South Korea Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit
- Seoul – Gyeongbokgung, Bukchon Hanok, Myeongdong, N Seoul Tower
- Busan – Haeundae Beach, Jagalchi Market, Gamcheon Village
- Gyeongju – Historic temples, Bulguksa, Seokguram Grotto
- Jeju Island – Hallasan, beaches, volcanic scenery
- DMZ – Panmunjom experience
- Incheon – Chinatown, Songdo
Best Hotels to Stay
Language & Culture
Korean is the official language; English is common in tourism zones. South Korean culture emphasizes respect, harmony, technology, and K-pop. Traditional values coexist with modern trends.Transportation, Currency & Food
- Transportation: Seoul Metro, KTX high-speed trains, buses, taxis, ferries to Jeju
- Currency: Korean Won (KRW)
- Food: Kimchi, bibimbap, Korean BBQ, tteokbokki, street snacks
Best Season & Entry Points
| Season | Weather | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| April – June | Spring blossoms, mild | Ideal for sightseeing |
| September – November | Autumn foliage, pleasant | Great for hiking and cities |
| July – August | Hot, humid | Monsoon showers likely |
Entry via Incheon (ICN), Gimpo (GMP), Gimhae (PUS), Jeju (CJU)
Estimated Budget (for Two Travelers)
| Category | Estimated Cost (KRW) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flights | ₩1,200,000 – ₩2,200,000 | Round trip from US/Europe |
| Accommodation | ₩200,000 – ₩500,000/night | Mid-range to luxury |
| Dining | ₩80,000 – ₩150,000/day | Street eats to sit-down meals |
| Transport | ₩100,000 – ₩200,000 | KTX rail and metro usage |
| Activities | ₩100,000 – ₩300,000 | Entries, tours, cultural shows |
Packing List Suggestions
- Passport & visa (visa-free or e-Visa for many)
- Layered clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes and umbrella
- Portable Wi‑Fi or Korean SIM
- Travel adapter (Type C/F)
20 Basic Korean Phrases
| Korean | English |
|---|---|
| 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo) | Hello |
| 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida) | Thank you |
| 제발 (Jebal) | Please |
| 네 / 아니요 (Ne / Aniyo) | Yes / No |
| 얼마예요? (Eolmayeyo?) | How much? |
| 화장실 어디예요? (Hwajangsil eodiyeyo?) | Where’s the restroom? |
| 이해 못 해요 (Ihae mot haeyo) | I don’t understand |
| 영어 하세요? (Yeongeo haseyo?) | Do you speak English? |
| 도와주세요 (Dowajuseyo) | Help! |
| 안녕히 가세요 (Annyeonghi gaseyo) | Goodbye (to going person) |
| 좋은 아침입니다 (Joeun achimimnida) | Good morning |
| 좋은 저녁 되세요 (Joeun jeonyeok doeseyo) | Good evening |
| 제 이름은 … 입니다 (Je ireumeun … imnida) | My name is… |
| 저는 … 에서 왔어요 (Jeoneun … eseo wasseoyo) | I’m from… |
| 이거 주세요 (Igeo juseyo) | I’d like this |
| 죄송합니다 (Joesonghamnida) | Sorry / Excuse me |
| 괜찮아요 (Gwaenchanayo) | No problem |
| 사진 찍어도 돼요? (Sajin jjigeodo dwaeyo?) | Can I take a photo? |
| 길을 잃었어요 (Gireul ilheosseoyo) | I’m lost |
| 수고하세요 (Sugohaseyo) | Keep up the good work (parting phrase) |
Health & Safety
- South Korea is very safe with low crime rates
- Tap water is safe to drink nationwide
- Emergency: 112 (police), 119 (fire/ambulance)
- Public transit is clean, modern, and punctual
- Travel insurance is recommended
Festivals & Holidays
- Seollal (Lunar New Year) – January/February
- Chuseok (Harvest Moon) – September/October
- Boseong Green Tea Festival – May
- Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival – April
- Busan International Film Festival – October
