South Korea Travel Tips
From the dazzling glow of Seoul’s neon skyline to the misty peaks of Bukhansan and the emerald waters lapping the shores of Jeju Island, South Korea is a country that sweeps you up in its contrasts. One moment you’re sipping artisan coffee in a minimalist café; the next, you’re wandering palace grounds steeped in centuries of history. Whether it’s the addictive lure of street food sizzling on a market stall, the soothing calm of a mountain temple, or the thrill of a K-pop concert in a packed stadium, South Korea travel offers an intoxicating mix of old-world charm and modern dynamism.
But to truly unlock all it has to offer, you’ll want a few practical South Korea travel tips in your back pocket. In this guide, we’ll explore the must-see sights and experiences, offer advice on handling money and spending, show you how to get around with ease, and give you insider pointers on when to visit, what to expect, and how to blend in with local customs.
Things to Do in South Korea
Discover South Korea’s Vibrant Markets
If you want to feel the pulse of the country, head straight to its markets, which are bustling, colourful, and brimming with irresistible aromas.
Namdaemun Market in Seoul is a labyrinth of over 10,000 stalls, a place where the air is thick with the scent of fresh mandu dumplings and roasted chestnuts. Vendors call out cheerfully as they arrange piles of fabrics, gleaming kitchenware, and bargain-priced clothing. Try tteokbokki, the chewy rice cakes bathed in a spicy-sweet sauce, or hotteok, a golden pancake oozing with cinnamon sugar.
Over at Gwangjang Market, the atmosphere is heady with frying oil and chatter. Here, you can sit shoulder-to-shoulder with locals at narrow counters, tucking into crisp bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and bite-sized mayak kimbap, so-called because they’re as addictive as they are delicious.
In Busan, Jagalchi Market is an ode to the sea. Fishermen unload the morning’s catch, where you'll see octopus writhing in buckets and crabs snapping their claws, and stallholders beckon you to choose your lunch. Moments later, it’s filleted, grilled, or served raw, ready for you to enjoy with a splash of soy and a bracing sea breeze.
Step Back in Time at Famous Historical Sites
South Korea’s history isn’t locked away in textbooks, it’s written in the palace gates, temple courtyards, and cobbled streets that dot the country.
Deoksugung Palace, in the heart of Seoul, offers a unique blend of traditional Korean architecture and European-inspired buildings, all surrounded by graceful gardens. Time your visit for the changing of the guard, where men in vivid hanbok uniforms march to the beat of traditional drums.
In Busan, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple feels like a postcard come to life with its ornate pagodas and prayer halls spilling down a rocky cliffside towards the crashing East Sea. Lanterns flutter in the salty wind, and the rhythmic sound of waves makes this a perfect spot for quiet reflection.
Back in Seoul, Gyeongbokgung Palace is the crown jewel of the Joseon Dynasty. Its sweeping courtyards and intricate pavilions are framed by mountains, creating a setting so grand it feels timeless. Watching the guard ceremony here is like stepping straight into history, with vibrant costumes, ceremonial weapons, and solemn ritual.
Relax at Breathtaking Beaches
When the urban buzz gets too much, South Korea’s coastline offers a welcome breath of fresh sea air.
Hamdeok Beach in Jeju is a painter’s palette with powdery white sand, aquamarine shallows, and black volcanic rocks. The water is calm and crystal-clear, making it perfect for a swim before wandering the scenic coastal trails that fringe the bay.
In Busan, Gwangalli Beach is famous for its fine sand and its postcard-perfect view of Gwangan Bridge. Come at night when the bridge bursts into a rainbow of lights, reflecting on the gentle waves as locals sip iced coffee on the promenade.
Then there’s Haeundae Beach, a vibrant stretch of sand that hums with energy in summer. It’s a playground of parasols, volleyball matches, food stalls, and music festivals—a place where the city swaps its skyscrapers for surfboards.
Money and Spending in South Korea
The official currency is the South Korean won (KRW), a colourful collection of notes and coins featuring historical figures and landmarks. Cards are widely accepted in cities, but cash is still vital for markets, rural areas, and smaller shops.
Should I Use Cash or a Card in South Korea?
In cities like Seoul and Busan, you can use your card almost everywhere, from boutique cafés to luxury department stores. But venture into traditional markets, independent eateries, or countryside towns, and you’ll often find “cash only” signs. Carrying won means no awkward moments, no surprise card fees, and no missing out on that mouth-watering snack sizzling just metres away.
Do You Tip in South Korea?
Tipping isn’t part of Korean culture, and it can even be considered unusual. Prices already include service, and gratitude is better expressed with a polite (gamsahamnida, thank you). Whether you’re in a restaurant, a taxi, or a hotel, your bill is your final bill.
Travelling Around South Korea
Getting around South Korea is a breeze, thanks to its fast, efficient, and remarkably punctual transport systems.
By Train – The KTX high-speed trains glide across the country at up to 300 km/h, making the trip from Seoul to Busan in under three hours. Spacious seats, large windows, and smooth rides make the journey as much a pleasure as the destination.
By Bus – South Korea’s bus network is vast and budget-friendly, linking major cities, towns, and rural areas. In Seoul, city buses run frequently, with colour-coded routes to make navigation simple.
By Car – Renting a car offers the freedom to explore beyond public transport routes, ideal for scenic drives along Jeju’s coastal roads or through Gyeongju’s historic countryside. Just remember, driving is on the right and speed cameras are plentiful.
Things to Know Before Travelling to South Korea
Weather – The best time to travel to South Korea is in spring (April–June) when cherry blossoms bloom, or autumn (September–November) when fiery foliage blankets the mountains. Summers are hot and humid, winters crisp and cold.
Language – Korean is the official language, and while English is common in tourist areas, learning phrases like (annyeonghaseyo, hello) and (gamsahamnida, thank you) will win you smiles.
Accommodation – Options range from sleek skyscraper hotels to cosy guesthouses and traditional hanok stays with sliding paper doors and heated floors. Book ahead in peak seasons for the best choice.
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