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South Korea Travel Guide

Last Updated: July 17, 2023

Though South Korea is small (about the size of the US state of Indiana), it punches well above its weight in terms of things to see and do. Boasting a vibrant culture, incredible history, natural beauty, delicious food, and a wild nightlife, it’s home to both major cities and untouched nature, offering something for every traveler.

Seoul, the capital city and fourth-largest metropolitan area in the world (over half the country’s population of 50 million is concentrated here), is a lively hub for food lovers and partying. But while it gets all the attention, there is much more to explore, including 22 national parks, lush Jeju Island, and the infamous Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) bordering North Korea.

Best of all, since South Korea is a manageable size, you can see a good portion of it in a limited amount of time. The transportation here is modern, clean, and efficient, so it’s easy to get around quickly.

The country is also a foodie’s paradise, with cheap street food and delicious dishes like bibimbap, kimchi, and the famed Korean barbecue.

It’s one of my favorite countries in the world and one that I think is super under the radar and often overlooked by travelers. You never see the tourist crowds found in other Asian countries.

This travel guide to South Korea can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on South Korea

Top 5 Things to See and Do in South Korea

1. Explore Seoul

Korea’s capital has a little bit of everything. It’s a bustling metropolis and global technology hub, with sleek and modern neighborhoods like Gangnam and iconic sights like the Lotte World Tower, the sixth-tallest building in the world. Yet there is a lot of history here too, including many museums, palaces, and temples, among them five UNESCO World Heritage Sites. When you’re done exploring for the day, Seoul has a robust street food scene, countless trendy restaurants, and fast-paced, soju-driven nightlife. You could easily spend weeks here and never get bored.

2. Tour the DMZ

The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separates North and South Korea and, despite the name, is the most militarized border in the world. You can only visit the Joint Security Area (JSA), which has military personnel from both sides, on a guided tour, but it’s a unique experience and an important way to learn about this ongoing conflict (the war started in 1950 and has not officially ended). On the tour, you’ll be able to actually stand in North Korea, visit the Third Tunnel of Aggression (which North Korea dug to sneak soldiers across the border), see the Freedom Bridge, and catch glimpses of North Korea from the Unification Observatory. Guided tours of the DMZ start from 80,000 KRW.

3. Visit Jeju Island

This volcanic, semitropical island is a popular domestic vacation spot. It’s accessible via cheap daily flights from Seoul that take just one hour. Known as “the Hawaii of Korea,” it’s a natural paradise, home to the tallest mountain in Korea (Mount Hallasan), lava tubes, beautiful beaches, and countless hiking and walking trails. Other attractions include visiting mythic Jeju Stone Park, wandering the Yeomiji Botanical Gardens, and watching the haenyeo divers — women who dive without any protective equipment to gather underwater treasures like shellfish and seaweed, which they then sell on the beaches. You can visit the Jeju Haenyeo Museum as well to learn more about this cultural practice that dates back centuries.

4. Sing karaoke

Known as noraebang , this is a cultural phenomenon and something worth experiencing at least once while visiting Korea. While the karaoke machine was originally invented in Japan, Koreans have adopted the pastime and made it their own. Here, you rent out a private room with a group of friends (instead of singing in a public bar, as is often the case in Western countries). Pricing is determined by the hour, with rates varying wildly depending on the number of people, time of day, day of the week, and whether snacks and drinks are included. Average group karaoke rates range from 5,000 to 15,000 KRW.

5. Step back in time at a hanok village

Other things to see and do in south korea, 1. visit changdeokgung palace.

One of the Joseon dynasty’s Five Grand Palaces, this 15th-century complex in Seoul was built in harmony with the natural environment at the foot of Bugaksan Mountain. Changdeokgung, or “Palace of Prospering Virtue,” was the main royal residence for 13 kings over the course of three centuries. The complex sprawls over 110 acres, 60% of which is taken up by the beautiful Huwon Secret Garden, home to over a hundred species of trees, flowers, and other plants (some of the trees here are over 300 years old!). The main draw is wandering around the exterior, with its restored buildings and gates, though you can also go inside Injeongjeon Hall, the palace’s throne room. Admission to the complex is 3,000 KRW; the Secret Garden is an additional 5,000 KRW. There are guided tours in English as well.

2. Explore Busan

Korea’s second-largest city is located just two hours from Seoul on the KTX high-speed bullet train. A coastal city, Busan boasts great beaches, such as Haeundae Beach, with its miles of sand, and Gwangalli Beach, known for its sunsets. Gamcheon Culture Village, the “mural village of Korea,” is a hillside neighborhood rich in street art and covered in murals, and nearly all the houses are painted bright colors. It’s a great place to wander around for a few hours, popping into the unique shops, cafés, and restaurants.

3. See the National Museum of Korea

If you visit only one museum in Korea, make it this one. Located in Seoul, it covers all aspects of Korean culture, art, and history, from prehistory to the early modern era. It also contains many national treasures and artifacts that have been designated as having special importance and value in Korean culture and history. Some of the most important ones include the sixth-century inscribed Bukhansan Monument, detailing military expansions; sixth-century gilt-bronze Buddhist statues; and the 10-story Gyeongcheonsa Pagoda, which dates to the 14th century. Don’t miss the exterior gardens, which feature indigenous plants, reflecting pools, and traditional Korean sculptures and lanterns. Admission to the main exhibitions and children’s museum is free.

4. Take a food tour

As a foodie, learning about a culture through its food is one of my favorite things to do while traveling. Korea has an incredible variety of amazing dishes to try, as well as a bustling (and delicious) street food scene. Taking a food tour with an experienced guide is one of the best ways to gain a deeper understanding of Korean cuisine. O’ngo Food offers a variety of tours in Seoul, Busan, Jeonju, and Jeju, with prices starting from 70,000 KRW per person.

5. Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace

Originally built in the 14th century by the kings of the Joseon dynasty, this palace in Seoul served as the seat of the government for two hundred years until it was destroyed by a fire and abandoned for centuries. Since the 19th century (and still today), it has been undergoing renovations to restore the complex to its former glory. It is considered the most stunning of all five royal palaces in Seoul, featuring grand gates, open courtyards, and terracotta-topped buildings set against the backdrop of Mount Bugak. In addition to wandering through the complex, you can also go into the many administrative halls and residential chambers set up to resemble the palace’s heyday. You can watch the changing-of-the-guard ceremony as well, every day except Monday. The National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum are also located in the complex. Admission is 3,000 KRW.

6. See the cherry blossoms

While cherry blossoms are often associated with Japan, festivities surrounding the blooms are incredibly popular in Korea as well. Here, the season runs from late March to late April, with many festivals throughout the country. Just be prepared for crowds at the more popular ones, like the Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival in Seoul.

7. Try taekwondo

Korean’s native martial art, taekwondo, is characterized by high kicks and punches and, like all such disciplines, emphasizes mental training. An Olympic event since 2000, taekwondo has only grown in popularity in recent years and is a point of pride in Korean culture. Kang’s Global Taekwondo in Seoul offers classes to adults and foreigners that cost around 43,000 KRW for one hour.

8. Learn to cook classic Korean foods

If you’d like to take your knowledge of Korean food one step further, take a cooking class, where you’ll learn to prepare classics like bibimbap, kimchi, bulgogi, and Korean pancakes. Hello K Cooking in Seoul offers a class where you’ll learn how to cook three main dishes and one stew — recipes and skills that you can bring home with you. Classes are 107,000 KRW.

9. Go hiking

Korea is an incredibly mountainous country, so hiking is a favorite pastime for locals. Be sure to immerse yourself in nature while visiting this lush land. There are even hiking spots near the bigger cities if you don’t have enough time or don’t want to venture too far afield. Bukhansan National Park, just outside Seoul, is a popular place to go hiking, offering panoramic views over the capital (expect crowds due to its proximity to the city, though). Yet with 22 national parks spread across the country, there are plenty of opportunities to escape the crowds (including lots of guided hikes if you don’t want to organize one yourself). For a multiday hike, the Jirisan Ridge Trek in Jirisan National Park is one of the most famous — a four-day walk from mountain shelter to mountain shelter.

10. Wander around Seoul Olympic Park

In 1988, Seoul hosted the Summer Olympics, which was only the second time the summer games had been held in Asia (the first was in Tokyo in 1964). Today, you can visit the massive park where the games were staged, and while Olympic Park does have many sports facilities, there’s much more to explore here as well. The park is divided into four sections, focusing on the arts, history, nature, and sports. In the arts section, you’ll find the SOMA Museum of Art and a park with over 200 sculptures, while in the history section, you can see the third-century defensive Mongchontoseong Earthen Fortifications, excavated dugout huts and storage pits left in the state in which they were uncovered. You can easily spend an entire afternoon here. Admission to the park is free.

11. Discover Jirisan National Park

Located in the southern part of the country (Namwon is the nearest city), this park is named after Jirisan (Mt. Jiri for short), the tallest mountain on mainland Korea. As it’s South Korea’s first national park (as well as its largest), hiking trails and cultural sites abound. You can visit seven major Buddhist temples and see several of Korea’s national treasures of ancient carved stonework from the seventh to the tenth centuries. One of the most important sites here is Samseonggung, or Three Sages Palace, a mountainside shrine dedicated to the legendary founders of Korea. Admission to the park is 1,600 KRW.

South Korea Travel Costs

Cheap hotel rooms start at 28,000 KRW for a room that sleeps one, while a double room generally costs at least 40,000 KRW. Expect basic amenities like Wi-Fi, a TV, air conditioning, and an electric teapot. Breakfast is usually not included at budget hotels.

Airbnb is available around the country, with private rooms starting at 25,000-30,000 KRW. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 50,000-70,000 KRW per night.

While wild camping is illegal in Korea, there are plenty of campgrounds should you want to pitch a tent. Expect to pay 7,000-20,000 KRW for a plot with access to bathroom and shower facilities, and usually even Wi-Fi.

Food – Korean cuisine has developed its own traditions and flavors over the centuries, with a unique emphasis on using uncooked, fermented, and pickled vegetables. Traditional Korean meals are often composed of a variety of side dishes, eaten with short-grain rice. A meal isn’t considered complete unless there’s kimchi on the table.

Common dishes include bulgogi (marinated, grilled beef), samgye-tang (chicken and ginseng soup), bibimbap (a mixed rice bowl), chap chae (a glass noodle dish), and many other noodle and rice dishes. Popular street foods include hotteok (a sweet, filled pancake), tteokbokki (spicy cylindrical rice cakes), and bungeo-ppang (a fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean paste).

Dining out in South Korea is relatively inexpensive. A meal at a casual restaurant serving traditional Korean food is around 9,000-15,000 KRW, while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant is around 25,000-30,000 KRW. Expect higher prices in larger cities.

Western food is more expensive. Expect to pay at least 20,000 KRW for a pasta dish at an Italian restaurant.

In terms of fast food, a combo meal (think McDonald’s) is around 7,000 KRW, while a burger is around 4,500 KRW. A typical Korean street food dish is 1,500-3,000 KRW.

A pint of beer is 4,000-5,000 KRW, a glass of wine is 6,000 KRW and up, and a cocktail is 7,000 KRW and up. A latte or cappuccino is 5,000 KRW.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay 50,000-70,000 KRW per week for basic staples like rice, pasta, vegetables, and some meat. Shopping at local markets is the best way to get great fresh produce for cheap.

Backpacking South Korea: Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 75,000 KRW per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, use public transportation and intercity buses to get around, skip the alcohol, and do mostly free activities like walking tours and hiking.

On a mid-range budget of 135,000 KRW per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or cheap hotel, eat out for most meals at casual restaurants, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi as well as trains between cities, and do more paid activities like museum visits and food tours.

On a “luxury” budget of 255,000 KRW or more per day, you can stay in a nicer hotel or entire Airbnb apartment, eat out pretty much anywhere you want, drink at the bar, get a high-speed rail pass, and do as many guided tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury, though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in KRW.

South Korea Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

I find South Korea to be one of the best value countries out there. It’s a really affordable place to visit. Accommodation can add up but food and drinks are generally cheap. Here are some ways to save money when you travel around South Korea:

• Visit the free attractions – With countless museums, shrines, temples, historic neighborhoods, and parks, Korea is filled with opportunities to become immersed in its culture. Many of the nation’s museums and cultural attractions are free, so don’t pass them up!
• Purchase a KORAIL Pass – If you want to travel by train, getting a rail pass is the most economical way to do so. You’ll get unlimited train travel for the time period you choose (2-5-day increments). Prices start at 121,000 KRW.
• Get a transit pass – Most major cities in Korea offer a day pass for public transit, which means great savings if you plan to hop around using buses and subways. Seoul’s day pass costs 15,000 KRW, though the longer you stay, the more you’ll save (a seven-day pass is 64,500 KRW).
• Buy a city pass – If you plan on visiting a lot of attractions, buy a city pass . Seoul and Busan both offer ones that include admission to popular sights, a transit pass, and discounts to restaurants and other attractions. A one-day pass starts at 33,000 KRW.
• Eat from the convenience stores – Convenience stores in Korea offer not only snacks and drinks but prepared boxed meals and cheap alcohol. If you’re on a tight budget, shop in those.
• Take the bus – While the trains are fun, the cheapest way to get around Korea is by bus. They take longer but are much cheaper, so if you have the time, opt for long-distance buses. Just show up at the bus station to reserve your tickets in advance, as most websites and apps are in Korean.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing lets you stay with a local for free, cutting your accommodation costs drastically. You’ll get to spend time with someone who can share their tips and advice in exchange for your own travel stories and culture. You can also use the app to meet people for activities (coffee, museum visits, etc.) if you don’t feel comfortable staying with a stranger.
• Drink like the locals – Soju, the national alcohol of Korea, is incredibly cheap, as is domestic beer. Just be careful to not let it sneak up on you — both monetarily and physically. Korea’s drinking culture is infamous!
• Stay in capsule hotels – If you don’t want to Couchsurf or stay in hostels but still want to save money, capsule or pod hotels are great options. These offer just what you need to sleep (a small, basic pod) yet can be surprisingly comfy and much more affordable than a traditional hotel. Prices start as low as 45,000 KRW per night.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand, as its bottles have built-in filters to ensure that your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in South Korea

South Korea has plenty of budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of my recommended places to stay when you visit:

• Time Travelers Relax Guesthouse (Seoul)
• Zzzip Guesthouse (Seoul)
• Time Travelers party Hostel (Seoul)
• INSIDE Busan (Busan)
• Jeju Hiking Inn (Jeju)
• Backpacker’s Home (Jeju)

How to Get Around South Korea

Bus – Taking a long-distance bus is the cheapest and most popular way to get around the country. There are two types: express (which makes few to no stops) and intercity (which travels between smaller destinations and makes more stops).

Your best bet for reserving tickets in advance is to go directly to the bus terminal, as most bus websites and booking apps are in Korean and only accept Korean credit or debit cards.

Pricing depends on what class ticket you choose: standard, luxury, or premium. The four-hour bus ride from Seoul to Busan costs around 36,000 KRW for a standard ticket, Incheon to Busan takes just over four hours and costs 38,000 KRW, and Seoul to Daegu is 29,000 KRW and takes just under four hours.

Train – South Korea has a robust train system that can take you all over the country. Korean Train Express (KTX) is the country’s bullet train, regularly running at speeds up to 305 kilometers (190 miles) per hour. However, these only go between major cities, have limited schedules, and are more expensive, so KTX may not always be the most convenient choice.

KORAIL (the national railway service) operates slower-speed, intercity trains that offer a wider range of schedules and destination choices. You can also get the unlimited KORAIL Pass, which is offered exclusively to international tourists. A two-day adult pass is 121,000 KRW; a five-day adult pass is 210,000 KRW.

As a comparison of the two train types: the journey from Seoul to Busan on a KRX train costs around 90,000 KRW and takes 2.5 hours, while on a regular intercity train, it takes 5.5 hours and costs 47,500 KRW.

The further out you book, the cheaper KTX train prices get, while intercity prices stay about the same. You can book up to a year in advance.

Flying – South Korea is so small that flying around the country doesn’t really make sense. Trains can get you anywhere pretty quickly. However, if you’re very pressed for time and have cash to burn, there are a few budget airlines offering domestic flights between major cities. Most are around one hour long.

The flight from Seoul to Busan is around 30,500 KRW, Seoul to Jeju is 55,000 KRW, and Busan to Jeju is 22,000 KRW. However, you can find flights even cheaper when you book further in advance.

Low-cost airlines in South Korea include the following:

Car rental – Renting a car isn’t incredibly cheap in South Korea. However, it is one of the best ways to explore all the natural wonders that the country has to offer, many of which are inaccessible by public transportation. Expect to pay around 50,000-55,000 KRW per day on a multiday rental. Drivers need to be at least 21 years old.

When to Go to South Korea

Generally, the best times to visit South Korea are March-May and September-November. During these periods, the weather is mild, with temperatures of 10-24°C (50-75°F); prices for accommodation and transportation are lower; and there are fewer crowds.

In the spring, the cherry blossoms are in bloom all over the country, while the fall brings the beautiful colors of the changing leaves. Also, if you plan on doing a lot of hiking, the fall is the best time to visit.

The summer starts with monsoon season, from June through mid-July, and the rest of the summer is hot and humid in the cities (though it cools down in the mountains and along the coasts). Prices for accommodation are also very high during this time.

Winters in South Korea get very cold, with temperatures dipping as low as -6°C (21°F), so unless you plan on skiing, visiting from December through February might not be the best option (though the temples and landscapes look beautiful covered in snow).

How to Stay Safe in South Korea

South Korea is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel around. Petty crime is rare here, though it never hurts to be cautious on public transportation and around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your wallet and valuables secure and out of reach, just in case. Violent crime is even more rare.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here. However, the standard safety precautions apply as always. For specific tips, consult one of the many solo female travel blogs on the web.

While scams are super rare in South Korea, to avoid getting ripped off, you can check out this list of common travel scams to avoid .

When hiking, always bring water and sunscreen. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

Earthquakes occur regularly in the region, so it’s best to be prepared and download the Emergency Ready app, which the Korean government developed to provide information in English to foreign residents and tourists. It has all kinds of advice and tips for natural disasters, shows you where nearby emergency shelters are, and sends out warnings and notifications should a disaster occur.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, and forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

South Korea Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

South Korea Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 5 Best Hotels in Singapore

The 7 Best Hotels in Bangkok

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

Where to Stay in Singapore: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 13 Best Things to See and Do in Taipei

The 23 Best Things to Do in Hong Kong

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

How Much Budget to Travel to Korea

For a budget to travel to Korea, plan to spend around $50 to $100 per day. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and activities.

Korea, known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning landscapes, is a popular travel destination. Whether you’re wandering through the bustling streets of Seoul, exploring the serene temples, or hiking in the picturesque countryside, Korea has something to offer to every traveler.

From the futuristic skyscrapers to the traditional hanok villages, the country seamlessly blends the old with the new. With its delectable cuisine, trendy shopping districts, and vibrant nightlife, Korea entices visitors from all around the world. However, to make the most of your experience, it’s crucial to plan your budget carefully. This guide will help you estimate the expenses, find affordable accommodations, discover budget-friendly dining options, and navigate the public transportation system, ensuring a memorable and budget-friendly trip to Korea.

Table of Contents

Budgeting For A Trip To Korea

When planning a trip to Korea, setting a realistic travel budget is crucial. Understanding the expenses you may incur will help you plan your finances effectively and avoid any financial surprises. In this article, we will discuss how to set a budget for your trip to Korea and determine the expenses you can expect.

Setting A Realistic Travel Budget

Setting a realistic travel budget is the foundation of a successful trip to Korea. It allows you to enjoy your travel experience without worrying about overspending or running out of money.

When setting a budget, start by determining how much you can afford to spend on your trip. Consider your income, existing financial commitments, and savings goals. Remember, you want to enjoy your travel experience without putting yourself in a stressful financial situation.

Next, research the average costs of accommodation, transportation, meals, attractions, and other expenses in Korea. This will give you an idea of how much you will need to allocate to each category. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on your travel style and the season you visit.

Consider adding a buffer to your budget for unexpected expenses or emergencies. It’s always better to be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during your trip.

Determining Expenses

Now let’s dive into the specific expenses you’ll need to consider when planning your trip to Korea:

1. Accommodation:

Research the different types of accommodation available in Korea, such as hotels, hostels, guesthouses, or Airbnb. Compare prices and consider location, amenities, and reviews to find the best option that fits your budget and preferences.

2. Transportation:

Research the various transportation options in Korea, including flights, trains, buses, and taxis. Determine the most cost-effective way to get around based on your itinerary and budget. Consider purchasing a transportation card, such as a T-money card, for seamless travel within the country .

Korea is renowned for its delicious cuisine, so be prepared to indulge in local dishes. Plan your meals budget based on the average cost of food in restaurants, street food stalls, and markets. Don’t forget to allocate some funds for trying traditional Korean specialties!

4. Attractions and Activities:

Research the popular attractions, museums, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities you wish to explore in Korea. Check the entrance fees and any additional costs associated with each attraction. Prioritize your must-visit places to ensure they are covered within your budget.

5. Miscellaneous Expenses:

Don’t forget about other expenses like travel insurance , visa fees (if applicable), souvenirs, and personal expenses. Allocate a separate amount for these miscellaneous expenses to avoid any budget strain.

Now that you understand the importance of budgeting for your trip to Korea and have an idea of the expenses involved, you can confidently plan your finances. Remember, a well-planned budget will ensure a stress-free and enjoyable travel experience in this fascinating country.

Credit: www.budgetyourtrip.com

Cost Considerations

When planning a trip to Korea, it’s crucial to meticulously evaluate your budget. Consider accommodation, meals, transportation, and activities to ensure a realistic travel budget . Being mindful of cost considerations helps create a memorable and financially manageable experience in Korea.

When planning a trip to South Korea, it’s essential to consider the various costs involved to ensure a well-managed budget. Understanding the important cost considerations such as accommodation, food, transportation, and sightseeing activities is crucial for a successful and enjoyable trip.

Accommodation Costs

South Korea offers a wide range of accommodation options from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. On average, a night’s stay in a mid-range hotel in Seoul can cost around $80 to $150, while budget options like hostels may range from $20 to $40 per night.

Food And Dining Expenses

Korean cuisine is diverse and flavorful, catering to various tastes and budgets. A typical meal at a local restaurant can cost between $5 to $10, while a more upscale dining experience may range from $20 to $50 per person.

Transportation Costs

In South Korea, the public transportation system is efficient and relatively affordable. Subway fares typically range from $1.50 to $2.50 per trip, while intercity buses may cost between $10 to $30 depending on the destination.

Sightseeing And Activities

Exploring South Korea’s rich culture and attractions can vary in cost. Admission fees for popular tourist sites usually range from $3 to $10, while participating in activities such as temple stays or traditional performances can cost between $20 to $100.

Considering these costs will help you plan and budget effectively for your trip to South Korea. Keep in mind that prices may fluctuate based on your preferences and travel period, so research and flexibility are key in maximizing your budget for an unforgettable experience.

Saving Money On Your Korea Trip

When planning a trip to Korea, it’s vital to find ways to save money and stretch your budget. Korea offers a diverse range of experiences, from the bustling streets of Seoul to the serene natural beauty of Jeju Island. Yet, it’s possible to enjoy all that Korea has to offer without breaking the bank. By making savvy decisions in booking accommodation, dining, transportation, and sightseeing, you can trim your expenses and make the most of your Korean adventure.

Booking Affordable Accommodation

When it comes to lodging in Korea, there are plenty of budget-friendly options. Consider staying in guesthouses, hostels, or off-peak times to snag the best deals. Websites like Airbnb and Booking.com offer a plethora of choices, allowing you to find accommodations that fit your budget.

Eating Like A Local

Korea’s street food and local eateries offer a delicious and affordable dining experience. You can savor Korean flavors while saving money by indulging in local street food or visiting traditional markets. Opting for authentic Korean cuisine at local restaurants is not only budget-friendly but also provides a truly immersive cultural experience.

Using Public Transportation

Utilize Korea’s efficient and well-connected public transportation system to travel around the country affordably. The subway and bus systems operate in most major cities and tourist areas, offering a cost-effective way to navigate your way through Korea. Consider purchasing a travel pass for unlimited travel over a set number of days to save even more money.

Exploring Free Attractions

Korea is brimming with free attractions, from lush parks and gardens to vibrant markets and historic sites. Embrace the opportunity to explore the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage without spending a dime. Plan your itinerary to include visits to iconic landmarks, like Gyeongbokgung Palace or Bukhansan National Park, which offer free admission and breathtaking experiences.

Budgeting Tools And Resources

When planning a trip to Korea, setting a budget is crucial to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. Fortunately, there are a variety of budgeting tools and resources available that can help you manage your expenses effectively. Whether you prefer using online calculators or travel budget apps, these tools can assist you in estimating your travel costs and keeping track of your spending. In this section, we will explore some popular options for budgeting tools and resources to make your trip to Korea a budget-conscious one.

Online Budget Calculators

Online budget calculators can be a useful tool to estimate the expenses you are likely to incur during your trip to Korea. These calculators take into account factors such as accommodation, transportation, food, activities, and more, allowing you to get an overall picture of your estimated expenses.

Here are some popular online budget calculators you can use:

• TripSavvy Budget Calculator: This comprehensive budget calculator takes into account various expenses and provides an estimate of how much you can expect to spend on your trip to Korea. Input your travel dates, accommodation preferences, and desired activities, and the calculator will generate a budget breakdown for you.
• Travelmath Budget Calculator: Travelmath’s budget calculator allows you to specify your destination, travel dates, accommodation type, and other preferences to create a customized budget estimate. It also provides a breakdown of expenses by category, helping you prioritize and plan accordingly.
• BudgetYourTrip: BudgetYourTrip offers a detailed budget calculator that factors in accommodation, transportation, food, activities, and more. It provides an average daily spending estimate based on user-generated data, giving you a realistic idea of how much you may need to budget for your trip.

Travel Budget Apps

If you prefer managing your budget on the go, travel budget apps can be a convenient option. These apps allow you to track your expenses, set spending limits, and keep a record of your transactions while traveling. Here are some popular travel budget apps to consider:

• Trail Wallet: Trail Wallet is a user-friendly travel budget app that lets you track your expenses in multiple currencies. It provides an overview of your spending habits, helps you set daily or trip budgets , and allows you to categorize expenses for better organization.
• TrabeePocket: TrabeePocket enables you to record expenses, set budgets, and view summary reports all in one place. It supports various currencies and provides charts and graphs to visualize your expenses, making it easier to analyze your spending patterns.
• Wallet: Wallet is a versatile budgeting app that allows you to track expenses, set savings goals, and create customized budgets for your trip to Korea. It offers a user-friendly interface and syncs data across multiple devices for seamless access.

By utilizing online budget calculators or travel budget apps, you can efficiently manage your expenses and stay within your desired budget during your trip to Korea. These tools offer convenience and accuracy, ensuring that you make the most of your travel experience without breaking the bank.

Adjusting Your Budget

Adjusting Your Budget while traveling to Korea is essential to ensure a smooth and stress-free trip. Along the way, unexpected expenses may arise, requiring flexibility and smart planning to stay within your budget.

Handling Unexpected Expenses

Unexpected Expenses can pop up during your trip, such as sudden transportation costs or unexpected entrance fees. It’s wise to set aside a small emergency fund to cover these unforeseen circumstances.

Cutting Costs If Needed

If your expenses exceed your budget, Cutting Costs is a savvy move. Consider opting for budget accommodations, utilizing public transportation, or enjoying street food over fancy restaurants to save money without compromising on your experience.

Frequently Asked Questions For How Much Budget To Travel To Korea

How much will a trip to korea cost.

A trip to Korea can vary in cost depending on factors like duration, accommodation, activities, and transportation. On average, expenses can range from $1,500 to $3,000 for a two-week trip, including flights, food, accommodations, and attractions.

How Much Money Is Needed To Travel To Korea?

The cost of traveling to Korea varies, but a budget of $50 to $150 per day is recommended for a comfortable stay, covering accommodation, meals, transportation, and activities. Prices can fluctuate based on personal preferences and spending habits.

How Much Does A 7 Day Trip To South Korea Cost?

A 7-day trip to South Korea can cost around $1000 to $2000, depending on accommodation, activities, and dining choices. It’s advisable to set a budget and plan expenses in advance.

How Much Money Should I Bring To Korea For 2 Weeks?

Bring approximately $1,500 for a two-week trip to South Korea. This amount should cover your accommodation, meals, transportation, and sightseeing expenses. Having extra cash on hand is always recommended for emergencies or unexpected expenses.

To summarize, planning a budget for your trip to Korea is crucial for an enjoyable and stress-free experience. By considering factors such as accommodation, transportation, food, and activities, you can estimate a realistic budget that fits your preferences and financial capabilities.

Remember to research and compare options, prioritize your must-see destinations, and make mindful choices to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank. Bon voyage!

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10 Best South Korea Budget Tips + Travel Costs (2024)

Are you wondering how much a trip to South Korea will cost? Here’s our in-depth travel guide on the 10 best South Korea budget tips you should know before your trip. We’ll show you how to plan your South Korea travel costs and many ways to make your trip more budget-friendly. We also share all of our costs for a 2 week trip to Korea from accommodation and snacks to transport and activities.

South Korea is ultimately one of the best countries we’ve travelled to. The country blew us away with its beautiful culture, rich history and delicious food.

Have you been wondering if South Korea is expensive to visit? Depending on the prices of your home country, it’s really not too bad. Compared to the UK it is much more affordable and it’s even slightly less expensive than beloved Japan!

We’ve created this budget guide to share our South Korea travel costs of travelling the country for 2 weeks. We visited Seoul, Gyeongju, Golgulsa Templestay, Busan and Jeonju!

Honestly, we had a great time and can’t wait to go back in the future and we’ll probably still stick to a budget. For now, we’ll show you that South Korea can be done on a budget and what travel costs you can expect.

This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you .

10 Best South Korea Budget Tips

Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)

Here are our top 10 South Korea Budget tips to help you plan the best trip! After these tips, you’ll find our full South Korea travel cost breakdown split into separate categories.

1. Swap Restaurants for Markets & Street Food

One of the best ways to travel to South Korea on a budget is to choose your food carefully. The price to eat somewhere in South Korea is very reasonable, but some places will be expensive too.

Throughout our 2 weeks in South Korea we ate our food at restaurants, markets, street stalls, convenience stores and grocery stores ! It definitely helps the bank to cook your own food and you can try the endless supply of ramyeon!

Places to eat in South Korea on a budget

• Myeongdong Street Food (Seoul)
• Maru – Budget-friendly Korean street food in the heart of Insadong (Seoul)
• Gwangjang Market – Our favourite! (Seoul)
• Haeundae Market (Busan)
• Gwangbokdong Food Street (Busan)
• Fast-food chains – Places like Lotteria, No Brand Burger and Subway

We highly recommend visiting Gwangjang Market whilst visiting Seoul. Grab a mung bean pancake, bibimbap and dumplings and you’ll be very full ( this food will feed two people )!

A few Korean dishes to try to keep your South Korea travel costs low:

• Ramyeon (The easiest food to grab at a convenience store)  1,500 ₩
• Bibimbap (Very popular with a variety of toppings)  6,000 ₩
• Gimbap (Korean Sushi, you can find these everywhere)! around 2,000 ₩
• Mandu (Korean Dumplings) 5,000 ₩
• Tteok-bokki (Spicy & saucy Rice Cakes) 3,000 ₩

You’ll be surprised by how good the food is in the convenience stores in South Korea. Locals grab food from here all the time and it’s perfect for those in South Korea on a budget.

If there are some restaurants you’d like to try, just add that to your budget and eat at convenience stores the next day. International and Western food will also usually cost more than Korean, but Korean food is very good!

Osegye Hyang is our favourite traditional Korean restaurant with affordable prices. We’ve even created a Vegan in South Korea Guide – Best Restaurants & Snacks (2024) !

Note – There is no tipping culture in South Korea. It’s likely the staff will kindly decline your tip! This is common throughout East Asia.

2. Stay in Budget Accommodation in South Korea

Accommodation can take up a big part of your South Korea travel budget. Especially if you choose amazing hotels! Although it’s nice to feel comfortable, maybe take the time to look at some other options before spending more than your budget.

Hostels and small private rooms are going to be the most affordable places to stay in South Korea. Most hostels offer private rooms that are still cheaper than hotels.

It’s really down to preference, but we didn’t stay in one bad accommodation on our South Korea trip and we stayed in private rooms!

Hostels usually cost around 25,000₩ per person with male, female or mixed dorms available. A private room in a hoste l is around 40,000₩ per room and hotels are usually 70,000₩ or more!

Where to stay in South Korea on a budget

• Seoul  –  Hostel Tommy  – A lovely hostel with dorms & private rooms! –  Find here on Booking.com !
• Seoul – Kimstay 9 – Basic private rooms! – Find here on Booking.com !
• Busan  –  Dynamic Guesthouse  – A shared penthouse with great views –  Find here on Booking.com !
• Gyeongju  –  Doobaki Guesthouse – The best hostel in South Korea! –  Find here on Booking.com !

There are also a few ways to get free accommodation in South Korea :

• Couchsurfing – Stay in a local house, for free! Find out more here !
• Workaway – Exchange work/volunteering for free accommodation and food!
• Worldpackers – Volunteer for free accommodation and food!
• Trusted Housesitters – Look after a locals pet whilst they’re out of town

It’s also important to note that accommodation will be more expensive in the peak time of year such as the Cherry Blossom season, spring and fall. Winter is usually the cheapest time to visit South Korea on a budget.

3. Do you need a Sim Card in South Korea?

When you start to Google about sim cards or wifi in South Korea, there’s a lot of information telling you to get one! We agree, but it’s definitely possible to travel the country without one.

We have a solution to help your South Korea budget. Pick up an E-Sim for 15,000₩ ! (€10.99 for 12 days)

E-sims are the perfect option if you only need internet or mobile data. You don’t even need to buy them in advance like other sims or wifis.

As we visited South Korea for 2 weeks, we purchased our sim on Day 3 of our trip. This made us realise how much easier it is to have the internet on the go, but luckily Seoul is a very easy place to get around and we downloaded offline Maps.

If there’s more than one of you, it’s also possible to hotspot the E-sim data from one phone, although you’ll have to check your data allowance! The instructions come with the E-sim, but you simply install it into your phone settings. The customer service team answer quickly if you have any problems!

There’s also some great deals if you do need a Korean phone number. Here’s a few other options ranging in price:

E-Sim  – Here’s a  12 Day E-Sim (15,000₩, €10.99 for 12 days and 6gb of data)

Prepaid Sim  – Purchase ahead of time and pick up at the airport. This sim has a Korean number! The price changes depending on how long you need it. Find  a sim card on Klook here ! (£15 for 10 days)

Portable Wifi  – The most expensive option is portable Wifi and this is usually what travellers get if they’re not worried about their South Korea travel costs. Find a  portable Wifi on Klook here ! (£20 for 10 days) Also, pick it up at the airport.

It’s also a good idea to carry around a  portable charger  for your phone so you always have enough battery to last the day. We recommend  Anker Power Bank and just charge it up every few days if you’ve been using it a lot.

4. Use Buses to get around South Korea on a Budget

The transport in South Korea is some of the best in the world! It’s reliable, well connected and quite affordable considering how good it is.

If you want to stick to your travel budget in South Korea, we recommend catching Intercity and Express Buses around South Korea. They are so comfy and you can book your seats in advance.

Here’s the prices we paid for transport around South Korea on a budget

• KTX (Fast Train) Seoul to Gyeongju – 2 hours – 49,000₩ (£32)
• Express Bus – Gyeongju to Busan – 45 minutes – 5,000₩ (£3.30)
• Express Bus – Busan to Jeonju – 3 hours – 25,000₩ (£16.40)
• Express bus – Jeonju to Seoul – 2.5 hours – 14,000₩ (£9.20)

The buses from Seoul to Gyeongju will take around 4-5 hours and usually cost around 22,000₩ £46.40 . We took a train as we wanted to arrive in Gyeongju early and also wanted to experience a train in South Korea as we only used buses in Japan.

If you want to add Jeju Island to your South Korea travel costs, then it’s best to book a flight from Seoul or Busan. The ferries are often more expensive and they will take longer.

It’s possible to book trains in advance, but you can only book buses in advance if you have a Korean number. We booked our bus tickets as soon as we arrived at a new destination, usually booking them 2-3 days in advance.

Express & Intercity Buses  – Have a look at bus times on the official Korean website – Kobus tickets

Trains  – Book your train tickets in advance here – Korail tickets here (or a Korea Rail Pass )

Flights  – Flights to Jeju Island from Seoul or Busan –  Check Skyscanner  for flight times and prices !

5. Get a T-Money card

This is another great way to stick to your South Korea budget. A T-Money card is a discounted transport card that works all over South Korea in cities and towns. It’s for local transport to each destination, not for long bus journeys.

Using a T-Money card is not just about saving money, but saving time too! You won’t need to purchase a local ticket every time you use the bus or subway. Simply tap your card when you get on and off transport and you’ll be good to travel around South Korea!

A T-Money Card costs 2,500 ₩ . There’s also tourist cards and designed cards that cost 4,000₩

How to get a T-Money Card?

T-Money cards are available to purchase at the airport, at major stations and convenience stores (such as CU, GS25, 7-Eleven and Ministop).

How to top up my T-Money Card?

You can only top up a T-Money card with cash and not by debit or credit card. Make sure you grab money out of an ATM if you arrive in South Korea without Korean Won! Here’s how you can top up using cash:

• At Convenience Stores! Hand your card over, give the employee the cash and it’s all done!
• Some other local newsstands or shops offer top-ups. Look out for the T-Money logo!
• At major stations, find a ticket machine and choose how much you want to add to your card. The machines can be changed to English!

6. Use Local Buses and Subway instead of Taxis

Local buses are always the most affordable way to travel around any city and it’s the same with South Korea. However, the subway is also very budget-friendly too!

As the transport is well connected, you won’t need to use taxis anyway! The best way to feel comfortable about using public transport in South Korea is to download the app – Naver Maps . Google Maps doesn’t work in South Korea, so it’s best to use the local navigation app!

It costs 1,250₩ to use the Subway in South Korea which is £0.82p ! For reference, in London, it costs £2.60 to take one journey. We used subways and buses all around Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan and Jeonju without any issues! Naver Maps is perfect with timing and where to go.

7. Shop at Convenience Stores

One of the best South Korea budget tips is to eat and shop at the convenience store! Food and meals are well priced and you can usually heat the food inside the shop too! It makes travelling around South Korea on a budget so much easier!

The tax in South Korea is included in the price, so you don’t have to worry about extra prices at the checkout (like in Canada or the US).

Our favourite convenience store snacks are Ramyeon, Lotus Biscuits, Chocolate Soy Milk (it’s okay to laugh), Japanese Onigiri and Frozen dumplings (to add to your Ramyeon back in a hostel kitchen).

There are plenty of lunches to find in convenience stores based around rice or noodles. The best part is convenience stores are everywhere!

8. Make use of the Free Things To Do

This South Korea budget tip may be obvious – activities don’t always have to cost money. There are so many free things to do around the country and some of them are highlights of our trip! Here’s a list of great things to do for free if you’re in South Korea on a budget.

Seoul – A city filled with unique neighbourhoods, hikes and parks. There are so many free things to do in Seoul to help your South Korea budget. Check out our 5 Day Seoul Itinerary !

• Explore neighbourhoods such as Insa-dong, Ikseon-dong, Myeongdong, Hongdae, Itaewon & Gangnam
• Walk around the beautiful Bukchon Village & Ihwa Mural Village
• Feel the nature at Namsan Park

Gyeongju – Some of the best things to do in Gyeongju are free! Browse our 11 Best Things to do in Gyeongju: Itinerary (2024) ! Here’s a few suggestions:

• Admire Woljeonggyo Bridge, Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond
• Visit Cheomseongdae & Gyerim Forest 
• Window shop in Hwangnidan-Gil & explore the Hanok Village

Busan – Another great city for finding budget-friendly activities! We also have a 3 day Busan Itinerary !

• Gamcheon Culture Village (yes it’s free!) & watch the sunset at Lotte Department Building
• Walk along the Igidae Coastal Walk & relax at Haeundae Beach
• Discover Nampo-dong & Haedong Yonggung Temple

Jeonju – Walk through the famous Hanok village and check out the murals, markets and shrines!

• Explore Jeonju Hanok Village & Jaman Mural Village
• Walk through Nambu Market & visit Gyeonggijeon Shrine
• See the views from Omokdae

Jeju Island – Filled with natural wonders, Jeju is filled with free things to do. You’ll just need transport to get around!

9. Use Klook to Save Money on Activities

Klook is one of the best companies to book activities, tours and things to do in South Korea. It’s similar to GetYourGuide, but Klook is used more in Asia. We’ve used this website in South Korea and Japan to buy discounted tickets such as Disneyland, Seoul Tower and Hanbok rentals .

It’s also a great place to find sim card or portable wifi deals! When using Klook, you can easily book your activity in advance and sometimes there’s an option to pick up the ticket at the airport on arrival.

Activities to buy on Klook in South Korea:

• Seoul Tower – Go to the top of Seoul Tower in Namsan Park – Buy your ticket in advance!  
• Hanbok Rental – ( Gyeongbokgung Palace  as it’s the perfect size to explore and there’s a great rental shop nearby!  Find the link on Klook here –  Hanbok Rental Klook
• DMZ Tour – Visit part of North Korea – Book tickets with Klook here !
• Korea Rail Pass – If you decide to use the train, consider a rail pass – Here’s more info !
• Everland 1 Day Pass – One of South Korea’s theme parks – Buy your tickets here !
• Nami Island – Take a trip to Nami Island from Seoul – Find out more info here !

Staying in a temple is another fantastic activity that can’t be missed on your South Korea trip! It can be booked on Korea’s temple stay website ! Also, check out our Golgulsa Templestay Review !

10. Travel Off Peak

If you’re planning your travel budget for South Korea, one of the first steps is to figure out which time of year you want to visit.

The most popular time to visit South Korea is between April and May due to the beautiful cherry blossom season. Prices for accommodation and flights will most likely be more expensive and it will also book up fast. There will be more tourists and locals around, especially in the parks.

If you’re travelling to South Korea on a budget, it may be best to avoid these months and visit off-peak.

The off-peak months to travel to South Korea are January, February, late October , November and early March. If you can find good deals on flights and good accommodation prices outside of these months, then go for it! January is usually the cheapest month to travel as it’s cold, but it’s perfect if you want to ski!

Summer isn’t the best time to visit South Korea due to the hot and humid weather, but it’s still a popular time to visit due to worldwide holidays.

How to Budget in South Korea

So that’s our 10 South Korea budget tips! There are many ways to travel on a budget, it all depends on how comfortable you are. We love hostels, but some people we know would never stay in them. For us, they’re budget-friendly, comfortable and just a place to sleep or meet new people!

Ultimately it comes down to food, accommodation, transport and activities. Check accommodation in advance before you book your flights just to get an idea of prices for that month. Here’s a few more tips on how to budget in South Korea:

• If you want to shop, Namdaemun and Dongdaemun are filled with discounts in Seoul
• Tours will cost money, so make sure you add must-do activities to your budget
• Eat more street food and at markets
• Check prices for your visa ( every country is different )
• Use Skyscanner to browse flight prices for different times of the year

Accommodation in South Korea – We use Hostelworld and  Booking.com  to find accommodation in South Korea. You can filter to the lowest price and check reviews from previous guests.

Travel Insurance  – Don’t forget travel insurance whilst planning your South Korea budget.   SafetyWing  is a flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your trip. You can add more months to your trip too! –  Find out more here!

E-Sim  – Here’s the E-sim we used on our South Kore trip – 12 Day E-Sim (15,000₩, €10.99 for 12 days and 6GB of data)

Costs compared to other countries in Asia

We have only visited countries in Southeast Asia, South Asia and Japan.

After visiting both Japan and South Korea, we have to admit that South Korea is slightly cheaper! The country is more affordable meals out and transport (especially the train!)

Comparing South Korea to countries such as Thailand, Sri Lanka or the Philippines, we have to say that South Korea is more expensive on every level. Accommodation is almost three times the price compared to countries in Southeast/South Asia. Food and activities are more too.

A full breakdown of our South Korea Travel Costs

Here’s the full breakdown of our South Korea travel costs. We both shared the same card and cash, but for this breakdown, we’ll show you roughly how much the same trip would cost for one person too.

Our full South Korea travel costs for 2 people (2 weeks)

• Korean E-Visa – 20,600₩ (£14)
• Intercity Transport -186,800₩ (£123)
• Local Subway & Buses – 88,000₩ (£58)
• Activities – 225,800₩ (£148)
• Restaurants & Markets – 345,600₩ (£227)
• Groceries – 109,110₩ (£72)
• Snacks – 120,300₩ (£79)
• Accommodation – 586,200₩ (£385)
• Miscellaneous – 20,500₩ (£13.50)

Total Cost – 1702,910₩ (£1,120)

Our Transport Costs – 274,800₩ (£181) – prices for two people

T-Money Cards – We accidentally bought the Korea Tour Cards at the airport so spent 4000₩ instead of 2500₩. We topped up our cards with 80,000₩ (£52.60) to get around the cities in towns during our 2 week trip. There’s a chance we may have a bit of money leftover on our cards too!

Accommodation – 586,200₩ (£385) – prices for two people

• 5 nights in Seoul (private room in a hostel) – 260,000₩ / £171
• 2 nights in Gyeongju (private room in a hostel, Korean style beds) 72,000₩ / £47
• 3 nights in Busan (private room in a shared apartment, shared bathroom) 117,000₩ / £77
• 1 night in Jeonju (private room in a Hanok with free breakfast) 52,200₩ / £34
• 2 nights in Seoul – different place – (private room in a guesthouse) 85,000₩ / £56
• Seoul – 52,000₩ (£34.20) per night / 26,000₩ (£17.10) per person
• Gyeongju – 36,000₩ (£23.50) per night / 18,000₩ (£11.75) per person
• Busan – 39,000₩ (£25.60 per night / 19,500₩ (£12.80) per person
• Jeonju – 52,200₩ (£34 per night / 26,100₩ (£17) per person
• Seoul – 42,500₩ (£28) per night / 21,250₩ (£14) per person

Our accommodation costs came to 586,200₩ (£385) which is 293,100₩ (£192.50) per person for 2 weeks! One of our nights we spent at Golgulsa Templestay which we’ve included as an activity.

Activities – 225,800₩ (£148) – prices for two people

• Golgulsa Templstay – 120,000₩ (£79)
• Archery at Golgulsa Temple – 20,000₩ (£13.20)
• Palaces – 26,000₩ (£13.20)
• Hanbok Rental – 24,000₩ (£15.80)
• Seoul Tower – 8,300₩ (£5.50)
• Photo Booth – 4,000₩ (£2.60)
• Bukchon Observatory with free drinks – 6,000₩ (£4)
• Gamcheon Map – 2,000₩ (£1.30)
• Arcade games – 15,500₩ (£10.20)

Shopping & Miscellaneous – 20,500₩ (£13.50) – prices for two people

• Laundry / Laundry Detergent ( 2 washes ) – 4,000₩ (£2.60)
• Socks & Lip Balm – 12,500₩ (£15.15)
• Plasters – 4,000₩ (£2.60)

Restaurants & Markets – 345,600₩ (£227.40)

We ate at multiple restaurants and markets during our 2 weeks in South Korea, we also revisited a few if we loved the food. Osegye Hyang is our favourite restaurant (traditional Korean)! Here’s a few examples of our meals:

• Lunch at a Traditional Korean Restaurant – 27,000₩ (£17.80)
• Lunch at a Hot Pot Restaurant – 26,000₩ (£17.15)
• Lunch at 7-Eleven – 83,00₩ (£5.50)
• Lunch at Lotteria – 14,200₩ (£9.40)
• Lunch at a Bibimbap Restaurant- 16,000₩ (£10.55)
• Lunch at a Korean Street Food Restaurant 19,000₩ (£12.50)
• Dinner at a Japanese Restaurant – 18,000₩ (£18.90)
• Dinner at Gwangjang Market – 12,000₩ (£7.90)
• Dinner at a Korean Restaurant – 16,000₩ (£10.55)

Snacks – 120,300₩ (£79.15)

In the snack category, we’ve included random snacks at convenience stores or street food. Here are a few examples of snack prices in South Korea.

• Lotus Biscuits – 3,800₩ (£2.51)
• Sweet Potato Street Food – 1,000₩ (£0.65)
• Chocolate Soy Milk – 1,200₩ (£0.79)
• Onigiri – 1,200₩ (£0.79)
• Mochi – 2,500₩ (£1.65)
• Red Bean Bun – 3,000₩ (£2)
• Bakery (4 Doughnuts) – 13,100₩ (£8.65)
• Korean Rice Cakes – 4,000₩ (£2.65)

Groceries (which include meals) 109,110₩ (£71.80)

Our grocery section is very close to snack selection but we tried to split it up into food that we took home or cooked for meals. We bought a lot of instant noodles, frozen dumplings, inari sushi and soy milk.

• Bread – 2,250₩ (£1.49)
• Inari Sushi Pack – 4,500₩ (£3)
• Bananas – 4,900₩ (£3.20)
• Ramyeon – 2,400₩ (£1.60)
• Frozen Dumplings – 6,400₩ (£4.20)

Total Food Costs – 575,010₩ (£378.40)- prices for two people

Food Costs per day in South Korea – 41,072₩ (£27) – prices for two people

Total Cost of a 2 week trip in South Korea for 2 people – 1702,910₩ (£1,120) & 141,909₩ (£93) per day

Our total cost doesn’t include flights in and out of the country, but for reference, we flew from Manila to Seoul for £135 each with Jeju Air and Seoul to Bangkok for £105 each with Air Asia. Our flights worked out well as we were already travelling in Asia at the time, we booked them 2 months in advance.

We hope this helps you plan your South Korea budget! We think that £46 per person, per day, is a pretty good price to travel around South Kore. We also had the best time and didn’t feel like we lost out on anything.

Korean food is amazing and we ate at restaurants and markets a lot more than cooking our own food. If we cooked more, our South Korea travel costs would be even less!

Is South Korea expensive to visit?

After looking at all of our South Korea travel costs, we’ve concluded that South Korea isn’t expensive to visit compared to the UK. Depending on your home country, the prices may be more, but we were pleasantly surprised with the prices of food.

The accommodation we booked was also really great! If you’re visiting South Korea on a budget, you’ll need to watch your spending when shopping or eating at fancier restaurants.

How much money to bring to South Korea for 2 weeks?

If you’re planning a travel budget for South Korea, we always recommend budgeting more than you think you need. We spent 1702,910₩ (£1,120) for two people during our 2 weeks in South Korea and although we ate a lot of instant noodles, we did everything we wanted to do!

We recommend budgeting at least 1215,715₩ (£800) if you’re a solo traveller with the addition of flights.

Travel Essentials for a South Korea Trip

Here are a few travel essentials we always bring with us:

• Amazon Basics Packing Cubes  – The best way to pack your bag!
• Anker Power Bank  – Keep your phone charged on the go!
• Stainless Steel Water Bottle  – The water in Korea is drinkable, bring a reusable bottle and fill it up!
• Rain Mac in a Bag  – Carry a lightweight raincoat or umbrella around Korea!
• Worldwide Travel Adaptor  – The ultimate travel plug when travelling to different countries!
• Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit  – The best  lightweight  tripod to take anywhere in South Korea! We have a  Joby GorillaPod  and use it for our  Sony A600 . There’s also a  Joby Phone Tripod  if you take photos on your phone.

Let us know if you have any more South Korea budget tips and we’ll have to keep adding to this guide! We highly recommend visiting South Korea even on a budget. Make sure you have extra money just in case anything goes wrong and always have travel insurance! Now you know how to create a travel budget for South Korea!

Don’t forget about Travel Insurance! –  SafetyWing  Nomad Insurance

SafetyWing  is a flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your trip anywhere in the world.  Find out more here!

More  South Korea  guides:

• Ultimate 2 week South Korea Itinerary: Best Places (2024)
• 5 Day Seoul Itinerary – Best Things To Do (2024)
• Staying in Golgulsa Temple: The Best Templestay in Korea (2024)

25+ Best South Korea Travel Tips: What to Know

• 3 day Busan Itinerary: What to do in Busan (2024)
• 11 Best Things to do in Gyeongju: Itinerary (2024)

Ultimate South Korea Bucket List: 20 Best Things To Do

• Vegan in South Korea Guide – Best Restaurants & Snacks (2024)
• All our  South Korea  posts!

That’s the end of our  10 Best South Korea Budget Tips + Travel Costs (2024)!  Have the best time in South Korea on a budget and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!

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Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.

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Thank you so much for such awesome tips. Planning a trip for early next year so these tips will definitely be useful.

Amazing! You’ll have a great time! 🙂

Thank you this has really helped with my planning a budget travel trip to South Korea. I was just wonder if you, or any other readers used a WOW pass, it seems to get a lot of good reviews?

Hi Ashley! Thank you so much 🙂 Personally, we haven’t used a WOW Pass but know it’s an all-in-one prepaid card for foreign travellers! As we’re from the UK, we just use a debit card that has no foreign charges. (example, Starling or Revolut) Sorry I can’t share more info about it! Safe travels.

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Budget Travel Guide: South Korea on a Shoestring

If you’re looking for an exciting and budget-friendly destination for your next trip, South Korea is definitely worth considering. This fascinating country is a blend of ancient traditions and modern technology, with plenty of stunning scenery, delicious food, and unique cultural experiences to enjoy. And the best part? You don’t have to break the bank to explore this amazing country.

In this budget travel guide to South Korea, we’ll show you how to make the most of your trip without spending a fortune. From affordable accommodations to delicious street food, we’ll share our top tips for saving money while still having an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re a solo traveler or exploring with friends or family, you’ll find plenty of ideas and inspiration to help you plan your perfect South Korean getaway.

Planning Your Budget Travel to South Korea

If you’re planning a trip to South Korea on a budget, it’s important to plan ahead to make the most of your money. Here are some tips to help you plan your budget travel to South Korea.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit South Korea is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Moreover, there are fewer tourists, which means you can save money on accommodation and transportation.

Affordable Accommodation Options

South Korea has a wide range of affordable accommodation options that cater to budget travelers. Hostels are the most popular choice for budget travelers, with prices ranging from 14,000 KRW to 25,000 KRW per night for a dorm bed. Private rooms are also available at a higher cost, but they are still relatively affordable compared to hotels. You can find a single private room for around 40,000 KRW per night, while a double private room costs around 70,000 KRW per night.

Transportation on a Budget

South Korea has an efficient and affordable transportation system, which makes it easy for budget travelers to get around. The subway is the most convenient and cheapest way to travel within the cities. A single journey costs around 1,350 KRW, and there are discount passes available for frequent travelers. Buses are another affordable option, with prices ranging from 1,200 KRW to 2,000 KRW per journey. Taxis are also available, but they are more expensive than public transportation.

To save money on transportation, you can also consider purchasing a T-Money card, which is a rechargeable transportation card that can be used on subways, buses, and taxis. By using a T-Money card, you can save up to 20% on transportation costs.

By following these tips, you can plan a budget-friendly trip to South Korea without compromising on the quality of your experience.

Sightseeing and Activities

When it comes to sightseeing and activities in South Korea, there are plenty of options that won’t break the bank. From free attractions to cultural experiences, you’ll find something for everyone.

Free Attractions

One of the best things about South Korea is that there are many free attractions to enjoy. For example, you can visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of the most iconic landmarks in Seoul, for free. This palace was built in the 14th century and is a great place to learn about Korean history and culture.

Another free attraction is the Cheonggyecheon Stream, a beautiful 11 km-long stream that runs through the heart of Seoul. It’s a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the scenery.

Cultural Experiences

If you’re interested in learning more about Korean culture, there are plenty of cultural experiences to enjoy. For example, you can visit a traditional Korean tea house and try some delicious Korean tea. You can also try your hand at making your own Korean pottery, or attend a traditional Korean music concert.

One of the most popular cultural experiences in South Korea is visiting a Korean spa, or jjimjilbang. These spas offer a variety of services, including hot and cold baths, saunas, and massages. They’re a great way to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing.

Overall, South Korea has plenty to offer budget travelers when it comes to sightseeing and activities. Whether you’re interested in free attractions or cultural experiences, you’ll find something to enjoy without breaking the bank.

Eating and Drinking

When it comes to food, South Korea has a lot to offer. From street food delights to cheap eats and local markets, you will never go hungry.

Street Food Delights

South Korea is famous for its street food, and it’s a great way to experience the local culture. You can find street food vendors all over the country, especially in Seoul. Some of the most popular street food items include tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and kimbap (rice rolls with various fillings). Make sure to try the famous Korean fried chicken as well. It’s crispy, juicy, and delicious.

Cheap Eats and Local Markets

If you’re on a budget, head to local markets for some cheap eats. Gwangjang Market in Seoul is a great place to start. You can find a variety of Korean dishes such as bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), bibimbap (rice bowl with vegetables and meat), and gimbap (rice rolls with various fillings). Most dishes are priced under 10,000 KRW (around $9 USD).

Another great option is to visit a Korean-style cafeteria called a “shikdang.” These places serve home-style Korean food at affordable prices. You can get a filling meal for around 5,000 KRW (around $4.50 USD). Look for signs that say “일반식당” (ilban shikdang) or “정문식당” (jeongmun shikdang) to find one.

In conclusion, South Korea has plenty of options for budget-friendly food. Whether you’re looking for street food or local markets, you’re sure to find something delicious.

Money-Saving Tips

Traveling to South Korea can be an amazing experience, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to save money while enjoying your trip. Here are some tips to help you save money while you travel:

Discount Cards and Passes

One of the best ways to save money while traveling in South Korea is to purchase a T-Money card. This card can be used on buses, subways, and even in some taxis. It’s a great way to save money on transportation costs, and it’s also very convenient. You can purchase a T-Money card at most convenience stores and subway stations.

Another great option is the Discover Seoul Pass. This pass offers free entry to over 30 attractions in Seoul, as well as discounts at many restaurants and shops. It’s a great way to save money on sightseeing and other activities.

Communication and Connectivity

If you need to stay connected while you travel, consider purchasing a SIM card or renting a portable Wi-Fi device. This will allow you to stay connected without racking up expensive roaming charges. You can purchase a SIM card or rent a portable Wi-Fi device at the airport or at most convenience stores.

Another option is to use free Wi-Fi hotspots. Many restaurants, cafes, and public places offer free Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected without spending any money.

Shopping and Souvenirs

If you’re looking for souvenirs or gifts to bring back home, consider shopping at local markets and street vendors. You can find a wide variety of items at these places, and they are often much cheaper than shopping at tourist shops or department stores.

Another option is to shop at discount stores like Daiso or Homeplus. These stores offer a wide variety of items at very affordable prices. You can find everything from snacks and souvenirs to household items and clothing.

By following these money-saving tips, you can enjoy your trip to South Korea without breaking the bank.

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The Best 10-Day South Korea Itinerary: Budget and how to plan

If you’re looking for a travel destination that offers a rich cultural experience and a glimpse into history, South Korea is the perfect choice. Despite its small size, this country is packed with diverse attractions and a unique charm that will captivate any traveler.

Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient palaces, indulging in delicious street food, or immersing yourself in the vibrant K-pop culture, South Korea has something for everyone. With this ultimate 10-day South Korea itinerary , you’ll be able to make the most of your time in this fascinating country.

South Korea will give you the perfect opportunity to create a storming itinerary to explore the bustling cities quiet mountains and countryside. South Korea has a synchronized harmony of traditional culture and modern history.

Tourists can enjoy the cultural heritage through the UNESCO sites and can enjoy the variety of food, local culture, and lifestyles. Along with Korea’s Buddhist temples, and UNESCO sites you will find beautiful mountains, hiking trails, and port cities will let you experience the full range of diversity in the country.

Planning a Trip to Korea Preparations

Though you cannot plan to see all there is in 10 days you surely can have the most rejuvenating experience. Planning a trip to Korean districts and there are many cultural sites. Before flying to Korea, it will require that you have ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for Korea.

You can apply online on their website and when granted you will be eligible to live in the country for 30 to 90 days. You will also require a valid passport, accommodation, and permit if you were to travel across the country. The required travel duration for most travelers are 10 to 15 days. And it is always recommended to get started on your preparation one or two months ahead.

Documents Required for Visiting South Korea:

• Valid Passport & Visa
• K-ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) For citizens of Selected Countries
• Cash for Currency Exchange

To have a hassle-free trip to South Korea there are few more things you can do to prepare. Few of them are using a language translator app, using specialized local maps, downloading cab app, and getting cashless money transfer systems. Here are the top apps for planning South Korea itinerary 10-days you can use to make your journey easy.

10-Day South Korea Itinerary: Provinces, Day to Day

You must start your visit from the capital of South Korea, Seou l and you will get to learn the royal history, Korean cuisine. Then on 3rd Day, you can travel to Suwon to watch the folk village and enjoy the folk village view. Then continue your journey to the South and move to Andong where you will find the beautiful Hahoe folk village, and you should visit the Soju Museum, Bongjeongsa Temple.

After spending a few days in Andong, it’s time to visit the cultural and Spiritual heart of Korea, Gyeongju. Visit the attractions like Tumuli Park, Bulguksa Temple, and more. Then for the last days of your trip, you will travel to the bustling fishy port city of Busan where you can roam around the fish markets and taste heavenly fish or go on a fish-catching trip. With this itinerary, you will be able to see the most remarkable culture and attractions of Korea.

Seoul: 2 Days

Seoul offering a modern yet traditional lifestyle should be the first place in your south Korea itinerary for 10-days.  The Seoul trip for two days will be your first step in familiarizing yourself with the city’s cultural, historical, and traditional sides. Take the first day slow and visit the royal palaces and UNESCO sites. You can start your trip with Gyeongbokgung Palace, and then continue to visit Cheonggyecheon Stream, Gwangju Traditional Market, and Insadong Shopping Street.

Gyeongbokgung is one of the most popular and oldest palaces in Seoul . This served as the main official palace during the Joseon dynasty. The entrance fee to the palace is $2.50 and you can also rent hanboks if you want great pictures in the traditional dresses. After the tour head over to the Cheonggyecheon Stream where you can enjoy a nice walk and enjoy the art murals, greenery, and scenic beauty.

Make your way to Gwangju Market, where you will be enjoying a whole array of foods. Some of the famous foods there as one of the oldest markets in Seoul are bindaetteok, mandu-guk, and bibimbap. From there you can go to visit the traditional Bunchon Hanok village.

For Day 2 in Seoul , start your day with a delicious breakfast in Hongdae. Hongdae is a vibrant area where young people hang out and Hongdae shopping street is also a great area to hang out. From there you can go to museums of the city and during the sunset hike up the N Seoul tower where you will enjoy the beautiful city’s nighttime landscape view. You can also have an amazing dinner on the restaurants of N Seoul tower.

Day 3: Trip to DMZ

The DMZ tour from Seoul takes a whole day. You must keep aside a one-full day for this historic area. You can only have guided tours of the DMZ area. The Demilitarized Zone portrays the rich history of the Korean Wars. The DMZ tour packages are available from $25. Visit the freedom bridge, DMZ exhibition hall, and other monuments. You will get a brief recap of the historical moments throughout the trip to DMZ.

Day 4 & Day 5: 2 Days in Andong

By Korean standards, it’s a long journey between Seoul and Gyeongju . For this itinerary, there’s no better place to break up the trip than Andong. Long known for its traditionalism, Andong is a center of culture and folklore. It’s one of the best places to visit in South Korea for a glimpse of its ancient past.

For Day 1: Explore the impressive grounds of the historic Neo-Confucian Academy with a trip to the historic Dosan Seowon and for Day 2: Admire a stunning view of the surrounding natural landscapes from the top of the Buyongdae Observatory.

Also, the Woryeonggyo Bridge, a wooden footbridge crossing the Nakdong River, provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Day 6: 1 Day in Gyeongju

No place during your 10 days in South Korea will live up to expectation better than Gyeongju. This fascinating city is nothing short of the cultural and spiritual heart of Korea. Gyeongju checks off all the boxes that drove you to visit South Korea in the first place.

Compared to the hubbub of Seoul and brash Busan, Gyeongju is a relaxing respite. And it’s as fulfilling as either. The top attractions in Gyeongju are spread far & wide. They encompass some of Korea’s finest cultural moments. Tumuli Park is one of the few Gyeongju tourist attractions smack dabs in the middle of town. The park is an ancient burial site. About two dozen Korean royal tombs sprout from the earth here.

Day 7 & Day 8: 2 Days in Jeju Do

Jeju is South Korea’s one of the most vibrant islands to experience beautiful braces, local markets, and more. On the first day arriving in Jeju, you can visit the Jeju Folklore and Natural Music and Halla Arboretum. And you can then visit the Jeju five-day folk market and Dongmun Traditional Market.

The next day you can catch the sunrise at Hallasan or at Sarabong Peak early in the morning. Then you can go visit the Hamdeok beach and Manjangul cave. There are a lot of places to explore in the south of Jeju-do and you will have a refreshing experience while travelling here.

Day 9: Busan

Busan is one of those take-it-or-leave-it places. Apparently, suggests that anyone should fall in love with, or even like, this brash Korean port city. And that’s usually where the story ends. When you are in Busan, don’t leave out the bustling J agalchi Fish Market.

It’s one of the city’s top cultural attractions, and an absolute must-see and must-do. This is not just the port city’s most significant market; it’s the biggest fish market in South Korea. All types of seafood caught around the Korean peninsula find their way to the market stalls of Jagalchi Fish Market .

With your trip coming to close soon, make time to fit one more temple into your Korea itinerary : Beomeosa Temple. This ancient temple is Busan’s top tourist attraction. The original temple was founded in AD 678 by Ui Sang, a monk in the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. It has since been rebuilt multiple times. Most of the current buildings hail from the 16th and 17th centuries.

From stone pagodas to ornate wooden gates, the beauty of the city entrances you. The temple also benefits from a spectacular location. It sits at the foot of Mount Geumjeongsan. Visiting Beomeosa Temple, it’s easy to forget you’re in Korea’s second-biggest city.

Day 10: Departure

On Day 10 return to Seoul, and get your things packed. On the last day you can visit some famous places in Seoul or have a last traditional meal of Korean cuisine. You will have a lot of memories and an experience of Korean culture by the time you live.

Most Popular Tourist Attractions in South Korea

There are a lot of beautiful places across South Korea where you can experience a diversity of landscapes, culture and food. Taking a trip to South Korea is a phenomenal way to experience the joys of life. Here are the top few tourist attractions and landmarks of South Korea that any first-time traveler must cover.

DMZ is a zone between South Korea and North Korea near the 38th parallel north. And the demilitarized zone is a walk through the history for tourists where you can understand the value of the war history of the country. This area works as a buffer zone between two countries and is a place for maintaining political peace.

Changdeokgung Palace:

One of the most popular UNESCO sites in Seoul is the Changdeokgung Palace. Changdeokng Palace is an official residential building built in the Joseon dynasty. This complex was built as a secondary palace from Gyeongbokgung Palace to have the administrative work done.

Gyeongbokgung Palace:

The Gyeongbokgung palace is a South Korean first palaces for administrative work. It was built in 1935 in Hanyang, currently the heart of Seoul. This is quite famous for taking pictures in hanbok, traditional korean dress and visiting the historical settings, and artefacts. At the entrance, you will also find the historical Gwanghwamun gate located at the three-way intersection.

Hwaseong Fortress:

Hwaseong fortress is a one-of-a-kind brick and pilestone fortress made in Joseon dynasty. It’s located in the centre of Suwon, a few kms away from Seoul. It was built by King Jeongjo to honour his father, Prince Sado.

Namsan Tower:

Namsan tower located in Seoul is an observatory tower on the highest hill in Yongsan-gu district of Seoul. It gives undeniably the best view in the city and is worth a visit. The lovelocks there for couples are also quite famous. You can also enjoy the views from the cafe or the restaurant on the N Seoul tower.

Lotte World:

Lotte World is a major theme park in Seoul with indoor and outdoor rides, shows and parades, and an aquarium. If you have come here with children, taking a day to go to Lotte world will really make the trip a lot of fun. The aquariums, ice rink and parades are a true treat to kids.

Jeju Island:

Jeju Island is one of the most peaceful and pleasant natural spaces that you can visit. It is one of the most beautiful volcanic islands on the planet Earth. Top attractions in Jeju-do are the lava tunnels, Hallasan, Cheonjiyon waterfall, and the hiking trails.

Nami Island:

Nami Island has gained popularity as a scenic and romantic spot, and you can go there to enjoy cherry blossoms and the tree-lined pathways are quite romantic during Autumn and Spring. You can also enjoy different types of activities like cycling, zip lining and boating in Han River.

Traditional Villages:

There are a beautiful Korean village like Bukchon Hanok, Yongin-si in Seoul where you can get roam around the beautiful streets, visit artisans and traditional arts.If you travel to Andong during your trip, you must visit Andong folk village to visit the Andong folk museum, thatched house. You can also visit the Jeonju-si for old shrines, Boseon-gun in South Jeolla province for the entrancing beauty.

Dodohaehaesang National Park:

Dodohaehaesang National Park is the largest natural park in South Korea and if you are a nature lover you will have a great time as there are 1500+ plant species and 1200+ animal species. The scenic beauty of the island the park is located on is all the is also an attraction.

  National Museum of Korea:

National Museum of Korea has collections of Korean traditional products, and you will find a lot of art exhibitions going on every day worth visiting. You will see the collection of art, artifacts, and crafts from Korean and international artists at the National Museum.

  South Korea Food Markets

South Korea has a lot of vibrant food markets which are worth visiting for tasting local foods and get immersed in the local lifestyle. A few of the top South Korean food markets are Gwangjang Market, Namdaemun, and Dongdaemun Design Plaza in Seoul for tasting the most famous traditional foods. You may also visit the jagalchi fish market in Busan for fresh fish and seafood and tasty foods.

Budget for South Korea 10-Day Itinerary

Your travel tastes, style, and the time of year you intend to travel all affect how much money you allocate for a 10-day itinerary in South Korea. I can give you a general idea of the expenditures related to a traveler on a medium budget, though. Please be aware that these projections were created using pricing as of my September 2021 update and may have altered since then.

Accommodation: The price of lodging can change based on the area and the type of lodging you select (hotels, hostels, guesthouses, etc.). Budget travelers should budget $30 to $100 per night for a mid-range hotel or guesthouse, on average.

Food: There are numerous culinary alternatives available in South Korea at various pricing brackets. For roughly $5 to $15 each meal, budget-conscious travelers may savour delectable street food and regional cuisine. The price range for meals at mid-range restaurants could be between $15 and $30.

The public transit system in South Korea, which includes buses and subways, is good. Spend between $100 and $150 on transport over the course of ten days, which includes getting around cities and possibly taking the train to various locations.

Activities and Sightseeing: Different attractions and activities have different entrance prices. Budget, on average, $5 to $20 per attraction. You can budget between $100 and $150 for this category if you’re going to numerous paid attractions.

Shopping and souvenirs: Depending on your shopping tastes, this expenditure can vary greatly. Budget travelers should set up $100 to $200 for shopping and souvenirs.

Other: It’s a good idea to have some extra cash on hand for unanticipated costs like tips, extra snacks or drinks, or any emergency requirements. Set aside between $100 and $200 for other costs.

Without factoring in international flights to and from South Korea, a ballpark estimate for a 10-day moderately priced vacation in South Korea could vary from $800 to $1,000. Remember that this is only a rough estimate, and that the actual cost of the trip may change depending on your choices. It is advised to conduct detailed pricing and expense research for your planned route and travel duration in order to obtain a more precise budget.

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How Much Does It Cost To Travel In Korea 2023? Korean Budget

Want to know how much it will cost to travel in Korea? Worried about going over budget and not having enough cash? Not sure how expensive Korea is (it’s not)? Then this guide to the cost to travel in Korea has you sorted. Featuring a breakdown of all the costs you can expect in Korea, you can easily plan your Korean travel budget. Not only that, there are dozens of great tips to help you plan your dream Korean trip and save money in many ways.

Take the pain out of planning by learning more about the costs of accommodation, food, transportation, activities, day trips, and lots more. There are daily budget costs for 3 different types of travellers and actual detailed breakdowns to show how much things cost in Korea. Mix and match for each category to plan your realistic Korean travel budget.

Check the summary at the beginning of this article for a quick glance at what you can expect to spend each day. Then read through the following sections to find out more details about each of those costs.

You can also pick up some tips about how to find cheap accommodation, ways to save money on transport, some great food and drink options you have to try, and some of Korea’s best activities.

If you want some other guides that will help you save money when you travel to Korea, take a look at these other really useful articles:

Read more: How To Save Money In Seoul Free Things To Do In Seoul

Korea Essentials:

Here are some of my favourite resources that will help you save time and money on your journey to Seoul:

Flights To Korea: Trip.com | JetRadar

Hotels In Seoul: Myeongdong | Hongdae | Gangnam

Recommended Tour Companies: Klook | Trazy | Get Your Guide | Voyagin

Travel & Tour Passes: T-Money Card | Discover Seoul Pass

Internet / Mobile: 4g Sim Card | Portable 4g WiFi

Airport Transportation: AREX Train Ticket | Incheon Airport Pickup

Follow Me On Social Media:

Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking one of these links. Affiliate Disclaimer

Cost To Travel In Korea By Traveller Type

Everyone is different and the way we travel, how much we spend, and on what, is unique.

Personally, I’m happy to spend less on transport and more on food and entertainment. Others people may cut accommodation costs and head to the most expensive attractions, whilst some people might want to control costs in all areas.

I’ve broken down the costs into three travel-styles to fit different budgets. These are as follows:

• Budget Travellers: Those who want to save as much money as possible and don’t mind roughing it a bit.
• Comfort Travellers: Typically families or couples who want to spend a bit more here and there.
• Luxury Travellers: When money is no issue and you want the best there is.

As I mentioned, most people will probably save in some areas and spend more in others. I’m a mix between a budget and comfort traveller, sometimes dipping into luxury on special occasions.

The cost to travel in Korea can be broken down into the following 4 expenses:

• Accommodation
• Transportation

Below is a summary of the average daily cost by traveller type. You can pick and choose the costs for each section to work out your personal costs to travel in Korea. You don’t have to follow these figures exactly, but they should give you a much better idea when working out your Korean travel budget.

Summary: What Does It Cost To Travel In Korea?

For those who know what kind of travel-style they prefer, or want to get an idea of the costs they can expect when travelling in Korea, here is a quick summary of the ‘average’ daily cost to travel in Korea.

Please note: I’ve used KRW for all figures to avoid any exchange rate changes over time. To work out costs in your own currency, use Google’s exchange rate calculator .

Want to save on hefty foreign exchange rate fees and bad exchange rates? Find out how the Wise card for travelling in Korea could save you more and help you travel smarter.

Budget Daily Costs :

Comfort daily costs :, luxury daily costs :.

*Accommodation costs may seem low, but I have assumed that most people will be sharing a room as a couple of family (or have two rooms for a family). Therefore, costs will be split between two or more people.

A couple would spend 100,000 KRW per room, so the accommodation budget would be 200,000 KRW per night. This would actually get you a very nice room and you could actually spend a lot less than this on accommodation.

Solo travellers can find great single-room accommodation for 100,000 KRW.

Joel’s Tip: In my experience, budget travel costs and actual travel costs usually don’t match up as there is always something unexpected that comes up that you didn’t budget for.

Therefore, I’d recommend adding 20% to all of these costs .

If you need the extra money, you have it. If not, you can change any extra cash back at the end of your journey.

My personal travel costs are usually around the following amounts:

• Accommodation : 50,000 – 100,000 KRW
• Food : 30,000 – 50,000 KRW
• Activities : 0 to 25,000 KRW
• Transportation : 10,000 KRW

A weekend in Seoul generally costs me about 150,000 – 200,000 KRW. I try to find the best deals on hotels, but sometimes you can’t avoid paying more. Food is something that I enjoy and often don’t mind splashing out on, especially on holiday. I enjoy walking and exploring new places, so I often don’t pay for activities, unless it’s something that I specifically want to see. Even then, I’ll try to find discount tickets online if I can. Transport costs are low as I walk or take the subway or a bus. These are both cheap and easy ways to get around Seoul and other cities.

Please note: These are average costs and you can spend a lot more or less in each category. To understand how I got to these costs, please keep reading and you’ll find out more about the breakdown of the true costs to travel in Korea.

Costs Not Covered Above

Apart from these five main categories that make up most of the cost to travel in Korea, there are some other costs that should be considered, such as:

• Shopping and souvenirs
• Internet & Data Costs
• Flights to and from Korea
• Inter-city travel (incl. flights to Jeju Island)
• Day trips / personalised tours
• Visas (if necessary)
• Travel Insurance

You’ll find some of these costs included in the other expense sections above, whilst some of them have their own section at the end of this article. You can use the table of contents at the top of this page to find what you’re looking for.

Tips To Control Travel Costs

Everyone wants to save money, and when you are trying to work out your cost to travel in Korea, you might find you need to control your travel expenses. Here’s a few tips to control your travel costs in Korea that will leave your Korean travel budget looking healthier, without compromising all the fun you plan to have.

• Plan ahead – make an itinerary that makes sense. Plan your days around zones in cities, and try to cut down unnecessary travel costs. It’ll save time, too. Pre-planning travel to Korea really helps.
• Figure out when to travel – knowing when the peak tourist season is, and when hotels and flights are more likely to be expensive, can save you a lot of money. This guide to the best time to visit Korea should help.
• Haggle in the markets – Seoul’s markets aren’t as cheap as they used to be, but you can still haggle for a better price
• Use discount cards – use the Discover Seoul Pass or Korea Tour Card to save money when you travel in Seoul. Plan your itinerary so that you can get the most out of these discount cards.
• Use a T-Money Card – the T-Money Card will save money on transportation in Korea.
• Make the most of complimentary services – if you get breakfast at your hotel, get up early enough to eat it. Top up water bottles at restaurants (water is always free). Try out the free samples in supermarkets and malls.
• Do free things to do in Seoul – there are lots of free things to see and do in Seoul , including romantic walks along the Han River, hiking to the N Seoul Tower, trying on Hanbok, and lots more.

For more great tips about how to save money when you’re visiting Seoul, be sure to check out this article:

Read more: How To Save Money In Seoul

Now, here’s a breakdown of the key expenses in your Korean travel budget.

1: Accommodation Costs In Korea

The biggest cost to travel in Korea, apart from your flights, will probably be accommodation. Whatever your budget, you’ll find some incredible options for places to stay in Korea. Accommodation costs have been rising in recent years, in line with big increases in house and rental prices, but they are still very reasonable.

From hostels to 5 star hotels, Korea has something for all travellers and you can spend a night in Seoul for as little as 10,000 KRW

Here’s a quick selection of the best accommodation for Seoul. Accommodation costs in Korea are generally the same in most cities, but you might find seasonal price rises during spring and autumn, or in areas where there is a festival going on.

If you want a more detailed breakdown of the different neighbourhoods in Seoul , as well as more great hotel recommendations, check out my guide below:

Read more: Where To Stay In Seoul – Seoul’s 7 Hottest Neighbourhoods

1.1: Budget Level Accommodation Costs

Budget accommodation ranges from shared dorm beds in a hostel, to cheap hotels with a private room. These rooms will usually be very small, but air conditioned or heated depending on the season.

These places, especially the hostels, have a great community and offer the chance for solo our group travellers to make new friends, get travel advice from others, and see an authentic side to Seoul.

The price for basic accommodation is between 8,000 KRW to 50,000 KRW.

I’ll use an average price of 25,000 KRW per night for accommodation to work out the daily Korean travel budget.

Here are six of the best budget places to stay in Seoul:

Joel’s Tip: Another option for accommodation, especially if you haven’t booked any for one night, is to stay in a Korean sauna ( jjim-jjil-bang ). You can stay overnight and soak in the hot pools for about 10,000 KRW per night. They provide towels and pyjamas, too. These are great for emergency accommodation or budget stays when travelling to another city for one night.

1.2: Comfort Level Accommodation Costs

Comfort accommodation in Seoul includes basic and mid-range hotels. You’ll typically get a small to medium-sized private room in a good location. Expect fresh towels and cleaning daily and possibly a basic breakfast service, too (although this might be extra).

The price for comfort accommodation is between 50,000 KRW to 150,000 KRW per night.

I’ll use an average price of 100,000 KRW per night for accommodation to work out the daily Korean travel budget.

Here are six of the best comfort places to stay in Seoul:

Joel’s Tip: This category is the broadest and there are so many great (and not so great) hotels available in Seoul and other cities. If you’re going for hotels in this category, I would recommend choosing your location first and then filtering the hotels by their ratings, then price. You can find some outstanding hotels at great prices and avoid the over-priced and poorly run hotels this way.

1.3: Luxury Level Accommodation Costs

There is a wide range of options for luxurious hotels in Seoul, with some of the best areas to stay including Gangnam , Jamsil , and Yongsan . These are often less busy and crowded than Myeongdong and Hongdae. Expect high levels of service, great food options, and a wonderful night’s sleep.

The price for luxury accommodation is above 150,000 KRW per night

I’ll use an average price of 200,000 KRW per night for accommodation to work out the daily Korean travel budget.

Here are six of the best luxury places to stay in Seoul:

Joel’s Tip: You can have some truly unforgettable experiences in some of Seoul’s finest locations. For the most amazing views, the Signiel Hotel in the Lotte World Tower – the world’s 6th tallest building – is hard to beat.

AirBnB’s In Seoul

Another option for accommodation in Seoul is from AirBnB . With lots of owners renting out their apartments in excellent locations, you can get a very different experience from your typical hotel stay, with whole apartments available to rent instead of just one room.

There are options available for all budgets, with rooms available for as little as 12,000 KRW per night in central locations such as Myeongdong or Hongdae. You could rent a rooftop camping ground , complete with BBQ, city views, and a double bed inside a tented room. There are even apartments with tall windows looking out over the city from high up in one of Seoul’s many massive apartment complexes.

If you like the look of staying at an AirBnB, then make use of the referral voucher below to cut your cost to travel in Korea even more! You can get up to $37 off your first stay in Seoul or other places in Korea.

Read more: Sign up with AirBnB and get $37 off your first stay!

Joel’s Tip: Whatever level of accommodation you’re looking for, you’ll find it on AirBnb and in the various hotel booking websites mentioned before. If you want to cut your cost to travel in Korea, then I’d recommend taking some time to look around the best hostels and hotels, check the reviews, and find the best place for you.

2: Food Costs In Korea

Food is one of the most variable aspects of trying to work out the cost to travel in Korea. One person might eat a free breakfast at their hotel, another might go to one of Seoul’s amazing gourmet bakeries and spend 15,000 KRW on baked goods and coffee. You might want a simple meal for dinner and spend less than 10,000 KRW, or go all out with mountains of Korean BBQ goodness and spend ten times that.

In order to work out the costs and budget for your travels in Korea, I’ve broken the typical daily costs for budget, comfort, and luxury travel styles

To help you out, here are some guideline figures for how much you could spend on food, depending on your budget style. Of course, you might want to have a budget breakfast and splash out at dinner, that’s up to you. You can use the average food costs to help work out your daily cost to travel in Korea.

Budget Food Costs:

Comfort food costs:, luxury food costs:.

Please note: Costs for alcohol are not included . These prices include costs for water, soft drinks, and coffee. If you plan to drink a lot of imported alcohol, your costs will go up a lot. Please make a note to include it yourself. I’ll add some typical costs for drinks in the next section.

2.1: Breakfast Costs

Here are 6 great items that you’d normally eat for breakfast in Korea. The prices are based on an average cost and can vary according to location and quality. If you book a good hotel, you can often get breakfast included, which will save time and money.

Joel’s Tip: Gimbap is a versatile food option in Korea, especially if you’re trying to keep costs down. It’s great any time of day and there are lots of options for fillings. You’ll find gimbap in convenience stores, train stations, and in many gimbap chain restaurants. They’re also good for hiking and for packing in your bag as food to eat later on.

2.2: Lunch Costs

After a busy morning walking around and exploring Korea’s amazing sights, you’re bound to want a tasty meal to give you energy and keep you going for the rest of the day. There are plenty of great lunch options in Korea (more than I could put here) that won’t break the bank. Korea has a lot of seasonal dishes, be sure to get some delicious Korean winter foods when it’s cold.

Joel’s Tip: Many meals in Korea are designed for 2 or more people. You’ll notice that they usually have ‘2인’ listed above them and are around 20 – 30,000 KRW. These dishes are incredible as they come in a large pot that you share. You generally get more food than you would for two single servings.

2.3: Snack Food Costs

If you walk down Myeongdong Market’s Street Food Alley then you can’t resist helping yourself to a few extra snack foods. And when it’s summer in Korea , you’ll find it hard not to indulge in a sweet Korean dessert or two. There are so many unique snacks to sample in Korea you’ll want to try them all. Good news, calories don’t count when you’re on holiday!

Joel’s Tip: If you want to take home all these yummy snacks that you’ve tried whilst visiting Seoul, then head to Hongdae or Myeongdong and you’ll find lots of shops selling discounted snacks. Also, you can buy an extra suitcase to pack them all into when you realise just how many you ‘had to buy’.

If you’re curious about what sort of snacks you can get from Korea, then check out Korean Snack Box – they’ll ship them directly to you so you can sample them without having to go to Korea! Get a taste for Korea right now!

Korean Snack Box (Enter Code: KOREANSNACKBOX10 for 10% off!)

2.4: Dinner Costs

Dinner is when you’ll typically spend the most money on food. After a busy day of sightseeing, shopping, and exploring, you deserve a big meal with a drink or two. When trying to work out the cost to travel in Korea, dinner costs can cause the most variance. Do you splash out on a fancy Korean BBQ meal with bottles of soju and Korean beer, or have a simpler, healthier meal and save a few won? Here are some of the most popular evening meals you can look forward to in Korea.

Joel’s Tip: Try to avoid the main shopping areas around Myeongdong in Seoul when looking for dinner. There are lots of good restaurants, and they’ll usually have English menus, but you can find much better quality food for a lower price in other areas. Jonggak Avenue Of Youth (종각젊음의거리) is only 5 minutes walk from Myeongdong and has lots of great places to eat. Also, check out the back-alley open-air dining north of Jongno-3 subway station for great Korean BBQ.

2.5: Drink Costs

One cost when travelling in Korea that many people overlook is the cost of drinks. A bottle of water might be cheap, but if you’re going to be consuming creamy lattes, hydrating with energy drinks, or getting merry with alcohol, then drink costs add up quickly. Try to budget for at least 3 or 4 drinks per day. Restaurants usually give you water with a meal, so you can save money by drinking while you eat.

Korean alcohol in restaurants is typically the same price wherever you go. Expect to pay 4-5,000 KRW for beer, makgeolli , or soju whenever you’re eating in a Korean restaurant. There’s usually no foreign beers in restaurants unless it sells foreign food, too. Bars will have a wider choice. Makgeolli and soju are ridiculously cheap from convenience stores, as little as 1,000 KRW! If you want to cut your cost to travel in Korea, I’d recommend buying some cheap drinks from these stores.

Joel’s Tip: You can save money on food in lots of different ways, such as buying food (and alcohol) from a convenience store, eating street food, not drinking imported drinks, choosing small, local restaurants, and lots more.

If you’ve whet your appetite for some delectable Korean dishes, then why not check out some of my other articles about Korean food. Find out the most irresistible dishes you have to try when you arrive.

Read more: 20+ Most Delicious Korean Traditional Dishes 10+ Strangely Unique Korean Foods Korean Foods To Enjoy In Winter

3: Activity Costs In Korea

There are so many incredible things to do in Korea and your cost to travel in Korea will depend a lot on what you plan to do. Activity costs can include many things, from taking a day trip to the demilitarised zone (DMZ), to skydiving, skiing, rail-biking, and lots more. Palaces, temples, museums, galleries, theatres, exhibitions, theme parks, aquariums, and whatever else you want to do usually all cost money.

So how can you work out how much money to bring with you to Korea for activities?

Advanced planning will help you a lot. Work out your itinerary, and see what you will spend money on. To help you do that I’ve outlined some of the most popular attractions in Seoul and their average costs. I’ll cover day trips later, as they are usually a lot more expensive.

To work out the daily activity cost to travel in Korea, I’ll assume the following:

• Budget travellers will see many sights, but also do free activities
• Comfort travellers will also see many sights, but will visit a few premium attractions
• Luxury travellers will mainly visit premium attractions.

Therefore, based on the above costs, I would say that activity costs in Korea for each group is as follows:

• Budget travellers = 20,000 KRW per day
• Comfort travellers = 30,000 KRW per day
• Luxury travellers = 50,000 KRW per day

Joel’s Tip: There are so many great activities in Seoul that don’t cost a single won . You can spend a whole day without paying for any attractions and the last Wednesday of every month is Culture Day , where you can find lots of free or discounted cultural activities. Find out more about all the best free things to do in Seoul below:

Read more: 25 Awesome Free Things To Do In Seoul

To work out the daily costs to travel in Korea, I won’t provide a detailed daily itinerary and costs for each day. That would be impossible and everyone’s travel plans are different. Instead, I’ll show you the sort of prices you can expect to pay for various activities. If you want some suggestions for an itinerary for Korea, with lots of the best activities, then check out 2this article:

Read more: Your Perfect 7 Day Itinerary For Korea

3.1: Popular Activities In Seoul

Walking through the royal palaces in Seoul dressed up in hanbok and taking dozens of incredible photos – it’s the dream of many tourists coming to Seoul. But how much does it cost? And what are the costs to travel in Korea when you want to go out every day, visit the theme parks, chill out in aquariums, and cruise along the river at night?

Here are some of the most popular activities in Seoul, some of which you can also find in other cities in Korea.

These are some of the most common activities in Seoul, but of course there are many more things to do in Seoul and Korea. If you want some help creating your Korean bucket list, check out the link below:

Read more: Ultimate South Korea Bucket List

Joel’s Tip: You can find hanbok rental near Bukchon Hanok Village . This is a great place for unforgettable pictures with traditional Korean hanok houses. You can also wear this hanbok around Gyeongbokgung Palace . Doing both in one day saves you having to rent hanbok twice.

Reduce Your Costs In Seoul With The Discover Seoul Pass

If you plan to do lots of big activities in Seoul, then I’d really recommend getting a Discover Seoul Pass . The Discover Seoul Pass allows you free or discounted entry to a range of different attractions in Seoul, including the COEX Aquarium, Lotte World, Gyeongbokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower, River Cruise, Trick Eye Museum, and lots more. You can also get a free hanbok rental, city tour bus ride, Airport Express journey, and other great benefits.

I created some itineraries for the Discover Seoul Pass that show how you can save more than 50,000 won per person each day with the pass, and takes you across Seoul and into some of the best attractions. Check out the article below for more details:

Read more: How To Save Money With The Discover Seoul Pass

3.2: Day Trip Costs In Korea

Visiting the natural beauty of Nami Island , Boseong Green Tea Plantation , and Damyang Bamboo Forest , or having fun riding rail bikes, rollercoasters, and cable cars, are just some of the great ways you can spend a day out from Seoul or other big cities.

These trips aren’t always cheap, but they’re definitely worth it as you can see some really amazing sights that you probably won’t find back home. Some trips you can make by yourself with public transport, others are easier when booked with a tour company such as Klook , Trazy , or KKDay . For more on the best day trips from Seoul, check out the article below:

Read more: How To Get To Nami Island 10 Amazing Day Trips From Seoul

There are also lots of festivals that happen throughout the year which are hosted in the far corners of Korea, such as the Boryeong Mud Festival , the Jindo Sea Parting Miracle , or various New Year celebrations along the coast where you watch the sun rise on the first day of the year.

Again, you can book tours or make your own way to some of the places. If you’d like to know more about all the best festivals throughout the year, check out the link below:

Read more: All The Best Festivals In Korea

Here are the costs to travel on day trips in Korea. These are mostly based on tours from Klook.com , but there are ways you can get to some of them more cheaply by public transport. See the link above or ask for more details in the Korea Travel Advice Facebook Group for lots of great tips and suggestions about day tours and how to do them cheaply.

From 54,000 KRW

Nami Island / Rail Bike

From 42,000 KRW

Everland / Caribbean Bay

From 56,000 KRW

Jeonju Hanok Village

From 98,000 KRW

Seoraksan Tour

From 75,000 KRW

Korean Folk Village

Joel’s Tip: Booking a tour can be expensive, but it can also save a lot of time and be convenient as you won’t have to deal with the language barrier so much. If you’re an experienced traveller, you can usually make your own way. However, for families or people who are not comfortable with the risk of getting lost or delayed, then tours are worth the extra money for peace of mind. Even I book tours for some events because it’s the only way to get to some places without a car.

4: Transportation Costs In Korea

Korea is a really cheap and convenient country to get around with lots of cost-effective forms of public transport. Getting around inside big cities like Seoul is simple, with subways, buses, taxis, and even bikes for rent. To get between cities, there’s a vast network of buses and trains (high speed and regular).

To work out the daily transportation cost to travel in Korea, I’ll assume the following:

• Budget travellers will walk or take only buses / subways.
• Comfort travellers will also take a taxi or two per day.
• Luxury travellers will mainly use taxis or trains for long distances.

Therefore, based on the above costs, I would say that travel costs in Korea for each group is as follows:

• Budget travellers = 5,000 KRW per day
• Comfort travellers = 20,000 KRW per day
• Luxury travellers = 30,000 KRW per day

Before I get into more details about transportation costs, it’s important to point out that these prices are the prices you’d pay with a T-Money card (or a card that has a T-Money function). The T-Money card is a transportation card that can be used throughout Korea and saves you having to use cash. You can top them up at convenience stores, train stations, and many other places.

There are several ways to get a T-Money card. I’ve covered the most common ones for tourists:

Read more: Guide To The T-Money Card Guide To The Korea Tour Card Guide To The Discover Seoul Pass

Assuming you’re using a T-Money card (you really should be), here are some of the travel costs in Korea:

4.1: Transportation Costs In Cities:

Getting around big urban areas like Seoul or Busan can be very time consuming if you have to walk everywhere. The cost to travel in Seoul and other cities on public transport is as follows:

Bus rides: Buses are 1,250+ won per single journey. There are no round-trip tickets. Bus Routes For Seoul

Subway / train rides: Subway tickets are 1,250+ won per single journey. Subway Routes For Seoul

Taxis: Taxi prices start at 3,800 won (lower outside Seoul). A 10 minute journey should cost around 5,000 won. Seoul Station to Hongdae (5km) would take around 35 minutes and cost around 15,000 won. You can find out taxi costs with the Kakao Taxi app when you’re in Korea. Information About Taxis In Korea

Bikes: You can rent a bike in Seoul for 1,000 won per day. This is a cheap and healthy way to explore Seoul. Information About Renting Bikes In Seoul

As a tourist, your cost to travel in Seoul and other cities will depend on how many different places you want to visit. If you’re exploring one or two areas per day, you might not spend much time on public transport. If you want to visit lots of different locations, then you could spend a lot.

Joel’s Tip: When you leave a bus or subway, touch your T-Money card on the card machine (below) and you can get a discount on your next journey if it’s within 30 minutes.

4.2: Transport Costs Between Cities

If you want to travel between cities (there’s more to Korea than just Seoul!), then there are several options for you. The fastest method to get from Seoul to Busan and other major cities is to take the KTX high speed railway. The cheapest is either the slow train or intercity buses. Here is the cost to travel in Korea for each one.

Trains In Korea

There are several options for travelling by train in Korea, including the KTX high-speed train network that covers most major cities in Korea. Slower trains will take longer but also stop at more locations and cost far less.

You can find more details about Korea’s rail network and book tickets online from the Korail website.

Read more: Korail Website For Train Ticket Booking Online

If you plan to travel on trains a lot, consider a KTX Rail Pass for unlimited rides for 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 days.

To show you the cost to travel in Korea by train, here are the various prices you could pay to travel one-way between Seoul and some other select cities. Don’t forget, the travel times will be much faster with the more expensive trains.

Seoul to Busan : KTX (high-speed) train = 59,800 KRW ITX-Saemaul (mid-range) train = 42,600 KRW Mugunghwa (low-cost) train = 28,600 KRW

Seoul to Daejeon: KTX (high-speed) train = 23,700 KRW ITX-Saemaul (mid-range) train = 16,000 KRW Mugunghwa (low-cost) train = 10,800 KRW

Seoul to Suwon: KTX (high-speed) train = 8,400 KRW ITX-Saemaul (mid-range) train = 4,800 KRW Mugunghwa (low-cost) train = 2,700 KRW

Joel’s Tip: The cheap trains can take a longer time to get to places. For tourists, I’d recommend taking the KTX, even though it’s more expensive. Time is precious when you’re on holiday and you don’t want to waste it travelling. That being said, the ITX-Saemaul can be almost as fast as the KTX and also considerably cheaper.

Intercity Buses In Korea

There are two types of buses that will comfortably shuttle you across Korea. These are the Gosok  ( 고속 , Express) and  Sioe  ( 시외 , Intercity) buses. Together these bus networks cover almost anywhere you’d want to visit in Korea and the prices are really good.

Buses are clean, spacious, and the premium buses (extra cost) have large reclining seats that you can easily nap on. Korea is a small country though, so you won’t be taking too many long journeys.

You can book tickets for the various buses in the website below. There’s also an app you can download to book tickets on the go (only in Korean).

Read more: Express Bus Website (Korean / English)

To show you the cost to travel in Korea by bus, here are examples of ticket costs for one-way travel between Seoul and some other select cities:

Seoul to Busan : Premium (luxury) bus = 39,800 KRW Excellent (mid-range) bus = 36,000 KRW Economy (low-cost) bus = 24,200 KRW

Seoul to Gangneung: Premium (luxury) bus = 23,700 KRW Excellent (mid-range) bus = 21,500 KRW Economy (low-cost) bus = 14,600 KRW

Seoul to Gyeongju: Premium (luxury) bus = 33,700 KRW Excellent (mid-range) bus = 30,500 KRW Economy (low-cost) bus = 20,600 KRW

Joel’s Tip: There are also late night buses which will cost a little bit extra (about 3,000 KRW). These are a great way to save on a night’s accommodation when moving between cities.

4.3: Flight Costs Inside Korea

If you want to get to Jeju Island , the best way is to fly. There are many low-cost airlines in Korea that will fly there cheaply from Korea’s other major cities, such as Seoul (Gimpo Airport) and Busan.

Korea’s low-cost airlines are Air Busan , T-Way , Jeju Air , Jin Air , and Easter Jet . Flights from Seoul to Jeju Island can vary a lot depending on the season, but the lowest price I’ve seen them is around 20,000 KRW one way. However, expect to pay an average of 50,000 KRW, especially if you’re booking last minute.

You can check flight prices on websites such as Trip.com or JetRadar . This is a really easy and convenient way to get to Jeju Island.

The only other option is to take a ferry from Mokpo to Jeju Island . which runs 14 times per week and costs about 26,000 KRW per person (foot passenger) one way. If you have rented a car, this is the only way to take it to Jeju Island. The ferry takes 4.5 hours.

5: Other Costs To Travel In Korea

These next few sections offer some further advice about how much you can expect to spend when planning your dream trip to Korea.

5.1: Souvenirs & Shopping Expenses In Korea

For some people, shopping is one of the main reasons for visiting Korea. Seoul’s markets and shopping malls are packed full of bargains, while designer stores and boutiques offer a wide range of exclusive items that can’t be found elsewhere.

Here are some of the most common souvenirs you’ll find in Korea, and how much you can expect to pay for them:

• Korean cosmetics – 5,000+ KRW
• Korean facemasks – 1,000+ KRW
• Korean tea – 10,000+ KRW
• Magnets – 3,000 KRW
• Chopsticks – 2,000 KRW
• Bookmarks – 2,000 KRW
• Korean snacks – 1,000+ KRW
• Socks – 1,000 KRW per pair
• Traditional Crafts – 5,000+ KRW
• Tea Set – 10,000+ KRW

Again, it’s very hard to set an actual price for these items as they differ in size, quantity, quality, and authenticity. You might pay 10,000 KRW for some basic Jeju green tea, or you might pay 100,000 KRW for a more exclusive gift-set version.

Whatever you plan on buying, remember to add extra to your Korean travel budget for shopping and souvenirs .

Bargain hunters looking for the best bargains should definitely check out the awesome traditional markets in Korea . They have authentic items, such as hanbok , arts, crafts, souvenirs, and traditional foods, as well as many modern items.

Most cities in Korea will have at least one traditional market, while Seoul and Busan have a wide range that offer more specialised products. To find the best ones for you, check out my guide to traditional markets below:

Read more: The 10 Best Traditional Markets In Korea

Other great places to buy souvenirs and go shopping include the various shopping malls , which range from busy malls exploding with discounts, to more refined department stores with only the finest goods. Here are some of the best ones you’ll find in Seoul:

• Starfield Mal , Gangnam (COEX)
• Goto Mall , Gangnam (Bus Terminal)
• Shinsegae Department Store , Myeongdong / Gangnam
• i-Park by Shilla , Yongsan
• Lotte World Tower , Jamsil
• Lotte Young , Myeongdong
• Times Square , Yeongdeungpo
• Insdaong Art Street (various places), Insadong

You might not plan to buy a suitcase’s worth of goods, but sometimes you can’t help it. Especially once you start trying Korea’s great snacks and see the colourful souvenirs on sale. I often see pics of people buying additional luggage to pack them full of snacks and goodies from Korea!

Joel’s Tip: If you’re curious about what sort of snacks you can get from Korea, then check out Korean Snack Box – they’ll ship them directly to you so you can sample them without having to go to Korea! Get a taste for Korea right now!

5.2: Internet & Mobile Phones Costs In Korea

I’ve not included the cost for Internet access and mobile phone sims in the daily Korean travel budget figures because not everyone will get a tourist sim card or Internet service in Korea.

Korea has great free WiFi access in places like Incheon Airport, in public transport across Seoul and other cities, and in lots of public places. You can usually find free WiFi in cafes and restaurants throughout the country.

Seoul declared it will provide free WiFi across most of the city by 2022 and has spent a lot of money to make sure that happens. Travelling and using your connected devices is safe and easy in Korea.

That being said, I know that most people want to have a secure connection to the online world wherever they go. I’m no exception. If you do want to get a mobile sim card or WiFi egg, then you can pick these up at Incheon Airport or order them online from various agencies.

Sim Card Costs

You can buy sim cards from all major phone companies in Korea – KT Olleh / LG / SK Telecom – and they offer various data packages, including unlimited deals. Packages typically last 1 / 5 / 10 / 30 days and there are a lot of options to suit your needs and budgets. You can find a great offer in the link below:

Read more: Prepaid Sim Cards From Klook

Example Prices For Unlimited Data Sim Card:

Here are some costs for sim cards in Korea. You can probably find cheaper, but remember that this is for unlimited service and there are no extra fees.

1 day – 5,900 KRW

5 days – 24,800 KRW (4,960 KRW per day)

10 days – 34,700 KRW ( 3,470 KRW per day)

30 days – 64,400 KRW ( 2,145 KRW per day)

Portable WiFi Costs

A WiFi egg or portable WiFi device is a great way to keep multiple devices connected without needing to insert a sim card. You can pick these up across Korea and pay for the time or data that you use.

Read more: Portable WiFi From Klook

Prices for portable WiFi with unlimited data start at 3,300 KRW per day , but can rise to about 10,000 KRW for plans that include power packs and other features.

For lower data needs, you can pick up a 1gb portable WiFi pack for 2,400 KRW per day.

Whatever option you choose, Korea has one of the best Internet services in the world and you will get a great online experience.

5.3: Flight Costs To Korea

The cost to travel to Korea is probably one of the biggest expenses you’ll face when planning your Korean travel budget. Of course, I can’t tell you a single amount for any flight to Korea as there are so many variable factors including where and when you’re flying from.

Instead, here’s some great sites where you can compare flight costs. These will help you to find the best flight to Korea for you. It’s worth spending some time checking flight times and airlines to get the best deals possible.

JetRadar / Trip.com / Expedia

Korea has two major airlines that offer direct flights to the country from around the world, These are:

Korean Airlines / Asiana Airlines

There are also 5 Korean budget airlines that might offer amazing flight prices to Korea, especially if you’re travelling from East or South East Asia. These are:

Jeju Air / T-Way / Air Busan / Jin Air / Eastar Jet

Joel’s Tip: Incheon Airport is Korea’s main airport and has lots of great facilities. If you have to travel there at an inconvenient time, it shouldn’t be a problem. There is a spa, sauna, cinema, loads of great restaurants, cafes, and bars, hotels, rest areas, and lots more. Check out my guides for Incheon Airport to learn more about this highly accessible and entertaining airport.

Check out this guide to flying to Korea to discover where to get cheap flights to Korea, how to find the best flights, how to fly direct to Korea, and lots more awesome tips for flying to Korea.

Read more: What To Do In Incheon Airport How To Get From Incheon Airport To Seoul

5.4: Visa Costs For Korea

Korea is a popular tourist destination for many travellers around the world and many countries have a visa waiver agreement in place. This allows tourists to travel in Korea for 30 / 60 / 90 / 180 days when they arrive. If you’re from one of these countries (see pic below), then you won’t have any visa costs for Korea.

Unfortunately, there are no visa waiver agreements in some countries, including Vietnam, Indonesia, China, India, and The Philippines. Therefore, there are likely to be increased travel costs for citizens from these countries. It’s worth checking out the cost to get a visa from your local Korean embassy and adding that to your Korean travel budget.

For travellers from The Philippines , it’s not possible to get a tourist visa from the Korean embassy due to high demand. Therefore, please check this page to see where you can get a Korean tourist visa from an agency.

If you’re unsure about whether or not you need a visa, or the visa cost to travel to Korea, then contact your local Korean embassy .

Read more: Visa Policy of South Korea

Please note: Due to the current global pandemic, the availability of visas may be restricted or changed. Please contact your local Korean embassy to confirm the current status.

5.5: Travel Insurance Costs

Korea is one of the safest countries I’ve ever been to and the risk of theft or assault are very low. That being said, there is always the chance that things can go wrong on holiday and it’s good to be prepared. Flights can be cancelled or delayed, luggage lost, things get broken, and you can even end up in hospital. Trust me, I’ve experienced most of these problems myself and they’re no fun!

Joel’s Tip: You can find lots of options for travel insurance and you should choose one that matches your country, activities, and costs. Personally, I buy travel insurance from World Nomads when I’m travelling. They provide great coverage and were one of the last to stop their travel insurance policies during the global pandemic. If you’re looking for good travel insurance, you can check them out in the link below:

Read more: World Nomads Travel Insurance

Cost To Travel In Korea FAQs

Finally, here’s a few FAQs about the cost to travel in Korea, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you.

Is food expensive in Korea?

No. Food is generally very reasonably priced in Korea. Meals can cost as little as 3,000 KRW ($3 USD) and even a large meal like a Korean BBQ can cost as little as 10,000 KRW ($10 USD) per person. There are many delicious street foods starting from 1,000 KRW that are a great way to snack between meals without spending lots. Foreign foods can cost more, however.

How much does it cost to travel in Korea

Around 75,000 KRW – 200,000 KRW per day should be sufficient for most travellers coming to Korea. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and activity costs. If you plan to do lots of expensive activities, day tours, or shopping, then be sure to add in extra budget to cover these costs. There are many free and cheap activities you can enjoy in Korea that will help you travel for less.

What is the cheapest time to travel in Korea?

March . March is one of the cheapest times to travel to Korea as it is between Seollal (Korean Lunar New year) in late January, early February, and the start of the cherry blossom season (late March, early April). November is also cheap as it is between peak autumn leaves season and Christmas / New Year.

How can I save money travelling to Korea?

Planning, budgeting, discount cards, and making use of free activities. Planning your trip to Korea and making a budget will let you work out how much you’ll need when you travel. Scheduling your daily travel plans for similar areas (e.g. Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong, and Gyeongbokgung Palace), cuts down on travel costs and avoids having to rent hanbok twice in one trip. Using discount cards like the Discover Seoul Pass, Korea Tour Card, or the T-Money Card will also cut costs a lot.

How much money do I need for 7 days in Korea?

The cost to travel in Korea for 7 days is typically around $1,000 USD . However, it can be higher depending on the accommodation you book. This figure also doesn’t include flights or visas. Budget travellers can spend a lot less, with daily costs as low as $50 per day ($350 per week), or even less.

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Here are some other great articles that you might want to read about travelling in Korea. Remember, if you have any questions about anything, please feel free to post a comment or join the  Korea Travel Advice Facebook Group .

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10 Days in South Korea: A Mini Travel Guide (2023)

This post may contain affiliate links. This just means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you for helping them promote their product or service. I don’t endorse any services I don’t personally use or recommend.

South Korea is a destination I’ve always been semi-interested in. It never topped my bucketlist, but it was also far from the bottom. My hesitation has always been my pension for remote undeveloped destinations rather than a modern metropolis. But I love Bangkok, Cairo, and Mumbai. So, why not add Seoul to my list?

We spent 10 days in South Korea and while that’s not nearly long enough to be any kind of expert on the country, it was long enough to gain some valuable insight and recommendations worth passing along. Here’s our mini travel guide for a quick trip to South Korea.

Our Mini Travel Guide to South Korea (10-Day Itinerary)

This is not a be-all-end-all list for the country. But it is a collection of my favorite destinations, food, and some helpful tips to make getting around the country a bit easier for first-timers.

Important Tips for Traveling in South Korea 

Fall is the perfect time to visit Korea. Specifically, early to mid-October when the hills are alight in gold, orange, and red leaves. Leaf-peeping here rivals Vermont. The entire countryside is covered in forested hills that change with the season. Add to that the mild temperatures and blue skies, and this is the best season to visit. 

I’ll divide the rest of the tips into two separate categories…tips for making travel easier and tips to make the rich culture of Korea more digestible.

Tips to Make Travel Easier 

1. make sure your flight arrives before 11 pm. .

Night flights into Seoul are rare but they do happen. I know because we were on one. Arriving late into Seoul, where the airport is an hour-long drive from the city center means you have to taxi rather than use the super easy and cheap metro. Taxis from the airport to the city cost around $55. 

2. Download KakaoMap

For whatever reason google maps and  maps.me  are basically useless in Korea. This map will save your skin though. The only downside is it’s not offline compatible (that I know of) so you’ll still need a Korean SIM card to use it for directions outside the hostel. We found things on Kakao and then plotted them on Maps.me so we could skip the SIM card.

3. Screenshot the front of the building so you can actually find it. 

Most of the time the name of restaurants will be in Korean, not English so it’s helpful to know what the place looks like rather than what it’s called. We were especially sure to do this with our accommodation.

4. You don’t NEED a T-Money card but it will save you time. 

A T-Money card is essentially a reloadable public transport card. You can use the disposable trip cards each metro use but since we used the metro several times per day in Seoul it seems like it makes the most sense to just get a card. Each metro ride is about 75 cents per person. Buses take cash as well as T-money cards. 

5. Watch out for Mondays.

Museums, restaurants, and shops are often closed on Monday. Think Sunday hours in the USA. 

6. Inter-city bus tickets can be bought the day of, but on the weekends should be purchased in advance. 

There are little kiosks with English menu options that should be able to help you secure tickets at each bus station. We bought all of ours on the day of travel with no problems. But during high season or weekends, you could have problems securing a seat day of on the more popular or less serviced routes.

7. “Express Buses” don’t actually get you there any faster.

Because roads are so well maintained in South Korea the “Intercity” buses and “Express” buses have little to no time difference between destinations. The big difference is in the type of bus. Express buses are a little more expensive, located in slightly less convenient areas, and a little nicer with larger seats and more recline. But the intercity buses are super comfy too.

The most important factor in deciding which you should use is where the respective bus stations are in relation to your accommodations. For us, we pretty much exclusively used the intercity buses because the terminals were all within walking distance from our accommodation.

Cultural Tips 

1. know the polite way to give and receive something. .

You should always receive things with two hands. You should always hand things to another person while using one hand and the other gently touching your elbow or forearm area. 

2. Korea isn’t super solo traveler friendly. 

This is arguable I suppose. Here’s the deal. There are a lot of dorms and it’s very easy to make friends in South Korea because there is a huge number of solo travelers. BUT a lot of Korean food is meant to be eaten in groups. To the extent that some restaurants won’t even let solo travelers be served certain meals (Korean BBQ for example). Portions in Korea are HUGE.

It’s also good to know that if a dish is 15-20,000 won you can expect it to be large enough to serve two hungry people. Meals in Korea are just meant to be shared and if you do eat solo you’ll end up spending more on food and having tons of leftovers. 

Our Suggested South Korea Itinerary 

This is how we filled our 10 days in Korea and how I would alter it if we could do it all again.

Seoul (4+ days) 

If I could spend more time in Seoul just to eat all the glorious food…I would have. But Seoul is rather expensive. We found two dorm beds for $13 each at a lovely hostel in Hongdae called Time Travelers Relax Guesthouse . Hongdae is a young “nightlife” neighborhood but the hostel was quiet and it’s well connected to the rest of the city by metro. 

There’s a lot to do and see if you like parks, exceptional food, history, and museums. It’s also a city extremely popular with expats and those doing a work exchange while going to school. Digital nomads as well. 

If you’re planning to go from Seoul to Sokcho by bus (you should, especially in the Fall) you should depart from DongSeoul Station . Not only is it easier to reach than the express bus terminal from Hongdae but it drops you off nearer the water (and likely your lodging) in Sokcho so you can walk. 

Sokcho (2 Days) 

It takes about 2.5 hours to reach Sokcho from Seoul. Take the bus from the Daegu station. It’s less popular with foreign tourists but it drops you at the intercity bus terminal in Sokcho which is closer (usually within walking distance) to most lodging. 

Sokcho itself is a big summer beach + seafood destination. The streets are lined with crab tanks and stands BBQing little Mackerel. The city is much larger than I expected and other than the central market and lovely coastline at sunset doesn’t have all that much to offer. The main appeal is Seoraksan National Park. 

Take bus 7 from town to the end of the line and pay the $3 entrance fee for some of the best hiking in South Korea. Be sure to arrive before 7:30 AM to beat the crowds. And avoid weekends in the peak Spring, Summer, and Fall months. 

If you only have time for one hike make sure it’s Ulsanbawi Rock. A 7-mile round trip uphill hike to an incredible viewpoint of Sokcho and the smooth boulders forming a ridge in the park. This one hike wiped us out and made us wish we had one more day in the park. So if you want to see it all and do the waterfall hikes or the walk through the valley to Geumganggul cave I would plan for one more day in the park. 

Hostel: I recommend James Blue Hostel . James was super helpful in planning our trip, offers free coffee and breakfast, lovely rooms, and was right near all the bus stops we needed. 

Jeonju (2 days) 

Getting here from Sokcho via bus is a half-day venture. It can take anywhere from 5-6 hours and only a few departures per day that don’t route you back through Seoul. Plan to head to the bus station early.

The capital of culture and food in South Korea. Specifically, Bibimbap. During fall the streets of Jeonju are covered in the golden wings of ginkgo leaves and brilliantly yellow ginkgo, some over 600 years old, rim the old town. Jeonju is also known for its numerous festivals and being home to South Korea’s largest traditional village with more than 600 Hanok homes decorating the city skyline.

Many travelers miss Jeonju unless they’re foodie focused. But eating is Korea’s main attraction and it is a very pretty city.

Busan (2 days) 

The bus from Jeonju to Busan is 4 hours and super easy. There are tons of buses leaving from both the intercity and express stations in Jeonju.

I hesitate to recommend two days in Busan. If you are going to cut one day out of your itinerary make it one from here. It’s not that I don’t like the city. I do. But as far as attractions and food go…the other destinations in Korea have more to offer. Busan is dirtier, more chaotic, seedier (not in a dangerous way), and I found the attractions a little more gimmicky. I feel like you could cram the beaches of Busan, Gamcheon Cultural Village, and food in Busan all into one day.

But judging by other travelers’ ravings about Busan, it appears that I’m in the minority.

There are plenty of other destinations you could add to your itinerary, popular ones include Jeju Island or the Gyeongju burial mounds. With limited time (and money) we decided to stick to just these 4 in the 10 days that we allotted for South Korea. This gives you a very well-rounded look at the country. 

Sights We Recommend  in South Korea

South Korea would be an amazing place to live. It’s no wonder so many digital nomads and English teachers spend a year or two getting to know the country. But not all of us have years to gallivant around the country. 

Here’s a look at a few things you should definitely do on a short trip. 

Best Sights in Seoul, South Korea

• Hike to Namsan Tower. The hike is only about 2.5 miles round trip and has great views of the city. We didn’t feel the need to go up into the tower because the views from the summit were impressive enough.
• Visit the War Memorial of Korea Museum. It’s free and a great way to learn about the history of the Korean Peninsula. 
• Gyeongbokgung Palace. This offers a great look at ancient architecture in Seoul. It’s photogenic and a nice way to spend a morning. You can also rent a traditional Hanbok for $6 and enter the palace for free. 
• Namdaemun Market. This outdoor market has everything. Tasty street food and all kinds of goods, it was one of my favorite places to visit in Seoul. Lunch is the best time to visit. 
• Gangnam. This is a popular wealthy neighborhood in Seoul that’s worth walking through late at night. 
• Enjoy the nightlife in Itaewon. This is a late-night club spot. If that’s you’re thing, you’ve got to check it out. 
• Traditional Hanok Village. Get here early to see a beautifully preserved traditional neighborhood and photograph the steep streets. 

We skipped the DMZ. At $60 per person, DMZ tours are pretty expensive and it’s not like you get to set foot in North Korea. If you’re super interested in the current state of the demilitarized zone between the two countries the tour could be a good add-on to this list. I just felt like it wasn’t worth it to us. 

Attractions to see outside of Seoul

• Seoraksan National Park (Sokcho) . Ulsanbawi Peak is one of the more difficult trails but still doable in a long morning. I recommend getting to the park when it opens at 7 AM and starting this 7-mile hike right away.
• Igidae Coastal Walk (Busan). This is a lovely seaside walk to enjoy the pretty coastline of Busan.
• Gamcheon Cultural Village (Busan). This is a pretty touristy spot. But it’s worth an early morning visit to beat all the people and see the colorful neighborhood from above.
• Jeonju Hanok Village. This is the largest in South Korea. There are plenty of viewpoints throughout the city to photograph the iconic rooftops.
• Jaman Mural Village (Jeonju). Near the Hanok village is a small neighborhood covered in cute Korean murals. There’s a really tasty deep-fried rice cake gimbap in there too.

Food We Recommend  in South Korea

Food is one of the main reasons to visit South Korea. I mean, the country is extraordinary, with excellent nature preserves and sprawling livable cities filled with parks. But the food is a major draw for travelers. Here are a handful of my favorites. 

You would have to spend more than a month in Seoul to hit all the best places. My 4-days were nowhere near enough. Normally, I wouldn’t even bother making food recs having been in the city so short of time. But thanks to Will Fly For Food and several other blogs I was able to compile a list of the best of the best. 

Don’t forget to look up all these places on KakaoMap because Google Maps work so poorly in Korea.

Some Must Eats in South Korea

• Hyodo Chicken. (Seoul)  Hands down the best friend chicken in the world. I mean it. I don’t care where you are staying — make the journey to it and get the original + soy-soaked bone-in. This place is owned by two Michelin chefs but costs the same as any other classic chicken and beer joint in Korea. 
• Woo Lae Oak.   (Seoul) Korean BBQ, the best kimchi I had in the country, and the must-eat dish — Pyongyang North Korean Noodles. Made from buckwheat and in a cold broth. 
• Sokcho Seolong. (Sokcho) Stepping outside of Seoul, this Hawaiian/Japanese fusion is incredible. Get the Tonkatsu. 
• Dok Galbi. (Seoul) The name of the restaurant is in Korean so just put (37.555987, 126.925378) into your GPS and that should find it. Massive portions and best served with an order of udon scrambled into it. 
• Gyeongdong Market. (Seoul) This is THE street food market in Seoul. Many of the dishes are Michelin-starred or featured on various Netflix shows (like Street Food). You have to get Kimchi dumplings, potato pancakes, and hand-cut noodle soup. Come for lunch rather than dinner and be sure to pick the place with the longest line. 
• Grandma Yus Bibimbap. (Seoul) The best in Seoul. Jeonju is renowned for its bibimbap through.
• Yeontabal Korean BBQ. (Seoul) If you need the best Korean BBQ in the country. 
• Sooni’s Store. (Seoul) I recommend the Kimchi stew if you can handle the spice or a delicious rice cake and cheese ramen. 
• Manjok Ohyang Jokbal. (Seoul) Pig trotters and pork belly. 
• The Best Bibimbap (Jeonju). Okay, again the restaurant is in Korean so you’ll have to make do with the GPS coordinates and look for the big line outside. Coordinates: 35.817573, 127.1458
• Veteran Noodle (Jeonju). This locally famous shop serves kalguksu noodle soup and dumplings with heated floor seating.
• Dongducheon Budae Jjigae (Busan) . If you haven’t found a good army soup yet (spicy stew with Spam, hotdog, ramen, tofu, and other American-style canned non-perishables) this is your chance. I promise it’s far better tasting than it sounds.
• Daily Beer Nampo (Busan) . It’s always good to have another chicken and beer joint on hand in South Korea. This one serves its signature beer from a Pyrex glass and has above-average chicken.

Skip Tosokchon Samgyetang Chicken Soup. This place is touted as “the best soup in Korea” but honestly, we found it quite bland and not even close to our favorite meal in South Korea. It’s right in the heart of the tourist district, the line can be over an hour long, and it costs nearly $14 for a single soup. Maybe it’s because we ordered the soup to-go (because we weren’t about to wait in the lunch rush line) but we weren’t impressed. I get it’s an indigenous recipe with ginseng and jujube* but I would say not worth the wait.  

Street food is actually very common in Korea. But it’s all mostly the same. Tteokbokki rice cakes, steeped fish cakes, meat sticks, walnut puffs, and egg/cheese bread. It’s also not that cheap. I found that most items were at least $1 per piece.

Budget for 10 days in South Korea

Here’s exactly how much we spent in South Korea for two travelers over the course of 10 days.

Daily Accommodation Cost: $26

Daily Food Cost: $37

Total Spent on Transport: $150 + $55 Airport taxi

Amount Spent on activities in South Korea: $11

Total Spent in South Korea: $899.08

Total Spent Per Person Per Day in South Korea: $44.95

Considering we try to stick to a budget of $50 per day for the two of us ($25 pp per day) this is an expensive country for us. We found it difficult to save money when the bulk of our expenses was on food that we wanted to try. Korean food culture is very unique and we didn’t want to miss out on that experience. But unlike Japan where you can just share one single dish to save money–Korean cuisine is typically charged per person with a min of two people eating the same dish. This meant we had to eat out for every meal to try it all and spend way more than we wanted to.

How to Save Money in South Korea 

We visited South Korea and Japan back to back. While some things in Japan were definitely more expensive (transportation, mostly) I found South Korea, surprisingly, to be equally if not more expensive day-to-day as Japan. Here are a few ways to make South Korea a little more affordable.

1. Participate in a work exchange. 

This is super popular in South Korea and usually consists of spending 1-4 hours per day helping at your hostel in exchange for free accommodation. You can ask around upon arrival if any hostels are looking for volunteers.

2. Street food or 7/11. 

This is the cheapest way to eat in the country. Hot food in Asian 7/11’s is actually quite good. And super affordable. I recommend the bao buns, hot ramen, and all the grape-flavored gummy snacks.

3. Try lunchtime at fancier restaurants. 

This can be a great way to try smaller dishes or specials at lower prices than the set dinner menus. 

4. Go out in groups. 

Certain meals should be eaten in groups. Korean BBQ for one. This is one of the meals most restaurants won’t even serve to a single traveler. Although some places charge per person, it’s often a little cheaper to dine with more people and share. 

I really enjoyed my time in Korea. I felt like the 10 days we spent in the country was the perfect amount of time to get to know the culture on a really basic level and enjoy the best attractions, food, and destinations. South Korea is going to unseat any of my favorite countries to visit any time soon, but those who really love efficient and clean cities might feel differently.

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Is korea expensive south korea trip budget.

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Before my trip, I was wondering is Korea expensive? and I have to say the answer is yes… but it depends where you’re comparing it to. In this guide, I’ll share my Korea trip budget as well as my South Korea budget tips and tricks. Before my 2 weeks in Korea , I’d heard it was an expensive place to travel. I was expecting high prices and for that reason, it wasn’t sas bad as I’d anticipated. Maybe if I’d expected Southeast Asia costs, I’d have been horrified. Hopefully, by the end of this guide, you should have a good idea of what to budget for a Korea trip.

KOREA ESSENTIALS Accommodation: Booking.com /  Hostelworld Activities:  Viator / GetYourGuide Getting there: air ( Skyscanner )   Getting around: Train ( Trip.com ) / bus Pre-book private airport to hotel transfer Travel insurance:   True Traveller  (European travellers) /   Hey Mundo  (other nationalities) /   Safety Wing  (digital nomads)

Is South Korea expensive?

Without doubt, South Korea is expensive to visit when accommodation is concerned. Food and transport aren’t dirt cheap but also aren’t bank-breaking. Your South Korea trip budget will be increased if you eat in upmarket areas of Seoul like Hongdae. With a little effort and my South Korea budget tips, you can find ways to travel affordably.

Read next: 30 South Korea travel tips

Korea budget travel compared to other Asian countries

If you’re used to travelling in Southeast Asia, the cost of Korea travel will hit hard. Calculate your Korea trip budget by doubling what you’d take to Thailand, Vietnam or Indonesia. It’s well over double the cost of travel in India ! Travelling in Korea is also double the cost of travelling in Taiwan , despite the two islands being so close together. The cost of travelling in Japan is similar to South Korea although, having been to both, I consider Japan slightly more expensive. If you’ve been to Japan before, consider a similar Korea travel budget.

Korea travel budget overview

So let’s get down to the nitty-gritty, how much did I spend during 3 weeks in South Korea?

My South Korea trip budget for 3 weeks was 1,300,000 KRW (£860 / $1,100). Korea budget travel is possible at 60,000 KRW (£41 / $51) per day.

This figure is based on a budget travel style of staying in dorms, eating cheaply where possible, and doing activities independently rather taking day tours. You’ll need to add to this figure if you plan to eat in restaurants each night and stay in hotels.

Note – this total doesn’t include return flights to Jeju Island from Seoul, a day tour to the DMZ and two day tours on Jeju Island which were hosted thanks to this blog.

Things that make Korea affordable

1. There are hostels everywhere. If you want to keep your Korea budget down, you can usually find dorms even in smaller cities. 2. There’s lots of street food in Seoul . Despite the high prices of the city, eating cheaply is something you don’t have to worry about. 3. Efficient public transport. Seoul has one of the most efficient subways in Asia with over 23 lines. There are also underground train networks in Incheon, Busan, Daegu, Gwangju and Daejeon. You never need to pay for taxis.

Things that make Korea expensive

1. In cities outside of Seoul, there wasn’t as much street food as I’d expected. Markets were more like wet markets selling fresh produce rather than ready-to-eat street food. 2. Some meals are more expensive for solo travellers. At Korean barbecue restaurants, they’ll only seat tables of two or more, although luckily you can find places that charge a solo surcharge. For that reason, dining out can be expensive unless you’re travelling with another person. Learn more about travelling solo in South Korea with my blog post. 3. Visiting the DMZ is impossible without paying for a DMZ tour . On Jeju Island, the public transport is limited so hiring a car or taking day tours will increase your Korea budget.

Next, let’s break down your Korea budget by category …

Cost of a South Korea visa

This varies depending on what passport you’re travelling with. UK citizens can enter South Korea for 90 days visa-free.

South Korea budget travel – accommodation

So we can fully answer the question, is Korea expensive?, let’s start with accommodation as this will be your greatest expense. The average price of a hostel bed per night: 22,000 KRW (£15 / $19). The average price of a private room in a hostel per night: 32,000 KRW (£22 / $30) Hotels in South Korea start at 45,000 KRW per night (£30 / $40) a night and like anywhere, go up into the hundreds.

Best hostels in South Korea

If you’re taking a South Korea budget trip, you’ll probably want to stay in hostels. These were some of my favourites… Bunk Guesthouse, Hongdae, Seoul – This is one of my favourite hostels I’ve ever stayed in. The friendly owner, Brian, learns every guest’s name and offers helpful recommendations and group Korean bbq and soju nights. There are small dorm rooms with private kitchens and lounge rooms, right in the middle of the coolest neighbourhood in Korea. Check availability for 22,000 KRW (£15 / $19) per night . Blue Backpackers, Seomyeon, Busan – I enjoyed my stay in this friendly, family-run hostel which is located down a peaceful side street in the coolest area of Busan which has lots of shops, street food, markets and restaurants. Check availability from 17,000 KRW (£12 / $16) . Rainbow Inn, Jeju Island – this hostel in Jeju City was a good base for exploring the island. It was pretty swish with a comfy lounge area, private bunks with their own curtains and chargers and a delicious buffet breakfast. Check availability . Santa Guesthouse – in Korea’s ancient capital, Gyeongju, this guesthouse is pretty basic but definitely the best place to meet other backpackers. The friendly owner offers lots of local tips. Check availability for 15,000 KRW (£10 / $13) .

I use Hostelworld to browse hostels and find the best-priced accommodation.

South Korea budget travel – transport

You can get around fairly cheaply in South Korea providing you don’t take the fast train. Here’s a breakdown of transport prices in Korea:

Korea budgets for getting between cities

Slow train: I was pleased with the low cost of transport as my first couple of journeys cost just 5,000 won each (£3.30 / $4). This included a ride from Gyeongju to Daegu on the slow train which took just under 2 hours.

Fast train: Increase your Korea trip budget to take the fast train. I paid 30,000 won (£20 / $30) from Jeonju to Seoul on the fast train. I could have travelled cheaper on a slow train or bus but wanted to meet friends for lunch so had an ah, screw it moment. It took less than 2 hours to travel 200km and included snacks.

Bus: There’s also an efficient bus network running around South Korea. I took two: one from Busan to Gyeongju (5,000 KRW) and one from Daegu to Jeonju (10,000 KRW). These are similar in price to the slow train so I weighed up the prices for individual journeys and took whichever was cheaper.

Booking tip – you can usually just show up at the station and get a ticket. But to secure a seat on trains , use Trip.com , partner of Korail (the official railway network of Korea). The website accepts international payment options, unlike Korean rail websites. Click the three stripes in the top right corner then the flag to change it to English.

To summarise, shorter journeys of a few hours are affordable in South Korea whereas longer journeys on fast trains are more expensive. If you have enough time when it comes to these longer journeys, taking a bus will cost half the price of a fast train.

Korea budget for travelling around cities

Getting around Korean cities is affordable and straightforward although it’s worth noting Google Maps doesn’t work properly anywhere in South Korea. It’s best to use a Korean app like Naver instead. Over all, in terms of public transport and affordability, South Korea is great for budget travellers. The only places without efficient public transport networks are those small enough to explore on foot. The main ways to get around include:

Metropolitan Subway: In cities like Seoul and Busan, you can travel around affordably via underground train. Tickets operate on a tier system and cost 1,250 KRW for journeys of 10km or less (teenagers 720 / children 450). Faires go up 100 won for every addition 5 km travelled. Purchase a ticket by selecting your destination on touch screen machines.

Bus: In Seoul, buses cost either 1,000 or 1,300 won depending on the colour of the bus. When you board, there will be a metal bucket next to the driver specifying the amount. Pay in coins or notes but don’t expect any change. Unlike the subway with its clear map and colour-coded lines, buses can feel confusing but I’d encourage you to hop on them. They’re efficient and a great way to see the city as you move about. The schedules are listed on Google Maps.

South Korea budget travel tip – pick up a Korea Tour Card, cashbee or Tmoney card. These save you 100 won per journey. You pay a 4,000 won deposit (of which 3,500 is refundable) and top up via subway station machines. Queuing to buy individual tickets is time-consuming so it’s really convenient to tap in and out quickly as you travel. You can use them on buses, too.

Korea travel budget – flights

Major airports in Seoul and Busan are well-connected globally. From London – flights begin at £500 return. These take 11 hours. From Australia – flights begin at $100 (AUD). They take 15 hours. From the US – return flights begin at $600. They take 15 hours. If you’re visiting Korea from elsewhere in Asia, you can get affordable tickets with various Asian airlines. I flew from Taipei (Taiwan) to Busan for $100 and departed Seoul for Hanoi (Vietnam) for $150. Use Skyscanner to browse deals on flights.

Cost of getting to & from the airport

I’ve been including this section in my blogs since my Cuba budget was blown by spending $50 getting to and from the airport in Havana! In comparison, getting to and from the airport won’t blow your Korea travel budget. Gimhae Airport to Busan : This costs 2,800-3,300 KRW (depending where you’re staying) on Line 2 Metro, or 6,000 KRW on a bus. Incheon Airport to Seoul : It costs 8,000 KRW to get from Incheon to Seoul on the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) which runs until 9.45pm or 9,000 KWR on the bus. A taxi costs around 45,000 KRW so avoid this if travelling Korea on a budget.

South Korea travel budget – food & drink

My favourite topic – Korean food ! The cost of this varies a lot in South Korea. I found restaurants to be much more expensive in Seoul which isn’t surprising given that capital cities are often more expensive. Street food prices: You can eat street food for as little as 2,000 KRW (£1 / $1.50) which is ideal if you want to keep your Korea budget low. I can’t promise you’ll have the most nutritious diet but it’ll still be tasty. Cheap street food dishes to look out for include tteokbokki (sticky rice cubes in a hot chilli sauce), gimbap (sticky rice rolled in seaweed with fillings like ham and kimchi), tempura and Korean pancakes made with leek, kimchi or seafood. Restaurant prices: In modest local restaurants you can eat sit-down dinners like bibimbap for as little as 5,000 KRW. This dish usually includes a few veggies so it was my go-to when I wanted to eat cheap while still getting some nutrients. If you want a wider variety of dishes at better quality restaurants, dishes go up to 20,000 KRW. For another affordable option, seek out Japanese restaurants where you order at the screen then grab a table until the chefs call out your number. Not only is this an informal and affordable way to dine with dishes for 5,000 KRW, but Japanese food is delicious and doesn’t carry the same guilt as eating pizza in Asia.

Stylish restaurants in Seoul: I can’t tell you anything about fine dining or Michelin star restaurants but I can tell you about quirky cafes and modern eateries. I was surprised by the cost of these. Dishes popular with young people like fried chicken is served with beer at Chimeak restaurants for as much as 20,000 KRW. If you’re travelling Korea on a budget, I would suggest escaping hip neighbourhoods like Hongdae unless you’re eating street food!

Tipping in South Korea

Something that will reduce your South Korea dining budget is the fact that tipping isn’t customary. It’s just not part of the culture in the same way it is in the US or Europe. Even if it feels rude by your standards, don’t sweat it – no one in Korea will think you’re being rude.

South Korea trip budget – SIMs and data

SIM cards nearly blew my South Korea travel budget! I assumed they’d be affordable like elsewhere in Asia but on my first day, locals told me the only place I could get one was the airport… where I’d just been. Ahh. This is because SIMs aren’t really available for foreigners unless they have a residency card. I ended up not getting one as I couldn’t afford it. If you really want a SIM, you’re best off getting a tourist one at a major airport.

Click here get a tourist SIM (4g) to collect at Seoul airport .

A cheaper option is to rent a portable pocket Wi-Fi (also from the airport) which you rent and return at the end of your trip.

Rent a pocket Wi-Fi device to collect at Seoul airport .

Cost of South Korea travel – tours & trips

Is South Korea expensive when it comes to tours? It depends. Many half-day tours start from $30 but can go up to $200 for bucket list experiences in South Korea including transport and food. There are plenty of day tours on offer in South Korea but it’s easy to go without them. I took a day tour to the DMZ which was essential because you can’t visit unless you’re in an organised tour group. Other than that, I travelled independently to keep the cost of travel in South Korea down.

South Korea travel budget – Jeju Island

I found the cost of travel on Jeju Island more than the cost of travelling South Korea generally. Firstly, you’ll have to budget for flights which cost around $50 return and secondly, getting around on Jeju is tricky as public transport is limited. Hiring a car on Jeju Island costs around $40 a day, which is indeed cheaper than taking day tours. As I don’t drive and was travelling solo, I took a couple of day tours for $90 (100,000 KRW) a day.

Read next: How to visit Jeju Island without a car

Bottom line – if you want to visit Jeju Island, consider increasing your Korea budget!

South Korea budget tips

1. Use Wi-Fi rather than a SIM card. There are public hotspots everywhere in South Korea. 2. Find hostels with kitchens! These are much more common than in other places in Asia. 3. Seek out local produce markets. Here you can pick up sweet potatoes and other healthy veggies for your meals. You can’t find much fresh stuff in convenience stores like the 7-Eleven unless you want a lone banana swapped in styrofoam. 4. Although they don’t sell much healthy food, don’t overlook the 7Eleven for Korea budget eats. Gimbap rolls are only 2,000 KRW; two make a decent lunch. You can even buy lunchboxes and ready meals. I can’t promise they’re healthy but I can promise they’re cheap!

Best places to travel on a South Korea budget trip

There’s one place I’d say not to visit on a Korea budget trip which is Jeju Island. Better options include: Daegu – this was one of the cheapest places I visited in South Korea, partly because I filled up on free pastries at Schumann and Clara cafe (they’re unlimited when you buy a coffee!). There are a few free hikes around Daegu including to Apsan Observatory in Apsan Park and Gatbawi Rock at Mount Palgong. Both these can be reached cheaply by local bus.

Gyeongju – this city on the east coast of South Korea is walkable so you never need to pay for taxis. As the historical capital, there are plenty of palaces and tombs, few costing more than 5,000 KRW to enter. You can also take a cheap bus ride to Buddhist temple, Bulguksa, and hike to the giant stone Buddha at Golgulsa Temple. Overall, it’s a great destination to keep your Korea travel budget low. Seoul – even though Seoul is an expensive city, there are lots of free things to do during a South Korea budget trip. If you’re visiting Seoul on a budget , you can visit many various museums and eat cheap street food at the many markets. 

Free things to do in Seoul on a budget

• Visit museums like the National Folk Museum of Korea and Seoul Museum of Art
• Wander around the colourful murals at Ihwa Mural Village
• Go hiking in Bukhansan National Park
• Wander around Bukchon Hanok Village
• Hang out by the Han River
• Walk along Cheonggyecheon Stream
• Hike along the 19km city wall
• Tour ancient Bongeunsa Temple (pictured below).

Free things to do in Busan on a budget

• Hang out on Haeundae Beach and check if you’re visiting for a free festival like the Sandcastle Festival
• Explore colourful houses, murals and outdoor art exhibitions at Gamcheon Culture Village
• Take a cheap bus to Yonggungsa Temple by the bus
• Hike along Igidae Coastal Walk.

Mini Korea budget itinerary

Days 1-5: Seoul. While spending 5 days in Seou l , I would suggest a day visiting the DMZ, a second day visiting Bukchon Hanok Village and hiking in Bukhansen National Park, a third day at Iowa Mural Village and Gwangjang Market, a fourth day exploring cool neighbourhoods like Gangnam and Hongdae, and a final culture day exploring the museums and galleries. Days 6-7: Visit Sokcho and spend a couple of days hiking in Seoraksan National Park OR visit Jeonju and explore its picturesque Hanok Village.

Days 8-10: During 3 days in Busan , you can visit Gamcheon Culture Village, relax on Haeundae Beach, explore Nampo neighbourhood, hike along Igidae Coastal Walk or within Taejongdae Park and finally, unwind at a Korean jjimjilbang (nude hot pool area) such as Spa Land in Shinsegae Centum City. You can also take a few fun day trips from Busan . A specific Korea budget tip for Spa Land – visit after 8pm or before 9am on weekdays for discounted tickets. Visiting on a weekday is cheaper than a weekend generally; you’ll pay 15,000 KRW rather than 18,000 KRW.

Essentials for a budget Korea trip

• Copy of Lonely Planet Korea .
• A Korean phrasebook & dictionary .
• A handy bumbag to keep your belongings secure.
• Reusable coffee cup (collapsable) for hot takeaway drinks.
• A reusable water bottle that you can fill up with filtered water (your accommodation will have this).
• Alternatively, a filtering water bottle that allows you to safely drink tap water.
• Metal straw and cloth bag set to reduce the use of plastic straws.
• Travel luggage – I use I recommend the Osprey Farpoint ( men’s ) ( women’s ).
• A camera – I use the Sony DSC-HX350 Digital Compact Bridge Camera which I think is one of the most affordable options based on the zoom and quality of photos.
• A GoPro if you’re into making videos – I use the HERO8 Black .
• Solo travel pick: a tripod or mini GorillaPod to get yourself in the shot – I use the Manfrotto tripod and Joby GorillaPod .

Thanks for reading my South Korea budget guide!

I hope I’ve answered your questions and got you excited about your South Korea budget trip 🙂 Ask me any questions in the comments.

Follow for more Korea content on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Check out my other South Korea blogs:

• Ultimate 2 week South Korea itinerary
• Solo travel in Korea
• 30 Korea travel tips
• South Korea bucket list
• South Korea food guide & best foods to try
• Ultimate Seoul itinerary
• Seoul street food guide
• Jeonju travel guide
• Best things to do in Busan
• Day trips from Busan
• Visiting Jeju Island without a car
• Tips for visiting the DMZ from Seoul

See you next time for more adventures,

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Ps. Liked South Korea budget guide? Pin it for later!

VISITING SOUTH KOREA? These are my trusted resources: Getting around by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Buses – buses are comfy and efficient. It’s tricky for foreigners to book online so it’s best to turn up on the day. Trains – use Trip.com , partner of Korail (the official railway network of Korea) to book your trains in advance. The website accepts international payment options, unlike Korean rail websites. Click the three stripes in the top right corner then the flag to change it to English. Driving in Korea – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals. Hiring a car will be especially useful on Jeju Island. For hotels in Korea, I use Booking.com – they also have self-catering apartments. You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse South Korea tours and activities on GetYourGuide . I also check Viator and Klook in case they have a better price. For food tours with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

2 thoughts on “ Is Korea Expensive? South Korea Trip Budget ”

What a great article! We’re currently dreaming of going to South Korea again – we’ve been there before and we love, love love it! Here’s to a year with loads of travel plans and new experiences!

+ thank you for running this blog, found some great travel tips through you. May good karma come your way 🙂

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KOREA ON A BUDGET: Seoul Travel Guide & Itinerary

Some countries change your life even before you set foot in it.

One lazy day at the university, I was chillin’ with friends at the lobby of our college building when the College Secretary approached us. “I’m looking for volunteers,” she said. Apparently, exchange students from Korea had arrived way earlier than expected. She needed people who could tour them around the campus while they were preparing whatever it was they were preparing. Bored af, I was first to raise a hand.

Many of these exchange students became good friends of mine. They were my first foreign friends.

At the time, my brother was coincidentally working at a factory near Seoul. The computer that I relied on in college was a product of his hard work there. ( Katas ng Korea , sabi nga nila.) This also means that every now and then, we would receive a package bursting with Korean products, which would then fill our living room racks and kitchen drawers.

After graduation, my first job was with a Korean company that brought Korean students to the Philippines to learn English. So yes, my first boss, the first person who believed in my skills as a worker, was Korean.

South Korea had already changed my life way before I set foot in it. So when I finally did, it felt wonderful. It felt like I was giving thanks. But yeah, the whole time, I was grateful.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Understanding Seoul

The political and economic center of South Korea, Seoul is home to almost 12 million residents. The larger Seoul Capital Area (Sudogwon), which includes neighboring Incheon and Gyeonggi-do, houses 25.6 million people (half of the country’s population), making it the fourth largest metropolitan area in the world, after Tokyo, Shanghai, and Jakarta.

Like most capital cities in East Asia, Seoul is pulsating with curiosities. Think of it as a younger but more tamed Tokyo. Everywhere you go, there’s always something interesting to find even in a random neighborhood. A regular cafe (often located next to another cafe across another cafe) displays how many calories are in your order for the benefit of the weight health-conscious in you. If you’re feeling a bit offbeat, walk into a cat cafe to indulge the animal-lover in you or a toilet-themed one to satiate your appetite for humor. And that’s just the coffee shops!

Seoul is also known for its obsession to beauty, something that became apparent as soon as I passed by half-dozen cosmetic shops after only two minutes of walking. (I LOVE IT. Here, I could step into a cosmetic store without anyone giving me judging stares.) But their constant quest for physical perfection isn’t limited to beauty products. Almost everything here looks pretty! Street food looks gourmet, university grounds are tourist spots, and historical sites are well-preserved!

• Language : Korean. English is getting increasingly common. Most signs have English translations.
• Currency : South Korean Won (KRW, ₩). KRW 1000 is roughly USD 0.88, EUR 0.77, SGD 1.22, PHP 47.8 (as of October 2018).
• Modes of payment : Many establishments accept credit cards, but most still prefer cash.
• Electricity Info : 220 volts. Plugs have two round pins.

How to Get to Seoul

If you’re a Filipino citizen, you’ll need a visa. Here’s how to get a Korea visa .

Seoul is served by two airports: Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo International Airport (GMP). Gimpo is used primarily for domestic and a few international flights (mostly from China, Japan, and Taiwan). Incheon, on the other hand, is used by most international flights. It is the largest and the primary gateway to South Korea. Gimpo is much closer, just 30 minutes away from Central Seoul, while Incheon is roughly an hour away by train or 1.5 hours by bus.

If you’re coming from Southeast Asia, the cheapest flights to Incheon are offered by low-cost carriers. The lowest rates are often from Manila. AirAsia has the lowest year-round fares and they get even lower when there’s a promo. Here’s a quick search on SkyScanner.

Manila to Incheon (Seoul)

Kuala Lumpur to Incheon (Seoul)

Where to Stay in Seoul

Seoul has three major backpacking districts: Jongno, Myeongdong and Hongdae. Which is the best? Well, I hate answering with “It depends,” I would have to say “It depends.” Haha. All these areas are close to major tourist stops, so it will depend on which of these attractions you will visit. But here’s a quick summary.

• Myeongdong . Seoul’s main shopping district, dotted with boutiques and department stores. Close to Myeongdong Shopping Street and Namdaemun Market. If you love shopping, stay here. Check rates of Myeongdong hotels here.
• Hongdae-Sinchon . Seoul’s university belt. This place is driven by Seoul’s youth culture, nurturing a more romantic and underground atmosphere. Lots of creative and quirky shops and food places. Close to: Hongik University Street, Hongik Mural Street, and Ehwa Women’s University. If you’re a foodie, stay here. Check rates of Hongdae hotels here.
• Jongno . Seoul’s historic core. Its map is littered with shrines, temples, and other traditional sites. In fact, four of the city’s five grand palaces can be found in Jongno. It is also where the Bukchon Hanok Village, Gwangjang Market, and Insa-dong are located. If it’s your first time in Seoul, stay here . Check rates of Jongno hotels here.

I have experienced staying in all three districts, and I personally prefer Jongno . There’s just so much to see and explore within walking distance.

Where We Stayed in Seoul

Here are the hostels and a hotel that I have tried. You can read our reviews here: Where We Stayed in Seoul

• Namsan City Hotel Myeongdong . Check Rates .
• Hongdae Pencil Guesthouse . Check Rates .
• Fully Hong Hotel . Check Rates .

Top Budget Hotels Under $60 in Seoul

• Staz Hotel Myeongdong II . Check Rates Here
• Makers Hotel . Check rates or book here .
• HOTEL GS Jongno . Check rates or book here .
• Youngbin Hotel . Check Rates Here

Top Seoul Hostels

• YE4 Guesthouse . Check Rates .
• Gateway Korea Guesthouse . Check Rates .
• Brownie Guesthouse . Check Rates .
• Hostel HARU . Check Rates .

Search for more Seoul Hotels

How to get from incheon airport to seoul city center, incheon airport to seoul by train.

The Airport Railroad Express (AREX) connects Incheon Airport to Seoul city center. It has two types: EXPRESS and ALL STOP.

The fastest way to reach the city is by taking the AREX EXPRESS Train. But the cheapest way is to take the ALL STOP Train.

• AREX ALL STOP Train. The Cheapest Option. Will stop at all 12 stations before arriving at Seoul Station. It’s 15 minutes slower (travel time: 58 minutes), but costs only ₩4250.

Incheon Airport to Seoul by Bus

By bus, if your hotel is close to one of the many bus stops scattered throughout the city. I say it’s easiest because there is no need to switch trains. I personally prefer this method because I despise transferring to another train line when I have 20+++ kilos of baggage on my back. The good news is, the three main backpacking districts in Seoul have their own bus stops! Here are the buses you need to catch:

• JONGNO : Bus 6002 (at Gate 5B or 12A). Get off at Jongno 1, 2, 3,4,5, or 6, whichever is closest to your hostel/hotel. Last bus: 11:30pm. Fare: ₩10,000.
• HONGDAE : Bus 6002 (at Gate 5B or 12A). Get off at Hongik University Station. Last bus: 11:30pm. Fare: ₩10,000.
• MYEONGDONG : Bus 6015 (at Gate 5B or 11B). Get off at Myeongdong Station. Last bus: 10:50pm. Fare: ₩15,000.

If your hotel is closer to a subway station than the bus station, then take the train instead.

Pocket Wifi Rental and Data SIM in Seoul

South Korea has the fastest internet connection in the world! Most establishments like fast food restaurants and cafes offer FREE wifi, too.

But if you want to make sure you’re connected all the time, you can buy a 4G SIM Card or rent a Pocket Wifi.

How to Get Around Seoul

You’ll find Seoul an extremely walkable city. Walk when you can. If you’re staying in Jongno, most historic attractions are within walking distance of each other. Otherwise, there’s always the subway, which makes Seoul-searching a walk in the park.

Seoul’s expansive subway system is the third largest in the world. It consists of 14 lines criss-crossing underneath the vibrant city. It looks intimidating when you look at it, but it’s actually pretty easy to get the hang of. It uses cards that require a ₩500 deposit, which can be refunded after the ride.

Before the trip, I encourage you to download a FREE app called Subway Korea . It is available for iOS and Android . Here’s how to use it.

• Open the app . You will be greeted by Seoul’s complicated subway map.
• Find your station of origin and tap it. It will reveal options. Choose Departs From .
• Find your destination station and tap it. Choose Arrives at .
• Choose between the route that will get you there fastest and the route that will make the fewest stops .

It will then tell you the following:

• The estimated travel time (top of the screen)
• Number of stops (top of the screen)
• Fare (bottom, in green)
• The recommended route

Here’s how to use Seoul’s subway system.

• Find a single journey traffic card ticket machine at the station.
• Select your destination.
• Select the number of tickets.
• Insert payment + refundable deposit of ₩500.
• Collect the single journey traffic card that will be released.
• After your ride, you can get the ₩500 deposit from one of the payment return machines at your destination.

Each station stems into several routes that lead to exits that are far apart. Check the map displayed near the gates to make sure you’re taking the right exit. Often, signs leading to key tourist attractions are found around the station. Also, when walking inside train stations, keep right.

There are prepaid cards available at every station, too. One of the most popular is the T-Money Card . It will save you ₩100 per ride, which isn’t much, but it’s convenient because you don’t need to get a ticket every single time. Another great thing about it is its coverage. You can use it on trains AND buses in many cities including Seoul and even Busan. Just make sure you load it with just enough credit so you don’t need to worry about getting a refund.

Discover Seoul Pass

If you have a pretty packed itinerary, you might want to consider purchasing a Discover Seoul Pass , which was created by the Seoul Tourism Organization specifically for foreign tourists. You can choose between the 24-hour pass and the 48-hour pass .

Here are some things that the Discover Seoul Pass can do for you:

• FREE access to 22 key attractions like the palaces and shrines, specialty museums like the TrickEye Museum in Hongdae, N Seoul Tower Observatory using only one card.
• Access to the Seoul City Double Decker Tour Bus
• Comes with T-Money (which I discussed above). But you need to top up before use. If you don’t use all credits, you can refund the remaining balance.
• Can be picked up at Incheon Airport at the time and date you specified

Here are some of the tourist sites that are covered by the Discover Seoul Pass:

• N Seoul Tower (Observatory)
• Trickeye & Ice Museum

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Changdeokgung palace.

• Changgyeonggung Palace

You can get the Discover Seoul Pass in advance with Klook!

Places to Visit in Seoul

Below are some of the tourist attractions in the city and the nearest subway station.

Everland is Korea’s largest theme park. Admission Fee: Adults, ₩52,000; Children, ₩41,000. Nearest Station: Jeondae-Everland (Yongin EverLine, Exit 3).

Klook offers discounted tickets if you buy online!

If you don’t want to bother with the getting there part, you can book an Everland Day Tour instead, which includes the following.

• Admission ticket
• Transportation from Seoul and back
• Tour guide service

This is great if you want to catch the fireworks display at night because you won’t need to compete with the crowd for transportation back to the city. They use a shuttle bus, which can pick you up in Hongdae, Myeongdong or Dongdaemun. Book Below!

Lotte World

Lotte World is another theme park that is great for kids. Admission Fee: Adults, ₩52,000; Teens, ₩45,000; Children, ₩41,000. Nearest Station: Jamsil (Line 2, 8; Exit 4)

N Seoul Tower

N Seoul Tower , the city’s iconic skyscraper that allows breathtaking views of the city. It also has a revolving restaurant. It’s accessible by bus, but a scenic approach is by cable car. The boarding station is located 15 minutes from Myeongdong Station (Line 4, Exit 3). Just walk down the street on the right side of Pacific Hotel and you’ll find it soon after. Admission Fee: Adults, ₩10,000; Children, ₩8,000.

Get a discount if you purchase your tickets online with Klook! On top of that, you also get a ₩5,000 shopping coupon that you can use at Namdaemun Market for FREE!

TrickEye 3D Museum + Ice Museum

A “trick art” museum for wacky photos! It’s located in Hongdae. There’s also an annexed Ice Museum. Nearest Station: Hongik University

Hanbok Experience

Did you know that you can enter Seoul’s palaces and shrines for FREE if you’re wearing hanbok? You can rent a hanbok for 4 hours or 24 hours!

The grandest among the city’s five important palaces.

Admission fee: Adults (19-64yo) ₩3,000, Youths (7-18yo) ₩1,500. Nearest station: Gyeongbokgung Palace (Line 3, Exit 5)

A well-preserved royal villa that has been standing for more than six centuries.

Admission fee: Adults (19-64yo) ₩3,000, Youths (7-18yo) ₩1,500. Nearest station: Anguk (Line 3)

Other Seoul Attractions

• Gangnam . Prior to the global success of PSY’s Gangnam Style, Gangnam has always been popular among locals for social gatherings and events. Admission Fee: FREE Nearest station: Gangnam (Line 2, Exit 10 or 11)
• Gwangjang Market . Built in 1905, it is Seoul’s oldest traditional daily marketplace. It’s mostly a food market so make sure you’re hungry when you visit. Entrance Fee: FREE Nearest stations: Jongno 5-ga Station (Line 1, Exit 8) or Euljiro 4-ga Station (Lines 2 or 5, Exit 4)
• Myeongdong , one of Seoul’s main shopping districts! If you’re after branded clothes, mid-range restaurants, cosmetic products, and all sorts of street food, this is the place for you. Admission Fee: FREE Nearest station: Myeongdong (Line 4, Exit 6).
• Ewha Women’s University . Founded in 1886, it is Korea’s first educational institute for women. The area around it is a popular shopping destination, too. You’ll find a whole bunch of accessories and footwear, and quirky apparel. Since they cater to students (mostly), prices are much friendlier! Entrance Fee: FREE Nearest station: Ewha Womans University Station (Line 2, Exit 2 or 3)
• Hongdae . The epicenter of Seoul’s youth culture, it is a place for many students’ self-expression. Lots of creative shops and quirky food places. Visit on a Saturday, when the Hongdae Free Market comes to life. It is a flea market that offers some unique items that are often handcrafted by young student artists. Entrance Fee: FREE Nearest Station: Hongik University (Line 2, Exit 9)
• Bukchon Hanok Village harbors traditional houses called hanok, the history of which can be traced back to the Joseon Dynasty. Many of these houses also function as restaurants and shops. Entrance Fee: FREE Nearest station: Anguk Station (Line 3, Exit 1 or 2)

Day Tours from Seoul

Many other attractions outside Seoul Capital Area are easily accessible if you want to do it DIY-style.

But you can also join a group tour if you want a hassle-free experience. Many of these tours will provide transportation with hotel pickup and drop off and entrance tickets.

Nami Island

Nami Island , a half-moon shaped island in the middle of the Han River in Chuncheon. It became the final resting place of General Nami, a well-known historical figure during Joseon Dynasty. Foreigners are most familiar with it as the filming location of Winter Sonata , a Korean TV series (koreanovela) that became a hit all over Asia.

How to get to Nami Island : Travel by train to Gapyeong Station. Walk or take a cab from the station to the ferry wharf, where you can buy tickets to the island. You can also travel by bus. Catch the shuttle bus in Insadong (near the West Gate of Tapgol Park) or Sungnyemun Square Bus Stop in front of Namdaemun Market. Bus leaves at 9:30am. Roundtrip fare is ₩15,000. You can reserve a bus seat by emailing [email protected] or calling +82-2-753-1247.

Entrance Fee : ₩13,000.

If you want to book a group tour instead, Klook bundles Nami Island with Petite France, a French-village theme park, so you get to see two attractions in one day. There’s no hotel pick up for this but you will be meeting your guide at a convenient location in Seoul. Entrance fees are already covered.

DMZ Tour and Panmunjom Tours (and See North Korea)

Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and Panmunjom. . Learn more about the Korean War and how these places came to be. You can also take a glimpse of North Korea from the Dora Observatory. DMZ and JSA tours are also offered separately if you want to see just one. Often, reservations have to be made at least 3 days in advance so it is best to book online.

Klook offers two types of tours: DMZ Only Tour and DMZ + Panmunjom .

DMZ Tour (DMZ Only)

• Hotel pick up
• English-speaking guide
• Lunch option
• Inclusive of admission fees
• Visit at Imjingak Park, 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, Freedom Bridge, and the DMZ Exhibition Hall
• A chance to see North Korea through binoculars at Dora Observatory

Slots per day are limited so book as early as you can.

Panmunjom + DMZ Tour

• Enter and see the JSA (Joint Security Area) to see Freedom House and Conference Room. You also get to visit the Bridge of No Return and the Ax Murder Incident area.
• Lunch is included

Boryeong Mud Festival

Boryeong , a port city located 3 hours from Seoul, is most famous for the Boryeong Mud Festival, which happens in July. Koreans sometimes refer to the place as Daecheon because the present-day Boryeong is a merger between Daecheon City and Boryeong-gun. Hemmed in by the waters of the Yellow Sea in the west, it is a popular summer destination, with Daecheon Beach as a top place to visit. During the festival, giant inflatable slides, a performance stage, and other attractions are set up along Daecheon Beach, where all the fun happens.

How to get there: From Seoul, take the train/subway/metro to Yongmun Station, where you will board a Korail train to Daecheon Station. The Korail train ride takes 2 hours and 40 minutes and costs ₩11,700.

If you’re joining Boryeong Mud Festival for only a day, it may be hard to find accommodations because the prices double. What you can do is just join a group tour which will cover your transportation from Seoul and back. You will also have a guide to help you in storing your things, finding the locker areas, etc.

Where to Shop in Seoul

Aside from Myeongdong and Hongdae:

• Dongdaemun Market . Everything fashion, from the trendiest fabrics to bridal wear. Composed of 26 shopping malls scattered around 5 blocks, housing 50,000 different manufacturers and 30,000 specialty shops. Although best known for wholesale, retail is also alive here. Nearest Station: Dongdaemun Stadium (Line 2, 4 or 5)
• Namdaemun Market . The oldest and the biggest traditional market in Korea, this 400yo shopping mecca houses 10,200 stores across 66,000 sq. m. You’ll find all sort of products here, from clothes to kitchenware to electronics. Nearest station: Hwehyeon (Line 4, Exit 5)
• Insadong . Great if you’re looking for traditional souvenirs such as artworks, ceramics, paper goods, or if you want to try some of its traditional teahouses. If you can, visit on a Sunday, when they close off the road from vehicular traffic. Nearest station: Jonggak Station (Line 1, Exit 3)

More info here: 8 Shopping Places in Seoul

Sample Seoul Itinerary and Expenses

Below is a sample 5-day/4-night Seoul itinerary with breakdown of expenses. This assumes the following:

• You are a group of two.
• You will be staying in a twin room at Fully Hong Hostel.
• You will be using a T-Money card (T-Card).
• Your meal allowance is limited to only ₩5000 for breakfast and ₩15000 for lunch and dinner. It’s actually too much for me considering that you will find a bowl of delicious bibimbap for only ₩5000. But I think it’s better to overestimate so let’s leave it at ₩15,000. I’m not a breakfast person, either. But fine, let’s still include breakfast for good measure.

Just make necessary adjustments to match your needs.

Pre-trip expenses Hotel booking – ₩116,000 (₩58,000 x 4 nights divided by 2pax)

Day 1: ARRIVAL + GYEONGBOKGUNG 01:00pm – Airport to Jongno-3ga – ₩4150 + ₩1250 02:20pm – Check in at hostel 03:00pm – Gyeongbokgung Palace – ₩3000 06:30pm – Cheonggyecheon Stream 08:00pm – Gwangjang Market – ₩15,000 budget 10:30pm – Sleep!

Day 2: ANGUK AREA + MYEONGDONG 08:00am – Wake up 09:00am – Grab breakfast – ₩5000 09:30am – Bukchon Hanok Village 11:30am – Lunch – ₩15,000 01:00pm – Changdeokgung Palace – ₩3000 06:00pm – Subway to Myeongdong – ₩1250 06:20pm – Dinner – ₩15,000 budget 09:30pm – Back to Hotel

Day 3: NAMI ISLAND 07:00am – Wake up 08:00am – Grab breakfast – ₩5000 08:30am – Subway to Gapyeong Station – ₩2250 10:00am – Taxi to ferry wharf – ₩3000 10:20am – Buy Nami Island ticket – ₩13,000 10:50pm – Explore Nami Island 01:30pm – Lunch – ₩15,000 budget 02:30pm – Continue exploring Nami Island 04:00pm – Ferry back 04:30pm – Taxi back to Gapyeong Station – ₩3000 05:00pm – Subway back to city – ₩2250 06:30pm – Dinner – ₩15,000 budget 09:00pm – Sleep

Day 4: HONGDAE & SINCHON 09:00am – Wake up 10:00am – Brunch + Insadong – ₩15,000 budget 01:00pm – Subway to Ewha Women’s University – ₩1250 01:30pm – Ewha Women’s University 02:30pm – Subway to Hongik University – ₩1250 02:45pm – Seoul Trick Eye Museum – ¥15,000 05:00pm – Explore Hongdae 08:00pm – Dinner – ₩15,000 budget 10:30pm – Back to hotel – ₩1250

Day 5: PACK UP + DEPARTURE Train back to Airport – ₩5400

This itinerary will cost you ₩292,000 (USD 256, EUR 226, SGD 355, PHP 13,700), excluding the airfare.

You can still bring down the cost by staying in a dorm (and there are great options in the city), skipping the Trick Eye Museum (it’s not really unique to Seoul), or cutting down on your food budget (Please don’t. Korean food is awesome!)

If you’re coming from Manila and you’re able to snag PHP7700 fare, the total cost of this trip is PHP 21,400 .

For my first trip, I got my plane tickets from a SEAT SALE and paid only PHP 6000, hehe. Add the travel tax (which was being collected separately at the time) and the total is pretty much the same.

More Tips for the Poor Traveler

• Changdeokgung and Gyeongbokgung are the best palaces , but if you’re interested to explore more + Jongmyo Shrine, get an Integrated Palace Pass. If you buy individual tickets, the total will be at ₩14,000 but the palace pass is only ₩10,000.
• Walk when you can . Like I said, Seoul is very walkable and you’ll discover something along the way. In the itinerary above, I included the fare for the subway ride from Ewha University to Hongik University, but in reality I just walked. I also never used the subway to go around the Jongno area.
• Get a T-Card . It will save you ₩100 for every ride. But I said that already.
• If you’re on a really tight budget, you can skip restaurants altogether and just eat at Gwangjang Market (considerably cheaper) or munch on street food because they’re pretty tasty too. But if you can afford it, spend! For me, Korean cuisine is one of the best in the world! I’m salivating right now just typing this. (Sorry about the mental image.) Hahaha.

Updated: 2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣8️⃣ • 4️⃣ • 2️⃣0️⃣

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Is this post helpful to you?

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• TRICK EYE MUSEUM in Seoul
• BORYEONG MUD FESTIVAL: Budget Travel Guide & Itinerary
• WHERE TO STAY IN SEOUL: Myeongdong, Jongno or Hongdae?
• INCHEON AIRPORT TO SEOUL (Myeongdong, Hongdae, Jongno): The Cheapest Way
• SAMPLE SEOUL ITINERARY (with Costs)
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Thank you for generous people like you!! this is very informative and helpful

No prob, James!

Is it true that there is one card that you can you purchase then it will allow you to enter most of the tourist attractions? Like it’s valid for 24 hours. I heard something like that. Can you help me?

South Korea is great. Thanks for the guide and cool pics of their traditional parade.

Planning to explore the area around Ewha and Hongdae when visiting Seoul soon! How long does it take to walk from Hongdae to Ehwa?

It’s gonna be a long walk, probably 40 minutes to an hour, if I remember correctly. You can take the subway. Hongdae is just 2 stops away from Ewha.

I’d looked for and downloaded several apps for going around Seoul but none was satisfactory. Either they were buggy or the map doesn’t load well enough. I never came across the Subway Korea app though, that seems like something I could’ve used. I ended up using an actual train map from the airport– works but you know, a little less convenient. :)

Really nice overview! I will be going to South Korea this year, now I have some ideas of what I should not miss out on :)

Thank you for this post, it is one of the most useful ones I’ve found! I have a question, is the food budget per person or was it calculated for two people?

Per person. But it has a big allowance already. You can find bibimbap bowls for only 5000 won and street food if you’re on a budget. :)

i’m planning to visit soon, this is a pretty extensive guide thanks!

Hi, me and my former classmates are planning to visit korea next year.Now i am confused about some of the requirements i have read online.I am working in the middle east for the past 9 years and at present,one of the requirements i see is income tax return which as being an ofw i dont have like that.Second, certificate of employment, do i have to ask this from my employer in the middle east? I hope you can enlighten some things about traveling to korea from Filipinos working abroad and on vacation in the Philippines.

Hi Mhel, Same here I’ve been working also as an OFW but I don’t have any idea about the requirements for us who are working abroad. I really want to visit south korea by next year also. I hope someone can help us.

It seems that the requirements you are referring to are the requirements if you will apply your visa in the Philippines. If you are in Dubai UAE, you can apply your visa directly at the Korean Consulate in Dubai and they have a different set of requirements. You can include your ticket to the Philippines if you are going to Korea from the Philippines.

Hi, I am currently working here in Dubai. Have you tried applying for visa from here? I am planning to travel there next year Aug. Do you think how much safe fund do I need to put in my bank account for me to get visa approval. I am only planning let us say 5/6 days (to mention in the application form).. What do you think? :))

Do you need to have a 100.000 PHP before booking and getting Visa to korea? Someone answer me please :D Thanks!

100,000 is safe. But I know people with smaller funds whose applications have been approved, but they have stable jobs and rich travel history. So it really depends on many other factors.

100,000 won or dollar or peso

Hi. My friends and I have stable jobs. But we dont have that high salary to save much money for the visa approval. All my researches show that there’s no definite account value needed but just a show money to fund your trip for how long you want to. If it’s just for three days, would php30k be okay?

Hi Winnie Rose, no, it’s not just about the show money for the trip. While it’s true that there is no definite value, the embassy will look for and into your bank statements and bank certificate and check the average daily balance for the past 3 months. The bank account should have sufficient and consistent funds throughout that period. :)

P. S. I really want snow pouring on my head so we’re planning our trip by nov. 30 to dec2. Usually, will it snow in those days? Thanks

In Seoul? There is a chance but it’s hard to tell. They say that the first snow happens around that time, but back in 2013, I was in Seoul from late November until December 6 and it didn’t snow at all. Snow is hard to predict. It’s like trying to predict if uulan or hindi on November 30. But for better chances, move your travel to a later date.

Hi! can you please give me some ideas how to apply tourist visa in south korea?

We’re planning to travel next year end of March 2018, is this the best time to travel to see cherry blossoms? we’re 2 adults and 1child 12years old, or maybe she’s also adult now.

hope to hear from you. Thank You!

Greetings, Cris

Also, you might want to check out this link for cherry blossom season.

skyscanner.com.sg/news/inspiration/when-and-where-to-see-cherry-blossoms-in-korea-during-sakura-season/

Hello Cris! Do you have a BPI or BDO Gold or Platinum credit card? If you do, it’s easier to get a Visa that way. You can be granted multiple entry for up to 3 years (gold) or 5 years (platinum) for your whole family.

This is Very Helpful Thank You! :)

My Friend and I are Planning to Visit S. Korea on Mid March 2018, Maybe 8-9 days for Seoul and Busan.. If I could get a Visa and Process it on Time ;) i’m only given 30 days Annual Leave from work here in KSA..

Hi! i really enjoyed reading this entry. I was able to book a flight to SoKor for a cheap price and it will be my first time going there not to mention going on solo. Ill be there by Feb 28 to March 5 and my friends told me to pack enough coats since it’ll be winter there by then. I really am hoping you can help me with my Itinerary. it will be Manila to Busan and then Incheon to Manila. It may be too much to ask but can you help me? :)

Hi kaiye, we haven’t been to Busan though. :(

Hello! I’m planning to go to SoKor in June, after my college graduation. I’m worried because, I’m not yet employed during that time and I recently graduated that time so I don’t know if im still considered as a student. If possible what are the requirements I need to bring. Thank you so much po! :D

Just find a sponsor, ideally immediate family, and write a cover letter.

and It is also my first time travelling abroad po :( Thank you for your reply.

Love your blog!!! So resourceful ~ I felt like I went to Seoul with you just by reading it!! The best I’ve ever read ~ My friends & I are visiting Seoul Fall 2018 but I’m really shooting for Spring ~ I will definitely use all the info you have here!! Thanks again & God bless always!!

You’re welcome, Kirei!

Hi Sir, any idea po about the visa requirements for an OFW who wants to travel SK from Phil next year.

BTW, thank you for sharing your experiences, it helps a lot :)))))

Love your blog–very informative and helpful during our stay in Korea—even stayed at Fully Hong Hostel. Really affordable with very accommodating and friendly staff. Budget friendly. Planning to return one day, didn’t really get to go around much. Got to experience the Korean spa (jijinbang?) one morning because the broiler got busted.

Thanks, Karen!

[…] solution: the subway! It’s insanely cheap (about $1-2USD per ride) and insanely convenient. The Poor Traveler blog has some great tips about the app and understanding the […]

Grabeh! Superb! Na amaze po ako sa lahat ng tips mo. Maraming maraming salamat po. Will be visiting Korea May 2018.

Salamat sa pagbisita sa blog namin!

Enjoy Korea!

hi, how much is the soul travel pass? thanks

Discover Seoul pass? P1600+

Hello! Will 95,000 won a day for two people for food and additional attractions is enough money?

That largely depends on your itinerary.

Thanks for all of these information. ^^ It helped me a lot! Will be in SoKor on October and I like Autumn the most.

Yay! Enjoy Korea!

This is the most informative blog I’ve ever read! It has almost all the informations I need for my plan to visit Korea with my partner. Thank you so much for this blog. Thumbs up for the job well done!

No problem! Thanks too for visiting our blog. Enjoy Korea! :)

Hi! What if the school where I am working which is a public school doesnt have a landline number? Can i just include my principal’s mobile number?

Make sure that the fact that the school doesn’t have a landline number is mentioned in the COE.

Pwed po ask kng ano ang weather sa march 26-30?ano po dpat dlhin na dmit?thanx!

When is the best month to visit SOkor?

mainit po ba sa korea pag june? sabi kasi sa forecast maulan sa katapusan ng june. isip ko lang po kung ang ulan nila parang ulan natin na di ka na makakaikot pag umulan

Hi Cha, naku, di ko pa naranasan ang ulan sa Seoul. I’ve been to it in July na rin, which is supposedly the wettest month, pero di pa rin umulan buong week na andun ako, so I have no idea. :(

kasi po end of june ang byahe ko e sabi sa accuweather tagulan. isip ko lang kung accurate po ba ang accuweather (though obviously”accu” e part na ng title :-) naaprub po pala ko thanks sa blog nyo rin :-)

It’s the weather that we’re talking about so it can change any time especially if ganyang kalayo ang forecast. For me it’s reliable if di ganyan kalaki lead time.

Hello! We’ll be in South Korea by next week.. and your blog really helped a lot.. thank you for this!! We will enjoy SoKor because of you informative tips and guides. Thank you. :)

Enjoy Korea!!! :) Let us know how it went after the trip!

H! Ur blog is very informative and helpful. Thanks much for this. I”ll be travelling in sokor this coming sept.27-oct 2, 2018 for our covention in grand international seoul parnas. I just want to ask if u can recommend any travel agency that can cater land arrangement only or can process visa application alone?thank you so much for ur generous assistance.

Hi Lorie, we haven’t really tried applying for a visa via a travel agency so we can’t recommend any. :(

Thank you so much for your Blog. We are traveling to Seoul in November and I am still preparing our itinerary. Your blog sure is a great help. I booked our lodging thru airbnb in Jongno area. I love to walk a lot. Hopefully the weather in the first week of November will allow me to do so. Fighting!

Yay! No prob, Ana Marie! Enjoy Seoul! :D

Wow, this is super helpful! May I ask if you think Lotte World or Everland is worth visiting instead of spending a whole day sightseeing in the city? We’re planning to go on October, just 4 young adults (youngest is 16) so we might not enjoy the rides as much as we would in Disneyland/Universal Studio (bc they have that nostalgic feel).

Hi Audrey, Everland is not just for kids. It has a lot of rides that grownups will enjoy too.

But yes, I would prefer sightseeing in the city to Everland any day.

Visitng Nami Island, would you recommend DIY or join a group tour for a 1st time solo traveler?

Hi Gee, if Nami Island lang, DIY mo na. But if gusto mo rin mag-Petite France same day ng Nami Island, i-group tour mo na lang.

Is Petit France worth it?

This is very helpful. Thanks for sharing!

Very helpful and informative post! Will defs checkout your blog for future travels! :D

Thanks, Desiree!

I love this post esp. yung nasa last portion hehehe. Very informative, thank you sir!

No prob, Kitchie!

You deserve a medal for this post. Truly. What a great piece.

yeah that’s my man whoo

Thank you for the very informative post. I just want to clarify something on the pocket wifi rental. I was about to purchase it from klook but I noticed that pick up is at Incheon International Airport Terminal 2. My arrival would be at Terminal 1. Upon checking, transfer from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2 would be like 15 mins but you have to go through the transfer desk and I don’t want to go through that with a heavy luggage. I think it is more convenient to just ride a bus from Terminal 1 to Seoul. Can you give me advise on the pocket wifi please. Is there any alternative? Thanks.

Hi Renzcy, ay, I haven’t tried anything pa other than yung sa Klook. :(

thanks a bunch for this very thorough info! God bless you on all your travels!

You’re welcome! Thanks din for visiting our blog. :)

Hi.. I just wanted to ask which is better Lotte World or Everland? Thank you.

Everland is bigger and has more rides. Only problem is it’s much farther.

Hi! Thank you so much for this article! I’m planning to travel back to Korea this October 2019 but I haven’t scored plane tickets yet. By any chance, would you have any idea if there are still seat sales where I could book lowfare tickets? Thanks!

Hi yep, marami pang parating. Usually days before a major holiday, may sale mga airlines.

These posts might help: Cebu Pacific: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2018/03/cebu-pacific-promo-piso-fare/ AirAsia: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2018/03/airasia-promo-tickets/

THANKS FOR THE INFORMATION IT REALY DO HELP ME. BT JUST ASKING

DO I NEED TO BOOK A HOTEL 1ST BEFORE I APPLY FOR THE VISA?????

KAMSAHAMIDA.

No, no need to book a hotel. But you must have an idea where you plan to stay. You’ll just need the hotel name, address and contact number of where you plan to stay.

First of all, thank you for this very helpful blog about Korea. Marami akong nakuhang tips for my upcoming solo travel sa SoKo this April. :)

Question lang though, yung AREX Train ba is 24 hours open? Kasi my flight in Seoul will arrive at around 10:40pm and I’m not sure if open pa yung AREX Train by the time I arrive in Incheon. And my hotel is in Myeongdong so okay ba na magtrain ako or bus, since medyo late na yung dati ko ng Incheon? Thank you in advance… :)

Hmmm, if hindi madelay yung flight and makalabas ka agad ng Immigration, baka kaya mo pa ang AREX All Stop train kasi hanggang 11:30-ish yun. Yung bus 6015 to Myeongdong din, hanggang 11:15 so baka di rin maabutan.

Di ko alam kung anong pwedeng alternative except maybe take the bus to Seoul Station and then take a cab to Myeongdong from there.

Pls send the u r number

Best blog post I have read, super informative.

Thanks, Gio!

Our family is planning to visit Korea next year after our Hongkong experience this summer. The information above are so detailed and easy to look into that it got me excited, especially seeing that there are also amusement parks for the kids. And of course the possibility of experiencing snow if our timing is just right. Thank you so much for sharing.

Thanks, Syrel!

Na-excite din ako for you kasi I’m also planning to return to Seoul (again!) with the kids in the family. :D

Hello po. Tanong lang. Ok po ba mag book sa. Skyscanner? Thank you po

Hello po. Inaaccept na po ba sa immigration ng SK ang accommodation booking with AirBnB? We are a group of 13, with kids, kaya we decided to book at AirBnB.

WOW! It`s very helpful for me. i really like your post about Korea travel guide. i`m planning to go in Seoul by next year together with my family this is one of my dream to go there.

Thanks, Joyce! Go go go! Happy planning!

Thanks for sharing

Hi which other tourist spot do you recommend isama namin together with everland??

hi mas ok po ba magpapalit ng dollars to won or ok lang kahit peso to won

If peso yung pera mo, i-diretso mo na to won para di ka lugi sa double conversion.

ah ok sige po maraming salamat

hello po. ang pick up nang sim card po nakalagay seoul. but i will be going to gwanju pa po before souel. mero ba pick up sa incheon airport?

Hello po. Im planning to have a tour with my family in seoul. Any idea how much will it cost (visa, airfare, hotel, etc. ) for 2 adults and 3 teens, for about 3-5 days of stay, including fees to a place to visits.. Thanks a lot.

chilling in quarantine in tallinn, estonia, planning my first trip after we open up again and so happy to find your blog. very nicely written, thank you! comparing to average travel blog way more informative and readable!

That’s my mom-in-law’s hometown. I’ve been there once and I wanna go back next year! Thanks Yoshke!

thanks for sharing this.

Such helpful tips!! I love visiting Seoul (and South Korea) in general but it definitely isn’t the cheapest Asia destination. I’ve taken some tips down and hopefully can save a few $$ next time I’m there.

Seoul is my dream destination. I enjoy reading and i’m glad that reach out this amazing post.

Thank you for sharing, Greetings from Canada

Amazing man. I’m planning to visit here next year. The information you provided is quite useful. Thank you alot

Can you send me itenerary for kore tour early nezt year ..january

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• Travel Planning Guide

Travel Budget for Seoul Visit Seoul on a Budget or Travel in Style

• Seoul Costs

• Seoul Hotel Prices
• Best Hotels for First Time Visitors in Seoul
• Best Hotels for One Night in Seoul
• Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Seoul
• Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in Seoul
• Best Cheap Hotels in Seoul
• Best Luxury Hotels in Seoul
• Best Business Hotels in Seoul
• Best Hotels for a Weekend Getaway in Seoul
• Best Hotels for One Week in Seoul
• Is Seoul Expensive?
• How much does a trip to Seoul cost?
• 3 Days in Seoul: Travel Itinerary
• Is Seoul Worth Visiting?
• South Korea Costs
• Pyeongchang
• Busan (Pusan)
• Cheju (Jeju)
• How much does it cost to travel to Seoul? (Average Daily Cost)
• Seoul trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

Is Seoul expensive to visit?

• How much do I need for a trip to Seoul?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Seoul?

You should plan to spend around $109 (₩148,114) per day on your vacation in Seoul. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $30 (₩41,265) on meals
• $16 (₩21,287) on local transportation
• $110 (₩149,579) on hotels

A one week trip to Seoul for two people costs, on average, $1,528 (₩2,073,591) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 109 ₩ 148,114
• One Week Per person $ 764 ₩ 1,036,796
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 1,528 ₩ 2,073,591
• One Month Per person $ 3,275 ₩ 4,443,410
• One Week For a couple $ 1,528 ₩ 2,073,591
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 3,056 ₩ 4,147,183
• One Month For a couple $ 6,550 ₩ 8,886,820

Are You an Experienced Traveler?

Help other travelers! Answer a quick question about your past travels. Click here: let's do it!

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Seoul cost?

A one week trip to Seoul usually costs around $764 (₩1,036,796) for one person and $1,528 (₩2,073,591) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Seoul on average costs around $1,528 (₩2,073,591) for one person and $3,056 (₩4,147,183) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Seoul will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Seoul on average costs around $3,275 (₩4,443,410) for one person and $6,550 (₩8,886,820) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to Seoul has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Prices in Seoul are reasonable and comparable to your average travel destination. Hotels, food, and sightseeing are generally within normal price ranges.

Within Asia, Seoul is a somewhat more expensive destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in Asia for its travel costs. While some cities in the region are more expensive, Seoul is generally more expensive than most.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Seoul Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Seoul?

The average Seoul trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Seoul travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Seoul

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Seoul is $55 (₩74,789). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Seoul is $110 (₩149,579). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 55 ₩ 74,789
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 110 ₩ 149,579

Hotel Prices in Seoul

Looking for a hotel in Seoul? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Seoul based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $45. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• BJ Hotel Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 26
• The Shilla Seoul Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 212

Transportation Budget in Seoul

The cost of a taxi ride in Seoul is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $16 (₩21,287) per person, per day, on local transportation in Seoul.

• Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 16 ₩ 21,287

Recommended Services

• Private Airport Transfer: Seoul City to Incheon Airport 1-12 pax Viator $ 204
• Airport Private Transfer : Seoul Hotel to Incheon International Airport (ICN) Viator $ 78

Flights to Seoul

Rental cars in seoul, what did other people spend on transportation in seoul.

Typical prices for Transportation in Seoul are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Seoul, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Subway Card ₩ 5,000
• Short Taxi Ride ₩ 7,000
• Metro Ride ₩ 1,350
• Seoul City Pass Plus ₩ 10,000

Food Budget in Seoul

While meal prices in Seoul can vary, the average cost of food in Seoul is $30 (₩41,265) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Seoul should cost around $12 (₩16,506) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Seoul is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 30 ₩ 41,265

Recommended

• Night Market Food Tour Viator $ 73
• Noryangjin Fish Market Dinner Viator $ 120

What did other people spend on Food in Seoul?

Typical prices for Food in Seoul are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Seoul, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Rice with Kimchi & Bacon ₩ 6,000
• Waffle ₩ 1,000
• Dippin' Dots ₩ 2,000
• Chicken Fried Rice ₩ 5,500
• Chicken Stick ₩ 2,000
• Drinking Yoghurt & Mi Chew ₩ 1,900
• Lunch Buffet ₩ 6,000
• Donut ₩ 1,000

Entertainment Budget in Seoul

Entertainment and activities in Seoul typically cost an average of $27 (₩36,419) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 27 ₩ 36,419

The Go City Seoul Pass offers great discounts on attractions in Seoul. With the Go City Explorer pass, you can choose to visit specific sights and attractions at a discount. Or, you can visit as many included attractions as you like with a multi-day All-Inclusive Pass. The average visitor saves 30% off of the regular admission prices.

Recommended Activities

• Mini Van Private Guided Tour in Seoul (Optional Layover) Viator $ 220
• Rare Chance : Korea's White House Walking Tour Viator $ 36

What did other people spend on Entertainment in Seoul?

Typical prices for Entertainment in Seoul are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Seoul, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Palace Tickets ₩ 8,000
• Movie Ticket ₩ 8,000
• Kimchi Museum ₩ 3,000

Tips and Handouts Budget in Seoul

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Seoul is $1.84 (₩2,500) per day. The usual amount for a tip in Seoul is 5% - 15% .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 1.84 ₩ 2,500

Alcohol Budget in Seoul

The average person spends about $12 (₩16,662) on alcoholic beverages in Seoul per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 12 ₩ 16,662
• Soju Tasting at Distillery - story of 3 pigs Viator $ 42
• Soju Tasting at Distillery - Story of Three Pigs Get Your Guide $ 43

Water Budget in Seoul

On average, people spend $2.06 (₩2,796) on bottled water in Seoul per day. The public water in Seoul is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 2.06 ₩ 2,796

Related Articles

Seoul on a budget.

Neighborhoods

Food and dining, transportation, more related articles.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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6 Tips for Budget Travel in Korea

South Korea was often overlooked by travelers to Asia who opt to visit Japan or Southeast Asia. But thanks to K-pop and the Hallyu wave, Korea is gaining recognition and attracting more tourists.

Upon arrival, one will quickly discover that there is much more to the peninsula than kimchi and BB cream. Serene mountain ranges, quaint villages, vibrant rice paddies, rambunctious markets, and tranquil Buddhist temples can be found in tucked away corners.

Dynamic is perhaps the best adjective to describe the clashing of generations in a nation that went from shambles to one of the most economically powerful countries in 50 years.

Budget Travel South Korea

It goes without saying that Korea is a rewarding place to explore. Here are some tested tips on budget travel in South Korea.

1. Save money on accommodation by sleeping at jjimjilbangs (Korean saunas)

Sore feet from a day’s worth of exploration? Pamper yourself in hot baths and get a place to sleep for as little as little as $6 USD.

Going to the public bath is a favorite pasttime for Koreans and a must on every traveler’s bucket list for the ultimate Korean experience. Do note the adjective, public, so you are naked among dozens of locals of the same sex.

It may be uncomfortable at first, but most people become accustomed quickly when they realize everyone is in the same boat. Talk about a great way to step out of your comfort zone!

In the coed sleeping area, don’t expect luxurious comfort, but rather a floor to sleep on and perhaps a mat and pillow. Sleeping overnight in a Korean spa is fa from luxurious, but still a unique experience nonetheless.

Read more details about staying at a Korean sauna.

2. Eat at Kimbap Shops

24-hour kimbap shops are ubiquitous and a decent way to try a variety of Korean food without breaking the bank. Prices range from about $1.30 to $6 USD.

The dishes won’t win any awards, but it is a fine introduction to the various dishes such as stews (Kimchi jjigae), soups (dumpling and rice cake soup), kimbap (rice and vegetable rolled in seaweed), rice dishes, pork cutlet (adaptation of Japanese tonkatsu), and spicy rice cakes (tteokbokkki).

Check out this menu for a general translation.

3. Get out of the big cities

This may be a given for most travelers, but I’ve met quite a few people who went to Korea and only stayed in Seoul.

Unless you are only interested in citylife, I highly recommend going out into the countryside and visiting some of Korea’s slower paced life.

Like the water? Visit one of the many islands dotting the coast such as Namhae and Bigeumdo. A mountain goat? Take your pick at one of the many mountains and national parks. Seoraksan, Jirisan, and Wochulsan are among the most beautiful mountains.

To be frank, the big cities in Korea all look the same and have the same kind of franchises, so sticking to just Seoul and Busan is good enough for a short trip.

4. Carry a reusable water bottle.

Summer is steamy and you will need to hydrate often. Save money and abstain from consuming plastic by carrying a reusable (preferably BPA free) water bottle.

Filtered water machines are ubiquitous in Korea. Fill up with clean water at any restaurant, bus terminal, train station, and even cell phone shops.

Plus, it’ll save you from the daily scavenger hunt of finding a public trash can.

Shop insulated water bottles with protective lid > Shop water bottles with purification filter and protective lid >

5. Learn your transportation options

There are various methods and transfers between cities via bus and train.

Buses between large cities are frequent and you can just show up any time, but to get to smaller towns, plan accordingly.

Read more about traveling in Korea via bus .

6. Learn some Hangeul 한글 (the Korean alphabet)

안녕하세요! This is not a direct money-saving tip, but it will help tremendously and ultimately save time and money in the long-run.

Korean may look intimidating at first glance, but once learn the writing system, you will be surprised how simple and scientific it is.

Since there is barely any English outside of the big cities, knowing how to read Hangeul saves a few headaches. Besides, it’s fun and rewarding! Locals will be impressed and appreciative if you know a few phrases as well.

Hangeul can be learned in just a few hours. I recommend watching this video for pronunciation and taking a look at this comic for a quick lesson.

Have you been to South Korea? What are some of your favorite tips for budget travel?

✈️ Protect your Korea trip with Travel Insurance – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

For further reading:

• A Quick Guide to Teaching English in Korea

About the Author:

Lianne is a Korean-American adoptee who taught elementary school in Korea for three years. She traveled to nearly every Asian country with her boyfriend on a budget of $15 per day. She is passionate about finding ways to make travel meaningful on a budget such as CouchSurfing and volunteering. She is currently teaching English in Japan. Read more about her teaching experiences, travel tips, and adoption story at LianneBronzo.com .

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The Ultimate Guide To Saving Money For Your Dream Trip To Korea

• Last updated May 12, 2024
• Difficulty Intemediate

• Category Travel

Have you ever dreamt of exploring the vibrant streets of Seoul, sampling delicious Korean cuisine, and immersing yourself in the rich culture of South Korea? If your answer is yes, then you're not alone. Many individuals share the same aspiration, but often find themselves held back by the cost of such a trip. However, fear not, because we have the ultimate guide to saving money for your dream trip to Korea. By following these tips and tricks, you'll be able to turn your dream into a reality without breaking the bank. So, let's dive in and start saving!

What You'll Learn

Setting a budget: determining how much money to save, saving strategies: tips for budgeting and cutting expenses, researching costs: determining the price of flights, accommodation, and activities, saving timeline: creating a plan to reach your travel goal.

Are you dreaming of traveling to Korea? Whether you want to explore the bustling streets of Seoul, visit ancient temples, or experience the rich culture and cuisine, it's essential to set a budget and determine how much money you need to save for your trip. By planning ahead and being diligent with your savings, you can make your dream trip to Korea a reality. Here's how to set a budget and determine how much money you need to save:

• Calculate the cost of flights: The first step in setting a budget for your trip to Korea is to determine the cost of flights. Use travel websites or consult with a travel agent to get an estimate of how much round-trip tickets will cost. Prices can vary depending on the season and which airport you depart from, so it's essential to do your research and factor in this cost.
• Estimate accommodation expenses: Another significant expense to consider is accommodation. Research various options, such as hotels, guesthouses, or Airbnb rentals, and determine the average cost per night. Multiply this by the number of nights you plan to stay to get an estimate of how much you'll need to budget for accommodation.
• Plan for transportation: Getting around Korea will require budgeting for transportation as well. Consider the cost of public transportation, such as trains and buses, as well as the occasional taxi ride. If you plan to travel between cities, research the cost of intercity transportation options like high-speed trains or domestic flights.
• Factor in food and dining expenses: One of the highlights of traveling to Korea is trying the delicious local cuisine. Estimate how much you typically spend on meals each day and multiply it by the number of days you'll be in Korea. It's also a good idea to budget a little extra for trying street food or dining at more upscale restaurants for special occasions.
• Research attractions and activities: Korea offers a wide range of attractions and activities, from visiting palaces and museums to hiking in national parks or attending cultural shows. Research the entrance fees and costs of any activities you're interested in and factor them into your budget. Don't forget to budget extra for souvenirs or shopping, too.
• Account for visa fees and travel insurance: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Korea. Research the visa requirements and any associated fees to include in your budget. Additionally, consider investing in travel insurance to protect yourself against unexpected expenses like medical emergencies or trip cancellations.
• Set a daily spending allowance: To help you stay within your budget while in Korea, it's a good idea to set a daily spending allowance. Consider your personal spending habits and the cost of living in Korea to determine a reasonable amount to allocate for daily expenses like transportation, meals, and incidentals.

Once you have estimated the costs for each category, add them all up to determine the total amount of money you need to save for your trip to Korea. This will be your savings goal. Start saving as soon as possible and consider setting up a separate savings account specifically for your travel fund. Look for ways to cut back on expenses in your daily life, such as eating out less or reducing discretionary spending, and put the extra money towards your travel savings.

Remember, setting a budget and saving for your trip is a crucial part of making your dream of traveling to Korea a reality. With careful planning and discipline, you can save the necessary funds and embark on an unforgettable adventure in Korea. Safe travels!

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Saving money is the key to achieving your travel goals, especially if you have your heart set on going to Korea. With careful budgeting and smart spending, you can make your dream of traveling to Korea a reality. In this article, we will explore some effective saving strategies and tips for budgeting and cutting expenses.

• Create a budget: Start by determining how much money you need to save and set a target date for your trip. Then, create a realistic budget based on your income and expenses. This will help you track your spending and identify areas where you can cut back.
• Track your expenses: Keep a record of all your expenses, no matter how small. This will give you a clear picture of where your money is going and help you identify any unnecessary spending. Use apps or budgeting tools to make this process easier.
• Cut back on non-essential expenses: Take a close look at your spending habits and identify areas where you can cut back. This could include eating out less often, canceling unused subscriptions, or reducing your entertainment expenses. Every dime you save can bring you closer to your travel goal.
• Shop smart: When making purchases, compare prices and shop around for the best deals. Take advantage of sales, discounts, and coupons to save money. Consider buying second-hand items or borrowing from friends and family instead of buying new.
• Cook at home: Eating out can be expensive, so try cooking your meals at home. Not only will this save you money, but it can also be a fun and creative way to try new recipes. Plan your meals in advance, buy groceries in bulk, and pack your lunch for work or school.
• Reduce transportation costs: Look for ways to cut back on transportation expenses. Consider carpooling, using public transportation, or biking instead of driving. If you must drive, try to combine errands to save on gas. Also, avoid unnecessary travel and limit your outings to save on transportation costs.
• Use cash instead of credit cards: Paying with cash can make you more aware of your spending. It's easy to overspend on credit cards, so try using cash for your everyday expenses. Set a budget for each category and only take that amount in cash with you when you go out.
• Find additional sources of income: Consider taking up a part-time job or finding ways to earn extra income. This could include freelancing, selling unused items online, or starting a side business. The extra money you earn can be allocated solely for your travel fund.
• Set saving goals: Break down your saving goal into smaller, achievable targets. This will make your goal seem more attainable and help you stay motivated. Celebrate each milestone along the way to motivate yourself to keep going.
• Stay focused and motivated: Saving money for a big goal like traveling to Korea can take time. It's important to stay focused and motivated throughout the process. Visualize your dream trip, create a vision board, or remind yourself of your goal regularly. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who support your travel aspirations.

By implementing these saving strategies and tips, you can make your dream of traveling to Korea a reality. Remember, every small saving counts, and with determination and dedication, you can achieve your travel goals. Start today, track your progress, and in no time, you'll find yourself exploring the beautiful sights of Korea.

Tips for Keeping Sweet Corn Fresh While Traveling

If you’re planning a trip to Korea, it’s essential to research the costs associated with flights, accommodation, and activities in order to determine how much money you need to save. By doing your homework and having a budget in place, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip without any financial stress. Here’s a step-by-step guide on researching costs and determining the price of flights, accommodation, and activities for your trip to Korea.

• Start by determining the closest major airport to your departure location and the airport you will arrive at in Korea. This will give you an idea of the flight routes available and the airlines that operate on those routes.
• Use flight search engines like Skyscanner or Kayak to compare prices from different airlines and find the best deals. Be flexible with your travel dates and try to book your flights during off-peak seasons to get lower prices.
• Consider booking a round-trip ticket instead of one-way as it can often be more cost-effective. Also, look for flights with layovers as they tend to be less expensive than direct flights.
• Keep an eye out for airline promotions, discounts, or flash sales that can help you save money on your flight tickets.

Accommodation:

• Research different types of accommodation options available in Korea such as hotels, guesthouses, hostels, or Airbnb rentals. Determine which type suits your budget and preferences.
• Look for accommodation in different areas of Korea to compare prices. Sometimes staying slightly outside the city center can result in significant cost savings.
• Utilize hotel booking websites like Booking.com, Agoda, or Airbnb to compare prices, read reviews, and find the best deals. Be sure to check for any additional fees or taxes that may be added to the listed price.
• Consider staying in dormitory-style rooms in hostels if you’re traveling on a tight budget. These types of accommodations offer shared facilities and are typically more affordable than private rooms.

Activities:

• Make a list of the activities and attractions you’re interested in experiencing during your trip to Korea. Do thorough research on each activity to determine the associated costs.
• Look for discounted tickets or packages that include multiple attractions or activities. Many tourist sites offer discounted prices for online bookings or group bookings.
• Take advantage of free or low-cost activities such as exploring parks, public markets, or visiting museums on specific days when admission is discounted or free.
• Create a daily budget for activities and try to prioritize the ones that are most important to you. This will help you allocate your funds accordingly and ensure you can afford the experiences you desire.

Remember to factor in additional expenses such as transportation within Korea, meals, travel insurance, and souvenirs. It’s important to have a realistic budget and save accordingly to enjoy your trip to Korea without worrying about overspending. By researching costs and determining the price of flights, accommodation, and activities, you can plan and save effectively for your trip to Korea.

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Are you dreaming of traveling to Korea? With its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage, it's no wonder why this destination is on the bucket list of many travelers. However, traveling to another country requires careful planning, especially when it comes to your finances. In this blog post, we will guide you through creating a saving timeline to reach your travel goal.

Determine your travel expenses

The first step in creating a saving timeline is to determine how much money you'll need for your trip to Korea. Start by making a list of all the expenses you can anticipate, such as airfare, accommodation, meals, transportation, activities, and souvenirs. Research the average costs of these items in Korea to get a realistic estimate.

Set a travel date

Once you have an idea of how much money you'll need, it's time to set a travel date. Having a specific date in mind will motivate you to save, as it gives you a clear goal to work towards. Consider the seasonality and weather conditions in Korea to choose a date that suits your preferences.

Calculate your monthly savings goal

Now that you know how much money you need and when you want to travel, divide the total amount by the number of months until your travel date. This will give you a rough estimate of how much money you need to save each month to reach your goal. If the number seems too high, consider extending your saving timeline or finding additional sources of income.

Create a budget

To reach your monthly savings goal, you need to have a clear understanding of your finances. Create a budget that outlines your income and expenses, including your savings goal. Cut back on unnecessary expenses and find ways to save money, such as cooking at home instead of eating out or canceling unnecessary subscriptions. Stick to your budget and track your progress regularly.

Automate your savings

Make saving money a priority by automating your savings. Set up a separate savings account specifically for your Korea trip and schedule automatic transfers from your main account on a monthly or bi-weekly basis. By automating your savings, you'll be less likely to spend the money intended for your trip.

Find additional sources of income

If you're struggling to save enough money each month, consider finding additional sources of income. This can include taking on a part-time job, freelancing, selling unused items, or starting a side hustle. Set aside the extra income solely for your Korea travel fund.

Cut back on unnecessary expenses

To expedite your saving timeline, analyze your current expenses and identify areas where you can cut back. This might mean canceling subscriptions you don't use, finding more affordable alternatives for everyday items, or reducing your entertainment expenses. Every penny saved brings you closer to your travel goal.

Stay motivated

Saving for a trip requires discipline and perseverance. Stay motivated by creating visual reminders of your travel goal, such as a vision board or a photo of your dream destination. Celebrate small milestones along the way, such as reaching a certain savings amount. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals or join online communities that share your travel aspirations.

By following these steps and committing to your saving timeline, you'll be well on your way to making your dream trip to Korea a reality. Remember, proper planning and financial management are key to achieving any travel goal. Happy saving!

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Home » Asia » South Korea » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking South Korea Travel Guide (2024)

Backpacking South Korea is all about experiencing both sides of this country – the traditional  and  modern aspects of South Korean culture.

Known as the “Land of the Morning Calm,” South Korea is a fascinating country, a place where ancient temples and skyrise buildings stand side by side.

What comes to mind when you hear of South Korea? For many, the bustling capital city of Seoul is the first place to come to mind.

This sprawling metropolis is certainly the center of attention, as it’s home to over half of South Korea’s population, but travelling in South Korea is about so much more than just exploring the big city.

Within a few hours of Seoul, you can find yourself hiking in rolling hills, reflecting at a peaceful temple, or exploring a traditional village.

Depending on what time of year you visit South Korea, you could be skiing the slopes or chilling on a beach. One thing is for sure; no matter when you visit, there’s probably some a festival taking place, whether it’s a traditional Korean holiday or a massive music festival.

You’ll also find a wealth of cultural and historical attractions in all corners of the country.

Of course, one of the highlights of backpacking South Korea is the incredible cuisine. Few countries are as defined by their food as South Korea, and the people take great pride in their culinary traditions.

Furthermore, South Koreans know how to party, so be prepared to wash that spicy  kimchi  down with several glasses of beer and  soju .

Perhaps no place in the world presents a contrast quite like the Korean Peninsula. Split decades ago as a result of the Korean War, the difference between North and South is like night and day.

Whereas North Korea is isolated under totalitarian reign, highly-developed South Korea is one of the most modern countries in Asia. The two are split by the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), an interesting name considering how many armed guards patrol it.

South Korea is often overlooked by backpackers who flock to South East Asia, but I’m here to show you why backpacking South Korea is an incredible travel experience.

Read my comprehensive South Korea travel guide below; it includes everything you need to plan an amazing trip, like costs, budget hacks, South Korea itineraries, how to get around, the foods to try, and so much more!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Why Go Backpacking in South Korea?

One great thing about traveling in South Korea is that you’re never too far from any other destination in the country. You can travel from one end to the other in five hours or less, so you don’t have to waste entire days in transit.

Thanks to the country’s excellent transportation system, getting around is a breeze when you’re backpacking South Korea. Seriously, you’ll ride the nicest trains and buses you’ve ever been on in South Korea.

The best strategy for exploring South Korea is to book a flight to Seoul. From there, you can travel across the country to Busan, stopping at several interesting points along the way. You can then book a flight out of Busan or make your way back to the capital via train or bus.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking South Korea

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Wherever you decide to visit in South Korea will depend on your interests, and of course how much time you have. Here are a few different ideas for South Korea travel itineraries. I’ve included two different one-week itineraries and one jam-packed 2-week itinerary.

Backpacking South Korea 7-Day Itinerary #1: Seoul to Busan

With just one week to spare in South Korea, your best bet is to travel across the country from Seoul to Busan with a stop in Gyeongju along the way. Since there’s so much to see and do, you should dedicate at least three days to the capital to start your trip.

Seoul is home to several ancient Korean palaces, the grandest of which is  Gyeongbok-gung . In addition to visiting the palaces, you’ll want to check out some of the city’s museums, temples, markets, and parks. That’s more than enough for a couple of busy days backpacking in Seoul .

From Seoul, you can catch a train or bus to Gyeongju. This small city is home to many historic sites such as Tumuli Park – the final resting place of Shilla kings. It’s possible to do a whirlwind tour of the city, but you’ll enjoy it much more if you stay at least one night.

Finally, head to the coast and South Korea’s 2nd biggest city of Busan. Hopefully, you’re backpacking South Korea during the warmer months because most people come here to kick back and relax on the beach.

There’s lots more to see on a trip to Busan than the beach, though. You can fill your days exploring the city or hiking in the surrounding hills.

Backpacking South Korea 7-Day Itinerary #2: Seoul and Jeju

If you’re looking for more of a vacation vibe on your trip to South Korea, you’ll definitely want to add Jeju Island to your itinerary. With one week in South Korea, you can still start off with a 3-day itinerary in Seoul before just catching a quick flight to Jeju.

Since this trip is a bit more relaxing than the one outlined above, you might as well partake in Seoul’s rowdy nightlife. Night quickly turns to day here, especially on weekends when it seems like the whole city is out partying.

You may need a day to sleep in and recover if you really go hard on a night out in Seoul.

While Jeju may be known as South Korea’s “honeymoon island,” it’s still a great place for backpackers. For starters, you can hike the country’s highest peak at Hallasan . There are also caves, waterfalls, botanical gardens, and several trails leading to viewpoints. A few days full of adventure and beach-bumming in Jeju is a great way to cap off your trip.

Backpacking South Korea 14-Day Itinerary #1: Seoul to Busan to Jeju

With an extra week in South Korea, you can take your time and linger in destinations. You can also add a few day-trips to mix it up and get out of the cities. Here’s a solid plan for 2 weeks in South Korea, starting again with Seoul.

If you’ve got two weeks in South Korea, I honestly recommend staying in Seoul for 4 or 5 days. It’s a huge city and more than half of the country lives here, so it’s definitely worth that much time. Since the city is so sprawling, it’s more enjoyable if you can spread your sightseeing out over a few days.

In addition to hitting the sights in town, you can tack on a day-trip or two. Of course, the most popular is visiting the DMZ . If that’s not your thing, you can also get out of the concrete jungle and hike around the beautiful Bukhansan National Park .

Rather than breeze through Gyeongju , you can allot two full days to exploring the city and the surrounding sights. The same goes for staying in Busan , as you can afford to spend a few extra nights there with two weeks in South Korea.

From there, it’s a short flight to Jeju. After a few days staying on the island , it’s time to head back to Seoul to catch your flight out.

To help you out with your itinerary backpacking through South Korea, I’ve gone ahead and broken down my favourite places to go right below. From bustling metropolises to far off the beaten trail, there’s heaps to do!

Backpacking Seoul

Pretty much everyone who visits South Korea ends up in the capital city of Seoul. The city proper is home to nearly 12 million, while the greater metro area has a whopping 25 million. That’s more than half of the country’s population in one city alone!

This is a city that seems to have one foot firmly planted in the past while the other steps eagerly toward the future. Ancient palaces sit across the street from shiny new skyscrapers.

Seoul’s urban areas are an amalgamation of the old with the new, and there are heaps of cool places to see around the city. Peaceful Buddhist temples exist nearby bustling nightlife districts. Seoul is indeed a fascinating city of contrasts and surprises.

While in Seoul, you’ll be able to dive into the history and culture of South Korea. Start your journey off by exploring the city’s ancient palaces. All of them are worth a visit, but you’ll definitely want to hit  Gyeongbok-gung and  Changdeok-gung .

Seoul is also home to several excellent parks. Koreans love getting outside exercise, so go ahead and join them.

Namsan Park is a popular place to visit while backpacking South Korea. Not only is it a great place for a stroll, but you’ll also find the Seoul Tower here for some of the best views of the city.

Wherever you go, be sure to do a lot of walking so you can work up an appetite and dig into lots of mouth-watering Korean food . From street food snacks to high-end restaurants and everything in between, there’s something tasty around every corner in Seoul.

Once the sun goes down, it’s time to party in Seoul. It’s not just the young whippersnappers partying out here either; you’re just as likely to see businessmen in suits downing glasses of soju as you are college kids.

Some of the best areas in the city to party in Seoul are Hongdae and Itaewon . The party goes late in these neighborhoods, so be sure to pace yourself.

Aside from sightseeing and eating/drinking your way across the city, you may also want to embark on a few day-trips from Seoul. Popular options include hiking in the national park just north of the city or paying a visit to the DMZ .

If you’d rather just chill out, spend a night in one of the city’s many jimjilbang (spas) – the perfect place to relax. Plenty of them are even 24-hour. You could just skip booking a backpacker hostel in Seoul and instead sleep in the sauna… I did!

Backpacking Busan

The ROK’s 2nd largest city, Busan, is mostly known for its beaches, as Koreans flock here over the summer holiday for sun and sand. That’s not all that’s going on in Busan, though. The city is also home to some amazing temples, nature reserves, and hot springs.

A must-see place in Busan is the ancient Beomeosa Temple . It’s a slightly challenging uphill hike, but you’re rewarded with some incredible views of the city. Speaking of hiking, there are several trails that are easily accessible from the city, including Jangsan Mountain.

If you’d rather skip the hills, check out Yonggungsa – the Dragon Palace Temple – that’s perched along the coastline. Seeing the beautifully designed temple with the waves crashing against the shore is a can’t-miss when visiting Busan.

Busan is also famous for its many festivals throughout the year. The Busan International Film Festival runs for the first ten days of October and draws quite the crowd.

In August, you can rock out at the city’s International Rock Festival . Make sure you book in at one of Busan’s backpacker hostels early though – it gets busier around festival time!

Thanks to its location on the coast, Busan cooks up some tasty seafood. Head to the  Jagalchi Fish Market  to pick from the cat day’s catch and have it cooked up at one of the many restaurants.

Those with an adventurous palate might try bokguk , which is a soup made from the extremely poisonous pufferfish. If not, you can always play it safe and stick with the cod.

Backpacking Jeju Island

Most Koreans choose to vacation on Jeju Island. It’s definitely the top choice for honeymooners, but you don’t have to be a newlywed to enjoy a trip here. Jeju Island is for backpackers as well; there are plenty of social hostels o n Jeju Island to meet other travellers at.

Home to South Korea’s tallest mountain, the longest lava tube in the world, plenty of sandy beaches, some quirky theme parks, and even some chill hikes, Jeju Island is a pretty epic place to visit.

You can even check out the filming locations of super popular Korean television shows here, if you’re into that sort of thing.

Perhaps one of the most interesting aspects of Jeju Island is its culture, which is quite different from the mainland. For one it is matriarchal; here you’ll surely spot the famed haenyo (women divers) who dive without any oxygen tanks to depths of 10-20 meters in search of squid, octopus, clams, and other seafood.

Be sure to bring your hiking shoes when you visit Jeju. In addition to tackling the dormant volcano Hallasan , you can also enjoy coastal trails that wrap around the island. After a nice hike, you can kick back on a beach and order up a tasty plate of seafood. Life is good on Jeju Island!

Backpacking Gyeongju

If you’re interested in learning more about Korean history and culture, then Gyeongju is the perfect place to visit. It’s also a great way to break up the journey from Seoul to Busan.

Gyeongju was the capital of the Silla Dynasty, which lasted for 1,000 years and played a very important role in Korean history. The historic area of Gyeongju was actually the first site to be nominated a UNESCO World Heritage status in South Korea.

Here you can visit the beautiful Bulguksa Temple , which just might be the most impressive temple in the country. You should also check out Seokguram Grotto for an excellent example of Silla art and architecture.

With a few extra days in Gyeongju, you can enjoy some hiking in the national park, stroll around Bomun Lake , pay a visit to the royal tombs , and much more.

Getting around the city is a breeze thanks to the bus system and bike rentals, and most places have English signs despite the fact that few foreign tourists visit.

Backpacking Daegu

The main reason to stop by South Korea’s 4th largest city is to hike on Palgongsan . This mountain is just 20km from downtown and features several different hiking routes.

There are Buddhist statues and pagodas all over the mountain. In fact, there’s one statue believed to grant you one wish in your life, if you make it there. If you make it all the way up here, you might as well give it a shot!

In the city, you can also find plenty of parks that are pleasant to explore for a few hours. In Apsan Park , you can hike or take a cable car up to the observatory for great views of the city.

Once the sun goes down, you can head to the Banwoldang part of the city to explore the food and bar scene; there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and clubs in this area.

If you visit on a weekend, this area is especially lively. You can also party hard in the university areas if you’re up for it.

Backpacking Jeonju

If you’ve had enough of South Korean cities, join the locals and head to a place like Jeonju. The main draw for travelling here is the Jeonju Hanok Village . With more than 700 traditional hanok homes, this is a great place to dive into traditional Korean culture.

The Hanok Village is especially lively during festivals and on weekends, so try to time your visit to experience Jeonju at its finest. During these busy times, you’ll find plenty of markets and street food stalls as well.

Speaking of food, Jeonju is thought to have the best bibimbap in the land. There seem to be restaurants cooking it on every corner, so dig into a big bowl of this Korean classic and judge for yourself.

Wash it down with some  makgeolli, a traditional fermented rice liquor that this city is also famous for.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in South Korea

It really isn’t that hard to get off the beaten path in South Korea. Many travelers never even leave Seoul, so the second you step out of the capital you’re already there!

Admittedly, I’ve stayed very much on the beaten path in my travels to South Korea. My brother, on the other hand, lived there for a year and imparted some wisdom on me.

Gurye is a small town near Jirisan National Park, which is home to the highest peak on the peninsula. Here you can try  Daesulgi sujebi  – a soup made with river snails, a local specialty.

Danyang is another small town nestled between Woraksan and Sobaeksan National Parks with a river flowing through it. I didn’t see another foreigner the whole weekend there; it was all Korean people. It’s a perfect place for some Instagrammable photo ops in South Korea .

Also, look up the “Eight Views of Danyang” for some beautiful sights in the area. I saw some of them but wasn’t aware they were part of that list until my boss informed me Koreans go there for the eight views. Parasailing is popular in Danyang, though I didn’t do it.  

Andong  is a pretty unremarkable city but it’s near the Hahoe Folk Village which felt like a Korean version of the Shire. There’s also a nice Confucian Academy outside the town called Dosan Seowon, which is beautiful and peaceful.  

Sokcho  is a small city on the east coast near Seoraksan National Park. Considered one of the nicest places to see fall colors; there are beaches to see in the summer too.  

Thank you to my brother Pip for those awesome recommendations! Be sure to add a few to your list if you want to experience South Korea outside of the big cities.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

With so much awesome stuff to do in South Korea, it can be hard to choose exactly what to do! However, I guarantee you that oince you step outside of Seoul, the country really opens up.

1. Explore the ancient palaces of Seoul

The Joseon Dynasty was the last kingdoms in South Korea lasting from 1392 all the way until 1910. It was during this time that Seoul became the capital.

The kings of the Joseon Dynasty had several grand palaces built in the city, and exploring the palaces is one of the best things to do in South Korea.

There are five grand palaces in Seoul, with the grandest being  Gyeongbokgung . With a name meaning “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven,” you know they went all out when they built this one.

Be sure to catch the changing of the guard ceremony and sign up for one of the free guided tours, which run at 11am, 1:30pm, and 3:30pm.

2. Feast on Korean Food

One of the best things about backpacking South Korea is indulging in delicious Korean cuisine. Whether it’s the national dish of kimchi , a colourful bowl of bibimbap , or an epic feast at a Korean BBQ restaurant, your taste buds are in for a treat.

3. Spend a night in a jimjilbang

Seeing how people in South Korea love hiking up in the mountains so much, it should come as no surprise that another popular pastime is relaxing in a spa.

In Korean, these spas are known as jimjilbang , and they’re all over the place. A trip to a  jimjilbang is an absolute must when backpacking South Korea. Experience the South Korean jimjilbang lifestyle !

You can bounce around between hot and cold tubs, saunas, and steam rooms, get a massage or a body scrub, grab some food and drink, and so much more. Broke Backpackers may want to visit one at night as you can crash in the sleeping room and save some money on accommodation.

4. Take a hike

Hiking is probably the most popular pastime among Koreans. It makes sense, considering that most people live in crowded cities yet most of the country is made up of mountains.

Koreans know what to take hiking : they’re very serious about their gear and are usually decked out in the freshest hiking attire. Just because you’re working up a sweat doesn’t mean you can’t look good!

There are hiking trails all over South Korea ranging in difficulty and length. One of your best bets is hiking in Bukhansan , as it is easy to visit from Seoul. If you’re up for the challenge, you can tackle the country’s largest mountain, Hallasan on Jeju Island.

4. Take a tour of the DMZ

Many travelers who visit South Korea hope to see the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) that has separated the North from South since the end of the brutal Korean War in 1953.

Here you can catch a glimpse into the “Hermit Kingdom” and learn more about the tense relations between the two Koreas. You’ll have to take a tour to get here, so be sure to shop around and check reviews.

6. Indulge in the seasonal sports

South Korea experiences all four seasons, meaning you can enjoy both summer and winter sports here. In the warmer months, that means hiking, cycling, swimming, and more. South Korea is also a great destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter.

7. Visit a folk village

A fun way to get some insight into Korean history and culture is by visiting Minsok . Also known as the Korean Folk Village, this living museum is a bus ride away from Gangnam in Seoul.

On a visit to the folk village, you can see old-school  hanok homes, cultural performances, and maybe even watch a traditional Korean wedding.

It’s a fun place to come for the day to get out of the city and try something new.

8. Take part in a local festival

In South Korea, there are festivals to celebrate just about everything. You can try catching trout at an ice festival, watch the sky light up at a fireworks festival, or get down and dirty at a mud festival.

Of course, there are also plenty of traditional Korean festivals such as Chuseok as well as food and music festivals all throughout the year.

9. Enjoy an island getaway on Jeju

A quick flight from the mainland will get you to beautiful Jeju Island. Full of beaches, waterfalls, caves, folk villages, and even South Korea’s highest mountain, this little island will keep you plenty busy.

In addition to all of its natural wonders, Jeju is also home to some very eccentric tourist attractions. Take Loveland for example, a bizarre park full of risqué sculptures. Visiting this place will definitely make for some of the funniest photos from your trip.

10. Party hard in Seoul

Seoul is undoubtedly a party city. It seems like everyone likes to go out and get loose here, from college kids to briefcase-carrying businessmen. When visiting the Korean capital, you need to have at least one big night out.

Some of the most popular areas to party in Seoul include Hongdae and Itaewon. You’ll find tons of restaurants, bars, and clubs in each area. Start with dinner and drinks and see where the night takes you.

My guess is you’ll end up loudly singing karaoke and chugging down soju at around 4 AM with some people you just met.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Travelling South Korea is a great experience thanks in part to the many excellent backpacker hostels around the country . Especially in the big cities of Seoul and Busan, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to hostels.

The Best Places to Stay in South Korea

The cost of travel in South Korea is somewhere in the middle. It’s definitely cheaper than North America and Western Europe, but more costly than backpacking in Southeast Asia.

While it’s possible to get by on a daily budget of around $30-35, you’ll be more comfortable if you can allot $45-50  a day.

For getting around South Korea, you’ll obviously spend more if you choose to fly or take high-speed trains. That being said, you can score flights from Seoul to Busan for as little as $35, which is actually cheaper than taking the high-speed train, which costs $57.

Catching a bus is substantially cheaper and really doesn’t take that much longer.

You can find a dorm room in a nice hostel for around $10-15 a night depending on where you are staying. Couples or groups may want to look into private rooms, which won’t cost much more per person. You can also find some great deals on places on Airbnb; Seoul’s Airbnb scene is wicked and a total draw for the lovers of high-flying city life!

When it comes to eating out, you can find super cheap street food or splurge on a fancy high-end restaurant. The choice is yours, my friend. On the budget end of the spectrum, it’s possible to find a decent meal for $3-4. You could also spend a little more and fill up on an awesome Korean BBQ.

There are plenty of free things to do in South Korea, such as going for a hike, strolling around the local park, and wandering the streets. Even the most famous sights in the country don’t cost that much. You can get a ticket to the Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul for just under $3.

It is worth setting aside some money for some bigger ticket items, like a flight to Jeju Island, ski life ticket, or South Korean spa!

For more budget tips, head on over to our guide breaking down South Korea’s expenses .

A Daily Budget in South Korea

Money in south korea.

South Korea’s currency is the Won. At the time of writing (December 2020) , the exchange rate is 1 USD = 1,084 Won .

ATMs are widely available in South Korea and many businesses accept credit cards, so you really don’t have to worry about being able to pay for things when backpacking South Korea. That said, you are dealing with high denominations – I’d suggest wearing a solid travel money belt when kicking around the cities.

Travel Tips – South Korea on a Budget

Visiting South Korea on a shoestring budget is totally possible – it’s just about knowing the art of budget backpacking !

• Camp: It’s most definitely possible outside of the cities, and it’s totally possible in the cities too (provided you find a good spot). Make sure you bring your best backpacking gear and prepare for some nights under the stars!
• Cook your own food:  If you are on a tight budget, you can save money by cooking your own food. Staying places with a kitchen or packing a cooker is the way to go.
• Check the convenience stores – Much like Japan’s rabid konbini culture, the convenience stores in South Korea (7-Eleven, GS25, etc.) are mega-cheap and a haven for backpackers, uni students, penny pinchers alike!
• Couchsurf:  If you want to save some dough on accommodation, it’s worth it to look for a host on Couchsurfing. Traveling by Couchsurfing is a great way to make some real friendships and see this country from the perspective of locals.

Why Should You Travel to South Korea with a Water Bottle?

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful!

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller.

STOP USING SINGLE-USE PLASTIC! If you’d like some more tips on how to save the world .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

South Korea is home to all four seasons, so the best time to travel really depends on what kind of weather you prefer and what you hope to do while you’re backpacking South Korea.

Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid, while winter (December-February) can be bitterly cold and dry. If you plan to hit the beach or the slopes, these seasons are just fine.

Those who prefer moderate weather will want to visit in either the spring or the fall. Both seasons are typically sunny and dry, allowing you to spend plenty of time outside comfortably.

If you want to see the cherry blossoms in bloom, you’ll want to visit between mid-March and mid-April.

Festivals in South Korea

South Korea has countless festivals that span over the entire year:

• Seollal (the Lunar New Year) – One of the most important holidays in the country and a very festive time. South Korea’s New Year takes place around late January – February. One interesting thing about Korean New Year is that all people add a year to their age on this day rather than their birthday.
• Chuseok – Another super important festival in Korean culture, this harvest festival occurs on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month during the full moon. On this day, Koreans visit their ancestral hometown and partake in a massive feast of traditional food.
• Yudu – Another of the many other interesting festivals in South Korea. On this day, people try to drive away bad luck and spirits by bathing and washing their hair. People also eat long noodles for a long and prosperous life.
• Chopail – People also celebrate the day of Buddha’s birth by hanging up lanterns and visiting a temple.

As many Koreans are Christian, Christmas and Easter are also big holidays.

What to Pack for South Korea

What you pack for your adventure backpacking South Korea depends mostly on what time of year you go. The country experiences all four seasons, so you’ll need to take the weather into consideration. It can get very hot in the summer and super cold in the winter, so you’ll want to be prepared.

How you pack also depends on what you plan to do there. Hiking is huge in South Korea, so it’s a good idea to pack good hiking shoes and other gear. If you’re visiting in the winter, you might want to bring your ski/snowboard gear to hit the slopes.

Make sure you get your backpacking packing list right! On every adventure, there are six things I never go travelling without:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

South Korea is safe to travel . This is a very safe country where you have very little to worry about.

Even petty theft and pickpocketing aren’t really a big concern here. Of course, you should still be mindful of your things, especially on crowded streets or public transport. Make sure to hide your money when travelling around .

Foreigners who run into trouble here usually do so as a result of drunkenly starting arguments or fights. Basically, don’t be an idiot and you’ll be fine. If you’re out and an argument starts, just use some common sense and walk away.

Check out the travel tips in our Backpacker Safety 101 post for advice on staying safe whilst backpacking.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in South Korea

If you’re a foreigner in South Korea whose single and ready to mingle, just be aware of a few things. First of all, there are definitely plenty of Korean girls with foreign boyfriends. That being said, it’s a very homogenous country where many people still look down on other kinds of relationships.

I remember reading a blog by a guy who lived there several years and had a local girlfriend. Once he finally started to pick up the language, he was incredibly upset to hear what random people out in public said about seeing them together.

As a backpacker passing by, you may not encounter such problems. You might, however, find language barriers and cultural differences as an obstruction to your desires.

Prostitution is technically illegal in South Korea, but there are plenty of red-light districts in the country that seem to operate just fine. Exercise caution (in more ways than one) if you choose to go this route.

When it comes to drugs in South Korea, my advice is to steer clear. I love sparking a fat doobie as much as the next stoner, but it’s not worth it here.

Drug laws are pretty strict, and they love making examples out of foreigners who choose to ignore their laws. Are there drugs around? Sure. I just wouldn’t bother looking for them. Stick to booze here and save it for your next trip to Colorado.

Speaking of booze, Koreans definitely love to party. In fact, Koreans are among the heaviest drinkers in the world. Because of strict social norms at home and in the workplace, people tend to get quite loose when they go out.

The national drink of South Korea is soju , a clear spirit that’s usually about 20%. Most of the time, people just drink it straight, but sometimes a little soju is poured into a cup of beer to really get the party started. It’s not that strong, but it creeps up on you after several cups!

Travel Insurance for South Korea

A wise man once said that if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t really afford to travel! Do invest in good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Most visitors to South Korea arrive at the Incheon International Airport outside of Seoul. There are direct flights to and from this airport from cities all over the world. You can also fly into Busan if you’re traveling to South Korea from other points in Asia.

Entry Requirements for South Korea

Citizens from over 115 countries are allowed to enter South Korea visa-free. The length of stay varies – Canadians get the jackpot of a maximum 180-day in the country.

A bulk of the countries on the list get up to 90 days, including Americans, Aussies, Kiwis, and most EU countries. It’s always a good idea to check out the visa policy for South Korea before you plan your trip.

Get 15% OFF when you book through our link — and support the site you love so dearly 😉

Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

Getting around South Korea is quite easy thanks to the country’s compact size and excellent transportation system. You can get from one side of the country to the other in just a few hours. When backpacking South Korea, most travellers get around via a combination of bus and train.

The national rail operator is Korail , and there are train routes connecting most major cities. If you plan to move around a lot, it is worth looking into purchasing the KR Pass . These give you unlimited train travel for a set amount of time, up to 10 days maximum.

South Korea has a great bus system as well. You can get travel about anywhere in South Korea by bus in a timely and efficient manner. I’ve yet to take a train or plane in South Korea relying solely on the bus system to get around.

There are domestic flights between cities if you’re in a huge hurry, but you probably won’t need to fly unless you go to Jeju Island.

Hitchhiking in South Korea

I’ve never tried hitchhiking in South Korea , but apparently, it’s pretty easy. I’ve heard it’s similar to hitchhiking in Japan. It’s not super common but people do get it,

It helps to look presentable – clean-shaven and well-dressed – as well as staying smiley, cheery, and approachable. That said, if my experience hitchhiking in Japan and elsewhere in Asia is a good metric to go by, looking like a shaggy, colorful, hippy traveler works just as well.

Generally, people are just delighted to meet and help an eccentric foreigner. Signs written by locals can help you get to your next destination in South Korea a bit easier, however , always specify that you only need to go in the DIRECTION OF ‘X’. That way, people don’t think your explicitly asking for a free 200 km lift.

For more hitchhiking tips, check out Will’s  Beginners’s Guide to Hitchiking  post. And remember:

• Back straight.
• Look like your having fun.
• Keep smiling. 🙂

Onwards Travel from South Korea

Unfortunately, your options for overland onwards travel are pretty much non-existent. While some adventurous travellers (with the ability to do so) may want to check out North Korea, it’s not likely you’ll be backpacking through there.

If you want to skip out on a flight, you can take a ferry from South Korea to either China or Japan. One of the most popular ferry routes is to head from Busan to Fukuoka, as it takes just around three hours to make the crossing. From Incheon, you can catch a ferry to several different cities in China.

Of course, you can always catch a flight out of Seoul to virtually anywhere in the world. You have plenty of choices for onwards travel when flying out of the Korean capital, particularly major destinations in Southeast Asia like Bangkok or Singapore. A backpacking Southeast Asia adventure isn’t far away!

• Backpacking Japan Travel Guide
• Backpacking China Travel Guide

Yes, for sure and definitely. South Korea is what I like to call a part of ‘expensive Asia’ . Wages are high, the cost of living is high, modern conveniences are plentiful, yet, somehow, rice and tofu are still crazy cheap because this is Asia and no man or woman shall ever be denied their rice!

What I’m trying to say is, South Korea is a great destination for the working traveler provided your willing to endure the bureaucratic rigmarole. Here’s a great guide that breaks down the types of and requirements for South Korean work visas . Essentially though, you’ll be applying for a different visa depending on your occupation.

Now, if you DON’T want to plow through the bureaucratic rigmarole, volunteering in South Korea is also a fantastic option! Although, you may want to consider joining a reputable volunteering platform in order to find decent gigs. English is tough to come by, and it’s always good to have a trustworthy service behind you as you travel.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Volunteering in South Korea

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst helping your host community. There are plenty of different volunteer projects in South Korea including teaching, construction, agriculture and pretty much anything.

South Korea is full of opportunities for backpackers to volunteer. Most gigs you’ll find are teaching English, but there are also plenty of opportunities to work in hospitality in exchange for free accommodation. All you need is a tourist visa and you’re ready to get started!

Want to find some awesome volunteering opportunities in South Korea? Then signup for Worldpackers , a platform that connects local hosts with volunteer travelers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Programs run through reputable work exchange programs , like Worldpackers, are generally very well-managed and highly reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering do stay vigilant especially when working with animals or children.

Teaching English in South Korea

You know what’s even better than traveling? Getting paid to do it! If you’ve ever thought about teaching English abroad , South Korea is hands down one of the best places to give it a try.

In a country obsessed with education, jobs for native speakers are abundant. South Korea is also one of the highest-paying places to teach English. That brings us to our next point.

There are tons of jobs for native English speaking teachers in South Korea. If you’re a native speaker with a college degree and a TEFL certificate , you can easily find a job teaching in South Korea.

You WILL need TEFL certificate though; they’re super easy to obtain through online courses. We recommend going through MyTEFL because not only are they an excellent organisation, but you can also score yourself a 50% discount using the code PACK50 .

Getting a TEFL with Global Work and Travel is also a viable option. You can do the course either online or in Icheon where you’ll stay in shared accommodation with other TEFLers. They’ll also assist you with the VISA process and getting a job on completion of the course. There isn’t much they don’t help you with so you can’t really go wrong!

Many English teachers start out by working in a hagwon , which is basically an after-school and weekend gig. Even brand new teachers earn a decent salary and usually get an apartment provided by the school, in addition to airfare reimbursement at the end of a year contract.

Once you’ve got some experience under your belt, you can transition to a public school or university job and work a normal schedule.

Many people turn to teaching English in South Korea into a career and make really good money doing it. I have many friends who have taught English in South Korea and almost all of them had a great experience, except one buddy who had an awful boss. That can happen anywhere, though…

If you’re interested in learning more about working as an ESL teacher in South Korea, check out my interview with our friend Gwendolyn about her time spent teaching English in South Korea .

Oh wow. Where to begin? Enjoying the mouth-watering cuisine is definitely a highlight of backpacking South Korea. Make sure you hit up some street food, hole in the wall local joints, and Korean BBQ restaurants.

It is also worth mentioning that pretty much every meal comes with some kind of banchan  or side dish; the amount basically scales with how you’re eating. If you’re eating solo, you’ll typically get 1-3, but if you’re in a big group you’ll get a bunch of banchans .

Popular Dishes in South Korea

Here are some dishes you have to try in South Korea:

• kimchi  = the national dish – spicy, fermented cabbage
• bibimbap  = a rice bowl with vegetables, spicy sauce, and a fried egg
• bulgogi  = marinated beef
• japchae  = stir-fried noodles
• teokbokki =  rice cakes spicy sauce
• pajeon =  savory pancake made of flour, green onions, and whatever else
• samgyetang =  a soup with ginseng broth and chicken stuffed with rice
• dubu kimchi =  stir-fried pork and kimchi served with boiled tofu

South Korea is a very homogenous country – around 96% of the population is Korean – so it’s not hard to meet Koreans. What might be hard is communicating, as English is not very prevalent. Most young people speak some English, although many be shy to speak a second language with foreigners.

People in South Korea like to get outside and socialize in public parks when the weather is nice. Coffee shops and tea houses are also popular places to hang out and chat. As hiking is so big in South Korea, you’ll always meet people out on the trails.

Of course, you can always go out to bars and meet people as well. As I mentioned above, Koreans like to throw back a few cold ones after work (with a little soju mixed in, of course). Strike up a conversation and next thing you know it’s 3 AM and you’re hammered drunk belting out some karaoke. Welcome to South Korea!

Useful Travel Phrases for South Korea

Korean is difficult to learn, but a little effort goes a long way when learning a new language for travel. Plus, it opens up all kinds of experiences and opportunities. 

Here are a few useful Korean travel phrases to get you started:

• Ahn-nyung-ha-se-yo  = Hello
• Bahn-gap-seup-ni-da  = Nice to meet you
• Uh-dduh-keh ji-neh-seh-yo?  = How are you?
• Ah-nee-oh  = No
• Jwe-song-ha-ji-mahn  = Please
• Gam-sa-ham-ni-da  = Thank you
• Binil bongjiga eobsda  = No plastic bag
• Jebal jip-eusibsio  = No straw please
• Peullaseutig kal but-igi balabnid a = No plastic cutlery please
• Chon-mahn-eh-yo  = You’re welcome
• Sil-le-hahm-ni-da  = Excuse me
• Yong-o-rul hahl-jool a-se-yo?  = Do you speak English?

Books to Read About South Korea

Reading up on South Korea before visiting is a great way to earn some insight into the country!

• The Birth of Korean Cool : Find out how “one nation is conquering the world through pop culture” in this fascinating read. Beyond “Gangnam Style,” writer Euny Hong shows how a very uncool country became cool.
• Korea: The Impossible Country : How did South Korea transform itself from a failed country into an economic powerhouse in just 50 years? Find out in this in-depth look into South Korea’s rise from the ashes.
• The Two Koreas: A Contemporary History: Learn about the complicated history of the Korean Peninsula from World War II up to the present day in this highly acclaimed book.

A Brief History of South Korea

I’ll begin to explain South Korea’s recent history with the founding of the country on August 15, 1948. After the Japanese surrendered in World War II, the peninsula was partitioned – the US would administer the south, while the Soviet Union would administer the north.

The division was supposed to be temporary, but it didn’t quite work out that way. The Korean War broke out in 1950 and lasted for three long and bloody years. With no agreement, the status quo remained and the two would go on as separate entities.

In the 70 years since the Korean War, it’s remarkable to see the stark contrast between the two Koreas. Just look at a satellite image of the Korean peninsula at night . While South Korea is full of bright, shining lights, the north is shrouded in darkness.

Since its founding, South Korea has gone through periods of democratic and autocratic rule. The era known as the First Republic was mostly democratic, but the Second Republic was overthrown early on and replaced by an autocratic military regime.

The country is currently in the Sixth Republic and is, for the most part, a liberal democracy.

South Korea elected its first female president, Park Gyuen-hye, in 2013. However, she was impeached in 2016 due to a corruption scandal.

The current president is Moon Jae-in, who was inaugurated in 2017. He made history by meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, and has done so on multiple occasions now.

Just as you would anywhere else in the world, be sure to respect the local culture and customs when backpacking South Korea.

For example, you should always pour someone else’s drink before your own, and shouldn’t leave chopsticks in your rice bowl, as this resembles ancestral ceremonies.

Be sure to remove your shoes when you enter someone’s home in South Korea. People love sitting and even sleeping on the floor here, so it’s very rude to muck it up with your dirty shoes. Other than that, just be respectful and friendly and people here will treat you very well.

And Have a Blast Backpacking in South Korea

While South Korea isn’t often brought up as a backpacking destination, it most certainly should be. With bustling cities, tons of outdoor adventures, a vibrant culture, and even a beautiful island, you’re sure to have a great time backpacking South Korea.

This is a fascinating country that has transformed drastically over the last few decades. It’s amazing to see the clash of tradition and modernity taking place here.

On one hand, Koreans proudly celebrate their traditions and ancient culture. On the other hand, they’re sprinting towards the future with break-neck speed.

Should you decide to travel to South Korea, you will be well rewarded. It’s an affordable destination that offers tons of unique experiences.

Best of all, you don’t need a lifetime to take in all that the country has to offer. Carve out a few weeks to dive into South Korea, and it will be one of the best trips you ever take.

• Best hostels for South Korea
• South Korean foods to try
• Is South Korea expensive
• Backpacking Japan guide

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Note: Backpackers in Jeollanam-Do (southernmost province) are welcome, but BEG-Packers are not.

Koreans are put off by these vermin and local expats will happily inform the local police, who will escort them to the nearest airport.

Bring a positive appearance to Korea. Don’t become a cautionary tale.

That “Oeam Folk Village in spring” photo is probably actually autumn. That’s when the cosmos bloom. (Also, the rice looks pretty high.)

also from my side a big thank you for the helpful tips. I am heading to south korea in a couple of weeks and i will definitely use some of your tips and recommendation when i am there

Fab reading. Heading out for a week from Egypt after a visit to Hong Kong and China. Thanks for all the info!

Have an awesome time!

I enjoyed your article. I started learning Korean a month ago and will take your advice on spending more time to speak it. Thanks!

I’m in Danyang and i dont see widely available ATMs, i tried 2 already and they dont wanna work with my visa.

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First Time Traveler & SLLC Sophomore N’deye Diop Thrives in Korea

Wondering what studying abroad might look like if you’ve never been on a plane? Meet N’deye Diop ‘26, Arabic student, first-time traveler, Black and Muslim woman. Diop shares her experience with Winter at Yonsei and advice for other students like her.

1. Can you share a little bit about yourself and the study abroad program you participated in?

I am a second-year student majoring in Biological Sciences: Physiology and Neurobiology, with a minor in Arabic language. Last winter, I participated in the 2024 Winter Abroad program at Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea. I consider myself an avid language learner, starting with my love for French in high school and continuing with Arabic and self-teaching Korean. Languages have always been a significant part of my personal life, shaping various aspects of my experiences.

2. You formally study Arabic, and you self-taught yourself Korean. How did that impact your decision to study at Yonsei? What did that process look like?

My interest in Korean language and culture began about four years ago, sparked by exposure to Korean music and media. Last summer, I wondered if I could study abroad in Korea. Despite challenges—such as the lack of fellow students who had studied in Korea—I persisted, scouring forums, obtaining a passport (surprisingly, I had never flown before), and meticulously planning which schools to apply to. Despite the prestige and intimidation of institutions like Yonsei University and Seoul National University, akin to the Harvards and Yales of Korea, I applied nonetheless. In November, I received acceptance, and from there, I finalized my budget and itinerary.

3. What was a particularly memorable experience you had while abroad?

My itinerary was packed! I attended classes (of course), explored the vibrant Sinchon, Myeongdong, and Hongdae areas, which capture the heart of lively young adult scenes, delectable food options, and diverse shopping opportunities. I visited attractions like Lotte World, Namdaemun Market, Hanok Village, and even ventured to Busan, a province south of Seoul. Amidst these adventures, I encountered numerous firsts. However, one memory in particular stands out: at Lotte World, after exiting a ride with a friend, I was approached by some girls asking, "Do you know where the bathroom is?" and in my head I chuckled because I was in a foreign country I had no idea where anything was! But Despite being in a foreign country I always know where the bathroom is so I told them yes and to follow me. I confidently guided them, remarking in Korean, "Do you speak Korean?" Their gasps were followed by a delightful exchange in Korean. Although brief, this encounter left a lasting impact; their respectful gesture of addressing me as "unnie" (big sister), despite its cultural smallness, filled me with warmth.

4. What new skills or special knowledge did you gain or enhance that will help you in your academic and professional career? 

As someone who had never traveled extensively before, the experience of taking off in an airplane filled me with an uncontrollable sense of giddiness. Being far from home underscored the world's vastness while highlighting our shared humanity. I believe that providing students with more opportunities to travel and study abroad is essential for fostering cultural competence and expanding their social circles. Despite my relatively short three-week stay in Korea, I have forged connections in China, Korea, Australia, and various places across the United States. Moreover, being abroad deepened my commitment to learning Korean, evident in the significant improvement of my language skills from day one to my departure. I was able to converse with taxi drivers, inquire with locals, and confidently navigate purchasing items and food.

5. If applicable, how did your identity impact your time abroad? And what advice would you give to students like you who are planning to go abroad? 

As a Black Muslim woman, I was initially apprehensive about traveling, but my curiosity outweighed my fears, and I am grateful for the experience. Fortunately, I encountered no instances of bias during my time in Korea. In fact, simply by speaking a little Korean, I received many words of encouragement from locals. I believe that given the opportunity, every student should study abroad if possible. My key advice is to be proactive and conduct thorough research. You don't want any negative surprises, especially when you're a 15-hour flight away from home, as I was. Additionally, I recommend reaching out to individuals who have previously studied abroad, inquiring about their experiences and duration of stay, as well as consulting UMD education abroad advisors.

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Cuts to England’s cycling and walking budget challenged in court

Campaigners say loss of £200m from active travel budget is illegal and resulted from Treasury pressure

Swingeing cuts to public spending on cycling and walking in England should be overturned as government expenditure was already insufficient to meet legally binding climate targets, the high court has been told.

Campaigners are challenging a decision in 2023 to cut more than £200m from the Department for Transport’s active travel budget for the following two years.

In a judicial review hearing at the Royal Courts of Justice on Tuesday, lawyers for Transport Action Network (Tan) argued that the cuts threatened a key plank of the UK’s carbon reduction strategy.

The DfT’s budget for cycling and walking was cut by more than 50% in March last year in a move that was overshadowed by accompanying cuts to the HS2 high-speed rail scheme , announced the same day.

Lawyers for Tan argued that the decision was incompatible with the government’s net zero strategy and transport decarbonisation plan, which set out proposals and policies required to meet carbon budgets.

The first of the strategic priorities outlined in the plan was to accelerate “modal shift” from car use to sustainable travel.

Accompanying targets included doubling cycling journeys and ensuring more than half of primary school age children walked to school by the middle of this decade.

David Forsdick KC, representing Tan, said in written arguments that the DfT had decided not to cut funding which was “central to achieving the objectives for active travel, was important for equality ambitions, for air quality targets and for delivery confidence in meeting carbon targets, and had a very high cost-benefit ratio”.

The barrister said that “immediately prior” to the March 2023 decision, the Treasury and No 10 required the transport secretary, Mark Harper, “to impose ‘additional savings’”. Forsdick said: “This appears to explain, at least in part, the illegalities in the decision.”

In November 2023, a critical public accounts committee report found that the DfT had made little progress against its objectives to increase active travel, and was not on track to meet its 2025 targets.

Although Dame Bernadette Kelly, the DfT’s permanent secretary, told the committee hearings that she “would not identify funding as the key issue” in missing targets, Tan claims that the money allocated was already inadequate to meet the climate pledges.

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Tan’s lawyers also claim that the funding decision last March was only made after an 11th-hour intervention from the Treasury that did not allow time for proper consideration. They also argue that the move failed to take into account air quality considerations.

The DfT has told the court that none of the grounds has any substantive merit and that the claim should be dismissed. The government said it had invested more than £850m in active travel in 2020-21 and 2022-23.

A judgment is expected to be delivered in the weeks following Tuesday’s hearing.

A DfT spokesperson said: “This government is doing more than any other to promote walking and cycling, investing over £3bn into active travel during this parliament up to 2025. We await the verdict and will respond fully once received.”

• Transport policy
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• Greenhouse gas emissions
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