Travel to South Korea –
Things to Know
10 Top Things to Know Before Travelling to South Korea in 2025
South Korea is the perfect mix of old traditions and modern living, because of this, seeing this country will show you a whole new and exciting world! This travel guide is designed to give you all the tips and tricks to travel South Korea with ease. Whether you’re gearing up for a Seoul adventure or exploring the coastal quiet in Busan, here are the vacation tips you’ll need for an easy journey.
From visa information to local customs, these essential travel tips for South Korea will prepare you for an unforgettable experience in a country where cutting-edge technology meets ancient palaces. So let’s pack our bags and get ready for our Korean adventure!
My name is Shannon 🙂
I have been travelling full time for the last decade. I have seen and experienced the most wonderful and mysterious things and incredibly excited to share these adventures with you. I thank my lucky stars that i have found myself in a position that I can give you all the tips and tricks needed for a seamless trip. So pack your bags and lets go!
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In a Hurry? Here's our Key Info for This Article
- Visa-free travel for many, but dont forget to secure your K-ETA.
- T-money transit card simplifies public transportation across the country.
- Sprint and Autumn seasons are ideal for exploring South Koreas natural beauty.
- Understanding Korean cultural etiquette will enhance social interactions.
- Plan around major holidays for smoother travel itineraries.
- Equip yourself with emergency contact numbers for safety.
- Embrace the technological conveniences that make travel in South Korea so accessible.
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Understanding Korea’s Rise
Korea has really sky rocketed to the global stage over the last couple of decades as a top place to be explored. Known for its mix of historic charm and modern innovation, South Korea draws travellers who are looking for convenience and ancient history. Below are essential South Korea travel tips and things to know before travelling to South Korea to help you navigate this destination with ease.
- Smart Tourism: Utilise the city pass to explore over 30 attractions in Seoul, making sightseeing both cost-effective and convenient.
- K-Culture: Dive into the world of K-pop, movies, and dramas that have taken the world by storm, showing South Korea’s identity as an entertainment hub.
- Historical Harmony: Take a wander through palaces, fortresses, and villages where traditional Korea is preserved against the backdrop of its modern advancements.
- Great scenery: Embrace the natural landscapes that range from the urban escapes of Namsan Park to the quiet rural areas.
- South Korea travel safety: Always remain aware of local laws and customs to ensure a safe and respectful experience.
As you prepare for your journey, consider the following attractions and safety tips compiled in the table below to maximize your cultural experience while also following the nation’s travel safety guidelines.
| Attraction | Highlights | Safety Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Gyeongbokgung Palace | Witness the grandeur of Joseon Dynasty architecture and the changing of the Royal Guard ceremony. | Be respectful of the cultural sites, refrain from touching or climbing on ancient structures. |
| Bukchon Hanok Village | Explore traditional Korean houses (hanoks) and experience cultural workshops. | Respect the privacy of residence, some hanoks are still homes to locals. |
| Myeongdong Shopping Street | Enjoy bustling streets with endless shopping options and street food delicacies. | Keep personal belongings secure in crowded areas to prevent pickpocketing. |
| N Seoul Tower | Take in panoramic views of the city and lock in your memories on the “Locks of Love” terrace. | Watch your step and belongings when viewing the cityscape or engaging in interactive experiences. |
| Jeju Island | Experience unique volcanic landscapes, beaches, and local culture. | Heed local advisories, especially when exploring natural sights like volcanic craters or hiking trails. |
Things to know before travelling to South Korea
Before you head on your journey to South Korea, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with a handful of travel tips for South Korea to ensure an easy and exciting trip. Keeping our travel tips in mind while on your trip will really help, especially for those first time travellers, as we all know how scary a first trip can be.
Visa-Free Entry and K-ETA Requirements
If you’re a traveller from countries like the US, Australia, or the UK, you’re in luck as South Korea offers visa-free entry to citizens of these nations, with Canada enjoying up to six months of stay without a visa. However, one thing to know before visiting South Korea is, irrespective of visa-free status, you must apply for a Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA). This simple online application should be sorted at least 72 hours before your departure and remains valid for two years, allowing for multiple entries.
Best Times for Weather
South Korea vacation tips must include the best times to visit, as weather changes in the country can change the experience altogether. Spring and autumn are particularly magical with its orange and red leaves. From March to May, the cherry blossoms provide that perfect Instagram photo, while late October to early November is when the golden ginkgo leaves come out to play. This period not only gives you the best of South Korea to travel visually, but will also be a really lovely temperature to travel. Unlike the winter months over December and January when the temperatures plummet.
Your South Korea travel checklist should consider the timing of your visit. Considering major holidays like the Lunar New Year and Chuseok is important. This can immensely impact travel arrangements due to local travel prices getting higher and higher with an influx of tourists. For a smoother experience, checking these dates and planning to stay in larger cities such as Seoul or Busan can give you a festive yet calmer setting during these peak times.
Here is an overview of our travel tips for visa’s and holidays:
- Always check your eligibility for visa-free entry and apply for your K-ETA well in advance.
- Aim for the spring or autumn months.
- When planning your trip, accommodate for national holidays that may affect travel and prices.
- Maintain flexibility in your travel plans to enjoy South Korea to its fullest.
Korean Cultural Etiquette
When you set foot in South Korea, you’ll find that there’s a unique rhythm to social interactions, heavily influenced by traditions and modern culture. Understanding and respecting this cultural dance is really important for your travel safety. Below we outline key etiquette that will help you navigate friendships and build rapport with the locals:
- Nod or bow slightly as a sign of respect when greeting, it’s appreciated and is a common practice in South Korea.
- Age matters here. If someone asks your age, don’t be taken aback. It’s their way of establishing rapport and figuring out the level of language formality to use.
- Don’t shy away from personal questions which might seem intrusive at first. It is a part of relationship-building.
- Lean towards modest clothing, especially at temples and public beaches. Traditional spots hold cultural significance and it shows a sign of respect.
- Try to get acquainted with Hangul, the Korean alphabet. Simple phrases and an understanding of the basics can greatly help your travel experience.
Knowledge about cultural expectations is just as crucial as remembering to pack your travel adaptor. Before visiting South Korea, learn the social norms, basic phrases and what clothing to pack for an easier and more fun experience.
General Safety in South Korea
While planning your journey to the cities and countryside of South Korea, make sure your safety is the priority. Luckily, in general South Korea has a great track record for safety. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to abide by the motto ‘better safe than sorry.’ This motto includes the basics, such as making sure you have purchased some travel insurance and using common sense, even in a country noted for its low crime rates. Having an awareness of your surroundings, especially during night-time and in busy streets is of the utmost importance. Sticking to this basic approach of your South Korea travel checklist ensures peace of mind and a really fun trip!
Crime Rates
South Korea’s high standard of travel safety allows you to have an easy and exciting journey that’s generally worry free. However, it is essential to stay conscious of the local laws, which include very strict drug prohibitions and respectful nightlife etiquette. Being informed about these laws is a valuable tip included in any South Korea travel guide. Our guide to safety in South Korea is a more detailed resource on what to expect. Lastly, understanding your alcohol tolerance is not only respectful but will also keep you out of any unwanted situations.
Important Emergency Contact Numbers
In the rare case that you encounter an emergency situation, it is wise to keep a list of critical contact numbers at hand. Quick access to these can offer immediate assistance and keep a small mishap from turning into a serious predicament. For immediate response, dial 112 to reach police services or 119 to connect with emergency medical services. For less urgent travel questions or if you find yourself needing language support, the Korea Travel Hotline is accessible at 1330. The Korea Tourist Police also extend their expertise to travellers, ensuring that South Korea travel advice is always available to those in need. Keeping these numbers handy should be an essential part of your South Korea travel checklist.
Final thoughts
South Korea is the ultimate destination for a unique mix of tradition and modernity. Knowing a few tips and tricks, such as learning basic Korean and using public transport, will only improve your experience. So, enjoy the delicious food scene and exciting nightlife while being safe and get ready for a fast-paced, tech-driven environment that’s exciting and steeped in history!
So let’s pack our bags and get ready to see this incredible country. With these useful travel tips, you are now ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
Travelling to South Korea FAQ
If you’re travelling from the US, Australia, or the UK, you do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days, and Canadians enjoy up to six months visa-free. However, all travellers must obtain a K-ETA before their trip.
South Korea shines during spring (March to May) and autumn (late October to early November), offering mild weather and stunning natural beauty, from cherry blossoms to vibrant trees and flowers. During this time, bring a high quality camera, such as the Insta 360, with you to take pics of the cherry blossoms for your Instagram feed.
During the Lunar New Year and Chuseok, transportation can be crowded and more expensive. Plan to stay in larger cities, where the impact is less pronounced and services remain more consistent.
Bow when greeting, understand the importance of age in social interactions, which could influence formality levels and dress modestly when visiting temples or public beaches.
South Korea is very safe with low crime rates. However, be mindful of strict drug laws and personal safety during nightlife. Also, familiarize yourself with the local drinking culture to avoid overindulgence. Travelling as a solo female traveller in South Korea also changes how to engage and also should be noted.
