Things To Do
in Korea South
South Korea is a vibrant country known for its rich history, technological advancements, and unique blend of traditional and modern culture. With bustling cities like Seoul and Busan, visitors can experience everything from ancient palaces to contemporary art scenes. The country is also famous for its delicious cuisine, beautiful landscapes, and warm hospitality.
South Korea's efficient public transportation system makes it easy to explore both urban and rural areas.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty, where you can witness the changing of the guard ceremony.
Head to Insadong, a neighborhood known for its traditional tea houses, art galleries, and souvenir shops, followed by a stroll through the picturesque Bukchon Hanok Village.
Enjoy dinner in the lively Myeongdong district, famous for its street food and shopping, then experience the vibrant nightlife with a visit to a rooftop bar overlooking the city.
Take a morning hike at Bukhansan National Park, known for its stunning mountain views and diverse wildlife.
Visit the Korean Folk Village in Yongin to learn about traditional Korean culture and enjoy performances showcasing folk music and dance.
Wrap up your trip with a relaxing evening at a traditional jjimjilbang (Korean spa), where you can unwind in saunas and soak in hot baths.
Prices
Item | Price |
---|---|
πMeal at a restaurant | $8-$15 |
βCoffee | $3-$5 |
πSubway ticket | $1-$2 |
π¨Night in a hotel | $50-$150 |
πΊBeer at a bar | $4-$8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Delicious and diverse cuisine.
- Efficient public transportation system.
- Language barrier for non-Korean speakers.
- High cost of living in major cities.
- Crowded tourist spots during peak seasons.
- "μλ νμΈμ" - Hello
- "κ°μ¬ν©λλ€" - Thank you
- "μ£μ‘ν©λλ€" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "μΌλ§μμ?" - How much is this?
- "νμ₯μ€ μ΄λμμ?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Korea South
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering panoramic views of the city, this iconic tower is a must-visit for stunning photographs.
A traditional village featuring beautiful hanok (Korean traditional houses) that provide a picturesque backdrop.
The architecture and surrounding gardens make this historic site a perfect spot for capturing the essence of Korea.
Food in Korea South
Korea South Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fermented vegetables, usually napa cabbage and radishes, seasoned with chili pepper, garlic, and ginger.
Must-Try!
Marinated beef grilled to perfection, often served with lettuce leaves for wrapping.
A mixed rice dish topped with various vegetables, meat, and a fried egg, served with gochujang (spicy sauce).
Spicy stir-fried rice cakes often accompanied by fish cakes and vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the oldest traditional markets in Seoul, famous for its street food and local delicacies.
A bustling area packed with food stalls offering everything from spicy rice cakes to sweet treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A slight bow is customary when greeting; handshakes are also common but often accompanied by a bow.
Always show respect to elders, which includes standing when they enter a room or offering your seat.
It is customary to remove shoes when entering someoneβs home or certain traditional establishments.
Safety
Tipping in Korea South
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in South Korea, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.
Credit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payment apps like KakaoPay are popular among locals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May sees cherry blossoms and pleasant weather, making it a popular time for festivals and outdoor activities.
June to August can be hot and humid, with occasional monsoon rains; perfect for enjoying beaches and water activities.
September to November offers comfortable temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, ideal for hiking and sightseeing.
December to February brings cold temperatures and snowfall, perfect for winter sports and traditional festivals.
Korea South at Night
Hiking in Korea South
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located just north of Seoul, this park offers a variety of trails with breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.
A bit further away, this park is known for its stunning mountain scenery and challenging hiking trails, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Airports
How to reach Korea South by plane.
Located about 48 kilometers west of Seoul, Incheon is the main international gateway, offering a wide range of global connections and modern amenities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This group makes up a significant portion of the population, often seen in urban areas, enjoying the nightlife and cultural activities.
With a growing life expectancy, the elderly population is an important demographic, often respected and integrated into family and community life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in South Korea, with passionate fans supporting their local teams.
As the national sport, Taekwondo is practiced widely and represents a significant aspect of Korean culture.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Korean cuisine often includes meat, there are vegetarian options available, such as bibimbap without meat.
Finding gluten-free options can be challenging, but dishes like rice and certain vegetarian meals are usually safe.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Korea South.