Everything you should know before visiting South Korea in 2024!
South Korea, officially known as the Republic of Korea, is a captivating and dynamic East Asian nation known for its unique blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity.
Nestled on the Korean Peninsula; South Korea boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes and a thriving contemporary society that has earned it a place as a top travel destination.
From the bustling streets of the capital; Seoul, to the serene temples and lush mountains, South Korea offers travelers a diverse experience that seamlessly marries the old and the new.
Before visiting South Korea, there are several important aspects to consider and understand to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Here are some key things you should know before visiting South Korea:
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Visa Requirements
Check if you need a visa to enter South Korea, and make sure to have the necessary documentation before booking your trip. South Korea offers visa free travel to 110 countries but it is always recommended to check your government’s website for updated travel requirements.
The Best Travel Insurance for Digital Nomads
Language
The official language is Korean and not many locals speak English outside of tourist areas. The best way to navigate the language barrier is by having a translate app on hand (We recommend Google Translate, and make sure to download the language offline so that you can use without data).
We also always try to learn a few phrases, as we like to at least make an effort. This often brings joy to the locals as they see this as us respecting their culture. Here are some of the phrases we used daily:
- Hello = annyeonghaseyo (안녕하세요)
- Thanks = gamsahaeyo (감사해요)
- Good bye = annyeonghi gaseyo (안녕히 가세요)
Currency
The currency in South Korea is the South Korean Won (KRW). At the time of writing this, 1335 KRW = 1 USD.
Card and cash are accepted in most urban areas but be careful of card conversion fees by ensuring you have a travel-ready card.
For more information about travel cards, check out our recommended Travel Resources page!
Weather and Seasons
South Korea experiences 4 distinct seasons throughout the year:
- Spring from April to June
- Summer is July to August
- Autumn is September to November
- And a cold but dry winter in December to March.
The best time to visit therefore is in March and May if you want to see the vibrant pink of the cherry blossoms in bloom.
Electricity
South Korea uses a 220V/60Hz power supply with Type C and Type F outlets. Depending on your home country, you may need an adapter and voltage converter.
Local Customs
There are many customs and traditions to familiarise yourself with. The most important ones are bowing as a sign of respect and removing your shoes before entering someone’s home or certain establishments.
Tipping
Tipping is not common in South Korea and can even be considered impolite in some situations. Service charges are often included in the bill at upmarket hotels and restaurants.
Public Transport
South Korea has an efficient and extensive public transportation system, including subways, buses, and high-speed trains. The T-money card is a convenient way to pay for public transport.
We travelled all over Seoul using the public transport every day. We found it extremely affordable and convient!
Cuisine
South Korean cuisine is diverse and delicious, with dishes like kimchi, bulgogi, and bibimbap. Be prepared to try new foods and don’t forget to sample street food. The number one food you should try when in South Korea is Korean Barbecue; this dining experience can be daunting but results in a fun experience and tasty meal.
Dining Etiquette
Learn about Korean dining etiquette, which includes using both hands when giving or receiving something, not sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl, and not making too much noise while eating, in order to be polite whilst eating.
Internet Connectivity
South Korea is known for its fast and reliable internet. You can also easily find free Wi-Fi in most urban areas. If you need more coverage whilst travelling there then you can purchase visitor SIM cards in order to use data when moving around.
For more information about travel SIM cards, check out our recommended Travel Resources page!
Maps
When navigating around South Korea it may be hard finding your way as Google Maps and other map apps are not completely usable. This is because South Korea does not allow companies to store all of their map data. Instead use signs and street names or use a local app such as KakaoMap.
Cultural Etiquette
Be mindful of cultural norms, such as not displaying affection in public, covering your tattoos in certain establishments, and dressing modestly when visiting temples.
Safety
South Korea is generally a safe country with low crime rates. However, it’s still essential to take common-sense precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Seoul and Beyond
While Seoul is the capital and a bustling metropolis, South Korea offers a wide range of attractions, from historic palaces and temples to beautiful natural landscapes. Consider exploring beyond the capital.
You could visit Busan, a large port city known for its beaches, or even Jeju Island!
Historical and Cultural Sites
South Korea has a rich history and offers numerous historical and cultural sites. Don’t miss places like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) to learn about Korean culture.
Check out the below list of recommend tours!
Conclusion
By being aware of these aspects, you can make the most of your visit to South Korea and ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience in this fascinating and vibrant country
Check out the rest of our South Korea posts HERE!
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- > BOOK YOUR FLIGHT
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For hotels we stick to booking.com as it is the most widely used platform across the world. If you are looking for somethnig more social, we recommend using Hostelworld. - > GET INSURANCE
Travel insurance is the most important thing you need to purchase before any trip. It will protect you from illness, injury, theft and cancellations. To avoid any unexpected bills, we never travel without insurance. Check out SafteyWing for the best travel insurance. - > STAY CONNECTED
The best way to stay connected whilst travelling and avoiding fees is to use an eSIM. Using an eSIM allows you to keep your regular SIM in your phone, so that you can still receive calls and texts to your number. Check out Airalo for the best value on eSIMS. - > FIND THE BEST TOURS
Want to book a tour? Check out Get Your Guide for the best deals on amazing tours and trips. - > READY TO BOOK?
Check out our resource page for the best companies we use when we travel. These are the companies we use each time we travel, and highly recommened them!
