South Korea Complete Travel Guide: South Korea, a vibrant country known for its rich history, bustling cities, and scenic landscapes, offers an unforgettable travel experience. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the tranquil temples of Busan, this dynamic nation seamlessly blends the ancient with the modern.
Whether you’re a food enthusiast eager to sample spicy kimchi and sizzling barbeque, a history buff fascinated by centuries-old palaces, or a nature lover seeking serene hiking trails, South Korea has something to captivate every traveler.
This comprehensive travel guide will walk you through the essential steps to plan your journey, covering everything from visa requirements and budgeting to top attractions and cultural tips. Get ready to embark on an adventure filled with unique experiences and lasting memories in the Land of the Morning Calm.
South Korea Complete Travel Guide
Best Seasons to Travel | South Korea Complete Travel Guide
There are two best seasons to travel to South Korea: September to November and March to May. If you plan after mid-October, you can witness the beautiful autumn season. From March to May, you can experience cherry blossoms. Both these times offer moderate weather—neither too hot and humid nor too cold. Winters in Korea are quite extreme, and from June to August, it’s hot, humid, and rainy. We visited in October and enjoyed pleasant weather and colorful autumn scenery.
Budget Travel Tips | South Korea Complete Travel Guide
To travel on a budget, consider planning your trip in early March or late August. These months are cheaper compared to the peak autumn and cherry blossom seasons.
Trip Duration | South Korea Complete Travel Guide
If you want to cover Seoul, Busan, Gyeongju, and Jeju Island, plan for at least 12 to 14 days. For just Seoul, five to six days are enough, and for Seoul and Busan, at least one week is recommended.
Racism in South Korea | South Korea Complete Travel Guide
Recently, a few videos went viral about signs saying Indians are not allowed in certain clubs. Many people asked us if we faced any racism, and honestly, we did not. Everyone we met was nice, patient, and helpful.
Visa Process | South Korea Complete Travel Guide
An eVisa is compulsory for Indian passport holders. It takes approximately 20 working days, but we recommend applying at least 45 days before your travel date. Depending on your city in India, you can apply through VFS Global or authorized visa agents. Follow the specifications exactly to avoid rejection.
Currency Exchange
The currency of South Korea is the Won. It’s best to carry some cash and some on a card. You can exchange USD to Won in Korea for a good rate. We used the Niyo Global Debit Card without any issues.
SIM Card | South Korea Complete Travel Guide
The major networks are KT and LG. You can buy a SIM card at the airport or book online. We used an LG SIM card with 10 days of unlimited data for Rs 2400.
Travel Insurance | South Korea Complete Travel Guide
Travel insurance is not mandatory but highly recommended as medical costs in South Korea are expensive. We paid around Rs 3000 for travel insurance.
Accommodation
Accommodation in South Korea is one of the biggest expenses. For budget travelers, hostels are recommended. In Seoul, we stayed in the Myeong-dong area, which is vibrant and close to major attractions. In Busan, accommodation is cheaper compared to Seoul.
Important Apps
Download Headout for booking experiences, KakaoMap for navigation, and Rome2Rio for transport options. Use Kakao T for taxis and Papago for translation.
Transportation
From Incheon Airport to Seoul City Center, the airport shuttle bus is the most convenient and budget-friendly option. For travel between Seoul and Busan, the KTX train is the fastest but more expensive option compared to the intercity bus.
Food
Korean cuisine is mostly non-vegetarian, with seafood and fried chicken being popular. Vegetarians can find pizza, salads, and Indian restaurants. Carry some ready-to-eat packets if you are a strict vegetarian or Jain.
What to Pack
South Korea is modern, so there are no restrictions on clothing. Pack according to the season, and always carry a good jacket and comfortable shoes.
local transportation, subway passes, bus fares, and taxi rides.
Total Budget Summary:
- Flight Tickets: ₹90,000 (for two people)
- eVisa Fees: ₹9,000 (for two people, including agent fees)
- Travel Insurance: ₹3,000 (for two people, covering 5 lakh USD for 20 days)
- Accommodation: ₹99,000 (for 9 days in both Seoul and Busan)
- Food and Beverages: ₹40,000
- Local and Intercity Travel: ₹32,000 (including subway, bus, and taxi fares)
Grand Total: ₹2,73,000 for two people for 11 days.
Packing Tips:
- Clothing: South Korea has a mix of modern and traditional fashion. You can wear anything you feel comfortable in. If you visit between March and May, pack light jackets and sweaters, as temperatures range between 5-15 degrees Celsius. During June to August, carry an umbrella and lightweight, breathable clothing. From November to February, pack warm clothing like parkas, gloves, and thermal wear due to cold and snowy weather.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you will do a lot of walking while exploring the cities and attractions.
- Essentials: Bring a power bank, travel adapter, sunscreen, and any personal medications you might need. Don’t forget your passport, travel insurance documents, and printed copies of important bookings and itineraries.
Safety and Etiquette:
- South Korea is very safe, even for solo travelers. However, always stay alert and be aware of your surroundings.
- Be punctual and respect local customs and traditions. Avoid loud behavior and always dispose of trash properly.
- While using public transport, remember to give up your seat for the elderly or disabled.
- Tipping is not customary in South Korea, and sometimes it might even be considered rude. Instead, a polite thank you will be appreciated.
Language Tips:
- Although many South Koreans speak some English, especially in tourist areas, learning a few basic Korean phrases can be very helpful and appreciated. Here are a few to get you started:
- Hello: Annyeonghaseyo (안녕하세요)
- Thank you: Kamsahamnida (감사합니다)
- Yes: Ne (네)
- No: Aniyo (아니요)
- Excuse me: Sillyehamnida (실례합니다)
Conclusion Of South Korea Complete Travel Guide
South Korea is a blend of traditional culture and modernity, offering everything from bustling city life to serene countryside views. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, South Korea has something for everyone. We hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip. Enjoy your journey and make the most of your time in this incredible country!
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