Things To Do
in Korea

Korea, a vibrant peninsula located in East Asia, is known for its rich history, modern technology, and unique culture. It is divided into two sovereign states, North Korea and South Korea, each with distinct political systems and cultures. The country is renowned for its beautiful landscapes, from bustling cities to serene countryside, and its deep-rooted traditions that blend harmoniously with contemporary life.

With a passionate approach to food, fashion, and entertainment, Korea offers an eclectic experience for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Seoul
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, where you can witness the changing of the guard ceremony and explore the beautiful grounds.

afternoon
:

Head to Bukchon Hanok Village to wander through traditional Korean houses and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery.

evening
:

Conclude your day at N Seoul Tower for panoramic views of the city, followed by dinner in the vibrant Myeongdong district.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the National Museum of Korea to learn about the country’s rich history and culture, followed by a stroll in the nearby Yongsan Family Park.

afternoon
:

Explore Insadong, a neighborhood known for its antique shops and tea houses, and try some traditional Korean snacks.

evening
:

Experience a K-Pop concert or a traditional Korean performance at the National Theater of Korea.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of ramen$5
Coffee$3
🍺Beer$4
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
🚇Subway ticket$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious and diverse cuisine.
  • Modern infrastructure and public transport.
  • Language barrier in rural areas.
  • High population density in urban centers.
  • Limited vegetarian options in traditional cuisine.
  • "안녕하세요" - Hello
  • "감사합니다" - Thank you
  • "죄송합니다" - I'm sorry
  • "얼마에요?" - How much is this?
  • "화장실 어디예요?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Korea

Visit one of these nice places.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

A stunning blend of traditional architecture and beautiful gardens, perfect for capturing the essence of Korean history.

Namsan Seoul Tower

An iconic landmark with breathtaking views of the city, especially beautiful at sunset.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Filled with traditional hanoks, this area offers a picturesque glimpse into Korea's past.

Culinary Guide

Food in Korea

Korean cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors, featuring a variety of dishes that cater to different palates. From savory stews to spicy side dishes, there’s something for everyone.

Korea Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kimchi

A fermented vegetable dish, usually made with napa cabbage and Korean radishes, seasoned with chili pepper and garlic.

Must-Try!

Bulgogi

Marinated beef that is grilled or stir-fried, often served with rice and vegetables.

Bibimbap

A mixed rice dish topped with various vegetables, meat, and a fried egg, usually served with gochujang (chili paste).

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Gwangjang Market

One of the oldest traditional markets in Korea, famous for its street food including bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).

Myeongdong Night Market

A bustling area filled with street food stalls offering everything from hotteok (sweet pancakes) to grilled squid.

Climate Guide

Weather

Korea experiences four distinct seasons: spring (mild and pleasant), summer (hot and humid), autumn (cool with colorful foliage), and winter (cold with snowfall). Average temperatures range from around -5°C (23°F) in January to 30°C (86°F) in July. Rainfall is common during the summer months, especially in July and August. Spring and autumn are considered the best times to visit due to comfortable weather.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet elders first and show respect in conversations; using honorifics is important.

Removing Shoes

In homes and some traditional establishments, it is customary to remove shoes before entering.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the eldest person to start eating first, and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice.

Safety Guide

Safety

Korea is considered a very safe country for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take common safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, keeping valuables secure, and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 119.

Tipping in Korea

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Korea, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Korea is a cash-centric society, but credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas. Mobile payments are also popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather and cherry blossoms in full bloom, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and humid, summer brings many festivals and beach trips, but be prepared for sudden rain showers.

Autumn

Cool temperatures and vibrant fall foliage create a stunning backdrop for travel, with many harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold and snowy, winter offers opportunities for skiing and experiencing traditional Korean celebrations like Seollal (Lunar New Year).

Nightlife Guide

Korea at Night

Korea boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, especially in cities like Seoul and Busan. From bustling night markets to upscale bars and clubs, there is something for everyone. Popular areas include Hongdae for its youthful energy and live music, Gangnam for trendy clubs, and Itaewon for diverse international options. Karaoke (noraebang) is a favorite pastime, and many establishments stay open until the early hours of the morning.

Hiking in Korea

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Seoraksan National Park

Known for its breathtaking mountain scenery and diverse flora and fauna, Seoraksan offers various hiking trails suitable for all levels.

Inwangsan Mountain

A relatively easy hike that provides stunning views of Seoul and is rich in historical significance, with ancient fortress walls and shrines.

Airports

How to reach Korea by plane.

Incheon International Airport

Located approximately 48 km west of Seoul, Incheon International Airport is the primary international gateway, known for its modern facilities and excellent services.

Getting Around

Walkability

Major cities in Korea, particularly Seoul, are highly walkable with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. Public parks and shopping districts are often designed for easy navigation on foot. However, be cautious of traffic in busy areas, and consider using public transportation for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Korean Ethnic Group

The majority of the population is ethnically Korean, with a rich cultural history and language.

Expats and Foreign Residents

Korea has a growing community of expatriates and foreign residents, particularly in urban areas, contributing to a multicultural society.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is immensely popular in Korea, with professional teams and enthusiastic fans. Games often feature lively atmospheres and unique cheering traditions.

Taekwondo

As the national sport, taekwondo is practiced widely across the country, with many schools and competitions celebrating this martial art.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in major cities can be congested, especially during rush hours. However, Korea has an efficient public transport system, including subways, buses, and taxis, making it easy to navigate. The subway system in Seoul is extensive and user-friendly, with signs in both Korean and English.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

While many dishes contain meat, there are vegetarian options available. Look for dishes like bibimbap without meat or tofu-based meals.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options can be limited, but rice-based dishes and certain stews are generally safe for those with gluten intolerance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Korea has a highly developed healthcare system, known for its advanced medical technologies and skilled professionals. Public health insurance covers residents, while travelers can access private healthcare facilities. Emergency services are prompt, and English-speaking staff can often be found in major hospitals. Travel insurance is recommended for visitors.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Korea.