Travel Tips
South Korea
High-tech Seoul, palaces, temples and Jeju island make South Korea exciting and easy to navigate.
- Capital
- Seoul
- Currency
- South Korean won (KRW)
- Language
- Korean
- Best overall
- April to June and September to November
- Emergency
- Police 112, fire and ambulance 119
- Electricity
- 220V, plug types C and F
Top Destinations
Many nationalities can visit visa-free for a short stay, and some need a K-ETA or arrival card. Check the current rule for your passport. Passport validity rules vary, so check the requirements before you book.
Read about visa on arrival, e-visas and online registration →
Still have specific visa questions?
Spring and autumn are clear and comfortable. Summer is hot and rainy, and winter is cold, with skiing.
Not sure which month suits your trip?
Seoul
Palaces, markets and futuristic districts.
Busan
Beaches, seafood markets and hillside villages.
Jeju Island
Volcanic landscapes, waterfalls and coastal walks.
Gyeongju
Silla dynasty tombs and temples.
DMZ
Tours to the border with North Korea from Seoul.
Need help choosing where to go?
- Days 1 to 4 Seoul
- Day 5 DMZ tour
- Days 6 to 7 Gyeongju
- Days 8 to 9 Busan
- Days 10 to 12 Jeju Island, by air
Want a route planned around your dates?
- KTX fast trains link the main cities. Get a T-money card for local transit.
- Download Naver Map or KakaoMap, because Google Maps directions are limited.
Not sure how to get between places?
- Cards are widely accepted, even for small purchases. Tipping is not expected.
- Buy an eSIM before you fly or a local SIM on arrival, so maps work from day one.
Questions about costs, cash or SIM cards?
- Korean barbecue.
- Bibimbap: rice with vegetables and egg.
- Tteokbokki: spicy rice cakes.
Want tips on what and where to eat?
- South Korea is generally very safe.
- DMZ tours can change or cancel at short notice, so check before you book.
Planning a trip to South Korea?
Book a one-on-one call and bring your questions about your route, costs and visa.
Information on this page may change, so please confirm the latest visa and entry requirements and your government travel advice on official websites before you travel.