travel korea reddit

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Follow Me On

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buy a PDF Version of This Post!

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

🇰🇷 Planning Vacations in South Korea

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

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

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

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

🛫 Basics of Korea Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

🙋 South Korea Travel FAQ

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

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

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

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

What do I need to bring to Korea?

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

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

Do I need a visa to visit Korea?

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

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

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

How can I get to & around Korea?

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

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

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

How many days in South Korea is enough?

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

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

Which apps should I download before visiting Korea?

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

🗺️ South Korea Trip Itinerary Examples

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

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

South Korea Itinerary 14 Days

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

See below for more information on each city.

South Korea Itinerary 10 Days

• Suncheon area (Days 8-10)

Click to check current hotel prices in Korea.

South Korea Itinerary 7 Days

• Suncheon area (Days 5-7)

South Korea Itinerary 5 Days

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

South Korea Itinerary 3 Days

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

🚕 Where To Visit In South Korea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

✈ Seoul

What seoul is known for.

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

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

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

What To See In Seoul

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What To Eat In Seoul

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where To Stay In Seoul

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

Budget: G Guesthouse

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

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

Mid-Range: Solaria Nishitetsu Seoul

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

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

Luxury: Signiel Seoul

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

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

✈ Busan

What busan is known for.

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

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

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

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

What To See In Busan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What To Eat In Busan

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where To Stay In Busan

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

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

Budget: The Bay Guesthouse

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

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

Mid-Range: Stanford Inn Busan

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

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

Luxury: Lotte Hotel

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

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

✈ Jeju

What jeju is known for.

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

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

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

What To See On Jeju

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What To Eat In Jeju

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where To Stay On Jeju

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

Budget: Yeha Guesthouse

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

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

Mid-Range: Color In Jeju

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

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

Luxury: Kensington Hotel Jeju

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

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

✈ Suncheon

What suncheon is known for.

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

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

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

What To See Around Suncheon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What To Eat In Suncheon

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where To Stay In Suncheon

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

Budget: Suncheon Namu Guesthouse

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

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

Budget: Baguni Hostel

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

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

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

Mid-Range: Hotel Iam

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

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

Click here to check out prices for other hotels in Suncheon

✈ Jeonju

What jeonju is known for.

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

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

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

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

What To See Around Jeonju

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What To Eat In Jeonju

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where To Stay In Jeonju

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

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

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

Budget: 24Guesthouse Jeonju

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

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

Hanok: Bu Kyung Dang Guesthouse

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

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

Mid-Range: N Bridge Hotel

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

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

Click here to check out prices for other hotels in Jeonju

🧳 Budget For A Trip To South Korea

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

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

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

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

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

ESTIMATED COSTS:

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

Decent Guesthouse : ₩25000

Meals & Snacks : ₩20000

Attractions & Activities : ₩10000

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

Souvenirs & Cafes : ₩5000 (coffee or tea)

Average Cost Per Day : ₩ 65000

🚈 South Korea Travel Tips

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

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

☺️ Basic Phrases For Your Trip to Korea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lesson complete! Now let’s get packing.

Did this post help you plan your trip to Korea? Save it on Pinterest so that it can help others, too!

More South Korea Travel and Life

Reader Interactions

Happy Travelers

January 13, 2024 at 4:42 pm

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

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

January 14, 2024 at 2:46 pm

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

August 18, 2023 at 4:02 am

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

August 20, 2023 at 5:55 pm

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

August 07, 2023 at 6:14 am

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

August 10, 2023 at 9:26 am

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

August 04, 2023 at 5:48 am

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

August 04, 2023 at 1:36 pm

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

June 13, 2023 at 11:05 pm

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

June 14, 2023 at 12:40 am

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

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

Enjoy your trip!

June 14, 2023 at 8:34 am

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

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

Thanks so much again.

Regards, VK

June 14, 2023 at 5:24 pm

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

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

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

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

June 14, 2023 at 10:02 pm

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

Susan Hughes

February 25, 2024 at 11:01 am

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

February 28, 2024 at 1:14 am

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

May 02, 2023 at 7:31 am

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

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

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

Thanks a lot in advance!!

May 02, 2023 at 10:32 am

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

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

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

May 02, 2023 at 11:04 am

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

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

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

Thanks a ton!

May 02, 2023 at 1:41 pm

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

April 16, 2023 at 6:14 am

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

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

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

April 16, 2023 at 10:29 am

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

July 22, 2023 at 6:13 am

@Max, thanks Max

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Borders Of Adventure

Leading Culture and Adventure Travel Blog by Becki Enright. Looking at the world with a different angle to change perceptions of misunderstood places, for the best in travel.

Cultural Travel , South Korea

Travelling to South Korea? What Seems Underwhelming is Misunderstood

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to handpicked partners, including tours, gear and booking sites. If you click through or buy something via one of them, I may receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and allows this site to keep running.

Travelling to South Korea seemed underwhelming. Yet it’s misunderstood. Here’s how to see Korea and find the best of its tourism offering.

I had a multitude of reasons for going to South Korea. 

Korea is a split peninsula. After being in North Korea, I wanted to visit South Korea to understand their differences.

South Korea always seemed unknown, a country that people rarely extensively travel outside the capital of Seoul and the beach town of Busan. I wanted to travel further. 

South Korea is talked about in great detail by westerners who moved there. I wanted to see why.

South Korea remains a country marketed towards its regional neighbours who flock here because of the world-renowned K-Pop and K-Beauty. Only until the recent success of K Dramas like Parasite and Squid Game has South Korea been propelled further on the world stage. Pop culture is always a draw. 

Altogether, South Korea can be tricky to unravel, harder to travel and harder to understand. Here’s why. 

Travelling to Korea For the First Time?

Korea vs japan don’t do this. ever, japanese colonial rule, the industrialisation of south korea after colonisation and the korean war, cultural customs of south korea, south korea tourism – is it a focus, andong & hahoe folk village, gyeongju burial mounds, jeju island, how to enjoy a trip to korea, korea rail pass, guide books and further reading, book a hotel in korea, don’t want to travel korea solo book a small group tour, plan and pin it.

Being in Korea will bring a lot of cultural and language barriers, coupled with the lack of tourism infrastructure, but as a visitor, you should adapt. As a modern country, the general infrastructure is great, so there’s no issue with getting around, navigating or finding accommodations whatever town or city you find yourself in.

Fairly quickly I realised I wasn’t overwhelmed by South Korea – which happens in some places. It’s not necessarily a bad thing; more a matter of personal opinion but I like to try and understand why.

I came to realise that South Korea is a destination that needs adequate time and dedication in getting to know and understand it. Especially when you look at its history of oppression. 

Seoul is a city that needs a deeper dive to find its hotspots and then it clicks. As I passed through new towns, I realised that locals had told me things prior to my arrival which were filled with an abundance of beautiful pride, but which in reality for a tourist visitor were nothing more than just a residential town with one or two areas of interest. However, food enthusiasts will find smaller towns pack a punch when it comes to localised Korean cuisine. 

You need to research heavily on where to go in South Korea and what the cultural highlights are. You have to work hard to find it. 

Whilst certain parts of Korea did not live up to my initial expectations, my time there did come with some great memories times and very particular destinations that stand out. I do have a desire to return to see it differently, but more so to really spend some time in some of the country’s 22 National Parks and seven mountains. That kind of nature accolade is impressive, and I only scratched the surface of it.

After one month in the country, I pulled together this guide on how to travel to South Korea and make the most of it, alongside my top picks on where to visit for your first time there. 

Travelling to South Korea? What Seems Underwhelming is Misunderstood.

My biggest mistake was in visiting Japan first and the ongoing Korea or Japan debate is inevitable, but it’s also wrong.

Sure, Japan was incredible and after spending one month there and I was on a huge come down. Travel to South Korea felt less appealing in comparison – it wasn’t as ‘seemingly’ vibrant and eccentric as its neighbour. I missed Japan and its madness. South Korea feels much more relaxed and less hurried, so it just takes time to adjust to the different tempo. 

Visiting Japan first is a hindrance to having a fresh perspective on Korea.

Especially when given the brutal history between the two countries, you can see how anti-Japanese sentiment is rife in Korea and it pays to have a better understanding of their differences.

Travel to South Korea – Understanding the Reality

This might be an alternative South Korea travel guide in that I’m not listing all that is wonderful and 100% perfect. Yet, we are all guilty of too easily dismissing travel to a destination without looking at its current state in context. In the case of Korea, this is important. 

South Korea suffered under 35 years of Japanese colonial rule (1910-1945), which included ruthless military rule, censorship, discrimination and forced labour. It’s a part of the collective consciousness today. 

Following the three year Korean War, which began in 1950 when the North invaded the South, the country was to grow into a major economy. That came after decades of invasion and colonisation of Korea by Japan during 1910–1945.

The country was destroyed, and after a long period of political instability, General Park Chung-hee’s military takeover in 1961 led to the formation of a new government. To many, he was seen as a ruthless dictator, whose rule saw many waves of abuse of human rights, yet the economy under him developed significantly, known as ‘The Miracle on the Han River’.

This term refers to the post-war industrialisation of Korea and the modern-day success story Korea is known for. A period which saw immense technological advancement, rapid urbanisation (including the Seoul subway system in use today), booming high standards of living and educational reforms, the hosting of huge sporting events including the 1988 Summer Olympics and the 2002 FIFA World Cup, as well as placing the country on the global stage with the formation of international companies including Samsung, Hyundai and LG. 

Whilst many remain divided in opinion about his time in power, the country’s development is evident. South Korea is an economic miracle in its own right. 

Older generations in South Korea here have lived through the rapid change from the aftermath of war, creating a solid work ethic in all generations. Not only that, but locals informed me that culturally they are private people – community and family-focused – and do not need to take an outsider into their circle quickly.

Therefore, welcoming tourists in South Korea with open arms is not instant. And that’s ok too. 

That doesn’t mean you won’t meet those who are an exception to the rule, who are so excited to see someone visit their hometown and want to show you every aspect of it. It’s just not an occurrence that happens in abundance.

Korean women in hanbok (traditional Korean clothing).

Tourism in Korea isn’t a core lifeline like how it is in, say, Thailand or Cambodia. South Korea rose from the ashes and became a strong and prosperous nation, albeit at great sacrifice. They are a nation of staunch hard workers; their children study all day (and most of the night). There’s huge pride in that. 

Korea is Asia’s fourth-largest economy, with a high standard of living. Essentially, they don’t need tourism to thrive, so the notion of tourism is misunderstood and rests significantly on those wanting to visit the DMZ border.

READ MORE: Visit the DMZ in North Korea and South Korea – The Story of Both Sides

READ MORE: Travelling to North Korea – The Truth of Visiting the DPRK – My Experience

South Korean Guards at the DMZ.

Places to Visit in South Korea

With all this in mind, I made it a personal mission to not immediately dismiss travel to South Korea and leave too early. I knew there were plenty of things to see and do in Korea emitting some level of cultural or adventurous interest and in each destination, I tried to find something positive, picturesque or historically relevant.

I didn’t have any particular South Korea itinerary, instead, I just landed in the capital ready for a sporadic adventure.

I grew to love the arty side of Seoul, choosing the funky student-filled Hongdae as my base and enjoying the atmosphere of Itaewon and Gangnam that is best seen when the sun goes down.

From huge markets, old villages, historical palaces, entertainment districts and shopping plazas, there was always something new to try to seek out daily. The neighbourhoods are diverse, and that alone, alongside the array of cafes and coffee roasters, will keep you occupied in the capital. 

READ MORE: Places to Visit in Seoul – The Soul Capital of South Korea

Day Trips and Tours in Seoul

• Enjoy a tour of Seoul by e-bike . learn about the city’s history, stop for Korean snacks and get to the best viewpoints. 
• Get acquainted with the city on a half-day Seoul city highlights tour , including Gyeongbokgung Palace.
• Known for its abundance of nightlife, take a pub crawl tour of Seoul
• Visit Nami Island and the Garden of Morning Calm on this full-day trip.
• Visit the DMZ on a full-day tour  with the option for a half-day trip. 

Namdaemun Market in Seoul.

Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul.

I visited Andong with the purpose of checking out Hahoe Folk Village – one of Korea’s few ‘preserved villages’. While Andong itself doesn’t necessarily attract visitors, its historical points of interest, reached by various long bus routes, did not disappoint.

One of the traditional houses in the preserved Hahoe Folk Village near Andong.

Nature in South Korea, accessible from Andong.

A local romanticised Daegu as a place full of old historical buildings and hidden picturesque spots – we sat for an hour marking key highlights on a map – but I was left deflated when I realised it was nothing more than a big city. However, it was an important insight into the different parts of the country and how the experiences of travelling in South Korea vary greatly.

Luckily, there is now a Daegu City Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-off Bus so you can easily see the main attractions. 

Often, overnight stops in local towns are a great way of breaking up a long journey. 

Daegu town centre, South Korea.

The UNESCO Ancient Capital of Gyeongju is a highlight, with huge grassy tombs, temples and gorgeous parkland surrounded by mountains. One of the more interesting cities of former dynasty times, with a lot of ground to cover.

Day Trip – Visit Gyeongju from Busan .

The Gyeongju Burial Mounds – one of South Korea’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

The grassy royal burial mounds in Gyeongju are one of the best places to visit in Korea.

Busan, with its lively beaches and mountainous terrain, was a refreshing and chilled break from the brash Seoul. I also got to check out Spa Land – one of Korea’s many ‘walk around completely naked’ spas and a rite of passage for any visitor to Korea!

Day Trips and Tours in Busan

• A compact city but with lots of highlights, consider a full-day Busan city tour to see it all. 
• See Busan’s skyline from the water on a 90-minute sightseeing cruise . 
• Day trip to Oedo Island for the lush nature and the longest cable car ride in Korea.

The mdoern coastline city of Busan, South Korea.

Busan beach city.

I had an incredible few days in the small harbour town of Yeosu, staying with a friend who was teaching there and taking random bus trips to start short treks in nature – like reaching the scenic viewpoint of the Geomosan Hyangilam temple I would have otherwise found hard to come by. 

The colourful Geomosan Hyangilam temple in Yeosu overlooking the ocean.

Forest walks and temple treks in Yeosu, Korea.

Jeju Island was hands down my favourite destination in Korea – a stunning domestic holiday spot with stunning beaches and a host of UNESCO sites, including lava caves, a mountain and incredible viewing points.

The ferry ride to get here is rough on the choppy waters, but it’s all a part of the adventure. And there’s a lot of adventuring to do in Jeju as a core pristine nature hotspot.

READ MORE: All the World Wonder of Nature Things to Do on Jeju Island , South Korea

Visiting Jeju Island’s Sunrise Peak.

Haenyo Female Diver Statue on Jeju Island, South Korea.

A key part of enjoying Korea is knowing the people who live there. I was lucky to visit friends in Seoul and Yeosu, which made a HUGE difference because they could also introduce me to their Korean friends. I lost count of the times I was told you could only really enjoy Korea when people could tell you or show you where to go. 

Korea doesn’t shout about its beauty, and must-see spots can be hard to find . Knowing someone is key – take advantage of this if you consider visiting there. When I spent time with locals, I used every minute to get a deeper insight into the country. I have recently heard that things have changed a lot, and there’s much more information and guidance on how and where to find and access points of interest because tourism promotion has gained more steam. 

Would I visit again? Absolutely. I would travel to Korea again. There are still parts of the country that I have yet to see, such as the National Parks, the mountainous areas with hiking trails and much further down the line, the smaller towns which will one day be more accessible to travellers, rather than to those living there who take months to uncover it as they call it home.

Life in the city of Seoul, South Korea.

South Korea Travel Tips

Land in South Korea and be travel ready with these mobile and transport cards and passes.

Rather than scour the streets for a SIM card, pre-order the 4G LTE unlimited data SIM card and collect it from airport pick-up stations where you will get help loading and topping up your data. You’ll need to present your passport. 

If landing at Incheon Aiport, pick up this handy SIM and public transport combo card – an unlimited 4G data sim and charge card for subways and buses. 

The Korean rail network is extensive and makes travel around South Korea convenient, fast and cost-effective. Available only for foreign visitors, consider purchasing a Korea Rail Pass for unlimited use within two to five days on the following services:

• KTX and KTX-Sancheon high-speed trains
• ITX-Saemaeul, Saemaeul, Mugunhwa, Nuriro and ITX-Cheongchun main network trains
• The O-train, V-Train, S-Train, DMZ-Train, A-Train and Westgold-Train tourist trains

This pass also includes discounts on first-class tickets for certain journeys and free or discounted entry into museums country-wide.

Seoul metro and train station.

• The Korea Lonely Planet has recently been updated and is a great addition to travel throughout the country.
• Read ‘Korea: The Impossible Country’ for further insight into Korea’s substantial economic and political growth. This book charts the rise of Korea as one of the best success stories of the post-war period and how it rose from the ashes and out of the shadows of Japan and China.
• ‘The Two Koreas’ is a contemporary history book that focuses on the history of the Korean Peninsula from World War II to the present day.
• Are you a fan of K Pop and keen to know how Korean Pop became a worldwide sensation? ‘The Birth of Korean Cool: How One Nation Is Conquering the World Through Pop Culture’ is a fun look at how (to quote the book) “a really uncool country became cool”.

Not everyone wants to navigate a country solo, and the complexities of a South Korea trip are no exception to those who might not know the Asia travel circuit extensively. Despite Korea’s great infrastructure and various stopping points of interest, some like to have smaller details organised and travel in small groups for a big adventure. Plus, you will be with a local guide, and South Korea is best experienced with someone who knows it as home.

The G Adventures South Korea tour takes you through Korea’s highlights over eight days , covering most of what’s been mentioned in this article. The trip costs include a visit to the DMZ, city tours in Seoul and Busan, alongside cultural villages and temples, as well as accommodation in all destinations and transport in between.

About Becki

Becki Enright is a British Travel Press Award-winning writer whose work focuses on changing perceptions about misunderstood aspects of destinations. Her writing combines storytelling with insight into the social, historical, political and economic factors that shape the country or place in relation to tourism. Becki has appeared live on Sky News and CNN and has contributed to high profile media including National Geographic, Time.com, Guardian online, New York Times, Grazia and Buzzfeed.

24 January 2019 at 6:11 am

The Korean travel industry is actually geared more to other Asians, as it should be. I just don’t think Europeans or Americans would want go there. Korean-Americans are the exception.

I mean just be logical, if westerners want beaches or a place for their honeymoon there are other more exotic people and places in Europe and Asia. Korea will never compete with Bali orThailand or Greece. And Korea and Koreans just aren’t exotic in that Oriental way that attracts Western tourists. Korea is actually attractive to other Asians in the way that Hollywood attracts tourists.

Also in terms of visiters Korea actually does reasonably well compared to Japan, China and Thailand. It could do better and spendings on infrastructure is increasing.

24 January 2019 at 9:36 am

Not every westerner wants to go to beaches and more tropical climates etc. Korea has things to do and see, it’s just not shouting about it enough or making it as accessible. It’s only now I am hearing more and more about the incredible nature and National Parks, for example.

I despise the term ‘exotic’ in the travel industry. It’s patronising, especially in relation to east and west and what the Western sees Asia as. And, ultimately, what Westeners ‘want’ Asians to be.

Korea, like every destination, has it’s own unique persona, or in more modern times how it has grown into a hub of pop culture, amongst other things. It’s just harder to really dig into, and even for friends who lived there, it still took them many years.

12 January 2019 at 6:41 pm

I would post your comment but since you are being aggressive, threatening about me returning (also in your previous, longer comment) and unable to have a mature conversation (like the majority here in this thread which invite insightful discussion amongst travellers, Koreans and expats), it is futile to respond.

12 January 2019 at 3:07 am

Ok. If there’s any backpackers out there, let me try to change your perspective on travel a little. I am 37 and obviously more mature than your average backpacker, but i have been backpacking since my 20s and i feel i have something to contribute. I call this India and Nepal problem. I love Nepal and am trying to find a way to spend a few months every year here that’s my goal. The thing is i have friends who love India and i used to tell them I hate India. I travelled India in 2011 and i did not enjoy the place. Nepal seemed like a paradise in comparison. The people seemed rude and the place dirty. I have made up my mind. I hated India. My friends used to accuse me of close-mindedness. So this time i made an effort to learn a little Hindi to get to know the locals. How India has changed in 7 years! Also my Hindi made a big difference. The Indians embraced me as ‘bharatyi’ and they were ready to see me as one of them. Many backpackers have this attitude i am spending my cash so the locals should be like this or that. We are becoming cultural consumers. That is a very fake way to live this world. I was certainly guilty. But try to open your mind and let the travel change your ‘self’.

12 January 2019 at 7:16 pm

I agree, especially that there is a similar situation with India and Nepal. India takes a while to get used to, whereas to many an affinity with Nepal ‘appears’ more instant. But once a country that you may have been slow to warm to, or which requires multiple returns to understand then clicks, it’s special. Meeting as many locals as possible is the best insight into a country you can ever have. I’m not going to blame just backpackers for any closed-minded attitudes as it comes from all manner of travellers; old and young; experienced or not. I’ve been travelling for 20 years too, but that doesn’t mean we can automatically take the high road. We just all have to find our way of adjusting and understanding as much as possible.

1 January 2019 at 4:20 pm

Becki -a wonderful article. I certainly had a very different experience (in both North and South Korea) and found locals to be really helpful and friendly and interested in having visitors in their country. My mum and I must have looked super lost when we got off the metro in the city centre from the airport because a young guy came over to try and help us immediately. We had monks giving us free fruit on the beach, a man trying very hard to explain the history of a statue in Gyeongju (defo agree this is a highlight by the way!) and an old man who walked us a good 15 minutes to find our hostel. I also think it’s interesting you mentioned about needing to know somewhere there…my first thought when I started reading this article was how it does strike me as one of those places you need to spend a really long time in to get under the skin of and understand so I was glad when you said the same. Have you gone back to South Korea again?

6 January 2019 at 1:33 am

Not yet, but I would like to visit the National Parks and get deeper into the nature.

• Article Archives
• Work with me
• Privacy Policy

16 things to know before heading to South Korea

Feb 18, 2024 • 10 min read

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Time your visit with the trees

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

3. Mind these two major holidays

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Stay connected with these essential apps

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

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

6. Get out of town

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Roll with the nudges

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

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

9. Be ready to get personal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Is North Korea a concern?

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

13. Monitor the air quality

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

14. You might have to be flexible about your diet

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This article was first published July 2022 and updated February 2024

Explore related stories

Public Transport

Feb 10, 2024 • 8 min read

Make the most of Seoul's incredible public transport but don't miss out exploring on foot.

Mar 28, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 27, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 20, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 19, 2024 • 8 min read

Feb 18, 2024 • 4 min read

Feb 18, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 17, 2024 • 10 min read

Feb 17, 2024 • 8 min read

Feb 17, 2024 • 6 min read

A Solo Traveller’s Guide to Seoul

The capital city of South Korea is a pulsating metropolis that combines traditional Korean ideals with modern architecture and young neighbourhoods. While it’s often overshadowed by bigger neighbours Beijing and Tokyo, Seoul has recently become one of the hottest cities in East Asia. If you’re planning on travelling to Seoul alone, here are the top places to add to your itinerary.

Thinking of joining a small-group tour instead of going solo? Our 10-day South Korea trip will take you around the country with other like-minded travellers, led by our Local Insider.

The best neighbourhoods to visit in Seoul

Yes, this is the home of Gangnam Style, but it’s not as dorky as you might think. In fact, Gangnam is the most modern district in the city – it was farmland until the 1970s – with Starfield COEX Mall, one of the largest underground shopping malls in the world, expensive high rises and the best plastic surgeons in town. Gangnam is split into several main areas: Cheongdam-dong, home to celebrities and expensive cars; Samseong-dong, home to the Bongeunsa Temple; and Nonhyeon-dong, home to quiet, back-street bars.

Looking for a place to stay? Check out our pick of the best hotels in Gangnam .

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to 500$ on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

If you have an artistic streak, you will fall in love with Insadong. This charming neighbourhood is home to local artists, teahouses, contemporary galleries and boutique shops. It’s the perfect spot for serious souvenir shopping, but you’ll also find historically significant buildings here, including the Unhyeongung Royal Residence and Jogyesa, an important Korean Buddhist temple. Read more in our guide to the best things to do in Insadong .

Shopaholics will faint when they see the seemingly endless arrangement of shops in this part of Seoul. Have you watched any Korean dramas? If so, Myeongdong will look familiar. It’s home to the largest department stores in South Korea, including Lotte and Hyundai, which means foreign shoppers can buy duty-free goods from high-end brands. In the evening, many visitors head to Myeongdong to grab a bite at one of the many local restaurants .

Want more? Browse our pick of the best places to stay in Myeongdong .

Most travellers instantly feel at home in Itaewon: this part of town is the multicultural district of Seoul, home to a vibrant expat community. If you need a break from Korean food, this is the place to find impeccable international restaurants. On top of that, Itaewon also offers lots of nightlife with countless bars and pubs open until the early hours. For an inside take, find out what it’s like to live in Itaewon .

This university neighbourhood is where the cool kids hang. Home to four big schools – Hongik, Yonsei, Sogang and Ewha – it’s no surprise Hongdae is the best place for quirky eats, cheap shopping and thrilling nightlife. If you’ve heard about the themed cafes in South Korea, this is where the idea was born.

If Hongdae sounds like an ideal base for you, take your pick from our roundup of great hotels in the neighbourhood .

Where to stay in Seoul

Insa hostel.

If you’re looking for a budget stay that doesn’t skimp on character, Insa Hostel in the artistic Insadong neighbourhood is the ideal place. Opened in 2013, Insa benefits from being within walking distance of the Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces as well as the Myeongdong neighbourhood. The rooms here may be simple, but the rooftop terrace, free breakfast and heated bathroom floors more than make up for it.

Makers Hotel

Brick walls, leather sofas and antique furnishings kit out this boutique hotel in bustling Jongno, the centre of Seoul for 600 years. Upstairs you’ll find stylish rooms with wood-panelling and simple decor; downstairs is the Common Cafe, a mid-century-style space, which serves a continental breakfast. With the metro station next door, there’s easy access the rest of the city.

Fancy a stay? A three-night stay in the Makers Hotel is included in Culture Trip’s carefully curated tour of South Korea , where you’ll explore Seoul and beyond over the course of 10 days.

The Shilla is one of the most sophisticated hotels in Seoul. Regularly voted as one of the top hotels in the world, it emphasises the harmony between modernism and tradition through elegant design and high-end facilities, which includes a luxurious spa, five restaurants and even a Korean sculpture garden. It has a peaceful setting on the outskirts of the city centre, but a free shuttle service will keep you connected to the sites.

Where to eat in Seoul

Mapo sutbul galbi.

Koreans love BBQ. It’s more than just food: it’s a whole social ritual with friends and drinking. One of the best places to grab galbi (meat), is Mapo Sutbul Galbi. This family-owned place is best known for its marinated beef and pork and is one of the only places in town that uses plums in their marinade – giving the meat a sweet taste.

Even though Korean cuisine is relatively meat heavy, vegetarians won’t starve. One of the top addresses for first-class veggie food in Seoul is Sanchon . This restaurant was founded by a Buddhist monk and offers set meals with more than 20 dishes prepared to Buddhist standards. If you’re visiting in the evening, you’ll experience the daily Korean dance performance at 8pm.

Myeongdong Kyoja

Myeongdong Kyoja specialises in chicken kalguksu (noodle soup), served with sliced pumpkin, spicy onions and a unique kimchi that is the pride of the restaurant. This outlet has been serving customers in the Myeongdong neighbourhood for more than 50 years – its popularity is down to the outstanding hospitality: if you’re still hungry, just ask for a free refill.

What to do in Seoul

Visit the demilitarised zone (dmz).

Many visitors like to get in touch with South Korean history. If that’s you, take a day tour up to the DMZ between North and South Korea, where the Cold War is still very much in existence. The zone is about 250km (155mi) long – head to the Joint Security Area (JSA) near the western end to head down the Third Infiltration Tunnel, try North Korean liquor and get a glimpse of the isolated nation.

Climb Bukhansan

South Koreans love hiking. With the staggering number of mountains and national parks in the country, it’s no wonder why. But don’t worry, you don’t need to travel far outside the Seoul borders to climb one of the most beautiful mountains in Korea. When you reach the top of Bukhan Mountain, to the north of the capital, you will be rewarded with breath-taking views of the city skyline.

Explore Gyeongbokgung Palace

Central Gyeongbokgung was the main palace during the Joseon Dynasty. Built in 1395, it is the largest of the Five Grand Palaces of South Korea, with some 500 buildings and 7,700 rooms. Gyeongbokgung has been undergoing extensive restoration since the 1990s, and is today the most visited attraction in South Korea, hosting various events throughout the year.

Wander the narrow streets of Bukchon Hanok Village

Travel back in time in Bukchon Hanok Village. Featuring a collection of 600-year-old Korean houses, this traditional village is filled with teahouses, coffee shops, restaurants and boutique stores. Take a stroll through the narrow alleys; you can even wear traditional Korean hanbok dresses for unforgettable holiday photos.

Take photos in Gwanghwamun Plaza

Facing Gwanghwamun, the main gate of Gyeongbokgung palace, is its eponymous plaza. This area offers superb photography opportunities in the evening when the sun sets in the distance behind the main gate. The square also features a large statue of Sejong the Great, considered one of the most important kings in Korean history as he created the Korean alphabet Hangul.

Practical tips for visiting Seoul solo

Getting around.

Seoul has a convenient network of affordable subways and public buses that are easy to use. Taking certain subway lines during rush hour can be quite nerve-wracking though – this might be the perfect time to take an Uber. South Korea also has its own version of the convenient dial-a-ride service called Kakao T, which is also widely used.

Health and safety in Seoul

It is not recommended to drink tap water in Seoul unless it’s been boiled, but don’t shy away from trying street food as South Korea has a rich foodie culture. Locals love snacking on the go and you can best experience Korean flavours when out and about. South Koreans are extremely relaxed and it’s not uncommon to leave your camera on the table while ordering coffee or to give the waiter your phone to charge it for you – this level of trust makes South Korea a safe place to travel alone.

Solo travel doesn’t have to be an entirely lonesome affair. Join Culture Trip’s 10-day South Korea adventure for the chance to experience Seoul and beyond with a small group of travellers who are as culturally curious as you are.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

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

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

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

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

Food & Drink

Five dishes from around the world you should try with culture trip.

The Most Amazing Cooking Classes You Can Take With Culture Trip

Guides & Tips

The ultimate guide to travel in korea.

The Best Places to Travel in August with Culture Trip

Top Culinary Trips to Take in 2023

The Solo Traveller’s Guide to South Korea

See & Do

A guide to outdoor adventures across korea.

Places to Stay

The best hotels to book in south korea for every traveller.

Health & Wellness

7 dreamy detox destinations in south korea.

How Going on a Korean Templestay Will Help You Find Your True Self

Why Foodies Should Get to Know Korean Temple Cuisine

Understanding the Bangs of South Korea

Winter sale offers on our trips, incredible savings.

• Post ID: 1036492
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

17 South Korea Travel Tips (From a Longtime Resident)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Basics of Travel in South Korea

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

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

Currency: South Korean won ( KRW or ₩ )

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

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

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

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

Asking about your age is okay

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

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

Know the proper honorifics to use

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

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

Don’t forget to bow!

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

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

Remove your shoes as soon as you enter a home

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

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

Koreans eat from the same bowl

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

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

Never stick chopsticks in your food

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

The eldest eats first

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t pour your own drink

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

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

Don’t tip in Korea!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t give gifts in fours

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

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

Take the time to appreciate a business card

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

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

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

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

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

Shoving is okay

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

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

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

More South Korea

Sharing is caring!

Reader Interactions

Max Ritchie says

October 01, 2022 at 8:23 pm

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

regards max

October 01, 2022 at 8:48 pm

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

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

We’re in Myanmar right now and it’s SO epic… click here to follow along on Instagram.

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Asia » South Korea » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking South Korea Travel Guide (2024)

Backpacking South Korea is all about experiencing both sides of this country – the traditional  and  modern aspects of South Korean culture.

Known as the “Land of the Morning Calm,” South Korea is a fascinating country, a place where ancient temples and skyrise buildings stand side by side.

What comes to mind when you hear of South Korea? For many, the bustling capital city of Seoul is the first place to come to mind.

This sprawling metropolis is certainly the center of attention, as it’s home to over half of South Korea’s population, but travelling in South Korea is about so much more than just exploring the big city.

Within a few hours of Seoul, you can find yourself hiking in rolling hills, reflecting at a peaceful temple, or exploring a traditional village.

Depending on what time of year you visit South Korea, you could be skiing the slopes or chilling on a beach. One thing is for sure; no matter when you visit, there’s probably some a festival taking place, whether it’s a traditional Korean holiday or a massive music festival.

You’ll also find a wealth of cultural and historical attractions in all corners of the country.

Of course, one of the highlights of backpacking South Korea is the incredible cuisine. Few countries are as defined by their food as South Korea, and the people take great pride in their culinary traditions.

Furthermore, South Koreans know how to party, so be prepared to wash that spicy  kimchi  down with several glasses of beer and  soju .

Perhaps no place in the world presents a contrast quite like the Korean Peninsula. Split decades ago as a result of the Korean War, the difference between North and South is like night and day.

Whereas North Korea is isolated under totalitarian reign, highly-developed South Korea is one of the most modern countries in Asia. The two are split by the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), an interesting name considering how many armed guards patrol it.

South Korea is often overlooked by backpackers who flock to South East Asia, but I’m here to show you why backpacking South Korea is an incredible travel experience.

Read my comprehensive South Korea travel guide below; it includes everything you need to plan an amazing trip, like costs, budget hacks, South Korea itineraries, how to get around, the foods to try, and so much more!

Why Go Backpacking in South Korea?

One great thing about traveling in South Korea is that you’re never too far from any other destination in the country. You can travel from one end to the other in five hours or less, so you don’t have to waste entire days in transit.

Thanks to the country’s excellent transportation system, getting around is a breeze when you’re backpacking South Korea. Seriously, you’ll ride the nicest trains and buses you’ve ever been on in South Korea.

The best strategy for exploring South Korea is to book a flight to Seoul. From there, you can travel across the country to Busan, stopping at several interesting points along the way. You can then book a flight out of Busan or make your way back to the capital via train or bus.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking South Korea

Places to visit in south korea, top things to do in south korea, backpacker accommodation in south korea, south korea backpacking costs, best time to travel to south korea, staying safe in south korea, how to get into south korea, how to get around south korea, working in south korea, what to eat in south korea, south korean culture, final advice before visiting south korea.

Wherever you decide to visit in South Korea will depend on your interests, and of course how much time you have. Here are a few different ideas for South Korea travel itineraries. I’ve included two different one-week itineraries and one jam-packed 2-week itinerary.

Backpacking South Korea 7-Day Itinerary #1: Seoul to Busan

With just one week to spare in South Korea, your best bet is to travel across the country from Seoul to Busan with a stop in Gyeongju along the way. Since there’s so much to see and do, you should dedicate at least three days to the capital to start your trip.

Seoul is home to several ancient Korean palaces, the grandest of which is  Gyeongbok-gung . In addition to visiting the palaces, you’ll want to check out some of the city’s museums, temples, markets, and parks. That’s more than enough for a couple of busy days backpacking in Seoul .

From Seoul, you can catch a train or bus to Gyeongju. This small city is home to many historic sites such as Tumuli Park – the final resting place of Shilla kings. It’s possible to do a whirlwind tour of the city, but you’ll enjoy it much more if you stay at least one night.

Finally, head to the coast and South Korea’s 2nd biggest city of Busan. Hopefully, you’re backpacking South Korea during the warmer months because most people come here to kick back and relax on the beach.

There’s lots more to see on a trip to Busan than the beach, though. You can fill your days exploring the city or hiking in the surrounding hills.

Backpacking South Korea 7-Day Itinerary #2: Seoul and Jeju

If you’re looking for more of a vacation vibe on your trip to South Korea, you’ll definitely want to add Jeju Island to your itinerary. With one week in South Korea, you can still start off with a 3-day itinerary in Seoul before just catching a quick flight to Jeju.

Since this trip is a bit more relaxing than the one outlined above, you might as well partake in Seoul’s rowdy nightlife. Night quickly turns to day here, especially on weekends when it seems like the whole city is out partying.

You may need a day to sleep in and recover if you really go hard on a night out in Seoul.

While Jeju may be known as South Korea’s “honeymoon island,” it’s still a great place for backpackers. For starters, you can hike the country’s highest peak at Hallasan . There are also caves, waterfalls, botanical gardens, and several trails leading to viewpoints. A few days full of adventure and beach-bumming in Jeju is a great way to cap off your trip.

Backpacking South Korea 14-Day Itinerary #1: Seoul to Busan to Jeju

With an extra week in South Korea, you can take your time and linger in destinations. You can also add a few day-trips to mix it up and get out of the cities. Here’s a solid plan for 2 weeks in South Korea, starting again with Seoul.

If you’ve got two weeks in South Korea, I honestly recommend staying in Seoul for 4 or 5 days. It’s a huge city and more than half of the country lives here, so it’s definitely worth that much time. Since the city is so sprawling, it’s more enjoyable if you can spread your sightseeing out over a few days.

In addition to hitting the sights in town, you can tack on a day-trip or two. Of course, the most popular is visiting the DMZ . If that’s not your thing, you can also get out of the concrete jungle and hike around the beautiful Bukhansan National Park .

Rather than breeze through Gyeongju , you can allot two full days to exploring the city and the surrounding sights. The same goes for staying in Busan , as you can afford to spend a few extra nights there with two weeks in South Korea.

From there, it’s a short flight to Jeju. After a few days staying on the island , it’s time to head back to Seoul to catch your flight out.

To help you out with your itinerary backpacking through South Korea, I’ve gone ahead and broken down my favourite places to go right below. From bustling metropolises to far off the beaten trail, there’s heaps to do!

Backpacking Seoul

Pretty much everyone who visits South Korea ends up in the capital city of Seoul. The city proper is home to nearly 12 million, while the greater metro area has a whopping 25 million. That’s more than half of the country’s population in one city alone!

This is a city that seems to have one foot firmly planted in the past while the other steps eagerly toward the future. Ancient palaces sit across the street from shiny new skyscrapers.

Seoul’s urban areas are an amalgamation of the old with the new, and there are heaps of cool places to see around the city. Peaceful Buddhist temples exist nearby bustling nightlife districts. Seoul is indeed a fascinating city of contrasts and surprises.

While in Seoul, you’ll be able to dive into the history and culture of South Korea. Start your journey off by exploring the city’s ancient palaces. All of them are worth a visit, but you’ll definitely want to hit  Gyeongbok-gung and  Changdeok-gung .

Seoul is also home to several excellent parks. Koreans love getting outside exercise, so go ahead and join them.

Namsan Park is a popular place to visit while backpacking South Korea. Not only is it a great place for a stroll, but you’ll also find the Seoul Tower here for some of the best views of the city.

Wherever you go, be sure to do a lot of walking so you can work up an appetite and dig into lots of mouth-watering Korean food . From street food snacks to high-end restaurants and everything in between, there’s something tasty around every corner in Seoul.

Once the sun goes down, it’s time to party in Seoul. It’s not just the young whippersnappers partying out here either; you’re just as likely to see businessmen in suits downing glasses of soju as you are college kids.

Some of the best areas in the city to party in Seoul are Hongdae and Itaewon . The party goes late in these neighborhoods, so be sure to pace yourself.

Aside from sightseeing and eating/drinking your way across the city, you may also want to embark on a few day-trips from Seoul. Popular options include hiking in the national park just north of the city or paying a visit to the DMZ .

If you’d rather just chill out, spend a night in one of the city’s many jimjilbang (spas) – the perfect place to relax. Plenty of them are even 24-hour. You could just skip booking a backpacker hostel in Seoul and instead sleep in the sauna… I did!

Backpacking Busan

The ROK’s 2nd largest city, Busan, is mostly known for its beaches, as Koreans flock here over the summer holiday for sun and sand. That’s not all that’s going on in Busan, though. The city is also home to some amazing temples, nature reserves, and hot springs.

A must-see place in Busan is the ancient Beomeosa Temple . It’s a slightly challenging uphill hike, but you’re rewarded with some incredible views of the city. Speaking of hiking, there are several trails that are easily accessible from the city, including Jangsan Mountain.

If you’d rather skip the hills, check out Yonggungsa – the Dragon Palace Temple – that’s perched along the coastline. Seeing the beautifully designed temple with the waves crashing against the shore is a can’t-miss when visiting Busan.

Busan is also famous for its many festivals throughout the year. The Busan International Film Festival runs for the first ten days of October and draws quite the crowd.

In August, you can rock out at the city’s International Rock Festival . Make sure you book in at one of Busan’s backpacker hostels early though – it gets busier around festival time!

Thanks to its location on the coast, Busan cooks up some tasty seafood. Head to the  Jagalchi Fish Market  to pick from the cat day’s catch and have it cooked up at one of the many restaurants.

Those with an adventurous palate might try bokguk , which is a soup made from the extremely poisonous pufferfish. If not, you can always play it safe and stick with the cod.

Backpacking Jeju Island

Most Koreans choose to vacation on Jeju Island. It’s definitely the top choice for honeymooners, but you don’t have to be a newlywed to enjoy a trip here. Jeju Island is for backpackers as well; there are plenty of social hostels o n Jeju Island to meet other travellers at.

Home to South Korea’s tallest mountain, the longest lava tube in the world, plenty of sandy beaches, some quirky theme parks, and even some chill hikes, Jeju Island is a pretty epic place to visit.

You can even check out the filming locations of super popular Korean television shows here, if you’re into that sort of thing.

Perhaps one of the most interesting aspects of Jeju Island is its culture, which is quite different from the mainland. For one it is matriarchal; here you’ll surely spot the famed haenyo (women divers) who dive without any oxygen tanks to depths of 10-20 meters in search of squid, octopus, clams, and other seafood.

Be sure to bring your hiking shoes when you visit Jeju. In addition to tackling the dormant volcano Hallasan , you can also enjoy coastal trails that wrap around the island. After a nice hike, you can kick back on a beach and order up a tasty plate of seafood. Life is good on Jeju Island!

Backpacking Gyeongju

If you’re interested in learning more about Korean history and culture, then Gyeongju is the perfect place to visit. It’s also a great way to break up the journey from Seoul to Busan.

Gyeongju was the capital of the Silla Dynasty, which lasted for 1,000 years and played a very important role in Korean history. The historic area of Gyeongju was actually the first site to be nominated a UNESCO World Heritage status in South Korea.

Here you can visit the beautiful Bulguksa Temple , which just might be the most impressive temple in the country. You should also check out Seokguram Grotto for an excellent example of Silla art and architecture.

With a few extra days in Gyeongju, you can enjoy some hiking in the national park, stroll around Bomun Lake , pay a visit to the royal tombs , and much more.

Getting around the city is a breeze thanks to the bus system and bike rentals, and most places have English signs despite the fact that few foreign tourists visit.

Backpacking Daegu

The main reason to stop by South Korea’s 4th largest city is to hike on Palgongsan . This mountain is just 20km from downtown and features several different hiking routes.

There are Buddhist statues and pagodas all over the mountain. In fact, there’s one statue believed to grant you one wish in your life, if you make it there. If you make it all the way up here, you might as well give it a shot!

In the city, you can also find plenty of parks that are pleasant to explore for a few hours. In Apsan Park , you can hike or take a cable car up to the observatory for great views of the city.

Once the sun goes down, you can head to the Banwoldang part of the city to explore the food and bar scene; there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and clubs in this area.

If you visit on a weekend, this area is especially lively. You can also party hard in the university areas if you’re up for it.

Backpacking Jeonju

If you’ve had enough of South Korean cities, join the locals and head to a place like Jeonju. The main draw for travelling here is the Jeonju Hanok Village . With more than 700 traditional hanok homes, this is a great place to dive into traditional Korean culture.

The Hanok Village is especially lively during festivals and on weekends, so try to time your visit to experience Jeonju at its finest. During these busy times, you’ll find plenty of markets and street food stalls as well.

Speaking of food, Jeonju is thought to have the best bibimbap in the land. There seem to be restaurants cooking it on every corner, so dig into a big bowl of this Korean classic and judge for yourself.

Wash it down with some  makgeolli, a traditional fermented rice liquor that this city is also famous for.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in South Korea

It really isn’t that hard to get off the beaten path in South Korea. Many travelers never even leave Seoul, so the second you step out of the capital you’re already there!

Admittedly, I’ve stayed very much on the beaten path in my travels to South Korea. My brother, on the other hand, lived there for a year and imparted some wisdom on me.

Gurye is a small town near Jirisan National Park, which is home to the highest peak on the peninsula. Here you can try  Daesulgi sujebi  – a soup made with river snails, a local specialty.

Danyang is another small town nestled between Woraksan and Sobaeksan National Parks with a river flowing through it. I didn’t see another foreigner the whole weekend there; it was all Korean people. It’s a perfect place for some Instagrammable photo ops in South Korea .

Also, look up the “Eight Views of Danyang” for some beautiful sights in the area. I saw some of them but wasn’t aware they were part of that list until my boss informed me Koreans go there for the eight views. Parasailing is popular in Danyang, though I didn’t do it.  

Andong  is a pretty unremarkable city but it’s near the Hahoe Folk Village which felt like a Korean version of the Shire. There’s also a nice Confucian Academy outside the town called Dosan Seowon, which is beautiful and peaceful.  

Sokcho  is a small city on the east coast near Seoraksan National Park. Considered one of the nicest places to see fall colors; there are beaches to see in the summer too.  

Thank you to my brother Pip for those awesome recommendations! Be sure to add a few to your list if you want to experience South Korea outside of the big cities.

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

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

With so much awesome stuff to do in South Korea, it can be hard to choose exactly what to do! However, I guarantee you that oince you step outside of Seoul, the country really opens up.

1. Explore the ancient palaces of Seoul

The Joseon Dynasty was the last kingdoms in South Korea lasting from 1392 all the way until 1910. It was during this time that Seoul became the capital.

The kings of the Joseon Dynasty had several grand palaces built in the city, and exploring the palaces is one of the best things to do in South Korea.

There are five grand palaces in Seoul, with the grandest being  Gyeongbokgung . With a name meaning “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven,” you know they went all out when they built this one.

Be sure to catch the changing of the guard ceremony and sign up for one of the free guided tours, which run at 11am, 1:30pm, and 3:30pm.

2. Feast on Korean Food

One of the best things about backpacking South Korea is indulging in delicious Korean cuisine. Whether it’s the national dish of kimchi , a colourful bowl of bibimbap , or an epic feast at a Korean BBQ restaurant, your taste buds are in for a treat.

3. Spend a night in a jimjilbang

Seeing how people in South Korea love hiking up in the mountains so much, it should come as no surprise that another popular pastime is relaxing in a spa.

In Korean, these spas are known as jimjilbang , and they’re all over the place. A trip to a  jimjilbang is an absolute must when backpacking South Korea. Experience the South Korean jimjilbang lifestyle !

You can bounce around between hot and cold tubs, saunas, and steam rooms, get a massage or a body scrub, grab some food and drink, and so much more. Broke Backpackers may want to visit one at night as you can crash in the sleeping room and save some money on accommodation.

4. Take a hike

Hiking is probably the most popular pastime among Koreans. It makes sense, considering that most people live in crowded cities yet most of the country is made up of mountains.

Koreans know what to take hiking : they’re very serious about their gear and are usually decked out in the freshest hiking attire. Just because you’re working up a sweat doesn’t mean you can’t look good!

There are hiking trails all over South Korea ranging in difficulty and length. One of your best bets is hiking in Bukhansan , as it is easy to visit from Seoul. If you’re up for the challenge, you can tackle the country’s largest mountain, Hallasan on Jeju Island.

4. Take a tour of the DMZ

Many travelers who visit South Korea hope to see the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) that has separated the North from South since the end of the brutal Korean War in 1953.

Here you can catch a glimpse into the “Hermit Kingdom” and learn more about the tense relations between the two Koreas. You’ll have to take a tour to get here, so be sure to shop around and check reviews.

6. Indulge in the seasonal sports

South Korea experiences all four seasons, meaning you can enjoy both summer and winter sports here. In the warmer months, that means hiking, cycling, swimming, and more. South Korea is also a great destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter.

7. Visit a folk village

A fun way to get some insight into Korean history and culture is by visiting Minsok . Also known as the Korean Folk Village, this living museum is a bus ride away from Gangnam in Seoul.

On a visit to the folk village, you can see old-school  hanok homes, cultural performances, and maybe even watch a traditional Korean wedding.

It’s a fun place to come for the day to get out of the city and try something new.

8. Take part in a local festival

In South Korea, there are festivals to celebrate just about everything. You can try catching trout at an ice festival, watch the sky light up at a fireworks festival, or get down and dirty at a mud festival.

Of course, there are also plenty of traditional Korean festivals such as Chuseok as well as food and music festivals all throughout the year.

9. Enjoy an island getaway on Jeju

A quick flight from the mainland will get you to beautiful Jeju Island. Full of beaches, waterfalls, caves, folk villages, and even South Korea’s highest mountain, this little island will keep you plenty busy.

In addition to all of its natural wonders, Jeju is also home to some very eccentric tourist attractions. Take Loveland for example, a bizarre park full of risqué sculptures. Visiting this place will definitely make for some of the funniest photos from your trip.

10. Party hard in Seoul

Seoul is undoubtedly a party city. It seems like everyone likes to go out and get loose here, from college kids to briefcase-carrying businessmen. When visiting the Korean capital, you need to have at least one big night out.

Some of the most popular areas to party in Seoul include Hongdae and Itaewon. You’ll find tons of restaurants, bars, and clubs in each area. Start with dinner and drinks and see where the night takes you.

My guess is you’ll end up loudly singing karaoke and chugging down soju at around 4 AM with some people you just met.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Travelling South Korea is a great experience thanks in part to the many excellent backpacker hostels around the country . Especially in the big cities of Seoul and Busan, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to hostels.

The Best Places to Stay in South Korea

The cost of travel in South Korea is somewhere in the middle. It’s definitely cheaper than North America and Western Europe, but more costly than backpacking in Southeast Asia.

While it’s possible to get by on a daily budget of around $30-35, you’ll be more comfortable if you can allot $45-50  a day.

For getting around South Korea, you’ll obviously spend more if you choose to fly or take high-speed trains. That being said, you can score flights from Seoul to Busan for as little as $35, which is actually cheaper than taking the high-speed train, which costs $57.

Catching a bus is substantially cheaper and really doesn’t take that much longer.

You can find a dorm room in a nice hostel for around $10-15 a night depending on where you are staying. Couples or groups may want to look into private rooms, which won’t cost much more per person. You can also find some great deals on places on Airbnb; Seoul’s Airbnb scene is wicked and a total draw for the lovers of high-flying city life!

When it comes to eating out, you can find super cheap street food or splurge on a fancy high-end restaurant. The choice is yours, my friend. On the budget end of the spectrum, it’s possible to find a decent meal for $3-4. You could also spend a little more and fill up on an awesome Korean BBQ.

There are plenty of free things to do in South Korea, such as going for a hike, strolling around the local park, and wandering the streets. Even the most famous sights in the country don’t cost that much. You can get a ticket to the Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul for just under $3.

It is worth setting aside some money for some bigger ticket items, like a flight to Jeju Island, ski life ticket, or South Korean spa!

For more budget tips, head on over to our guide breaking down South Korea’s expenses .

A Daily Budget in South Korea

Money in south korea.

South Korea’s currency is the Won. At the time of writing (December 2020) , the exchange rate is 1 USD = 1,084 Won .

ATMs are widely available in South Korea and many businesses accept credit cards, so you really don’t have to worry about being able to pay for things when backpacking South Korea. That said, you are dealing with high denominations – I’d suggest wearing a solid travel money belt when kicking around the cities.

Travel Tips – South Korea on a Budget

Visiting South Korea on a shoestring budget is totally possible – it’s just about knowing the art of budget backpacking !

• Camp: It’s most definitely possible outside of the cities, and it’s totally possible in the cities too (provided you find a good spot). Make sure you bring your best backpacking gear and prepare for some nights under the stars!
• Cook your own food:  If you are on a tight budget, you can save money by cooking your own food. Staying places with a kitchen or packing a cooker is the way to go.
• Check the convenience stores – Much like Japan’s rabid konbini culture, the convenience stores in South Korea (7-Eleven, GS25, etc.) are mega-cheap and a haven for backpackers, uni students, penny pinchers alike!
• Couchsurf:  If you want to save some dough on accommodation, it’s worth it to look for a host on Couchsurfing. Traveling by Couchsurfing is a great way to make some real friendships and see this country from the perspective of locals.

Why Should You Travel to South Korea with a Water Bottle?

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful!

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller.

STOP USING SINGLE-USE PLASTIC! If you’d like some more tips on how to save the world .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

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

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

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

South Korea is home to all four seasons, so the best time to travel really depends on what kind of weather you prefer and what you hope to do while you’re backpacking South Korea.

Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid, while winter (December-February) can be bitterly cold and dry. If you plan to hit the beach or the slopes, these seasons are just fine.

Those who prefer moderate weather will want to visit in either the spring or the fall. Both seasons are typically sunny and dry, allowing you to spend plenty of time outside comfortably.

If you want to see the cherry blossoms in bloom, you’ll want to visit between mid-March and mid-April.

Festivals in South Korea

South Korea has countless festivals that span over the entire year:

• Seollal (the Lunar New Year) – One of the most important holidays in the country and a very festive time. South Korea’s New Year takes place around late January – February. One interesting thing about Korean New Year is that all people add a year to their age on this day rather than their birthday.
• Chuseok – Another super important festival in Korean culture, this harvest festival occurs on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month during the full moon. On this day, Koreans visit their ancestral hometown and partake in a massive feast of traditional food.
• Yudu – Another of the many other interesting festivals in South Korea. On this day, people try to drive away bad luck and spirits by bathing and washing their hair. People also eat long noodles for a long and prosperous life.
• Chopail – People also celebrate the day of Buddha’s birth by hanging up lanterns and visiting a temple.

As many Koreans are Christian, Christmas and Easter are also big holidays.

What to Pack for South Korea

What you pack for your adventure backpacking South Korea depends mostly on what time of year you go. The country experiences all four seasons, so you’ll need to take the weather into consideration. It can get very hot in the summer and super cold in the winter, so you’ll want to be prepared.

How you pack also depends on what you plan to do there. Hiking is huge in South Korea, so it’s a good idea to pack good hiking shoes and other gear. If you’re visiting in the winter, you might want to bring your ski/snowboard gear to hit the slopes.

Make sure you get your backpacking packing list right! On every adventure, there are six things I never go travelling without:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

South Korea is safe to travel . This is a very safe country where you have very little to worry about.

Even petty theft and pickpocketing aren’t really a big concern here. Of course, you should still be mindful of your things, especially on crowded streets or public transport. Make sure to hide your money when travelling around .

Foreigners who run into trouble here usually do so as a result of drunkenly starting arguments or fights. Basically, don’t be an idiot and you’ll be fine. If you’re out and an argument starts, just use some common sense and walk away.

Check out the travel tips in our Backpacker Safety 101 post for advice on staying safe whilst backpacking.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in South Korea

If you’re a foreigner in South Korea whose single and ready to mingle, just be aware of a few things. First of all, there are definitely plenty of Korean girls with foreign boyfriends. That being said, it’s a very homogenous country where many people still look down on other kinds of relationships.

I remember reading a blog by a guy who lived there several years and had a local girlfriend. Once he finally started to pick up the language, he was incredibly upset to hear what random people out in public said about seeing them together.

As a backpacker passing by, you may not encounter such problems. You might, however, find language barriers and cultural differences as an obstruction to your desires.

Prostitution is technically illegal in South Korea, but there are plenty of red-light districts in the country that seem to operate just fine. Exercise caution (in more ways than one) if you choose to go this route.

When it comes to drugs in South Korea, my advice is to steer clear. I love sparking a fat doobie as much as the next stoner, but it’s not worth it here.

Drug laws are pretty strict, and they love making examples out of foreigners who choose to ignore their laws. Are there drugs around? Sure. I just wouldn’t bother looking for them. Stick to booze here and save it for your next trip to Colorado.

Speaking of booze, Koreans definitely love to party. In fact, Koreans are among the heaviest drinkers in the world. Because of strict social norms at home and in the workplace, people tend to get quite loose when they go out.

The national drink of South Korea is soju , a clear spirit that’s usually about 20%. Most of the time, people just drink it straight, but sometimes a little soju is poured into a cup of beer to really get the party started. It’s not that strong, but it creeps up on you after several cups!

Travel Insurance for South Korea

A wise man once said that if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t really afford to travel! Do invest in good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure!

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

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

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

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

Most visitors to South Korea arrive at the Incheon International Airport outside of Seoul. There are direct flights to and from this airport from cities all over the world. You can also fly into Busan if you’re traveling to South Korea from other points in Asia.

Entry Requirements for South Korea

Citizens from over 115 countries are allowed to enter South Korea visa-free. The length of stay varies – Canadians get the jackpot of a maximum 180-day in the country.

A bulk of the countries on the list get up to 90 days, including Americans, Aussies, Kiwis, and most EU countries. It’s always a good idea to check out the visa policy for South Korea before you plan your trip.

Get 15% OFF when you book through our link — and support the site you love so dearly 😉

Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

Getting around South Korea is quite easy thanks to the country’s compact size and excellent transportation system. You can get from one side of the country to the other in just a few hours. When backpacking South Korea, most travellers get around via a combination of bus and train.

The national rail operator is Korail , and there are train routes connecting most major cities. If you plan to move around a lot, it is worth looking into purchasing the KR Pass . These give you unlimited train travel for a set amount of time, up to 10 days maximum.

South Korea has a great bus system as well. You can get travel about anywhere in South Korea by bus in a timely and efficient manner. I’ve yet to take a train or plane in South Korea relying solely on the bus system to get around.

There are domestic flights between cities if you’re in a huge hurry, but you probably won’t need to fly unless you go to Jeju Island.

Hitchhiking in South Korea

I’ve never tried hitchhiking in South Korea , but apparently, it’s pretty easy. I’ve heard it’s similar to hitchhiking in Japan. It’s not super common but people do get it,

It helps to look presentable – clean-shaven and well-dressed – as well as staying smiley, cheery, and approachable. That said, if my experience hitchhiking in Japan and elsewhere in Asia is a good metric to go by, looking like a shaggy, colorful, hippy traveler works just as well.

Generally, people are just delighted to meet and help an eccentric foreigner. Signs written by locals can help you get to your next destination in South Korea a bit easier, however , always specify that you only need to go in the DIRECTION OF ‘X’. That way, people don’t think your explicitly asking for a free 200 km lift.

For more hitchhiking tips, check out Will’s  Beginners’s Guide to Hitchiking  post. And remember:

• Back straight.
• Look like your having fun.
• Keep smiling. 🙂

Onwards Travel from South Korea

Unfortunately, your options for overland onwards travel are pretty much non-existent. While some adventurous travellers (with the ability to do so) may want to check out North Korea, it’s not likely you’ll be backpacking through there.

If you want to skip out on a flight, you can take a ferry from South Korea to either China or Japan. One of the most popular ferry routes is to head from Busan to Fukuoka, as it takes just around three hours to make the crossing. From Incheon, you can catch a ferry to several different cities in China.

Of course, you can always catch a flight out of Seoul to virtually anywhere in the world. You have plenty of choices for onwards travel when flying out of the Korean capital, particularly major destinations in Southeast Asia like Bangkok or Singapore. A backpacking Southeast Asia adventure isn’t far away!

• Backpacking Japan Travel Guide
• Backpacking China Travel Guide

Yes, for sure and definitely. South Korea is what I like to call a part of ‘expensive Asia’ . Wages are high, the cost of living is high, modern conveniences are plentiful, yet, somehow, rice and tofu are still crazy cheap because this is Asia and no man or woman shall ever be denied their rice!

What I’m trying to say is, South Korea is a great destination for the working traveler provided your willing to endure the bureaucratic rigmarole. Here’s a great guide that breaks down the types of and requirements for South Korean work visas . Essentially though, you’ll be applying for a different visa depending on your occupation.

Now, if you DON’T want to plow through the bureaucratic rigmarole, volunteering in South Korea is also a fantastic option! Although, you may want to consider joining a reputable volunteering platform in order to find decent gigs. English is tough to come by, and it’s always good to have a trustworthy service behind you as you travel.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Volunteering in South Korea

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst helping your host community. There are plenty of different volunteer projects in South Korea including teaching, construction, agriculture and pretty much anything.

South Korea is full of opportunities for backpackers to volunteer. Most gigs you’ll find are teaching English, but there are also plenty of opportunities to work in hospitality in exchange for free accommodation. All you need is a tourist visa and you’re ready to get started!

Want to find some awesome volunteering opportunities in South Korea? Then signup for Worldpackers , a platform that connects local hosts with volunteer travelers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Programs run through reputable work exchange programs , like Worldpackers, are generally very well-managed and highly reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering do stay vigilant especially when working with animals or children.

Teaching English in South Korea

You know what’s even better than traveling? Getting paid to do it! If you’ve ever thought about teaching English abroad , South Korea is hands down one of the best places to give it a try.

In a country obsessed with education, jobs for native speakers are abundant. South Korea is also one of the highest-paying places to teach English. That brings us to our next point.

There are tons of jobs for native English speaking teachers in South Korea. If you’re a native speaker with a college degree and a TEFL certificate , you can easily find a job teaching in South Korea.

You WILL need TEFL certificate though; they’re super easy to obtain through online courses. We recommend going through MyTEFL because not only are they an excellent organisation, but you can also score yourself a 50% discount using the code PACK50 .

Getting a TEFL with Global Work and Travel is also a viable option. You can do the course either online or in Icheon where you’ll stay in shared accommodation with other TEFLers. They’ll also assist you with the VISA process and getting a job on completion of the course. There isn’t much they don’t help you with so you can’t really go wrong!

Many English teachers start out by working in a hagwon , which is basically an after-school and weekend gig. Even brand new teachers earn a decent salary and usually get an apartment provided by the school, in addition to airfare reimbursement at the end of a year contract.

Once you’ve got some experience under your belt, you can transition to a public school or university job and work a normal schedule.

Many people turn to teaching English in South Korea into a career and make really good money doing it. I have many friends who have taught English in South Korea and almost all of them had a great experience, except one buddy who had an awful boss. That can happen anywhere, though…

If you’re interested in learning more about working as an ESL teacher in South Korea, check out my interview with our friend Gwendolyn about her time spent teaching English in South Korea .

Oh wow. Where to begin? Enjoying the mouth-watering cuisine is definitely a highlight of backpacking South Korea. Make sure you hit up some street food, hole in the wall local joints, and Korean BBQ restaurants.

It is also worth mentioning that pretty much every meal comes with some kind of banchan  or side dish; the amount basically scales with how you’re eating. If you’re eating solo, you’ll typically get 1-3, but if you’re in a big group you’ll get a bunch of banchans .

Popular Dishes in South Korea

Here are some dishes you have to try in South Korea:

• kimchi  = the national dish – spicy, fermented cabbage
• bibimbap  = a rice bowl with vegetables, spicy sauce, and a fried egg
• bulgogi  = marinated beef
• japchae  = stir-fried noodles
• teokbokki =  rice cakes spicy sauce
• pajeon =  savory pancake made of flour, green onions, and whatever else
• samgyetang =  a soup with ginseng broth and chicken stuffed with rice
• dubu kimchi =  stir-fried pork and kimchi served with boiled tofu

South Korea is a very homogenous country – around 96% of the population is Korean – so it’s not hard to meet Koreans. What might be hard is communicating, as English is not very prevalent. Most young people speak some English, although many be shy to speak a second language with foreigners.

People in South Korea like to get outside and socialize in public parks when the weather is nice. Coffee shops and tea houses are also popular places to hang out and chat. As hiking is so big in South Korea, you’ll always meet people out on the trails.

Of course, you can always go out to bars and meet people as well. As I mentioned above, Koreans like to throw back a few cold ones after work (with a little soju mixed in, of course). Strike up a conversation and next thing you know it’s 3 AM and you’re hammered drunk belting out some karaoke. Welcome to South Korea!

Useful Travel Phrases for South Korea

Korean is difficult to learn, but a little effort goes a long way when learning a new language for travel. Plus, it opens up all kinds of experiences and opportunities. 

Here are a few useful Korean travel phrases to get you started:

• Ahn-nyung-ha-se-yo  = Hello
• Bahn-gap-seup-ni-da  = Nice to meet you
• Uh-dduh-keh ji-neh-seh-yo?  = How are you?
• Ah-nee-oh  = No
• Jwe-song-ha-ji-mahn  = Please
• Gam-sa-ham-ni-da  = Thank you
• Binil bongjiga eobsda  = No plastic bag
• Jebal jip-eusibsio  = No straw please
• Peullaseutig kal but-igi balabnid a = No plastic cutlery please
• Chon-mahn-eh-yo  = You’re welcome
• Sil-le-hahm-ni-da  = Excuse me
• Yong-o-rul hahl-jool a-se-yo?  = Do you speak English?

Books to Read About South Korea

Reading up on South Korea before visiting is a great way to earn some insight into the country!

• The Birth of Korean Cool : Find out how “one nation is conquering the world through pop culture” in this fascinating read. Beyond “Gangnam Style,” writer Euny Hong shows how a very uncool country became cool.
• Korea: The Impossible Country : How did South Korea transform itself from a failed country into an economic powerhouse in just 50 years? Find out in this in-depth look into South Korea’s rise from the ashes.
• The Two Koreas: A Contemporary History: Learn about the complicated history of the Korean Peninsula from World War II up to the present day in this highly acclaimed book.

A Brief History of South Korea

I’ll begin to explain South Korea’s recent history with the founding of the country on August 15, 1948. After the Japanese surrendered in World War II, the peninsula was partitioned – the US would administer the south, while the Soviet Union would administer the north.

The division was supposed to be temporary, but it didn’t quite work out that way. The Korean War broke out in 1950 and lasted for three long and bloody years. With no agreement, the status quo remained and the two would go on as separate entities.

In the 70 years since the Korean War, it’s remarkable to see the stark contrast between the two Koreas. Just look at a satellite image of the Korean peninsula at night . While South Korea is full of bright, shining lights, the north is shrouded in darkness.

Since its founding, South Korea has gone through periods of democratic and autocratic rule. The era known as the First Republic was mostly democratic, but the Second Republic was overthrown early on and replaced by an autocratic military regime.

The country is currently in the Sixth Republic and is, for the most part, a liberal democracy.

South Korea elected its first female president, Park Gyuen-hye, in 2013. However, she was impeached in 2016 due to a corruption scandal.

The current president is Moon Jae-in, who was inaugurated in 2017. He made history by meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, and has done so on multiple occasions now.

Just as you would anywhere else in the world, be sure to respect the local culture and customs when backpacking South Korea.

For example, you should always pour someone else’s drink before your own, and shouldn’t leave chopsticks in your rice bowl, as this resembles ancestral ceremonies.

Be sure to remove your shoes when you enter someone’s home in South Korea. People love sitting and even sleeping on the floor here, so it’s very rude to muck it up with your dirty shoes. Other than that, just be respectful and friendly and people here will treat you very well.

And Have a Blast Backpacking in South Korea

While South Korea isn’t often brought up as a backpacking destination, it most certainly should be. With bustling cities, tons of outdoor adventures, a vibrant culture, and even a beautiful island, you’re sure to have a great time backpacking South Korea.

This is a fascinating country that has transformed drastically over the last few decades. It’s amazing to see the clash of tradition and modernity taking place here.

On one hand, Koreans proudly celebrate their traditions and ancient culture. On the other hand, they’re sprinting towards the future with break-neck speed.

Should you decide to travel to South Korea, you will be well rewarded. It’s an affordable destination that offers tons of unique experiences.

Best of all, you don’t need a lifetime to take in all that the country has to offer. Carve out a few weeks to dive into South Korea, and it will be one of the best trips you ever take.

• Best hostels for South Korea
• South Korean foods to try
• Is South Korea expensive
• Backpacking Japan guide

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

Share or save this post

Note: Backpackers in Jeollanam-Do (southernmost province) are welcome, but BEG-Packers are not.

Koreans are put off by these vermin and local expats will happily inform the local police, who will escort them to the nearest airport.

Bring a positive appearance to Korea. Don’t become a cautionary tale.

That “Oeam Folk Village in spring” photo is probably actually autumn. That’s when the cosmos bloom. (Also, the rice looks pretty high.)

also from my side a big thank you for the helpful tips. I am heading to south korea in a couple of weeks and i will definitely use some of your tips and recommendation when i am there

Fab reading. Heading out for a week from Egypt after a visit to Hong Kong and China. Thanks for all the info!

Have an awesome time!

I enjoyed your article. I started learning Korean a month ago and will take your advice on spending more time to speak it. Thanks!

I’m in Danyang and i dont see widely available ATMs, i tried 2 already and they dont wanna work with my visa.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

50 South Korea Travel Tips

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

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

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

I’ve divided it up by:

What to Do Before Traveling to South Korea

• Korea Itinerary + Things to Do

Where to Stay in Korea + Tour Options

Korea transportation guide.

• What to Eat
• Safety + Sanitary Concerns

Little Things to Know About Korean Culture

• What to Buy in Korea
• Final Notes

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

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

1. Learn Hangul + some key phrases.

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

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

2. Try to book with Asiana or Korean.

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

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

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

3. Read up a bit on Korean history

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

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

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

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

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

4. Do you need a SIM Card?

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

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

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

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

5. Best Time to Go to Korea

Fall or spring.

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

6. Exchange + Money Matters

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

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

7. Is Korea expensive?

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

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

Korea Itinerary Tips + Things to Do

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

8. Where to go if you have…

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

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

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

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

4 Weeks/ 1 Month

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

9. Major things to do in Seoul

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

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

For more on Seoul, check these guides:

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

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

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

11. Go hiking!

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

Here are some of my posts on hiking:

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

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

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

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

13. Is the cafe culture really a thing?

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

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

Here are some cafes I’ve specifically covered:

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

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

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

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

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

15. How is the hostel culture in Korea?

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

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

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

16. Can I get an Airbnb in Korea?

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

17. How are the hotels?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

19. What are the best websites for tours?

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

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

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

20. Don’t rely on Google Maps.

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

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

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

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

21. Using KTX

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

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

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

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

21. Intercity buses

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

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

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

22. Tips for booking flights

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

• Asiana Airlines
• T’Way Air

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

23. Using Seoul’s subway

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

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

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

24. Using local taxis and buses

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

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

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

Tips on What to Eat in Korea

26. so…. the dog thing..

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

27. How is vegetarian and vegan-friendly Korea?

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

28. Any unique drinks to try?

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

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

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

Korea loves takeout. It’s amazing. In bigger cities, you can order to the exact place you’re at, even if you’re not in a building or home! The most popular things to order are fried chicken, pizza, pig’s feet, and random Korean dishes that are easy to transport.

If you can use Hangul, then download the 배달요기요 app.

Safety and Sanitary Concerns

31. is it safe to travel to south korea now.

Short answer: YES!

I wrote about it in a post on  the Department of Wandering  with more details. You can read it in full here.

32. Sooo… North Korea…

The North Korean threat is kind of blown out of proportion by the Western media. At this point, I’d be more concerned about living in NYC or LA.

Now…if you’re asking about visiting North Korea while you’re here, well, I have some strong opinions on that.

33. How safe is public transportation?

Super safe. I can’t tell you how many subways, buses, and trains I’ve taken here, and I’ve never felt uncomfortable.

34. How safe is Korea for a solo female traveler?

One of the safest places. Korea is honestly one of the safest countries in the world.

Of course, be as cautious as you’d be anywhere. Watch your drink, don’t get too inebriated if you’re on your own, and, you know, keep an eye out for your fellow female! I feel like there’s a silent solidarity of women around the world against creepy, drunk men, so if you ever feel uncomfortable, just go towards a woman and quietly let her know your situation.

35. How clean is Korea?

Overall, it’s clean. There are some areas that are kind of gross, but it’s no different than any other super industrialized country.

36. What’s the deal with this squat potty? Am I going to have to squat?

Ahhh, the squat potty. If you don’t know what it is, you’re blessed. I  know it’s actually more hygienic than regular toilets, but I just can’t get used to the idea.

Fun fact, in the 3 years I lived there, I never once needed to use one. Regular toilets are far more common, especially for most of the places you’re visiting.

Some more rural areas may only have a squat potty, such as hiking trails or campgrounds, but major places will have normal ones. And hey, the fancier buildings even have the seat bidets, which are truly the greatest toilet invention since indoor plumbing.

These are just some things I and other friends have noticed, and that I think you might be surprised by if you’ve never been here. I should preface this section with this: Of course, not ALL Koreans are like this, and many of these things you may not even experience. This is from my personal point of view and some trends I’ve seen with other foreign friends who live here.

37. You will get stared at.

Maybe not in Seoul, but in the rest of the country, just be prepared. There’s the episode of Conan when he goes to Korea and all the kids are craning their necks and just staring. That’s pretty common even if you’re not a tall ginger with a camera crew.

If you hear “wayguk,” they’re just pointing out that you’re a foreigner. I had a friend who would reply in the same awed tone, “hanguk saram,” or Korean!

38. Here’s a typical line of questioning:

• Korean: Where are you from?
• Me: America.
• Korean: Are you Korean?
• Me: No, I’m Chinese-American.
• Korean: Ahhh you speak Korean well.
• Me: Thank you.
• Korean: Are you married?
• Korean: Ahhh.

Couple culture is also very real here, and you’ll probably see  plenty  of couples out and about enjoying their day in matching gear. Elissa and I always joked that if you’re not sure where exactly to go on your way to a major site, just follow the couples! Works like a charm.

39. Are Koreans actually racist?

Ummmm, for the most part, no. And the more they see of foreign visitors and travel, the less likely they are. There are a few, especially from the older generation, who might be racist. Once in a blue moon, you might come across a bar that bans foreigners, but that’s super rare.

I will say, MANY of my friends have pointed out that the xenophobia in Korea really, really jumped out during COVID. However, this is not something I think you’d have to deal with as a visitor, but it maybe be something you start to get frustrated by if you’re here long term.

40. A note on the introverted nature of many Koreans.

A lot of Koreans keep to themselves. Don’t get me wrong, they can be insanely nice and kind, and I’ve had complete strangers stop to lead me to my next destination. But you have to  ask for that to happen.

Also if you’re in trouble, such as feeling harassed by a drunk old man, they won’t help on their own. They’ll kind of stare and avoid the general area.

41. What the heck is an ahjumma and ahjussi?

Okay, so technically:

• Ahjumma – married woman
• Ahjussi – married man

However, that’s not quite accurate. If you called a 22-year-old married woman an ahjumma, she’d be pretty offended!

Ahjummas are considered tough as nails mothers with cropped perms, comfy pants, and a brusque attitude that can be helpful or frustrating depending on the situation. If you ever need to get through a crowd, follow the ahjumma openly just pushing her way through.

Ahjussis are middle-aged men, and the connotation is that they’re soju drinking, sometimes grumpy, sometimes nice men. A lot of times they drive taxis. Now,  gaejeossis are something else entirely.

42. Do you Koreans really get drunk all the time?

No, though you’d think that, wouldn’t you? While the drinking culture is huge in Korea, the country is not a giant group of alcoholics.

However, some of my friendliest interactions with Koreans have been while they were drunk singing norebang. I guess I could say the same for America too.

43. Treatment of animals in Korea.

Animal treatment is getting  so much better, even in the time I’ve been here. However, I do think I should warn any diehard animal lovers that you’re not going to love what you see, especially out of the cities.

It’s very common to see bigger dogs chained up outside their homes all year round, and one of my adult students told me that near her apartment building, people were feeding the stray cats poisoned food to kill them.

Again, things are seriously improving, and there are so many great groups around the country that help strays. In Suncheon, there’s a cate cafe that’s strictly for helping stray cats!

44. What should I know about the suicide culture?

The suicide culture is a really unfortunate part of Korean culture, but it’s not something you’re really going to encounter unless you’ve been living here, and even then it’s fairly rare.

I wanted to make note of it, especially with SHINee’s Jonghyun passing and because it’s just something to be aware of, but I feel like to really discuss it, I’d have to dedicate a whole post which I’m not ready to delve into researching.

What to Buy for Souvenirs

On a much lighter note, here’s a fun section of what to buy in Korea for souvenirs!

45. The deal with Korean skincare products

Korean skincare is top notch, and it’s all I really use. There are  so many brands compared to the U.S., and they all have their own marketing and store locations. I personally  love Innisfree the most, so I buy from there for classic products. I like Etude House for make-up, and I just pop around to the different brands if I want something trendy or quirky to give as gifts. Some other brands are:

• Nature Republic
• The Face Shop
• Dr. Jart (check Olive Young)
• Peripera (check Olive Young)

If you have time, do research on what kind of products you want for your skin type, but as gifts, my go-to buy is face masks.

46. Clothes + Accessories

There are a ton of clothing stores in Korea, and the two big areas are Myeongdong and Dongdaemun in Seoul. I’m not really that big into clothes shopping here because everything is free size, so it’s either too small or a sack, but it’s worth looking around if you’re on the slim, petite side.

If you want something quirky, then I recommend getting either something with Hangul on it or, for fun, get one of the super bad English motto shirts!

Another clothing item that could be really lovely is a modern hanbok. Instead of buying a regular hanbok, which is crazy expensive, you can buy a modern looking one. Sometimes they’re really subtle details, so you can wear them in normal life without it feeling like a costume.

47. Food and drinks to buy for home

Soju bottles, Korean snacks found in any convenience store or grocery store, specialty teas… The only two specific things I can think of are Pepero and brown rice green tea packets.

48. Any other unique souvenirs to know about?

Hmm, there are quite a lot! Most souvenir shops have similar items that are supposed to be more for traditional Korea. If you have friends getting married, you could get them cute wedding ducks.

The cute culture is very real, so you could always get cute versions of everyday items like stationary or pens. If you’re a fan, go to the Naver Friends or Kakao friends stores and pick up one of their mascots.

There are a lot of adult coloring books too, so if you can find ones for Korean places, then I think those would make super cute gifts.

Other souvenirs would be, of course, K-pop related things if you have friends who love specific groups. I bought the physical CDs of a few groups and singers I like.

Final Notes on Traveling Korea

49. koreans  are actually really lovely and kind..

As a whole, Koreans are the bomb. They’re so kind, and even if some things can feel frustrating, they’re always polite and try to be as helpful as they can. I’ve had frustrating moments here, but, in all honesty, my overall frustration levels living in Korea are less after 3 years than the semester I spent living in Madrid, so that should say something.

50. Ultimately, traveling this country is what you make of it.

If you come in thinking you’re going to have a meet-cute with some perfect-skinned chaebol oppa, you’re probably going to leave pretty displeased.

My best advice is to take Korea for Korea and not compare it to other places. It’s pretty unique, for better or worse, and it  so wants to be better known for welcoming foreign travelers! I’ve been here, cumulatively, for 3+ years, and I wouldn’t keep coming back if I disliked my time.

And there you have it! Fifty things to know about traveling to South Korea. Let me know if I’m missing anything or if you’re planning your own trip here this year!

SHARE THIS ON PINTEREST

want to support?

I’m always grateful when friends and readereach out wanting to support There She Goes Again . Truthfully, I’m just happy my posts are helping people travel! If you’d like to support the blog, here are some companies and brands I’m affiliated with. Simply click the links, and I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you!

• Booking (Hotels)
• Sixt (Car Rental)
• Klook (Tours)
• Viator (Tours)
• Get Your Guide (Tours)
• Trazy (Korea Tours)
• Tiqets (Entrance Tickets)

BLOGGING / SOCIAL MEDIA

• WPX Hosting (Advanced)
• Bluehost (Beginners)
• Lezé the Label (Clothing)
• Printfresh (Pajamas, etc)
• Promptly Journals
• Encircled (Clothing)
• Girlfriend Collective (Athleisure)
• Birkenstock (Sandals)
• Bookshop (For Local)
• Amazon Books

37 Comments

Thank you for providing such a wealth of information. I was born in Busan circa 1980 and have lived in the States for 41 years. I am planning to bring my husband and our two sons back in the next year or so and have no idea what to expect!

Ahh have an amazing time!! Busan is so lovely – I don’t think I’ve ever had a bad time there. Gamcheon Culture Village is one of my favorite places in all of Korea!

Great tips! I’m making a list of the things to prepare before going to Korea. You don’t know how helpful it is to me. I’m becoming a lot more excited. Thank you! What do you think of getting a tour guide in South Korea? Found a guide that offers customized tours Do you think I should also consider this?

Hi! Think it depends on how you like to plan. Sometimes it’s nice to have someone else plan for you altogether, but I personally like researching every aspect of my trips!

Rock on. This is a really great blog with so many useful tips, thank you so much for all the details! I’m looking forward to visiting Korea and this has helped a lot!

Thank you for all the awesome tips and helpful information. We’ll be going in April, 2023 and will be visiting Jeju Island. In Seoul we’re planning use subway and train, but while in Jeju Island we are thinking renting a car. Is it expensive and easy to rent a car there? How are the road there? Do you have a car rental place you recommend in Jeju? :)

Hi! Fun! I might be in Korea around that time too depending :)

For Jeju I definitely recommend a car, though the bus system is pretty robust (way better than when I first went). I rented one the last time I went and it wasn’t too bad! I used Trazy – https://thereshegoesagain.org/korea/jeju/car-rental and while April is too far in the future, it looks like it’s around $40 a day.

Hi Samantha! Thank you for your helpful articles. My question is when at Incheon airport the priorities are to get just enough KRW till you get to myundeong (i hope im right T T) but to get there using public transportation, you do need cards for subway/train/bus? Or not necessary? Do you buy them at kiosks or machines near the terminals? Do you just buy an adequate plan card according to your stay (3 weeks in seoul)

Hi Maha! I promise the subway system is really, really easy to use and tourist-friendly in Incheon! (Like easily the best I’ve ever seen). Honestly, when you take out cash, I’d do like 100,000 KRW max. Korea is really card-friendly, so you really only need cash for subway/bus tickets and food stands! Everywhere else takes CC even if it’s only buying a water bottle.

When you arrive, follow signs for the metro. It’ll take you down a level or two and then you’ll see the entrance to the subway. There are literally arrows on the floor! In front are kiosks to buy tickets – you’ll need cash for them. If you just buy a single journey, you can get it there and it’ll pop you out a little ticket. If you want to get a subway card, you can buy one in one of the convenience stores like GS25. Ask for a TMoney card, and then you can just recharge that at any kiosk. Subway cards are super cheap and so easy to use and have on hand; I’d recommend getting one if you’re visiting for 3 weeks.

There’s also at least one or two stands/travel centers to help you if you get truly lost!

I love buying at stores in Korea and getting lots of free samples

Agree, the free samples are so fun!

We are taking our daughter to Seoul for the fall semester as an exchange student to Yonsei University. We are equally excited for her and also fearful at the same time. She has severe food allergies to fish and all tree nuts and peanuts. She already had a few anaphylactic reactions here at home while on college campus so when she said she applied to study abroad, my worry meter just shoot up!!! Anyways, we are set to fly with her and plan to spend a week in Seoul. Your blog and tips are extremely helpful. Thank you!

Ahh enjoy your week in Seoul! I think as long as she has everything she needs on her and explicitly avoids any restaurants using fish/tree nuts/peanuts she should be ok. Luckily most Korean cuisine doesn’t use anything peanuts or tree nuts.

i’m going to south korea next september and you blog has been so useful! thanks a lot <3

Aw yay, I’m glad it’s been helpful!!

So happy I came across your site. So many great articles. My partner and I will be travelling to South Korea (3 weeks) with our 6-month old. We are still struggling on the logistics: rental car or train/bus. I think it all comes down to the question what can we carry comfortably. Q / Is a infant car seat required for taxis and distance buses? I struggle to find reliable and up to date information. Q / Feom your travelling experience in South Korea what would you recommend?

So the only time I’ve driven in South Korea is on Jeju because I’m too scared to drive otherwise haha. BUT I highly recommend reaching out to my friend, Hallie – https://thesoulofseoul.net/ ! She has a daughter in Korea, and she’ll know all the ins and outs of carseats, etc. I think your best bet is DMing her on Instagram or joining our FB group ( https://www.facebook.com/groups/108958789789483 ) and asking there!

Great information! My husband and I are planning to spend a week in Seoul next year. I’m Black and he is Filipino American. Do you think we will encounter any racial issues?

Hi Stephanie! Good question. Racism in Korea is a pretty loaded topic. Essentially everyone who doesn’t look Korean or East Asian has a good chance of experiencing some sort of micoaggression at least. However, because you’re in Seoul for only a week (aka a short time and in the most progressive part of the country used to seeing international visitors), you’ll most likely be fine.

Thank you for this info. Love the content! This is very helpful for those people like me who’s planning to go to Korea. Hopefully I can visit there next year! May I ask what are the requirements to get Korean Visa?

Hi Juliet! Depends on the visas. I recommend checking out the Korean embassy website in your country for specific details. The E-2 visa for teachers is a whole process!

Hi thank you so much for a detailed outline for tips on traveling to south korea, this helped a lot!

Traveling soon there, do I need to know someone in South Korea as a list of contact or do they ask that when first time travelers arrive there? What if i do not know anyone?

Thank you! I don’t think so, but I’m not sure how things have changed with COVID!

Thank you for this! I am planning my 40th birthday for 2022 and this came up in my search!

Ooh so exciting!! I hope you have fun planning!

I loved this so much! I’m hoping to go to korea next year on my own and i’m so excited but very nervous. and this has been so helpful! I’m not sure if you have already but do you have an article or any advise on getting visas or how it works depending on how long you plan on staying. Thank you x:)

Aw you’ll love it!! I have one on getting the E-2 visa but I’m not familiar with the rest. You’ll want to check out some of the Facebook groups for Korea for that :)

So detailed and so impressive! There are lots of articles of Korean travel tips, but I haven’t seen like this one :) Thanks for your post!

Hi! Thank you :) This means so much to me!

This is so helpful, I’ll be going next year and I can’t wait! When you first traveled to South Korea; did you have to book a hotel and give them the hotel information?

Hi! That’s so exciting; I hope you have the best time!!

Yes! So when you go through immigration, they’ll have you fill out the typical form and it’ll ask for an address and phone number. If I’m not staying with friends, I’ll book an Airbnb in Hongdae or hotel and use their address and phone number on the form.

Hi! I’m going to South Korea this year with 4 other girls (2 of whom are my sisters). I came across your post and it gave a very usueful insight to visiting South Korea for the first time. Thank you!

I cannot wait for my trip in 3 weeks!

Thank you so much :). I hope you ladies have such a fun trip! If your timing is just right, I think you should see the cherry blossoms!

Hi, I’m a Korean preparing to be a tour guide for foreign travelers.

I’m impressed by this post full of affection for Korea. I love it! I think most of, no, all of tips you wrote in this post are super helpful to travelers considering trip to Korea. And actually this post is a good text for me to take a foreigners’ perspective, too.

I’m keeping to see your other posts that is so worth to study(!). Nice to meet your posts. :)

Hi Narae, thanks so much for your kind words :) Good luck with your tour guide prep!

I’m a Korean In this post, I think that you got realistic Korean knowledges and useful tips. I didn’t think about foreigner’s perspacetive. And I am amazed by your tips that is most right thing. Thx for your post :)

Thank you, Jae Youl! I’m glad you like the post :)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Work with me
• Privacy policy

• Years in review
• United Kingdom
• Bosnia & Herzegovina
• North Macedonia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• South Africa
• Africa Overlanding
• Central America
• New Zealand
• Solo Travel
• Budget travel
• Travel tips
• Travel itineraries
• Hidden gems
• Bucket list
• Travel resources
• Digital nomadism
• Blogging tips
• Start a travel blog

30 South Korea Travel Tips To Know Before Going!

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

South Korea is a place you’ll benefit from researching before visiting. If you’re reading my South Korea travel tips, you’re already doing a good job! Saying this, I went in fairly blind and didn’t do much research before I arrived. Nothing went majorly wrong but there were a few things that floored me, such as why Google Maps wasn’t working and why no one would sell me an aff ordable SIM card!

KOREA ESSENTIALS Accommodation: Booking.com /  Hostelworld Activities:  Viator / GetYourGuide Getting there: air ( Skyscanner )   Getting around: Train ( Trip.com ) / bus Pre-book private airport to hotel transfer Travel insurance:   True Traveller  (European travellers) /   Hey Mundo  (other nationalities) /   Safety Wing  (digital nomads)

South Korea tips

After spending three weeks in South Korea , I feel confident to share my Korea tips and advice. I can’t promise I know absolutely everything about the culture and history (although I did my best) but I’m certainly clued up when it comes to Korea travel tips. The following 30 tips for visiting South Korea are designed to share practical advice and cultural know-how, making your trip easier and more meaningful. Here are some things to know before going to South Korea:

Psst – looking for Seoul travel tips? Check out my Seoul itinerary and guide!

1. Data is expensive

My first Korea travel tip relates to the internet. I assumed I’d buy a local SIM like I do everywhere but this turned out to be more complicated than I’d realised . Without a residency card, you can’t access the deals the locals get. I tried asking in countless stores and phone shops but to no avail.

2. But Wi-Fi is everywhere

When visiting South Korea, ask yourself if you actually need a SIM card. I’ve never been anywhere with quite so many Wi-Fi hotspots. Every subway station has Wi-Fi access as well as many trains and local buses. Whenever I was out sightseeing, I’d nip into a station to download directions to my next location even if I wasn’t catching a train. I got by fine without data so you might want to disregard my South Korea travel tip #1 and use Wi-Fi instead.

3. Rent your SIM/hotspot at the airport

If you do decide you’d rather get a SIM card than rely on Wi-Fi, a good option is to pre-order one and collect it at the airport. I started my SIM card hunt by asking my hostel owner where to get one. She answered ‘the airport’ which wasn’t ideal since I’d just spent an hour coming from there. Yep, it’s hard to find tourist SIM cards anywhere but the airport so this is definitely a helpful thing to know before visiting South Korea. B ook your 4g SIM to collect at Seoul airport . The other option is renting a portable Wi-Fi device. This often works out a bit cheaper than a SIM card and they also can be collected at the airport. Reserve your pocket Wi-fi device here.

4. Tipping isn’t necessary

Worried about the cost of travelling in South Korea ? I’ll touch on this later but there’s one thing you don’t need to worry about: tipping. The price you see on a restaurant menu or at the bar is exactly what you’ll pay. In fact, tipping can appear quite rude, just like in Japan. Giving a tip might suggest you think a waiter is below you hierarchically which is obviously to be avoided. Save those pennies for dessert!

5. Google Maps doesn’t really work

I’d never been somewhere without Google Maps so I was very surprised when I arrived in South Korea. It’s not that Maps doesn’t work at all but it’s not regularly updated and the maps won’t load to a close level. Public transport directions work but walking and driving ones do not. South Korea prefers to rely on its own system rather than global companies which explains its reluctance to partner with Google. Some apps for travelling in Korea are Naver Maps and KakaoMap.

6. South Korea gets COLD

A tip for visiting South Korea in the winter is to prepare for the weathe r. Unlike other places in Asia that stay warm all year round, South Korea has severe winters. This means you’ll want to look at the seasons and weather before planning your trip, or at least dress accordingly. As a lover of the sun (and a backpacker with too many sarongs and summer dresses), I waited for spring to visit. But if you have a woolly wardrobe ready to be packed, winter might be a beautiful time to visit South Korea.

Of all the things to know before going to Korea, the weather may be the most impactful. Here’s a rundown of the seasons.

• Spring (March to May) – the best time for cool temperatures and seeing cherry blossoms
• Summer (June to August) – hot and humid in the cities but generally manageable
• Autumn (September to November) – this season is short with cool temperatures of 10-20 degrees. Note this is typhoon season.
• Winter (December to March) – temperatures go down to -3 degrees.

7. It’s amazing for hiking

One thing that South Korea isn’t overly famous for is hiking . I hope this changes because this green and glorious island is the perfect place for long and short hikes for all abilities. I took some excellent day trips from Busan that nature lovers will enjoy. Most are super easy to reach from the city thanks to efficient public transport.

Worthwhile hikes include:

• Bukhansan National Park from Seoul
• Seoraksan National Park (2.5 hours from Seoul, stay over in Sokcho city)
• Apsan Park and observation deck from Daegu
• Palgongsan Mountain from Daegu
• Igidae Coastal Walk from Busan
• Taejongdae Resort island hike from Busan.

8. The Korean alphabet is easy

Apparently! I can’t say I learnt it but many travellers claim it’s pretty easy, plus it would be a fun activity for your South Korea bucket list . Of course, I’m not saying that learning fluent spoken Korean is easy, but knowing the alphabet will enable you to recognise dishes on menus and place names. If you’re good with languages, this could be a worthwhile tip for visiting South Korea.

9. Get a Tmoney card

My top South Korea tip for getting from a to b? Purchase a travel card. Tmoney cards only cost 500 won when you consider that you get back 3,500 of the 4,000 deposit you pay. They make travelling South Korea so much easier because you don’t need to queue for ticket machines and you can quickly tap onto any bus or subway train. You can buy them at subway stations and convenience stores.

10. The subway is efficient but don’t overlook the buses

Jumping on buses in foreign countries can be nerve-wracking but don’t worry in South Korea. The buses are safe, efficient and regular. For certain routes, they’ll even be quicker than catching the subway. Personally, I much prefer to get my bearings and watch the world go by from the window of a bus than sit underground so I always take the bus when I can. In smaller cities like Daegu, Gyeongju and Jeonju , buses are the only option as there’s no subway. This South Korea travel tip is to embrace them!

11. Use Trip.com to book trains

You can book trains on Trip.com , the official partner of Korail (the railway network of Korea). This is the only train website that will take foreign payment card.

12. For buses, just show up

Unfortunately, for buses, you can’t use Trip.com and other booking websites only take Korean payment cards. Don’t worry because buses rarely book up so you can just turn up on the day. This is what I did and never had any problems. As a general rule, before moving to a new place I checked out bus and train prices then took whichever was cheapest or quickest, depending on how much time I had.

13. You can only visit the DMZ with a tour

Visiting the DMZ is a fascinating addition to your South Korea trip. However, the only way to visit is with an official guide and organised tour group. Check out my tips for taking a DMZ tour from Seoul .

The second thing to know about visiting the DMZ is that tours can book up during busy months. Book a couple of days in advance if possible. An additional South Korea tip: bring your passport to the DMZ with you otherwise you’ll be refused entry to the area. Imagine coming all that way and not being allowed in!

14. There are lots of affordable tours

Despite the fact that general costs are higher in South Korea than many other Asian countries, the price of tours a r e pretty similar. Trips and day tours on GetYourGuide and Klook start at $15, a useful Korea tip if travelling on a budget without your own vehicle.

15. Bank cards are widely accepted

Before arriving in South Korea I’d been in Southeast Asia, somewhere you can rarely pay on card. While I’d recommend having some cash on you in South Korea, most restaurants and shops do allow card transactions. However if you’re having street food for dinner, it’s cash payment or going hungry.

16. The currency is the South Korean won

The South Korean currency might make you feel wealthy but soz, it’s an illusion! The rate at the time of writing (Jan ‘22) is 1,600 to the pound or 1,200 to the dollar. You’ll be dropping at least 5,000 for dinner and 20,000 for hostel beds.

17. Prices are fairly high

I’d put South Korea between Southeast Asia and the West in terms of costs. You’ll certainly find it expensive if you’re used to Vietnam or Thailand but it won’t seem so bad if you’re arriving from the UK or US.

Read next: Korea on a budget

Hostel dorms cost around 20,000 won (£15 / $18) per night; street food meals cost between 2-5,000 won; cheap restaurant meals cost between 5,000-10,000 won; and train journeys are between 5-000-25,000 won. If you’re looking for South Korea tips for travelling on a budget, you need to get familiar with market food and dorms!

Read next: guide to Seoul street food

18. The beauty culture is something else

Get ready to be bombarded with beauty products left right and centre ! The South Korean beauty industry is one of the biggest in the world worth over $10 billion US. It’s also impossible to avoid. South Koreans are often super glamorous and rely heavily on whitening p roducts. Areas of Seoul like Myeondong are packed with beauty stores selling everything you never knew you needed. They’re a lot of fun to browse.

19. Get ready to feel scruffy!

On that note, I’ve never felt scruffier than in South Korea. My backpack wardrobe was passable in other Asian countries but felt oh-so-crumpled and faded compared to what the locals wore. Particularly in Seoul! If you’re looking for Seoul travel tips, I would suggest you pack a few smart outfits if you want to visit nice restaurants and bars. They aren’t mandatory but might make you blend in better!

20. Go hard or go home

I was surprised to learn that South Koreans are big social drinkers and love to party. Previously I’d been in Taiwan where the drinking culture was virtually nonexistent so I’d expected more of the same. How wrong I was! In Seoul’s Hongdae, local partygoers stay out until 6am. You’ll also see businessmen pretty tipsy after post-work drinks. It was a side I’d not seen before in Asia and liked – after all, how often do you get to party with the locals?

21. Soju is life

If you’re headed to South Korea and don’t yet know Soju, you’ll want to remember this Korea travel tip. Soju is a fermented spirit and the national drink of South Korea. Apparently, it’s considered offensive to refuse a shot. And we wouldn’t want to cause offence now, would we? 😉 If you’re backpacking Korea on a budget, there’s a second reason to know about soju. It’s very cheap. Drinking soju at home is a fraction of the cost of drinking at a bar. Visit the 7-Eleven for apple, grape and grapefruit flavoured soju that can be drunk neat (it’s nowhere near as strong as the flavourless version).

22. There’s nowhere as crazy as Seoul

Seoul is different from anywhere in the country. It reminded me of London in that way. If you try and compare anywhere else in South Korea to Seoul, you’ll end up surprised or even disappointed. While I’d recommend around 3 days in Busan , I’d suggest at least 5 days in Seoul. Nowhere rivals Seoul in size, quirkiness or diversity of the things to do. For a real taste of what makes Seoul special, visit Hongdae in the evenings. You’ll find live music, street food, bizarre cafes where you can pet sheep and racoons, street art, and locals dining out and drinking coffee ‘til 4am . And partying ‘til even later!

23. Buddy up for dinner

Something I didn’t anticipate in South Korea was not being to dine solo. Sure, sometimes newbie solo travellers might feel uncomfortable dining solo anywhere but that’s usually down to fear of being judged rather than actual restaurant restrictions. For Korean barbecues and dak galbi meals (a chicken and cheese hotplate dish), there’s often a minimum of 2 diners required. Super annoying right? My best South Korea travel tip is to always ask. I found a barbecue restaurant that were happy to seat me but charged me an extra 5,000 won (£3). Irritating but better than not being able to try a Korean barbecue while in Korea. The other option is to stay in a hostel where they offer shared dinner trips to counteract this problem.

Read next: tips for solo female travel in South Korea

24. Veggies & vegans may struggle

South Korean food is meat-heavy, from barbecues to Korean fried chicken and street food. Even bibimbap usually contains beef although you can usually ask for it without. Use HappyCow to seek out veggie and vegan cafes and restaurants. You can also check out this Seoul vegan guide .

25. Fresh veggies are hard to find

This follows on from the last point. I’m not vegetarian but that doesn’t mean I want to eat fried meat three times a day and never see a vegetable! Of all the places I’ve been (apart from maybe the P hilippines), South Korea is the most challenging for finding fresh food. The best you’ll get in a 7-Eleven is a lone banana wrapped in plastic and strapped to polystyrene. Supermarkets aren’t prevalent so unless you know where the local markets are and manage to haggle in Korean (or with a bit of pointing and gesturing) it can be tricky. My best Korea travel tip for staying healthy is to have a Korean barbeque meal and go easy on the meat and heavy on the salad bar. Otherwise, get your miming skills on and pick up some sweet potatoes and peppers at a local market.

26. South Korea is safe for solo females

Super safe! South Korea has a low crime rate and you’ll feel perfectly safe during your trip. The locals can be shy when talking to foreigners but they’ll certainly help you out if they can. Whenever I asked for directions, they went out of their way to help even if they clearly had no idea! Check out my solo female travel archives for travel tips around the world.

Finally, some tips around etiquette and society…

27. South Korea only became wealthy recently

South Korea today is thriving, especially in the cities. Locals have money for leisure and socialising which means there are great cafes, restaurants and theme parks. However this hasn’t always been the case. The Korean War lasted until 1953, destroying the economy and ripping the country in two quite literally. For many years, people struggled and the average family had very little to live on. Nowadays things have drastically improved. Young people may not remember the dark days but the older generation do. Many traditional professions are dying because young people prefer to work in offices or within the tourist industry. I can’t say I blame them but it’s a sad situation to consider.

28. South Koreans are very romantic

When you arrive in South Korea, you might notice the couples behaving very… coupley. Although not quite how they would in the West. Rather than openly kissing, young couples in South Korea like to play fight in a cutesy way. They’ll tickle each other’s arms, pinch ears, lovingly caress elbows. Well, each to their own right? Apparently, showing public affection wasn’t considered acceptable until a couple of decades ago. In fact, it was frowned upon to even hold hands. Nowadays, young people are enjoying their newfound freedom – elbows and all! The other thing to know? There’s a huge pressure to couple up. Single shaming is way worse than the West and I’m sure some of us can vouch for how bad it is there!

29. Respect the elders

Most Asian societies have strong respect for their elders but Korea has a whole language to honour theirs! The Korean language takes into consideration the relationship between the speaker and their subject. So if you’re addressing someone of hierarchal superiority (like a boss, customer or teacher) or an elder, you’ll use different nouns and word endings. You’ll only use informal versions if someone is younger than you or an employee/student. And getting it wrong is considered very rude. Eek. It’s unlikely to affect you as a tourist but you should always try to be extra polite and respectful to older Koreans.

30. South Korean society is stressful for young people

This point is more of a cultural one than a tip for visiting South Korea. However I think it’s an interesting point to consider while travelling around. South Korea is a wealthy nation with good education and career opportunities for young people. Perhaps because of recent improvement in these areas, the older generation are keen to ensure their children and grandchildren do as well as possible and therefore sometimes put tremendous pressure on them, in terms of getting good grades and then high-flying jobs. Despite being modernised, South Korea is still a conservative country. Gay rights are poor and sex before marriage is still frowned upon. People are expected to get married young and feel they are ‘left on the shelf’ otherwise. Combine that with unrealistic beauty standards (remember all those products I mentioned) and I’m sure you can imagine the stress on young South Koreans. With all the above considered, it’s little wonder mental illness and suicide rates are at an all-time high for South Koreans. With a long life expectancy and ageing population, the problem even extends to older people who don’t want to be a burden on their families. You’ll unlikely see any evidence of this travelling around but it’s something to think about, plus we should all practise kindness wherever we go!

Thanks for reading my South Korea travel tips!

Check out my other South Korea blogs:

• South Korea 2 week itinerary
• The perfect 5 days in Seoul
• Korea travel budget guide
• Solo female travel in Korea
• A guide to visiting Jeju Island without a car
• Best things to do in Busan + 3 day itinerary 
• Tips for visiting the DMZ from Seoul
• Jeonju travel guide & 1 day itinerary
• The ultimate South Korea bucket list
• 20 best South Korean foods to try
• The best day trips from Busan

See you next time for more adventures,

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Ps. Liked these Korea travel tips? Pin this for later!

VISITING SOUTH KOREA? These are my trusted resources: Getting around by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Buses – buses are comfy and efficient. It’s tricky for foreigners to book online so it’s best to turn up on the day. Trains – use Trip.com , partner of Korail (the official railway network of Korea) to book your tickets in advance. The website accepts international payment options, unlike Korean rail websites. Click the three stripes in the top right corner then the flag to change it to English. Driving in Korea – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals. Hiring a car will be especially useful on Jeju Island. For hotels in Korea, I use Booking.com – they also have self-catering apartments. You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse South Korea tours and activities on GetYourGuide . I also check Viator and Klook in case they have a better price. For food tours with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

One thought on “ 30 South Korea Travel Tips To Know Before Going! ”

Excellent post, very complete. Thank you!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You can see how this popup was set up in our step-by-step guide: https://wppopupmaker.com/guides/auto-opening-announcement-popups/

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

My North Korea Travel Experience – What’s It Really Like?

As my train travelled across the bridge separating China and North Korea, my stomach started to knot in apprehension. “Why am I travelling to North Korea?” I thought to myself. The current tension between North Korea and the Western World had put doubt in my mind about whether this was safe.

The train pulled to a stop and North Korean military flooded onto the train, where they took our passports and thoroughly searched our bags. We waited here at the border for 2 hours before the military got off the train and let us proceed towards Pyongyang, North Korea’s capital city. After some hours passed, the lush countryside began to fade and huge monuments, buildings and skyscrapers took its place. We had arrived.

I very recently got back from a trip to North Korea. It has taken me a few days to compose my thoughts and reflect upon everything I saw and experienced – the country was extremely different to how I imagined and threw a lot of my preconceptions out the window.

I was surprised, for example, to find that Pyongyang was a very picturesque and modern city. I don’t know what I had expected from the capital city, but it certainly wasn’t this. I was also surprised to see that the countryside was absolutely beautiful, with rolling hills and vivid green colours. However, some things I saw also upset and angered me.

Getting to North Korea

A lot of people don’t know that you can visit North Korea, but it is actually very easy to visit the country (at the moment at least). You can only visit with a guided tour company, however, and this will take you on a very strict, itinerary-based tour around mainly Pyongyang , but also to places like the DMZ and Mount Myohyang.

The tour company I went with was called Lupine Travel , and I found them to be very helpful pre-trip with their booking process and getting my visa ready. The tour itself was very well-planned and I thoroughly enjoyed it, although the restrictions placed on us, such as not being able to wander off and do our own thing and having to ask to go to the toilet and take photos, did get a little frustrating. But, this is the nature of tourism in North Korea, and is the same with all tours to the country.

We entered North Korea by taking an overnight train from Beijing to Dandong (a city on the border of China and Korea) and then another train from Dandong to Pyongyang – a pretty arduous journey taking around 18 hours. On arrival at the border, North Korean military searched all our bags and took copies of our passports, which took around 2 hours, before we proceeded to the capital city train station.

North Korea Day 1: Arrival and Visiting Mansudae Hill

We arrived in Pyongyang at around 6pm, and immediately made our way to our tour bus, which was to take us from A to B during the whole trip. We were taken straight to Mansudae Hill, which contains the 22-metre bronze statues of Kim Il-Sung and Kim Jong-Il. We had to walk in lines of four up the hill towards the statues, walking past about 200 military, before standing before the statues and bowing to them.

Having just endured an 18 hour train journey and just arrived in the country, I wasn’t sure exactly how compliant we had to be, or how easy it was to get into trouble, so this experience made me feel very on-edge and completely overwhelmed. It was probably one of the most surreal moments of my life.

We then ate dinner at a “local” restaurant. This restaurant was definitely set up for tourists, and in no way “local,” but it was our first taste of Korean food, which I’ve decided I really like. Next, we went to our hotel for the night, which was the Yanggakdo International Hotel – the largest operating hotel in North Korea, and also one of the tallest buildings. This hotel was absolutely spectacular, with crystal chandeliers, marble floors and gold trimmings. It made me pretty angry actually; half the country are starving and yet this several-hundred-million-dollar hotel exists.

North Korea Day 2: The DMZ, Metro Station, The Arch of Triumph and The Fun Fair

We awoke bright and early, and headed to visit part of the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), which is a strip of land running along the Korean Peninsula. It is used as a buffer zone between North and South Korea, and is 160 miles long and 2.5 miles wide. We specifically visited the Joint Security Area (JSA), which is located in the truce village of Panmunjom; within the JSA are a row of buildings used for meetings between North and South Korea.

I expected to feel quite tense during my visit to the DMZ, but the military guide who showed us around was actually pretty relaxed and put us at ease. Our military guide showed us around an area with a museum and where previous meetings had been held, before taking us to the JSA. We viewed the JSA from a balcony and watched the soldiers change shifts.

After lunch, we drove back to Pyongyang and took a ride on the Pyongyang Metro. Before 2010, tourists in North Korea were only allowed to ride between two stations, giving rise to a conspiracy theory that the metro was purely for show and that the passengers were actors. However, we rode the metro across 5 stations, and it was pretty interesting to see locals going about their daily lives. Every station was beautifully designed and contained a huge picture or statue of one of the Kims.

As we walked out of the metro at our final stop, we were greeted with The Arch of Triumph: a huge, impressive monument which was built in 1952 to commemorate the Korean resistance to Japan.

This is where something interesting happened. A guy on my tour asked our guide if he could buy ice cream at a nearby stall. Our guide said no, but he went and got one anyway, as did another guy from the group. This caused a lot of tension, and apparently, was written down as a “serious incident”. Now, it confused us as to why buying an ice cream could be such a serious incident. Perhaps our guide was worried the ice cream stall was fake? Or perhaps they didn’t want us to be interacting with locals in this way? Who knows, but its certainly strange.

Anyway, we went up to the top of The Arch of Triumph which graced us with a beautiful view of Pyongyang, with pastel colours and high-rise buildings.

After dinner, we headed to a small amusement park, where we got to go on some rides. This was probably one of the highlights from my visit to North Korea, as we had a chance to interact a little with some of the locals. We were, however, told that we should skip all the queues and go straight onto any ride we wanted, because “we’re Western”. This annoyed me; this is not presenting a good view of us as Westerners to the citizens of North Korea, as it conveys some sort of “white supremacy”. Perhaps this was the intention of this.

The best part was where we went on a swinging boat ride. Myself and a few others from my group were sat at one end, and some local school kids were sat on the other. As the boat swung higher and higher, we all started to laugh and be silly together and this felt like a genuine interaction with locals. We high-fived the kids as we got off and left them with huge smiles on their faces. As most of our time in the country was spent pretty segregated from the locals, this experience left me pretty happy.

North Korea Day 3: Mount Myohyang, Monument to Party Founding and The Korean War Museum

We awoke early again and made the 3-hour drive to Mount Myohyang, a beautifully scenic area which is home to the International Friendship Exhibition. This is a large museum complex displaying a massive collection of gifts that were presented to Kim Il-Sung and Kim Jong-Il during their lifetime. Some of these gifts were incredibly lavish, such as a plane and millions of dollars worth of furniture, silverware and pottery.

There were also items such as a taxidermied polar bear and lion and a lot of decorated elephant tusks, which irritated me. Much like the hotel we were staying in, the sheer beauty and decoration of the museum was astounding. It seems the Kims spend more money displaying their gifts in a highly exorbitant museum than they do feeding their people.

After this, we visited a nearby temple called Pohyon Temple. This Buddhist temple is one of the very few places of worship open to foreign tourists in North Korea. It was founded by a monk named Kwanghwak in 1042, but half of the temple complex was destroyed by US bombings during the Korean War. It has since been reconstructed and was a very beautiful site. I was actually under the impression that religion was not allowed to be practised in the country, but apparently, this is not the case.

After lunch in the surrounds of Mount Myohyang, we drove back to Pyongyang to visit the Monument to Party Founding, before heading to the Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum. Our guide first showed us around the grounds of the museum, where she mostly just pointed at destroyed aircraft and stated things like “this is an aircraft we shot down in 1952. This killed 6 US military,” before taking us into the main museum building. Much like most of the buildings we’d visited, the war museum was immaculately kept and covered in gems and gold, and also contained a huge wax figure of Kim Il-Sung.

This was where it was the most difficult to keep our mouths shut. We watched a couple of short videos about the Korean War, which were pure propaganda, conveying the “ignorance and stupidity of the US imperialists” and how Kim Il-Sung was “innovative and a great leader who defended the country with grace”.  We also visited the USS Pueblo, a US Navy intelligence ship which was captured off the coast of the Korean peninsula in 1968, and displayed as a trophy inside the museum grounds.

North Korea Day 4: Kumsusan Palace of the Sun and Sight-Seeing around Pyongyang

Today we put on our formal attire for we were off to visit Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, where Kim Il-Sung and Kim Jong-Il are laid to rest. The whole morning made me feel pretty tense, as we had to walk around the palace in lines of four, and were not to speak.

We had to bow three times to each leader, once at their feet, once at their left side, and once at their right. It was surreal to see real bodies laid on display in this way, and the number of guards watching our every move was extremely intimidating. I felt particularly nervous as I had forgotten the memo where we were told to bring formal clothes for this occasion – they somehow let me into the palace wearing Nike trainers and temple pants.

Following this, we went to visit Kim Il-Sung Square, which is the part of North Korea I see most frequently in the media as this is where marches etc are held. The square was pretty deserted when we got there and carried a very eerie atmosphere.

Next, we had lunch before heading to Mangyongdae Native House – the place where Kim Il-Sung was supposedly born and raised before becoming president. Many North Koreans visit this native house to pay homage to Kim Il-Sung, which was evident from an array of flowers that had been placed in his honour.

The home is a reconstruction, and portrays the family as humble and poor, from the small size of the cottage to the collection of very broken cooking objects that the family supposedly used. The Mangyongdae Native House is very likely to be another propaganda feature in my opinion: historical records show that Kim Il-Sung was born to a middle-class family and that his father even served as a Protestant missionary.

We then made our way to The National Library. I expected this to be quite boring if I’m honest, but it was actually extremely interesting. It gave us a huge insight into what Western literature and non-fiction North Koreans are exposed to, which turns out isn’t a lot, but they did have Harry Potter, Shakespeare’s works and Sherlock Holmes!

One of our tour guides who had been really quite stilted and unwilling to talk about her personal interests throughout most of the trip started to open up when I asked her if she’d read Harry Potter. Her face lit up and she said “it’s my favourite! In Chamber of Secrets where Harry sings Happy Birthday to himself – that makes me sad. And Hermione is so brave!” From then on, she was a lot more willing to answer my questions about life in North Korea – it seems that a good book brings people together everywhere in the world.

One thing that shocked me was an English language textbook. In foreign language learning books in the UK at least, we would be presented with sentences that generally don’t have much importance, and are purely there to help you learn the language. However, this book from the library had sentences such as: “The US imperialists have been the sworn enemy of the Korea people for more than a hundred years ago” and “The US imperialists killed one-fourth of the population of Sinchon County during the 52 days of their occupation.” Harrowing.

Next up, we made our way to a local school where the kids put on a performance with dance, singing and musical instruments for us. All of the kids in North Korea are super talented as they are taught singing and dancing during primary school.

Finally that night, we went to the local circus. This was a display of extreme aerobatics, and my god, I’ve never seen anything so incredible. The stunts and tricks they performed were absolutely mind-blowing, where one in particular involved a man back-flipping metres into the air from a see-saw before landing perfectly stood on another man’s shoulders. However, while these incredible acts were going on, on a screen directly behind the stage, footage of war, anti-US propaganda and patriotic images were being displayed. Given that there were school kids here watching the circus, this was quite unsettling.

North Korea Day 5: Departure

My time in North Korea had come to an end and we boarded our train back to China. I felt as though I had learned so much about this fascinating country, however, I also worry that I’ve been slightly brainwashed. If I knew nothing of North Korea before arriving there, I would have said “wow, this is a wonderful, beautiful country.

The citizens are given free education, healthcare and housing, and the country is so clean and unspoiled. But, knowing what I know, I’m aware that a lot of what I witnessed and experienced was likely staged or just for show, and is not at all representative of most of the country. The issue is, it’s extremely difficult for me to untangle what’s real and what isn’t. I suppose that was probably their motive.

Further North Korea reading :

• Watch my North Korea travel vlog
• Check out my  North Korea travel guide
• Learn how to visit North Korea as a tourist

About The Author

Lauren Pears is a freelance travel writer and blogger based in London. She writes about active adventure travel, aiming to encourage and inspire travellers to make the most of the great outdoors.

Thank you for reading! If you found this post useful, I’d be grateful if you would consider using the affiliate links below when planning your travels. I’ll make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This will help me to keep this blog running. Thanks for your support – Lauren. Hotels –  Booking.com Hostels –  Hostelworld Cheap flights –  Skyscanner Travel insurance –  World Nomads Outdoor gear –  Decathlon  /  GO Outdoors Cycling gear –  Chain Reaction Cycles Alternatively, you could buy me a coffee to say thanks!

Similar Posts

My North Korea Travel Vlog (Video)

How To Travel to North Korea as a Tourist

Dandong: The Chinese City on the Edge of North Korea

Is it Ethical to Visit North Korea?

12 Things to Do in Pyongyang, North Korea

23 comments.

Your mind is so rotted by western propaganda going into this trip that you literally sound crazy, and like a conspiracy theorist but worse because you actually believe the prejudices you hold against these people

She’s definitely not brainwashed. There is literally books written by North Koreans out there who escaped their country. They are literally prisoners in there own country

Here comes the tankie 😂😂

Lovely travel account!

What a great article! We’re currently dreaming of going to North Korea again – we’ve been there before and we love, love love it! Here’s to a year with loads of travel plans and new experiences!

– Veronika

Lauren, I was quite surprised that we can actually go an visit North Korea. I really enjoyed this and am starting to read part 2 right now. One thing that made me really happy about your story was the hi-fives that you gave the kids after getting off of the rides. I have found that no matter where I go, a hi- 5 is a symbol of friendship and fun.

Wow this is one of the coolest posts! I never hear people travel there- how lovely! I am going to save this as I would love to travel there but nervous!

Definitely not on my bucket list. But, I am fascinated by your post. Very honest about your feelings while there. What an adventurous experience.

I loved reading this, maybe because I don’t think I’ll ever visit! The ice cream incident just makes me nervous, it seems like everything is wrong there! Loved your honestly about visiting, and the photos too.

Wow this is interesting! I know so little of North Korea so reading this was as educational as it was fascinating

North Korea is on my bucket list. Thanks for sharing!

I’m absolutely fascinated by this country and have NO plans to ever visit LOL!

Haha, understandable!

Great travel journal. Super interesting. After reading Nothing to Envy: Ordinary lives in North Korea by Barbara Demick I have been very interested in North Korea. Love the pictures as well.

Thank you. I have been meaning to read Barbara’s book for a while now so will definitely check it out!

Great stuff Lauren. It tempts desires to visit North Korea

Thanks Srijan 🙂

I certainly wouldnt have the control to visit somewhere like North Korea, therefore it’s better to read your experiences! Great stuff!

You just need to understand its their culture and therefore you must be respectful. It was certainly very difficult for me to keep my mouth shut at times but the worry of offending people and of getting into trouble keeps you in control!

And thank you, glad you enjoyed it 🙂

You should read A Necessary Lie. A great book about a couple from North Korea. True story!

Thanks Wendy, I’ll check it out!

Fascinating read Lauren, great stuff!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Situation in Haiti March 29, 2024

U.s. citizens in haiti, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

South Korea

Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

South korea - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in South Korea.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to South Korea.

If you decide to travel to South Korea:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
• Review the  Country Security Report  for South Korea.   
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.   
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .    

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid at time of entry

One page per stamp

No – From April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, the Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is not required for US citizens traveling for short-term business or tourism purposes.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy seoul.

188 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03141, Korea Telephone: +(82) (2) 397-4114 (from within Korea, dial 02-397-4114)  DSN:721-4114 Fax: +(82) (2) 397-4101 Email:  [email protected]

U.S. Consulate in Busan

Lotte Gold Rose Building #612, Jungang-daero 993, Jin-gu Busan 47209, Korea Telephone: (+82) 51-863-0731 Email:  [email protected]

The Embassy and Consulate are closed on weekends and on  American and Korean holidays .  Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +82 (2) 397-4114.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

• You must have a valid U.S. passport to enter Korea. From April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, the  Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA)  is not required for US citizens for stays of 90 days or less that are for tourism or business purposes.
• Visa required for all other purposes, including employment, teaching English, and for stays longer than 90 days.

Exceeding your authorized stay or not possessing a valid visa may result in detention and fines.

• In the event of an overstay, apply for a visa extension from the  Korea Immigration Service (KIS)  before attempting to leave the country. Also consult with KIS regarding changes in visa category.

Military Personnel/DOD and their families on orders:

• Consult  DOD Foreign Clearance Guide , and follow all instructions.
• Enter Korea with DOD identification and travel orders.
• Do not transit other countries such as China without a passport and appropriate visas.
• Family Members/Dependents of Military Personnel/DOD on orders must present upon arrival passports valid for at least six months .

U.S. Government Executive Branch personnel on official business and DOD personnel assigned to the U.S. Embassy  (Including family members/dependents):

• Employes assigned to Mission Korea should enter Korea with a diplomatic or official passport and a diplomatic or official Korean visa obtained through their sponsoring agency.  Check with your sponsoring agency about other requirements. 
• TDY visitors traveling to Korea for up to 90 days on diplomatic or official passports do  not  require Korean visas and do  not  require a K-ETA. TDY visitors must obtain country clearance using  Department of State's eCC system  or  DOD APACS system .

HIV/AIDS Restriction:  The Department of State is unaware of any such entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents in Korea.

• Visit the  Embassy of Korea  website for current visa information. Please read our  Customs Information page .

COVID-19 Requirements :

• There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.
• Travel regulations and restrictions are subject to change, sometimes with little notice. You should review the information available on your nearest Korean Embassy or Consulate’s webpage before traveling.

Safety and Security

Public Demonstrations:  Demonstrations and rallies are common in South Korea, particularly near the U.S. Embassy, Seoul City Hall, and areas surrounding military installations. You should avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or rallies. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.

North Korea (The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, DPRK):  An armistice agreement, monitored by the United Nations, has maintained general peace on the Korean peninsula since 1953. Tensions occasionally flare up because of provocative acts by North Korea, including ballistic missile and nuclear tests and limited armed incursions into ROK-held territory. Some provocations have escalated into geographically limited skirmishes. South Korea routinely conducts military training exercises and civil defense drills. North Korea often issues strongly-worded and threatening messages, frequently in connection with these exercises. Please see our  Fact Sheet on North Korea .

Weather-related Events:  Heavy rains and flooding may occur during the June - August monsoon season or the May - November typhoon season. See general information about natural disaster preparedness at the U.S.  Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  website.

Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ):  To receive security messages by email and make it easier to locate you in an emergency, register in STEP. 

If the Embassy becomes aware of any specific and credible threat to the safety and security of U.S. citizens, we will inform you through our website, social media, and email.

Crime:  For most visitors, South Korea remains a very safe country. Common crimes occur more frequently in major metropolitan areas, tourist sites, and crowded markets.

• Take routine safety precautions.
• Pay attention to your surroundings.
• Report any concerns to local police.

Violent crime is not common; however, remain vigilant:

• Exercise caution in crowded entertainment, nightlife, and shopping districts.
• If traveling at night, consider traveling in groups.
• Use legitimate taxis or public transportation only.

Victims of Crime:  Call 112 for emergency assistance or to report a crime to local authorities. Call 02-397-4114 to contact the U.S. Embassy. We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care;
• Assist you in reporting a crime to police;
• Contact relatives or friends on your behalf;
• Explain Korean judicial procedures in general terms;
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
• Help you find accommodations and flight arrangements to the United States;
• Replace a lost or stolen passport.

Sexual Assault:   The Embassy regularly receives reports of sexual assault from U.S. citizens. Most cases involved young women assaulted by acquaintances they met on social media, dating, or messaging apps. Alcohol is often involved, and Korea’s low overall crime can create a false sense of security.  Specialized hospital units and police are available in South Korea to assist victims, however services in English and responsiveness to the crime are not always consistent. In general, sex crimes are not punished as harshly in South Korea as in the United States and the road to prosecution is a challenging one for victims.

Domestic Violence:  Victim’s assistance resources or battered women’s shelters exist in Seoul and other urban areas but may be limited in rural areas. Most are government administered and require a police referral. Call 112 for emergency assistance or 1366 to reach Korea’s 24-hour domestic violence hotline. Victims may also contact the Embassy, tel. (+82) 2-397-4114.

Lost or Stolen Passports:  If your passport is stolen, file a report at the nearest police station.

Don't buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if widely available.  It is against South Korean law to purchase these goods and against U.S. law to bring them into the United States. The  Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Division in the U.S. Department of Justice  has more information.

Avoid fraud and scams:  See  Department of State  and  FBI  websites for more information.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  While in Korea, you are subject to local laws. If you violate Korean laws, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Be aware that:

• Immigration violations can lead to arrest, fines, and deportation.
• There is little tolerance for illegal drugs.
• If you mail illegal drugs to/ from Korea, you will be prosecuted.
• Commercial disputes may lead to criminal charges being filed under local laws.

Be aware that some crimes are prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the Embassy. See our  webpage  for further information.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES

Dual Nationality and Military Conscription:  Dual national males (including U.S. service members) may be subject to compulsory military service. If you have family ties to South Korea, consult the nearest Korean Embassy or Consulate or the  Korean Military Manpower Administration  regarding potential citizenship obligations  before entering South Korea .

Passport Seizures and Exit Bans:  If you are involved in a criminal investigation or commercial dispute, authorities may seize your passport and/or block your departure. While we may reissue a passport, we cannot lift an exit ban.

Exit Permits:  Exit permits are not generally required. However, if a parent requests a travel restriction on his/her child, Korean authorities may prevent that child from departing even when traveling with the other parent. As of June 1, 2020, foreigners who are long-term residents of the ROK are required to obtain a re-entry permit four business days prior to departure from Korea. The permits are available online through an e-application at the  www.hikorea.go.kr  website.

International Child Abduction:  See our website for information related to the  prevention of international child abduction . 

Working in South Korea:  If working, including teaching or modeling, you must enter with the appropriate work visa. It is not possible to change your visa status without leaving the country. If you begin work without the appropriate visa, you may be arrested, fined, and/or deported. If you are working without a valid work permit and get into a contractual dispute with your employer, you have little legal recourse.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

ROK National Security Law:  Authorities may detain, arrest, and imprison persons believed to have committed acts intended to endanger the “security of the state,” including statements deemed to praise the political system and/or officials of the DPRK. 

Customs Regulations: There is strict enforcement of regulations on importing and exporting items such as firearms, narcotics and prescription drugs, non-prescription health supplements, radio equipment, and gold. Importation of materials deemed to be obscene, subversive, or harmful to the public peace is also restricted.

• Amphetamines are illegal in Korea. Do not bring amphetamines or other prescription narcotics into the country without obtaining advance permission in writing from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. See the  U.S. Embassy Seoul, Health Information page .
• Traveling with Pets: See  Korea’s Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency  website.

See the  Korean Customs Regulations website for complete information.

LGBTI Travelers:  Consensual same-sex sexual activity is not criminalized. Korea is a conservative country in regards to LGBTI issues. However, there are an increasing number of LGBTI-oriented clubs, festivals and NGOs advocating for LGBTI issues. The ROK National Human Rights Commission Act prohibits discrimination against individuals because of their sexual orientation, but there are no laws specifying punishment for persons found to have discriminated on this basis. Same-sex marriages are not recognized. Korean citizens can legally change their gender identity.

See   our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of the  Department of State's Human Rights report  for further details.

Mobility Issues:  Korean law mandates access to transportation, communication, and public buildings. Cross walks typically have audio and visual signals. Older buildings and streets are generally less accessible than modern ones. Metro cars and buses in Seoul offer priority seating for the disabled and most metro stations have elevators. Metro platforms include Korean Braille information. Contact individual bus companies and subway associations for specific information. Foreign residents are eligible for disability assistance from local ward offices; assistance varies by ward.

Quality of Care : Western-style medical facilities are available in most large cities. However, not all doctors and staff, are proficient in English. A  list of hospitals  and medical specialists who speak English is available on our website. For emergency ambulance service dial 119. Ambulance services are widely available. For information on medical evacuation from South Korea, please see the State Department’s brochure on  Air Ambulance/MedEvac/Medical Escort Providers . 

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. Verify your health insurance coverage before traveling overseas. See our webpage for information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage . In most cases, health care providers will require payment in advance of treatment or will not release a patient until hospital bills are paid. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to include coverage for medical evacuation.

Medication:  Carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Most prescription medications, except psychotropic types, can be obtained at Korean pharmacies (brand names often differ). Local pharmacies will require a prescription from a Korean doctor.

Update  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

For further health information go to:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Roads are well-paved, traffic signals functional, and most drivers comply with basic traffic laws. South Korea has a significantly higher traffic fatality rate than the United States. Causes of accidents include excessive speed, frequent lane changes without signaling, running red lights, aggressive bus drivers, and weaving motorcyclists. It is recommended that you photo document any traffic accidents.

Be aware that motorcyclists may drive on sidewalks, and drivers do not always yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks.

Traffic Laws include:

• International driving permit (or ROK license) is required for all drivers.
• Left-hand turns prohibited except with green arrow.
• Seat belts and car seats are mandatory.
• Motorcycle passengers must wear helmets.
• Automobile drivers are presumed to have some fault in accidents involving pedestrians.
• Expect long waits at police stations while police investigate any incidents.
• Police may take your passport or detain you during an investigation.
• Even if negligence is not proven, criminal charges may be filed.
• Blood-alcohol content of 0.03% or higher is considered legally intoxicated.
• Police regularly set up DUI checkpoints. Drivers are required to submit to breathalyzer tests; refusal can result in cancellation of your license.

For information about driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance, refer to our  Road Safety page . You may also visit the  Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) website.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of the Republic of Korea's Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the ROK's air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA's Safety Assessment Page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to South Korea should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at the U.S. Department of Transportation’s  Maritime Security Communications with Industry Web Portal . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and as a broadcast warning on the  National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s website .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

South Korea was cited in the State Department’s 2022 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  South Korea.  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, south korea map, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit: