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Some attractions subject to closure or limited entrance due to COVID-19. Please check before visiting.

KOREA TOUR CARD

KOREA TOUR CARD is a useful transportation and travel card exclusive to international tourists. The card provides convenient access to public transportation anywhere in Korea. KOREA TOUR CARD also provides discount benefits at popular attractions such as National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul , Everland , and Lotte World . The card can be purchased online or at offline stores. A mobile app version of the card is also available and can be used on devices that support NFC function to pay for services and purchase goods. The mobile app allows convenient access to all the benefits of the KOREA TOUR CARD without the hassle of carrying a physical card in your wallet.

4,000 won (card is not loaded upon purchase) * Cash only

Retail locations

• For online purchase, check the Korea Tour Card website for detailed information • Card vending machines at major Seoul subway stations from Line 1 to 4 and at Incheon International Airport Terminal 1 Station, Gimpo International Airport Station, and Seoul Station on Airport Railroad Line • Convenience stores: 7-Eleven, CU, GS25, emart24 (card may not be available in all stores) • In-flight purchase: Jeju Airlines (40 international flights stopping at Incheon or Busan) • Affiliated banks within airports: Shinhan Bank (Incheon International Airport branch, exchange booths near Boarding Gate C in Terminal 1 & Gate A in Terminal 2, Gimpo International Airport, Jeju International Airport) / Woori Bank exchange booths (Incheon International Airport near Exit Gates 4 & 9 in Terminal 1 & and Exit Gate 5 in Terminal 2) • Other locations: Shinhan Bank (Myeong-dong Station Branch, Myeong-dong Branch, Hongik Univ. Branch)

Reload & refund locations

Convenience stores and Tmoney service desks at subway stations (Seoul Subway Lines 1-8, Incheon Subway Lines 1-2) * Cards can also be reloaded using the card reloading devices inside subway stations. * Upon refund, travelers can receive the remaining balance loaded in the card with a service charge of 500 won; card purchase payment will not be refunded. Cardholders are advised to load their card in small amounts as refund process for over 50,000 won can be complicated and time-consuming.

KOREA TOUR CARD Namhaean Coast

The KOREA TOUR CARD Namhaean Coast comes with special privileges that are unique to the Namhaean (southern coast) regions of Busan, Gyeongsangnam-do, and Jeollanam-do. KOREA TOUR CARD Namhaean Coast cardholders will not only be eligible for 160 various benefits of a regular KOREA TOUR CARD, but as of September 2021, it will also be rewarded with 39 exclusive special benefits only available in the southern coast regions.

www.koreatourcard.kr (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

M-PASS Card

Metropolitan Pass, or MPASS, is a transportation card exclusively for international tourists traveling in the Seoul metropolitan area and Jeju. The pass offers 20 rides a day for the duration of the pass. Additional funds can be loaded to MPASS to be used as a Tmoney card. * Please note that MPASS cannot be used to pay for taxis and may not be accepted at convenience stores.

Card Types and Pricelist

MPASS comes in five different durations: 1-day, 2-day, 3-day, 5-day, and 7-day passes. MPASS will be registered as day one upon its first use and will be valid until midnight of the last day. MPASS can be purchased with Korean won only.

Areas of use

Subway lines, airport railroad all-stop train, Seoul city buses (mainline buses, branch buses, circulation buses, village buses, night buses), Jeju city buses

Retail & refund locations

Travelers can purchase or receive card refunds from the areas listed below. Refund applies to the card fee and remaining balance loaded in the card; 500 won will be charged for the refund service. * MPASS prices include a 5,000 won deposit. When the card is returned, users will receive a 4,500 won refund.

Incheon International Airport

- Tourist Information Center: 1F, Passenger Terminal 1 in front of Gates 5 & 10 / 07:00-22:00 * Refunds at the airport can only be made at the Tourist Information Center.

- Seoul Station Tmoney Town : 1F, Seoul City Tower near Seoul Station (Seoul Subway Line 1, 4, AREX), Exit 10 / Weekdays 09:00-18:00 - Myeong-dong Tourist Information Center : In front of Euljiro 1(il)-ga Station (Seoul Subway Line 2), Exit 5 / 09:00-20:00, Closed on the day of Seollal (Lunar New Year's Day) & Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving Day)

Jeju International Airport

- Tourist Information Center: 1F, Gate 1 / 07:00-22:00

tmoneympass.co.kr (Korean, English)

Discover Seoul Pass

Discover Seoul Pass is a card that functions as a Tmoney card and a free admission pass to major tourist attractions in Seoul. The card is available in 24-, 48-, and 72-hour passes, allowing travelers to freely choose and use the card that suits their itinerary. The card also provides discount benefits for watching cultural performances and shopping at duty free shops. In addition, users can load the card to use as a Tmoney card for public transportation. Travelers can check the card’s remaining hours and affiliated attractions by using the Discover Seoul Pass app. The app also allows for use as a mobile pass! Travelers can conveniently purchase the pass through their phone to use right away. Additional benefits include 24-hour use of the Seoul city’s public bicycles, a ride on the Airport Express Train from Incheon to Seoul, and a one-day tour on the Seoul City Tour Bus. * Cardholders with a physical card can only use the app to check the remaining time and information about tourist attractions.

24-hour pass 39,900 won / 48-hour pass 55,000 won / 72-hour pass 70,000 won * Same rates apply when purchasing as a mobile pass. * Mobile pass cannot be used as a Tmoney card

• Offline: Select attractions and hotels within Seoul, airports and AREX locations * Locations subject to change; refer to website for details • Online: Through Discovery Seoul Pass website

Pick-up locations for online purchase

• Print or take a screenshot of a voucher received via e-mail or mobile and bring it to the pick-up location • Pick-up locations - Myeong-dong Tourist Information Center: 09:00-18:00, Closed Sundays and on the day of Seollal (Lunar New Year's Day) & Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving Day) - SK Roaming Center, Incheon International Airport Terminal 1, 1F between Exit Gates 9 & 10 / 06:00-22:00 - East Immigration Office, Incheon International Airport Terminal 2, 2F / Open 24 hours - Seoul Tourism Plaza Tourist Information Souvenir Shop / 09:00-18:00

• Tmoney Card function reload locations: Convenience stores and card reload devices or Tmoney service desks at subway stations • Tmoney Card refund locations - Balance of 30,000 won or less: Convenience stores and Tmoney service desks at subway stations - Balance of 50,000 won or less: Tmoney service desks at subway stations * Tmoney service desks can be found on Seoul Subway Lines 1-8 and Incheon Subway Lines 1-2 * Refund available with a service charge of 500 won. Travelers are advised to load their card in small amounts as refund process for over 50,000 won can be complicated and time-consuming. * Refund not available in the case of lost cards

App instructions

Download Discover Seoul Pass app from Google Play or Apple App Store → Scan the QR code or input the code indicated under the QR code on your Discover Seoul Pass card → Your card and the app will be in sync * App is available in Korean, English, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, and Traditional Chinese based on the user's phone language setting 

Affiliated attractions

Gyeongbokgung Palace , Changdeokgung Palace Complex , Deoksugung Palace , Changgyeonggung Palace , Seodaemun Prison History Museum , Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art , National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul (MMCA Seoul) , Namsan Seoul Tower , Seoul Battleship Park, Namsangol Hanok Village , COEX Aquarium , etc.

discoverseoulpass.com (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

This page was last updated on September 10, 2021, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here.

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VISITKOREA : Official Guide

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VISITKOREA : Official Guide 4+

Designed for ipad.

• 3.3 • 6 Ratings

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Description.

Travel Korea with the VisitKorea app! The VisitKorea app provides information on beautiful tourist attractions, delicious food, comfortable accommodations, pleasant shopping centers and exciting festivals in Korea to help tourists have the most satisfying trip ever. In addition, it provides all the information tourists may need when traveling to Korea such as finding directions and public transportation information, and emergency contacts to make their trip more convenient and safe. All about Korean Tourism News and travel columns are updated regularly to provide special travel information about Korea. Check them out to learn more about current and upcoming trends on tourist attractions, restaurants, accommodations, shopping center and festivals. In the Travel Basics menu, you can find useful information such as visa and entry requirements, emergency contacts, operating hours of public agencies and tourist police. Record you itinerary Record memories of your trip in Korea. This new feature will help you manage your schedule and remember your trip in the form of a timeline. Simply save your arrival and departure information, your planned itinerary, and add photos and memos. Korean tourism information recommended automatically Are you in Seoul now? Then, the VisitKorea app will guide you to the most satisfying tourist areas in Seoul. The VisitKorea app recommends information such as tourist attractions, good restaurants, accommodations etc. according to the user’s preference by using big data. (You must register additional information in the settings menu to receive customized recommendation for tourism information.) Maps to find your way around Korea Use the directions menu in the map to find your way to your destination while traveling in Korea. You can find the route via public transport, taxis, or on foot. In addition, the subway menu provides subway route maps and subway directions for Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Gwangju and Daejeon. As a reliable travel guide provided by the Korea Tourism Organization, VisitKorea provides information for tourists who are planning a trip to Korea or are currently traveling in Korea. Users can feel like they are in Korea even when using the app at home. Korea Tourism Organization is working hard to improve the VisitKorea app service for an enjoyable trip to Korea.

Version 6.0.7

minor bug fixed

Ratings and Reviews

Could be better.

I think the app is absolutely amazing & I love how it stays up to date BUT recently it started showing an error when I try to click on majority of the options & it tells me to check my connection (which is absolutely fine) so if that got fixed I’d be extremely happy with the app & I definitely recommend it otherwise!

Developer Response ,

Thank you for using the VisitKorea app. The app has been released with version 5.0. With this version you will have improved designs and services.

Useful and helpful app

App looks appealing aesthetically, but usability is a little bit lacking. For example, I like that there's a map function with pinpoints of things to do, eat, see, and sleep near you but the map itself loads just a tiny bit slow and all the pinpoints get in the way when you just want to look at the map to find your way around (e.g. how many streets do I have to walk until I get to Lotteria?). For the attractions section, I felt overloaded with the listings of so many places to visit; it reminded me of the Yellow Pages (a big book listing all the businesses in a city) which I guess is good and bad in a way. For the accommodation section, it would be great if the rates were also listed as well as a filter to sort hotels/motels/etc by star rating and price (from low to high and high to low). Overall, I can see the app developers really put thought and effort into making this app helpful and useful to users because the app sections are thoughtfully planned and laid out with so much categories to choose from and information to read, so kudos to that.

Good information for tourists

There is a lot of good stuff in this app. You can find basic Korean phrases, information regarding transportation, ATM withdrawals, etc. I like the nice photos and descriptions for major and minor sights in Seoul. On the minus side. I am not 100% happy with the map. Depending on the zoom level, icons can appear in a wrong location. This happens when you have multiple objects from the same category in close proximity to each other. Also, the restaurant selection is very poor compared to the wealth of eating options here! Overall this is a great app for any visitor! M.

App Privacy

The developer, 한국관광공사 , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Not Linked to You

The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

• Identifiers

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

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English, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese

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두루누비(코리아둘레길)

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Seoul Metro Subway Map

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Visit Seoul – Seoul travels

Discover Seoul Pass

What to know before you visit Seoul

Feb 4, 2024 • 8 min read

The hustle and bustle of Seoul can be overwhelming, but we've got the top insider tips to make your trip a success © Mongkol Chuewong / Getty Images

When I moved to Seoul , I had a clear plan that I was determined to stick to – teach English for one year and then move on to explore other parts of the world. But my plan didn't account for the way Seoul captivated and delighted me, and that single year I was committed to soon rolled into two, three, and then, ultimately, six years.

From the moment I stepped off the crowded bus from the airport and onto its bustling streets, I became enamored with its colorful neighborhoods, eclectic markets and diverse nightlife.

Here are my top insider tips to make your first trip to Seoul as special as mine was.

1. Buy a local SIM card

While many businesses around Seoul offer free wi-fi, a local SIM card ensures you're connected when you're out and about, too. Order a prepaid SIM card from Internet providers like KT and SKT and pick it up when you arrive at Incheon Airport, or purchase one from almost any convenience store around the capital.

Having a local SIM means making calls and accessing apps for restaurant reservations and late-night taxis won't result in a painful bill once you're back home again. It's also a great way to ensure you don't get lost on one of the many hikes outside of the city. SIM cards are cheap, and prices are based on the length of your stay, starting from about ₩5500 for one day.

2. Choose accommodations based on the Seoul attractions that inspire you most

Each of Seoul's neighborhoods has its own personality  – consider which district best matches your interests and base yourself there. Relish nightlife and multicultural menus? Itaewon is the place to be. Shopaholics and foodies should stay in Myeongdong or Dongdaemun , where outdoor food stalls and high-rise (and high-end) retail empires reign.

Art connoisseurs and history buffs will thrive and delight in the local art galleries and Gyeongbokgung Palace in Insadong. If staying up all night for pop-up art shows, buskers and noraebangs (karaoke rooms) is your thing, then Hongdae won't disappoint.

To dive into Korean culture, book a stay at a hanok (a traditional Korean house). These homes show off Korea's past through traditional architecture, complete with ondols (heated floors) and scenic courtyard gardens tucked away from the noisy city.

3. Download this app to navigate Seoul's subway system

Seoul's subway system is clean and safe, and it's the most efficient way to cruise around the sprawling city. Entrances and exits are marked with numbers and station names in English. Use a subway navigation app like Subway Korea (available on both iOS  and Android ) to figure out which exit number will get you closest to where you want to go. All stations and trains have wi-fi.

While subways get crowded during rush hour, the rest of the day is an easy ride. Even when the trains are packed with people, you'll find your personal space is always respected.

4. Use Kakao Taxi for late-night travel

The subway closes at midnight and doesn't reopen until 6am, so taxis are the only options for late-night journeys. The hardest places to find a ride are the bar districts – especially Gangnam , Itaewon and Hongdae – so download the Kakao T app to get better visibility of available cars. You can select exactly where you want to go and secure the price of the ride before getting into the car. It's fine to pay in cash, and the price won't change after the ride is secured.

5. Buy a Tmoney card for public transportation

Tmoney cards are rechargeable, easy-to-use travel cards that cover all of Seoul's public transportation, and they cost just ₩2500. Just pick one up from any of the ubiquitous convenience stores around the city and load it with money – congratulations, you no longer need to wait in line to buy individual tickets! Each time you scan your card, the balance is shown. When the amount gets low, head back to a convenience store or subway station kiosk to add more funds. All kiosks have a button for English-language options.

6. Korean navigation and translation apps are essentials

Some popular phone apps that work fine in other countries don't fare well in Korea, including Google Maps. While it can be useful when searching for restaurants in English, attempting to find that restaurant is a challenge. Instead, download KakaoMap to easily navigate the city – it also highlights nearby sightseeing spots and popular restaurants with user reviews.

If you're not fluent in Korean, don't despair – download Papago , which translates text, speech and images of Korean words. You can take a picture of nearly anything with Korean writing on it, from signs to bags of potato chips, and the app will translate any words it detects.

7. Familiarize yourself with Korean etiquette and key phrases

Korea embraces social harmony as an extension of the Confucianism engrained in the culture. Being polite when you speak is imperative, and knowing a few words and phrases in Korean goes a long way. Practice saying simple greetings such as " gamsahabnida " (thank you), " annyeonghaseyo " (hello) and " juseyo " (please).

In every subway car and bus, a specific seat is designated for pregnant women. It's very much frowned upon to use it unless you're pregnant. Age is highly valued in Korean society, and elders are treated with the utmost respect. If offered food or drink from someone older than you, accept it and show gratitude. A small bow will go a long way.

8. Use two hands when giving or receiving gifts, drinks and money

When meeting someone for the first time, it's best to clasp their hand with both of yours. The rule is also key when drinking in Korea. Never pour your own drink – instead, take turns pouring for one another. Whether pouring or receiving, always use two hands.

Also, when giving or accepting a gift or exchanging money in a store, the two-hand rule also applies.

9. Mind your table manners

Dining out in South Korea is a social affair. Soju (Korean rice liquor), beer and banchan (Korean side dishes) are set out on the table to share before the main course. In many restaurants, pushing the yeo-gi-yo ("over here") button located on the table summons the server. If there isn't a button, it's fine to wave down staff to get their attention. It might feel rude, but it's customary in Korea, so don't feel shy.

Koreans use metal chopsticks, which tend to be more slippery than the wooden kind. No one judges chopstick skills or lack thereof, but it's important not to pick up chopsticks until the eldest at the table does first. Avoid sticking chopsticks straight into a bowl of rice, which symbolizes a funeral ritual. Koreans use a spoon to eat rice.

Tipping is not required at restaurants and is considered impolite.

10. Take caution on Seoul's sidewalks

Seoul is not dangerous, but its traffic is a different story. Motorbikes speed down sidewalks without much regard for who's in the way, and cars use them as parking spaces. When exploring Seoul on foot, stay alert and be prepared to get out of the way quickly.

11. Public restrooms are fine to use

Many cafes and restaurants give the passcode to their restrooms only after the customer has ordered from the menu. To save some time and money, keep an eye out for public bathrooms. They are clearly marked for men and women in English and are commonly found in subway stations as well as busier districts.

Seoul's public toilets are clean, and they are one of the only places to find trash cans when you're out and about. They're also often quite sophisticated, with bidets, heated seats and a button that you can push to play rushing water if you get stage fright.

12. Understand Korea's drinking culture

Drinking alcohol is a national pastime in Korea, and Seoul is a haven for throwback dive bars and strobe-lit nightclubs. You might spot young revelers rallying outside convenience stores at 7am or suited business people passed out on benches after rowdy hoesiks (after-hours business dinners and drinks). Korean drinking etiquette encourages no glass to be left empty as a rule. If someone offers you a shot of soju , it's rude to refuse it. Stores selling alcohol are open 24/7, and there are no open container laws. Walking the streets with a drink in hand on the way to the next bar is common and accepted.

13. You'll feel safe in the city

Confucianism teaches that mutual respect and trust are of the utmost importance. Take the usual big-city precautions, but walking back to your accommodations alone at night is generally pretty safe. You can save a seat at bars and restaurants with your jacket or purse without worrying too much about it being stolen. Phones left in taxis are usually dropped off at the police station by the driver.

14. Don't worry about North Korea, but stay informed

What appears to be an ominous threat an hour and a half to the north is one mostly felt outside of Korea's borders. North and South Korea have been at a stalemate since the 1950s, and while scaremongering headlines are frightening to read, the actual threat is apparently low . You'll find Korean citizens generally unconcerned about their northerly neighbor.

This article was first published August 2022 and updated February 2024

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The Best Korea Travel Apps to Plan Your Perfect Trip

There are plenty of travel apps to help you plan and make the most of your upcoming trip to Korea. Seoul is a massive city with many outstanding landmarks and countless activities scattered throughout the city, and you will need a bit of help navigating your way around! Here are the best Korea travel apps to plan your trip to Seoul and all across the land of the morning calm.

Recommended Phone SIM Card and Pocket Wifi for South Korea

To be able to use these Korea travel apps mentioned below, you’ll need access to data. For most travelers coming to Korea the easiest and most cost-effective option is to either get a travel SIM card or rent a pocket wifi device.

Click on the links below to help you find the best pocket wifi or sim card for your trip to South Korea:

• South Korea 4G Pocket WiFi (KR Airports Pick Up)
• Global eSIM (immediately usable via QR code) by Xplori

Best Apps to Get Around in Seoul and other Cities

While Google Maps is a great navigation app in most countries, it does not work great in South Korea. This is because local laws prohibit the storage of topographical data on foreign-based servers. That’s why it’s best to rely on local map apps like Naver Map or KakaoMap. Both of them are also available in English and are one of the most useful Korea travel apps. 

Naver Map App

Android – iOS

This is the navigation app that I use most frequently. You can save places you want to visit later and it also works great for driving.

KakaoMap App

Kakao Maps is the most popular map app in Korea. It shows all available routes and schedules for public transportation and it’s easy to share routes and places with the Kakaotalk messaging app.

Subway Korea App

If you’re looking for a For a subway-specific app, I recommend Subway Korea. It works in 5 large cities in Korea: Seoul , Busan, Daejeon, Gwangju and Daegu.

Seoul Subway App

If you only travel to Seoul , you can use the Seoul Subway app to navigate the different subway lines in the city.

KakaoBus App

KakaoBus is an app to check city buses across Korea if you don’t want or can’t use the subway.

Kakao T App

Kakao T is great for calling taxis. This app finds available taxis in your vicinity and leads them straight to you. You can also pay directly via the app when you enter your payment information. It’s sort of like Korea’s Uber.

For traveling between cities by train, check out the Korail app. You can look up train schedules and book tickets. The only downside is you cannot book your seats if you have a Korail Pass.

To book train tickets in Korea, I can also recommend using the website Rail.Ninja .

The Best Translation App for South Korea

Even though English is a mandatory language in schools in Korea and many Koreans attend English language schools (hence the many English teaching jobs in South Korea ), many people do not speak English fluently.

The best translation app to use when traveling in Korea is Papago .  Papago is a multilingual machine translation service provided by Naver. Unlike many other translators, Papago uses a neural machine translation to learn from its mistakes and improve itself. 

The best feature of the Papago app is its image recognition. This means you can take a photo of a Korean restaurant menu or street sign and it will translate it into your desired language.

If you’d like to read some more about Korean, here are 20 helpful Korean travel phrases to know!

Apps To Help You Find Out What To do in Seoul and Korea

There are several handy apps to find activities, tours, and fun places to explore in Seoul and around Korea. My favorites are listed below:

I love the Klook app! It’s a super convenient way to book tours and other experiences for your South Korea trip! The app also works as your ticket, providing scannable QR codes for your experiences. Have a look at Linda Goes East’s recommended Korea tours and experiences on Klook here.

In a nutshell, Trazy is like Groupon for Asia. Similar to Klook, you can book tours and schedule activities in different cities around Korea and other parts of Asia. I recommend checking out both Klook and Trazy as they offer slightly different experiences.

Visit Korea App

This app was developed by the Korea Tourism Organisation and provides reliable travel information for South Korea. You can find details for individual attractions, search for accommodations, festivals, and even restaurants.

Visit Seoul App

This is Seoul Metropolitan Government’s official travel app. It’s great to make the most out of your trip to Seoul . Find popular tourist attractions, authentic restaurants, and the best hotels.

Other Useful Apps for Your Trip to Korea

We’ve covered navigation and public transportation apps, talked about translation apps and useful apps to find things to do in Korea. Now let’s have a look at some “nice-to-have” apps that can prove to be very helpful when traveling in Korea.

IQAir AirVisual

South Korea, and Seoul in particular, is infamous for having subpar air-quality days. For the locals, checking the air quality is as normal as checking the weather in the morning. This app will show you how bad the air quality is and if you should wear a mask to escape the fine dust.

Emergency Ready App

The Ministry of Public Safety and Security launched this app to inform foreign residents in Korea about various natural disasters. The government automatically sends alerts for earthquakes, blizzards, missing persons, and smartphones in Korea. This app translates these alerts to allow non-Korean speakers to be able to receive the messages as well.

XE Currency App

The currency used in South Korea is called the Korean Won. Download the XE Currency app to help you convert prices into your home currency to better understand the price of things.

 Get your Free Seoul City Check List

This downloadable checklist for Seoul contains insider information on what to see, do, eat and where to shop and party in Seoul , South Korea.

Pin it and save it for later!

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13 Best Korean Travel Apps – Prepare for Your Korea Trip

With the proliferation of smartphones and many options to stay connected internationally, a common travel preparation step for many has become downloading the essential travel apps of a country. After all, no one wants to land in a new country and suddenly find out they can’t perform basic tasks such as navigating the subway system or hailing a taxi!

While many countries share common apps – for example, Uber will work in pretty much any English-speaking country and many more, while Grab is your friend in Southeast Asia – Korea has its own ecosystem of apps. Slightly annoyingly, many of these apps will only work in Korea. Preparing your smartphone for a trip to Korea will require at least a few apps you wouldn’t have used before.

If you’re looking to prepare for your trip to South Korea digitally, you’ve come to the right place. This article will discuss the apps you’ll want to have before your trip to the country. If you’re already in Korea, what are you waiting for? Check out the list, and make sure to download these apps ASAP! They will make your life far easier.

I want to note one thing before diving into this list. You don’t need any apps when visiting Korea. While many articles say some apps are essential, I don’t believe this is the case. Will these apps make your trip more convenient? Absolutely! However, you can do everything from navigating the subway to hailing taxis without apps.

However, having these apps (and an internet connection) will make your trip a more pleasant experience. While navigating the subway with station maps is possible, using an app is infinitely better. The same goes for hailing taxis; you can get a taxi via hailing one or phone, but using an app is far simpler.

With that said, let’s jump into this list of the best Korean travel apps. If you’ve visited Korea and believe I’ve overlooked something important, I would love to hear from you. What apps did you find most useful during your stay? Conversely, if there are any apps you don’t consider essential or even particularly useful I would love to hear from you in the comments below!

Staying Connected in Korea

Although some of these apps will work without an internet connection, many won’t function at all. On top of this, having a connection will make your life much easier – if you get lost, you can easily find your way. If you need to get a taxi home, you’ll want to use Kakao Taxi, which requires the Internet.

The best way to stay connected in Korea is with a SIM card (either a local SIM or one with roaming), eSIM, or a portable WiFi device. These options have different strengths and prices and require a dedicated article to discuss and contrast them.

Luckily, there is already such an article on this website! If you’re wondering how best to stay connected to the internet while in South Korea, you’ll want to check out this article on the best SIM cards in Korea . I discuss all three connection options in that article and compare the best travel plans.

Whichever method you choose, I would highly recommend getting it sorted before leaving your home country. It can be difficult to sort out a roaming plan when you’re already overseas, and the best place to pick up a SIM is at the airport (most companies will allow you to preorder you SIM so it’s ready to go when you arrive). For this reason, it’s advisable to prepare your connectivity before anding.

Best Korean Travel Apps

So, you’re planning to travel to Korea? Or perhaps you’re already in the country? These are the apps that I would consider essential (or, as previously mentioned, as close to essential as an app can be), along with a few that will make your time in Korea far easier.

Before I delve into the apps that made the list, there are also a few apps that I want to discuss but that don’t deserve a place on this list. For example, I find using a VPN essential when travelling because I will often use public WiFi, which, as we all know, is often incredibly insecure. 

There are also a few other app categories that, while not essential, will make your trip more pleasant. For example, if you want to take the difficulty out of finding dining options, Mango Plate is a great option for locating restaurants selling delectable food. On the other hand, having a ‘time waster’ app is by no means essential, but it will make those long train and bus rides infinitely more pleasant.

So what apps am I talking about? Here are a few that you might want to consider on top of the ‘essentials’.

• A VPN . The exact app you use for internet privacy is up to you; everyone will have a different preference. I have a whole article about Korean VPNs , and I recommend checking that article out if you’re unsure what to pick. However, my general recommendation for a free VPN is Cloudflare’s WARP (1.1.1.1). While it’s technically not a VPN, it provides the same protection from third parties that VPNs do.
• Visit Korea . This app, created by the government, has a wealth of information for visitors to Korea. However, while many other blogs will list this as a ‘must have’ app, I simply can’t agree – I’ve never seen a need for it, but it’s a great source of travel inspiration if you want to check it out!
• Mango Plate . Another app that is often recommended is Mango Plate. This app recommends cafes and restaurants and will let you pinpoint the best eating spots daily. However, I don’t see it as essential because I use Naver Maps or Google Maps for this function – just sort by highly rated restaurants and viola!
• Travel payment apps . If you use a service like Wise or Revolut, you will want to ensure these apps are downloaded and ready to use. You never know when you’ll need access to the app, and it’s easiest to be prepared.
• A time-wasting app . In Korea, you’ll often find yourself on public transport, which means long waiting periods. If you have unlimited data, it’s easy to overcome the arduous wait with the help of social media. However, if you have limited data, you might want to download some games or at least some TV shows or movies beforehand. Spending an hour and a half on the Seoul Metro with no distractions can be boring!
• T Locker. Many of Seoul’s subway stations have lockers, but these can be difficult to figure out how to use. Luckily, T Locker makes the process (mostly) painless! If you foresee yourself needing to store backpacks or luggage at subway stations, make sure you’re prepared with this Korean app!
• A language practice app. If you want to brush up on your Korean skills while visiting, it’s a good call to be prepared with your favourite language app! This will be Duolingo for many, but Memrise, LingoDear, and FluentU are also popular. If you’re wondering what apps I recommend, check out my article on the best ways to learn Korean.
• Shopping apps . While it’s far more thrilling to shop in person when you’re travelling, there may be some things that you can’t find or are cheaper online. In these cases, you’ll want to download either Coupang or Gmarket. While Coupang has a better selection, Gmarket’s English and international card support is much better, and I recommend it.
• Emergency Ready . The Korean government runs this app, and it provides warnings and updates on disasters and emergencies. It’s a handy app to have in case something happens – at the end of the day, it’s better to be prepared, right? 
• BucaCheck.  This handy app will allow you to check the balance of your T Money card (Korea’s public transport card) at any time. All you need is a smartphone with NFC (which nearly all modern smartphones have). Simply tap the card against the back of your phone, and see your balance and recent transactions. You can also check the balance whenever you tap your card against a bus or subway scanner, but having an app to check is far more convenient.

Seoul Subway/Subway Korea/KakaoMetro

The first ‘essential’ app for travelling in Korea is instead a category than an individual app. You’ll almost certainly be in Seoul during your stay for at least a while. Since the best way to explore the city is via the fantastic public transport, you’ll undoubtedly want a way to navigate Seoul’s sprawling subway system .

The Korean government recently released an all-English subway app aptly named ‘Seoul Subway – Official App’. This app is many travellers’ favourite due to how easy it is to navigate and the attraction suggestions it provides for each subway stop. You’ll also get all the other essential information, such as trip time, station schedules, and much more.

My favourite subway app is Subway Korea, though. This app is also available in English and is exceptionally easy to use. Perhaps I’m just used to it at this point, but I find the UI more intuitive than the Seoul Subway app, and it’s the app I continue to recommend for navigating the underground side of Korea’s capital.

The final app in this section, which I recommend least, is Kakao Metro. The app is a bit more confusing than the former options, but many travellers like to use it… Although I’m not quite sure why. Perhaps because having many similar icons on your home screen looks pretty? You’ll see a theme once you have KakaoBus, KakaoTalk, and KakaoMetro!

Since we are already on the topic of one of Korea’s largest tech companies, we may as well cover another of its offerings. What happens if you don’t like to navigate the underground of Seoul? Are you left needing to walk everywhere? Luckily not, because believe me, Seoul is massive!

If you’d prefer to use another form of Korea’s public transport, KakaoBus has you covered. This is easily the best bus app in Korea, and it will give you timetables and bus routes for the whole country. While the app is in Korean, it’s relatively easy to navigate as you can use the map to find bus stops and check bus numbers.

The app also provides more advanced functionality, putting it above and beyond other domestic options and public transport apps in nearly every other country. For example, you can see how many seats are available on each bus; for some buses, you can even see other conditions, such as whether the bus has AC.

One thing to note: I don’t recommend using KakaoBus to plan routes – that is much better done on Google or Naver Maps. Instead, I recommend planning a route on one of those apps and checking the bus schedules on KakaoBus.

Since we’re already giving attention to Kakao, we may as well stay on the topic. The third and final transport app you’ll find incredibly useful in both Seoul and other cities in South Korea is KakaoTaxi.

KakaoTaxi is the single best app for calling taxis, and there’s no competition. Despite what some people will tell you, Uber does work in South Korea. However, you’ll sometimes find it hard (or impossible) to get rides. It is simply a more expensive way to get a KakaoTaxi (Uber does not call individuals in Korea, only taxis). Therefore, you’re much better off downloading KakaoTaxi and using that instead.

You’ll need a Kakao account to use KakaoTaxi (we’ll get to that in a second!), but calling a taxi is straightforward once you’re set up. When the app asks for payment options, you must select ‘pay the driver’ unless you have a domestic card. Luckily, all taxis in Korea accept debit and credit cards alongside cash.

I promise this is the last Kakao entry! If you’re unaware, KakaoTalk is Korea’s largest messaging app. While you might want it to collect contact details of anyone you meet on your trip, I recommend it primarily because you’ll need a Kakao account to use apps like KakaoTaxi.

If you have KakaoTalk installed and have an account created, you can log in to the other Kakao apps through the messenger. Since KakaoTaxi is close to essential for calling taxis, KakaoTalk quickly becomes a very important app to have. 

Since KakaoTalk is used by over 95% of Koreans, it’s also a handy app if you wish to make friends while travelling. Don’t expect people in Korea to use any other messaging app, such as Messenger or Whatsapp, because many will exclusively use KakaoTalk (although Instagram is also popular).

Naver Maps/Google Maps

To round up the navigation apps you’ll want to have on your phone before visiting South Korea, you will want to download either Naver Maps or Google Maps (if you don’t already have it!). Many will say that Google Maps isn’t functional or doesn’t work well in Korea, but this is not true anymore – it was in 2016, but not since 2018. 

Of course, having one of these apps is helpful for locating stores, restaurants, cafes, and more. However, they’re also nearly essential for planning bus routes and determining whether taking a bus or the subway is a better option for a given journey. 

When it comes to comparing travel times, I find Naver Maps to be the better choice. The app is available in English (although, for some, the app seems to default to Korean) and is easy to use. On the other hand, Google Maps is easier for planning bus trips, and most people will already be familiar with it.

Whichever map app you use during your visit to Korea, you will be set and have all your navigation needs met. You can’t go wrong with a map app, just make sure you’re not planning to use Apple Maps because it still lags significantly behind both of these options.

After transport (or perhaps even before), the biggest issue you’ll likely encounter is the language barrier. While English is common in Korea (and you’ll find all the stations are signposted in English), it can be difficult to manage some situations without a translation app.

Now, it’s easy to think that Google Translate is the best option, and many travellers will default to using the app because they’ve used it when visiting other countries. However, while Google Translate is now better than it was a few years ago, it’s still far behind the far superior translation app run by Naver – Papago.

Papago only offers Korean to English translation, but it’s far more accurate and natural-sounding than Google Translate. While Google Translate will manage most situations just fine, it’s worth downloading Papago for the duration of your trip as it’s more accurate and has better image-to-text capabilities.

If you don’t want to download a separate app, you can use the Papago webpage on your phone’s browser. However, this is a bit slower and more finicky, so I would advise against this approach unless you hate digital clutter (as I do!)

If you’re planning to leave Seoul and travel around the country, you’ll likely be taking some of Korea’s super-advanced high-speed trains. These trains, most famously the KTX, are all booked through either Korail’s website, app or in person at the station. 

However, KTX tickets will sell out often, so I recommend against purchasing them at the station unless you do so in advance. I used to take around eight KTX trains per week, and they would almost always be booked out on the day. For this reason, it’s a far better choice to use the app and book them in advance.

Now, the app is nothing to write home about; I would argue that it’s quite a poorly made app, and it can be difficult to use at times. That said, it’s more convenient than the website, which is an even worse experience.

The Korail app will allow you to book intercity trains, such as the KTX, at any time and give you a place to store your tickets. For this reason, having this app is almost essential if you will be leaving Seoul during your stay.

Say you don’t like trains, or for some other reason, you don’t want to use Korea’s high-speed rail system. Are you forced to fly? Luckily, no! There is another option, albeit a far slower one. As you may have already guessed, Bus Tago will allow you to book buses between cities in the country.

The Association of Korea Bus Transport Companies runs the app and allows you to view intercity bus schedules and book tickets. While you can also use the website for this, I’ve found the app to be a better experience.

Handily, if you use the app instead of the website, you will also find your tickets all stored in one location. This makes it incredibly easy to find them again when you need to board the bus or present your ticket for whatever other reason.

Depending on where you are visiting from, air quality may not be something you check every day. In Seoul and other cities around the peninsula, you will want to keep an eye on air pollution every day before you go outside – especially if you are visiting in spring or fall.

Especially if you’re visiting only briefly, you shouldn’t let air pollution ruin your plans. However, it’s handy to know when you’ll want to be wearing a mask outdoors – even though you might only have short-term exposure, air pollution has many severe health consequences.

On a lighter note, knowing the air pollution levels before visiting certain attractions is good. For example, Namsan Tower and Seoul Sky at Lotte Tower are best avoided on dusty days as the views become less appealing. It’s also not ideal for picnicking near the Han River on a dusty day!

For these reasons, having an air quality app is essential. Air Visual is by far the best and most well-liked air quality app and is easy to recommend due to its simplicity. It also gives suggestions for how you should act at any given AQI level.

Klook/Trazy

If you’re looking to save a bit of money during your stay or want to get involved with lots of tours, these apps are both super useful to have. Klook and Trazy are travel companies that sell a range of attraction tickets, tours, and these days even offer rental cars!

I wasn’t going to add these two apps because it’s easy enough to use their respective websites for booking activities. However, then I remembered that the ticket prices offered on either app tend to be cheaper than purchasing in person, and I thought they are worth recommending.

What do I mean? Well, say you’re around Myeongdong and suddenly decide you want to visit Namsan Tower since it’s nearby. If you go to the tower and book tickets, you will pay a flat price of 10,000 KRW per ticket. However, if you quickly hop on one of these apps, it’s possible to find tickets as low as 8000KRW.

This same discount can be found on other attractions such as Lotte World, Oceanworld, and Everland. If you like to travel with some spontaneity, having one of these apps will let you save a little amount here and there, and we all know this can quickly add up over time!

Korean Convenience

If you suffer from food allergies, travelling can be difficult. This is no more true than when you’re travelling to a country where the language is different, and communication is sometimes difficult or even impossible. 

While restaurants will always be challenging to order at (and it’s worth writing down your allergies in advance so that you can show staff), there’s a rather handy app that makes purchasing snacks and supermarket/convenience store food a vastly easier process.

Korean Convenience is an app that has an extensive database of snacks, ramyeons, and sweets, and it has allergy information on each. If you’re wondering which Korean ramyeon contains a seafood base or is meat-based, this app will tell you painlessly.

There is also a guide on how to read Korean nutrition labels for foods that aren’t in the app’s database. This is handy to know, and I remember that learning how to read these labels made my life in Korea vastly easier.

Food delivery is synonymous with Korea, and it’s long been one of the most famous aspects of the country. The delivery is quick and cheap, and you can get almost any food imaginable delivered – at least as long as you’re in a big city such as Seoul or Busan.

There are many food delivery apps in Korea, but they’re difficult or impossible for travellers to use. For example, two of the most popular apps, Baemin and Yogiyo have a fantastic selection of foods on offer, but they both require domestic payment methods and are only available in Korea. Coupang Eats, another popular option, is available in English but only accepts domestic payment methods.

This makes Shuttle the only option for anyone wanting to order food in English and who doesn’t have a Korean payment method (either a Korean bank account or credit/debit card). While it’s frustrating there is only one choice, it’s the unfortunate reality of ordering food in Korea.

While it might seem like a waste to visit a country only to get food delivered, it’s a handy app to have. If you’ve had a big day exploring, sometimes the last thing you want to do is leave your hotel room. In these situations, having an app like Shuttle is invaluable!

Booking.com/Hotel app of your choice

If you’ve already booked your accommodation in advance, you can skip this app as you won’t need it. However, a booking app is essential for spontaneous travellers like me because we often don’t book hotels until a few days beforehand. 

Personally, I recommend Booking.com. I’ve used them for over 100 hotel bookings over the past three years and never had issues with the platform or its customer service. Furthermore, it offers a range of app-only discounts, which make the app a cheaper alternative to the website.

Whether you are looking for backpackers, apartments, hotels, or hostels, Booking.com has a large range of options. With the downfall of Airbnb, many hosts have moved to ‘hotel’ platforms, and there are now almost limitless accommodation options in every large Korean city.

Other Apps For Visiting Korea

This concludes my list of the most useful apps to have when visiting South Korea. However, depending on your interests and reasons for visiting Korea, you may find other apps helpful to download in advance. For example, if you love hiking , AllTrails is a handy app that could prove invaluable during your stay.

If you want to get involved with locals during your stay, MeetUp is a valuable app that doesn’t just work in Korea! During my last visit to Seoul, I used MeetUp to find a photography meetup as I lacked inspiration. It was a great idea as I made a group of friends who invited me on a few trips during my stay.

Apps like Hello Talk can also be a great way to meet friends to hang out with during your stay. Many also use the app for dating, though, so make sure you are clear about your intentions. 

About Ethan Brooke

My name is Ethan Brooke and I have been living in South Korea since 2016. Since then, I have fallen in love with exploring and travelling around Korea. One thing that I quickly realised however, is that there is still a lot of information missing on Korea - at least in English. I started Seoulinspired to help fill that gap and to provide information to others living in and visiting South Korea. View all posts by Ethan Brooke →

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The 16 Essential Apps for Korea Travel (Download for Free)

Unlike the past, this tech-friendly age has given us so many options to make our travel safe and convenient. And by being a traveller you surely have certain smartphone applications that serve you well for any trip, like Klook, Airbnb, Google Maps, and so on. 

But when we travel to countries like Korea , Japan, Vietnam, or China, we face difficulty in communication. Because these countries’ people barely understand English and on the other hand, we barely understand their language.

In such cases, smartphone applications are the most helpful companion. 

Now, if you’re planning a trip to Korea, the situation is the same and you would find communication problems. So, take your phone and download these 13 essential Apps for Korea travel 2022 . And all these apps are totally free to download.

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

Essential Apps for Korea Travel, Apps to enter Korea.

For the recent pandemic, like any other country in the world, the Korean government has also imposed some requirements and restrictions on travellers. So, from now, if you want to enter Korea, you will have to follow those rules. And to follow the rules you have to have the following apps.

1. Self-Check

Self-Check is a must-have app to enter Korea. Recently the Ministry of Health and Welfare Republic Korea launched this app so that all travellers can record their health status daily. on the app for 14 days after arriving in Korea.

And without having this app the Korean government does not allow any traveller to enter Korea. So like I said before, you must have to have the Self-Check app to enter Korea. This app is available in five different languages, including Korean, English, French, Chinese, and Japanese. Download: iOS ｜ Android

K-ETA is the abbreviation of Korea Electronic Travel Authorization. Not all travellers need this app. It is mandatory only for visitors who have come from countries that concluded a visa waiver agreement with Korea and designated visa-free entry to Korea.

By using the K-ETA app, you can apply for K-ETA easily and conveniently. You just have to submit relevant information in the K-ETA application form. And the application must be filled out at least 24 hours before boarding your flight or ship.

Download: iOS ｜ Android

Travel Guide

When you’re visiting a new destination, particularly a new country, a travel guide may be the first thing that you would look for. 

Unlike the past days, now we really do not depend on a person who can guide us in a new place. Rather we prefer technology or apps to guide us. 

Here are some travel guide apps that will serve you on your trip to Korea.

T-money is a contactless smart card used for transportation, making payments at convenience stores, and other purposes in South Korea . To make it easier to manage your T-money balance on the go, there is an Android app available which can be downloaded from the Google Play Store.

This T-money Android app allows users to check their balance, view transaction history and recharge their card on their devices. Furthermore, users can also find information about transportation routes and schedules as well as discounts and promotions. To access all features of the app, users need to set up an account with their T-money card number and personal information upon logging in.

4. Visit Korea

Visit Korea is a well-known Korean app that is specially made for travellers by the Korea Tourist Organization . This app will give you multiple services like tourist attractions, tour courses, information about Korean, Korean festivals, finding restaurants and shopping centers, exchange rates, weather updates, and many more.

So this one app can make your Korea trip so much better. Furthermore, the Visit Korea app is managed by the South Korean Government, which makes this app much more reliable than any other app.

And if you can’t manage an internet connection, you can always save information for the offline visit.

Trazy is the short form of travel+crazy. This app is very helpful and essential when you’re finding a travel guide app. Trazy not only shows you unique attractions and trendy things to do but by using this app, you will get discounts on tickets and tours as well.

Who doesn’t love discounts, especially when you’re on travel and the budget is tight? You can have the best deals on most Korean attractions and activities with only a few clicks.

There is barely any traveller who doesn’t know about the Klook app. This app is useful for any destination or country, including Korea. 

If you’re a regular traveller, I am pretty sure you already have this app on your mobile phone. Klook is a great travel guide that also offers numerous alluring deals on tours and tickets. 

Moreover, if you’re a regular user of Klook, you can have a special loyalty discount the more you book tickets and tours through it.

Translation & Communication

In a country like Korea which doesn’t use English as their first language, travellers face communication problems a lot. Because we hardly understand a single word of the Korean language. 

On the contrary, Korean people are not very used to of English language. In such a case, translation apps are lifesavers.

Here are the two transaction and communication apps that would help you to understand and translate the Korean language into English.

My personal favourite translation app is Papago which I have been using for years. It not only helped me on my Korea trip but also on trips to Japan, China, and Vietnam. 

Papago is an app from Naver Corporation that supports nearly 13 languages, which is pretty awesome for travellers like us. Furthermore, it can translate images, voice, and handwriting as well.

And from my personal experience, I can tell you this app will give you more accurate translation than any other app.

8. Naver Korean Dictionary & Translate

If you’re willing to do some chitchat with locals in the Korean language, you can use Naver Korean Dictionary & Translate , which is specially made to translate the Korean language. But don’t think that it only serves you in Korea. This appointment can also translate languages like French, Thai, Vietnamese, Hindi, and more.

Yeah, you can say, ” I have Google translation, which is the number one translation app in the world”. I admit it. But do you admit that often Google translates stupidly, which has no meaning?

I bet you do notice that. Well, with the Naver Korean Dictionary & Translate app, you would not face such awkward translations. This application will give an accurate translation of the Korean language.

Social Network

Social network is undoubtedly a significant benefit of having a smartphone. If you’re coming to Korea to meet a local friend, you certainly have to have a social network app to stay connected. 

9. Kakao Talk Messenger

Kakao Talk Messenger is a number one social network app in Korea that is used by nearly every Korean person. This app has so many features. Apart from texting and calling, you can share photos and videos, transfer money, and share your current location.

All you need is to have an internet connection to use this app. This app helped me a lot to stay connected with the host of Airbnb. So if you don’t use the Kakao Talk app, it could be a bit difficult to stay in touch in Korea.

When you’re in a new place, it is no need to say that you need to have a Map that will direct you through the town or country. In the past days, travellers carried a printed map and a compass to direct themselves.

But in the days of technology, who carries such things as printed maps or compass, right? So here, you need a digital map on your phone to direct you through Korea.

10. Naver Map

In Korea, you will not get much benefit from Google Maps as it doesn’t work well there. For security purposes, the Korean Government declares to store the map data on the local server. 

So, it would be more handy and helpful if you use the Korean local map application, the Naver Map . Besides showing the exact location, this app gives you more facilities to make your trip easier. 

When you’re in a foreign country, it is hard to have an internet connection all the time, particularly on the road where you’re finding some address. Isn’t it a familiar problem to you? 

Naver Map can be the solution to this problem. You can download any location or address and then you can track that location offline, without data. Furthermore, this app supports languages like English, Korean, Japanese, and Chinese.

Transportation

Transportation apps are unavoidable at any destination. So you have to have these apps to travel here and there in Korea. And some of these apps will also give discounts on ticket prices.

11. Subway Korea

Subway Korea is another local map app that shows the subway routes of some major cities and areas of Korea. With this app, your Korea trip would be more convenient. 

The Subway Korea app tells you which route would be the fastest and easiest to get to your destination and also shows the to-the-minute train schedule. The best part is that you can also use this app offline.

12. Kakao Metro

Kakao Metro is locals’ favourite app that shows the most convenient and fastest routes and public transportations. By using this app, you can find stations, the best transport, transport schedule, and how fast the transport is. So, this one app can give you multiple services.

13. Kakao Taxi

Not every time we manage to take public transport, especially when you are loaded with luggage. In such a case, you certainly need to grab a taxi and the Kakao Taxi app is the most trustable for this purpose.

This app works like Uber. You just have to give your current location and your targeted destination. Then you’ll have the “Request Taxi” button, click on it. That’s all! Within a few minutes, your taxi will come to pick you up.

Taking a taxi from this app is the safest and most convenient way, where you don’t have to worry about getting ripped off.

Exchanging Currency

The name of the Korean currency is Korean Won which you need to exchange with your home currency. Here is the app that will help you out.

14. XE Currency

XE Current is a very useful app when it comes to exchanging your home currency for Korean Won. This app helps you to understand the currency rate and change it according to that rate.

Find Food & Restaurants

Many travellers’ travel purpose is to taste the local cuisine. But at a new destination how would you know which food or restaurant is the best and local favourite? 

Here are the apps that will help you find out the best food and restaurants in Korea.

15. MangoPlate

MangoPlate is one of the most popular apps to find the best restaurants in Korea. It shows you more than 200,000 restaurants with their rating and review. So you can have multiple options to choose a fine restaurant to dine at. Furthermore, this app is available in the English language which makes it more convenient for travellers.

If you’re not willing to go to a restaurant, you can always order food online through the Yogiyo app. This app will give you delivery anywhere. Yes, I mean it ANYWHERE, whether you’re in your hotel, hostel, Airbnb, or outside. 

For example, you’re chilling at some famous attraction in Korea, and you feel hungry. Immediately you can order food via Yogiyo which delivers food within only 30 minutes. Sounds good?

To make your Korean trip hassle-free and enjoyable, you surely should use these applications. Because these apps will help you at every step. And if you have been to Korea and used any of these apps, let us know how your experience has been. We are eager to know your travel stories!

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Hi, thx for the list just went to South Korea. Such a beautiful country. And used almost all of those apps. Esspeicialy the Kakao Taxi app help me a lot, so easy to order a taxi with it.

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Top 10 Korean Travel Apps You Need When Visiting South Korea

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Here are the top 10 Korean travel apps that will make your visit to South Korea much smoother and easier in terms of navigation and roaming around.

South Korea is a stunning nation that welcomes tourists wholeheartedly. It features a wide range of attractions, from stunning natural settings and various retail centers to mouthwatering restaurants. A smooth trip to South Korea, however, may be difficult if you are a foreigner unfamiliar with the country’s intricacies, especially if there is a language barrier.

Fortunately, chalking plans and navigating have become simple with the appropriate Korean travel apps by your side at every turn. 

Here are the top 10 Korean travel apps you should install on your smartphone before you journey to South Korea.

Table of Contents

VisitKorea App

The VisitKorea app was created by The Korean Tourism Office in an attempt to better market South Korea. KTO assembled all the relevant data from the Korean Tourism Organization into this helpful resource that serves both travelers and residents alike. 

It is accessible in both Korean and English and includes details on tourist hotspots, travel itineraries, restaurant guides, festivals, lodging options, as well as updates on present currency exchange rates, weather forecasts and even crucial phone numbers.

Naver Dictionary App

This translator app by Naver, the leading search engine in Korea, is a lifesaver for foreigners thanks to its accuracy as far as Korean to English and English to Korean translation is concerned. It is one of the earliest apps to be made available online and comes with several instructions on how to use the app effectively to maximize its benefits.

On the homepage, you can get words of the day, grammar hints, idioms, and common everyday dialogues in Korean. Each translation is accompanied by a range of model sentences that make use of various sentence patterns and key terms to facilitate learning.

It might be difficult to decide where to dine when traveling to another country but worry not. The Mangoplate app is there to help you clear the confusion. You just have to type in the style of meal you wish to consume, and the app will show you exactly where to go and why. It will also give you details on the nearest eateries so that you don’t have to travel much.

The app is extremely trustworthy and is accessible in both English and Korean language. 

Get the Yogiyo app to have food delivered to your place if you are tired after toiling around the streets of South Korea all day or are simply too lazy to go to the restaurant or even phone one to place an order. This app is great for foodies and is ideal for those who want to explore Korean delicacies without frequently traveling. 

The “category sorter” on this Korean food delivery app aids users in selecting from its extensive list of food choices, pricing, and images in its Korean food directory. It also offers several meal selections, including Japanese, American, Mexican, and other cuisines.

Naver Map App

Naver Map is widely used among Koreans, just as Google Maps is in many Western countries. 

The app has a simple and clear interface and can become a great companion for first-time visitors or for those whose sense of direction is not that strong. The good thing is you can always download the maps in advance so that you do not require an internet connection to access them later. 

Itour Seoul App

If you are planning on visiting Seoul, we suggest you use the Itour Seoul app. It is Seoul’s official government travel app and is far more convenient for travelers than carrying a bulky guidebook or a sizable travel map.

You will get all the necessary information about Seoul’s famous landmarks and where tourist destinations are located, and how far they are away from this app.

Kakao Talk App

This app enables users to message, make free phone calls, and transfer images or videos. The best thing is it only needs an internet connection to operate. And with faultless Wi-Fi connectivity all over South Korea, it helps consumers to save both time and expense. 

Kakao has a group talking tool that is ideal for simultaneous conversation with coworkers and family members. With its built-in camera, GPS, and voice recording features, this Korean app also permits users to share images, videos and their locations with others.

Subway Korea App

Subways are one of the best modes of public transportation in South Korea, but they can often get confusing for travelers who are trying to use it for the first time. Thankfully, the Subway Korea app is there to help you make your subway experience better.

This app will provide you with the location of each station as well as the details on the routes and scheduled timings of the trains. You can also find information about the quickest route just by entering the start and end locations. 

Users of the Subway Korea app can also alter the subway maps to match the cities they are currently visiting.

KakaoBus App

Subway stations can occasionally get crowded, so if you want to avoid crowded locations and prefer taking in the scenery while traveling, buses may be a better alternative for you. 

We advise using the KakaoBus app to acquire all the information you need about the buses, including their routes, bus numbers, and available stop options. The projected arrival and departure timings for the bus you want to use are also provided by this Korean app.

KakaoTaxi App

Taking a taxi is always a fantastic choice if you are seeking a quicker way to get to your destination. We suggest using the KakaoTaxi app to make the reservations. This is because the app only functions with registered and licensed drivers; therefore, it is reliable and safe for usage. Additionally, you can also notify your friends and family members of the route and anticipated arrival times. 

Final Thoughts

The above-mentioned top Korean travel apps are very effective. Using them will help you avoid unnecessary headaches and get the most out of your tour to South Korea.

Happy holidaying!

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Anyaa is a versatile writer with an insatiable wanderlust and a deep love for all things Korea. Her passion for exploration and storytelling shines through in her diverse articles covering every aspect of Korean travel. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the tranquil beauty of Jeju Island, her articles serve as a virtual passport for readers, providing them with insider tips, detailed itineraries, and practical advice to ensure an unforgettable journey through Korea.

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BEST First-Time Visitor’s Seoul Itinerary (3-7 Days)

Last Updated: Nov 11, 2023 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · 2 Comments

South Korea is a land of mountains, palaces, and busy streets, and this 3 to 7 day Seoul itinerary will put you right in the middle of it all. With the city’s futuristic architecture and state-of-the-art technological advancements, people sometimes get culture shock when they see how integrated they are into more traditional lifestyles.

Everywhere you go, there’s always an event happening or a festival on, and there are plenty of surprises in store – especially if you visit any of the Seoul hotspots detailed below. But while Korea is truly a magical place, it’s far from what we see in the K-Dramas.

Fans often come here expecting to meet a dashing chaebol randomly in the streets (which is highly unlikely), and are disappointed when they’re not hit on in the nightclub. Dramas and idols are just a small fraction of Korean culture .

To truly experience it for yourself, you’ll have to immerse yourself in Seoul for 3 days or more, before heading further south. That way you’ll get to try everything Korea has to offer; from delicious food to astounding historical landmarks.

So if you’re figuring what to put in your Seoul itinerary, let us help you plan how many days in Seoul you should spend, and what to do and where to go during your South Korea vacation. Use the 'Jump To' box below to go to a specific section.

Basics of Travel in South Korea

How to maximize your seoul experience, faq about seoul, where to stay in seoul, seoul itinerary 3 days, seoul itinerary 7 days, tips for visiting seoul.

Visa: Most travelers will need a K-ETA ( Korean Electronic Travel Authorization ), applied for at least 72 hours before departure. If you needed a visa before, you'll need a K-ETA now. Note that from April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, passport holders from 22 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and several EU nations, can visit visa-free – no K-ETA required!

Currency: South Korean won ( KRW or ₩ )

Arrival in Korea: all international flights arrive at Incheon Airport (ICN), one of the best-rated airports in the world. It usually takes about 1 hour to get through security & pick up checked bags.

Getting Around: Korea has an extensive & reliable public transport system. A refillable T-Money card is your ticket to buses and trains across the country; you can buy and refill yout TMoney card at any subways station or convenience store in Korea.

Internet & SIM Cards: Rent a Wi-Fi egg or purchase a prepaid Korean SIM card at the airport, available for up to one month of connection.

Travel Insurance: always recommended, though some credit card companies offers limited coverage when booking.

How many days should I spend in Seoul? While most guides will tell you that three days in Seoul is enough, we recommend that you stay in Seoul for a week.

But for those with tight budgets, we can help maximize your Seoul itinerary for as many days as you have, and thanks to the advanced metro system in Seoul, you’ll jump from one place to another without issue.

That being said, Seoul at night is a treat for the eyes, and most of the attractions in Seoul occur when the sun begins to set. Banpo Bridge, for example, has an incredible fountain show and the title of the World’s Longest LED-light display.

Around the same time each evening, stalls are set up where people enjoy delicious foods while waiting for fireworks to decorate the sky. The best part is, there’s a way to do all of these things in Seoul for free.

Simply purchase a Discover Seoul pass before your trip, and you can get into most of these attractions (once each) without worrying too much about your budget. There are three kinds of passes you can choose from (24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours), and even if you run out of hours, you can still use it to avail of discounts in any of the partner tourist attractions.

Other sites that provide discounts are kkday , Trazy and Klook .

Unfortunately, each attraction’s opening hours may change due to public holidays or unforeseen events. So if you follow this Seoul itinerary, please develop a habit of checking attractions’ schedules first if you don’t want to wait hours for a show that has already been cancelled.

For a solo traveler, a vacation in Seoul may cost between ₩1,000,000-2,000,000 ($800-1,600USD). This takes into account 3 meals a day, a public transport card, and a week in a hotel, which can all vary widely in price. The rest of your money will go to experiences and souvenirs.

The best time to visit Korea is from May to June and September to October, since this is the best time to see the cherry blossom trees bloom or watch the fall colors in the mountains. Moreover, the weather at this time is generally pleasant for locals and foreigners alike, making walking around more pleasant than in summer or winter.

Three days should be sufficient for a first trip to Korea, especially if you have a Discover Seoul pass , though one week is ideal. The pass enables you to visit key locations once for free, and best of all, get discounts on other destinations and experiences.

Here are the essentials to pack for Seoul: passport, credit cards, and travel medical insurance, as well as shorts, a sun hat, and tops with sleeves. Moreover, certain cellphones do not work in Korea, so you need to check if your phone is not region-locked or that it is equipped to intercept the networks provided in Korea, and possibly rent a phone for your trip.

Seoul is known for having culturally diverse neighborhoods, full of history, good food, and memorable experiences. There are several fantastic neighborhoods I'd recommend staying in when you visit Seoul.

There’s always something that will pique your interest, but you have to make sure that the neighborhood matches your preferences - since you might choose to add to your Seoul itinerary by experiencing the bustling Seoul nightlife .

Specifically in Ichon-dong, this is probably the most convenient place to look for accommodation, especially if you want something quick and cheap. This is also a convenient location if you want to visit the most popular areas in Seoul for free , like the National Museum of Korea, Yongsan Family Park, and Ichon Han River Park.

Creatives and digital natives love coming to this hub because this neighborhood is panned towards the younger crowd. If you’re reminiscing about your college days, this is the neighborhood in Seoul for you.

Cafés regularly host language exchange parties, coffee and pub crawls , and art appreciation guilds. Sometimes buskers hold small concerts in the streets, from late afternoon into the wee hours of night.

Rub elbows with the rich and famous by staying in this Seoul neighborhood . With large-scale suites with spectacular views of the Seoul night sky, this area boasts popular attractions for those with luxurious tastes.

Apgujeong-dong and Garuso-gil, for example, hold multiple high-end luxury chains with clothes made by internationally renowned designers, and worn by the famous K-Celebrities we know and love (like Lisa of BLACKPINK and V of BTS).

This is the city where tradition meets modernity, and you deserve to experience both sides during your 3 days in Seoul. This itinerary covers the basics and the must-sees of the city if you have limited time, with an optional extension to 7 days below.

Seoul Itinerary Day 1: Embracing Korea’s Traditional Side

Note: If your first day falls on a Monday or a Tuesday, you’ll want to move this day’s schedule to a later date— most of the palaces are closed on both those days.

Did you know that entry to any of the five Grand Palaces in Seoul is free when dressed in a hanbok ? Be sure to reserve a full day’s use online ahead of time to avoid the stress of long lines on the day of. The best thing about reserving online is that it also comes with a hefty discount.

Try checking the massive selection provided by the Hanboknam Gyeongbokgung Store , which actually has a Korean hairstyling service too! 

Stop 1: Gyeongbokgung Palace

Time: 9:30AM

Address: 161, Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Fee: Adults: ₩3,000, Children: ₩1,500; Groups have a discount, with ₩2,400 for Adults and ₩1,200 for children; It is free if you come wearing a hanbok.

The best way to start your day is to arrive at Gyeongbokgung Palace 30 minutes before it opens. That way you get to see the Opening Ceremony of the Palace Gates, and the procession that takes place as the guards shift their duties.

As you enter, the first thing you should do is fall in line to see Geunjeongjeon Hall. It’s quite a bit of a walk, and you’ll initially pass by the pumgyeseok (the markers court officials used to indicate where they should stand if the King calls for a meeting) before reaching the steps.

However, the view of the majestic ancient Korean architecture and the people wearing hanboks will make you feel like you have time-traveled all the way back to the Joseon Dynasty. As soon as you get to the red throne, you only have a few minutes to admire its splendor, so make sure to bring your camera with you.

If you’re able to join an English-language tour, your guide will certainly point out the parts of the palace that were heavily influenced by Chinese architecture , a fact quite revealing of the times.

Other notable parts of the palace are the Gyeonghoeru Pavillion, or what used to be the setting for lavish official banquets, and the beautiful Hyangwonjeong, a small temple-like structure on top of an artificial island on Hyangwonji Lake. 

There are plenty of things to do at Gyeongbokgung, but there’s a special tea ceremony that lets you drink the tea that delighted the King and Queen back then, and I’d highly recommend it. You’ll feel like royalty after just one sip. 

Stop 2: Hwangsaengga Kalguksu

Address: 78, Bukchon-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03053 South Korea

Prices: ₩₩-₩₩₩

Notorious for being the “best noodle and dumpling shop” near Gyeongbukgung Palace, expect long lines of people dying to have a taste. Since these dishes don’t take long to cook, people don’t have to wait long to try some of their most famous offerings, like the cold soybean soup or the rich ox bone noodles. 

Stop 3: National Palace Museum of Korea

Time: 2:00 PM

Address: 12 Hyoja-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Nearest Metro Stop: Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3, Exit 5)

Once you’ve enjoyed your meal, head back to the steps leading to the museum and walk further on in. This facility has everything you need if you wish to know more about Korea’s glorious and often difficult past.

Fourteen of Korea’s ‘National Treasures,’ including recovered pieces from the Joseon Dynasty and the Korean Empire, are housed in this free museum . Periodically they even host events to educate the people who come, usually involving activities like calligraphy, tea ceremonies , and even Korean traditional dance lessons.

Stop 4: Gwanghwamun Square

Time: 4:00PM

Fee: Adults: ₩3,000, Children: ₩1,500; Groups have a discount, with ₩2,400 for Adults and ₩1,200 for children.

This wide park is actually a huge commemoration site for the military strategist that led Koreans to victory during the Japanese invasion, Admiral Yi Sun-sin. His statue stands proudly next to the water fountain which entertains local kids every summer, and may be even more famous than the statue!

But this installation actually has a meaningful story behind it, because the water jets shoot exactly 18 meters high, with 300 smaller jets to symbolize the battles the Admiral fought on sea.

Meters away from the great admiral’s statue, an intimidating gold statue of Sejong the Great watches over you, perfect for taking selfies and startling visitors.

Stop 5: Cheonggyecheon Stream and Cheonggye Plaza

Time: 5:00PM

Address: 530 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul

Just a 10-minute walk from Gwanghwamun Square is a long man-made stream that doubles as a public recreation space. I recommend coming here in the late afternoon because the sunset view is legendary; you can rest your weary feet in the stream as you wait for the night to come.

By then, the lights will turn on, illuminating the traditional lanterns above and the long strip that makes the stream sparkle below. This makes for a beautiful sight, most especially if you look at it from above.

If your trip hits around summer, the sunset may come around 8PM, and the wait can get quite hot & sweaty. So if you have plans to really see the sunset, swing by Cafe imA, a coffee shop next to the Ilmin Art Museum. Visitors rave about their Hamburg Steak (₩13,500), but you can also try their desserts and waffles (₩6,500-₩8,000).

There’s also Dal.Komm Coffee on the other side of the stream, near the starting point. Most of their coffee, juice, and tea selection ranges from ₩4,100 to ₩6,100, but their Real Strawberry Lemonade (₩5,300) is the best drink to beat the summer heat.

Stop 6: Deoksugung Palace

Time: 7:00PM

Address: 99 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul

Fee:  Adults: ₩1,000, Children: ₩500; Groups have a discount, with ₩800 for Adults and ₩400 for children; It is free if you come wearing a hanbok.

Cap off your first day by visiting Deoksugung , or the small palace that used to be the residence of Korea’s Royal Family. Unlike the other Five Grand Palaces , this one has the Seokjojeon , a building that features a more prominent modern & western style that King Gojong would use to enthrall the diplomats who came to visit Korea.

It’s also a beautiful sight at night, and if you arrive before 7:30 PM, you should sign up for “Seokjojeon at Night.” This is an evening tour program that lets you stroll and observe Deoksugung’s highlights, enjoy tea at the terrace, and watch a musical performance at the reception area (where the King used to meet with important figures in history).  

Seoul Itinerary Day 2: Feel Young Again in Hongdae

Stop 1: Thanks Nature Cafe 

Time: 8:30 AM

Address: 29 World cup buk-ro 4-gil, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Fee: ₩₩-₩₩₩

For breakfast , there’s a famous cafe nearby that lets you make friends with two massively fluffy and docile sheep. You can mingle with them in the playpen while waiting for your breakfast, or watch from afar if you’re just there for the pics.

They have a wide selection of coffee, smoothies, and breakfast waffles; you have to try the latter, as they only use seasonal fresh fruits on the waffles. Unfortunately, breakfast in Korea is always enjoyed at home, so not many spots are open super early.

An alternate nearby recommendation for vegans or vegetarians is Salad Brothers , a fantastic salad bar that lets you put as much dressing as you want. Their Cobb Salad is a crowd favorite because it packs quite a punch, even though the portions are small. Plus, the food is just as photogenic as their menu.

Stop 2: Coconut Box – formerly known as the Trick Eye Museum

Time: 10:00 AM

Address: 20 Hongik-ro 3-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Fee: ₩23,000  

I was sad to learn that they closed the Trick Eye Museum in Seoul; I had many fond memories there. Still, the replacement attraction of Coconut Box is a worthy visit— they reinvented the entire place into a Southeast Asian beach, with sand on the floor and wooden huts you can sit in.

You can pretend that you’re vacationing in a tropical island garden, but the real highlight of the visit is the “metaverse play” in one of their bungalows. Getting there at 10am, shortly after they open, will guarantee you’ll have the chance to enter & interact in one of the most famous paintings in the entire world: Vincent van Gogh’s Starry Night.

Stop 3: Abiko Curry

Address: 25, Hongik-ro, Mapo-gu Hotel Seokyo Annex B106, Seoul

Fee: ₩-₩₩

If you’re craving a good Japanese curry, Abiko Curry lets you enjoy variations of this dish at a reasonable price. Sure it’s a little cramped, but if you don’t mind that, I swear their tonkatsu is to die for, and Koreans basically consider it a local dish at this point. Set meals are also good for sharing, and the servers are kind to foreigners. 

Stop 4: Caface Seoul

Address: 20 Hongik-ro 3-gil, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Near Abiko Curry stands Caface Seoul. This popular spot is one of those ‘only in Korea’ kind of things, that lets you have your face printed as latte art. This is also the perfect way to commemorate your day in Hongdae, and then bring your masterpiece on a stroll around the neighborhood.

Just give them any of the selfies you took earlier, hand over ₩2700, and you can have a “face latte.” I know you’re too pretty to drink, but their coffee definitely tastes better warm – so drink it while it’s hot!

Stop 5: Hongdae Shopping Street

Time: 3:00 PM

Address: 365-8 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

In any trip, it is important to have a bit of time to do some quick retail therapy. In Hongdae, where the hip, young, and fashionable gather, most of the clothes for sale are aimed at the younger crowd.

But it’s amazing how much branded stuff has heavy discounts here, albeit mostly ‘free size’ (generically large or stretchy clothes), and there are a lot of ‘2 items for $8’ offers.

Stop 6: Mapogalmaegi

Time: 7:00 PM

Address: 14 Hongik-ro 5an-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Expect lots of young women in here, because this restaurant is located close to Ehwa Women’s University. I’m a meat-lover, so I can’t let you vacation in Seoul without eating in at least one typical barbecue-type restaurant.

All Korean BBQ spots are best enjoyed with a group of people due to the layout, but most places will accept a single person unless they’re packed. Aside from meat, this spot offers soju or beer, and you can try a variety of delicious banchan to go with your meats of choice.

Another option is the Analog Garden, a charming coffee house that serves delicious salads. Though most of their dishes have meat and egg in it, a there's a vegan-friendly option called the "Falafel Wrap" worth ₩7,500.

If that is too small for you, get the "Falafel Plate" instead for ₩11,000. But what people actually come for is a homemade fake-meat set meal (soy-based), that’s said to go well with their roasted coffee.

Stop 7: Come back to Hongdae Shopping Street

Time: 9:00 PM

Come back here after dinner, because this is when the buskers come to perform. Around the performance areas are food stalls packed with delicious Korean foods for a couple bucks each; if you couldn’t or didn’t want to eat KBBQ for dinner, you can find something here.

The beauty about this place is that you can stay out late and still spot people roaming around, browsing and entering restaurants and bars. This is why most shops close past midnight here.

Seoul Itinerary Day 3: See Iconic Locations in Seoul

Stop 1: K-Pop Square

Time: 10:30 AM

Address: Right outside Samseong Station, Exit 5

K-Pop Square is a large public area in Samseong, featuring a massive LED-screen that promotes show-stopping performances from the past. This is an ode to K-Pop, which is responsible for a large portion of the country’s tourism, and why Korea is so well known across the world.

Fans will also be happy to know that somewhere in the area is a wall that lets them hold hands with their favorite idols. Also known as the “K-Pop Handprint Wall,” big stars like BTS, Shinee, and even EXO are among the artists featured here.

Stop 2: Statue of Gangnam Style

Time: 10:45 AM

Address: 524 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

At first I just thought this was a strange gold installation of two hands shielding you from the sun, but when I finally got close to it, I knew immediately who it was: Psy oppa !

Though this ‘Gentleman’ has been relatively quiet since his 2012 hit, the song Gangnam Style remains in the Youtube hall of fame as one of the fastest to hit a billion views. If you know how to dance Gangnam Style, this is the perfect location for you to shoot a dance cover of the video. 

Stop 3: Bongeunsa Seoraewon ( 봉은사 서래원)

Address: 531 Bongeunsa-ro, Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Imagine enjoying a warm meal inside a small Korean temple, without ever leaving Seoul. Bongeunsa Seoraewon lets you have that experience in the heart of the city, and the noodle prices are affordable too; most especially the sets.

After your meal, you can just walk outside and visit Bongeunsa Temple directly. What’s cool about this place is that it also has options for vegans (ask for their Bongeun Tofu).

Stop 4: COEX Starfield Library

Time: 1:30 PM

Address: 513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

This is by far the most famous library in Seoul. It’s a real operating library, located inside the largest underground shopping mall in all of Asia: CoEx Starfield. Book lovers will cry at the sight of tens of thousands of books filling the 13-meter shelves.

Visitors also come to watch famous authors do book signing events, and famous poets visit to motivate young children to write.

The downside about this place is only that it is always crowded and noisy – it’s hard to appreciate the rare book you found if there are couples chatting on either side of you. But did I mention that this space is free? This is why people often try to sneak out the books, which I discourage you from trying. 

Stop 5: COEX Aquarium

Time: 5:00 PM

Address: 513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, 서울특별시

Fee: Adults: ₩28,000; Children: ₩24,000; Senior Citizens: ₩20,000

CoEx Aquarium in Seoul is for those who want to see marine life up close, with more than a hundred display tanks and over 40,000 sea creatures in various themed zones. Shark lovers will be thrilled to know that this is the aquarium that houses the highest number of sharks in Korea.

Touch pools also let you feel the fish (like the manta ray), allowing you to have a healing experience with nature in a safe setting.

Stop 6: Gosoo Dalgalbi Gangnam

Time: 7:30 PM

Address: 20, Teheran-ro 5-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Fee: Adults: ₩-₩₩

For dinner, you should definitely try the tastiest dakgalbi in Seoul. This is a famous Korean dish not common internationally, but very popular domestically. The dish consists of loads of chopped cabbage with tender bits of chicken rib meat, stir-fried in a thick, spicy sauce (that tastes so much better with cheese, in my opinion!).

What’s so wonderful about this place is that their special, the 치즈모듬사리 ( Cheese Modeumsari ), is a party plate full of cheesy rice cake and glass noodles that is perfect for sharing.

For a fun vegan option, come to Veg Green, a delicious vegan buffet that has a homey vibe - the staff will still smile at you, even if you come late at night for dinner. At just ₩12,000 per person, it’s full of options for those who enjoy large mixed salads, including fruits and jam in a cozy ambiance.

Stop 7: GSM Terrace

Address: 327-45 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Fee: Adults: ₩10,000 for unlimited drinks

Friends are important, and meeting fun people from diverse, cultural backgrounds may also make your stay in Korea a fulfilling one. Sure, it’s an activity for international people, but you may spot some Koreans who are seeking places to practice their English.

Additionally, you can play all sorts of games with them if you run out of things to talk about. Everything comes easy and natural here, and all people are welcome to join in the fun.

If you find that 3 days in Seoul is not enough, you’re not alone. Most visitors spend 5-7 days in Seoul to get a taste of the culture, nightlife, and food in Korea.

The suggestions below are ideal for people who are looking for other things to visit on their Seoul vacation, since the first three days have pretty much hit all the popular places. A good alternative to Everland is Lotte World.

Seoul Itinerary Day 4: Everland Theme Park

Everland is a popular theme park in Seoul, perfect for people who just want to have a magical day with their date, family, or friends. With over 40 attractions scattered across five different themed areas, it might take an entire day or two to exhaust all of the attractions.

What I love about this place is that it always has festivals and seasonal events to entertain guests of all ages.

Operating Hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Address: 199 Everland-ro, Pogog-eup, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do

Fee: Adults: ₩54,000 to ₩64,000; Children: ₩43,000 to ₩51,000; If you want to skip the line, you can buy the tickets ahead of time . There’s also a fun option of wearing a Korean school uniform, which you can rent online or on-site.

Stop 1: Global Fair

If you’ve always wanted to travel to far-flung destinations, this fair lets you see the world all at once. Historical structures, both existing and ancient, line one area of this zone - and here you can see various architecture from different points in time, instantly turning you into a time traveler.

Stop 2: Live Hologram Adventure (Global Fair)

Time: 11:00 AM

Never been to a K-Pop concert before? That’s okay, because the Live Hologram Adventure lets you experience a 30-minute snippet of a K-Pop concert in high definition.

If you also decide to take pictures and videos, it’d look so realistic that you can trick your friends into thinking that you actually went to a BIGBANG concert.

Stop 3: Snack Buster for Lunch

When you’re in a theme park , you need a lot of grub to keep your energy levels high. Unlike other theme parks with food in small, reduced servings, Snack Buster has generous servings of high-quality Korean foods sold at an affordable price.

I highly recommend their Korean fried chicken with french fries and tteokbokki, because it’ll come in a plate that’s big enough to share with your family or friends.

Stop 4: Carnival Square (European Adventure)

Time: 2:30 PM

Around this time you should join the people gathering by the Carnival Square, because this is when you get to witness a spectacular event only seen in Everland.

Here they’ll launch flowery floats with vivacious dancers and mascots, all inviting you to come join their party. Imagine being in Rio de Janeiro, but when you leave, you’re back in Korea.

Stop 5: Panda World (Zootopia)

Time: 3:15 PM

Need I say more? Pandas are such gentle creatures, and imagine entering a world full of these adorable bears. Everland’s Zootopia should be in your Seoul itinerary for this very reason. If you don’t like pandas and prefer a different animal, then next to this enclosure is the Friendly Monkey Valley.

Stop 6: Lost Valley (Zootopia)

Enjoy zipping through a safari, riding a tram that crosses difficult terrain dotted with real animals. To enjoy this experience, then join the queue at the Lost Valley, where you’ll find your ride crossing the stream.

The trip will take you  into landscaped enclosures full of large animals including elephants, giraffes, camels, and rhinos. And then, if there’s still time, your guide will let you hand-feed these animals, giving you a chance to interact with them up close.

Step 7: Thunder Falls (Magic Land)

Time: 6:00 PM

Speaking of getting wet, there’s a fun flume ride in Everland that features backward drops and steep falls. It’s such a thrill to be on this ride, and the danger can be so exhilarating! But if you need more adrenaline rush, see if you can queue for the T-Express (aka. Everland’s Scariest Ride).

Step 8: Robot VR and Gyro VR (American Adventure)

Have you ever fantasized about channeling your inner Han Solo? These rides let you pilot a futuristic spaceship and navigate the stars. Sci-fi fans love this ride because the effects feel so real— the ride itself even follows the joystick you’re controlling!

Step 9: Four Seasons Garden & Rose Garden

Time: 8:00 PM

When the sun sets, this is the best area to end your day in Everland.  There’s always a light show with fireworks around this time, and a variety of performances that go along with it.

Seoul Itinerary Day 5: Feel the National Pride

As a tourist, one of the best ways to experience Korea is to visit the location where they played host to countries from all over the world. Coming here, you’ll see the effort Korea puts forth in promoting peace and harmony, as well as soak in the welcoming spirit. Plus, Olympic Park is 100% free to visit!

Stop 1: World Peace Gate

Time: 9:30 AM

Address: 424 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul

The World Peace Gate is a marvelous winged structure that reveals a beautiful painting of a phoenix, tiger, turtle, and a dragon if you stand beneath it. This is called “A Painting of Four Spirits,” signifying the desire of Korea to be friends with everybody in the world.

As you stand underneath, it’s like a gate that genuinely welcomes you to enter and experience Korea. I’ve always thought it was a beautiful place to stand and reflect on your experiences in the country.

Stop 2: Olympic Museum

Learn more about the athletes that represented Korea in the past Olympic Games! Documentation about Korea’s best athletes, their training process, and even their histories are comprehensively explained here. Also, thanks to this museum, you’ll get to closely observe the gear used in the recent 2018 Winter Olympic Games in PyeongChang. 

Stop 3: Olympic Park’s Peace Square

Address: 326, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul

If you time your visit around the last week of September to the first week of October this year, there will be a grand festival called the Hanseong Baekje Cultural Festival in the Olympic Park’s Peace Square.

Coming here lets you experience the rich Hanseong era in Korea, featuring food tastings, tea ceremonies, parades and performances, and even a demonstration of a hawk-aided hunting!

Moreover, the reason why they’re holding it here is because the Mongchontoseong Fortress area is known to be a remnant of the Baekje capital. Hopefully you’ll get to see this festival in person, because it truly is a fascinating way to learn more about Korea’s fascinating past.

Stop 4: Bukchon Hanok Village

Time: 4:00 PM

Address: 37, Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Perhaps one of the oldest villages in Seoul, this area dates back all the way to the Joseon Dynasty. Also called the “northern village,” this is also where two significant Seoul landmarks, Cheonggyecheon Stream and Jongno, are located.

What’s admirable about this area is that people hold traditional events here, giving curious tourists an opportunity to get to know the Joseon dynasty even better. Fun activities such as hanbok wearing, etiquette demonstration, and even tea ceremonies are hosted by the people here, and all of these usually occur in the afternoon.

Stop 5: Insadong Street

Address: Insadong, Jongro-gu, Seoul

One of the popular destinations in Korea, Insadong Street has a long array of lively stalls and shops to give you something to look at everywhere.This is also the best place to grab a quick snack, because they serve a variety of Korean foods you should make it a point to try.

If you’re interested in trying something new and enjoy green tea , track down O’Sulloc Tea House and order their matcha cake. Since this is one of your last days in Seoul, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that Insadong is one of the best places to buy souvenirs for your family and friends!

Stop 6: Noryangjin Fish Market

Address: 674 Nodeul-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul

I know that capping your day in a fish market is unusual, but after you swing by Insadong Street, head to the Jonggak Station and ride the subway to Noryangjin , because this is where people can eat the freshest seafood in Seoul.

You can even try the unique dishes they serve, most especially try delicacies that you definitely haven’t before - like the penis fish. You should come try the small octobps, king crab, and hwe (sliced raw fish) here, for example.

Don’t be shy if you can’t speak a lick of Korean because the people are so used to seeing foreigners that they have devised a way to make things easier and enjoyable for you.

Seoul Itinerary Day 6: See Korea’s Highest Point

Stop 1: Namsan Park

Address: 231, Samil-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul

This public park is a nature-friendly rest area smack in the middle of the city. It has clear walking trails leading to Namsan Seoul tower, but I’d encourage you to take your time appreciating this quiet, vast expanse, because it has more facilities than your average park.

Aside from seeing gardens and free physical activity facilities, there’s also a library, a botanical garden, a memorial hall, and a culture center. 

Stop 2: Mok Myeong San Bang

Address: 71 Toegye-ro 20-gil, Namsandong 2-ga, Jung-gu 1F, Hannam Building, Seoul 04629 South Korea

People might have a hard time locating this place, but keep your eyes peeled for a hanok within Namsan Park. Mok Myeong San Bang is a vegetarian-friendly, healthy, traditional lunch restaurant that serves authentic Korean cuisine.

In fact, they pride themselves as chefs who never use artificial seasoning. I highly recommend their bibimbap , which is known to be the best in Seoul, but you should explore dishes like the crispy cheesy pancake and the yukhoe (raw beef).

Stop 3: Namsangol Hanok Village

Address: 28 Toegye-ro 34-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul

After a savory lunch, walk to Namsangol Hanok Village on the north side of Namsan Mountain. Here you get to see homes that were restored to their original form to give tourists a sense of how people in the Joseon dynasty used to live.

Sometimes you may chance upon demonstrations that show people how to play a traditional board game ( yunnori ) or fold a traditional paper called hanji . Sometimes there’s also a fun segment on how traditional herbal medicines are made and used.

Stop 4: N Seoul Tower

Time: 4:30 PM

Address: 105, Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Fee: (Observatory) Adults: ₩11,000; Children: ₩9,000

Also known as the second highest tower in Seoul, Namsan Tower’s Observation Deck provides an unobstructed view of the whole city. There’s also a powerful telescope available for use that lets you have a high quality LCD view of wherever you’re pointing it at. 

Aside from museums and exhibitions, what people really come here for is attaching their own lock to Love Lock Bridge. This is the infamous site in Seoul where couples fasten a lock to symbolize their everlasting love— hence why there’s an area full of locks, and a booth that lets you customize your own to add to the bridge.

Stop 5: Lotte World Tower

Address: 300, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul

Fee: Adults: ₩27,000; Children: ₩24,000; Fast Pass for all ages: ₩50,000

After seeing the second highest point, go to the tallest building in the entirety of Korea! Lotte World Tower, just 55 minutes away from Namsangol Hanok Village. Sleek and slender with a gentle curved design, you can end your evening in a fantastically fast elevator, taking you directly to the highest point in Korea.

The ride also allows you to take great photos, because you get to see the entire city transition to night time as you arrive. Inside you can also test your courage as you walk through the highest indoor glass floor, giving you perspective of how high up in the sky you are (and how teeny every person looks from above).

Seoul Itinerary Day 7: Enjoy the Night at Dongdaemun

Stop 1: Dongdaemun Seonggwak Park

Address: right outside Dongdaemun Station Exit 1

If you feel like doing a bit of walking in the afternoon, this little tourist trap has an uphill road that takes you to a nice park. It’s not as pretty as the other ones, but it has everything you need, and it's very conveniently located for a chill afternoon out.

Since it is a little bit elevated, you get to have a clear view of Dongdaemun , which lets you see the fusion of traditional and modern elements scattered around the city. Moreover, this is where the beautiful Heunginmun gate is located, perfect for pictures on your last day in Seoul.

Stop 2: Heunginjimun (Dongdaemun Gate)

Address: 288 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Don’t skip this gate before you leave. This is an ancient monument which used to stretch longer, as it used to be a fortress with three other gates. All four gates apparently have a meaning attached to their name, and Heunginjimun is loosely translated as “benevolence, with good energy.”

There’s also a semi-circular ongsung inside, which is a pagoda-like traditional structure that makes it stand out compared to the existing gates in Seoul. Plus, the reason we’re coming to see it at 6pm is because it lights up beautifully against the backdrop of cars.

Stop 3: Bulgwangsikdang ( 부광식당 )

Time: 6:30 PM

Address: 207-26 Sungin-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Not many are comfortable in crowded places, but for this one, most will surely make an exception. If you feel like eating a proper home-cooked meal for dinner, this is the best option in Seoul. Since this is more frequented by the elderly and locals, most of the meals are made to appeal to their taste.

But who knows, you might find your favorite Korean meal here! Plus, the owners are kind and friendly, making it a less intimidating place for foreigners to try. Vegans might want to swing by Vegan is Hip (비건이즈힙), a wide sandwich and waffle bar that offers choices that range from sweet potato, tofu salad, fruits, and vegetables.

Their waffles are super delicious, even if they are made with rice flour and plant-based cream, a combination that most non-vegans find challenging to like. If you choose to come here, try their apple jam whipped cream waffle, and you won’t regret it.

Stop 4: Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Address: 43 Eulji-ro 45-gil, Sindang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul

See that majestic neon embryo thing? That’s Dongdaemun Design Plaza. This huge building is absolutely worth seeing at night, since it glows brightly and makes for a good aerial photo. There are lots of free things to do inside since this also doubles as a museum and an exhibition center.

Speaking of which, there’s a large LED screen that allows you to relax your eyes with soothing colors that dance along to therapeutic music. Take your time strolling around inside. There are plenty of fun things you can do, like browse inside for things to buy or check out the books on the shelves.

You can even play on the funny chairs that let you spin without falling! There are also rest areas that let you charge your phones while you sip the coffee from the food carts outside. If you’re a K-Pop fan and you like artists from SM Entertainment, you’ll be happy to know that SM Town is inside.

Stop 5: Dongdaemun Night Market

Time: 10:30 PM

The reason you should come here late in the day is to experience one of the best night markets in Seoul . Known as a fashion destination throughout Seoul, plenty of people frequent Dongdaemun Night Market to shop, play, and eat. The best part? Most of the stalls are open until as late as 5am!

So you’re finally coming to Korea. Your bags are packed and your ticket is ready. Congratulations! But before you leave, here are helpful tips for visiting Korea that you might want to read before you arrive.

• Learn some key phrases in Hangul – or download Papago

While most of the buildings and public spaces in Seoul provide English translations for foreigners, it is rarely enough to travel without learning a few key phrases . Trust me, you’ll want to know what to say if you need to know where the nearest station is or the cost of something.

If you cannot cram these many Korean phrases into your memory, I can relate, and I recommend that you have the Papago translation app ready to assist you just in case.

• Learn basic etiquette 

Of course people don’t expect you to bow everywhere, but you should show them respect. One way to do this is, when you are giving or receiving things, you use both of your hands. As a foreigner, never call strangers ‘ahjussi’ or ‘ahjumma’ if you happen to talk to them, and most of all, learn how to respectfully address people in Korea .

• You can connect to the internet almost everywhere in Korea, but get a Korean SIM card or wifi egg just to be safe 

Don’t assume that everywhere you go, the Internet will always be with you; most Koreans have cell phones with unlimited data now, so wifi is ironically harder to access. One of the hacks I’ve used to be able to connect while on the go is to find a metro station and connect to the free Wi-Fi in there.

But in cases where a station is quite far from you, and you need to use apps like KakaoMaps to sort out your route, it’s best to have a Korean sim card handy.

• Bring a power bank!

You never know when you’ll run out of battery, and Korea is a big city. Even though cafes let people stay for a long time, you may happen to come on days when most are either closed or crowded, so you can’t count on that.

Sometimes you can visit a convenience store and ask if they have ports to charge your phone, but if you don’t want a dead battery to ruin your trip, take a power bank with you (or buy one when you arrive).

• Don’t rely on Google Maps

I cannot stress this enough! Google Maps doesn’t work in Korea, and what’s worse is that what they tell you is rarely accurate. Instead, download Kakao-brand apps when possible. Even though KakaoMaps is made primarily for Koreans in Korea, it is foreigner-friendly and even has an English version.

• Ride public transportation instead of taxis

Taxis are expensive, but Seoul is even more expensive. Also known as the 7 th most expensive capital in the world, most of the fun things to do require you to shell out more money than you might want to.

So to save on your vacation to Seoul, when you can, choose to ride the subway or the bus. Both systems are very clean, extensive, and reliable.

• Carry your own trash

Bring your trash back home with you. Unlike other cities where you can freely throw garbage in any bin, Seoul has very few public trash cans and a very specific system for sorting their waste.

In South Korea, there’s actually a national Zero Waste Policy which has resulted in 5 different types of trash and recyclables, each of which warrant a separate type of bin (I got a stern talking-to a few times over the years for using the wrong types of bags to toss my various types of trash).

I know this has been quite the Seoul travel guide, but that’s just proof that there’s plenty of things to do in Seoul. So whether you’re in Seoul for a week or just three days, I hope this Seoul itinerary can help you make the most of your trip.

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vincent Liptrot says

July 13, 2023 at 2:57 am

great info in here about Seoul. As you can see many fun places are in small allies and harder to reach places. it can be tricky to navigate on your own an tiring by foot to get between sights, though have a wonderful time in Seoul and enjoy this excellent blog!

July 16, 2023 at 10:05 am

Thanks, Vincent!

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10 Absolutely Necessary Seoul Travel Tips for First-Timers

Korea is a beautiful place to visit and can be somewhat intimidating if you do not know the language. In South Korea, there are lots of things to do, tons of food to try, and plenty of friendly people. Many Koreans in Seoul are knowledgeable in English but are shy in speaking the language. If you are traveling to Seoul for the first time, then these Seoul travel tips will be the best to help you navigate around Seoul, know what to buy and where to go.

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Seoul Travel Tips – do’s and don’ts in south korea

Seoul can be quite an overwhelming city of newcomers. It’s incredibly busy with millions of residents and tourists filling up the city. Learning the way of how to get around is important which is why I provided these extensive Seoul travel tips.

Seoul Travel Tips – Currency

The Korean form of currency is called a won. Approximately 1000 won is about a dollar. You will have to check daily about what the exchange rate is. Most banks in Korea will exchange the currency for free.

Credit and debit cards are used frequently in South Korea. Most Korean stores take any form of credit card, so if you are hesitant to carry a large amount of cash while traveling, this will be a safe bet.

However, if you happen to be in an open market or even some clothing markets like in Dongdaemun Market, you will need to bring cash. This market is most common for store owners trying to get clothing for their stores. I oftentimes bring my credit card while traveling. Mostly because if there are any issues with the card, I can notify my credit card company about the item in question. Second, there are no foreign exchange rates, which can be expensive with a debit card depending on the bank you use.

Travel Tips to save money in Seoul

• Use public transportation
• Take a free guided tour
• Wear a Hanbok to gain free access to the palace (2 birds with one stone – you will save more money if you don’t wear a Hanbok though, so this is only valid if you want to do both.)

Tipping Culture in South Korea

This Seoul travel tip is one of the most important. Korea has a no-tipping culture, it is considered rude to provide a tip. However, there are a few foreign restaurants and bars that do accept tips. The price given includes tax and everything so don’t expect to pay more than what is on the receipt or tag.

Seoul Travel Tips – Religion and Culture

• Religion – Most of South Korea are mixed with Christian, Buddhist, and Catholic. However, many of them are nonpracticing. South Koreans, however, are pretty conservative when it comes to dressing.
• Clothing – You will see many that have their shoulders and chests covered. However, you will see many in very short skirts, shorts, or dresses. My Seoul travel tip is that It’s okay to dress however way you feel is comfortable, but I want to let you know, you may get stares because of your outfit or because you are a foreigner in general.
• Tattoos – South Koreans absolutely love American culture so many will not be bothered by seeing tattoos, however, there are still many older generations who are very traditional when it comes to seeing tattoos. There may be some Jimjilbangs you will have to worry about that do not accept tattoos.

Seoul Travel Tips – Language

The language spoken in Seoul is Korean. Most Koreans were taught to speak English from classes from primary school, however, many are too afraid to speak it or may have forgotten the skills since they do not need to speak it often.

Do not be worried about getting around Seoul, as there are many useful apps out there now that can help with translation if there is an issue. Additionally, there are many words in Korean that are in English like Latte, Coffee, etc.

If you are looking for some apps to use to assist with translation, I suggest Papago or Google Translate.

Key Korean phrases and words you should know

Knowing a little basic Korean will go a long way and it’s important of all of the Seoul travel tips I provide. Knowing just hello and thank you will be great ways to show respect to the culture.

Hello/Goodbye – 안녕하세요 – An-nyeong-ha-se-yo Nice to meet you – 반갑습니다 – Ban-gap-sum-ni-da Thank you – 감사합니다 – Kam-sa-ham-ni-da Excuse me/just a moment – 잠시만요 – Jam-shi-man-yo I’m sorry -죄송합니다/미안합니다 – Chway-seong-ham-ni-da/Mi-an-ham-ni-da Please (Please give) – 주세요 – Ju-se-yo

Seoul Travel Tips – Best time to visit Seoul

My Seoul travel tips for the best time to visit Seoul is in the spring, March-May, or fall, September–November, months. The weather is more temperament and comfortable to travel in. In the summer, it is very muggy and hot. There is also heavy monsoon season so humidity with rain.

The winter months are good times to travel as well if you don’t mind the freezing cold temperatures. However, during the spring you may be traveling during heavy find dust times and you may need to bring a mask. If you are only staying in Korea, temporarily, it won’t be a big deal, however, if staying long-term it’s good to have one on hand. You can easily purchase them in any convenience store in Korea .

Holidays in Seoul

There are quite a few Korean National holidays held throughout the year. Some are dates you may need to avoid due to places being closed for the holidays. My travel tips for traveling in Seoul are to avoid some of those holidays including Seollal, Chuseok, Christmas, and New Year’s.

• January 1 – New Year’s Day
• January – February – Seollal – Korean New Year’s based on the Lunar Calendar
• March 1 – Independence Day
• April 8 – Buddha’s Birthday
• May 5 – Children’s Day
• June 6 – Memorial Day
• August 15 – Liberation Day
• September – Chuseok
• October 3 – National Foundation Day
• October 9 – Hangeul Day
• December 25 – Christmas Day

Seoul Travel Tips – What to pack for Seoul

Koreans dress a bit more dressed up than back in the US. So if you are into casual wear, it’s fine, but you might get some stares.

• Winter – Heavy coats, good walking shoes, thick sweaters, thick socks, lots of layering and thick scarves. You may need some gloves or you can also purchase a rechargeable hand warmer here as well. You will get hot going in and out of the subway, so make sure you are able to take some clothes off to cool down.
• Spring – Layering clothing. Lightweight should be good, but it can still be cold at night. T-shirts, long sleeve shirts, a sweater for colder days, pants, and jeans.
• Summer – Sandals, good walking shoes that dry quickly, lightweight clothing like linen or things that dry quickly, and an umbrella for the rainy season.
• Fall – Layered jackets (some nights can get very cold and you will need a winter coat), tights or leggings, scarves

Seoul Travel Tips – Where to stay in Seoul

My Seoul travel tips are to stay in Myeongdong or Hongdae within Seoul. You want to be centrally located and around areas where you can get some entertainment and delicious food nearby. Hongdae has better access to the subway straight to the international airport which is why I suggest that location. You can read more about all the popular neighborhoods in Seoul below. Read my detailed post on where to stay in Seoul.

Neighborhoods to visit in Seoul

• Myeongdong – Myeongdong is one of the popular shopping areas in Seoul. Here you can get a lot of delicious street foods, skincare, and shop until you drop.
• Itaewon – Itaewon is mostly for tourists or foreigners. You will see many foreigners here. It is a popular area to be in if you like to go out drinking at night. You can also find some great bargains on socks and souvenirs.
• Dongdaemun – This area is a popular area for traditional street food and night markets. Shop like the locals deep into the wee hours of the night. Find some of Seoul’s popular Korean fashion.
• Insadong – The most popular neighborhood for the palaces, shopping for souvenirs, hanbok rentals and more.
• Gangnam – Known for the COEX Library and mall, popular due to plastic surgery, and Psy’s “Gangnam Style” K-POP song.
• Hongdae – This is literally my favorite neighborhood in Seoul. Hongdae is where I recommend a lot of people to stay when visiting Seoul.
• Jamsil – Popular for sports fans who want to see a baseball game or families who want to visit Lotte World.
• Namdaemun – Like Dongdaemun, Namdaemun has some popular night markets to shop at as well.

Seoul Travel Tips – Transportation

Korea probably has one of the most advanced ways to travel. There is no need to have a vehicle at all while being in Korea. Renting a car would be a waste of money and not truly experiencing the culture of being in Korea. For someone new to public transportation in Korea, it can be overwhelming. These are a few of my favorite Seoul travel tips to help you get around the city.

How much is a T-Money Card

Around 4,000 won + money to reload for the subway costs

Where to get a T-Money Card

The best place to get a T-Money card is right at the airport. I highly suggest you buy one at the airport at one of the convenience stores / Incheon International Airport Passenger Terminal 1 Store on B1 (07:00-22:00) / Incheon International Airport Passenger Terminal 1 Travel Center (07:00-21:30) / Gimpo Airport Station Int’l Travel Center (07:00-21:30)

You can either reload your T-Money card at a local convenience store or any subway station. There are reload locations at every subway station. You place the card on the appropriate spot and select how much you want to load on the card. These machines are available in English as well, so don’t worry about not knowing Korean.

There are plenty of taxis all over Korea. However, there is a lot of public transportation in Korea, so taxis for most are not used often. Subways and Buses are cheaper ways to commute to any destination. It can be intimidating to take a taxi since many of the taxi drivers do not know English although there are a few who do.

Rideshare Taxi Service

The best way to take an uber like service is to download the Kakao taxi app. You can use the app and change the payment to pay in person. The Kakao taxi app only takes Korean Bank Cards, so it is best to change the payment to pay in person. The app will include the license plate of the taxi and you will know which taxi to take when it arrives. Read more about the app below.

One of my favorite travel Seoul travel tips is to take public transportation, most specifically the subway. The subways are very advanced in Korea. There are about 19 different lines and counting. The subways are written in English and Korea which is very helpful to anyone traveling in Korea. If you don’t know the language, don’t worry as this is very helpful and most of the people in the city of Seoul know some basic English skills.

The best way to learn the subway system is by downloading the Kakao Metro App. You have the option of reading it in Korean and English. There are many features to this app. You can select the location you are nearest to and find the stop on the map you need to reach and the app will find the quickest and cheapest route for you.

Kakao Metro App will break down where you will need to get off to transfer to the next line. It will also give you the prices and how long it will take for you to reach your destination. This app does not need Wi-Fi or phone service to be used, however, you will need Wi-Fi to download it, so I suggest you download it prior to leaving for Korea.

The Kakao Metro app is the best one to use because it also has a timeline and lets you know what time the subways should arrive.

The Seoul Bus phone app will help you to get where you need to go, however, I believe it needs Wi-Fi or service to be used. So make sure you know your route beforehand or try to get to a coffee shop to use it. The buses can be definitely confusing, so sometimes a taxi will be a better option.

These are more for longer transportation, but cheaper than a plane. It will cost about $50USD/50,000 won each way or $100USD/100,000 won round trip from Busan to Seoul. This is actually a very relaxing and comfortable way to travel. There is Wi-Fi on the train so if you have work to do it would be very convenient, but you have to have a local internet/cell phone service in order to access it or pay for the use.

This is the best way to travel to Jeju Island (제주도). There are constant plane flights from Gimpo Airport to Jeju Island. It is a very popular tourist attraction.

Seoul Travel Tips – Must-have Apps

Honestly, these will be some of the best Seoul travel tips. You’ll need a lot of these apps to kind of navigate around town and if you plan to live in South Korea, they are an absolute must.

Great local messaging app in Korea. Perfect for talking to locals, but also family and friends at home. However, KIK messenger is still available in Korea.

Kakao taxi is a ride share service similar to Uber that is used in Korea. Uber is not accessible in Korea, so I suggest you download this app prior to coming to Korea. It only takes payments on the app with Korean banks, however, you can select to change the payment to pay in person on the app.

Kakao Maps is the best map service app to get around Seoul. You will quickly notice that google maps don’t always work so well in Korea. Many things will not be in the correct locations or be quite accurate. However, that is pretty much all of Korea.

The Kakao maps app does a pretty good job if telling you which bus or subway to take to get to each destination. However, if you want a more detailed bus map or want to know where each bus goes, you can download the Kakao Bus app. It will tell you all the local bus stops and where the buses go.

This is the Google of Korea. Unfortunately, Google is not popular and does not work very well in Korea. Naver is the better version and all Koreans use Naver for their maps and search engine.

Papago Translator

My Seoul travel tips if you do not speak Hangul or Korean, I highly suggest you download the Papago app. This app is a great app that can help translate from Korean to English or vice versa. Papago is more popular in Korea and works best since it is part of Korea’s Naver program. Unfortunately, Google Translate can be translated incorrectly and can cause communication issues. You may even offend someone if it is not translated correctly.

Additionally, let’s say you see a sign or a picture that you need to be translated, you can use this app to take a picture of what you want to be translated and it will do that for it. It’s seriously a lifesaver for those traveling in South Korea.

Seoul Travel Tips – Top Attractions

• Banpo Bridge
• Visit a Themed Cafe
• Coex Library
• Eat street food
• Shop for skincare
• Get a facial
• Visit Hanok Village
• Shop at Dongdaemun
• Namsan Tower
• Lotte World
• Gangnam Style
• Rent a Hanbok
• Gwangjang Market

Seoul’s Top Parks

• Seoul Grand Park
• Bukhansan National Park
• Hangang Park
• Seoul Forest
• Namsan Park
• Seoul Botanical Garden

Seoul’s Top Temples

• Jogyesa Temple
• Gagwonsa Temple
• Bongeunsa Temple
• Haedong Yonggung Temple
• Tapsa Temple
• Sudeoksa Temple

Seoul’s Palaces

• Changdeokgung Palace
• Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Changgyeonggung Palace
• Deoksugung Palace
• Gyeonghuigung Palace

Major Festivals in Seoul

• Yongdeungpo Yeouido Spring Flower Festival
• Lotus Lantern Festival
• Jungnang Rose Festival
• Sinchon Watergun Festival
• Go, Go Jongno Culture Festival
• Seoul International Fireworks Festival
• Seoul Kimchi Making & Sharing Festival

Travel Tips – What to eat in Seoul

• Jjajanmyeong
• Budae Jjigae
• Kimchi Jjigae
• Naengmyeong

Street Food to eat in Seoul

• Tornado Potato
• Gyeran-Bbang
• Kimchi Pancake
• Roasted Chestnuts
• Sweet Potatoes
• Bungeoppang
• Strawberries on a Stick
• Dragon’s Beard

Seoul Travel Tips – What to buy in South Korea

Skincare is a big deal in South Korea and they have so many products to show you why it matters. Koreans are innovators for natural skincare products, they care about makeup and natural-looking skin.

Phone Cases

I have never seen so many cute cell phone cases in my life. I know Amazon has a lot, however, many of these cases are super convenient as well. Many of the cell phone cases have card cases that are great for subway stations and very stylish.

Korea is the fashion mecca for many Asian countries. In Korea, you will find some of the best knock-off products that are very high quality. If you are plus size and like Korean fashion, it is a bit harder to find clothing, However, I do suggest shopping at Romi Story.

What are some of your Seoul travel tips? List them below in the comments.

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• Why you should visit South Korea!
• Busan, South Korea
• Top 10 Korean Drugstore Skin Products
• 10 Things to Eat in Korea
• Seoul Travel Tips
• Myeongdong Street Food
• One day in Seoul
• Jeju Itinerary
• How to go to Bukchon Hanok Village
• Gamcheon Culture Village
• Things to do in Songwol Dong Fairy Tale Village
• Things to do in Paju
• Autumn in Korea
• Korean Street Food
• Where to stay in Busan
• Korean Instant Noodles
• Winter in Korea
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• Things to do in Gangneung
• Cimer Spa at Paradise City
• Teach English in South Korea
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• Seoul Gardens & Parks
• Myeongdong Shopping Street
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• Things to do in Itaewon
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• Things to do in Gyeongju
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• Visit Youngwol Y Park
• Where to stay in Seoul
• Things to do in Jeju Island
• How to get a Korean Driver’s License
• Spring in Korea

Hey, I'm NieNie, also known as Stephanie – a California native of hapa heritage (an American with a mix of Korean and German) with an enduring love for travel. Transitioning from my expat life in South Korea to embracing the experience of living in Germany, while also frequenting visits to my family in the Philippines, I'm documenting my adventure as a plus-size woman immersing herself in diverse cultures. Join me on Adventures with NieNie for travel tips, cultural insights, and inspiring stories from South Korea, the Philippines, and Germany. Let's embark on this adventure together!

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Top 5 Map and Navigation Apps in Korea

Seoul is the fifth-largest city in the world so, for first-time visitors, it may seem a bit daunting. However, don’t be intimidated by the city’s vast urban area. Navigation apps in Korea make life very simple. 

Whether you’re moving to Korea or simply visiting, it’s smart to look at navigation apps. In theory, Seoul is pretty well-organized. Resources like the Seoul City bus tour help familiarize you with the locality. 

However, if you get lost, it’s difficult to navigate your way out. Most people don’t speak English, so you have to rely on navigation apps in Korea. 

These apps will help you organize your routes and reach your destination without getting lost. In this way, you can easily explore the city.  

What are the five best map and navigation apps in Korea? Let’s take a look. 

Google Maps

Google Maps is pretty much universal. It’s the most widely used navigation app in the world. So, of course, it’s also available in South Korea.

There are a few pros to using Google Maps. 

Firstly, it’s familiar. You probably use Google Maps in your home country. Therefore, you know how it works and what to do. 

If you’ve used it before, you don’t even need to create an account or change the language settings.

Secondly, Google Maps offers many convenient features. For instance, there’s the offline map option. 

When you’re traveling, WiFi or mobile data is not always available. The offline feature solves this issue.

In this way, you don’t need to sacrifice expensive mobile minutes just to find a location.  

Here are the iOS and Android links to download the Google Maps app. 

Out of all the navigation apps in Korea, Naver Map is ranked next to Google. 

Like Google Maps, it has the most detailed maps and navigation information. The app records real-time information from users to optimize its navigation system. 

Moreover, it has several user-friendly features, some especially catering to tourists.   

As you can see below, you can get a preview of the street you’ll be visiting. If you haven’t been to your destination before, you’ll know what to look for. 

You can even rotate the street view 360 degrees. This feature allows you to find landmarks and other prominent places next to the location. 

Therefore, finding places becomes easier. Check out the app on both iOS and Android . 

Thirdly, there’s the T Map application. This app belongs to SK Telecom, a wireless telecommunications operator. 

The best part about the app is its safety features. It has a ‘children protection path’, which warns you about school zones. 

Moreover, you can ask the app for voice reports on traffic, quickest routes, and speed cameras. 

Overall, the app has excellent AI features. Once you’ve installed it on your phone, it responds to voice commands.

If you’re driving, it can even call or send text messages for you, adding to the safety features.

The app is available for both iOS and Android devices. 

Navigation maps in Korea usually have high accuracy. However, Kakao Map surpasses all accuracy expectations with its high-end navigation software.

You can use the app for detailed directions and travel time. The app has options for types of transports: walking, cycling, driving, or using public transport. 

If you’re on foot, it’ll keep you safe on pedestrian-friendly routes. Moreover, if you want to use public transport like the subway, it’ll help you track your stops. 

You can download the Kakao Map app for iOS and Android with these links. 

Lastly, One Navi is also one of the best navigation apps in Korea. It’s the best app for drivers. If you’re on a road trip, you should use One Navi. 

Not only does it give traffic reports, but it also helps minimize fuel costs. How? 

Well, it’ll give you the shortest route possible and guide you to cheaper gas stations. Therefore, you won’t have to spend too much gas money. 

If you’re traveling with friends, you can customize characters for everyone. So, when one person drives, their name and character will appear on the screen. 

It’s a cute and fun thing to do with loved ones. 

Like all the apps on this list, One Navi is also accessible on both iOS and Android . 

To sum it up, navigating Korea is much simpler with these five apps. All of them have translation options, so language isn’t a problem. 

So, whether you’re going to work or simply exploring tourist spots, use these navigation apps in Korea. 

Moreover, if you’re looking for recommendations on where to go, check out Seoul’s infamous Harry Potter Themed Cafe. Read all about the cafe and its attractions here .

Also, you can’t visit Korea without learning your Korean name. Don’t know what that is? Here’s a complete guide on finding your Korean name.

Majid Mushtaq is a passionate content creation wizard, Youtuber, traveler, and selfie-fanatic. He is currently living in Seoul and after being bitten by the travel bug, he has been to 25 countries. He loves writing about cultures, technology, food and more food. Gracias :)

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7 Best Underground Shopping in Seoul! Easy Access and Worth Every Penny

Travelling and shopping in Seoul is not always that pricey. If you're visiting the capital of South Korea, act like locals and explore the best underground shopping Seoul. It’s no secret that Seoul is a shopping-oriented metropolis. There are places where locals and visitors alike congregate to look for deals and the newest fashion items. There are a lot of various malls to choose from, including underground shopping.

Underground shopping areas have become popular choices for several reasons, and it's not just about escaping the weather. Sure, avoiding the rain or scorching sun is a major perk, but there's more to it than that. Underground shopping spots are often in prime spots like subway stations or tunnels connecting malls and hotels . That means they're super convenient for commuters and travellers passing through these areas. You don't have to go out of your way to find them – they're right where you need them.

Even better, many underground shopping centres stay open late into the night, making them perfect for those who work late or prefer to shop when the crowds thin out. This shopping adventure is the ideal choice if you're looking for convenience. Check out these seven best underground shopping Seoul you can drop in!

1. Hoehyeon Underground Shopping Center

Shutterstock.com

First up on an underground shopping adventure is the Hoehyeon Underground Shopping Center, located near Seoul's bustling Namdaemun Market and Myeongdong. This underground labyrinth is a treasure trove of long-playing records. If you are head over heels for a vintage collection, you may hit this perfect spot. You can find stamps, antiques, artworks, currency, and other collectible items. Plus, with its convenient location near Namdaemun Market and Seoul Station, it's a great place to shop 'til you drop off before catching your train or exploring the nearby attractions.

Take Subway Line 4, Myeongdong Station and choose Exits 4 & 5

Take Subway Line 4, Hoehyeon Station, Exits 1 & 7

2. Myeong-dong Underground Shopping Center

501room / Shutterstock.com

Next on the list is the Myeong-dong Underground Shopping Center, an underground haven for anyone. Located beneath one of Seoul's most popular shopping districts, this sprawling network of tunnels is packed with stalls selling everything from clothing, interior items, and accessories to cosmetics and skincare products. Whether searching for the latest K-beauty must-haves or hunting for stylish streetwear, you'll find it all and more at Myeong-dong Underground Shopping Center.

Worry not, all the items sold at this shopping centre are also cheap, you can even bargain but stay polite. Most stalls also offer two payment options: cash and credit card. Even better, with its convenient location near Myeong-dong's iconic landmarks and attractions , it's a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the streets above and indulge in some retail therapy.

3. Sogong Underground Shopping

Venture beneath the streets of downtown Seoul and discover the hidden gem of Sogong Underground Shopping. Located beneath the Myeongdong Shopping District and the Westin Chosun Hotel , this underground shopping arcade is a hidden oasis for shoppers seeking unique finds and unbeatable bargains. From clothing, accessories, Korean vintage items, and traditional handicrafts to electronics and home goods, you'll find various products to peruse at Sogong Underground Shopping.

The Westin Josun Seoul

106, Sogong-ro, Jung-gu

4. Dongdaemun Underground Shopping Center

An underground shopping adventure in Seoul would only be complete with a visit to the Dongdaemun Underground Shopping Center. Established in 1970, the mall is located under the iconic Dongdaemun Design Plaza . It has become a sprawling complex serving as a mecca for fashion lovers looking to get their hands on the latest styles at unbeatable prices. From clothing and accessories to cosmetics and home goods, you'll find it all and more at Dongdaemun Underground Shopping Center. What makes it unique is that you can bulk-buy luxury items for a very affordable price. You can also enjoy night cuisine at this shopping centre.

5. Gotomall Underground Shopping Mall

The Gotomall Underground Shopping Mall, nestled in Express Bus Terminal Station , is a haven for those looking for the latest fashion trends. This biggest shopping centre features more than 600 shops that sell high-end clothing to Y2K styles and accessories. Moreover, the mall has several cafes and restaurants. So, after your shopping spree, try the various food stalls or watch a movie at the cinema.

6. Starfield Coex Mall

As one of Asia's largest underground shopping malls, Starfield COEX Mall offers an unparalleled retail experience that combines more than 300 luxury boutiques, trendy shops, world-class dining, and exciting entertainment options under one roof. Spread across multiple levels, Starfield COEX Mall boasts an impressive array of stores catering to every taste and budget.

The mall features a state-of-the-art cinema complex where movie buffs can catch the latest blockbuster releases and a wide choice of fine dining options. Additionally, the COEX Aquarium offers visitors the chance to marvel at diverse marine life, including colourful tropical fish, majestic sharks, and playful otters.

7. Yeongdeungpo New Town Underground Shopping Mall

Last, we have the Yeongdeungpo New Town Underground Shopping Mall, a hidden gem beneath the bustling streets of Yeongdeungpo in southwestern Seoul. This underground arcade is a favourite among locals and tourists alike, featuring a wide selection of 130 shops and boutiques selling everything from clothing and accessories to home goods and electronics. Whether you're searching for trendy streetwear, stylish accessories, or unique gifts to take home, you'll find it all and more at Yeongdeungpo New Town Underground Shopping Mall.

Plus, with its convenient location near major transportation hubs like Yeongdeungpo Station and popular attractions like Times Square Mall and Yeouido Park , it's the perfect place to shop 'til you drop while exploring the vibrant streets of Seoul's Yeongdeungpo district.

Those are the 7 best underground shopping Seoul that you can visit! Ready to add them to your itinerary? Make it perfect with Traveloka ! Booking flight tickets and accommodation is now at your fingertips. Download the app and have a joy shopping haul in Seoul!

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Seoul seeks high-level talks with Beijing before trilateral summit involving Tokyo

F oreign Minister Cho Tae-yul is considering visiting China in May ahead of a trilateral summit between South Korea, China and Japan in what appears to be a sign of warming ties after a frosty period of tension between the two countries.

If realized, it would be Cho’s first visit to Beijing since taking office in January.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that it is currently discussing the date for Cho’s visit.

“The two countries have been communicating closely based on a common interest. We agreed on the importance of high-level exchanges. We are discussing possible dates for Cho’s visit,” a ministry official said in a statement, Sunday.

This follows Cho’s phone conversation with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, who invited him to Beijing. Cho agreed to discuss the matter through diplomatic channels.

Cho has been expressing his wish to meet with Wang.

“I look forward to meeting my Chinese counterpart sooner rather than later,” he said during the 2024 Korea National Diplomatic Academy Meets Ambassadors event held in Seoul, April 12.

The last meeting of the two countries' top diplomats took place in Busan last November as part of trilateral talks that included Japan.

The move comes as both sides try to improve bilateral relations following tensions over Taiwan and North Korea. The relationship has been stalled since President Yoon Suk Yeol expressed opposition to “any attempts to alter the status quo of the Taiwan Strait by force” in an interview with foreign media in April last year.

In June last year, Chinese Ambassador to South Korea Xing Haiming warned Seoul against aligning with Washington, saying “those who bet on China’s loss in its rivalry with the United States will definitely regret it.” China has been deepening its ties with North Korea with its No. 3 official Zhao Leji meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in Pyongyang earlier this month.

In a sign of easing tensions between South Korea and China, Cho held talks with Hao Peng, Chinese communist party secretary of the province of Liaoning, in Seoul last week. The trilateral foreign ministers’ summit is expected to take place in late May.

Delta recovers emergency slide that separated from Boeing plane

An emergency slide that fell from a Delta flight just a few minutes after takeoff has been recovered from the Atlantic Ocean in New York City.

The New York City Department of Parks and Recreation said that the airline recovered the slide on Sunday in a jetty near Beach 131st Street in Queens, about 10 miles from where the flight took off Friday at John F. Kennedy International Airport.

"As nothing is more important than the safety of our customers and people, Delta flight crews enacted their extensive training and followed procedures to return to JFK," Delta said in a statement about the diverted plane issued Friday.

The company said that the plane landed safely and "it was observed that the emergency slide had separated from the aircraft," after returning to a gate.

The company confirmed the recovery of the slide Monday and referred to its earlier statement.

Flight returned due to alert crew

Flight 520 to Los Angeles returned to JFK after the flight crew saw an indicator light related to the right overwing exit and heard a "non-routine" sound near the right wing.

The crew also reported a vibration , according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

The flight was operated by a 33-year-old Boeing 767 , according to data from  Airfleets.net , and passengers were accommodated on a different flight later in the morning. There were 183 people aboard the flight.

The FAA said it is investigating the incident and Delta said it would cooperate with that investigation.

Separated slide latest in Boeing parts problems

The separated slide is the latest in a series of parts failures that led to increased regulatory scrutiny and seeing company culture excoriated by a whistleblower in Senate hearings.

Earlier this month, an engine cowling fell off a Southwest Airlines Boeing 737-800 during takeoff, causing the flight headed for Houston to turn back, according to the FAA in Denver.

In March, an FAA audit  of Boeing and subcontractor Spirit AeroSystems “found multiple instances where the companies allegedly failed to comply with manufacturing quality control requirements.”

In February, the National Transit Safety Board reported that an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 aircraft was missing four bolts in a mid-cabin door plug that led to an explosive decompression that sparked the audit.

The same month, a 737-800 flown by United Airlines was diverted from Houston to Atlanta after the crew reported a potential engine issue. The incident occurred days after a different 737-800 was forced to land in Denver due to a cracked windshield.

Contributing: Sara Al-Arshani, Eve Chen, Kathleen Wong

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Create and add an email signature in Outlook

In Outlook, you can create one or more personalized signatures for your email messages. Your signature can include text, links, pictures, and images (such as your handwritten signature or a logo).

Note:  If the steps under this New Outlook tab don't work, you may not be using new Outlook for Windows yet. Select Classic Outlook  and follow those steps instead.

Create and add an email signature

On the View tab, select   View Settings . 

Select Accounts > Signatures .

Select    New signature , then give it a distinct name.

In the editing box below the new name, type your signature, then format it with the font, color, and styles to get the appearance you want.

Select Save when you're done.

With your new signature selected from the list above the editing box, go to  Select default signatures and choose whether to apply the signature to new messages and to replies and forwards.

Select Save again.

Note:  If you have a Microsoft account, and you use Outlook and Outlook on the web or Outlook on the web for business, you need to create a signature in both products.

Create your signature and choose when Outlook adds a signature to your messages

If you want to watch how it's done, you can go directly to  the video below .

Open a new email message.

Under Select signature to edit , choose New , and in the New Signature dialog box, type a name for the signature.

Under Edit signature , compose your signature. You can change fonts, font colors, and sizes, as well as text alignment. If you want to create a more robust signature with bullets, tables, or borders, use Word to create and format your signature text, then copy and paste it into the Edit signature box. You can also use a pre-designed template  to create your signature. Download the templates in Word, customize with your personal information, and then copy and paste into the Edit signature box. 

You can add links and images to your email signature, change fonts and colors, and justify the text using the mini formatting bar under Edit signature .

You can also add social media icons and links in your signature or customize one of our pre-designed temlates. For more information, see Create a signature from a template .

To add images to your signature, see Add a logo or image to your signature .

Under Choose default signature , set the following options. 

In the E-mail account drop-down box, choose an email account to associate with the signature. You can have different signatures for each email account.

You can have a signature automatically added to all new messages. Go to in the New messages drop-down box and select one of your signatures. If you don't want to automatically add a signature to new messages, choose (none). This option does not add a signature to any messages you reply to or forward. 

You can select to have your signature automatically appear in reply and forward messages. In the  Replies/forwards drop-down, select one of your signatures. Otherwise, accept the default option of (none). 

Choose OK to save your new signature and return to your message. Outlook doesn't add your new signature to the message you opened in Step 1, even if you chose to apply the signature to all new messages. You'll have to add the signature manually to this one message. All future messages will have the signature added automatically. To add the signature manually, select Signature from the Message menu and then pick the signature you just created.

Add a logo or image to your signature

If you have a company logo or an image to add to your signature, use the following steps.

Open a new message and then select Signature > Signatures .

In the Select signature to edit box, choose the signature you want to add a logo or image to.

To resize your image, right-click the image, then choose Picture . Select the Size tab and use the options to resize your image. To keep the image proportions, make sure to keep the Lock aspect ratio checkbox checked.

When you're done, select OK , then select OK again to save the changes to your signature.

Insert a signature manually

If you don't choose to insert a signature for all new messages or replies and forwards, you can still insert a signature manually.

In your email message, on the Message tab, select Signature .

Choose your signature from the fly-out menu that appears. If you have more than one signature, you can select any of the signatures you've created.

See how it's done

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Note:  Outlook on the web is the web version of Outlook for business users with a work or school account.

Automatically add a signature to a message

You can create an email signature that you can add automatically to all outgoing messages or add manually to specific ones.

Select Settings   at the top of the page.

Select Mail >  Compose and reply .

Under Email signature , type your signature and use the available formatting options to change its appearance.

Select the default signature for new messages and replies.

Manually add your signature to a new message

If you've created a signature but didn't choose to automatically add it to all outgoing messages, you can add it later when you write an email message.

In a new message or reply, type your message.

If you created multiple signatures, choose the signature you want to use for your new message or reply.

When your email message is ready, choose Send .

Note:  Outlook.com is the web version of Outlook for users signing in with a personal Microsoft account such as an Outlook.com or Hotmail.com account.

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