South Korea: Complete Travel Guide
Everything about South Korea: Seoul, Busan, K-pop, Korean cuisine, budget and tips for your trip to the land of hallyu.
Why South Korea Is Trending
Thanks to K-pop, K-dramas and a cuisine that's gone viral, South Korea is Asia's trendiest destination. Seoul is a perfect blend of tradition and ultra-modernity, Busan has beaches and temples, and Jeju Island is a natural paradise.
Top Destinations
Seoul
Palaces like Gyeongbokgung next to Gangnam skyscrapers. Hongdae for nightlife, Myeongdong for shopping, Bukchon for hanok (traditional houses) and Itaewon for international food. The world's most advanced technology coexisting with 600-year-old temples.
Daily budget: 45-90€
Busan
The second city, facing the sea. Jagalchi fish market, Haeundae Beach, Haedong Yonggungsa temple overlooking the ocean, the colorful Gamcheon Village and hot springs.
Daily budget: 35-75€
Jeju
Subtropical volcanic island in the south. Hallasan (Korea's highest mountain), Jusangjeolli cliffs, haenyeo (traditional female divers) and fresh tangerines.
Daily budget: 40-80€
DMZ (Demilitarized Zone)
The most heavily guarded border in the world between North and South Korea. Organized tours from Seoul include infiltration tunnels and the JSA (Joint Security Area).
Tour price: 45-80€
Korean Cuisine
- Korean BBQ — Meat grilled at your table with banchan (side dishes). From 10€ per person
- Bibimbap — Rice with vegetables, egg, meat and gochujang (chili paste)
- Kimchi — Spicy fermented vegetables, present at every meal
- Tteokbokki — Rice cakes in spicy gochujang sauce. The ultimate street food
- Samgyeopsal — Grilled pork belly, the Korean social meal
- Japchae — Sweet potato noodles stir-fried with vegetables and sesame
- Ramyeon — Korean spicy instant ramen (but gourmet in restaurants)
- Soju — The national spirit. 1€ per bottle at any convenience store
Budget
| Category | Backpacker | Mid-range | Comfort | |----------|-----------|-----------|---------| | Accommodation | 15-30€ | 40-80€ | 90-250€ | | Food | 8-15€ | 18-35€ | 35-70€ | | Transport | 3-8€ | 10-20€ | 20-50€ | | Total/day | 26-53€ | 68-135€ | 145-370€ |
Getting Around
- KTX — High-speed train. Seoul-Busan in 2h30 for ~45€
- Seoul Metro — Extensive, clean and cheap. Rechargeable T-money card
- Intercity buses — Comfortable and frequent. Seoul-Busan 5h for ~20€
- Flights to Jeju — From 30€, it's the world's busiest air route
Tip
The T-money card works on metro, bus, taxis and convenience stores across all of Korea. Buy one at any convenience store for ~3€.
Practical Tips
- Free WiFi — Korea has free WiFi practically everywhere: metro, cafes, public spaces
- Essential apps — Naver Map (Google Maps doesn't work well), KakaoTalk (Korea's WhatsApp), Papago (translator)
- Cards — Card payment accepted almost everywhere
- Tipping — No tipping in Korea. It's included
- Konbini — CU, GS25 and 7-Eleven on every corner with hot food, ramen and soju
- Season — Spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (foliage) are the best times