Best in Apr
South Korea
Busan
Moderate
From $75 /day
South Korea
South Korea is a captivating destination where 5,000 years of history meet a hyper-modern, high-tech future. You can spend your morning exploring the quiet courtyards of a Joseon-dynasty palace and your evening under the neon glow of a futuristic digital district. The country is famous for its dynamic pop culture and global cinematic influence, yet it remains deeply rooted in Confucian traditions of respect and harmony. From the jagged peaks of granite mountains to the pristine volcanic shores of the southern islands, the natural beauty is as diverse as the urban energy. Whether you are a foodie, a hiker, or a history enthusiast, South Korea offers an exceptionally safe and welcoming environment for every type of traveler.
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We built this guide using official tourism data, local travel insights, and real pricing from our city guides, so you can plan your trip with confidence.
3 cities
9 guides
$75 – $90 Daily Budget
Quick Facts
Capital
Seoul
Languages
Korean
Currency
South Korean Won (KRW)
1 $ ≈ 1,443 ₩
Plug Type
Type C/F (220V, 60Hz)
Driving Side
Right
Dial Code
+82
Entry Requirements
Check requirements →
Time Zone
KST (UTC+9)
Emergency
112 (Police), 119 (Fire/Ambulance), 1330 (Tourist helpline), 1339 (Medical info)
Why Visit South Korea
A World-Class Culinary Scene
Korean cuisine is a masterclass in balance, offering everything from the complex heat of fermented Kimchi to the communal joy of a tabletop Korean BBQ. You can enjoy affordable, high-quality meals ranging from $5.89–$18 / ₩8,500–₩25,500 at local markets and family-run restaurants across the country.
Unrivaled Public Safety
South Korea is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, making it a premier choice for solo travelers and families alike. You can comfortably explore vibrant city streets or quiet mountain trails at any hour, with standard urban precautions being the only requirement.
Seamless High-Tech Travel
Navigating the country is incredibly efficient thanks to a clean, reliable transport network centered on the high-speed KTX rail system. Within cities, comprehensive subway systems feature multi-language signage and dedicated tourist transport cards that make commuting effortless.
Ancient History Meets Pop Culture
You can witness the fascinating contrast between ancient Buddhist temples and the global phenomenon of K-Pop and Hallyu culture. Historical sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace offer traditional changing-of-the-guard ceremonies just steps away from world-leading tech hubs.
Diverse Natural Landscapes
Beyond the skyscrapers, South Korea is a mountainous peninsula perfect for hiking, with 24 national parks providing stunning seasonal views. You can trek through the snowy peaks of Seoraksan or lounge on the subtropical volcanic beaches of Jeju Island.
Top Experiences
Top-rated tours and activities in South Korea
Cities & Destinations
Regions
Seoul & Gyeonggi
The capital region is a massive metropolitan area that serves as the political and cultural heart of the nation. It offers iconic landmarks like N Seoul Tower, the historic Bukchon Hanok Village, and endless shopping districts like Myeong-dong and Gangnam.
Busan & the Southeast
South Korea's second-largest city is a bustling port known for its beautiful coastline, seafood markets, and the colorful Gamcheon Culture Village. This region combines urban sophistication with a relaxed beach atmosphere, featuring the famous Haeundae Beach.
Jeju Island
Often called the Hawaii of Korea, this volcanic island is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique lava tubes and Hallasan mountain. It is a top destination for nature lovers, offering scenic coastal trails and famous black pork barbecue.
Gyeongju
Known as the museum without walls, this ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom is packed with royal tombs, pagodas, and temples. It is a must-visit for history buffs looking to explore the Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto.
Gangwon-do
This mountainous province on the east coast is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering the country's best ski resorts and hiking trails. It is home to the stunning Seoraksan National Park and the charming coastal city of Sokcho.
Cities & Destinations:
Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn shoulder seasons when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer brings heavy monsoons, while winter is very cold but ideal for snow sports.
Peak Season
Apr, May, Sep, Oct
Spring (April–May) features the famous cherry blossom season, while Autumn (September–October) offers vibrant fall foliage. Expect large crowds at major landmarks and higher accommodation prices during these periods.
Shoulder Season
Mar, Jun, Nov
March and November can be chilly but offer fewer crowds. June is warm and pleasant before the heavy summer rains begin in July.
Off-Peak
Jan, Feb, Jul, Aug, Dec
Winter (December–February) is freezing with temperatures often below 0°C, but dry and sunny. Summer (July–August) is hot, humid, and marks the monsoon season with frequent heavy rainfall.
Getting Around
South Korea boasts one of the world's most efficient and clean public transport systems, centered around high-speed rail and comprehensive urban subways. Navigating is easy with multi-language signage and dedicated tourist transport cards.
Train
The KTX high-speed rail connects major cities like Seoul and Busan in ~2.5 hours. International travelers can use the KORAIL Pass or the newer KORAIL PASS+ for unlimited travel.
Metro
Subway systems in Seoul, Busan, and Daegu are extensive, affordable, and color-coded. Single rides typically cost ~$1.18–$2.36 / ₩1,700–₩3,400.
Bus
City buses require a T-money card for the best experience. Intercity and 'Limousine' buses are comfortable options for reaching areas not served by trains, with tickets costing ~$12–$29 / ₩17,000–₩42,500.
Taxi
Taxis are plentiful and use meters. International visitors should use the Kakao Taxi or Uber apps to ensure transparent pricing and avoid language barriers.
Food & Drink
Korean food culture is deeply communal and focuses on the harmony of five traditional colors and balanced flavors. Almost every meal is accompanied by an array of banchan, or small side dishes, which are provided free of charge and often include the national staple, Kimchi.
Must Try
Kimchi
The quintessential Korean side dish made of fermented vegetables, most commonly napa cabbage, seasoned with chili powder, garlic, and ginger.
Bibimbap
A nutritious bowl of warm rice topped with seasoned vegetables, beef, a fried egg, and spicy gochujang paste, meant to be mixed thoroughly before eating.
Bulgogi
Thinly sliced beef marinated in a sweet and savory blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic, then grilled to perfection over an open flame.
Tteokbokki
A popular street food consisting of chewy cylindrical rice cakes simmered in a thick, spicy, and slightly sweet red chili sauce.
Samgyeopsal
Thick slices of fatty pork belly grilled at your table, typically wrapped in lettuce leaves with garlic and ssamjang paste.
Soju
A clear, colorless distilled spirit that is the most popular alcoholic beverage in the country, traditionally made from rice or sweet potatoes.
Makgeolli
A traditional milky, lightly sparkling rice wine with a sweet and tangy flavor, often served in brass bowls.
Money & Costs
South Korea offers excellent value for a developed nation, with an average daily budget of ~$84 / ₩120,700. While high-end dining and shopping in districts like Gangnam are pricey, street food and public transport remain very affordable.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary and is generally not expected in restaurants, taxis, or hotels. In some cases, a small service charge may already be included in the bill at luxury hotels.
Cards
Card acceptance is nearly universal, from convenience stores to street stalls. However, you will still need cash to top up transportation cards (T-money) at subway kiosks.
ATMs
ATMs are widely available, though look for machines labeled 'Global ATM' to ensure they accept international credit and debit cards.
Culture & Etiquette
South Korean culture is based on mutual respect, seniority, and social harmony, influenced by centuries of Confucian philosophy. While locals are forgiving of tourists, showing an effort to follow basic etiquette will lead to much warmer interactions.
✓
Remove your shoes when entering a private home, traditional guesthouse, or some traditional restaurants.
✓
Use both hands when giving or receiving items, such as business cards, money, or drinks, to show respect.
✕
Don't tip in restaurants or taxis; it is not expected and may be politely declined as it is not part of the culture.
✕
Avoid sticking your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as this resembles a funeral ritual for the deceased.
✓
Wait for the eldest person at the table to begin eating before you start your own meal.
✕
Don't talk loudly on public transport like subways and buses, as maintaining a quiet environment is highly valued.
✓
Bow slightly when greeting people or saying thank you, as it is the standard gesture of politeness.
✕
Don't sit in seats reserved for the elderly, disabled, or pregnant on public transport, even if the train is empty.
✓
Accept a drink offered by an elder with both hands and turn your head slightly away when taking the first sip.
✕
Avoid writing someone's name in red ink, as this was historically associated with the names of the deceased.
Safety & Health
The country is exceptionally safe for solo and night travelers, with very low rates of physical crime. Standard urban precautions are sufficient, though travelers should remain aware of digital and financial scams.
Tap Water
Safe to drink
Vaccinations
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date. CDC recommends Hepatitis A and Typhoid for most travelers; other vaccines/medications depend on itinerary.
Common Scams
- ⚠ Religious cult solicitation: Friendly strangers (often in pairs) approaching tourists in English to invite them to 'cultural ceremonies' which are actually cult recruitments.
- ⚠ Taxi overcharging: Drivers near airports or nightlife districts refusing to use the meter or claiming a high fixed price.
- ⚠ Medical brokerage price-gouging: Unregulated facilitators overcharging foreigners for cosmetic or medical procedures.
- ⚠ Airport SIM card markups: Overpriced mobile data plans sold at airport kiosks compared to eSIM options or city-center shops.
Healthcare is of a very high standard. Q-CODE is used for health questionnaires/entry screening in certain scenarios (e.g., arrivals from designated quarantine inspection areas or if you are symptomatic); when required, you can pre-register online to speed up processing.
Language
Korean is the sole official language. English proficiency is high among the younger generation and in major tourist hubs like Myeongdong, but becomes minimal in rural areas and among older residents.
English Spoken: Moderately spoken
Key Phrases
| Meaning | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | 안녕하세요 | An-nyeong-ha-se-yo |
| Thank you | 감사합니다 | Gam-sa-ham-ni-da |
| Excuse me (to get attention) | 저기요 | Jeo-gi-yo |
| How much is it? | 얼마예요? | Eol-ma-ye-yo? |
| Where is the bathroom? | 화장실이 어디예요? | Hwa-jang-sil-i eo-di-ye-yo? |
| This one, please | 이거 주세요 | I-geo ju-se-yo |
| I don't speak Korean | 한국말 못 해요 | Han-gung-mal mot hae-yo |
| Help! | 도와주세요! | Do-wa-ju-se-yo! |
Visa & Entry
Visa-free travelers typically need a K-ETA approval before boarding (fee 10,000 KRW; assessment usually within 72 hours). A temporary K-ETA exemption applies to 22 countries/regions through December 31, 2026. If you travel without a K-ETA, plan to submit Korea's free e-Arrival Card within 3 days (72 hours) before arrival.
Max Stay
Varies by nationality (e.g., 90 days for U.S. citizens; 6 months for Canadian citizens)
Passport Validity
Passport must be valid for the duration of your stay (some governments state no additional minimum), but airlines may apply stricter rules
Visa-free for
USA, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, Germany, France, Italy, and most EU nations (22 countries/regions have temporary K-ETA exemption through Dec 31, 2026).
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why you can trust this guide
Jan Křenek
35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data
Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.
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