korea trip budget malaysia 2023

Itinerari Trip Bercuti Ke Korea (Seoul) Selama 6 Hari 5 Malam

Cuba cari tempat bercuti naik flight tak jauh sangat. Cuba cari tempat sejuk sesuai untuk jalan-jalan. Cuba cari tempat sesuai untuk trip sesuai semua family. Lepas beberapa hari terus decide untuk bercuti di Seoul, Korea untuk tahun 2023.

Semua pencarian ni tercetus lepas balik daripada Trip Ke Istanbul, Turki pada tahun lepas . Kalau sebelum ini, family abang aku je tak ikut, tapi kali ini parents aku decide untuk bawa semua sekali ahli keluarga iaitu seramai 14 orang termasuk 2 kanak-kanak bawah 6 tahun dan 2 baby bawah 2 tahun.

Jadi banyak la pertimbangan dibuat untuk cari tarikh yang sesuai. Cari waktu budak-budak cuti sekolah, bila musim tak sejuk sangat, kalau boleh taknak dalam bulan puasa dan sebagainya. Jadi kami decide untuk pergi ke Seoul, Korea Selatan dari 10 Mac hingga 17 Mac 2023 .

Kalau tengok tarikh ni memang selama 8 hari. Tapi full day hanyalah 6 hari sahaja. Kami sampai di Korea pada tengah malam, jadi tolak satu hari dan kami pulang ke Malaysia adalah waktu Subuh, jadi tolak lagi satu hari. Total sebenar bercuti di Korea adalah 6 hari sahaja .

Selain itu, aku ada juga share tips untuk yang pertama kali nak travel ke Korea . Nak buat persediaan apa, nak sediakan dokumen wajib selain pasport, buat itinerary dan sebagainya. Boleh baca sebagai panduan.

Keperluan Wajib

Sekarang Korea dah tak sama macam dulu. Kalau dulu nak masuk Korea senang je macam negara-negara lain juga. Tak perlu khuatir apa-apapun. Setakat ada pasport, tiket flight semua, dah boleh masuk macam biasa.

Sekarang ni tidak boleh tidak atau wajib anda perlu dapatkan Kebenaran Perjalanan daripada pihak Korea atau dipanggil K-ETA ( Mohon Sini ). Jadi anda perlu mohon terlebih dahulu sehinggalah dibenarkan dan barulah boleh untuk datang ke Korea. Selagi tak lulus, tak boleh masuk Korea.

Anda boleh sahaja mohon sendiri. Tapi kami dulu siap suruh ejen untuk mohonkan. Alhamdulillah hanya sekali percubaan sahaja dan terus lulus.

Ada yang bagi tahu lebih baik dapatkan kelulusan K-ETA terlebih dahulu sebelum beli tiket flight. Sebab ianya valid untuk tempoh 2 tahun. Tapi kami dulu beli tiket flight dulu then baru mohon K-ETA. Pun lulus. Ikut selera masing-masing.

Selain itu, dinasihatkan untuk siapkan terus Q-Code dalam tempoh 48 jam sebelum bertolak ke Korea untuk tujuan kuarantin Covid-19 jika ada apa-apa berlaku. Ada ada pilihan untuk siapkan borang tersebut di airport. Tapi lebih baik anda buat di Malaysia sahaja di https://cov19ent.kdca.go.kr/  dan bawa je kod tersebut dalam phone. Nanti sampai scan sahaja.

Setakat ini, hanya 2 dokumen ini sahaja yang wajib dibuat jika anda ingin memasuki Korea Selatan iaitu K-ETA dan Q-Code .

*Update terbaru: Q-Code tidak lagi wajib untuk diisi dan tidak diperlukan untuk masuk ke Korea. Tapi k-eta masih wajib tau. Info penuh disini .

Tukaran Mata Wang

Untuk bulan Mac 2023, tukaran mata wang Korean Won (KRW) kepada Malaysia Ringgit (MYR) adalah 1000 Won = RM3.60 . Lebih kuranglah. Jadi kesemua harga yang aku paparkan dalam artikel ni berpandukan kadar tukaran ni lah. Lebih mudah.

Jadi semua duit yang aku dah family gunakan sudah ditukar siap-siap di Malaysia. Rasanya tiada penambahan atau pengeluaran dibuat di Korea. Selain itu, ada juga guna kad kredit dan kad Wise atau BigPay selama berada di sana. Semua boleh guna. Jangan risau.

Total Kos Perbelanjaan Di Seoul, Korea

Sebelum aku share itinerary, aku kongsilah sikit total kos perbelanjaan selama berada di Korea termasuk tiket kapal terbang, pengangkutan, penginapan, aktiviti, tempat lawatan, makanan dan beberapa perkara lagi

i)  Tiket Kapal terbang

Nampaknya, tiket ke Korea tidak seperti dulu. Dulu boleh dapat bawah seribu je. Sekarang lepas Covid-19 ni tiket flight semua dah mahal. Untuk penerbangan kali ini, kami menaiki Air Asia dengan harga RM1700 return seorang . Tiada transit, jangan risau terus ke Incheon daripada KLIA 2.

Setiap hari, anda boleh semak harga yang ditawarkan di website Air Asia untuk dapatkan tawaran yang terbaik. Boleh tengok harga dan beli tiket di website Air Asia sahaja di www.airasia.com

ii)  Kos Pengangkutan

Untuk pengangkutan, selama berada di Korea kami hanya gunakan pengangkutan awam sahaja iaitu dengan menaiki Train Subway. Cuma ada penambahan seperti kos untuk Airport Transfer, bas ke jeti Nami Island, Feri ke Nami Island dan Cable Car untuk naik ke Namsan Tower. Itu sahaja.

Untuk Subway, kena dapatkan T-Money (macam kad TnG di Malaysia) iaitu dengan harga 3,000 Won (RM10.80) . Kami hanya perlukan 10 keping sebab kanak-kanak bawah 6 tahun free, boleh lalu pagar bersama peneman. Sekali perjalanan, kena caj 1,250 Won (RM4.50). Tapi kalau jauh sangat hampir 1 jam perjalanan (anggaran), ada penambahan sikit lebih kurang 200 Won (72 sen). Murah je.

Anda boleh dapatkan di mesin setiap stesen subway atau mana-mana kedai runcit. Nanti nak balik pun boleh refund semuanya di office berdekatan stesen dan dapatkan balik lebihan yang ada di dalamnya.

Kemudian topup 20,000 + 5,000 + 10,000 iaitu total 35,000 Won seorang (RM126) sepanjang penggunakan Subway dan bas. Cukup! Siap ada lebih 3000 Won. Naik cable car 14,000 Won (RM50) untuk dewasa dan 10,500 Won untuk kanak-kanak.

Kemudian akhir sekali kami guna Airport Transfer sebab berjalan tengah malam dan pagi buta untuk bergerak ke airport dan dari airport. Dengan harga return kesemuanya 230,000 Won (RM828) untuk 2 van. Jadi RM83 seorang . Harga dan pengangkutan ni ditawarkan daripada owner Airbnb kami sendiri. Boleh nak contact, boleh pm saya.

Kos Pengangkutan kesemuanya adalah RM259 seorang sepanjang berada di Seoul, Korea.

iii)  Kos Penginapan

Untuk penginapan sebenarnya terlalu banyak pilihan untuk anda menginap ketika berada di sana. Anda hanya perlu pilih tempat yang anda selesa sahaja. Tetapi tidak bagi kami, kerana perlu cari sebuah tempat yang mampu memuatkan seramai 14 orang dalam satu tempat dengan harga yang munsabah.

Jadi tempat paling sesuai adalah menggunakan Airbnb untuk cari sebuah apartment. Jadi lepas cari tu, jumpa satu sahaja pilihan yang paling sesuai dengan ciri yang aku nak dan alhamdulillah ianya tidak jauh daripada stesen Subway. Walaupun full day 6 hari, tapi kami terpaksa sewa selama 8 hari. Jadi total adalah RM8,000 untuk satu rumah dan tempahan dibuat dari Malaysia lagi mengguankan Airbnb.

Airbnb ini terletak di Mapo-gu yang mana kawasan yang sibuk dengan orang ramai. dekat dengan Hongik Uni. Station. Exact location, boleh tengok sini dan link Airbnb boleh tengok sini .

Kalau anda berminat, boleh tempah Airbnb Y1. Jadi daripada 8k tersebut, seorang bayar RM800 untuk 8 hari 7 malam. 

iv)  Kos Makanan

Korea bukan negara Islam, jadi untuk dapatkan makanan halal sedikit susah lah. Jadi kami decide bawa apa yang boleh bawah dari Malaysia. Macam biasalah bawa Kari Ayam Brahim , Maggi , ikan bilis, kicap, sos cili , sambal hitam dan macam-macam lagi la.

Breakfast sebelum jalan, memang masak sendiri dahulu di rumah dan ada beberapa hari bawa juga bekalan untuk makan tengah hari. Di sana ada dijual nasi segera dalam bungkusan di 7-eleven atau CU Mart. Boleh beli dengan harga 1500 Won. Cuma perlu panaskan dalam microwave je.

Selain itu, ada juga singgah 2, 3 kali kedai halal seperti Kampungku, Eid, Turkish Cruisine dan macam-macam lagi. Kos makanan bergantung sebab jarang makan luar, biasanya masak sahaja. Jadi aku tak masukkan.

v)  Kos Aktiviti & Tempat

Untuk kos aktiviti ni ada dua tempat perlukan tiket masuk dan juga kami sewa hanbok di Gyeonbokgung Palace tapi dapat masuk percuma. Sepatutnya masuk istana tu kena bayar kalau tak pakai pakaian tradisi Korea.

Tiket Nami Island termasuk feri (Entry Visa) berharga 16,000 Won untuk dewasa dan 13,000 untuk kanak-kanak. Kalau masuk lewat belah petang, tiket murah sikit. Jadi seorang RM57.60 . Kemudian tiket Lotte World Adventure berharga RM140 seorang . Beli tiket di klook sahaja lebih murah. Boleh beli sini .

vi)  Lain-Lain Kos

Untuk lain-lain kos tambahan adalah seperti berikut:

• Pocket Wifi Korea daripada KT Olleh. Aku tempah di klook di Malaysia dengan harga RM176.80 untuk 2 device selama 8 hari. Jadi seorang RM17 seorang . ( Tempah Sini )
• Takaful TripCare 360 + Covid untuk individu = RM87.50 seorang (Kalau pakej family, pasangan lebih murah). Boleh tengok sini .

TOTAL KOS - Jadi jumlah kos dan perbelanjaan trip dan percutian aku dan keluarga ke Seoul, Korea kali ini tidak termasuk kos makan dan shopping adalah RM3800/seorang . Itulah lebih kurang.

Kos tandas percuma sebab masuk dalam tandas subway je.

Itinerary Trip Di Seoul, Korea

Kami sampai di Incheon Airport jam 11.00 malam waktu Korea pada 10 Mac. Kemudian gerak ke tempat penginapan dan sampai jam 12.00 tengah malam. Jadi hari pertama memang tak sempat buat apa-apa even dah sampai ke Korea. Jadi hari pertama adalah bermula pada 11 Mac iaitu keesokan harinya.

Sebelum itu, terpaksa bergegas untuk ambil Pocket Wifi di pintu 10 ketika di Incheon Airport. Aku keluar di pintu 2. Betapa jauhnya berjalan dan dalam masa yang sama terpaksa bergegar sebab driver dah tunggu lama.

Untuk K-ETA aku tak pasti di imigresen dieorang tengok atau tidak, tapi aku dah selik dalam pasport. Tapi di KLIA ada staff yang semak lebih awal K-ETA semua penumpang. Jadi bawa dan sila print siap-siap.

Keluar sahaja daripada kabin kapal terbang, aku perlu siapkan Q-Code. Tapi kalau dah buat dari awal di Malaysia, hanya bawa kod itu sahaja dan imbas. Setel dan boleh bergerak ke imigresen. Alhamdulillah, tiada perkara yang tidak baik berlaku. Staf tak check pun bag kami. Lagi pun memang tak bawa benda pelik-pelik.

Lagi satu, anda perlu siapkan borang individu yang diberikan dalam flight. Yang penting nama dan tempat tinggal selama di Korea. Ini procedure, jadi kena ikut je la deh.

Day 1 (11 Mac 2023 - Sabtu)

[Ewha Women University > Starfield Library]

Sebab hari pertama ni penat sikit, itinerary asal terpaksa diubah sikit. Selain itu, masih belum biasa untuk naik subway dan shock bila tengok sampai ada lebih 10 line. Tapi nasib baik guna je apps Naver Map , semua benda jadi mudah kalau nak naik subway.

Destinasi paling dekat dengan tempat penginapan kami iaitu area Hongik University adalah Ewha Women University. Disini memang tempat belajar tetapi ada tarikan tersendiri apabila bentuk unik yang ditawarkan sehingga ramai pengunjung yang akan datang sini. Jangan risau masuk percuma sahaja. Katanya hanya tutup bila pelajar ada peperiksaan sahaja. Sini lebih tempat untuk bergambar sahaja.

Kemudian terus bergerak ke destinasi kedua di Starfield Library yang terdapat di dalam COEX Mall. Disini terdapat sebuah library yang besar dimana ianya dibuka kepada orang ramai. Sambil shopping, boleh la lepak sini baca buku. Masuk percuma. Tarikan utama pastinya untuk bergambar lah. Malam cantik, baru nampak lampu-lampu dan susunan buku tu semua.

[Cara Pergi]

• Hongik Univ. Station (Line 2) dan turun di Ewha Women Univ. Station (exit 3). Kemudian jalan kaki sikit 10 minit
• Ewha Women Univ. Station (Line 2) dan turun di Samseong Station (exit 6). Terus sampai ke mall tersebut

Day 2 (12 Mac 2023 - Ahad)

[Dongdaemun Design Plaza > Restoren Kampungku] 

Selama berada di Korea, hari ini sahaja yang hujang dan nasib baik sampai pukul 1.00 tengah hari sahaja. Taknak merisikokan diri untuk redah hujan. Sebab ada budak-budak kan. Takut demam, apa pun tak dapat pergi.

Lepas habis je hujan, terus bergerak ke Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP). Tempat yang ada sebuah bangunan unik dan futuristik. Sini untuk bergambar je la. Ada tempat berbayar dan masuk free. Habis masa kat sini, sebab ada playground. Memang budak-budak habis masa kat sini je la.

Jadi sebab masih awal, decide untuk cuba restoren terkenal iaitu Kampungku dimana anda boleh cakap melayu. Kat sini pekerja pun orang melayu. Kat sini makan je la. Ada menu Malaysia macam nasi goreng, nasi lemak semua atau makanan Korea. Tapi paling best, korang perlu cuba ayam goreng dia. Tak tahu lah, sedap betul makan ranggup-ranggup dan panas-panas. Kat luar sejuk.

Kat sini juga disediakan surau. Tandas ada bidik. Kalau tak makan pun boleh guna surau jangan risau. Free of charge. Tapi Halal Mart tu dah tutup la. Tak dapat nak beli barang bawa balik. Kat sini dekat je dengan Myeondong Street. Lalu la sekejab sekali harung. Buat raso-raso sebab hari last baru datang as planned.

• Hongik Univ. Station (Line 2) dan turun di Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (exit 1). Terus sampai
• Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (Line 4) Myeong-dong Station (exit 3). Jalan 5 minit dan sampai terus ke restoren tersebut

Day 3 (13 Mac 2023 - Isnin)

[Gyeongbokgung Palace > Namdaemun Market]

Hari ni barulah betul jadi Korea apabila kami decide untuk pergi ke Istana Gyeongbokgung dan merasai pengalaman untuk memakai pakaian tradisi Korea iaitu Hanbok. Sewa je la, bukan beli.

Sebenarnya untuk masuk ke istana ni, kena beli tiket. Jadi anda boleh beli di klook sahaja ( sini ) dengan harga RM123. Tapi anda boleh masuk secara percuma kalau anda pakai hanbok lengkap dari atas ke bawah. Banyak kedai yang sediakan sewa. Aku sewa di Daehan Hanbok. Boleh la cari. Sama je mana-mana lebih kurang.

Dah sewa semua, barulah boleh masuk terus ke kawasan istana. Tarikan utama untuk bergambar je la. Tapi jangan lupa setiap pukul 2.00 petang akan ada upacara pertukaran pengawal di pintu masuk. Boleh la tengok sambil-sambil tu. Tempat terlalu besar, tak sempat nak explore semua tempat. Lagi pula hari tu rasa sejuk sangat. 

Lepas habis bergambar semua, bergerak ke Namdaemun Market untuk cuba nasib kalau sempat untuk shopping. Sebab kat sini dia tutup pukul 5.00 petang. Malangnya sampai sini, banyak dah kedai tutup. Ada apa kat sini? Nanti aku cerita kat bawah, sebab aku pergi sekali lagi.

• Hongik Univ. Station (Line 2) dan tukar Line 3 di Euljiro 3(sam)-ga Station dan turun di Gyeongbokgung Station (exit 5). Anda ke kiri untuk terus sampai ke kawasan istana atau ke kanan untuk pergi sewa hanbok dulu di kawasan luar istana. 10 minit je lebih kurang jalan kaki lepas tu.
• Guna Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3) dan tukar Line 4 di Chungmuro Station dan turun di Hoehyeon Station (exit 5). Terus sampai ke street tersebut untuk shopping

Day 4 (14 Mac 2023 - Selasa)

[Lotte World Adventure]

Kalau datang Korea ni ada dua theme park kena singgah iaitu Everland atau Lotte World. Everland lebih kepada outdoor activities dan Lotte World adalah 'Disneyland' Korea yang mana lebih fokus kepada mainan indoor.

Pada awalnya dah plan untuk ke Everland, tapi last minutes pertukaran jadual semuanya terpaksa berpindah ke Lotte World. Apa-apapun kena pergi juga, lagi pula memang ramai budak-budak dalam trip kali ni. Jadi last minit juga beli tiket online di klook dengan harga RM140 sahaja. Beli di kaunter lebih mahal tau. Boleh beli online sini .

Kat luar sejuk, nasib baik juga pilih indoor game ni. Banyak permainan boleh main dengan bebas. Sebab cuaca tak sejuk pun. Memang disini, korang kena spent time seharian, dari pagi hingga malam, waktu tutup.

Tempat ni sangat sesuai kalau ada anak kecil...

FYI, permainan disini banyak, tapi lebih kepada mood kanak-kanak. Tidak terlalu ekstrem. Tapi nak lebih ekstrem, main di outdoor. Kat sini juga, ada beberapa persembahan yang akan dimainkan. Jadi anda boleh tengok jadual waktu yang ditetapkan. Ada persembahan jalanan (parade) dan persembahan pentas dan paling utama persembahan lampu castle dimainkan pada belah malam. Katanya akan ada bunga api juga. Tapi hari tu kami pulang awal sebab lapar.

BACA : Beli Tiket Lotte World Adventure Lebih Murah Secara Online

Yes, kat dalam ni rupanya tiada makanan yang ada cop halal. Jadi berhati-hatilah nak makan. Lebih baik bawa makanan sendiri dari luar. Gayanya boleh je bawa makanan luar. Selain itu, surau ada disediakan ditingkat 3F. Jangan risau.

• Hongik Univ. Station (Line 2) dan turun di Jamsil Station (exit 4). Jalan ikut dalam mall dia pun ok sampai ke pintu utama.

Day 5 (15 Mac 2023 - Rabu)

[Nami Island]

Antara tempat yang aku tunggu-tunggu nak pergi adalah Nami Island. Dah sampai Korea memang wajib la singgah sini. Lagi pun dia tak lah terlalu jauh sampai nak bermalam disana. Boleh sahaja balik hari. Kami sekali lagi decide untuk spent seharian di pulau tersebut sahaja.

Nak masuk Nami Island ada 2 cara sahaja iaitu menaiki feri atau zipline dan ianya juga termasuk tiket masuk la kiranya. Harga naik feri ialah 16,000 Won dan zipwire 44,000 Won. Boleh beli tiket di kaunter atau secara online di klook. Tiket Feri sini dan tiket zipline sini .

Ianya memang sebuah pulau dan diindahkan dengan susunan pokok pine yang cantik gila. Masa kami datang winter nak masuk spring tapi bunga masih tidak kelihatan. Hanya pokok tanpa daun sahaja yang banyak. Salji pun ada satu tempat je masih ada. Yang belum cair. Pokok tanpa daun pun cantik, kalau musim luruh dengan warna daun keemasan pastinya lebih cantik.

Jadi tarikan utama pastinya bergambar di setiap susunan dan antara barisan pokok-pokok tersebut. Selain itu, kalau penat berjalan, ada disediakan basikal untuk anda sewa. Satu basikal individu 8,000 Won untuk sejam. Cukup je kalau nak ronda seluruh pulau sebenarnya. Bagi aku, sangat berbaloi anda sewa basikal. Lagi pula banyak tempat cantik yang jauh tak ramai orang. Jadi best lah kalau nak bergambar.

Untuk kemudahan sini, semuanya lengkap. Surau besar, tandas, restoren halal pun ada (Asian Cruisine), tempat panaskan badan pun ada, tempat picnik dan macam-macam lagi. Tapi mudah, bawa je makanan sendiri, masak dari rumah. Lebih jimat. Siap celebrate birthday my mom lagi. Kami sampai tengah hari dan keluar pukul 6.00 petang. Cukup lah.

BACA : 3 Cara Untuk Pergi Ke Nami Island

• Hongik Univ. Station (Line Gyeongui-Jungang) dan tukar Line Gyeongchun di Mangu Station dan turun di Gapyeong Station (exit 1). Kemudian ambil bas 10-4 dan turun di perhentian terakhir di jeti Nami Island. Dari sinilah, anda boleh naik feri atau zipwire untuk terus ke Pulau Nami.
• (Perjalanan keseluruhan ambil masa 2 jam) 

Day 6 (16 Mac 2023 - Khamis)

[Itaewon (Mosque) > Namdaemun Market > Namsan Tower > Myeongdong Street]

Hari terakhir kami cuba mampatkan untuk pergi ke tiga tempat bermula di Itaewon. Fokus utama sini adalah untuk singgah Seoul Central Mosque. Masjid terbesar di Korea. Sebagai muslim, carilah masa dan selitkan itinerary anda untuk datang ke masjid ini. Alhamdulillah, kami sampai sahaja bilal sedang azan Zohor. Terus ambil wuduk di bawah dan berjemaah dengan imam Korea.

Sini bukan masjid je best, kawasan sekitar pun best sebab ada muslim street dimana hampir semua kedai disitu menjual barangan halal. Restoren halal, kedai runcit jual ayam, daging dan barangan dapur semua halal. Tanpa ragu punya. Jadi tips untuk yang nak datang Korea, datang la Itaewon pada hari pertama dan kemudian beli stok seminggu ayam, daging semua kat sini dan boleh masak kat rumah. Lagi pula boleh start dengan solat di masjid kan.

Selepas selesai makan di restoren sekitar muslim street Itaewon tu, terus bergerak ke Namdaemun Market sekali lagi sebelum tutup pukul 5.00 petang. Tujuan utama adalah shopping souvenir. Sinilah tempatnya dengan nama kedai Bokminsa di tingkat 2 dalam bangunan. Bawa balik sebagai kenang-kenangan. Biasalah kan. Keychain, fridge magnet, bookmark dan sebagainya. Kedai-kedai lain pun ada je kalau nak usha. Selain itu, sini juga syurga barangan kemas seperti brooch. Boleh la cari kalau berminat.

Cari, ambil, bayar. Dah setel terus bergerak ke Namsan Tower. Ada pilihan untuk berjalan kaki terus ke puncak. Tapi bawa stroller, bawa parents takkan nak jalan kaki kan. Jadi kami pilih untuk naik cable car dengan harga 14,000 Won sahaja seorang untuk tiket return. Ini baru harga naik ke puncak di kaki menara tau, belum naik ke menara. Itu kena bayar lain pula. Duduk di kaki menara pun dah menarik untuk bergambar.

Dah setel, turun semula dan destinasi terakhir adalah Myeongdong Street. Antara tempat yang terkenal dengan street food Korea dan pastinya surga skin care. Untuk perempuan a yes. Untuk aku memang tak lah beli skin care. Jadi sudahnya cari makanan yang boleh makan lah.

Alhamdulillah aku dapat cuba tiga jenis makanan iaitu chicken skewer, bahulu ikan dan bahulu telur kot. Paling best dan anda wajib cuba adalah Grilled Chicken Skewer. Sedap gila, makan panas-panas, pedas masa cuaca sejuk. Jangan risau, kedai ni memang certified halal bukan sekadar tampal sahaja. Kedai-kedai lain ada yang sekadar tampal tau. Tapi terserah la nak cuba atau tidak.

• Hongik Univ. Station (Line 2) dan tukar Line 6 di Hapjeong Station dan akhir sekali turun di Itaewon Station (exit 3). Kemudian jalan dalam 10 minit, akan sampai ke masjid tersebut. Kena mendaki sikit.
• Itaewon Station (Line 6) dan tukar Line 4 di Samgakji Station dan turun di Hoehyeon Station (exit 5). Jalan kaki sikit dah sampai ke Namdaemun Market.
• Naik di Hoehyeon Station (Line 4) dan turun di Myeongdong Station (exit 1). Di exit 1 ni, anda tunggu bas percuma warna hijau kuning bertulis 'Namsan Cable Car'. Naik bas ni yang mana dia akan bawa terus ke Namsan Cable Car. Takpayah penat berjalan. Dari cable car tu, dalam 5 minit terus sampai ke puncak Namsan Tower

Pengalaman Bercuti Di Seoul, Korea

Ini kali ketiga sebenarnya aku guide untuk pergerakan ketika bercuti di luar negara untuk family. Mula-mula di Perth, kemudian di Istanbul dan terbaru di Seoul, Korea. Kalau dah DIY ni, memang kalau boleh bergerak dengan harga yang murah iaitu menaiki pengangkutan awam. Kelebihan iainya murah tapi ia pasti memenatkan. Yang penting berbaloi.

Tapi dari pengalaman, of coz kalau ada stroller ni kita slow sikit la. Sebab kena cari lift dan kadang kala exitnya berlainan dengan plan kita. Setiap stesen tu exit dia banyak tau. Memang besar lah. Jadi kalau dah keluar tempat lain, kena cari semula exit yang kita nak tu.

Alhamdulillah setakat disana, tak pernah lagi salah naik stesen. Salah exit tu biasa. Takda jalan yang terlalu jauh macam aku alami seperti di Istanbul. Belajar dari kesilapan. Setting di apps 'less walking' dan fokus naik subway sahaja instead of bas. Takut sesak dan susah nak bawa masuk stroller.

Cuaca pula lebih sejuk berbanding di Istanbul. Kebiasaanya bawah 10°C. Pernah sekali cecah sampai 1°C. Sejuk weh. Ada matahari, tapi tak membantu. Ada sekali hidung aku berdarah, tapi bukanlah mengalir keluar.

Secara keseluruhan, semua enjoy kot walaupun ada 1-2 tempat tak sempat singgah haha Lagi pula akhirnya harapan untuk bercuti semua ahli keluarga tercapai. Penat tapi enjoy dan berbaloi. Pengalaman yang jarang kita dapat.

Korea juga antara negara yang menarik, best dan selamat untuk dilawati. Rasanya kalau jenis kaki kdrama, layan kpop, layan makanan korea, memang korang akan enjoy the fullest lah.

Inilah antara itinerary yang aku boleh kongsi untuk pembaca semua yang nak berjalan di Seoul, Korea secara sendiri tanpa ejen. Korang buat sendiri je, plan sendiri, gerak sendiri. Seriusly aku cakap, mudah dia 99%. Yang penting ada internet, T-money dan money. Setel.

Akhir sekali, terima kasih ibu dan ayah aku sebab sponser sikit trip kali ni hehehe

Hope enjoy semua!

15 comments for "Itinerari Trip Bercuti Ke Korea (Seoul) Selama 6 Hari 5 Malam"

Pakej Percutian Korea 2024 Seoul 6H4M (Joined Tour)

✈ 6 JAM 15 MINIT

Dari kl – seoul, 1°c – 29°c.

Seoul merupakan ibu negara Korea Selatan dan bandaraya metropolitan ke 35 terbesar di dunia yang menempatkan 9.9 juta penduduk dan terletak berhampiran Sungai Han di barat laut Korea Selatan. 

Seoul terkenal dengan bangunan pencakar langit, sistem jaringan tren berteknologi tinggi, budaya pop, istana, tokong Buddha dan street market.

Antara tempat menarik di Seoul adalah Nami Island, Namsan Tower, Sejong Museum, Hongdae Street, Itaewon Mosque, Gyeongbok Palace, Vivaldi Ski Park, Namdaemun Market, Starfield Library, Dongdaemun Street, Myeongdong Street, Gwanghwamun Square dan Everland Theme Park.

Aktiviti menarik di Seoul adalah, sightseeing di Nami Island, bermain di Everland Park seharian, main salji & ski di Vivaldi Ski Park, shopping di street market, foodhunting, experience nightlife Seoul, belajar buat kimchi, pakai Hanbok di Gyeongbok Palace dan telusuri Islam di Itaewon Mosque.

TEMPAT MENARIK DI SEOUL

Nami Island

Tempat shooting drama Winter Sonata & Crash Landing On You.

Myeongdong Street

Lokal street yang menempatkan jenama mewah & makanan Korea.

Everland Park

Taman tema terbesar di Korea Selatan (Disneyland Korea)

Gyeongbok Palace

Istana utama dinasti Joseon dibina tahun 1395 di utara Seoul.

Gwanghwamun Square

Tapak terbesar di Seoul yang ada monumen & pertunjukan KPOP.

• Namsan Tower

Menara tinjau kedua tertinggi di Seoul setinggi 236 meter.

Starfield Library

Perpustakaan moden tercantik di Korea dengan rak buku 13 meter.

Namdaemun Market

Pasar terbesar Seoul, terkenal dengan barangan, makanan, dan budaya Korea.

Vivaldi Ski Resort

Resort ski di kaki gunung untuk bermain salji & luncur salji.

AKTIVITI MENARIK DI SEOUL

Foodhunting Halal

Makan lokal street food halal & sedap di Myeongdong Street.

Sightseeing

Lihat panorama indah di Nami Island dan Namsan Tower.

Pakai Hanbok

Experience pakai pakaian diraja Korea di Gyeongbok Palace.

Buat Kimchi

Join kelas kimchi dengan chef & buat kimchi sebenar di Seoul!

Pergi Myeongdong, Namdaemun, Dongdaemun & Hongdae.

Experience salji & luncur salji di Vivaldi Ski Park seharian!

Naik Basikal

Lihat panorama Nami Island sambil menaiki basikal.

Experience nightlife lokal Korean waktu malam di Dongdaemun.

PERBEZAAN PAKEJ SEOUL ARBA TRAVEL DENGAN YANG LAIN

Tiada tempat paksa beli.

Anda TAK DIBAWA ke shopping mall yang mahal, dengar ceramah jualan jed & ginseng. Anda akan makan & shopping di tempat yang orang Korea pergi.

RASA 'NIGHTLIFE' KOREA

Hotel anda akan menginap terletak di city centre Seoul. Jarak ke tempat tumpuan seperti shopping mall, street food dan lain-lain cuma walking distance.

Kami pastikan anda solat tepat masanya di tempat yang selesa. Anda akan makan di restoran Korea yang halal & disemak oleh tim ARBA yang 8 tahun tinggal di Korea.

MAKANAN KOREA SEDAP

Kami pun kaki makan! Makanan Korea yang kami pilih memang sedap & sangat disukai orang Malaysia. Anda akan disajikan masakan Malaysia untuk hidangan tertentu bagi yang rindukan masakan Malaysia.

900+ TESTIMONI SEJAK 2014

Pakej Korea ARBA sangat dikenali sebagai pakej Korea #1 Malaysia. ARBA Travel juga berdaftar dengan Kementerian Pelancongan, anda selamat dari sebarang penipuan.  Rating 4.8/5 star di Google.

KAMI URUSKAN VISA 100%

Tak semua travel agensi boleh uruskan visa Korea dari A-Z dalam masa singkat. Kami berpengalaman uruskan VISA K-ETA dan siap dalam masa 1 hari bekerja!

PETA PAKEJ KOREA DIBAWA ARBA TRAVEL

PAKEJ SEOUL DIPILIH 3,000 RAKYAT MALAYSIA SEJAK 2015

MENDAPAT LIPUTAN MEDIA

PERBEZAAN PAKEJ KOREA ARBA & PAKEJ LAIN

PAKEJ ARBA (Full Experience)

PAKEJ ARBA (Standard)

PAKEJ SYARIKAT XYZ

HARGA TERMASUK FLIGHT

Dari RM4997

Dari RM4097

Dari RM3999

Tidak Bawa Ke Tempat Paksa Beli

Bawa Ke 3-6 Tempat Paksa Beli

SKI PARK & THEME PARK

Free & Easy Day

Hotel 3 Star Di Tengah City Centre

Hotel 3 Star 50 Minit Dari City Centre

ITINERARY KE SEOUL, KOREA 6H4M

Day 1: kuala lumpur – incheon, day 2: nami island.

• Trip briefing at KLIA2 4 hours before departure
• Flight to Incheon Airport, Seoul
• Airport pickup
• Nami Island (filming location for Winter Sonata)
• Starfield Library @ Coex Mall (iconic library, KPOP gallery & shopping outlet)
• Check-in Hotel

DAY 3: FREE & EASY

Day 4: seoul city day.

• Free and Easy OR
• Choose from additional activities below
• Check out Seoul hotel
• Gyeongbok Palace & Gwanghwamun Square (the main royal historical palace)
• Itaewon Mosque (the first Islamic mosque in South Korea)
• Sejong Museum (experience writing in Korean Hangul *if time permitted)
• Dongdaemun Plaza & Shopping Street
• Check in Incheon hotel

DAY 5: SHOPPING DAY

Day 6: seoul – kuala lumpur.

• Namdaemun Market (shopping for souvenirs and brooches) Hongdae Shopping Street (lively spot filled with local performances, and korean shopping outlet)
• Myeongdong Street (shopping for Korean items, skincare, makeup, KPOP items and street foods)
• Check Out Hotel
• Airport transfer for flight to KLIA
• Return Flight Tickets
• Airport Tax
• 20kg Baggage Fee +7kg Hand Luggage
• Meals as mentioned
• Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
• Transportation (except for Free & easy day)
• Admission fees
• Tourist Guide – English Spoken (except for Free & easy day)
• Tipping Fee
• K-ETA Application – Complementary (1 time)
• Personal Expenses
• Excess Baggage Fee
• Additional Meal
• Optional activity
• Travel Insurance
• In Flight Meal
• K-ETA reapplication (RM70)
• PCR test before departure
• PCR test on arrival at Incheon Airport

ADD ON (OPTIONAL)

Everland Day trip [Minimum: 6 pax]

Includes: Return Private Transport (with driver) to Everland, Entrance Fee Excludes: Meals, Personal Expenses, Tour Guide Duration: From 8am to 6pm including travel journey (extra time surcharge may apply)

Adult & Child : RM 367/person

Vivaldi Day trip (Winter season only) [Minimum: 6 pax]

Includes: Return Private Transport (with driver) to Vivaldi Excludes: Meals, Personal Expenses, Tour Guide, Entrance fee(s) Duration: From 8am to 6pm including travel journey(extra time surcharge may apply) *Subject to weather condition

Adult & Child : RM 267/person

Snowyland (Winter season only) [Only applicable for Vivaldi Day trip customer]

Adult & Child : RM 157/person

ACCOMMODATION

THE DESIGNERS HOTEL OR SIMILAR

INCHEON (2N)

ROYAL EMPORIUM HOTEL OR SIMILAR

• Strawberry farm (fruit picking experience: Dec-May only)

DAY 3: SEOUL CITY TOUR

Day 4: seoul activity fullday.

• Gyeongbok Palace & Gwanghwamun Square  (the main royal historical palace)
• Starfield Library @ Coex
• Mall (iconic library, KPOP gallery & shopping outlet)
• Sejong Museum (experience writing in Korean Hangul *if time  permitted)
• Everland Theme Park (South Korea’s largest theme park) OR
• Vivaldi Park Ski World (mid Dec – mid Feb only)
• Check out Hotel
• Namdaemun Market (shopping for souvenirs and brooches)
• Hongdae Shopping Street (lively spot filled with local performances, and korean shopping outlet)
• Accommodation (3*)
• Transportation (Private)
• Tourist Guide: (English Spoken)
• K-ETA Application (1 time)

ITINERARY SEOUL STANDARD

Day 1: kuala lumpur - incheon, day 6: seoul - kuala lumpur, itinerary seoul full experience, detail harga pakej seoul, korea, pakej standard, standard price, rm400 discount (first 15 pax), rm300 discount (16-25 pax), adult (above 12 yrs), child with bed (6 - 11 yrs), child no bed (2 - 5 yrs), single traveller, additional rm 900/pax/trip​​, infant (below 2 yrs), pakej full experience, single supplement, additional rm 1,000-1,500/pax/trip​​, pilih tarikh ke seoul, korea anda, september 2024, 29 sept – 4 oct 2024 (standard).

RM4,597 RM4,197 Fully Booked

October 2024

5 oct – 10 oct 2024 (full experience).

RM5,797 RM5,397 Fully Booked

17 Oct – 22 Oct 2024 (Full Experience)

RM5,597 RM5,197 9 Seat Left

24 Oct – 29 Oct 2024 (Full Experience)

RM5,597 RM5,197 6 Seat Left

24 Oct – 29 Oct 2024 (Standard)

RM4,497 RM4,097 Fully Booked

25 Oct – 30 Oct 2024 (Standard)

RM4,797 RM4,397 5 Seat Left

29 Oct – 3 Nov 2024 (Full Experience)

Autumn (deepavali).

RM5,797 RM5,397 1 Seat Left

30 Oct – 4 Nov 2024 (Standard)

RM4,797 RM4,397 Selling Fast

November 2024

7 nov – 12 nov 2024 (full experience).

RM5,397 RM4,997 Selling Fast

8 Nov – 13 Nov 2024 (Standard)

RM4,797 RM4,397 Available

14 Nov – 19 Nov 2024 (Full Experience)

December 2024, 5 dec – 10 dec 2024 (standard).

RM4,097 RM3,697 Available

6 Dec – 11 Dec 2024 (Full Experience)

RM5,797 RM5,397 Available

10 Dec – 15 Dec 2024 (Full Experience)

11 dec – 16 dec 2024 (standard), 12 dec – 17 dec 2024 (full experience), 20 dec – 25 dec 2024 (full experience), winter (school holiday).

RM6,297 RM5,897 7 Seat Left

22 Dec – 27 Dec 2024 (Full Experience)

RM6,297 RM5,897 3 Seat Left

23 Dec – 28 Dec 2024 (Standard)

RM5,697 RM5,297 Selling Fast

24 Dec – 29 Dec 2024 (Standard)

RM5,697 RM5,297 6 Seat Left

26 Dec – 31 Dec 2024 (Full Experience)

RM6,297 RM5,897 6 Seat Left

28 Dec 2024 – 2 Jan 2025 (Standard)

RM5,697 RM5,297 Available

31 Dec 2024 – 5 Jan 2025 (Full Experience)

Winter (new year).

RM6,297 RM5,897 Available

January 2025

1 jan – 6 jan 2025 (full experience), 2 jan – 7 jan 2025 (standard), 3 jan – 8 jan 2025 (full experience).

RM5,397 RM4,997 Available

9 Jan – 14 Jan 2025 (Standard)

10 jan – 15 jan 2025 (full experience).

RM5,397 RM4,997 Fully Booked

18 Jan – 23 Jan 2025 (Standard)

19 jan – 24 jan 2025 (full experience).

RM5,897 RM5,497 Available

20 Jan – 25 Jan 2025 (Full Experience)

21 jan – 26 jan 2025 (standard), 22 jan – 27 jan 2025 (full experience), 23 jan – 28 jan 2025 (standard), 24 jan – 29 jan 2025 (standard).

RM5,697 RM5,297 9 Seat Left

25 Jan – 30 Jan 2025 (Full Experience)

RM5,897 RM5,497 Selling Fast

26 Jan – 31 Jan 2025 (Full Experience)

27 jan – 01 feb 2025 (standard).

RM5,097 RM4,697 Available

29 Jan – 3 Feb 2025 (Full Experience)

30 jan – 4 feb 2025 (standard), february 2025, 01 feb – 06 feb 2025 (full experience), 02 feb – 07 feb 2025 (standard), 06 feb – 11 feb 2025 (full experience), 07 feb – 12 feb 2025 (standard), 08 feb – 13 feb 2025 (full experience), 09 feb – 14 feb 2025 (full experience), 10 feb – 15 feb 2025 (standard), 11 feb – 16 feb 2025 (full experience), 20 feb – 25 feb 2025 (full experience), 21 feb – 26 feb 2025 (standard), 27 feb – 4 mar 2025 (full experience), 03 apr – 08 apr 2025 (full experience), spring (hari raya puasa), 04 apr – 09 apr 2025 (standard), 05 apr – 10 apr 2025 (full experience).

RM5,597 RM5,197 Available

10 Apr – 15 Apr 2025 (Standard)

11 apr – 16 apr 2025 (full experience), 18 apr – 23 apr 2025 (full experience), 19 apr – 24 apr 2025 (standard), 25 apr – 30 apr 2025 (full experience), 26 apr – 1 may 2025 (standard), spring (labour day), 01 may – 06 may 2025 (full experience), 09 may – 14 may 2025 (standard), spring (wesak day), 10 may – 15 may 2025 (full experience), 16 may – 21 may 2025 (standard), 23 may – 28 may 2025 (full experience), 29 may – 3 jun 2025 (full experience), 30 may – 4 jun 2025 (standard), 31 may – 5 jun 2025 (full experience), soal jawab pakej korea.

Perlu. Warganegara Malaysia perlu memohon K-ETA, pihak kami akan uruskan.

Untuk bukan warganegara Malaysia perlu mohon visa di embassy negara masing-masing. Dan perlu diuruskan sendiri.

1. Dis – Feb Winter (0°C-10 °C)

 2. Mac – Mei Spring (10°C-20°C)

3. Jun – Ogos Summer (20°C-30°C)

4. Sept – Nov Autumn (10°C-20 °C)

Ya trip ini sangat sesuai untuk ibubapa yang ingin bawa anak berjalan.

Kita akan ke taman tema terkenal di Korea iaitu Everland. Banyak aktiviti menarik untuk dibuat.

Seoul merupakan destinasi pelancongan yang sesuai untuk kanak-kanak, warga senior dan OKU kerana fasiliti mereka dan ruang pejalan kaki yang mesra stroller & wheelchair. 

Selain itu, Seoul destinasi yang ideal untuk berbuln madu (honeymoon) dan bercuti bersama keluarga & company trip!

Ya, sangat sesuai. Kami gunakan private bus, jadi kurang penat berjalan kaki berbanding menaiki subway.

Sekiranya anda menggunakan wheelchair, tempat-tempat yang kami susun sesuai untuk penggunaan wheelchair. 

Kami tidak menyediakan wheelchair, anda perlu bawa sendiri.

Boleh tiada masalah. Ada caj tambahan untuk single supplement.

Pakej Standard : RM900/person Pakej Full Experience: RM1000-RM1500/person

Tidak perlu bayar caj tambahan ini jika anda sudi untuk berkongsi bilik dengan customer lain. Bergantung pada keadaan ada atau tidak.

Boleh, bayar deposit dahulu RM500 kemudian secara ansuran. Bayaran penuh mesti 45 hari sebelum tarikh trip.

Trip bergerak menaiki bas dan jumlah orang adalah 30-40 orang 1 trip. Anda akan naik private bas, bukan public transport. 1 bas hanya untuk 1 trip ARBA Travel sahaja.

Pakej Standard • Lokasi hotel bertukar, 2 hari di Seoul dan 2 hari di Incheon. • Menu ala carté yang simple. • 1 hari Free & Easy.

Pakej Full-Experience • Lokasi hotel di tengah Seoul city centre sepanjang trip. • Menu makanan full-set setiap hari. • Include aktiviti di Everland @ Vivaldi Ski Park.

  Ya , termasuk free & easy di mana anda boleh explore sendiri, membeli-belah, atau berehat mengikut keselesaan anda.

Tour guide adalah Korean yang bercakap English. Tetapi, dilatih dan berpengalaman 8 tahun uruskan trip orang Malaysia yang mahir waktu solat, tempat solat dan makanan halal di seluruh Korea.

Ya, sudah termasuk tiket penerbangan pergi balik KL-Seoul dengan AirAsiaX.

Team kami sudah 10 tahun lebih duduk di Korea.

Jadi kami sangat arif tentang restoran di Korea mana yang halal mana yang tidak.

Bukan setakat tiada babi lalu kita anggap halal. Tapi kami periksa sampai ke dapur bagaimana cara mereka menyediakan makanan.

Kami juga akan guide mana satu makanan street food Korea yang halal dimakan.

Di hotel, team ARBA akan meletakkan label mana makanan yang tidak halal di makan.

NAK BUAT TEMPAHAN PAKEJ KOREA?

Deposit hanya RM500 seorang. Baki bayaran boleh dibuat secara ansuran. Hubungi kami untuk tempahan.

HUBUNGI KAMI

(di luar waktu kerja, sila whatsapp).

Hubungi Kami

ISI BORANG TEMPAHAN

(kami akan hubungi anda melalui whatsapp).

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

I was so excited to return to South Korea.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What’s Included in this Post 

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

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

At the time of writing (February 2024):

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

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

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

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

Yes, really.

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

So, what to do?

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

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

The Cheapest Accommodation Options in South Korea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Cost of Accommodation in South Korea 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Cost of Transportation in South Korea 

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

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

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

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

What to Know About T-Money Cards

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

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

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

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

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

The Cost of Trains in South Korea

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

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

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

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

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

The Cost of Buses in South Korea

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Cost of Flying in South Korea

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

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

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

The Cost of the Metro in South Korea

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

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

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

The Cost of Food in South Korea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So let’s get into the food prices.

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

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

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

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

The Cost of Activities and Entrance Fees in South Korea    

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Speaking of gigantic, bustling cities: Busan!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Cost of Miscellaneous Expenses in South Korea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Much Does it Cost to Travel in South Korea? 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lauren juliff.

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

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17 comments.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks for all the extra information!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks so much for the detailed breakdown and recommendations. You really have broken it down very well. I hope to visit South Korea next year and will definitely take all this into consideration when planning. I am just wondering about which time of year is best to visit…

Hi Joy! Based on my own experiences, I really enjoyed visiting in late-May — perfect temperatures, blue skies, and not many tourists — and found October to be too cold for my liking.

Your travel guide will surely help me on my upcoming trip to Korea. Thank you!

Finally some nitty gritty info about costs. Thank you! As someone who also makes food a priority on a trip – I always appreciate suggestions.

Wow! What an awesome summary. I was searching for a site that roughly tells me what I will spend in a week in Seoul and came across your page. Not only did it provide all the information I was looking for – it’s also very well written and captures the essential of every travel experience: food! Thank you so much. Now I’m prepared for my trip without knowing everything already.

My wife and I plan to cycle from Seoul to Busan then a lap of Jeju starting in a couple of weeks, and found your info on costs, etc, etc, invaluable!! Many thanks!! We will carry a bit of cash, a Wise debit card and an Aus debit card so hopefully these will get us through the more remote areas along the 4 rivers cycle route. Thanks again!!

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South Korea Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 6, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

Top 5 Things to See and Do in South Korea

1. Explore Seoul

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

2. Tour the DMZ

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

3. Visit Jeju Island

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

4. Sing karaoke

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

5. Step back in time at a hanok village

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

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

2. Explore Busan

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

3. See the National Museum of Korea

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

4. Take a food tour

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

5. Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace

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

6. See the cherry blossoms

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

7. Try taekwondo

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

8. Learn to cook classic Korean foods

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

9. Go hiking

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

10. Wander around Seoul Olympic Park

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

11. Discover Jirisan National Park

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

South Korea Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking South Korea: Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

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

South Korea Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in South Korea

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

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

How to Get Around South Korea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Low-cost airlines in South Korea include the following:

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

When to Go to South Korea

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

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in South Korea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

South Korea Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

South Korea Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

Traveling with Friends: How to Avoid Disaster

The 5 Best Hotels in Singapore

The 7 Best Hotels in Bangkok

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

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

The 13 Best Things to See and Do in Taipei

Get your  free travel starter kit.

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

In My Korea

Complete South Korea Travel Guide 2024: Korean Travel Tips

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

What’s In This South Korea Travel Guide

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

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

What Are You Looking For?

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

Latest Travel News

Entry Requirements

Why Visit Korea

When To Visit

Flights To Korea

Where To Stay

Korea Travel Costs

Travel Money

Phones & Internet

Public Transport

Where To Visit

Seoul Day Tours

Sightseeing Spots

Korean Activities

Korean Festivals

1-Week Itinerary

Culture Issues

Language Issues

Health & Safety

Korean Travel Tips

Korean Travel News And Travel Restrictions 2024

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

Latest Korean Travel News In 2024

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

Starting July 1st 2024, the Climate Card Tourist Pass will be available to short-stay and foreign visitors to South Korea. It will give visitors unlimited access to Seoul’s subway, bus system for 1, 2, 3, or 5 days. More about Seoul’s Climate Card Tourist Pass .

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

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

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

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

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

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

The 22 countries temporarily excluded from the K-ETA requirement are Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Macao, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, UK, US (including Guam).

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

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

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

What Are the Current COVID Restrictions In Korea In 2024?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Current Requirements To Travel To Korea In 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

K-ETA (Korean Electronic Travel Authorisation)

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

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

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

Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Macao, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, UK, US (including Guam).

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

Source : K-ETA website news .

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

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

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

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

Official K-ETA website

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

Will The K-ETA End In The Future?

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

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

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

Tourist Visas For South Korea

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

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

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

Transit Tour Visas For South Korea

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

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

Visa-Free Entry For Transit Passengers (3 Days)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visa-Free Entry For Transit Passengers (30 Days)

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

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

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

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

Why You Should Travel To Korea In 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Best Time To Visit Korea

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

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

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

What Can You See In Korea Each Season?

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

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

Spring: Cherry Blossoms, Blooming Nature, Culture Festivals

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

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

Summer: Beaches, Korean Desserts, Water Sports, Camping

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

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

Autumn: Foliage, Festivals, Fresh Foods, Harvest Festivals

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

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

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

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

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

What Is The Weather Like In Korea?

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

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

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

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

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

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

How To Book Flights To Korea

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

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

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

Arriving At Incheon Airport

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

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

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

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

Recommended Flight Comparison Sites

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where To Stay In Seoul

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

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

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

Best Neighbourhoods To Stay In Seoul

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are the 8 best neighbourhoods in Seoul:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hotel Recommendations For Seoul

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

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

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

Recommended Luxury Hotels

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

Recommended Mid-Range Hotels

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

Recommended Budget Hotels

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

Recommended Serviced Apartments

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

Cost To Travel In South Korea In 2024

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

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

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

Daily Costs To Travel In Korea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is Korea A Cheap Country To Travel In?

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

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

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

City Passes That Save You Money In Seoul

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

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

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

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

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

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

How To Save Money In Korea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Money And Money Exchanges In Korea

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

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

Can You Use A Foreign Card In Korea?

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

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

Can You Withdraw Cash From An ATM In Korea?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pay Like A Local With WOWPASS

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overseas Travel Cards You Can Use In Korea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Can You Use Apple Pay In Korea?

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

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

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

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

Should You Exchange Money Before Travelling To Korea?

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

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

Should You Change Money At Incheon Airport?

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

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

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

Where Can You Exchange Money In Seoul?

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

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

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

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

Can You Get Tax Back When Shopping In Korea?

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

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

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

To claim a tax refund you need:

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

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

Mobile Phones And Internet In Korea

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

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

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

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

Should You Get A Korean SIM Card Or WiFi Router?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where Can You Get Korean SIM Cards Or WiFi Routers?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Apps Do I Need For Travelling In Korea?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is There Free WiFi In Korea?

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

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

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

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

Using Public Transport In Korea In 2024

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

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

How Much Does Public Transport Cost In Korea?

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

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

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

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

How Do You Pay For Public Transport In Korea?

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

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

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

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

Using T-Money To Pay For Public Transport In Korea

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

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

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

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

How Do You Use Trains In Korea?

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

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

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

How To Book Korean Rail Tickets Outside Of Korea

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

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

Is The Korea Rail Pass Worth The Price?

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

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

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

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

How Do You Use Taxis In Korea?

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

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

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

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

How Do You Use Intercity Buses In Korea?

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

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

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

How Can You Hire A Car In Korea?

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

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

To hire a car in Korea, you will need:

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

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

Best Places To Visit In Korea In 2024

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

Here are the best places to visit in Korea:

Seoul: Korea’s Capital

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

What To See In Seoul

Here are 10 great places to visit in Seoul:

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

Busan: Big Coastal City

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

What To See In Busan

Here are 10 great places to visit in Busan:

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

Jeju Island: Natural Wonder

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

What to See On Jeju Island

Here are 10 great places to visit on Jeju Island:

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

Gyeongju: Historic Capital

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

What To See In Gyeongju

Here are 10 great places to visit in Gyeongju:

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

Jeonju: Traditional Views & Food

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

What To See In Jeonju

Here are 5 great places to visit in Jeonju:

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

Suwon: Fortress City

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

What to See In Suwon

Here are 5 great places to visit in Suwon:

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

Incheon: Modern City With Islands

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

What to See In Incheon

Here are 5 great places to visit in Incheon:

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

Gapyeong County: Tourists Treats

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

What To See In Gapyeong

Here are 5 great places to visit in Gapyeong:

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

North-East Coast: Amazing Beaches

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

What To See On The North-East

Here are 5 great places in north-east Korea:

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

East Coast: Harbour Cities

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

What To See On The East Coast

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

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

South-West: Iconic Rural Destinations

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

What to See In The South-West

Here are 5 great places in south-west Korea:

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

South Coast Islands: Summer Getaways

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

What to See On The South Coast

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

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

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

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

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

Best Day Tours From Seoul In 2024

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

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

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

Here are 10 great day tours from Seoul:

Why Visit The DMZ

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

Why Visit Gapyeong County

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

Why Visit Hwaseong Fortress

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

Why Visit Korean Folk Village

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

Why Visit Jeonju Hanok Village

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

Why Visit Alpaca World

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

Why Visit Seoraksan

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

Why Visit Everland

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

Why Visit Danyang

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

Why Visit Dae Jang Geum Park

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

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

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

Best Sights To See In Korea In 2024

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

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

Famous Landmarks In Korea

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

Here are 10 famous landmarks in Korea:

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

Historic Sights In Korea

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

Here are 10 historic sights in Korea:

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

Korean Modern Cultural Sights

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

Here are 10 modern cultural sights in Korea:

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

Family Fun Attractions In Korea

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

Here are 10 family fun attractions in Korea:

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

Korean Museums & Galleries

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

Here are 10 museums & galleries in Korea:

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

Cafe Areas In Korea

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

Here are 10 cafe areas to visit in Korea:

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

Korean Markets & Malls

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

Here are 10 markets & malls in Korea:

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

Korean Natural Wonders

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

Here are 10 natural wonders to see in Korea:

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

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

Best Activities To Try In Korea In 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Korean Festivals To Join In 2024

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

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

Cherry Blossom Festivals

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

Winter Light Festivals

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

Summer Music Festivals

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

New Year Festivals

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

Buddha’s Birthday Festivals

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

Boryeong Mud Festival

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

Jinju Lantern Festival

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

Andong Mask Dance Festival

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

Goyang Flower Festival

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

Baekje Culture Festival

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

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

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

Recommended Itinerary For Korea In 2024

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

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

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

Classic Sights Of Korea Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cultural Issues When Visiting Korea

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Language Issues When Travelling Korea

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

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

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

Do Korean People Speak English?

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

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

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

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

Should You Learn Korean Before Visiting Korea?

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

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

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

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

Health And Safety Issues In Korea

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

Is Korean Street Food Safe To Eat?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is It Safe To Drink Tap Water In Korea?

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

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

Do You Need Any Vaccinations To Travel To South Korea?

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

Is Korea Friendly To Tourists?

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

Is Korea A Dangerous Country To Travel In?

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

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

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

How Do You Contact Tourist Information Services In Korea?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is Air Pollution A Problem In Korea?

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

My Personal Travel Tips For Korea

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

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

The Real Korea Isn’t What You See On TV

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

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

Be Prepared For Culture Shock

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

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

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

Don’t Overpack When You Travel To Korea

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

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

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

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

Electricity In South Korea

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

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

Go With The Flow And Go Quickly

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

Know Where To Throw Away Rubbish

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

South Korea Travel Guide FAQs

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

What is the best month to visit South Korea?

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

How much money is enough for South Korea?

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

Is South Korea friendly to tourists?

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

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

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

What is the cheapest month to visit South Korea?

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

Do I need a South Korea travel guide?

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

Can you drink tap water in Korea?

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

Is South Korea safe for first-time travellers?

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

What are the best apps for travelling in South Korea?

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

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

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

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

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

Moderator – Nice Article! In My Korea

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

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

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10 Best South Korea Budget Tips + Travel Costs (2024)

Are you wondering how much a trip to South Korea will cost? Here’s our in-depth travel guide on the 10 best South Korea budget tips you should know before your trip. We’ll show you how to plan your South Korea travel costs and many ways to make your trip more budget-friendly. We also share all of our costs for a 2 week trip to Korea from accommodation and snacks to transport and activities.

South Korea is ultimately one of the best countries we’ve travelled to. The country blew us away with its beautiful culture, rich history and delicious food.

Have you been wondering if South Korea is expensive to visit? Depending on the prices of your home country, it’s really not too bad. Compared to the UK it is much more affordable and it’s even slightly less expensive than beloved Japan!

We’ve created this budget guide to share our South Korea travel costs of travelling the country for 2 weeks. We visited Seoul, Gyeongju, Golgulsa Templestay, Busan and Jeonju!

Honestly, we had a great time and can’t wait to go back in the future and we’ll probably still stick to a budget. For now, we’ll show you that South Korea can be done on a budget and what travel costs you can expect.

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10 Best South Korea Budget Tips

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Here are our top 10 South Korea Budget tips to help you plan the best trip! After these tips, you’ll find our full South Korea travel cost breakdown split into separate categories.

1. Swap Restaurants for Markets & Street Food

One of the best ways to travel to South Korea on a budget is to choose your food carefully. The price to eat somewhere in South Korea is very reasonable, but some places will be expensive too.

Throughout our 2 weeks in South Korea we ate our food at restaurants, markets, street stalls, convenience stores and grocery stores ! It definitely helps the bank to cook your own food and you can try the endless supply of ramyeon!

Places to eat in South Korea on a budget

• Myeongdong Street Food (Seoul)
• Maru – Budget-friendly Korean street food in the heart of Insadong (Seoul)
• Gwangjang Market – Our favourite! (Seoul)
• Haeundae Market (Busan)
• Gwangbokdong Food Street (Busan)
• Fast-food chains – Places like Lotteria, No Brand Burger and Subway

We highly recommend visiting Gwangjang Market whilst visiting Seoul. Grab a mung bean pancake, bibimbap and dumplings and you’ll be very full ( this food will feed two people )!

A few Korean dishes to try to keep your South Korea travel costs low:

• Ramyeon (The easiest food to grab at a convenience store)  1,500 ₩
• Bibimbap (Very popular with a variety of toppings)  6,000 ₩
• Gimbap (Korean Sushi, you can find these everywhere)! around 2,000 ₩
• Mandu (Korean Dumplings) 5,000 ₩
• Tteok-bokki (Spicy & saucy Rice Cakes) 3,000 ₩

You’ll be surprised by how good the food is in the convenience stores in South Korea. Locals grab food from here all the time and it’s perfect for those in South Korea on a budget.

If there are some restaurants you’d like to try, just add that to your budget and eat at convenience stores the next day. International and Western food will also usually cost more than Korean, but Korean food is very good!

Osegye Hyang is our favourite traditional Korean restaurant with affordable prices. We’ve even created a Vegan in South Korea Guide – Best Restaurants & Snacks (2024) !

Note – There is no tipping culture in South Korea. It’s likely the staff will kindly decline your tip! This is common throughout East Asia.

2. Stay in Budget Accommodation in South Korea

Accommodation can take up a big part of your South Korea travel budget. Especially if you choose amazing hotels! Although it’s nice to feel comfortable, maybe take the time to look at some other options before spending more than your budget.

Hostels and small private rooms are going to be the most affordable places to stay in South Korea. Most hostels offer private rooms that are still cheaper than hotels.

It’s really down to preference, but we didn’t stay in one bad accommodation on our South Korea trip and we stayed in private rooms!

Hostels usually cost around 25,000₩ per person with male, female or mixed dorms available. A private room in a hoste l is around 40,000₩ per room and hotels are usually 70,000₩ or more!

Where to stay in South Korea on a budget

• Seoul  –  Hostel Tommy  – A lovely hostel with dorms & private rooms! –  Find here on Booking.com !
• Seoul – Kimstay 9 – Basic private rooms! – Find here on Booking.com !
• Busan  –  Dynamic Guesthouse  – A shared penthouse with great views –  Find here on Booking.com !
• Gyeongju  –  Doobaki Guesthouse – The best hostel in South Korea! –  Find here on Booking.com !

There are also a few ways to get free accommodation in South Korea :

• Couchsurfing – Stay in a local house, for free! Find out more here !
• Workaway – Exchange work/volunteering for free accommodation and food!
• Worldpackers – Volunteer for free accommodation and food!
• Trusted Housesitters – Look after a locals pet whilst they’re out of town

It’s also important to note that accommodation will be more expensive in the peak time of year such as the Cherry Blossom season, spring and fall. Winter is usually the cheapest time to visit South Korea on a budget.

3. Do you need a Sim Card in South Korea?

When you start to Google about sim cards or wifi in South Korea, there’s a lot of information telling you to get one! We agree, but it’s definitely possible to travel the country without one.

We have a solution to help your South Korea budget. Pick up an E-Sim for 15,000₩ ! (€10.99 for 12 days)

E-sims are the perfect option if you only need internet or mobile data. You don’t even need to buy them in advance like other sims or wifis.

As we visited South Korea for 2 weeks, we purchased our sim on Day 3 of our trip. This made us realise how much easier it is to have the internet on the go, but luckily Seoul is a very easy place to get around and we downloaded offline Maps.

If there’s more than one of you, it’s also possible to hotspot the E-sim data from one phone, although you’ll have to check your data allowance! The instructions come with the E-sim, but you simply install it into your phone settings. The customer service team answer quickly if you have any problems!

There’s also some great deals if you do need a Korean phone number. Here’s a few other options ranging in price:

E-Sim  – Here’s a  12 Day E-Sim (15,000₩, €10.99 for 12 days and 6gb of data)

Prepaid Sim  – Purchase ahead of time and pick up at the airport. This sim has a Korean number! The price changes depending on how long you need it. Find  a sim card on Klook here ! (£15 for 10 days)

Portable Wifi  – The most expensive option is portable Wifi and this is usually what travellers get if they’re not worried about their South Korea travel costs. Find a  portable Wifi on Klook here ! (£20 for 10 days) Also, pick it up at the airport.

It’s also a good idea to carry around a  portable charger  for your phone so you always have enough battery to last the day. We recommend  Anker Power Bank and just charge it up every few days if you’ve been using it a lot.

4. Use Buses to get around South Korea on a Budget

The transport in South Korea is some of the best in the world! It’s reliable, well connected and quite affordable considering how good it is.

If you want to stick to your travel budget in South Korea, we recommend catching Intercity and Express Buses around South Korea. They are so comfy and you can book your seats in advance.

Here’s the prices we paid for transport around South Korea on a budget

• KTX (Fast Train) Seoul to Gyeongju – 2 hours – 49,000₩ (£32)
• Express Bus – Gyeongju to Busan – 45 minutes – 5,000₩ (£3.30)
• Express Bus – Busan to Jeonju – 3 hours – 25,000₩ (£16.40)
• Express bus – Jeonju to Seoul – 2.5 hours – 14,000₩ (£9.20)

The buses from Seoul to Gyeongju will take around 4-5 hours and usually cost around 22,000₩ £46.40 . We took a train as we wanted to arrive in Gyeongju early and also wanted to experience a train in South Korea as we only used buses in Japan.

If you want to add Jeju Island to your South Korea travel costs, then it’s best to book a flight from Seoul or Busan. The ferries are often more expensive and they will take longer.

It’s possible to book trains in advance, but you can only book buses in advance if you have a Korean number. We booked our bus tickets as soon as we arrived at a new destination, usually booking them 2-3 days in advance.

Express & Intercity Buses  – Have a look at bus times on the official Korean website – Kobus tickets

Trains  – Book your train tickets in advance here – Korail tickets here (or a Korea Rail Pass )

Flights  – Flights to Jeju Island from Seoul or Busan –  Check Skyscanner  for flight times and prices !

5. Get a T-Money card

This is another great way to stick to your South Korea budget. A T-Money card is a discounted transport card that works all over South Korea in cities and towns. It’s for local transport to each destination, not for long bus journeys.

Using a T-Money card is not just about saving money, but saving time too! You won’t need to purchase a local ticket every time you use the bus or subway. Simply tap your card when you get on and off transport and you’ll be good to travel around South Korea!

A T-Money Card costs 2,500 ₩ . There’s also tourist cards and designed cards that cost 4,000₩

How to get a T-Money Card?

T-Money cards are available to purchase at the airport, at major stations and convenience stores (such as CU, GS25, 7-Eleven and Ministop).

How to top up my T-Money Card?

You can only top up a T-Money card with cash and not by debit or credit card. Make sure you grab money out of an ATM if you arrive in South Korea without Korean Won! Here’s how you can top up using cash:

• At Convenience Stores! Hand your card over, give the employee the cash and it’s all done!
• Some other local newsstands or shops offer top-ups. Look out for the T-Money logo!
• At major stations, find a ticket machine and choose how much you want to add to your card. The machines can be changed to English!

6. Use Local Buses and Subway instead of Taxis

Local buses are always the most affordable way to travel around any city and it’s the same with South Korea. However, the subway is also very budget-friendly too!

As the transport is well connected, you won’t need to use taxis anyway! The best way to feel comfortable about using public transport in South Korea is to download the app – Naver Maps . Google Maps doesn’t work in South Korea, so it’s best to use the local navigation app!

It costs 1,250₩ to use the Subway in South Korea which is £0.82p ! For reference, in London, it costs £2.60 to take one journey. We used subways and buses all around Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan and Jeonju without any issues! Naver Maps is perfect with timing and where to go.

7. Shop at Convenience Stores

One of the best South Korea budget tips is to eat and shop at the convenience store! Food and meals are well priced and you can usually heat the food inside the shop too! It makes travelling around South Korea on a budget so much easier!

The tax in South Korea is included in the price, so you don’t have to worry about extra prices at the checkout (like in Canada or the US).

Our favourite convenience store snacks are Ramyeon, Lotus Biscuits, Chocolate Soy Milk (it’s okay to laugh), Japanese Onigiri and Frozen dumplings (to add to your Ramyeon back in a hostel kitchen).

There are plenty of lunches to find in convenience stores based around rice or noodles. The best part is convenience stores are everywhere!

8. Make use of the Free Things To Do

This South Korea budget tip may be obvious – activities don’t always have to cost money. There are so many free things to do around the country and some of them are highlights of our trip! Here’s a list of great things to do for free if you’re in South Korea on a budget.

Seoul – A city filled with unique neighbourhoods, hikes and parks. There are so many free things to do in Seoul to help your South Korea budget. Check out our 5 Day Seoul Itinerary !

• Explore neighbourhoods such as Insa-dong, Ikseon-dong, Myeongdong, Hongdae, Itaewon & Gangnam
• Walk around the beautiful Bukchon Village & Ihwa Mural Village
• Feel the nature at Namsan Park

Gyeongju – Some of the best things to do in Gyeongju are free! Browse our 11 Best Things to do in Gyeongju: Itinerary (2024) ! Here’s a few suggestions:

• Admire Woljeonggyo Bridge, Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond
• Visit Cheomseongdae & Gyerim Forest 
• Window shop in Hwangnidan-Gil & explore the Hanok Village

Busan – Another great city for finding budget-friendly activities! We also have a 3 day Busan Itinerary !

• Gamcheon Culture Village (yes it’s free!) & watch the sunset at Lotte Department Building
• Walk along the Igidae Coastal Walk & relax at Haeundae Beach
• Discover Nampo-dong & Haedong Yonggung Temple

Jeonju – Walk through the famous Hanok village and check out the murals, markets and shrines!

• Explore Jeonju Hanok Village & Jaman Mural Village
• Walk through Nambu Market & visit Gyeonggijeon Shrine
• See the views from Omokdae

Jeju Island – Filled with natural wonders, Jeju is filled with free things to do. You’ll just need transport to get around!

9. Use Klook to Save Money on Activities

Klook is one of the best companies to book activities, tours and things to do in South Korea. It’s similar to GetYourGuide, but Klook is used more in Asia. We’ve used this website in South Korea and Japan to buy discounted tickets such as Disneyland, Seoul Tower and Hanbok rentals .

It’s also a great place to find sim card or portable wifi deals! When using Klook, you can easily book your activity in advance and sometimes there’s an option to pick up the ticket at the airport on arrival.

Activities to buy on Klook in South Korea:

• Seoul Tower – Go to the top of Seoul Tower in Namsan Park – Buy your ticket in advance!  
• Hanbok Rental – ( Gyeongbokgung Palace  as it’s the perfect size to explore and there’s a great rental shop nearby!  Find the link on Klook here –  Hanbok Rental Klook
• DMZ Tour – Visit part of North Korea – Book tickets with Klook here !
• Korea Rail Pass – If you decide to use the train, consider a rail pass – Here’s more info !
• Everland 1 Day Pass – One of South Korea’s theme parks – Buy your tickets here !
• Nami Island – Take a trip to Nami Island from Seoul – Find out more info here !

Staying in a temple is another fantastic activity that can’t be missed on your South Korea trip! It can be booked on Korea’s temple stay website ! Also, check out our Golgulsa Templestay Review !

10. Travel Off Peak

If you’re planning your travel budget for South Korea, one of the first steps is to figure out which time of year you want to visit.

The most popular time to visit South Korea is between April and May due to the beautiful cherry blossom season. Prices for accommodation and flights will most likely be more expensive and it will also book up fast. There will be more tourists and locals around, especially in the parks.

If you’re travelling to South Korea on a budget, it may be best to avoid these months and visit off-peak.

The off-peak months to travel to South Korea are January, February, late October , November and early March. If you can find good deals on flights and good accommodation prices outside of these months, then go for it! January is usually the cheapest month to travel as it’s cold, but it’s perfect if you want to ski!

Summer isn’t the best time to visit South Korea due to the hot and humid weather, but it’s still a popular time to visit due to worldwide holidays.

How to Budget in South Korea

So that’s our 10 South Korea budget tips! There are many ways to travel on a budget, it all depends on how comfortable you are. We love hostels, but some people we know would never stay in them. For us, they’re budget-friendly, comfortable and just a place to sleep or meet new people!

Ultimately it comes down to food, accommodation, transport and activities. Check accommodation in advance before you book your flights just to get an idea of prices for that month. Here’s a few more tips on how to budget in South Korea:

• If you want to shop, Namdaemun and Dongdaemun are filled with discounts in Seoul
• Tours will cost money, so make sure you add must-do activities to your budget
• Eat more street food and at markets
• Check prices for your visa ( every country is different )
• Use Skyscanner to browse flight prices for different times of the year

Accommodation in South Korea – We use Hostelworld and  Booking.com  to find accommodation in South Korea. You can filter to the lowest price and check reviews from previous guests.

Travel Insurance  – Don’t forget travel insurance whilst planning your South Korea budget.   SafetyWing  is a flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your trip. You can add more months to your trip too! –  Find out more here!

E-Sim  – Here’s the E-sim we used on our South Kore trip – 12 Day E-Sim (15,000₩, €10.99 for 12 days and 6GB of data)

Costs compared to other countries in Asia

We have only visited countries in Southeast Asia, South Asia and Japan.

After visiting both Japan and South Korea, we have to admit that South Korea is slightly cheaper! The country is more affordable meals out and transport (especially the train!)

Comparing South Korea to countries such as Thailand, Sri Lanka or the Philippines, we have to say that South Korea is more expensive on every level. Accommodation is almost three times the price compared to countries in Southeast/South Asia. Food and activities are more too.

A full breakdown of our South Korea Travel Costs

Here’s the full breakdown of our South Korea travel costs. We both shared the same card and cash, but for this breakdown, we’ll show you roughly how much the same trip would cost for one person too.

Our full South Korea travel costs for 2 people (2 weeks)

• Korean E-Visa – 20,600₩ (£14)
• Intercity Transport -186,800₩ (£123)
• Local Subway & Buses – 88,000₩ (£58)
• Activities – 225,800₩ (£148)
• Restaurants & Markets – 345,600₩ (£227)
• Groceries – 109,110₩ (£72)
• Snacks – 120,300₩ (£79)
• Accommodation – 586,200₩ (£385)
• Miscellaneous – 20,500₩ (£13.50)

Total Cost – 1702,910₩ (£1,120)

Our Transport Costs – 274,800₩ (£181) – prices for two people

T-Money Cards – We accidentally bought the Korea Tour Cards at the airport so spent 4000₩ instead of 2500₩. We topped up our cards with 80,000₩ (£52.60) to get around the cities in towns during our 2 week trip. There’s a chance we may have a bit of money leftover on our cards too!

Accommodation – 586,200₩ (£385) – prices for two people

• 5 nights in Seoul (private room in a hostel) – 260,000₩ / £171
• 2 nights in Gyeongju (private room in a hostel, Korean style beds) 72,000₩ / £47
• 3 nights in Busan (private room in a shared apartment, shared bathroom) 117,000₩ / £77
• 1 night in Jeonju (private room in a Hanok with free breakfast) 52,200₩ / £34
• 2 nights in Seoul – different place – (private room in a guesthouse) 85,000₩ / £56
• Seoul – 52,000₩ (£34.20) per night / 26,000₩ (£17.10) per person
• Gyeongju – 36,000₩ (£23.50) per night / 18,000₩ (£11.75) per person
• Busan – 39,000₩ (£25.60 per night / 19,500₩ (£12.80) per person
• Jeonju – 52,200₩ (£34 per night / 26,100₩ (£17) per person
• Seoul – 42,500₩ (£28) per night / 21,250₩ (£14) per person

Our accommodation costs came to 586,200₩ (£385) which is 293,100₩ (£192.50) per person for 2 weeks! One of our nights we spent at Golgulsa Templestay which we’ve included as an activity.

Activities – 225,800₩ (£148) – prices for two people

• Golgulsa Templstay – 120,000₩ (£79)
• Archery at Golgulsa Temple – 20,000₩ (£13.20)
• Palaces – 26,000₩ (£13.20)
• Hanbok Rental – 24,000₩ (£15.80)
• Seoul Tower – 8,300₩ (£5.50)
• Photo Booth – 4,000₩ (£2.60)
• Bukchon Observatory with free drinks – 6,000₩ (£4)
• Gamcheon Map – 2,000₩ (£1.30)
• Arcade games – 15,500₩ (£10.20)

Shopping & Miscellaneous – 20,500₩ (£13.50) – prices for two people

• Laundry / Laundry Detergent ( 2 washes ) – 4,000₩ (£2.60)
• Socks & Lip Balm – 12,500₩ (£15.15)
• Plasters – 4,000₩ (£2.60)

Restaurants & Markets – 345,600₩ (£227.40)

We ate at multiple restaurants and markets during our 2 weeks in South Korea, we also revisited a few if we loved the food. Osegye Hyang is our favourite restaurant (traditional Korean)! Here’s a few examples of our meals:

• Lunch at a Traditional Korean Restaurant – 27,000₩ (£17.80)
• Lunch at a Hot Pot Restaurant – 26,000₩ (£17.15)
• Lunch at 7-Eleven – 83,00₩ (£5.50)
• Lunch at Lotteria – 14,200₩ (£9.40)
• Lunch at a Bibimbap Restaurant- 16,000₩ (£10.55)
• Lunch at a Korean Street Food Restaurant 19,000₩ (£12.50)
• Dinner at a Japanese Restaurant – 18,000₩ (£18.90)
• Dinner at Gwangjang Market – 12,000₩ (£7.90)
• Dinner at a Korean Restaurant – 16,000₩ (£10.55)

Snacks – 120,300₩ (£79.15)

In the snack category, we’ve included random snacks at convenience stores or street food. Here are a few examples of snack prices in South Korea.

• Lotus Biscuits – 3,800₩ (£2.51)
• Sweet Potato Street Food – 1,000₩ (£0.65)
• Chocolate Soy Milk – 1,200₩ (£0.79)
• Onigiri – 1,200₩ (£0.79)
• Mochi – 2,500₩ (£1.65)
• Red Bean Bun – 3,000₩ (£2)
• Bakery (4 Doughnuts) – 13,100₩ (£8.65)
• Korean Rice Cakes – 4,000₩ (£2.65)

Groceries (which include meals) 109,110₩ (£71.80)

Our grocery section is very close to snack selection but we tried to split it up into food that we took home or cooked for meals. We bought a lot of instant noodles, frozen dumplings, inari sushi and soy milk.

• Bread – 2,250₩ (£1.49)
• Inari Sushi Pack – 4,500₩ (£3)
• Bananas – 4,900₩ (£3.20)
• Ramyeon – 2,400₩ (£1.60)
• Frozen Dumplings – 6,400₩ (£4.20)

Total Food Costs – 575,010₩ (£378.40)- prices for two people

Food Costs per day in South Korea – 41,072₩ (£27) – prices for two people

Total Cost of a 2 week trip in South Korea for 2 people – 1702,910₩ (£1,120) & 141,909₩ (£93) per day

Our total cost doesn’t include flights in and out of the country, but for reference, we flew from Manila to Seoul for £135 each with Jeju Air and Seoul to Bangkok for £105 each with Air Asia. Our flights worked out well as we were already travelling in Asia at the time, we booked them 2 months in advance.

We hope this helps you plan your South Korea budget! We think that £46 per person, per day, is a pretty good price to travel around South Kore. We also had the best time and didn’t feel like we lost out on anything.

Korean food is amazing and we ate at restaurants and markets a lot more than cooking our own food. If we cooked more, our South Korea travel costs would be even less!

Is South Korea expensive to visit?

After looking at all of our South Korea travel costs, we’ve concluded that South Korea isn’t expensive to visit compared to the UK. Depending on your home country, the prices may be more, but we were pleasantly surprised with the prices of food.

The accommodation we booked was also really great! If you’re visiting South Korea on a budget, you’ll need to watch your spending when shopping or eating at fancier restaurants.

How much money to bring to South Korea for 2 weeks?

If you’re planning a travel budget for South Korea, we always recommend budgeting more than you think you need. We spent 1702,910₩ (£1,120) for two people during our 2 weeks in South Korea and although we ate a lot of instant noodles, we did everything we wanted to do!

We recommend budgeting at least 1215,715₩ (£800) if you’re a solo traveller with the addition of flights.

Travel Essentials for a South Korea Trip

Here are a few travel essentials we always bring with us:

• Amazon Basics Packing Cubes  – The best way to pack your bag!
• Anker Power Bank  – Keep your phone charged on the go!
• Stainless Steel Water Bottle  – The water in Korea is drinkable, bring a reusable bottle and fill it up!
• Rain Mac in a Bag  – Carry a lightweight raincoat or umbrella around Korea!
• Worldwide Travel Adaptor  – The ultimate travel plug when travelling to different countries!
• Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit  – The best  lightweight  tripod to take anywhere in South Korea! We have a  Joby GorillaPod  and use it for our  Sony A600 . There’s also a  Joby Phone Tripod  if you take photos on your phone.

Let us know if you have any more South Korea budget tips and we’ll have to keep adding to this guide! We highly recommend visiting South Korea even on a budget. Make sure you have extra money just in case anything goes wrong and always have travel insurance! Now you know how to create a travel budget for South Korea!

Don’t forget about Travel Insurance! –  SafetyWing  Nomad Insurance

SafetyWing  is a flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your trip anywhere in the world.  Find out more here!

More  South Korea  guides:

• Ultimate 2 week South Korea Itinerary: Best Places (2024)
• 5 Day Seoul Itinerary – Best Things To Do (2024)
• Staying in Golgulsa Temple: The Best Templestay in Korea (2024)
• 25+ Best South Korea Travel Tips: What to Know
• 3 day Busan Itinerary: What to do in Busan (2024)
• 11 Best Things to do in Gyeongju: Itinerary (2024)
• Ultimate South Korea Bucket List: 20 Best Things To Do
• Vegan in South Korea Guide – Best Restaurants & Snacks (2024)
• All our  South Korea  posts!

That’s the end of our  10 Best South Korea Budget Tips + Travel Costs (2024)!  Have the best time in South Korea on a budget and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!

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Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.

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Thank you so much for such awesome tips. Planning a trip for early next year so these tips will definitely be useful.

Amazing! You’ll have a great time! 🙂

Thank you this has really helped with my planning a budget travel trip to South Korea. I was just wonder if you, or any other readers used a WOW pass, it seems to get a lot of good reviews?

Hi Ashley! Thank you so much 🙂 Personally, we haven’t used a WOW Pass but know it’s an all-in-one prepaid card for foreign travellers! As we’re from the UK, we just use a debit card that has no foreign charges. (example, Starling or Revolut) Sorry I can’t share more info about it! Safe travels.

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A month in South Korea | May 2023 Travel Budget Breakdown

In May 2023, I spent a month backpacking through South Korea. I came over to Busan from Fukuoka via the JR Beetle, an international ferry! Then I visited Jeju Island, flew up to Seoul, went to Jeonju and Gyeongju before ending back in Seoul again. At the very end of the month, I went to Singapore.

Mostly I wanted to visit South Korea for the food and for the history, and I got plenty of both!

This post contains affiliate links. If you click on a link and buy something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost to you. Your support helps keep this blog running— thank you! Read full disclosure here .

Post Contents

South Korea travel budget

I actually arrived in South Korea at the end of April and stayed through the end of May, but to make it easier on myself, I’ll just show what I spent during May itself. There are 2 days at the end of the month where I was actually in Singapore, as well, which I’ve noted in the appropriate categories.

All prices are in USD.

Total: $1,939.11 or $62.55/day

I definitely went over my monthly budget goal of $1,500 USD , and it’s partly because I spent double the amount I had previously on eating out as opposed to cooking my own meals. While it’s not super expensive to eat at restaurants in South Korea, it does add up after a while. I also paid for an international flight, which always bumps the budget up (one of the reasons I prefer ground travel!).

I’m a cozy budget traveler , so while I spend a bit more to feel more comfortable when I travel, if you’re a shoestring or luxury traveler you can definitely adjust for your own style of spending.

Accommodation: $542 or $17.48/day

South Korea was the first place I really embraced the hostel lifestyle. I’d stayed in a few hostels before, but here’s where I actually started to enjoy them and the benefits that staying in shared accommodation can bring. Except for one short stay in an apartment in Seoul, I spent the whole time in Korea in hostels!

See where I stayed here: Where to stay: South Korea hostels & hotels for solo female travelers

The most expensive accommodation was Jongno Stay at $28.00/night. This was a fairly up-to-date hostel with VERY tall bunks, decent bathrooms, cheap laundry, and a kitchenette area. It’s on a quieter neighborhood near some of the old palaces. I had to book last minute and this was the cheapest place at the time. It must’ve been a holiday week or something, as all my other stays were cheaper.

The least expensive accommodation was AIRPORT Guesthouse at $1.67/night. This was a tiny hostel located close to GIMPO airport, well outside of the main part of Busan, so unless you like spending a lot of time and energy getting back into the city for sightseeing, this really is only good for a short stopover. Indeed, the one other traveler I met was only there for a night as well! Still, the owners were really nice and it came with free breakfast, and it’s within walking distance to the airport shuttle area.

My favorite accommodation was Yeha Guesthouse on Jeju Island, which I booked at $13.91/night WITH free breakfast. Not only were the beds comfortable, but the common areas were fantastic– a big table for people to sit and have breakfast together, couches to lounge on, and a kitchenette to cook at. It’s also centrally located in Jeju City, right next to a major bus station.

I also spent $61.88 in Singapore at Bluewaters Pods at the end of the month, about $30.94/night. I think the prices for this have gone way up now, maybe because of its great location. The pods are pretty stuffy at night and the bathrooms don’t have air conditioning and are also very hot, and there’s no breakfast (but there is a kitchenette). I DID meet a very friendly staff member who gave me some good tips for sightseeing in Singapore.

I use to book (most of) my hostel stays around the world.

Groceries: $0

Oh dear! I actually did buy a few things to make at my AirBNB and hostels, but I think they ended up in the Cash category. That said, I DID eat out a lot in South Korea compared to other months. See below!

Food: $444 or about $14/day

Restaurants in Korea are relatively cheap, and freshly-made Korean food is so delicious ! I also ate a bit at convenience stores, which have an amazing selection of drinks and snacks.

Some of my favorite Korean foods I tried:

• Dweji gukbap, a pork rice soup invented in Busan
• Cheese dalgabi, spicy fried chicken swimming in a river of cheese
• Haemultang, seafood hot pot — get it on Jeju with fresh-caught seafood!
• Deulkkae sejubi, perilla seed soup with wheat dumplings
• Tteokbokki, chewy rice cakes you eat in a sauce, or add to ramen, etc.

My mouth is watering thinking about these meals! You can see why I ate out every day.

Korea also has some pretty good cheeseburgers (local restaurants!), and their KFC chicken is spicy and delicious. I had a very good month’s eating!

Tourism: $2

This seems artificially low because the major tourist thing I did, going to Phantom of the Opera in Busan , technically took place in April. The ticket cost me $123.35 and was totally worth it!

Otherwise, I bought some entrance tickets to historical palaces, museums on and the caves on Jeju Island, but I paid for them with cash so all that’s in the Cash category below.

Some of my favorite sightseeing adventures in Korea:

• See my Jeju Island backpackers guide for recommendations!
• Walking the underground mall from my hostel in Seomyeon all the way up to Busan Citizens Park
• Wandering around Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan
• See my Seoul backpackers guide for more recommendations!
• Eating yummy Korean food all over the place
• Going to see the hill tomb complex in Gyeonju
• National Intangible Heritage Center in Jeonju! Amazing museum and FREE

All the national museums in Korea are FREE, btw!

Transit: $95 or about $3/day

This was mostly spent on the metro and intercity buses getting around the country. It’s a wonderful way to travel, as the buses are very comfortable and (as far as mine went) always on time.

To give an example of prices, I went from Seoul to Jeonju for $10.81, then from Jeonju to Gyeonju for $19.50. From Gyeonju I went to Seoul for $24.17. Very affordable, though sometimes flying can be cheaper if you manage to snag a cheap ticket on one of their discount airlines.

Buying bus tickets in South Korea can be a little tricky because you basically have to do it in person at the bus stations, as their online payment options don’t accept foreign credit cards (or you need a local phone number, or an ID card). Luckily the routes I took are super popular, so they had multiple buses going all day with plenty of open seats.

Flights: $279 (3 total)

This includes two domestic flights and one international flight.

I went from Busan to Jeju on Jeju Air for $24.01, and then from Jeju to Seoul on T’Way Air for $22.82. Both of these tickets were purchased online a few days ahead of time.

Then I went from Seoul to Singapore via Scoot (Singapore Airline’s discount branch) for $231.75; this includes a change date fee because I wanted to leave SK earlier than I originally planned. Whoops!

Shopping: $168

Most of this was actually spent in Singapore , because I splurged on a pair of Tevas sandals that I desperately needed for the upcoming hot-weather travels. I bought them on the very last day of May for a shocking $96.28, but they came in SO handy for the next 7 months that I don’t regret purchasing them. I still have them now, actually!

But for South Korean purchases: I bought a few postcards, some stickers, an adorable Jeju diver keychain, and a few other small knick-knacks. Plus I stopped at Uniqlo and got a few clothing items.

This category is hiding quite a bit of spending that should be in the tourism, shopping and eating out categories. On Jeju Island, I went sightseeing with friends from the hostel and we split everything and swapped cash around, so I gave up tracking it and only JUST managed to keep track of how much cash I actually had in my hand.

Medical: $83

I have a monthly insurance policy with SafetyWing. I haven’t had to actually use them so I can’t vouch for anything other than affordability, but I prefer having it just in case I need it.

The rest was spent on a medical emergency! I ripped a filling out of a tooth with sticky candy, and I spent $37.80 to stick it back in by an English-speaking dentist. In retrospect, I probably should’ve submitted this claim to SafetyWing…

Other (including SIM cards, postage, laundry, etc.): $83

I bought eSIM cards from Klook , for a total of $51.27. Korea SIM cards were surprisingly expensive; the cheapest 30-day plan with a decent amount of data was about $40 USD. I compared the Klook eSIM prices to the physical ones in the port store and they were basically the same price, so I just went with Klook as it was easier.

Other things: I sent a package home with souvenirs and spent a mere $13.99 on postage. Score!

📲 Traveling through multiple countries? Grab the Asialink regional eSIM from Airalo . New users, use promo code NEWTOAIRALO15 to save 15%. Existing users, use promo code AIRALOESIM10 to save 10%!

Thanks for reading!

Some other traveler’s budgets for South Korea:

• Never Ending Footsteps spent around $137 USD/day on her trip
• Nomadic Matt’s budget South Korea guide suggests about $56 USD/day for backpackers
• Where Goes Rose spent about $51 USD/day on her trip in 2020
• The Passport Couple spent about $80 USD/day per person on their trip in 2020

Explore More

Travel Budget Breakdowns

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• Two months in France | September/October 2022 Travel Budget Breakdown
• A month in Laos | Travel Budget Breakdown
• A month in Vietnam | Travel Budget Breakdown

One month in Tokyo | March 2024 Travel Budget Breakdown

• One month outside of Osaka, Japan | April 2024 Travel Budget Breakdown
• 10 months in Asia: Solo female backpacker’s travel budget

Destination Travel Guides

• Singapore Travel Guide
• Brunei Travel Guide
• Borneo Travel Guide
• Japan Travel Guide
• Seoul Travel Guide
• Jeju Island Travel Guide

Best Travel Resources

• 🛌Search Hostelworld for budget stays
• ✈️Search SkyScanner for discounted flights around the world
• 😺Join TrustedHousesitters and do petsitting in exchange for accommodation
• 💳Carry Chase Sapphire Preferred for a travel-friendly credit card
• 📱Use Airalo for eSIMs around the world
• 🚙Check DiscoverCars for international car rentals
• 👩‍💻Snag ExpressVPN to stay safe while browsing the web
• 🧑‍⚕️Sign up with VisitorsCoverage for trip insurance

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I'm Anastasia Finch, a former librarian turned world traveler, sharing tips and stories to help you explore the world on a budget. With two years of solo travel across 15 countries, I offer practical advice for long-term travel. Want more travel tips? Sign up for my newsletter to stay in the loop!

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5D 4N Korea (Summer)

Be enchanted when you tour Korea for 5D4N in awesome Summer and feel the magic for yourself. Discover your long lost Seoul from Joseon Dynasty at the Gyeongbokgung Palace or reminisce those romantic scenes from Winter Sonata in Nami Island!

• 11 Halal Meals

5D 4N Korea (Winter)

Winter in Korea is a stunning holiday experience. Feel the soft white snow and witness the fairy tale like beauty of white coated landscapes in Seoul, Korea for 5D4N!

5D 4N Korea (Autumn)

Be enchanted when you tour Korea for 5D4N in awesome Autumn and feel the magic for yourself. Discover your long lost Seoul from Joseon Dynasty at the Gyeongbokgung Palace or reminisce those romantic scenes from Winter Sonata in Nami Island!

6D 5N Jeju-Seoul Tour

Why choose when you can have both! Spend some time in Jeju to witness some incredibly beautiful scenes as you watch the sunrise at Seongsan Ilchulbong, the UNESCO World Heritage bowl-shaped crater that formed 5000 years ago! Then head to Seoul to dive into the Korean culture as well as some stunning views at Gyeongbokgung Royal Palace and Nami Island. All this and many more down below!

• 13 Halal Meals

6D 5N Best of Korea

Have the best among the best of Korea while learning historical journey of Korea.

• 15 Halal Meals
• Flight Tickets

5D 4N Winter Wonderland Seoul

Stroll around the Nami Island, famous for its beautiful tree-lined roads, visit Gyongbokgung palace and admire the stunning Korean architecture of Bukchon Hanok Village, learn how to make kimchi and cheese, wear hanbok; traditional Korean dress and go for shopping paradise in Seoul — ginseng, skincare, red pine, amethyst.

• 12 Halal Meals

Located at the southern tip of South Korea, Jeju is an island that is littered with UNESCO Natural World Heritage site in such a small island. Experience the best of Jeju with tours around its natural beauty at Halla Arboretum and cultural sites at Seungeop Folk Village. Jeju's serene environment is worth the trip on its own.

7D 6N Seoul & Jeju Honeymoon

Seoul and Jeju gives lovely couples an opportunity to explore the liveliest city in Korea at Seoul and also the quaintest city at Jeju. From strolling among 800 types of flowers at Byukchoji Arboretum to riding a river cruise on the Han River, you'll be having a lovely time in Seoul and Jeju.

• 17 Halal Meals
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Split by a trigger-happy, dictator-lead border, South Korea offers travellers a dazzling range of unique experiences, beautiful landscapes and 5000 years of culture and history as opposed from its much-secluded neighbour. And although its capital, Seoul, takes the most of the plaudits with technologically driven and red-hot energy of its residents, South Korea also has more to offer if you would venture into the road less taken. The various geographical areas of South Korea are just mind-boggling, to say the least. This land of "10,000 peaks, 10,000 islands and 10,000 waterfalls" is a place of never-ending contrasts that is filled with beautiful beaches, ancient temples, remarkable natural scenery and most importantly, friendly people to help you get around.

South Korea is home to an endless number of world-class attractions and annual festivals that foreigners and locals alike enjoy each year. And to make things even better, Korea is simply enjoyable touring all year round as it experiences all 4 seasons. In spring, South Korea is coated in pink when cherry blossoms, decorating the country throughout. And imagine during Autumn season, the country is bathed in the most stunning shades of orange and red as the autumn leaves start to bloom. Your trip to South Korea will certainly be as amazing as you can imagine it to be when you plan with your family and friends for tour packages to South Korea!

What to do in South Korea?

- Let's get Seoul out of the way first. Located at the heart of the city, ironically fascinating, you can tour South Korea's traditional hanok houses in Bukchon Hanok Village. In the Summer, you can find shade and dip your feet inside the Cheonggyecheon Stream, a modern stream that runs through downtown Seoul.

- For some adrenaline rushing good time, you can spend a day at the world's largest indoor theme park, Lotte World, or scream and shout at Everland Theme Park. Also, be ready to be impressed by some architectural brilliance at Ewha Woman's University and Dongdaemun Design Plaza.

- Jeju Island, full of nature's treasure. In the east coast of Jeju, you can tour its UNESCO World Natural Heritage at Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, Seopjikoji, Baekyaki Oreum, and Woljeongri Beach. You can also witness a three-tier waterfall at Cheonjeyeon Waterfall.

- In the half-moon-shaped isle near Seoul, touring Nami Island is also a must when you were to visit South Korea. Nami Island is a magical and unique place as this island truly reflects how stunning the 4 seasons of Korea can be.

- Continuing with the island theme, you can also tour Geojedo Island, the second largest island in Korea (first being Jeju Island). It is a very popular short gateway destination for the people of Busan as you can arrive there for about an hour by car.

- You can't miss visiting Korea during spring. Experiencing Jinhae Gunhangje Festival and Hwagae Cherry Blossoms Festival in Busan and Gyeongsangnam-do is something you need to witness once on your lifetime! Best time to experience this is during early to mid-April.

Where to shop in South Korea?

- If you love shopping, Korea is the perfect place for you. even when you have a few hours in Seoul, you need to squeeze Myeong-dong into your plan. With a chock load of massive department stores, fashion boutiques, and, of course, a wave of skincare and cosmetics shop, Myeong-dong can convert anyone into becoming a shopaholic.

- For a more affordable cosmetic bargain, you can even shop at Ewha Woman's University Shopping Street. Any price that can fit into a student's budget, can definitely fit into any tourists' budget as well.

Are there any festivals in Korea?

If you're planning to tour South Korea for its festivals, then you're in luck! There are plenty of fantastic festivals all year-round in South Korea. Here are some of the festivals held in Korea:

- In January, watch the first sunrise of the year at the Homigot Sunrise Festival.  Located in the furthest east of the Korean peninsula, the sunrise time of Homigot on January 1 is at 7:32 am, and the location makes it the earliest first sunrise of each year in Korea

- In February, enjoy snow, snow and more snow! Sledge and slide your way down the snowy mountain while you watch in amazement at impressive large-scaled snow sculptures at Taebaeksan National Park

- If you're planning to tour South Korea in March, you can take up the chance to witness the breathtaking Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival. The festival only lasts for only 10 days. Careful planning and some luck are required here.

- In May, you can enjoy some beautiful lanterns light up the night sky at Lotus Lantern Festival at the entire downtown Seoul.

- In June, pottery fans can find joy in Incheon as they held the Icheon Ceramic Festival. Here, those who are interested in the arts of pottery can learn from the masters or just enjoy the mood of the festival.

- In July, get down and drity at Boryeong Mud Festival during the summer in Boryeong

- In August, you can watch the recreation of the naval war at The Great Battle of Hansan Festival. This will be held around Tongyeong city

- In September, you can enjoy the week-long Muju Firefly Festival. This is to promote environmental awareness in Muju, where its fireflies can only survive here, where the beautiful and untouched part of South Korea. A visit here is definitely a must for nature lovers.

- By the end of October, you can witness the Busan International Fireworks Festival

- In November, the smell of Kimchi is in the air! You can enjoy the going through the Kimjang (making kimchi) process as the Korea culture aims to educate tourist on this much-loved dish.

What to eat in South Korea?

- With the boost of tourism, halal food and Muslim friendly restaurants can be much easier to be found in South Korea. Although Korean fans are accustomed to Korean food such as kimchi, bulgogi, and japchae, but Korean food would definitely taste much better in Korea! In Korea, you can now even enjoy Jjajangmyeon at Makan Halal Korean Restaurant, Halal-certified restaurant. There are also numerous halal-friendly restaurants such as Nimat, Yang Good Halal BBQ and EID Guesthouse.

How to get around South Korea?

- Unsurprisingly, it is super easy to get around South Korea. World-class even. Six cities that offer a systematic train station are Seoul, Busan, Daejeon, Daegu, Gwangju and Incheon. Travelling via train is the most efficient way to get around Korea.

- You can also ride the bus in South Korea as it is also efficient and most importantly cheap!. The Seoul Express Bus Terminal and the Central City Terminal (both in Seoul) are the gateways to bus routes that connect most of the country.

- We recommend you to purchase the T-money card. This card is a rechargeable smart card that can be used to pay public transit for trains, buses and even taxis.

What is the best time to visit Korea?

South Korea is such a joy to tour all-year-round as there are 4 enjoyable seasons in Korea. So depending on where and what you want to visit, here is what you can expect the weather to be like in South Korea:

- From December to March, you can expect a winter wonderland as you go sightseeing in South Korea. Winter can be cold and crisp in South Korea. Pack those boots if you would want to tour South Korea under the snow. Temperatures can be about -6 and 3°C on average but can also drop below -10°C!

- From April to June is the best time to visit South Korea if you would want to catch those cherry blossoms. Temperature can be pleasant between 15 - 18°C

- From July to August are the hottest months in South Korea as the Summer hits. Pack light, wear comfortable clothes and drink plenty as the temperature can range between 23°C-30°C.

- From September to November, as the Summer heat fades, autumn leaves will start to fall. Such beautiful scenery to behold, really. Temperatures can be mild as it ranges between 19-21°C.

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Which currency should i bring, what is the common language spoken in south korea, is there a time difference, can i use my normal electrical plugs in the south korea, what vaccinations are recommended for this adventure, can you drink tap water in korea, top packages.

• Travel Planning Guide

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

• South Korea Costs

• Is South Korea Expensive?
• How much does a trip to South Korea cost?
• South Korea On-Your-Own Itineraries
• Pyeongchang
• Busan (Pusan)
• Cheju (Jeju)
• South Korea Hotel Prices
• South Korea Cities: Hotel Prices by City
• Best Hotels for a Weekend Getaway in South Korea
• Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in South Korea
• Best Beach Hotels in South Korea
• Best Hotels for First Time Visitors in South Korea
• Best Business Hotels in South Korea
• Best Hotels for One Night in South Korea
• Best Family-Friendly Hotels in South Korea
• Best Cheap Hotels in South Korea
• Best Hotels for Skiing in South Korea
• Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in South Korea
• Best Luxury Hotels in South Korea
• Best Hotels for One Week in South Korea
• Where Do Backpackers Go in South Korea? A Review of Hostels and Guesthouses.
• Hostel Prices & Reviews
• South Korea Tour Prices
• The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea
• The Best Historical Tours in South Korea
• The Best 10-Day Tours in South Korea
• The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in South Korea
• The Best 3-Day Tours in South Korea
• The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in South Korea
• The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea
• The Best Sightseeing Tours in South Korea
• The Best Cultural Tours in South Korea
• The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in South Korea
• The Best Luxury Tours to South Korea
• The Best Budget Tours to South Korea
• The Best Tours for Seniors to South Korea
• How much does it cost to travel to South Korea? (Average Daily Cost)
• South Korea trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

How much do package tours cost in South Korea?

Is south korea expensive to visit.

• How much do I need for a trip to South Korea?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Budgeting Tips & Challenges
• Cost of Accommodation
• Cost of Transportation
• Cost of Food
• Cost of Sightseeing & Entertainment
• Cost of Alcohol & Nightlife
• Travel Guide

South Korea is a diverse destination known for it's beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide , we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget so you have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.

How much does it cost to travel to South Korea?

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

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $29 (₩38,176) on meals
• $16 (₩21,533) on local transportation
• $100 (₩133,776) on hotels

A one week trip to South Korea for two people costs, on average, $1,547 (₩2,070,642) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

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

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 110 ₩ 147,903
• One Week Per person $ 773 ₩ 1,035,321
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 1,547 ₩ 2,070,642
• One Month Per person $ 3,315 ₩ 4,437,090
• One Week For a couple $ 1,547 ₩ 2,070,642
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 3,094 ₩ 4,141,284
• One Month For a couple $ 6,629 ₩ 8,874,180

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

A one week trip to South Korea usually costs around $773 (₩1,035,321) for one person and $1,547 (₩2,070,642) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to South Korea on average costs around $1,547 (₩2,070,642) for one person and $3,094 (₩4,141,284) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

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

A one month trip to South Korea on average costs around $3,315 (₩4,437,090) for one person and $6,629 (₩8,874,180) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

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

The average price for an organized tour package in South Korea is $393 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.

• Exploring South Korea 12 Days - 5 Destinations $ 1,670
• Discover Korea: Wellness & Kpop 6-Day Adventure 6 Days - 12 Destinations $ 1,530

Independent Travel

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

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

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

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

For more details, see Is South Korea Expensive?

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

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

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's essential to have a grounded perspective on your budget. While many believe they can thrive as "budget" travelers on a mere $44 a day, the reality is that most people struggle to enjoy that style of travel. Consider what makes you happy and how you've traveled before. Do you prefer the comfort of resorts, the convenience of vacation rentals, or the camaraderie (and price) of hostels? Is dining out a top priority for you? Your answers to these questions will certainly impact your overall travel budget.

What is a budget traveler, anyway?

Many people might hear that you can explore South Korea for just $44 a day, but if you're not ready to sacrifice some comforts, be prepared to spend quite a bit more.

Backpackers often manage to stick to this tight budget, but it usually means sleeping in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest eateries or grabbing fast food, relying on public transport or walking everywhere, and limiting themselves to free attractions.

Fortunately, South Korea has a large number of hostels. You'll find the greatest concentration in Seoul and Busan (Pusan). Some destinations offer excellent public transportation, allowing budget travelers to skip costly taxi or Uber fares. While everyone appreciates the delicious food in South Korea, those on a budget often dine on street food or cook in their hostel. This could lead to missing out on some of the better culinary experiences.

So, are you average?

Mid-range hotels, well-known restaurants, and visits to museums and attractions with entry fees are common choices for families or couples traveling on vacation. Most travelers will want to visit the major sights, museums, and landmarks. Most of these activities cost money, after all, so it's wise to plan for a budget closer to $110 per person each day.

In South Korea, you'll find plenty of hotels and vacation rentals to suit your needs. If you're traveling with a partner, friends, or your kids, then hotel costs will be divided, making it easier on your budget. Family-friendly destinations like Seoul offer hotels and restaurants with options tailored for kids. Some good places to stay are Metro Hotel Myeongdong in Seoul or Pacific Hotel Seoul in Seoul. For more family- and couple-friendly places to stay, check out our hotel guide for South Korea here .

Looking to Travel in Luxury?

For those seeking an all-inclusive experience with top-tier service, be prepared for a daily price around $281. Staying in luxury hotels, dining at fine restaurants, indulging in high-end excursions, and hiring private drivers will push you into the "luxury" bracket. You'll find yourself vacationing among the elite in destinations like Seoul and Pyeongchang. Another option would be to splurge on a multi-day high-end tour that takes care of everything for you, such as SOUTH KOREA DISCOVERY TOUR - offered by Tweet World Travel.

Accommodation Budget in South Korea

The wide range of prices for hotels and accommodation in South Korea can be very surprising. Some destinations have much higher price tags than others, and even within the same areas you can find a big difference between the budget-friendly and higher-end hotels. Also, during peak season, prices are much higher. You can save a good bit of money if you travel during the low season or shoulder seasons, as room prices adjust according to the overall demand. Booking in advance can often save you money, too.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

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

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

Hotel Prices in South Korea

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

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

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

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

Seoul In Seoul, which is a large city, expect a fairly wide range of choices and prices for accommodation. Hotel prices here can range from $26 in the low season to $198 during the peak season. Pacific Hotel Seoul ($64) is one of the best hotel options here, and Marriott Executive Apartments Yeouido Park Centre - Seoul is also good, and starts at $167. You can expect to pay around $19 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel. Most visitors to Seoul stay up to seven days, so you'll want to find a comfortable and convenient place if you're staying for a while.

Recommended Properties

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

Local Transportation Budget in South Korea

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

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

Local Transportation Tips

If you're looking to save money, public transit is the best way to get around. Many places have reliable public transportation systems. Some of the best include Seoul. Many travelers like to experience places on foot. This lets you get up close and personal with different neighborhoods and the local culture. If you like walking, you'll enjoy your time in these cities.

In the larger cities such as Seoul, get a multi-day pass if you plan to use public transit frequently. Depending on how often you use it, you could end up saving a lot of money instead of buying individual tickets.

When visiting Seoul, it's generally advisable to avoid driving due to the crowded conditions. Parking is frequently pricey, and traffic can be quite difficult. Instead of renting a car, you can save money by taking advantage of public transport or simply walking around.

If you have a car in one of the bigger cities, check with your hotel beforehand about the parking situation. You may have to pay to park either at the hotel or in a nearby public garage. Either way, it might be cheaper to find somewhere further out of town to park your car.

Recommended Services

• Private Airport Transfer: Incheon Airport to Seoul City 1-12 pax Viator $ 204
• Incheon Airport Transfer Service private transport to Seoul Viator $ 110

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

The numbers below highlight common transportation expenses in South Korea, gathered from actual travelers. These prices give a good estimate of what you're likely to spend while getting around the city. However, your personal costs will depend on your travel style, since taxis and hired cars tend to be much pricier than public transportation.

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

Food Budget in South Korea

While meal prices in South Korea can vary, the average cost of food in South Korea is $29 (₩38,176) per day, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 29 ₩ 38,176

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in France is around $29 (₩38176) per person, with previous travelers spending from $11 to $75. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in South Korea are as follows:

• Breakfast: $3 to $9
• Lunch: $4 to $11
• Dinner: $9 to $20
• Fast Food or Street Food: $4

Popular Culinary Destinations

South Korea is a world-class destination for food lovers, and its cuisine is appreciated everywhere. A large number of visitors travel just to indulge in the local fare. Some of the best cities for culinary experiences are Seoul.

Seoul Seoul is well known for its food scene. Food is a cultural obsession here, and you'll find everything from world class street food to award winning restaurants. The dishes are so much more diverse than Korean barbecue and kimchi. Many dishes are very spicy, with popular local foods including gamjatang (pork and potato soup) and jeon (savory pancakes).

If you're planning to take a tour, make sure you know which meals are included beforehand. You might be on the hook to pay for some of the food yourself which can add to your budget.

When traveling with children, look for restaurants with a kids menu. This can save you plenty of money as these options tend to be much lower in price. Some restaurants don't list the kids' options on their menu, so ask the waiter before you order.

Many hotels include breakfast in their price, while some add it on as an extra charge. The price and quality can vary depending on the hotel. Knowing ahead of time can help you decide if you need to spend even more money. Maybe it's worth your money for the delicious buffet at the hotel. Or, perhaps you should just go to a nearby bakery or cafe that's much cheaper.

Carry a water bottle with you instead of buying drinks everywhere. It's also good for the environment.

If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in South Korea, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:

• Korean Cooking at Seoul Cooking Club for $109 details
• Traditional Brew Master's workshop Visit & Dinner with Magkeolli for $140 details
• Mangwon Market Food tour By Locals; Cheap Eats to Fancy Feast for $50 details
• K-food cooking Japchae Mandu Tteokbokki & Fishcake for $89 details

Recommended

• Korean Cooking at Seoul Cooking Club Viator $ 109
• Traditional Brew Master's workshop Visit & Dinner with Magkeolli Viator $ 140

What did other people spend on Food?

Listed below are typical food prices in South Korea, based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.

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

Entertainment Budget in South Korea

Entertainment and activities in South Korea typically cost an average of $27 (₩35,611) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 27 ₩ 35,611

The Best Sightseeing Destinations

With a variety of destinations that are not as heavily trafficked by tourists, South Korea offers opportunities to find unique hidden gems. Some of the more visited areas include Seoul.

Seoul Seoul is the capital city of South Korea. It's a high tech city that has many skyscrapers and a modern subway system. There's also a long history with many temples and palaces to explore. The city is a foodie paradise with many street markets as well as award winning restaurants. While its not as popular a tourist destination as some other major Asian cities, it has an authenticity that makes it a unique destination.

Entertainment Tips

A nice way to explore destinations in South Korea is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

• Rare Chance : The Korea's White House Walking Tour for $36 details
• Jeju Private Taxi Tour With Flexible itinerary for $250 details
• Seoul Night Tour (Gwangjang Market, Royal Palace and Naksan Park) for $45 details
• Busan Private Tour with a licensed tour guide for $220 details

Recommended Activities

• Rare Chance : The Korea's White House Walking Tour Viator $ 36
• Jeju Private Taxi Tour With Flexible itinerary Viator $ 250

What did other people spend on Entertainment?

Outlined below are some typical prices for entry fees and activities in South Korea. They have been reported from the expenses of previous travelers. These costs provide an idea of what you might need to spend, though your individual expenses will depend on the activities you participate in, the places you visit, and how often you choose budget-friendly or free activities.

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

Alcohol Budget in South Korea

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

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 12 ₩ 15,553

Popular Nightlife Destinations

South Korea is a highly sought-after spot for nightlife, drawing visitors from across the globe to enjoy its vibrant scene. Some of the top nightlife destinations are Seoul.

Seoul The nightlife scene is a highlight for many young visitors in Seoul . This is definitely a work hard/play hard city, with locals working long hours during the day and then partying hard late into the night. The nightlife scene is strong both during the week and on weekends. There are bars, clubs, and lounges that are frequented by locals and tourists alike.

Alcohol Tips

While enjoying the nightlife is often one of the most fun activities while traveling, cutting back on drinking can actually help reduce your travel budget in a big way.

Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in South Korea. A few favorites from other travelers include:

• Seoul Pub Crawl by Absolute for $20 details
• Seoul Pub Crawl in Gangnam with Free Shots and Korean Tapas for $23 details
• DMZ and Makgeolli Brewery Tour with Tasting Course for $74 details
• Soju Tasting at Distillery - Story of Three Pigs for $44 details
• Seoul Pub Crawl by Absolute Viator $ 20
• Seoul Pub Crawl in Gangnam with Free Shots and Korean Tapas Viator $ 23

Budgeting and Travel Tips

• The peak season in South Korea is in the summer when it's buzzing with tourists, and with the surge in visitors comes an increase in prices. Hotels fill up fast, and finding affordable accommodation can be a bit of a challenge. If you want to keep things budget-friendly, visiting during the shoulder or low seasons is a great way to avoid the crowds and save some money.
• In places like Seoul, visitors tend to stay for longer stretches - usually about a week. It's especially popular with families who find renting an apartment or vacation home more practical. Not only do you get extra space to spread out, but a kitchen and other amenities can make your stay both comfy and budget-friendly.

Budgeting Challenges

• South Korea isn't exactly a hotspot for hostels, so if you're expecting to stay in a cheap dorm to save money, you might want to adjust your plans. Instead, find a cheap hotel or apartment rental.
• Outside of Seoul, getting around South Korea can be challenging due to limited public transport options. Renting a car or securing transportation in advance is key, although it could mean you'll have less to spend on other parts of your trip. Tours are often good options to help you get around if you don't want to drive yourself.
• For families, many hotels in Seoul are not large enough to accommodate a family of four. Space can be tight, so be prepared to find a larger hotel or pay for two rooms.

Related Articles

South korea on a budget.

At A Glance

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

Top Tourist Attractions

More related articles.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

EPIC 7 days Korea itinerary for first-timers

By: Author Kris

Posted on Last updated: April 30, 2024

Are you heading to Korea and looking for the perfect 7-day Korea itinerary? You came to the right place. Here we share what to do and where to go when you have 7 days in South Korea.

South Korea is a fascinating country. It has a rich history and offers its visitors everything from the ultra-modern capital city of Seoul to villages like Andong where it seems that time has stood still. 

The country has countless National Parks, one of them even adjacent to Seoul, where we did some impressive but exhausting hikes. The park is very mountainous…  

So, there’s a lot to explore in South Korea and the hospitable Koreans made our stay impeccable. 

In this Korea trip blog post, we share our complete day-by-day South Korea itinerary for 7 days. We end with some travel tips for South Korea.

Perfect for your first time in Korea.

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

In a hurry? Here we share our South Korea itinerary overview

If you don’t have time to read through the full 7-day Korea itinerary,  use this overview to get an idea of the things to do each day and save it for later.

• Day 1-2 Seoul: Palaces, Insadong, traditional Hanok houses, Gwangjang market, Myeongdong, DMZ
• Day 3-4 Gyeongju: Andong Hahoe Folk Village, Royal tombs, Bulgasaka temple
• Day 5-6 Busan: Haeundae beach, Gwangandaegyo bridge, Taejongdae Resort Park, Jagalchi Fish Market, Busan Tower, Water Temple, Gamcheon cultural village
• Day 7 Seoul: Seoul tower, Bukhansan National Park

Table of Contents

How to travel around South Korea

We rented a car and went on a road trip in South Korea.

You won’t need your car in Seoul so our advice would be to pick up your car from one of the many downtown locations when you leave for Gyeongju.

You can rent a car from Rentalcars.com , QEEQ , or Klook.

Here is all the information you need about renting a car and driving in Korea.

If you prefer not to drive you can use the train. Both Gyeongju and Busan have good train connections. If you travel this itinerary by train you will save with the Korea Rail Pass .

1 week in South Korea: Our South Korea itinerary 

Most international flights arrive in Seoul. This makes it the logical city to start our tour.

Day 1 -2: Seoul

Seoul represents the futuristic race the country has run over the past years.  The pace at which this city has been undergoing development is similar to that of Chinese cities. 

Seoul expanded enormously over the years and now houses almost 12 million people. It borders Incheon in the West and Bukhansan National Park in the North. 

The highlights can be visited in a few days but you will need weeks to discover all areas of this stretched-out megapolis.

Seoul city walk

Depending on what time you arrive in Seoul you can do (part of this) walk to get a good first impression of this fantastic city.

The city counts 5 palaces.   We visited Gyeongbokgung Palace, the most popular one, to watch the changing of the guards. Later on, we also went to Unhyeoungung Palace and Deosugung Palace. Those palaces are not as popular which makes them ideal for a complete and tranquil visit. 

From Unhyeoungung you can continue to Bukchon Hanok Village, one of the most beautiful places in South Korea to stroll between the traditional Hanok houses. 

From Bukchon it’s not far to Insadong , one of the most traditional and cultural districts in Seoul and a great place for lunch. 

Make sure to drop by the beautifully decorated Jogyesa temple.

A little bit further out, but worth the detour, is Gwangjang market.  

This is a traditional street market where you can mingle with the Koreans to taste some of the local street-food delicacies.

Have a look at the stalls that sell San-nakji which is raw octopus that is killed by cutting it into pieces on your plate so that the tentacles are still moving while it is served. 

I can assure you that we did not try this either but there’s a lot more you can enjoy like the Soonday (blood sausage), different kinds of rice rolls, and bindaetteok, a kind of pancake.

Coming back from Gwangjang take a left at the futuristic Jongno tower towards Myeongdong . 

Where you cross the Cheonggyecheon River, you will find several food trucks. 

After you have discovered the Myeongdong shopping district you can make your way to the modern city hall and walk along the wide Sejong-daero boulevard back towards Gyeongbokgung palace.

Seoul Itinerary

Now that you’ve already got the first impression of this thriving capital it’s time to explore it further.

You can easily spend a day exploring the city’s palaces and Bukchon Hanok Village. A second day can be spent going to Namsan Park where you can go up the Seoul Tower. Afterward, you can visit Myeongdong and Hongdae.

If you ask us, the DMZ is also something not to be missed.

As you can see there is more than enough to do for 2 days.

We won’t go into more detail here. Instead, have a look at our detailed 3-7 day Seoul Itinerary . Our recommendation would be to focus on the first 2 days of this itinerary, but of course, you are free to create your own itinerary based on the different activities that we describe.

The ultimate Seoul itinerary for 3-7 days, 39 of the best things to do in Seoul  and the 4 day Seoul itinerary.

Take our Seoul E-guide with you 

For the price of a single cup of coffee, you can get our 3-7 days Seoul itinerary as a nicely formatted PDF document.

You can print it or store it on your phone so you can access it anytime during your visit to Seoul.

Have a look here for more information and a preview.  

Organized Tours in Seoul 

Here is an overview of the best-organized tours in Seoul.  An organized tour saves you time and, moreover, the tour guide will enlighten you about the different sights you visit.

We partnered up with GetYourGuide and Klook for these activities. 

We love GetYourGuide because they’re flexible.  Sometimes your plans change last minute and then you want to be able to cancel your tickets and get your money back.  It’s also good to know that GetYourGuide has your back when the local tour operator doesn’t show up or cancels your trip.

Klook is a trustworthy travel company headquartered in Hong Kong that teams up with local operators to offer all kinds of travel experiences.

We selected 3 excellent tours in Seoul just for you.

Visit the DMZ 

Visiting the DMZ is a must-do when you are in Seoul. The DMZ area is located around 60 km up north of Seoul and can only be visited with a guided tour.

Make sure to book your tours well in advance as they often sell-out.  Trips to the DMZ run Tuesday to Friday.

Book a full-day tour that includes the JSA , the Joint Security Area, the place where the 2 countries meet, and where you can step across the border and be in North Korea for a few minutes.

You can read more about the DMZ in day 3 of this itinerary and we have a full article online that compares the different tours that you can book to visit the DMZ.

Join a Seoul City Bus Tour

If you want to discover the highlights of Seoul but you are short on time, this bus tour is for you. Hop on the bus and discover the top city attractions with ease.

Perfect for first-time visitors.

Check prices and availability: Seoul City Bus Tour

Experience a Nanta show in Myeongdong or Hongdae

If you are looking for a fun night out in Seoul this nonverbal Nanta show is perfect for you. The narrative centers around 3 charismatic chefs and integrates the traditional rhythms of Samulnori  with comedy and drama. 

Lots of fun and perfect for the whole family.

For this activity, we decided to partner up with Klook because they often have the cheapest tickets for the Nanta show.

Check prices and availability: Nanta show

Where to stay in Seoul? 

Seoul is a large city with lots of districts each with its own styles and attractions.

Here we share the best places to stay for tourists and first-timers based on our own experience.

Myeongdong – City Center

Myeongdong is right in the heart of Seoul’s city center.

This is one of the most popular places to stay. 

The district does draw large crowds of tourists as well as shoppers and once the sun settles people flock to the streets to stroll along the pop-up food stalls and enjoy some of the best street food that Seoul has to offer. 

You will also find plenty of restaurant options, we had some of the best dakgalbi in this district. 

By staying in Myeongdong you are close to the Namsan Seoul Tower and the Namdaemun Sungnyemun gate.

Metro hotel

The Metro hotel is within walking distance of shopping areas, street food, and public transportation. 

The rooms are small but clean and all have complimentary water, tea, and coffee facilities.

The hotel offers a complimentary smartphone which you can use to make local calls and take out when exploring.

The hotel offers a free massage chair to use in the main lobby which is nice after a tiring day sightseeing.

Check prices and availability:

Booking.com

Insa-Dong – Palace Quarter

Insa-dong is one of the most traditional and cultural districts in Seoul and a very touristy district.  The streets are lined with souvenir shops, restaurants, and tea houses.

You are within walking distance of most palaces, the Jogyesa Buddhist Temple, Bukchon Hanok village, and Gwanghwamum square. 

This is probably the best location if you’re short on time and want to visit the highlights on foot.

Sunbee hotel

The Sunbee hotel is close to 2 subway stations, the Bukchon Hanok Village, and Seoul’s city center.

There are many nice restaurants, tea houses, and cafes near the hotel.

This is an excellent location for sightseeing.  The rooms are large and have good beds.  

The hotel staff is always friendly and willing to help and most of them speak English.

We stayed in Gangnam the commercial district of Seoul that attracts the rich and young crowds who come here to spend their hard-earned money in the many exclusive bars, restaurants, and nightlife venues. 

Its huge boulevards are lined with skyscrapers and are best enjoyed after dark when Gangnam comes alive and the huge billboards lighten up the neighborhood.

Gangnam is a little outside of the traditional tourist spots and might not be ideal if this is your first visit to Seoul.

Seoul has one of the world’s largest subway networks and the trains run frequently.  Still, it took us 45 minutes to get from Gangnam to Anguk, one of the major stations in InsaDong, the Palace District.

The advantage of staying in Gangnam is that the hotel rooms tend to be a tad larger here compared to the city center.

Aloft Seoul Gangnam

Aloft Seoul Gangnam is about 5 mins walk to Cheongdam station (line 7). The subway system takes you relatively easy and fast to all the places of interest.

The hotel is very easy to reach from Incheon airport (Airport Bus 6006 literally stops in front of the entrance) and is in the nice Cheongdam Area with a bunch of good food options and coffee shops.

Nice rooms with great service. Friendly and helpful staff.

If you aren’t convinced of the above-mentioned hotels have a look at our other Seoul accommodations posts.

• Where to stay in Seoul: our post on the best areas and hotels to stay in Seoul
• Coolest hotels in Seoul: an overview of cool hotels in Seoul
• Best Airbnbs in Seoul: for those who prefer staying in an Airbnb in Seoul

How to get from Incheon or Gimpo airport to Seoul

There are 2 international airports in Seoul,  Incheon International Airport   and  Gimpo airport.

How to get from Gimpo Airport to Seoul

Gimpo airport  is Seoul’s smallest airport and lies about 50 minutes from downtown Seoul.

It is often used for domestic flights and offers a shuttle service to  Tokyo.

Gimpo Airport can be easily reached by subway Line 5 and with  the all-stop A’REX Airport Express.

How to get from Incheon airport to Seoul

Most international passengers will arrive at Incheon International Airport.

South Korea’s largest airport is 47km from  Seoul Station , which is considered to be the center of Seoul.  The airport is well-connected to this station.

Some hotels have courtesy shuttles to Seoul station but if they don’t you could continue your journey with the subway, the train, the limousine bus, or organize a private transfer.

The fastest and cheapest way 

The fastest and cheapest way  to get from Incheon International Airport to Seoul Station is using  the A’REX Airport Express.

Check prices and availability: A’rex Incheon Airport Express Train Tickets

The limousine bus

Another option is taking  the limousine bus.  There are 4 lines that stop at various places in Seoul.

• 6701 Airport: Seoul City Hall
• 6702 Airport: Dongdaemun/Namsan
• 6703 Airport: Gangnam/COEX
• 6705 Airport: Jamsil/East Seoul Bus Terminal

The buses run from early in the morning until the evening.

Note that the schedule for all buses is different, so definitely check the bus hours before booking a ticket.

Check prices and availability: Seoul K lImousine Bus

Take a private and direct transfer

Depending on the location of your hotel and the length of your flight (and the amount of sleep you could get) you might not be looking forward to train and subway rides in your first hours in Seoul. 

After a long flight, a  private and direct transfer from the airport to your hotel  will be a lot more comfortable.

Check prices and availability: Incheon Private Transfer

How to get around Seoul? 

The easiest way to travel around Seoul is to use   the subway. 

Seoul’s subway is well-connected and quite cheap.

Single-ride cards  can be purchased on vending machines with coins and bills, credit cards are not accepted.

T-money recharge card

To avoid the hassle of buying tickets for each and every ride you can opt for the  T-money recharge card .

Korea tour card

If you are visiting more places in South Korea, we advise you to buy a Korea Tour Card. This is a T-money card that can be used in the whole of Korea.

In addition to the comfort of just having to tap the card whenever you use public transportation, you also get discounts at a number of popular attractions, including Lotte World, Everland, and several more.

If you have an Android phone, you can even use a digital version of the T-money card. 

This card is a great deal as it is even cheaper than a regular T-money card. It costs ₩6000 and has a ₩5000 value that can be used towards rides.

Check prices and availability: Digital T-Money Tour Card for Android

Korail railPlus transport card

In addition to the subway and busses, this card can also be used on Korail’s intercity trains, including the fast KTX trains.

Some taxis also accept the Rail+ card and you can also pay your highway toll fees with this card.

Check prices and availability: RailPlus card

M-pass card

This is a transportation card exclusively for international tourists traveling in the Seoul metropolitan area.

M-PASS comes in five different durations: 1-day, 2-day, 3-day, 5-day, and 7-day passes. 

You can buy your M-pass card on weekdays at the Seoul City Tower. (close to exit 10 of Seoul Station) Cash only.

Discover Seoul Pass

If you plan to visit a lot of Seoul’s tourist attractions then the above-described Discover Seoul Pass   is your ideal travel companion. 

The pass has a 1-day, 2-day, and 3-day variant and gives you discounted or free access to many top tourist destinations.

It also has a T-money function that will save you ₩2,500 from buying a separate T-Money card. As an extra benefit, you get one free one-way A’rex Express train ride.

Note that The Discover Seoul Pass is not always available.

If it isn’t, you can see if they have the BTS edition. It’s a 24hr edition of the Discover Seoul Pass without the T-money option.

Instead, you get a Korea Tour T-money Card as a bonus.

The BTS edition covers the same attractions as the regular Discover Seoul Pass.

Discover Seoul Pass BTS (24h+Korea Tour Card)

Day 3 -4: Gyeongju

The next stop on our 1-week Korea itinerary is Gyeongju.

As soon as you leave Seoul you will find yourself surrounded by high mountains and idyllic countryside. A stark contrast with the urban jungle of Seoul.

For the next 2 to 6 hours you will see endless green landscapes that occasionally have to make way for rugged mountain tops.

Gyeongju used to be the capital of Korea during the Silla dynasty and today it is still recognized as the cultural capital of the country.

This makes Gyeongju a must-visit on your 7-day Korea itinerary.

How to get to Gyeongju from Seoul

The fastest and easiest way is by KTX train . KTX trains travel between Seoul station and Singyeongju Station. The journey takes around 2 hours. From Singyeongju you can take a bus to Gyeongju. The bus ride adds another 30 minutes.

Don’t forget to buy a Korea Rail Pass . If you do the round trip between Seoul and Singyeongju, with a stopover in Busan, you will save with a Korea Rail Pass .

Having a rental car offers more freedom but you won’t be able to beat the time it takes for the train to reach the city. Using turnpikes the journey takes 4 hours, if you want to avoid tolls it will take somewhere between 5 and 6 hours.

The advantage of self-driving is that you can enjoy the beautiful landscape at your own pace, and make a stopover in the Andong Hahoe Folk village.

The Andong Hahoe Folk Village

On your way from Seoul to Gyeongju, you will pass the Andong Hahoe Folk Village.

Allow 2 hours for a visit to this folkloristic village. We had mixed feelings about our visit.  This well-preserved village forms a valuable part of Korean culture and is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site. But it is not an open-air museum.

All houses are inhabited and most are hidden behind high ramparts and closed gates.  Therefore you cannot visit the houses, you can only stroll through the streets or drive through them with a golf cart as many Asian tourists do. 

It feels strange to pay an entrance fee just to walk through the streets of an inhabited village. 

I hope our entrance fee helps the inhabitants to conserve their village but as a visitor, I would have loved to see the inside of some of these houses and some more historical context like you get in most folk villages.

That’s why I would recommend taking a guide who can give you some context about the things you see. He or she can teach you all kinds of things about Korean culture, architecture, and religion. I’m sure we would have appreciated our visit more with a guide.

If you want to visit the Andong Hahoe Folk Village but don’t want to drive there yourself you can join an organized day tour from Seoul. If you’re a party of 3 or more you can arrange your own private group trip.

Individual tour

Private group tour

Things to do in Gyeongju

Gyeongju is a relatively small town and most sights are within walking distance.

You can see most of the highlights of Gyeongju by walking from the city center past the Royal Tombs (often compared to Teletubbies houses) and the observation tower to the Donggung Palace with the Wolji Pond. 

The most charming moment to visit the Palace is after dark when the reflection of the palace in the water turns your visit into a fairytale story.

Still, it is a good idea to buy your tickets during the day so that when you come back in the evening you can walk straight in and skip the huge lines at the ticket machines.

Bulgaksa is a popular temple near Gyeongju.  Recognized as Unesco World heritage it houses 7 of South Korea’s national treasures. 

From the temple, you can hike to the nearby Seokguram Grotto which is part of the temple and also recognized as Unesco World heritage. 

It’s a scenic 45-minute uphill walk.  It is a small but peaceful temple with a stone-carved Buddha in the cave. 

No photographing is allowed and a glass wall has been put up to protect the interior of the cave.

Where to stay in Gyeongju

Gyeongju gg tourist hotel.

We stayed at the Gyeongju GG Tourist Hotel. The hotel lies in a good location right in the city center near the bus terminal.

It’s easy to walk to the Royal tombs as well as the other UNESCO World Heritage sites in the ancient tomb complex.

The hotel has spacious and comfortable rooms with a big bathroom.

The only negative that we can say is that the walls of the room are quite thin. We had a lot of noise from our neighbors who were arguing until late at night. But I suppose we were just unlucky with our neighbors this night.

If you have a car you can also opt for a hotel near Bomun lake where you can take long walks around the lake.

Hotel Lahan Select Gyeongju

Hotel Lahan Select Gyeongju offers comfortable rooms with a balcony.

The hotel is in a great location next to the lake, a stroll around the lake is lovely, certainly during the cherry blossom season.

The hotel has a buffet restaurant, Chinese restaurant, coffee shop, bakery & wine shop, kids’ play area, and video gaming room. 

The professional hotel staff speaks English.

Day 5 – 6: Busan

Next on our list is Busan , South Korea’s fastest-growing city. A fishing village bursting at the seams.

Getting to Busan

If you travel by train, the journey from Gyeongju to Busan takes about 1 hour.

You will first need to jump on the bus to Singyeongju station where you can board a KTX train for Busan.

If you drive yourself it will take 2 hours if you use the toll roads or 30 minutes more if you avoid them.

Things to do in Busan

Busan is located along South Korea’s southeastern coast. It has some wonderful beaches and draws huge crowds during the summer months. 

Haeundae beach is a nice place to stay if you fancy a romantic stroll on the beach before you retire to your hotel room.

The nearby Dongbaek park offers splendid nocturnal views on the 7-km long Gwangandaegyo bridge, better known as the Diamond bridge.

On hot days you can cool down in the Shinsegae Centum city shopping center. 

Holding the record of the world’s largest shopping complex you will be able to tie on your ice skates and practice some rounds on the ice rink or relax in Spa Land.

An enormous spa complex with 22 different spas and a mixture of 13 different  Korean traditional ‘Jjimjil-bang’ saunas and saunas from all over the world.

Busan’s Sea Life Aquarium is also in Haeundae. It’s highly regarded, certainly by couples with kids.  If you visit the aquarium you can save a lot of money by buying discount tickets online here.

There are over 3500 islands to discover in South Korea. One of the most famous and beautiful is Jeju island.

In the center of Busan, you will find the Busan tower and the Nampodong & Jagalchi markets.

A little outside of the city is Taejongdae Resort Park, a peninsula that offers breathtaking views, and the Instagram-worthy Haedong Yonggungsa temple.

Also worth mentioning is the colorful cultural village of Gamcheon.   Due to the photogenic stacked houses, this place is very popular with tourists.

Busan has loads more to offer. We recommend that you follow our 2-day Busan itinerary .

• We wrote a complete article about what to do in Busan, you can find it here.
• If you are looking for a Busan 2 day itinerary, click here.
• Wondering what to do in Busan at night, click here.
• If you have still some time left in Busan, you could consider making a day trip. Here is an overview of the best day trips from Busan. 

Organized Tours in Busan

Busan lacks the efficient public transportation network of Seoul. There is a metro network but many of the tourist sights are far from the subway stops and will require a ride by bus. A car is therefore still useful in this city.

For those who do not have a rental car, we share some organized tours below. With these organized tours, you can efficiently visit the different sights.

You will not need to plot out your own itinerary and you won’t lose time waiting for the bus.

Busan Private Tour with a Local

If you are like us and you don’t like group tours, this private tour might be something for you. 

With this tour, you will have the chance to explore Busan with a local guide who will customize your tour in line with your personal interests.

Perfect if you want to learn more about Busan but you don’t like group tours.

Check prices and availability: Private customizable Busan Tour

Busan Night City Tour 

Busan is well known for its amazing night views. This tour is for you if you want to discover the city at night and take awesome night pictures.

Check prices and availability: Busan night tour

If you didn’t find what you were looking for, take a look at our overview with the best Busan day tours. 

Where to stay in Busan

Here’s a complete list of excellent places to stay in Busan .

Below is the hotel where we stayed during our last visit to Busan.

  Shilla Stay Haeundae

We stayed in the brand new Shilla Stay Haeundae hotel, located right in front of Haeundae beach.

The hotel has soberly decorated modern and comfortable rooms.

They have a rooftop bar which is a great place to hang out. The hotel is within walking distance of many restaurants.

• Here’s our complete guide about where to stay in Busan.
• If you prefer Airbnbs, have a look at our post in which we share the best Airbnbs in Busan. 

Day 7: Seoul

The last day of your 7-day South Korea travel itinerary takes us back to Seoul to spend more time in this huge metropolis.

Several viewpoints offer dramatic views of the vastness of Seoul.  

The Seoul tower and Seoul sky (in the Lotte world center) are perhaps the 2 most known and most accessible while the vistas from Bukhansan National Park are not as widely known.

The views from the park are at least as good and we absolutely recommend that nature lovers reserve some time to visit the park.

The trail that leads up to the Bogungmun gate of the old fort is tiring but once you reach the top you are rewarded with a beautiful view of the park and the vast city.

From here you can follow the ramparts of the old fort to the Daeseongmun gate where you can go back down via another path.

You can also use your last day for a great day trip (or weekend trip) from Seoul. 

Here is an overview of more fun things to do in Korea.

If you have 2 weeks in South Korea, check out this post.

South Korea travel tips

Let’s end this Korea itinerary blog with some Korean travel tips.

What’s the best time to visit South Korea?

May, September, and October are the best months to visit South Korea. 

June, July, and August are rainier and hotter with temperatures reaching 25 to 30 degrees.  Moreover, the risk of typhoons is also greater. 

In May everything starts to bloom and in September and October, the autumn colors make the landscapes very photogenic.

We visited South Korea in April and had 2 rainy days over the course of 2 weeks and a half.

Here is a step-by-step guide to planning your trip to Korea.

Going independent or joining an organized tour

We found it easy and straightforward to create our own travel itinerary for South Korea. Korea is a very modern country, we could book and arrange everything online.

We also found it pretty easy to travel around the country independently. 

But if you don’t want to travel independently you could join an organized tour. TourRadar is a trustworthy company where you can book an organized tour. 

If you prefer an organized tour, have a look at our overview of the best Korea package tours. 

Cheap flights to South Korea

If you want to score  cheap flights  to Korea we advise you to have a look at  Momondo and  Skyscanner .  

Both are flight aggregators that compare several hundreds of booking sites and give you an overview of the best flights and the cheapest sites to book them. 

Momondo and Skyscanner are both very good at finding good deals, of the two, Momondo is probably the one with the most intuitive user interface.

Wondering how to find a cheap flight? Have a look at this post. 

Do I need travel insurance for Korea?

Travel Insurance is something that can be overlooked when you prepare for your vacation. 

Certainly when you’re traveling to a safe and civilized country.  We didn’t get travel insurance for our first vacation. 

A few years later we both took out new credit cards that came with travel insurance and relied on those.  We know better now…

Overall, chances are slim that you will encounter any problems while traveling through a civilized country such as Korea. But when things go wrong in civilized countries, the medical costs can be high. 

We learned it the hard way when we once had to visit a hospital in the United States.  The medical care was excellent but we had high out-of-pocket expenses as it turned out the insurance that came without credit cards didn’t cover these costs.  It turned out we were underinsured.

Drawing up a travel insurance policy may seem expensive at first but it can potentially save you a significant sum, significantly more than the small insurance fee. 

Good travel insurance, such as the one from SafetyWing and HeyMondo , covers things like medical expenses, trip cancellation, overseas medical costs, evacuation, baggage damage or loss, and theft.

Exploring South Korea by car

We would encourage you to explore South Korea by car. There’s nothing wrong with the public transit system in cities like Seoul. But there’s nothing that can beat the freedom of having your own car. 

You’re the master of your own schedule and you just need to load your bags in your trunk. 

Taking the train often means that you will be dragging your bags up and down several flights of stairs.

Yes, there’re elevators but they’re not always very easy to find.

So here we will share what you need to know to do the perfect South Korean road trip. 

Money in South Korea 

Cash is king for visitors.  Koreans can swipe their cards everywhere but foreign cards are not always accepted.

There were many ATMs at Incheon airport and it took us at least an hour to find one where we could withdraw cash.  Most tourists were helping each other by pointing out other ATMs to their fellow tourists. It seems all foreigners were having the same problems.

Once we had left the airport things didn’t get better.  It was always a hit or miss with the ATMs we tried. 

Most wouldn’t accept our cards, but some did. Usually, we never suggest bringing cash but it looks like it may be a good idea to bring some cash to South Korea.

And once you have found an ATM that gives you cash make sure to withdraw enough! We couldn’t use our credit cards for toll fees.  We had better luck in restaurants and gas stations where our cards were usually accepted.

Safety in South Korea 

We didn’t encounter any problems whatsoever (except getting cash :-)) during our week in Korea but if you would you can call the travel hotline in 4 languages (Korean, English, Japanese and Chinese) 24/7.

Internet in South Korea 

South Korea has the fastest internet in the world. A lot of places offer free WiFi. We don’t know why, but we didn’t always manage to get on the wifi.

Because we used quite a few apps to help us to travel around Seoul and to check for the best places to eat we bought a  local sim card.

This way we were certain that we always had internet.

You can purchase your  SIM card  here or read our full post about  what’s the best SIM card for tourists.

We used our own  Pocket WIFI device  to share the 4G connection but if you don’t have a device of your own you can also  rent one online  and pick it up at the airport. 

Rent your Pocket WIFI device  or read our full post about  the best Pocket WIFI  device.

Handy South Korean apps

Mangoplate is the app to check for restaurant reviews and the best places to eat.

Naver Maps is your GPS companion for your road trip. 

Google Maps navigation is not working in South Korea and despite some people reporting that Waze was working for them, it was not for us. 

The Naver Maps app is available in English (their website is only in Korean) and the app’s look and feel is very intuitive and very much similar to any other GPS app.

Available on: Google Play – Apple (This app is not getting much love for its Apple version.  We used the Android version which worked like a charm)

Korea Seoul Metro Navi

Korea Seoul Metro Navi will guide you quickly and efficiently through Seoul’s extended subway system.  The app calculates the fastest route to your destination.

Available on: Google Play – Apple

If you plan on taking taxis, we recommend that you use the Kakao Taxi app.

Available on: Google Play , – Apple

Here is a list of more travel tips for Korea.

Did you ever visit Korea? What do you think is the best itinerary for South Korea? 

Let us know in the comments. 

If you like this article, pin it

Tuesday 12th of November 2019

Great guide, thanks very much. I've been looking for a good week-long itinerary to recommend to people visiting Korea.

We do our best to provide in-depth information.

Monday 29th of April 2019

Very well written and it helped me a lot! I am planning a 1-week trip to South Korea this September.

Thanks Margaux, glad you love it. Enjoy your time in South Korea!

Thanks, we do our best to provide in-depth information.

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• 1. Prices stated above are tour fare per pax.
• 2. Tour fare is not inclusive of any MISC charges.
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Itinerary PDF

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8 Days 6 Nights 

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ITINERARY PDF 下载行程

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

[EXPERIENCE] - Hanbok touring around Suwon Hwaseong Fortress - Strawberry Picking [ATTRACTIONS] - UNESCO sites: Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, Changdeokgung - Back to Joseon Dynasty: Bukchon Hanok Village - Explore the historical background of the Korean War: DMZ Tour - Shopping Paradise: Myeongdong [ENJOY] - Enjoy Seoul Skyline: Seoul Sky Observatory - 1 Free day: Explore Seoul city freely [GOURMET] - Korea Must Eat: Jajangmyeon, Korean BBQ - High-Cost Meal: King Crab Set, Abalone Ginseng Chicken Soup, Hanjungsik

Day 1 | Kuala Lumpur ✈ Incheon

Hotel: On board

Assemble in KL International Airport for flight to Korea.

Day 2 | Incheon - Imjingak DMZ Tour, Fruit Picking

Hotel: Incheon - Gloucester Hotel or Similar

Meals: MOB / Lunch / Dinner

Day 3 | Incheon → Gyeonggi-do - Suwon Starfield, Suwon Hwasong Fortress

Hotel: Gyeonggi-do - Ramada by Wyndham Yongin or Similar

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 4 | Gyeonggi-do - Korean Folk Village, Everland Theme Park

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / -

Day 5 | Gyeonggi-do → Seoul - Lotte World Tower, Bukchon Hanok Village, Changdeokgung

Hotel: Seoul - Mercure Ambassador Hongdae Hotel or Similar

Day 6 | Seoul - Free at own leisure

Meals: Breakfast / - / -

Day 7 | Seoul - Ginseng Outlet, Healthy Liver Shop, Cosmetic Duty Free Shop, Myeongdong

Day 8 | incheon - local products & souvenir store ✈ kuala lumpur.

Meals: Morning Flight : Breakfast / MOB / - Afternoon Flight : Breakfast / - / MOB

Room Configuration / Room Type Matrix

Standard single room, 1 adult x adult single, standard twin room, 2 adult x adult twin, 1 adult x adult twin 1 child x child twin, 2 adult x adult twin 1 child x child no bed, 1 adult x adult twin 1 child x child twin 1 child x child no bed, triple sharing room *, 3 adult x adult twin.

• Based on Standard Twin Room (2 x single beds) with an additional roller bed
• Movement may be constricted due to additional bed in the room
• If Triple Sharing Room is not available, a Standard Twin Room plus a Standard Single Room will be arranged. Surcharges apply.
• May not be allowed / recommended for selected tour packages

ITINERARY - KOREA AND JAPAN TOUR (12/12/2020)

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Korea Tour Packages

Introduction to south korea tour packages.

Travel Planner provides an extensive array of  Korea tour packages from Malaysia designed to meet the needs of both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers. These meticulously curated itineraries offer a rich tapestry of experiences, from the dynamic urban life of Seoul to the serene beauty of Jeju Island. Each package is crafted to ensure travelers can fully immerse themselves in Korea's multifaceted culture, savor its diverse culinary delights, and delve into its compelling history.

Whether you are looking to explore the ancient palaces and bustling markets of Seoul, hike the picturesque trails of Seoraksan National Park, or relax on the pristine beaches of Jeju, Travel Planner has a package tailored to your interests. Our offerings include guided tours that provide insightful narratives about Korea's heritage and contemporary life, making your journey both educational and enjoyable.

In essence, Travel Planner’s  Korea tour package  promise a comprehensive and enriching travel experience. By providing a blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and natural beauty, these packages offer something for every traveler, ensuring an unforgettable Korean adventure.

Vibrant Seoul: The Heart of Korea

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a dynamic metropolis where tradition seamlessly intertwines with modernity. The city stands as a testament to the country's rich history and rapid technological advancements, making it a highlight of any Korea tour package . Visitors can start their journey at Gyeongbokgung Palace, a majestic relic from the Joseon Dynasty. This grand palace offers a glimpse into Korea's royal past with its intricate architecture and serene gardens.Besides that, there are also themes parks and shopping spots.

With Travel Planner's expertly curated Korea tour packages , visitors can fully immerse themselves in the vibrant energy of Seoul, making unforgettable memories in the heart of Korea. Explore Seoul Tour Package .

Busan: Coastal Charm and Cultural Richness

Busan, Korea's second-largest city, is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends coastal allure with profound cultural heritage. Renowned for its stunning beaches, Busan offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Haeundae Beach, one of Korea's most famous beaches, is a must-visit with its expansive shoreline and lively atmosphere. Equally enchanting is Gwangalli Beach, known for its scenic views of the Gwangan Bridge, especially when illuminated at night. Explore Busan tour packages with us.

Beyond its beaches, Busan's cultural richness is evident in landmarks such as the Jagalchi Fish Market, the largest seafood market in Korea. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the bustling market environment, sampling fresh catches and experiencing the unique local culinary culture. Another significant site is Beomeosa Temple, a historic Buddhist temple nestled in the mountains, offering serene surroundings and an insight into Korea's spiritual traditions.

Jeju Island: Nature's Paradise in Korea Tour Packages

Jeju Island, often referred to as "Nature's Paradise," stands as a testament to South Korea's diverse and captivating landscapes. This sub-tropical haven draws countless travelers with its serene and picturesque scenery. Among the island's most notable natural wonders is Hallasan Mountain, the highest peak in South Korea, offering a challenging yet rewarding hike with panoramic vistas. Equally mesmerizing is Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, where waters cascade into a serene pool, creating an idyllic setting for relaxation and photography. Discover Jeju tour packages .

It is a popular destinations for Malaysian  traveling to Korea during winter to major city such as Seoul, Busan and Jeju. We love their foods, cultures, and places of interest.

Find out more Korea tour packages with us here!

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Don't miss the chance to enjoy a private and thoroughly memorable trip to Korea. Booking with us guarantees a tailored holiday experience that offers both excitement and relaxation. Discover the true essence of Korea in a way that suits you best. Contact us today and let us craft the perfect Korean holiday for you.

We can arrange Private Korea Tour Package  - Seoul, Busan, Jeju & Other Cities

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Korea

• Top attractions include Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul, Jeju Island’s natural wonders, Busan’s beaches and seafood, Gyeongju’s historical sites, and the DMZ for a unique perspective on Korean history.
• Korea has an efficient public transportation system including subways, buses, and high-speed trains (KTX). A T-money card is convenient for public transport, and taxis are widely available. Many of our tour packages include transportation.
• It’s customary to bow when greeting, use both hands when giving or receiving items, and remove your shoes when entering someone’s home. Public behavior is generally reserved, and it’s polite to keep conversations quiet on public transport.
• Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses and hostels to mid-range hotels and luxury resorts. Unique options include traditional hanok stays and temple accommodations. Our tour packages offer a variety of accommodation types to suit different preferences.
• The currency is the South Korean Won (KRW). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but having some cash on hand is useful for smaller shops and markets. ATMs are available throughout Korea, and many accept international cards.
• Korean is the official language. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and by younger Koreans, but it’s useful to know some basic Korean phrases or use a translation app in less touristy areas.
• Essential dishes include bibimbap (mixed rice), bulgogi (marinated beef), kimchi (fermented vegetables), samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly), and popular street foods like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes).
• Pack based on the season: lightweight clothing for summer, layers for spring and fall, and warm clothing for winter. Comfortable walking shoes, a universal power adapter, and any necessary medications are also recommended.
• Korea is very safe with low crime rates. Standard travel safety practices apply, such as staying aware of your surroundings and keeping your belongings secure. Health services are excellent, and emergency numbers are 112 for police and 119 for medical emergencies.
• If you have special requests or need assistance, please let us know at the time of booking. We are committed to accommodating dietary needs, accessibility requirements, or any other special needs to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

You Can Book Korea Tour Packages With Us! We offer a range of Korea tour packages tailored to suit various interests and budgets. Whether you’re looking to explore Korea’s vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, or cultural heritage, we can provide a package that fits your needs.

Contact us today to book your Korea tour package, and let us take care of the details for a seamless and memorable travel experience. If you have any more questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out!

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6Days 4Nights Nami Island + Seoraksan + Seoul Private Ground

7Days 6Nights Korea Ground Tour (Jeju/Gyeongju/Busan) **Min 4 to go

8Days 6Nights Korea Ground Tour (Jeju/Busan/Seoul) **Min 4 to go

8Days 6 Nights Charming Seoul + Jeju + Busan

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7D6N Jeju, Busan & Seoul, South Korea (Muslim Tour)

Home » packages » south korea » jeju island.

Destination

Package Options (Price Per Person)

Activities information.

Day 1 : Incheon – Jeju 

• Arrival at  Incheon International Airport
• Transfer to  Gimpo airport . Fly to  Jeju Island 
• Meet our representative
• Check in and overnight at hotel

Day 2: Jeju  (Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)

• Breakfast at hotel
• Visit  Seongsan Sunrise Peak  and experience horse riding
• Continue to  Seongeup Folk Village  and  Manjanggul Cave
• Overnight at hotel

Day 3: Jeju – Busan  (Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)

• Breakfast & checkout at hotel
• Transfer to Jeju airport . Fly to Busan
• Proceed to Taejongdae (Danubi Train) and Gamcheon Culture Village
• Continue to Millak Waterfront Park

Day 4: Busan  (Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)

• Proceed to Haedong Yonggusa Temple and Skywalk
• Continue to Haeundae and Busan Mosque
• Visit to Nampo-dong & Jagalchi Market
• Transfer back to hotel

Day 5: Busan – Seoul  (Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)

• Proceed to Busan Station and transfer to Seoul by KTX
• Visit Itaewon Mosque

Day 6: Seoul  (Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)

• Proceed to  Gyeongbok palace
• Visit  Bukchon hanok Village
• Continue to  Namsan view point love lock photo zone & N Seoul tower (Exclude cable car entrance)
• Proceed to  Namdaemun  or  Myeongdong Market

Day 7: Incheon  (Breakfast)

• Breakfast & check out from hotel
• Proceed to the Incheon Airport for departure.

Remarks :  (Not responsible for any unavailability due to natural disasters such as strong wind or safety issues)

Accommodation

Tourist Class (3 Star) :

• Seoul  – Co-op City Hotel or Similar

Deluxe Class (4 Star) :

• Seoul  – Inter City Hotel or Similar

Luxury Class (5 Star) :

• Seoul  – Novotel Dongdaemun Hotel or Similar

One of the best resorts we’ve stayed in so far. We took 3d2n package with breakfast, lunch & din provided. Food given large quantity, esp seafood & service was fine. Stayed in Garden Villa chalet. Very clean & comfortable. Housekeeping crew came to clean, very prompt & quick. Clean & nice beach, about 20 paces away from room, as well as clean pool, about 10 paces from room. Surrounding well kept. Resort is, of course, not new but it’s more than adequate to unwind & relax. Came during off-peak season & feels like you have whole resort to yourself! Thank you to staff for memorable holiday.

Policy / Surcharge:

• 23-26 December 2022/ 30 December 2022 – 2 January 2023/ 20 – 30 January 2023 will surcharged 20%
• Weekend domestic flight booking will be different price

Package Includes:

• 6 Nights’ accommodation with daily breakfast
• 6 International Breakfast at hotel + 5 Muslim Lunch + 5 Muslim Dinner
• Full trip tour and transfers by chartered motor coach as per itinerary
•  English tour guide
• Entrance fee as per itinerary
•  Halal meals

Packages Excludes:

• Return flight ticket
• Airport tax
• Domestic flight ticket
• Train ticket KTX Busan/Seoul
• Personal charges at the hotel (phone call, mini bar, laundry and others)
• Personal expenses
• Porterage at hotel
• Optional tour
• Travel insurance (RM 10/day/pax)
• International flight ticket
• Tipping for tour guide and driver
• Travel insurance

Planning your own tour?

Get your tailor-made itinerary now

Malaysia Holiday Calendar

Public Holiday & School Holiday

Deposit & Payment

Booking deposit* (non-refundable) of the full payment should be paid after your booking has been verified by Al Masyhur International Travel & Tours. Al Masyhur International Travel & Tours reserves the right to cancel your booking if you fail to make a full-payment 45 days before travelling dates.

* 30% or more deposit is required at time of booking as it depends on type of package.

* RM 1000/person for group series muslim tour package with travelling date more than 3 months.

Additional info for FIT Tour Package included the air ticket

• Upon registration and confirmation of airline ticket request, Traveller must remit full payment for airline ticket according to the dateline as advised by the person-in-charge in AMI Travel.
• For ground and other payments, traveler must remit booking deposit (a 100 % non-refundable) of 30% from the package price (excluding airline ticket) within three (3) days after registration or according to the dateline advised by person- in- charge in AMI. Balance payment must be made thirty (45) days prior to departure date or according to the dateline as advised by the person-in-charge in AMI.
• No changes can be made within 48 days before departure
• If participant wants to come back later or earlier than the expected date of arrival in Malaysia, participant must send an e-mail or letter 45 days before the travelling dates and it is subject to the discretion of Al Masyhur International Travel & Tours. However, Al Masyhur International Travel & Tours reserves the right to reject or accept it.
• If allowed, any additional cost is participant’s responsibilities. Participant also will be charged for admin fee.

Cancellation

• Booking cancellation from the participant should be done through email or letter and must be sent to Al Masyhur International Travel & Tours for avoiding any misunderstanding
• Price is subject to change which based on currency fluctuation.
• Al Masyhur International Travel & Tours reserves the right to amend the itinerary without prior notice.
• Malaysian traveller, travel insurance is compulsory for international packages. Travel insurance click here.
• There will be no tour leader from Al Masyhur International Travel & Tours that will join this tour.
• Refund will not be paid immediately and will take more than 2 months.
• All hotel and flight details are for reference only and subject to change till you get the verification from Al Masyhur International Travel & Tours.
• Not all hotels provide electric kettle and ironing facilities. It is advisable to bring your own.
• Not all hotels have triple room. So that, triple sharing room is based on twin sharing room with extra bed. Each room must be at least 2 adults paying full fare then only follow by child fare.
• This package is not includes flight ticket unless it is stated, you will be charge RM 40/ticket/person if you want to book flight tickets with us.
• Validity of the passport must be more than 6 (six) months from arrival date.
• A copy of passport should be emailed to the tour officer 45 days before departure
• It is advisable to check and ensure that you are eligible to go to overseas and your name is not being blacklisted. (’Blacklist’: Bank Debts, PTPTN and others). We will not hold any responsibilities if you are not allowed to travel on the day of your departure. Check status here
• For package with Halal meals, meals are suitable for Muslims except breakfast which will be served in standard international buffet menu. In places which Halal meals are hardly to find, we will serve meals based on seafood, vegetarian or packed halal meals.
• Terms and conditions are provided for your information. Once you book this package, we will assume you have read our Terms & Conditions
• No refund or reduction will be made to any member in for accommodation, meals, sightseeing tours, transport or any other services which are included in the tour fare but not utilized by the tour member due to personal reasons.
• The price shown above is min 2 persons unless it is stated.
• For group series if we have less participant, the participants will be combine with our consortium partner.
• If you are satisfied with the tour, you can write your review by clicking the link based on the branch you are dealing with either Selangor Branch / Johor Branch . Otherwise you can submit your complain to the management through email at [email protected] for further action.

Although we try our best to ensure that the information that we display is correct, we cannot guarantee its accuracy and as such do not accept any liability should any information be incorrect. The information provided within late availability and exclusive deals is accurate and available at the time of entry however, it is not real-time. Therefore, we cannot guarantee that the offers will be available upon further enquiry. We are not responsible for the content of any other websites that we provide links to.

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Cheap flights from Malaysia to South Korea from RM 371

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a cheapflights user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight departing on 1/12. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel., cheap airasia x flights from malaysia to south korea, explore cheap flight options specifically provided by airasia x for the route between malaysia and south korea. find affordable fares and compare prices with other airlines to secure the best deal for your journey. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 411,088 searches. data last updated 27 september 2024., take a peek at the cheapest airasia x flights we've detected traveling from malaysia to south korea. come back soon if you're not finding the exact deal you're looking for., cheap airasia flights from malaysia to south korea, explore cheap flight options specifically provided by airasia for the route between malaysia and south korea. find affordable fares and compare prices with other airlines to secure the best deal for your journey. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 411,088 searches. data last updated 27 september 2024., take a gander at the lowest prices we've found on airasia flights from malaysia to south korea. make sure to examine the flight information before completing your reservation., cheap malaysia to south korea flights in september & october 2024, find cheap flight options from malaysia to south korea specifically for the months of september and october 2024. explore affordable fares based on user searches. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 411,088 searches. prices were last updated on 27 september 2024., the lowest fares we've come across on flights traveling from malaysia to south korea in september and october 2024. check back soon for alternative fares., malaysia to south korea 2024 flight deals, discover exclusive flight deals for travel between malaysia and south korea in 2024. find excellent offers based on user searches. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 411,088 searches. data last updated 27 september 2024., direct flights to south korea from malaysia, discover direct flight options from malaysia to south korea. find direct flights with no stopovers, providing a convenient travel experience. explore direct flight options based on user searches, and compare prices and availability for your desired travel dates. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 411,088 searches. data last updated 27 september 2024., for a shorter flight, select one of these non-stop flights from malaysia to south korea. select from other flights from malaysia to south korea by using the search form above., malaysia to south korea flights leaving soon, find last-minute flight options from malaysia to south korea for spontaneous travel. discover available flights and compare prices based on user searches. secure great deals and offers for spontaneous trips with quick booking options. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 411,088 searches. data last updated 27 september 2024., check out these flights departing soon from malaysia to south korea. users should examine the flight details to ensure there are no surprises., one-way flights to south korea from malaysia, search for one-way flight options from malaysia to south korea. find affordable one-way fares based on user searches. compare prices and availability to plan your one-way journey according to your preferred dates and budget. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 411,088 searches. data last updated 27 september 2024., users traveling one-way from malaysia to south korea can select one of these great deals. those needing a return flight from malaysia to south korea can use the search form above., find flights from malaysia to south korea within your budget, customise your flight search to find flights from malaysia to south korea that fit within your specific budget. explore options based on user searches and filter the results based on your desired price range. find flights that match your budget for a cost-effective journey. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 411,088 searches. data last updated 27 september 2024..

RM 635 - RM 1,361

Kuala Lumpur Intl Incheon Intl

Kuala Lumpur Intl

Nonstop 6h 30m

Incheon Intl

Nonstop 6h 40m

Nonstop 6h 50m

Kota Kinabalu Incheon Intl

Kota Kinabalu

Nonstop 5h 15m

Nonstop 5h 40m

Nonstop 5h 00m

Nonstop 5h 30m

Penang Intl Incheon Intl

Penang Intl

1 stop 21h 20m

1 stop 13h 10m

Kuala Lumpur Intl Seoul Gimpo Intl

2 stops 36h 45m

Seoul Gimpo Intl

1 stop 23h 05m

1 stop 18h 55m

1 stop 10h 00m

1 stop 27h 05m

1 stop 8h 45m

Flights are sorted by cheapest first

Deals found on 26/9

Best time to book a flight from Malaysia to South Korea

Have a flexible travel schedule discover the best time to fly to south korea from malaysia with our price prediction graph., travel insights for flights from malaysia to south korea, get recent, data-driven insights about flights from malaysia to south korea including ideal travel times, pricing trends, and more., what is the cheapest month to book a flight from malaysia to south korea.

Currently, April is the cheapest month in which you can book a flight from Malaysia to South Korea (average of RM 499). Flying from Malaysia to South Korea in January is currently the most expensive (average of RM 903). There are several factors that can impact the price of a flight, so comparing airlines, departure airports and flight times can provide users with more options.

What is the cheapest time of day to fly from MY to KR?

Find hourly flight availability from malaysia to south korea. discover flight options and departure times throughout the day, allowing you to choose a departure time that suits your schedule. data last updated 27 september 2024..

It’s typically best to fly out from Malaysia to South Korea in the afternoon. Doing so could potentially save you 25% on the flight price compared to flying in the evening, which is usually more expensive.

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

Use this chart to determine the cheapest time to fly return from malaysia to south korea. price data was last updated on 22 september 2024..

Travellers seeking maximum savings on their Malaysia to South Korea flight should consider departing on Friday afternoons when fares are most often at their lowest. Saturday at midday flights should be avoided if possible as fares are typically the most expensive at this time.

Weekly flight availability from Malaysia to South Korea

Explore weekly flight availability from malaysia to south korea. discover flights operating on different days of the week, giving you the flexibility to choose a travel day that best fits your plans. compare info to find the most convenient option for your journey. data last updated 27 september 2024..

The most flights from MY0 to KR0 are scheduled on a Wednesday (10 on average). You will have fewer flight options on Sunday, which is when the least amount of flights are scheduled (8 on average).

Rainfall in South Korea by month

Plan your trip to south korea by taking into account the average rainfall totals by month..

In terms of precipitation, rainfall in South Korea ranges from 20.0 - 260.0 inches per month. July is typically the wettest month, when rainfall can reach 260.0 mm. January is typically the driest time to visit South Korea when rainfall is around 20.0 mm.

Temperature in South Korea by month

Plan your trip to south korea by taking into account the average temperature totals by month..

If weather is an important factor for your trip to South Korea, use this chart to help with planning. For those seeking warmer temperatures, August is the ideal time of year to visit, when temperatures reach an average of 25.0 C. Travellers hoping to avoid the cold should look outside of January, when temperatures are typically at their lowest (around -2.0 C).

Reviews of airlines servicing South Korea

Get insights into the airlines that provide service to south korea. read reviews, discover amenities, and learn about the overall travel experience offered by airlines. use this information to make informed decisions when choosing an airline for your flight to south korea. reviews last updated 27 september 2024., to help decide which airline to fly from malaysia to south korea, see what other customers have to say about airasia x, airasia and batik air. you can also see how each airline stacks up in terms of entertainment options, comfort, food, crew/service, and boarding process..

Entertainment

The food was HORRIBLE, the flight crew looked as though they’d rather be getting a root canal, and the bathrooms were disgusting.

Related info for your journey

Find useful and relevant information for your journey from malaysia to south korea. access travel guides, tips, and recommendations to enhance your travel experience. get information about local attractions, weather, transportation options, and more., can i find flights from malaysia to south korea for under rm 700 on cheapflights.

Yes, there are multiple flights from Malaysia to South Korea for under RM 700. The cheapest flight booked recently is on AirAsia X for just RM 635, but on average you can expect to pay RM 1,126.

Are there direct flights from Malaysia to South Korea for under RM 800 on Cheapflights?

Cheapflights has 10 direct flights from Malaysia to South Korea under RM 800. A good price for a direct flight from Malaysia to South Korea is less than RM 1,191.

Are there last-minute flights available from Malaysia to South Korea for under RM 800?

There are currently 20+ open flights from Malaysia to South Korea within the next 7 days for less than RM 800.

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

You can find direct flights on the following days: Sunday, Tuesday, Saturday.

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

On average, you can expect to see 2 flights from Malaysia to South Korea a day. Evening (6pm - Midnight) - 100% of flight departures

How long is the flight from Malaysia to South Korea?

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

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

One-way options have recently been found by users for as low as RM 371 on AirAsia X. Other airlines that offer cheap prices include Jeju Air from RM 441 and Jin Air from RM 470 one-way.

What does KUL to ICN mean?

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

Can I find deals for flights from Malaysia to South Korea that include extra baggage allowance?

The amount of baggage you can bring on your Malaysia to South Korea flight depends on the airline and the type of fare you've chosen. After entering your flight details, you'll be able to view the specific baggage policies for each deal in the search results. Keep in mind that certain deals may offer additional baggage allowance.

Can I find deals on flights from Malaysia to South Korea with specific airlines?

Yes, Cheapflights allows you to browse and filter Malaysia to South Korea flight deals by airline. After entering your origin and destination, use the available filters to view flights offered by airlines.

Can I find deals for flights from Malaysia to South Korea that include hotel bookings?

Yes. In addition to deals on Malaysia to South Korea flights, Cheapflights offers holiday packages that include both flights and hotel.

How can I find direct flights from Malaysia to South Korea?

After entering your origin and destination, apply the non-stop filter on the search result page to find direct flights from Malaysia to South Korea.

Can I find deals for business class flights from Malaysia to South Korea?

Yes. Cheapflights offers flight deals from Malaysia to South Korea by cabin class. In addition to browsing deals, you can also filter by cabin class on the search results page after making a search.

Can I find deals for flights from Malaysia to South Korea that allow pets onboard?

Many airlines flying from Malaysia to South Korea offer the option to travel with pets. After selecting a flight deal, you can find more information about the airline's pet policy on their official website or by contacting the airline directly. Please note that additional fees and restrictions may apply.

Can I find deals on last-minute flights from Malaysia to South Korea?

Yes, you can often find last-minute deals on Malaysia to South Korea flights on Cheapflights. However, these deals can vary and may not always be available. We recommend checking back frequently or signing up for price alerts for the most up-to-date deals.

How recently were the Malaysia to South Korea flight deals updated?

The Malaysia to South Korea flight deals you see on this page were last updated on 27/9.

Browse thousands of different options on Cheapflights for your next trip

Toggle through the tabs below to find thousands of options on cheapflights for your next trip., top 10 airlines flying from malaysia to south korea, discover the top 10 airlines that operate flights from malaysia to south korea. compare their services, reliability, and customer satisfaction ratings to choose the airline that best suits your travel preferences and needs. over the last 7 days, cheapflights users made 411,088 searches. data last updated 27 september 2024., popular flight searches, check out other popular destinations found by fellow travellers in 2024, search flights from malaysia to south korea by cabin class, find flights from malaysia to south korea, based on your preferred cabin class, be it economy, premium economy, business, or first class., book a flight to one of these trending destinations, user searches for flights to these destinations increased 20% or more in the past 90 days compared to other destinations, fly with cheapflights, find the best flight deals on cheapflights, where travellers can enjoy low prices and a wide availability of flights to their desired destinations., how does cheapflights help users find flights from malaysia to south korea.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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