South Korea Travel Guide: Essential Tips

Explore South Korea: From the Vibrant Streets of Seoul to the Serene Beaches of Jeju Island

National Flag of South Korea

Top 15 Most Searched Questions About South Korea

The capital of South Korea is Seoul, a bustling metropolis known for its skyscrapers, K-pop culture, and historical palaces.

Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, and many EU countries can enter South Korea visa-free for 30-90 days under the K-ETA program. More details in our Documents tab.

South Korea uses the South Korean Won (KRW). More details in our Currency tab.

South Korea is very safe for tourists, with low crime rates, though petty theft can occur in busy areas. More details in our Safety tab.

The official language is Korean, but English is widely understood in tourist areas, especially in Seoul.

South Korea is known for K-pop, Korean dramas, technology (like Samsung), and traditional culture like hanbok and temples. More details in our Top Attractions tab.

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer mild weather and beautiful scenery with cherry blossoms or fall foliage.

South Korea is moderately priced—expect to spend $70-$150 per day. A meal at a local restaurant costs $5-$10, while mid-range hotels in Seoul cost $50-$100 per night.

Yes, tap water in South Korea is safe to drink, though many locals prefer bottled water for taste.

Must-visits include Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, Jeju Island, and the DMZ. More details in our Top Attractions tab.

South Korea has four distinct seasons: hot summers (up to 30°C), cold winters (down to -5°C), and mild spring and autumn.

Yes, festivals like the Seoul Lantern Festival in November and the Cherry Blossom Festival in spring are popular events.

Popular souvenirs include K-beauty products, hanbok-inspired items, and traditional teas or soju.

Public transport is excellent—subways in Seoul cost $1-$2 per ride, and KTX high-speed trains to Busan cost $40-$60.

Try kimchi, bibimbap, and Korean BBQ. Pair with soju or makgeolli. More details in our Local Cuisine tab.

About South Korea

South Korea, located in East Asia, spans 100,210 square kilometers on the southern half of the Korean Peninsula. Seoul, the capital, is a global city with a population of 9.7 million. The country’s total population is around 51 million (2023 estimate), predominantly ethnic Koreans, with small foreign expatriate communities. Korean is the official language, and while English is taught in schools, it’s more common in tourist areas. South Korea operates a visa waiver program, allowing citizens of many countries (e.g., US, Canada, EU) to enter visa-free for 30-90 days with a K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization). Known for its rapid modernization, South Korea welcomed over 17 million tourists in 2019, driven by K-pop, Korean dramas, and historical sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace. The economy is a global powerhouse, led by technology (Samsung, LG), automotive (Hyundai), and entertainment industries. South Korea has four distinct seasons: hot, humid summers (up to 30°C) and cold winters (down to -5°C), with spring and autumn offering mild weather and stunning natural beauty like cherry blossoms and fall foliage. Budget travelers can expect to spend $70-$150 per day, with a meal at a local restaurant costing $5-$10 and a coffee at $3-$5. Transportation is highly efficient—subways in Seoul cost $1-$2 per ride, while KTX high-speed trains to cities like Busan cost $40-$60. Cultural events like the Seoul Lantern Festival in November and the Cherry Blossom Festival in spring (April) draw crowds. South Korea’s history includes ancient kingdoms like Goguryeo, Japanese occupation (1910-1945), and the Korean War (1950-1953), reflected in sites like the DMZ and the War Memorial of Korea. Natural attractions include Jeju Island’s volcanic landscapes and the Seoraksan National Park for hiking. With its blend of cutting-edge modernity and deep-rooted traditions, South Korea is a dynamic destination for travelers.

Visa & Passport for South Korea: Entry Requirements for Travelers

  • Passport Requirements: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date. Blank pages are required for entry stamps. Children need their own passports—they cannot travel on a parent’s passport.
  • Visa Requirements: South Korea offers visa-free entry for citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, and most EU countries for 30-90 days under the K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) program, which must be applied for online at least 72 hours before travel via the official K-ETA website. The K-ETA costs $10 and is valid for 2 years. For longer stays or purposes like work or study, a visa must be obtained through a South Korean embassy. Overstaying can result in fines or deportation.
  • Other Requirements: Proof of onward travel and accommodation may be requested. No specific vaccinations are required, but a yellow fever certificate is needed if arriving from an affected area.

Driving in South Korea: Traffic Rules & Tips for Tourists

  • Driver’s License: An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for non-Korean licenses, valid for 1 year with your national license. EU licenses are not automatically accepted without an IDP.
  • Traffic Rules: Drive on the right side. Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 100-110 km/h on highways. Seat belts are mandatory, and using a phone while driving without a hands-free device is prohibited (fines up to 60,000 KRW/$45).
  • Road Conditions: Roads are well-maintained, but traffic in Seoul can be heavy—avoid peak hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM). Mountain roads on Jeju can be winding; drive cautiously.
  • Car Rental: Available in cities like Seoul and Busan for $40-$70 per day. Companies like Lotte Rent-a-Car operate at airports.
  • Parking: Paid parking in Seoul costs $2-$5 per hour. Look for designated parking zones; apps like Kakao T can help find spots.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies, including police, ambulance, or fire services.

Currency in South Korea: Using the Won for Your Trip

  • South Korean Won (KRW): The official currency. Coins come in denominations of 10, 50, 100, and 500 won; notes are 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, and 50,000 won.
  • Currency Exchange: Exchange at banks or authorized exchange counters in Myeongdong for the best rates—avoid airports due to high fees. ATMs are widely available (fees around $3-$5 per withdrawal).
  • Payment Methods: Cards are widely accepted, especially in cities, including contactless payments. Small vendors may prefer cash—carry denominations of 1,000-10,000 KRW.
  • Costs: A meal at a local restaurant costs $5-$10, a coffee $3-$5, and a mid-range hotel in Seoul $50-$100 per night.

Legal Guide for South Korea: Laws Travelers Should Know

  • Local Laws: Public drinking is allowed but excessive drunkenness can lead to fines (up to 100,000 KRW/$75). Smoking in public areas like stations is banned—fines up to 100,000 KRW. Drug laws are strict; possession can lead to imprisonment.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid political discussions, especially about North Korea. More details in the Culture & Etiquette tab.
  • Photography Restrictions: Photography is allowed in most places, but avoid taking photos at military sites or the DMZ without permission.
  • Public Behavior: Public displays of affection should be minimal. Jaywalking can result in a 30,000 KRW ($22) fine in Seoul.
  • Customs Rules: You can bring up to 1 liter of alcohol and 200 cigarettes duty-free. Declare cash over $10,000.
  • Emergency Contact: Dial 112 for emergencies. For non-urgent police matters, call 119.

Travel Safety in South Korea: Staying Safe During Your Trip

  • Crime: South Korea is very safe, with low violent crime rates. Petty theft can occur in crowded areas like Myeongdong—keep bags secure.
  • Road Safety: Traffic in Seoul is orderly but busy; be cautious as a pedestrian. Taxis are safe—use official ones with a company logo.
  • Health Risks: No major health risks. Tap water is safe, but bottled water is common. Summers can be hot (30°C)—stay hydrated.
  • Natural Hazards: Typhoons can occur in late summer (August-September)—monitor weather updates. Earthquakes are rare but possible.
  • Scams: Beware of unofficial tour guides overcharging—book through reputable platforms. Taxi scams are rare but confirm the meter is running.
  • Medical Facilities: Hospitals in Seoul (e.g., Severance Hospital) are excellent. Pharmacies are widespread—look for the green sign.
  • Emergency Contacts: Dial 112 for emergencies. The U.S. Embassy in Seoul can be reached at +82 2-397-4114.

Culture & Etiquette in South Korea: What to Know

  • Greetings: A slight bow with a smile is common. Say “Annyeonghaseyo” (Hello) to elders or strangers, and “Annyeong” to friends. Use both hands when giving or receiving items.
  • Dining Customs: Tipping is not expected—service is included. Wait for the eldest to start eating, and don’t stick chopsticks upright in rice (it’s a funeral ritual).
  • Community Respect: Remove shoes before entering homes or traditional establishments. Dress modestly at temples—cover shoulders and knees.
  • Festivals: The Seoul Lantern Festival in November lights up the city with traditional lanterns. The Cherry Blossom Festival in Jinhae (April) is a spring highlight.
  • Language Tips: In tourist areas, you might hear “Gamsahamnida” (Thank you). Learning basic phrases is appreciated by locals.
  • Social Practices: Respect elders—offer your seat on public transport. Avoid loud conversations in public spaces like subways.

Local Cuisine in South Korea: Dishes & Drinks to Try

  • Kimchi: Fermented cabbage with chili, a staple side dish at every meal, known for its tangy flavor.
  • Bibimbap: A mixed rice bowl with vegetables, meat, and a fried egg, topped with gochujang (red chili paste).
  • Korean BBQ: Grill your own meat (like samgyeopsal) at the table, paired with soju—around $10-$15 per person.
  • Tteokbokki: Spicy cylindrical rice cakes in red sauce, a popular street food for $3-$5.
  • Soju: A clear, distilled spirit (20% alcohol), often shared in groups—$2-$4 per bottle in restaurants.
  • Where to Eat: In Seoul, Myeongdong Kyoja serves authentic bibimbap in a bustling setting. On Jeju Island, try fresh seafood at Jeju Noodle House. Both are highlighted in our Top Attractions tab.

Top Attractions in South Korea: Must-Visit Places

  • Gyeongbokgung Palace (Seoul): A 14th-century Joseon Dynasty palace with traditional architecture and a changing of the guard ceremony. Search for tickets on Tiqets.
  • Jeju Island (Jeju): A volcanic island with beaches, lava tubes, and Hallasan Mountain for hiking. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • DMZ (Demilitarized Zone): A historical border area offering tours to see the North Korean border and learn about the Korean War. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Bukchon Hanok Village (Seoul): A traditional village with preserved hanok houses, showcasing Korean heritage. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Seoraksan National Park (Gangwon): Known for its rugged peaks, waterfalls, and autumn foliage—perfect for hiking. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Gyeongju Historic Area (Gyeongju): The “museum without walls” with ancient temples, tombs, and Bulguksa Temple. Search for tours on Tiqets.
  • Where to Eat: In Seoul, Myeongdong Kyoja offers authentic bibimbap in a lively atmosphere. On Jeju Island, Jeju Noodle House serves fresh seafood dishes like abalone porridge.

Flights to South Korea: Travel Options

Incheon International Airport (ICN) near Seoul and Gimpo International Airport (GMP) are the main entry points, with flights from cities like Los Angeles, London, and Sydney. A taxi from ICN to central Seoul costs $50-$70 and takes 60-90 minutes, depending on traffic.

Create Your Packing List for South Korea

Travel Tips for South Korea

  • Connectivity: Local SIM cards from KT or SK Telecom cost $15-$30 with 5-10 GB of data. Wi-Fi is widely available in public spaces—look for “Seoul Free WiFi.”
  • Health Prep: No specific vaccines required. Travel insurance covering medical expenses is recommended. Pharmacies often have English-speaking staff.
  • Weather Prep: Pack light layers for spring/autumn (10-20°C), heavy coats for winter (-5°C to 5°C), and breathable clothing for summer (25-30°C).
  • City Navigation: Use apps like Naver Maps for navigation (Google Maps is less accurate in South Korea). The T-money card ($3) works for subways and buses.
  • Peak Season: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are busy due to cherry blossoms and foliage—book accommodations early.