Ultimate South Korea Travel Guide

This travel guide for South Korea features the top places to visit, how to get around, safety, scams, logistics, and more to help you plan the ultimate independent adventure.

From high-tech, megacity Seoul to quiet rural villages, dotted with ancient Buddhist temples, sprawling Joseon Dynasty palaces, fascinating historic villages, vibrant markets, a lively nightlife, and beautiful islands, South Korea offers something for everyone.

Note: The information in this ultimate travel guide and posts on South Korea are updated January 2023.

Top Attractions In South Korea

Seoul

Seoul, one of the the most populous cities in the world, offers a complex contrast of ultra-modern skyscrapers, bustling streets, ancient temples, traditional villages, and peaceful parks.

You can explore the original city walls, Hanyangdoseon, that once circled 14th century Seoul when it was known as Hanseong, visit regal Joseon Dynasty palaces while wearing Korea’s traditional, colorful, hanbok, stroll traditional Korean villages dating back 600 years, like Bukchon Hanok, admire solemn Buddhist temples, visit serene parks which explode with cherry blossoms in the spring, try a vast array of fascinating food options, shop traditional markets, and so much more.

And although Seoul is large, it’s easy to navigate via the subway, taking all the stress out of exploring everything it has to offer.

The DMZ

The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between North and South Korea, is a cease-fire zone in the world’s most fortified border. The DMZ stretches 2.5 miles (4 km) from the Yellow Sea in the west to the East Sea in the east, with around 2 million troops and over a million landmines.

About an hour north of Seoul, there’s a small area called the Joint Security Area (JSA) that’s safe for travelers. Visits are only via organized tour (which makes sense if you think about it). Here, you can technically stand in North Korea, albeit in a building with South Korean soldiers. This is the only place where US citizens can visit North Korea, as entry was barred by the US as of July 2017.

Half day and full day tours are avialable. You will need to sign a waiver that the tour agency is not responsible for your safety, and tours are subject to cancellation if situations escalate, but little really happens here. Respectable dress is required. This means no torn jeans, slogan t-shirts, flip flops, etc…

Suwan

19 miles (30 km) south of Seoul in Suwan is UNESCO World Heritage site Hwasong Fortress and Hwaseong Haenggung Palace. This 18th century fortress, built by King Jeongjo to house and honor the remains of his father, Prince Sado, sits in the center of Suwan.

The story behind his death, however, is grippingly grisly. Prince Sado’s father had him locked inside a rice chest, where he suffocated to death after refusing to commit suicide. Of course there’s much more to this story and much debate about what is and is not true, so an interesting visit for that alone, yet the fortress itself is the real draw, and quite beautiful. It’s remarkably well maintained and the only remaining walled fortress in the country. There are stunning views of Suwan from the top of the fortress and performances held daily.

Busan

Busan, South Korea’s second largest city, located in southeastern South Korea, provides a more laid-back experience than buzzing Seoul, but still offers plenty to see and do. Also a unique mix of skyscrapers and traditional villages, but on a smaller scale, with beaches lining the coast, like Haeundae Beach, nestled in front of Busan’s striking skyline.

Highlights include the charming Gamcheon, a pastel-painted village perched in the hills above Busan. Known for its colorful street art, murals, shops, and themed cafes, it’s a fun stop. There’s also hiking in Busan, most notably the stunning cliff tops along the coast in Taejongdae Park.

Busan is also where you’ll find South Korea’s largest fish market, Jagalchi Fish Market. You can even have your purchase cleaned and cooked in front of you. How fresh can you get?!? Plus there’s more, including tasty street food, and a thriving art scene with many galleries to explore.

If you have any time left after all this, head up to Haedong Yonggungsa, a 14th century Buddhist temple northeast of Busan that overlooks the sea.

Gyengju

Gyengju, the capital of ancient Silla Kingdom is more than 2,000 years old. Located about an hour north of Busan, it houses one of the most important temples in Korea, Bulguksa Temple. This temple, along with nearby Seokguram Grotto were listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1995. There’s also a traditional covered market, a traditional village, Gyochon Village, and the oldest observatory in Asia, Cheomsongdae astronomical observatory, which dates back to the 7th century.

A few miles northeast of Gyengju there’s another traditional Korean village to explore, Yangdong Village, dating back to the Joseon dynasty.

Jeju Island

Jeju island, known as the Hawaii of South Korea, is an alluring volcanic island located south of South Korea. Full of tranquil, natural beauty, it’s popular with honeymooners and those looking for an escape into nature, which is especially appealing after a week in Seoul!

You can hike the volcano, Mount Hallasan, in the center of the island. I hiked from the lush green forest at its base to the peak above the clouds.

Jeju, being a volcanic island, is also famous for its underground lava tubes.

There are a variety of beautiful waterfalls here, like Jeongbang below, as well as some unique places to explore, like a 5,000 year old volcanic tuff cone formation on the east side of the island called Seongsan Ilchulbong, or Sunrise Peak.

The island is also full of Olle Trails, 262 miles (422 km) of paths threading around the island with picture-perfect views. The trails are mostly natural, using slate, pine, or gravel, and marked with ribbons to keep everything as natural as possible.

Damyang County

Damyang, famous for its forest, Juknokwon Bamboo Forest, is located in Jeollanamdo in southwest Korea. This is another great nature escape. Hike in the ultra-fresh bamboo forest air, take instagram selfies (see #juknokwon), and try some bamboo ice cream.

Jinhae

Jinhae is best known for its cherry blossom festival in the spring, the most popular place outside Seoul for cherry blossoms. Particularly the mile long stretch of cherry trees by Gyeonghwa Station.

The bloom peak is hard to predict, depending on weather, but usually between late March and early April.

This festival has been canceled the last few years due to COVID, but is planned to start April 1 in 2023. Click here for more details. It’s very popular, with rooms booking far in advance, so plan early!

Best Time To Visit South Korea

Weather-wise, spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures, April, May, and June, and September, October, and November.

To see the cherry blossoms, they usually peak sometime between the end of March and early April, depending on weather conditions. This will be the busiest time in South Korea, with accomodation booking up early.

Summer is the hottest time of year, and also the wettest, as it’s monsoon season.

Languages in South Korea

Korean is the official language of South (and North) Korea, but most people under the age of 40 learned English in school and will be able to speak at least a little. Just be patient with as they may not get a chance for much practice.

Try to learn at least a few words, as it goes a long way. Even words like hello and thank you, however, have several syllables, making them very challenging to remember. Try using Google translate to practice before you go (and as a reminder).

Ultimate Travel Guide South Korea: Money Matters

Currency: The currency of South Korea is the South Korean won, or KRW. Conversion rates as of January 1, 2024 are as follows.

• USD (1) = ₩1303
• Euro (1) = ₩1436
• CNY (1) = ₩182

Credit Cards: Credit and Debit Cards are widely accepted, especially MasterCard and Visa. American Express may only be accepted by larger establishments. Smaller restaurants, markets, and small purchases (like bus fare), will require cash.

ATMs: ATMs are widely available in larger cities, although they typically charge a fee for withdrawal ($3-5 on top of what your bank charges). The screen will prompt you to accept the fee or deny the transaction altogether. Also, some do not accept foreign cards (although I never encountered this). Look for ATMs that note Global Services or Global ATM.

Always opt for conversion in the home currency (South Korean here) as selecting your country for the conversion rate will result in a higher fee. Also, only 4 digit pins are accepted, so if yours is longer, change it before you leave home.

Tipping: South Korea is not a tipping culture. They believe that good service should be a standard, so do not expect one (nice!). In fact, traditional restaurants may be offended and turn tips away. Western ones will accept 5-10%. For taxis it’s acceptable to tell them to keep the change for simplicity.

Ultimate Travel Guide South Korea: Safety

South Korea is very safe, on par with other Asian countries like Singapore and Japan, but you still need to remain vigilant, especially near touristy areas and in bars. Take normal precautions, always being aware of your surroundings. Don’t carry too much cash and keep a close eye on your purse or wallet. 

Always check the latest situation on your government website. It’s a good idea to sign up for STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program), or similar in your country. They will alert you if a known situation arises.

Ultimate Travel Guide South Korea: Scams

South Korea is safe, but there are always a few people trying to take advantage of tourists. The following are the top scams in South Korea.

Scammy Taxi Drivers

Always make sure the taxi has a meter before getting in, and make sure the driver uses it. If they do not plan to use it, get another taxi. If you agree to a ride without the meter, know the approximate cost before you negotiate, and negotiate before you agree to a ride. Ask a local or at your accommodation for good estimates.

Misrepresented Rooms

I did not have this happen, but I’ve heard sometimes rooms are not what they appear to be on the internet. Sometimes run down or even non existent. Read reviews thoroughly and check the street view of the map location to see if it is what it claims to be, or is where it claims to be.

As this city is densely populated, most rooms are minuscule, but they work and it’s part of the culture here.

Foreigner Prices

Some stores will not mark items with prices, charging foreigners a higher price. Try to buy only marked items, or research several places before buying, so you’re well versed on the best price.

Spiked Drinks

It’s rare, but drinks in nightclubs or bars can be spiked. Keep a close eye on yours or only drink a beer you see the bartender open and not tamper with.

Overly Friendly People

Be cautious if overly friendly people approach you. They may want to pickpocket you. If they invite you for a drink at a place they suggest, be extra cautious, sometimes they are hired by establishments to lure people in. In the end, your friend will disappear and you will be forced to pay a very overpriced bill.

Ultimate Travel Guide South Korea: Getting Around

Fly In

There are 2 international airports in Seoul, with Incheon being the largest, and with the most flights. It’s also one of the largest and busiest airports in the world. Gimpo, however, is closest to Seoul.

Busan also has an international airport, but it mainly connects to other Asian cities/countries.

How To Get To Seoul From The Airport

The Airprot Railroad Express (AREX) has an express train and a full stop train running from the Incheon to Seoul. The express train takes 40-minutes, while the full stop train takes about an hour. Gimpo is about 20-minutes from Seoul and can be reached via taxi or train.

Traveling Within Seoul

Metro

The metro in Seoul is fantastic. It’s easy to get around, even for those that do not read Korean, clean, and efficient. It does, however, get very busy during rush hour, so try to avoid this time if possible.

There is an app called Seoul Metro Planner Map that you can search for and download if you need help.

Traveling Between (And Within) Cities

Getting To Suwan

To get to Suwan, take the subway (line 1) from Seoul to the Suwan stop. From here, take a bus from the station to Paldalmun Gate (which is the entrance). You can also take a taxi, or walk, using GPS. The walk is about 20-minutes.

Getting To Busan

There is a KTX High speed train between Seoul and Busan that takes about 2.5-3 hours. Regular trains can take up to 5 or 6. There is also a bus, which takes about 4.5 hours, including a night bus.

To get around within Busan, the metro is best.

Getting To Gyengju

Gyengju Is located about an hour north of Busan. There is a bus from the Busan Central Bus Terminal to the Gyeongju Express Bus Terminal. From Seoul, there is a bus from the Seoul Express Bus Terminal to the Gyeongju Express Bus Terminal, taking about 4 hours.

Jeju Island

There are frequent, inexpensive flights from Seoul and Busan to Jeju, and ferries in warmer seasons.

The bus system within Jeju is efficient and easy to use to explore the sites in different parts of the island.

Damyang County

Located in southwest South Korea, Damyang about a 3 hour drive. There’s also a direct bus that takes about 3 hours and 30-minutes from Seoul Central City Bus Terminal.

Jinhae

Located near Busan, Jinhae is about a 4 hour drive from Seoul. There are several buses daily from Seoul’s Nambu Terminal and a train which takes about 3 hours. You can also fly to Busan and take a taxi or bus, which will take about 30-minutes.

Ultimate Travel Guide South Korea: Visa Information

US and most EU citizens can travel visa free for touristic reasons to South Korea for up to 90 days (except Cyprus which is 30 days). Chinese citizens must apply for a visa. For more details, or information on other countries, see the Visa Policy of South Korea.

It is possible that you may need to prove you have sufficient funds in your bank to cover your stay.

Check the web for the most up to date details on COVID entry requirements.

Ultimate Travel Guide South Korea: Top Site Blogs

Click the icons below for more detailed information on these key sites in South Korea.

If this travel guide has been useful in planning, or just dreaming about South Korea, please add a comment below.

Safe Travels!

Julie