a pragmatic way of keeping the entire nation together despite the civil wars and internal dissent inherited from the Goryeo dynasty.

Get used to no personal space

Even though South Korea covers a territory of only 100,000 square kilometers, the country’s total population is 50 million. Half of these 50 million live in the Seoul Metropolitan Area! If you’re visitng Korea, a trip to Seoul is inevitable. And since we’re speaking of things to know before visiting Korea get used to shoving and pushing while you walk down the street. Don’t take this personally, people aren’t being rude. It’s just the only way to move around a sardine can like Seoul or even Busan and Incheon.

That’s why it’s very surprising that.

Public transport is very efficient

Getting around South Korea is very easy because of the amazing public transport . One good piece of advice I can give you is to buy a T-money card as soon as your reach. You can use this on public subways and buses in quite a few of the cities. It’ll also save you the hassle of having to buy a single ticket each time you ride the bus or subway, and it gives you discounts on rides when you have to transfer.

Transport-related apps you can use

When you have the world’s longest metro line (Seoul), it’s natural to expect that figuring out public transport can be challenging at times. And the fact that everything on the station is written in Korean certainly doesn’t help.

However, there are a few apps that can make this easier. Every bigger city has a metro app (in English) that you can use while staying there (ex. Seoul Metro App, Busan Metro App, etc.). And if you’re looking for some more useful tips about visiting Korea, check out the app VisitKorea.

What about using KTX?

The Korean Train Express is probably the easiest and fastest way of getting around Korea. These trains can get you to your final destination twice faster than a regular train but it’ll also cost twice as much. So, it all comes down to what’s more important for you; time or money. The website is relatively user-friendly and allows travelers to book their tickets up to several months in advance.

Intercity buses

Intercity buses are a great budget option to get to different places. You can get to every small village in Korea by buses, they’re slightly faster than regular trains and provide more flexibility to canceling and making changes to your booking. The best way is to buy tickets at bus terminals but you can also book in advance on websites like Bustago and Kobus.

And speaking of important transportation things to know before visiting Korea .

Don’t use black cabs

If you end up making this mistake , you’ll be hit with a big bill at the end of your ride. These cabs are known as “deluxe taxis” and charge a premium fee for supposedly being safer and more trustworthy. However, once you get to Korea, you’ll see that these cabs are just not worth it.

How are the hotels in South Korea?

Even the cheapest hotels are relatively nice and hygienic but you’ll be surprised by the price difference. Sure, you can find guesthouses and small hotels that charge $15- $20 per night but the most expensive hotels like the Holiday Inn can charge up to $300 per night which is more than the Holiday Inns in the US or Europe!

If you’re looking for a great hotel deal in South Korea, use this Booking.com discount code to save up to 15% on all properties in South Korea.

And speaking of hotels, one of the most important things to know before visiting Korea is.

Beware of check-in and check-out times

Most Korean hotels don’t allow their guests to check-in before a certain time (ex. 10 AM). The ones that do might charge 50% of the daily rate for early check-in. You should always have this in mind when planning your trip.

What are love motels?

Love motels originally appeared in South Korea in the 1980s and the 1988 Olympics in Seoul fuelled their growth. Love motels are, just as their name describes, a place where couples can enjoy some privacy and charge their customers per hour. They’re still a taboo topic in Korea and a lot of people don’t like them in their neighborhoods but you can find a lot of nice love motels offering cleaner rooms and a lot of modern services.

Korean food

If you like spicy food and are a non-vegetarian, you’ll have a great time in Korea. Kimchi is an obvious first choice but there are a lot of great dishes to try, like Korean BBQ, gamjatang, pajeon, japchae, bulgogi, Korean seitan sandwich , naengmyeon, and of course, street food. However, before you do this, learn some (Korean) table manners. Here are a few things to know before dining in a restaurant (or in someone’s house) in Korea.

Koreans usually use metal chopsticks. Obviously, these are used the same way as wooden chopsticks, except they’re more slippery that can be challenging if you don’t know how to use chopsticks. Luckily, most Koreans won’t judge you for your chopstick skills but they might judge you for some of the things you do at the table.

• If there’s an elder person on the table, offer to pour them a drink before getting one for yourself.
• Don’t grab your chopsticks before the older person starts eating.
• Don’t pick up your rice bowl to eat. This might be common in China but not in Korea.
• Avoid leaving food on your spoon/chopsticks while eating.
• Don’t leave your chopsticks sticking out of your rice bowl.
• Drink your soup first before trying anything else.

Soju is as cheap as water 

In case you didn’t know, Soju is a mix of distilled ethanol and water and it’s very popular in Korea. A lot of people make soju themselves and you can buy a soju bottle for as little as 1,000 won (around $1 USD). Soju dates back to the 13th century but it hasn’t lost its popularity throughout the years. This popular drink ranges from 20-45% of alcohol and most people drink it neat but there are a lot of local cocktails that use soju as the main ingredient.

Don’t worry about tipping

Korea has a no-tipping culture but despite this most restaurants offer next-level service. In fact, leaving a tip might even be taken as an insult because, in Korea, the only workers who customarily receive tips are strippers. However, this isn’t the only difference when it comes to dining.

Most restaurants have ’ding-dongs’ on every table which you can use to call your waiter. In the restaurants that don’t have ’ding-dongs’, don’t be shy to shout “Yogiyo” (meaning I’m here) to summon your waiter. Unless you call him/her, they won’t come to check if everything is okay because most people in Korea take this as an unnecessary disturbance while eating.

One exception about this is asking for the bill. In Korea, you don’t call for the bill. The bill is probably already somewhere at your table (in a special pot, on the sides or underneath the table) and it comes with your order. The payment is done at the register, not at the table like in most western restaurants.

Is Seoul the greatest drinking city on Earth?

Very possibly, yes. Drinking is an indispensable part of socializing in Korean culture and it’s natural to expect to find a lot of great bars and pubs in the country’s capital. Seoul has a lot of top-notch vinyl bars, hookah bars, and even takeout bars.

Takeout bars are places where you can grab bagged drinks to go because drinking in public in Korea is completely legal. You’ll see a lot of people drinking beer or soju in front of convenience stores while eating some Anju (a popular local drinking snack).

However, Seoul is great at a lot of other things other than drinking. For example.

Seoul is one of the most teched-up cities in the world

With Wi-Fi integrated into every corner of the city, Seoul is probably the world’s most connected city. Wi-Fi is available on every subway station, train station, transit stations, and even energy-efficient street lamps and billboards! Even the poorest people in Seoul are equipped with smart devices because they get free second-hand devices.

Technology in the capital is so advanced that the u-Seoul safety service alerts caregivers and authorities when children or people with disabilities or Alzheimer’s stray from their designated safe area.

And as silly as it might sound, all this technological advance didn’t kill superstitions. Which leads me to my next point.

Korean superstitions

Asking for a fan while staying in a hotel room, might cause an alarm because most Koreans believe that sleeping with a fan on can suck the oxygen out of the room. If you use the elevator, you’ll inevitably notice that the number 4 isn’t there on the elevator buttons. The order goes 1, 2, 3, F, 5. The reason for this is that the number 4 is associated with bad luck in Korean culture. And Koreans take bad luck very seriously. A lot of them don’t wash their hair around the Lunar New Year because they fear that they’ll wash away their good luck.

How are things at the border?

The so-called demilitarized zone isn’t quite demilitarized. The 250-kilometers-long border that divides the Korean Peninsula into two parts is armed with heavy artillery, nukes, and over two million soldiers. This zone was created as a buffer zone and to return the prisoners among both sides but no peace treaty was ever signed. This technically means that the two Koreas are still at war. At the border, you can see soldiers from both sides of the border a surreal abandoned North Korean village, underground tunnels that were dug by the North Korean forces, an abandoned train station that was built in case the two countries reunite (even though most South Koreans are against the idea today), and tension can be felt in the air.

Hence, it’s no surprise that.

Google Maps isn’t very useful in South Korea

Korean regulations restrict the map data Google Maps has access to. The first limitation consists of Google Maps being unable to give you accurate directions. Sometimes, Google Maps will show you a direction from point A to point B while completely disregarding all streets in between. Another limitation is that Google doesn’t provide connections between public transport routes.

You can always use download some local maps that are only available in South Korea but all of them are in Korean (one of the reasons why I said learning some Korean is one of the most important things you should know before visiting Korea).

If you still want to rent a car in South Korea, you can and I suggest you use this AutoEurope offer and save up to 30% on all car rentals in South Korea.

How many days to spend in Korea?

If you have read any of our previous articles, you’ll know that we always encourage slow travel but we know that not everyone has the time to do this. If you want to fully experience Korea, you’d need at least 3-4 weeks but we have some suggestions even if you have less time.

If you only have a week, base yourself in either Busan or Seoul. If visiting for the first time, we recommend seeing more of Seoul and visiting Busan or perhaps taking a few day trips, like a trip to Korean Folk Village, Hwaseong Fortress or Ganghwado.

If you have two weeks, it’s probably a good idea to spend a week in Seoul and explore the northern part of the country and spend a week in either Busan or Gwangju and explore the southern part of the country. Busan is a more laid-back version of Seoul with plenty of things to keep you occupied while Gwangju is a great station if you want to explore more of Korea’s countryside.

As I said, this is the best option to get the most out of Korea. You would have enough time to spend a couple of days in all the bigger cities, explore the countryside, see the coastline and even make it to the beautiful Jeju Island .

With that being said, we can’t talk about things to know before visiting Korea without mentioning.

Things to know before visiting- The best time to visit Korea

This usually depends on what you want to do but it’s generally fall or spring. Early spring brings out the cherry blossoms while autumn has the magnificent foliage. Summers are too hot and humid and I don’t see another reason to visit except to sunbathe at some of the beautiful beaches on Korea’s east coast. Winters in Korea , on the other hand, are very cold and not for most people, unless you’re very fond of winters.

Should you take a tour or organize the trip by yourself?

The short answer is ‘it depends on what you want to do’. If you want to get off the beaten track and go hiking, we suggest you take a guide. You wouldn’t want to get stuck in a remote village where no one speaks English or even worse, an uninhabited place without access to Google Maps. However, if you want to wander around the city or plan your intercity transport, you can totally wing it without any issues.

And if you still want to take some tours, here are.

The best websites for tours in South Korea

Here are our suggestions for booking tours in Korea.

Trazy has a lot of tours around the country and they run a lot of promotions. If you have time before your trip, it’s a good idea to subscribe to their newsletter and stay updated with all of their offers.

GetYourGuide is another great choice for finding affordable tours in the bigger cities (including Jeju Island).

I suggest checking out all of these websites, making a list of things you want to do, and comparing the prices on all of these websites.

Buy an adapter

South Korea uses type C and type F outlets with a voltage of 220 volts and a frequency of 60 Hz. If your charger is different, you need to get a travel adapter . So, if you’re coming from the US or Europe, you might need a converter in addition to an adapter because, in some countries, the standard voltage is lower than 220 volts. Travel adaptors can be easily found in most electronics stores, but you can probably get it for even cheaper on Amazon.

It’s not a big deal if you don’t bring your skincare products

If you’re obsessed with skincare , you’ll love Korea! Seoul and Busan are covered with skincare shops and beauty stores and a lot of Korean women (and even men) apply 10-14 different skincare products per day! Koreans are absolutely obsessed with skincare products and the fearsome competition in the industry is keeping the prices relatively low which might not be the case if you’re buying Korean skincare products in your home country (because of export and other taxes).

A few more things to know before visiting Korea

For the cheapest flights to Korea, check out Qatar Airways’s Oh-La-La deals and save big on your flight!

If you want to rent a car when visiting Korea, use this AutoEurope offer and save up to 30% on all car rentals in South Korea.

For the best travel insurance deals for your trip to South Korea, check out SafetyWing . Sure, they’re slightly more expensive than most other travel insurance providers, but their plans cover any bad thing that can potentially happen on the road.

If you want to save on accommodation, use this Booking.com discount code to save up to 15% on all properties in South Korea.

Did you like this list of things to know before visiting Korea? Do you think we didn’t mention something important? Would you like to visit Korea someday? Let us know in the comments!

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South Korea Is A Total Bucket-List Destination – Here Are 10 Amazing Things To Get Up To

From the busy streets of Seoul to a night spent in a traditional hanok home – it's time to start planning your visit!

BuzzFeed Staff

I'm Hanifah and I love to travel. South Korea's been on my bucket list for years, but I’d never gotten around to planning the perfect trip.

View this photo on Instagram

So when I got the chance to join Intrepid’s first-ever Essential South Korea trip, I jumped at the opportunity.

As someone who loves a packed schedule but gets overwhelmed when it comes to the actual organising, the trip looked perfect. This isn't just your average holiday – it's an immersive experience packed full of adventures and is the newest addition to Intrepid’s 18-35 trips. The itinerary involves nine days of soaking up a wealthh of South Korean culture, visiting Seoul, Jeonju, Busan, and more. 

From trying street food to staying in a traditional historic home, the itinerary is packed to the brim with so many different cultural experiences, and I can’t think of a better way to explore the country in all its glory. If you’re thinking about visiting South Korea and want to make sure you make the most of it, check out everything that’s included in the Essential South Korea trip here.

Top tips before you go!

– To make the inevitable language barrier a little bit easier, I suggest downloading the app Papago for on-the-go translations. Not only does it have pretty good vocal recognition, but you can also take photos of text and have it instantly translated.

– No one expects you to be fluent, but knowing some basics of the language goes a long way. “Annyeonghaseyo” (ahn-nyeong-ha-se-yo) means hello and “gamsahabnida” (kam-sa-ham-ni-da) means thank you. You’re sure to pick up more Korean along your journey, but it’s good to have those basics down.

– It’s likely that the data on your phone won’t work, but there are simple solutions at the airport. You can hire a pocket wifi egg or a data sim card at the arrivals gate.

– When it comes to navigating travel in South Korea, Google Maps has nothing on Naver . It gives you perfect walking directions, as well as the best ways to get to your destination (each subway station has multiple exits, and without Naver, I’d have been totally lost). 

– A T-money card makes travelling super convenient. You can pick one up at any 7-Eleven for 3,000 KRW (about $2), and top it up in the subway station as you need. You can use a T-money card to pay for your travel on the bus, subway, and some taxis. 

Here are some amazing things to get up to in Korea!

🇰🇷 seoul 🇰🇷, 1. take a step back in time at the historical gyeongbokgung palace.

A few stops on the subway takes you out of the bustling city and back to quiet of the the 14th century. Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung is considered to be the most beautiful palace from the Joseon Dynasty, and it’s easy to see why. As soon as we set foot on the grounds I was blown away by the ornate designs, and with families strolling around adorned in traditional hanbok clothing, it wasn’t hard to imagine just how regal the palace was back in its heyday. It’s a good idea to get there by 11 am, which is when the guard changing procession begins, a recreation of the traditional ceremony of the past.

2. Channel your inner idol at a K-Pop dance lesson at FRZM Studio

In the heart of trendy Hongdae, you’ll find FRZM dance studio , which is home to some of Seoul’s coolest dancers. If you’ve seen even one K-pop video, you’ll know these guys don’t mess around when it comes to choreography, so why not learn from the best? Our teacher Peri was a total star who came prepared with a sleek routine that she somehow managed to break down for us dance newbies. While it didn’t take me long to discover that I don’t, in fact, have what it takes to be a K-Pop star (not even close!), I had so much fun trying to follow along with Peri and her flawless choreography.

3. Eat some delicious traditional food at Gwangjang Market

South Korea is famed for its street food, and Gwangjang Market is the perfect place to find out exactly why. As you set foot into the market you’re greeted by an array of glorious flavours, and even though I wasn’t sure what I was smelling, I knew my tastebuds were in for a treat. Whether you fancy traditional fried chicken or soft-shell crab, there are endless stalls offering a plethora of delicious delights. There are so many options to choose from, and most of the stall owners are more than happy to give you a bite or two to sample. The market is also home to traditional goods, groceries, and various souvenirs, so it’s worth taking a look around after you’ve finished stuffing your face.

4. Sing your heart out at karaoke in Hongdae

If you’re looking for nightlife, Hongdae is the place to be – packed to the brim with bars and restaurants ready to welcome you with cocktails and anju (food to eat alongside your drinks), and of course karaoke. In Korean, karaoke is referred to as “noraebang”, which literally means a song room, but I don’t think that definition does it justice. They have endless collections of K pop hits (yes, we did “Gangnam Style”) as well as all the classics, and with the disco ball and lights it really feels like your own private night club.

🇰🇷 Jeonju 🇰🇷

5. spend the night in a traditional hanok village.

Hanoks are traditional Korean houses, dating all the way back to the Joseon dynasty, and to put it plainly, they’re stunning. Historically, hanoks housed entire families, but the ones you can stay in have been transformed into guest houses. As soon as I stepped into the courtyard I was greeted by some friendly village cats , and things just kept getting better from there. While they’ve been updated with modern conveniences, the heart of the homes remains authentic; the wood panelled walls are decorated with traditional Korean art and the bed folds neatly away into the cupboard. As a sleep lover, I wasn’t sure how I’d fare on the futon-like floor mattress, but with the heated floors and tranquil surroundings, I slept like a baby. 

6. Take a Kimchi-making class with the Kimchi master

Kimchi is a staple of the Korean diet, and if you’ve had it before, you’ll know why. We joined Kim Myeong Ok – a total kimchi genius – to learn all about what goes into making the traditional food. After finding out the many seasonings that go into the dish (and snacking on the pickled cabbage, of course), we jumped straight into TV chef mode, determined to be the best rookie kimchi makers we could. Myeong talked us through the marinating process, and with our aprons and long gloves, we really got into the technique. Once you’re finished, you can pack it all up to enjoy eating back home – it’s the perfect holiday souvenir.

7. Visit the ancient ruins of Webosansung

This historic mountain fortress was built in the 17th century, as a way to help evacuate and protect residents in the late Joseon Dynasty. The wall is over eight thousand years old, and it’s surrounded by miles and miles of forest hills – it really feels like taking a stroll in the past. It’s not too far from Awon Museum, which is located across three 250-year-old hanoks that overlook a mountain village; their stunning gardens have some spectacular views. 

8. Get a body scrub at The Hanok Spa

This might look like an unsuspecting tower block, but inside is a menagerie of pampering and self care. If I’m being honest, I was a bit intimidated when I first approached the spa – I knew I’d have to strip off, but not much more. This 24 hour spa is really popular with the locals, and while there was a bit of a language barrier, the staff there were super friendly. There are heated pools to rest and relax in, and it didn’t take long for me to feel at home among the older ladies chatting away and watching TV. As a dedicated exfoliator, I wasn’t expecting too much from the body scrub, but boy was I wrong – I could literally see my dead skin getting sloughed off. I left the spa feeling like a soft little peach, and I couldn’t recommend it more.

🇰🇷 Busan 🇰🇷

9. watch the waves at haedong yonggungsa temple.

Set right on the shoreline, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is a wonder of both natural and historical beauty. First built in 1376, the Buddhist temple is a place of reflection and peace, and it's truly breathtaking.  As I walked down the temple’s 108 steps, I was blown away by the picturesque views surrounding me – intricately designed architecture, ethereal statues, and gorgeous stone lanterns, to name a few delights. I loved learning about the historical Buddhist traditions and symbolism, but my favourite part was the tranquil backdrop of crashing waves. There are lots of temples to visit, but none as unique as this one.

10. Take a stroll through the stunning Gamcheon Culture Village

With its twisting alleys and colourful houses, Gamcheon Culture Village feels like a storybook come to life. Decorated by professional artists, art students, and residents, it’s easy to see why the village is one of Busan’s most popular tourist spots. While strolling through the lovingly adorned streets, we were met with tons of artisan shops selling stunning handmade trinkets and some wonderful art installations. BTS fans: keep an eye out for the Jimin and Jungkook mural, it’s really something to behold.

Have you visited South Korea? Let us know your recommendations in the comments below, and visit Intrepid's website to find out more about their 18-35s Adventures!

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• Top 10 Reasons To Visit South Korea & Have A Blast With Your Family In 2024!

19 Oct 2021

Known for the exotic cuisine and world-class technology, South Korea comes under the category of developed countries that has approximately more than 50 million residents and has a chiefly mountainous terrain. The country is known as the regional power and also as a global head in technological and industrial sectors. But, what makes South Korea a much-loved destination among local as well as the International tourists is its tasty cuisine and diverse culture.

Top 10 Reasons To Visit South Korea In 2023

So, if you want to have a nice and fun time with your close ones then there is nothing better for you than to pack your bags now and explore this amazing country as soon as you can.

• A Magnificent Blend Of Epic History And Great Festivals
• Vibrant Culture
• Shopping Spree With Your Gang
• Picturesque Self-Drives
• Tasty Cuisine
• Epic History
• Exciting Theme Parks
• Rising Cafe Culture
• UNESCO Sites
• Islands Like Jejudo

1. A Magnificent Blend Of Epic History And Great Festivals

Image Source

Though there are endless reasons to visit South Korea, what tops this list is its rich history and wonderful festivals which you must attend for at least once in your lifetime. From food to culture and history to religion, there is so much to love about this incredibly breathtaking country that you will always crave for more.

Must Read: Enter The World Of Webtoons At This Cartoon Cafe In South Korea

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2. Vibrant Culture

The long history of South Korea is the main reason behind its varied and delightful traditions that are being practiced by the locals for over so many centuries. Even today, you can witness various music performances and the conventional Korean dance performed by the professionals in Hanbok which is their traditional dress. You can also rent and wear the apparel around Jeonju and Seoul to get yourself immerse in the culture. If you travel to the modern Seoul, there is a high probability that you will find the conventional Hanok home neighborhoods with amazing teahouses that have been there for decades. This wonderful mix of new and old is hard to miss for any person which is why it is advised for you to go and have a fun time watching the glorious beauty of this Country.

Suggested Read: 8 Hotels In South Korea That Are All About Class, Comfort, And Convenience!

3. Shopping Spree With Your Gang

If you are a shopaholic then only the God can stop you from buying everything from the streets of South Korea because this country is your ultimate shopping destination. Ranging from some really wonderful skincare products in Myeongdong to those humongous and drool-worthy stores in the malls of Seoul, there is nothing you won’t love. Especially for all the women out there who are still wondering is South Korea worth visiting, it is time for you to stop thinking and shop till you drop. You can also hop on the streets of Seoul to get the trendiest accessories and apparel for you and your girl gang so that you can show off your style when you get back in the city. Go on and make a list of everything you have ever wanted to buy!

4. Picturesque Self-Drives

Who doesn’t like the idea of getting into a comfortable car and enjoy a long drive with your loved ones while enjoying the pretty scenery on the way? Well, here is your chance to make your dream come true as you can easily rent a car in South Korea and explore all the hidden treasures of the famous Jeju Island and have a nice time looking at the landscape. The smooth roads seem like they have specifically been built this way so that people can enjoy such experiences and enjoy their time alone from the hustle and bustle of their daily life. This is the perfect option for all the newlyweds who wish to spend some alone time with their significant other while soaking the beauty of their surroundings. Do not forget to click some nice pictures so that you can cherish the memories afterward and maybe come back again to relive the experience.

Suggested Read: Top 10 Things To Do In South Korea To Experience The Essence Of The Vibrant Country

Planning Your Next Holiday In South Korea?

5. Tasty Cuisine

The most popular and favorite characteristic of South Korean cuisine among the tourists is its various flavorsome side dishes like Banchan and Panchan etc. that can be spotted with every meal. Food is definitely the ultimate reason to visit South Korea as this is a place where you can give a relishing experience to your taste buds. Kimchi, made from fermented and salted vegetables which are kept in the jars for a lot of months is something that is worth every bite of yours. There are a lot of iconic delicacies which you must try like Japchae, Bulgogi and rice bowl Bibimbap etc. You can also enjoy the very palatable hot dogs, potatoes and fish cakes and pastries that are designed in the shape of a fish and savor the taste. There is no wonder why the Koreans are so proud of their cuisines as once you get a taste, you will definitely end up craving for more.

Suggested Read: Dragon Boat Festival: Experience The Joy And Vibrance  At This Sacrificial Gala!

6. Epic History

South Korea has a very ancient history and the locals are very proud of their tradition which is why you can still see a lot of prevalent heritage sites in several cities of this country which are still intact. Whether you visit the chief palace which is situated in the city of Seoul or you get to explore the Gyeongbokgung Palace, you can feel the wonderful aura. When it comes to describing the South Korean history, Gyeongju is certainly an important destination for all the history lovers and that is why it is also known as a museum without the walls. Being the former capital of Korea, this city is a home to many palaces, tombs, and temples.

Suggested Read: 28 Stunning Places To Visit In South Korea

7. Exciting Theme Parks

For an adventure junkie, this place is a pure heaven as you can have a fun time with your crazy bunch of friends in plenty of theme parks in the city of Seoul. There are so many amusement parks in this city that offers you some thrilling rides so that you can make the most of your time in this beautiful country. You can take a mind-blowing ride in Everland, the biggest theme park in South Korea or you can also opt for Lotte World to check out some folk museums and do ice-skating. Make sure to get the adrenaline-pumping experience so that the next time someone asks you why is South Korea a good place to visit, you know the answer.

8. Rising Cafe Culture

Image Source Not only Americans but Koreans are also fond of cafes. Korea is full of bakeries and cafes that there a law has been implemented of maintaining a minimum distance between bakeries. Can you believe that? You will find several themed cafes as well like CNN, cat and dog cafes.

9. UNESCO Sites

Image Source Wondering why to visit South Korea? Were you aware of the fact that Korea is home to eleven UNESCO sites? No, right! One such place is Jeonju which has been recognized as a city of gastronomy due to the availability of all kinds of foods.

10. Islands Like Jejudo

A hub of Korean history, Jedujo is a volcanic island. There are several other islands in Korea which non-Koreans may not be aware of. One such island is Oedo which is a huge botanical garden. If you want to explore these sites then you must visit South Korea in the off-season so as to avoid crowds.

Further Read: 26 Places To Visit In Korea During Winter That Would Hook You With Their Charm

South Korea has always been a completely engaging, thrilling and modern destination for travelers from all around the globe which is why you must give it a shot and make some cherishable memories. We have already provided you the reasons to visit South Korea here. So, plan a getaway to South Korea and see for yourself why Korea is the best place to visit.

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10 Off-the-Beaten But Affordable Countries to Visit in 2024

Posted: April 21, 2024 | Last updated: April 21, 2024

Whether you believe it or not, embracing unconventional adventures has become the new norm. While everyone seeks stunning scenic views like the Caribbean Islands, the desire for uncharted destinations to craft lasting memories is rising.

Travel enthusiasts are increasingly drawn to trending Asian countries like Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Sri Lanka, South Korea, and beyond. These places offer respite from the usual tourist hotspots, allowing visitors to savor each locale’s essence truly.

Top 10 Trending Asian Countries For Unique and Unseen Experiences

Sri Lanka has been gaining popularity since the start of the year 2023.

If you wish to taste an authentic Sri Lankan experience, visit Marawila. It has everything from stunning beaches, luxury stays, and exciting water sports such as snorkeling, jet skiing, and banana boat rides to visiting Negombo, where you can discover a vibrant nightlife, appealing Dutch architecture, and many scrumptious seafood restaurants.

Also, ditch the Sirigira rock for Pidurangala rock, which offers a more thrilling and less-crowded experience. Don’t miss the historic city of Galle, and beaches like Welingama for surfing, Mirissa and Tangelle for the beauty.

Embark on incredible off-beat adventures by traveling to this hottest tourist spot in Asia.

Recently, Kazakhstan won the most trending tourism destination for Indian Travelers award, making it a must-visit spot in case you haven’t touched its grounds yet.

Add Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, a one-day trip to Korgalzhyn Nature Reserve, and ice skating near Ile-Alatau National Park to your bucket list for anyone looking beyond ordinary experiences.

Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan is one of the least-visited places on the planet owing to its 70% desert area. So, if you are looking for an off-beat experience, Ashgabat (the capital city) has got you covered. It also holds a Guinness record for its rich density of white marble-clad buildings worldwide

You must visit the modern Wedding Palace, dive into the Kow Ata Underground Lake, and even visit the Turkmen carpet museum for its exquisite carpets.

For a new experience, plan a trip to Yangykala Canyon to view surreal cliffs and Ancient Merv, a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There is a myriad of fun activities and places to visit in Uzbekistan, like the Uzbek Ceramic Experience, exploring old Mohallas of Tashkent and Chorsu bazaar, walking relaxing alleys and visiting the silk-carpet workshop of Khiva, visiting the Jewish Bukhara, etc.

For an excellent and kickass experience, plan a holiday to Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai, the largest city in North Thailand. They both are truly hidden gems in Thailand, offering an inside view of rural Thailand with their picturesque landscapes.

You will instantly love enjoying a terrific bath and mud session with elephants in Elephant sanctuaries, visiting the eye-catchy white or silver temple named Wat Rong Khun, and watching breathtaking forests through the Flight of the Gibbon tour.

Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is an excellent option to re-energize your soul by connecting with the rolling lush green landscapes, majestic waterfalls, and pristine mountains.

Also, Sikkim is a lovely, less crowded place to relax, enjoy yak rides, and explore Buddhist monasteries. Moreover, it is the first state striving to be fully carbon-negative.

Other places worth visiting are Kerala, Kashmir, Andaman and Nicobar.

The bubbling hot springs, the enchanting beauty of stargazing, and a deep dive into the land’s rich history are some of the unique experiences offered by this hot destination.

You can add several places to your bucket list in Tajikistan like Ishkashim town, Langar village, Yashikkul Lake, Murghab, and Dushanbe.

When planning to visit Kyrgyzstan, you will explore picturesque landscapes, rich local culture, and pristine lakes, making it the perfect region for nature enthusiasts and off-beat vacationers.

Picture-perfect valleys of Ala-Archa Park, clear lakes of Song Kul and Issyk-Kul, and colossal mountains offer you the perfect backdrop for several adventurous sports, delicious local cuisines, and night camping.

Besides all this, you can indulge in Koumiss treatment which doctors recommend for treating anemia, gastritis, pancreatic disease, tuberculosis, etc. You can combine it with some recreational activities too.

South Korea

Hiking trails, rugged cliffs, stunning waterfalls, mesmerizing riverscapes and lakes, relaxing spa sessions, and themed cafes are some of the top attractions in South Korea.

Moreover, 2023 and 2024 are designated as Visit Korea Years by the Korean government. During this time, the government will launch several special events and offer packages and promotional campaigns to boost tourism.

Some of the unique gems of the region are Boseong, Deokjeokdu Island, Gapyeong, Damyang, Imsil, Changwon, and Suncheon.

Planning for an exciting vacation in Indonesia? Well, try out Sulawesi Island to enjoy picture-perfect views, Wakatobi Islands for diving, Bunaken Island to explore marine life, and Tangkoko National Park to learn more about the region’s indigenous species.

The Tourism Ministry of Indonesia has launched the ADWI 2023 (Indonesian Tourism Village Awards) to revive the tourism industry and economy of the villages in the region. It would be best if you visited the several volcanic islands here that offer mesmerizing views, pristine waters, and superb water activity spots.

Yes, Bali isn’t the only place in Indonesia that warrants a visit.

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Guest Essay

What Sentencing Could Look Like if Trump Is Found Guilty

By Norman L. Eisen

Mr. Eisen is the author of “Trying Trump: A Guide to His First Election Interference Criminal Trial.”

For all the attention to and debate over the unfolding trial of Donald Trump in Manhattan, there has been surprisingly little of it paid to a key element: its possible outcome and, specifically, the prospect that a former and potentially future president could be sentenced to prison time.

The case — brought by Alvin Bragg, the Manhattan district attorney, against Mr. Trump — represents the first time in our nation’s history that a former president is a defendant in a criminal trial. As such, it has generated lots of debate about the case’s legal strength and integrity, as well as its potential impact on Mr. Trump’s efforts to win back the White House.

A review of thousands of cases in New York that charged the same felony suggests something striking: If Mr. Trump is found guilty, incarceration is an actual possibility. It’s not certain, of course, but it is plausible.

Jury selection has begun, and it’s not too soon to talk about what the possibility of a sentence, including a prison sentence, would look like for Mr. Trump, for the election and for the country — including what would happen if he is re-elected.

The case focuses on alleged interference in the 2016 election, which consisted of a hush-money payment Michael Cohen, the former president’s fixer at the time, made in 2016 to a porn star, Stormy Daniels, who said she had an affair with Mr. Trump. Mr. Bragg is arguing that the cover-up cheated voters of the chance to fully assess Mr. Trump’s candidacy.

This may be the first criminal trial of a former president in American history, but if convicted, Mr. Trump’s fate is likely to be determined by the same core factors that guide the sentencing of every criminal defendant in New York State Court.

Comparable cases. The first factor is the base line against which judges measure all sentences: how other defendants have been treated for similar offenses. My research encompassed almost 10,000 cases of felony falsifying business records that have been prosecuted across the state of New York since 2015. Over a similar period, the Manhattan D.A. has charged over 400 of these cases . In roughly the first year of Mr. Bragg’s tenure, his team alone filed 166 felony counts for falsifying business records against 34 people or companies.

Contrary to claims that there will be no sentence of incarceration for falsifying business records, when a felony conviction involves serious misconduct, defendants can be sentenced to some prison time. My analysis of the most recent data indicates that approximately one in 10 cases in which the most serious charge at arraignment is falsifying business records in the first degree and in which the court ultimately imposes a sentence, results in a term of imprisonment.

To be clear, these cases generally differ from Mr. Trump’s case in one important respect: They typically involve additional charges besides just falsifying records. That clearly complicates what we might expect if Mr. Trump is convicted.

Nevertheless, there are many previous cases involving falsifying business records along with other charges where the conduct was less serious than is alleged against Mr. Trump and prison time was imposed. For instance, Richard Luthmann was accused of attempting to deceive voters — in his case, impersonating New York political figures on social media in an attempt to influence campaigns. He pleaded guilty to three counts of falsifying business records in the first degree (as well as to other charges). He received a sentence of incarceration on the felony falsification counts (although the sentence was not solely attributable to the plea).

A defendant in another case was accused of stealing in excess of $50,000 from her employer and, like in this case, falsifying one or more invoices as part of the scheme. She was indicted on a single grand larceny charge and ultimately pleaded guilty to one felony count of business record falsification for a false invoice of just under $10,000. She received 364 days in prison.

To be sure, for a typical first-time offender charged only with run-of-the-mill business record falsification, a prison sentence would be unlikely. On the other hand, Mr. Trump is being prosecuted for 34 counts of conduct that might have changed the course of American history.

Seriousness of the crime. Mr. Bragg alleges that Mr. Trump concealed critical information from voters (paying hush money to suppress an extramarital relationship) that could have harmed his campaign, particularly if it came to light after the revelation of another scandal — the “Access Hollywood” tape . If proved, that could be seen not just as unfortunate personal judgment but also, as Justice Juan Merchan has described it, an attempt “to unlawfully influence the 2016 presidential election.”

History and character. To date, Mr. Trump has been unrepentant about the events alleged in this case. There is every reason to believe that will not change even if he is convicted, and lack of remorse is a negative at sentencing. Justice Merchan’s evaluation of Mr. Trump’s history and character may also be informed by the other judgments against him, including Justice Arthur Engoron’s ruling that Mr. Trump engaged in repeated and persistent business fraud, a jury finding that he sexually abused and defamed E. Jean Carroll and a related defamation verdict by a second jury.

Justice Merchan may also weigh the fact that Mr. Trump has been repeatedly held in contempt , warned , fined and gagged by state and federal judges. That includes for statements he made that exposed witnesses, individuals in the judicial system and their families to danger. More recently, Mr. Trump made personal attacks on Justice Merchan’s daughter, resulting in an extension of the gag order in the case. He now stands accused of violating it again by commenting on witnesses.

What this all suggests is that a term of imprisonment for Mr. Trump, while far from certain for a former president, is not off the table. If he receives a sentence of incarceration, perhaps the likeliest term is six months, although he could face up to four years, particularly if Mr. Trump chooses to testify, as he said he intends to do , and the judge believes he lied on the stand . Probation is also available, as are more flexible approaches like a sentence of spending every weekend in jail for a year.

We will probably know what the judge will do within 30 to 60 days of the end of the trial, which could run into mid-June. If there is a conviction, that would mean a late summer or early fall sentencing.

Justice Merchan would have to wrestle in the middle of an election year with the potential impact of sentencing a former president and current candidate.

If Mr. Trump is sentenced to a period of incarceration, the reaction of the American public will probably be as polarized as our divided electorate itself. Yet as some polls suggest — with the caveat that we should always be cautious of polls early in the race posing hypothetical questions — many key swing state voters said they would not vote for a felon.

If Mr. Trump is convicted and then loses the presidential election, he will probably be granted bail, pending an appeal, which will take about a year. That means if any appeals are unsuccessful, he will most likely have to serve any sentence starting sometime next year. He will be sequestered with his Secret Service protection; if it is less than a year, probably in Rikers Island. His protective detail will probably be his main company, since Mr. Trump will surely be isolated from other inmates for his safety.

If Mr. Trump wins the presidential election, he can’t pardon himself because it is a state case. He will be likely to order the Justice Department to challenge his sentence, and department opinions have concluded that a sitting president could not be imprisoned, since that would prevent the president from fulfilling the constitutional duties of the office. The courts have never had to address the question, but they could well agree with the Justice Department.

So if Mr. Trump is convicted and sentenced to a period of incarceration, its ultimate significance is probably this: When the American people go to the polls in November, they will be voting on whether Mr. Trump should be held accountable for his original election interference.

What questions do you have about Trump’s Manhattan criminal trial so far?

Please submit them below. Our trial experts will respond to a selection of readers in a future piece.

Norman L. Eisen investigated the 2016 voter deception allegations as counsel for the first impeachment and trial of Donald Trump and is the author of “Trying Trump: A Guide to His First Election Interference Criminal Trial.”

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

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