south korea travel uk

18 things to know before going to South Korea

Jun 18, 2024 • 13 min read

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Know your accommodation options

Accommodation options in South Korea cater to a wide range of preferences and budgets. Budget travelers can opt for backpacker hostels or guesthouses in major cities and tourist spots, offering both dormitory and private rooms, often with free internet and breakfast included. For those seeking a unique experience, hanok guesthouses provide a traditional stay in Korean-style room with a floor mattress, sometimes with communal bathrooms.

More conventional accommodations include hotels, ranging from business to luxury, particularly in urban centers and popular tourist areas like Jeju-do . Adventurous travelers might enjoy glamping near national parks or coastal areas. Alternatively, a templestay offers a cultural and spiritual experience, allowing guests to live like a monk and learn about Buddhist practices in some of the country's most serene settings.

3. Time your visit with the trees

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

4. Mind these two major holidays

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Stay connected with these essential apps

Wi-fi is so prevalent in Korean cities that you can do without a local SIM card, but if you decide that you want one just in case, or if you plan to head to rural areas, the easiest place to pick one up is at one of the many  telecom roaming centers at Incheon Airport upon arrival. If you can't be bothered to get one in a store, you can buy a Korean eSIM if your phone supports it. Phone rental is also available in Korea.

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

7. Get out of town

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

The Korean countryside is beautiful. Mountains and rivers make for beautiful vistas , and its well-maintained roads are perfect for road trips . Life is lived differently here than in the cities. The population is older – most people under 40 have decamped to the cities – and the pace is slower. At least once on your trip, get out of the cities and immerse yourself in this more traditional side of Korea.

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

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

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

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

9. Roll with the nudges

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

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

10. Be ready to get personal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More restaurant etiquette

• Chopsticks Don't stick your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice or pass food from one pair of chopsticks to another.
• Eating with fingers Don’t touch food with your fingers, except when handling ssam (lettuce leaves).
• Filling your own glass (alcohol) Dining companions usually pour drinks for each other – traditionally, never for themselves. It’s polite to use both hands when pouring or receiving a drink.

13. Get to know Korean drinking culture

The practice of hoesik – a gathering of people, often work colleagues, to go eat and drink together – is common. Drinking, and drinking heavily, is the mainstay of Korean socializing, and an evening out can quickly turn into a blur of bar-hopping.

The most common drink of choice is soju . The stuff is, more often than not, ethanol mixed with water and flavoring. Drinking too much of it can leave you with a killer hangover. Be especially careful about the infamous ' soju bombs', when a shot glass of soju is dropped into a glass of beer and the two are drunk together.

Helping soak up some of that alcohol will be anju (bar snacks; obligatory in some bars). These are likely to be heaped plates of oil-soaked food – French fries, vegetable twigim (fritters) or fried chicken. There's even a word for such a combo: chimaek, from Korean chikin (fried chicken) and maekju (beer).

As in other countries, there's a changing attitude to excessive alcohol consumption particularly among young people. An evening spent in a fancy coffee shop or bakery cafe is the norm for non-alcohol drinkers, while those who are looking for cheap drinks, hang out at convenience stores, some of which provide tables for customers to sit down to immediately eat and drink their purchases.

14. Is North Korea a concern?

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

15. Monitor the air quality

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

16. You might have to be flexible about your diet

If you have food allergies or a specific diet, you may have a hard time finding places to eat or getting clear information about ingredients. Vegetarianism and veganism are slowly gaining popularity in Korea, but not many restaurants cater to these diets. Even dishes that you might think are vegetarian are often made with anchovy broth or fermented shrimp. Common dishes that are vegetarian or vegan include bibimbap (without meat), japchae (sweet potato noodles) and chaeso jeon (vegetable pancake). Buddhist temples often serve vegan food. In Seoul,  Bongeun-sa temple serves a vegetarian lunch, and Balwoo Gongyang and Sanchon are restaurants specializing in vegetarian temple food.

17. Recognize that LGBTIQ+ acceptance still has a long way to go 

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

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

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

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

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

This article was first published Jul 16, 2022 and updated Jun 18, 2024.

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South Korea entry requirements for UK Citizens

The online visa waiver for South Korea—the K-ETA —is a required or recommended travel document for visa-exempt visitors .

It’s quick and easy to submit an application for the K-ETA from the UK. The electronic form can be completed in a matter of minutes.

Travelers can find further details about the requirements for British citizens to visit South Korea and the electronic visa waiver below.

Do UK Citizens Need a Visa for Korea?

British citizens can travel to South Korea and stay for up to 90 days without a visa.

Usually UK passport holders need a K-ETA to enjoy visa-free travel, however this requirement has been temporarily waived and is now optional.

Though the ETA for Korea is currently not mandatory, British travelers can skip the arrival card requirement if they have a valid K-ETA. This saves time as the visa waiver can be obtained in advance, rather than completing an arrival card once visitors are in South Korea.

ETA Korea for UK Passport Holders

Key facts about the K-ETA for British citizens :

• 90-day maximum stay
• 3-year validity
• Multiple entries
• Motive of visit: tourism, business purposes, participate in events or meetings, visiting relatives

In addition to South Korea, several countries across the globe are now using electronic visa waivers. The United States, Canada, and Britain have similar schemes to allow safe visa-free entry .

K-ETA: Documents Required for Applying from Britain

• British citizens need a valid UK passport to get a visa waiver for Korea. Passport details are required to complete the online form.
• British ETA applicants need to provide a passport-style recent photograph of themselves
• It is also necessary to pay the K-ETA processing fee using a valid debit/credit card .

South Korea ETA from the UK: Application Steps

British citizens can get their K-ETA online in just 3 simple steps:

• Fill out the application form for the K-ETA
• Pay the ETA fee and submit the request
• Receive the approved visa waiver by email

It is fast, efficient, and 100% electronic. Applicants are not required to travel in person to the Embassy of South Korea in London at any point.

K-ETA processing is fast. Most British applicants receive the approved K-ETA in 1 to 2 business days, or 1-hour using the priority service .

South Korea Visa Waiver Application for UK Citizens

The ETA Korea application form from the UK can be completed in minutes . Basic personal and passport information is required:

• First name and surname
• Information from the passport (number, expiry date, etc.)
• Date of birth
• Nationality
• Some security questions

Travelers will only be issued a visa waiver if they comply with all the Korea entry requirements . By pre-screening visitors, South Korea will be a safer place for British travelers.

Travel to South Korea from the United Kingdom with a K-ETA

There are direct flights from London Heathrow Airport (LHR) to Incheon International Airport (ICN) in Seoul. The non-stop flight takes around 11 hours.

Flights from the UK to South Korea with 1 stop are available from other major cities:

• Edinburgh to Seoul
• Manchester to Busan
• London to Jeju
• Newcastle to Seoul

South Korea Entry Requirements for British citizens

British nationals must have the following documents to gain visa-free entry to South Korea :

• Valid UK passport
• South Korean ETA OR arrival card
• Customs declaration
• Ticket for onward or return travel

Following the K-ETA launch, passengers on flights from the UK to Korea with an ETA are no longer required to complete a card on arrival . Border checks are also now faster, British arrivals can expect to spend less time at the airport.

Some COVID-19 entry restrictions for South Korea for UK nationals may still be in place. British citizens must consult the latest Korean COVID-19 requirements before arranging travel.

Register with the UK Embassy in South Korea

British tourists are advised to register with the UK Embassy during their stay in South Korea. Registered UK nationals can travel with greater peace of mind and enjoy a number of security benefits.

By providing the British Embassy with their details, travelers can be:

• Provided with the latest safety information
• Located quickly in exceptional circumstances
• Contacted by family back home in an emergency

It's easy to enroll. British travelers should simply select the UK Embassy Registration option when applying for their K-ETA through this website.

South Korean Embassy in the United Kingdom

British travelers who are eligible for the K-ETA do not need to visit the South Korean Embassy . The online Korean visa waiver application can be completed from home.

Anyone who does not meet all the ETA requirements needs a South Korean visa from the embassy. Several different types of Korean visas are available including work and study visas.

The Embassy of South Korea in the UK is in London , at the following address:

60 Buckingham Gate, Westminster, SW1E 6AJ, London, UK

Visiting South Korea from the UK: FAQ

Can i travel from the uk to south korea.

Yes , British citizens can visit the Republic of Korea with the relevant travel documents . They must also meet all other entry requirements, such as any COVID-19 paperwork.

Do I need a visa for South Korea from the UK?

Visa requirements for UK citizens depend on length of stay and the reason for visiting South Korea.

British citizens do not require a visa for short-term stays (a maximum of 3 months) for tourism, family visits, or selected business activities.

Can British passport holders obtain a South Korea visa on arrival?

No, British citizens are not eligible to obtain a South Korea visa on arrival. UK nationals who require a Korean visa should obtain one from the Embassy of South Korea in London or the consulate in Edinburgh.

How long does it take for UK citizens to obtain a K-ETA?

You can complete the K-ETA application form from the UK in around 10 minutes. The process is 100% online with no need to travel to the South Korean embassy.

ETA processing is also fast. Most British applicants receive the approved K-ETA in 1 to 2 business days .

UK citizens who need the K-ETA urgently can apply using the priority service to receive the electronic travel authorization in just 1 hour.

Can UK passport holders enter South Korea visa-free?

British citizens can gain visa-exempt entry to South Korea for up to 90 days. Usually they need a valid K-ETA visa waiver to enter visa-free, however this is now an optional document.

British citizens with a valid K-ETA will be exempt from filling out an arrival card. Travelers will be able to move through immigration more quickly.

How long can a citizen of the UK stay in South Korea?

Citizens of the UK can stay for 90 days in South Korea without a visa.

For longer consecutive stays, British passport holders must apply for a visa for South Korea.

South Korea Tours & Holidays

South Korea has emerged from history as a dynamic destination full of spirit and surprises.

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South Korea at a glance

Capital city.

Seoul (9.9 million)

51.385 million

(GMT+09:00) Seoul

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type E (French 2-pin, female earth) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about South Korea

Geograhy and environment.

South Korea is located at the south end of the Korean Peninsula, between the Sea of Japan and the Yellow Sea. Separated from   Japan   by the Korean Strait and demarcated from the state of North Korea by Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), South Korea's terrain is a mix of flat lowlands and forested mountains. The coasts of South Korea are rocky and jagged, with thousands of islands (mostly inhabitable) scattered off the coastline.

Culture and customs

South Korea draws some traditions and customs from other neighbouring countries in Asia with a culture that stems from Confucianism. This system of philosophical and ethical teachings was introduced to South Korea in the 4 th century through Chinese scholars and was quickly embraced by the wider population until it officially became the state ideology in the early 1900s.

Confucianism emphasises respect for aging, elders and ancestors, an intrinsic hierarchy that runs through work and social life, and upholds traditional family roles so you’ll often see families living together in one house.

During your travels around South Korea, you’ll also see plenty of traditions such as the act of bowing when greeting people, women wearing traditional dress (hanbok) and the practice of taekwondo (Korean martial arts). As well as ancient beliefs, new generations of South Koreans are embracing a modernised culture, one full of K-pop, Korean cosmetics and popular foods like kimchi and tteokbokki.

History and government

South Korea’s had an often turbulent history dating back to around 8000 BC when it was known as just Korea, but the country’s most impactful conflict began in the 1500s with the attempted Japanese invasion. Korea went on to become a Japanese colony in 1910 following its annexation of the Korean Empire, which ended in 1945 at the conclusion of World War II.

The country was then divided into two parts, the northern part which was protected by the Soviet Union and the southern part which was protected largely by the United States. Both the northern and southern parts of Korea officially became North and South Korea in 1948 when the two regions failed to agree on forming one, united government.

In 1950, North Korea set in motion the Korean War which was intended to unify the two countries under communism. But after much destruction to infrastructure and loss of human life, a cease-fire was called in 1953 with both countries signing the 1953 Korean Armistice Agreement. The two countries have since agreed to work towards a final settlement (The Peace Treaty on the Korean Peninsula) to formally and officially end the Korean War.

South Korea now enjoys a fully prosperous economy with a similar capital economic standing to countries such as the United States, Japan and various countries in Western Europe.

You can’t go to South Korea for shopping and not stop in Seoul – the country’s premier destination for all things fashion, electronics, street food and skincare. In this shopper’s paradise of a city, you’ll find traditional Korean items perfect for souvenirs to tech gadgets not yet available on Australia’s shores.

Some notable districts/destinations where you can shop ‘til you drop include:

• Myeongdong (shopping district)
• Dongdaemun Market (shopping centre)
• Cheongdam-dong (luxury boutique area)
• Pyeonghwa (wholesale market)

Top 5 culinary delicacies of South Korea

1. bibimbap.

As one of Korea's standout dishes, bibimbap is a tasty concoction of meat, vegetables, egg and rice. Soy sauce, chilli paste, garlic and sesame oil all add flavour to this amazingly colourful dish found everywhere in Korea.

Kimchi is hailed as a nutritional powerhouse - packing a healthy punch of nutrients, vitamins and beneficial bacteria that makes it one of the world's healthiest superfoods. But most people don't eat these fermented vegetables for health reasons - it's the uniquely, tasty flavour and versatility that makes kimchi so popular in Korean cooking.

These delicious, savoury pancakes are a standard of Korean cuisine. With hundreds of different varieties, jeon can be served with red meat, chicken, seafood, vegetables, tofu and even edible flowers.

Similar to sushi, these highly popular rice-based morsels feature fish, beef or crab, wrapped in seaweed with pickled or fresh vegetables. Available all over Korea, they are the perfect snack on the run or quick, cheap lunch to enjoy between sightseeing.

Arriving in Korea by the way of Mongolia, mandu are essentially boiled, steamed or pan-fried dumplings. A cheap, street food favourite, mandu can be filled with everything from pheasant to tofu, cucumber, beef and beyond.

Top places to visit in South Korea

Whether you want to take a street food tour of the renowned Gwangjang markets, go shopping among the vibrant streets and check out some high-tech gadgetry or admire this city's soaring skyscrapers from Naksan at nighttime, Seoul can't be missed.

Explore the bustling city of Seoul on our 8 day South Korea Family Holiday.

Visit the fascinating Haedong Temple, explore the colourful Gamcheong Culture Village and take in the all 'round beauty of the second largest city in South Korea.

Travel to Busan on our 9 day South Korea Highlights tour.

Experience Jeonju like a local as you wander the Hanok Heritage Village in search of souvenirs, tasty treats, traditional houses and craft shops.

Admire the culture (and food) in Jeonju on our 9 day Essential South Korea tour.

4. Jeju Island

Wander South Korea's first ever UNESCO World Heritage listed site, Jeju Seongsan Sunrise Mountain/Castle, on the beautiul Jeju Island. And with volcanic landscapes and coastal rock formations, this laidback slice of heaven is well worth a visit.

Marvel at the beauty on Jeju Island on our 9 day Premium South Korea tour.

Festivals and events

Public holidays that may impact travel include:.

• New Year's Day
• Movement / Independence Movement Day
• Buddha's Birthday
• Children's Day 
• Memorial Day
• Liberation Day
• Chuseok / Korean Thanksgiving
• National Foundation Day (Gaecheonjeol)
• Hangeul Day

*Please note dates of  South Korean public holidays may vary.

Further reading

Similar destinations.

Thinking about a trip to South Korea but still browsing other destinations? Check out tours to neighbouring locations:

South Korea travel FAQs

When is the best time to visit south korea.

Autumn and spring are considered the optimal times to holiday in South Korea, as the extreme temperatures that are present during summer and winter can make travel uncomfortable at times. During autumn and spring expect moderate temperatures, a mild climate and less rain and humidity than at other times.

Do I need a visa to travel to South Korea?

SOUTH KOREA Australia: No - not required Belgium: No - not required Canada: No - not required Germany: No - not required Ireland: No - not required Netherlands: No - not required New Zealand: No - not required South Africa: No - not required Switzerland: No - not required United Kingdom: No - not required USA: No - not required

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into South Korea. . Most travellers do not need visas for Korea for stays of up to 30 days. You must also have an onward or return ticket.

If you are a male of Korean origin whose name appears on the Korean family register, you may be liable for military service even if you are travelling on your foreign passport.

The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 20/11/2023

Is tipping customary in South Korea?

Tipping in some establishments (particularly more traditional ones) is considered impolite, and is sometimes indicated with a 'no tipping' sign! Western-style, tourist-orientated places, however, usually welcome and receive tips. Use your discretion.

What is the internet access like in South Korea?

With one of the most developed internet infrastructures in the world, accessing the internet is easy in South Korea. Wi-Fi hot spots and cyber cafes are easily found in the cities, although when travelling in remote areas please be aware that internet access may be harder to find.

Can I use my mobile phone while in South Korea?

Travellers should be able to use their mobile phones in South Korea's cities and urban areas, as coverage is good. As in other countries, rural and mountainous areas may have less mobile phone receptivity. Ensure global roaming is activated with your service provider before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in South Korea?

South Korea has a combination of squat toilets and western-style flushable toilets. It's a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitiser or soap while on holiday, as these are rarely provided in public toilets.

Can I drink the water in South Korea?

Tap water is considered safe to drink in many parts of South Korea unless otherwise marked. Ask your leader for guidance if you are unsure whether to drink tap water in the area you are travelling in.

Are credit cards accepted widely in South Korea?

Credit cards are usually accepted by hotels and large retailers. Smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards, so always carry enough money to cover purchases, as paying with a credit card may not always be an option in South Korea.

What is ATM access like in South Korea?

ATMs are plentiful in large cities and urban centres, although not all ATMs accept foreign cards. Look for Global or Citibank ATMs, which usually accept cards from other countries.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilise school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

In My Korea

Complete South Korea Travel Guide 2024: Korean Travel Tips

Planning a trip to Korea but not sure where to start? First-time traveller who isn’t sure if Korea is the right country for your next trip? Worried about travelling to Korea and facing problems with the Korean language, culture, money, Internet, transportation, hotels, food, or etiquette? Then this complete South Korea travel guide is packed full of tips that you’ll certainly need.

You’ll find all the best Korean travel tips and advice in this article. Whether you’re a first-time traveller to Korea, or you’ve visited before, this South Korea travel guide will show what to see, when to travel, and which places to visit, as well as help you avoid any difficult situations or surprising culture shocks.

This guide is designed to walk you through everything you need to know to prepare for your trip to Korea. You can use it to plan your itinerary, to pre-book travel essentials, to learn about what festivals and seasonal events are on, and to find more reasons to want to travel to Korea right now.

Table of Contents

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

What’s In This South Korea Travel Guide

This South Korea travel guide covers all the essential information you need to plan a trip to Korea. This is useful for first-time travellers to Korea who might not be aware of uniquely Korean cultural and travel issues. Even if you’ve visited Korea before, I’m sure you can learn a lot from this travel guide.

This article contains lots of insights and knowledge about travelling to Korea and is quite long. I’ve added links in each section to articles that provide more information about each topic. Therefore, I suggest viewing this South Korea travel guide on a desktop computer as it will be easier to read.

What Are You Looking For?

To help make it easier for you to find what you’re looking for, I’ve broken this article into the following sections. Click the quick links below to jump straight there or keep reading through all parts.

Latest Travel News

Entry Requirements

Why Visit Korea

When To Visit

Flights To Korea

Where To Stay

Korea Travel Costs

Travel Money

Phones & Internet

Public Transport

Where To Visit

Seoul Day Tours

Sightseeing Spots

Korean Activities

Korean Festivals

1-Week Itinerary

Culture Issues

Language Issues

Health & Safety

Korean Travel Tips

Korean Travel News And Travel Restrictions 2024

This section of the South Korea travel guide will show you the latest travel news and restriction updates, including any temporary or permanent changes to the entry process, visa changes, and other things that might affect travel to Korea. COVID-related updates will also be posted here.

Latest Korean Travel News In 2024

This section will detail any interesting or important travel news that could affect travellers to Korea, such as price increases in public transport, travel changes, new services, or closures.

The Korean government is aiming to boost tourism to Korea by doubling the amount travellers can claim back in tax when shopping in Korea. From 2024, travellers will be able to claim up to 5,000,000 KRW on eligible purchases with a limit of 1,000,000 KRW tax back per transaction. Source : Korea Herald

From August 2023, the price to travel on buses in Seoul is set to rise. Bus fares will rise to 1,500 KRW per journey. From October 7th, 2023, Seoul’s subway fares will rise to 1,400 KRW per journey. Other cities in Korea will enact similar rises throughout 2023 to cover higher costs of public transportation. Source : Korea Herald

From July 15th, 2023, the requirement to register your health condition through the Q-Code portal will be scrapped. Source : Korea Times

From July 3rd, 2023, children aged 17 years and younger, as well as adults aged 65 and older, will no longer need to apply for a K-ETA to travel to Korea. Furthermore, the validity period has been increased from 2 years to 3 years to make travelling to Korea easier. Source: K-ETA website .

From June 2023, Korea will end almost all pandemic-related restrictions for tourists and locals. Masks will no longer be necessary except in hospitals and infected people no longer face mandatory self-isolation (although the government still recommends 5 days self-isolation). Q-Code requirements haven’t been mentioned, however. Source : Korea Herald .

From April 2023 until December 2024, travellers from 22 countries won’t have to complete a K-ETA when visiting Korea, saving time and money for citizens of those countries. People from other countries still need a K-ETA. Source : K-ETA

The 22 countries temporarily excluded from the K-ETA requirement are 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).

From April 2023, all foreigners under 19 years old (18 and under) can now enter major royal palaces and tombs, including Seoul’s Gyeongbokgung Palace, for free. Previously, all foreigners were made to pay a fee to enter. Source : Korea Herald

From March 2023, a quarter of all buses in Seoul will refuse cash payments and allow only card payments using transportation cards, such as the T-Money card. Seoul’s night buses won’t be included for now, and 262 of Seoul’s 370 bus routes will still accept cash. Expect further increases in cash-free buses in the future. Source : Korea Herald

From February 2023, the base fare for a taxi journey in Korea has increased by 1,000 won to a minimum of 4,800 won. The distance that the base fare applies has also been shortened from 2km to 1.6km, which will make fares more expensive. Source : Korea Times

What Are the Current COVID Restrictions In Korea In 2024?

Korea has been removing COVID-related restrictions in the country throughout 2022 and 2023. It is no longer necessary to show a QR code to enter a building and restrictions involving masks and health checks have mostly gone. The latest COVID-related rules for Korea are as follows .

Masks : From Monday, March 20th, Korea has removed the mandatory mask rule for public transport, one of the final places that masks were required for the general public. The only places that require a face mask (from June 1st) are in medical facilities (hospitals). Masks are not mandatory elsewhere, including in schools, shops, restaurants or anywhere outside. Source : Korea Herald

Self-Quarantine : From June 1st, Korea will no longer impose a mandatory self-isolation period on infected people. The government instead ‘recommends’ a period of self-isolation for 5 days to reduce the chance of transmission to other people. Source : Korea Herald

For further details about the latest COVID requirements for entering or travelling in Korea, check out the second section of this South Korea travel guide, which has a list of all the updated entry requirements, including visas, tests, and other considerations.

Planning to visit Korea? These travel essentials will help you plan your trip, get the best deals, and save you time and money before and during your Korean adventure.

Visas & K-ETA: Some travellers to Korea need a Tourist Visa , but most can travel with a Korean Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA). Currently 22 Countries don’t need either one.

How To Stay Connected : Pre-order a Korean Sim Card or a WiFi Router to collect on-arrival at Incheon Airport (desks open 24-hours). Alternatively, download a Korean eSIM for you travels.

Where To Stay : For Seoul, I recommend Myeongdong (convenient), Hongdae (cool culture) or Gangnam (shopping). For Busan, Haeundae (Beach) or Seomyeon (Downtown).

Incheon Airport To Seoul : Take the Airport Express (AREX) to Seoul Station or a Limo Bus across Seoul. Book an Incheon Airport Private Transfer and relax to or from the airport.

Korean Tour Operators : Tour companies that have a big presence in Korea include Klook , Trazy , Viator , and Get Your Guide . These sites offer discounted entry tickets for top attractions.

Seoul City Passes : Visit Seoul’s top attractions for free with a Discover Seoul Pass or Go City Seoul Pass . These passes are great for families and couples visiting Seoul – you can save lots.

How To Get Around : For public transport, grab a T-Money Card . Save money on Korea’s high speed trains with a Korea Rail Pass . To see more of Korea, there are many rental car options from Klook , EconomyBookings , and RentalCars .

Travel Money : Use money exchanges near Myeongdong and Hongdae subway stations for the best exchange rates. Order a Wise Card or WOWPASS to pay by card across Korea.

Flights To Korea : I use flight comparison sites such as Expedia and Skyscanner to find the best flights to Korea from any country. Air Asia is a good option for budget flights from Asia.

Travel Insurance : It is important to insure your trips to protect yourself against the unexpected. World Nomad is a specialized travel insurance provider with options for different coverage for travellers from around the world. You can also purchase cover when you are already travelling.

How To Learn Korean : The language course from 90 Day Korean or Korean Class 101 both have well-structured lessons and lots of useful resources to help you learn Korean.

Current Requirements To Travel To Korea In 2024

This part of the South Korea travel guide is for tourists . If you plan to travel for business, employment, or other reasons, check your nearest Korean embassy for the latest travel requirements.

Most of the restrictions and requirements for travelling to Korea have now been scrapped. You can see what entry and travel rules are in place for Korea in the table below:

The following section provides more information and exceptions about these requirements:

COVID-positive travellers should avoid travelling to Korea : To avoid infecting others on the way to Korea, as well as in Korea, the Korean government recommends that you shouldn’t travel to Korea if you exhibit COVID-symptoms or have tested positive. Self-quarantine is mandatory in Korea.

There are no PCR or other testing requirements : It is not necessary to take a PCR or other test before travelling to Korea. However, you will be asked to take a test if you show symptoms of COVID or similar illnesses when travelling to or arriving in Korea.

There is no quarantine on arrival : Travellers to Korea no longer need to quarantine when entering Korea. From June 1st, there is only a ‘recommended’ 5 day self-isolation period for infected travellers, but this is not enforced.

Complete the self-health check before or on arrival : From July 15th, 2023, travellers to Korea no longer need to complete a Q-Code self-health check or declare their health status on arrival.

Apply for a K-ETA or tourist visa before travelling : You need to apply for either a K-ETA or tourist visa for South Korea before flying to the country. Entry will be prohibited without the correct one. From April 1st, 2023 until December 31st, 2024, 22 countries are excluded from the K-ETA.

If you’re not sure which of these you need to apply for, more information is provided in the next section of this South Korea travel guide about the K-ETA and tourist visa for Korea.

K-ETA (Korean Electronic Travel Authorisation)

The K-ETA (Korean Electronic Travel Authorisation) is an online travel authorisation that visa-free foreign visitors aged 18 to 65 must obtain before entering the Korea for tourism, visiting relatives, participating in events or meetings, and for business purposes other than profitable activities.

Tourists from 112 eligible countries need to apply for a K-ETA before travelling to Korea and won’t be allowed to board a flight to Korea without it. The approval process isn’t difficult, but requires accommodation details, travel dates, and personal details such as passport number, etc.

From April 1st, 2023 until December 31st, 2024, the Korean government has decided to suspend the K-ETA requirement for travellers from the following 22 countries:

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).

The aim is to reduce the burden of travellers coming to Korea and to encourage more people to visit Korea during the ‘Visit Korea Year’, which runs during 2023 and 2024.

Source : K-ETA website news .

From July 3rd, 2023, the Korean government will no longer ask for travellers who are 17 years and younger, or 65 years and older, to apply for a K-ETA when visiting Korea. These are ages based on the time you travel to Korea, not the age when you apply to travel.

Furthermore, the validity period of the K-ETA is now 3 years, not 2 years. The Korean government has decided to extend the validity period to make it easier for people to travel to Korea.

The K-ETA is based on your nationality , not the country you’re travelling from. That means, if you require a tourist visa from your home country (e.g. the Philippines), but are travelling from a country that requires a K-ETA (e.g. the USA), you can’t use the K-ETA to travel to Korea.

Tourists should apply as far in advance as possible at the official K-ETA website. If you would like to know more about the K-ETA, check out my article explaining what is the K-ETA . The K-ETA costs 10,000 KRW (about $9.00 USD). If you are charged more than this, you’re on the wrong site.

Official K-ETA website

Not sure if you need a K-ETA? Check out this infographic to find out.

Will The K-ETA End In The Future?

The K-ETA will continue for the indefinite future. It is not a pandemic-related travel restriction but a permanent feature that just happened to start in 2021. The Korean government have stated that the K-ETA will be ongoing and other countries and areas, such as the EU, are planning similar ETAs.

Update : In July 2023, the Korean government stopped requiring children 17 years and younger and adults 65 years and older to apply for a K-ETA. The validity period was also increased to 3 years.

Update : In April 2023, the Korean government suspended the K-ETA for travellers from 22 countries (listed previously). This is in an effort to reduce the burden on travellers visiting Korea during the ‘Visit Korea Years’ of 2023 and 2024. This lasts until December 2024, but could possibly go on longer.

Tourist Visas For South Korea

Tourists that aren’t from one of the 112 countries that require a K-ETA to travel to Korea will need to apply for a tourist visa. This includes nationals from countries such India, Indonesia, Pakistan, and the Philippines. Tourist visas are based on nationality (passport), not country of residence.

The process to apply for a tourist visa differs depending on the country and may be as simple as submitting an application at the Korean embassy in the country you live in. For other countries, it may be necessary to submit extra information like bank statements and a full itinerary.

If you need a tourist visa for South Korea, contact your nearest Korean embassy as soon as you can to start the process. Tourist visas may be rejected, delayed, or take longer than expected. For some countries, such as the Philippines, it is necessary to apply through a specialist visa agency.

Transit Tour Visas For South Korea

Visa-free entry for foreign transit passengers at Incheon Airport will resume from May 2023 after being suspended for 3 years during the pandemic. There are two types of visa-free transit entry methods for travellers to Korea, they differ in length, requirements, and eligibility.

The first type of visa-free entry for transit passengers is open to all travellers to Korea and allows entry for 3 days, as long as they take a transit tour from Incheon Airport. The second type of visa-free entry for transit passengers is available for 30 days, but only from travellers from 36 select countries.

Visa-Free Entry For Transit Passengers (3 Days)

From May 15, 2023, travellers from any country can travel from Incheon Airport to the Seoul Metropolitan area for up to 3 days, as long as they book at least 1 transit tour from Incheon Airport. If Korea is not their final destination, they’re free to explore more of Seoul after the tour.

There are a wide range of transit tours available from Incheon Airport, including cultural, historic, food, shopping, and entertainment tours. See the sights of Seoul’s most popular places in a few hours, or stay for longer and see more. You can find out more about transit tours from the Visit Korea website .

Requirements : To be eligible for a transit tour visa, travellers must:

• Have an onward flight to their home country or a 3rd country after Korea.
• Participate in a transit tour program by a designated travel agency.
• Stay within the Seoul Metropolitan area only.
• Have more than 2 hours between connecting flights.

Eligible countries : Visa-free entry with a transit tour is open to passengers of all countries, as long as they meet the above requirements.

Tip : If you have a transit tour in Korea, I recommend staying in Hongdae , as there is a direct train from Incheon Airport to Hongdae called the All-Stop Airport Line. Hongdae is also a really fun place where you can see lots of culture, try Korean dishes, and pack your suitcase with Korean souvenirs.

Visa-Free Entry For Transit Passengers (30 Days)

This will allow travellers from 36 countries to enter and stay in Korea for up to 30 days without a Korean visa. Travellers must be travelling to or from one of these 36 countries to be eligible to stay in Korea without a visa. This includes passengers who are not citizens of those countries.

Requirements : To be eligible for a visa-free entry as a transit passenger, travellers must:

• Hold an onward flight to any of the 36 countries mentioned below.
• Have no illegal stay records of any kind, nor have been denied entry to Korea.
• Not have exceeded a maximum of 3 days stay in any other transit airport.

Eligible countries : Travellers from the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and 32 EU countries (see picture below) can stay for up to 30 days, as long as the above-mentioned requirements are met.

Why You Should Travel To Korea In 2024

There’s not enough space in this South Korea travel guide to write down all of the reasons why you should travel to South Korea. Korea is an under-appreciated gem that has so much to discover and experience that’s completely different from what you’ll find in other countries.

Much the way that Japan has a very distinct culture and history, Korea has lots of unique, appealing places to see, people to meet, history to learn about, and natural sights to appreciate. Many people only see a small slice of Korean culture and beauty through modern media, but there’s a lot more.

Here are some of the reasons you should travel to Korea:

• Delicious foods and tasty seasonal dishes.
• Four distinct seasons that offer a variety of views.
• Fascinating history to learn about and explore.
• Stunning mountains and beaches for outdoor lovers.
• Unique and unusual festivals throughout the year.
• Friendly locals and a safe country to travel around.
• Modern, high-tech cities that are clean and efficient.
• Welcoming Buddhist temples and temple stays.
• Cheaper than most other developed countries.
• A shopper’s paradise with many markets and malls .
• Korea really wants you to come and visit.

Korea wants you to visit so much that they declared 2023-2024 the Visit Korea Year . This two-year period, confusingly referred to as a single year, is set to feature loads of events and activities to draw tourists to Korea, and includes promotions for discounted flights, accommodation, and food.

Some of the events you can expect to see during the Visit Korea Year(s) include K-Pop concerts, e-sports competitions, food festivals, and cultural celebrations. There’ll be K-Cultural stars involved, too, including your favourite K-Pop and K-Drama stars. Get ready to travel to Korea soon!

Want to know what you can do in Korea that you can’t do in other countries? Check out these amazing unique Korean experiences that should definitely be on your Korean bucket list.

The Best Time To Visit Korea

The best time to visit Korea is in spring (late-March to May) or autumn (mid-September until mid-November). These seasons have the most comfortable weather, ranging from 10 to 30 degrees Celsius, an average amount of rain, and also have the most festivals and events.

My favourite months to travel in Korea are April and October . Early-April is when cherry blossoms come out and the weather warms up enough to stop wearing a jacket. October in Korea is a beautiful month when autumn foliage sweeps across the country and the weather is warm and calm.

When you travel to Korea, the season you travel in can have a big impact on what you can see, eat, and do. This section of the South Korea travel guide is one of the most important and if you want to travel to Korea in the future, I recommend learning about Korea’s seasons before making plans.

What Can You See In Korea Each Season?

Although spring and autumn are undoubtedly the best time to visit Korea, there are plenty of reasons to visit in other seasons, too. Visitors to Korea who are restricted to travelling during certain times, such as during school or work holidays, needn’t be put off by travelling in summer or winter.

Here’s a summary of what you can see and do in each season in Korea:

Spring: Cherry Blossoms, Blooming Nature, Culture Festivals

Spring is an amazing season to travel in Korea as you can see colourful plum blossoms (Mar), cherry blossoms (Mar-Apr), and many other bright sights. The warm weather allows people go out more to enjoy cultural activities and spring festivals , such as the Lotus Lantern Festival and Jindo Sea-Parting Festival, and also trekking, hiking, and cycling. Spring is one of the most popular times to travel in Korea for locals, so expect places to be busy, especially around cherry blossom season.

Check out my cherry blossom guide for the best places to see cherry blossoms in Korea.

Summer: Beaches, Korean Desserts, Water Sports, Camping

Summer is a difficult season for travellers due to the high humidity and heat. June and July are rainy season in Korea and it may rain for days on end, causing people to change travel plans to indoor activities. In late July and August it gets very hot, which is good for going to the beach and enjoying water sports or water parks, which Korea has many of. Evening activities like hiking, drinking in rooftop bars, and visiting night markets are great ways to get out in summer when it’s not as hot.

Check out my guide to Korean summer activities for the best places to have fun during summer and rainy day activities in Busan in case the weather isn’t so good.

Autumn: Foliage, Festivals, Fresh Foods, Harvest Festivals

Autumn is another incredibly popular time to travel in Korea, especially in October when the autumn foliage is at its best. The foliage really brings everything to life, adding shades of colour to plain palace walls, mountains, and parks. The calm weather is warm with clear skies, making it perfect for going into nature to see the fresh fruits and other harvest goods, as well as join in harvest and cultural festivals. Enjoy local Korean dishes, fresh from the farm to your table.

Check out my guide to autumn foliage in Korea for the best places to see the leaves.

Winter: Snow, Winter Sports, Ice Fishing, Light Festivals

Winter in Korea is often neglected due to the cold weather, but is actually a very nice time to travel with delicious winter foods to try. It’s the driest time of year with blue skies making everything bright and beautiful. When it snows, sights look even more incredible. Jeju Island is a great place to visit during winter as it has fresh citrus and colourful camellia flowers to see. You can enjoy winter sports, festivals and activities, such as ice fishing, ice skating, sledding, and more.

Check out my guide to Korean winter activities for the best places to have fun during winter.

What Is The Weather Like In Korea?

The weather in Korea follows a similar pattern each year, spread over five distinct seasons. As well as spring, summer, autumn, and winter, Korea also has a rainy season, which starts around mid-June and finishes mid-July. It doesn’t constantly rain during rainy season, but may do for several days.

There’s always something to do in Korea, no matter what the season. Even rainy season in Korea is fine for travelling, as long as you plan lots of indoor activities and can be flexible with your schedule. Don’t let the weather in Korea put you off visiting, you’ll find plenty to do in each season.

Here’s a summary of the weather in Korea each season:

The graph below shows you the average temperature each month in Seoul. This is an average temperature, so some days will be much hotter and others much colder. I’ve experienced summer temperatures of over 35 degrees and winter nights of -20, so be prepared for both.

The table below shows the average rainfall for each month in Korea, based on records from climate-data.org . The summer months have the most, while winter in Korea is very dry. The rainfall in the winter months can turn to snow when it’s cold enough, too.

There will be more information about the sights, festivals, and events you can enjoy in Korea in later parts of this South Korea travel guide. Check them out for travel ideas for your trip to Korea.

How To Book Flights To Korea

Flying to Korea in 2024 is getting easier with more airlines offering direct or connecting flights to Korea and budget airlines adding more routes to Korea from other parts of Asia and as far away as the USA. There aren’t as many routes as there were in 2019, but they are returning month by month.

Booking a flight to Korea is one of the first things most people do and finding the right flight can really affect your travels. Choosing the right flight not only affects how much money you need to spend, but also when you’ll arrive, how you’ll get to your hotel, and where you’ll arrive in Korea.

Check out my guide to booking flights to Korea to discover the best ways to book a flight to Korea, including the best time to book (21 to 127 days before travel), where to get cheap flights, the various airlines that offer flights to Korea, and lots more.

Arriving At Incheon Airport

Most flights to Korea arrive at Incheon Airport, which is near Seoul. It takes about an hour to get to the centre of Seoul from Incheon Airport and there are various transportation options including a high-speed train, subway, limo buses, taxis, and private transfers.

The best option for transferring from Incheon Airport to your hotel is usually a limo bus as these run to popular areas of Seoul, such as Myeongdong, Hongdae, Gangnam, and Insadong. There’s also a direct train to Seoul Station and a subway that goes to Seoul Station via Hongdae.

Arriving during the daytime gives you the best options for getting from Incheon Airport into Seoul, while nighttime flights will leave you fewer options. There are a few night buses that run, but late arrivals will either need to stay at the airport or book a private transfer or taxi instead. More details about taking a taxi from Incheon Airport can be found in my guide to taxis in Korea .

If you want to book a private transfer direct to your hotel from Incheon Airport, contact Jerry Heng , a freelance driver. I want to recommend Jerry as he has years of experience organising airport pick-ups and drop-offs, as well as personalised tours around Korea. He’s also a friendly guy.

Recommended Flight Comparison Sites

I suggest checking at least one flight comparison website before booking any flights. You can alter the arrival and departure times, flight duration, choose direct or indirect flights, and sort by price to find the perfect flight for you. Skyscanner is my preferred comparison site, but they’re all useful.

Take time to change the dates and flight times to find the most suitable flights for you. Cheaper flights often have inconvenient arrival times, so you should decide whether it’s worth the hassle to save a bit of money. Sometimes spending more for the right flight is worth it, especially when time is limited.

I try to go for a balance of convenience and savings and avoid flights that arrive late at night or leave too early in the morning. These flights require you to book an extra night at the airport or make you lose time when you could be travelling and doing more interesting things.

Here are 4 of the best flight comparison sites for booking flights to Korea:

Skyscanner is one of the most popular flight aggregators and offers flights, hotels, and other travel bookings for all major destinations. Skyscanner shows airline environmental ratings and which flights are practical or difficult.

Expedia is a large US travel company that offers tours, flights, hotels, and other services around the world. You can book hotel and flights together, to save you time and effort when travelling. A good place to start your flight search.

Kayak is great for people looking for cheap flights to Korea. You can see price trends for your flight to Korea to see when the best prices are available. There are also lots of budget travel options on the site that can save you more.

WayAway is a flight comparison site for the modern generation, with Instagram tips & travel advice as well as a good selection of cheap flights. You can get cashback on bookings with their premium service.

Where To Stay In Seoul

Incheon Airport is the main arrival destination for most travellers visiting Korea, with more than 71 million travellers passing through the airport in 2019, making it the world’s 14th busiest airport . It’s close to Seoul and has lots of transportation options to get into Korea’s capital.

Seoul is the first place people visit, not only because it’s close to Incheon Airport, but because it’s undeniably the heart and soul of Korea. The greater Seoul area includes about 50% of Korea’s population (25 million people) and is by far the biggest, most vibrant, and fun city in Korea.

To travel to Korea you need either a K-ETA or tourist visa . One of the requirements to apply for these is the address of the first place you’ll be staying in Korea. Therefore, you should book at least your first hotel in Korea so you can begin those applications. Seoul is an ideal first place to stay.

Best Neighbourhoods To Stay In Seoul

Deciding where to stay in Seoul can be difficult because there are so many unique neighbourhoods, each offering something interesting for travellers to experience. Knowing which has the best sights, entertainment, culture, shopping, transport, markets, restaurants, cafes, etc., is useful.

Seoul’s neighbourhoods typically contain a mixture of several of these elements and will appeal to different types of travellers. Below is a very rough guide for which neighbourhood each type of traveller might enjoy. Of course, there are plenty of other things to do in each area.

As you can see from the list above, both Hongdae and Myeongdong have a lot to offer and I would definitely recommend either of these neighbourhoods for first time travellers to Seoul. Even people who have travelled to Korea before will find lots of reasons to stay there. They’re where I usually stay.

I have detailed guides to hotels in the two best districts for staying in Seoul – Hongdae and Myeongdong. My guide to hotels in Hongdae includes a range of hotels for all types of travellers, while my guide to hotels in Myeongdong highlights Myeongdong’s best budget to mid-range hotels.

Each neighbourhood feels unique and offers something to discover, from traditional markets and eateries, modern Insta-worthy cafe districts, peaceful parks and lakes, world-class skyscrapers, and many fun activities. Wherever you choose to stay, you’re sure to find something you enjoy.

I’ve included the 8 best neighbourhoods in Seoul in this South Korea travel guide, along with a small summary about what you can expect in each area. These are the most popular areas for tourists to stay in, but certainly not the only places to stay. There are also links to hotels in these areas.

Here are the 8 best neighbourhoods in Seoul:

Myeongdong is arguably one of the best places to stay in Seoul for any traveller. It has the best range of budget and mid-range hotels in Seoul and is conveniently located for sights, activities, and public transport. It’s close to popular tourist sites, such as the N Seoul Tower and royal palaces. There are traditional markets and Myeongdong’s famous street food alley to check out. As Myeongdong is popular with tourists, you’ll find more people that can speak English and places to exchange money.

Hongdae is one of the coolest neighbourhoods in Seoul and a must-see for any traveller to the city. This area has emerged as a creative hotbed for the latest Korean fashion, art, food, and culture, thanks to innovations from students of nearby universities. Youth culture is on display in Hongdae’s main and side streets, with boutique shops, trendy bars and cafes, inventive restaurants, street art, and live performances. If you want to see a vibrant, colourful side of Seoul, then Hongdae is the place for you.

Gangnam is an upscale area of Seoul that’s home to some of Korea’s biggest stars. This area was where K-Pop was invented, as can be seen by the golden Gangnam Style statue outside COEX Mall. Gangnam is a lot more than that, and is a powerful business area with Seoul’s best shopping and dining experiences, as well as some of the city’s finest cafes and bars. Gangnam has a host of upmarket hotels that provide outstanding luxury, but also has a selection of budget and mid-range hotels making it accessible for all travellers.

Jongno is the area north of Myeongdong that includes Insadong, Bukchon Hanok Village, Ikseongdong Hanok Village, Jogyesa Temple, 4 of Seoul’s royal palaces, the presidential Blue House, and lots more. This area is packed full of interesting sights and traditional restaurants and tea houses to explore. You can find a good range of hotels in Insadong, Seoul’s artistic area that is home to artists and tourist-friendly attractions. There are also guesthouses and apartments to rent in the residential areas of Jongno that offer a more homely stay.

Jamsil is an upmarket residential neigbourhood close to Gangnam that’s home to one of Korea’s largest companies, Lotte. You’ll find the Lotte World Tower, Lotte World Theme Park, and Lotte Aquarium in this area, as well as the beautiful Seokchon Lake and leafy Olympic Park. Jamsil is a great base for people visiting for cherry blossoms in spring as the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival is one of Seoul’s best. There are lots of trendy cafes and bars near the lake and it’s a relaxed part of the city to stay in.

Dongdaemun is known for both its traditional markets, where you can buy a range of goods, as well as the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP). The area is an unusual mix of traditional Seoul, with Gwangjang Market offering some of Seoul’s best Korean street food, and modern culture, displayed by the night markets and art installations at the DDP. There are lots of cheap eats and bargain markets and malls in this area, making it a great place to stay if you plan to do a lot of bargain shopping in Seoul.

Yongsan is the area encompassing the N Seoul Tower, the popular international area of Itaewon, the trendy hilltop area of Haebangchon (HBC), Seoul Station, the National Museum of Seoul, and many riverside parks. Yongsan has a busy train station with towering skyscrapers and hotels around it catering to business and luxury travellers, as well as shoppers. This quiet business and residential area has good transport links and fewer crowds than other parts of Seoul, as well as interesting cultural attractions.

Yeouido is a large island that rests in the Han River, overlooking Hongdae and Yongsan. It has some of the best parks in Seoul and is a popular place for locals to walk along the river on weekends and at night. These parks are home to Seoul’s biggest cherry blossom festivals, as well as summer night markets, fireworks performances, live music, and people enjoying life outside of work. Yeouido is the upmarket financial centre of Seoul, making it an ideal base for business, luxury, and family travellers.

Seoul’s neighbourhoods are informal designations, not necessarily the official district name. For example, Hongdae is a neighbourhood in the Mapo-gu district and Myeongdong a neighbourhood in the Jung-gu district. Whereas Jongno is both the neighbourhood and district name (Jongno-gu).

You might see some areas referred to differently. However, the terms I’ve used in this section are the names most commonly used to describe these areas by tourists and expats. Koreans will certainly know which area of Seoul you’re talking about when you use these names.

Learn more : If you want to know more about Seoul’s best districts and figure out where the best place to stay for your trip to Korea, then check out my detailed guide about where to stay in Seoul . It’s packed with useful info about each neighbourhood, hotel recommendations for different budgets, and tips about booking accommodation in Seoul. Also learn more about the Han River Boat Service launching in 2024 to connect Yeoudio, Jamsil and other riverside destinations.

Hotel Recommendations For Seoul

There are hundreds (maybe thousands) of hotels in Seoul to choose from ranging from multi-person dorm rooms to the height of luxury looking down over Seoul from a 5-star hotel room in the Lotte World Tower . Whatever your budget or requirements, there’ll be somewhere to stay in Seoul for you.

To save you time searching for the best places to stay in Seoul, I’ve created a list of the 9 best luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels in Seoul, as well as 6 long-stay serviced apartments. This list has been created based on customer reviews, location, facilities, amenities, reputation, and quality.

I live outside of Seoul, so often book hotels when I’m visiting Seoul for the weekend . I’ve stayed at quite a few of these, so can personally recommend them based on my own experience. I’ve had both good and bad hotel experiences in Seoul and only want to recommend the best to you.

Recommended Luxury Hotels

Seoul has some incredible luxury hotels to enjoy, each with a true 5-star service, excellent amenities, and delectable restaurants. Many of Seoul’s best luxury hotels are located in Gangnam, Seoul’s wealthiest district, where you can find top restaurants and designer brand shopping.

Recommended Mid-Range Hotels

If you want to experience a luxurious stay in Seoul without breaking the bank, then these mid-range hotels will be perfect for you. These unique, 4-star hotels are reasonably priced and provide stylish, comfortable rooms that you’ll sleep easily in after a busy day exploring Seoul.

Recommended Budget Hotels

Seoul has a wide range of excellent budget hotels with prices that might surprise you for a large city. These are some of my favourite places to stay in Seoul when I visit for the weekend and are popular with travellers due to their convenient location, facilities, and comfortable beds.

Recommended Serviced Apartments

If you plan to stay in Seoul for a month or more, these serviced apartments will provide you all the comforts of home with the benefits of staying at a hotel. These excellent serviced apartments come with cleaning services, health facilities, cooking facilities, and are value for money.

Cost To Travel In South Korea In 2024

This part of the South Korea travel guide will help you understand some of your expected costs to travel to Korea. The costs to travel to Korea include flights, accommodation, food, drinks, transportation, activities, sim cards, visas, souvenirs, travel insurance, and lots more.

The costs you will pay when you travel vary massively depending on what type of traveller you are and what style of travel you can afford. If you want 5-star luxury and fine-dining, your budget will be very different from someone eating ramyeon from 7-11 and staying in a budget guesthouse.

Therefore, I will try to provide expected costs for 3 different types of traveller – budget , mid-range , and luxury . These aren’t exact figures, but should give you a rough idea of how much you’ll spend.

Daily Costs To Travel In Korea

There are costs that you will pay each day when travelling in Korea that can be averaged out to give you a daily cost. Knowing these figures will help you plan your budget for Korea and to see where you can afford to spend more for the one-off costs to travel, which will be covered next.

The daily costs are accommodation, food & drinks, transportation, attractions & tours, and miscellaneous expenses that can pop up unexpectedly. These miscellaneous costs might include getting a street food snack, an unexpected entrance fee, or a few extra drinks in the evening.

Transportation will be covered later in this South Korea travel guide and there are some useful tips to reduce your transportation costs. You will also be able to see some of the best attractions, tours, and activities in Korea and you’ll be able to work out how much you’ll spend on those.

Here are the daily costs per person to travel in Korea:

Please note : These are costs per day, per person . Couples and families sharing a room will have lower costs as double rooms aren’t much more expensive than single rooms. Some days will be cheaper, some much more expensive, especially if you take day trips or visit premium attractions.

There are also one-off costs not included in these daily costs. These can be pre-travel costs, such as flights and a K-ETA or tourist visa (already covered), travel insurance, vaccinations, and such like. Pre-travel costs are different for each traveller and depend on your country of residence.

Other one-off costs during travel in Korea may include day tours, souvenirs, shopping, celebrations, medical costs, and expenses that you don’t normally pay each day. Again, these vary for each traveller and are difficult to calculate as people’s budgets are so different.

Is Korea A Cheap Country To Travel In?

Korea is relatively cheap country to visit, but certainly isn’t always a budget destination. The cost to travel to Korea has risen over the last few years and might be more expensive than you think, even if you’ve previously visited Korea. Flying to Korea is certainly more expensive now.

Food costs rose by 7.5% in 2022 alone and these costs have been passed on to restaurants, which now charge higher prices for meals. Transportation costs rose by about 20% in 2023 for buses and subways, although these are still relatively cheap compared to some countries.

Despite these price increases, travelling in Korea is still cheaper than travelling in most other high-income industrialised countries such as Japan, the USA, and Western Europe. If you’re from countries such as the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, or Malaysia, Korea may seem expensive.

City Passes That Save You Money In Seoul

There are a number of city passes that can save you money when visiting Seoul by offering free or discounted entry to some of the best attractions in the city for a single price. The original city pass for Seoul is the Discover Seoul Pass, but now there is also the Go City Pass and Klook Pass Seoul.

Here’s a summary of each of these Seoul city passes:

Discover Seoul Pass : Available in 24 | 48 | 72 hour periods, allows entry to top attractions in Seoul such as Lotte World Adventure, N Seoul Tower, COEX Aquarium, Alive Museum, Zoolung Zoolung, Sealala Sauna, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and more. Prices start at 50,000 KRW .

Go City Seoul Pass : Available as 1 – 5 day passes or a flexible pass for up to 7 attractions. Covers a wider amount of attractions than the DSP, including a DMZ Tour, Nanta Cookin’ Musical, Seoul Land, Seoul Pub Crawl, Seoul Ghost Tour, and more. Prices start at 68,000 KRW .

Klook Pass Seoul : Available for use 2 – 5 attractions, including Everland or Lotte World Adventure theme parks. The Klook Pass Seoul allows free entry to selected attractions within a 30 day period. Attractions include the N Seoul Tower and Lotte World Aquarium. Prices start at 44,000 KRW .

If you’d like to know more about these passes, be sure to check out my article about the Klook Pass Seoul , as well as my suggested Discover Seoul Pass itineraries . I’ll have a review article of the Go City Seoul Pass soon, too.

How To Save Money In Korea

There are always ways to save money and spend less in Korea. Budget options exist for travellers and you can travel in Korea for less than 150,000 KRW per day, even as little as 50,000 KRW per day. Here are some of the ways you can save money in Korea and travel more for less:

Eat like a local : Visit the traditional markets, food stalls, and traditional Korean restaurants. These are much cheaper than eating foreign foods in Korea. University areas are usually cheap, too.

Spend less on coffee : Coffee in Korea can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. A latte could cost you 5,000 KRW in a chain store, but there are cheap hole-in-the-wall cafes where it’s half that.

Shop in the markets : From designer goods (possibly fake) to souvenirs, the markets of Seoul and other cities usually have the best prices. Don’t be afraid to haggle.

Use public transport : Korea has a fantastic public transport network both in cities and between cities. Don’t waste money on taxis and private transfers when you can use a bus or subway.

Book everything online : You can find discounted entry and tour tickets online that are much cheaper than the regular price. Use Klook , Get Your Guide , and Viator for the best prices.

Stay in guesthouses and hostels : You can find rooms for as little as 10,000 KRW per night in shared dorms and 20,000 KRW in guesthouses. Book ahead to find the best prices.

Take advantage of free things : There are lots of places you can visit for free in Seoul and free services, such as walking tours in Seoul, 30-minute hanbok rentals, and even free entry to the palaces.

Get your tax back : Korea makes it really easy to recover tax you’ve paid when shopping. Stores in Seoul will process tax returns for you or you can claim a refund at the airport when you leave.

You will see tips and links in this South Korea travel guide that are designed to help you save money when you visit Korea. Booking tours, attractions, and sim cards in advance can save you a lot of money, as can using a T-Money card and Wise travel card. Keep reading for more money-saving tips.

Travel Money And Money Exchanges In Korea

If you follow the tips in this section of this South Korea travel guide, you can certainly save yourself a lot of money and avoid unnecessary fees when spending in Korea. Learn where and how to exchange money, how to avoid ATM and card fees, and how to get tax back before you leave.

Because this section covers a lot of the common questions people ask about travel money in Korea, it will be broken down into a question and answer format. This should make it easier for you to find the information you’re looking for and discover answers you didn’t know you were looking for.

Can You Use A Foreign Card In Korea?

Almost all foreign credit cards with Visa or Mastercard will be accepted in Korea and it is possible to use these cards to pay across the country. American Express is also accepted in popular tourist areas, but not as widely as Visa or Mastercard and may have problems outside of big cities.

Foreign debit cards should work if they use Visa or Mastercard, but there may be restrictions in place with your bank when using them abroad. It is recommended that you call your bank to check before travelling. For both credit and debit cards, check your bank for any fees you’ll pay overseas.

Can You Withdraw Cash From An ATM In Korea?

You can withdraw cash from ATMs in Korea using a debit card, but not all ATMs will accept international cards. Look for a sign saying ‘Global ATM’ or ‘Foreign Currency ATM’ to withdraw cash in Korea with a debit card. You can also withdraw cash using a credit card, but it’s more expensive.

Whether you use a debit or credit card, an ATM is likely to charge a fee to withdraw money using a foreign card. Your bank or credit card company may also charge a fee or give a bad exchange rate. These costs can add up a lot if you withdraw regularly, so try to make fewer withdrawals.

Learn more : Should you use cash or card when you visit Korea? This article about the how to pay in Korea has lots of useful information about payment methods in Korea, including alternatives to the usual mix of cash and a credit card.

How Can You Save Money When Paying By Card In Korea?

Instead of using a foreign debit or credit card in Korea, which might have expensive fees or not work in places, here are two better options. The first is the WOWPASS travel card , which offers tourist-friendly card services in Korea. The other is to apply for a travel card that can be used globally.

Both the WOWPASS and the two other travel cards offer the ability to pay by card in Korea and to withdraw cash in Korean won. They also offer better exchange rates than you’ll find in airport or local money exchanges in Korea. They each have some unique features, which will be illustrated below.

Pay Like A Local With WOWPASS

The WOWPASS is a new way to pay in Korea that combines the essential functions of a T-Money transportation card with the benefits of a local debit card. This is a prepaid card you can top up at more than 90 locations in KRW or your own currency. Just look for the bright orange WOW machines.

The T-Money function in the WOWPASS means it’s more useful than other travel cards as you don’t need to carry two separate cards when you travel. Please note, you still need to charge the T-Money balance of WOWPASS with cash, just like a regular T-Money card.

The WOWPASS travel card allows you to add up to 1,000,000 KRW to your card and can be used to pay for almost anything in Korea without any fees. The card is issued by a Korean company, so you can use it to withdraw cash at any WOWPASS machine located in Seoul & other cities in Korea.

Thanks to the user-friendly WOWPASS app, users can freeze or replace their card, check their spending, add funds, and check exchange rates. Because the WOWPASS isn’t tied to your home bank account, it also reduces the damage by card fraud, in case the worst was to happen.

As well as a regular WOWPASS, you can also reserve the All-In-One Airport Package , which includes the WOWPASS, 10,000 KRW T-Money balance, and a discounted Korean sim card. This is really useful for those who want to get connected and travelling as soon as they arrive in Korea. Get the WOWPASS app for Android or Apple .

Tip : Use the invitation code INMYKOR1 to get cashback on WOWPASS top-ups in foreign currency.

Overseas Travel Cards You Can Use In Korea

Overseas travel cards are another option for spending in Korea and I use them myself to spend money from my UK bank account in Korea, as well as when travelling in other countries. They’re really simple to use and are much cheaper than paying with my foreign card or exchanging money.

Two of the leading travel card companies are Wise and Revolut . I use both of these to pay for things in Korea and have written an article about how to use the Wise card in Korea . You can use them to pay for hotels, food, drinks, transportation, taxis, attractions, and lots more. They’re really useful.

Here’s a summary of the main features of these travel cards:

The Wise travel card allows you to easily transfer and convert money from your home bank account into dozens of other currencies and use this money to pay when you’re travelling. You only need to transfer as much as you plan to spend and can easily transfer back anything you haven’t. The exchange rate will be better than your bank or a money exchange offers, too.

A versatile, easy to use app breaks down what you’ve spent by category so you can track your travel spending. You can withdraw cash from ATMs, pay by QR code, use it for Google Pay, and pay by contactless. Even if you lose your card, you can still spend money. It’s also really safe as you can freeze your card, set spending limits, and limit how much money you transfer.

The Revolut travel card can be used in Korea to pay for a wide range of goods and services without expensive fees for spending your home currency overseas. Unlike the Wise travel card, which lets you transfer money into different currencies and then spend in a local currency, such as Korean won, the Revolut travel card lets you pay fee-free with your home currency.

The Revolut travel card comes with an easy to use app that can be used to manage your money both at home and when travelling in Korea. You can check your spending with categories and reports and set budgets for your spending. The Revolut travel card also offers cashback in the US, stock and crypto investments, and the same security features as the Wise travel card.

Can You Use Apple Pay In Korea?

Apple Pay wasn’t previously available in Korea due to a lack of approval by Korea’s financial regulator. However, in February 2023, Apple Pay received approval to begin operating in Korea through the Hyundai Card Co., allowing payments with Apple devices from March 2023 onwards.

The Apple Pay payment system has been available in Korea since March 21st , 2023 and allows Apple Pay members to pay for goods and services at NFC-enabled payment terminals. However, on the launch date of Apple Pay, there were only 70,000 NFC-enabled payment terminals in Korea.

The lack of NFC-enabled payment terminals will be a big issue for Apple Pay users in Korea as there are around 2,900,000 shops in Korea and most won’t accept Apple Pay. Franchises like Starbucks can’t accept Apple Pay and it can’t be used to pay for public transport. You’ll need a T-Money card.

Samsung Pay, which uses MST technology, not NFC, currently dominates the Korean market. NFC-enabled terminals should grow, especially in tourist areas and city-centres from 2023 onwards. This will be good news for Google Pay, which also uses NFC technology and also isn’t in use in Korea yet.

Should You Exchange Money Before Travelling To Korea?

It is not necessary to exchange money into Korean won before travelling to Korea, but it can certainly be useful to have a small amount of money. Exchange rates for Korean won outside Korea may not be as good as within Korea and changing large amounts of cash before you travel isn’t essential.

It might be hard to get Korean won from your local bank or money exchange as it’s not one of the most commonly exchanged currencies. Therefore, you might find exchange rates less favourable and extra fees applied to exchange money. Using travel cards like Wise or Revolut is a better option.

Should You Change Money At Incheon Airport?

I’ve travelled around the world and always avoid exchanging money at the airport if I can help it. Airports often have the worst rates for money exchange as they know people need to get local cash, there aren’t many other options, and you need at least a bit of money to travel to your hotel.

Incheon Airport is an exception to this rule and I’ve compared travel exchange rates at several times when flying into and out of the airport. The foreign currency exchange rates at Incheon Airport aren’t that bad and are just slightly higher than what you’d find in Seoul. Not the best, but not bad.

There are also Global ATMs at Incheon Airport, so you can withdraw cash here. If you have a Wise or Revolut travel card, you can withdraw up to $200 fee-free from an ATM in Korea. However, Korean banks will charge a withdrawal fee (about 3,000 KRW), which applies to any foreign card used.

Where Can You Exchange Money In Seoul?

Seoul is the first destination for most travellers to Korea and if you want to save money on exchange rate fees, I recommend exchanging money in the capital. There are two main options for exchanging money easily and quickly in Seoul – WOW money exchange machines and money exchanges.

Here’s a summary about the two main ways to exchange money in Seoul:

The cheapest and most convenient option for exchanging money in Seoul is through a WOW money exchange machine. This automated machine gives the best exchange rates and can quickly and easily exchange foreign cash for Korean won. It doesn’t accept card payments, only cash. All you need to do is scan your passport and deposit your cash and it will convert it into Korean won immediately. There are dozens of these machines in Seoul, as well as in other cities like Busan and Daejeon.

The traditional way to exchange foreign currency in Seoul was through a money exchange. You can find these in Myeongdong, where many tourists stay and visit in Seoul. There are also money exchanges inside banks and in other tourist hotspots. These used to be the best place to exchange money, until the WOW money exchanges were introduced and travel cards like Wise and Revolut made it easier to use a card. If you want to use a money exchange in Seoul, Myeongdong is the best place to do it.

Can You Get Tax Back When Shopping In Korea?

Travellers to Korea can claim tax back on eligible purchases during their trip. This can be done immediately after you purchase an item (if the shop offers the service) or at Incheon Airport or other airports in Korea before you depart.

Instant tax refunds are available at certain locations in Seoul and other big cities. These are usually department stores and large chain stores. You are able to claim tax refunds for goods up to a total value of 2,500,000 KRW (incl. tax). There is a tax refund limit of 500,000 KRW per transaction.

2024 Tax Refund Changes : From 2024, the tax refund limits will be doubled, so you will be able to claim up to 5,000,000 KRW of tax back and claim up to 1,000,000 KRW back per transaction. Source: Korea Herald .

To claim a tax refund you need:

• To show your passport
• To be a tourist in Korea
• To spend between 30,000 to 300,000 KRW in one place
• To be leaving Korea within 3 months

Tax isn’t refundable on all purchases, so be sure to check when shopping. Tax refunds can also be claimed at the airport as long as you have the receipt and the goods you’ve purchased.

Mobile Phones And Internet In Korea

Staying connected to the Internet when visiting Korea is becoming more and more essential these days. Keeping your mobile phone, tablet, or computer connected to the web is useful not only to stay in touch with people back home, but also to help you save money and travel Korea more easily.

There are several options to stay connected in Korea when you travel. The main options for travellers are tourist SIM cards, either physical or eSIMs, portable WiFi routers, and relying on free WiFi provided in public places and hotels. All of these are good options, but there are other considerations, too.

This South Korea travel guide will cover the main differences between Korean SIM cards and portable WiFi routers and which will be most suitable for you. There are also details about why you might want a Korean phone number and which apps to use to help you travel in Korea.

Don’t forget, if you bring your phone or other mobile devices to Korea, you’ll need a travel adapter .

Should You Get A Korean SIM Card Or WiFi Router?

Both a Korean SIM card or portable WiFi router will provide access to Korea’s high-speed mobile networks and keep you connected to the Internet. They provide a secure internet connection, but do so in a different way and with different available features. Find out about the best Korean SIM card for tourists in this SK SIM card review .

Here are the main features of Korean SIM cards and WiFi routers:

Costs : SIM cards and WiFi routers are similarly priced when using them for a two week period, but they are charged in different ways. SIM cards are fixed-price and can be bought for set time periods, whereas WiFi routers are charged daily. WiFi routers are cheaper in the short-term.

Ease of use : If you purchase or pre-order a SIM card or portable WiFi router at Incheon Airport, which I highly recommend, the staff will install or setup everything for you. Once they’re activated, it’s very simple to use either one. Cancelling and returning them at the airport is also easy for both.

Here are the reasons you should get a Korean SIM card or portable WiFi router in Korea:

You should get a Korean SIM card when visiting Korea to get a Korean phone number. The benefits of having a Korean phone number are mainly to make calls and use Korean apps. SIM cards are also useful if you want a secure connection everywhere you go and plan to make calls or send texts. When you have a SIM card, you can tether your network connection to connect other devices you own. Korean phone coverage is amazing and you’ll get service everywhere. SIM cards don’t require you to carry any extra devices and are cheaper over the long-run than WiFi routers.

You should get a portable WiFi router if you’re travelling in a group or as a family as you can connect multiple devices to one router. This is much cheaper than getting separate SIM cards for all travellers, but also requires people stay close together. WiFi routers are charged per day and if you need additional days, they’ll be automatically added and charged when you return the router. This means you’ll never have to worry about your service suddenly ending. The main downside to using a WiFi router is the lack of Korean phone number, but that might not be an issue if you don’t need one.

Where Can You Get Korean SIM Cards Or WiFi Routers?

You can get a Korean SIM card or portable WiFi router in several ways. The easiest way, and one that I definitely recommend, is to purchase online through a tour company such as Klook , Viator , or Get Your Guide , and get a SIM card at Incheon Airport or other entry point into Korea when you arrive..

The main reason I recommend this method is that you can guarantee you will get a SIM card or router and it will be waiting for you when you arrive. The collection desks at Incheon Airport are open 24-hours a day and they will help you install everything you need to get started immediately.

You can also get SIM cards and WiFi routers when you arrive at the airport and you should find similar rates. However, you won’t be guaranteed a device and you will need to pay in person. When you book online, you can pay in your home currency and avoid those issues.

I don’t recommend getting a SIM card or WiFi router in Seoul or other cities. It is possible, but you may run into language issues and find less tourist-friendly options. Phone shops outside the airport usually cater to Koreans, not tourists. Airport rentals are the easiest options for visitors to Korea.

What’s The Benefit Of A Korean Phone Number For Tourists?

There are two main benefits of having a Korean phone number for tourists. The first benefit is the ability to call people when you’re in Korea. This can be useful for making reservations, keeping in touch with people, and in case of emergencies.

The second benefit of having a Korean phone number is the ability to use Korean apps . It isn’t mandatory to have a Korean phone number to use Korean apps, but most won’t let you use their services unless you sign up with a phone number. Using Korean apps makes travelling easier.

A phone number is like a form of identity in Korea, which is why you need your passport to register a SIM card. Once you have a phone number, many more services are available, including food delivery, ordering taxis, making reservations (such as for the Busan Sky Capsule ), and online messaging.

What Apps Do I Need For Travelling In Korea?

If you have a Korean phone number, you can use Korean apps. Even without a Korean number, you can still download these apps and use some of their services. Full features typically require a phone number though. There are other, non-Korean apps that will help you when travelling, too.

Here are the most useful apps to use when travelling in Korea:

Papago : This is the essential translation tool for visiting Korea. Papago’s translation services are the best and you can use the app to take pictures and translate Korean signs, menus, and other pictures.

Naver Maps : To find your way around Korea, use Naver Maps or Kakao Maps. Their systems are much more accurate in Korea than Google Maps. Use them to plan travel routes and transport times.

Kakao Taxi : Uber and Grab don’t really exist in Korea, so if you plan to take a taxi, you’ll need to use Kakao Taxi. Simple to use and takes the hassle out of trying to use Korean to give directions.

Kakao Talk : This is Korea’s most popular messaging app and is useful for keeping in touch with Korean friends, contacting businesses in Korea, and even calling abroad.

Seoul Subway : Use this app to travel around Seoul’s underground more easily. Plan your route, see when the next train is due to arrive, check connections, and see how late the trains run.

Korail Talk : This app allows you to book trains on Korea’s high-speed train network and regular train routes. This app has an English setting, so you can check train times and prices easily.

Coupang Eats : This is a food-delivery app that allows you to order almost anything edible and get it sent directly to you. You can even order convenience store goods. Useful for rainy days.

Mango Plate : Find restaurants in Korea with this app and discover the best places to go out and eat. You can also see restaurant details and get directions in Naver Maps and Kakao Maps.

WOWPASS : To use the WOWPASS to pay like a local in Korea and for T-Money functions, you’ll need the WOWPASS app. This will let you check your balances and spending and control your card.

Wise & Revolut : As mentioned in this South Korea travel guide, using a travel card to pay for items in Korea will save you money when you travel. If you use Wise or Revolut, make sure you have the app.

Klook : This company provides some of the best tours in Korea and if you make bookings through their website, you can easily manage them with the Klook app.

Intercity Bus by T-Money : This app is great for booking buses between cities in Korea. There is an English version that allows you to book tickets, check times, and see available seats.

These apps should be available on both Android and Apple. Some of these apps might default to Korean, but you should be able to change them to English in the side menu.

Is There Free WiFi In Korea?

Travellers in Korea have the option to not get a sim card or portable WiFi but still stay connected. This is thanks to the excellent Free Wifi in Korea that is provided in public transport, government buildings, restaurants, cafes, and many other places. This is mostly in the cities, however.

Hotels also provide free WiFi in most cities in Korea. If you plan to rely on free WiFi, I recommend using the hotel’s WiFi to plan routes, check opening times, and research places you want to visit. Take screenshots of these details so you can see them later, even if you don’t have Internet access.

The only warning I would give about relying on free WiFi when travelling in Korea is the increased use of mobile-dependent apps and passes in Korea. Physical tickets and passes are being phased out in favour of digital versions, which often need an active Internet connection to use.

I’ve noticed in recent years that services that impact travellers have moved to digital versions. This includes the T-Money card, Discover Seoul Pass, train and coach tickets, attraction tickets and event tickets. I believe that having a reliable net connection will be a must for most travellers soon.

Using Public Transport In Korea In 2024

This section of the South Korea travel guide looks at Korea’s public transport system and how to navigate it as a traveller. Korea has arguably one of the best public transport systems in the world. It’s cheap, well-connected, frequent, and runs on time. Other countries could learn a lot from Korea.

The great news for tourists is that Korea’s public transport is very foreigner friendly and information is provided in English in almost all places, as well as Chinese and Japanese in popular areas such as Seoul and Busan. Travelling by public transport in Korea is cheap, easy, and convenient.

How Much Does Public Transport Cost In Korea?

The cost of public transportation in Korea is fixed, no matter what day you purchase tickets on. If you buy one month in advance, or last minute, you will pay the same price for the journey. Journeys within a city are a single price and not dependent on how far you travel, unless you leave the city limits.

All journeys are single fares and you can’t buy return tickets. You will need to buy two singles when you want to travel somewhere and back again. The cost of a single fare depends on how you pay for the ticket – by cash or with a transportation card.

Here are the costs for public transport in Korea by payment method, type and user:

Please note : The cost of subway rides is set to rise to 1,400 / 1,500 KRW in October 2023. These prices will be adjusted when this occurs.

How Do You Pay For Public Transport In Korea?

The cost of public transport in Korea depends on whether you pay with a transportation card, such as T-Money, a Korea Tour Card , or Cashbee, or in cash. This applies to both subways and buses. If you use a transportation card, you should add credit to it, then touch it to the card reader at the subway or bus to pay.

To use cash to buy a subway ticket, you will need to buy a ticket at the station. For buses, you should pay the correct fare to the driver when boarding the bus. However, since 2022, buses across Korea have started to end the use of cash and some will insist on payment by transportation card only.

In the future, bus payments are expected to become simpler with fares deducted via bluetooth-enabled phones that have the relevant app downloaded. This system has already been in place in Gyeonggi Province since March 2022 and is likely to spread to more bus routes in the future.

I highly recommend getting a T-Money card when you travel to Korea. You can use it to pay for public transportation (at a discounted rate), and it will work almost everywhere in Korea. It can also be used to buy goods from shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s really convenient and a must-have for Korea.

Using T-Money To Pay For Public Transport In Korea

A T-Money card is the essential transportation card for using public transport in Korea. You can purchase one at Incheon Airport, subway and train stations, and convenience stores across Korea. The card can be used in many places. It never expires, so you can use it on different trips, too.

Here is how to use a T-Money card in Korea:

• Purchase a T-Money card (2,500 KRW)
• Add money to the card (cash top-up only)
• Enter the bus or subway station
• Tap the T-Money card against the card reader (see pic above)
• Tap the T-Money card again when you get off (for transfer discount)
• Recharge when necessary

I recommend adding about 10,000 KRW for each day you plan to travel in Korea. That means about 70,000 KRW for a week. You can add more money later if necessary. You can top up at convenience stores and transport stations. There is also an app version of T-Money, but the card version is better.

How Do You Use Trains In Korea?

The train network in Korea is divided into high-speed trains (KTX) and regular trains (ITX and Mugunghwa). The KTX network connects major cities in Korea and is convenient for travelling around Korea quickly and cheaply. The carriages are comfortable and come with modern facilities.

Unlike other forms of public transport in Korea, transportation cards like T-Money aren’t accepted for trains. You will need to buy a train ticket to travel and all tickets are single tickets. The price to buy a ticket doesn’t change and you can refund a ticket up to the last minute for only a small fee.

You can book tickets within 30 days of travel through the official Korail website or app, or at a train station in Korea. Unfortunately, buying a train ticket online in Korea can be difficult as Korean payment systems often reject cards issued outside of Korea. Buying in person is recommended.

How To Book Korean Rail Tickets Outside Of Korea

If you want to book Korean train tickets outside of Korea, you can do it online with Trip.com , which is Korail’s exclusive overseas distributor. The price is slightly higher (about 5%) than the price you’ll pay in Korea, but it will allow you to book tickets online and secure your seat in advance.

If you plan to travel on the main KTX route between Seoul and Busan, I highly recommend booking tickets in advance. There are three types of tickets available – first class, regular, and standing. The journey takes 2:34 and you don’t want to be standing for all that time. Book ahead for comfort.

Is The Korea Rail Pass Worth The Price?

The Korea Rail Pass is a good option for tourists who plan to travel long distances by train in Korea, such as between Seoul and Busan or Seoul and Jeonju. The pass has two main options – flexible and consecutive. These mean you can use it any time (flexible) or within consecutive days.

The flexible pass is more expensive, but offers more freedom to travel around Korea over a longer period. You can use the pass to only cover big journeys and won’t feel pressured to use it again until you’re ready. The extra cost is more than worth the inconvenience of having to rush travel plans.

Will you save money with the Korea Rail Pass? That depends on your travel plans, how often you’ll be travelling by train, and how many people are travelling. If there are 2 people or more, purchase the group saver pass and save 10,000 KRW each on the pass. Group tours make it better value.

The Korea Rail Pass does not allow you to ride on the subway for free, which would make it better value. It can also be complicated to reserve tickets online using the pass and buying tickets in the regular way is more convenient. Overall, the pass isn’t essential, but might save you money.

How Do You Use Taxis In Korea?

Taxis in Korea can be hailed from the street or called directly to you using apps such as Kakao Taxi . Companies like Uber and Grab don’t have a large presence in Korea and operate the same way as Kakao Taxi, by helping you find an official taxi driver. Private taxi services aren’t common.

The big issue facing the Korean taxi industry in 2024 is the lack of taxi drivers. This can make it hard to get a taxi, even when using an app like Kakao Taxi. Late night taxis are particularly difficult to find. Read this guide about how to use Kakao Taxi to help you learn how to call a taxi in Korea.

Taxi prices in Korea are reasonable, especially compared to countries like Japan and the UK. Although base taxi fares rose in 2023 to 4,800 KRW, the price is still low and relatively affordable to travel by taxi if you need to. It’s a good option if there are no direct public transport routes.

Taking a taxi to and from Incheon Airport is a convenient option if you have a lot of bags or you are travelling in a group. For solo travellers or couples, I would recommend using public transport or a limo bus, as it’s significantly cheaper and won’t take much longer than a taxi.

How Do You Use Intercity Buses In Korea?

Intercity buses in Korea operate in a similar way to trains. You can only book tickets within 30 days of travel and can only buy single tickets. Book tickets online through websites such as T-Money Bus or Bustago , through app versions of these sites, or at the bus terminal you will depart from.

You can’t walk onto intercity buses without a ticket, nor can you use transportation cards like T-Money to pay on entry. You will need to pay for and receive your ticket (physical or digital) before you can enter the bus. Ticket machines usually (but not always) have English options for buying tickets.

There are no return bus tickets in Korea and you can only buy tickets from your point of departure, unless you book online or via an app. If you’re travelling from Seoul to Gangneung, for example, you will need to buy a ticket in Seoul and then a ticket in Gangneung. You can’t buy both in Seoul.

How Can You Hire A Car In Korea?

Renting a car is a great way to see parts of Korea that aren’t covered by the train network and gives you the freedom to explore at your leisure. If you plan to travel to Jeju Island, which doesn’t have any trains, hiring a car will be a lot more convenient and is almost a must if you plan to travel inland.

Car rental in Korea isn’t that expensive and you can rent a modern car for as little as 75,000 KRW per day. I recommend booking car rentals through Klook , they will deal with the Korean car rental companies and reserve a car for you. This is easier than trying to do it in Korean.

To hire a car in Korea, you will need:

• Driver’s license (must have had it for at least 1 or 2 years)
• International Driving Permit (in some cases)
• Credit card (in the name of the main driver)
• Valid photo ID (passport)
• Printed voucher for rental (if booked online)

Here’s some more information about the International Driving Permit and rules you should follow when driving in Korea, such as the legal requirement to wear seatbelts, booster seats for under 6s, and not using your phone while driving. Be sure to read up on local rules before driving in Korea.

Best Places To Visit In Korea In 2024

The next few sections of this South Korea travel guide will help you figure out what you want to do and see on your travels. This first section will give you a brief introduction to the best places to visit in Korea, including the major cities, tourist hotspots, and unique areas that you’re sure to love.

Here are the best places to visit in Korea:

Seoul: Korea’s Capital

Seoul is Korea’s vibrant, bustling capital and truly a must-see for any first-time visitor to Korea. There is so much to see and do in Seoul that you could easily spend a week or more exploring the city and not get bored. You will find yourself falling in love with the city for different reasons. Maybe it’s the friendly people, the deliciously cheap street eats, the way things just work, the hidden murals on old buildings down side streets, the feeling of safety even in a big city, or the historic sights creeping out from modern buildings. Seoul includes everything Korea has to offer, plus a lot more you won’t find elsewhere.

What To See In Seoul

Here are 10 great places to visit in Seoul:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Bukchon Hanok Village
• Myeongdong Street Markets
• Lotte World Tower & Seokchon Lake
• Dongdaemun Design Plaza & Markets
• Yeouido Han River Park & Cruise
• Secret Garden (Changdeokgung Palace)
• N Seoul Tower & Namsan Mountain
• COEX Mall & Bongeunsa Temple
• Bukhansan National Park

Busan: Big Coastal City

While Seoul is a showcase of all things Korean, Busan is unashamedly its own city and a celebration of coastal life and local culture. Busan is famous for fresh seafood, traditional markets, great beaches, big festivals, movies, temples, and places to explore the coast. Beaches are popular places to visit in Busan, along with cliff-side walkways with views over the ocean. Central Busan is a lively spot with lots of entertainment and markets to enjoy, including a famous fish market where you can choose your own lunch and then eat it. Busan is spread out and deserves several days to explore it properly.

What To See In Busan

Here are 10 great places to visit in Busan:

• Haeundae Beach & Beach Train
• Jagalchi Fish Market
• Gamcheon Culture Village
• Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
• Songdo Beach & Cable Car
• Huinnyeoul Culture Village
• BIFF Square & Centum City Mall
• Oryukdo Skywalk & Coastal Paths
• Lotte World Busan
• Busan X The Sky Observatory

Jeju Island: Natural Wonder

Jeju Island is a gorgeous island created from a volcano rising out of the ocean 2 million years ago. Today it’s one of the New 7 Natural Wonders of Nature and deservedly so. The lush island is packed with pine trees, tangerines, rolling hills and fields, cacti, and jet black volcanic rock tumbled all around. You can relax on a beach, go horse riding, explore ancient lava tubes, scuba dive, climb to the volcano’s peak, chill in a beach-side cafe, explore traditional markets, learn about local culture, and lots more. The island has two main cities, but the attractions are spread out along the coast.

What to See On Jeju Island

Here are 10 great places to visit on Jeju Island:

• Hallasan Mountain (Volcano)
• Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak
• Hyeopjae & Hamdeok Beaches
• Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market
• Jeju Folk Village
• Yakcheonsa Coastal Buddhist Temple
• Jungmun Beach & Jusangjeolli Cliff
• O’Sulloc Green Tea Museum
• Cheonjiyeon & Jeongbang Waterfalls

Gyeongju: Historic Capital

Gyeongju , the former capital of the Shilla Kingdom in ancient Korea, is a true treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage sites, as well as local culture, history, and natural beauty. Described as an outdoor museum, you can see many of the big attractions in the Gyeongju Historic Area, including the 1,400 year Cheomseongdae Observatory . There’s so much to see in Gyeongju outside this area though, including the impressive Bulguksa Temple, one of the best Buddhist temples in Korea. There’s also the Bomun Lake Tourist District, a dreamy sight during cherry blossom season.

What To See In Gyeongju

Here are 10 great places to visit in Gyeongju:

• Bulguksa Temple & Seokguram Shrine
• Cheomseongdae Observatory
• Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond
• Yangdong Folk Village
• Hwangnidangil Hanok Street
• Daereungwon Tomb Complex
• Bomun Lake Tourist Complex
• Woljeonggyo Bridge
• Gyeongju National Museum
• Gyochon Traditional Hanok Village

Jeonju: Traditional Views & Food

Jeonju is the perfect destination for a day trip from Seoul and has most of its main attractions in one area of the city. What can you see in Jeonju? The main attraction is the gigantic Jeonju Hanok Village , featuring more than 700 traditional hanok houses. You can dress up in Korean hanbok, dine on Jeonju’s famous bibimbap in an old restaurant, and see how life in Korea used to be. There are plenty of other sights nearby, including a traditional market, pretty river, and the rather unusual Jaman Mural Village.

What To See In Jeonju

Here are 5 great places to visit in Jeonju:

• Jeonju Hanok Village
• Jeongdong Catholic Church
• Gyeonggijeon Shrine
• Nambu Traditional Market
• Jaman Mural Village

Suwon: Fortress City

Suwon is another city close to Seoul that you can visit in a day and see many interesting and unique sights. The main draw of Suwon is the Hwaseong Fortress and the fortress walls, which are still intact and run for 6km around the city. Inside this fortress you’ll find lots of museums, historic buildings, parks, and activities, such as archery. There are often cultural festivals in this area, too. Surprisingly, Suwon is the best place to get KFC (Korean Fried Chicken). There’s a whole street dedicated to making it.

What to See In Suwon

Here are 5 great places to visit in Suwon:

• Hwaseong Fortress & Fortress Walls
• Hwaseong Haenggung & Haengridan Gil
• Fried Chicken Street
• Korean Folk Village
• Gwanggyo Lake Park

Incheon: Modern City With Islands

Incheon is one of Korea’s largest cities, but is sadly ignored as it’s right next to Seoul and most people think it’s just there for the airport. That’s not true at all and there’s plenty to see and do in Incheon. Described as a futuristic city, Incheon is at the front of Korea’s push to become an ultra-modern country and nowhere shows that more than Songdo Central Park . The traditional side of Incheon is also worth exploring, including the Chinatown, which is home to Korea’s most popular student food – jajangmyeon . If you want to explore a lesser-seen side of Korea, check out the islands near Incheon to see ancient fortresses, temples, and charming sights.

What to See In Incheon

Here are 5 great places to visit in Incheon:

• Songdo Central Park
• Incheon Chinatown
• Wolmido Island
• Incheon Grand Park
• Ganghwa Jeondeungsa Temple

Gapyeong County: Tourists Treats

Gapyeong County is a rural part of Korea just outside Seoul that is one of the most popular day trip destinations for visitors and locals alike. Inside Gapyeong County is the lovely Garden of Morning Calm , a beautiful sculpted garden that showcases traditional Korean buildings set amongst thousands of different plants and trees. There’s also Nami Island , an ever-popular attraction that has long tree-lined streets to explore, woodland animals, bike paths, and even a zip line to the island. You can also visit Petite France, a recreation of a French village, Gapyeong Rail Bike Park, and Cheongpyeong Lake, and many other attractions in Gapyeong.

What To See In Gapyeong

Here are 5 great places to visit in Gapyeong:

• Nami Island
• Garden of Morning Calm
• Petite France
• Gapyeong Rail Bike Park
• Cheongpyeong Lake

North-East Coast: Amazing Beaches

The north-east coastal region of Korea, spreading between Sokcho and Gangneung , features some of Korea’s most popular summer seaside resorts and beaches. The wide, sandy beaches are perfect for water sports, working on your tan, and sitting at night listening to local musicians perform BTS covers and their own tunes. Sokcho deserves at least two days to explore, more if you plan to visit nearby Seoraksan National Park , one of Korea’s best places to see autumn foliage. Gangneung is where to see cherry blossoms in spring, sit and relax at a seaside cafe at Gangneung Coffee Street , and enjoy beach life.

What To See On The North-East

Here are 5 great places in north-east Korea:

• Sokcho Beach
• Gangneung Beach
• Seoraksan National Park
• Yangyang Surfyy Beach
• Gangneung Coffee Street

East Coast: Harbour Cities

Ulsan and Pohang are two industrial cities that don’t get enough attention, but are ideal for a weekend visit once you’ve explored other top sights. These coastal cities both have good beaches, coastal walks, and green spots, including a pretty bamboo forest in Ulsan. In Pohang, you can see the dizzying Space Walk , which looks out over the city and ocean. There’s also a former Japanese district with old buildings, and the famous Homigot Sunrise Square where you can watch the first sunrise of the year. Ulsan is famous for whaling and visitors should check out the charming Jangsaengpo Whale Museum and Daewangam Park.

What To See On The East Coast

Here are 5 great places on Korea’s East Coast:

• Yeongildae Beach & Space Walk
• Ilsan Beach & Daewangam Park
• Jangsaengpo Whale Museum
• Homigot Sunrise Square
• Taehwagang National Garden

South-West: Iconic Rural Destinations

South-west Korea is a long way from most travellers’ typical route, but this area is worth visiting if you have time. Gwangju , one of Korea’s largest cities, is hidden away down here and surrounded by natural beauty, including the Juknokwon Bamboo Forest , Boseong Green Tea Fields, and Suncheon Bay Nature Reserve. If you plan to hire a car , these spots will show you a completely different side to Korea. Gwangju, too, which is a fun city and the birthplace of Korean democracy. Hidden in the far corner of Korea is Mokpo, a lovely coastal city that has a new cable car carrying you over the ocean.

What to See In The South-West

Here are 5 great places in south-west Korea:

• Damyang Juknokwon Bamboo Forest
• Boseong Green Tea Fields
• Gwangju Culture Park & Penguin Village
• Suncheon Bay Nature Reserve
• Mokpo Marine Cable Car

South Coast Islands: Summer Getaways

Best explored during the hot summer months and early autumn, the south coast islands in Korea, which span from Busan to Mokpo, are where Koreans spend their summer holidays. The most popular destinations here are Geoje, Tongyeong, Yeosu, Namhae, and Goheung and each offers winding coastal paths, beaches, natural beauty, and fun summer activities. The best way to see these islands is with a rented car or by bike, riding around the coast visiting a few different beaches and attractions. Don’t expect too many cultural sights, instead you’ll find luges, gardens, water sports, and lots of fun.

What to See On The South Coast

Here are 5 great places on Korea’s South Coast:

• Dolsan Park & Cable Car
• Namhae Geumsan Boriam Hermitage
• Hallyeohaesang National Park
• Oedo-Botania Botanical Garden
• Skyline Luge Tongyeong

As you can see, there are many great places to visit in Korea. Korea is truly a country of undiscovered wonders that people aren’t aware of. Seoul is an incredible place to visit, but there’s so much more to see. That’s why I try to include lesser-known places in this South Korea travel guide.

The list above covers a lot of the most popular or tour-worthy destinations in Korea, but there are still more places I could recommend, such as Andong (home to the mask dance festival), Gunsan (port town with a retro vibe), Daegu (big city with historic sights), Daejeon , and many more.

Besides cities and towns in Korea, there are also 18 national parks to explore, thousands of mountains, Buddhist temples, beaches, bike routes, campsites, and so much more. I’ll include a few of each of these in the next few sections of this South Korea travel guide.

Best Day Tours From Seoul In 2024

Taking a day tour while you’re staying in Seoul is a great way to see more of Korea’s top attractions without the hassle of moving hotels to somewhere new. The 10 day tours from Seoul below can all be done in a day or less and can even be combined with other activities in the same day.

I don’t want to include every day tour available in this South Korea travel guide as there isn’t enough room to talk about them all. If you want to find more day tours, I recommend looking at the options available through tour providers such as Klook , Viator , and Get Your Guide .

Please note : There are many day tours from Seoul and they come with various prices. I recommend avoiding the very cheapest as these will often waste your time by taking you to some overpriced gift shop area and pressuring you to buy souvenirs or rushing you through too many attractions.

Here are 10 great day tours from Seoul:

Why Visit The DMZ

The DMZ, the demilitarised zone between North & South Korea is a truly unique place to visit when you’re in Korea. There are several different locations to see in this area, each reflecting the bitter struggle between the two Korea’s in the ongoing Korean War. Some of the highlights are the 3rd Tunnel, Dora Observatory, Dorasan Station, Gamaksan Suspension Bridge, and the Imjingak Park. There’s also the Panmunjom Truce Village where you can walk into North Korea, but this is currently closed. Tours are required to travel to certain parts of the DMZ.

Why Visit Gapyeong County

Gapyeong County is home to Nami Island, the Garden of Morning Calm, Petite France, Gapyeong Rail Bike Park, and several other fun attractions. Nami Island and the Garden of Morning Calm are the most popular and can both be visited in a day. You can witness beautiful scenes at these destinations, especially during cherry blossom season (April) and autumn foliage season (October). Tours from Seoul to Gapyeong County are convenient and can take you to multiple places in one day without the hassle of buses and finding your own way.

Why Visit Hwaseong Fortress

Hwaseong Fortress and its fortress walls offer a unique chance to see what life was like in Korea 200 years ago. Not only can you walk the full length of the walls around the city, you can also try archery and other traditional activities in the fortress grounds. There are many museums, fortress buildings, and exhibitions showing how people lived in this period. You can also enjoy the beautiful ponds and streams that run through the palace with traditional Korean restaurants and cafes looking out over these areas.

Why Visit Korean Folk Village

Discover traditional Korean life at the Korean Folk Village in Yongin during a day trip from Seoul. Walk through dozens of recreated farm buildings, government offices, academies, shops, smiths, schools, and other traditional buildings from Korea’s past to get a feel for how people lived at this time. Actors dressed in traditional Joseon-era costumes bring the scenes to life. You can try fun activities, such as mask carving, horse riding, and archery. Witness exciting festivals and cultural performances, too.

Why Visit Jeonju Hanok Village

A day trip to the Jeonju Hanok Village in Jeonju is a great way to experience various traditional Korean cultural activities in a beautiful setting. This sprawling hanok village has over 700 traditional buildings for you to explore, dine in, or even stay in. Make sure you rent hanbok in Jeonju so you look like Korean royalty and make memorable photos during your trip. Whilst you’re in Jeonju Hanok Village, you can try local delights such as Jeonju bibimbap and PNB chocopies. Also check out the traditional Nambu Market and Jeongdong Catholic Church.

Why Visit Alpaca World

When you travel to Korea, you may not think about seeing alpacas, which are from an entirely different continent. But Korea’s love of all things cute means that these furry friends have become very popular in Korea and have their own theme park a few hours from Seoul. There are dozens of cuddly alpacas to see, feed, and play with at Alpaca World , as well as hundreds of other cute critters such as ponies, rabbits, deer, goats, fennec foxes, and more. There are 17 separate areas to explore in Alpaca World and it’ll provide hours of fun for the whole family.

Why Visit Seoraksan

Seoraksan National Park on Korea’s east coast is a great day trip from Seoul for those who want to see mountain peaks, leafy valleys, stony rivers, and a gigantic Buddha. Even if you’re not a keen hiker, you can explore lots of the park’s valley pathways easily, or reach the top thanks to the convenient cable car. See the sights from the observatory and check out the small temple in the clouds. Make sure you try haemul pajeon (seafood pancake) and makgeolli (rice wine). It’s the traditional meal Koreans enjoy after hiking.

Why Visit Everland

Everland is Korea’s biggest theme park and is packed with attractions for everyone to enjoy. Thrill seekers will love the rollercoasters, such as T Express (the world’s 4th steepest rollercoaster) and many more exciting rides. Check out the Zootopia section to see wild animals and wild rides, or the Plantopia section for floral beauty, romantic walkways, and seasonal delights. There are plenty of attractions, cultural performances, entertainments, and seasonal events to keep you amused all day long.

Why Visit Danyang

A great way to see Korea’s countryside is with a day trip to Danyang to enjoy the rush of sailing over valleys and beside mountains while tandem paragliding. Feel the wind in your face and the sensation of riding the air currents as you pass over the many delightful views of Danyang. You can enjoy other activities in this area, such as the Mancheonha Skywalk , a clifftop lookout with incredible views, riding an alpine coaster, and zooming along a zip line. The perfect day tour from Seoul for thrill seekers.

Why Visit Dae Jang Geum Park

Fans of Korean period dramas and movies will love a day trip to Dae Jang Geum Park in Yongin. This is the largest historical drama filming set in Korea and was used to film MBC productions such as ‘Wind in the Palace’ and ‘The Great Queen Seondeok’, as well as K-Pop videos including Daechwita by Suga from BTS. If you’re lucky, you may see filming going on here. But even if you don’t, it’s a fun place for those who want to learn more about Korea’s history and take some cool pictures in a real movie set.

I’ve linked to tours provided by reliable tour companies in Korea. If you would rather book a tour through a local guide, contact Jerry Heng or Andrew Chung Hanbyul . They’re freelance guides with years of experience offering tours in Korea and both offer amazing service.

These places are accessible by public transport, but may take much longer than a tour would do, wasting your precious time. Check out my guide for getting to Nami Island to help you navigate Gapyeong County. For other destinations, I would recommend a tour – it’s more practical.

Best Sights To See In Korea In 2024

South Korea truly has something for everyone. There’s so much I want to include in this South Korea travel guide, which is why this section is full of different sights to see and explore. However, to keep things short and simple, I’ll just list them, not give full details about each one.

Whether you’re travelling to Korea to learn about Korean culture or history, to see Korea’s impressive landmarks, to enjoy family fun attractions, to hop from cafe to cafe, to immerse yourself in nature, or simply to eat and shop, then you’ll definitely find something for you in this section.

Famous Landmarks In Korea

Landmarks and iconic buildings are often top of a traveller’s bucket list for Korea as they provide great photo opportunities, showcase the best of the country, and offer fantastic views. Seoul has many top landmarks, but you can see plenty of other sights outside of the capital, too.

Here are 10 famous landmarks in Korea:

• Lotte World Tower (Seoul)
• N Seoul Tower (Seoul)
• Dongdaemun Design Plaza (Seoul)
• Cheonggyecheon Stream (Seoul)
• DMZ Area (near Seoul)
• Nami Island (Gapyeong County)
• Gamcheon Culture Village (Busan)
• Seongsan Ilchulbong (Jeju)
• Homigot Sunrise Square (Pohang)
• Banwol Purple Island (West Coast)

Historic Sights In Korea

Discover life in the Joseon period and before in Korea’s many captivating historic sights, including royal palaces, Buddhist temples, fortresses, and hanok villages. There are so many amazing historic sights to see in Korea, with each city having something to see.

Here are 10 historic sights in Korea:

• Bukchon Hanok Village (Seoul)
• Gyeongbokgung Palace (Seoul)
• The Secret Garden (Seoul)
• Seoul Fortress Walls (Seoul)
• Hwaseong Fortress (Suwon)
• Bulguksa Temple (Gyeongju)
• Gyeongju Historic Area (Gyeongju)
• Jeonju Hanok Village (Jeonju)
• Haedong Yonggungsa Temple (Busan)
• Andong Hahoe Village (Andong)

Korean Modern Cultural Sights

Fans of BTS, K-Dramas, Korean movies, and modern Korean culture in general have a lot to see and do in Korea. As well as famous filming locations across the country, these modern cultural sights will entertain, inform, and provide great destinations to visit.

Here are 10 modern cultural sights in Korea:

• Hallyu K Star Road (Seoul)
• K-Style Hub (Seoul)
• Hongik Uni. Station Area (Seoul)
• COEX Artium (Seoul)
• Asia Culture Centre (Gwangju)
• BIFF Square (Busan)
• Dae Jang Geum Park (Yongin)
• Sunshine Studio (Nonsan)
• Kim Gwang-Seok Street (Daegu)

Family Fun Attractions In Korea

Families travelling to Korea have plenty of things to see and do and ways to enjoy spending time together. There’s no Disneyworld or Universal Studios in Korea, but there are plenty of great alternatives, as well as places for children to explore, learn, and discover.

Here are 10 family fun attractions in Korea:

• Lotte World Adventure (Seoul)
• Everland Theme Park (Yongin)
• Seoul Grand Park & Zoo (Seoul)
• Alive Museum & Dynamic Maze (Seoul)
• Seoul Children’s Museum (Seoul)
• Zoolung Zoolung (Seoul)
• Sea Life Busan Aquarium (Busan)
• Jeju Dinosaur Island (Jeju Island)
• Alpaca World (Gangwon Province)
• Skyline Luge & Lotte World (Busan)

Korean Museums & Galleries

Travellers to Korea who want to learn about Korea’s history, culture, and art will love Korea’s impressive museums and galleries. These are great places to visit when the weather is bad and you might be surprised at how much there is to learn about Korea’s past.

Here are 10 museums & galleries in Korea:

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

Cafe Areas In Korea

When you need a break from travelling in Korea, visit one of these cosy cafe areas and take time to relax and recharge. Although Korea was traditionally a tea drinking country, cafes are now everywhere and you’ll find photogenic cafes everywhere these days.

Here are 10 cafe areas to visit in Korea:

• Ikseondong Hanok Village (Seoul)
• Gyeongui Line Parks (Seoul)
• Samcheondong Cafe Street (Seoul)
• Sinsa-dong / Garosugil Road (Seoul)
• Jukjeon Cafe Street (Seoul)
• Jeonpo Cafe Street (Busan)
• Haeridangil (Busan)
• Hwangnidangil (Gyeongju)
• Hwaseong Haenggung Area (Suwon)
• Gangneung Coffee Street (Gangneung)

Korean Markets & Malls

If you want the best selection of street food, souvenirs, and bargain shopping options, be sure to visit Korea’s many traditional markets. It’s a cultural experience itself. Korea also has some of the world’s largest malls with a wide variety of Korean and international goods.

Here are 10 markets & malls in Korea:

• Gwangjang Market (Seoul)
• Dongaemun Market (Seoul)
• Hongdae Shopping Street (Seoul)
• Starfield COEX Mall (Seoul)
• Jagalchi Fish Market (Busan)
• Seomyeon Underground Mall (Busan)
• Centum City Mall (Busan)
• Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market (Jeju)
• Nambu Market (Jeonju)
• Paju Premium Outlets (Paju)

Korean Natural Wonders

Korea is a country covered in mountains, waterfalls, valleys, rice terraces, and beautiful natural sights. Make time to visit some of these natural wonders when you visit Korea and you’ll be amazed at the incredible views you can find. The national parks are truly breathtaking.

Here are 10 natural wonders to see in Korea:

• Hallasan Mountain (Jeju)
• Jirisan National Park (Southern Korea)
• Seoraksan National Park (Gyeonggi)
• Garden of Morning Calm (Gapyeong)
• Juknokwon Bamboo Forest (Damyang)
• Boseong Green Tea Fields (Boseong)
• Udo Island (Jeju Island)
• Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak (Jeju)
• Hyeopjae Beach (Jeju)
• Suncheon Bay National Park (Suncheon)

These 100 ideas are just the tip of the iceberg for what you can enjoy when travelling to Korea. There’s so much more to discover and I recommend you add some time to your travel plans to explore without a plan. Sometimes the best travel memories come from unexpected discoveries.

Best Activities To Try In Korea In 2024

Often the most memorable moments when travelling come from the experiences we have, not just the places we visit. Visiting a palace is interesting, but visiting a palace while dressed in traditional Korean hanbok , pretending you’re Joseon-era royalty with your friends or family is much more fun.

This section of the South Korea travel guide offers 10 fun activities you can try when you visit Korea. These will give you a good introduction to Korean culture, food, history, and nature. If you want more ideas, check out my list of 50 unique Korean experiences you can only do in Korea.

One of the top experiences to try in Korea has to be wearing Korean hanbok. It is available for all members of the family (even pets) and you can rent hanbok near most palaces or hanok villages. The hanbok easily fit over your regular clothes and come in a variety of colourful or traditional designs. You can get hair styling, accessories, and even have a hanbok photoshoot . Rentals can be as short as one hour or up to a full day.

Travellers to Korea can’t say they’ve truly tried Korean cuisine until they’ve eaten Korean street food from a market stall or street vendor. There are many types of Korean street food to sample in Korea, such as savoury snacks like tteokbokki and eomuk , to sweet treats like hotteok and bungeo-ppang . Korean street food is cheap and delicious. It’s usually not that healthy, but always leaves you feeling great. Give it a try.

Experience life as a Korean would have in the Joseon-era with a night in a traditional hanok house. A hanok stay is very different from sleeping in a hotel and allows you to try a night on a futon (with underground heating keeping you warm in winter). Slide the doors aside in the morning and walk out onto the wooden decking to enjoy traditional Korean tea at a low table and the sight of the ornately decorated garden. Don’t forget to take your shoes off before you enter.

Seoul and other cities in Korea still have fortress walls you can walk or hike along that will offer incredible views of cities and mountains. As you walk along the fortress walls, you begin to imagine what life would have been like as a soldier keeping the city safe from invaders. Nowadays, you can enjoy exercise and sightseeing at the same time. Seoul’s fortress walls are a good place to start, but you can find fortress walls in many other places.

Visiting a Korean sauna might be a bit shocking for first-time travellers to Korea, but it’s a great way to relax and is especially good in winter. When you enter a Korean sauna, you should take off all your clothes, have a shower, and then enter one of the hot baths. Being naked in front of others can be scary for some, but you soon overcome that fear. Korean saunas sometimes have a communal resting area called a jjimjjilbang . These areas require pyjamas and offer snacks, drinks, and places to rest.

The Cultural Corps of Korean Buddhism have set up a templestay program at dozens of temples across Korea where you spend a day or two at the temple and join in various activities. This is truly a unique experience that you should try in Korea as you get to see customs performed by the monks that aren’t normally shown to the public. You also get to stay overnight at the temple and experience a hanok stay at the same time. Guests can also eat healthy vegan temple food, learn a lot, and chat with the monks.

A noraebang is the Korean version of a karaoke room, but is more popular in Korea and is commonly visited by locals and tourists alike. This is a great place to visit in the evening after a big Korean bbq meal and a few drinks. Everyone can relax and belt out their favourite Korean or international tunes together (or alone), shake some tambourines in support, or just watch and enjoy the atmosphere with some drinks. You can find these in every town and city in Korea and they provide a cheap night of fun and drinks.

Open since 2020, the Sky Bridge at Lotte World Tower offers unbeatable views of Seoul and a nerve-racking trip above the city. Walk between the two towers at the top of the Lotte World Tower and peer down the 541 metre drop to the city streets below. It’s actually very safe and you’re strapped into a harness as you walk from one side to the other, but this definitely isn’t for the faint-hearted. If you’re not sure you can handle the height, check out the Seoul Sky Observatory on the 117th floor instead.

Koreans love to drink coffee and also love cute, unusual things, which is probably why theme cafes have become so popular in Korea. Besides the many cat cafes, there are theme cafes where you can stroke sheep, pet dogs, and see other animals. There’s more to Korea’s theme cafes than just drinking coffee with animals, you can also try drinking from a toilet at the Poop Cafe , paint pictures, build lego, go camping, practice being a wizard, and more. Hongdae in Seoul is the best place to find theme cafes.

Although cafes are replacing Korean tea houses, Korea still grows and drinks lots of tea, especially green tea. You can visit these tea fields in areas such as Boseong and on Jeju Island, both of which have visitor centres and attractions to teach you about the wonderful world of Korean tea. The Daehan Dawon Tea Plantation in Boseong has lush green fields all year round and has been used as a filming location for several Korean shows. The O’sulloc Tea Museum on Jeju Island also has lovely views.

I recommend trying at least a few of these unique activities, they’ll really make your trip to Korea more memorable and offer insights into Korean culture and life. My advice is to be brave when visiting Korea and try new things, even if they seem a bit unusual at first. The same applies to Korean foods.

Best Korean Festivals To Join In 2024

There are dozens of festivals held in Korea each year celebrating the seasons, local products, traditions, culture, and often just for the sake of having fun. Visiting a festival in Korea will offer you a glimpse of how locals celebrate life, culture, and nature and let you join in the fun.

Whenever you visit Korea, there’ll be festivals going on. However, the biggest festivals occur in spring or autumn. As mentioned previously in this South Korea travel guide, these are the best seasons to visit Korea as the weather is pleasant and people are celebrating the end of summer or winter.

Cherry Blossom Festivals

The cherry blossom festivals in Korea occur in late March and early April and are some of the biggest festivals in Korea. People flock to forests, lakes, and rivers to see the pretty blossoms. The Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival has over 2 million visitors each year, and even more people visit Seokchon Lake and Yeouido Hangang Park in Seoul. There are many festivals and tours to see cherry blossoms in Korea so you should be able to find a quiet place to enjoy the view.

Winter Light Festivals

During the cold, dark days of winter, attractions such as Nami Island, the Garden of Morning Calm, and Herb Island transform into sparkling winter wonderlands with millions of bright lights illuminating them. There are also winter illumination festivals in Korean cities, such as the Haeundae Lighting Festival in Busan, Cheonggyecheon Stream Winter Lights in Seoul, and the Busan Christmas Tree Cultural Festival. When it snows in Korea, these festivals look even more magical.

Summer Music Festivals

Summer in Korea is hot, but that doesn’t stop people enjoying day-long music festivals across the country. From chilled jazz festivals like the Seoul Jazz Festival , to action-packed concerts like Psy’s Summer Swag , there are music festivals to suit everyone. This is a popular summer activity in Korea , so be sure to book in advance for ticketed events. If you can’t get tickets, just go to a popular beach in the evening and you’ll usually find musicians performing.

New Year Festivals

There are various festivals in Korea to celebrate the solar new year. New Year’s Eve festivals involve a bell-ringing ceremony where a giant bell is rung at midnight to welcome in the new year. Fireworks festivals are common events in cities across Korea, starting at midnight, too. Koreans celebrate the start of the new year by visiting the East Coast to see the first sunrise of the year at places like Homigot Sunrise Square or Seongsan Ilchulbong on Jeju Island.

Buddha’s Birthday Festivals

Buddha’s Birthday is like Christmas for the Buddhist world, but celebrated very differently. It also falls on changing dates each year as it follows the lunar calendar, just like Korean New Year. Korean Buddhist temples across Korea will celebrate by putting up colourful lanterns and decorations for at least a month before the actual date. The biggest festival celebrating Buddha’s Birthday is the Yeon Deung Hoe Lantern Festival , which features thousands of lanterns and a lantern parade through central Seoul.

Boryeong Mud Festival

The Boryeong Mud Festival is one of Korea’s largest festivals and attracts visitors from around the world. Running for 2 weeks during rainy season, this is the best way to see a Korean festival even when the weather is bad. There’s a lot to see and do at this festival, including getting dirty in the mud with mud sports, mud wrestling, mud tug-of-war, and other mud-filled events. Boryeong is famous for the high-quality mud found in nearby waters and, by joining this festival, you’re getting a free mud facial.

Jinju Lantern Festival

The visually stunning Jinju Lantern Festival is held in October each year in Jinju City and runs for several weeks. During the day, watch cultural performances and enjoy exploring the central fortress grounds of Jinju. Once it gets dark, see the city transform as thousands of lanterns, some as big as trees, come to life. There are so many weird and wonderful lanterns to discover at this festival. You can also set your own lanterns to float down the river with your wish inside.

Andong Mask Dance Festival

The Andong Mask Dance Festival in Andong, home of the Andong Hahoe Village, is a great opportunity to witness traditional Korean dance and music performances. Not only can you see traditional Korean performances during this 4 day festival, there are also international performers displaying their own culture’s dancing. Get hands-on with traditional Korean culture at this festival. Explore Andong and learn about its contributions to Korea’s cultural development.

Goyang Flower Festival

The Goyang International Flower Festival runs twice per year, once in spring and once in autumn. It’s a beautiful celebration of floral beauty mixed with Korean cuteness and creativity. At this flower festival you can stroll through a maze of different displays, with each section focusing on certain flowers and plants. There are indoor displays with vividly coloured roses, nature-based outdoor photo zones, and the lovely Ilsan Lake Park in the background.

Baekje Culture Festival

The Baekje Culture Festival probably isn’t one that first-time travellers to Korea would know about. Held in Gongju and Buyeo, the two former capitals of the ancient Baekje Kingdom, this 10-day long festival held around Chuseok (Korean mid-autumn harvest festival), is packed with unique events and sights and is set in historic locations in each city. There’s local food to try, musical & cultural performances, fun photo zones, lantern displays, and much more.

Knowing when you plan to visit Korea will help you research what festivals are on and what the weather will be like. There are certainly a lot more than just the ones mentioned above, including some others mentioned previously in the seasons part of this South Korea travel guide.

I recommend using a tour company to see out of the way festivals like the Jinju Lantern Festival and the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival. These are often far from typical tourist destinations and can take hours to get to by public transport. Tours are worth the cost to save you time and avoid hassle.

Recommended Itinerary For Korea In 2024

In this section of this South Korea travel guide is my recommended first-timer itinerary for South Korea. This introduces you to two of Korea’s biggest cities, as well as a couple of day trips to highly rated destinations in Korea. There’s a mix of history, culture, nature, sights, and experiences.

This itinerary starts in Seoul as that’s where most people arrive to Korea after flying into Incheon Airport. If you arrive in Busan, you can change the route to start and end there instead. For travellers to Korea with only 2 or 3 days, I recommend using the first few days of this itinerary instead.

The itinerary lasts for one week, which isn’t enough time to see all of Korea, but enough time to get a feel for the country. If you have more time, use this itinerary and add in or replace extra destinations as you like. Jeju Island is certainly worth visiting if you have an extra 2 or 3 days.

Classic Sights Of Korea Itinerary

This itinerary covers a few must-see sights in Korea, including the two largest cities, the history city of Gyeongju, and some popular day trip destinations from Seoul.

Day 1 : Arrive in Seoul and explore Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong Art Street, Jogyesa Temple, and Cheonggyecheon Stream. Get dinner at the Jonggak Avenue of Youth for authentic Korean food that’s better than the touristy places in Myeongdong.

Day 2 : Learn about Korean history at the War Memorial of Korea or National Museum of Korea, explore Seoul’s traditional Gwangjang market in Dongdaemun, take the cable car to the N Seoul Tower for sunset & night views, then head down to Itaewon or Myeongdong for dinner & drinks.

Day 3 : Take a day trip to Gapyeong and visit Nami Island, the Garden of Morning Calm, and the Gapyeong Rail Bike Park. Return to Seoul for dinner and rooftop drinks in Myeongdong and then walk along the fortress walls from Dongdaemun Station if the weather is good.

Day 4 : Take the KTX to Busan, drop your bags, and take the subway to Nampo-dong for Jagalchi Fish Market, Bosu-dong Book Alley, and traditional sights. Take a taxi to Huinnyeoul Culture Village. End the day in Haeundae for evening dinner & drinks and a walk along the beach at night.

Day 5 : Take the bus to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, then a taxi to Songjeong Beach. Relax in a beachside cafe, then take the Haeundae Beach Train to Cheongsapo, change to the Sky Capsule, and end up in Haeundae. Take a bus to Gamcheon Culture Village and get dinner at Songdo Beach.

Day 6 : Take a day trip from Busan to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Gyeongju. Visit the Gyeongju Historic Area, then Gyeongju Gyochon Traditional Village for traditional food and sights of Woljeonggyo Bridge. See tranquil night views of Wolji Pond before getting dinner at Hwangnidangil.

Day 7 : Head back to Seoul on the KTX for a final day of shopping and sightseeing in Hongdae. Walk along the Gyeongui Line Forest Park or Book Street or visit a theme cafe. Take the subway directly to Incheon Airport from Hongdae or spend a night here and check out the lively night scene.

Please note : I recommend trying not to cram too much into your itinerary. You may want to see as much as possible, but people often end up rushing past sights and not appreciating them. Plan for less and see more if you have time. It gives you a chance to be spontaneous.

To plan a realistic itinerary for South Korea, it is important to factor in transportation, meal breaks, and rest times. Use Naver Maps to plan your route and work out travel times. A short journey on the map might take much longer if there’s no direct route. Also consider breaks if you plan to walk a lot.

Cultural Issues When Visiting Korea

The next few sections of this South Korea travel guide will provide answers to some of the most common questions first-time travellers to Korea have in regards to cultural, language, and safety issues. Korea is a culturally unique country with customs and traditions you might not be aware of.

Korea is a society that places a strong emphasis on social image, respect for others, and social harmony. This means Koreans will often try to avoid conflict, especially in public. To show respect for Korean culture and to avoid being rude, try to respect social harmony and always avoid conflict.

If you follow these tips, you’ll find it easier to avoid accidentally upsetting someone in Korea. There’s far too much to cover in this South Korea travel guide, so if you’d like to know more, check out my detailed guide to Korean etiquette and culture , it’s packed with tips and insights to understand Korea.

What is considered rude in Korea? It is considered rude to point with one finger or with chopsticks, give and receive with one hand, cross your legs when sitting, and to walk inside with your shoes on. Things considered rude in other countries such as swearing and spitting are also rude in Korea.

What is considered unlucky in Korea? It is considered unlucky to write someone’s name in red ink and to stand chopsticks upright in rice. Both are used in rituals for deceased people. The number 4 is also unlucky as the word is the same as the word for ‘death’.

Do you need to tip in Korea? It’s not necessary to tip in Korea and most restaurants and cafes won’t expect or allow you to tip. There is no service charge added to bills in Korea, with the exception of some upmarket restaurants, bars, and hotels in touristy areas of Seoul. Tipping guides is okay.

Do you need to take off shoes when going inside? If you enter someone’s house in Korea, you should take off your shoes. This rule also applies to temples, traditional restaurants, and other places in traditional buildings. Most cafes, shops, and restaurants won’t ask you to take off your shoes.

When should you use two hands in Korea? You should use two hands when giving and receiving things in Korea, such as money, a gift, a business card, or food. When you shake hands, use both hands, not just one. The same applies to pouring drinks, both pouring and holding a glass.

Do I have to act like a Korean in Korea? You don’t have to follow Korean customs and traditions when you visit Korea. You are a guest in the country and Koreans won’t expect you to know every rule. However, showing cultural awareness in Korea will help you make friends and impress locals.

The best tip for being culturally sensitive in Korea is to first consider all the things that you’d consider rude in your own country – spitting, swearing, shouting, physical violence, etc. Show the same acts of kindness you’d show at home – help others, give up your seat for those in need, be polite, etc.

Furthermore, remember that social harmony is really important in Korea and try not to cause a scene. Keep your voice down in public, don’t talk or act aggressively, be polite, and don’t force things when people are reluctant. Koreans may feel obliged to do things, even when they don’t want to.

Language Issues When Travelling Korea

Language issues can be a big concern for first-time travellers to Korea as Korean is a very different language from English and has a unique alphabet. Korean is also one of the most difficult languages to learn for English speakers, ranked alongside Japanese, Chinese, and Arabic.

However, as a tourist to Korea, you don’t need to worry about mastering the language. English is used for signs and announcements in most places that you’ll need it, such as on public transport, at the airport, at attractions & tourist sites, on menus, and most other places. It’s common across Korea.

If there is a sign or notice that isn’t in Korean, I recommend using the Papago app to take translate it. Use the image translation function in the app to scan the sign and Papago will translate it into English for you. It’s really convenient and the way I translate things I can’t read in Korean.

Do Korean People Speak English?

Speaking in English to Korean people is different from being able to read and translate signs. English is taught from elementary school until the end of high school. That doesn’t mean everyone will remember it, but there’s a good chance some people will know English, especially younger Koreans.

It is best to ask if someone speaks English before trying to have a conversation. You can do this in Korean by asking “영어 할 수 있어요?” (Yong-oh hal su iss-o-yo?) or just ask it in English. Tour guides and people in the tourism industry will probably be able to speak English, but it’s not guaranteed.

Shyness is an issue in Korea and locals may be reluctant to speak English at first for fear of making a mistake. As an English teacher in Korea, I know that Korean students are usually quite competent in English, but lack confidence to use it. Be patient and encouraging when talking in English.

Although some Koreans may be too shy to use English, other people may be enthusiastic about speaking English to you and want to practice it. I’ve been asked random questions in English by strangers in the street in Korea who want to practice English and find out about my life.

Should You Learn Korean Before Visiting Korea?

If you do want to learn some Korean before you travel, I recommend you start by learning the Korean alphabet , or at least learning some basic Korean travel phrases . Knowing how to introduce yourself, discuss prices, ask for directions, and ask for help will make your trip to Korea a lot easier.

You can learn Korean online through courses such as 90 Day Korean and Korean Class 101 , or with self-study textbooks like the excellent Talk To Me In Korean series. There are lots of resources on YouTube, too. I particularly like Learn Korean with GO! Korean Billy as he explains things clearly.

Another way to prepare to move to Korea is to read some Korean novels in English . Although these books won’t teach you any Korean, they’ll offer up valuable insights into Korean culture, both traditional and hidden under the surface. Literature is a good way to gain an understanding of a culture.

A warning about Konglish : Although Korea uses English in many useful ways, there’s also a lot of Konglish. The sign above is a good example of random English words being used to look cool, but ending up being confusing. There’s a lot of this in Korea and it’s mostly harmless, so don’t worry.

Health And Safety Issues In Korea

First-time travellers to Korea may be worried about health and hygiene issues, such as if certain foods are available and if they’re safe to eat. Other issues include vaccinations, personal safety, and how easy it is to contact emergency services. These issues are addressed below.

Is Korean Street Food Safe To Eat?

Korean street food is generally safe to eat and won’t give you any health issues unless you have an intolerance to the food. Korean street food can be spicy or contain a lot of salt, be aware of your own personal tolerances and dietary requirements before trying it.

Also be careful when ordering food with meat or seafood and check that it is cooked thoroughly. Korean street food that has been left out for a long time is more likely to cause food poisoning problems, so ask for freshly cooked food if you’re concerned.

Is It Easy To Find Vegan-Friendly Food In Korea?

There are many vegan-friendly Korean dishes , such as gimbap , japchae , pajeon , bibimbap , ramyeon , and tteokbokki . However, some restaurants may use non vegan-friendly ingredients when preparing these foods, so be careful. Kimchi isn’t vegan-friendly due to its seafood ingredients & sauces.

Vegetarianism and veganism aren’t common in Korea with fewer people following these diets than in countries such as the USA or UK. Vegetarians in Korea account for 3% of the population, while vegans in Korea are only 0.2% of the population as of 2022. The UK is 10% and 2% respectively.

However, the number of vegan-friendly restaurants and bakeries is increasing each year in Korea, especially in areas such as Hongdae and Itaewon. Korean Buddhist temple food is vegan-friendly and a good option for vegans who want to enjoy vegan food while learning about local Korean culture.

If you’re concerned about accidentally ordering non vegan-friendly food, or want to know how to tell someone about food allergies or requirements, check out my guide to Korean phrases for ordering food . This has a whole section about special requests when ordering food in Korean.

Is It Safe To Drink Tap Water In Korea?

Korean tap water is potable and safe to drink. Korea ranks 23rd for water hygiene, which is above the USA, Canada, and Australia. However, many Koreans don’t drink tap water , preferring to use water purifiers and bottled water instead, claiming that tap water smells strange or water pipes are bad.

Personally, I don’t like drinking tap water in Korea as it tastes a bit stale, but it’s perfectly fine to drink and doesn’t cause any problems. Bottled water is very cheap in Korea and costs 600 KRW for a 500ml bottle from a convenience store. Buying water from a supermarket is a cheaper option though.

Do You Need Any Vaccinations To Travel To South Korea?

There are no mandatory vaccinations required to travel to Korea , but it is suggested you should have at least routine vaccinations such as tetanus, MMR, and polio. Hepatitis A & B, typhoid, and Japanese encephalitis vaccinations are also recommended.

Is Korea Friendly To Tourists?

Korea is generally friendly and welcoming to tourists. The Korean government spends a lot of money and effort to promote Korean tourism to the world and there are many incentives to bring people to the country. Korean people are also mostly polite and welcoming, especially in the tourism sector.

Is Korea A Dangerous Country To Travel In?

South Korea is a safe country to travel in and the crime rate in Korea is low, comparable to Norway or the Netherlands. Public crimes, such as theft and assault, are rare. Pickpocketing and purse snatching aren’t common and unattended goods are generally left alone or reported to the police.

How safe is Korea? I regularly see people leave their phone or handbag on a cafe table to reserve it before going up to order a drink. People even leave their laptops open while they pop out for lunch or go to the toilet. Stealing disturbs social harmony and is one of the reasons it’s rare in Korea.

Physical violence is also rare, but still occurs in Korea, as it does in all countries. This is most often found in areas with lots of bars and when people are drunk. However, visiting bars in Korea is a lot safer than I’ve experienced in other countries and trouble is not common, even in busy places.

How Do You Contact Tourist Information Services In Korea?

Call 1330 in Korea to contact the Travel Helpline . The Korean Travel Helpline provides the following services free of charge to tourists in Korea.

• Tourist Information : Find out about attractions, opening hours, prices, and other information.
• Tourist Interpretation : Access travel information in several languages.
• Tourist Complaints : Report rip-offs and problems you encounter when travelling in Korea.
• Tourist Police : Report minor crimes in English and other languanges.

There are tourist police patrolling the streets of Seoul, dressed in purple uniforms as shown in the picture above. In popular tourist locations like Myeongdong and Bukchon Hanok Village, you’ll also find friendly tourist information staff dressed in red shirts with matching red cowboy hats.

What Should You Do If You Have An Emergency In Korea?

If you need to report a fire or medical emergency in Korea, you should call 119 from any phone. To contact the police in Korea, call 112. You will need to select an option to report an emergency in English or another language. It may take some time to be redirected to an English speaker.

• 119 – Medical Emergency & Fire Rescue
• 112 – Police

When you use medical services in Korea, you have to pay the cost of treatment, but there is no fee for the ambulance ride as this is covered by the Korean government. Travel insurance should cover the cost of medical bills, so if you’re worried about a large medical bill, insurance is recommended.

Fortunately, the cost of treatment in Korea is quite reasonable and Korea has advanced medical facilities, which is why it’s a popular medical tourism destination . Many people travel to Korea for minor and major surgery, including laser eye surgery, cosmetic surgery, and internal medicine.

Is Air Pollution A Problem In Korea?

Air pollution is an issue in Korea, especially in spring & summer. Winds blow yellow dust from Central Asia, field burning spreads fumes across Asia, and fossil-fuel burning contributes to higher levels of air pollution. Some days there’ll be very low visibility and health risks for people with lung problems.

My Personal Travel Tips For Korea

This South Korea travel guide is a collection of information I’ve researched and learned since moving to Korea in 2015 and blogging about Korean travel since 2019. I hope the provided information and insights are useful and assist you plan your dream first-time, or even tenth-time, trip to Korea.

This section includes my personal tips that didn’t really fit anywhere else and reflections built from travelling all over Korea in all seasons. These are tips I would offer to first-time travellers to Korea and people who might have some worries about visiting the Land of Morning Calm. I hope they help.

The Real Korea Isn’t What You See On TV

Korea is a developed country that went from being a 3rd world country in the mid 20th Century to a high-tech country in a short time. Despite the many high-rises and modern K-Pop stars, there are still shadows of the former Korea seen in both run-down slums and people with ‘traditional’ values.

The image created by selective K-Culture can distort people’s reality when dreaming of a trip to Korea in the same way Korean people can suffer from Paris Syndrome when visiting France. There are many wonderful things about Korea, but don’t travel thinking that everything is as shown on TV.

Be Prepared For Culture Shock

One of the best things about travelling is seeing a country and people that act and behave differently to how you do in your own country. This is known as culture shock and can be both a blessing and a challenge for first-time travellers to Korea. Things you might be used to can be different in Korea.

Some examples of culture shock in Korea include the way age determines hierarchy in Korea and how older people can be rather pushy, especially on the subway. Younger people also typically don’t question the decisions of older people in Korea as it is considered rude and disrespectful.

Less extreme cultural differences that might confuse some first-time visitors to Korea include having to shout to call someone to take your order in a Korean restaurant or not giving a tip. Koreans might similarly look at you strangely if you do something culturally different, such as walking while drinking.

Don’t Overpack When You Travel To Korea

First-time travellers to Korea may be worried about visiting a country like Korea without taking everything they need from home, even the kitchen sink. My advice is to pack as light as possible and leave yourself some space in your suitcase. There are two reasons for this.

• You can buy most things you need in Korea . This includes sun cream, heat packs, clothes, shoes, cosmetics, travel accessories, etc. They’re also probably cheaper in Korea, too.
• You will want to take home lots of things . From weird Korean snacks to beautiful hand-crafted pottery and woodwork, there are so many things to buy in Korea.

(1) The only exception is if you might have a problem finding correct-fitting items. Korean shoes and clothes are slightly smaller than what you’d find in Western countries and the sizes are also differently labelled. I’m a medium in the UK but a large (sometimes XL!) in Korea. Be careful when shopping.

(2) It’s hard to fit everything you buy in Korea into an already full suitcase. Fortunately, you can buy extra suitcases at low prices. Check out Namdaemun Market for cheap luggage options, as well as shops like the one pictured below (this is in Busan) in places like Hongdae and Dongdaemun.

Electricity In South Korea

Be careful with electric items when travelling to Korea. Korea uses type C and F plugs , which are used in Europe, Russia, and other parts of Asia. The standard voltage is 220V with 60Hz frequency. Anything designed for a standard voltage between 220V and 240V should be fine in Korea.

Laptops, mobile phones, and other portable devices will be fine when you travel in Korea as long as you use a travel adapter with a USB or socket connection. Hairdryers, shavers, curlers, and similar devices might have problems charging in Korea and run out of power very soon. My shaver did.

Go With The Flow And Go Quickly

Korea is a very busy country and you might hear people mutter ‘빨리빨리’ ( ppalli ppalli ) if you walk slowly, especially in the subway. Koreans work long hours and are eager to get home or go out for dinner. Don’t take it personally if people push past you and don’t feel like you have to rush.

Know Where To Throw Away Rubbish

It can be difficult to find a bin to throw away rubbish in Korea, even in urban areas. The best place to dispose of rubbish in Korea is at a convenience store. You can find recycling and trash bins in these shops. If you go hiking or explore the countryside, expect to carry your rubbish home with you.

South Korea Travel Guide FAQs

Finally, here’s a few FAQs about this South Korea travel guide, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you.

What is the best month to visit South Korea?

The best months to visit South Korea are April and October. April is warm and you can see cherry blossoms in Seoul at the start of the month. October is warm with clear skies. During October you can see autumn foliage across Korea.

How much money is enough for South Korea?

The amount of money you need to travel in South Korea depends on your travel style and desired level of comfort. A rough budget for South Korea is 50-100,000 KRW per day for budget travellers, 100-200,000 KRW per day for mid-range travellers, and 200,000+ KRW per day for luxury travellers.

Is South Korea friendly to tourists?

South Korea is a welcoming country and friendly to tourists. There are many services to welcome tourists to South Korea, including free transit tours from Incheon Airport, cultural performances in tourist destinations, low entry fees to traditional attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace, and tourist information and signs in multiple languages.

What do I need to know before travelling to South Korea?

It’s important to know about the weather before travelling to South Korea as this can impact your day to day travel and affect what clothes you’ll need. You should also research what festivals are on before you travel, what seasonal events are happening, such as cherry blossom viewing, and also how to use public transport and get connected to the net.

What is the cheapest month to visit South Korea?

January and February are two of the cheapest months to visit South Korea and are considered low season as the weather is cold. Hotel prices and flights to Korea will be lower in these months. Winter is a good time to travel to Korea to see snow and enjoy winter sports and festivals, however, some attractions will be closed during this time of year.

Do I need a South Korea travel guide?

It is good to check a South Korea travel guide to research your trip, especially for first-time travellers to Korea. Korea has a unique culture, language, and customs that might be confusing for new travellers. A South Korea travel guide will help you prepare for these factors and give you ideas to create your perfect trip to Korea.

Can you drink tap water in Korea?

Korean tap water is potable and safe to drink. You can drink water from hotels and apartments in Korea. Restaurants and cafes will provide you with free drinking water, which usually comes from a water cooler. Bottled water is available from convenience stores and is reasonably priced.

Is South Korea safe for first-time travellers?

South Korea is a safe country for first-time travellers to visit. Personal crimes, such as theft, mugging, and physical violence are rare in Korea and it is safe to walk the streets of Seoul, even at night. First-time travellers can prepare for a trip to South Korea by being aware of potential scams, such as taxi drivers over charging them or being ripped off in the traditional markets.

What are the best apps for travelling in South Korea?

The best apps for travelling to South Korea are Papago, Kakao Taxi, Naver Maps, and Seoul Subway. These apps will allow you to translate between Korean and English, hail taxis, and navigate as you travel. All of these apps have English language options and are free to use.

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Hi! My name is Joel, I'm the author of In My Korea and writer of this article. I've lived, worked and travelled in Korea since 2015 and want to share my insights, stories and tips to help you have the best experience during your trip to Korea.

I love learning more about Korean culture, hiking the many mountains, and visiting all the coolest places in Korea, both modern and traditional. If you want to know more about my story, check out the ' about me ' section to learn why I love living in Korea.

4 thoughts on “Complete South Korea Travel Guide 2024: Korean Travel Tips”

This South Korea travel guide is a comprehensive resource for anyone planning a trip to Korea. It covers everything from entry requirements and travel tips to accommodation options and places to visit. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or have been to Korea before, this guide has something for everyone. The inclusion of the latest travel news and COVID-related updates adds to its relevance and usefulness. I appreciate the detailed breakdown of sections and the inclusion of quick links for easy navigation. Overall, this guide is a valuable tool for anyone looking to explore the wonders of South Korea.

Moderator – Nice Article! In My Korea

Thank for the great info! Could you please recommend any tours agency for a few day trips around Korea? I found a few , but they are pretty pricey!

Hi, thanks for reading. Klook and Viator have a good selection of tours in Korea with some of the best prices on the market. I’m not sure which tours you’re looking for, but they usually do day trips for less than $100 per day that cover popular tourist sights.

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South Korea travel guide

What to do, where to stay and why you’ll love it.

S outh Korea, despite being relatively small, provides gorgeous mountain ranges, colour-popping temples and high-tech cities in one hit. The nation’s efficient system of railways and buses easily takes you wherever you need to go — perfect for spontaneous travellers who are eager to see the countryside without much planning. From the capital, an efficient system of railways and buses whisks you just about wherever you want. Take the KTX bullet train across the country from Seoul to Busan in less than three hours to sample milmyeon (Busan-style flour noodles) or venture to Gangneung, on the east coast, for a swim at Gyeongpo Beach in just half that time.

The best way to see the country’s smaller towns is through renting a car or by bicycle. You can camp out under some of East Asia’s cleanest skies in the town of Yeongyang, visit the ancient tombs of Gyeongju and — if you’re lucky enough — see the country in autumn fall under the spell of Naejangsan National Park in October.

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Start your visit to South Korea with a few days in the capital, Seoul , where you’ll find pockets of nature alongside every modern convenience you could dream of. Don’t miss the chance to swing by one or two of the royal palaces* — Gyeongbokgung or Changdeokgung — at night when they’re especially enchanting. It’s fun to get lost in one of the many hip neighbourhoods; try exploring the alleyways of Euljiro, having dinner at an old-school restaurant and discovering a hole-in-the-wall bar.

When you’ve had your fill of the metropolis, take a flight down to Jeju Island. A good first stop is Seogwipo, the southern tip of the island. Here, you can explore the volcanic formations of the Daepo Jusangjeolli cliffs and snap photos at the spectacular Bangju Church. Later drive along the emerald blue waters back to Jeju City by taking the northeast route and look out for Seongsan Ilchulbong, an incredible tuff cone rising 182 metres high with a bowl crater. There’s a chance to hike to the top and listen to haenyeo, local female divers, singing traditional songs at the foot of the mountain twice a day.

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Make time too for the country’s second largest city, Busan* , and make a beeline for Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a Buddhist institution originally built during the Goryeo Dynasty. Explore the Instagram-ready hillside of the Gamcheon Culture Village before topping off the experience with ssiat hotteok (a sweet Busan-style pancake filled with sugar and seeds). If it’s off-the-beaten track you’re searching for then try Andong or Gyeongju* for history, Sokcho to climb Mount Seoraksan and Yangyang for beaches.

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Where to stay

You’ll find the best accommodation in downtown Seoul. If you want to be within walking distance to most of the city’s top sights and have a tight budget, try the Tmark Hotel Myeongdong* . From here, you can stroll to Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Seoul Tower and explore Euljiro. Alternatively, try the Nuwa Hotel in the Seochon neighbourhood; it’s a serene renovated hanok that permits only two guests at a time.

There’s lots of choice on Jeju Island. Most choose to bed down at a small Jeju-style home or save money with a stay at a guesthouse; Lefthander Guesthouse in Guwja-eup, has both shared and private rooms. Another great option is The Annex Hotel* — a three-star with hot springs and a beautiful swimming pool.

In Busan, there are a row of high-end hotels lined up along Haeundae Beach: the Park Hyatt Busan* , the Westin Josun* , the Paradise Hotel* and the Signiel* . Stay near Seomyeon Station if you plan to sightsee and you need public transport. Line 1 will take you to the city’s historical sites and Line 2 to the beaches. In this area, The Hound Hotel Seomyun* and the Arban Hotel* are two options for great value.

Wherever you go in Korea, visit the local marketplace; even if you don’t have plans to buy anything, it’ll provide a perfect introduction to how the town or village operates. The nation’s most famous markets — Namdaemun and Gwangjang — are in Seoul and there are iterations devoted to electronics, fabrics, and of course, food from across the country.

Busan has two major markets worth visiting: Gukje is best for history and souvenirs and Jalgachi for its dozens of seafood varieties. Some smaller cities have a marketplace that opens every five days, and you’ll see dozens of grandmothers come out with produce they’ve grown on their home farms or fishermen with ice boxes holding the day’s catch. The most well-known “five-day market” is in Dongduil-dong in Jeju City, which is open on days that end in either a two or seven (the 2nd, 7th, 12th, 17th and so on).

More often than not, traditional markets serve up local delicacies. Try nokudjeon (mung bean pancakes) at Jeonju Nambu Traditional Market, marinated fried chicken at Mansuk Dak Gangjeong inside Sokcho Tourist & Fishery Market and flat mandu (dumplings) at Seomun Market in Daegu.

When to visit

With mountains covering 70 per cent of the country, South Korea is known for its foliage, which typically peaks in September and lasts through to early November. The country is also pretty when cherry blossoms bloom in April.

How much should I budget for a trip to South Korea? Although backpackers often rave about how affordable South Korea is, a reasonably comfortable trip here is more comparable to Hong Kong or Shanghai than, say, parts of Southeast Asia. There are a range of accommodation options, from budget to high-end, but transport, eating out, drinks and most tourist attractions are relatively affordable. Avoid high-end Western restaurants, take the subway as often as possible and opt for the slow train instead of the bullet trains to save a little extra cash.

What should I know before travelling? If you have specific dietary restrictions, you may want to have this explicitly written down in Korean before you embark on your travels as restaurateurs in rural Korea are not accustomed to making these changes.

The rail and bus systems are fantastic, but you’ll get a more in-depth grasp of the country if you have a car. Make sure to bring an international driving permit.

Which part of South Korea is best? This completely depends on your personal preference, but trips to South Korea should ideally be a combination of city and nature. If your time is limited, we recommend a few days in Seoul, a few days on Jeju Island and a day or two in a smaller town of your choice.

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Inspired to visit South Korea but yet to book your trip? Here are the best packages from Expedia* and BA Holidays* . These are the best tours of South Korea from our trusted partners* .

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South Korea, on the bottom of the Korean peninsula, is a nation of contrasts. Separated from North Korea by the DMZ this is where beautiful countryside dotted with cherry trees and Buddhist temples, meets high-tech metropolises such as Seoul, the incredible capital. South Korea is a nation of mouth-watering cuisine, of Kimchi and Korean barbeque (an absolute must in our opinion) and of fascinating history from its imperial past to hyper-modern future.

But don't just take our word for it, come on one of our South Korea Tours and you'll see it all for yourself.

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There are few trips as underrated as a tour of South Korea. For many, little is known outside of Gangnam Style or the phone in their pocket. In recent years however generalisations are beginning to change. Korean art, films, TV and pop music have global fanbases. The food – among the most unique of all Asian cuisines – is creeping into Europe and could be the next big dining trend. The Land of Morning Calm is stirring. 

Few lands have seen such transformation in the past half century. At the end of the Korean War not many would have thought this largely destitute nation would in a few decades become one of 20 largest economies on the planet. Tellingly, South Korea remains the only country worldwide to have graduated from former recipient to current donor of global aid – a process begun in 1953, and ended in 1995. The intermediate years saw economic development on an industrial scale; the so-called ‘Miracle of the Han River’ has led to a global stereotype of South Korea as somewhat grey: lacking the cultural or historical import of China to the West, or the technicolour futurism of Japan to the East.

This is a misconception: South Korea is buzzing. Nowhere is this epitomised more than the capital Seoul, a sprawling urban mass of juxtaposition: neon-lit shopping arcades are crammed in amongst traditional markets; multi-lane highways lead to expansive parks; domino-like rows of tower blocks are broken by ancient temple complexes. Outside of Seoul, the bulk of the country is largely mountainous and quite stunning. A broad range of adventure awaits - particularly around national parks in Seoraksan, Songnisan, and Odaesan. Smaller cities of Busan, Gwangju, Jeonju each have their own unique personality and offer something different, while one is never far away from a rich and varied history - particularly in the cultural hubs of Andong and Gyeongju.

At equal points futuristic and reverent, always surprising and never dull, a holiday to South Korea will greatly reward the curious traveller. Find out more by taking a look at our sample tours, or contact us directly for a tailor-made itinerary. 

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A Complete Guide to the UK ETA for South Korean Citizens

South Korean citizens traveling to the United Kingdom (UK) will be required to obtain a UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in 2024.

ETA is a new digital travel permit that is mandatory for citizens of countries that can visit England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland without a visa for short trips. This includes citizens of South Korea.

It will simplify travel to the UK for visiting family and friends of over 20,000 South Koreans residing in the UK. The ETA also benefits nearly 90,000 South Koreans who visit the UK yearly for leisure, business, or study.

This guide offers all the information on the UK ETA for South Korean citizens, including eligibility, requirements, the application process, and travel implications.

Why is the UK ETA being introduced for South Korean citizens?

The UK ETA aims to improve the security of the UK border and allow the government more control and oversight over individuals entering the country.

The system seeks to help prevent illegal immigration, thwart organized crime syndicates, and identify potential threats to national security before they even arrive on UK soil.

The ETA is also designed to improve border control and streamline the immigration process for pre-verified, low-risk travelers.

Benefits of the UK ETA for South Korean Citizens

The ETA is an electronic document that grants permission to pre-screened non-visa nationals to travel to the UK. It is not a visa, so applicants can skip the complex and lengthy acquisition process.

For South Korean citizens, the UK ETA presents benefits that include the following:

Quick and easy process

Applying for a UK ETA is entirely online and paperless. South Korean applicants can complete the application in less than 20 minutes. They also do not need to visit consulates or visa offices for an in-person interview or to submit documents.

It generally takes three days to process an ETA application. Travelers will receive the decision, whether approved or rejected, via the email address they provided.

If granted, the ETA will be linked to the passport they used to apply, so there is no need to print it out.

Affordable fee

A UK ETA application costs £10 each. The price is comparable to similar digital travel permits imposed by other countries.

For instance, the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) of the United States (US) costs US$21 (£17).

Australia’s electronic travel authorization (ETA) costs AU$20 (£10), while Canada’s electronic travel authorization (eTA) costs CA$7 (£4).

Once operational, the European Union’s upcoming European Travel Information Authorization System (ETIAS) will cost €7 (£6).

Long validity period

Most digital travel permits are valid for a year to five years or when the passport it is linked to expires.

The UK ETA will be valid for multiple short visits over two years. Travelers only need to apply for an ETA every two years or when their passport expires, whichever comes sooner, not every time they visit the UK.

How the UK ETA system will affect South Korean travelers

Currently, South Koreans do not need an ETA to travel to the UK.

However, once the system opens for South Korean citizens in 2024, they must apply and obtain an approved UK ETA before traveling to the UK.

It is required regardless of the mode of transport used, whether arriving on a flight, on a ship (e.g., as part of a cruise), or over land, such as through the rail tunnel connecting Britain and France.

A UK ETA is valid for the following travel purposes:

• Short-term stay for less than six months (180 days) for tourism, short-course study, visiting friends and family, and permitted business activities and medical treatments.
• Short-term stay for up to three months (90 days) on the Creative Worker visa concession
• Transiting through the UK (i.e., changing planes), whether or not passing through UK border control

ETA Eligibility Guidelines for South Korean Citizens

To be eligible for an ETA, South Koreans must meet the following conditions:

• Be a national of a country that has a visa-waiver status with the UK. South Korea is included in the list of countries whose citizens need an ETA to travel to the UK.
• Have a biometric passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure date from the UK.
• No intent to stay, work, or study in the UK for longer than six months.
• No criminal record and past immigration breaches in the UK or elsewhere.

All travelers, including children and babies , will need an ETA before traveling to the UK. Parents and guardians can apply for an ETA on their behalf.

Individuals with a history of immigration breaches, criminal convictions, or incarcerations of more than 12 months in the UK or elsewhere may be denied an ETA. These travelers should consider getting a UK visa instead.

South Korean citizens planning to stay in the UK for more than six months or to work will still need an appropriate UK visa. The new ETA system does not affect these travelers. The UK visa application and processing will also remain unchanged.

UK ETA Application Requirements for South Korean Citizens

South Korean citizens eligible for a UK ETA must prepare the following application requirements:

• A valid biometric passport issued by South Korea, whose citizens do not need a visa to travel to the UK for short trips.
• A recent digital passport photo
• A valid email address
• A working electronic payment method, such as credit or debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay

How to Apply for a UK ETA

South Korean citizens can apply for a UK ETA through the official UK government website or app.

The UK ETA application process is entirely online and paperless, so visiting consulates or visa offices is unnecessary. It only takes a few minutes to complete once all the necessary documents and information are ready.

Below is a step-by-step guide on how South Koreans can apply for an ETA.

1. Upload or take a photo of the passport you will use to travel to the UK.

Ensure you include the picture and the two lines of numbers and letters at the bottom.

2. Upload a recent passport photo or take a picture using your device’s camera.

Images should be saved as a jpeg file or with the file extension .jpg. Children aged nine and under will not need to upload a passport photo.

3. Fill in all the required information.

These include personal information (i.e., name, birth date), passport details, employment details, home address, and contact information.

4. Answer questions on security and eligibility. 

Like any other UK visitor, South Korean ETA applicants must truthfully disclose criminal records, past immigration offenses, and any associations with or membership in any unlawful or illegal groups or organizations.

5. Pay for the UK ETA application online.

A UK ETA application costs £10 each. To submit the application, you must pay the fee online using a credit or debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.

After completing the UK ETA online application, travelers will receive a confirmation through the email they provided.

Tips on for Applying for a UK ETA

Applying for an ETA is simple, but there is still room for errors. To avoid common mistakes, follow these guidelines for a swift and efficient UK ETA online application.

• Provide or capture clear, high-quality photos of your passport and yourself. Ensure the images comply with passport photo specifications and are in full color without filters or effects.
• Make sure you provide the correct data and are as accurate as possible. Giving false or incorrect information and even withholding information could result in delays or your application being refused.
• Check beforehand if your online payment method works and if you have enough funds to pay for the application online.
• Be sure to review and double-check the data you provided in your ETA application before you submit.

After submitting the UK ETA application, travelers can no longer amend or withdraw it. Should South Korean travelers need to correct simple mistakes in their ETA application, they can quickly do this by re-submitting the application and paying the fee again.

Processing and Receiving the ETA for South Korean Nationals

Upon receipt of a UK ETA online application, the system will cross-verify the details submitted against several security databases in the UK and worldwide to check if the applicant is qualified for an ETA.

It typically takes three days (72 hours) for applicants to receive a decision on their ETA application via the email address provided.

Many travelers receive a decision within hours of submitting their application. Still, some applications may take more than three days to receive a decision.

South Korean citizens are recommended to apply for a UK ETA before booking their travel to the UK to prevent delays or other issues.

If an ETA application is denied, the applicant can choose to complete a new ETA application form and pay the fee again. However, this is only recommended if they can establish the reason for the initial rejection and address it before doing so.

Being denied an ETA does not mean the applicant is banned from traveling to the UK. The alternative to a UK ETA is an appropriate UK visa: a Standard Visitor visa, Temporary Work visa, or Transit visa.

However, getting a visa is a more complicated and longer procedure, so travel plans should be adjusted accordingly.

Traveling with a UK ETA

A UK ETA is digitally linked to an individual’s passport. It is valid for two years, allowing multiple short visits lasting up to six months per visit.

South Korean travelers must apply for a new ETA after two years or when their passport expires, whichever comes first, to continue being allowed to travel to the UK.

Departure to the UK

Since it is an electronic document, South Korean travelers don’t need to bring a physical copy of their ETA. 

Still, they can print it and carry a paper copy with them or be prepared to show the ETA decision email in their inbox in case of unprecedented circumstances.

For travelers with multiple passports, make sure to travel to the UK with the passport used in the application.

Before boarding a plane, ship, or train, carriers will check if travelers have the appropriate permission-to-travel document by scanning their passports. 

Carriers will only allow boarding to South Korean travelers who can present a valid UK ETA or visa.

Those still waiting on the decision on their ETA applications will also not be permitted to board.

Arriving in the UK

An ETA does not guarantee entry into the UK. Upon arrival, South Korean citizens with an approved UK ETA must still submit their identity documents to the UK Border Force or go through an electronic passport gate (eGate), if available.

Be prepared to provide proof of onward travel upon request. This typically means presenting a ticket to leave the UK within six months of arrival.

If asked, South Korean travelers must also show evidence that they have enough funds to support themselves during their entire stay in the UK and their journey home.

Travelers with a valid ETA may still be refused entry into the UK if they fail a border check or meet other entry conditions.

Once past border security, South Korean citizens with an approved ETA can freely travel between the UK’s four constituent countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

South Korean visitors can use all modes of transportation within the UK, such as trains, ferries, and local flights. Before boarding a ferry or an internal flight within the UK, they only need to present an ID, usually a passport or driving license.

Important Note: A UK ETA is not valid in Ireland or other European countries.

A UK ETA does not allow entry to the Republic of Ireland and other European countries. The UK is not a member of the European Union or the Schengen Common Travel Zone.

South Korean citizens visiting Ireland or other European countries must inquire about the country’s entry requirements before booking their travel.

Travelers can check the UK ETA FAQ page for more information.

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North Korea (DPRK)

Why should you choose Koryo Tours?

Choosing to travel to unusual destinations such as North Korea is a big decision, and choosing the right people to take you is an incredibly important part of that. Learn about how we facilitate tourism responsibly in some of the most interesting and unique destinations on our planet, and at the same time ensure you get the most out of your once-in-a-lifetime experience .

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A tour to North Korea (DPRK) is the ultimate in adventure travel. Join Koryo Tours as we explore Pyongyang and some of North Korea's most remote locations for an experience you'll never forget, all in the safe hands of North Korea tour experts.

Our North Korea tours are designed with the purpose of making sure you see and do as much as possible on tour in North Korea (DPRK). Touring this country is the opportunity of a lifetime for many, and we use our 28 years of North Korea experience to ensure you get the most out of your time there. We have classic , speciality , and budget North Korea tours scheduled throughout the year. Get in touch for help on deciding which North Korea tour is best for you. Our experts are happy to answer all your questions. Unsure if a North Korea group tour is for you? Read Why Choose a Koryo Tours Group Tour or contact us. Alternatively, head to our North Korea Private Tours and get in touch for a bespoke North Korea tour itinerary. North Korea Country Profile North Korea FAQs North Korea Map Note: We require all travellers on international and North Korea tours to have valid travel insurance . NOTICE: The North Korean border is currently closed due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Please check COVID-19 & North Korea for updated information. NO Tours to North Korea (DPRK) will be taking place until the border is open again. The tours below are planned departure dates but until the country is open to tourists again all tours will remain suspended.

Use the search function below to find tours. Please note that our tours for May Day start in April and tours for China National Day (1 October) start in September.

• Pyongyang Marathon

Budget Tours

September 2024 — 3 tours, september 21 - september 30 2024, greg váczi's dmz adventure, 9 nights along the dmz in south korea.

Travel along the DMZ from West to East, and experience dynamic Seoul. The tour will be accompanied by North Korea experts. From 2595 USD per person

Please apply by 6th September, 2024 .

Greg Váczi's DMZ Adventure

This tour is managed by...

Gergo Vaczi

Greg is the Koryo Tours DPRK Tour Manager.

He grew up in post-socialist Hungary and first travelled to North Korea as a tourist in 2016 following in the footsteps of his grandparents, who visited in 1988. He has since lived in the Netherlands, Israel, China, Korea and Iceland and holds a degree in Sociology and Anthropology. He has taken 26 groups to North Korea and lived in Seoul studying the Korean language full-time for two years. He also completed a long study course in Korean at a university in Pyongyang.

Read more about Greg's journey to become a North Korean Tour Leader  here.

Whilst we have not been able to travel to North Korea since January 2020, we can at least take you along North Korea's borders.

After our successful South-North Korea border inaugural tour in 2022, and subsequent tour in 2023, we are once again happy to be able to promote a tour to Korea led by Greg Váczi and accompanied by North Korean experts. 

Travel north of the 38th Parallel as we explore some  rarely visited places in Korea, as well as must-see spots along the North-South Korean border. This tour is perfect for those interested in learning more about North Korea and issues on the Korean Peninsula, as well as those lovers of travel a little more on the adventurous side. 

The tour takes you to islands lying closer to North Korea than South, to various points along the border to get a closer look into North Korea, and all the while will have you dining alongside experts you'll frequently hear about or see in the media. 

It will appeal to all who want to travel to the DPRK at the moment but because of the closure of the country to tourism cannot currently visit. In the future, we hope Greg will be leading tours to the DPRK. But for the moment, this is your best opportunity to visit Korea.

• See North Korean villages from some of the best look-out points in South Korea.
• Tour Yeonpyeong Island , an island bombarded by North Korean artillery in 2010 that’s adjacent to the controversial Northern Limit Line.
• Scour local beaches for trash washed in from North Korea  to see what’s on the shelves of North Korean shops these days.
• Guest experts will join for multi-day portions of the tour, including Professor Andrei Lankov.

Briefing Day

September 21 | saturday.

Arrival Day in Seoul

• Recommended latest arrival in Seoul.
• From 14:00   |  Check-in at hotel in Seoul.  
• Welcome dinner and orientation |  Today we start the tour with a group dinner of some excellent Korean food. Coordination and briefing session, before the adventure ahead!

Overnight:  ibis Ambassador Insadong or similar , Seoul (x/x/D)

September 22 | Sunday

Incheon and Yeonpyeongdo, Yellow (West) Sea

• Transfer to Incheon (1-1.5 hour drive).  
• Memorial Hall for Incheon Landing Operation | Also known as Operation Chromite, this museum showcases the history of the Incheon landing by the United Nation forces and the battle of Incheon in September 1950 that led to the first turning point in the course of the 6.25 War as known in South Korea or the Victorious Fatherland Liberation War as referred to in North Korea.
• Ferry to Yeonpyeongdo | An approximately 2-hour-long ferry ride on the Yellow (West) Sea from the Incheon Coastal Ferry Terminal on board Korea Express Ferry’s Flying Café. Scheduled departure is at 13:00. In case of extreme weather conditions, ferry cancellation is possible.  
• Yeonpyeongdo Security Education Center | An exhibition on the importance of Yeonpyeondo from a national security point of view, the Northern Limit Line, and the shelling of the island by North Korea in 2010. The exhibition is housed next to a residential home that was hit and destroyed by the bombing.  
• Dinner, lecture, and discussion | We will gather for dinner followed by a lecture and discussion with a North Korea expert.

Overnight: Dooly Minbak, Yeonpyeondo ( *A traditional Korean guesthouse with futon beds on heated floor. Please note that single supplement is not possible at this accommodation; two guests of the same gender will need to share a room. ) (B/x/D)

September 23 | Monday

Yeonpyeongdo, Yellow (West) Sea and return to Seoul

• Border and beach tour of Yeonpyeongdo | During the morning we'll tour the full circumference of the island, stopping off at all the main vista points, beaches, and cultural sights. There'll also be chances to scour for some DPRK trash (*optional, due to the rough terrain of the beaches it is a potential hazard for some) and tune into its radio channels.
• Ferry back to Incheon | A 2-hour-long ferry ride bound back to Incheon departs at 14:30.  
• Drive back to Seoul (1-1.5 hour drive).  
• Dinner at own leisure.

Overnight: ibis Ambassador Insadong or similar , Seoul (B/L/x)

September 24 | Tuesday

*DMZ and JSA Tour | Please note that the Joint Security Area (JSA) is administered by the United Nations Commands and visits to the JSA are subject to cancellations according to local circumstances.

• Camp Bonifas | A UN command post in South Korea, 400 meters away from the southern line of the DMZ. Also home to the “world’s most dangerous hole in golf” as it sports a golf course surrounded by landmines. A safety briefing will be held here by a South Korean or American military guide before visiting the JSA.  
• JSA   (*TBC) | Visit the Joint Security Area (Truce Village) from the south. It is the closest you’ll be getting to North Korea from the South side.  
• Imjingak Resort | Located on the banks of the Imjin river – which separates the two Koreas – visitors to the resort can tour an array of fascinating Korean War-related locations: the remains of the last train to cross the border at the start of the War, a gondola that takes visitors across the river, and a newly opened museum in a former U.S. Army bowling alley.
• Odusan Peace Observatory | Located where the Han and Imjin Rivers become one just before reaching the West (Yellow) Sea and a few kilometres away from a premium outlet, Odusan Peace Observatory is one of the most visited viewpoints over North Korea. The Observatory also hosts an exhibition about inter-Korean cooperation and unification.  
• Drive back to Seoul | Drive back to Seoul arriving in the early evening hours. (1–1.5 hrs drive).  

September 25 | Wednesday

Cheorwon DMZ Tour

• Drive to Cheorwon Area | A scenic drive to about 100 km north of Seoul. (Ca. 2 hrs. drive.)  
• Cheorwon History Culture Park and Soisan Monorail | An open-air museum opposite the WPK Headquarters housing traditional Korean hanok s and buildings from the Japanese colonial era. The monorail takes us up to Mt. Soi where there is a former US Military Listening Site and views of the Cheorwon Plain and North Korea in the distance. The area known as The Iron Triangle during the Korean War was a site of fierce battles between the Chinese People's Volunteer Army and the US Army, and is today a fertile land and an important migratory bird habitat.  
• Cheorwon Workers' Party of Korea Headquarters | A three-story building that housed the WPK in the area was built in 1946 in a socialist realist style and was destroyed during the Korean War.
• Memorial Tower of Baengmagoji Battlefield and Memorial Museum | The site of one of the bloodiest battles of the Korean War that took place on October 6-15, 1952 between the UN Forces and the Chinese Volunteer Army. The hill that changed hands 24 times during the 10 days-long fierce battle was completely reshaped as a result, looking like a White Horse (Baengma) lying down. Today, there is a memorial monument and exhibition hall on site.  
• Key Observatory | Opened in 1998, the name of the observatory symbolizes its potential role in reaching national unification. Apart from stunning views of the natural beauty of the DMZ and the fences and guard posts along it; there is also an exhibition hall about the Korean War and military life of those serving in the DMZ.  
• Typhoon Observatory | Named after the Typhoon Battalion of the ROK Army the observatory was opened in 1991. Famous for being the closest observatory to the MDL, it is situated just 800 meters from the MDL, and 1.6 kilometers from the closest North Korean checkpoint.  
• Drive back to Seoul | Another ca. 100 km back to Seoul, arriving at the hotel in the evening. Along the way back to the South Korean capital we will stop at one of the 38th Parallel Markers for photos. Note that we spent most of the day north of the 38th parallel in a territory that belonged to the North before the Korean War.  

September 26 | Thursday

War Memorial of Korea in Seoul; and Sokcho, Gangwon Province

• War Memorial of Korea | Visit the War Memorial of Korea in South Korea and see things from a different perspective. The War Memorial of Korea features both indoor and outdoor exhibition halls containing approx. 33,000 artefacts.  
• Drive to Sokcho on the East Coast of Korea | We will drive approximately 200 km east across the Korean Peninsula. A drive that takes approximately the same time in the ROK and the DPRK; delayed by heavy highway traffic in the South while by road conditions in the North. We will stop for a light lunch ( *at own expense ) at one of the highway service stations. Service stations are a real treat in Korea, and the best in the World. ( Ca. 3-4 hrs drive ).
• Beach walk to see electric fences and protection against North Korean infiltration | Since the 1953 armistice that halted the Korean War North Korean military attempted to infiltrate South Korea. Many of these attempts happened via sea and in Gangwon Province. As a result, the Korean coast is heavily fortified – we will look at these electric fences and other means of protection.  
• Dinner, lecture, and discussion | We will gather for dinner followed by a lecture and discussion with a North Korean expert.

Overnight: Ramada Plaza Hotel Sokcho (B/x/D)

September 27 | Friday

Goseong, Gangwon Province

• Drive north to Goseong | We will drive North along the coast to Goseong County which is located north of the 38th parallel and became a part of South Korea only after the 1953 Armistice. Goseong County, like the Korean Peninsula and Gangwon (Kangwon) Province, is divided and it stretches north of the DMZ where it is spelled as Kosong County (the only province and county that is shared between the ROK and the DPRK). ( Ca. 1-hr drive. )  
• Gift shop at the high-security border entrance | We will stop at the entrance of the Tongil Security Park to get our permit to cross the Civilian Limit Line allowing you time to check out the gift shop selling DMZ-themed bric-a-bracs.  
• Tongil Viewpoint over North Korea | Built in 1983 by a military unit Tongil Observatory is located within the Civilian Limit Line just a few kilometres away from the Military Demarcation Line overlooking the Kumgangsan area of North Korea. Kumgangsan (also known as the Diamond Mountain) is one of the five celebrated mountains of Korea and served as an inspiration for Korean artists for centuries. It has also gained national significance during the Sunshine Policy era when between 1998 and 2008 South Korean tourists were allowed to visit the Mount Kumgang Tourist Region developed by Hyundai. It also hosted numerous family reunion events. On our drive from the high-security border entrance to the observatory you can have a glimpse of the former customs house that processed inter-Korean border crossings.  
• Free time for lunch at Tongil Observatory | An hour-long break to grab lunch ( *at own expense ) and discover Tongil Security Park on your own.
• DMZ Museum | Located within the Civilian Limit Line in Tongil Security Park the DMZ Museum tells the story of the past, present, and future of the Demilitarized Zone in four exhibition rooms.  
• Kim Il Sung Summer House | Would be a Revolutionary Site in North Korea and is also known as the Castle of Hwajinpo, the villa was built in 1938 by a German architect for the Sherwood Hall family who were missionaries in Korea; the matriarch of the family, Rosetta Sherwood Hall is the founder of the Pyongyang School for the Deaf and Blind. Kim Il Sung used the villa as a summer resort with his family between 1948 and 1950. The house was damaged during the Korean War and restored in 2005 to its state when the Kim family used it.  
• Beach treasure hunt for North Korean debris washed ashore | Being just a few kilometers away from the North Korean coast the sea washes off debris from North Korea sometimes as far away as Wonsan, some 100-plus kilometers North of the DMZ. We will go for a ‘treasure hunt’ to see what’s on the shelves of North Korean shops these days. Be sure to pack Nick Bonner’s Made in North Korea to use as a guide to identify the goods or see how everyday design changed over the years.  
• Check-in at Geumgangsan Condo Hotel | A hotel with stunning views of the East Sea and that resembles the atmosphere of the hotels found in North Korea. Please note that availability subject to local conditions.  

Overnight: Geumgangsan Condo Hotel ( *A Korean beach resort targeting local tourists primarily. The hotel is a bit worn down and might be below international standards according to some – on the other hand, it is one of our favorites – , but a real treat if you want to live the North Korean hotel experience outside the DPRK. ) (B/x/D)

September 28 | Saturday

Return to Seoul

• Drive back to Seoul | Drive West across the Korean Peninsula back to Seoul arriving mid-day. ( 3-4 hrs drive ).
• National Museum of Contemporary Korean History | Learn about the tumultuous 1960s when South Korea was under a military dictatorship. It was also the time of the 'Miracle on the Han River' when the country transformed from a developing country to one of the most developed economies.  

September 29 | Sunday

Ganghwado, Incheon

• Manghyangdae | A solemn place overlooking North Korea where North Korean refugees perform annual ancestral rights.  
• Ganghwado Observatory | We'll drive to another great spot for observing North Korea.
• Aegibong Peace Ecopark | Located on Hill 154, overlooking the Hangang Estuary, which was a battle site during the Korean War Aegibong Peace Ecopark now advocates peace on the Korean Peninsula. The area was designated as a North-South free-zone after the Korean War with accesses for both Southern and Northern fishing vessels; however, to avoid any conflicts it is off-limits for boats with the result that the park has its special ecosystem. The first observatory was built in 1978 and after a massive reconstruction, the park was reopened in 2021. The exhibition focuses on the unique ecosystem of the area and also offers a virtual reality experience to ‘visit’ the Koryo Palace in Kaesong (albeit being south of the 38th parallel, now North Korea). Up on the hill is the lookout with views of North Korea.  
• Farewell dinner.

Overnight:  ibis Ambassador Insadong or similar , Seoul (B/L/x)

September 30 | Monday

Departure day from Seoul

Our trip ends this morning. Catch an international flight from Seoul's Incheon Airport or continue to explore Seoul and South Korea independently. For tips in South Korea please contact your tour manager Gergő "Greg" Váczi .

End of Tour

Upgrade to your own room in South Korea (ROK)

The default rooming option for this tour is shared hotel room or minbak - Korean-style guest house - (one night). Each hotel room on tour has two separate beds. If you'd like a room to yourself then you can upgrade for an extra $50 USD per night. Please note that no single room supplement is available for the one night at minbak on Yeonpyeong-do.

What is / is not included?

• Two meals a day unless otherwise stated
• Accommodation in hotel, and in minbak (Korean-style guest house) on Yeonpyeongdo
• Transporation while on tour
• Ferry Incheon-Yeonpyeongdo-Incheon
• Local Korean guide and a driver
• A Koryo Tours tour leader
• Guest speakers

NOT INCLUDED

• Optional single supplement: USD 50 per night (*Please note that single supplement is not available at the guesthouse on Yeonpyeong-do.)
• Flights to/from South Korea
• K-ETA or visa fee
• Travel insurance
• Spending money for souvenirs etc.

Groups will be in the experienced hands of a local Korean guide and a Koryo Tours tour leader. Please note that when on tour your day-to-day itinerary may differ from what is advertised above. Given that many sites on tour are places of national security concerns, last-minute cancellations are also possible. Your tour leader will ensure, however, that everything available at the time is covered, and replacement options are provided where needed.

We will ensure to make the most of your days in Korea to guarantee the experience of a lifetime. After the tour, we will send out a list of all participants' emails so you can keep in touch, swap photos etc. If you do not wish to be on this list then please let us know.

Entry to Korea

• Please note that those nationals who do not require a visa for South Korea need to complete electronic travel authorization (K-ETA) at least 72 hours prior to entry to Korea. For details, and full list of all eligible countries please refer to the K-ETA website.
• As of April 1, 2023 K-ETA is temporarily exempted to 22 countries/regions till December 31st, 2024. For a full list of countries and details please visit the K-ETA website . You will be required, however, to submit an Arrival Card at the port of entry to the ROK.

September 28 - October 4/5 2024

The China National Day Tour

6 nights in the DPRK + Beijing-Pyongyang travel time

The perfect way to spend your Chinese National Holiday time off in North Korea. Highlights of Pyongyang, Kaesong, Pyongsong and Mt. Myohyang. From 1305 EUR per person

Please apply by 15th September, 2024 .

Calling all adventurers! What better way to spend all of those days off for the Chinese National Holiday than exploring one of the world’s least-visited countries - but surprisingly accessible from China!

The China National Day Tour includes a comprehensive city tour of Pyongyang as well as getting you down to  Kaesong south of the 38th Parallel on the North-South border. We'll also head up to Pyongsong , a satellite city of Pyongyang and a centre for the national sci-tech industry. We will also travel up to scenic Mt. Myohyang and the amazing halls of gifts to the DPRK's Leaders. Add in Anju , Hoechang , and Huichon and you have a perfect week in the DPRK!

Our comprehensive city tour of Pyongyang includes must-see sights such as the   Mausoleum of President Kim Il Sung and General Kim Jong Il , and the Mansudae Grand Monument , as well as visiting more local places such as the bustling Kwangbok Supermarket , the only place in Pyongyang where tourists can spend local Won that can be changed at the black market exchange rate. It certainly won’t be a relaxed Chinese golden week away, but it is an action-packed week guaranteed to leave you wanting more!

Scroll down for an overview of our China National Day Short Tour package highlights, tour itinerary, transport options , DPRK tourist visa information, and extra add-ons.

Koryo Tours International Tours

Mongolia | Turkmenistan | Kazakhstan | Bhutan | Russia | Tajikistan  

• Historic Kaesong City south of the 38th Parallel
• Mt. Myohyang for scenery, the incredible gift exhibition, and a rare overnight in Huichon
• Hoechang - wartime base of the Chinese Army

*Pre-Tour Briefing | We require all travellers to attend a pre-tour briefing that covers regulations, etiquette, safety, and practicalities for travel in North Korea. The briefing lasts approximately one hour followed by a question and answer session. Please be punctual for the briefing. You can come early, meet your fellow travellers, pay any outstanding tour fees and browse our collection of Korean art. A proper briefing is an essential part of travel to North Korea. For this tour, we will hold two briefings. One in the morning for those departing by train this afternoon and the other in the afternoon for those departing by flight the next day.

• Recommended latest arrival in Beijing.
• 10:00 | Briefing for those departing by train. Please note that the train entry option for this tour is sold out due high demand during the National Day Holiday in China.
• 16:00 | Briefing for those departing by flight.  
• 17:26  | Train travellers depart Beijing Station by domestic sleeper train to Dandong, the Chinese city on the border with the DPRK. Please arrange independent travel to the train station and arrive at least an hour and a half early for the train departure.

Overnight | Hotel in Beijing not included in the tour for those taking the flight the next day. Contact us for recommendations near our office! Those travelling by train will spend the night on the train.

September 28 | Saturday

Arrival day in Pyongyang

• Train transfer at Dandong Station from overnight sleeper train to Dandong-Pyongyang local. Our local representative in Dandong will assist with the transfer. Train crosses the China-North Korea border followed by North Korean customs and immigration.
• Flight departure from Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) Terminal 2 on Air Koryo flight JS152 at 13:05. A 1.5-hour flight with basic lunch ( vegetarian option is subject to availability). Check-in starts 3 hours prior to departure.  
• Flight arrival to Pyongyang's Sunan International Airport (FNJ) at 16:05. DPRK immigration and customs, meet your Korean guides and transfer to the city.  
• Grand People's Study House | National library and public correspondence university with Neo-traditional Korean and great views of the city.  
• Train arrival to Pyongyang Railway Station at 18:45.

Overnight:   Yanggakdo International Hotel , Pyongyang |  Home away from home for most (but not all!) foreign visitors to Pyongyang, this 47-story hotel is located on an island in the middle of the Taedong River and offers great views of the city. Comfortable rooms and comprehensive leisure facilities: swimming pool, spa, billiards, bowling, gift shops, tea houses and beer brewed on-site.

Pyongyang City Tour

Kumsusan Palace of the Sun  | Mausoleum of the DPRK leadership where President Kim Il Sung and Chairman Kim Jong Il lie in state and the most solemn location on the itinerary.  Please note formal dress is required. Men require collared shirt with tie, dark non-jean pants, and dark shoes. Women require covered shoulders, knee-length dress or pants, and closed toed shoes. The visit will take most of the morning and visitors are asked to bow a number of times inside. This is a state-administered site and visits are subject to local conditions. Cancellations are rare but possible.

Mansudae Fountain Park   |   The historic centre of Pyongyang popular with local citizens after school and on weekends. Flanked by examples of ancient, socialist, and modern architecture.

• Mansudae Grand Monument | Enormous bronze statues of President Kim Il Sung and Chairman Kim Jong Il overlooking downtown Pyongyang. A presentation of flowers and bow by the group is customary here (5 EUR).  Please note this is a government-administered sight and visits are subject to cancellation. Visits are optional and require a certain dress code (close-toed shoes and covered legs and shoulders) . Here we will also see the Chollima Monument, or ‘thousand ri (400 km or 250 mile) horse’ -a symbol of speed- commemorating the quick rebuilding of the country in the 1950s following the Korean War.

Walk and Picnic Lunch in Moranbong Park | We’ll take a stroll and have picnic lunch in Pyongyang’s central park popular with locals for picnics, dances, and sports. The park is filled with historic pavilions, walls, and monuments- modern and ancient, a few of which are among the traditional ‘Eight Great Sights of Pyongyang’.

• Kim Il Sung Square   | Pyongyang’s central square lined with government ministries, museums, and The Grand People’s Study House.  
• Foreign Languages Bookshop   | Store selling Korean publications translated into English, German, French, Russian, Chinese, and Spanish. Also pick up DVDs, postcards, and small works of art.

Monument to the Party Foundation | Iconic structure featuring the hammer, sickle, writing brush which represent the workers, farmers, and intellectuals that make up the Worker’s Party of Korea.

• Mangyongdae Native House | Birthplace of and childhood home of President Kim Il Sung. A traditional Korean house in a park-like setting.  
• Kwangbok Department Store   | Opportunity to use Korean currency and shop with the citizens of Pyongyang! Try the snack stand on the first floor for some of Pyongyang’s best local eats.

Tower of the Juche Idea   | Iconic tower dedicated to the DPRK’s guiding philosophy on the Taedong River. Take the elevator to the top for great views of the city ( elevator ticket is 5 EUR ).

Overnight:  Yanggakdo International Hotel, Pyongyang

Pyongyang & Kaesong

Pyongyang Metro Tour  | One of the deepest metro systems in the world with stunning artwork reflecting the name of each station. Ride six stations on the Chollima Line.

• Arch of Triumph  | A massive archway made for the 70th anniversary of the birth of President Kim Il Sung in 1982 and commemorating the liberation of Korea from Japanese colonial rule in 1945. Larger than its counterpart in Paris.  
• Friendship Tower | Monument to the assistance given by the Chinese Volunteer Army during the Korean War  
• Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum and USS Pueblo  | We’ll tour this world-class museum led by local museum guides. Renovated in 2012 and its exhibits of Korean War from the DPRK perspective containing artifacts, documents, photos, and lifelike dioramas. The exterior grounds house the War Victory Monument and displays of Korean People’s Army Hero Equipment and captures equipment from the US military, including the spyship USS Pueblo . Central to the understanding of the country today and highlight of the trip.  
• Walk along Taedong River to Okryugwan | A meal at Pyongyang’s most famous restaurant. Housed in a huge traditional building on the banks of the Taedong River. Okryugwan specialises in Pyongyang Cold Noodles.

Munsu Water Park  | We’ll take a break at this outdoor and indoor water park with water slides, lap pools, and hot tubs. Bar, coffee shop, and shops for non-swimmers ( Entry fee 2 EUR; swimming fee- 10 EUR with suit rental; tennis- 5 EUR ).

Drive south to Kaesong , historic capital of the medieval Koryo Dynasty (918-1392 AD). Once located in South Korea, the city changed hands during the Korean War. It is now located just north of the DMZ.

Dinner with a Kayagum Performance.

Overnight:   Minsok Folk Hotel , Kaesong | Traditional style hotel where guests sleep on heated floors in Korean style. Housed in beautiful courtyards of Kaesong’s old city, structures date back to the Ri Dynasty. Basic bathroom facilities. Hot water not guaranteed and erratic electricity supply – please bring a torch.

October 1 | Tuesday

China National Day - DMZ & Kaesong City  (*Please note that due to the current political situation and recent chenges, it is our understanding that visits to Panmunjom and the JSA as well as to the Concrete Wall is not possible at least until further notice. If that is the case at the time of our vist we will visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kaesong as well a ginseng factory .)

• Old City Walk and South Gate | A stroll from the hotel through Kaesong’s historic district lined with homes dating back to the Ri Dynasty from the city’s historic South Gate.
• Panmunjom Armistice Village and DMZ  ( *Currently suspended ) | The site of the signing of the 1953 armistice that ended the Korean War and demarcation line between north and south. On some days it is possible to visit the hut straddling the line, where negotiations between both sides once took place. Here we will be accompanied by military guides from the Korean People's Army.
• Kaesong Korean Stamp Exhibition Hall  | Store selling stamps, postcards, local ginseng , souvenirs, art, and more! One of the best postcard collections in/ the country and friendly staff.  
• Kaesong Koryo Museum  | Once the Songgyung Academy, a Confucian school, and now a museum on the Koryo Dynasty exhibiting historical objects, statues, pagodas, and porcelain from that era. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.  
• Traditional Royal Korean Lunch ( pangsanggi )   | A meal consisting of 12 dishes served in brass bowls fit for the kings of old. The more dishes, the more distinguished the guest! Traditional Korean 'sweet-meat soup' is also an option here ( +5 EUR ).

Janam Hill and Old City View | Statues of the DPRK leadership on a hill overlooking Kaesong city and historic pavilion used for archery demonstrations in days of yore.

• Concrete Wall and view of DMZ   ( *Currently suspended ) | View of a complex fortification system erected on the southern boundary of the DMZ accompanied by a military guide. The wall is seen as evidence of intent to permanently divide the nation. A 45 minute drive each way from Kaesong through scenic countryside.
• Pyongyang | Drive back to the capital.  
• Xiangmanlou/Hyangmanru Restaurant | A rare chance to eat dinner at Pyongyang's best Chinese Restaurant on this Chinese Holiday. Amazing building, great food, be one of the very few foreigners to have ever been here!

Overnight:   Yanggakdo International Hotel, Pyongyang

October 2 | Wednesday

Hoechang, Pyongsong, Anju

• Drive to Hoechang .  
• Cemetery for the Martyrs of the Chinese People’s Volunteer Army   | Built in the 1950s (renovated in 2010) and opened by Zhou Enlai. Scenic Chinese hillside cemetery with domed tombs of 134 Chinese soldiers. Including a bust and tomb of Mao Anying ; the Chairman’s son.
• Songhung Revolutionary Site | Drive past the giant zinc factory to the wartime base of the Volunteer Army. Caves and tunnels, buildings from the period used by the soldiers and by Kim Il Sung when he visited to thank them for assistance.
• Drive north to Pyongsong , a satellite city of Pyongyang and centre of scientific research. A 45 minute to 1 hour drive .
• Pyongsong City Square | Central square of Pyongsong City with statues of the DPRK leadership and flanked by the provincial revolutionary museum.
• Kim Jong Suk Higher Middle School  | One of the DPRK’s top middle schools for gifted students, tourists are encouraged to help teach an English class!  
• Drive to Anju | a mid-sized industrial city located on the road and rail line north of Pyongyang on the Chongchon River. During the Korean War, major battles were fought near here between North Korean-Chinese forces and UN-South Korean forces. Coal is mined nearby.  
• Paeksang Pavilion and Anju City Walls  | The greatest pavilion in Kwanso (Pyong’an Province,) which overlooks the Chongchon River. Rebuilt after destruction in the Korean War.  
• Continue driving to Mt. Myohyang and on to Huichon County.

Overnight:   Huichon Hotel , Huichon | The only place a tourist can visit in Chagang Province. Almost never used by foreign tourists. Stay somewhere very different indeed!

October 3 | Thursday

Mt. Myohyang, Pyongyang

• International Friendship Exhibition | A semi-subterranean exhibition hall displaying gifts of all kinds given to the DPRK leaders by foreign states, leaders, and organizations. The exhibition is a fascinating look into material culture in the second half of the 20th century. Highlights include a plane given by the Soviet Union, basketball signed by Michael Jordan from the US State Department, and vodka given by Dennis Rodman. The visit takes most of the morning. Presentable dress required .  
• Pohyon Buddhist Temple  | A peaceful temple dating back to 1042 CE with stone pagoda and repository of print blocks and historic text of the Tripitaka Koreana , Buddhist scriptures first produced to invoke divine assistance from foreign invasions during the Koryo Dynasty.

Manpok Valley Hike  | Various options for hikes of a range of distances/difficulties. Passing waterfalls, hermitages, interesting rocks, lovely wooded areas, and viewing points.

• Pyongyang | 3-hour drive back to the capital.
• Farewell dinner at Arirang Restaurant | One of Pyongyang's best restaurant in the center of the city.  
• Final evening walk through the heart of Pyongyang  to bring an end to an amazing tour.

October 4 | Friday

Departure Day from Pyongyang and Return to Beijing by flight or train. Please confirm your preferred exit method upon booking*

• Flight departure from Pyongyang on Air Koryo Flight JS 251  at 10:25 with scheduled arrival at Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) Terminal 2 at 11:50.
• Train departure by train to Beijing at 10:10 with transfer in Dandong. The scheduled arrival is to Beijing Station on Saturday, October 5 at 08:40. For this tour the default option is hard sleeper (six beds per berth).

Transport | Train and Flights to North Korea (High-season)

This tour travels between Beijing-Pyongyang by train each way in a hard-sleeper carriage (6 bunks per compartment). The train journey takes 24 hours with a transfer at the city of Dandong. One-way or round-trip flights are also available. The flight takes around 90 minutes. For an extra 265 EUR you can upgrade to a one-way flight. A round-trip ticket costs an additional 435 EUR. We recommend flight entry with a train return for the best overall experience on your trip.

Visit the DPRK border town of Sinuiju

If you're heading back to Beijing by train this option lets you get off for an overnight in Dongrim before the next day's tour of Sinuiju — the border city with China. Spend an extra 24 hours in the DPRK seeing the sites of North Pyongan province. You will then continue on through to Beijing.

Visit Dandong — the Chinese gateway to the DPRK

Instead of immediately returning to Beijing when your tour ends you can take some extra time to visit this fascinating border city, which directly faces the DPRK town of Sinuiju, but lies on the Chinese side of the Yalu River. We offer both one-night and two-night fully guided extensions that take in all the sights of Dandong, with a special North Korea theme.

Upgrade to your own room

All hotel rooms on our all-inclusive group tours feature twin beds, and will be shared. If you'd like a room to yourself then you can upgrade for an extra 40 EUR per night.

Insurance for up to six nights

We're unable to take you on one of our tours if you do not have medical insurance that covers the destination in question. Issues of isolation and infrastructure where we go mean it would be irresponsible of us to do so. We can provide this if you do not have it — or you can use your own.

• Train Beijing – Pyongyang – Beijing with transfer at Dandong
• All meals on the tour apart from the meals on the train
• Hotel accommodation
• Two local Korean guides, and a driver per group
• Koryo Tours leader
• All transportation in the DPRK

NOT INCLUDING

• North Korean (DPRK) visa fee 60 EUR
• Optional Air Koryo flights (one-way: 265 EUR; return: 435 EUR)
• Optional single room supplement (40 EUR per night)
• Tips for the local Korean guides and driver (approx 10-15 EUR per day)
• Optional activities such as the lift up the Juche Tower (5 EUR) or a visit to the funfair (approx. 2 EUR entrance fee per person)
• Entry tickets for special events if applicable – for example Pyongyang Circus (approx. 20 EUR per person)
• Meals include a complimentary beer and water, but you will need to purchase extra drinks if needed
• Spending money for souvenirs
• Sinuiju Extension: RMB 50 for the bus across the bridge to Dandong to be paid on the spot to the local guides

Groups will be in the experienced hands of two or three local Korean guides and an experienced Koryo Tours tour leader . Please note that when on tour your day-to-day itinerary may differ slightly to what is advertised above. Your tour leader will ensure, however, that everything available at the time is covered, and replacement options are provided where needed. We will also add in extras when there is time (such as a visit to a local bar or amusement park).

We visit the DPRK regularly so know all the best places to go, and how to make the most of your days there to guarantee the experience of a lifetime. After the tour, we will send out a list of all participants' emails so you can keep in touch, swap photos etc. If you do not wish to be on this list then please let us know.

September 28 - October 2/3 2024

China National Day Short Tour

4 nights in the DPRK + Beijing-Pyongyang travel time

The perfect way to spend your Chinese National Holiday time off in North Korea. Pyongyang and Kaesong. From 935 EUR per person

Calling all adventurers! What better way to spend some days off for the Chinese National Holiday than exploring one of the world’s least-visited countries - but surprisingly accessible from China!

China National Short Day Tour includes a comprehensive city tour of Pyongyang as well as getting you down to Kaesong south of the 38th Parallel on the North-South border.

Our comprehensive city tour of Pyongyang includes must-see sights such as the Mansudae Grand Monument , as well as visiting more local places such as the bustling Kwangbok Supermarket , the only place in Pyongyang where tourists can spend local Won that can be changed at the black market exchange rate. It certainly won’t be a relaxed Chinese golden week away, but it is an action packed week guaranteed to leave you wanting more!

• Pyongyang Highlights including: the Pyongyang Metro, Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum
• Dine at Okryugwan to sample Pyongyang's (and the Korean Peninsula's) best cold noodles
• Historic Kaesong City

Overnight:   Yanggakdo International Hotel , Pyongyang | Home away from home for most (but not all!) foreign visitors to Pyongyang, this 47-story hotel is located on an island in the middle of the Taedong River and offers great views of the city. Comfortable rooms and comprehensive leisure facilities: swimming pool, spa, billiards, bowling, gift shops, tea houses and beer brewed on-site.

September 29| Sunday

Kumsusan Palace of the Sun  | Mausoleum of the DPRK leadership where President Kim Il Sung and Leader Kim Jong Il lie in state and the most solemn location on the itinerary.  Please note formal dress is required. Men require collared shirt with tie, dark non-jean pants, and dark shoes. Women require covered shoulders, knee-length dress or pants, and closed toed shoes. The visit will take most of the morning and visitors are asked to bow a number of times inside. This is a state-administered site and visits are subject to local conditions. Cancellations are rare but possible.

• Mansudae Grand Monument | Enormous bronze statues of President Kim Il Sung and Leader Kim Jong Il overlooking downtown Pyongyang. A presentation of flowers and bow by the group is customary here (5 EUR).  Please note this is a government-administered sight and visits are subject to cancellation. Visits are optional and require a certain dress code (close-toed shoes and covered legs and shoulders) . Here we will also see the Chollima Monument, or ‘thousand ri (400 km or 250 mile) horse’ -a symbol of speed- commemorating the quick rebuilding of the country in the 1950s following the Korean War.
• Kwangbok Department Store  | Opportunity to use Korean currency and shop with the citizens of Pyongyang! Try the snack stand on the first floor for some of Pyongyang’s best local eats.

Overnight | Yanggakdo International Hotel, Pyongyang

Pyongyang Metro Tour   | One of the deepest metro systems in the world with stunning artwork reflecting the name of each station. Ride six stations on the Chollima Line.

• Walk along Taedong River to Okryugwan |  A meal at Pyongyang’s most famous restaurant. Housed in a huge traditional building on the banks of the Taedong River. Okryugwan specialises in Pyongyang Cold Noodles.

Monument to the Three-Charters of National Reunification | Iconic arch over the Pyongyang-Kaesong Highway dedicated to joint meeting between Koreas, north and south. Also known as the ‘Arch of Reunification’.

• Concrete Wall and view of DMZ  ( *Currently suspended ) | View of a complex fortification system erected on the southern boundary of the DMZ accompanied by a military guide. The wall is seen as evidence of intent to permanently divide the nation. A 45 minute drive each way from Kaesong through scenic countryside.

Departure Day from Pyongyang and Return to Beijing by train.

• Train departure by train to Beijing  at 10:25 with transfer in Dandong. The scheduled arrival is to Beijing Station  on Thursday October 3 at 08:40. For this tour the default option is hard sleeper (six beds per berth).

October 2024 — 2 tours

November 2024 — 1 tour, december 2024 — 2 tours, january 2025 — 2 tours, february 2025 — 2 tours, march 2025 — 1 tour, april 2025 — 5 tours, may 2025 — 1 tour, june 2025 — 1 tour, july 2025 — 2 tours, august 2025 — 3 tours, september 2025 — 4 tours, next tour departure dates, east pyongyang.

As seen from the top of the Juche Tower - this is a mainly residential district

Mass Dance - Pyongyang

Mass Dances are held on all major holidays. particpants number from 3000 to 50,000. Tourists can even join in!

Ryugyong Hotel - Pyongyang

Iconic 105-storey building towering over the capital. Koryo Tours have even been to the top of this!

Farming - East Coast

Korea is mainly mountains but has farmland too - a trip to the countryside gives a sense of what rural life is like

Youth Funfair - Pyongyang

A great place to visit in the evening, popular with locals and with all Italian-made rides

Fishing Village - East Coast

Bounded by seas to east and west the villages along the coasts are mainly populated by fishermen catching all manner of seafood

Kwangbok Street - Pyongyang

One of Pyongyang's famous mega-highways. with a dozen lanes accommodating far more cars than ever need to use it

Reunification Monument

On the road from the capital heading south - this monument symbolises ongoing hopes for peaceful reunification of the Korean peninsula

People's Theatre - Pyongyang

Home of the famous Moranbong Band - the DPRK's iconic rock/pop/ensemble

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South Korea Holidays

Book your 2024/2025 tour holiday to South Korea

• South Korea

South Korea is an unexplored slice of East Asia. A land of ancient ruins, romantic legends, natural wonders, extraordinary landscapes and packed modern cities, South Korea can trace its history back half a million years. These days most cities consist of a new fashionable area with coffee shops and karaoke bars, but in these same cities you will also find the Korea of old; alleyways and street markets in an intriguing maze where vendors sell everything, just as they have done for hundreds of years.

Our Scenic South Korea tour features many of the island’s wonderful highlights; the bustling metropolis of Seoul is a place to experience at least once in a lifetime. Modern skyscrapers, shopping malls and pop culture meets Buddhist Temples, Palaces and street markets. Boseong is the green tea capital of Korea, the surrounding climate and soul is believed to be the key, as it provides perfect conditions to grow this unique green tea that has a distinct taste and aroma.

Busan – Korea’s second biggest city is full of character and provides many different attractions such as temples, mountains and beaches. Gyeongju – Known as ‘the museum without walls’, the history of this place is outstanding. Gyeongju was originally the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Silla (57 BC -935 AD) and was at one point the 4th largest city in the world.

Top Holidays to South Korea

South Korea offers a wealth of wonderful sights and experiences. What better way to explore them than on a Wendy Wu tour?

Scenic South Korea

Essence of South Korea & Japan

Upcoming South Korea departures

Amazing cities to visit in south korea, jeju island, best places to see in south korea, gyeongbokgung palace, mount seorak, the demilitarised zone, award-winning guiding....

All of our holidays in South Korea are accompanied by a dedicated National Escort throughout. We task them with the responsibility to keep you safe, happy, inspired and entertained and they respond with Gusto! Guiding you through the intricacies and eccentricities of the Korean way of doing things with expert ease.

All of our National Escorts in South Korea...

• Have a minimum of five years experience in guiding
• Are fluent in English
• Are unparalleled experts, born and raised in the local area
• Go through rigorous and constant training
• Are at your service 24 hours a day

A generous and open-minded tour guide, this is how my travellers would describe me. Whilst in South Korea you will explore the country during the most beautiful time of year. Our tour is designed to showcase Korea’s iconic sights, less known sites and authentic and exciting cultural experience.

Sue was so knowledgeable and courteous. I have travelled with Wendy Wu before and the experience was unparalleled.

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South Korea To Allow Visa-Free Entry To 8 Countries

The South Korea online visa waiver , or K-ETA, will be made available to citizens of 8 countries for the first time from 1 November 2022.

This will mark the first time that visitors from these 8 nations have qualified for visa exemption to South Korea since travel restrictions were introduced during the pandemic.

The Korea Disease Prevention and Control Agency (KDCA) issued a press conference stating that the decision had been made after consultations with various agencies in the country, including the justice ministry.

The South Korean K-ETA is an electronic travel authorization obtained online . Visa-exempt travellers may use this waiver instead of going through the lengthier, in-person process of applying for a visa. 

Related articles:

• South Korea To Remove Quarantine for Vaccinated Travellers
• Post Study Work Options: How to Get a Work Visa in South Korea After Studies
• What are the High Potential Individual Visa Requirements?
• EU Proposes Digital Schengen Visa Process
• Japan Electronic Visa for Canada and U.S. Citizens

The Return to Visa-Free Travel 

The K-ETA was launched in September 2021 to visitors from 49 of the 112 countries and territories that had previously been visa-exempt.

Since then, the online visa waiver has been opened up to more and more of the 112 nations. Only 8 previously visa-exempt countries have been ineligible for the K-ETA. Those travelling on passports issued by these nations have been required to apply for a visa to visit South Korea instead.

From 1 November 2022, all 112 visa-exempt nationalities will be able to get the K-ETA.

The K-ETA is now a requirement for visa-free travel to South Korea. It can be used for vacations, business trips, and other visits for non-profit-making activities.

Countries Eligible For K-ETA From November 

From the beginning of November 2022, it will be possible to apply for the K-ETA visa waiver to South Korea using a passport issued by any of the following nations:

• Solomon Islands

Japan, Macau, and Taiwan had previously been granted the K-ETA temporarily during August 2022 for the Seoul Festa. However, nationals of these countries became ineligible once again from September 1.

Now, the K-ETA has been made available to citizens of these nations on a permanent basis.

As well as the latest 8 additions to the list, there are a further 104 countries that are already eligible for the K-ETA, including the US, the UK, Canada, New Zealand, and all European Union (EU) countries.

Travellers from countries that are not permitted visa-free entry to South Korea need to apply for a visa. 

What are your thoughts on this issue? Talk to us in the comment section below.

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And because of the pandemic, don’t forget to get your travel insurance , which will cover you for flight disruptions and pandemic related matters .

IaM  can help with your visa application to Europe, the United States, the UK & other countries

If you need help with a  US visa , a  UK Visa , or a  visa to Europe , including help with appointment booking obligations,  IaM  can help. For more information and advice on US immigration, UK immigration law and US visa applications or if you need any help or assistance please, reach out to your Visa Coordinator at  IaM .

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South Korea Travel Guide – All You Need to Know About Korea’s Voltage, Plug & Adapters

 21,996 total views,  2 views today

No matter where you are traveling to, it is essential to know about the plug type, adapter type, and socket type of the destination country! You need a proper power connection to ensure that you don’t end up with a drained phone! So, we will cover all about Korea’s voltage, outlets, and the type of Korea-compatible plug adapter you need!

Table of Contents

Korea Travel Essentials – Korea’s Voltage

The standard electrical voltage in South Korea is 220 Volts and 60 Hz.

As South Korea’s electricity runs at 220V and 60Hz, which means some of your electronics might not play nicely with the local power grid. Your smartphone? No problem! Your laptop? It’ll be just fine.

But your trusty hair dryer or that fancy heater you can’t live without? Well, let’s just say things could get a bit… explosive.

But hey, we’re not here to scare you!

We’ve got some tips and tricks up our sleeves.

First, always check if your devices are dual voltage – it’s like having a magic passport that lets them work anywhere in the world. And if they’re not, consider investing in a voltage converter.

Just make sure you choose the right one, or you might end up with a melted mess on your hands.

Korea Travel Essentials – Korea’s Power Outlets

First things first, let’s break down the differences between Korean plugs and the ones you might be used to. South Korea uses Type C and Type F plugs, which are pretty common in Europe. But if you’re coming from the US, UK, or Australia, you might be scratching your head wondering why your plugs don’t fit. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered!

In South Korea, you will find round-type power outlets. These outlets are compatible with two types of plug adapters – Plug Type C (Euro plug) and Plug Type F (German Schuko). Both the plug types have round pins that are fixed 19mm apart from each other. These pins can fit into two round holes of size ranging from 4.0mm to 4.8mm.

These types of plug adapters are common in most European countries. So, if you wonder if Korean and European plugs are the same, the answer is yes! But they aren’t the same as American plugs.

If your electronic items’ power cables do not have these Korea-compatible wall plug adapters at their ends, you must get a multi-outlet before your South Korea trip.

Comparing the voltage and plug adapters of South Korea and a few other countries

Using/recharging electronics in south korea.

It is important to remember that if your electronics have a different power rating than 220V, 60Hz, they will not work in South Korea!

So, phones, cameras, laptops, power banks, electric razors, etc. can be recharged. But electronics like heaters, hair dryers, and such, ones with motors in them, won’t work. They can break down or even explode due to different voltage ratings.

Most electronic items come with a built-in power transformer (the big black box you see in a laptop power cable!). They can adapt to the local voltage no matter where you are.

If there is no power transformer, you must get a power converter to use certain devices.

Adapter Requirement

You will need a simple adapter that will convert your plugs so that they become compatible with Type C or Type F outlets.

Consider purchasing an adapter that will adapt your local plug to the Europlug or German Schuko outlet in Korea.

Or, you can purchase a universal travel adapter that will work not only in South Korea but all over the world!

In case you did not begin your travel with a Korea-compatible plug adapter, there is no need to panic! Multi-adapters are readily available in Korea!

Getting Wall Plug Adapter in Korea

#1 hotel front desk.

Most hotels will rent out travel adapters to guests free of cost! So, if you’ve not already purchased your own, you can ask the front desk if they have any travel adapters available.

Some hotels have wall outlets that can accommodate all types of plugs, but they aren’t very common.

#2 Korean Convenience Stores

You can find wall adapters in Korean convenience stores such as Lotte Mart or Emart. There is a wide variety of options that you can get from these stores and they are of good quality. You’ll even find some adapters with USB ports in them.

You can get Korea plug adapters at pretty cheap prices in Daiso.

Ensure you choose the appropriate ones, as some are labeled “No Domestic Use’. They are designed for use with Korean products and to be used in international wall plugs. You can use the same to adapt your international plug to Korea-compatible plug outlets.

The label just ensures that if you use it domestically, insurance does not cover any damage.

#4 Airport Convenience Store

It is the most premium option as the travel adapters are quite expensive at the convenience store in Incheon Airport. So, if you haven’t got time to explore other stores like Daiso or Lotte Mart, and your phone is dying, go for it! But otherwise, wait for a while and get a cheap Korean plug adapter at other stores.

Check out other travel essential articles from KoreaTravelPost before your trip to South Korea!

• 10 Best Free Apps to Learn the Korean Language
• All You Need to Know About KORAIL Pass
• First-Timer’s Ultimate South Korea Travel Guide – Things to Know Before Traveling to South Korea
• Korean Sim Card Guide for All the Travelers
• South Korea Travel Guide – When is The Best Time of Year to Visit South Korea?

Our editors independently select all products featured on KoreaTravelPost. However, we may earn an affiliate commission when you buy or book something through our retail links.

Anyaa is a versatile writer with an insatiable wanderlust and a deep love for all things Korea. Her passion for exploration and storytelling shines through in her diverse articles covering every aspect of Korean travel. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the tranquil beauty of Jeju Island, her articles serve as a virtual passport for readers, providing them with insider tips, detailed itineraries, and practical advice to ensure an unforgettable journey through Korea.

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Living and traveling in Korea

Recommended Travel Adapters For Korea

I recently had a group of tourists here in Korea and one of them didn’t realize there were different power sockets in different countries. If you haven’t traveled abroad that often, or maybe stuck to one continent if you did, you may not have noticed that there are different kinds of power sockets all over the world. It’s important to know what the right power adapter for Korea is, if you’ll be coming here.

Don’t get here and realize you can’t plug a darn thing in. Power up! When you start packing to travel to Korea , here is what you need to know about travel adapters to travel to Korea.

Answers to the most common questions about power adapters and travel to Korea:

What is the standard voltage in Korea?

What is a power adapter, what kind of plug is used in korea, how to tell if my device is single voltage or dual voltage, can i get a power adapter/power converter in korea, do i need a power transformer/power converter to travel to korea, how to recharge usb devices in korea, recommended power adapters for south korea, don’t forget to bring a power bank.

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

The standard voltage in South Korea is 220 volts and 60Hz. If the standard voltage in your country is between 220 and 240 volts, like in the UK, Europe, Australia, and most of Asia and Africa, then you can use your electric appliances in Korea. If the standard voltage in your country is in the range of 100 and 127 volts, as in the US, Canada, and most South American countries, then you’ll need a voltage converter. If you’re in the latter group, then you should consider getting a combined power plug adapter/voltage converter before traveling to Korea.

If the frequency of 60Hz differs from your country, then you should not use your appliances. If there’s no voltage difference, you could try to use your appliance for a short time but do so at your own risk, You can check the label of all appliances to see what voltage and frequency yours use. If you check out the label and it says ‘INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz’, then you can use it in every country in the world and that’s usually what you’ll find on tablets, laptops, cameras, phones, and toothbrushes. But, make sure you check.

A power adapter is a small, lightweight, fairly cheap item that lets you plug in your devices and appliances into an outlet with a different shaped power plug. Depending on where you’re traveling to and from, you may or may not need one but it’s something you should check before you go anywhere.

It’s important to be aware that a power adapter only adapts the shape of the plug to fit into an outlet, it does not convert the voltage so you may also need a power converter depending on where you’re going to or coming from as mentioned above. It’s possible to get a power converter/adapter, a 2-in-1, if necessary.

If you’re traveling to Korea, you just need one adapter and you can use it on everything from hotels to even trains. Keep it with you and you can plug in anywhere. Wherever you see an outlet, train station included, sit down and plug in.

South Korea has two types of plugs, the Plug Type C (Europlug) and the Plug Type F (German Schuko). These kind of plugs have two round pins that are placed 19mm apart from each other. The pins fit into two 4.0mm to 4.8mm round holes. These are the same plugs used in most of Europe so if you’re coming from there, you’re good to go.

If you’re traveling from the United States to South Korea, you will need to bring a power adapter to fit your items with US plugs into Korean power outlets. Your devices from the States will not be able to fit into the outlet at all. Additionally, you’ll need a power converter if your device isn’t dual voltage because the voltage is much higher. (If you’re not sure what dual voltage is, keep reading to see how to figure out what your device is.)

You can find out if your device or appliance is dual voltage by looking at the rating plate. A dual voltage rated device/appliance will display something like this: ‘INPUT: 110-240V’ somewhere on the appliance or its power supply. If you see this, it means you don’t need a converter or transformer, but you would still need a travel adapter.

If your appliance does not have the rating written above or something similar, then it is probably single voltage which means you would need both a travel adapter and a power converter or transformer.

Yes, you can. However, if you’re a short-term tourist or just generally unaware of where to find various things in Korea, I’d recommend getting one prior to arrival so you have one less thing to worry about. You can find power adapters and power converters at local electrical shops and some convenience stores in Korea. But again, I wouldn’t recommend getting here and searching for one if you can help it.

Most electronics today, like your laptops and camera battery chargers, have built in power transformers to adapt to local voltage. You should note that a power adapter does not convert the voltage though so if you have a device that can fit into a Korean outlet but is not the correct frequency or you have a device that cannot fit into the outlet, has a different frequency, and you use an adapter, you will also need a converter .

I have a converter because somehow we ended up with two appliances with American plugs. It’s worth it if you’ll be living here in Korea for longer to get a converter or just make sure you get everything with a Korean plug.

If you just have USB devices that you wish to recharge, like your phone or tablet, you can use a USB travel power adapter which should work with any voltage. Again, make sure that you have gotten a suitable USB travel adapter with a Type F plug adapter as mentioned above otherwise use a plug adapter on your USB charger.

There are a variety of things you can bring with you so we’ll go through the various power adapter options. You should find the best power adapter for Korea for you. Usually these are offered as working in over 150 different countries in the world, so you buy one and you’ll pretty much be set for any future travel. They are compact and lightweight and easy to travel with. These days, some of them even include USB charging ports as well so you could get this as an all-in-one travel option.

Ceptics World Power Plug Adapter Set

This worldwide adapter has Type A, Type C, Type G, Type I plugs and are suitable for 150 countries around the world. This international travel adapter has four USB ports and a one outlet for a device with a regular plug. This is perfect for and easy for your travel needs. Find out more about the NEWVANGA International Power Adapter here .

Pac2Go Universal Travel Adapter

You can plug up to five devices into this fast charging lightweight compact travel adapter. This rapid charging wall charger comes with a nice travel case as well. This has everything you need to travel around the world. Check out more about the Pac2Go Universal Travel Adapter here .

Ouliyo International Travel Plug Adapter

With four retractable plugs, this international power converter/adapter combo has four USB ports and an all-in-one plug and socket. This is a great option if you have multiple things to charge or plug in. You can get more information on the Ouliyo International Travel Adapter here .

On top of bringing a power adapter/power converter to Korea, I highly recommend that you bring a power bank as well. It’s not uncommon to run out of battery quickly especially when traveling. With the prevalence of Wifi everywhere from cafes to public buses, you will likely use your phone more than you expect. I often have tourists tell me that their phone has died at some point along the way. Almost everyone here carries a phone bank for this reason. Don’t forget yours.

There are a lot of great options for power banks out there and they come in everything from cute to cool or super simple and straightforward silver or black. You can get a ton of power banks out there .

Are you getting ready to travel to Korea? I hope you found some useful information here and we’ll see you soon!

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WhatPlug.info

Guide for the traveller with plugs

How to use plugs from United Kingdom in South Korea

Plugs, sockets, adapters and other information needed for travelling from United Kingdom to South Korea in this page. If you want a report for other countries, re-start the wizard to find to electric adapters for your trip here .

Quick Chart at-a-glance

If you are electrical savvy, perhaps the previous chart is all you need. If this is not the case, you can continue reading and discover what the chart is saying!

Plugs and Sockets at each country

In United Kingdom the following plugs are used: (includes London, Bath, Oxford, Cambridge, Brighton.)

Considerations for the United Kingdom

It is likely you will only find plugs-type "G" in the UK. Plugs type "D" and "M" are considered "old" and not common. They are are still used nowadays to differentiate low-power lighting circuits. So please don't try to use an adapter on them for high-power equipments like hair-dryer or even battery chargers. We keep "D" and "M" plugs in our database as we don't know your exact destination and you might find one next to a bed table. As a rule of thumb , you will probably be fine with the type "G" in hotels and big cities.

... and in South Korea you will use: (includes Seoul, Busan, Jeju-si, Jeonju, Gwangju, Incheon, Daegu.)

Ganghwado Incheon

Similar voltage

The voltage is not exact, but the difference is usually tolerable by electrical devices. Its mostly safe to plug your electrical apparatus from United Kingdom in South Korea without a voltage adapter. If you have any concerns with a special device i.e. a medical device, you probably want to seek further professional help.

Different plug systems

Sorry, none of the plugs used in both countries are common. You will definitelly need plug adapters, please continue reading for more information.

Lists of adapters you can use in your travel:

Adapter: generic

This adapter allows you to use plugs type: A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N into outlets type: E, F.

This adapter allows you to use plugs type: A, B, D, G, I, M into outlets type: C, E, F, L.

This adapter has a safety protection so you don't plug only one terminal into the adapter while touching the other with your finger, because it is generic, when you buy it pay attention to this safety mechanism. Overall a good adapter that has the earth connection pass-though (notice the metallic connector on the side.)

Adapters you can buy

You can buy the following multi-purpose adapters from Amazon. Please also take a look at the recommended gadgets for your trip.

No equal Hertz

This is not a big issue. Unless you are using an electric alarm clock or some motors when speed is an issue. Explanation: Some alarm clocks uses the frequency of electricity network to measure time. So, time shifts could be experimented. Almost every home electronic device works perfectly with different Hertz.

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What to do after a British person dies in South Korea

This guide gives advice about the death of a British person in South Korea, including information on burial, cremation and repatriation.

If you are dealing with the death of a child, multiple deaths, a suspicious death or a case of murder or manslaughter, call +82 (0)2 3210 5500 and select Consular Emergency. If you are in the UK, call +44 (0) 207 008 1500.

Contact the insurance company

If the person who died had insurance, contact their insurance company as soon as possible. Insurance providers may help to cover any medical bills and the cost of funeral and repatriation, as well as any legal, interpretation and translation fees.

If the person who died had insurance, the insurance company might appoint a funeral director both locally and in the UK.

What to do if the person who died didn’t have insurance

If you are not sure whether the person who died had insurance, check with their bank, credit card company or employer.

If the person who died did not have insurance, the next of kin will usually have to appoint a funeral director and be responsible for all costs. The FCDO provides a list of UK-based international funeral directors .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office cannot help with any costs incurred by a bereavement.

Charities and organisations that offer support

Some UK-based charities and organisations may be able to offer assistance, support and information to people affected by a death abroad. The FCDO provides a list of UK-based charities and organisations .

Register the death and obtain a death certificate

You do not need to register the death in the UK. The local death certificate can usually be used in the UK for most purposes. To register a death locally, the next-of-kin or some other responsible person, such as an appointed undertaker, must notify the local district office of the death. A ‘notice/report of death’ (사망신고서: sa-mang-sin-go-seo) needs to be filled in, submitted, and a small fee paid. Simultaneously, A ‘death certificate’ (사망진단서: sa-mang-jin-dan-seo or 사체검안서: sa-chae-geom-an-seo) already issued by the medical authorities, needs to be submitted to prove actual death. The corresponding death will then officially be reflected in the central family registry, etc.

For foreigners in South Korea, deaths are investigated by the local police, while the body is kept at a hospital morgue. (Note: An accruing fee for storage may need to be paid upon retrieval of the body by next-of-kin or a duly appointed undertaker.) In case of death due to non-natural causes, retrieval/release of body must be sanctioned by the local police and prosecutor: the local police - at the direction of a prosecutor - will issue a ‘completion of examination of body certificate’ (검시필증: geom-si-pil-jeung) to the next-of-kin or a duly appointed funeral director. Meanwhile, a British next-of-kin can obtain a ‘death certificate’ from the hospital in the same manner a Korean would. But a separate request must normally be made in order to obtain an English version.

If you wish, you can register the death with the Overseas Registration Unit . You can buy a UK-style death certificate, known as a Consular Death Registration certificate. A record will be sent to the General Register Office within 12 months.

You need to tell the local authorities if the person who died suffered from an infectious condition, such as hepatitis or HIV, so they can take precautions against infection.

The local Korean death certificate can usually be used in the UK for most purposes, including probate. If it is not in English, you will need to obtain and pay for an official translation and apostille services if needed. The FCDO provides a list of official translators in South Korea . For apostille service enquiries, please call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Apostille Call Centre: +82 (0)2 6747 0404.

Deal with a local post-mortem

In South Korea, post-mortems are carried out by the National Forensic Service (NFS) .

A post-mortem is mandatory for any foreign national whose death occurs in South Korea, except in cases where the cause of death is already known or has been established. Permission is generally sought from the next-of-kin before a post-mortem takes place. In cases of death where the circumstances are deemed to be suspicious or unnatural, a post-mortem can and will be carried out regardless of the wishes of the family or next-of-kin.

After a post-mortem has been carried out, the body may be released to the next-of-kin or to a duly appointed funeral director for repatriation. The National Forensic Service (NFS) will issue a post-mortem report. This can take up to 3 months in some cases. The report will be written in Korean and is normally passed on to the Embassy to be forwarded to the next-of-kin. (The FCDO provides a list of official translators in South Korea .) As post-mortem reports are not always automatically shared, the next-of-kin may request separately - via the Embassy - a copy from the police or NFS.

Bring the body home

If the person who died had insurance, find out if their insurance provider can help cover the cost of repatriation. Repatriation is the process of bringing the body home. If so, they will make all the necessary arrangements.

If the person who died is not covered by insurance, you will need to appoint an international funeral director yourself. Documents required to transport the body of the person who died back to the UK from South Korea will be prepared by the duly appointed international funeral director.

Find an international funeral director

A relative or a formally appointed representative must appoint a UK-based international funeral director for the person who died to be repatriated to the UK. The FCDO provides a list of UK-based international funeral directors .

Local funeral directors will work with UK-based international funeral directors to make sure all the necessary requirements are met both locally and in the UK. This includes providing documents such as:

• a local death certificate (translated and notarised)
• a certificate of embalming
• a certificate of non-contagious disease
• a certificate giving permission to transfer the remains to the UK
• a quarantine certificate issued by the airport authorities
• The deceased person’s original passport is also required

The FCDO provides a list of English-speaking funeral directors in South Korea .

Advice and financial assistance for repatriation

For organisations and charities that may be able to offer assistance with repatriation, see information on LBT Global in Coping with death abroad: specialist support and advice or repatriation charities in Northern Ireland and Wales .

If you want to have a post-mortem in the UK once the body has been repatriated, you can request one from a UK coroner. The coroner will decide if a post-mortem is needed. If you want the person who died to be cremated, you need to apply for a certificate from the coroner (form ‘Cremation 6’) .

Bring the ashes home

If you choose local cremation and wish to take the ashes back to the UK yourself, you can usually do so. Check with the airline about specific restrictions or requirements, for example whether you can carry the ashes as hand luggage. When leaving Japan with human ashes you will need to present documents such as:

• a local cremation certificate (translated and notarised)
• a certificate giving permission to transfer the ashes to the UK

You should not have the person cremated abroad if you want a UK coroner to conduct an inquest into their death. If it is not possible for you to transport the ashes yourself, a funeral director may be able to make the necessary arrangements. The FCDO provides a list of UK-based international funeral directors .

Bury or cremate the body locally

To have a local burial or cremation, a relative or a formally appointed representative needs to appoint a local funeral director.

The FCDO provides a list of UK-based international funeral directors .

The FCDO also provides a list of English-speaking funeral directors in South Korea .

If a local burial or cremation takes place, there will not be a coroner’s inquest carried out in the UK.

Retrieve belongings

The personal effects of someone who dies are usually collected by their next-of-kin, employer or sponsors, who will need to make arrangements to ship these back to the UK if required.

Please note, the British Consulate cannot take responsibility for the personal belongings of the person who died.

Find a translator

You may need a translator to help understand information from local authorities or get certain documents translated (and notarised). The FCDO provides a list of official translators in South Korea .

Find a lawyer

You can apply to appoint a lawyer in certain circumstances, such as a suspicious death. The FCDO provides a list of English-speaking lawyers in South Korea .

Cancel a passport

To avoid identity fraud, the passport of the person who died should be cancelled with Her Majesty’s Passport Office (HMPO). To do this, you need to complete a D1 form .

If you plan to repatriate the person who died to the UK, you may require their passport to do this. In these circumstances, you should cancel the passport after they have been repatriated.

Check you have done everything you need to do in the UK

Check this step-by-step guide for when someone dies to make sure you have done everything you need to do in the UK after someone has died. You can find information on how to tell the government about the death, UK pensions and benefits and dealing with the estate of the person who died.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides lists of service providers for information only, to assist British nationals who may need support overseas. This list is not exhaustive, and is subject to change at any time. None of the service providers are endorsed or recommended by the FCDO. You should research whether a service provider will be suitable. The FCDO does not accept any liability arising to any person for any loss or damage suffered through using these service providers or this information.

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I've been to North Korea more than 180 times. Here's how tourists can stay out of trouble.

• Simon Cockerell, a tour operator, has visited North Korea more than 180 times.
• North Korea is opening partially to tourism for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic.
• He said visiting can be full of pitfalls, like mentioning religion or South Korea.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Simon Cockerell, a manager at the travel agency Koryo Tours. It has been edited for length and clarity.

The first time I went to North Korea, I thought I knew what to expect.

I was living in Beijing at the time, which was near North Korea. I figured it would be a bit like China or a bit like Russia.

There are definitely those elements, especially if you look for them; but the reality is that it is its own place.

In the two decades since then, I've visited North Korea more than 180 times on various tours and trips — perhaps the most of any Westerner.

North Korea has been closed to visitors for almost five years, but is partially opening up to tourists at the end of 2024.

I've shown hundreds of visitors around the country over the years, and if you've ever thought of visiting, this is how to get the most out of a trip to North Korea.

Careful what you talk about

Interacting with the local people and tour guides in the country is not like meeting aliens — it's actually one of my favorite things to do. The fact remains though, that when you're allowed to interact with them, you need to watch what you talk about.

You don't have to go around praising North Korea's leaders, but openly criticizing Kim Jong Un is a definite no-no.

I'm technically allowed to talk about what I want because I'm not a North Korean, but I am also aware that people there don't have that freedom.

Related stories

So if I go over there and say, "Oh, hey guys, I want to tell you the truth about your leaders, they're actually quite terrible," I'm putting them in a very, very dangerous position.

Tourism is important to some people there, but nothing is more important than the perception of national security.

You can find some common ground to talk about, but you have to work at it because your cultural references are all completely different. So you can't say, "Oh my gosh, did you see 'Deadpool & Wolverine?'" because they will have no idea what you're talking about.

Absolutely no religious talk

This is the most common reason foreigners get detained in North Korea.

Most of the ways tourists get into trouble in North Korea is for acts that have been pre-meditated, like leaving a Bible behind, handing out religious material, or bringing in other contraband.

Don't take in or leave behind contraband

South Korean cultural products like Korean dramas or K-pop songs should definitely be left behind before coming into North Korea.

Other things on the list include religious material and any material about North Korea published abroad, whether it's literature, guidebooks, or videos.

Then you have the usual — no weaponry, no narcotics. North Korea is actually very permissive about alcohol consumption, so that's OK.

Steer clear of comparisons to South Korea

A lot of tourists who come to North Korea have experience in South Korea as well (it's not true that visiting South Korea makes it difficult to enter North Korea).

These people tend to think "Okay, this is where we will connect. Let me tell you about my life in South Korea!"

The problem is that comparisons between North and South Korea tend to favor the South, and you can imagine people don't like to hear it.

When we lead trips, we tell people "If this is your only conversation, maybe learn to have another conversation."

About 90% of the country is off-limits — so don't wander off

Part of my role as a tour operator has been to be a sort of guinea pig, visiting areas of the country the government is thinking of opening to tourism.

I've seen beautiful seasides with basalt columns and other places tourists still haven't been allowed to visit.

Something like 90% of the country is off-limits for tourists both legally and logistically. Horrific poverty means that there's not much infrastructure conducive to tourism outside approved areas.

There are also military bases and operations throughout the country that are off-limits for obvious reasons.

I would definitely advise that tourists stay with their guides at all times, and not wander off for some personal adventure.

Ask permission to take pictures

Everybody likes to take photos, it's quite understandable. As tour operators, we've seen everything you can imagine. Sometimes someone will take a picture when they're not supposed to.

People seem to think it's off to the gulag as soon as you do something wrong. The worst that I've seen is that they get asked to delete it and not do it again — but it's always best not to try to sneak pictures when you think nobody is looking.

At the end of the day, it's very simple — all you have to do is not break the law. In general, if you don't think you can go into any country without breaking their laws, you probably shouldn't be anywhere near that country — especially if the country is North Korea.

It's the most difficult, complicated, thankless, and endlessly fascinating country I've been to.

Watch: North Korea flies warplanes near South Korea border, triggering drills

• Main content

Mapped: New mpox cases reported. What countries have it now?

A new, potentially more deadly strain of the virus is rapidly spreading within Africa and has been discovered in Asia and Europe.

Uganda has reported two new cases of the clade 1b strain of  the mpox virus .

The health ministry has announced that one of the patients is a truck driver and that both are in isolation at a hospital in Entebbe, about an hour south of the capital.

Keep reading

Public health emergency as global mpox cases confirmed, what is mpox and how do you protect yourself, thailand says mpox detected in european who travelled from africa, mpox not the new covid, says who.

As mpox spreads, concerns are rising about the confirmed cases of 1b, a new and potentially deadlier strain.

Where has mpox spread?

Burundi, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Liberia, Mozambique, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines, the Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, South Africa, Sweden, Thailand and Uganda have reported cases – a total of 18.

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the virus a “public health emergency of international concern” while emphasising that mpox is “ not the new COVID “.

This is the second emergency alert relating to mpox from the global health agency in two years.

Mpox has been identified in Africa since 2022, originally traced to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

The current outbreak is mostly triggered by Clade 1, believed to be a more serious variant that can spread through skin-to-skin contact.

In 2023, a new strain of Clade 1 was discovered in DRC – Clade 1b.

A different outbreak of the virus’s earlier Clade 2 variant is also spreading, although at lower levels, with more than 100 countries reporting infections by last month.

Clade 2 is believed to cause milder infections and has a fatality rate of 0.2 percent compared with 3.9 percent for Clade 1.

Here’s where mpox disease has spread from January to August this year:

According to data from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), WHO, and the governments of Kenya, Mozambique, Uganda and the Ivory Coast, variants of Mpox have been detected in these countries this year:

Clade 1 and Clade 1a

• Burundi (eight cases, zero deaths)
• Cameroon (35, two)
• Central African Republic (213, zero)
• Republic of Congo (146, one)
• DRC (13,791, 450)
• Rwanda (two, zero)
• Uganda (four, zero)
• Kenya (one, zero)
• Mozambique (one, zero)
• Ivory Coast (28, one)
• Ghana (four, zero)
• Liberia (five, zero)
• Nigeria (24, zero)
• South Africa (22, three)

The DRC is experiencing the biggest outbreak of the disease ever recorded with thousands of people infected as of August 21. The government declared an epidemic in December 2022 .

Nearly all reported Mpox cases – 96 percent – across Africa are in the DRC, where children younger than 15 account for 60 percent of the cases, Africa CDC said.

The new Clade 1b strain has been detected in countries neighbouring the DRC: Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda, which had not previously reported any cases since the outbreak began in 2022.

In West Africa and Southern Africa, the outbreaks are linked to the Clade 2 variant. Cameroon is reporting both Clades 1 and 2.

So far, 541 deaths have been recorded from mpox, with 535 in the DRC (97 percent). The Africa CDC does not classify deaths according to strain.

• Pakistan (one, zero)
• Philippines (one case, zero deaths)
• Thailand (one, zero)

The Philippines, Thailand and Pakistan reported new mpox cases in August.

In Thailand, authorities confirmed a new case of Clade 1b on Thursday, Asia’s first case of the new strain.

The individual, identified as a 66-year-old European male, reportedly returned from an unnamed African country currently experiencing a “large” outbreak of the Clade 1 variant.

He reportedly does not have serious symptoms and was believed to have transited through a Middle Eastern country en route to Thailand.

In the Philippines, authorities said the milder Clade 2 variant has been confirmed in the most recent case there – a 33-year-old Filipino male with no travel history.

The patient is the country’s 10th confirmed case since 2022 and authorities say mpox has likely been spreading quietly for a while.

Pakistani authorities said its first patient reported this year is a male infected with Clade 2.

However, authorities said last week they are trying to trace the patient, who is believed to have travelled to another province before the test results were released.

•  Sweden (one case, zero deaths)

Sweden reported an mpox case on August 15 which was confirmed to be the more serious Clade 1 variant.

It is “highly likely” that Europe will record more cases of Clade 1 because of frequent air travel between Europe and Africa, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.

However, sustained transmission might be low in Europe if cases are quickly diagnosed and if testing, surveillance and contact tracing are used, the agency said. The European Union has ruled out closing its borders to hard-hit countries.

Americas, Middle East, Oceania and Antarctica

No countries in North or South America have reported new Clade 1 cases so far.

However, they should be “alert” to possible Clade 1 and Clade 2 cases, the Pan American Health Organization said on August 9.

The region reported more than 62,000 cases of the Clade 2 virus from 2022 to July 2024, including 141 deaths.

There are no confirmed cases of Clade 1 in Oceania or the Middle East.

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North Korea Is Reopening Its Doors to Tourists

Visitors will be allowed to travel to the city of samjiyon, while other parts of the country will remain restricted.  , abby montanez, abby montanez's most recent stories.

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North Korea is slowly beginning to reopen its borders.  

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Separately, Shenyang’s KTG Tours announced the news in a post on its Facebook page . “So far just Samjiyon has been officially confirmed but we think that Pyongyang and other places will open too!!!”

Interested travelers will have to stay tuned for itinerary dates, which will reportedly be released in the coming weeks. Samjiyon is located in North Korea’s Ryanggang Province, positioned near Mount Paektu—the highest peak on the Korean peninsula. The resort town gets its name from the three lakes in the area and is home to Samjiyon Grand Monument. In addition, it hosts an annual ice sculpture festival every winter.  

Abigail Montanez is a staff writer at Robb Report. She has worked in both print and digital publishing for over half a decade, covering everything from real estate, entertainment, dining, travel to…

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Ukraine war latest: Russia's huge air attacks this week 'cost Putin $1.3bn'

Russia has launched several air attacks on Ukraine this week, costing Moscow a reported $1.3bn. Last night, Kyiv came under drone attack for the third night in four days, with debris injuring people and damaging buildings.

Thursday 29 August 2024 07:26, UK

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• Monday's attacks on Ukraine cost Russia almost $1.3bn, says UK
• Kyiv hit by third attack in four days as drone debris injures three
• Extra security at 'extremely exposed' Russian nuclear plant
• Moscow takes action against US newspapers
• Russian missile hits Zelenskyy's home town on day of mourning
• Watch: Who are Ukraine's secret resistance?
• Your questions answered: Can Ukraine advance further inside Russia?
• Reporting by Mark Wyatt

Ukrainian shelling in Russia's Belgorod region has killed one person and injured others, according to officials.

Posting on his Telegram channel, governor Vyacheslav Gladkov reported the attacks had taken place in the town of Shebekino.

There, he said, one man died and two other people had to be taken to hospital with shrapnel wounds.

He also reported two buildings were damaged and a car caught fire.

For context: The Belgorod region borders Ukraine and the Kursk region of Russia, which Ukraine invaded on 6 August.

There have been Russian reports this week that Ukraine has attempted to break into Belgorod, with Moscow's defence ministry saying the situation "remains difficult but under control".

Russia's huge air attacks across Ukraine this week cost Moscow almost $1.3bn, UK representative to the UN James Kariuki has said.

Moscow launched one of its biggest air attacks of the war so far on Monday, with drones and missiles fired into more than half of Ukrainian regions.

At least seven people were killed and power facilities were damaged, Kyiv has said.

Speaking at the UN Security Council meeting, Mr Kariuki said the attacks represent "continued evidence" that Russia is intentionally targeting civilian energy infrastructure.

He also said the "cowardly" attacks cost the Kremlin almost $1.3bn (£1.14bn). The figures come from a report from Forbes Ukraine and Ekonmichna Pravda.

"The consequence of Putin’s miscalculation for the Russian people is increasingly evident," added Mr Kariuki.

Authorities in Kyiv say debris from intercepted Russian drones injured three people and caused damage to buildings overnight.

It was the third attack on the Ukrainian capital in four days.

Kyiv's air defences downed more than 10 Russian drones, according to the city's military chief, Serhiy Popko.

Kyiv's mayor, Vitali Klitschko, reported that apartments in the Holosiivskyi district were damaged by falling debris.

One person was hurt when a downed drone fell on a road and destroyed a car, he added.

Welcome back to our coverage of the war in Ukraine.

Yesterday, a Russian missile struck Volodymyr Zelenskyy's home town of Kryvyi Rih as Ukraine was observing an official day of mourning for an attack that killed four people the day before.

Meanwhile, authorities in the Kursk region said additional security measures would be introduced at the nuclear plant there.

Earlier, Russian troops had claimed they'd defused an unexploded US-supplied missile that was shot down and found near the Kursk nuclear facility.

Here are the other key lines from the last 24 hours: 

• Russia banned entry to 92 US citizens, including journalists, lawyers and the heads of what it claims are key military and industrial firms upholding "Washington's Russophobic stance";
• The deputy director of the CIA, David Cohen, said it would be difficult for Russia to regain the territory it had lost to Ukraine in the Kursk region;
• Moscow dismissed Volodymyr Zelenskyy's suggestion that Kyiv would submit a plan to Washington on how to end the war;
• Russia reopened two airports serving the cities of Kazan and Nizhnekamsk after briefly suspending flights for safety reasons.

We'll be back with more updates and analysis tomorrow, but before we go, here's a recap of the key developments that took place today:

• A Russian missile struck Volodymyr Zelenskyy's home town of Kryvyi Rih;
• Ukrainian drones set oil tanks on fire at a depot in Russia's Rostov region and a depot in Russia's western region of Kirov, according to reports;
• Russia said it wanted the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to take a "more objective and clearer" stance on nuclear energy after its chief visited Kursk's nuclear power plant;
• Russian troops claimed to have defused an unexploded US-supplied missile that they said was shot down and found near the Kursk nuclear facility;
• Sir Keir Starmer and Olaf Scholz said the UK and Germany's support for Ukraine remained "unyielding";
• Additional security measures will be introduced at Kursk's nuclear plant from tomorrow, authorities in the region said.

Pavel Durov, the chief executive of Telegram, has been charged with allegedly allowing criminal activity on the messaging app.

French judges have barred Mr Durov from leaving France pending further investigation, but he has avoided being held in custody with a €5m bail.

The billionaire was arrested in France on Saturday after his private jet landed at Le Bourget airport outside Paris.

The Russian-born entrepreneur - who became a French citizen in 2021 - is accused of operating a platform which is being used for child sexual abuse material and by organised crime gangs, for drug trafficking and fraud.

Telegram has insisted it abides by EU laws and its moderation is "within industry standards and constantly improving".

Its statement added: "It is absurd to claim that a platform or its owner is responsible for abuse of that platform."

Mr Durov's arrest in France, and four days of questioning, has caused outrage in Russia.

Paper planes - representing Telegram's logo - haver been placed in Moscow in support of the billionaire.

Some government officials claim his detention was politically motivated and proof of the West's double standard on freedom of speech.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on a conference call that Russia was ready to provide Durov with all necessary assistance given his Russian citizenship, but that his French citizenship complicated the situation. 

We have been reporting today on Russia's advances in the direction of the key mining city of Pokrovsk, which sits in eastern Ukraine's Donetsk region.

Moscow sees taking control of the city as an important stepping stone to annexing the entire Donbas region.

And Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned the situation near Pokrovsk is "difficult".

Now, security expert Maria Avdeeva has shared footage from inside Pokrovsk and said the city is "tense" and "preparing for the looming Russian offensive".

NATO members have reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen Ukraine's defences at a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council today.

"Ukraine continues to intercept Russian missiles on a daily basis, saving countless lives. But Ukraine's ability to maintain their defences requires increased supply and more support," NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said in a statement.

"In the wake of the latest Russian assault, allies today reaffirmed they are stepping up their military aid to Ukraine.

"We must continue to provide Ukraine with the equipment and munitions it needs to defend itself against Russia's invasion. This is vital for Ukraine's ability to stay in the fight."

The fear of escalation by Western allies is the "biggest problem" faced by Kyiv as it battles Russia, Ukraine's foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba has said.

"Ever since the beginning of the large-scale invasion, the biggest problem Ukraine has been facing is the domination of the concept of escalation in the decision-making processes among our partners," Mr Kuleba said.

The Ukrainian minister made the comment during a conversation with Polish foreign minister Radoslaw Sikorski.

He also said: "The war is always about a lot of hardware: money, weapons, resources but the real problems are always here, in the heads.

"Most of our partners are afraid of discussing the future of Russia. This is something that is very upsetting because if we do not speak about the future of the source of threat, then we cannot build strategy."

Ukraine has relied heavily on the West to supply it with weapons and hardware and financial assistance to hold out against Russia.

But Kyiv is pushing the West to give it the long-range weapons - and the authorisation - to strike targets deep inside Russian territory. It also wants help shooting down incoming missiles.

The United Nations Security Council are meeting to discuss the latest situation in Ukraine.

It comes after a Russian missile struck Volodymyr Zelenskyy's home town of Kryvyi Rih today.

You can watch the meeting in the stream above.

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