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Traveling to Korea | What can I expect?

Since I last updated this guide, BTS and Blackpink took over the world, Squid Game got everyone squirming, and Parasite won an Oscar. The K-Wave has really washed over the world in totally unexpected and amazing ways.

I still think South Korea is vastly under-visited compared to some of its neighbours, but I don’t think this will be the situation for too much longer. Read on to to find out everything you need to know about visiting one of the world’s most underrated tourist destinations.

korea travel guide | changdeokgung secret garden

While Gangnam Style may have put Korea on the map for many travellers initially, there’s so much more to the country than just one crazy horse dance. From ancient palaces to fiery food, and dramatic mountain peaks to one of the best cafe cultures on the planet, you’ll have an absolute blast discovering everything there is to do here.

In this guide, I’ll cover the basics of traveling around South Korea, including the best things to see, general costs, and insider tips gleaned from living in Seoul as an expat, for over a decade.

korea travel guide | rooftop of seoulism cafe

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Korea Travel Guide | Best Things to Do in Seoul

If it’s your first time visiting South Korea, you’re likely spending much of your time in Seoul. It’s one of the most dynamic cities in the world, so that’s definitely a good thing! However, there’s so many options, it can be overwhelming at first.

I’ve lived in Seoul for 13 years now, and know a thing or two about the best things to do and see here. These are the activities and attractions I personally recommend to anyone that comes to visit me in Korea… and you should definitely make time for them too.

korea travel guide | bukchon hanok village

gyeongbokgung palace seoul korea
sunset over namsan in seoul korea

Korea Travel Guide | Best Things to Do Outside of Seoul

Seoul is so huge and so incredible, that it can justifiably take up all your time, but get out of the megacity and you’ll discover a Korea you never knew existed. Jeju Island, Busan, Gyeongju and Jeonju are all worthy of your time, but allow yourself to wander off the tourist trail a bit more, and you’ll be richly rewarded.

  • Get some serious beach time at Hamdeok Beach on Jeju Island.
  • Wander Korea in search of romantic pink muhly.
  • Eat fresher than fresh seafood at Busan’s Jagalchi Market.
  • Try the best bibimbap in the country in Jeonju.
  • Admire the strange tombs of Shilla Dynastry royalty in Gyeongju.
  • Participate in a Templestay in a serene location.
  • Learn about Korea’s road to democracy at the May 18th Cemetery in Gwangju.
beaches in korea: hamdeok beach in jeju island
wonju korea

When is the best time to visit Korea?

Korea is a tiny peninsula with 4 dramatic seasons. Each lasts approximately 3 months, and each has its own charms (and difficulties).

Cherry blossoms bloom across the country in April, and autumn foliage is at its peak from mid-October to mid-November, so these tend to be the peak tourist seasons. Winter can also be busy as visitors from SE Asia and other hot countries descend on Korea to see snow and participate in winter activities.

korea travel guide | cherry blossoms in gurye

Summer is incredibly hot and humid, but still crowded with tourists. It’s the one season I wouldn’t recommend visiting in, unless you plan to go to Jeju or spend time on Korea’s coastal areas.

Read my seasonal guides to get a better idea of what it’s like to visit Korea at these times.

If you need more help narrowing down your timing, check out my detailed monthly guides. Each has tips on weather, activities, festivals, what to wear, and what to pack.

korea travel guide | jangtaesan natural forest

Minimum daily budget: 50,000 won and up.

There’s a huge range of accommodation, food and activities for every single budget. If you need to watch your dollars, it’s totally possible to do so by staying in hostels, eating local food and walking a lot. And if it’s a luxury experience you’re after, well, the sky’s truly the limit in Korea.

Money Saving Tips

1
Eat Korean food Foreign food in Korea is much more expensive than local food. A plate of pasta can easily set you back 15,000 won, but a healthy and filling kimbap can cost just 3,000 won.
2
Get a T-Money Card Public transit in most major Korean cities is super efficient, cost effective and easy to use. Get a T-Money (transit card) for free transfers between subways and buses and a discount on each ride.
3
Get the Discover Seoul Pass The Discover Seoul Pass includes free admission to 53 tourist attractions, 40 special discounts, a ride on the AREX airport line and FREE unlimited subway rides in the city.
4
Take advantage of free attractions There's a ton of free attractions all over Korea. Huge green spaces, museum exhibits and markets offer tons of eye candy, without the hefty price tag. Keep your eyes open for any seasonal festivals too!

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Korea Travel Guide | Top Tours & Attractions

If you’re a foreign passport holder, you can get amazing discounts and packages to Korea’s most popular tours and attractions by booking online with Klook, Trazy or Get Your Guide.

I’ve curated the most booked, well-reviewed tours, shows, restaurants and experiences for you below. I recommend booking any popular tours at least a few days in advance, especially if it’s a busy tourist season or Korean national holiday.

korea travel guide | gangchon rail bike

The Best Tours, Experiences and Activities

korea travel guide | nami island in autumn

Korea Travel Guide | Essentials

Travel Visas

Travel Insurance

Wifi and SIM Cards

Money-Saving Transit and Transport Passes

Incheon Airport Transfers

City and Attraction Passes

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November 12, 2019

bamboo trees fushimi inari japan

Comments:

  • Korea Explorers Guide

    May 10, 2024

    Great! It is an indispensable guide for anyone planning a trip to this fascinating country. With its insightful tips and firsthand experiences, this provides invaluable insights into Korean culture, customs, and travel essentials, ensuring a smooth and enriching journey for visitors.

    reply...

    • shelley

      May 17, 2024

      Thanks! There is definitely a lot to learn and explore in Korea! 😀

      reply...

  • Dinah

    May 7, 2024

    Hi Shelley!
    I would like to ask if we can still catch a good glimpse of fall from Nov 18-23, 2024? And if ever can you recommend the best place probably Nami Island ?
    Thank you so much!

    reply...

    • shelley

      May 7, 2024

      Hi Dinah – you might still be able to see some autumn foliage around Seoul and Nami then, but you’d do better if you go south to Naejangsan National Park. Autumn foliage changes north to south in Korea, so Seoul and East Coast tends to turn first.

      reply...

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