Things To Do
in South Korea

South Korea is a vibrant nation that beautifully marries ancient traditions with modern technology. Known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and bustling urban centers, it offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. Visitors can enjoy traditional palaces, lively markets, and advanced cities like Seoul and Busan.

South Korea is also famous for its K-Pop culture, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering 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 for a stroll through traditional Korean houses and then visit Insadong for unique arts and crafts shopping.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner in Myeongdong, where you can sample street food like tteokbokki and then explore the vibrant shopping scene.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Nature
morning
:

Visit the National Museum of Korea to learn about the country's history and culture, followed by a peaceful walk along the Han River.

afternoon
:

Head to Namsan Tower for panoramic views of the city, and enjoy a hike on Namsan Mountain.

evening
:

Experience a traditional Korean BBQ dinner in Hongdae, followed by a visit to a local pub or a performance of K-Pop.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a restaurant$7-10
β˜•Coffee$3-5
πŸš‡Public transport ticket$1-2
🏨Hotel (mid-range)$70-150
🎟️Attraction admission$5-10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Diverse and delicious cuisine.
  • Efficient public transportation system.
  • Language barrier for some travelers.
  • Crowded tourist spots during peak seasons.
  • Costly accommodation in major cities.
  • "μ•ˆλ…•ν•˜μ„Έμš” (Annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
  • "κ°μ‚¬ν•©λ‹ˆλ‹€ (Gamsahamnida)" - Thank you
  • "μ£„μ†‘ν•©λ‹ˆλ‹€ (Joesonghamnida)" - I'm sorry
  • "μ–Όλ§ˆμ˜ˆμš”? (Eolmayeyo?)" - How much is this?
  • "ν™”μž₯μ‹€ μ–΄λ””μ˜ˆμš”? (Hwajangsil eodiyeyo?)" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in South Korea

Visit one of these nice places.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

A grand royal palace with beautiful architecture and historical significance, perfect for capturing traditional Korean beauty.

Namsan Seoul Tower

Offers stunning views of the city and is especially picturesque at sunset.

Bukchon Hanok Village

The traditional Korean houses make for a charming backdrop, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon light.

Culinary Guide

Food in South Korea

Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavors and diverse ingredients, making it a must-try for food lovers.

South Korea Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kimchi

Fermented vegetables, usually napa cabbage or radishes, seasoned with chili pepper, garlic, and ginger.

Must-Try!

Bibimbap

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

Bulgogi

Marinated beef that is grilled or stir-fried, known for its sweet and savory flavor.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Gwangjang Market

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

Namdaemun Market

A bustling market where you can find a variety of snacks and meals, perfect for sampling local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

South Korea experiences four distinct seasons: a hot summer (June to August) with temperatures often exceeding 30Β°C (86Β°F); a cold winter (December to February) with temperatures dropping below freezing; a vibrant spring (March to May) with mild weather and blooming flowers; and a cool autumn (September to November) with colorful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet older people first and use formal language.

Dining Customs

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

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively, especially in religious settings or traditional areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

South Korea is generally safe for tourists with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take basic precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 119.

Tipping in South Korea

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in South Korea; however, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, and mobile payment apps are popular; cash is still commonly used in markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Cherry blossoms bloom in April, making it a beautiful time to visit parks and gardens.

Summer

Hot and humid weather, with occasional rain; great for enjoying beach activities in Busan.

Autumn

Mild temperatures and stunning fall foliage; perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.

Winter

Cold temperatures with potential snow, ideal for winter sports and enjoying seasonal festivals.

Nightlife Guide

South Korea at Night

South Korea has a vibrant nightlife scene, especially in cities like Seoul and Busan. From trendy clubs in Gangnam to traditional pubs (hof) and karaoke rooms (noraebang), there's something for everyone. The nightlife often starts late, with many establishments open until dawn, and you can enjoy a mix of local drinks like soju and craft beers.

Hiking in South Korea

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Seoraksan National Park

Home to some of the most beautiful mountain landscapes in the country, offering various trails for all skill levels.

Jirisan National Park

Features the highest mountain in mainland South Korea and extensive hiking trails with stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach South Korea by plane.

Incheon International Airport

Located about 48 km west of Seoul, it's the primary airport serving the capital and is known for its excellent facilities and services.

Getting Around

Walkability

South Korea's urban areas, particularly Seoul, are highly walkable, with pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and numerous crosswalks. Many neighborhoods are designed for foot traffic, making it easy to explore shops, cafes, and attractions on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Adults

A vibrant demographic that drives trends in fashion, music, and technology, particularly in urban areas.

Elderly Population

With a growing number of elderly citizens, there is a strong emphasis on respect and support for older generations in Korean society.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Taekwondo

A martial art that originated in Korea, emphasizing head-height kicks and fast footwork.

Baseball

A widely popular sport in South Korea, with a passionate fan base and a strong professional league.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in major cities can be congested, especially during rush hours. However, South Korea has an extensive and efficient public transportation network, including subways, buses, and taxis that make getting around easy.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

While many Korean dishes contain meat or seafood, there are vegetarian options available, particularly in Buddhist temples.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but rice-based dishes and certain soups can be suitable; always check with restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

South Korea boasts a high-quality healthcare system with modern facilities and well-trained professionals. Foreigners can access healthcare services, but it's advisable to have travel insurance to cover medical expenses.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting South Korea.