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South Korea Travel Guide

Last Updated: July 17, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

Top 5 Things to See and Do in South Korea

1. Explore Seoul

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

2. Tour the DMZ

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

3. Visit Jeju Island

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

4. Sing karaoke

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

5. Step back in time at a hanok village

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

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

2. Explore Busan

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

3. See the National Museum of Korea

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

4. Take a food tour

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

5. Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace

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

6. See the cherry blossoms

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

7. Try taekwondo

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

8. Learn to cook classic Korean foods

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

9. Go hiking

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

10. Wander around Seoul Olympic Park

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

11. Discover Jirisan National Park

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

South Korea Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking South Korea: Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

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

South Korea Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in South Korea

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

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

How to Get Around South Korea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Low-cost airlines in South Korea include the following:

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

When to Go to South Korea

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

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in South Korea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

South Korea Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

South Korea Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

The 5 Best Hotels in Singapore

The 7 Best Hotels in Bangkok

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

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

The 13 Best Things to See and Do in Taipei

The 23 Best Things to Do in Hong Kong

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2024 seoul, south korea travel guide blog with diy itinerary, things to do, tourist spots, budget, tips and more for first-timers.

Traveling to South Korea for the first-time this 2024? Sharing to you my detailed South Korea Travel Guide Blog with DIY itinerary, top things to do in Korea, Seoul tourist spots, budget, breakdown of expenses and many more to help you plan your trip to "the Land of the Morning Calm."

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• Popular route to your destination
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WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT KOREA?

How many days to stay in korea.

USEFUL KOREAN WORDS AND PHRASES FOR TOURISTS

• Hello/Goodbye – 안녕하세요 – An-nyeong-ha-se-yo
• Thank you – 감사합니다 – Kam-sa-ham-ni-da
• Please – 주세요 – Ju-se-yo
• It’s delicious! - 맛있어요! - Mas-shis-su-hyo!
• Yes - 네 - Ne
• No - 아니요 - Aniyo
• How much is it? – 얼마예요 – ol-ma-ye-yo
• Give me a discount – 깎아주세요 – Kka-kka-ju-se-yo
• Nice to meet you – 반갑습니다 – Bahn-gap-sum-ni-da
• How are you? - 어떻게 지내세요? - Uh-dduh-keh ji-neh-seh-yo?
• I can’t speak Korean well – 한국말 잘 못해요 – Han-guk-mal jal mot-hae-yo
• I don’t understand - 잘 모르겠네요 Jal mo-reu-geht-neh-yo
• Do you speak English? - 영어 할 수 있어요? - Yon-guh-ha-se-yo?

WHERE TO STAY IN SEOUL?

• It's near a subway station (Anguk Station)
• It's location is walking distance to the shrines and palaces
• Breakfast for 2 persons are included
• It's near convenience stores
• Impressive online reviews with a rating of 9.2 (Superb) on the Traveloka App

K GUESTHOUSE MYEONGDONG 2

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Hotel stay inn seoul station.

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• Address: 2nd Floor 5 Sunggyungwan-ro 4-gil, Jongno-gu, Jongno, Seoul, South Korea, 110-522

Hostel Stay Now Jongno

• Address: 38 Samil-daero 32ga-gil (89 Ikseon-dong), Jongno-gu, Jongro, Seoul, South Korea

THINGS TO DO, TOURIST SPOTS AND ATTRACTIONS IN SEOUL

EXPERIENCE WEARING A HANBOK

Visit gyeongbokgung palace.

BE AMAZED AT CHANGDEOKGUNG PALACE

• Adults (ages 25-64): 3,000 KRW / Group (over 10 people): 2,400 KRW
• Students (ages 24 and under): Free (* Except for foreign visitors)

VISIT CHANGGYEONGGUNG PALACE

• Children and Teenagers (ages 7-18): 500 KRW
• Children under age 6: Free

TRAVEL BACK IN TIME AT UNHYEONGUNG ROYAL RESIDENCE

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY ART, SEOUL

• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday : 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
• Wednesday, Saturday : 10:00 am - 9:00 pm (18:00 - 21:00 : free)

EXPLORE BUCKHON HANOK VILLAGE

VISIT JONGMYO SHRINE

SEE THE CITY FROM N SEOUL TOWER

EVERLAND DAY TOUR

EXPERIENCE THE YOUTH CULTURE AT HONGDAE

SHOPPING AT MYEONGDONG

HAVE A TASTE OF THE STREET FOOD AT MYEONGDONG

SOUVENIR SHOPPING AT INSADONG

LOTTE WORLD

Day tours from seoul.

NAMI ISLAND + PETIT FRANCE TOUR

Other options:.

• Nami Island, Petite France, Garden of Morning Calm, or Gangchon Rail Bike Day Tour from Seoul
• Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm & More
• Seoul Nami Island, Rail Bike + Petit France Day Tour
• Nami Island, Petite France, Gapyeong Rail Bike & Garden of Morning Calm Day Tour

DMZ DAY TOUR

Other option:.

• Best DMZ Half Day from Seoul Guided Tour - No Shopping

Other Popular South Korea Experiences

Garden of Morning Calm, Nami Island & More

Nanta Show Seoul

Gyeongju Historical and Cultural Tour

Lotte World Kids Park Undersea Kingdom

Boryeong Mud Festival

Seoul Joseon Palaces & Folk History Day Tour

SBS MTV "The Show" Tour

Trickeye 3D Museum in Seoul

Hanbok Portrait Experience by Z-and in Seoul

SAMPLE SEOUL KOREA DIY ITINERARIES

Sample 6 days / 5 nights seoul south korea diy itinerary, day 1 - arrival.

• 05:10 PM - Departure from Manila via Cebu Pacific
• 10:40 PM - Arrival at Incheon International Airport, redeem Discover Seoul Pass and SIM card
• 11:00 PM - Travel to Seoul via Private Car Transfer
• 12:00 MN - Check-in at Hotel Icon in Jongno

DAY 2 - CITY TOUR USING THE DISCOVER SEOUL PASS

• 07:00 AM - Breakfast at the hotel
• 09:30 AM - HANBOKNAM (You can wear your hanbok of choice outdoors for 90 minutes)
• 10:00 AM - Gyeongbokgung Palace
• 11:30 AM - Walk to Changdeokgung Palace
• 12:00 AM - Changdeokgung Palace
• 12:45 AM - Changgyeonggung Palace
• 01:30 PM - Lunch
• 02:00 NN - Jongmyo (Royal Shrine)
• 03:00 PM - Travel to N Seoul Tower
• 04:00 PM - N Seoul Tower
• 06:30 PM - Namsan Seoul Tower Hanbok Experience Center
• 07:00 PM - Dinner
• 08:00 PM - Back to the hotel and sleep

DAY 3 - NAMI ISLAND + PETIT FRANCE

• 06:00 AM - Breakfast at the hotel
• 07:00 AM - Travel to Myeong-dong for Nami Island Day Tour via Klook
• 08:00 AM - Depart from Myeongdong Station exit 2
• 09:30 AM - Arrive at Petite France
• 12:00 NN - Depart for Nami Island
• 12:30 PM - Arrive at Nami Island, Explore
• 03:00 PM - Depart for Seoul
• 04:30 PM - Arrive at Myeongdong Station
• 05:00 PM - Street Food / Early dinner at Myeong-dong
• 08:00 PM - Travel back to hotel and sleep

DAY 4 - DMZ TOUR + INSADONG + HONGDAE

• 06:30 AM - Breakfast at the hotel
• 8:00 AM - Hotel pick up for DMZ Tour
• DMZ Day Tour via Klook.com
• Imjingak Park
• Freedom Bridge
• 3rd Infiltration Tunnel
• DMZ Theater & Exhibition Hall
• Dora Observatory
• Dorasan Station
• Pass by Unification Village
• Amethyst factory or Ginseng Center visit
• 02:30 PM - Drop off at City Hall / Lunch in a local Korean Restaurant
• 03:30 PM - Explore Insadong and shop for souvenirs
• 05:00 PM - Travel to Hongdae
• 06:00 PM - Enjoy The youth culture and shopping at Hongdae
• 10:00 PM - Travel back to your hotel
• 11:00 PM - Back at the hotel and sleep

DAY 5 - EVERLAND

• 09:00 AM - Depart from Myeongdong Station Exit 2
• 10:10 AM - Arrive at Everland
• 10:30 AM - 04:00 PM - Enjoy Everland
• 04:30 PM - Depart for Seoul
• 06:00 PM - Arrive in Myeong-dong
• 06:30 PM - 10:30 PM - Shopping and Dinner at Myeong-dong

DAY 6 - DEPARTURE

• 07:00 AM - Check-out
• 07:30 AM - Travel to Seoul Statio via Subway
• 08:00 AM - Arrive at Seoul Station
• 08:30 AM - Take the AREX Airport Express Train to Incheon Airport
• 09:30 AM - Arrive at Incheon Airport, check-in
• 12:55 PM - Depart for Manila via Air Asia

For other sample Korea DIY Itineraries, visit my post: RECOMMENDED KOREA ITINERARY: DIY SEOUL - 3, 4, 5, 6 Days Tour 2020 .

Seoul Trip Budget and Expenses

Sample seoul korea budget for 6 days and 5 nights for 19,986 pesos budget.

• You will be staying for the first 3 nights in a private room that is good for 2 persons at Hotel Icon for PHP 1,500 per night with breakfast.
• For the last 2 nights, you'll be staying at K Guesthouse Myeong-dong 2 for 2,000 pesos per night good for 2 persons, breakfast included.
• You are a group of two.
• Your maximum expense for food is 250 PHP or 5,000 KRW per meal per person.
• You'll be using a Discover Seoul Pass for 24 hours.
• You'll be using a T-Money Card

PRE-TRAVEL EXPENSES

• Hotel Icon for 3 nights - 4,500 / 2 = 2,250 per person
• K Guesthouse Myeongdong 2 for 2 nights - 4,000 / 2 = 2,000 per person
• Korea 4G SIM Card - 1,200 per person
• Incheon Airport Private Car Transfers - 3,842 / 2 = 1,921 per person
• Discover Seoul Pass (24 hours) - 1,707 per person
• Everland Full Day Trip - 2,536 per person
• Nami Island & Petite France Day Trip - 1,880 per person
• DMZ Tour - 2,682 per person
• Hanbok Rental - 732 per person
• AREX Incheon Airport Express Train One Way Ticket in Seoul - 323 per person

TOTAL - 17,231 per person

Day 1 expenses.

• Private Car Transfer - pre-booked
• Hotel Icon (1st night) - pre-booked

DAY 2 EXPENSES

• Breakfast - complimentary at the hotel
• Hotel Icon (2nd night) - pre-booked
• HANBOKNAM - included in the Discover Seoul Pass
• Gyeongbokgung Palace - included in the Discover Seoul Pass
• Changdeokgung Palace - included in the Discover Seoul Pass
• Changgyeonggung Palace - included in the Discover Seoul Pass
• Lunch - 5,000 KRW
• Jongmyo (Royal Shrine) - included in the Discover Seoul Pass
• Travel to N Seoul Tower
• Subway: Jongno-3-ga Station to Myeongdong - 1,250 KRW
• Bus: Myeongdong to N Seoul Tower - 1,200 KRW
• N Seoul Tower - included in the Discover Seoul Pass
• Namsan Seoul Tower Hanbok Experience Center - included in the Discover Seoul Pass
• Bus: N Seoul Tower to Myeongdong - 1,200 KRW
• Subway: Myeongdong to Anguk Station - 1,250 KRW
• Dinner - 5,000 KRW
• Back to the hotel and sleep
• TOTAL - 14,900

DAY 3 EXPENSES

• Breakfast at the hotel - complimentary
• Hotel Icon (3rd night) - pre-booked
• Travel from Anguk to Myeong-dong - 1,250 KRW
• Nami Island + Petit France Day Tour - pre-booked
• TOTAL - 11,250 KRW

DAY 4 EXPENSES

• K Guesthouse Myeongdong 2 (1st night) - pre-booked
• Hotel pick up for DMZ Tour - included in the package
• DMZ Day Tour via Klook.com - pre-booked
• Lunch in a local Korean Restaurant - included in the DMZ Tour package
• Travel to Hongdae from Insa-dong
• Subway: Jonggak Station to Seoul Station - 1,250 KRW
• Subway: Seoul Station to Hongik Station - 1,250 KRW
• Travel back to your hotel in Myeong-dong
• Subway: Hongik Station to Seoul Station - 1,250 KRW
• Subway: Seoul Station to Myeongdong - 1,250 KRW
• TOTAL -15,000 KRW

DAY 5 EXPENSES

• K Guesthouse Myeongdong 2 (2nd night) - pre-booked
• Everland Day Tour - pre-booked
• TOTAL - 10,000

DAY 6 EXPENSES

• Travel to Incheon Airport
• Subway: Myeongdong to Seoul Station - 1,250 KRW
• Subway: AREX Airport Express Train to Incheon Airport - pre-booked
• TOTAL - 6,250

SUMMARY OF EXPENSES

• DAY 1 - 0 KRW
• DAY 2 - 14,900 KRW
• DAY 3 - 11,250 KRW
• DAY 4 - 15,000 KRW
• DAY 5 - 10,000 KRW
• DAY 6 - 6,250 KRW

TOTAL - 57,400 KRW or 2,755 PHP per person

Pre-travel bookings - 17,231 php per person, grand total - 19,986 php per person.

Sample 3 Days / 2 Nights Seoul South Korea DIY Itinerary for 8,000 pesos

• 07:10 AM - Departure from Manila via Air Asia
• 12:10 PM - Arrival in Incheon International Airport, redeem Discover Seoul Pass and SIM card
• 01:00 PM - Travel to Seoul via AREX Airport Express Train to Seoul Station
• 01:45 PM - Travel from Seoul Station to Anguk Station
• 02:00 PM - Check-in at Hotel Icon in Jongno
• 03:00 PM - Explore Insadong, have lunch
• 04:30 PM - Travel to Hongdae
• 05:15 PM - Explore, eat, and enjoy in Hongdae
• 09:00 PM - Go back to the hotel
• 10:00 PM - Arrive at the hotel and sleep

DAY 2 - NAMI ISLAND + PETIT FRANCE

• 06:00 AM Breakfast at the hotel
• 07:20 AM Travel to Myeong-dong
• 08:00 AM Depart from Myeongdong Station exit 2
• 09:30 AM Arrive at Petite France
• 12:00 NN Depart for Nami Island
• 12:30 PM Arrive at Petite France
• 03:00 PM Depart for Seoul
• 04:30 PM Arrive at Myeongdong Station
• 05:00 PM Street Food / Early dinner at Myeong-dong
• 07:00 PM Travel back to hotel and sleep

DAY 3 - CITY TOUR USING THE DISCOVER SEOUL PASS

• 06:00 AM - Brekfast at the hotel
• 07:00 AA - Check-out, leave bags at the reception
• 07:30 AM - Start City Tour using the Discover Seoul Pass
• 07:00 PM - End City Tour, have dinner
• 08:00 PM - Shopping at Myeongdong
• 09:30 PM - Go back to the hotel and get your bags
• 10:00 PM - Travel to Seoul Station
• 10:50 PM - Travel to Incheon Airport via AREX Express Train
• 11:40 PM - Arrive at Incheon Airport, check-in and wait for your flight
• 03:05 AM (the following day) - Depart for Manila via Cebu Pacific Air

For other sample Korea DIY Itineraries, visit my post: RECOMMENDED KOREA ITINERARY: DIY SEOUL - 3, 4, 5, 6 Days Tour 2019 .

Sample Seoul Korea Budget for 3 days and 2 nights for 8,000 pesos budget

• You will be staying for 2 nights in a private room that is good for 2 persons at Hotel Icon for PHP 1,500 per night with breakfast.
• Your maximum expense for food is 5,000 KRW per meal per person.
• Hotel Icon for 2 nights - 3,000 / 2 = 1,500 per person
• 4G WiFi Rental (3 days) - 149 x 3 days = 447 PHP / 3 = 223 PHP per person
• AREX Incheon Airport Express Train One Way Ticket - PHP 323 x 2 = 643 PHP per person

TOTAL - 5,953 per person

• AREX Airport Express Train - pre-booked
• Subway: Seoul Station to Anguk - 1,250 KRW
• Subway: Anguk Station to Jonggak (Insa-dong) - 1,250 KRW
• Travel back to your hotel in Jongno (Hotel Icon)
• TOTAL - 17,500 KRW
• Subway: Anguk Station to Seoul - 1,250 KRW
• TOTAL - 16,150 KRW
• DAY 1 - 17,500 KRW
• DAY 2 - 11,250 KRW
• DAY 3 - 16,150 KRW

TOTAL - 44,900 KRW or 2,155 PHP per person

Pre-travel bookings - 5,953 php per person, grand total - 8,108 php per person.

• Round trip airfare Manila-Seoul-Manila
• NAIA terminal fee and travel tax
• Food expense for snacks
• Budget for pasalubong, souvenirs and shopping expenses

South Korea Travel Blogs

• NAMI ISLAND AND PETIT FRANCE: Awesome Day Tours from Seoul, South Korea
• DISCOVER SEOUL PASS: Enjoy 35 Attractions, Discounts and Freebies in Seoul, South Korea!
• A Peek into North Korea from the Demiliratized Zone (A Memorable Day Tour from Seoul, South Korea)
• RECOMMENDED KOREA ITINERARY: DIY SEOUL - 3, 4, 5, 6 Days Tour 2019
• SOUTH KOREA VISA REQUIREMENTS and How to Apply for a Visa in the Philippines in 3 Easy Steps!

I hope this First-timer's Seoul Korea Budget Travel Guide will help you in planning an unforgettable and exciting South Korea Adventure! Enjoy and have fun in South Korea!

Follow my adventures on youtube @pinoyadventurista, 22 comments :.

Hi Mervz.. Thank you for this post.. question lang, anong day kayo nag travel? may nabasa kase ako na different blog, parang advise nya around tues or wednesday ang better day of travelling kase most of the attraction are close on Mondays / Tuesdays? Ano pong ma-advise nyo? thanks a lot

mas ok if two way ticket nyo kc baka d maapprove ang visa if one way lang, mejo mahigpit na kc sila sa visa lately kc madami na ata nag TNT sa kanila

Sir, yung 19,986 for 6 days and 5 night di p kasama airfare dun right?

Thanks you the detailed information's, very useful :)

Hello sir about sa airfare ticket pwede ba na dun nlng bumili ng ticket going back to Manila or need to have the 2 way ticket before leaving Manila... thanks sir 👍🏻☺️💜

Hi yung food expenses niyo and kung kayo kumakain, di mo masyado na-blog.

Thank you for your blog its so helpful Kamsahamnida!!!!!💕

Hi.. Malayo po buh yung Nami island sa Petite France? If mg DIY paano pumunta sa Petite france from nami island? Thanks

Thank you for your helpful blog. I enjoy reading it :)

hi po kua..need po ba talaga ng bank account or credit card pag nagtravel sa korea?salamat po😊

uh, kasali ba po ba yung plane ticket sa almost 20k nyong gasto or hindi pa po?

hi po good afternoon po..pwd po mag ask kung magkano po magagastos sa trip to korea po stay ng 1 week po 2 adult po at 3 bata? ung cheapest po if meron po slamat po

Hi sir. Would like to ask if your familiar with the kdrama goblin locations, yun po sana ang gusto ko ivisig bukod sa famous places in korea.

Wow, this is very helpful! Thank you! I love reading your Blogs :)

Whaa galing sobra ng blog na toh! Niisip ko palang tanong ko may sagot na sya.Thank you. Share ko to....

Ang galing !!! thanks for your writing !! eto na ang susundan namin itinerary . Very detailed ang information and sobrang helptful ng tips.

wow! very detailed. Thanks soo much. I will follow this - I hope i can survive travelling with my 7yr old son (just the 2 of us in December) :-)

pa update nman po if what package worked for u. Planning to travel with my 2 kids.. thank you!

Sobrang detailed and helpful! Really great for people like me whose never been to SK before. TYSM!

Thank you for this detailed travel guide. Ask ko lang po if how much you spend for the visa and may show many ba?

Thanks for the info...ask ko lang po, pagbumili ng Discover Seoul Pass na 48 hours kahit ano pede piliin dun sa mga attractions? Than yung City Tour po ba may enough time naman each sites na mkapagpapicture at mavisit ng maayos?

Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

• Travel Planning Guide

South Korea Travel Budget - Visit South Korea on a Budget or Travel in Style

• South Korea Costs

• Is South Korea Expensive?
• How much does a trip to South Korea cost?
• South Korea On-Your-Own Itineraries
• Pyeongchang
• Busan (Pusan)
• Cheju (Jeju)
• South Korea Hotel Prices
• South Korea Cities: Hotel Prices by City
• Best Hotels for a Weekend Getaway in South Korea
• Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in South Korea
• Best Beach Hotels in South Korea
• Best Hotels for First Time Visitors in South Korea
• Best Business Hotels in South Korea
• Best Hotels for One Night in South Korea
• Best Family-Friendly Hotels in South Korea
• Best Cheap Hotels in South Korea
• Best Hotels for Skiing in South Korea
• Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in South Korea
• Best Luxury Hotels in South Korea
• Best Hotels for One Week in South Korea
• Where Do Backpackers Go in South Korea? A Review of Hostels and Guesthouses.
• Hostel Prices & Reviews
• South Korea Tour Prices
• The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea
• The Best Historical Tours in South Korea
• The Best 10-Day Tours in South Korea
• The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in South Korea
• The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea
• The Best Sightseeing Tours in South Korea
• The Best Cultural Tours in South Korea
• The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in South Korea
• The Best Luxury Tours to South Korea
• The Best Tours for Seniors to South Korea
• How much does it cost to travel to South Korea? (Average Daily Cost)
• South Korea trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

How much do package tours cost in South Korea?

Is south korea expensive to visit.

• How much do I need for a trip to South Korea?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to South Korea?

You should plan to spend around $110 (₩147,903) per day on your vacation in South Korea. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $28 (₩38,176) on meals
• $16 (₩21,533) on local transportation
• $100 (₩133,776) on hotels

A one week trip to South Korea for two people costs, on average, $1,541 (₩2,070,644) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 110 ₩ 147,903
• One Week Per person $ 770 ₩ 1,035,322
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 1,541 ₩ 2,070,644
• One Month Per person $ 3,301 ₩ 4,437,095
• One Week For a couple $ 1,541 ₩ 2,070,644
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 3,081 ₩ 4,141,289
• One Month For a couple $ 6,602 ₩ 8,874,190

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to South Korea cost?

A one week trip to South Korea usually costs around $770 (₩1,035,322) for one person and $1,541 (₩2,070,644) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to South Korea on average costs around $1,541 (₩2,070,644) for one person and $3,081 (₩4,141,289) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in South Korea will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to South Korea on average costs around $3,301 (₩4,437,095) for one person and $6,602 (₩8,874,190) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in South Korea is $342 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.

• Exploring South Korea 12 Days - 5 Destinations $ 1,865
• Check-in Korea with Jeju Island in 16days: A Wellness Holiday 16 Days - 19 Destinations $ 4,370

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

South Korea is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.

Within Asia, South Korea is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Bhutan or Taiwan.

For more details, see Is South Korea Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to South Korea?

The average South Korea trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these South Korea travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in South Korea

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in South Korea is $50 (₩66,888). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in South Korea is $100 (₩133,776). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 50 ₩ 66,888
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 100 ₩ 133,776

Hotel Prices in South Korea

Looking for a hotel in South Korea? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in South Korea based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $47. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• SUANBO SANGNOK Tourist Hotel Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 61
• The Shilla Seoul Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 212

Local Transportation Budget in South Korea

The cost of a taxi ride in South Korea is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $16 (₩21,533) per person, per day, on local transportation in South Korea.

• Local Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 16 ₩ 21,533

Recommended Services

• Private Airport Transfer: Seoul City to Incheon Airport 1-12 pax Viator $ 215
• Incheon Airport Transfer Service private transport to/from Seoul Viator $ 110

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

Typical prices for Local Transportation in South Korea are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Local Transportation prices in South Korea, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Seoul City Pass Plus ₩ 10,000
• Metro Ride ₩ 1,350
• Subway Card ₩ 5,000
• Short Taxi Ride ₩ 7,000

Food Budget in South Korea

While meal prices in South Korea can vary, the average cost of food in South Korea is $28 (₩38,176) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in South Korea should cost around $11 (₩15,270) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in South Korea is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 28 ₩ 38,176

Recommended

• Night Market Food Tour Viator $ 72
• Korean cooking class in Haeundae, Busan Viator $ 95

What did other people spend on Food?

Typical prices for Food in South Korea are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Food prices in South Korea, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Donkatsu (Charles Restaurant) ₩ 10,000
• Carp Bread ₩ 1,000
• McDonald's ₩ 6,185
• Donut ₩ 2,500
• Burger ₩ 6,200
• Breakfast and Coffee for 2 ₩ 9,500
• Waffle ₩ 1,000
• Donut ₩ 1,000

Entertainment Budget in South Korea

Entertainment and activities in South Korea typically cost an average of $26 (₩35,611) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 26 ₩ 35,611

Recommended Activities

• Mini Van Private Guided Tour in Seoul (Optional Layover) Viator $ 220
• Full day Private Gyeongju UNESCO Heritage Tour : a glimpse into Silla Viator $ 256

What did other people spend on Entertainment?

Typical prices for Entertainment in South Korea are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Entertainment prices in South Korea, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Kimchi Museum ₩ 3,000
• Palace Tickets ₩ 8,000
• Movie Ticket ₩ 8,000

Tips and Handouts Budget in South Korea

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in South Korea is $32 (₩43,000) per day. The usual amount for a tip in South Korea is 5% - 15% .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 32 ₩ 43,000

Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps Budget in South Korea

Unfortunately, bad things can happen on a trip. Well, you've just got to deal with it! The average price for a scam, robbery, or mishap in South Korea is $0.93 (₩1,250), as reported by travelers.

• Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps 1 $ 0.93 ₩ 1,250

Alcohol Budget in South Korea

The average person spends about $12 (₩15,553) on alcoholic beverages in South Korea per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 12 ₩ 15,553
• Chunpoong Makgeolli Brewery Tour Viator $ 10
• Soju Tasting at Distillery - story of 3 pigs Viator $ 42

Water Budget in South Korea

On average, people spend $2.17 (₩2,910) on bottled water in South Korea per day. The public water in South Korea is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 2.17 ₩ 2,910

Related Articles

South korea on a budget.

At A Glance

• Public transportation in South Korea is very modern and easy to use. There are trains, buses, and planes that connect most cities. Most larger cities also have their own subway system which is usually modern and efficient. You can also travel around town by taxi or by public bus. Although there is almost every form of transportation you could need throughout the country, you'll usually get the best price if you take the bus. This may also be the slowest form of transportation however.
• South Korea sells a KR Pass to any foreign non-resident visiting the country. The pass offers unlimited travel for a set period of time on Korail train. There are many restrictions on the pass so you should really consider the cost effectiveness of purchasing it before paying the money. First class and sleeping cars are not included on the pass and the limitations are even stricter during holiday and peak periods of travel. In order to make up for the cost of the pass you will have to plan some long, frequent trips through the country. If you do decide to buy a KR Pass it must be purchased five days in advance.
• Karaoke, commonly referred to as noraebang, is a popular activity in most major cities around South Korea. You should try this at least once if you're looking for the full cultural experience.
• If you're in the country in the middle of July head to the city of Boryeong in Chunchungnam. They host a famous Mud Festival that is popular throughout the country. Participants are covered in a thick mud and participate in any number of activities which range from body painting to mud wrestling. There's also a nearby beach that hosts countless parties during this time. If you're planning to go to the festival make sure you reserve a hotel room well in advance as places tend to fill up.
• Although there are ATMs throughout the country, it can be quite difficult to find one that accepts foreign cards. Look for a Citibank ATM or the special Global ATMs. These are most frequently found in airports, subway stations and Family Mart convenience stores. If you're heading out of the major cities make sure you carry plenty of cash with you.

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Find cheap flights to South Korea from RM 440

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from malaysia to south korea departing on 15/4. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to south korea.

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Cheapest return prices found by our users on KAYAK in the last 72 hours

Good to know

Faqs - booking south korea flights, how long is the flight to south korea.

An average direct flight from Malaysia to South Korea takes 15h 05m, covering a distance of 7056 km. The most popular route is Kuala Lumpur - Incheon with an average flight time of 6h 30m.

What is the cheapest flight to South Korea?

The cheapest ticket to South Korea from Malaysia found in the last 72 hours was RM 423 one-way, and RM 908 round-trip. The most popular route is Kuala Lumpur Intl to Incheon Intl and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was RM 908.

Which airlines fly to South Korea?

Malaysia Airlines, Korean Air & AirAsia X fly the most frequently from Malaysia to South Korea. The most popular route is from Kuala Lumpur to Seoul, and Malaysia Airlines, Korean Air and AirAsia X fly this route the most.

What are the most popular destinations in South Korea?

The next most popular destinations are Jeju City (4%) and Busan (3%).Searches for flights to Daegu (0.4%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travellers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to South Korea

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest South Korea flight deals.

Top 5 airlines flying to South Korea

On time and flight crew are always so happy to help and always smiling unlike other airlines.

Great crew, decent food Charging plugs were broken on both seats next to me. Only the USB port was available, and that charges, very, very slowly. Seat was also broken, it would not lock into position when reclining.

Korean Air had great service and the Bibimbap dish was the best airplane food I’ve ever had. It was a long flight so in between the two meals they served customers could get Shin ramen. The flight attendants let my children use a pair of nice headphones for the flight and had earbuds and slippers for all the adults. The flight was long but the time passed by relatively quickly because they have many great shows in their entertainment TV. I watched the BTS Love Yourself and Speak Yourself concerts 💜

Stewardess are nice. Food could have been better and should have a better dessert. They do not offer scotch or beer. You have to ask for it. I also was not happy that you do not serve ginger ale and or cranberry juice. This is my first time that an international flight do not have this. I go home overseas every year and when I travel through ANA, Delta, Qatar, JAL, Asiana Air, United Air. they all serve this two very famous drink. You do not have a great snack tray.

You did not put me on a Korean Air flight! so I do not have nothing to say

Wonderful cabin crew!!!!! Food was poor, in flight entertainment was just ok. They need to serve more water on a 15 hour flight--we were dehydrated and kept asking for water.

Going through security a second time to get on the next Korean Air flight was utterly ridiculous and unnecessary. We were in a International secure area.

Always fly with Korean Airlines. Best service great food. Nice and clean as always.

Crew was awesome, absolutely the best, Food was excellent also. Movie selection was mostly modern duds. However, I love Korean Airlines

The website is difficult if you don't have an account and sign in as a guest. Seat selection/change is only allowed after they send you an email which I would never received. Otherwise, the Korean Air flight crew was great. Just go to back of plane for snacks and drinks. They provide pillow, blanket and headphones. Movie selection wasn't great imo.

The plane had a technical problem it would delayed 10 hours but they just gave limited information and put all passengers into the Miracle lounge. Ther were not enough chairs and so on.

An excellent airline; polite and courteous cabin crew, excellent meal and drink service. Highly recommended.

We boarded the plane at 1:20 pm It was hot. There was no air-conditioning It was stifling They kept us on the plane sitting there for 1 hour and 10 minutes

No space in between the seats as per them the average height of human is 5’3” and weight as 55, so seats are designed as per the same. Also, the aircraft was dirty and full of insects

when we arrived at Taipei no one help us to get boarding pass. we saw a few people there asked them for help but they just ignored us. There was a guy told us to call Starlux number to get help but we don’t know how to dial the number until there was a lady working there helped us to call Starlux customer then someone came down took us to another counter for boarding pass. Very confused and inconvenient. We might not choose Starlux again in the future.

There was no entertainment and food option limited But the service was first class on an economy flight

They didn't have a vegetarian food in spite of the ore order

Technical problems checking in. Had to wait a long time while they got things ready.

Vietnam airlines is just one step upper to the cheapest one (vietjet, if you wanted delays and cancel or feel like a criminal then vietjet is for you) for sure better customer cares and on time.

Flight was good but they cancelled return direct flight so they provide us connecting flight through hanoi

Delayed for 45 minutes. Don't know what's the issue. Other than that, food was not to my satisfaction. However it's okay.

My first course flight (Aor-Kul) was cancelled in the morning, and they asked me to board the night flight hence I need to transit overnight for the 2nd flight (Kul-Myy) that supposed to be on the same day. The overnight stay was not provided, (I'm traveling with my spouse, a daughter (5 y.o.) and an infant (2 months old). Hence I booked Sama Sama Hotel at my own expense (fortunately using my enrich miles points). Other than this issue, all services is good.

Orange juice change to mineral water . Should keep the orange juice.

Entertainment system was too old, crew were unorganised during boarding

No recognition for one World Emerald member. Business class seat has flat bed

No recognition for one World Emerald member. I got row 1 in business class and it was pathetic. No leg space, cramped space, less recline

Flight from Shanghai to Kuala Luumpur delay byy 3.5hrs with no real explanation.

Elderly individual shud be given priority to board the plane together with passengers with children and disabled. Otherwise things are OK.

Cabin crew as always are leaps and bounds the crowning glory of MH. Friendliness and natural warmth are such incredible traits. Food was very good on this flight also; and flexibility in meal time to accomodate rest was a plus point. Early arrival and landing as the first morning inbound at T4 LHR meant I was off the plane and in the queue for an Uber in less than 15 minutes!

I enjoy traveling with Malaysia Airlines. The Asian food they serve is pretty good and the red wine was also good. They did run out of beer and only did a couple of water rounds during the flight but the staff were very friendly.

2 delayed flights - hotel layover in a different country- lost baggage.

Silly to not even offer people water for free when they are paying so much for tickets.

You get what you pay for. It’s functional and gets you from point A to B in good comfort. However, food options are limited and cash only, Crew is a hit and miss .. they get your attention if you reach out.

Good leg room ... air conditioning was a bit warm don't Book row 8 ... no windows

They got to the terminal late, with no one on the arriving flight, boarded us late, and left us sitting there for 2 hours before they got us off the ground. They knew they were going to be late, yet they never got an updated flight plan from their head office until long after the flight was supposed to leave. They could have cut the delay in half, of at least let us stay in the terminal. Really just horrible planning.

The worst kind of budget airline. To be honest....the plane was not that bad. Would have been good to have some food choices and some water. What was by far the worse is the passengers/customers that this airline attracts. Coughing and spluttering all over one another with no masks. Just disgusting. Pay for a better carrier and get a better class of passenger.

The best part was Tony Fernandes actually reinstated the Buttercake menu. It has gone missing after Covid & i made a complaint in one of my Tweets back in October 2022. Both flight D170 & D171 landed very smoothly- kudos to both pilots!

The worst experience in any flight I have ever had, delayed for more than 10 hours, lost my other flight so I lost one day during my trip. Didn’t gave me facilities with my luggage either. Never again

I was next to a quite large person. Soni essentially had 2/3 of my seat for myself and couldn't sit properly. Even though there were some other seat available, the staff refuse that I occupy another seat.

Pros: The staff was very friendly. Cons: Long delay. The food is terrible.

I’m a frequent Traveler on all types of airlines, including budget. This was the worst flight experience I’ve ever had. Something was wrong with AirAsia’s systems and we were the whole flight was rescheduled to the following day, the third flight it happened to. Apart from an email which gave the new date the web and app said the original flight date which meant that there were hundreds of people queueing at the airport to try and find out what was going on. People waited six hours to talk to customer service who gave advice that didn’t match the web or app. Nightmare. just advertising for spending the extra hundred dollars I’ve ever seen.

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South Korea Flight & Hotel Packages

Gangnam Artnouveau City

Reviewed on 17 Mar 2024

Hotel Atrium

Reviewed on 14 Mar 2024

Sejong Hotel

Reviewed on 28 Mar 2024

New Seoul Hotel

Reviewed on 23 Mar 2024

Shilla Stay Seodaemun Seoul Station

Reviewed on 29 Mar 2024

South Korea Holiday

Search for street food among the controlled chaos of downtown Seoul, travel back through time at the great Gyeongbokgung Palace and enjoy the tropical climate and beaches of Jeju-do. Your trip to South Korea can be whatever you want it to be.

South Korea Hotel + Flights

A quick search on Expedia will reveal 17,133 South Korea hotels, starting as low as RM878 a night. Want to save money on your upcoming trip? The easiest way to make your budget go further is to bundle your hotel and flights with us. On top of this, you can add car rental and experiences, such as a Korean home cooking class. With your South Korea Holiday Package filled to the brim, the only thing left to do will be to hop on that plane.

Your South Korea Holiday Itinerary

Day 1-2: Hit the ground at Incheon International Airport in Seoul. Get a bite to eat at the city’s busiest food alley in Gwangjang Market, explore the collection at Leeum Samsung Museum of Art and wander the streets of Seoul’s most artistic neighbourhood, Insadong.

Day 3-4: Hop on a flight to Busan. This coastal city is South Korea’s second biggest, and it boasts plenty to see and do. Jagalchi Fish Market, Gamcheon Culture Village and Haeundae Beach are must-sees.

Day 5-7: You can’t head home without checking out the popular island of Jeju-do. Apart from its gorgeous beaches, this place is also known for the unique volcano, Seongsan Ilchulbong.

South Korea Information

Head to Jinhae in spring to witness its majestic cherry blossom festival. This popular event attracts over two million visitors each year.

There’s always something new to experience in the bustling capital, so why not check out our Seoul Holiday Packages ?

Top hotels in South Korea

Reviewed on 15 Mar 2024

Reviewed on 25 Mar 2024

Reviewed on 26 Mar 2024

Frequently asked questions

Popular places to visit, lotte world.

Have a fun-filled day at Lotte World and see why people love this theme park in Seoul. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this culturally rich area.

Gwangalli Beach

Swim in the calm water of a sheltered bay, dine at waterfront seafood bars and see uninterrupted views of Gwangan Bridge.

Jeonju Hanok Village

When you visit Jeonju Hanok Village, a favourite shopping spot in Jeonju, you can browse for souvenirs. Amble within the natural setting or visit the temples in this quaint area.

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Cheap flights from Malaysia to South Korea from RM 417

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a cheapflights user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight departing on 18/4. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., find deals on flights from malaysia to south korea by searching across hundreds of travel sites at once.

Save over 19% Compare Cheapflights against other travel sites with one search.

Price tracking Holding out for a great deal? Get notified when prices are reduced.

Customise Results Filter for flights based on cabin class, airline, free Wi-Fi, and more.

Unlimited free use Search as many times as you want with no hidden charges or fees.

How far in advance should I book a flight from Malaysia to South Korea?

To save up to 4% on this flight, we recommend booking at least 57 days prior to travel. The price may fluctuate and will likely increase closer to your departure date. Users on Cheapflights have found tickets from Malaysia to South Korea from RM 1,492 1-2 weeks out and tickets from RM 1,619 for flights departing within the next 72 hours.

What is the cheapest month to fly from Malaysia to South Korea?

Flights from Malaysia to South Korea lean towards being more expensive in December. Prices are generally better when you fly from Malaysia to South Korea in July, with the cheapest ticket starting at RM 767.

When is the cheapest time to fly from Malaysia to South Korea (MY - KR)?

When flying from Malaysia to South Korea, the time of day you decide to fly out makes little to no difference towards the overall price you’ll pay on tickets.

Cheap AirAsia flights from Malaysia to South Korea

Explore cheap flight options specifically provided by airasia for the route between malaysia and south korea. find affordable fares and compare prices with other airlines to secure the best deal for your journey. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 353,477 searches. data last updated 24 march 2024., take a peek at the cheapest airasia flights we've detected traveling from malaysia to south korea. come back soon if you're not finding the exact deal you're looking for., cheap airasia x flights from malaysia to south korea, explore cheap flight options specifically provided by airasia x for the route between malaysia and south korea. find affordable fares and compare prices with other airlines to secure the best deal for your journey. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 353,477 searches. data last updated 24 march 2024., take a gander at the lowest prices we've found on airasia x flights from malaysia to south korea. make sure to examine the flight information before completing your reservation., cheap malaysia to south korea flights in march & april 2024, find cheap flight options from malaysia to south korea specifically for the months of march and april 2024. explore affordable fares based on user searches. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 353,477 searches. prices were last updated on 24 march 2024., the lowest fares we've come across on flights traveling from malaysia to south korea in march and april 2024. check back soon for alternative fares., malaysia to south korea 2024 flight deals, discover exclusive flight deals for travel between malaysia and south korea in 2024. find excellent offers based on user searches. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 353,477 searches. data last updated 24 march 2024., direct flights to south korea from malaysia, discover direct flight options from malaysia to south korea. find direct flights with no stopovers, providing a convenient travel experience. explore direct flight options based on user searches, and compare prices and availability for your desired travel dates. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 353,477 searches. data last updated 24 march 2024., for a shorter flight, select one of these non-stop flights from malaysia to south korea. select from other flights from malaysia to south korea by using the search form above., malaysia to south korea flights leaving soon, find last-minute flight options from malaysia to south korea for spontaneous travel. discover available flights and compare prices based on user searches. secure great deals and offers for spontaneous trips with quick booking options. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 353,477 searches. data last updated 24 march 2024., check out these flights departing soon from malaysia to south korea. users should examine the flight details to ensure there are no surprises., one-way flights to south korea from malaysia, search for one-way flight options from malaysia to south korea. find affordable one-way fares based on user searches. compare prices and availability to plan your one-way journey according to your preferred dates and budget. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 353,477 searches. data last updated 24 march 2024., users traveling one-way from malaysia to south korea can select one of these great deals. those needing a return flight from malaysia to south korea can use the search form above., find flights from malaysia to south korea within your budget, customise your flight search to find flights from malaysia to south korea that fit within your specific budget. explore options based on user searches and filter the results based on your desired price range. find flights that match your budget for a cost-effective journey. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 353,477 searches. data last updated 24 march 2024..

RM 848 - RM 1,193

Kota Kinabalu Incheon Intl

Kota Kinabalu

Nonstop 5h 00m

Incheon Intl

Nonstop 5h 30m

Kuala Lumpur Intl Incheon Intl

Kuala Lumpur Intl

Nonstop 6h 50m

2 stops 37h 05m

Nonstop 6h 30m

Nonstop 5h 25m

Nonstop 5h 05m

1 stop 18h 55m

1 stop 22h 10m

Nonstop 5h 15m

Nonstop 5h 20m

Penang Intl Incheon Intl

Penang Intl

1 stop 9h 55m

1 stop 11h 15m

2 stops 16h 20m

2 stops 16h 25m

Kuala Lumpur Intl Busan Gimhae

1 stop 10h 05m

Busan Gimhae

1 stop 10h 15m

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Reviews of airlines servicing South Korea

Get insights into the airlines that provide service to south korea. read reviews, discover amenities, and learn about the overall travel experience offered by airlines. use this information to make informed decisions when choosing an airline for your flight to south korea. reviews last updated 24 march 2024., to help decide which airline to fly from malaysia to south korea, see what other customers have to say about airasia, airasia x and t'way air. you can also see how each airline stacks up in terms of entertainment options, comfort, food, crew/service, and boarding process..

Entertainment

if you can put more multiples language agents in air service especially Chinese or French ,the customer who speaks those languages will be much happier than now

Related info for your journey

Find useful and relevant information for your journey from malaysia to south korea. access travel guides, tips, and recommendations to enhance your travel experience. get information about local attractions, weather, transportation options, and more., can i find flights from malaysia to south korea for under rm 900 on cheapflights.

Yes, there are multiple flights from Malaysia to South Korea for under RM 900. The cheapest flight booked recently is on AirAsia for just RM 848, but on average you can expect to pay RM 923.

Are there direct flights from Malaysia to South Korea for under RM 900 on Cheapflights?

Cheapflights has 20 direct flights from Malaysia to South Korea under RM 900. A good price for a direct flight from Malaysia to South Korea is less than RM 961.

Are there last-minute flights available from Malaysia to South Korea for under RM 1,000?

There are currently 20+ open flights from Malaysia to South Korea within the next 7 days for less than RM 1,000.

What days are direct flights available from Malaysia to South Korea?

You can find direct flights on the following days: Thursday, Friday.

How many flights depart from Malaysia to South Korea on average per day?

On average, you can expect to see 4 flights from Malaysia to South Korea a day. Evening (6pm - Midnight) - 100% of flight departures

How long is the flight from Malaysia to South Korea?

Departing from Malaysia to South Korea will take you 5h. Airlines will cover a distance of 4637 km. Generally, flights for this route are nonstop.

What are the cheapest airlines to fly from Malaysia to South Korea one-way?

One-way options have recently been found by users for as low as RM 417 on AirAsia. Other airlines that offer cheap prices include Batik Air from RM 426 and AirAsia X from RM 488 one-way.

What does KUL to ICN mean?

Great question - KUL to ICN just means Kuala Lumpur Intl Airport to Incheon Intl Airport. Now you’ll know what these unique codes when you look for flights! While you’re still figuring out your travel plans, it’s not a bad idea to learn the names and codes of other airports around these areas: Busan Gimhae Airport (PUS), Seoul Gimpo Intl Airport (GMP), Daegu Airport (TAE), Cheongju Airport (CJJ), Jeju City Airport (CJU).

Browse thousands of different options on Cheapflights for your next trip

Toggle through the tabs below to find thousands of options on cheapflights for your next trip., top 10 airlines flying from malaysia to south korea, discover the top 10 airlines that operate flights from malaysia to south korea. compare their services, reliability, and customer satisfaction ratings to choose the airline that best suits your travel preferences and needs. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 353,477 searches. data last updated 24 march 2024., popular flight searches, check out other popular destinations found by fellow travellers in 2024, search flights from malaysia to south korea by cabin class, find flights from malaysia to south korea, based on your preferred cabin class, be it economy, premium economy, business, or first class., hourly flight availability from malaysia to south korea, find hourly flight availability from malaysia to south korea. discover flight options and departure times throughout the day, allowing you to choose a departure time that suits your schedule. data last updated 24 march 2024., book a flight to one of these trending destinations, user searches for flights to these destinations increased 20% or more in the past 90 days compared to other destinations, fly with cheapflights, find the best flight deals on cheapflights, where travellers can enjoy low prices and a wide availability of flights to their desired destinations., how does cheapflights help users find flights from malaysia to south korea.

Cheapflights helps you search for flights from Malaysia to South Korea via 900+ travel sites so you don’t have to. After performing a flight search, users can also filter their flight selection by filtering for price, number of stops, airlines, and so on.

Why should you use Cheapflights to find cheap flight tickets from Malaysia to South Korea?

By finding flights from multiple airlines and providers at completely no cost, Cheapflights helps millions of users like you annually find the best flights to South Korea from Malaysia.

Can Cheapflights find flights from Malaysia to South Korea with no change fees?

Users can book flights with no change fees policies with our dedicated filters. Book flights from Malaysia to South Korea flexibly with Cheapflights today.

Can Cheapflights notify me if prices for flights from Malaysia to South Korea become cheaper?

Yes, and it’s super simple to set up. Click the bell icon next to the flight deals above and provide a valid email address to enable Price Alerts. That’s it!

The Cost of Travel in South Korea: My 2024 Budget Breakdown

I was so excited to return to South Korea.

I haven’t been to many places where I’ve felt such a cohesive blend of old and new, but South Korea is one of them. Steeped with 5000 years of culture and history, but integrated with modern music, technology, and infrastructure, it’s a country that surprised and delighted me at every turn.

And Seoul? It’s one of my favourite cities in the world. If you think New York City is the place that never sleeps, just wait until you arrive in Seoul. During my first visit to the country, I landed in the South Korean capital expecting to spend three or four days in town, but ended up leaving after three weeks . Yes, I loved this city so much that I simply couldn’t bring myself to leave.

I’d be walking the bustling streets of popular neighbourhood Hongdae in the early hours of the morning and realise that there was nowhere on earth quite like it. Street performers are sharing their best routines to the latest K-pop songs, shops are bright and open, karaoke is everywhere, and clubs have lines out the door. Talk about a sensory overload, but in the best possible way. 

On my return visit, though, I knew I needed to see more of this wonderful country. South Korea is so much more than it’s biggest city.

From the colourful houses in Busan to the scenic coastal views and tea plantations on Jeju Island to the towering mountains of Seoraksan National Park: I loved each and every destination I visited in the country. Get ready to be swept away by all that Korea has to offer, from Korean BBQ, K-pop, karaoke, palaces, temples, and arcades.

But how are the prices? In this post-pandemic world, the cost of travel has been skyrocketing, but this country has managed to remain relatively inexpensive.

Today, I’m going to be revealing exactly how much you can expect to spend on a trip to South Korea.

I’ve been recording every single dollar, peso, and baht that I’ve spent on my travels since 2011 (I now have  over 65 budget breakdowns on the site !), aiming to give you an accurate picture of how much you can expect to spend in every country around the world. Today, it’s South Korea’s turn and I’m so excited to start sharing.

Grab yourself a cold bottle of soju because this post’s a long one!

What’s Included in this Post 

This budget breakdown covers how much I spent on accommodation, transportation, activities, and food during my trips to South Korea.

The amounts in the guide are listed in U.S. dollars, simply because the vast majority of my readers are from the U.S. I’ve also included prices in the South Korean won (KRW) — the local currency — as you’ll be using that throughout your time in the country.

At the time of writing (February 2024):

• 1 USD: 1,300 KRW
• 1 EUR: 1,450 KRW
• 1 GBP: 1,675 KRW
• 1 AUD: 875 KRW

Yes, this does make calculating the prices of things rather tricky when you’re in South Korea! For me, I kept in mind that 10,000 KRW is roughly 8 USD (€7, £6, or 11.50 AUD) and it made figuring out the prices of things far easier.

One quick note I do want to make about travel in South Korea is that it’s kind of complicated to pay for things! Korea is, these days, a cashless society — everybody pays with cards and there aren’t a lot of places that are happy to accept cash.

Now, that would be all well and good if it wasn’t for the fact that the vast majority of payment terminals don’t accept foreign bank cards. Apple Pay is very limited and Google Pay doesn’t exist at all.

Yes, really.

I’d say that we were able to successfully use our debit/credit cards 30% of the time in South Korea — and it made no difference whether we were using our U.K., Australian, or New Zealand cards.

So, what to do?

Honestly, there isn’t an elegant solution. Expect that every time you try to buy something, you might need to try four cards until one of them works. Carry a lot of cash with you in case none of your cards are accepted. It didn’t end up being a huge problem for us, as we were able to pay with cash whenever our cards were declined, but it was frustrating to have to continually deal with payment rejections everywhere we went!

Okay, let’s get started! Up first: accommodation!

The Cheapest Accommodation Options in South Korea

Like practically every country in the world, prices have increased post-pandemic in South Korea, so you’ll be paying a little more for everything than you would have done a few years ago. Despite that, costs are lower than most Western countries, so accommodation in the country still offers up good value for money.

Let’s start on the lower end of the spectrum. If you’re willing to put in the time and effort, it’s possible to avoid paying for accommodation entirely.

Couchsurfing  exists in South Korea and allows you to stay with a local for free, usually sleeping on their sofa and enjoying a local’s insight into life in their country. It’s not the most comfortable of living situations, but if your budget’s tight, it’s worth sending out a few requests to hosts to see if anything comes of it. You can browse through the 150,000+ Korean hosts on  the Couchsurfing site .

Housesitting  is a more upmarket option, aimed at mid-range and luxury travellers. Housesitting involves taking care of somebody’s house for free while they’re away, often (but not always) looking after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees, as you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you’ll need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year. If you do have that freedom, though it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while. Trusted Housesitters  is the best site for getting started with housesitting, as they have the highest number of listings.

And then we have hostels . In South Korea, you’ll come across hostels all over the country, finding them on tiny islands, large cities, and even within the national parks. They’re one of your best options for saving money.

All prices are in U.S. Dollars, by the way, as that’s where the vast majority of my readers are from.

Hostels in Korea  are on a par with the rest of major cities in East Asia, and you can expect to spend between  $18 a night for a dorm bed  for a well-reviewed hostel, with the price increasing slightly to about  $24 a night  for the absolute best of the best.

When it comes to private rooms in hostels, you’ll be looking at  $30 a night  for a clean, basic room in a good location, so if you’re travelling with friends or with your partner, you may find it cheaper to grab some privacy over settling for two beds in a dorm room.  $70 a night  will get you an exceptionally well-reviewed private room in a hostel.

I use  HostelWorld  to find the cheapest hostels, as they tend to have the greatest number of listings at the lowest prices.

And then there are hotels, which I’m going to jump into next.

The Cost of Accommodation in South Korea 

I found hotels in South Korea to be pretty reasonably priced. You won’t get the cheap, cheap rates that you do in places like Southeast Asia, but prices are generally lower than more expensive countries in Western Europe.

• As mentioned, well-rated hostels come in at an average price of $18 a night for a dorm bed, while private rooms are around $30 a night .
• Inexpensive guesthouses are typically around $50 a night .
• Four-star hotels are between $150 and $200 a night
• And five-star hotels are $250-350 a night

As always with these posts, I like to share where I personally stayed in the country and what I thought of each of my accommodation choices. On my most recent trip, I splurged in Seoul because I wanted to stay in two of the best-rated hotels in the country, but kept my accommodation costs relatively low in the other destinations I visited.

Seoul (Hongdae): RYSE Hotel (240,000 KRW, or $183 per night)

If you’re going to stay anywhere in Hongdae (my favourite Seoul neighbourhood), RYSE Hotel is the place to be. It’s one of the best hotels in the city! It’s in the perfect location, in the heart of Hongdae’s cafe-and-nightlife scene, but so well-insulated that you don’t hear any of it. The rooms had a modern, industrial design, great views over the city, and there were tons of gifts, from facemasks (this is Korea, after all!) to local games to even a bottle of wine. There’s a rooftop bar with some of the best views in Seoul, one of the best equipped hotel gyms I’ve ever used, and the staff were amazing. I’d absolutely stay here again on future visits!

Seoul (Myeongdong): Hotel 28 (189,000 KRW, or $144 per night)

Our itinerary in South Korea saw us spending two separate stints in Seoul, so for our second visit, I dragged myself away from my beloved Hongdae and gave Myeongdong a try — this is the neighbourhood to head to if you want to shop ’til you drop then eat ’til you’re… replete! We chose Hotel28, which is the best-rated option in the area; one of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. It’s a cinema-themed hotel (you get bags of free popcorn when you check in!) in one of the best areas for eating in the city. The rooms are spacious, the bathroom had the best bathtub ever, and the staff were so sweet. It’s right by one of the city’s best night markets, too, which was so much fun to eat my way around! The hotel gym was great, too.

Gyeongju: Maison Mini Hotel (62,000 KRW, or $49 per night)

Dave and I loved our stay at the adorable Maison Mini Hotel in Gyeongju and found it to be a fantastic mid-range accommodation option. The rooms were spotless and cleaned everyday throughout our stay. The owner was so sweet and welcoming, and the shared kitchen and laundry facilities were definitely appreciated. Having access to a proper coffee machine was particularly useful! The guesthouse is a 10 minute walk from all of the wonderful sights of Gyeongju and a five minute walk from the main bus station, so it made for a great base while we were in town. I can’t recommend this place highly enough!

Busan: Urbanstay Seomyeon (61,000 KRW, or $47 per night)

Like Seoul, Busan is a big old city with plenty of neighbourhoods to choose from. Seomyeon, however, is the best spot for new visitors to town — it’s in a convenient location for visiting all of the most popular spots and has plenty of vibrant nightlife and restaurants to explore. Urbanstay is right beside a metro station, which makes getting around even easier. The rooms are clean, modern, and basic — very minimalist! — with lightning-fast Wi-Fi. There actually aren’t any staff at the hotel, so you’ll be emailed a key code to get into your room, which works well. The washing machines are, as always, very much appreciated!

Seoraksan National Park: Smile Resort (70,000 KRW, or $53 per night)

If you’re going to be hiking in Seoraksan National Park, you’ll want to be staying as close to the park entrance as possible. Unfortunately, this area of South Korea seems to be full of mediocre accommodation options. Still, Smile Resort was the best option that was close to the entrance while not being obscenely expensive. While the interior was a little old and tired, it was a perfectly acceptable place to stay! The owners were welcoming and kind, the free breakfast (a rarity in South Korea) was definitely appreciated before a big day of hiking, and it’s just a five-minute walk from the bus that takes you to the national park entrance. Rooms also have a private kitchenette and fridge, which was useful for keeping our water cold overnight.

My partner, Dave, wrote an in-depth itinerary on how to spend 10 days in South Korea after our most recent trip, so do check that out if you’re looking for advice how to structure a trip to the above places!

The Cost of Transportation in South Korea 

I’m somebody who doesn’t get an awful lot out of travel days in unfamiliar places, but even I can admit that travelling around South Korea is a joy! From the buses to the high-speed trains to the comprehensive subways: getting around this country is convenient, comfortable, and hassle-free.

Your first encounter with the transportation system will be at the airport. There’s two options for getting the train from Incheon International Airport to Seoul: the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) or the All Stop Train. The former takes 43 minutes and costs 9,500 KRW ( $7.20 ), while the latter is half the price at 4,150 KRW ( $3.15 ) and takes 53 minutes.

I recommend jumping on the All Stop Train, then, as it’s cheaper, takes just 10 minutes longer, and runs more frequently than the AREX so will most likely get you into Seoul faster anyway.

I wouldn’t recommend taking the bus or the taxi, as both are more expensive and slower than the train. The bus costs 10-15,000 KRW ( $9 ) and takes around 80 minutes, while taxis cost a whopping 70,000 KRW, or $55 , and take around an hour.

What to Know About T-Money Cards

Before we go any further, it’s time for a primer on T-Money! This is my one travel essential in South Korea and I highly recommend getting your hands on one before you leave the airport.

A T-Money card is designed to make your public transportation experiences seamless. You simply buy your T-Money card from any convenience store, or the vending machines at the airport, and then you can use it on subways, buses, taxis, and even vending machines and grocery stores — all across the country. Simply tap your card on the T-Money scanner and you’re good to go!

I recommend buying yours at the airport, where there are T-Money vending machines located beside the All Stop Train (and then you’ll pay for said train journey with the card). You’ll pay 4,000 KRW ( $3 ) for the card.

Once you’ve bought your card, remember to top it up with some cash. I topped-up with 40,000 KRW ( $30 ), which was the perfect amount for two weeks in the country — I had 2,000 KRW left over at the end. If you do end up with any money left on your T-Money card at the end of your trip, you can get that refunded to you at any subway station (including the airport) in Seoul.

I mentioned in the photo caption above that Dave’s T-Money card came free with his SIM card purchase. He bought his SIM card in advance from LG and picked it up in the arrivals hall at the airport. The SIM card included unlimited data (35,000 KRW or $25 for 10 days of usage) plus a Korean phone number — the latter of which is surprisingly useful in Korea (you often need a local phone number just to join a queue for a restaurant!) but tricky to get from many other providers.

The Cost of Trains in South Korea

If you’ll be venturing outside of Seoul then odds are, you’ll be travelling by train. This is one of the best ways to explore the country, thanks to the modern carriages and speedy services. And expect your trains to be punctual — just as in nearby Japan , this country thrives on an on-time departure.

I’m a huge fan of the KTX — the Korean Travel Express — which whips you up and down the length of the country at speeds of 300+ kilometres an hour (190 mph). It’s the priciest option, for sure, but the amount of time you’ll save will likely make it worth it.

As an example, the KTX from Seoul to Busan — running from the top to the bottom of the country — takes just over two hours (at a price of 59,800 KRW/$45 ). In comparison, the equivalent buses and slower trains complete the journey anywhere between four and six hours (but costing 28,000 KRW/$21 ).

Buy your KTX tickets through the official Korail website to score the cheapest fare — we had no problems using it with our foreign debit/credit cards.

I’ll briefly mention the existence of the Korea Rail Pass (KR Pass) here, which works similarly to the Japan Rail Pass or a Eurail Pass. You can choose from either a consecutive pass or a flexible pass, but to be honest, the prices are around the same amount as the individual tickets, so I didn’t see the point. If you’ll be racing around the country and visiting multiple places in a single day, it may be worth it, but it wasn’t for us.

The Cost of Buses in South Korea

You can take the bus to just about anywhere in South Korea.

There are two types of long-distance buses in the country: express and intercity; due to time constraints, we opted for the express option for every journey we took (intercity buses are cheaper but take way longer because they make stops all along the way; express buses take you directly to your destination). Our two-hour express bus from Seoul to Sokcho ( 21,000W, or $16 ) was bordering on luxurious with wide, comfortable reclining leather seats, tons of legroom, and even power sockets.

You can find bus departures either through Kobus (express buses only) or Bustago (express and intercity buses). However , you can only purchase through these sites if you have a Korean bank card and a local number — yes, it’s frustrating and only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Korea making travel difficult for foreign visitors.

We used these booking sites, therefore, to see which departure time we wanted to aim for and to check there were still tickets available. We then bought the tickets from the bus station an hour or so beforehand — departures typically run multiple times an hour so you don’t have to worry too much about buses being booked.

To give you a sense of ticket prices, here are some average one-way costs for a few routes you might take: 

• Seoul to Busan: 33,000 KRW ($26)
• Seoul to Gyeongju: 20,000 KRW ($15)
• Busan to Daegu: 12,000 KRW ($9)
• Seoul to Jeonju: 20,000 KRW ($15)

The Cost of Flying in South Korea

South Korea isn’t a gargantuan country. And with fast and frequent overland options available throughout, you probably won’t need to fly very often — if it all. But if you plan on going to wonderful Jeju Island (which you should), then flying is the easiest way to get there.

A one-way direct flight from Seoul to Jeju will cost around $42 , and if you’re flying from Busan, a one-way fare is roughly $33 . 

In terms of alternative options to flying, you do have the ferry from Busan. At a journey time of around 12 hours, though, and a cost of 60,000W ($45) , there’s no real reason to put yourself through the discomfort.

The Cost of the Metro in South Korea

The underground systems in Seoul and Busan are in a league of their own. In fact, Seoul has one of the most extensive subway systems in the world — it’s clean, modern, and safe. If you don’t have to use it during rush hour, it’s pretty calm, too. It’s one of the best and most efficient ways to get around Seoul, and with the exception of a couple of local bus trips, I relied on the subway during my entire stint in the city.

Fare is calculated by distance, so a subway ride of less than 10 km will cost 1,350 KRW ($1) with 100 KRW added on for every additional 5km (you’re unlikely to take a journey this far, though). When taking the subway over a typical day of sightseeing, I usually averaged around 5,000 KRW ($4) per day . 

Overall, my daily transportation costs in South Korea worked out to: $10.20 per day

The Cost of Food in South Korea

Long-time readers of the site will already know that food is my primary driver to travel. It won’t come as any surprise, then, to learn that my favourite thing to do in Korea was eat .

There are so many incredible local dishes to sample in this country that I often found myself panicking that there weren’t going to be enough meals in the day. By the end of my weeks in the country, I was officially inducting South Korea into my list of the top five places to eat in the world (the others being India, Vietnam, Mexico, and Greece).

Yes, you’ve got all the classics you’ve probably come across before, like kimchi, bibimbap, and bulgogi, and you’ll be able to find them on practically every street you walk along. But for me, the delight came in wandering into a crowded restaurant without any idea what was on the menu, sitting down and being presented with one of the best dishes I’ve ever tried. Yes, I’m looking at you, samgyetang.

Of course, Korean BBQ reigns supreme and provides a super-fun food experience — I definitely recommend trying it at least once while you’re in the country. Gather around a table with a group of friends, order yourselves an inordinate amount of meat, marinate it in a variety of sauces, then cook it up at your table on your own little grill.

And let me tell you that Korean fried chicken may have ruined me for all of my future fried chicken experiences. Before arriving in the country, I’d made a vow to never eat the same thing twice while I was there. After my first taste of crispy fried chicken, however, I found myself meekly eating it again a couple of days later. It was just so freaking good!

The kimchi in South Korea is amazing and I was regularly blown away by the depth of flavour that was contained in such a simple dish. You’ll be given a couple of versions of it (cabbage and radish) as a free side with practically every meal you order, and it was nearly always a flavourful highlight for me.

One particularly epic food experience we had in the country is depicted in the photo at the very top of this section — the one where I’m surrounded by about 35 different dishes! Hongsi Hanjungsik in Gyeongju offers up a traditional Korean banquet, run out of the owner’s home, with so many high-quality, tasty things to try. And despite the multitude of dishes, we didn’t come away feeling overly full. At a price of 20,000W (or $15.50) each, it felt like phenomenally good value!

So let’s get into the food prices.

In general, if you’re eating out at a Korean restaurant, look to spend around 10,000 – 15,000 KRW ($7.50 – $11.50) for a meal. When eating at a more Western restaurant (which you absolutely should not do because the Western food in Korea is probably the worst I’ve ever eaten — a ham and cheese sandwich I ordered was drizzled with condensed milk!) then you might spend 20,000 KRW ($15) for a meal. Fast food, street food, or a smaller meal will range around 5,000 – 7,000 KRW ($4 – $5) . 

Here’s some examples of what we spent on some of the various dishes we tried:

• Fried chicken for lunch: 10,000 KRW ($7.50)
• Bibimbap for lunch: 9,500 KRW ($7)
• Bindaetteok (mung bean pancake) as a street food snack: 5,000 KRW ($4)
• Dakgalbi (stir-fried chicken) for dinner: 6,500 KRW ($4.50)
• Unlimited Korean BBQ on a weekday lunch: 15,000 KRW ($11.50)
• Samgyetang (chicken ginseng soup) at a fancy restaurant for lunch: 19,000 KRW ($14.50)
• Street food snacks: 3,000 KRW ($2) each
• A pint of local draft beer in a restaurant: 4,000 KRW ($3)
• A bottle of soju in a restaurant: 4,000 KRW ($3)
• A 750ml bottle of makgeolli in a restaurant: 4,000 KRW ($3)
• An extremely fancy cocktail in a world-class bar: 23,000 KRW ($17.50)

Dave and I are usually intermittent fasters when we travel, so we rarely opted for breakfast while we were travelling in South Korea. Instead, we’d have a large meal for an early lunch and often hit the street food carts for dinner. Our daily meal costs were sometimes then as little as 15,000 KRW ($11.50) a day but averaged out at 25,000 KRW ($19) a day .

The Cost of Activities and Entrance Fees in South Korea    

When it comes to activities in South Korea, there’s so much to keep you entertained — and it’s pretty affordable, too.

If there’s one activity to cross off your list when you’re in Seoul, it has to be the royal palaces. For just 10,000 KRW , you can purchase a combo ticket that gives you entrance to Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung (and its separate secret garden), Deoksugung, Changgyeonggung, and Jongmyo Shrine. To visit each of these individually would cost 14,000 KRW , so it’s well-worth getting the combo and crossing all of them off. We managed to see all of them in a single day of hardcore sightseeing, and while we were undoubtedly templed-out by the end of it, we were still glad we’d made the effort to do so.

If you only have a limited amount of time, then just head to Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung — the two most impressive of the palaces. You’ll be able to catch the impressive changing of the guard in the morning at Gyeongbokgung, then take a tour of the wonderful secret garden at Changdeokgung in the afternoon.

Many visitors to Seoul spend their time shopping, eating, and partying. This is one livable, lively city, crammed full of excellent skincare products, world-class vintage stores, delicious street eats, and more karaoke bars than you could possibly imagine. There’s lots to keep you entertained.

Simply strolling through the different neighbourhoods provides a way to keep costs down. I loved spending my time cafe-hopping in student-filled Hongdae, shopping in bustling Myeongdong, picking up traditional souvenirs in Insadong, and admiring the street art in Itaewon.

One particular highlight from my most recent trip was walking the 10 kilometre, or seven mile, Cheonggyecheon Stream, which runs through downtown Seoul from Cheonggye Plaza to Dongdaemun. Once a busy highway, it has since been transformed into a peaceful oasis, where friends come to chill beside the water, surrounded by plants, trees, and fun water features.

Most visitors to South Korea want to hit up the DMZ: the border between South and North Korea, and specifically the Joint Security Area (JSA) — those famous blue barracks where North and South Korean soldiers stand face-to-face. It’s the closest you can get to North Korea without actually entering it.

You’ll want to be careful, then, when you do book your DMZ tour. There are plenty of these general DMZ tours running (priced at 76,000 KRW/$56 ), but the closest you’ll get to North Korea is standing on a hill and looking into the country from afar with binoculars. You won’t visit the JSA on these trips. It is, however, a third of the price of the JSA tours, so a great option for budget travellers. These non-JSA tours are incredibly popular, so do book early to ensure you manage to get a space. You can check availability for your travel dates using the widget below:

The JSA-specific tours are even more popular, but unfortunately, they’re currently (as of early-2024) on pause. This is a common occurrence, especially during these post-pandemic years. It’s only been open to tourists for about three months in total since 2020!

VVIP Travel and Hana Tour are the two JSA tour operators to go with, so do check out their websites before your trip, just in case the tours are up and running again. Tours cost 195,000 KRW ($150) per person and last for a full day.

I knew I wanted to get out into nature while I was in South Korea, as I didn’t want my entire trip to focus around gigantic, bustling cities. This country, after all, is 70% mountains. Seoraksan National Park provided the perfect opportunity to do just that. It’s a two-hour bus ride from Seoul and when you arrive, you’ll feel as though you’re in a whole other country.

With an entrance fee of just 3,500 KRW ($2.50), this was an affordable way to see a part of the country that few tourists opt to explore. The scenery was incredible and a couple of days in town enabled us to tackle all of the most popular hikes.

Speaking of gigantic, bustling cities: Busan!

Busan often ends up being most people’s favorite spot in South Korea and there’s plenty to do while you’re there. From beach-hopping your days away (my favourite free activity!) to hitting up bustling fish markets; eating allll the street food then exploring amazing colourful villages, blanketed with murals. Busan is well-worth visiting, that’s for sure. But for us? We quickly realised that nearby Gyeongju was more our type of place.

Dave and I adored Gyeongju, a compact city that’s perfect for some respite after a few days in Busan. Gyeongju is crammed full of cultural sites and attractions, from royal tombs to ancient observatories, to one of the most impressive Buddha statues we’ve ever seen. The vast majority of attractions in town were free to visit, so we spent very little money while we were there, too — an added bonus!

And I can’t write about South Korea and not include beautiful Jeju Island — the iconic volcanic island off the southern coast of the country that’s known for its beaches, waterfalls, and mountains, as well as its local delicacies. Just wait until you try the local black pork! There’s tons to do on the island — you could spend two weeks on Jeju alone — but so much of it is focused around landscapes and scenery (so much hiking!) that you can easily visit on a budget.

With all that being said, here’s a breakdown of the main activity costs you may encounter in South Korea:

• Entry to Donggung Palace, Gyeongju – 3000 KRW ($2)
• Bulguksa Temple & Seokguram Grotto, Gyeongju – 5,000 KRW ($4)
• Gyeongju Expo Park – 8,000 KRW ($6)
• Daereungwon Tomb Complex, Cheomseongdae Observatory, Woljeonggyo Bridge, Gyochon Traditional Village – Free
• Royal palaces combo ticket, Seoul – 10,000 KRW ($7.50)
• N Seoul Tower – 21,000 KRW ($16)
• Kimchi Museum entrance – 5,000 KRW ($4)
• Nanta cooking show – 44,000 KRW ($34)
• Lotte World entrance – 62,000 KRW ($47)
• Bukchon Hanok village, Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Cheonggyecheon Stream, War Memorial of Korea, National Museum of Korea, Seoul – Free
• Entrance to Seoraksan National Park – 3,500 KRW ($2.50)
• Busan Sky Capsule – 15,000 KRW ($11.50)
• Songdo cable car, Busan – 15,000 KRW ($11.50)
• Busan Tower Observatory – 7,000 KRW ($5)
• Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Gamcheon Cultural Village, Busan – Free
• Jeongbang Waterfalls entrance, Jeju Island – 2,000 KRW ($1.50)
• Camellia Hill entrance, Jeju Island – 7,000 KRW ($5)
• Jeju Folk Village, Jeju Island – 12,000 KRW ($9)

As you can see, there’s very little that’s going to break the bank in South Korea — there’s tons of free attractions and any entrance fees are reasonable.

Over my two weeks in Korea, I averaged just $3 a day on activities and entrance fees.

The Cost of Miscellaneous Expenses in South Korea

An eSIM:  A few years ago, I made the switch to eSIMs and it’s an act that’s significantly improved my travels.

I used to hate having to spend my first few hours in a new country wandering around in search of a way to get connected. There’s locating a store that will sell you one, language barriers to deal with (I was surprised to discover South Korea has one of the highest language barriers I’ve ever encountered!), various forms of ID and information you might need to bring, scams to navigate, and… well, it’s a headache.

These days, I buy my SIM cards in advance through AloSIM , which sells local e-SIMs for travellers. What that means is that you can buy your SIM card online  before  you arrive in South Korea, and then as soon as you land in Seoul, can switch on your phone and be online before the plane’s even come to a halt. It’s worked flawlessly for me in over a dozen countries, including South Korea.

I paid  $15 for 5 GB of data for 30 days in South Korea. Readers of Never Ending Footsteps can get a 5% discount on AloSIM eSIMs by using the code FOOTSTEPS.

There’s one small detail I need to mention. Before arriving in South Korea, I read dozens of articles insisting that you need a local Korean phone number to successfully travel in the country.

Most of the taxi apps require a local number (especially if you want to pay by card in the app), and most popular restaurants operate a waitlist where they call or text you on a local number when a table is ready — if you don’t have one, you can’t join the queue!

Dave specifically bought an LG SIM card that gave you a local phone number and… we used it close to zero times. It turned out, we didn’t need to call a taxi even once and none of the restaurants we went to had waiting lists. A couple of takeaway joints that we went to required a local number to place an order, but that was it. I’m glad we had at least one SIM card with a Korean number for peace of mind but we also didn’t really need to use it, so I don’t think it’s as much of a travel essential as people say.

Travel insurance : If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I used  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider in South Korea. They provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re affordable, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

The cost of two weeks of travel insurance with SafetyWing was $21, or $1.50 a day.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel in South Korea? 

It’s time to tally up all of my expenses to see my total travel costs! In U.S. dollars, my average daily costs in South Korea were:

• Accommodation: $104.50 per day
• Transportation: $10.20 per day
• Food: $19 per day
• Activities/Entrance Fees: $3 per day

Average amount spent in South Korea: $137 a day!

As I mentioned in the accommodation section, I did splurge a little when it came to accommodation, so if you’re on a tighter budget, that’s where you’ll be able to cut costs.

For example, if you’re a backpacker who plans on staying in dorm rooms, you can expect to spend $18 a night on accommodation, making your total daily costs around $50 a day .

Alternatively, if you’re part of a couple and staying in budget-to-mid-range guesthouses, you’ll be looking at $50 a night for accommodation, which will make your daily total costs $82 a day .

So what do you think? Is South Korea more or less expensive than you expected? Let me know in the comments below!

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Thank you so much for sharing all your infos, they are always clear and straight to the point which makes it really handy, i have been reading you for a while and always enjoy, i am now doing a 3 months trip through bali, south korea and japan, and your infos on south korea are going to be usefull, once again, Lauren,thank you!

Thanks a lot for your excellent article Lauren! South Korea is much more affordable than I thought it was. And apparently there’s nature too :) We just decided against a South Africa trip this September due to the safely situation and power outages, but now adding South Korea to the wishlist for when the boy is a little older and traveling purely by public transport is more feasible.

We’ve been living in the SoKorea for almost 2 years now. A couple things …

* DMA/JSA tours ARE available through visitjsa.com. US military and USDoD-associated individuals have first dibs, but we booked the end of July as “general tourists” without an issue. These tours leave from right OUTside several US military bases in SoKorea, include lunch and are half the price of just DMZ tours from Seoul. There is a dress code, which is STRICTLY enforced.

* In regard to the language barrier. Many Koreans – especially “younger” generation Koreans – DO know English. They, as a whole, are EXTREMELY shy about using it, though. I have found most have excellent English skills – much better than my Korean skills!! Give grace here, folks. And, download the Papago app as EVERYONE (Koreans & foreigners) uses this to communicate. Don’t be shy – just Papago it!

* Korean phone number – during covid, you needed a Korean number to register at restaurants and retail shops for contact- tracing/tracking purposes. We haven’t been anywhere lately that required a Korean # to get a table or anything.

* For taxis, subway directions/maps, download Kakao – there are various Kakao apps – 1 for subway, 1 for taxis, etc.

* Credit cards – AMEX tends to work more places than my Chase or Citibank VISA cards. I carry a couple hundred kwon with me just in case my cc doesn’t work. If you have significant leftover kwon when you leave, I’d suggest looking for Americans at the airport and strike up a conversation – with so many US military bases here, there’s a good chance someone will buy your kwon off you at a reasonable exchange rate.

Thanks for all the extra information!

The language barrier wasn’t a criticism or complaint — just in case you interpreted it as one! I came across a few younger Koreans who spoke excellent English and I didn’t personally have any problems with the lack of English spoken. It was just a brief sidenote that after travelling to 100-odd countries, the language barrier was higher in South Korea than the vast majority of other places I’ve visited.

I used Papago and Naver and Kakao, etc while I was in the country, but as this is an article about the cost of travel, I didn’t want to turn it into a travel guide and add too much detail that was unrelated to the costs. I’ll definitely publish a more general travel guide over the coming months!

The Korean phone number thing wasn’t a reference to COVID contact tracing but rather that the popular restaurants operate waitlists — and to join those waitlists, you’ll sometimes be asked to give your phone number so that they can text/call/KakaoTalk you when your table is available. I had one restaurant turn me away because Dave wasn’t with me so I couldn’t give them a local number, and a couple of takeaway places, where you ordered from a screen, required a local number to confirm the order. I read about this on r/KoreaTravel ( example ) quite a bit before getting here — it wasn’t as bad as expected but it does still seem to be a good idea to get a local number just in case.

Good to know that AMEX works well — the one bank we don’t have accounts with! I’m not American so wasn’t sure if US cards would fare better than ours.

Great to see new articles again! Cant wait to hear what you have been up to!

Thanks so much! I’m relieved to see I still have readers after my extended break! Lots to share from the past year, but the biggest news is probably gaining my Australian permanent residency and setting up a new home base in Melbourne! Other than that, lots of travel in Southeast Asia, as always :-)

Hi! Thanks so much for this :) we are travelling in October to South Korea & Tokyo and I too have read about needing a korean number. Do you happen to know if you need a local number for Kakao app? Thank you!

Hi Lucy! Yes, you can use an international number to sign up for Kakao, but the app won’t let you add a credit or debit card. You’ll need to pay the driver directly with cash.

Just wanted to let you know I found this post incredibly helpful as I´m planning a South Korea trip for later this year! Great to have an idea of costs, and you´ve made me consider putting Jeju island on our itinerary (would mean cutting time in other countries on the way – still figuring it out!).

Thank you so much for all the info! I just have one more question: Do you happen to know of any budget travel agency that organizes Korean land tours for a week or so? I found a few, but the prices are rather high.

wow..learnt so much from your article. thanks a ton. planing a 4day trip to S.Korea and 4 days in Taiwan… do you have any info on taiwan? also is S.Korea clean and safe? Im planning to stay in Seoul. would love to know where i can do some clothes shopping……..also are there any night markets around?

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13 tips for visiting South Korea on a budget

Feb 19, 2024 • 8 min read

Do as the locals do and grab a bite to eat at street food stalls at the market © Carlo A / Getty Images

South Korea's cost of living is on the rise, but it's definitely still possible to visit on a budget. Between its vast and affordable transit system , wide range of dining options and abundance of low-cost activities and attractions, South Korea can prove a relatively inexpensive travel destination.

To maximize your savings, here's a guide full of helpful pointers to visiting South Korea on a budget.

Consider whether you need a SIM card

South Korea is one of the most connected countries in the world, with many cities offering free wi-fi in busy public areas, in public transport stations and aboard buses and subways. Almost every cafe will provide customers with free wi-fi, and most accommodations, even small places, are likely to have internet access. 

With so much free Internet around, it's entirely doable to forgo the SIM card altogether and rely on the nation's robust wi-fi infrastructure and pre-downloaded maps and translation apps instead. But if you want to guarantee that you'll always be connected, buy a SIM card in advance through sites like Trazy, Klook or Korea Sim and then pick it up at the airport. If your phone supports an electronic SIM card, purchase a short-term plan through eSIM Korea for as little as ₩1000 per day.

Fly to South Korea in January, November, October or March

Winter weather enthusiasts, rejoice! January is the cheapest month for airfare to South Korea, and it's a prime time for avoiding the crowds and partaking in winter sports activities. But if below-freezing temperatures are not your thing, the next most affordable (non-winter) months to fly are November, October and March. For the best deals, be sure to book your tickets at least five weeks in advance.

Leave the airport by bus or airtrain

Taxis from the airport are expensive and no faster than the bus or airtrain. The AREX train (departing from level B1F of the airport) to Seoul Station costs ₩4150 to ₩9500 for an adult ticket, depending on whether you select the 60-minute all-stop or the 45-minute express. From there, transfer to the subway to get around the capital . Or if you're heading beyond Seoul, buy a Korail railway ticket. 

Even more affordable than the Korail are the airport buses, which leave directly from the airport (1F from Terminal 1, B1F from Terminal 2) and go to many major cities across the country.

Buy a Korail Pass for unlimited travel by train

If you plan on traveling to several cities in a short time span, look into purchasing a Korail Pass . Available in two varieties – a consecutive three- or five-day duration period or a flexible two- or four-day duration period – the Korail Pass ranges from ₩131,000 to ₩244,000 for adults. If you're traveling in a group of two or more, that price drops by ₩10,000, and if you're 27 or younger, you qualify for the youth price, discounted even further to ₩105,000 to ₩195,000. The Korail Pass is specifically for international travelers and works for both the high-speed KTX and slow trains.

Ride the slow rail

If you don't expect to ride the train more than a handful of times within a five-day period, it's better to buy tickets a la carte. Look for the budget friendly Mugunghwa trains. As the most sluggish class of trains, they'll slow down your journey considerably (Seoul to Busan , for example, takes an extra three hours by Mugunghwa than by KTX), but they offer a chance to take in the stunning scenery out the window at a more leisurely (and less nauseating) pace. 

To save even more, buy a train ticket for the dining car or the standing-room only spaces between cars. These sections have a limited number of stools or folding seats, so board early for your best chance of snagging one. Or, hit the pavement and use the intercity bus system instead.

Use transportation cards for discounted bus and subway fares

Instead of purchasing single-journey subway tickets or using cash to board the bus, buy a Tmoney transit card for ₩4000 and load it up with money at any subway station or major convenience store, including 7-Eleven, CU, GS25 and Ministop. The Tmoney card reduces both subway fares (by ₩100) and bus fares (by varying amounts, depending on the type of bus) and also provides discounts on transfers within 30 minutes. 

Tmoney cards work anywhere in the country, but if you're visiting just Seoul and Jeju and you plan to get around primarily via public transit, you might want to consider the tourist-only regional MPASS card. This pass can be purchased in varying durations (ranging from ₩15,000 for one day to ₩64,500 for seven days) and allows for 20 rides per day.

Opt for local accommodations over international hotels

With international hotel chains costing upwards of ₩250,000 a night in South Korea, budget-conscious travelers should aim for small local lodgings instead. In Seoul, cute boutique options abound. Outside major centers, though, these can be hard to find, so consider a minbak or pension , which are usually ondol -style rooms equipped with underfloor heating and often sleeping mats rather than beds. When possible, book directly with the lodging as opposed to through a middle-man aggregator site, as proprietors often have to drive up their nightly rates to cover the platform's service fees.

If you're in a pinch and feel comfortable with sleeping in a shared space, there's always the possibility of staying in a 24-hour jjimjilbang (bathhouse). 

Eat at traditional markets, street stalls and mom-and-pop restaurants

For homey, satisfying eats, head to the traditional markets, where you can find heaping portions of noodles, soups and fried snacks at reasonable prices from the restaurants and food stalls tucked inside. Budget travelers should keep an eye out for pojangmacha (tented dining areas), where you can order dishes like meat skewers, fish cake soup and tteokbokki rice cakes (as well as soju and beer) while seated outside at a plastic table. Small mom-and-pop places also provide big bang for your buck, serving up your main course with a bowl of rice and a table full of (refillable) banchan side dishes. 

Search for tourist coupons

For travelers interested in doing a lot of sightseeing on their trip, several different tourist savings cards discount or waive admission to many of the country's most popular attractions. The Discover Seoul Pass (ranging from ₩50,000 for one day to ₩90,000 for three days) offers more than 200 deals, including free use of the city's public bicycles and a free ride on the AREX. The Korea Tour Pass (₩4000) comes with benefits from 182 brands. 

Both passes can be loaded just like Tmoney cards for use as a transportation card, and they also have mobile apps. For travelers who don't intend on visiting so many attractions, it's worth stopping into a tourist information center to see what one-off coupons are available. Check out the Korea Tourism Organization's website or app for a list of special promotions.

Visit museums, movie theaters and other attractions on Culture Day

If you happen to be in South Korea on the last Wednesday of the month, check to see whether any of the venues you're interested in participate in Culture Day. On this day, more than 2000 museums, art galleries, performance halls, movie theaters, sports facilities and heritage sites across the country give free or discounted admission.

Traveling to Jeju is cheaper by plane than by ferry

For those visitors who have Jeju on their itinerary, going by plane can often cost much less than going by boat, plus flying is exponentially faster. Choose budget airlines such as Jeju Air, Air Busan, Jin Air, T'way, Air Seoul or Eastar Jet over the pricier Korean Air and Asiana Airlines. Weekday flights without a flexible cancellation policy can be found for less than ₩18,000 one way.

Take advantage of South Korea's vast national park system

South Korea is home to 22 national parks, some of which are free, and others of which charge less than ₩4000 for the entrance fee. For nature lovers, these parks offer not only a bit of hiking but also a glimpse of some of the country's most beautiful Buddhist temples that are hidden within. Book a campsite or sleeping shelter for an overnight adventure experience that costs as little as a couple thousand won a night.

Claim your sales tax refund before you go

Foreigners who stay less than six months (and overseas Koreans staying less than three months) in South Korea are eligible for a refund of the 10% sales tax paid on purchases. These purchases must be more than ₩30,000 and less than ₩500,000 and can be made only at participating tax-free stores. You can claim your reimbursement immediately at the tax-free store itself, at a tax-refund booth outside airports and ports, or at the tax-refund counter or kiosk inside major airports. You'll need your receipts and your passport.

Daily costs in South Korea

• Hostel room: ₩20,000–40,000
• Basic guesthouse or minbak room for two: ₩30,000–60,000
• Self-catering apartment (including a pension): ₩60,000–120,000
• Public transport ticket (one bus ride using a transportation card): ₩1200
• Coffee: from ₩3000
• Gimbap (rice rolls): from ₩2000
• Dinner for two: from ₩15,000
• Beer at the bar: from ₩4000

This article was first published August 2022 and updated February 2024

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South Korea Itinerary: 2 Weeks Or Less (From A Local)

Updated: Feb 23, 2024 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · 50 Comments

This two weeks in South Korea itinerary is based on my three years living in Korea, discovering the country's beautiful places and the people who live there. Since I left, I've also been back to visit several times, most recently last year.

So while I could write a South Korea 10 day itinerary or 14 day itinerary centered only on Seoul and Busan , maybe even Jeju , I'm not going to do that. This country deserves so much more attention to detail, and so do you. So this guide actually covers five different cities in Korea to check out on your visit.

Even though there's no such thing as the perfect itinerary for Korea, the country is small enough that two weeks is enough time to adjust to the culture change and still have time to enjoy most everything. But if you only have 10 days in Korea (or even fewer), then I highly suggest you start in Seoul for 4 days, at least.

Starting with 4 days in Seoul, you can see the basics for tourists & build out your itinerary from there, as I mention in the South Korea sample itinerary section. So let's get to planning!

Buy a PDF Version of This Post!

• 🇰🇷 Planning Vacations in South Korea
• 🛫 Basics of Korea Travel
• 🙋 South Korea Travel FAQ
• 🗺️ South Korea Trip Itinerary Examples
• 🚕 Where To Visit In South Korea
• 🧳 Budget For A Trip To South Korea
• 🚈 South Korea Travel Tips
• ☺️ Basic Phrases For Your Trip to Korea

🇰🇷 Planning Vacations in South Korea

Those of you looking to visit South Korea are probably as confused by all the changes as I was before I visited again post-covid. But as of March 20th, 2024, masks are still required in medical settings like hospitals but are NO LONGER REQUIRED in all other indoor public places, including public transport.

Here are what document you need to visit Korea as a tourist:

• K-ETA ( Korean Electronic Travel Authorization , applied for at least 72 hours before departure) OR Visa to visit Korea (countries which previously had a visa exemption now need to apply for a K-ETA). From April 1, 2023 to December 31, 2024, passport holders from 22 countries will also temporarily NOT need a K-ETA or visa to visit Korea (includes: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Macao, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, UK, US (including Guam)). If you're a valid ABTC card holder (APEC card), you are not required to apply for a K-ETA [excluding Americans & Canadians].
• Q-Code (can also be filled out upon arrival) : visitors need to fill out information for the Korean quarantine system, known as Q-Code . Note that all travelers are now allowed in regardless of vaccination status, but you do need to have filled out your Q-Code before going through immigration.

If for some reason you need to take a covid test in a South Korea airport, the cost of a covid test in Incheon Airport is currently ₩80,000 ($60USD), with some options within Seoul as inexpensive as ₩65,000 ($50USD). There's no testing requirement to leave South Korea.

🛫 Basics of Korea Travel

In Korea we use the Korean won (KRW), written as ₩ or 원 in Korean. ₩1000 is roughly equal to $0.75USD or ₱43. The won used in South Korea is different from the won used in North Korea.

This depends on your style of travel, but a mid-range budget for a solo traveler spending 10 days in South Korea would be about $65USD per day. If you're willing to stay in cheap hostels, stick to more free activities in Seoul, and eat local foods, then you could get it down to maybe $40USD per day. So I'd say that traveling Korea is really quite affordable, though you can always upgrade your trip, and the longer you stay the cheaper it will be per dium.

As you might expect, Korean people speak the Korean language , but many people in more urban areas also speak decent English, especially younger people. But the written language of Korea is called hangeul , and it's similar in number to the roman alphabet, but the appearance and pronunciation is different. You will not be able to read Korean unless you study some beforehand (if you're interested, I recommend Talk To Me In Korean ).

The internet is generally great in Korea. You can find free public wifi in basically every major point of transit, tourism, and general town hub (even in my little countryside area). But if you want to be connected constantly, you can rent a wifi egg as soon as you land at the airport, or buy a pre-paid sim card for trips longer than a week (I recommend KT/Olleh sims; it's what I've used all three years here).

South and North Korea are technically still at war. That said, there is no sense that this is a country at war, as the last few decades have been relatively quiet on that front. In fact, Korea and Japan are two of the safest places I've ever been; the biggest peril I've ever felt is from potential alcohol poisoning (the drinking culture here is insane; the local liquor of soju is the most popular beverage in the world ). I'd feel comfortable telling anyone they could walk around here at night, though unfortunately women should be extra vigilant with their drinking.

I agree with the general consensus that May, September, and October are the nicest months of the year, weather wise. They have nice sunshine, beautiful foliage, and outside of major holidays, they're light on domestic tourism. But if you want to find the shoulder season, come in April or June. They're either a bit colder or warmer than you might like, but the kids are still in school and the pollution will be less heavy than it would be in May or October. However, winter is food festival season in Korea, with coffee festivals and chocolate festivals happening across the country.

🙋 South Korea Travel FAQ

I've included a FAQ section including the most common questions I've been asked in the last 3 years, by friends, family, and complete strangers. Hopefully this answers the majority of your questions!

What should I wear in Korea during winter, spring, summer, and fall?

From mid-November to mid-March, it could definitely snow and you'll want a heavy winter jacket and some heat-retaining leggings for under your pants. From mid-March through early May & early October through mid-November, there's still the possibility of chilly nights. So bring pants and a jacket for the nights, and t-shirts for the days.

Pack more conservative tops to take to Korea, as showing your collarbones can be cause for staring, especially in smaller towns. Respect is very important in Korea. Early May through early October is a toss-up between extremely hot and warm with a breeze, but it will definitely be humid.

What do I need to bring to Korea?

Other than the basics you'd always pack for yourself, remember to bring higher-cut shirts, as Koreans are more conservative in their dress than most westerners. Women should be sure to bring tampons and pads, as there was recently an issue with domestic pads & tampons are extremely hard to come by.

Many readers have told me that purchasing a sim card and attraction pass (like the Discover Seoul Pass ) helped them make the most of shorter visits, and those are simple things to arrange in advance and take to Korea.

Do I need a visa to visit Korea?

While there are still 112 countries whose citizens don't need to apply for visas before visiting Korea for 30 to 90 days, as of September 2021, ALL visitors from those approved countries still need to have an approved K-ETA before arriving in Korea, even if you just have a long layover in Incheon .

K-ETA stands for Korea-Electronic Travel Authorization. You can check if yours is one of those visa-exempt, countries and how long your visa lasts for, here . Common countries: USA (up to 90 days), Canada (up to 6 months), South Africa (up to 30 days), Malaysia (up to 90 days), Singapore (up to 90 days).

But remember, even if you don't need to apply for a visa, from now on you do still need to apply for a K-ETA , which is good for two years form the date of approval. If you already need to apply for a visa, you do not need to apply for a K-ETA .

How can I get to & around Korea?

Since South Korea is on a peninsula off the southern coast of China, you have to fly in. Note that if you have a layover at Gimpo Airport for some reason, the airport closes each night from 12am-4:30am. Theoretically you could also arrive by boat from China or Japan, but that truly sounds awful to me.

As for actually getting around Korea, that's a much easier question. Getting between the cities is best done by bus, or train if it's a very popular route. Some people prefer to fly between Seoul, Busan, and Jeju, though you can also go via bus & boat.

Within the major cities, buses and metro and taxi are all reliable and safe forms of transport (just make sure your taxi uses their meter). In smaller areas, buses and the occasional taxi are the way to go; taxis are very affordable in South Korea.

How many days in South Korea is enough?

I think two weeks in Korea is ideal for getting a taste of the coast, the nature, and the overall urban lifestyle. But if you have less time on you vacation in South Korea, you can get a condensed version of all of that with just 5 days in Seoul (yes, even the beaches!).

If you have fewer than 5 days, I really do think it will be tough to get a good sense of the culture and people and cuisine.

Which apps should I download before visiting Korea?

My most used apps have been: Kakao Talk (like Korean WhatsApp), Naver Maps (Google Maps is trash here, so you'll want to download this local equivalent), Google Translate (the speaking function is a lifesaver; just remember town download Korean offline), and a Seoul Subway App (mine is in Korean, but there are plenty out there in English).

🗺️ South Korea Trip Itinerary Examples

The whole idea of this guide it to give you an idea of where to visit in Korea and how long you want to spend there. Tourism is on the rise in Korea, and having a unique experience is becoming more important than ever for visitors.

So in true DIY spirit, here are some route examples for a 2 weeks in Korea itinerary or less, for each of the following lengths.

South Korea Itinerary 14 Days

• Seoul (Days 1-4)
• Jeju (Days 5-7)
• Busan (Days 8-9)
• Suncheon area (Days 10-12)
• Jeonju (Days 13-14)

See below for more information on each city.

South Korea Itinerary 10 Days

• Suncheon area (Days 8-10)

Click to check current hotel prices in Korea.

South Korea Itinerary 7 Days

• Suncheon area (Days 5-7)

South Korea Itinerary 5 Days

• Seoul (Days 1-3)
• Jeonju (Days 4-5)

South Korea Itinerary 3 Days

Seoul. Just spend 2 days exploring all you can in Seoul, and then spend your middle day doing a day trip from the city, maybe to nearby Chuncheon .

🚕 Where To Visit In South Korea

Seoul : the capitol city, the darling of K-Pop fans, and one of the most populous cities in the world. Seoul is not for the faint of heart, but for those who can handle serious crowds, Seoul can be most anything you want it to be.

Almost everyone planning South Korea vacations will end up either starting or ending here, and they're lucky to do so. It's a great base from which to travel the rest of the country, or even spend a week or so experiencing all of the different neighborhoods & their vibes.

Seoul is great for culture, food, nightlife, and just about anything else you want in a trip to Korea, except for peace and quiet.

Busan : possibly best known outside of Korea for the movie Train To Busan , this port city is thought of domestically as the seafood and cinema capitol of the country.

Even though it's incredibly urban in its own right, people also think of it as more laid back, with beach vibes and ocean views for days. Busan is perfect for seafood lovers looking to spend time at the beach and indulge in some cinematic activity.

Jeju : the Hawaii of Korea, as it's often called, Jeju is known for its beaches and seafood and nature. The entire island comes from a single volcanic explosion thousands of years ago, and you can actually see the peak of that volcano from any point on the island.

Jeju is ideal for those looking to get a taste of Korean culture and cuisine, but with much more tranquility and beach vibes than you'd find anywhere on the mainland.

Jeonju : this lesser-known Korean destination is where Koreans go when they want to experience the "olden times" of Korea. Jeonju is one of the oldest cities in Korea , famous for its spicy bibimbap, traditional hanok houses, and many unique festivals.

Come to Jeonju if you want to soak in a whole city happily dedicated to maintaining traditional Korean culture, one bowl of spicy bibimbap at a time.

Suncheon : truly off-the-beaten path, Suncheon is a gorgeous region full of flowers, agriculture, and stunning natural landscapes. Domestic tourists most often visit in the springtime to see the green tea fields & cherry blossoms, but Suncheon is also a great base from which to explore a few nearby cities.

Visit Suncheon if you want to see a less-touristed side of Korea's natural beauty, with an emphasis on local agriculture.

✈ Seoul

What seoul is known for.

Seoul has everything you could want in a destination. It's one of the biggest cities in the world, and despite being the center of international cultures in Korea, it's still very much culturally Korean. It's for this reason that I think Seoul is the perfect place to put at the beginning of your Korea itinerary.

You'll probably arrive here, anyway, since Incheon Airport is one of Asia's biggest transport hubs. Many people even plan a Seoul itinerary for 10 days for a taste of the Korean dishes which have become so popular around the world.

Others come for the world-class shopping and cosmetics selection, or even for medical tourism . But I think that the most worthy reasons to write Seoul into your Korean itinerary are the natural beauty , historic temples , and little cultural quirks which all add up to an ambiance that's purely Korean.

What To See In Seoul

I won't list out everything you can do or see in Seoul, since that could fill a whole book (and probably has). But here are 7 things you can't miss seeing in Seoul , since 7 is a lucky number here. Click here for more ideas of what to do in Seoul, with entrance fees, Korean translations, and hours .

Go to the spa. The spa, or sauna, is an important pastime for Koreans of all ages, and it's most common to go on the weekends as a family. A Korean sauna, however, is divided by gender and has you completely naked.

While you could visit a sauna in most any city in Korea, Seoul is going to have the most options for different types of baths and treatments, and it's going to be the most foreigner-friendly. I highly recommend Itaewon Land Spa.

Walk to Namsan Tower. This landmark is rather characteristic of Itaewon and the whole HBC area, located in central Seoul and considered the international hub of the city. Namsan Tower is set in a very green park, and right around the tower itself is a temple and a gate with “love locks” attached to it, but the Tower is best known for having an amazing view of the city.

It’s a bit of a walk from Itaewon’s downtown area, but there’s a bus if you get tired, and a cable car to take you to the top. I think the view is just as good from the cafe right before the top floor, so I wouldn't recommend paying for the cable car.

Visit Gyungbokgung , one of the 5 royal palaces in Seoul. Of the 5, Gyeongbokgung is the most accessible by public transportation, located just outside of a subway stop. I also think it’s the most beautiful, but I’ve had the chance to visit in both fall and spring.

Those are the seasons when the colors of the palace grounds come to life; in summer and winter it's a bit less colorful. The grounds of Gyeongbongung are large, but you could spend anywhere from twenty minutes to two hours exploring each corner of the grounds.

Sing in a Noraebang . Literally translated as "song room," noraebang are the quintessential nighttime activity of the Korean public. In English we usually know then by the Japanese name karaoke .

From middle school onward, on any given night you can find a noraebang full of Korean students hanging out with friends, or adults drinking with co-workers or family. In Seoul it's easy to find either coin noraebang, in which you pay per song, or regular noraebang, in which you rent a room by the hour & buy snacks .

Hike Bukhansan. Just a half hour north of Seoul is one of Korea’s many national parks. Hiking is a national pastime, so every day of the week you’ll see groups of older people geared up for a trip up Bukhansan. On the weekends there are visitors of all ages, usually ending their hikes with a picnic and drinks at whichever peak they decide to stop on.

Explore Gana Art Center . Gana is known across Seoul for its beautiful think pieces. Amidst all the traditional Korean food and aesthetics of northern Seoul, walking around Gana Art Center gives you a different perspective on the current events in Korea.

Luckily, you don’t have to speak any Korean to get the gist of real art, though it may be helpful to know some about Korean culture in order to get the full impact. The permanent exhibits are free, but you may have to pay to enter the special exhibits.

Wander Bukchon Hanok Village . A hanok is a traditional Korean house, a small building with a thatched roofs and beautiful painted walls & roof. In the spring and fall the foliage creates a stunning backdrop for photos, so that’s the perfect time to enjoy the village in traditional garb.

Note that Bukchon Hanok Village doesn’t actually close, but between the hours of 11pm and 5am there’s nothing going on.

What To Eat In Seoul

In case you only have a few days in Seoul, this is where you'll get to sample a range of uniquely Korean foods. And hopefully also visit some of Seoul's dozens of delicious chocolate shops . So while you're in Seoul, be sure to look out for these top 5 Korean foods, particular to the country, but not to any specific region.

Japchae (잡채). A noodle dish containing thinly chopped vegetables, sweet potato starch noodles, and sometimes a little bit of meat. It’s great served warm as a main dish, but it’s often served as a side dish, tossed in sesame oil and soy sauce.

Hoddeok (호떡). This cinnamon sugar-filled fried rice cake is my absolute favorite treat. It's one of the few traditional sweets in Korea, but it's most easily found in the colder months, from October to April (I'd recommend you get it in the neighborhood of Insadong).

Samgyupsal (삼겹살). This is Korean pork belly, the most popular meat of choice in the country. It's just one of many types of meat you can have for Korean barbecue , which is basically a particularly communal style of cooking meat in the center of a table. If this is your only trip to Korea, you need to try this before you go!

Mul Nangmyeon  (물냉면) . Translated as "water cold noodles," this chilled dish is made with buckwheat flour, and served with sliced cucumber & half a boiled egg on top. The dish is made with a meat broth and most commonly eaten right after barbecue, preferably with meat hot off the grill.

Samgyetang  (삼계탕) . Quite possibly my favorite Korean meal, samgyetang is basically Korean chicken soup. The main part of the dish, thought be very healthy, is a whole chicken stuffed with rice and a bit of ginseng, jujubes, & ginko beans. You eat these with the side dishes and the meat & soup, after you dip it in the salt they serve on the side.

Where To Stay In Seoul

There are hundreds of lovely guesthouses and hotels throughout Seoul, and there are equally as many crappy ones. Most egregiously, some of them are both expensive and crappy. So here's my selection for the three best places to stay in Seoul . Each spot is centrally located, high quality, and  foreigner-friendly. These are listed in order from least expensive to most expensive.

Budget: G Guesthouse

There's a reason this is always the recommended guesthouse in Itaewon. Not only does it always come in under budget, but the facilities are clean, the staff is helpful but unobtrusive, and the beds are comfortable. They even provide towels, a luxury not as common as you'd like.

Although you can't control what other guests do or what time they come back, my friends & I have always found that G provides a quieter environment for late-night entries than the other hostels in the area. Pro tip: the kebab place just down the street has the best kebabs in Seoul hands-down.

Mid-Range: Solaria Nishitetsu Seoul

Voted a traveler’s favorite in 2017, Solaria Nishitetsu is part of a Japanese hotel chain which combines comfort & convenience at a reasonable price. Guests love the huge rooms and large, firm beds, a real find in the heart of Myeongdong.

Because of its popular with business travelers, there are lots of harder-to-find amenities for digital nomads and other business people on-the-go, like work spaces and less-expensive single rooms.

Luxury: Signiel Seoul

Located in the top floors of Lotte Tower, Signiel is truly in a league of its own. Its sauna, gym, and pool facilities are world-class, with a staff and suites to match. Each room has a spa-style bathroom and a cozy place to rest your head, in addition to their unparalleled views of the city.

There are even free drinks and appetizers for guests in the hotel lounge, at all times of day. The Signiel is truly the place to get pampered, perfect for those looking for a honeymoon hotel .

✈ Busan

What busan is known for.

Even though it's the second-largest city in Korea, and a metropolis in its own right, Busan doesn't get a lot of love from tourists. Most people think of it as a smaller version of Seoul, with a lot of the same cultural attractions but just harder to get to.

They have a point; Busan and Seoul are both massive port cities with cosmopolitan & hipster neighborhoods, alike. However, I'd argue that the feel of a place and its unique natural landscape plays a big role in your experience there.

In that regard, Seoul and Busan are more comparable to LA and San Diego. Seoul has glitz & glamour and a little of everything, while Busan has a more relaxed ocean-side vibe with lots of fresh seafood & quick flights to neighboring Japan .

As one of Korea's most popular weekend destinations, 3 days in Busan is plenty to see the city's highlights and get a feel for the ancient seaside temples , the beaches , and the local importance of cinema .

What To See In Busan

I won't write up everything you can do or see in Busan, since that'd take hours for you to pour through. So here are 7 things you can't miss seeing or doing in Busan (since 7 is a lucky number). Click here for more ideas of what to do in Busan, with entrance fees, Korean translations, and hours .

Lounge on Haeundae Beach. Undoubtedly the most popular beach in Korea, Haeundae is always packed in the summer, especially with families. But public schools don’t actually let out until mid-July, so if you time your visit well, you may just have a patch of sand to yourself.  Note that beaches are only open for swimming from June to August.

Skip down Cheongsapo Daritdol Skywalk. This unique attraction has become quite popular over the last few years. It's basically a see-through bridge out over the ocean, perfect for showing off the ocean without you having to get in it. There’s also an observatory in the area, one of just 3 in the city. The skywalk is located a short walk from Haeundae Beach.

Explore Busan Cinema Center. As home to the Busan International Film Festival, which is held each fall, this is a great introduction to the film culture for which Busan is famous within Korea. The center has 3 buildings containing theatres of varying sizes, each offering daily tours & lectures. There are restaurants and cafes on-site.

Have a photoshoot in Gamcheon Culture Village. Probably the most popular photo backdrop in all of Busan, "GMC" has become known as a sort of Korean Cinque Terre . The calming blue houses look right out over the ocean, and are actually still people’s homes.

You'll see many an older person drying their laundry on their balconies and chatting on rooftops on sunny afternoons, so remember to stay respectful of the residents.

Have a meal at Jagalchi Market. This is the largest open-air seafood market in Korea, often compared to Noryangjin Market in Seoul. It’s actually become so famous that each October the city holds the Jagalchi Cultural Tourism Festival.

But even if you can’t make it on time for the festival, seafood lovers will have a blast walking through the market and exploring the diverse sea life found in Busan’s waters. The entire first floor is a wet market, while restaurants and the like are found on floors 2-7.

Wander the grounds of Taejongdae. Of all the things to do in Busan, this is by far one of my favorites. Equal parts resort & park, Taejongdae has become famous for its beautiful views and colorful tourist train.

The area's temples are accessible within an hour's walk, but even right around the entrance you can hike down and reach the shore in less than 10 minutes. Basically no matter where you go on the grounds, you’ll find a great view. Note that while it’s free to enter the grounds, this is likely to take up half of your day since it's so far south of downtown.

Watch sunrise at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. In case you don't have the time to spare for a visit to Taejongdae, this is your alternative glimpse at Korea's ancient seaside temples. Most of Korea's temples are in the mountains, offering tranquility and spectacular views of life below.

But Haedong offers a broader view of the life going on below, focusing on the deep blue sea rather than countryside valleys. Some people come here to watch the sunrise, which is a spectacular choice considering it's on the east coast & opens at 5am!

What To Eat In Busan

Busan is not a city for vegetarians or non-adventurous eaters, unless you're looking for chocolate in Busan , that is. The region's most famous foods are definitely of the sea variety, and thus, so are most of these 5 foods you should try in Busan. I have included a couple of land-based options for those who aren't into eau de ocean , however.

Sannakji : likely one of the most famous Korean foods, sannakji is often translated as “live baby octopus.” Cut & served immediately after being pulled from the water, sannakji are squirted with sesame oil & acidic fruit juices, making the tentacles continue to move around for minutes after death.

Haemul Pajeon : this is a seafood pancake, basically, but a Korean version (made with rice flour). They usually include tiny octopus, and are especially popular as a drinking snack, though many people come to Busan’s fish markets to enjoy them with family and friends.

Busan Jokbal : I don’t think I’ve ever met a Korean who didn’t like this dish. The jokbal , or pig’s feet, are cooked in a sweet cinnamon & honey mixture which reminds me of spiral-cut ham on Christmas. They're then served cut-up and ready for eating; the meat is fatty and rich, so don’t knock it ’til you try it.

Dwaeji Gukbap : this is a very hearty pork-based stew, prepared by slowly boiling pork bone into a broth & adding tender little pork bits. It’s served with rice and side dishes; you plop the rice into the stew and then eat it with side dishes of your choosing. It’s popular year-round, but is a must-try in winter. 

Mulhoe : hoe literally means raw seafood, while mul means water. Mulhoe is therefore a raw fish soup, served cold & spicy with a variety of noodles and veggies. I'd only recommend it if you're eating somewhere right off the coast, like in Busan's Jagalchi market.

Where To Stay In Busan

Domestically, Busan is just as much of a tourist destination as Seoul is, since most of the people who travel around regularly are actually coming from Seoul. So Busan has hundreds of quality guesthouses, and probably an equal number of not-so-great ones. 

So here's my selection for the 3 best places to stay in Busan , because there's no reason to suffer through a crappy, expensive hotel. Each of these spots is centrally located, high quality, and  foreigner-friendly. These are listed in order from least expensive to most expensive.

Budget: The Bay Guesthouse

The Bay has become my go-to guesthouse in the warmer months, just 3 minutes from the beach & 2 minutes from the metro. It’s centrally located, the beds are large & comfortable, and the style is as a cross between a capsule hotel and a more typical hostel.

Every morning the manager even cooks breakfast for the guests, and there’s coffee brewed in the dining room.

Mid-Range: Stanford Inn Busan

Stanford Inn is a relatively new addition to Busan's "affordable luxury" lineup. But in the few years since it's opened its doors, guests have been very impressed with the high quality of the rooms & breakfast buffet.

Port-side suites garner the most praise, with guests impressed by the view and the proximity to the metro, just a few blocks in either direction.

Luxury: Lotte Hotel

Though best known internationally for department stores & perishables, domestically Lotte is known for offering a variety of luxury experiences; this includes their chain of hotels. Each suite in Lotte Hotel offers big fluffy beds and a spacious bathroom, as well as a bevy of modern furnishings.

Lotte Hotel is especially popular with families, thanks their reputable spa & restaurant facilities.

✈ Jeju

What jeju is known for.

A few days after one of my trips to Jeju, a Korean friend told me he was jealous that I went without him, because Jeju is his "stereotype of a beautiful place." Well to be honest, it's mine, too. Jeju is breathtaking in the spring & fall, and somehow a haven from the mainland's overwhelming weather in winter & summer.

The route from Seoul's Gimpo Airport to Jeju is actually the most traveled route in the world . That's how much Koreans love visiting this idyllic little island off their southern coast. But tourists? Not so much. Every time I visit Jeju, mine is one of the very few foreign faces I see.

But Jeju Island has so much to offer, from gorgeous hikes to unique local foods , that there's no reason it shouldn't be on every South Korea travel itinerary. Jeju is the place for you if you love exploring natural beauty , learning about sea life , and relaxing seaside .

What To See On Jeju

There is such an incredible number of things to do on Jeju, in every season, that you could spend hours researching. But to give you an idea of some of the many things you can do across the island, here are 7 things you should do or see on Jeju Island. Click here for more ideas of what to do on Jeju, with entrance fees, Korean translations, and hours .

Pose in Love Land (erotic museum). This is often one of the most unexpected sites to find in Korea: a park full of penises & other various erotic sculptures. The park was opened in 2004 by a group of art students from Seoul’s prestigious Hongik University, and since then the park has been a surprising success, where selfies abound. Note that you must be at least 18 to enter the park .

Watch sunrise at the top of Seongsan Ilchulbong. Is this in Korea or the Highlands of Ireland? The immensity of the green and the brightly colored flowers that greet you in the spring could very well distract you from ever climbing to the top of Seongsan.

From the hike to the viewpoint, horseback riding, and boating, you could easily spend half a day here. If you’re lucky, this is also where you’ll catch site of some of Jeju’s famous women divers, though you may see some on the walk over.

Hike around Seopjikoji. Just across from Seongsan Ilchulbong is Seopjikoji, an area famous for being the filming location for several dramas, and just a stunning place in general. The stairs built into & walking trails leading along the cliffs can get a bit crowded on weekends in the summer.

But if you get too hot, there's also a sea side restaurant at the top of the climb. Seopjikoji's most gorgeous scenes are in the spring, when the hills are vibrant green and dotted with bright yellow canola flowers.

Stare in awe at Jeongbang Waterfall. Jeongbang’s claim to fame is that it's the only waterfall in Asia to fall directly into the ocean. It's honestly a cool sight to see, basically from the parking lot, making it my pick for the best waterfall in Jeju.

There’s even a tiny beach in front of it, just before the vast ocean extending way beyond. The shops just along the parking lot will also be selling souvenirs, oranges, and Jeju chocolates.

Walk the Jusangjeolli Lava Cliffs. Often compared to Giant’s Causeway in Northern Island, Jusangjeolli is another act of nature bestowed upon Jeju by the volcano from which it was forged. Less than 5 minutes from the parking lot, the cliffs are deep grey rectangular formations jutting out into the ocean.

It almost looks as if they were formed by a child slowly stacking blocks. They’re quite the popular photo spot, and certainly worth a stop, though lines for selfies can get long on weekends.

Bathe in Sanbangsan Carbonate Springs. This will be one of the strangest experiences of your life, if you’ve never been to a Korean sauna. Everybody here is separated by gender, and then strips themselves buck naked. It takes some getting used to, but when you do, it’s glorious. These hot springs are divided by each temperature and healing properties, making for a very soothing way to spend an evening.

Sip on a cup of tea at O’Sulloc Tea Fields & Museum. The museum is tiny, but if you came to the fields for the tea products, then this is your spot. The aforementioned museum is attached to a massive cafe serving up a variety of teas from their farm, plus coffee and desserts.

The entire complex is located next to a cosmetics shop & a second cafe. But the best part for most people will be the tea plantation itself, situated across the street from the museum, and laid out with pictures in mind.

What To Eat In Jeju

Like all other provinces and cities in Korea, Jeju has a few foods it's famous for, but unlike most of those other regions, Jeju is famous for them because they're actually grown there. A few of these products have turned into a whole range of foods, all focused on that one crop. Take a look.

Abalone (Sea Snails). I know the translation doesn't sound very appetizing, but abalone are actually shellfish, more like oysters than snails (but don’t go looking for any pearls). They’re one of the many sea foods caught by the women divers of Jeju, and are caught & served fresh daily. Local favorites are abalone rice porridge and grilled abalone.

Black Pork. This is meat from a specific type of pig raised mainly on Jeju Island , and I find it to be a softer & more flavorful version of the meat found on the mainland. If you’re looking for easy pickings of a variety of black pork restaurants, check out Black Pork Street in Jeju City.

Hallabong (those big oranges grown throughout the island). The season for hallabong is actually winter time, but some of the groves manage to grow oranges year round. So you’ll see these thick-skinned beauties for sale in boxes along the side of the road, and at gift shops in most of the major tourists sites. Keep an eye out specifically for hallabong tea.

Green Tea  Anything . Home to the well-known O’Sulloc tea fields, you’ll see green tea-flavored things for sale throughout Jeju. But nowhere is there a higher concentration of tea-flavored items than at the O’Sulloc tea museum, itself, which is profiled above. 

Peanut Ice Cream. Depending on where you get it from, the cream flavor can be more or less intense, and the ice crystals can be very strong. But peanuts are actually grown on Udo, an island off the coast of Jeju, making it a truly local food. Though honestly, most people just buy it for the cute pictures.

Where To Stay On Jeju

Since so much of the Island's economy depends upon tourism, you'll have your pickings of Jeju accommodation, especially in Jeju City and the southern city of Seogwipo. But there are some hidden gems, so allow me to shine light on 3 of the best places to stay on Jeju . Each spot is centrally located, high quality, and  foreigner-friendly. These are listed in order from least expensive to most expensive.

Budget: Yeha Guesthouse

Seoul is famous for their inexpensive accommodation, but Jeju City really puts up a fight. Yeha is the best choice for backpacking or budget-minded visitors, with a solid 9/10 rating for their dorm beds, and a good connection to island's public transporation.

To top it all off, they’ll happily store your luggage for you if you want to explore a bit before your flight back.

Mid-Range: Color In Jeju

If you’re looking to stay on the eastern coast and want to splurge a bit, Color In is the move. They’ve got immaculate rooms, a small outdoor pool, and the rugged surroundings typical outside of the big cities. Front desk hours are limited, but that’s easily overlooked once you get to the pool.

With just 6 guest rooms in the entire place, odds are good that yours will be poolside.

Luxury: Kensington Hotel Jeju

One of the highest-rated hotels in Jeju, the Kensington contains all the opulence one expects from a 5-star hotel, infinity pool included. If the layers of indoor & outdoor pools isn’t enough, however, consider the superb staff and various on-site restaurants; their breakfast buffet is included in your stay.

Within walking distance of the hotel are a botanical garden and the teddy bear museum.

✈ Suncheon

What suncheon is known for.

Of all the cities in this Korea itinerary, Suncheon is probably the least famous internationally. The city has just a few hundred thousand residents, quite small by Korean standards, but each spring the county is flooded with domestic tourists chasing beautiful flowers and stunning natural landscapes .

But despite its size, I'd recommend Suncheon because of its great potential as a base from which to explore the rest of southern Korea. Just south of Suncheon are Boseong, where most of the country's green tea is grown, and Yeosu, a beautiful island with lots of attractions in its own right.

Northeast of Suncheon is Gurye, whose spring flower festival & fall cherry festival are famously striking. Simply put, people visit Suncheon in order to revel in the beauty of nature , get away from the big cities , and enjoy the festival culture of small Korean communities.

What To See Around Suncheon

As just one of four great cities to explore in southern Korea, it's difficult to distill Suncheon attractions into one post. But in order to lend an idea of some of the things you can do around Suncheon, here are 7 things you should do or see near Suncheon City.

Learn hands-on at Naganeupseong Folk Village. With remaining residents numbering in the hundreds, calling this a village is a bit of a stretch. But Naganeupseong is more like a demonstrative village, offering visitors performances and traditional experiences you couldn't find even in Seoul.

Each region of Korea has their own unique traditions that they've chosen to keep alive and highlight here. This means that for as vast & varied as Seoul is, you won't find as many ways to experience southern Korean culture up there.

This is honestly in large part because most Seoulites see Korea's southernmost areas as countryside and backwards and unworthy of a visit. However, I think that each is gorgeous (including my own countryside town), and this one in particular is worth a trip.

Hike the Suncheon Bay Wetlands. Small crabs reach up at you from the mud, wheat whispers in the wind, and old people are probably yelling from just behind you. So go the wetlands. Starting from the parking lot and continuing on through the carefully-curated gardens, you'll reach the wetlands themselves.

From there you can cross the gardens via a long bridge. On the other side is a small mountain, which you can take about half an hour to hike up, or you could stop and turn around where you are, admiring the other side of the wetlands' natural beauty.

Picnic at Suncheon Bay National Gardens. When I think of gardens, I think of somewhere well-kept and brightly-colored, maintained within a specific small area. Suncheon's National Gardens are a vast and impressive version of that, including not just flowers but also sculptures, a bridge covered in hangeul , and a variety of cafes & eateries on site .

In peak bloom season, from around mid-March to mid-May, you could easily spend a whole day walking across the ponds and admiring the colorful fauna, wondering why you didn't come here sooner.

Relax at Jirisan Spa Land. If you've never been to a Korean sauna, you are missing out. Spas are a national past time here, and they're also quite affordable, and fun in a group, couple, or solo. Jirisan is particularly well-known because it features hot springs-supplied baths. Keep in mind that like all Korean spas, the indoor regions of the spa are separated by gender and have a no-clothes policy.

Do a photo shoot amongst Gurye Cherry Trees. These bright yellow blossoms have taken up root throughout the village of Gurye, bringing hoards of people (& tourism dollars) to town every spring. In the fall, the trees' cherries cover them in color once again, this time a deep red . If you manage to visit in March (outside of festival time), you may even find this to be the perfect spot for a photo shoot.

Ride the Yeosu Cable Car. Especially beautiful around sunset, Yeosu's cable car takes you across the bridge which connects Yeosu to the mainland. From an incredible height it gives you a look at the still-active port area and many smaller surrounding islands. Not to mention it saves you a taxi ride!

Drink up at Boseong Green Tea Fields. The green tea fields of Boseong hit their peak around mid-May, but they start turning a deep green color as early as March, continuing to lighten until late September. Koreans come to visit the main green tea plantation in order to hike up to the top of the hill on which the tea trees are planted.

Most people end up taking selfies and enjoying the view of everyone walking around far below them. At the plantation, other than the tea itself, you can enjoy green tea-flavored churros, lattes, and even a few savoury dishes (though don't expect much tea to be put in those).

What To Eat In Suncheon

Suncheon is often hailed as the foodie capital of the southern part of Korea. Located near the coast, in Jeollanam-do, local restaurants in Suncheon will serve all the classics, but with a southern twist. Popular themes include seafood, fresh local vegetables, and abundant side dishes.

Mudskipper Soup. Arguably the most popular way to consume this local fish, the soup is prepared using boiled fish, radish leaves, and soybean paste. It's a very strong flavor, but all the side dishes it's served with temper it beautifully.

Kongnamul Gukbap . Literally "soybean soup rice," you can find gukbap all over Korea; I actually recommend trying a hearty pork or beef version in Busan. But each region has their own special recipes for the soups and when they add the rice and where they source the ingredients. In the case of Suncheon's gukbap , the soybean sprouts add beautiful crunch to a very traditional Korean dish.

Sannakji Bibimbap. Another dish I sort of recommended in Busan, sannakji is basically the freshest form of raw octopus you could eat, served with lemon juice and seasoned with sesame oil. This iteration is less of a snack and more of a full meal, incorporating fresh vegetables and rice. Look for 산낙지비빔밥 on a menu.

Green Tea Churros. I couldn't recommend visiting the green tea fields of Boseong without also recommending the snacks! Only available on the weekends, these churros are nice when paired with a cup of green tea soft serve ice cream.

Grilled Duck. Suncheon famously raises about half the duck in Korea, meaning that finding a local duck dish is more likely than not. If you can find it, my favorite is Yangnyum Ori (양념오리).

Where To Stay In Suncheon

Suncheon is quite the hot spot for domestic tourism, so most of the places to stay in Suncheon are Korean-style. This means that you sleep on the floor, and usually call to book directly. But there are some nice western-style guesthouses to choose from, three of which I've listed below. If you're visiting Suncheon between April and June, I'd recommend booking a guesthouse in advance!

Budget: Suncheon Namu Guesthouse

You can't get much closer to Suncheon bus terminal than Namu Guesthouse. No matter what time of day or night you arrive (or depart), if you stay at Namu you're just a few minutes from the city's bus terminal.

The beds are pretty standard for Korea, on the hard side, but the shared space is very homey and comfortable. At just $16USD a night for a dorm bed, it's the perfect spot for those planning to stay awhile and do a lot of day trips.

Budget: Baguni Hostel

It's rare to find a hostel with affordable dorm beds and a decent sense of privacy, but Baguni manages to strike this balance with grace. The dorm beds are each in their own little cubbies, with privacy curtains and fluffy bedding.

But the building itself makes use of lots of white and neutral tones, choosing to focus mainly upon providing a clean, comfortable, and affordable environment for guests.

The hostel is located right in the city center, a short walk from the bus terminal, making it a great choice for visitors who can't or choose not to rent a car. Single hostel beds start at $18USD a night.

Mid-Range: Hotel Iam

Every room at Iam includes an en-suite bathroom and complementary breakfast in the dining room. For those looking to upgrade their stay in Suncheon, this is an affordable hotel with comfortable beds, a nice staff, and a central location.

It's family-friendly, but more popular with couples looking to get away from hostels without breaking the bank. Double rooms start at $40USD.

Click here to check out prices for other hotels in Suncheon

✈ Jeonju

What jeonju is known for.

Despite being just 1.5 hours from Seoul, Jeonju rarely features on a Korea itinerary, and that is a mistake. While you can easily visit Jeonju on a day trip from Seoul, I humbly recommend you spend at least two days in the city.

Preferably while staying in one of the historic houses & enjoying traditional Korean dishes in Korea's "Foodie Capital." Unlike Suncheon, most of the things to see in Jeonju are within the city itself, making it walkable and perfect for any wintertime Korea itinerary.

Seoulites tend to visit the city on the weekends, so take a couple of weekdays to discover the city whose name literally translates as "perfect region." While you're there, make the most of your time with visits to local galleries and walks around the city's many parks and green spaces. 

Jeonju is seen as a very spiritual city, a place of historical importance for its maintenance of traditional foods, architecture, and those intangible parts of Korean culture we all strive to experience in a new place.

What To See Around Jeonju

Jeonju is a great place to just walk around, similar to some of the neighborhoods in central Seoul, but it's always nice to have a destination in mind. So in order to give you an idea of some of the things you can do in Jeonju, here are 7 things you should do or see in the city.

Photoshoot in Jaman Mural Village. Somewhat similar to Gamcheon Cultural Village in Busan or Rainbow Village in Taiwan , Jaman has become a symbol of revitalization for older parts of the city.

While the nearby hanok village has become well-known, just beyond the overpass is Jaman, a neighborhood painted up & beautified by local artists. The uphill scene is worth the trip, and makes for some very cute photos, especially for families and couples.

Tour a Hanok . A hanok is a type of small house, traditionally one story tall, which were the main type of dwelling in Korea for centuries. Due to Jeonju's ancient status, it was designated a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, and as a result, the rest of the city has also been well-preserved.

One thing that sticks out in Jeonju compared to Seoul or Busan is the height of the buildings. It can be hard to put your finger on at first, but you'll quickly notice how short most places are, and how it opens up the entire city.

This is due in large part to the city's hanoks . Places feel greener, even when you visit Jeonju in the winter. While you can tour a hanok ( hopefully stay in one, too! ) just by walking by, I'd also recommend checking out Gyeonggijeon Shrine for a more holistic look at how hanok culture shaped contemporary Korea.

Eat Street Food at Nambu Night Market. You can't recommend a visit to Jeonju without also recommending a trip to a night market. Korean night markets are notoriously boisterous affairs, with locals loudly hawking their wares from the safety of their booths, wafting any number of smells your way. The market is open every day, but Fridays and Saturdays are the busiest of all.

Some delicacies to enjoy once you've feasted your eyes are the grilled meat skewers, daepae saewoo (pork-wrapped shrimp), and hoddeok (honey cinnamon-filled rice cakes), though there are many international dishes, as well.

Try Dolsot Bibimbap With Makgeolli . Those little gold bowls full of translucent white liquid have become a staple in my life. Anytime staff at my job went out to dinner together, we always had makgeolli (rice wine), usually served from a big pot in the center of the table.

This is the most traditional way to consume the traditional rice liquor, and it's a great accompaniment to Jeonju's famous version of bibimbap (mixed rice). Try it almost anywhere in the ancient village, and I guarantee a smile.

Wear a Hanbok Amongst Hanok. Similar to the beautiful hanbok (traditional Korean outfits) you'll see in Seoul and Busan, it's almost a rite of passage to wear a hanbok around Jeonju. If you want a more unique experience in the city, this is the move. Rentals start from ₩8,000 (~$7USD), and range from 1-4 hours.

Have Tea in an Ancient Cafe. Or at least in a cafe that looks ancient, as many of the cafes in Jeonju's downtown area have been styled to look.

Some of the cafes are even in a hanok , which makes the tea-sipping feel all the more event-like. Some great cafes in Jeonju are Café Haengwon and Swan Park Cafe, but just remember to have a translation app on hand for the menus.

Admire the Flowers in Deokjin Park. One of the most popular gathering places in Jeonju, Deokjin Park has now become a draw for visitors, as well. In the spring there are flowers everywhere, while the summer sees the lotus blooming on the lake & fall brings changing colors to the leaves.

If you visit from July to August you'll notice crowds of locals taking pictures with the lotus flowers, as the high season coincides with kids' summer break.

What To Eat In Jeonju

Despite the popularity of Suncheon as Korea's underground foodie capital, Jeonju is the official foodie capital of the country. In fact, in 2012 it was named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Domestically, Jeonju is known for its fresh vegetables and locally-grown rice, as well high levels of spice, so prepare your palate.

Legit Choco Pies. The infamous Korean treat of Choco Pies, which my students simply adore, were actually born at a bakery here in Jeonju. The bakery, PNB, has branches throughout the city, where you can find the layered chocolate and marshmallow pastry in multiple iterations.

Grilled Imsil Cheese. Korean cheese is notoriously gross. But many years ago, in a town just outside of Jeonju, one company faced this problem head-on: Imsil. In street food regions throughout the city you can find thick skewers of carefully grilled Imsil cheese, lightly sweet and crispy on the outside, halloumi-like in texture.

The brand also makes some delicious yogurt, and if you took the bus to & from Jeonju, you may even stop at an outpost where you can buy some of their cheese & yogurt. Go for the blueberry flavor; you can thank me later.

Jeonju Royal Court Cuisine. Gung hanjeongsik , as it's called in Korean, is the modern retelling of the special food eaten at the King's palace during the Joseon Dynasty. Even back then it was so intricate to prepare that it was only consumed once a month. One of my friends insisted that we try this type of meal when we went to her hometown, and it does not disappoint.

The setup is basically three tables covered in dozens of side dishes and a few main meals, all emphasizing local specialties from different parts of the country. This special meal is an investment, maybe $45USD per person. But it's seriously worth it.

Ddeok-galbi. Another local recommendation, these short rib patties will make your mouth water. They're prepared using marinated galbi , usually pork, and onion, garlic, ginger, and a umber of other spices. The meat is ground and then reformed into thin patties before being grilled on skewers or back on the bones; they're served with white rice and numerous side dishes.

Dolsot Bibimbap. While bibimbap (rice with steamed vegetables) is common throughout Korea, this version is unique because it's prepared in a piping hot stone bowl ( dol is Korean for "stone"). The rice is allowed to crisp up on the bottom, adding a delightfully different texture to the mix of ingredients.

This mix almost always includes fresh vegetables, kimchi, oak jelly, a small amount of beef, and a raw egg to stir into the steaming hot dish. Jeonju is so synonymous with bibimbap that there's now Bibimbap Festival every year. Just don't touch the bowl!

Where To Stay In Jeonju

One of the main reasons people choose to visit Jeonju over any other destination in Korea is for the hanoks (traditional Korean houses). All of them are now also equipped with ondol , the typical Korean floor heating system, making them quite comfortable even on the coldest of nights.

So most visitors do opt to spend the night in one of these beautiful guesthouses, most all of which are clustered in the famous Jeonju Hanok Village (in the southeastern part of the city).

But I'm not a huge fan of sleeping on thin blankets on a hard wooden floor, despite having done it a few dozen times. So here I've recommended just one hanok -style guesthouse, the two other being more western-style accommodations.

Budget: 24Guesthouse Jeonju

24 is a popular guesthouse chain, and I've stayed in several of their locations throughout Korea. They offer affordable double rooms with en-suite bathrooms, as well as 3- to 4-person hostel-style rooms for some of the cheapest prices around. A simple coffee & breakfast is included.

The guesthouse is a few blocks north of the Hanok Village, allowing you to be near but not right inside all of the action. At just $14USD a night per dorm bed, it's hard to beat the price if you're visiting Jeonju on a budget.

Hanok: Bu Kyung Dang Guesthouse

This is one of the most beautiful and most-loved hanoks in the whole village; no exaggeration. The entirety of the property consists of just 8 rooms, surrounded by greenery, which is found in full bloom if you visit in the spring.

On the outside is the traditional slatted doors with a paljak roof and paper lanterns around the perimeter. But heading inside you'll find a beautifully refurbished stone-tiled bathroom and wide open rooms. Grab a blanket from the stack and settle in for the night. Rooms start at just $32USD per night.

Mid-Range: N Bridge Hotel

Non- hanok accommodation in Jeonju is incredibly hard to come by; most people want to stay the night in the famous Hanok Village, and seem to have no problem sleeping on the floor. But for my fellow non-floor sleepers— at least those not on a budget— I'd recommend N Bridge.

It's got big fluffy beds, 24-hour service, and a fridge in every room. Unlike most of the hanok options, it also has multiple floors and a marble bathroom in every suite. Just be sure you don't book their futon room unless you actually do want to sleep on the floor, Korean-style. Double rooms start at $74USD.

Click here to check out prices for other hotels in Jeonju

🧳 Budget For A Trip To South Korea

Of all the countries in East Asia, I'd argue that South Korea has become the most affordable to visit. There are many extremes to be found in the ROK (Republic Of Korea), a fact which extends to my daily life here over the last few years.

Visitors could stay in super cheap dorm beds booked way in advance for about ₩12000 ($10USD) a night, eat street food for another $10USD a day, and otherwise spend money only on transportation. I wouldn't recommend it, but it's doable.

On the other hand, Seoul is a massive city with plenty of hotels always ready to take your money. $500USD a night hotel rooms aren't the norm, but they're there. The key is to find a balance, and if you're looking to travel Korea on a budget, then make a list of priorities.

Do you most want a nice place to sleep? Fancy meals? Involved day trips? Budget travel in Korea is 100% possible, but it takes planning. So here's a rundown of the costs of traveling in Korea.

Note that this South Korea travel guide covers such a wide range of days that the budget below is a snapshot of how much you could spend in one day. My dad would call them "guesstimates." It also covers the cost of basic activities which most everyone would do. Remember to multiply this Korea travel budget by the number of days you'll be visiting us for!

ESTIMATED COSTS:

• Visa Fee : ₩30000 (to check if you need a visa, click here )
• Day Tours : ₩70000 (some day tours cost more, but these kids of trips include visiting the DMZ , Nami Island, and Jeju tours)
• * Each Trip To A New City : ~₩30000 (one way; this is an average)
• * Round Trip Airfare to Jeju : ₩80000 (if booked well in advance)

Decent Guesthouse : ₩25000

Meals & Snacks : ₩20000

Attractions & Activities : ₩10000

Transportation : ₩5000 (4 trips on the subway or bus)

Souvenirs & Cafes : ₩5000 (coffee or tea)

Average Cost Per Day : ₩ 65000

🚈 South Korea Travel Tips

• Metros aren't very accessible but the buses and taxis are. So if you're in a hurry or disabled, then you should take a taxi. They're very cheap and fast, though during rush hour they'll take as long as the metro. Most shops (like Korean chocolate shops ) are clustered right around metro stations anyway, so even if your driver doesn't speak much English you can tell them the name of the metro station closest to where you're going.
• Korean winters are not for the faint of heart . My friends from Vietnam visited me last winter and spent their first day alone— they were shivering for hours after we came inside. Even my sister was not very happy with all the snow over New Year's when she visited a few years ago. It can get brutal, thanks to winds coming down from Siberia.
• Also not for the faint of heart, entitled old people . They will push you, publicly and without shame if they think you're in their way. I understand that they act this way because they don't think young people respect their elders like they should, and they don't, in my opinion. But no matter how you think, it is something to be aware of.
• Korea is basically a cashless society , except for in the markets. This means that you can use your credit card most everywhere, but international cards aren't always accepted, so still keep some cash on hand.
• Along similar lines, in Korea you should expect late nights and late mornings . Cafes, restaurants, and shops are open very late, usually between 10pm and midnight, but rarely open before 11am. If you want morning coffee if Korea you'll have to either be at the airport or grab canned coffee from a convenience store.

• Even though it's a more developed country, Korea has their share of travel scams. One of the most common is the fortune teller scam , in which a woman stops you on the street and offers to take you to have traditional experiences, only to scam you out of money. Either way, if someone stops you on the street, 95% of the time they want your money or to convert you. NYC rules apply.
• Pollution is horrible. Sometimes the skies aren't as bad, but spring 2018 and winter 2019 were particularly harsh, with many days seeing pollution levels as high in Seoul as in Beijing, China. Bring a mask, or buy one, especially if spending 2 weeks in South Korea, or longer.
• Naver Maps will tell you which door of the subway you should go to for the faster arrival at your next destination.
• If you're a bigger person , look for handicap-accessible or family bathrooms, as Korean public bathroom stalls are made for small people, especially the women's bathrooms.
• Look up . If you're looking for an office or guesthouse or restaurant, and you'd swear you're at the right address, just look up. It's probably just on a much higher floor, like the 11th or 32nd.
• However, when you do look up, don't make eye contact unless you want to start a conversation or get stared at as you walk away (though that might happen anyway, in the countryside).
• Hospitals are for everything , even if you're a visitor taking various South Korea tours and end up with a cold. The hospital is like the doctor's office, and in small towns like mine, they're open 9 to 5 like everything else.
• Always count to 5 before crossing the street , because without fail, at least once a week I watch someone go after the light turns red, be it a car or a motorbike. Better safe than sorry.

☺️ Basic Phrases For Your Trip to Korea

Hello //  An-nyeong-ha-se-yo . (안녕하세요.)

Thank you //  Gam-saahm-ni-da . (감사합니다.)

How much is it? // Eegaw eol-ma-yeh-yo? (이거 얼마예요?)

Do you speak English? //  Yeong-aw jal-hae-yo?  (영어 잘해요?)

I don’t speak any Korean. //  Han-guk-aw jal-moat-hae-yo.  (한국어 잘못해요.)

One of these, please. //  Ee-gaw ha-na ju-say-yo.  (이거 하나 주세요.)

It’s to-go/takeout. //  Po-jahng ee-eh-yo  or  Tae-ee-kow-shi-yay-oh.  (포장 이예요.)

Lesson complete! Now let’s get packing.

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More South Korea Travel and Life

Reader Interactions

Happy Travelers

January 13, 2024 at 4:42 pm

Thanks for creating a 14 day with Jeonju! We will be in Korea feb 7-21 and obviously plan on seoul, busan, and jeju. We really wanted to hit Jeonju but was reading about doing a drive from seoul east and then south to hit Chuncheon, Sokcho, Gangneung, Samcheok, Andong, Gyeongju, Seokguram and skipping Jeonju.

I was wondering since we will be there in the Winter, which would you recommend the Jeonju plan or the east plan?

January 14, 2024 at 2:46 pm

Thank you for the kind words! At that time of year, you'd be better off giving Jeonju a visit since the warm weather that would make the east coast drive so pleasant & beautiful would be nonexistent right then. You'll also be overlapping with Seollal, or the Lunar New Year (weekend of Feb 10), with those dates, so renting a car may be a bit harder and traffic will be CRAZY heading out of the city all weekend (everyone is taking their fmailies back to the countryside to see parents/extended family). However it will be just one weekend out of two, so I recommend you just plan around that, and definitely give Jeonju a few days!

August 18, 2023 at 4:02 am

Thank you for your post. I wonder how to use 'Kakao talk' app during travel in Korea. Is there any way to use it?

August 20, 2023 at 5:55 pm

My pleasure, Kim! You can download Kakao Talk before your trip, but since it's connected to your phone number, if you need to get a local sim card in Korea, you'll just need to make a temporary new account for use in Korea. So unless you'll use your phone's regular sim card while in Korea, I recommend waiting until you're IN Korea to make your account for use during travel in Korea. Then you can use it to communicate with taxi drivers, food delivery, Air BnB hosts, local friends, etc.

August 07, 2023 at 6:14 am

Thanks for your great posts! I used this one (and a few others including the Seoul and Jeju one) to help me when I went to South Korea for two weeks. I read a few blogs on the internet, but your style and interests most closely matched me. Hope you are doing well one your new adventures 🙂

August 10, 2023 at 9:26 am

Thank you for the kind words, Kim! I'm glad you've found it all helpful. 😀

August 04, 2023 at 5:48 am

Hi, we are going to prepare a tour with golfers to Korea and beside of golf your information are very helpful. Do you live in Korea and work as DMC?

August 04, 2023 at 1:36 pm

That sounds like a very fun tour indeed, but unfortunately I don't like in Korea anymore, nor have I ever worked as a DMC. But good luck with your search, and enjoy your trip!

June 13, 2023 at 11:05 pm

What a great post! Thanks for sharing. We are planning to come from June 29th to 9th July. What do you think about the weather? Can we come now or delay due to rain and heat? Also, in Seoul what is a good location for a family stay - Four Seasons and something in Gangham?

June 14, 2023 at 12:40 am

My pleasure, VK! And since it's monsoon season, it's honestly pretty unpredictable as to which days might be nice, but with such a long stretch of time, you're bound to get some good weather days and maybe a bit of rain. I have a post covering 100+ things to do in Seoul , so I recommend looking through that and over the map on the bottom to note some things that look interesting & rain-proof, as well as some options for stuff close to where you choose to stay.

Speaking of, the Four Seasons is lovely, but I was also incredible impressed with VOCO Hotel in Gangnam . It's an affordable IHG property a block or two from the metro, and I felt like royalty for much cheaper than the Four Seasons (like 1/3 of the price)! But it's always worth comparing the two side-by-side, as the Four Seasons would offer slightly different amenities and is in an arguably more central tourist location. Either way, summertime will be warm in Seoul, but everythng is open and tends to have longer hours due to the increase in domestic tourism.

Enjoy your trip!

June 14, 2023 at 8:34 am

@Max, Thank you so much for your kind response and the details provided. I am planning to do 4 nights in Seoul, 2 nights in Busan, and 4 nights in Jeju. Is that plan correct? Given a choice you would me to skip summer and rain and come later or it is still okay to come from 27th June - 7th July? As we don't to come and spoil the trip - I hope you understand :).

The Hotel option you gave is great. I will definitely have a look. Is it better to stay in Gangnam or the area where the Four Seasons are? I know I am asking too much but if you have any recommendations for Busan and Jeju as well - would love to take your feedback.

Thanks so much again.

Regards, VK

June 14, 2023 at 5:24 pm

That's how I'd plan it out! And honestly, you can't predict the weather well enough to say whether it will rain half the days or just one or none. It can be rainy from June to September, and it gets quite cold after that, so sometimes you just have to roll the dice. If given the option, summer would be my pick over winter, but even if I knew the other times you'd be able to go, we'd still be in the same predicament about not being able to know for sure how the weather will be.

If the price difference doesn't matter as much, the Four Seasons would be my pick for a first-time visit, because it's truly in the middle of the touristy area with a large chunk of the museums, hanok (traditional) houses, souvenir shopping, royal palaces, and a ton of restaurants with great Korean food and mostly translated menus. Voco (and Gangnam as a whole) is about a half hour metro ride from that area, and while it's great for fancy shopping, visiting Lotte Tower, and some fabulous meals (if you eat beef then definitely try hanu , or Korean domestic beef, while you're there), it has a few tourist-friendly museums and not so much else. But what you save in staying there would more than pay for taxis all throughout the city! So each has their pros, and you should pick the one that's right for your preferences.

As for the other two, I spent many hours compiling accommodation guides for both Busan and Jeju Island , and you can read about the various neighborhoods/parts of the island in each, and make the best pick for each based on what you plan to do there. Again, since I'm not sure what attractions you're most interested in, I do think it would make more sense for you to look through those for the best picks for you personally, rather than booking only based on my recommendation. And if you do still have more questions after reading through those two posts, just leave another comment and I'd be happy to answer them there.

I never mind answering questions, as frustratingly few bloggers seem to still do so. But if you've found any of the info helpful, I always appreciate it if you book through my affiliate links. I specifically work with Agoda for hotels because I've always found that they have the best prices on accommodation throughout Asia, and always throughout Korea. But if you don't, no big deal; just wanted to mention it as a free way to say 'thanks'! 🙂

June 14, 2023 at 10:02 pm

@Max, Thank you so much for your kind help and answering questions. This really helps a lot. I will definitely use the affiliate links:)

Susan Hughes

February 25, 2024 at 11:01 am

My husband, oldest daughter, possibly a friend of hers and I will be in South Korea, leaving DFW the 9th (not getting there till the 10th at 3:15)-and returning the 20th at 5:25. Trying to come up with a tentative itinerary so we can experience the most of our time there. Seoul, Busan and Jeju Island are my top places to visit. I’m a Korean adoptee and would like to visit an orphanage. If you have information about Holt orphanage that would be wonderful. I was adopted in 1973 which the orphanage was called Livingstone but changed to Holt. Trying to determine if we should stay around Seoul when we get there or when a few days before we head back home. I’m realizing I should have booked 2 weeks which a friend who is living there for a year suggested but i compromised with 10 days. Would love to hear what advice you have to give. I’m just starting to do research so any info other than what you have said in your post would be much appreciated. Wish you were there when we are to be our travel guide😂Looking forward to hearing back from you!

February 28, 2024 at 1:14 am

Hi, Susan! That sounds like a wonderful experience you have planned. I'm sorry I don't know anything about Holt, but I also did my best to include every little detail about visiting in this post - it's over ten thousand words! However, when planning timing, I'd say to know your limits. If you're flying direct from Dallas and know you'd be up for another short domestic flight that would get you to Jeju by 7pm or 8pm, then I'd say to go directly to Jeju, because getting into Seoul formt he airport in Incheon take about 2 hours. It's a trek, and your time is better spent getting your sea legs, so to speak. From a few days in Jeju first, I'd fly from Jeju to Busan, then take the train from Busan to Seoul and leave form there. Lots of options depending on your particular interests!

May 02, 2023 at 7:31 am

Hi Max! First of all, thank you for your amazing collection of information. I'm currently trying to make up my mind in terms of how I should plan my South Korea trip. Maybe you can help me out a bit: I'm thinking of either going end of this Month so around 23rd of May or wait and flight there during September. What would you suggest? Are there any advantages/disadvantages ?

And the next question is whether I should do 3 weeks in South Korea or 2 weeks and ad 1 week in Tokyo to that.

It's so hard for me to decide ...

Thanks a lot in advance!!

May 02, 2023 at 10:32 am

Hi, Claudia! It's a long trip, so I can understand the trepidation. As for timing, end of May can get quite warm, but September will be HOT. Kids will be in school both times of year, though particularly in early September there is kind of a lot of movement-- new students coming in, new English teachers, certainly tourists. I think you could have a good time no matter what, but I'd generally opt for May because I think it's also the most beautiful time to be on Jeju Island and see all of the blossoms and herbs around the country.

As for a week in Tokyo/Japan, it's a farther trip than you may expect (3 hour flight from Seoul, plus to/from both airports) and will definitely be a hit to your budget. But it will be different foods and a different array of activity options and a somewhat different vibe. While I think you could easily spend a month in Korea and be nowhere near done, it depends on how much you want to see Japan + how willing you are to spend the extra time & money for the experiences you could have in Japan vs. Korea.

Personally, I've been to Japan 4 times (each a different region) and it's cool, but I'll always enjoy going back to Korea more, and I don't believe it's just because I lived there (though that certainly plays a role!).

May 02, 2023 at 11:04 am

@Max, Thanks so much! Going to Japan/Tokyo would basically just be some sort of "teaser" for me as I've always planed to spend at least 2 month there at once. So it was me thinking "okay, if I'm already over there, might as well get a first taste" - that sort of thing 😛 (I'm travelling from Austria). I'm travelling alone, so all responsiblity of making the final decision lies with me unfortunately.

What extra places would you recommend for a 3 weeks trip? Would you add something or just extend the 2 weeks itinerary a bit?

And quick side question regarding Jeju: How much in advance did you go to the airports for the flights? Is it like any other flight (2h)?

Thanks a ton!

May 02, 2023 at 1:41 pm

Ahhh gotcha. Well that's definitely a different scenario. If I were deciding between the two, I would indeed spend the other week in Japan, and try to get a sense of which I like better. If I were spending 3 weeks in Korea, I'd extend the amount of time I spend in each place depending on which one appeals to me the most. Oh, and for Jeju 1.5-2 hours to even as little as an hour for the flights from Gimpo, but I generally err on the side of caution. Enjoy your trip, Claudia!!

April 16, 2023 at 6:14 am

Hi Max, I am planning a trip to Korea in 30 Sept to 10 Oct, tentively as below: 30/9-2/10-Seoul 2/10-4/10-Gyeongu 4-7-Busan 7-8-Boseng green tea plantation 8-9- Sucheon 9-10-Jeonju 10-Back to Seoul and departure in night

Do you think above days allocation in each city, are appropirate to see the main sights in each city without feeling too rush? which is why I allocate 2 nights in Gyeongu and 2 nights in Sucheon. 3 days in busan and 2 and a half days in Seoul (include last day in seoul).

Secondly, is it ok to see Boseong Green Tea planation first and spend a day there, and next day go back to Sucheon and spend a night in Sucheon? Or the other way round?

April 16, 2023 at 10:29 am

Hi, Su! You'll be doing a lot of running around and hauling luggage, so I'd pack light and wear your good walking shoes, but I'd also probably switch and go to Suncheon first, yes, as Boseong will be a slightly longer trip to arrive there from Busan, and it's relatively easy to get to Jeonju by bus from either city/area.

July 22, 2023 at 6:13 am

@Max, thanks Max

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• Travel Guide
• South Korea
• Country and City

4 Things To Know Before Heading To Korea (From Malaysia!) This 2022

Siti Ayeeshah Zaki  •  Mar 31, 2022

Travelling to Korea From Malaysia 2022

Effective 30 March 2022, you're going to need to apply for the K-ETA in order to enter Korea. This electronic travel authorisation form is for visa-free foreign visitors who wish to travel to Korea short-term!

Here are a few things you'll need to remember when applying for the K-ETA

A. Apply for the K-ETA at least 24 hours prior to boarding your plane, as it takes time for the form to process and be approved. Plus, you're going to need some lead time in case of any emergencies. We recommend applying 2-3 days before so you won't have to rush!

B. It costs about RM35 to apply for the K-ETA, so be sure to have your credit card ready. ☺️

C. Information required for the form include your email address, passport information and trip information. You might need to have your itinerary ready!

P.S. Find Out Whether Your Favourite Halal Stalls Are Still Open In Myeongdong, South Korea Here!

2. PCR Tests

As many trips post-covid 19 require, you're going to need a negative PCR Test result before your trip. This PCR Test has to be taken within 48 hours prior to your departure. You'll also need to register the negative results in your Q-Code (more on that below)!

P.S. Check Out This Muslim-Friendly Everland Guide: 14 Tips To Conquering South Korea's Largest Theme Park

3. Quarantine Exemption

Oh hey, more good news! Malaysians who are fully vaccinated do not need to be quarantined once you've arrived in Korea ? But of course, you'll need proof of vaccination for this. Head to Korea's Q-Code  website to have your vaccination details recorded.

Information that you'll need for this form include a valid airline ticket, the valid confirmation of negative Covid-19 test results, and your health conditions. Entry and stay information will also be required, so make sure to have your trip's details finalised for this!

Once filled, a QR code will be issued to you for you to use in Korea as valid proof of vaccination!

P.S. Here Are 5 Halal & Muslim-Friendly Restaurants You Can Still Find In Seoul This 2022!

4. Travel Insurance

While it is highly encouraged for you to take travel insurance (lest you get covid-19 while on vacation in Korea!), travel insurance is not compulsory for you to head to Korea. ?

P.S. Here Are 10 Affordable Family-Friendly Accommodations (Under USD100!) Near South Korea's Top Attractions

Ready to head over to the land of K-Pop and K-Dramas? Cause once you've followed these steps, you'll be all set! Just don't forget your (valid) passport and luggage bag ?

Save to Bucket List

How Much Does It Cost To Travel In Korea 2023? Korean Budget

Want to know how much it will cost to travel in Korea? Worried about going over budget and not having enough cash? Not sure how expensive Korea is (it’s not)? Then this guide to the cost to travel in Korea has you sorted. Featuring a breakdown of all the costs you can expect in Korea, you can easily plan your Korean travel budget. Not only that, there are dozens of great tips to help you plan your dream Korean trip and save money in many ways.

Take the pain out of planning by learning more about the costs of accommodation, food, transportation, activities, day trips, and lots more. There are daily budget costs for 3 different types of travellers and actual detailed breakdowns to show how much things cost in Korea. Mix and match for each category to plan your realistic Korean travel budget.

Check the summary at the beginning of this article for a quick glance at what you can expect to spend each day. Then read through the following sections to find out more details about each of those costs.

You can also pick up some tips about how to find cheap accommodation, ways to save money on transport, some great food and drink options you have to try, and some of Korea’s best activities.

If you want some other guides that will help you save money when you travel to Korea, take a look at these other really useful articles:

Read more: How To Save Money In Seoul Free Things To Do In Seoul

Korea Essentials:

Here are some of my favourite resources that will help you save time and money on your journey to Seoul:

Flights To Korea: Trip.com | JetRadar

Hotels In Seoul: Myeongdong | Hongdae | Gangnam

Recommended Tour Companies: Klook | Trazy | Get Your Guide | Voyagin

Travel & Tour Passes: T-Money Card | Discover Seoul Pass

Internet / Mobile: 4g Sim Card | Portable 4g WiFi

Airport Transportation: AREX Train Ticket | Incheon Airport Pickup

Follow Me On Social Media:

Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking one of these links. Affiliate Disclaimer

Cost To Travel In Korea By Traveller Type

Everyone is different and the way we travel, how much we spend, and on what, is unique.

Personally, I’m happy to spend less on transport and more on food and entertainment. Others people may cut accommodation costs and head to the most expensive attractions, whilst some people might want to control costs in all areas.

I’ve broken down the costs into three travel-styles to fit different budgets. These are as follows:

• Budget Travellers: Those who want to save as much money as possible and don’t mind roughing it a bit.
• Comfort Travellers: Typically families or couples who want to spend a bit more here and there.
• Luxury Travellers: When money is no issue and you want the best there is.

As I mentioned, most people will probably save in some areas and spend more in others. I’m a mix between a budget and comfort traveller, sometimes dipping into luxury on special occasions.

The cost to travel in Korea can be broken down into the following 4 expenses:

• Accommodation
• Transportation

Below is a summary of the average daily cost by traveller type. You can pick and choose the costs for each section to work out your personal costs to travel in Korea. You don’t have to follow these figures exactly, but they should give you a much better idea when working out your Korean travel budget.

Summary: What Does It Cost To Travel In Korea?

For those who know what kind of travel-style they prefer, or want to get an idea of the costs they can expect when travelling in Korea, here is a quick summary of the ‘average’ daily cost to travel in Korea.

Please note: I’ve used KRW for all figures to avoid any exchange rate changes over time. To work out costs in your own currency, use Google’s exchange rate calculator .

Want to save on hefty foreign exchange rate fees and bad exchange rates? Find out how the Wise card for travelling in Korea could save you more and help you travel smarter.

Budget Daily Costs :

Comfort daily costs :, luxury daily costs :.

*Accommodation costs may seem low, but I have assumed that most people will be sharing a room as a couple of family (or have two rooms for a family). Therefore, costs will be split between two or more people.

A couple would spend 100,000 KRW per room, so the accommodation budget would be 200,000 KRW per night. This would actually get you a very nice room and you could actually spend a lot less than this on accommodation.

Solo travellers can find great single-room accommodation for 100,000 KRW.

Joel’s Tip: In my experience, budget travel costs and actual travel costs usually don’t match up as there is always something unexpected that comes up that you didn’t budget for.

Therefore, I’d recommend adding 20% to all of these costs .

If you need the extra money, you have it. If not, you can change any extra cash back at the end of your journey.

My personal travel costs are usually around the following amounts:

• Accommodation : 50,000 – 100,000 KRW
• Food : 30,000 – 50,000 KRW
• Activities : 0 to 25,000 KRW
• Transportation : 10,000 KRW

A weekend in Seoul generally costs me about 150,000 – 200,000 KRW. I try to find the best deals on hotels, but sometimes you can’t avoid paying more. Food is something that I enjoy and often don’t mind splashing out on, especially on holiday. I enjoy walking and exploring new places, so I often don’t pay for activities, unless it’s something that I specifically want to see. Even then, I’ll try to find discount tickets online if I can. Transport costs are low as I walk or take the subway or a bus. These are both cheap and easy ways to get around Seoul and other cities.

Please note: These are average costs and you can spend a lot more or less in each category. To understand how I got to these costs, please keep reading and you’ll find out more about the breakdown of the true costs to travel in Korea.

Costs Not Covered Above

Apart from these five main categories that make up most of the cost to travel in Korea, there are some other costs that should be considered, such as:

• Shopping and souvenirs
• Internet & Data Costs
• Flights to and from Korea
• Inter-city travel (incl. flights to Jeju Island)
• Day trips / personalised tours
• Visas (if necessary)
• Travel Insurance

You’ll find some of these costs included in the other expense sections above, whilst some of them have their own section at the end of this article. You can use the table of contents at the top of this page to find what you’re looking for.

Tips To Control Travel Costs

Everyone wants to save money, and when you are trying to work out your cost to travel in Korea, you might find you need to control your travel expenses. Here’s a few tips to control your travel costs in Korea that will leave your Korean travel budget looking healthier, without compromising all the fun you plan to have.

• Plan ahead – make an itinerary that makes sense. Plan your days around zones in cities, and try to cut down unnecessary travel costs. It’ll save time, too. Pre-planning travel to Korea really helps.
• Figure out when to travel – knowing when the peak tourist season is, and when hotels and flights are more likely to be expensive, can save you a lot of money. This guide to the best time to visit Korea should help.
• Haggle in the markets – Seoul’s markets aren’t as cheap as they used to be, but you can still haggle for a better price
• Use discount cards – use the Discover Seoul Pass or Korea Tour Card to save money when you travel in Seoul. Plan your itinerary so that you can get the most out of these discount cards.
• Use a T-Money Card – the T-Money Card will save money on transportation in Korea.
• Make the most of complimentary services – if you get breakfast at your hotel, get up early enough to eat it. Top up water bottles at restaurants (water is always free). Try out the free samples in supermarkets and malls.
• Do free things to do in Seoul – there are lots of free things to see and do in Seoul , including romantic walks along the Han River, hiking to the N Seoul Tower, trying on Hanbok, and lots more.

For more great tips about how to save money when you’re visiting Seoul, be sure to check out this article:

Read more: How To Save Money In Seoul

Now, here’s a breakdown of the key expenses in your Korean travel budget.

1: Accommodation Costs In Korea

The biggest cost to travel in Korea, apart from your flights, will probably be accommodation. Whatever your budget, you’ll find some incredible options for places to stay in Korea. Accommodation costs have been rising in recent years, in line with big increases in house and rental prices, but they are still very reasonable.

From hostels to 5 star hotels, Korea has something for all travellers and you can spend a night in Seoul for as little as 10,000 KRW

Here’s a quick selection of the best accommodation for Seoul. Accommodation costs in Korea are generally the same in most cities, but you might find seasonal price rises during spring and autumn, or in areas where there is a festival going on.

If you want a more detailed breakdown of the different neighbourhoods in Seoul , as well as more great hotel recommendations, check out my guide below:

Read more: Where To Stay In Seoul – Seoul’s 7 Hottest Neighbourhoods

1.1: Budget Level Accommodation Costs

Budget accommodation ranges from shared dorm beds in a hostel, to cheap hotels with a private room. These rooms will usually be very small, but air conditioned or heated depending on the season.

These places, especially the hostels, have a great community and offer the chance for solo our group travellers to make new friends, get travel advice from others, and see an authentic side to Seoul.

The price for basic accommodation is between 8,000 KRW to 50,000 KRW.

I’ll use an average price of 25,000 KRW per night for accommodation to work out the daily Korean travel budget.

Here are six of the best budget places to stay in Seoul:

Joel’s Tip: Another option for accommodation, especially if you haven’t booked any for one night, is to stay in a Korean sauna ( jjim-jjil-bang ). You can stay overnight and soak in the hot pools for about 10,000 KRW per night. They provide towels and pyjamas, too. These are great for emergency accommodation or budget stays when travelling to another city for one night.

1.2: Comfort Level Accommodation Costs

Comfort accommodation in Seoul includes basic and mid-range hotels. You’ll typically get a small to medium-sized private room in a good location. Expect fresh towels and cleaning daily and possibly a basic breakfast service, too (although this might be extra).

The price for comfort accommodation is between 50,000 KRW to 150,000 KRW per night.

I’ll use an average price of 100,000 KRW per night for accommodation to work out the daily Korean travel budget.

Here are six of the best comfort places to stay in Seoul:

Joel’s Tip: This category is the broadest and there are so many great (and not so great) hotels available in Seoul and other cities. If you’re going for hotels in this category, I would recommend choosing your location first and then filtering the hotels by their ratings, then price. You can find some outstanding hotels at great prices and avoid the over-priced and poorly run hotels this way.

1.3: Luxury Level Accommodation Costs

There is a wide range of options for luxurious hotels in Seoul, with some of the best areas to stay including Gangnam , Jamsil , and Yongsan . These are often less busy and crowded than Myeongdong and Hongdae. Expect high levels of service, great food options, and a wonderful night’s sleep.

The price for luxury accommodation is above 150,000 KRW per night

I’ll use an average price of 200,000 KRW per night for accommodation to work out the daily Korean travel budget.

Here are six of the best luxury places to stay in Seoul:

Joel’s Tip: You can have some truly unforgettable experiences in some of Seoul’s finest locations. For the most amazing views, the Signiel Hotel in the Lotte World Tower – the world’s 6th tallest building – is hard to beat.

AirBnB’s In Seoul

Another option for accommodation in Seoul is from AirBnB . With lots of owners renting out their apartments in excellent locations, you can get a very different experience from your typical hotel stay, with whole apartments available to rent instead of just one room.

There are options available for all budgets, with rooms available for as little as 12,000 KRW per night in central locations such as Myeongdong or Hongdae. You could rent a rooftop camping ground , complete with BBQ, city views, and a double bed inside a tented room. There are even apartments with tall windows looking out over the city from high up in one of Seoul’s many massive apartment complexes.

If you like the look of staying at an AirBnB, then make use of the referral voucher below to cut your cost to travel in Korea even more! You can get up to $37 off your first stay in Seoul or other places in Korea.

Read more: Sign up with AirBnB and get $37 off your first stay!

Joel’s Tip: Whatever level of accommodation you’re looking for, you’ll find it on AirBnb and in the various hotel booking websites mentioned before. If you want to cut your cost to travel in Korea, then I’d recommend taking some time to look around the best hostels and hotels, check the reviews, and find the best place for you.

2: Food Costs In Korea

Food is one of the most variable aspects of trying to work out the cost to travel in Korea. One person might eat a free breakfast at their hotel, another might go to one of Seoul’s amazing gourmet bakeries and spend 15,000 KRW on baked goods and coffee. You might want a simple meal for dinner and spend less than 10,000 KRW, or go all out with mountains of Korean BBQ goodness and spend ten times that.

In order to work out the costs and budget for your travels in Korea, I’ve broken the typical daily costs for budget, comfort, and luxury travel styles

To help you out, here are some guideline figures for how much you could spend on food, depending on your budget style. Of course, you might want to have a budget breakfast and splash out at dinner, that’s up to you. You can use the average food costs to help work out your daily cost to travel in Korea.

Budget Food Costs:

Comfort food costs:, luxury food costs:.

Please note: Costs for alcohol are not included . These prices include costs for water, soft drinks, and coffee. If you plan to drink a lot of imported alcohol, your costs will go up a lot. Please make a note to include it yourself. I’ll add some typical costs for drinks in the next section.

2.1: Breakfast Costs

Here are 6 great items that you’d normally eat for breakfast in Korea. The prices are based on an average cost and can vary according to location and quality. If you book a good hotel, you can often get breakfast included, which will save time and money.

Joel’s Tip: Gimbap is a versatile food option in Korea, especially if you’re trying to keep costs down. It’s great any time of day and there are lots of options for fillings. You’ll find gimbap in convenience stores, train stations, and in many gimbap chain restaurants. They’re also good for hiking and for packing in your bag as food to eat later on.

2.2: Lunch Costs

After a busy morning walking around and exploring Korea’s amazing sights, you’re bound to want a tasty meal to give you energy and keep you going for the rest of the day. There are plenty of great lunch options in Korea (more than I could put here) that won’t break the bank. Korea has a lot of seasonal dishes, be sure to get some delicious Korean winter foods when it’s cold.

Joel’s Tip: Many meals in Korea are designed for 2 or more people. You’ll notice that they usually have ‘2인’ listed above them and are around 20 – 30,000 KRW. These dishes are incredible as they come in a large pot that you share. You generally get more food than you would for two single servings.

2.3: Snack Food Costs

If you walk down Myeongdong Market’s Street Food Alley then you can’t resist helping yourself to a few extra snack foods. And when it’s summer in Korea , you’ll find it hard not to indulge in a sweet Korean dessert or two. There are so many unique snacks to sample in Korea you’ll want to try them all. Good news, calories don’t count when you’re on holiday!

Joel’s Tip: If you want to take home all these yummy snacks that you’ve tried whilst visiting Seoul, then head to Hongdae or Myeongdong and you’ll find lots of shops selling discounted snacks. Also, you can buy an extra suitcase to pack them all into when you realise just how many you ‘had to buy’.

If you’re curious about what sort of snacks you can get from Korea, then check out Korean Snack Box – they’ll ship them directly to you so you can sample them without having to go to Korea! Get a taste for Korea right now!

Korean Snack Box (Enter Code: KOREANSNACKBOX10 for 10% off!)

2.4: Dinner Costs

Dinner is when you’ll typically spend the most money on food. After a busy day of sightseeing, shopping, and exploring, you deserve a big meal with a drink or two. When trying to work out the cost to travel in Korea, dinner costs can cause the most variance. Do you splash out on a fancy Korean BBQ meal with bottles of soju and Korean beer, or have a simpler, healthier meal and save a few won? Here are some of the most popular evening meals you can look forward to in Korea.

Joel’s Tip: Try to avoid the main shopping areas around Myeongdong in Seoul when looking for dinner. There are lots of good restaurants, and they’ll usually have English menus, but you can find much better quality food for a lower price in other areas. Jonggak Avenue Of Youth (종각젊음의거리) is only 5 minutes walk from Myeongdong and has lots of great places to eat. Also, check out the back-alley open-air dining north of Jongno-3 subway station for great Korean BBQ.

2.5: Drink Costs

One cost when travelling in Korea that many people overlook is the cost of drinks. A bottle of water might be cheap, but if you’re going to be consuming creamy lattes, hydrating with energy drinks, or getting merry with alcohol, then drink costs add up quickly. Try to budget for at least 3 or 4 drinks per day. Restaurants usually give you water with a meal, so you can save money by drinking while you eat.

Korean alcohol in restaurants is typically the same price wherever you go. Expect to pay 4-5,000 KRW for beer, makgeolli , or soju whenever you’re eating in a Korean restaurant. There’s usually no foreign beers in restaurants unless it sells foreign food, too. Bars will have a wider choice. Makgeolli and soju are ridiculously cheap from convenience stores, as little as 1,000 KRW! If you want to cut your cost to travel in Korea, I’d recommend buying some cheap drinks from these stores.

Joel’s Tip: You can save money on food in lots of different ways, such as buying food (and alcohol) from a convenience store, eating street food, not drinking imported drinks, choosing small, local restaurants, and lots more.

If you’ve whet your appetite for some delectable Korean dishes, then why not check out some of my other articles about Korean food. Find out the most irresistible dishes you have to try when you arrive.

Read more: 20+ Most Delicious Korean Traditional Dishes 10+ Strangely Unique Korean Foods Korean Foods To Enjoy In Winter

3: Activity Costs In Korea

There are so many incredible things to do in Korea and your cost to travel in Korea will depend a lot on what you plan to do. Activity costs can include many things, from taking a day trip to the demilitarised zone (DMZ), to skydiving, skiing, rail-biking, and lots more. Palaces, temples, museums, galleries, theatres, exhibitions, theme parks, aquariums, and whatever else you want to do usually all cost money.

So how can you work out how much money to bring with you to Korea for activities?

Advanced planning will help you a lot. Work out your itinerary, and see what you will spend money on. To help you do that I’ve outlined some of the most popular attractions in Seoul and their average costs. I’ll cover day trips later, as they are usually a lot more expensive.

To work out the daily activity cost to travel in Korea, I’ll assume the following:

• Budget travellers will see many sights, but also do free activities
• Comfort travellers will also see many sights, but will visit a few premium attractions
• Luxury travellers will mainly visit premium attractions.

Therefore, based on the above costs, I would say that activity costs in Korea for each group is as follows:

• Budget travellers = 20,000 KRW per day
• Comfort travellers = 30,000 KRW per day
• Luxury travellers = 50,000 KRW per day

Joel’s Tip: There are so many great activities in Seoul that don’t cost a single won . You can spend a whole day without paying for any attractions and the last Wednesday of every month is Culture Day , where you can find lots of free or discounted cultural activities. Find out more about all the best free things to do in Seoul below:

Read more: 25 Awesome Free Things To Do In Seoul

To work out the daily costs to travel in Korea, I won’t provide a detailed daily itinerary and costs for each day. That would be impossible and everyone’s travel plans are different. Instead, I’ll show you the sort of prices you can expect to pay for various activities. If you want some suggestions for an itinerary for Korea, with lots of the best activities, then check out 2this article:

Read more: Your Perfect 7 Day Itinerary For Korea

3.1: Popular Activities In Seoul

Walking through the royal palaces in Seoul dressed up in hanbok and taking dozens of incredible photos – it’s the dream of many tourists coming to Seoul. But how much does it cost? And what are the costs to travel in Korea when you want to go out every day, visit the theme parks, chill out in aquariums, and cruise along the river at night?

Here are some of the most popular activities in Seoul, some of which you can also find in other cities in Korea.

These are some of the most common activities in Seoul, but of course there are many more things to do in Seoul and Korea. If you want some help creating your Korean bucket list, check out the link below:

Read more: Ultimate South Korea Bucket List

Joel’s Tip: You can find hanbok rental near Bukchon Hanok Village . This is a great place for unforgettable pictures with traditional Korean hanok houses. You can also wear this hanbok around Gyeongbokgung Palace . Doing both in one day saves you having to rent hanbok twice.

Reduce Your Costs In Seoul With The Discover Seoul Pass

If you plan to do lots of big activities in Seoul, then I’d really recommend getting a Discover Seoul Pass . The Discover Seoul Pass allows you free or discounted entry to a range of different attractions in Seoul, including the COEX Aquarium, Lotte World, Gyeongbokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower, River Cruise, Trick Eye Museum, and lots more. You can also get a free hanbok rental, city tour bus ride, Airport Express journey, and other great benefits.

I created some itineraries for the Discover Seoul Pass that show how you can save more than 50,000 won per person each day with the pass, and takes you across Seoul and into some of the best attractions. Check out the article below for more details:

Read more: How To Save Money With The Discover Seoul Pass

3.2: Day Trip Costs In Korea

Visiting the natural beauty of Nami Island , Boseong Green Tea Plantation , and Damyang Bamboo Forest , or having fun riding rail bikes, rollercoasters, and cable cars, are just some of the great ways you can spend a day out from Seoul or other big cities.

These trips aren’t always cheap, but they’re definitely worth it as you can see some really amazing sights that you probably won’t find back home. Some trips you can make by yourself with public transport, others are easier when booked with a tour company such as Klook , Trazy , or KKDay . For more on the best day trips from Seoul, check out the article below:

Read more: How To Get To Nami Island 10 Amazing Day Trips From Seoul

There are also lots of festivals that happen throughout the year which are hosted in the far corners of Korea, such as the Boryeong Mud Festival , the Jindo Sea Parting Miracle , or various New Year celebrations along the coast where you watch the sun rise on the first day of the year.

Again, you can book tours or make your own way to some of the places. If you’d like to know more about all the best festivals throughout the year, check out the link below:

Read more: All The Best Festivals In Korea

Here are the costs to travel on day trips in Korea. These are mostly based on tours from Klook.com , but there are ways you can get to some of them more cheaply by public transport. See the link above or ask for more details in the Korea Travel Advice Facebook Group for lots of great tips and suggestions about day tours and how to do them cheaply.

From 54,000 KRW

Nami Island / Rail Bike

From 42,000 KRW

Everland / Caribbean Bay

From 56,000 KRW

Jeonju Hanok Village

From 98,000 KRW

Seoraksan Tour

From 75,000 KRW

Korean Folk Village

Joel’s Tip: Booking a tour can be expensive, but it can also save a lot of time and be convenient as you won’t have to deal with the language barrier so much. If you’re an experienced traveller, you can usually make your own way. However, for families or people who are not comfortable with the risk of getting lost or delayed, then tours are worth the extra money for peace of mind. Even I book tours for some events because it’s the only way to get to some places without a car.

4: Transportation Costs In Korea

Korea is a really cheap and convenient country to get around with lots of cost-effective forms of public transport. Getting around inside big cities like Seoul is simple, with subways, buses, taxis, and even bikes for rent. To get between cities, there’s a vast network of buses and trains (high speed and regular).

To work out the daily transportation cost to travel in Korea, I’ll assume the following:

• Budget travellers will walk or take only buses / subways.
• Comfort travellers will also take a taxi or two per day.
• Luxury travellers will mainly use taxis or trains for long distances.

Therefore, based on the above costs, I would say that travel costs in Korea for each group is as follows:

• Budget travellers = 5,000 KRW per day
• Comfort travellers = 20,000 KRW per day
• Luxury travellers = 30,000 KRW per day

Before I get into more details about transportation costs, it’s important to point out that these prices are the prices you’d pay with a T-Money card (or a card that has a T-Money function). The T-Money card is a transportation card that can be used throughout Korea and saves you having to use cash. You can top them up at convenience stores, train stations, and many other places.

There are several ways to get a T-Money card. I’ve covered the most common ones for tourists:

Read more: Guide To The T-Money Card Guide To The Korea Tour Card Guide To The Discover Seoul Pass

Assuming you’re using a T-Money card (you really should be), here are some of the travel costs in Korea:

4.1: Transportation Costs In Cities:

Getting around big urban areas like Seoul or Busan can be very time consuming if you have to walk everywhere. The cost to travel in Seoul and other cities on public transport is as follows:

Bus rides: Buses are 1,250+ won per single journey. There are no round-trip tickets. Bus Routes For Seoul

Subway / train rides: Subway tickets are 1,250+ won per single journey. Subway Routes For Seoul

Taxis: Taxi prices start at 3,800 won (lower outside Seoul). A 10 minute journey should cost around 5,000 won. Seoul Station to Hongdae (5km) would take around 35 minutes and cost around 15,000 won. You can find out taxi costs with the Kakao Taxi app when you’re in Korea. Information About Taxis In Korea

Bikes: You can rent a bike in Seoul for 1,000 won per day. This is a cheap and healthy way to explore Seoul. Information About Renting Bikes In Seoul

As a tourist, your cost to travel in Seoul and other cities will depend on how many different places you want to visit. If you’re exploring one or two areas per day, you might not spend much time on public transport. If you want to visit lots of different locations, then you could spend a lot.

Joel’s Tip: When you leave a bus or subway, touch your T-Money card on the card machine (below) and you can get a discount on your next journey if it’s within 30 minutes.

4.2: Transport Costs Between Cities

If you want to travel between cities (there’s more to Korea than just Seoul!), then there are several options for you. The fastest method to get from Seoul to Busan and other major cities is to take the KTX high speed railway. The cheapest is either the slow train or intercity buses. Here is the cost to travel in Korea for each one.

Trains In Korea

There are several options for travelling by train in Korea, including the KTX high-speed train network that covers most major cities in Korea. Slower trains will take longer but also stop at more locations and cost far less.

You can find more details about Korea’s rail network and book tickets online from the Korail website.

Read more: Korail Website For Train Ticket Booking Online

If you plan to travel on trains a lot, consider a KTX Rail Pass for unlimited rides for 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 days.

To show you the cost to travel in Korea by train, here are the various prices you could pay to travel one-way between Seoul and some other select cities. Don’t forget, the travel times will be much faster with the more expensive trains.

Seoul to Busan : KTX (high-speed) train = 59,800 KRW ITX-Saemaul (mid-range) train = 42,600 KRW Mugunghwa (low-cost) train = 28,600 KRW

Seoul to Daejeon: KTX (high-speed) train = 23,700 KRW ITX-Saemaul (mid-range) train = 16,000 KRW Mugunghwa (low-cost) train = 10,800 KRW

Seoul to Suwon: KTX (high-speed) train = 8,400 KRW ITX-Saemaul (mid-range) train = 4,800 KRW Mugunghwa (low-cost) train = 2,700 KRW

Joel’s Tip: The cheap trains can take a longer time to get to places. For tourists, I’d recommend taking the KTX, even though it’s more expensive. Time is precious when you’re on holiday and you don’t want to waste it travelling. That being said, the ITX-Saemaul can be almost as fast as the KTX and also considerably cheaper.

Intercity Buses In Korea

There are two types of buses that will comfortably shuttle you across Korea. These are the Gosok  ( 고속 , Express) and  Sioe  ( 시외 , Intercity) buses. Together these bus networks cover almost anywhere you’d want to visit in Korea and the prices are really good.

Buses are clean, spacious, and the premium buses (extra cost) have large reclining seats that you can easily nap on. Korea is a small country though, so you won’t be taking too many long journeys.

You can book tickets for the various buses in the website below. There’s also an app you can download to book tickets on the go (only in Korean).

Read more: Express Bus Website (Korean / English)

To show you the cost to travel in Korea by bus, here are examples of ticket costs for one-way travel between Seoul and some other select cities:

Seoul to Busan : Premium (luxury) bus = 39,800 KRW Excellent (mid-range) bus = 36,000 KRW Economy (low-cost) bus = 24,200 KRW

Seoul to Gangneung: Premium (luxury) bus = 23,700 KRW Excellent (mid-range) bus = 21,500 KRW Economy (low-cost) bus = 14,600 KRW

Seoul to Gyeongju: Premium (luxury) bus = 33,700 KRW Excellent (mid-range) bus = 30,500 KRW Economy (low-cost) bus = 20,600 KRW

Joel’s Tip: There are also late night buses which will cost a little bit extra (about 3,000 KRW). These are a great way to save on a night’s accommodation when moving between cities.

4.3: Flight Costs Inside Korea

If you want to get to Jeju Island , the best way is to fly. There are many low-cost airlines in Korea that will fly there cheaply from Korea’s other major cities, such as Seoul (Gimpo Airport) and Busan.

Korea’s low-cost airlines are Air Busan , T-Way , Jeju Air , Jin Air , and Easter Jet . Flights from Seoul to Jeju Island can vary a lot depending on the season, but the lowest price I’ve seen them is around 20,000 KRW one way. However, expect to pay an average of 50,000 KRW, especially if you’re booking last minute.

You can check flight prices on websites such as Trip.com or JetRadar . This is a really easy and convenient way to get to Jeju Island.

The only other option is to take a ferry from Mokpo to Jeju Island . which runs 14 times per week and costs about 26,000 KRW per person (foot passenger) one way. If you have rented a car, this is the only way to take it to Jeju Island. The ferry takes 4.5 hours.

5: Other Costs To Travel In Korea

These next few sections offer some further advice about how much you can expect to spend when planning your dream trip to Korea.

5.1: Souvenirs & Shopping Expenses In Korea

For some people, shopping is one of the main reasons for visiting Korea. Seoul’s markets and shopping malls are packed full of bargains, while designer stores and boutiques offer a wide range of exclusive items that can’t be found elsewhere.

Here are some of the most common souvenirs you’ll find in Korea, and how much you can expect to pay for them:

• Korean cosmetics – 5,000+ KRW
• Korean facemasks – 1,000+ KRW
• Korean tea – 10,000+ KRW
• Magnets – 3,000 KRW
• Chopsticks – 2,000 KRW
• Bookmarks – 2,000 KRW
• Korean snacks – 1,000+ KRW
• Socks – 1,000 KRW per pair
• Traditional Crafts – 5,000+ KRW
• Tea Set – 10,000+ KRW

Again, it’s very hard to set an actual price for these items as they differ in size, quantity, quality, and authenticity. You might pay 10,000 KRW for some basic Jeju green tea, or you might pay 100,000 KRW for a more exclusive gift-set version.

Whatever you plan on buying, remember to add extra to your Korean travel budget for shopping and souvenirs .

Bargain hunters looking for the best bargains should definitely check out the awesome traditional markets in Korea . They have authentic items, such as hanbok , arts, crafts, souvenirs, and traditional foods, as well as many modern items.

Most cities in Korea will have at least one traditional market, while Seoul and Busan have a wide range that offer more specialised products. To find the best ones for you, check out my guide to traditional markets below:

Read more: The 10 Best Traditional Markets In Korea

Other great places to buy souvenirs and go shopping include the various shopping malls , which range from busy malls exploding with discounts, to more refined department stores with only the finest goods. Here are some of the best ones you’ll find in Seoul:

• Starfield Mal , Gangnam (COEX)
• Goto Mall , Gangnam (Bus Terminal)
• Shinsegae Department Store , Myeongdong / Gangnam
• i-Park by Shilla , Yongsan
• Lotte World Tower , Jamsil
• Lotte Young , Myeongdong
• Times Square , Yeongdeungpo
• Insdaong Art Street (various places), Insadong

You might not plan to buy a suitcase’s worth of goods, but sometimes you can’t help it. Especially once you start trying Korea’s great snacks and see the colourful souvenirs on sale. I often see pics of people buying additional luggage to pack them full of snacks and goodies from Korea!

Joel’s Tip: If you’re curious about what sort of snacks you can get from Korea, then check out Korean Snack Box – they’ll ship them directly to you so you can sample them without having to go to Korea! Get a taste for Korea right now!

5.2: Internet & Mobile Phones Costs In Korea

I’ve not included the cost for Internet access and mobile phone sims in the daily Korean travel budget figures because not everyone will get a tourist sim card or Internet service in Korea.

Korea has great free WiFi access in places like Incheon Airport, in public transport across Seoul and other cities, and in lots of public places. You can usually find free WiFi in cafes and restaurants throughout the country.

Seoul declared it will provide free WiFi across most of the city by 2022 and has spent a lot of money to make sure that happens. Travelling and using your connected devices is safe and easy in Korea.

That being said, I know that most people want to have a secure connection to the online world wherever they go. I’m no exception. If you do want to get a mobile sim card or WiFi egg, then you can pick these up at Incheon Airport or order them online from various agencies.

Sim Card Costs

You can buy sim cards from all major phone companies in Korea – KT Olleh / LG / SK Telecom – and they offer various data packages, including unlimited deals. Packages typically last 1 / 5 / 10 / 30 days and there are a lot of options to suit your needs and budgets. You can find a great offer in the link below:

Read more: Prepaid Sim Cards From Klook

Example Prices For Unlimited Data Sim Card:

Here are some costs for sim cards in Korea. You can probably find cheaper, but remember that this is for unlimited service and there are no extra fees.

1 day – 5,900 KRW

5 days – 24,800 KRW (4,960 KRW per day)

10 days – 34,700 KRW ( 3,470 KRW per day)

30 days – 64,400 KRW ( 2,145 KRW per day)

Portable WiFi Costs

A WiFi egg or portable WiFi device is a great way to keep multiple devices connected without needing to insert a sim card. You can pick these up across Korea and pay for the time or data that you use.

Read more: Portable WiFi From Klook

Prices for portable WiFi with unlimited data start at 3,300 KRW per day , but can rise to about 10,000 KRW for plans that include power packs and other features.

For lower data needs, you can pick up a 1gb portable WiFi pack for 2,400 KRW per day.

Whatever option you choose, Korea has one of the best Internet services in the world and you will get a great online experience.

5.3: Flight Costs To Korea

The cost to travel to Korea is probably one of the biggest expenses you’ll face when planning your Korean travel budget. Of course, I can’t tell you a single amount for any flight to Korea as there are so many variable factors including where and when you’re flying from.

Instead, here’s some great sites where you can compare flight costs. These will help you to find the best flight to Korea for you. It’s worth spending some time checking flight times and airlines to get the best deals possible.

JetRadar / Trip.com / Expedia

Korea has two major airlines that offer direct flights to the country from around the world, These are:

Korean Airlines / Asiana Airlines

There are also 5 Korean budget airlines that might offer amazing flight prices to Korea, especially if you’re travelling from East or South East Asia. These are:

Jeju Air / T-Way / Air Busan / Jin Air / Eastar Jet

Joel’s Tip: Incheon Airport is Korea’s main airport and has lots of great facilities. If you have to travel there at an inconvenient time, it shouldn’t be a problem. There is a spa, sauna, cinema, loads of great restaurants, cafes, and bars, hotels, rest areas, and lots more. Check out my guides for Incheon Airport to learn more about this highly accessible and entertaining airport.

Check out this guide to flying to Korea to discover where to get cheap flights to Korea, how to find the best flights, how to fly direct to Korea, and lots more awesome tips for flying to Korea.

Read more: What To Do In Incheon Airport How To Get From Incheon Airport To Seoul

5.4: Visa Costs For Korea

Korea is a popular tourist destination for many travellers around the world and many countries have a visa waiver agreement in place. This allows tourists to travel in Korea for 30 / 60 / 90 / 180 days when they arrive. If you’re from one of these countries (see pic below), then you won’t have any visa costs for Korea.

Unfortunately, there are no visa waiver agreements in some countries, including Vietnam, Indonesia, China, India, and The Philippines. Therefore, there are likely to be increased travel costs for citizens from these countries. It’s worth checking out the cost to get a visa from your local Korean embassy and adding that to your Korean travel budget.

For travellers from The Philippines , it’s not possible to get a tourist visa from the Korean embassy due to high demand. Therefore, please check this page to see where you can get a Korean tourist visa from an agency.

If you’re unsure about whether or not you need a visa, or the visa cost to travel to Korea, then contact your local Korean embassy .

Read more: Visa Policy of South Korea

Please note: Due to the current global pandemic, the availability of visas may be restricted or changed. Please contact your local Korean embassy to confirm the current status.

5.5: Travel Insurance Costs

Korea is one of the safest countries I’ve ever been to and the risk of theft or assault are very low. That being said, there is always the chance that things can go wrong on holiday and it’s good to be prepared. Flights can be cancelled or delayed, luggage lost, things get broken, and you can even end up in hospital. Trust me, I’ve experienced most of these problems myself and they’re no fun!

Joel’s Tip: You can find lots of options for travel insurance and you should choose one that matches your country, activities, and costs. Personally, I buy travel insurance from World Nomads when I’m travelling. They provide great coverage and were one of the last to stop their travel insurance policies during the global pandemic. If you’re looking for good travel insurance, you can check them out in the link below:

Read more: World Nomads Travel Insurance

Cost To Travel In Korea FAQs

Finally, here’s a few FAQs about the cost to travel in Korea, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you.

Is food expensive in Korea?

No. Food is generally very reasonably priced in Korea. Meals can cost as little as 3,000 KRW ($3 USD) and even a large meal like a Korean BBQ can cost as little as 10,000 KRW ($10 USD) per person. There are many delicious street foods starting from 1,000 KRW that are a great way to snack between meals without spending lots. Foreign foods can cost more, however.

How much does it cost to travel in Korea

Around 75,000 KRW – 200,000 KRW per day should be sufficient for most travellers coming to Korea. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and activity costs. If you plan to do lots of expensive activities, day tours, or shopping, then be sure to add in extra budget to cover these costs. There are many free and cheap activities you can enjoy in Korea that will help you travel for less.

What is the cheapest time to travel in Korea?

March . March is one of the cheapest times to travel to Korea as it is between Seollal (Korean Lunar New year) in late January, early February, and the start of the cherry blossom season (late March, early April). November is also cheap as it is between peak autumn leaves season and Christmas / New Year.

How can I save money travelling to Korea?

Planning, budgeting, discount cards, and making use of free activities. Planning your trip to Korea and making a budget will let you work out how much you’ll need when you travel. Scheduling your daily travel plans for similar areas (e.g. Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong, and Gyeongbokgung Palace), cuts down on travel costs and avoids having to rent hanbok twice in one trip. Using discount cards like the Discover Seoul Pass, Korea Tour Card, or the T-Money Card will also cut costs a lot.

How much money do I need for 7 days in Korea?

The cost to travel in Korea for 7 days is typically around $1,000 USD . However, it can be higher depending on the accommodation you book. This figure also doesn’t include flights or visas. Budget travellers can spend a lot less, with daily costs as low as $50 per day ($350 per week), or even less.

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You Might Also Like:

Here are some other great articles that you might want to read about travelling in Korea. Remember, if you have any questions about anything, please feel free to post a comment or join the  Korea Travel Advice Facebook Group .

What To Do In Winter In Korea 2022: Cool Winter Fun

Winter Festivals In Korea 2023: Awesome Winter Fun In Korea

Ultimate South Korea Bucket List: 50 Things To Do In Korea

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Home » Asia » South Korea » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking South Korea Travel Guide (2024)

Backpacking South Korea is all about experiencing both sides of this country – the traditional  and  modern aspects of South Korean culture.

Known as the “Land of the Morning Calm,” South Korea is a fascinating country, a place where ancient temples and skyrise buildings stand side by side.

What comes to mind when you hear of South Korea? For many, the bustling capital city of Seoul is the first place to come to mind.

This sprawling metropolis is certainly the center of attention, as it’s home to over half of South Korea’s population, but travelling in South Korea is about so much more than just exploring the big city.

Within a few hours of Seoul, you can find yourself hiking in rolling hills, reflecting at a peaceful temple, or exploring a traditional village.

Depending on what time of year you visit South Korea, you could be skiing the slopes or chilling on a beach. One thing is for sure; no matter when you visit, there’s probably some a festival taking place, whether it’s a traditional Korean holiday or a massive music festival.

You’ll also find a wealth of cultural and historical attractions in all corners of the country.

Of course, one of the highlights of backpacking South Korea is the incredible cuisine. Few countries are as defined by their food as South Korea, and the people take great pride in their culinary traditions.

Furthermore, South Koreans know how to party, so be prepared to wash that spicy  kimchi  down with several glasses of beer and  soju .

Perhaps no place in the world presents a contrast quite like the Korean Peninsula. Split decades ago as a result of the Korean War, the difference between North and South is like night and day.

Whereas North Korea is isolated under totalitarian reign, highly-developed South Korea is one of the most modern countries in Asia. The two are split by the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), an interesting name considering how many armed guards patrol it.

South Korea is often overlooked by backpackers who flock to South East Asia, but I’m here to show you why backpacking South Korea is an incredible travel experience.

Read my comprehensive South Korea travel guide below; it includes everything you need to plan an amazing trip, like costs, budget hacks, South Korea itineraries, how to get around, the foods to try, and so much more!

Why Go Backpacking in South Korea?

One great thing about traveling in South Korea is that you’re never too far from any other destination in the country. You can travel from one end to the other in five hours or less, so you don’t have to waste entire days in transit.

Thanks to the country’s excellent transportation system, getting around is a breeze when you’re backpacking South Korea. Seriously, you’ll ride the nicest trains and buses you’ve ever been on in South Korea.

The best strategy for exploring South Korea is to book a flight to Seoul. From there, you can travel across the country to Busan, stopping at several interesting points along the way. You can then book a flight out of Busan or make your way back to the capital via train or bus.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking South Korea

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Wherever you decide to visit in South Korea will depend on your interests, and of course how much time you have. Here are a few different ideas for South Korea travel itineraries. I’ve included two different one-week itineraries and one jam-packed 2-week itinerary.

Backpacking South Korea 7-Day Itinerary #1: Seoul to Busan

With just one week to spare in South Korea, your best bet is to travel across the country from Seoul to Busan with a stop in Gyeongju along the way. Since there’s so much to see and do, you should dedicate at least three days to the capital to start your trip.

Seoul is home to several ancient Korean palaces, the grandest of which is  Gyeongbok-gung . In addition to visiting the palaces, you’ll want to check out some of the city’s museums, temples, markets, and parks. That’s more than enough for a couple of busy days backpacking in Seoul .

From Seoul, you can catch a train or bus to Gyeongju. This small city is home to many historic sites such as Tumuli Park – the final resting place of Shilla kings. It’s possible to do a whirlwind tour of the city, but you’ll enjoy it much more if you stay at least one night.

Finally, head to the coast and South Korea’s 2nd biggest city of Busan. Hopefully, you’re backpacking South Korea during the warmer months because most people come here to kick back and relax on the beach.

There’s lots more to see on a trip to Busan than the beach, though. You can fill your days exploring the city or hiking in the surrounding hills.

Backpacking South Korea 7-Day Itinerary #2: Seoul and Jeju

If you’re looking for more of a vacation vibe on your trip to South Korea, you’ll definitely want to add Jeju Island to your itinerary. With one week in South Korea, you can still start off with a 3-day itinerary in Seoul before just catching a quick flight to Jeju.

Since this trip is a bit more relaxing than the one outlined above, you might as well partake in Seoul’s rowdy nightlife. Night quickly turns to day here, especially on weekends when it seems like the whole city is out partying.

You may need a day to sleep in and recover if you really go hard on a night out in Seoul.

While Jeju may be known as South Korea’s “honeymoon island,” it’s still a great place for backpackers. For starters, you can hike the country’s highest peak at Hallasan . There are also caves, waterfalls, botanical gardens, and several trails leading to viewpoints. A few days full of adventure and beach-bumming in Jeju is a great way to cap off your trip.

Backpacking South Korea 14-Day Itinerary #1: Seoul to Busan to Jeju

With an extra week in South Korea, you can take your time and linger in destinations. You can also add a few day-trips to mix it up and get out of the cities. Here’s a solid plan for 2 weeks in South Korea, starting again with Seoul.

If you’ve got two weeks in South Korea, I honestly recommend staying in Seoul for 4 or 5 days. It’s a huge city and more than half of the country lives here, so it’s definitely worth that much time. Since the city is so sprawling, it’s more enjoyable if you can spread your sightseeing out over a few days.

In addition to hitting the sights in town, you can tack on a day-trip or two. Of course, the most popular is visiting the DMZ . If that’s not your thing, you can also get out of the concrete jungle and hike around the beautiful Bukhansan National Park .

Rather than breeze through Gyeongju , you can allot two full days to exploring the city and the surrounding sights. The same goes for staying in Busan , as you can afford to spend a few extra nights there with two weeks in South Korea.

From there, it’s a short flight to Jeju. After a few days staying on the island , it’s time to head back to Seoul to catch your flight out.

To help you out with your itinerary backpacking through South Korea, I’ve gone ahead and broken down my favourite places to go right below. From bustling metropolises to far off the beaten trail, there’s heaps to do!

Backpacking Seoul

Pretty much everyone who visits South Korea ends up in the capital city of Seoul. The city proper is home to nearly 12 million, while the greater metro area has a whopping 25 million. That’s more than half of the country’s population in one city alone!

This is a city that seems to have one foot firmly planted in the past while the other steps eagerly toward the future. Ancient palaces sit across the street from shiny new skyscrapers.

Seoul’s urban areas are an amalgamation of the old with the new, and there are heaps of cool places to see around the city. Peaceful Buddhist temples exist nearby bustling nightlife districts. Seoul is indeed a fascinating city of contrasts and surprises.

While in Seoul, you’ll be able to dive into the history and culture of South Korea. Start your journey off by exploring the city’s ancient palaces. All of them are worth a visit, but you’ll definitely want to hit  Gyeongbok-gung and  Changdeok-gung .

Seoul is also home to several excellent parks. Koreans love getting outside exercise, so go ahead and join them.

Namsan Park is a popular place to visit while backpacking South Korea. Not only is it a great place for a stroll, but you’ll also find the Seoul Tower here for some of the best views of the city.

Wherever you go, be sure to do a lot of walking so you can work up an appetite and dig into lots of mouth-watering Korean food . From street food snacks to high-end restaurants and everything in between, there’s something tasty around every corner in Seoul.

Once the sun goes down, it’s time to party in Seoul. It’s not just the young whippersnappers partying out here either; you’re just as likely to see businessmen in suits downing glasses of soju as you are college kids.

Some of the best areas in the city to party in Seoul are Hongdae and Itaewon . The party goes late in these neighborhoods, so be sure to pace yourself.

Aside from sightseeing and eating/drinking your way across the city, you may also want to embark on a few day-trips from Seoul. Popular options include hiking in the national park just north of the city or paying a visit to the DMZ .

If you’d rather just chill out, spend a night in one of the city’s many jimjilbang (spas) – the perfect place to relax. Plenty of them are even 24-hour. You could just skip booking a backpacker hostel in Seoul and instead sleep in the sauna… I did!

Backpacking Busan

The ROK’s 2nd largest city, Busan, is mostly known for its beaches, as Koreans flock here over the summer holiday for sun and sand. That’s not all that’s going on in Busan, though. The city is also home to some amazing temples, nature reserves, and hot springs.

A must-see place in Busan is the ancient Beomeosa Temple . It’s a slightly challenging uphill hike, but you’re rewarded with some incredible views of the city. Speaking of hiking, there are several trails that are easily accessible from the city, including Jangsan Mountain.

If you’d rather skip the hills, check out Yonggungsa – the Dragon Palace Temple – that’s perched along the coastline. Seeing the beautifully designed temple with the waves crashing against the shore is a can’t-miss when visiting Busan.

Busan is also famous for its many festivals throughout the year. The Busan International Film Festival runs for the first ten days of October and draws quite the crowd.

In August, you can rock out at the city’s International Rock Festival . Make sure you book in at one of Busan’s backpacker hostels early though – it gets busier around festival time!

Thanks to its location on the coast, Busan cooks up some tasty seafood. Head to the  Jagalchi Fish Market  to pick from the cat day’s catch and have it cooked up at one of the many restaurants.

Those with an adventurous palate might try bokguk , which is a soup made from the extremely poisonous pufferfish. If not, you can always play it safe and stick with the cod.

Backpacking Jeju Island

Most Koreans choose to vacation on Jeju Island. It’s definitely the top choice for honeymooners, but you don’t have to be a newlywed to enjoy a trip here. Jeju Island is for backpackers as well; there are plenty of social hostels o n Jeju Island to meet other travellers at.

Home to South Korea’s tallest mountain, the longest lava tube in the world, plenty of sandy beaches, some quirky theme parks, and even some chill hikes, Jeju Island is a pretty epic place to visit.

You can even check out the filming locations of super popular Korean television shows here, if you’re into that sort of thing.

Perhaps one of the most interesting aspects of Jeju Island is its culture, which is quite different from the mainland. For one it is matriarchal; here you’ll surely spot the famed haenyo (women divers) who dive without any oxygen tanks to depths of 10-20 meters in search of squid, octopus, clams, and other seafood.

Be sure to bring your hiking shoes when you visit Jeju. In addition to tackling the dormant volcano Hallasan , you can also enjoy coastal trails that wrap around the island. After a nice hike, you can kick back on a beach and order up a tasty plate of seafood. Life is good on Jeju Island!

Backpacking Gyeongju

If you’re interested in learning more about Korean history and culture, then Gyeongju is the perfect place to visit. It’s also a great way to break up the journey from Seoul to Busan.

Gyeongju was the capital of the Silla Dynasty, which lasted for 1,000 years and played a very important role in Korean history. The historic area of Gyeongju was actually the first site to be nominated a UNESCO World Heritage status in South Korea.

Here you can visit the beautiful Bulguksa Temple , which just might be the most impressive temple in the country. You should also check out Seokguram Grotto for an excellent example of Silla art and architecture.

With a few extra days in Gyeongju, you can enjoy some hiking in the national park, stroll around Bomun Lake , pay a visit to the royal tombs , and much more.

Getting around the city is a breeze thanks to the bus system and bike rentals, and most places have English signs despite the fact that few foreign tourists visit.

Backpacking Daegu

The main reason to stop by South Korea’s 4th largest city is to hike on Palgongsan . This mountain is just 20km from downtown and features several different hiking routes.

There are Buddhist statues and pagodas all over the mountain. In fact, there’s one statue believed to grant you one wish in your life, if you make it there. If you make it all the way up here, you might as well give it a shot!

In the city, you can also find plenty of parks that are pleasant to explore for a few hours. In Apsan Park , you can hike or take a cable car up to the observatory for great views of the city.

Once the sun goes down, you can head to the Banwoldang part of the city to explore the food and bar scene; there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and clubs in this area.

If you visit on a weekend, this area is especially lively. You can also party hard in the university areas if you’re up for it.

Backpacking Jeonju

If you’ve had enough of South Korean cities, join the locals and head to a place like Jeonju. The main draw for travelling here is the Jeonju Hanok Village . With more than 700 traditional hanok homes, this is a great place to dive into traditional Korean culture.

The Hanok Village is especially lively during festivals and on weekends, so try to time your visit to experience Jeonju at its finest. During these busy times, you’ll find plenty of markets and street food stalls as well.

Speaking of food, Jeonju is thought to have the best bibimbap in the land. There seem to be restaurants cooking it on every corner, so dig into a big bowl of this Korean classic and judge for yourself.

Wash it down with some  makgeolli, a traditional fermented rice liquor that this city is also famous for.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in South Korea

It really isn’t that hard to get off the beaten path in South Korea. Many travelers never even leave Seoul, so the second you step out of the capital you’re already there!

Admittedly, I’ve stayed very much on the beaten path in my travels to South Korea. My brother, on the other hand, lived there for a year and imparted some wisdom on me.

Gurye is a small town near Jirisan National Park, which is home to the highest peak on the peninsula. Here you can try  Daesulgi sujebi  – a soup made with river snails, a local specialty.

Danyang is another small town nestled between Woraksan and Sobaeksan National Parks with a river flowing through it. I didn’t see another foreigner the whole weekend there; it was all Korean people. It’s a perfect place for some Instagrammable photo ops in South Korea .

Also, look up the “Eight Views of Danyang” for some beautiful sights in the area. I saw some of them but wasn’t aware they were part of that list until my boss informed me Koreans go there for the eight views. Parasailing is popular in Danyang, though I didn’t do it.  

Andong  is a pretty unremarkable city but it’s near the Hahoe Folk Village which felt like a Korean version of the Shire. There’s also a nice Confucian Academy outside the town called Dosan Seowon, which is beautiful and peaceful.  

Sokcho  is a small city on the east coast near Seoraksan National Park. Considered one of the nicest places to see fall colors; there are beaches to see in the summer too.  

Thank you to my brother Pip for those awesome recommendations! Be sure to add a few to your list if you want to experience South Korea outside of the big cities.

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!

With so much awesome stuff to do in South Korea, it can be hard to choose exactly what to do! However, I guarantee you that oince you step outside of Seoul, the country really opens up.

1. Explore the ancient palaces of Seoul

The Joseon Dynasty was the last kingdoms in South Korea lasting from 1392 all the way until 1910. It was during this time that Seoul became the capital.

The kings of the Joseon Dynasty had several grand palaces built in the city, and exploring the palaces is one of the best things to do in South Korea.

There are five grand palaces in Seoul, with the grandest being  Gyeongbokgung . With a name meaning “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven,” you know they went all out when they built this one.

Be sure to catch the changing of the guard ceremony and sign up for one of the free guided tours, which run at 11am, 1:30pm, and 3:30pm.

2. Feast on Korean Food

One of the best things about backpacking South Korea is indulging in delicious Korean cuisine. Whether it’s the national dish of kimchi , a colourful bowl of bibimbap , or an epic feast at a Korean BBQ restaurant, your taste buds are in for a treat.

3. Spend a night in a jimjilbang

Seeing how people in South Korea love hiking up in the mountains so much, it should come as no surprise that another popular pastime is relaxing in a spa.

In Korean, these spas are known as jimjilbang , and they’re all over the place. A trip to a  jimjilbang is an absolute must when backpacking South Korea. Experience the South Korean jimjilbang lifestyle !

You can bounce around between hot and cold tubs, saunas, and steam rooms, get a massage or a body scrub, grab some food and drink, and so much more. Broke Backpackers may want to visit one at night as you can crash in the sleeping room and save some money on accommodation.

4. Take a hike

Hiking is probably the most popular pastime among Koreans. It makes sense, considering that most people live in crowded cities yet most of the country is made up of mountains.

Koreans know what to take hiking : they’re very serious about their gear and are usually decked out in the freshest hiking attire. Just because you’re working up a sweat doesn’t mean you can’t look good!

There are hiking trails all over South Korea ranging in difficulty and length. One of your best bets is hiking in Bukhansan , as it is easy to visit from Seoul. If you’re up for the challenge, you can tackle the country’s largest mountain, Hallasan on Jeju Island.

4. Take a tour of the DMZ

Many travelers who visit South Korea hope to see the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) that has separated the North from South since the end of the brutal Korean War in 1953.

Here you can catch a glimpse into the “Hermit Kingdom” and learn more about the tense relations between the two Koreas. You’ll have to take a tour to get here, so be sure to shop around and check reviews.

6. Indulge in the seasonal sports

South Korea experiences all four seasons, meaning you can enjoy both summer and winter sports here. In the warmer months, that means hiking, cycling, swimming, and more. South Korea is also a great destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter.

7. Visit a folk village

A fun way to get some insight into Korean history and culture is by visiting Minsok . Also known as the Korean Folk Village, this living museum is a bus ride away from Gangnam in Seoul.

On a visit to the folk village, you can see old-school  hanok homes, cultural performances, and maybe even watch a traditional Korean wedding.

It’s a fun place to come for the day to get out of the city and try something new.

8. Take part in a local festival

In South Korea, there are festivals to celebrate just about everything. You can try catching trout at an ice festival, watch the sky light up at a fireworks festival, or get down and dirty at a mud festival.

Of course, there are also plenty of traditional Korean festivals such as Chuseok as well as food and music festivals all throughout the year.

9. Enjoy an island getaway on Jeju

A quick flight from the mainland will get you to beautiful Jeju Island. Full of beaches, waterfalls, caves, folk villages, and even South Korea’s highest mountain, this little island will keep you plenty busy.

In addition to all of its natural wonders, Jeju is also home to some very eccentric tourist attractions. Take Loveland for example, a bizarre park full of risqué sculptures. Visiting this place will definitely make for some of the funniest photos from your trip.

10. Party hard in Seoul

Seoul is undoubtedly a party city. It seems like everyone likes to go out and get loose here, from college kids to briefcase-carrying businessmen. When visiting the Korean capital, you need to have at least one big night out.

Some of the most popular areas to party in Seoul include Hongdae and Itaewon. You’ll find tons of restaurants, bars, and clubs in each area. Start with dinner and drinks and see where the night takes you.

My guess is you’ll end up loudly singing karaoke and chugging down soju at around 4 AM with some people you just met.

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These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

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Travelling South Korea is a great experience thanks in part to the many excellent backpacker hostels around the country . Especially in the big cities of Seoul and Busan, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to hostels.

The Best Places to Stay in South Korea

The cost of travel in South Korea is somewhere in the middle. It’s definitely cheaper than North America and Western Europe, but more costly than backpacking in Southeast Asia.

While it’s possible to get by on a daily budget of around $30-35, you’ll be more comfortable if you can allot $45-50  a day.

For getting around South Korea, you’ll obviously spend more if you choose to fly or take high-speed trains. That being said, you can score flights from Seoul to Busan for as little as $35, which is actually cheaper than taking the high-speed train, which costs $57.

Catching a bus is substantially cheaper and really doesn’t take that much longer.

You can find a dorm room in a nice hostel for around $10-15 a night depending on where you are staying. Couples or groups may want to look into private rooms, which won’t cost much more per person. You can also find some great deals on places on Airbnb; Seoul’s Airbnb scene is wicked and a total draw for the lovers of high-flying city life!

When it comes to eating out, you can find super cheap street food or splurge on a fancy high-end restaurant. The choice is yours, my friend. On the budget end of the spectrum, it’s possible to find a decent meal for $3-4. You could also spend a little more and fill up on an awesome Korean BBQ.

There are plenty of free things to do in South Korea, such as going for a hike, strolling around the local park, and wandering the streets. Even the most famous sights in the country don’t cost that much. You can get a ticket to the Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul for just under $3.

It is worth setting aside some money for some bigger ticket items, like a flight to Jeju Island, ski life ticket, or South Korean spa!

For more budget tips, head on over to our guide breaking down South Korea’s expenses .

A Daily Budget in South Korea

Money in south korea.

South Korea’s currency is the Won. At the time of writing (December 2020) , the exchange rate is 1 USD = 1,084 Won .

ATMs are widely available in South Korea and many businesses accept credit cards, so you really don’t have to worry about being able to pay for things when backpacking South Korea. That said, you are dealing with high denominations – I’d suggest wearing a solid travel money belt when kicking around the cities.

Travel Tips – South Korea on a Budget

Visiting South Korea on a shoestring budget is totally possible – it’s just about knowing the art of budget backpacking !

• Camp: It’s most definitely possible outside of the cities, and it’s totally possible in the cities too (provided you find a good spot). Make sure you bring your best backpacking gear and prepare for some nights under the stars!
• Cook your own food:  If you are on a tight budget, you can save money by cooking your own food. Staying places with a kitchen or packing a cooker is the way to go.
• Check the convenience stores – Much like Japan’s rabid konbini culture, the convenience stores in South Korea (7-Eleven, GS25, etc.) are mega-cheap and a haven for backpackers, uni students, penny pinchers alike!
• Couchsurf:  If you want to save some dough on accommodation, it’s worth it to look for a host on Couchsurfing. Traveling by Couchsurfing is a great way to make some real friendships and see this country from the perspective of locals.

Why Should You Travel to South Korea with a Water Bottle?

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful!

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller.

STOP USING SINGLE-USE PLASTIC! If you’d like some more tips on how to save the world .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

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!

South Korea is home to all four seasons, so the best time to travel really depends on what kind of weather you prefer and what you hope to do while you’re backpacking South Korea.

Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid, while winter (December-February) can be bitterly cold and dry. If you plan to hit the beach or the slopes, these seasons are just fine.

Those who prefer moderate weather will want to visit in either the spring or the fall. Both seasons are typically sunny and dry, allowing you to spend plenty of time outside comfortably.

If you want to see the cherry blossoms in bloom, you’ll want to visit between mid-March and mid-April.

Festivals in South Korea

South Korea has countless festivals that span over the entire year:

• Seollal (the Lunar New Year) – One of the most important holidays in the country and a very festive time. South Korea’s New Year takes place around late January – February. One interesting thing about Korean New Year is that all people add a year to their age on this day rather than their birthday.
• Chuseok – Another super important festival in Korean culture, this harvest festival occurs on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month during the full moon. On this day, Koreans visit their ancestral hometown and partake in a massive feast of traditional food.
• Yudu – Another of the many other interesting festivals in South Korea. On this day, people try to drive away bad luck and spirits by bathing and washing their hair. People also eat long noodles for a long and prosperous life.
• Chopail – People also celebrate the day of Buddha’s birth by hanging up lanterns and visiting a temple.

As many Koreans are Christian, Christmas and Easter are also big holidays.

What to Pack for South Korea

What you pack for your adventure backpacking South Korea depends mostly on what time of year you go. The country experiences all four seasons, so you’ll need to take the weather into consideration. It can get very hot in the summer and super cold in the winter, so you’ll want to be prepared.

How you pack also depends on what you plan to do there. Hiking is huge in South Korea, so it’s a good idea to pack good hiking shoes and other gear. If you’re visiting in the winter, you might want to bring your ski/snowboard gear to hit the slopes.

Make sure you get your backpacking packing list right! On every adventure, there are six things I never go travelling without:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

South Korea is safe to travel . This is a very safe country where you have very little to worry about.

Even petty theft and pickpocketing aren’t really a big concern here. Of course, you should still be mindful of your things, especially on crowded streets or public transport. Make sure to hide your money when travelling around .

Foreigners who run into trouble here usually do so as a result of drunkenly starting arguments or fights. Basically, don’t be an idiot and you’ll be fine. If you’re out and an argument starts, just use some common sense and walk away.

Check out the travel tips in our Backpacker Safety 101 post for advice on staying safe whilst backpacking.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in South Korea

If you’re a foreigner in South Korea whose single and ready to mingle, just be aware of a few things. First of all, there are definitely plenty of Korean girls with foreign boyfriends. That being said, it’s a very homogenous country where many people still look down on other kinds of relationships.

I remember reading a blog by a guy who lived there several years and had a local girlfriend. Once he finally started to pick up the language, he was incredibly upset to hear what random people out in public said about seeing them together.

As a backpacker passing by, you may not encounter such problems. You might, however, find language barriers and cultural differences as an obstruction to your desires.

Prostitution is technically illegal in South Korea, but there are plenty of red-light districts in the country that seem to operate just fine. Exercise caution (in more ways than one) if you choose to go this route.

When it comes to drugs in South Korea, my advice is to steer clear. I love sparking a fat doobie as much as the next stoner, but it’s not worth it here.

Drug laws are pretty strict, and they love making examples out of foreigners who choose to ignore their laws. Are there drugs around? Sure. I just wouldn’t bother looking for them. Stick to booze here and save it for your next trip to Colorado.

Speaking of booze, Koreans definitely love to party. In fact, Koreans are among the heaviest drinkers in the world. Because of strict social norms at home and in the workplace, people tend to get quite loose when they go out.

The national drink of South Korea is soju , a clear spirit that’s usually about 20%. Most of the time, people just drink it straight, but sometimes a little soju is poured into a cup of beer to really get the party started. It’s not that strong, but it creeps up on you after several cups!

Travel Insurance for South Korea

A wise man once said that if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t really afford to travel! Do invest in good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure!

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.

Most visitors to South Korea arrive at the Incheon International Airport outside of Seoul. There are direct flights to and from this airport from cities all over the world. You can also fly into Busan if you’re traveling to South Korea from other points in Asia.

Entry Requirements for South Korea

Citizens from over 115 countries are allowed to enter South Korea visa-free. The length of stay varies – Canadians get the jackpot of a maximum 180-day in the country.

A bulk of the countries on the list get up to 90 days, including Americans, Aussies, Kiwis, and most EU countries. It’s always a good idea to check out the visa policy for South Korea before you plan your trip.

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Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

Getting around South Korea is quite easy thanks to the country’s compact size and excellent transportation system. You can get from one side of the country to the other in just a few hours. When backpacking South Korea, most travellers get around via a combination of bus and train.

The national rail operator is Korail , and there are train routes connecting most major cities. If you plan to move around a lot, it is worth looking into purchasing the KR Pass . These give you unlimited train travel for a set amount of time, up to 10 days maximum.

South Korea has a great bus system as well. You can get travel about anywhere in South Korea by bus in a timely and efficient manner. I’ve yet to take a train or plane in South Korea relying solely on the bus system to get around.

There are domestic flights between cities if you’re in a huge hurry, but you probably won’t need to fly unless you go to Jeju Island.

Hitchhiking in South Korea

I’ve never tried hitchhiking in South Korea , but apparently, it’s pretty easy. I’ve heard it’s similar to hitchhiking in Japan. It’s not super common but people do get it,

It helps to look presentable – clean-shaven and well-dressed – as well as staying smiley, cheery, and approachable. That said, if my experience hitchhiking in Japan and elsewhere in Asia is a good metric to go by, looking like a shaggy, colorful, hippy traveler works just as well.

Generally, people are just delighted to meet and help an eccentric foreigner. Signs written by locals can help you get to your next destination in South Korea a bit easier, however , always specify that you only need to go in the DIRECTION OF ‘X’. That way, people don’t think your explicitly asking for a free 200 km lift.

For more hitchhiking tips, check out Will’s  Beginners’s Guide to Hitchiking  post. And remember:

• Back straight.
• Look like your having fun.
• Keep smiling. 🙂

Onwards Travel from South Korea

Unfortunately, your options for overland onwards travel are pretty much non-existent. While some adventurous travellers (with the ability to do so) may want to check out North Korea, it’s not likely you’ll be backpacking through there.

If you want to skip out on a flight, you can take a ferry from South Korea to either China or Japan. One of the most popular ferry routes is to head from Busan to Fukuoka, as it takes just around three hours to make the crossing. From Incheon, you can catch a ferry to several different cities in China.

Of course, you can always catch a flight out of Seoul to virtually anywhere in the world. You have plenty of choices for onwards travel when flying out of the Korean capital, particularly major destinations in Southeast Asia like Bangkok or Singapore. A backpacking Southeast Asia adventure isn’t far away!

• Backpacking Japan Travel Guide
• Backpacking China Travel Guide

Yes, for sure and definitely. South Korea is what I like to call a part of ‘expensive Asia’ . Wages are high, the cost of living is high, modern conveniences are plentiful, yet, somehow, rice and tofu are still crazy cheap because this is Asia and no man or woman shall ever be denied their rice!

What I’m trying to say is, South Korea is a great destination for the working traveler provided your willing to endure the bureaucratic rigmarole. Here’s a great guide that breaks down the types of and requirements for South Korean work visas . Essentially though, you’ll be applying for a different visa depending on your occupation.

Now, if you DON’T want to plow through the bureaucratic rigmarole, volunteering in South Korea is also a fantastic option! Although, you may want to consider joining a reputable volunteering platform in order to find decent gigs. English is tough to come by, and it’s always good to have a trustworthy service behind you as you travel.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Volunteering in South Korea

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst helping your host community. There are plenty of different volunteer projects in South Korea including teaching, construction, agriculture and pretty much anything.

South Korea is full of opportunities for backpackers to volunteer. Most gigs you’ll find are teaching English, but there are also plenty of opportunities to work in hospitality in exchange for free accommodation. All you need is a tourist visa and you’re ready to get started!

Want to find some awesome volunteering opportunities in South Korea? Then signup for Worldpackers , a platform that connects local hosts with volunteer travelers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Programs run through reputable work exchange programs , like Worldpackers, are generally very well-managed and highly reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering do stay vigilant especially when working with animals or children.

Teaching English in South Korea

You know what’s even better than traveling? Getting paid to do it! If you’ve ever thought about teaching English abroad , South Korea is hands down one of the best places to give it a try.

In a country obsessed with education, jobs for native speakers are abundant. South Korea is also one of the highest-paying places to teach English. That brings us to our next point.

There are tons of jobs for native English speaking teachers in South Korea. If you’re a native speaker with a college degree and a TEFL certificate , you can easily find a job teaching in South Korea.

You WILL need TEFL certificate though; they’re super easy to obtain through online courses. We recommend going through MyTEFL because not only are they an excellent organisation, but you can also score yourself a 50% discount using the code PACK50 .

Getting a TEFL with Global Work and Travel is also a viable option. You can do the course either online or in Icheon where you’ll stay in shared accommodation with other TEFLers. They’ll also assist you with the VISA process and getting a job on completion of the course. There isn’t much they don’t help you with so you can’t really go wrong!

Many English teachers start out by working in a hagwon , which is basically an after-school and weekend gig. Even brand new teachers earn a decent salary and usually get an apartment provided by the school, in addition to airfare reimbursement at the end of a year contract.

Once you’ve got some experience under your belt, you can transition to a public school or university job and work a normal schedule.

Many people turn to teaching English in South Korea into a career and make really good money doing it. I have many friends who have taught English in South Korea and almost all of them had a great experience, except one buddy who had an awful boss. That can happen anywhere, though…

If you’re interested in learning more about working as an ESL teacher in South Korea, check out my interview with our friend Gwendolyn about her time spent teaching English in South Korea .

Oh wow. Where to begin? Enjoying the mouth-watering cuisine is definitely a highlight of backpacking South Korea. Make sure you hit up some street food, hole in the wall local joints, and Korean BBQ restaurants.

It is also worth mentioning that pretty much every meal comes with some kind of banchan  or side dish; the amount basically scales with how you’re eating. If you’re eating solo, you’ll typically get 1-3, but if you’re in a big group you’ll get a bunch of banchans .

Popular Dishes in South Korea

Here are some dishes you have to try in South Korea:

• kimchi  = the national dish – spicy, fermented cabbage
• bibimbap  = a rice bowl with vegetables, spicy sauce, and a fried egg
• bulgogi  = marinated beef
• japchae  = stir-fried noodles
• teokbokki =  rice cakes spicy sauce
• pajeon =  savory pancake made of flour, green onions, and whatever else
• samgyetang =  a soup with ginseng broth and chicken stuffed with rice
• dubu kimchi =  stir-fried pork and kimchi served with boiled tofu

South Korea is a very homogenous country – around 96% of the population is Korean – so it’s not hard to meet Koreans. What might be hard is communicating, as English is not very prevalent. Most young people speak some English, although many be shy to speak a second language with foreigners.

People in South Korea like to get outside and socialize in public parks when the weather is nice. Coffee shops and tea houses are also popular places to hang out and chat. As hiking is so big in South Korea, you’ll always meet people out on the trails.

Of course, you can always go out to bars and meet people as well. As I mentioned above, Koreans like to throw back a few cold ones after work (with a little soju mixed in, of course). Strike up a conversation and next thing you know it’s 3 AM and you’re hammered drunk belting out some karaoke. Welcome to South Korea!

Useful Travel Phrases for South Korea

Korean is difficult to learn, but a little effort goes a long way when learning a new language for travel. Plus, it opens up all kinds of experiences and opportunities. 

Here are a few useful Korean travel phrases to get you started:

• Ahn-nyung-ha-se-yo  = Hello
• Bahn-gap-seup-ni-da  = Nice to meet you
• Uh-dduh-keh ji-neh-seh-yo?  = How are you?
• Ah-nee-oh  = No
• Jwe-song-ha-ji-mahn  = Please
• Gam-sa-ham-ni-da  = Thank you
• Binil bongjiga eobsda  = No plastic bag
• Jebal jip-eusibsio  = No straw please
• Peullaseutig kal but-igi balabnid a = No plastic cutlery please
• Chon-mahn-eh-yo  = You’re welcome
• Sil-le-hahm-ni-da  = Excuse me
• Yong-o-rul hahl-jool a-se-yo?  = Do you speak English?

Books to Read About South Korea

Reading up on South Korea before visiting is a great way to earn some insight into the country!

• The Birth of Korean Cool : Find out how “one nation is conquering the world through pop culture” in this fascinating read. Beyond “Gangnam Style,” writer Euny Hong shows how a very uncool country became cool.
• Korea: The Impossible Country : How did South Korea transform itself from a failed country into an economic powerhouse in just 50 years? Find out in this in-depth look into South Korea’s rise from the ashes.
• The Two Koreas: A Contemporary History: Learn about the complicated history of the Korean Peninsula from World War II up to the present day in this highly acclaimed book.

A Brief History of South Korea

I’ll begin to explain South Korea’s recent history with the founding of the country on August 15, 1948. After the Japanese surrendered in World War II, the peninsula was partitioned – the US would administer the south, while the Soviet Union would administer the north.

The division was supposed to be temporary, but it didn’t quite work out that way. The Korean War broke out in 1950 and lasted for three long and bloody years. With no agreement, the status quo remained and the two would go on as separate entities.

In the 70 years since the Korean War, it’s remarkable to see the stark contrast between the two Koreas. Just look at a satellite image of the Korean peninsula at night . While South Korea is full of bright, shining lights, the north is shrouded in darkness.

Since its founding, South Korea has gone through periods of democratic and autocratic rule. The era known as the First Republic was mostly democratic, but the Second Republic was overthrown early on and replaced by an autocratic military regime.

The country is currently in the Sixth Republic and is, for the most part, a liberal democracy.

South Korea elected its first female president, Park Gyuen-hye, in 2013. However, she was impeached in 2016 due to a corruption scandal.

The current president is Moon Jae-in, who was inaugurated in 2017. He made history by meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, and has done so on multiple occasions now.

Just as you would anywhere else in the world, be sure to respect the local culture and customs when backpacking South Korea.

For example, you should always pour someone else’s drink before your own, and shouldn’t leave chopsticks in your rice bowl, as this resembles ancestral ceremonies.

Be sure to remove your shoes when you enter someone’s home in South Korea. People love sitting and even sleeping on the floor here, so it’s very rude to muck it up with your dirty shoes. Other than that, just be respectful and friendly and people here will treat you very well.

And Have a Blast Backpacking in South Korea

While South Korea isn’t often brought up as a backpacking destination, it most certainly should be. With bustling cities, tons of outdoor adventures, a vibrant culture, and even a beautiful island, you’re sure to have a great time backpacking South Korea.

This is a fascinating country that has transformed drastically over the last few decades. It’s amazing to see the clash of tradition and modernity taking place here.

On one hand, Koreans proudly celebrate their traditions and ancient culture. On the other hand, they’re sprinting towards the future with break-neck speed.

Should you decide to travel to South Korea, you will be well rewarded. It’s an affordable destination that offers tons of unique experiences.

Best of all, you don’t need a lifetime to take in all that the country has to offer. Carve out a few weeks to dive into South Korea, and it will be one of the best trips you ever take.

• Best hostels for South Korea
• South Korean foods to try
• Is South Korea expensive
• Backpacking Japan guide

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!

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Note: Backpackers in Jeollanam-Do (southernmost province) are welcome, but BEG-Packers are not.

Koreans are put off by these vermin and local expats will happily inform the local police, who will escort them to the nearest airport.

Bring a positive appearance to Korea. Don’t become a cautionary tale.

That “Oeam Folk Village in spring” photo is probably actually autumn. That’s when the cosmos bloom. (Also, the rice looks pretty high.)

also from my side a big thank you for the helpful tips. I am heading to south korea in a couple of weeks and i will definitely use some of your tips and recommendation when i am there

Fab reading. Heading out for a week from Egypt after a visit to Hong Kong and China. Thanks for all the info!

Have an awesome time!

I enjoyed your article. I started learning Korean a month ago and will take your advice on spending more time to speak it. Thanks!

I’m in Danyang and i dont see widely available ATMs, i tried 2 already and they dont wanna work with my visa.

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Outbound Tourism: Why Do Malaysians Choose South Korea Again?

This study focuses on the cultural determinants of Malaysian outbound travel to South Korea. The globalization of Korean popular culture and its acceptance was rapidly growing all over the world. The big question is whether this factor also affects the reasons Malaysian travelers in revisiting South Korea. Three-fold objectives were to explore the extent of the intention to revisit South Korea among Malaysian tourists, compare the intention to visit between frequent viewers and infrequent viewers of Korean dramas, and identify contributing factors towards Malaysian tourists’ intention to revisit South Korea. Thus, using the Stimulus Organism Response, the theory explains the effect of the external environment on tourist behaviour through their personal emotion and experience at visited destinations. The findings showed that with a 39% variance explained, Korean rare image, cuisine, and drama had a significant influence on the revisit intention. Hence, tourism stakeholders should seriously promote Malaysia through SDG-11, benchmarking Korean efforts by preserving and conserving culture to maintain a people's integrity and serve as a source of national pride.

Keywords: Outbound tourism , revisit intention , SDG-11

Introduction

Sdg-11 and repeat visitation.

Sustainable cities and communities in South Korea tourism and sustainable development goals (SDG) are interrelated for a more sustainable future tourism activities. According to the World Tourism Organization (WTO), tourism can contribute directly or indirectly to the goals stated in SDG-11, particularly to increase tourism competitiveness for sustainability. The globalization of Korean popular culture and its acceptance was rapidly growing all over the world. Its popularity, such as Korean drama (K-drama), songs, movies, and variety shows, is spread to various countries such as North and Southeast, specifically in Japan, Taiwan, Malaysia, China, Thailand, Mongolia, and Vietnam ( Ariffin et al., 2018 ). The term Korean Wave or Hallyu has been used to describe the rising popularity of Korean entertainment and culture and spreads to Malaysia: through music, drama, food, and fashion ( Kim et al., 2020 ). Their interests in the Korean Wave consequently led to a curiosity in Koreans' society ( Teh & Goh, 2016 ).

Repeat visitation is one of the most important subjects nowadays. Tan ( 2017 ) mentioned that repeat visitation is a cost-effective and desirable market segment for destination marketing organizations. Quintal and Polczynski ( 2010 ) documented that customer satisfaction leads to the revisit intention to the place and resulted in positive word-of-mouth. The Stimulus Organism Response (SOR) model (Figure 1) explains that the internal emotions of tourists (O) are shaped by the stimulus of the external environment (S), which later triggered the tourist’s response (R). The SOR model is closely related to cognitive theory as it involves the psychological relationships suitable to explain tourist behaviour. Revisiting motivations and action in the planning of the trip are driven by destination image, relaxation, and recreation (Min et al., 2020: Som et al., 2012).

Korean Drama, Music, Cuisine, and Rare Image

Past research showed that film could upgrade destination preference and increase intention to visit the destinations. Rewtrakunphaiboon ( 2017 ) explicitly incorporated a gathering of non-viewers of K-dramas and two groups of viewers who had a low and high frequency of viewing K-dramas to concentrate on the impacts of recurrence of reviewing Korean films. The outcomes showed that the higher the frequency of survey K-dramas, the higher the intention to visit Korea. Ahn et al. ( 2017 ) found that the frequency of viewers related to the current progression of TV innovation. Thus, we formulated a hypothesis:

K-dramas became a phenomenon in neighboring countries, then spread to Southeast Asia ( Kim et al., 2008 ). The drama and storyline based on the lifestyle, stereotype, and cultural enclosure become word of mouth among the audiences, especially the housewives. Consequently, they are inspired to consume cultural products and have the intention to visit ( Kim et al., 2020 ). Kim et al. (2019) revealed that the effects of emotional interaction with TV drama stars and behavioural interaction with TV drama stars on purchasing celebrity-related products and visit intention were significant. K-drama factor such as Korean TV drama, emotional and behavioural involvement in terms of TV drama celebrities and TV drama, mass media, and consumption of TV dramas did portray it influenced the visit or revisit intention to Korea ( Halim & Kiatkawsin, 2021 ). Thus,

Ramli ( 2016 ) stated that 10,000 fans attended the Big Bang World tour concert in Kuala Lumpur. Cultural dance or music performed by BTS pop star groups influenced tourism behaviour intention, influencing tourists’ interest to buy any Korean cultural products ( Kim et al., 2008 ; Kwak et al., 2019 ). Kim et al. ( 2021 ) reiterated that except for producers, the five K-pop success factors, casting, training, producing/promotion, social media, and content, are crucial to sustainability and increasing tourist intention. However, Korean popular music did not affect Korea’s image in the study of Sydney, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Dubai ( Lee et al., 2015 ). Thus, we design a hypothesis,

Korean cuisine gained popularity among foreign markets and these trends became the driving force for tourists to experience authentic food. The uniqueness of Korean cuisine and the image of destinations can also be connected to the Korean cuisine aspect ( Kim et al., 2012 ). Seo et al. ( 2017 ) determined the relationship between the cognitive image of the destination and the affective image of the destination with the food testing intention at the destination. Kim et al. ( 2008 ) discovered that Korean cuisine impacted the visit intention to Korea with a 62.3% agreement. Jeong’s ( 2018 ) historical analysis of food television showed that food testing intention at the destination is positively affected by the preference of the tourist destination. The attitude towards cuisine should be viewed in the Korean aspect, as Kim and Kwon ( 2018 ) found positive relationships between mental image, affective image, attitude towards the country, attitude towards the product, and attitude towards the cuisine on revisit intention. Based on these arguments, we design the following hypothesis,

Another interesting factor that makes most Malaysian tourists intend to revisit is Korean rare images ( Saad et al., 2022 ). The images are hardly found except in South Korea. Korean beauty products gained popularity as the extension of the Korean Wave phenomenon as people nowadays are attracted to “made in Korea” labelled when involving K-beauty products, which products have penetrated the Swedish market and attracted millennial women due to their attributes, image, and quality ( Ingels, 2020 ). As an extension of the Korean beauty standard, South Korea is also known for medical tourism for cosmetic surgery which is common in Korea’s entertainment industry ( Lee, 2019 ). Lee ( 2019 ) stated that cosmetic surgery is almost nothing and passable among residents since it can boost women’ confidence of women. The Seoul Metropolitan Government realised the obsession with K-beauty can create a beauty tourism attraction or interactive which is called Seoul Beauty Road where tourists can experience the popular makeup styles of Korean idols and actors and check out the latest beauty trends in the country by walking ( Jeong, 2021 ). Another rare image of Korea is known as the fastest internet connection speed with 5G networks and mobile internet is faster than the world average Mbps ( Pulse, 2020 ). Faster speed of internet connection would ease the activities of e-word of the mouth of sharing tourists’ experiences with their friends. The formulated hypothesis is then,The previous studies have investigated factors determining the intention to revisit Korea for example, drama (Kim et al., 2019), music ( Kim et al., 2021 ), cuisine ( Seo et al., 2017 ), and rare images ( Ingels, 2020 ; Jeong, 2021 ; Lee, 2019 ; Pulse, 2020 ). To our knowledge, there is no such study that combines all these factors. Thus, we are filling this research gap to study these four factors altogether in relation to Malaysian tourists' intention to revisit South Korea.

Problem Statement

Statista ( 2021 ) reported a significant increase in Malaysian tourists to South Korea since 2012. Within five years, the numbers were doubled in 2016. As many reported that the reason for traveling to South Korea was due to their interest and the influence of the Hallyu, this study is to investigate if Hallyu plays the same role for Malaysian travelers to revisit the country.

Research Questions

Three-fold questions were:

what is the tendency of Malaysian tourists to have the intention to revisit South Korea?

Is there a significant difference between frequent and infrequent viewers’ intention to revisit South Korea?

What is the most significant factor among Malaysian tourists in their intention to revisit South Korea?

Purpose of the Study

This study focuses on the cultural determinants of Malaysian outbound travel to South Korea.

Research Methods

Population and sampling.

The quantitative technique was chosen for this study for its emphasis on numbers in data collecting and analysis. According to Statista ( 2021 ), more than 311,000 Malaysians visited South Korea in 2016. The estimated sample size is 384 based on the given population ( Krejcie & Morgan, 1970 ). The population of this study was Malaysian tourists who have visited South Korea, at least once. Using a purposive sampling approach, we gathered 186 respondents who fitted the criteria.

Instrument Development and Data Analysis

The data were collected through an online questionnaire developed by adapting a pre-established online questionnaire from Teh and Goh ( 2016 ) for K-drama, Joo et al. ( 2017 ) for culture, Ahn et al. ( 2017 ) and Lee et al. ( 2015 ) for music and Jeong ( 2018 ) for Korean cuisine. The items of revisit intentions were from Som et al. ( 2012 ) and Joo et al. ( 2017 ). This study computed the descriptive statistics to evaluate the respondents’ profiles as well as to explain the nature of the data distribution. Then, we proceeded with ANOVA to compare the revisit intentions among the respondents who frequently watch K-drama with those who watched the drama less frequently, and multiple regression analyses to examine the factors that contributed to the revisit intention to South Korea.

The Descriptive Statistics

The participants in this study were 186 Malaysian tourists who have visited Korea. A majority (68%) were between 18 to 24 years old. About a quarter of the tourists were between 25 to 35 years old. Only about 7% of the tourists were 36 years and older. The demographic data also showed that the tourists’ highest level of education was a doctoral degree (one respondent). Most participants had a bachelor’s degree (70%). As shown in Table 1, one dependent variable (labeled DV, i.e., Revisit Intention) and four independent variables (labeled IV) were included in this study. Revisit Intention had a mean score of 5.33 with a standard deviation of 1.079. The IV Korean Music had the lowest mean score (M = 3.08, SD = 1.893). Korean Cuisine had the highest mean score among the IVs (M = 5.22, SD = 1.019).

The skewness and kurtosis values of 0 show that a dataset has characteristics similar to a normal distribution ( Blanca et al., 2013 ). The positive values of the kurtosis indicate that the curve is more peaked than the normal distribution and the negative ones are flatter than the normal ones. Griffin and Steinbrecher ( 2013 ) suggested that acceptable values of skewness fall between -3 and +3, and kurtosis is appropriate from a range of -10 to +10.

Level of Intention to Revisit Korea

The first inquiry is expressed in Research Question 1:We examined the data using the frequency analysis on the item “I am willing to revisit South Korea.” A majority of the participants (61.8%) strongly agreed with the statement. An additional 20.4% also expressed agreement have an intention to revisit Korea.

Revisit Intention and Its Influencing Factors among K-drama Viewers

The second research question was:We performed the ANOVA to evaluate mean differences across two or more groups ( Thompson, 2006 ). The frequencies were categorized into four groups: everyday, 1-3 days per week, once a while, and uncertain. The results in Table 2 indicate that there was no statistical significant difference between the frequencies of watching K-drama in tourists’ revisit intention (F(3,182) = .946; p > .05). This result suggests that the frequency of watching K-drama has no effect on tourists’ revisit intention.

The third research question was:We performed a multiple regression analysis to investigate the relationships between four IVs and one DV. As shown in Table 3, collectively, there was a statistical significant association between the four IVs on tourists’ revisit intention to Korea (R2 = 38.5%; F (4, 181) = 28.271; p < .05). The R 2 value shows that the four IVs explained for 38.5% variance in revisit intention to Korea among Malaysian tourists (F (4, 181) = 28.271; p < .05).

Zooming into the influence of individual IVs on revisit intention, K-drama (b = .138, p < .05), Korean Cuisine (b = .264, p < .05), and Korean Rare Image (b = .389, p < .05) had a statistical significant influence on revisit intention. However, Korean Music did not have a significant association with revisit intention (b = .077, p = .231). Further, H2a states there is a significant relationship between K-drama and revisit intention. According to the multiple regression results, K-drama yielded a statistically significant regression coefficient (b = .138, p < .05, CI = .013 - .246). Our results did not support H2b as Korean Music did not have a significant relationship with revisit intention (b = .077, p = .231, CI = -.025 - .113). As for Korean Cuisine, results confirmed hypothesis H2c (b = .264, p < .05, CI = .115 - .409). H2d states there is a significant relationship between Korean rare image and revisit intention. The results confirm the hypothesis in which the beta value was statistically significant (b = .389, p < .05, CI = .233 - .475). Korea’s rare images yielded the largest beta value in the model and the range of the 95% CI for the beta was also narrow. To conclude, Korea's rare image, Korean cuisine, and K-drama were factors that significantly influence tourists to have an intention to revisit Korea. Korean music, however, was not a significant factor in revisiting Korean among Malaysian tourists.

Discussions

Our main findings reveal that the majority of Malaysian tourists have a very high tendency to repeat their visit to South Korea, particularly the younger generation of female Malaysian tourists, and this scenario is similar to Nguyen et al. ( 2020 ) for repeated tourists from China and Vietnam. The interest of Malaysian tourists to travel again to South Korea was influenced by the travelling experience on the first visit. In our study, interestingly we found that Malaysian tourists would not repeat the visit to South Korea due to the number of K-dramas that they had watched, and the results are contradicted the previous study. The discrepancies in the findings between the tourists from Thailand and Malaysia could be due to the behaviour in which, in the present study, we specifically looked at the revisit intention, unlike the study by Rewtrakunphaiboon ( 2017 ) who investigated the intention to visit South Korea for the first time. Importantly, with 39% variance in the regression model, K-drama, cuisine, rare image, and music, the model has indicated a strong motivation for them to travel again to South Korea.

Korean music, however, had an inconsistent result with Nguyen et al. ( 2020 ). K-pop wave impact on Malaysian tourists was not evident here. In our study, casting, promotion, and content of music, popularity of the singers, and dance choreographers failed to drive Malaysians to travel to South Korea. Interestingly, Korean rare image had almost 40% influence, compared to Korean cuisine (26%) and K-drama (14%). The rare image may include K-Beauty products ( Ingels, 2020 ), cosmetics surgery ( Lee, 2019 ), walking beauty street ( Jeong, 2021 ), and the 5G, the fastest internet speeds on earth ( Pulse, 2020 ). The uniqueness of the food could be a rare experience for the non-Korea. Korean food has been screened in all K-dramas and movies not only displaying people eating but names of the dishes have been mentioned and became part of the scenes, perhaps reminding the tourists of the food they have tried while in South Korea. The availability of Korean food outlets in Malaysia is giving chances of eating the food frequently. Korean cuisine has been on TV reality shows and proven by Kim et al. ( 2012 ), Kim and Kwon ( 2018 ), and Seo et al. ( 2017 ). Malaysians who have watched the K-drama are affected by the storyline that is based on the lifestyle, stereotype, and cultural enclosure become the word of mouth among K-drama lovers. The result from the current study displayed that emotional involvement and behavioural interaction of the Malaysian with the K-drama stars positive and significantly influenced the visit intention to the destination consistent with Halim and Kiatkawsin ( 2021 ), Kim et al. ( 2008 ), and Kim et al. (2019).

Implications

Theoretically, this study supports the SOR model, which is suitable to link to the Malaysian tourist’s behaviour in choosing South Korea for subsequent travelling destinations. The influence on the travelling experience of Malaysian tourists to South Korea is similar to Min et al. ( 2020 ), which explains the SOR. Secondly, our findings enrich the literature by adding the critical factors of the Korean Wave to South Korea. A study on the Korean Wave continues, but our findings add to the fact that though K-pop is very popular with most of Korean and its international tourists, Korean music did not have an influence on Malaysians to repeat their visit to the country. Thirdly, K-drama in the research of Halim and Kiatkawsin ( 2021 ), Kim et al. ( 2008 ), and Kim et al. (2019) have shown a great impact to visit intention, but for this study, it has the great impact for the frequent travelers to South Korea. Similar results apply to the cuisine.

From the practical point of view, the results of this study have shown that South Korea was a choice relating to SDG-11, because the country is developed, but sustains the cities and communities through the tourism activities platform, resulting in the benefit of South Korea’s economy. The help from the allocated budget in preserving the world’s cultural and natural heritage should be appreciated and admired by other countries. We found that Korean Wave could sustain the development and reshape the nation’s economy through the activities of sustaining gastronomy, K-dramas, and culture’s rare image through the effort of tourism activities. We believed that our findings would be able to implicate the Malaysian marketers and travel agencies, hoteliers, food and beverages sector, park and recreations, and any related businesses to the hospitality and tourism industry. These tourism companies should seriously benchmark South Korea on preserving and conserving culture in order to maintain a people's integrity and serve as a source of national pride. Also, to preserve security and foster peace, the government can invest in supporting infrastructure and amenities such as a police station or recruit security personnel. The relevant department should also regularly maintain notice boards or stands in tourist areas, allowing travellers to receive practical advice and accurate information.

Limitations and Future Directions

Probably the Korean Wave interests the younger generation, thus, the snowballing was through their friends at almost the same age. Due to that, the results could only be generalised to the generation. Future researchers could examine the tourists' behaviour during the first and repeat visits if the driving factors are different from the study. Researchers may also want to investigate the influencing factors for a virtual tour, and if the virtual tour experience is compatible with the physical trip.

Overall findings of the present study reveal an interesting note that the repeat travellers to South Korea were from the young generations who were impacted by the experience of the culture's rare image as attractions, cuisine, and drama. This group of tourists would repeat their visit regardless of how frequently they watched the K-dramas. We concluded from the findings, based on the SOR model, rare image, cuisine, and drama acted as an external environment able to affect the behavioural intention of tourists through their personal emotions and experience.

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Publication date.

31 October 2022

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https://doi.org/10.15405/epms.2022.10.7

978-1-80296-958-0

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Multidisciplinary sciences, sustainable development goals (SDG), urbanisation

Cite this article as:

Saad, M., Ramlee, N. Z., Husin, N. A., & Yulia, A. (2022). Outbound Tourism: Why Do Malaysians Choose South Korea Again?. In H. H. Kamaruddin, T. D. N. M. Kamaruddin, T. D. N. S. Yaacob, M. A. M. Kamal, & K. F. Ne'matullah (Eds.), Reimagining Resilient Sustainability: An Integrated Effort in Research, Practices & Education, vol 3. European Proceedings of Multidisciplinary Sciences (pp. 70-79). European Publisher. https://doi.org/10.15405/epms.2022.10.7

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Scoot to step up number of flights to Tokyo, Seoul, Taipei

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From April 1, Scoot will operate more weekly flights from Singapore to South Korea, Japan and Taiwan.

In a media statement on March 28, the budget carrier said it will operate four direct flights from Singapore to Seoul each week, up from three.

It will also increase the number of weekly flights from Singapore to Taiwan, from 19 to 21.

In addition to these, Scoot will increase the number of services from Singapore to Tokyo and Seoul, that transit in Taipei.

There will be 12 flights to Tokyo via Taipei – up from seven – and five flights to Seoul via Taipei – up from four.

“This is to cater to demand and provide more travel options between Singapore, Taipei, Tokyo and Seoul,” a spokesperson said.

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Scoot’s routes cover 15 countries and 72 destinations.

Details about flight and transit timings for the additional flights from April 1 can be found on Scoot’s website.

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Malaysia’s airport fee hikes leave bad taste in travellers’ mouths

The Malaysian Aviation Commission says increases are needed to support the aviation sector’s post-pandemic recovery.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Entrepreneur Jehan Abu Bakar is fuming that she will soon have to pay more in airport fees whenever she flies from her home in Malaysia to other countries in Southeast Asia.

Abu Bakar, the founder of the organic soap company LeStarry Natural, said any increases should be commensurate with the facilities provided but Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA)’s services, from the WiFi to the immigration procedures, are lacking.

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“Baggage clearance that takes forever is also an issue. More immigration counters should be opened to reduce long waits in queue – this is also part of the services,” Abu Bakar told Al Jazeera.

“Let’s not talk about the absence of the train – that is a big one,” she added, referring to the suspended Aerotrain that connects the airport’s first terminal, KLIA 1, to a satellite building.

The ageing Aerotrain has been offline since last year to undergo upgrades and is scheduled to commence operations either by the end of this year or, at latest, March 2025, according to Transport Minister Anthony Loke.

“When can we see some improvement? Hike [fees] and remain the same? Such a shame,”Abu Bakar said.

Lawyer Lim Wei Jiet agrees.

“If the service at our airports has been reliable and good so far, I don’t think many Malaysians would mind. However, it’s clear this is not the case,” Lim told Al Jazeera.

“One obvious disappointment being the breakdown of the (Aerotrain) train at KLIA I, which has not been repaired to date even after many months.

“This is frankly an embarrassment to Malaysia, which proclaims itself as a tourism hub. I think Malaysians deserve to ask why there is a need to increase the service charge when the service provided thus far is sub-par,” Lim added.

Lim said that while KLIA 1 could claim to rank among the best airports out there a decade ago, it is now showing signs of wear and tear.

“I dislike comparing with Singapore on every issue but it does sting as a Malaysian to see Singapore’s Changi Airport… which is objectively much better functionally and aesthetically compared to KLIA 1,” Lim said.

From June 1, passengers departing from the KLIA 1 will have to pay 73 ringgit ($15.5) to travel to any of the nine other countries that make up the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), up from 35 ringgit ($7.41) currently.

Travel outside of ASEAN will remain at the current rate of 73 ringgit ($15.5).

Travel to ASEAN countries from KLIA 2, where the budget carrier Air Asia operates, will rise from 35 ringgit ($7.41) to 50 ringgit ($10.60).

However, travel beyond ASEAN from KLIA 2 will get cheaper, with the service fee reduced from 73 ringgit ($15.5) to 50 ringgit ($10.6).

The Malaysian Aviation Commission said the fee increases were necessary to “support the aviation sector’s recovery and adaptability in the post-Covid-19 pandemic environment”.

Not everyone takes issue with the revised fees.

Carmelo Ferlito, an Italian economist who travels frequently from his home in Kuala Lumpur to Asia and Europe, believes the price hikes and the facilities at KLIA 1 are still acceptable.

“It seems to me the increases remain very much within a tolerable range,” Ferlito, who mostly travels to Milan and his wife’s home city of Jakarta, told Al Jazeera.

“Despite not having restored the Aerotrain service, KLIA 1 remains a pretty good airport when compared to its regional peers. It is much more comfortable than Bangkok and Manila for sure,” Ferlito said.

“I think that travelling frequently gives a better perspective and if you have been to Manila, Bangkok, Dhaka, Colombo, Lahore, etc… well, then you start really thinking that it is great to be at KLIA 1,” he added.

KLIA 1 opened in 1998 and was designed by the renowned Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa, the brains behind Kansai Airport, the world’s first floating airport, in Japan’s Osaka.

KLIA 2, the low-cost carrier terminal, began operations in 2014.

Despite the price hikes, Malaysia’s airport charges are still lower than some regional peers, including Thailand.

Airports of Thailand (AoT) is set to increase passenger service charges at six international airports by 30 baht ($0.82), to 730 baht ($20.2), per person from April 1 to cover the costs of a new common operating system for airlines.

Jacqueline Fong, who shuttles between Kuala Lumpur and Kuching, Sarawak, on an almost weekly basis and makes about half a dozen international trips a year, also does not see a problem with the hikes.

“For me, if flight tickets are still dynamically priced, I should still be able to purchase flight tickets within my travel budget and that’s inclusive of the airport passenger charges,” Fong, the founder of homegrown handicrafts brand Tanoti Crafts, told Al Jazeera.

“I feel these charges… although [they will] increase the overall cost of travel, will not affect me much if I have the flexibility of travel times/dates and I am able to purchase cheaper flight tickets.”

Ibrahim Sani, the CEO of Peneraju Foundation and a frequent traveller domestically and overseas, said the fee increases are welcome given the need for the government to widen its tax base.

“The ⁠increase will help fund the airports’ upkeep and growth,” Ibrahim told Al Jazeera.

Accountant Mikhail Hafiz said he was not thrilled about the increase, which he believes will be especially resisted by those travelling with children and other family members.

“But I will bite the bullet and accept it, so to speak, if it helps the airline industry’s post-pandemic recovery,” Mikhail told Al Jazeera.