i want to visit south korea because

10 BEST REASONS TO VISIT SOUTH KOREA

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

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

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

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

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

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

10 REASONS TO GO TO SOUTH KOREA

1. south korea has delicious food.

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

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

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

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

2. Visit gorgeous Palaces

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

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

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

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

3. Korean stunning nature

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Its modern architecture

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

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

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

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

5. Seoul, a fantastic city

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

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

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

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

6. South Korea has some of the most stunning cafes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Its great beaches

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

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

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

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

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

Another great reason why you should visit South Korea!

8. Shopping and Korean fashion

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

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

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

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

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

9. Korean culture and its people

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

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

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

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

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

10. Check out the cherry blossoms in Spring

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

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

READ ALSO: 99 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN SOUTH KOREA

BEST TIME TO VISIT SOUTH KOREA?

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

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

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

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

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

IN CONCLUSION ABOUT THE BEST REASONS TO VISIT SOUTH KOREA?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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i am person i want to viset

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

I am in South Korea it is very nice

Glad to hear that! Enjoy your trip!

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

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

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

Did you know you can now travel with Culture Trip? Book now and join one of our premium small-group tours to discover the world like never before.

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

Pulsating culture

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

Rich History

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

Year-round Festivals

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

Futuristic Modernity

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

Exciting Food

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

Quiet Countryside

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

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

Vibrant cities

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

K-pop Culture

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

Korean Trendsetters

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

Make-up and Skincare

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

Quirky Entertainment Options

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

Stunning Coastline and Beaches

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

Picturesque Mountain Ranges

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

Four Amazing Seasons

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

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.

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11 Reasons Why Korea is Worth Visiting

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

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

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

1. Seoul 

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

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

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

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

2. The Culture

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

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

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

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

3. Korean Shopping

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

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

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

4. Hanbok (Korean traditional clothing) 

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

There are two types of hanboks for men and women:

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

5. Korean BBQ 

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

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

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

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

6. Karaoke Bars in Korea

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

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

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

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

7. Fashion – Seoul Fashion Week

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

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

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

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

8. Korean Drama 

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

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

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

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

9. The Weather

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

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

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

10. Easy and Fast Transportation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Which City Should You Visit In Korea?

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

Why Do People Still Visit North Korea?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

26 EPIC South Korea Travel Tips

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

1.  Download These Apps!

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

Subway Korea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2.      Learn Some Basic Korean Phrases

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

Anyeong Hasaeyeo – Hello

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

Kamsamnida – ­ Thank you

Kohn Bae! – Cheers!

Odi / Odi…? – where / where is…?

Hwajangshil – Bathroom

3. Explore the Dramatic East Coast

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

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

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

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

4. Korea is a Shopper’s Mecca

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

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

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

Your choices really are infinite.

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

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

5.      Avoid Drinking Tap Water

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Learn How to Get Around in South Korea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Simple Seoul Travel Tips You Need to Know

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

7. Invest in a Month-Long Tmoney Card

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

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

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

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

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

8. Make Reservations in Advance if Possible

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

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

9. Try Seoul’s amazing street food

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

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

10. Understand Internet and Data in South Korea

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

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

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

11. Korea Isn’t Cheap

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

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

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

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

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

12. Bring Masks to Protect Yourself from Pollution

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

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

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

13. Pay Attention to the Rules

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

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

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

A Few South Korea Cultural Travel Tips

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

14. Don’t tip

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

15. Politeness and respect are non-negotiable

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

16. Koreans tend to be reserved

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

17.      Learn to Read Korean

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

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

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

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

18. Understand When to Visit South Korea

Autumn and Spring are majestic.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

19. Seoul is a Foodie’s Paradise

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

21. Explore Korea’s Amazing Café Scene

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

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

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

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

22. Discover Korean Meals You Might Not Know Of!

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

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

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

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

Hint : add cheese.

23. Get Lost in Seoul’s Insane Nightlife

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

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

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

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

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

24. Get Off the Beaten Path

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

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

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

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

25. Know Which Places to Stay/Avoid

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

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

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

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

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

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

Time Traveler's Party Hostel

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

26. Travel With Good Insurance!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So is South Korea Worth Visiting?

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

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

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

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

A wild ride awaits!

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

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

Nathan Jordan

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18 Mind-Blowing Reasons That South Korea Tourism Deserves A Top Spot On Your Bucket List

If you weren't already aware of the wonder of South Korea, you must know it is fast emerging as one of the hottest holiday destinations in the world, and it needs to make a way to your travel bucket list now! A tiny country with diverse landscapes, colourful cultures and traditions, South Korea will leave you pleasantly surprised. From quirky theme parks to lush green forests, this country has it all. South Korea tourism is guaranteed to blow your mind.

Why Pick South Korea Tourism

Here are 18 reasons why a South Korea tourism plan is what you must look forward to.

1. Indian roots in Korea

The heartwarming connection between South Korea and India goes back a long way and has helped deepen the existing bond between both nations. According to legend, the princess of Ayodhya, Princess Suriratna travelled to South Korea in 48 AD and married King Kim Suro, who later came to be known as queen Hur Hwang-ok. That explains why 2 per cent of the Korean DNA matches with Indians!

Plan your trip right here .

2. Futuristic technology

With its advanced technology, South Korea has earned the much-deserved reputation of being the hub for tech-junkies and gadget and gizmo nerds across the world. From super high speed internet to free WiFi and remote-controlled doors to being the birthplace of big names like Hyundai, LG and Samsung, this digitally-linked country has the most votes for being the promised land of the future and hence South Korean tourism is a must for you.

3. The Hallyu Wave

Those interested in pop culture would know of Hallyu or the Korean Wave. This is a term that is essentially used to refer to the widespread popularity of Korean entertainment and culture - not just in Asia but the world over. Since the 1990s, there was a rapid increase in K-pop, K-artists and K-dramas, taking the world by storm. Some popular artists that are worth checking out are BTS, EXO, Wanna One, Twice and Red Velvet. So get up, close and personal with your fave virtual stars only on a South Korea tourism spree.

4. Old meets new

South Korea is the perfect blend of traditional and modern. While it eagerly embraces the new, it understands and appreciates the need to keep its roots intact. On one side are skyscrapers forming striking skylines of cities that embrace a futuristic way of life, while on the other, you witness people deeply entrenched in traditions like typical South Korean wedding culture, folk wrestling, attire and food, thus, earning South Korea the reputation of being a fitting example of a truly multifaceted country.

5. Scenic self drives

How do you fancy the idea of zipping past picturesque vistas in an electric convertible, with the wind ruffling your hair and your adrenaline on an all time high? Sounds almost too good to be true, doesn't it? Well, such adventures can only be realised on your South Korea tourism plan, with roads that almost appear like they have been specially built for such thrills. Rent a car and explore the treasures of the South Korean Jeju Island and soak in the natural beauty all around you.

6. Unique Korean stays

When in South Korea, bask in the authenticity of South Korean culture by dabbling in the unique traditions of this wonderous country - learn to read and write basics in Hangul which is the Korean alphabet, head to a Buddhist temple for a spiritual retreat, live in the traditional village of Hanok, home to hundreds of uniquely Korean houses known as 'hanok', that date back to the Joseon Dynasty.

7. Visit the DMZ

This one especially goes out to all the history buffs out there! When you're in South Korea it would be a crime to not check out the DMZ or the Demilitarized Zone, which is the historic North and South Korea border. This strip of land running across the Korean Peninsula, acts as a buffer zone between both countries and is about 250km long and 4km wide. The DMZ is accessible in the Gyeonggi Province, and although this border is one of the most heavily militarised areas in the world, it is also an ecological paradise. If you're lucky you may spot migratory birds and other wild animals here.

8. Land of Taekwondo

It is in Korea where the martial art of Taekwondo originated and its popularity took the world by storm. Characterised by fast kicking techniques, jumping, spinning and head-height kicks, it is truly a form of art that trains not just the body, but even the spirit. South Korea offers many Taekwondo-related programmes and workshops, board-breaking experiences and creative performances with an aim to spread awareness about Taekwondo.

9. Hip and trendy Seoul

The capital of South Korea, Seoul, is city that offers something for everyone - from art aficionados to shopaholics, foodies to party animals, it is eager to cater to all. This versatile metropolis, complete with swanky malls, fashion-friendly neighbourhoods and clusters of hip cafes and other cool spaces is a tourist's dream come true. A true shopper's paradise, this bustling capital city boasts of duty free shops, affordable street shopping and vibrant markets (some of which are open till 2 am!) sell all kinds of delightful little knick knacks.

10. Deep sea submarines

If you're a water baby you will absolutely love what Jeju Island has to offer. Being the largest island in the Korean Peninsula, it also happens to to be the main island of the Jeju Province in the country. Among the many attractions at Jeju, one that is unique to South Korea is their Deep Sea submarines. Go on an underwater expedition and check out rich aquatic life through windows of the submarine. Other water sports available here are scuba-diving, snorkelling, deep sea fishing, underwater sea walk, kite-boarding, among many others.

11. Thrilling theme parks

If you're looking for a fun time with family, Seoul is the place for you. Having a plethora of amusement and theme parks, Seoul is most likely to spoil you for choice with a gazillion options! From Everland, which is the largest theme park in South Korea to Lotte World, which consists of the world's largest indoor theme park, you can look forward to adrenaline-pumping rides, folk museums, ice skating rinks, lakes, shopping complexes as well as luxury hotels in these amusement parks for kids and adults.

12. Buzzing nightlife

The city of Seoul never sleeps. Instead, it parties till the wee hours of dawn. The vibrant nightlife of this metropolis is what attracts many travellers to it. It offers a variety of options - from loud clubs with pulsating music to pubs and bars offering live music nights, where a band belts out soulful tunes. A must-visit is the glitzy Gangnam District of Seoul is popular for its fancy markets, thematic cafes and pubs.

13. Lava tube walks

If you love adventure, you must head to Manjanggul Cave, one of the finest lava tunnels in the world and a World Heritage Site. This natural monument has awe-inspiring structures within it. Go on a lava tube trail here and marvel at natural pillars and fantastic lava stalagmite formations. The cave maintains a comfortable temperature of 10 to 20 degree Celsius and is home to bats that reside inside the tunnel. The main attraction of Manjanggul Cave is the eye-catching 'Stone Turtle' which you reach after walking about 20 to 30 minutes through the cave. This is a natural formation in the cave that is shaped like a turtle.

14. Asia's fashion capital

South Korea is known for its spunky sense of style and Seoul, in particular, is one of the most fashionable cities in the world. Known for its cutting edge style that has evolved over the years and been influenced by the West and K-pop culture, this bustling capital city is known for its fashion conscious people with a big appetite for emerging trends, chic clothes, and high-end cosmetics. If you never overdose on the glam quotient, South Korea is where you should head!

15. Culinary adventures

This one goes out to all the foodies in the house - if you're looking for a gastronomic adventure of epic proportions, head to South Korea! That's right. From street foods to classy restaurants that whip up delicious gourmet treats, South Korea with its overwhelming food options is right up your alley! From Korean staples like Kimchi (a traditional side dish made from salted and fermented vegetables) to Bibimbap (mixed rice) to Bingsu (shaved ice cream dessert), let your palate embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure.

16. Korean spas

If you're looking for a relaxing holiday to unwind from the daily grind, South Korea has just what you need. Home to some of the world's most renowned wellness centres that are known to offer excellent treatments - from luxury spa therapy, aquatherapy, rejuvenating thermal massages, to other beauty treatments. So go to South Korea if you're looking for that much-needed break and a perfect retreat and experience Korean spa culture in all its glory.

17. Complimentary delights

South Korea tourism is known for its culture of giving and the locals are known for their warmth and hospitality. They are also very obliging and go out of their way to make people feel at home. Indeed, this is very heartening and puts you at ease almost instantly. Little things like a complimentary coffee at a restaurant after a meal, a free face pack when you shop, or the willingness to comply to tourists while they bargain, simply make your day!

18. 24/7 safe travel

With millions of travellers flocking to South Korea every year, it is undeniably one of the safest destinations to travel to, in the world. The crime rate in the country is almost negligible and locals in general are very friendly and welcoming towards foreigners. In fact, it is one of the top 10 safest destinations in the world. What's more is that South Korea has tourist police service to assist international visitors round the clock! All you need to do is make a call to the hotline number (1330) for instant help. Tourist police are extremely courteous and helpful when it comes to providing tour information or resolving any inconvenient issues faced by travellers.

What are you waiting for? Pack your bags, and make a South Korea tourism plan!

Have you travelled extensively in Asia? Which country has your vote for the ultimate holiday? Share your experience with Tripoto and help a growing community of travellers plan their next vacation!

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Top 7 places you can't afford to miss in South Korea

Feb 20, 2024 • 6 min read

It may be small, but South Korea packs a punch, from supersonic cities to hiking on Jeju Island © Joel Carillet / Getty Images

Though it may be fun-size compared to its neighbors China and Russia, South Korea more than holds its own when it comes to incredible landscapes, cultural attractions and a dazzling food and nightlife scene.

In fact, South Korea's size paired with its ultra-reliable public transit system is what makes it all so accessible. Travelers can go from mountaintop to beachside or from village to megacity – and back again – in a single day. Not that we recommend rushing your journey – with so many unique places to visit, you could dedicate an entire trip to one spot. Start your travel to-do list now with our seven favorite places to visit in South Korea.

Best place for nightlife

Home to half of South Korea's population, Seoul  is also the most popular city for tourists to visit. The capital has an electric vibe at any hour of the day or night. Between the city's low-key watering holes, high-end cocktail lounges and always-fun noraebang (karaoke bars), Seoul has something to offer every late-night reveler.

Some of the newest trendsetting bars are located in Euljiro, while many longstanding favorites are in the tried-and-true nightlife neighborhoods of Gangnam , Hongdae and Itaewon . Gangnam is where the most expensive clubs are concentrated, while Hongdae is a more affordable option for budget-conscious travelers and university students. Itaewon has a reputation for drawing an international crowd.

Best place for maritime culture

Situated on the southern coast, South Korea's second city, Busan , overflows with a maritime culture as lively as it is varied. Setting the tone is Busan Port, the oldest and largest in the country (and also the sixth-busiest in the world), handling some 80% of South Korea's container cargo. The nearby Busan Modern History Museum tells the story of the port's pivotal role in South Korea's history. From there, up and down the coastline are any number of beautiful beaches, parks, observatories, villages and even a temple, Haedong Yonggungsa , one of the country's only oceanside temples.

At Jagalchi , South Korea's largest fish market, the day's catch is arranged in stall after stall of fish, eel, crabs, sea squirts, abalone, and more. Shoppers can select their seafood on the ground level and then take it up to one of the restaurants on the floors above, where the staff will expertly de-scale, de-shell, gut or filet and then cook it for you. For other scrumptious seafood bites, look for restaurants along the beach specializing in jogae gui , grilled shellfish served with a variety of dipping sauces like chogochujang (vinegar red pepper sauce), soy sauce with wasabi, and melted butter with onions.

3. Gyeongju

Best place to discover ancient treasures

As the capital of the Silla Kingdom, when the city was called Donggyeong ("eastern capital"), Gyeongju is a treasure trove of ancient relics, religious to royal. Gyeongju National Museum houses a fair number of them – including ornate jewelry, earthenware jars, prayer bells and Buddha statues – but even more artifacts lie beyond. Gyeongju is known as South Korea's museum without walls.

See the royal tombs of Tumuli-gongwon ; the oldest astrological observatory in East Asia, Cheomseongdae ; the Buddhist grotto of Seokguram ; the picturesque palace of Donggung; and the temple halls, pagodas and bridges of Bulguk-sa . Woljeonggyo, a covered wooden bridge with striking red columns, green roof beams and two end towers, might be the prettiest bridge in all of South Korea – even more so at night when it's illuminated with lights.

Best place for contemporary history

Regarded as the birthplace of Korean democracy, Gwangju was the site of the May 18 Democratic Uprising of 1980, the 10-day-long armed resistance against Chun Doo-hwan's authoritarian military regime. After the brutal repression of some 600 university student protesters, the people of Gwangju stood up and joined in rebellion, resulting in state massacre and torture. Despite the movement's suppression, it's seen as a turning point in South Korea's struggle for democracy.

To better understand this pivotal event in the country's history, go to the May 18th Memorial Park and National Cemetery . You can also take a walk down Chungjang-ro, a now-converted shopping and entertainment street that was once ground zero of the uprising.

Best place for beaches and waterfalls

South of the Korean mainland in the Yellow Sea, Jeju-do  is blessed with a balmy subtropical climate, making it the country's most popular vacation destination. The island is in such high demand that the flight between Seoul and Jeju City is the busiest air route in the world. Just one glimpse of Jeju's glittering white-sand and black-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and volcanic topography of calderas, cones and tuffs, and it's easy to see why so many mainlanders flock to the island for a bit of R&R.

While Jeju's beaches make the perfect natural setting for lounging oceanside with a book and a cocktail, the island has plenty more to do than just relax. Aside from climbing the country's tallest mountain, Hallasan, outdoors adventure seekers can go surfing at Woljeongri or Jungmun beaches, snorkeling and scuba diving at Munseom Island, spelunking in the Geomunoreum Lava Tube System, waterfall chasing at Jeongbang Pokpo or Cheonjiyeon Pokpo , or tewoo rafting aboard a traditional Jeju boat at the Soesokkak Estuary.

6. Gangwon-do 

Best place for winter sports

The site of the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, Gangwon-do is home to the best ski resorts in South Korea. For skiing and snowboarding, head to top-rated Yongpyong , the country's oldest and largest ski resort, or High1 , featuring a casino and revolving restaurant. Other popular options are Phoenix Park, Vivaldi Park and Alpensia.

The frosty fun doesn't stop there – Gangwon also hosts several winter festivals, including the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival , where participants can try ice fishing, curling or sledding, and the Taebaeksan Snow Festival , which puts on enormous ice sculpture and ice fountain displays.

Best place for celebrating folk traditions

The capital of Gyeongsangbuk-do , Andong is also referred to as "the capital of Korean spirit." It is the country's Confucian culture capital, where you'll find traditional wooden masks and soju, the Korean national drink. At Andong's UNESCO-listed Hahoe Folk Village , the most famous folk village in South Korea, visitors can immerse themselves in the old Joseon-era way of life. Peek inside the village's workshops and its special choga homes, distinguished by their straw-thatched roofs, and even book an overnight stay in a guesthouse.

At the Hahoe Mask Museum , you can view the region's quintessential masks, carved into animated expressions to portray characters like aristocrats, servants and monks. Every fall at the Andong Maskdance Festival , you can see them in action in play performances. You can also tour notable Confucian academies, try traditional soju (local vodka) at the Soju Museum or a local restaurant, and sample Andong's signature soy-braised chicken dish, jjimdak .

This article was first published August 2022 and updated February 2024

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The JJC’s Guide to Planning a Trip to South Korea!

I am now planning my trip to Japan (don’t worry, this is still a South Korea travel guide) and pulling out my hair at every turn! It has taken me months of reading hundreds of online blogs and forums to finally settle on a first-timer itinerary for my 15-day trip. And after that, I have spent countless hours trying to figure out the best ways to get to these places!

Yes, Japan has an efficient transportation system but it can be oh-so confusing trying to navigate it as a foreigner planning a trip from outside the country. Should I buy the JR pass or not? Should I book my tickets when I arrive or risk them being sold out? Which trains can get me to the places I need to go? Where should I stay?… The questions, they never stop!

Whenever I start to get overwhelmed, I remember that I felt this exact same way planning my trip to South Korea! And guess what? I did not need to stress that much because everything was so seamless as soon as I figured out my basic itinerary.

I also had questions about whether I needed to buy the Korail Rail pass or not, how to get to Jeonju from the airport, the best places to visit as a first-time traveller, how to get to certain places (like the Boseong tea plantation ) independently and on and on it went!

So I am putting together this South Korea travel guide so you don’t have to stress about all these details! This guide will mainly focus on the places I visited but do feel free to leave your draft itineraries or ask me any questions below. I will be happy to take a look and give you some recommendations – as a “Senior Novice!” haha!

I love to hear from you, Leave a comment here! Cancel reply

Anyway, let's get into it! In this South Korea travel guide, I will tell you everything you need to know about planning your first trip to South Korea, the apps you should download, whether or not you need a rail or city pass and how far in advance you need to request them.

We will explore some sample itineraries and places worth visiting on your trip.

What's Covered in this Post

South Korea Travel Guide - Before Your Trip

Before you travel to South Korea, you should figure out these three things:

• Visa: check if you need to apply beforehand. Nigerians do, but several other nationalities either need a K-ETA or are visa-exempt
• Travel Days: How many days do you have to spend in the country? This will determine your itinerary and whether or not to invest in different passes available
• Do you need the Korea Rail Pass or Not? Would it actually save you some money?

Continue reading to find out!

Trip Planning Resources

Book your accommodation : Find accommodation options for any budget on Booking.com

Purchase Travel Insurance : I use SafetyWing for both my travel and visa application needs

Activities : Find fun activities and tours in your destination via Get Your Guide , Viator or Klook Travel

South Korea Travel Guide - Do I Need a Visa or K-ETA?

If you are visiting South Korea for the first time, you need to check whether you are visa-exempt or if you need a visa or the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA). Most countries can apply for the K-ETA in minutes, however, if you are Nigerian, you will need to apply for a visa at the embassy or consulate beforehand.

I have written an extensive post on how to apply for a South Korean tourist visa as a Nigerian and you can find that information here . The process is pretty straightforward once you have all the required documents. I recommend applying for your visa at least one month before your trip to give enough buffer for the processing time.

South Korea Travel Guide - How Many Days is Sufficient?

I spent 12 days in South Korea and left feeling like I had spent a sufficient amount of time in the country. My itinerary was not packed, there were many hours of downtime and several places I did not get to visit. Still, I felt satisfied with my itinerary.

Generally, I recommend spending at least one week in the country and limiting your itinerary to two cities at most. If you spend less than a week, then do so in just one city, preferably Seoul .

I spent four days in Seoul and this post has details of what I did in the city. Some traveller-favourite spots, like Nami Island, N Seoul Tower , the DMZ and Itaewon, are missing but the itinerary gives you a good first draft for your Seoul itinerary.

South Korea Travel Guide - Getting to and Around South Korea

Once you've figured out your visa situation and a first draft itinerary, you can then start to plan your travels to and within the country. I will assume that your first port of entry will be Incheon International Airport, Seoul, the country's biggest airport. From here, you can make your way to the city centre or other parts of the country.

There are buses and trains aplenty. Simply download the Naver app and plug in your destination. The app will give you options to get you to where you need to be.

Be aware that Google Maps does not work in South Korea. Naver is your best bet! Also, read my article here to find out two other essential apps to download and 4 nice-to-have apps for your trip!

South Korea Travel Guide - Do I need a Korea Rail Pass or Discover Seoul Pass?

Now, to the question of whether or not you need a Discover Seoul or Korail Pass , the answer depends on your itinerary. The Korea Rail pass, as the name implies, is great if your itinerary involves several train trips. It includes unlimited boarding, within the specified period, for the high-speed KTX and KTX-Sancheon trains, as well as the conventional and tourist trains.

It does not give you access to the SRT (you don't really need this, the KTX trains are fine) and the metro (you can get a card for the metro at a vending machine in all subway stations)

I spent about 12 days in South Korea, with four of those days being in Seoul. It worked out that I did NOT need either of these passes. I used a combination of trains and buses to get around and typically bought my tickets on the day of my travels. The only train I booked in advance was that from Busan to Seoul .

You can book this ticket in advance via the official KTX website or app or through Klook . Several websites come up if you search for train tickets, but some of them have a pretty steep markup.

If you travel during peak seasons (Spring, Autumn and Holidays, especially Chuseok Holidays), then I recommend booking your tickets in advance.

South Korea Travel Resources

Getting a visa to South Korea

Solo Tripping in South Korea - The Beginning

A simple travel checklist for first-time visitors

Buy a SIM card online and pick it up at the airport or get an eSIM here .

Rent your Hanbok online

Hanok Stay Experience in Namwon

My recommendation is that you tally up your individual train costs, which you can find easily on the Korea Rail website and see if this pass is worth getting. You can get the pass and reserve your seat on the train up to 30 days before your planned travel date.

You will need the Discover Seoul Pass if you plan to visit several places covered by the pass. The pass also doubles as a transit card, so if you do get it, there is no need to get another card like T-Money or Cashbee card.

Now, let's talk about some of the best cities to visit in South Korea as a first-time traveller.

South Korea Travel Guide - The Best Cities to Visit (First Time)

For my trip, I visited Jeonju (for its Hanok Village), Boseong (for its tea plantation), Namwon (quiet countryside, beautiful hanok stay), Busan (for the beach and big city vibe) and Seoul (for everything else!). I thought these were all great places to stop by and each one had its charm.

In addition to these places, you can look up Gwangju, Gyeongju, Andong, Suwon, and Jeju Island and choose your stops based on your preferences.

To wrap up this guide, here are some considerations for the best time to visit.

South Korea Travel Guide - The Best Time to Visit

Spring (Late March to May) and Autumn (Late September to November) are generally considered the best time to visit South Korea. This also means that they are the most popular times to visit. Spring is especially busy because of cherry blossoms blooming. So if you do visit then, be sure to book your flights and accommodations in advance.

Found this post helpful?

I hope you have enjoyed reading this post and it has helped to simplify your planning process or at least inspired you to visit South Korea! I would love to hear from you in the comment section. Leave me your questions and thoughts below!

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7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Visa

Hi Amara, I’m planning on starting kbeauty product business in Nigeria and I would like a 1 week tour to Korea to see and test this product myself. Please I need your advice for a jjc like me for visa applications, flights etc.

Hi Peace, if you’re a first time applicant, please check out some of my tips here . There are posts on mistakes to avoid when applying for visas and how to improve your travel history to give you a better chance for application success. Getting the South Korean visa is pretty straightforward once you have all the documents in place and meet all the requirements.

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17 South Korea Travel Tips (From a Longtime Resident)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Basics of Travel in South Korea

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

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

Currency: South Korean won ( KRW or ₩ )

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

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

Internet & SIM Cards: Rent a Wi-Fi egg or purchase a prepaid Korean 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

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Max Ritchie says

October 01, 2022 at 8:23 pm

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

regards max

October 01, 2022 at 8:48 pm

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

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• Top 10 Reasons To Visit South Korea & Have A Blast With Your Family In 2024!

19 Oct 2021

Known for the exotic cuisine and world-class technology, South Korea comes under the category of developed countries that has approximately more than 50 million residents and has a chiefly mountainous terrain. The country is known as the regional power and also as a global head in technological and industrial sectors. But, what makes South Korea a much-loved destination among local as well as the International tourists is its tasty cuisine and diverse culture.

Top 10 Reasons To Visit South Korea In 2023

So, if you want to have a nice and fun time with your close ones then there is nothing better for you than to pack your bags now and explore this amazing country as soon as you can.

• A Magnificent Blend Of Epic History And Great Festivals
• Vibrant Culture
• Shopping Spree With Your Gang
• Picturesque Self-Drives
• Tasty Cuisine
• Epic History
• Exciting Theme Parks
• Rising Cafe Culture
• UNESCO Sites
• Islands Like Jejudo

1. A Magnificent Blend Of Epic History And Great Festivals

Image Source

Though there are endless reasons to visit South Korea, what tops this list is its rich history and wonderful festivals which you must attend for at least once in your lifetime. From food to culture and history to religion, there is so much to love about this incredibly breathtaking country that you will always crave for more.

Must Read: Enter The World Of Webtoons At This Cartoon Cafe In South Korea

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2. Vibrant Culture

The long history of South Korea is the main reason behind its varied and delightful traditions that are being practiced by the locals for over so many centuries. Even today, you can witness various music performances and the conventional Korean dance performed by the professionals in Hanbok which is their traditional dress. You can also rent and wear the apparel around Jeonju and Seoul to get yourself immerse in the culture. If you travel to the modern Seoul, there is a high probability that you will find the conventional Hanok home neighborhoods with amazing teahouses that have been there for decades. This wonderful mix of new and old is hard to miss for any person which is why it is advised for you to go and have a fun time watching the glorious beauty of this Country.

Suggested Read: 8 Hotels In South Korea That Are All About Class, Comfort, And Convenience!

3. Shopping Spree With Your Gang

If you are a shopaholic then only the God can stop you from buying everything from the streets of South Korea because this country is your ultimate shopping destination. Ranging from some really wonderful skincare products in Myeongdong to those humongous and drool-worthy stores in the malls of Seoul, there is nothing you won’t love. Especially for all the women out there who are still wondering is South Korea worth visiting, it is time for you to stop thinking and shop till you drop. You can also hop on the streets of Seoul to get the trendiest accessories and apparel for you and your girl gang so that you can show off your style when you get back in the city. Go on and make a list of everything you have ever wanted to buy!

4. Picturesque Self-Drives

Who doesn’t like the idea of getting into a comfortable car and enjoy a long drive with your loved ones while enjoying the pretty scenery on the way? Well, here is your chance to make your dream come true as you can easily rent a car in South Korea and explore all the hidden treasures of the famous Jeju Island and have a nice time looking at the landscape. The smooth roads seem like they have specifically been built this way so that people can enjoy such experiences and enjoy their time alone from the hustle and bustle of their daily life. This is the perfect option for all the newlyweds who wish to spend some alone time with their significant other while soaking the beauty of their surroundings. Do not forget to click some nice pictures so that you can cherish the memories afterward and maybe come back again to relive the experience.

Suggested Read: Top 10 Things To Do In South Korea To Experience The Essence Of The Vibrant Country

Planning Your Next Holiday In South Korea?

5. Tasty Cuisine

The most popular and favorite characteristic of South Korean cuisine among the tourists is its various flavorsome side dishes like Banchan and Panchan etc. that can be spotted with every meal. Food is definitely the ultimate reason to visit South Korea as this is a place where you can give a relishing experience to your taste buds. Kimchi, made from fermented and salted vegetables which are kept in the jars for a lot of months is something that is worth every bite of yours. There are a lot of iconic delicacies which you must try like Japchae, Bulgogi and rice bowl Bibimbap etc. You can also enjoy the very palatable hot dogs, potatoes and fish cakes and pastries that are designed in the shape of a fish and savor the taste. There is no wonder why the Koreans are so proud of their cuisines as once you get a taste, you will definitely end up craving for more.

Suggested Read: Dragon Boat Festival: Experience The Joy And Vibrance  At This Sacrificial Gala!

6. Epic History

South Korea has a very ancient history and the locals are very proud of their tradition which is why you can still see a lot of prevalent heritage sites in several cities of this country which are still intact. Whether you visit the chief palace which is situated in the city of Seoul or you get to explore the Gyeongbokgung Palace, you can feel the wonderful aura. When it comes to describing the South Korean history, Gyeongju is certainly an important destination for all the history lovers and that is why it is also known as a museum without the walls. Being the former capital of Korea, this city is a home to many palaces, tombs, and temples.

Suggested Read: 28 Stunning Places To Visit In South Korea

7. Exciting Theme Parks

For an adventure junkie, this place is a pure heaven as you can have a fun time with your crazy bunch of friends in plenty of theme parks in the city of Seoul. There are so many amusement parks in this city that offers you some thrilling rides so that you can make the most of your time in this beautiful country. You can take a mind-blowing ride in Everland, the biggest theme park in South Korea or you can also opt for Lotte World to check out some folk museums and do ice-skating. Make sure to get the adrenaline-pumping experience so that the next time someone asks you why is South Korea a good place to visit, you know the answer.

8. Rising Cafe Culture

Image Source Not only Americans but Koreans are also fond of cafes. Korea is full of bakeries and cafes that there a law has been implemented of maintaining a minimum distance between bakeries. Can you believe that? You will find several themed cafes as well like CNN, cat and dog cafes.

9. UNESCO Sites

Image Source Wondering why to visit South Korea? Were you aware of the fact that Korea is home to eleven UNESCO sites? No, right! One such place is Jeonju which has been recognized as a city of gastronomy due to the availability of all kinds of foods.

10. Islands Like Jejudo

A hub of Korean history, Jedujo is a volcanic island. There are several other islands in Korea which non-Koreans may not be aware of. One such island is Oedo which is a huge botanical garden. If you want to explore these sites then you must visit South Korea in the off-season so as to avoid crowds.

Further Read: 26 Places To Visit In Korea During Winter That Would Hook You With Their Charm

South Korea has always been a completely engaging, thrilling and modern destination for travelers from all around the globe which is why you must give it a shot and make some cherishable memories. We have already provided you the reasons to visit South Korea here. So, plan a getaway to South Korea and see for yourself why Korea is the best place to visit.

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• How to Plan Your Trip to South Korea 2024/2025 (6 Easy Steps)

South Korea is a popular destination for many travelers, especially for families with teenagers and couples. Besides its history, nature, and modernity, South Korea offers unique and lively experiences, such as K-pop, the hanbok, Hanok hotels, bibimbap, and more, which continue to draw travelers from all over the world.

In this article, we'll explain everything you need to know to plan a wonderful trip to South Korea, including the top places to visit, how long you should spend there, the best times to visit, and the costs.

• 1. Do I Need a Visa to Visit South Korea
• 2. Top 4 Places to Visit in South Korea
• 3. Best Times to Visit South Korea
• 4. How Many Days to Spend in South Korea
• 5. How Much Does a Trip to South Korea Cost
• 6. How to Get To and Around South Korea

Do I Need a Visa to Visit South Korea?

Nationals of many countries are exempt from needing a visa to enter South Korea, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Most travelers could stay in South Korea without a visa for 90 days.

Top 4 Places to Visit in South Korea

With so many wonderful destinations in South Korea, we know it could be difficult to narrow down where to visit. Below are some recommended places to visit for your first trip, based on our knowledge and feedback from our clients.

1) Seoul — Capital City with a Perfect Blend of History and Modernity

As the bustling capital city of South Korea, Seoul is a must-see city when planning a first trip to South Korea. It offers plenty of experiences that would enrich your trip.

If you want to explore history-filled attractions to deepen your understanding of South Korea, don't miss a visit to one of the oldest royal palaces, Gyeongbokgung, and the quiet Korean traditional village of Bukchon Hanok.

Beyond the representative attractions, you could also wear a traditional hanbok and stay in Korean-style accommodation to enrich your trip.

If your children are interested in K-pop, you could see the idols at the famous broadcasting buildings and visit the renowned Korean Wave music companies.

2) Busan — Bustling Seaside City

Busan is a charming seaside city known for its glistening beaches. You could enjoy the comfortable sea breeze and feed seagulls at Haeundae Beach and sample fresh seafood.

As well as beautiful sea views, Busan has many culture-rich attractions. Visit Korean Buddhist temples with stunning sea views, such as Haedong Yonggung Temple, and enjoy the unique art of Gamcheon Culture Village with its multicolored houses.

You can just tell us your preferences and requirements, and we will customize a tour for you.

3) Gyeongju — Ancient Capital with a Long History

Gyeongju, the ancient and medieval capital of South Korea , has a rich history that spans thousands of years and has well-preserved ancient buildings. There, you could explore some UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Bulguksa Temple, which has stood for over a millennium, and Yangdong Folk Village, which is home to the largest hanok village in Korea with Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897) buildings.

4) Jeju Island — Formed by Volcanic Activity and Suitable for Relaxation

Known all over the country for its picturesque natural views, Jeju Island is one of the most popular destinations for travelers to escape from the country's larger cities and relax for a few days.

Jeju Island was formed by volcanic activity, resulting in various natural landscapes, such as the Manjanggul lava tube, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

You could enjoy exciting sea outdoor sports, such as surfing, deep diving, and snorkeling. Additionally, you could relax by basking in the wonderful sunrise or sunset on the sandy beaches.

Best Times to Visit South Korea

South Korea has four distinct seasons and it's suitable to visit all year round.

The best times to travel to South Korea are in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) , when you could enjoy pleasant weather, clearer days, and the best scenery. In spring, you could admire the blooming cherry blossoms and in autumn, you could view the vibrant red foliage.

Summer (June to August) is hot and humid in South Korea, and it is the rainy season as well. But it does not rain every day and you could still enjoy a flexibly planned trip. Compared with July and August (the summer vacation months), June is cooler and less crowded, which makes it a better time for families to visit South Korea.

Winter (December to February) is cold and dry in South Korea, making it a good time to bathe in the hot springs. Christmas and New Year are two of the busiest periods to travel so we suggest that you plan ahead at least 3–6 months in advance as hotels are easily booked up.

Just contact us  if you are thinking of a trip to South Korea. We'd like to create a wonderful trip based on your needs and interests, whatever the weather.

How Many Days to Spend in South Korea

For a first trip to South Korea, we recommend a 10-day trip to explore the highlights in the top cities from north to south covering Seoul, Busan, Gyeongju, and Jeju Island.

Below are three well-selected South Korea itineraries ideal for vacations of three popular lengths (7, 10, and 14 days), each offering authentic activities to enrich your trip.

1) 7-Day Essence Itinerary: Explore Seoul and Busan

Here is the handpicked itinerary, for inspiration:

• Days 1–4: Seoul
• Days 5–7: Busan

7 days are enough to explore South Korea's top two cities of Seoul and Busan. You could wear a traditional hanbok to stroll around culturally-rich Bukchon Hanok Village and stay at a traditional Hanok hotel in Seoul, take a day trip to explore well-preserved UNESCO sites in Gyeongju, and relax with the sea breeze in Busan.

2) 10-Day Classic Itinerary: the Most Chosen Korea Tour Plan

• Days 1–3: Seoul
• Days 4–5: Gyeongju
• Days 6–7: Busan
• Days 8–9: Jeju Island
• Day 10: Departure

This 10-day itinerary is based on the 7-day itinerary with the addition of Jeju Island. It's perfect for first-timers to explore the best of South Korea without rushing and to enjoy its natural beauty.

On Jeju Island, you could explore unique volcanic landscapes, enjoy sunrise or sunset on a sandy beach, and enjoy some free time doing outdoor activities such as snorkeling and surfing.

3) 14-Day South Korea and Japan Itinerary

14 days is ideal for a trip to both South Korea and the neighboring country of Japan, spending 1 week in each country. Not only could you immerse yourself in Korean culture, but also you could experience kid-favored anime elements, stay at a ryokan with an onsen, and watch a geisha performance in Japan.

• Days 4–5: Busan
• Day 6: Fly to Osaka in Japan
• Days 7–9: Kyoto
• Days 10–11: Hakone
• Days 12–14: Tokyo

Week 1 in South Korea: Seoul–Busan

Start your wonderful trip in South Korea. Experience traditional activities in Seoul, such as trying on a hanbok to meander around Bukchon Hanok Village, and relax on a sandy beach and feed some seagulls in Busan.

Week 2 in Japan: Osaka–Kyoto–Hakone–Tokyo

Fly to Osaka to continue your trip in Japan. In the impressive medieval capital of Kyoto , you could dress up like a ninja to learn techniques from a ninja master, wear a kimono to visit the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, and feed friendly deer in Nara.

Take the Shinkansen to Hakone , the well-known home to hot springs, and stay at a Japanese-style ryokan with an onsen.

In Tokyo, the capital city perfectly combines history and modernity. You could meander around the Asakusa district with its Edo-era vibe, make sushi with an experienced chef, and buy your favorite anime products at Pokémon Center.

Check more details about plan a 12-Day or 2 Week Itinerary in South Korea and Japan.

How Much Does a Trip to South Korea Cost?

The private tour cost in South Korea is about US$400–500 per day per person based on a family of 3–5 people , including 4-star hotels, a full-day itinerary, tickets for attractions, private cars, and private guides.

Travel costs are typically one or two times higher in peak times such as the cherry blossom season in March to April, Christmas, and New Year. Therefore, we recommend that you plan your trip at least 3–6 months in advance.

How to Get To and Around South Korea

Most flights from international starting points, such as North America, Europe, and Australia, land at Incheon International Airport in Seoul or Gimhae International Airport in Busan . These airports are conveniently close to their corresponding cities and are international hubs for some of South Korea's leading airlines.

Most cities in South Korea are conveniently connected by the KTX (South Korea's high-speed railway) , which is the most comfortable and efficient way of traveling. For instance, the journey from Seoul to Busan takes approximately 2½ hours.

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The Best 10 Day South Korea Itinerary For First Timers

After living in Korea for almost six years, I am your Korea trip expert. This is going to be the most comprehensive 10 Day South Korea Itinerary you’re going to find on the internet. I know what I’m talking about because I’ve personally experienced the Korean language, culture, and society. 

The Korean peninsula is one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever encounter. I personally love East Asia (as I lived in both Japan and South Korea). The best thing about South Korea is the ease of being able to get to different parts of the country.

Table of Contents

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• 50 Amazing Things To Do in Seoul
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Where To Stay in Seoul

When is the best time to visit south korea.

There’s always something happening in Seoul no matter what season you visit. The perfect time to travel spring for all the amazing cherry blossom festivals and autumn for the incredible fall foliage.

Spring in Korea

Korea in spring brings all the beautiful flowers. Since cherry blossom season in Korea is so short you have a very short window to catch them all. In addition, you can visit many different Korean spring flower festivals. Also, shop for the coveted Starbucks Cherry Blossom collection because it sells out super fast. The temperature during this time is comfortable, but prices are more expensive since many Asian holidays happen around this time of year.

• Spring in Seoul | What To Pack for Spring in Korea
• The Best Korean Spring Festivals
• The Ultimate Guide To Spring in Korea
• Where To See Cherry Blossoms in Seoul

Summer in Korea

Like everywhere around the world, Korea in summer is peak tourist season. The best time for Korea summer travel is June and September. July and August bring rainy season so expect to be very moist. recommend  visiting Jeju Island  as it is perfect to hit the beach and have a cheap staycation. 

• Summer in Seoul | What To Pack For Summer in Korea
• The Ultimate Guide To Summer in Korea
• What To Do During Rainy Season in Korea

Autumn in Korea 

Korea in autumn turns trees bright colors of red, yellow, and orange. September in Seoul still sees many tourists but starts to trickle out in October and November. Fall is shoulder season in Korea as it doesn’t see many tourists. Chuseok (Korea’s Thanksgiving) is around this time. Everything shuts down as Koreans travel back to their hometowns to celebrate with their families. I recommend doing a lot of hiking in Korea’s mountains and traveling to  traditional cities like Gyeongju  for the best fall in Korea experience. 

• The Best Autumn in South Korea Festivals
• The Ultimate Guide To Autumn in Seoul
• Seoul in Fall | What To Pack To Korea in Autumn

Winter in Korea

Believe it or not, winter in Korea is a great time to visit. Flight prices drop except for around Christmas. Visit early December when the Christmas displays and illuminations decorate Seoul. The Lotte World Theme Park and Everland offer foreigner discount tickets. There are also incredible Korean winter festivals to check out. 

• Cool Winter Festivals in South Korea
• The Ultimate Guide To Christmas in Korea
• The Ultimate Guide To Winter in Korea
• Winter in Seoul | What To Pack For Korea in Winter

Before You Visit Korea

A trip to the other side of the world takes careful planning and consideration. In this section, I’m going to break down what to pack, apps you need for Korea, and how to get a sim card.

How To Book a Flight To Seoul

Korea high season travel is from June to July. Plane tickets are most expensive during these months. The cheapest month to fly to South Korea is in March. A flight to South Korea from Los Angeles is typically about 13 hours and 30 minutes. (It’s a pretty long distance, but totally worth it.)

What To Pack For Korea

I highly recommend packing as light as possible so that way when you buy all of your favorite Korean products, there will be room in your suitcase. My favorite  travel suitcase brand is Béis . I’m obsessed with their weekender bag, carryon, and checked luggage.  Use my code for $15 off your first order and 150 points toward your new account .

I also have an  ultimate guide for what to pack to Korea in every season . 

Travel Essentials For 5 Days Itinerary In Korea 

• Korea travel adapter  – Korea uses 220V plugs. Daiso has them for 5,000 won.
• Unlocked phone  –  Book a simcard before you visit Korea  and pick it up at Incheon Airport.
• USB power strip  – This is great for charging multiple electronics at once.
• Air Filter Mask  – The air pollution in Korea is bad, and on its worst days can be on par with China.
• World Nomads Travel Insurance  – Give yourself the peace of mind. Many travel insurance companies have flexible COVID-19 cancelation plans.
• Toothpaste  – Korean toothpaste sucks. I don’t like it and it doesn’t leave my mouth feeling clean. Bring your own from home.
• Important documents  – Bring copies of any important medical documents and a copy of your passport. Leave one copy on your fridge just in case.
• Your passport  – This should be a given, but please don’t forget it.
• Credit Cards/Debit Cards  – There are ATMs all over Korea and most places accept credit cards.
• Medication  – TSA allows you to bring essential medication in your carryon. 

Apps You Need To Download For South Korea 

Your 5 days in South Korea itinerary will be so much more complete with apps to make your life easier. These were the apps I personally have used to make my day to day life easier.

• Naver Maps  – This is your one and only warning.  GOOGLE MAPS DOESN’T WORK IN SOUTH KOREA. You need to use Naver Maps which is available in English. Naver Maps for iPhone  |  Naver Maps for Android
• Kakaotalk  – If you want to connect with some cool people you’ve met in your travels, Kakaotalk is the best way to do so. Kakaotalk for iPhone  |  Kakaotalk for Android
• Kakaotaxi  – This app makes it easy to call taxi drivers. The starting fee for taxis is about 3,000 won. Kakaotaxi for iPhone  |  Kakaotaxi for Android
• KakaoMaps  – This is very similar to Naver Maps so just choose one. I recommend downloading both because sometimes you’ll get address links for this app too. KakaoMaps for iPhone  |  Kakaomaps for Android
• Kakaometro  – Have you noticed there’s a trend here with Kakao? They’ve made some pretty amazing apps and this is also great for navigating the subway. Similar to Subway Korea, you’ll get train times, arrival information, and train transfer data. Kakaometro for iPhone  |  Kakaometro for Android
• Subway Korea  – This is one of my favorite apps for navigating the subways. It will give you the times the train will come, what time you’ll arrive at your destination, and which car to sit in for easy transfers. Subway Korea for iPhone  |  Subway Korea for Android

South Korea Sim Card

South Korea has insanely fast internet fast and free Wifi everywhere. I do recommend you get a sim card so you can connect to Wifi in the subway. There are 3 major carriers in South Korea⁠—KT, SK Telecom, and LG U+.  You can easily book a physical South Korea sim card here.  Your options range from 1 day to 30 days. You will get unlimited data with this purchase and you can add on a phone number and minutes to call.

Get An E-Sim Card for South Korea

One of the coolest things I discovered in my travels is the beauty of an E-Sim card. Why is it so great? It gets downloaded directly to your phone and is activated immediately. This works best if your phone is unlocked.  You can purchase an E-sim card for Korea here.

Get Pocket Wifi 

If your phone is locked and you’re unable to switch sim cards out, the next best option is to rent pocket wifi. This is also great if you’re traveling with a friend or have multiple devices to connect.  Book your pocket wifi here. 

Book The Discover Seoul Pass

One of the cheapest ways to travel Seoul is by investing in the  Discover Seoul Pass . You can choose the digital card or physical one. The pass doubles as a T-Money card which can be used on public transport like subways, buses and taxis. It can be topped off in any convenience store and train station kiosk. Plus, it comes in increments of 24, 48, and 72 hours. The Discover Seoul pass grants you free entrance into Korea’s top attractions.

Worried About The Korean Language Barrier? 

A language barrier may seem scary during 5 days in South Korea. These apps, products, and courses are all things I’ve used and tested myself.

• Google Traslate  – This is a free app where you can put in your mother tongue and target language. You can also take photos and Google will translate. Google Translate for iPhone  |  Google Translate for Android
• Naver Dictionary  – Naver Dictionary is more precise than Google Translate because it was made as a language learning tool for English. Naver Dictionary for iPhone  |  Naver Dictionary for Android
• Papago  – A free app developed for Koreans. I often used it to help translate difficult sentences and phrases. Papago for iPhone  |  Papago for Android
• 90 Day Korean   – If you’re planning a trip months in advance, check out 90 Day Korean. Their course is set up to have a 3 minute conversation with a native speaker of Korean after 90 days.
• How To Learn Korean   Easily  – This blog post covers all the resources I used to learn and study Korean. You’ll get a list of my favorite tools, websites, books, and apps.

The Pocketalk is a super cool device as it translates 82 different languages in real time. It even has a text to translate camera. This is great for helping you navigate around Seoul. What I like most is its small enough to fit in your pocket or in your purse.  You can buy your Pockettalk here.

World Nomads Travel Insurance 

Sadly, COVID-19 is here to stay and now a daily part of life.   I recommend booking World Nomads Travel Insurance .  With the World Nomads Travel Insurance, you can expect: 

• Trip Cancelation  – This benefit helps you recover non-refundable, pre-paid trip costs when you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason, including for an unexpected sickness that keeps you from traveling.
• Emergency Medical  – The only thing worse than catching COVID-19 is getting infected away from home. If you get sick with COVID-19 or another illness, you can get diagnostic tests to confirm your case and other emergency medical benefits.
• Medical Evacuation  – If you’re in an inadequate medical facility, our plans have benefits that can arrange a transfer to a hospital capable of treating your medical needs.
• Trip Interuption  – During your travels, you might have to return home early. With trip interruption, you could get reimbursed for a one-way, economy-class ticket home and any pre-paid, unused portions of your trip if you need to change your plans for a covered reason.
• Trip Delay  – Even when there isn’t a pandemic, traveling can have its bumps and hiccups. If your travels are delayed at least six hours by a covered event, you can be covered.

Arriving in South Korea 

You’ll arrive at Incheon International Airport. It is very easy to get to central Seoul from the airport.

If you didn’t book the  Discover Seoul Pass , then you should get a T-money or Cashbee card at the convenience store. Or you can  book a digital T money card online here  so you don’t have to deal with it when you arrive. These are basically reloadable public transport cards. They cost 5,000 won and you can reload the card at any train station kiosk or at the convenience store.

How To Get From Incheon Airport to Seoul 

Getting to seoul by train .

If you take the train, there are two ways to get to Seoul. One is by the all-stop train (which takes forever) and the Express Train.  You can check the airport train schedule here.

• Express Train  – The Express Train travels non-stop from Incheon Airport Terminal 1 Station and Terminal 2 Station to Seoul Station. To take this train, passengers must purchase an Express Train Pass (or have the  Discover Seoul Pass ). A discount is available to passengers who present flight tickets from Jeju Air, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, or T’way Air. Cost:  9,500 won adults |  Runs:  every 43 minutes
• All-Stop Train  – The all-stop train makes stops at all subway stations from Incheon Airport Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 Stations to Seoul Station. Six of the subway stations allow transfers to other metropolitan area subway lines. To take this train, passengers must use a transportation card. International visitors may also use the foreigner-exclusive prepaid transportation card MPASS. Cost:  4,150 won |  Runs:  every 59 minutes

Getting To Seoul By Airport Bus 

Airport buses run from Incheon International Airport to many areas of Seoul. Tickets can be purchased at ticket booths just outside the 1F Arrivals Hall of each terminal. Detailed inquiries on bus routes and bus stops can be made here.

• Check bus routes and purchase tickets at the ticket booths located at the Arrivals Hall (1F) of Terminal 1 near Gates 4 & 9 or outside by Gates 4, 6, 7, 8, 11 or 13.
• Tickets at Terminal 2 can be purchased from the bus terminal at the Transportation Center (B1F)
• Check the bus boarding number indicated on the ticket.
• Go to the bus boarding location and double check the bus route and departure time.
• Once aboard the bus, listen carefully to the English announcement for your stop.

There’s help kiosks located all around the airport if you get lost or have a question. You can also check the  Incheon Int’l Airport Bus Guide  (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese).

Getting To Seoul By Private Transfers

There are different kinds of taxis that can take you into Seoul.

• Regular Taxi  – Base fare begins at 3,800 won (Seoul standard) with a 20% increased charge from the base fare at nighttime (24:00-04:00).
• Deluxe & Jumbo Taxi  – Base fare for deluxe and jumbo taxis begins at 6,500 won. There is no additional nighttime charge.
• International Taxis  – International taxi fares are fixed according to region with regular taxi fares ranging 65,000 – 90,000 won, and deluxe and jumbo taxis run from 95,000 – 130,000 won.

Pro Tip:  If a taxi driver tries to take advantage by demanding an inflated fare, report the incident to Seoul Global Center (+82-2-2075-4180), which offers services in English, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Vietnamese, Mongolian, Filipino, Uzbek, and Thai. You can also report your complaint to the Dasan Call Center (+82-2-120), which offers services in English, Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese and Mongolian.

How To Get Around Seoul 

• Subway : The subway is owned by the government so the fares for each line are standardized. Fares start at 1,250 won and cost about 100won – 300won to transfer to another line. The trains run all day, but are closed from midnight to 5:30am.
• Bus  – If you’re a first time tourist to Seoul, I would avoid taking the bus; however, if you’re up for the challenge, use Naver Maps. It will tell you where the bus stop is and the bus stops also have information about when the next bus will come. It also costs 1,250 won to get on the bus and 100won – 300won for transfers. If you find yourself stranded without a subway, then you can ride the M Buses at night.
• Taxi  – The base fare starts at 3,000 won and goes up from there. They’re a little more expensive to ride at night, but they are available 24/7.
• Seoul Bike  – These are public bicycles that can be found all over Seoul. It costs 5,000 won to rent for the day. For more  information and a comprehensive guide on how to rent, click here .
• Electric Scooters  – There’s a lot of walking in Seoul, but luckily there are a lot of bike paths as well. There are three companies you can rent an electric scooter from in Seoul— Lime ,  Beam , and  Kickgoing  (Korean only). Korean law requires you to scan your driver’s license before renting.

Safety in South Korea (10-Day Itinerary South Korea) 

South Korea is a very safe country for solo female travelers.  Just be aware crime still happens despite the safety ratings.  According to Global Finance, Korea has a safety index score of 8.93.  This means you will find CCTV everywhere and Koreans in keeps themselves in check. One of the things I enjoy most is being able to leave my valuables on a table and no one will try and steal it.

Check out my post on  Where To Stay in Seoul  for a detailed guide on booking accommodation in South Korea. You’ll get recommendations for every budget and what each area offers. However, if you’re in a hurry, here’s a mini Seoul city guide.

• Gangnam – Best area to stay in Seoul for luxury travelers.
• Hongdae – For budget travelers to find a cheap hotel room, night life lovers, and foodies.
• Insadong – Traveler who love culture and unique Korean experiences will thrive here.
• Itaewon  – For those who don’t want to stray far from home comforts.
• Jamsil – Perfect for families and low key travelers.
• Myeongdong  – This is the best neighborhood for Korean food, skincare, and clothes.

Day One in Seoul  (10-Day Itinerary South Korea)

For your first day of this 10 day South Korea itinerary, bring your  best pair of sneakers  because you’ll be doing a lot of walking in the capital city. The pavement is often uneven your gym shoes will protect you from accidents.

Rent a Hanbok at Hanboknam 

I recommend experiencing Korean culture and Korean history. One of the best ways to do this is by renting hanbok. A hanbok is a traditional Korean dress. For everything you need to know about  renting hanbok in Seoul, click here . Did you know you can get free admission into all the royal palaces by wearing hanbok? 

Hanboknam provides hanbok up to a US size 16. The larger sizes leave much to be desired in terms of how pretty they are. In addition, they do have shoes available to rent if you can fit. The largest they go up to is a US size 8.  You can book your Hanboknam hanbok rental here.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

This is the most beautiful of the palaces and was the main palace during the Joseon Dynasty.  A Seoul travel hack is to get the Discover Seoul Pass.   If you’re one of those travelers that has to do everything, then I promise you’re going to get the most bang for your buck.

This pass includes a free hanbok rental at Hanboknam. You can also use it to enter Gyeongbokgung without having to wait in the long ticket lines. While at Gyeongbokgung, visit the National Palace Museum of Korea to learn about Korean culture and rich history. The palace grounds are huge, but they’re beautiful. 

Insadong 

Insadong is best for buying souvenirs and local artwork. It’s the only street featuring exclusively Korean signs and no English. You’ll also find very tasty traditional Korean food for cheap. My favorite restaurant for tasty Korean food is called  Insadong Geujip . During peak tourist season, you can also find a lot of Korean traditional acts performing on the street from sword fighting to dancing. It’s close to Ikseondong which is about a seven minute walk.

What To Do in Insadong?

• Color Pool Museum
• Make a Traditional Korean Name Stamp
• Korean Rice Wine (Makgeolli) Tasting Tour
• Insadong Half Day Food Walking Tour

Ikseon-dong Hanok Village 

Ikseon dong should be on your to-do list. This is a really trendy hanok village with amazing cafes, restaurants, boutiques and entertainment. It really gives you that old Seoul feel while walking around the narrow alleys. At night, it’s also a great place to go drinking and to eat Korean bbq at a local restaurant. For a full guide on  everything you need to do in Ikseondong click here . 

What to do in Ikseondong? 

It’s really easy to spend a good chunk of your afternoon walking around the Ikseondong Hanok Village. Take your time to explore all the great cafes and views the area offers. 

• Insadong & Ikseondong Makgeolli Tasting Tour
• Ikseondong Walking Food Tour

Have A Drink At Moxy Hotel’s Rooftop Bar 

Your Seoul itinerary should include at least one rooftop. I went here for my birthday and you get the most amazing view of the Ikseondong Hanok Village. This is also a really fun place to stay with all of its fun and modern decorations.  Book your stay at the Moxy Ikesondong here.

Day Two in Seoul 

Next on our itinerary in Seoul, we’re going to visit more historical sites. Even though a lot of the traditional Korean places are located in one area, it’s still a lot of walking. Also, you’re going to want to take your time and learn about Korea’s history, culture, and take amazing photos.

Changdeokgung Palace

This is one of the largest palaces in Seoul not because of the buildings, but because of the gorgeous Secret Garden. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It costs 3,00 won to enter the palace. Or if you’d like to delve deep into the history and culture of Changdeokgung and the surrounding Bukchon Hanok village,  you can do a guided tour . 

Secret Garden Tour 

This is the highlight of visiting Changdeokgung. The royal family used the garden as a place of rest since the reign of King Taejong (1400 to 1418). They would come here to contemplate life, write poems, and hold banquets. 

Pro Tip:  Two of the most popular times during the year to visit Changdeokgung are during cherry blossom season and autumn when the foliage makes the garden come alive with gorgeous colors. Book tickets to the garden in advance or during the week at 9am. 

Jogyesa Temple

Jogyesa Temple is one of the oldest Buddhist Temples in Korea and a symbol for Buddhism in Korea. It’s located in the heart of the city and is still an active temple today. While you stroll the grounds, you’ll most definitely catch Buddhist services. Just a note, the temple becomes decorated with beautiful and brightly colored lanterns around Buddha’s Birthday. 

Bukchon Hanok Village 

Bukchon is full of beautiful traditional hanok homes. Hanok are Korean traditional houses. People actually live there, so please be respectful of your surroundings. This is a residential area and people do live here so please be quiet and do not disturb others.

If you want to get a shot like mine with no people, go super early in the morning because it gets crowded fast.  One Day Hanbok  is also located at the heart of this district so it’s easy to rent a hanbok from them and then take photos here.

• Bukchon Hanok Village Walking Tour 
• Kimchi Making Class in Bukchon Hanok Village
• Mother of Pearl DIY Class in Bukchon Hanok Village

Green Mile Coffee

This is by far one of my favorite coffee shops in the Bukchon area. Their speciality lies in coffee and green tea creations… Which sounds like it wouldn’t go together, but it totally does! It’s a great pick me up and I recommend going around sunset. You can also see the National Folk Museum of Korea from the rooftop. 

Optional: Gwangjang Market or Namdaemun Market

These are traditional markets in Seoul. It’s the perfect place to try traditional Korean food. It’s a popular spot for an authentic local food experience in Seoul. 

Optional: Nanta Show

This is one of the most entertaining live performances I’ve ever been to… And the best part? You don’t have to know Korean to enjoy this show. They combine cooking with traditional Korean dancing. Book your Nanta Show here.

Day Three in Seoul

Namsan tower .

If you’ve ever watched a romantic Korean drama, then you’ll have seen a scene filmed here. It’s the ultimate couples destination in Seoul. The N Seoul Tower is also known as a complex culture space where the clouds meet Namsan Mountain.

What to do at Namsan Tower? 

A few things I recommend are definitely going up the cable car and Namsan Park. You can take a leisurely walk along the city wall from the park and it is amazing for photos. It’s great in all seasons but especially in spring and autumn. There are also two restaurants in the observatory to choose from which makes the experience even cooler. 

• Namsan Tower Round Trip Cable Car Ticket 
• Namsan Tower Observatory Ticket
• The Place Restaurat at Namsan Tower
• HanCOOK Restaurant at Namsan Tower

Myeongdong 

The Myeongdong shopping district is a tourist favorite for the shopping, street food, cute cafes, and Kpop inspired merchandise. You’ll find lots of unofficial Kpop souvenirs in Myeongdong Station. A popular activity is to eat street food. Make sure you try tteokbokki which are spicy rice cakes. Bring cash because the street food vendors don’t do credit or debit cards.

What to do in Myeongdong? 

The Myeongdong area is mostly famous for its shopping district but there are so many other cook things to do in Seoul. You can really get a feel for Seoul’s most expensive district by going around to eat street food and taking part in cultural activities. 

• Watch a Nanta Cooking Show
• Get Pampered At the Whoo Spa

Han River Picnic 

Were you even in Seoul if you didn’t picnic or visit the Han River? One of the top things to do in Seoul is to order delivery to Yeouido Park. The top two contenders are pizza and fried chicken. There are tons of convenience stores around where you can just get a lunchbox and beer and eat anywhere you want. Also, it’s really popular to ride a bike and  have a picnic at the Han River . 

Han River Cruise 

Another popular attraction for tourists in Seoul, the Han River Cruise is one of my favorite things to do. If you go on the sunset tour, you can get a drink. You can also watch the city light up. This is a really amazing activity for friends, lovers, or families.  You can book your Han River Cruise for a discount here.

Day Four in Seoul | Go On A Day Trip From Seoul

On your last day in Seoul, I recommend going on a trip outside the city. While Seoul is absolutely amazing, you should see other parts of the country. If you’d like more information on all the amazing day trips you can take from Seoul, click here.

Visit The DMZ

Visit the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) and JSA (Joint Security Area). Whether you’re into history or not, this has definitely been one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever done. You’ll get a chance to tour part of the tunnels the North Korean government made to try and infiltrate Seoul.

The best part is the JSA. This is where President Moon Jae-In and Dictator Kim Jong Eun met for a peace talk. Depending on the day and how high tensions are the JSA may be closed. These cool blue houses are also where you can stand in North Korea during the DMZ Tour.  You can book your DMZ and JSA tour here.

Gyeongju Day Trip

Gyeongju was once the capital of the Silla Dynasty and home to many of Korea’s famous historical sites. I also have a completely done for you guide on the  Perfect Autumn in Gyeongju Itinerary . I think the best time to visit Gyeongju is during fall and spring. Don’t forget to visit Bulguksa Temple which is a Buddhist Temple and the Seokguram Grotto.

The easiest and most hassle free way to see Korea’s old capitol is to  book a one day Gyeongju day trip from Seoul here.  One of the best things to do is to a rent (traditional time era hanbok). This is one of my absolute favorite places in Korea because of its rich history.

• Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Tour (Spring Only)
• Gyeongju Fall Foliage Tour (Autumn Only)

Jeonju Day Trip

Jeonju is particularly crowded during autumn in South Korea. This traditional Korean town features delicious bibimbap, yummy street food, and one of a kind chocopies. It’s kind of tricky to get down to Jeonju yourself so  I recommend this one day Jeonju trip from Seoul here .

You can also rent hanbok for cheap and take loads of pictures with great souvenirs. If you’re a fan of Kpop, don’t forget to check out the Catholic cathedral where Big Bang’s Taeyang filmed Wedding Dress. For more information, check out my  Jeonju in Autumn Itinerary .

This was one of the most fun day trips I ever experienced. If you want to get there via public transportation, I recommend you  use the KTX Trains . The KTX Jeolla Line will take you to Jeonju. 

• Jeonju Cherry Blossom & Spring Flowers Tour (Spring Only)
• Jeonju & Naejangsan Fall Foliage Tour (Autumn Only)

Other Recommended Day Trips 

• Everland Amusement Park
• Korean Folk Village
• Namhansanseong Fortress Tour
• Suwon Hwaseong Fortress Tour & Korea Folk Village Tour
• Garden of Morning Calm, Nami Island, Petite France Tour

Go Hiking in South Korea 

• Bukhansan National Park Hiking Tour
• Seoraksan National Park & Nami Island Tour

Three Days in Busan (10 Day South Korea Itinerary) 

​Next on our 10 day South Korea itinerary, we’re gonna pop on over to Busan which is the second largest city in South Korea. The south coast of Korea is a popular destination in summer. It’s one of the best places for a beach holiday, but is great year round. Three days in Busan is the perfect amount of time for getting a feel for this city. If you’d like to stay an extra day instead, check out my four day Busan itinerary here .

Day One Busan Itinerary

Gamcheon culture village.

Many people visit the Gamcheon Cultural Village. It is the top tourist attraction in Busan for a reason. The best things about the village are the colorful homes, ecclectic cafes, and super cute boutiques selling trinkets all around. It is a residential area and there is no entrance fee to get in. Please respect the residents and keep your voice down. 

Avant Garde Cafe

Insider tip… The drinks are meh, but the views are FIRE. Stopping by this cafe is a great way to capture one of Busan’s main attractions. You will be guaranteed a great view of the Machu Picchu of Korea. 

Cafe OceanView

Cafe Oceanview is the best area to view  the port city and the Songdo Cloud Trails. I recommend walking around them to get different angles of the city and different viewpoints. It’s very pretty no matter what time of day you go. It’s a new cafe in Busan so  here is the Naver Map link   to access it easily. 

Songdo Cloud Trails

These are really beautiful walking trails along the ocean and where you can see the cable cars. This is a really unique experience and I recommend spending enough time here to soak up the sites.  

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Huinnyeoul Beach Cafe

What better way to start the day than with some Korean coffee and a great view of the Busan ocean? The cafe has a beach theme. They serve various baked goods like scones and cakes. 

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Songdo Bay Station

This is where you’re going to catch the Songdo Cable Car after a light lunch at Cafe Oceanview where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the coast. I also recommend going to the Sky Harbor Observation Deck. You can book your tickets with a  clear glass floor to the Busan Air Cruise here . 

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Eat Dinner at Jagalchi Market

I’m sure after a long day of sight seeing you’ll want to settle down and eat delicious food.   Jagalchi Market is Korea’s largest seafood selling market.  You can find both live and dried fish here. There are food stalls where visitors can eat fresh raw fish right at the market. The Jagalchi Ajhumma sell mackerel, sea squirts, and whale meat on wooden boxes along the road outside of the market and along the shore.

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Day Two Busan Itinerary

Oryukdo skywalk.

Visitors of the skywalk have a beautiful view of the sea and surrounding cliffs through a glass floor. It’s constructed with 12-millimeter glass pieces coated with a bulletproof film so it’s safe to walk around on.

Casa Busano

Casa Busano is a European inspired cafe along Gwangalli Beach. It’s popular at all hours of the day, but mostly at night when the bridge lights up. They have European style coffee and pastries. 

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Cheese Form Cafe

The inside of the cafe is completely yellow, and you guessed it…cheese themed. Cheese Form Cafe in Busan offers delicious soufflé and great views of Gwangalli Beach. 

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Gwangalli Beach

Gwangalli Beach is one of the most pristine beaches because of the white sand. It’s one of the most photogenic spots because the backdrop of the bridge. Additionally, it’s a good place for a picnic on a nice beach. This is a much better place to spend a full day since Haeundae Beach is always super crowded in summer. 

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Although not a cafe, the best time to go is at night. They offer a variety of wines, whiskey, and good food. If you want to drink where the locals do, check out Piv Bar. At first glance you wouldn’t know this is a dive bar with amazing views of Busan at night. 

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Day Three Busan Itinerary  

Bibibidang cafe.

Bibibidang is a Korean hanok cafe that serves various types of traditional Korean tea, which you can enjoy while seated with a view of Cheongsapo Port. The main attraction of his cafe is the view of Haeundae Beach Train and Sky Capsule on the Green Railway. They even offer a tea class.

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Haeundae Blue Line Park

This is basically a little train you take along the coastal road of the ocean. To get on the Blue Line, you would go straight to Cheongsapo Station. These little cars are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Busan.  Book your Blue Line Sky Capsule Train ride here .

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Cafe Rooftop

Another one of Busan’s most stunning cafes, you absolutely cannot miss this beautiful oceanside cafe. The best part is when the bridge lights up with rainbow colors at night. Drinks start at 5,000KRW.

One of the best Instagram worthy cafes in Busan, Port 1902 offers amazing cafe serves drinks like ade, cocktails, and coffee. Port 1902 also offers snacks and food. The best part? They’re located right by the ocean and have a swimming pool to entertain their customers. It’s also dog friendly. They’re open pretty late so make sure to stay long enough for the pool party to get going and the neon signs to turn on. 

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Holi Lounge

At this restaurant they offer pasta, steak, pizza, brunch, coffee, wine, and beer. They have a great view of the Haeundae Blue Line Capsule Train. You can easily  find the Holi Lounge on Naver Maps here . 

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Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Known as the sunrise temple, this beautiful place is truly a wonder to behold.  Haedong Yonggungsa Temple  was built in 1376 by the teacher known as Naong during the Goryeo Dynasty, and was originally known as Bomun Temple.

Wave On Coffee

This beautiful cafe is the perfect place to relax in nature with panoramic view of the Gijang’s seashore. It is 3 stories tall and the beach is right in front of the property. Wave On Coffee is the best cafe in Busan with delicious snacks, desserts, and drinks.

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Three Days in Jeju (10 Day South Korea Itinerary)

Jeju Island is a volcanic island often known as the Hawaii of South Korea. For an in depth   itinerary for three days in Jeju, click here . 

Day One Jeju Itinerary

Cheonjeyeon falls.

A morning stroll through the “Pond of the Gods” refresh you with its beauty and wonder. The minerals in the water give it an extremely blue hue and you’d have to see it to believe it. There’s three different sites you can visit in the area. Expect to spend about one hour hiking around.

Jeongbang Waterfall 

Jeju is full of stunning nature and this waterfall is not exception. My recommendation is to also get there early before its flooded with tourists.

Eat Black Pig for Lunch

The sun gets very hot in Jeju and I recommend packing your best sunscreen. During this time I recommend doing indoor activities. You don’t want to miss out on the the local dish of black pig. A great place to eat it is Black Pork street. Eat at the Black Pork Restaurant, right on the corner of the street.

Teddy Bear Museum

The museum has a collection of teddy bears over 100 years old to an extremely expensive Louis Vuitton bear. There’s even bears dressed up as historical figures like Charlie Chaplin and Michael Jordan. #ImfromChicago If you’d like to go to the museum  buy your ticket here and check out your savings !

Jeju Chocolate Museum

Did I have you at Jeju chocolate? Good. There’s an admission fee to get in, but the museum gives you a voucher to use on any chocolate food and drinks in the museum. Make sure you try the mandarin and hallabong (Jeju’s special orange) flavors. If you buy your own chocolate kit, you can make it right there in the museum!

Jungmun Saekdal Beach

The water was so pretty here! I loved this beach because it was super clean and not as crowded. If you’re into surfing, this is a great beach for that and there’s also beach side convenience stores for all your munchie needs.

Optional: O’Sulloc Tea Museum 

If you have some extra free time, definitely come here. The OSulloc Tea Museum has a tea gallery, eco-friendly rest area, and a cafe where visitors can enjoy a variety of tasty tea-based desserts. You can even eat some tasty green tea ice cream here! If you can’t make it here, don’t worry! There’s a  delicious O’Sulloc Tea Sampler you can purchase online . 

Innis Free Jeju House 

The Innis Free Jeju House is located inside the O’Sulloc Tea Museum. Innis Free is a Korean beauty brand that embodies the natural beauty of Jeju Island. I personally love their  Green Tea Hyaluronic Acid Face Cleanser  especially during the summer. Visitors can enjoy Innisfree’s cosmetics made with quality ingredients harvested from Jeju, as well as organic food made with fresh local ingredients.

Dinner at  Pizzeria 3657

This is a super romantic place at sunset. If you’re craving authentic Italian pizza, then look no further. If you’ve lived in Korea for any amount of time, you’ll have noticed the pizza a sweet. For a non-sweet pizza, eat here. It’s a bit on the pricier side, but what you get is what you pay for. The four cheese pizza was hella good.

Day Two Jeju Itinerary

Seongsan ilchulbong.

Seongsan Ilchilong is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also known as sunrise peak… So obviously the best place to see the sunrise is here! The large crater on top formed by the hot lava mixing with cold ocean water, is located at the top of Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone. The crater is about 600 meters in diameter and 90 meters deep. A lot of people come in the early morning.  

Udo Island 

Visiting Udo Island is a great day Jeju itinerary. So what is it? Udo Island is a beautiful island off the coast of Jeju. It’s really small and won’t take all day to go around. 

Can you believe this is the last day of our 10 day South Korea itinerary? I know. Me too. It feels like a dream. I recommend going out with a bang and climbing Halla Mountain. Or you can just beach bum it away.

Hike Hallasan Mountain

Hiking Mount Halla was my favorite of Jeju Island’s many wondrous attractions. I went with an ex boyfriend who didn’t listen to my health concerns and I ended up not being able to summit. The next time I climbed, I went with my younger brother and it was one of my best memories. If you’re a beginning hiker or suffer from any health problems, I highly suggest hiking the easy trail. For intermediate hikers, do the hard trail so you can see the crater at the top. It’ll take a good 12 hours to do the entire hike. 

I hope you enjoyed this 10 day South Korea itinerary. If I had to travel South Korea again as a first-timer, I would definitely use this as a guide. It has what you need from culture, food, and everything in between. Since I’ve been to many of these places, you best believe that you’re in good hands. Besides, I’m your Korea travel expert!

This post contains affiliate links which means at no additional cost to you, I make a small commission to help keep Gina Bear’s Blog running. Thanks for your support!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Korean currency

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

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

How to pay in Korea

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

Should you tip in Korea?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Car Rentals

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

High Speed Rails

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

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

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

Final thoughts

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

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

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

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Why you should visit South Korea!

South Korea is a popular destination due to a rise in K-Pop and K-drama fans. There are a lot of things to see and do in South Korea and with their advancing technology, they are on the rise for success. Many people will have several reasons on why you should visit South Korea. You may be wondering if this country is safe, the answer to that is yes, South Korea is a very safe country. It is completely worth visiting and I hope some of these suggestions can convince you to visit South Korea.

1.  Korean Food

RELATED: Myeongdong Street Food

2.  The culture and history

Visit the temples and the palaces here.  There is so much history in Korea and the architecture is absolutely beautifully preserved.  What makes it more intriguing is you will be walking in a busy city area and then just in the middle of the city you will notice this huge area cut out in the city for the palaces.

3.  Technological Advancement

Korean is one of the most advanced countries when it comes to technology.  They are typically the ones who have the products first before they even come out to the United States.  I remember growing up and my cousin had a touchscreen phone before they even reached the US.  I remember wanting one so bad when I was there.  On top of that Korea probably has one of the fastest internet speeds in the world.

4.  Public Transportation

5.  Nightlife

Hongdae and Itaewon are pretty awesome locations to get your dancing on.  Like Vegas, there are typically no end times for drinking and partying.  Although most of these locations probably close around 6 am.  Hongdae is a pretty sweet location because it is close to a large university known for art and there are pretty awesome buildings and architectures that have so many different looks.

6.  Jeju Island

Jeju Island has beautiful tropical beaches and mountains.  It is like Hawaii is to the United States.  Flights are fairly cheap to travel from Seoul to Jeju which makes it a great stop.  However, Jeju also has an old city with a beautiful history and old buildings.  Be sure to take a tour !

RELATED: 7 Days in Korea

8.  Have fun on a budget!

Korea is very affordable and has clean hostels you can stay at.  It only costs about $1 to use the subway and there are tons of fashion markets where you can bargain for clothing on a budget .  Street food is a great way to eat like a king and so cheap that it won’t make a huge dent in your wallet.

9.   Korean Skin Care Products

10.  It’s safe

South Korea is a very safe country.  They prohibit guns with the exception of military personnel and the crime rate in Korea is very low.  When I travel solo in Korea, I feel very safe and protected even at night.  This city rarely sleeps, so there are always people around.  Finally, many of the shopping markets run late at night from 10:00 pm to 3:00 am.

11.  K-POP & K-Dramas

Korea is known for its pop music and Korean dramas.  Uh hello, Gangnam Style! Also, if you haven’t watched a Korean drama, be sure to check out Boys over Flowers which is available on Netflix.  Korean dramas are the best dramas to get you started & hooked on watching.

Are you planning a trip to South Korea Soon? Check out some of my related to posts to help plan your trip to South Korea. 

• 10 Things to Eat in Korea
• Busan, South Korea
• Top 10 Korean Drugstore Skin Products
• One Day in Seoul
• Jeju Itinerary
• Cimer Spa at Paradise City
• Teach English in South Korea
• Things to do in Hongdae
• Seoul Gardens & Parks
• Things to do in Incheon
• Myeongdong Shopping Street
• What to do in Incheon Airport for a Layover
• Things to do in Itaewon
• Gwangjang Market
• Gamcheon Culture Village
• Things to do in Paju
• Visit Youngwol Y Park
• Autumn in Korea

DISCLAIMER : Oftentimes you will find that I’ve included links to certain hotels / tours /products/services. If you purchase anything through these links, I’ll receive a commission. It won’t cost you anything extra, but it will help keep this blog up and running.

Hey, I'm NieNie, also known as Stephanie – a California native of hapa heritage (an American with a mix of Korean and German) with an enduring love for travel. Transitioning from my expat life in South Korea to embracing the experience of living in Germany, while also frequenting visits to my family in the Philippines, I'm documenting my adventure as a plus-size woman immersing herself in diverse cultures. Join me on Adventures with NieNie for travel tips, cultural insights, and inspiring stories from South Korea, the Philippines, and Germany. Let's embark on this adventure together!

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50 South Korea Travel Tips

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

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

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

I’ve divided it up by:

What to Do Before Traveling to South Korea

• Korea Itinerary + Things to Do

Where to Stay in Korea + Tour Options

Korea transportation guide.

• What to Eat
• Safety + Sanitary Concerns

Little Things to Know About Korean Culture

• What to Buy in Korea
• Final Notes

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

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

1. Learn Hangul + some key phrases.

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

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

2. Try to book with Asiana or Korean.

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

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

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

3. Read up a bit on Korean history

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

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

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

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

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

4. Do you need a SIM Card?

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

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

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

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

5. Best Time to Go to Korea

Fall or spring.

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

6. Exchange + Money Matters

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

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

7. Is Korea expensive?

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

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

Korea Itinerary Tips + Things to Do

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

8. Where to go if you have…

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

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

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

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

4 Weeks/ 1 Month

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

9. Major things to do in Seoul

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

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

For more on Seoul, check these guides:

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

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

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

11. Go hiking!

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

Here are some of my posts on hiking:

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

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

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

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

13. Is the cafe culture really a thing?

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

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

Here are some cafes I’ve specifically covered:

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

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

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

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

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

15. How is the hostel culture in Korea?

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

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

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

16. Can I get an Airbnb in Korea?

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

17. How are the hotels?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

19. What are the best websites for tours?

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

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

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

20. Don’t rely on Google Maps.

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

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

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

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

21. Using KTX

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

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

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

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

21. Intercity buses

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

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

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

22. Tips for booking flights

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

• Asiana Airlines
• T’Way Air

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

23. Using Seoul’s subway

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

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

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

24. Using local taxis and buses

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

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

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

Tips on What to Eat in Korea

26. so…. the dog thing..

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

27. How is vegetarian and vegan-friendly Korea?

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

28. Any unique drinks to try?

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

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

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

Korea loves takeout. It’s amazing. In bigger cities, you can order to the exact place you’re at, even if you’re not in a building or home! The most popular things to order are fried chicken, pizza, pig’s feet, and random Korean dishes that are easy to transport.

If you can use Hangul, then download the 배달요기요 app.

Safety and Sanitary Concerns

31. is it safe to travel to south korea now.

Short answer: YES!

I wrote about it in a post on  the Department of Wandering  with more details. You can read it in full here.

32. Sooo… North Korea…

The North Korean threat is kind of blown out of proportion by the Western media. At this point, I’d be more concerned about living in NYC or LA.

Now…if you’re asking about visiting North Korea while you’re here, well, I have some strong opinions on that.

33. How safe is public transportation?

Super safe. I can’t tell you how many subways, buses, and trains I’ve taken here, and I’ve never felt uncomfortable.

34. How safe is Korea for a solo female traveler?

One of the safest places. Korea is honestly one of the safest countries in the world.

Of course, be as cautious as you’d be anywhere. Watch your drink, don’t get too inebriated if you’re on your own, and, you know, keep an eye out for your fellow female! I feel like there’s a silent solidarity of women around the world against creepy, drunk men, so if you ever feel uncomfortable, just go towards a woman and quietly let her know your situation.

35. How clean is Korea?

Overall, it’s clean. There are some areas that are kind of gross, but it’s no different than any other super industrialized country.

36. What’s the deal with this squat potty? Am I going to have to squat?

Ahhh, the squat potty. If you don’t know what it is, you’re blessed. I  know it’s actually more hygienic than regular toilets, but I just can’t get used to the idea.

Fun fact, in the 3 years I lived there, I never once needed to use one. Regular toilets are far more common, especially for most of the places you’re visiting.

Some more rural areas may only have a squat potty, such as hiking trails or campgrounds, but major places will have normal ones. And hey, the fancier buildings even have the seat bidets, which are truly the greatest toilet invention since indoor plumbing.

These are just some things I and other friends have noticed, and that I think you might be surprised by if you’ve never been here. I should preface this section with this: Of course, not ALL Koreans are like this, and many of these things you may not even experience. This is from my personal point of view and some trends I’ve seen with other foreign friends who live here.

37. You will get stared at.

Maybe not in Seoul, but in the rest of the country, just be prepared. There’s the episode of Conan when he goes to Korea and all the kids are craning their necks and just staring. That’s pretty common even if you’re not a tall ginger with a camera crew.

If you hear “wayguk,” they’re just pointing out that you’re a foreigner. I had a friend who would reply in the same awed tone, “hanguk saram,” or Korean!

38. Here’s a typical line of questioning:

• Korean: Where are you from?
• Me: America.
• Korean: Are you Korean?
• Me: No, I’m Chinese-American.
• Korean: Ahhh you speak Korean well.
• Me: Thank you.
• Korean: Are you married?
• Korean: Ahhh.

Couple culture is also very real here, and you’ll probably see  plenty  of couples out and about enjoying their day in matching gear. Elissa and I always joked that if you’re not sure where exactly to go on your way to a major site, just follow the couples! Works like a charm.

39. Are Koreans actually racist?

Ummmm, for the most part, no. And the more they see of foreign visitors and travel, the less likely they are. There are a few, especially from the older generation, who might be racist. Once in a blue moon, you might come across a bar that bans foreigners, but that’s super rare.

I will say, MANY of my friends have pointed out that the xenophobia in Korea really, really jumped out during COVID. However, this is not something I think you’d have to deal with as a visitor, but it maybe be something you start to get frustrated by if you’re here long term.

40. A note on the introverted nature of many Koreans.

A lot of Koreans keep to themselves. Don’t get me wrong, they can be insanely nice and kind, and I’ve had complete strangers stop to lead me to my next destination. But you have to  ask for that to happen.

Also if you’re in trouble, such as feeling harassed by a drunk old man, they won’t help on their own. They’ll kind of stare and avoid the general area.

41. What the heck is an ahjumma and ahjussi?

Okay, so technically:

• Ahjumma – married woman
• Ahjussi – married man

However, that’s not quite accurate. If you called a 22-year-old married woman an ahjumma, she’d be pretty offended!

Ahjummas are considered tough as nails mothers with cropped perms, comfy pants, and a brusque attitude that can be helpful or frustrating depending on the situation. If you ever need to get through a crowd, follow the ahjumma openly just pushing her way through.

Ahjussis are middle-aged men, and the connotation is that they’re soju drinking, sometimes grumpy, sometimes nice men. A lot of times they drive taxis. Now,  gaejeossis are something else entirely.

42. Do you Koreans really get drunk all the time?

No, though you’d think that, wouldn’t you? While the drinking culture is huge in Korea, the country is not a giant group of alcoholics.

However, some of my friendliest interactions with Koreans have been while they were drunk singing norebang. I guess I could say the same for America too.

43. Treatment of animals in Korea.

Animal treatment is getting  so much better, even in the time I’ve been here. However, I do think I should warn any diehard animal lovers that you’re not going to love what you see, especially out of the cities.

It’s very common to see bigger dogs chained up outside their homes all year round, and one of my adult students told me that near her apartment building, people were feeding the stray cats poisoned food to kill them.

Again, things are seriously improving, and there are so many great groups around the country that help strays. In Suncheon, there’s a cate cafe that’s strictly for helping stray cats!

44. What should I know about the suicide culture?

The suicide culture is a really unfortunate part of Korean culture, but it’s not something you’re really going to encounter unless you’ve been living here, and even then it’s fairly rare.

I wanted to make note of it, especially with SHINee’s Jonghyun passing and because it’s just something to be aware of, but I feel like to really discuss it, I’d have to dedicate a whole post which I’m not ready to delve into researching.

What to Buy for Souvenirs

On a much lighter note, here’s a fun section of what to buy in Korea for souvenirs!

45. The deal with Korean skincare products

Korean skincare is top notch, and it’s all I really use. There are  so many brands compared to the U.S., and they all have their own marketing and store locations. I personally  love Innisfree the most, so I buy from there for classic products. I like Etude House for make-up, and I just pop around to the different brands if I want something trendy or quirky to give as gifts. Some other brands are:

• Nature Republic
• The Face Shop
• Dr. Jart (check Olive Young)
• Peripera (check Olive Young)

If you have time, do research on what kind of products you want for your skin type, but as gifts, my go-to buy is face masks.

46. Clothes + Accessories

There are a ton of clothing stores in Korea, and the two big areas are Myeongdong and Dongdaemun in Seoul. I’m not really that big into clothes shopping here because everything is free size, so it’s either too small or a sack, but it’s worth looking around if you’re on the slim, petite side.

If you want something quirky, then I recommend getting either something with Hangul on it or, for fun, get one of the super bad English motto shirts!

Another clothing item that could be really lovely is a modern hanbok. Instead of buying a regular hanbok, which is crazy expensive, you can buy a modern looking one. Sometimes they’re really subtle details, so you can wear them in normal life without it feeling like a costume.

47. Food and drinks to buy for home

Soju bottles, Korean snacks found in any convenience store or grocery store, specialty teas… The only two specific things I can think of are Pepero and brown rice green tea packets.

48. Any other unique souvenirs to know about?

Hmm, there are quite a lot! Most souvenir shops have similar items that are supposed to be more for traditional Korea. If you have friends getting married, you could get them cute wedding ducks.

The cute culture is very real, so you could always get cute versions of everyday items like stationary or pens. If you’re a fan, go to the Naver Friends or Kakao friends stores and pick up one of their mascots.

There are a lot of adult coloring books too, so if you can find ones for Korean places, then I think those would make super cute gifts.

Other souvenirs would be, of course, K-pop related things if you have friends who love specific groups. I bought the physical CDs of a few groups and singers I like.

Final Notes on Traveling Korea

49. koreans  are actually really lovely and kind..

As a whole, Koreans are the bomb. They’re so kind, and even if some things can feel frustrating, they’re always polite and try to be as helpful as they can. I’ve had frustrating moments here, but, in all honesty, my overall frustration levels living in Korea are less after 3 years than the semester I spent living in Madrid, so that should say something.

50. Ultimately, traveling this country is what you make of it.

If you come in thinking you’re going to have a meet-cute with some perfect-skinned chaebol oppa, you’re probably going to leave pretty displeased.

My best advice is to take Korea for Korea and not compare it to other places. It’s pretty unique, for better or worse, and it  so wants to be better known for welcoming foreign travelers! I’ve been here, cumulatively, for 3+ years, and I wouldn’t keep coming back if I disliked my time.

And there you have it! Fifty things to know about traveling to South Korea. Let me know if I’m missing anything or if you’re planning your own trip here this year!

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37 Comments

Thank you for providing such a wealth of information. I was born in Busan circa 1980 and have lived in the States for 41 years. I am planning to bring my husband and our two sons back in the next year or so and have no idea what to expect!

Ahh have an amazing time!! Busan is so lovely – I don’t think I’ve ever had a bad time there. Gamcheon Culture Village is one of my favorite places in all of Korea!

Great tips! I’m making a list of the things to prepare before going to Korea. You don’t know how helpful it is to me. I’m becoming a lot more excited. Thank you! What do you think of getting a tour guide in South Korea? Found a guide that offers customized tours Do you think I should also consider this?

Hi! Think it depends on how you like to plan. Sometimes it’s nice to have someone else plan for you altogether, but I personally like researching every aspect of my trips!

Rock on. This is a really great blog with so many useful tips, thank you so much for all the details! I’m looking forward to visiting Korea and this has helped a lot!

Thank you for all the awesome tips and helpful information. We’ll be going in April, 2023 and will be visiting Jeju Island. In Seoul we’re planning use subway and train, but while in Jeju Island we are thinking renting a car. Is it expensive and easy to rent a car there? How are the road there? Do you have a car rental place you recommend in Jeju? :)

Hi! Fun! I might be in Korea around that time too depending :)

For Jeju I definitely recommend a car, though the bus system is pretty robust (way better than when I first went). I rented one the last time I went and it wasn’t too bad! I used Trazy – https://thereshegoesagain.org/korea/jeju/car-rental and while April is too far in the future, it looks like it’s around $40 a day.

Hi Samantha! Thank you for your helpful articles. My question is when at Incheon airport the priorities are to get just enough KRW till you get to myundeong (i hope im right T T) but to get there using public transportation, you do need cards for subway/train/bus? Or not necessary? Do you buy them at kiosks or machines near the terminals? Do you just buy an adequate plan card according to your stay (3 weeks in seoul)

Hi Maha! I promise the subway system is really, really easy to use and tourist-friendly in Incheon! (Like easily the best I’ve ever seen). Honestly, when you take out cash, I’d do like 100,000 KRW max. Korea is really card-friendly, so you really only need cash for subway/bus tickets and food stands! Everywhere else takes CC even if it’s only buying a water bottle.

When you arrive, follow signs for the metro. It’ll take you down a level or two and then you’ll see the entrance to the subway. There are literally arrows on the floor! In front are kiosks to buy tickets – you’ll need cash for them. If you just buy a single journey, you can get it there and it’ll pop you out a little ticket. If you want to get a subway card, you can buy one in one of the convenience stores like GS25. Ask for a TMoney card, and then you can just recharge that at any kiosk. Subway cards are super cheap and so easy to use and have on hand; I’d recommend getting one if you’re visiting for 3 weeks.

There’s also at least one or two stands/travel centers to help you if you get truly lost!

I love buying at stores in Korea and getting lots of free samples

Agree, the free samples are so fun!

We are taking our daughter to Seoul for the fall semester as an exchange student to Yonsei University. We are equally excited for her and also fearful at the same time. She has severe food allergies to fish and all tree nuts and peanuts. She already had a few anaphylactic reactions here at home while on college campus so when she said she applied to study abroad, my worry meter just shoot up!!! Anyways, we are set to fly with her and plan to spend a week in Seoul. Your blog and tips are extremely helpful. Thank you!

Ahh enjoy your week in Seoul! I think as long as she has everything she needs on her and explicitly avoids any restaurants using fish/tree nuts/peanuts she should be ok. Luckily most Korean cuisine doesn’t use anything peanuts or tree nuts.

i’m going to south korea next september and you blog has been so useful! thanks a lot <3

Aw yay, I’m glad it’s been helpful!!

So happy I came across your site. So many great articles. My partner and I will be travelling to South Korea (3 weeks) with our 6-month old. We are still struggling on the logistics: rental car or train/bus. I think it all comes down to the question what can we carry comfortably. Q / Is a infant car seat required for taxis and distance buses? I struggle to find reliable and up to date information. Q / Feom your travelling experience in South Korea what would you recommend?

So the only time I’ve driven in South Korea is on Jeju because I’m too scared to drive otherwise haha. BUT I highly recommend reaching out to my friend, Hallie – https://thesoulofseoul.net/ ! She has a daughter in Korea, and she’ll know all the ins and outs of carseats, etc. I think your best bet is DMing her on Instagram or joining our FB group ( https://www.facebook.com/groups/108958789789483 ) and asking there!

Great information! My husband and I are planning to spend a week in Seoul next year. I’m Black and he is Filipino American. Do you think we will encounter any racial issues?

Hi Stephanie! Good question. Racism in Korea is a pretty loaded topic. Essentially everyone who doesn’t look Korean or East Asian has a good chance of experiencing some sort of micoaggression at least. However, because you’re in Seoul for only a week (aka a short time and in the most progressive part of the country used to seeing international visitors), you’ll most likely be fine.

Thank you for this info. Love the content! This is very helpful for those people like me who’s planning to go to Korea. Hopefully I can visit there next year! May I ask what are the requirements to get Korean Visa?

Hi Juliet! Depends on the visas. I recommend checking out the Korean embassy website in your country for specific details. The E-2 visa for teachers is a whole process!

Hi thank you so much for a detailed outline for tips on traveling to south korea, this helped a lot!

Traveling soon there, do I need to know someone in South Korea as a list of contact or do they ask that when first time travelers arrive there? What if i do not know anyone?

Thank you! I don’t think so, but I’m not sure how things have changed with COVID!

Thank you for this! I am planning my 40th birthday for 2022 and this came up in my search!

Ooh so exciting!! I hope you have fun planning!

I loved this so much! I’m hoping to go to korea next year on my own and i’m so excited but very nervous. and this has been so helpful! I’m not sure if you have already but do you have an article or any advise on getting visas or how it works depending on how long you plan on staying. Thank you x:)

Aw you’ll love it!! I have one on getting the E-2 visa but I’m not familiar with the rest. You’ll want to check out some of the Facebook groups for Korea for that :)

So detailed and so impressive! There are lots of articles of Korean travel tips, but I haven’t seen like this one :) Thanks for your post!

Hi! Thank you :) This means so much to me!

This is so helpful, I’ll be going next year and I can’t wait! When you first traveled to South Korea; did you have to book a hotel and give them the hotel information?

Hi! That’s so exciting; I hope you have the best time!!

Yes! So when you go through immigration, they’ll have you fill out the typical form and it’ll ask for an address and phone number. If I’m not staying with friends, I’ll book an Airbnb in Hongdae or hotel and use their address and phone number on the form.

Hi! I’m going to South Korea this year with 4 other girls (2 of whom are my sisters). I came across your post and it gave a very usueful insight to visiting South Korea for the first time. Thank you!

I cannot wait for my trip in 3 weeks!

Thank you so much :). I hope you ladies have such a fun trip! If your timing is just right, I think you should see the cherry blossoms!

Hi, I’m a Korean preparing to be a tour guide for foreign travelers.

I’m impressed by this post full of affection for Korea. I love it! I think most of, no, all of tips you wrote in this post are super helpful to travelers considering trip to Korea. And actually this post is a good text for me to take a foreigners’ perspective, too.

I’m keeping to see your other posts that is so worth to study(!). Nice to meet your posts. :)

Hi Narae, thanks so much for your kind words :) Good luck with your tour guide prep!

I’m a Korean In this post, I think that you got realistic Korean knowledges and useful tips. I didn’t think about foreigner’s perspacetive. And I am amazed by your tips that is most right thing. Thx for your post :)

Thank you, Jae Youl! I’m glad you like the post :)

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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!

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How to Visit South Korea

Last Updated: January 22, 2024 References

This article was co-authored by Allyson Edwards . Allyson Edwards graduated from Stanford University with a BA in International Relations. Afterwards, she went on to facilitate International partnerships with agencies in over twenty countries, and has consulted for companies in industries across education, fintech, and retail. There are 19 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 55,292 times.

Planning to mark a trip to South Korea off your bucket list? You’ll need to plan ahead to make sure you have your passport ready and work to get the best rates on airline tickets. From there, you’ll need to know some basics about the country, like their currency, public transit, and some awesome places to visit. Once you have all that covered, you are ready for a memorable experience. Adventure awaits!

Preparing for Your Trip

• You’ll want to start on this early because it can take up to 8 weeks to receive your new passport. Even if you choose to pay the extra fee to have it expedited, it can still take 2-3 weeks to receive. [2] X Research source

• Online websites and videos are a good resource to help you get familiar with basic phrases. [4] X Research source
• Translator apps that you can download to your phone are a super helpful tool for more difficult conversations. [5] X Research source

• Summers are wet with monsoon rains, so you will want to bring your rain gear if traveling in July or August. [7] X Research source
• Winters are extremely cold but dry, with temperatures dropping below 0°. If traveling December - March, you won’t need snow boots, but may want to bring your parka! [8] X Research source

Booking Travel and Accommodations

• Airline companies often run special promotions, so booking directly through them during those times is a good idea.
• Don’t forget to check travel companies like Orbitz and Expedia because sometimes they end up having really good deals. They also offer special packages that include airfare, hotel, and transportation, which may save you some money. [10] X Research source

• If you want to stay somewhere more modern or upscale, like a luxury hotel or resort, you’ll want to book in advance. Don’t wait until the last minute as they usually book up fast or charge higher prices for late bookings. [11] X Research source
• For a uniquely Korean experience, stay in a hanok, which is traditional Korean housing. They feature privacy, incredible architecture, and beautiful gardens. [12] X Research source It’ll cost you a little more to stay here, but you’ll be glad you had the experience!
• If you just need a place to rest a little while you are on the go, check out a Jjimjilbang, which is basically a community sauna with a heated floor that will cost you the equivalent of just a few dollars to sleep on.

• Renting a car to drive yourself might not be a great idea--road systems are complex and traffic is dense. Plus, you have to be over 21 to have an international driver’s permit. [14] X Research source

Making the Most of Your Vacation

• The exchange rate is always changing, so check the current rate when you arrive to give you a good idea of how much money you should convert.
• Most major credit cards are accepted in larger cities, but be aware that you may be charged a foreign transaction fee for using them. [16] X Research source

• Entry will cost you 8000₩ for adults, 4000-6000₩ for youth, and children under 6 years old are free.
• Take a break to play and go on a ride on the ferris wheel for a small additional fee!

• For the most value for your money, try YongPyong Resort, which features over 15 miles (24 km) of slopes and 15 lifts. Day ticket prices are about 76,000₩ for adults and 61,000₩ for children.

• This outing will cost you about 2000₩ for adults, 1200₩ for teenagers, and 600₩ for children. They do offer group rates as well. [20] X Research source

• Doota shopping mall and 10 Corso Como offer super-trendy shopping, while Namdaemun Market is home of the biggest traditional Korean market for local and handmade goods.

Community Q&A

• Planning an international trip can be overwhelming, but don't worry! Creating a detailed plan and checklist, and marking items off as you go, will get you trip-ready in no time! Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

• If you go anywhere near the Demilitarized Zone, be very careful. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ https://www.worldtravelguide.net/guides/asia/south-korea/passport-visa/
• ↑ https://passportinfo.com/passport-renewal/
• ↑ https://www.fluentu.com/blog/korean/korean-travel-phrases/
• ↑ https://www.fluentu.com/blog/korean/online-korean-course/
• ↑ https://www.fluentu.com/blog/korean/korean-translator-app/
• ↑ https://www.selectiveasia.com/south-korea-holidays/weather
• ↑ https://www.cnbc.com/2017/05/11/whens-the-best-time-to-book-a-flight.html
• ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/2011/02/27/travel/27prac-vacationpackage.html
• ↑ https://www.smartertravel.com/stay-south-korea-lodging-tips/
• ↑ http://travel.cnn.com/seoul/visit/5-reasons-stay-hanok-while-traveling-korea-813242/
• ↑ https://www.lonelyplanet.com/south-korea/transport/getting-around/local-transport
• ↑ https://www.worldtravelguide.net/guides/asia/south-korea/getting-around/
• ↑ https://www.worldtravelguide.net/guides/asia/south-korea/money-duty-free/
• ↑ https://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/credit-cards/foreign-transaction-fee/
• ↑ https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/south-korea-beautiful-places/index.html
• ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidbressan/2018/02/10/winter-olympics-geology-perfect-ski-slopes-are-the-results-of-250-million-years-of-earths-history/#50a3605e4a89
• ↑ http://www.art-and-archaeology.com/korea/gyeongju/an01.html
• ↑ https://thisiskoreatours.com/project/anapji-wolji-pond/
• ↑ https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/worlds-best-shopping-cities/index.html

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South Korea bucket list: 35 amazing things to do in Seoul & Beyond

Last Updated on 21/05/2022 by secretmoona

Planning your first trip to South Korea and looking for bucket list-worthy activities to do? Here is our list of things you must absolutely do while in South Korea. The capital Seoul is one of the most modern cities in the world and the other cities are slowly catching up. Korea is one of the few countries where you will find traditional markets opened 24/7, skyscrapers scattered around ancient palace grounds, beauty stores at every corner and locals sitting under tents while sipping on soju and enjoying themselves.

Korea bucket list: Things to do in Seoul 

Visit quaint insa-dong.

Insadong is a quaint neighbourhood located in the northeast of Seoul. The area offers a concentration of palaces and older buildings like the Jogyesa temple. Wandering in the traditional district is quite tranquil and special (especially if you have been to Gangnam the day before!) Insadong is home to traditional shops selling everything from traditional clothes like hanbok to artwork, pottery and food. If you are looking for meaningful souvenirs, this is the place. The streets are filled with souvenirs shops. If you are tired of shopping, venture into Ikseon-dong , where you will be able to enjoy Korean tea/cafe in a nice cosy cafe/teahouse. 

Cafe hopping

If you love coffee, Korea is the country you have to visit. They have cafes everywhere from well-known chains, cute or themed cafes. Fancy sipping your coffee from a toilet bowl? Welcome to Poop Cafe! Want to stroke a cat while enjoying a latte? Visit a pet cafe! I highly recommend visiting a couple of cafes for experience and a good time. Head over to Seongsu-dong, a popular cafe district, to sample some of Seoul’s best coffee.

Have a picnic or take a cruise on the Han River  

People love to visit the various parks on the Hansan, the river that separates the north to the south of Seoul. The parks including Haneul Park and Sky Park offer lots of activities to people. There are cycle paths, playgrounds for kids, duck boats rental and other couple activities. Young crowds love to hire a mat, order chimaek (fried chicken and beer) and play games. Another popular activity is taking a cruise after sunset. Catch a boat on Yeouido and admire the lights of the city’s skyscrapers and bridges reflecting on the river. It’s very romantic so expect to see lots of couples. 

Visit a noraebang booth

Similar to Japanese karaoke, Korea’s noraebangs which means “singing rooms” are private rooms you can hire with your friends to sing your favourite Korean pop songs or international chart-topping hits. Hongdae is a popular location for noraebangs as many nights out ends with a visit to a noraebang. But they are everywhere in Seoul or other cities. Prices vary depending on the location and time of the visit.

See the beauty of Seoul from the Namsan Tower

There are lots of places in Seoul where you can enjoy taking in the Seoul skyline. Several hotels, buildings and bars have rooftops or viewing platforms but nothing beats the Seoul N Tower. As the tallest building in Seoul and third tallest in Asia, it is guaranteed to offer you the best bird’s eye view of Seoul. Accessing the tower via the cable car makes it even more magical.

Visit the Five Grand Palaces of Seoul

South Korea has a rich history. All around the country you can see testaments of the ancient kingdoms that ruled the country. You can learn all about the history in museums but nothing beats seeing the architecture from your own eyes. Luckily Seoul has 5 grand palaces you can visit: Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung and Gyeonghuigung. Gyongbokgung and Changggbokgung palaces are my favourites. The first one is the biggest and has beautiful and vibrant architecture. The latter has an exceptional secret garden and has been built with Korean aesthetics in mind: be one with nature. A visit to the palaces should be added to your bucket list, highly recommended.

Fill your bag with beauty products in Myeongdong 

K-beauty (skincare and makeup) is very popular nowadays. No matter the city or the town you are visiting, you will no doubt see many shops and brands on the high streets. Try to explore as many shops as possible as some might be more appropriate depending on your needs. Some of the brands are: Tony Moly, Innisfree, La Neige, Etude House, etc….Sheet masks, snail serums, essence, be sure to fill your bags. And make your skin look beautiful! 

Myeongdong is THE shopping street in Seoul (similar to Oxford Street in London). Not only the streets are filled with fashion, cosmetics stores but also some of the best street food in the country. 

Take a romantic walk along Cheonggyecheon 

Cheonggyecheon stream is a hidden green gem. The 10 km long stream is surrounded by plants and flowers. Along the stream which starts at the City Hall. There are fountains, bridges, murals, sculptures and statues. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants in the streets above making it a good spot for morning or late afternoon strolls.  Cheonggyecheon is the perfect place to take a long walk and unwind. Since the stream is located below the street level, you hardly hear the busy traffic. 

Museum hopping in Seoul to learn about Korean history

There is no better place than museums to learn about Korean history. To understand how history shaped the country (from the multiple invasions to civil wars) visit the National Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum of Korea. The first museum is where you can see the evolution of the country from its prehistoric times to the end of the Joseon Dynasty (1897). It houses more than 220,000 pieces of art including artefacts, calligraphy and Buddhist sculptures. The folk museum located on the grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace covers the history of traditional life. 

Explore two of Seoul’s largest markets: Namdaemun Market and Dongdaemun Market

No bucket list will be complete without a visit to a local market. Namdaemun market, located in the city centre between Seoul City Hall and Seoul Station, is the largest open-air traditional market in Korea. With more than 10,000 vendors, retailers and wholesalers, you are sure to find everything you need: household items, clothes and shoes, tools, accessories, children’s clothes and toys,  household goods, cookware and food. Also, prices are super affordable. Dongdaemun Market is one of the largest markets in the world. With more than 30,000 stores, 50,000 textiles manufacturers no wonder it is one of the top attractions in Seoul. Shopaholics will love the cluster of inexpensive clothes and accessories shops.

Interestingly both markets are named after gates used to surround the walls of Seoul. “Namdaemun“ means the south gate whereas “Dongdaemun” means east gate.

Party all night long in Hongdae or Itaewon

Whether you like clubbing or not, one night in Hongdae or Itaewon is a good way to experience Seoul nightlife. Hongdae is the preferred place for younger crowds (thanks to the many universities located in the neighbourhood). Even if you are not into partying, you can still explore, play a game or two in an arcade or watch a live k pop performance. 

Itaewon has a more international vibe since the US military base is located nearby. The pubs and restaurants in Itaewon offer cuisines from all origins. You can easily find both high-class restaurants and cheap places. 

Korea bucket list: Experience in the rest of Korea

Enjoy a zen moment in buddhist temple.

Not sure what else to do after days of shopping? If you want some time to find your inner peace and relax, then visit a Buddhist temple. There are several temples but the most popular temples are Bongeunsa and Jogyesa. Boggeunsa is located in the middle of skyscrapers of Gangnam whereas Jogyesa is situated in the traditional neighbourhood of Insadong.   As well as appreciating some peacefulness, you will also be able to take part in various activities like a tea ceremony, lanterns making or temple stay.

Bathe in a jjimjilbang (Korean spa)

Public bathhouses are a huge part of the culture and should, therefore, be part of your South Korea bucket list. These 24-hour bathhouses can be found in every neighbourhood. They are popular with young and old alike (people usually go there with their family or friends). Once you’ve exfoliated your body, you go to the common area where you can choose from a variety of sauna rooms, medical baths, whirlpools etc… 

Colourful Gamcheon Culture Village

The city of Busan is home to the most colourful and artistic neighbourhood in the country: Gamcheon Culture Village . The former slum nicknamed “Santorini of Korea” is one of the top attractions you should add to your South Korea bucket list. Strolling through the winding alleys, admiring the murals and artworks or taking a break in one of the delightful cafes or restaurants will leave you with great memories. The area revitalised by the residents thanks to the Korean Government is a great example of an effort to help and support a community.

Conquer M. Hallasan, the Tallest Mountain in Korea

With more than half the country covered with mountains, no wonder Korean love hiking. For avid hikers, what a better place than hiking the tallest mountain in the country. The volcanic island of Jeju is home to Mt. Hallasan. At 1,950m above sea level, Hallasan offers five trails that take you to the summit. Each trail has a different degree of difficulty, therefore, can take you from a few hours to a full day to complete. Also no matter the trail you choose, you will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the island’s coasts. In addition or as a replacement, you can join one of the island’s walks. The Olle Trails offer about 21 routes to explore the island in its entirety.

Hiking in Bukhansan National Park

Even though Seoul is a big metropolis filled with skyscrapers, it is surrounded by mountains. Seoulites love hiking and outdoor activities, so this includes Mount Bukhan. Bukhansan is the highest peak in Seoul and offers lots of paths to choose from. All the paths offer amazing views over Seoul and its surroundings. Accessing Bukhansan National Park is easy thanks to Korea’s great public transport system. 

The 235-kilometre demilitarized zone (DMZ) that separates South Korea to the North is without a doubt a popular attraction. I wasn’t quite interested in exploring while in Korea but I wished I had, especially after watching the hit drama “ Crash Landing on You ”. The DMZ is only accessible via guided tours (without entering the zone) but you will still be able to observe the other side. Be sure the dress respectably as you will be unable to access the Joint Security Area (JSA). 

Dress in hanbok

Wearing a hanbok (traditional clothing) while visiting the traditional areas in Seoul like the palaces or the Hanok Village, is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the Korean culture. Rent a hanbok and stroll through one of the palaces, you even get a free entry! Wandering in the traditional district of Hanok Village, the preserved neighbourhood, is like walking back in time. As if you were part of the Joseon dynasty’s nobility!

Stay in a traditional hanok house

Staying in a hanok house (a traditional Korean house) is an absolute must-do experience when visiting Korea. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience traditional Korea. These traditional Korean houses were built in a specific architectural style with exposed wooden beams and relaxing gardens. They were designed to morph within the surrounding environment and were primarily for the noble during the Joseon Dynasty. Hanok are now trendy not only because they are beautiful and hold history but because they are eco friendly. There are many places where you can enjoy a night or two in a traditional hanok house. Bear in mind that rooms are small and walls, doors are made of wood and paper. You will need to take off your shoes and wear your socks or slippers throughout your stay. Sleeping is done on Korean-style thin mattresses laid on the floor.

Go to the beach 

South Korea has amazingly beautiful beaches thanks to its numerous islands and wide coasts. If you are planning to visit during the summer season, be sure to visit one of the pristine beaches. There are several activities you will be able to enjoy: seaside festivals, water sports, sunrise festivals and many other events. However, note that beaches are only officially open from June to July. so you want to dip in the water in August, it will be at your own risk. 

Hadong – authentic folk village

Andong should be added to your Korean bucket list if you want to discover authentic South Korea. The town is known for its traditional culture and the main attraction is the Hahoe Folk Village, a Unesco World Heritage site, situated along a picturesque river surrounded by pine trees. The village is full of large tile-roofed residences, thatched roofs houses and old pavilions. Stroll through the narrow streets, visit the traditional houses and explore the Hahoe Mask Museum , with its intriguing collection of Korean and international masks.

Take part in a Buddhist temple stay

If you are looking for a truly unique experience while in South Korea, then a temple stay will offer you just that. Not only will you be able to get a glimpse into the life of monks in a traditional temple but will also be able to relax and destress while there. Sometimes, you just need some space for yourself to forget about the stress in your daily life (social media, work etc…) so a temple stay is a perfect opportunity for that. During their stay, visitors learn about Buddhism, practice relaxation, copy sutras and do other activities in order to keep concentrated and relaxed at all times. There are many programmes available in several temples across the country. Jogyesa Temple in Seoul or Beomeosa in Busan are popular options. More information can be found here. 

Meet the Haenyeo women of Jeju Island

Haenyeo is a traditional profession from the island of Jeju . They are women divers who plunge in the sea day in and day out to find shellfish to sell.  You can see them at work every day at Sunrise Peak. You can’t miss them: they all wear wetsuits, face masks, flippers but no oxygen tanks. These ladies have developed a breathing technique that enables them to stay underwater for a long period of time. They are exceptional and bucket list-worthy.

Boseong Tea Fields

Boseong is famous for its green tea plantations (most of Korea’s tea is produced here). The magnificent and photogenic green plantations are a must-see when on a trip to South Korea. Walk to the top of the plantation to admire the gorgeousness of the location, appreciate the gentle smell of the tea leaves and try some of the tea (you can even have green tea flavoured ice cream!)

Explore Nami Island

The independent island of Nami Island is one of the most popular day trip options from Seoul. Seoulites love to make a trip there to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city. The half-moon shaped island is a nice place to explore no matter the season. The garden of the Morning Calm lined with ginkgo trees and beautiful flowers are particularly spectacular in spring and autumn. 

Admire the royal tombs in Gyeongju

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Gyeongju , the ancient capital of the Silla Dynasty is a perfect destination for those interested in history and culture. The most fascinating thing about the charming city is the mounts you see erecting everywhere in the city. These ancient graves of the kings and royal family are impressive. The Daereungwon Tumuli Park houses about 23 tombs and the Oreung Royal Tombs (“ oreung ” meaning “five royal tombs”) is the resting place of four kings and one queen.

Attend a festival

Visiting Korea during the summer season is the best time to experience the many festivals organised in the country. May is the birth month of Buddha, therefore, all the temples organise festivals in celebrations. Hundreds Of colourful lanterns are hung in temples for the joy of visitors. 

During Chuseok, which is known as Korean Thanksgiving Day, Koreans return to their hometowns to celebrate the festive period with their families. Visit a palace during that period to see various entertainment and folk games (mask dance, circle dance and wrestling among others)  

Korea bucket list: Food-related experience in Korea

Dine at the netflix street food stand.

If, like me, watching Netflix’s hit show “Street Food: Asia” gave you an insatiable appetite to explore all the stands featured on the show, you will definitely make a stop at Gwangjang Market. Cho Yonsoon is not only a lovely and remarkable lady, her kalguksu (knife-cut noodles) are delicious. 

Devour the sweet hotteok

South Korea has become a global culinary destination. The street food is one of the best in Asia. One snack you should try is “ hotteok ” and the best place to try it is Busan . Of course, you can find a snack everywhere in Korea. Hotteok is a fried sweet pancake stuffed with a mixture of brown sugar, honey, cinnamon and crushed nuts. Once fried, the filling transforms into a delicious syrup, while the exterior gets crispy. It’s popular, yummy and addictive street food!

Eat a true Korean barbecue

Have you ever eaten Korean BBQ? Slices of ultra-thin, long-marinated meat that you cook yourself on a grill placed in the centre of the table? The meat is usually served with a slice of lettuce leaves that you use to wrap the meat. The Korean barbecue uses two types of meat: beef (bulgogi) or pork belly ( samgyeopsal ). This is best enjoyed with friends. 

Try Korean Street Food In ….everywhere

This South Korea bucket list post would not be complete without a reference to street food! You can basically wander into the streets of any city in Korea, eat your fill of delicious street food without ever going into a restaurant. Every city has a street or section in a market dedicated to food. Not only the food is delicious but also cheap. There are a wide variety of options to choose from: tteokbokki (cylinder-shaped stir-fried rice cakes seasoned with gochujang (Korean chilli pepper paste) or ganjang (soy sauce, in its non-spicy version), hotteok (a deliciously sweet pancake filled with sugar syrup, honey, cinnamon and/or peanuts), gimbap (rice and other things rolled in seaweed) etc…Take a sit in a pojangmacha (covered tent) and eat all the food you can.

Taste a Korean pancake 

Jeon which means pancake in Korean is prepared with chives, seafood, shellfish and eggs mixed with flour batter and then pan-fried. It comes in a number of varieties so the name differs depending on the ingredients. Aside from the seafood pajeon, you can have kimchi jeon and the simple spring onion pajeon ( soegogi-jeon , gochujeon , etc…). Jeon is a popular snack or side dish. The pancake comes pre-sliced into bite-sized pieces that you dip in the accompanying light soy sauce. One word: delicious!

Check out Korean Convenience Store Foods 

One positive thing about travelling in South Korea is that there are convenience stores on virtually every street in major cities and most are open 24/7. You can basically get all the things you need at any hour, no matter where you are. Whether you are looking for a bento box ( dosirak ), a late-night cup noodle or something for breakfast, the stores like 7-Eleven, CU, GS25 will surely have what you are looking for! Plus some of the stores have tables and hot counters so you can sit and have a proper meal for cheap.

Sample fresh seafood at Jagalchi Fish Market

Jagalchi Fish Market is a traditional fish market located in the port city of Busan. There you will find all kinds of fish and seafood: squids, eels, crabs or sea worms. Jagalchi is best visited early in the morning during the morning auctions, so be sure to be there extra early. The next thing to do after checking out the market is sampling the food. Here are three options for you: 

• 1: visit one of the many restaurants and select from the menu
• 2: go to one of the pojangmacha (restaurants under tents) and try out some of their unique fish and seafood dishes
• 3: buy a fish or seafood of your choice and have it prepared for you, sashimi-style. The most daring one can opt to taste the traditional san- nakji , a raw octopus still wriggling or gaebul . 

Eat bibimbap in Jeonju

The reasons to visit Jeonju are the history, culture, art and  Hanok Village with its preserved historical buildings. Taking a stroll in the streets takes you back to the old days, especially if you are wearing a hanbok! The city is famous for the bibimbap so get a taste of the authentic dish.

Hopefully, this South Korea Bucket List article will be useful to plan your Korea trip and will enable you to expand your South Korea Bucket list. If you need more resources to help plan your trip, why not have a look at our South Korea category . You will find articles on important things to know before planning your trip, Korean itinerary or city guides.

This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission. It costs nothing extra to you but helps keep my site running. Thank you for supporting me this way. 

52 thoughts on “ South Korea bucket list: 35 amazing things to do in Seoul & Beyond ”

South Korea hasn’t been on my list until I started watching a girl that moved from the US to a town near Seoul in South Korea. It already stole my heart at the time and your post just did it again. It’s SO high on my list and I need to save this post for future reference. 🙂

Visiting South Korea has been on our bucket list for sometime and I know that when we finally plan a trip there, I will be referring to this informative post. I absolutely love eating bibimbap and would love to sample the authentic way in which it is made in Jeonju. Have got to try hotteok too – it sounds like the perfect street snack that you can indulge in while exploring the surroundings. Thanks for the tip regarding visiting in May and during the Chuseok to see all the festivities.

Thanks Aditi. Indeed, Korea is a gem! I hope you get to visit and try the food soon. While there I couldn’t stop eating: literally, everything is delicious. And hotteok was one of my favourite.

I love this kickass guide to everything Korea that you have mentioned! Now, I am totally wanting to travel there!

I would really love to see the Han River. It looks so spectacular! I have never had the opportunity to visit South Korea, but it has been on my bucket list for a long time and I hope to get there one day. I will save this article for future reference as it seems to be a very comprehensive guide.

Thank you very much Michelle!

There are so many things that I want to do there out of this list! I always wanted to visit South Korea but now after reading all of this I want to go there as soon as possible. Thank you for weiting such in depth post about all of the interesting things to do there, so helpful to have it all in one place!

Thanks Diana!

I love this! South Korea looks so beautiful and really worth a visit! Thanks for sharing

So many interesting things to do in South Korea. I would love to do hike the Bukhansan National Park!

Bukhansan is a hiker’s heaven!

All the god looks so amazing! Never really thought about South Korea so thanks for this!

This is so useful and so inspiring!! I was actually supposed to be going to South Korea in October but have had to cancel. Will definitely be using this guide for when I reschedule my trip!

You will love your trip to South Korea, if you ever re-book it. Happy travel!

South Korea has been on my bucket list of travel destinations to visit for a while now. I’m saving this post for future reference. I’d love to visit as soon as I possibly can! Thanks for breaking everything down in such detail.

This is an amazing list! South Korea is the next Asian country I want to visit. All of these experiences sound incredible. 🙂

I’ve never really thought about visiting Korea before, but you made it look so lovely.

Useful tips! I should have visited Korea last March 2020 but was postponed and now seeing your post I was eager again to go, hope I can visit already. Korea has a lot of things to offer!

Thanks. Hopefully, you can get there next year.

Seoul is a common layover city for me because I live in Mongolia. I already visited Seoul for 4 days before going to my main destination elsewhere and really loved it. I am looking forward to another layover so that I can discover more of South Korea.

There’s definitely more to see in Korea. Aww, I would love to visit Mongolia.

Good to see things to do outside of Seoul! Would love to meet the Haenyeo women..

These women are amazing and so energetic, it’s unbelievable.

Aw mann!! I want to go back just for cafe hopping!! I last visited in 2016 when the president was being impeached sooo…a lot of buildings were closed and the main square had protesters. Sooo…I’d say I’m ready to go back and see more stuff!

Cafe hopping is the best… it’s maybe where I spent most of my money haha!

I was looking on google for cool places to go in Korea .. and apparently I found the right site! I loved the tips! can you tell me if places are opening normally after this terrible pandemic?

Hello. Korea is beginning to re-open, but it’s important to check the official websites of Visit Korea, Visit Seoul and attractions in advance, to ensure you’re up to date on opening hours and any measures in place before you travel. More info can be found here: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/index.kto#

And make your skin look beautiful! 

Myeongdong is THE shopping street in Seoul (similar to Oxford Street in London).

Oh wow, what an extensive post 🙂 for a long time, I never necessarily thought about visiting South Korea, until I had a Korean flatmate. I’d love to go some day and reading your post only increased that wish 🙂

Thank you. I hope you visit soon. I really enjoyed viisting the country and wished I had gone earlier!

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I would love to check out the Grand Palaces and the Royal Tombs! Definitely two things that are right up there for a history lover. This is a great list you’ve put together!

Thank you Krista. Both are amazing places and so full of history (Silla and Joseon dynasties). I enjoyed learning about Korean history while visiting both places.

sooo many things here- it really is such a lovely city!

Oooh South-Korea sounds amazing, I hope I can visit next year, I will keep those places in mind!

Amazing guide! It has made me realise how little I saw during my quick visit years ago. I’d love to go back and explore all of these things, it’s an incredible country.

Thank you, Laura. I would love to go back too. There’s so much more to see and do.

South Korea is definitely high up on my travel bucket list! I’d love to visit all the adorable cafes, go hiking in Bukhansan National Park and visit the DMZ! Such great travel inspo in this post!

Thanks, Kate. Seoul is packed with cute and themed cafes, so be prepared to bring lots of money as you would want to try all the yummy and unique drinks they offer.

Wow, there seems like endless things to do in South Korea. I would love to tackle one of the hikes at the National Park. And even dressing in Hanbok to get immersed into the culture seems like it would be a really cool experience.

Dressing in hanbok and wandering the palaces is definitely one of the top experiences to have while in Korea.

I had no idea that Korea was a culinary hot spot, but all the food you listed sounds delicious; especially, the hotteok! I’d also like to check out the knife cut noodles.

Thanks for your comment. Korean cuisine is impressive and varied, a little on the spicy side but delicious nonetheless. Hotteok was my favourite snack!

Wow – this is the ultimate South Korea bucket list. I would love to check out the markets and museums. Thank you for sharing. Great article. Saving for later!

Thank you for the comment; much appreciated.

Loved this so much! There’s so much to do in South Korea. I look forward to visiting cities and regions outside of Seoul.

This is an amazing list and there’s so much to do in South Korea. I would love to visit the markets and try the street food.

This looks amazing, There’s so much to do in South Korea.

I hope to visit South Korea one day. There is so much to do. Great roundup.

What a comprehensive guide, I have never visited but you have inspired me to add it to my bucket list.

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Glitz, glamour and 'American Pie': Memorable moments from South Korean President Yoon's state visit

WASHINGTON – Any 70-year anniversary merits a big celebration.

And when you’re observing a decadeslong friendship between two nations, an ordinary fête just won’t do.

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden welcomed South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and first lady Kim Keon Hee to the White House for an official state visit on Wednesday to mark the 70th anniversary of the alliance between the two countries.

The bond between the United States and the Republic of Korea was formed at the end of the Korean War, a conflict that cost more than 54,000 American lives.

“It’s an unbreakable bond, forged in bravery and the sacrifice of our people,” Biden said during a pageantry-filled ceremony on the White House South Lawn.

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Yoon said he traveled to Washington to celebrate “with pride, with joy – and with the American people.”

Here are some memorable moments from the South Korean leader’s visit:

A 21-gun salute and Korean tunes for ‘great friends’

State visits by foreign leaders always begin with pomp and circumstance.

On a crisp but sunny morning, the Bidens welcomed the South Korean leader and his spouse to the White House with a formal arrival ceremony in front of nearly 7,000 guests on the South Lawn.

A military band played “Hail to the Chief” as the Bidens walked out of the White House and stood on a red carpet. A few seconds later, a black SUV carrying the guests of honor pulled up the White House driveway.

There was a 21-gun salute, a formal inspection of the troops, and the playing of each country's national anthems. Young children from the Korean-American Children’s Choir in New Jersey performed a traditional South Korean song. A fife and drum corps decked out in long red coats and white pants paraded in front of the stage.

“What a beautiful day to invite great friends back to the White House,” Biden said, celebrating what he called “the ironclad alliance” between the two countries.

That alliance may have been “forged in blood,” Yoon said, speaking through an English translator, but it’s a “just” one that stands for “freedom, peace and prosperity around the world.”

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Honoring American sacrifices in the Korean War

The night before the state visit officially began, the Bidens and their South Korean guests made a quiet pilgrimage to the Korean War Veterans’ Memorial on the National Mall.

The memorial, not far from the Lincoln Memorial, commemorates the sacrifices of the 5.8 million Americans who served in the U.S. armed services during the three-year Korean War. Some 54,246 Americans were killed in the conflict.

The Bidens and their guests strolled quietly through the memorial, which features 7-foot stainless steel statues of soldiers standing in patches of juniper bushes and polished granite strips symbolizing the rice paddies of Korea. They made no public remarks, but Yoon spoke of the visit during the White House arrival ceremony the next day.

“Why did they sacrifice their lives for this faraway country and for the people they never met?” he asked of the Americans killed in the war. “That was for one noble cause: to defend freedom.”

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Gifts for the South Korean guests

When there’s a state visit, there are usually gifts.

The Bidens presented the South Koreans with a small, handcrafted table by an American furniture maker. Made of mahogany wood and inlaid with historical White House wood, the table was inspired by traditional Korean soban tables. The gift included a vase filled with handmade paper hibiscus and rose flowers by a Korean American artist and a brass plaque to commemorate the state visit.

Biden also gave Yoon a shadow box set with custom and vintage baseball memorabilia. Jill Biden presented Kim with a pendant necklace with a trio of blue sapphires designed by a Korean American designer.

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Nukes, cybersecurity and other serious business

Amid the glitz and the glamour, Biden and Yoon conducted serious business, with bilateral meetings at the White House between the two leaders and other top officials from their delegations.

Biden announced that he is increasing demonstrations of military might in the Indo-Pacific and expanding collaboration with South Korea in hopes of deterring an attack by North Korea. In exchange, Yoon reaffirmed his nation's commitment that it would not develop its own nuclear weapons.

The so-called Washington Declaration is the centerpiece of the new initiatives on cybersecurity, economic investments and more that the leaders rolled out during Yoon’s visit.

A State Dinner with South Korean flair

The main event for every state visit is the dinner, the most coveted diplomatic honor – and one reserved for the U.S.'s closest allies.

Naturally, this one had a decidedly Korean flair .

Some 200 invited guests walked by a screen evoking traditional Korean ink brush painting. Dining tables were decked out with 6-foot-tall centerpieces of blossoming cherry tree boughs intended to suggest Washington's Tidal Basin in the springtime or the streets of Jeju. The menu featured braised beef short ribs – an American take on galbi-jjim – served with butter bean grits, sorghum-glazed carrots and pine nuts.

At the start of the soirée, Biden and Yoon toasted each other. Biden raised a glass "to our partnership, to our people, to possibilities" and added, "May we do it together for another 170 years."

Yoon brought a smile to Biden's face by paying homage to his Irish roots. Speaking through an interpreter, Yoon quoted an old Irish saying that goes: "A good friend is like a four-leaf clover. Hard to find and lucky to have."

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Broadway tunes and 'American Pie'

Broadway performers provided the evening’s entertainment, but Yoon stole the show with an impromptu rendition of “American Pie.”

Singers Lea Salonga, Jessica Vosk and Norm Lewis closed out the dinner with a selection of numbers from Broadway hit shows, including “Funny Girl” and “Les Misérables." For their encore, they chose the Don McLean classic “American Pie” especially for Yoon.

When they finished, Jill Biden pushed Yoon onto the stage. “We know this is one of your favorite songs,” Joe Biden said.

Yoon, still speaking through a translator, confirmed that the song was one of his favorites when he was in school. After a bit of coaxing from Biden, Yoon took the microphone and belted out the first few stanzas – in English. The crowd gave him a standing ovation.

Biden, who said he had no idea Yoon could sing, joked that he was going to tap the South Korean crooner to provide the entertainment for the next state dinner. Then, he surprised Yoon with another gift: A guitar signed by McLean.

Who scored a coveted dinner invitation?

The Bidens and the guests of honor weren’t the evening's only big names. Prominent figures from the world of politics, business and entertainment scored an invitation to the state dinner.

Actress Angelina Jolie, decked out in a white dress, brought her son Maddox. Broadway performer Salonga, one of the night’s entertainers, admitted to being nervous but said the experience “feels like being in a fairytale."

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre twirled for the photographers as she made her entrance. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer of New York showed up in a navy suit instead of the usual formal attire. "This is as tux-ey as I get," he said.

Snowboarder Chloe Kim, an Olympic gold medalist, didn’t wear her medal. “I don’t know where it is,” she admitted. She was nervous, she said, but was looking forward to the dinner. "The food's gonna be really good,” she predicted.

The dinner came a day after Biden announced his reelection bid, adding to the buzz around the dinner for his Democratic guests.

Michael Purzycki, the mayor of Biden's hometown of Wilmington, Delaware, offered to assist with campaigning, "Any way he wants me to."

Michael Collins covers the White House. Follow him on Twitter @mcollinsNEWS.

Contributing: Maureen Groppe, Joey Garrison and Francesca Chambers

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