Things To Do
in Korea South
South Korea, officially known as the Republic of Korea, is located on the southern part of the Korean Peninsula and is bordered by North Korea to the north, with coastlines along the Yellow Sea and the Sea of Japan. The country has a vibrant economy, known for its advanced technology and global brands such as Samsung and Hyundai, contributing to its status as one of the largest economies in Asia. South Korea boasts a rich cultural heritage, blending traditional elements with modernity, evident in its cuisine, fashion, and entertainment, including the global phenomenon of K-pop.
Furthermore, South Korea has a democratic government and is recognized for its significant advancements in education and innovation, making it a leading nation in various industries.
- "Annyeonghaseyo" - Hello
- "Kamsahamnida" - Thank you
- "Jal jinaess-eoyo" - How have you been?
- "Mianhamnida" - I'm sorry
- "Eotteoke jinaeseyo?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest palace in Seoul. Don't miss the changing of the guards ceremony at 10 AM.
Head to Insadong for lunch and explore traditional Korean crafts and tea houses. Visit the Jogyesa Temple nearby for a peaceful retreat.
Enjoy dinner in the vibrant Myeongdong area, famous for street food and shopping. Cap your night with a stroll along the Cheonggyecheon Stream.
Catch an early train to Gapyeong and ferry to Nami Island, known for its beautiful tree-lined paths. Rent a bike to explore the island's stunning scenery.
Visit the nearby Garden of Morning Calm, a beautiful botanical garden. Have lunch at a local café featuring traditional Korean dishes.
Return to Seoul and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a traditional Korean BBQ restaurant. Consider a night visit to Lotte World Tower for stunning night views.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong economy with robust industries such as technology, automotive, and entertainment.
- High standard of education and a strong emphasis on academic achievement.
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals, music, and cuisine.
- Efficient public transportation system.
- Innovative and advanced technology with a high internet penetration rate.
- Vibrant pop culture, including K-pop, movies, and television that have gained international acclaim.
- High levels of competition and pressure in education and the job market.
- Aging population leading to potential economic and social challenges.
- High cost of living in major cities like Seoul.
- Social issues such as gender inequality and work-life balance challenges.
- Regional tensions and security issues due to the North Korea situation.
- Air pollution and environmental concerns in urban areas.
Best Activities in Korea South
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
South Korea is famous for its beautiful hiking trails, including those in Seoraksan National Park and Bukhansan National Park, offering stunning views and varying difficulty levels.
The Han River provides scenic bike paths perfect for leisure cycling, with parks and facilities along the route where you can relax or have a picnic.
Busan, with its coastal beaches like Haeundae and Gwangalli, offers great surfing opportunities, especially during the summer months.
Home to the 2018 Winter Olympics, Pyeongchang is an excellent destination for skiing and snowboarding during the winter, with numerous resorts to choose from.
Jeju Island features stunning natural beauty, including Hallasan Mountain and beautiful coastlines, ideal for hiking, beach activities, and exploring volcanic landscapes.
South Korea has several national parks such as Jirisan and Songnisan where you can enjoy outdoor camping, wildlife viewing, and nature walks.
There are various campgrounds throughout the country, from national parks to scenic lakes, allowing for a night under the stars surrounded by nature.
Explore historic cities like Gyeongju and Seoul through guided walking tours that showcase cultural heritage sites and traditional neighborhoods.
Tours
Uncover the best of Korea South with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Korea South
Visit one of these nice places.
A iconic landmark in Seoul offering panoramic views of the city. The observation deck is a popular spot for photography, especially at sunset.
A historic palace in Seoul, known for its stunning architecture and the changing of the guard ceremony. The backdrop of the serene palace with mountains makes for excellent photos.
Located in Seoul, the lake offers beautiful views, especially during cherry blossom season. The reflections in the water provide fantastic photography opportunities.
Famous for its sandy beach and the skyline surrounding it, Haeundae Beach in Busan is a vibrant place for sunset photography and capturing the ocean scenery.
A picturesque island known for its tree-lined paths and beautiful landscapes throughout the four seasons. It's particularly stunning in autumn when the leaves change color.
Famous for its natural beauty, Jeju Island offers diverse landscapes including beaches, cliffs, and Hallasan Mountain. It's an excellent spot for outdoor photography.
A cultural district in Seoul known for traditional Korean art and crafts. The vibrant streets and traditional tea houses are great for capturing the essence of Korea.
With its stunning mountain landscapes and hiking trails, Bukhansan National Park is ideal for nature photography, offering breathtaking views of Seoul from various peaks.
A preserved area with traditional Korean houses (hanoks), this village provides a beautiful backdrop for cultural photography amid the urban landscape.
A scenic stream running through downtown Seoul, perfect for capturing the contrast of nature with urban life, particularly beautiful at night when illuminated.
Food in Korea South
Korea South Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional side dish made from fermented vegetables, primarily napa cabbage and radishes, seasoned with chili pepper, garlic, ginger, and other spices. Found in almost every meal.
Must-Try!
A mixed rice dish topped with vegetables, meat, a fried egg, and gochujang (red chili paste). It’s known for its colorful presentation and balance of flavors.
A popular culinary experience where diners grill their own meat, usually beef, pork, or chicken, at the table, served with various dipping sauces and banchan.
A ginseng chicken soup that is known for its nourishing properties, typically made with a young chicken stuffed with glutinous rice, garlic, and ginseng.
Spicy stir-fried rice cakes in a gochujang-based sauce, often served with fish cakes, boiled eggs, and scallions.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the oldest traditional markets in Seoul, famous for Jeon (Korean pancakes), bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), and various street food options.
A bustling area filled with street food stalls offering a wide variety of snacks such as spicy rice cakes, hotteok (sweet pancakes), and grilled skewers.
A large market where visitors can enjoy a range of stalls selling street food favorites like gimbap (seaweed rice rolls) and mandu (dumplings).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In South Korea, it's important to use proper titles and honorifics when addressing someone, especially elders or those in positions of authority. Instead of using first names, opt for titles such as 'Mr.', 'Mrs.', or honorifics like 'seonbae' for seniors.
Personal space is valued in South Korea, so it's essential to be mindful of physical proximity during conversations. Avoid standing too close to others unless they are familiar friends or family, and be cautious about touching.
When dining in South Korea, it's customary to wait for the oldest person to start eating first. Additionally, using both hands to offer or receive items, such as chopsticks or a cup, is a mark of respect. It's also polite to refrain from talking with a full mouth.
Safety
Tipping in Korea South
Ensure a smooth experience
In South Korea, tipping is not a common practice and is often seen as unnecessary. Service charges are typically included in the bill, particularly in restaurants and cafes. While some tourists might leave small amounts as a gesture, it is not expected. In certain situations, such as high-end hotels or exceptional service, leaving a small tip may be appreciated but is still not the norm.
Payment methods in South Korea are diverse and technologically advanced. Cash is still used but has declined in favor of electronic payments. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in stores, restaurants, and public transport. Mobile payment apps, such as KakaoPay and Naver Pay, are popular for their convenience. Additionally, South Korea has a strong infrastructure for contactless payments, making transactions quick and efficient.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (April to June) is one of the best times to visit South Korea, famous for its cherry blossoms and mild temperatures. Expect beautiful flowers blooming, especially in late March to early April, and pleasant weather perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer (July to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). This season is characterized by monsoon rains, especially in July. While it's a vibrant time with festivals, it's advisable to prepare for heat and occasional downpours.
Autumn (September to November) is another ideal time to visit, known for its stunning fall foliage. Expect cooler temperatures and beautiful landscapes as leaves change colors, typically peaking in late October. Autumn festivals and harvest celebrations add to the appeal.
Winter (December to February) in South Korea can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snow can cover many areas, especially in the northern regions. It's a great time for winter sports enthusiasts and for those wanting to experience traditional winter festivities and hot springs.
Korea South at Night
Hiking in Korea South
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located in northern Seoul, Bukhansan offers various trails with stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains. The park has a rich biodiversity and several historical sites.
Famous for its majestic peaks, Seoraksan features a range of hiking trails suitable for all levels, including the challenging Ulsanbawi Rock and tranquil paths along the river.
Known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse flora and fauna, Jirisan is the largest national park in South Korea. Popular hiking routes include the path to Cheonwangbong, the highest peak.
Located in the heart of Seoul, Namsan Park is an urban oasis that offers scenic walking paths leading to the iconic N Seoul Tower. The area is easily accessible and provides a great city view.
Situated on Jeju Island, Hallasan is the highest mountain in South Korea. The park features well-marked trails through diverse ecosystems leading to the summit with breathtaking views.
Airports
How to reach Korea South by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in South Korea, located near Seoul. It serves as a major hub for international flights.
Located in Seoul, Gimpo is the second largest airport in South Korea, primarily serving domestic and some international flights.
Serves Busan and the surrounding area, it is the third largest airport in South Korea with international and domestic flights.
Located on Jeju Island, this airport is a key gateway for international travelers visiting the resort island.
An international airport currently under construction, located in Yangsan, poised to serve domestic and international routes upon completion.
Located in Daegu, this airport provides a limited number of international flights alongside domestic services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in South Korea, consisting of approximately 96% of the population.
A significant minority group, primarily descendants of early Chinese immigrants and associated with regional trade.
An increasing demographic, particularly due to marriage migration and labor immigration.
Represents a notable community, many of whom are migrant workers or spouses in mixed-nationality families.
Includes both expatriates and individuals of Korean descent who have lived in the United States.
Historical ties have led to a small population of Japanese residing in South Korea.
Comprises individuals from various countries, including Nepalese, Uzbek, and others.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer, or football, is one of the most popular sports in South Korea, with a passionate following and successful national team.
Baseball has a huge fan base in South Korea, with the KBO League being the top professional league in the country.
Basketball enjoys widespread popularity in South Korea, with a strong presence in schools and professional leagues.
Golf is a popular sport in South Korea, with many young players having gained international success in recent years.
Taekwondo is a traditional Korean martial art that is widely practiced and has been Olympic sport since 2000.
Badminton is also popular, with both recreational play and competitive tournaments drawing attention.
Volleyball has a dedicated following in South Korea, with professional leagues for both men and women.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options can be limited, but dishes like bibimbap (without meat) and various vegetable side dishes are widely available.
Vegan options are becoming more popular. Look for specialized vegan restaurants, and inquire about dishes such as tofu stew.
While many traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free, be cautious with soy sauce and certain marinades. Inform staff of dietary needs to ensure gluten-free meals.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Korea South.