South Korea Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit
- Seoul – Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Myeongdong
- Busan – Haeundae Beach, Gamcheon Culture Village
- Jeju Island – Volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, beaches
- Gyeongju – Historic temples and tombs
- Suwon – Hwaseong Fortress and Korean Folk Village
Best Hotels to Stay
Language & Culture
Korean is the official language, though English is spoken in major cities. Respect, hierarchy, and hospitality are key cultural values. Popular culture (K-pop, K-dramas) is a major export.Transportation, Currency & Food
- Transport: Excellent metro and intercity rail, buses, taxis, domestic flights
- Currency: Korean Won (KRW)
- Food: Bibimbap, bulgogi, kimchi, tteokbokki, Korean BBQ
Best Season & Entry Points
| Season | Weather | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| March – May | Mild, cherry blossoms | Ideal spring travel |
| September – November | Cool, clear skies | Great fall foliage |
| December – February | Cold, snow in north | Good for skiing |
Entry via Incheon International Airport (ICN), Gimpo (GMP), or Busan (PUS)
Estimated Budget (for Two Travelers)
| Category | Estimated Cost (KRW) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flights | ₩800,000 – ₩1,800,000 | Round trip from US/Europe |
| Accommodation | ₩100,000 – ₩300,000/night | Mid-range to luxury hotels |
| Dining | ₩30,000 – ₩70,000/day | Restaurants and street food |
| Transport | ₩20,000 – ₩60,000/day | Metro, taxis, rail |
| Activities | ₩50,000 – ₩150,000 | Tours, tickets, cultural shows |
Packing List Suggestions
- Valid passport (visa-free for many)
- SIM card or eSIM for internet
- Power adapter (Type C/F, 220V)
- Comfortable shoes and layered clothing
- Translation app for Korean signs
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 is it? |
| 화장실 어디예요? (Hwajangsil eodiyeyo?) | Where is the bathroom? |
| 영어 하세요? (Yeongeo haseyo?) | Do you speak English? |
| 도와주세요 (Dowajuseyo) | Help, please |
| 죄송합니다 (Joesonghamnida) | I’m sorry |
| 이해하지 못해요 (Ihaehaji mothaeyo) | I don’t understand |
| 이름이 뭐예요? (Ireumi mwoyeyo?) | What is your name? |
| 괜찮아요 (Gwaenchana) | It’s okay |
| 좋아요 (Joayo) | Good |
| 싫어요 (Sireo) | I don’t like it |
| 사진 찍어도 돼요? (Sajin jjigeodo dwaeyo?) | Can I take a picture? |
| 얼마입니까? (Eolmaimnikka?) | How much is this? |
| 이거 주세요 (Igeo juseyo) | I’ll take this |
| 메뉴 주세요 (Menu juseyo) | Menu, please |
| 계산서 주세요 (Gyesanseo juseyo) | Check, please |
| 안녕히 계세요 (Annyeonghi gyeseyo) | Goodbye |
Health & Safety
- Tap water is safe to drink
- Hospitals and pharmacies are widely available
- Travel insurance recommended
- Emergency number: 112 (police), 119 (ambulance/fire)
- Very low crime rate overall
Festivals & Holidays
- Seollal – Lunar New Year (Jan/Feb)
- Chuseok – Korean Thanksgiving (Sep/Oct)
- Boryeong Mud Festival (July)
- Lotus Lantern Festival (May)
- Busan International Film Festival (Oct)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a visa to visit South Korea?
Citizens of many countries (US, EU, ASEAN) can enter visa-free for short stays. Check current policies for your nationality.
Is English widely spoken?
English is spoken in major cities and tourist areas. However, basic Korean phrases are helpful.
What is the tipping culture?
Tipping is not expected in most places, though appreciated in tourist hotels and restaurants.
Is the subway easy to use?
Yes, subways are modern, clean, and have English signage. Apps like KakaoMap or Naver Map are helpful.
Can I use my credit card everywhere?
Most businesses accept cards, but carry cash (KRW) for markets and street vendors.
