South Korea Travel Advices

Expert tips for gear, clothing, and gadgets to enhance your travel experience.

As an experienced traveler who has been to South Korea several times, here are some valuable tips to help you make the most of your trip:

1. Explore Beyond Seoul

Seoul is an incredible city with endless things to do, but South Korea has so much more to offer:

• Busan: A coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, seafood markets, and scenic hikes at places like Igidae Coastal Walk.

• Jeju Island: Famous for its natural wonders, volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and Hallasan Mountain, which you can hike.

• Gyeongju: Known as “the museum without walls,” this ancient city is filled with temples, tombs, and relics from the Silla dynasty.

• Andong: A great place to experience traditional Korean culture, including the famous Hahoe Folk Village.

2. Use Public Transportation

South Korea’s public transportation is excellent, reliable, and easy to use, even for first-time visitors. The KTX (high-speed train) is a great way to travel between major cities. Make use of T-money cards for subways and buses in cities like Seoul and Busan—it works for all types of public transport, and you can even use it for taxis and convenience stores.

3. Embrace Korean Food Culture

Korean food is one of the highlights of any trip. Be sure to try:

• Korean BBQ (Samgyeopsal or Bulgogi): Grill meats at your table and enjoy them with a variety of side dishes (banchan).

• Kimchi: Every meal comes with a side of this fermented cabbage dish.

• Bibimbap: A mixed rice dish topped with vegetables, meat, and a spicy gochujang sauce.

• Street Food: Don’t miss trying tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and odeng (fish cake skewers) from street vendors.

• Cafes: Korea has a unique and vibrant cafe culture. From themed cafes to specialty coffee shops, you'll find cozy spots with amazing desserts all around the country.

4. Learn Basic Korean Phrases

While many Koreans in major cities speak English, especially younger generations, learning a few basic Korean phrases can enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture:

• Annyeonghaseyo (Hello)

• Kamsahamnida (Thank you)

• Juseyo (Please)

• Yeong-eo halsu isseoyo? (Do you speak English?)

• Igeo eolmaeyo? (How much is this?)

5. Respect Korean Etiquette

Korea has some cultural customs that are good to know:

• Bowing: A small bow is a common way to greet people or show respect.

• Dining: Wait for the oldest person to start eating, and always use both hands when giving or receiving something, especially in formal situations.

• Shoes Off Indoors: Many homes, temples, and even some restaurants require you to remove your shoes before entering.

• Quiet Public Spaces: Koreans tend to be quiet and reserved in public transportation, so try to keep your voice down when on the subway or bus.

6. Timing Your Trip

The best times to visit South Korea are in spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is mild, and you can enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms or autumn foliage. Summers can be hot and humid, with monsoon rains, and winters can be cold, but it’s still a great time for skiing and enjoying the winter festivals.

7. Stay Connected with Wi-Fi

South Korea has one of the fastest internet speeds in the world. You’ll find free Wi-Fi in most places, but renting a portable Wi-Fi device or getting a SIM card at the airport can be convenient for constant connectivity during your trip.

8. Visit Palaces and Temples

Don’t miss the historical palaces and temples in South Korea. In Seoul:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace: The largest and most famous, with changing of the guard ceremonies.

• Changdeokgung Palace: Known for its beautiful secret garden.

• Jogyesa Temple: A tranquil Buddhist temple in the heart of the city.

Outside Seoul, check out temples like Bulguksa in Gyeongju or Beomeosa in Busan.

9. Shopping Tips

Korea is a shopping paradise with everything from luxury brands to local markets:

• Myeongdong (Seoul): Great for cosmetics, clothing, and street food.

• Dongdaemun: A massive shopping district for late-night shopping.

• Insadong: Known for traditional goods, souvenirs, and tea houses.

• Traditional Markets: Like Gwangjang Market, where you can try street food and shop for Korean textiles.

10. Hiking and Nature

South Korea is incredibly mountainous, and hiking is a popular activity for locals and visitors alike. Consider exploring:

• Bukhansan National Park: Right near Seoul, offering incredible views of the city and challenging trails.

• Seoraksan National Park: One of the most beautiful national parks, famous for its fall foliage.

• Namsan Seoul Tower: A popular spot for a light hike with panoramic views of Seoul.

11. Use Naver Maps or Kakao Maps

Google Maps doesn’t work as well in South Korea due to local mapping restrictions, so download Naver Maps or Kakao Maps for reliable navigation. Both apps are available in English and are essential for getting around the country.

12. Be Mindful of Tipping Culture

Tipping is not a common practice in South Korea, and service charges are usually included in your bill at restaurants, cafes, and hotels. In taxis, rounding up to the nearest won amount is appreciated, but not expected.