This Ultimate South Korea Travel Guide Will Change Your Vacation Plans Posted on June 15, 2024September 14, 2024 Getting your Trinity Audio player ready... Important Information About South Korea No matter how long you live there, writing a comprehensive South Korean travel guide is impossible. I lived in South Korea three times. As a teenager, I lived in Seoul with my parents. As an adult, I lived with my husband in Daegu twice. Each stay offered new insights and experiences, revealing the country’s rich tapestry of culture, history, and modernity. Although I lived in Seoul and Daegu, this guide doesn’t focus on either city. Instead, it serves as an introduction—a love letter to the entire country. South Korea’s charm is boundless, from the bustling streets of vibrant cities to the serene landscapes of rural areas. The country’s culinary delights, warm hospitality, and breathtaking natural beauty are unparalleled. Whether savoring the spicy kick of kimchi, feeling the tranquility of ancient temples, or marveling at the changing seasons in its lush countryside, there’s always something new to discover. This guide is a celebration of South Korea’s diversity, capturing the essence of what makes this country so unique and captivating. Join me as we explore the heart and soul of South Korea, a place where tradition meets innovation, and every corner has a story to tell. Table of Contents Important Information About South Korea Table of Contents Transportation Around South Korea Best Time to Visit South Korea Times to Avoid Traveling in South Korea Top Cities to Visit in South Korea Major Festivals in South Korea Top Things to Do in South Korea Tipping in South Korea Best Food to Eat in South Korea Currency Matters Military Installations Typical Budget for South Korea Responsible Travel Tips in South Korea Cafe Culture in South Korea K-Beauty What to Pack for South Korea Like it! Pin it! Friendly People and Diverse Landscapes South Koreans are some of the friendliest people on Earth. Yet, the people can be complicated. South Korea is a homogeneous society with less than 3% foreigners. Seoul, South Korea’s capital, is home to colorful hanboks and historical sites. However, many temples, fortresses, and palaces are also throughout the country. Although the country is 70% mountainous, it has dense forests, hot springs, sandy beaches, tea plantations, rivers, floral displays, and national parks. Language The language spoken in South Korea is called Hangul. Developed in the 15th century by King Sejong the Great and his scholars, Hangul is known for its scientific design and simplicity. It consists of 14 consonants and 10 vowels, making learning relatively easier than other writing systems. Although reading is easier than speaking, the locals appreciate your efforts. Helpful Phrases Hello: an-nyeong-ha-se-yo Thank you: gam-sa-ham-ni-da Beer: maeg-ju Delicious: mas-issneun Where’s the bathroom: hwa-jang-siri eodiyeyo How much?: ige eolmayeyo? Too expensive: neomu bissan Don’t want: wonhaji anh-a Like most other countries, the dialects change according to region in South Korea. The Korean language features distinct formal and informal speech levels, reflecting the culture’s deep respect for hierarchy and social status. Tourists will encounter both forms during their visits. While formal Korean is used in professional settings or when addressing someone older or of higher status, casual Korean is common among friends or those of similar age. Travelers are often warmly received regardless of their grasp of formal or informal speech, as locals typically appreciate any efforts to communicate in Korean. This flexibility allows tourists to engage more comfortably with residents and explore the rich cultural tapestry of South Korea. Distinct Regional Dialects Seoul (Gyeonggi dialect): This is considered the standard Korean and is widely used in media. It’s known for its clear pronunciation and soft tones. Gyeongsang dialect (Busan, Daegu, Ulsan): Noted for its strong, assertive tone and faster speech rate. It often drops particles which can make it sound curt to those unfamiliar with it. Jeolla dialect (Gwangju, Jeonju): Recognized for its melodious and expressive intonation. It uses distinctive phrase endings, making it sound more polite. Chungcheong dialect (Daejeon, Cheongju): Characterized by a slower pace and softer tone. It often draws out vowels longer than other dialects. Jeju dialect: Quite distinct from mainland Korean, featuring vocabulary and grammatical structures not found elsewhere. It’s even considered by some linguists as a separate language. I’ve seen them struggle talking to each other. Trust me. Until you master the pronunciation, they are going to have a very difficult time understanding you. No worries, you can travel the length and breadth of the country using translation apps, body language, and a lot of pointing. Religion and Culture As of 2024, the religious landscape in South Korea shows that more than half of the population (56.1%) identifies as irreligious. Among those who practice a religion, Christianity is the most prevalent, with 27.6% of the population identifying as Christians (19.7% Protestant and 7.9% Catholic). Fifteen point five percent of the population practices Buddhism. Voltage South Korea uses a standard voltage of 220V with a frequency of 60Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type C and F. If your device’s plug type differs, you will need a travel adapter in South Korea. Transportation Around South Korea South Korea’s transportation system is outstanding. It includes punctual buses, affordable trains, scenic ferries, and extremely clean metro systems. Every city and town in this small country is linked by some form of public transportation. Buses Trains Metros Signage and Accessibility Driving in South Korea Hi-Pass Buses South Korea’s bus network is extensive and highly reliable. Buses run on time and cover both urban and rural areas, making it easy to travel across the country. Color-coded city buses make travel easy: blue for long-distance routes, green for shorter distances, yellow for neighborhood loops, and red for express routes. Trains The Korean rail system, including the high-speed KTX trains, is efficient and economical. The KTX connects major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Daegu at speeds over 300 km/h (186 mph), drastically reducing travel time. Regular trains are also available and are less expensive, providing a comfortable and scenic way to travel. Metros South Korea’s metros are known for their cleanliness and efficiency. The Seoul Metropolitan Subway, one of the largest in the world, is particularly noted for its punctuality, cleanliness, and convenience. Most metro stations and trains have signs and announcements in both Korean and English, making navigation straightforward for non-Korean speakers. Signage and Accessibility Most signs in public transportation systems are bilingual, in Korean and English, which helps tourists and expatriates navigate easily. This is a great way to practice the language. Additionally, the infrastructure is designed to be accessible, with facilities for individuals with disabilities. Driving in South Korea Before renting a car in South Korea, you will need an international and state-issued driver’s license. Driving in Korea is not for the faint of heart. So, if you don’t need to drive or feel anxious in stressful driving situations, use the above transportation methods instead. Public transportation and ridesharing will get you anywhere you want to go with patience and flexibility. Hi-Pass If you are considering a long-term stay and will have a car, consider getting a Hi-pass. Click here for all the details. Overall, South Korea’s transportation system is a model of efficiency and accessibility, contributing to the ease of travel within the country. Best Time to Visit South Korea Best Time to Visit South Korea Climate in South Korea Spring (March to May) Summer (June to August) Autumn (September to November) Winter (December to February) Times to Avoid Traveling in South Korea Climate in South Korea South Korea experiences all four seasons, each bringing its own unique experiences and attractions: Spring (March to May) Spring in South Korea is characterized by mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it one of the most pleasant times to visit. The highlight of spring is the cherry blossom season, typically during the first two weeks of April. During this period, cities like Seoul, Busan, and Jeju Island were adorned with beautiful cherry blossoms, creating picturesque landscapes that were perfect for sightseeing and photography. Festivals and events celebrating the cherry blossoms are held nationwide, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Summer (June to August) Summer in South Korea is hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching uncomfortable levels. This season is also the peak tourist period, especially in August, when schools are on vacation. Beaches, amusement parks, and other tourist spots can become crowded, and prices for accommodations and activities may be higher. Despite the heat, summer festivals such as the Boryeong Mud Festival offer unique experiences that attract many visitors. Autumn (September to November) Autumn is another popular travel season in South Korea. The weather is cool and crisp, and the changing foliage creates stunning red, orange, and yellow landscapes. This is an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking and visiting national parks. Autumn festivals like the Andong Mask Dance Festival provide cultural insights and entertainment. Winter (December to February) Winter in South Korea is cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. However, the season is charming, particularly for those who enjoy winter sports. Ski resorts in regions like Gangwon-do become popular destinations. Winter festivals such as the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival offer unique experiences like ice fishing and ice sculpting. By understanding the characteristics of each season, you can plan your visit to South Korea to coincide with the experiences that interest you the most. If you wish to see the cherry blossoms, aim to visit during the first two weeks of April for the best viewing opportunities. Times to Avoid Traveling in South Korea Avoid traveling to South Korea during the summer, especially in August. This time of year is the most expensive and crowded, with high humidity making it less comfortable for visitors. Top Cities to Visit in South Korea Everyone goes to Seoul, and then they go home. About half of South Korea’s population lives in the Seoul Capital Area, which includes Seoul, Incheon, and Gyeonggi Province. But the real Korea lies outside the capital city. Don’t overlook cities like Busan, Gwangju, or Daegu. Busan has bustling markets, beautiful beaches, and tranquil temples. Gwangju is known for its vibrant art scene and rich history. Daegu offers serene mountain landscapes and natural beauty. You’ll leave with only a partial understanding of the country if you don’t explore these places. Seoul Busan Incheon Daegu Ulsan Gyeongju Jeju Gwangju Seoul Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace Shop in Myeongdong Explore Bukchon Hanok Village Go on a Han River Cruise Busan Relax at Haeundae & Songdo Beaches Visit the Gamcheon & Huinyeoul Culture Villages Explore Beomeosa & Yonggunsa Temples Incheon Explore Chinatown Visit Songdo Central Park Wolmi Park Observatory Daegu Visit Seomun Market Explore Apsan, Biseulsan, and Palgonsan Mountains Eat and shop along Dongseong-ro pedestrian street Ulsan Visit Daewangam Park Explore Ulsan Grand Park Check out Seongnamsa Temple Gyeongju Visit Bulguksa Temple Visit the cafes, restaurants, and shops along Hwangnidan Street (avoid the weekend) Stroll through Anapji Pond Jeju Explore Hallasan National Park or Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak Relax at Hamdeok Beach Check out Jeongbang Waterfall Gwangju Visit the Gwangju Biennale Go cafe hopping Visit Damyang Bamboo Forest Major Festivals in South Korea Jeju Fire Festival Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival Namwon Chunhyang Festival Boseong Green Tea Festival Chimac Festival Boryeong Mud Festival Buyeo Seodong Lotus Festival Andong International Maskdance Festival Gwangju World Kimchi Culture Festival Jinju Namgang Yudeung (Lantern) Festival Seoul Lantern Festival Busan Fireworks Festival Daegu Lantern Festival Jeju Fire Festival: Held in February on Jeju Island, the Jeju Fire Festival embraces ancient traditions with blazing bonfires and folk performances to usher in the lunar New Year. This vibrant event symbolizes the burning away of bad luck and the welcoming of new beginnings, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival: From late March to early April, the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival transforms the city into a floral paradise. Wander through cherry blossom-lined streets and enjoy various cultural performances, capturing the beauty of spring in South Korea. Namwon Chunhyang Festival: In April, the Namwon Chunhyang Festival celebrates the famous Korean folk character Chunhyang with traditional music and dances. This lively event honors the enduring love story of Chunhyang, blending cultural heritage with entertainment. Boseong Green Tea Festival: Held in May in Boseong, the Green Tea Festival offers an immersive experience in lush tea plantations. Visitors can participate in traditional tea ceremonies and savor green tea-infused delicacies, appreciating the region’s tea culture. Chimac Festival: In July, Daegu hosts the Chimac Festival, celebrating the popular combination of chicken and beer. Enjoy live music and entertainment while indulging in delicious food and refreshing drinks, creating a festive summer atmosphere. Boryeong Mud Festival: Taking place on the second weekend of July in Boryeong, this festival invites participants to engage in mud baths, wrestling, and sliding on Daecheon Beach. The Boryeong Mud Festival is known for its fun, messy, and energetic activities, attracting visitors from around the world. Buyeo Seodong Lotus Festival: From July to August, the Buyeo Seodong Lotus Festival showcases vast lotus ponds with boat tours and cultural performances. This serene event highlights the natural beauty of lotus flowers and the rich cultural heritage of Buyeo. Andong International Maskdance Festival: From late September to early October, the Andong International Maskdance Festival features captivating mask dances and participatory workshops. This festival celebrates traditional Korean mask culture, offering a unique and immersive cultural experience. Gwangju World Kimchi Culture Festival: In October, the Gwangju World Kimchi Culture Festival invites visitors to participate in kimchi-making sessions and taste various kimchi dishes. This event celebrates Korea’s iconic dish, highlighting its cultural significance and culinary diversity. Jinju Namgang Yudeung (Lantern) Festival: Held in October in Jinju, this festival commemorates the Jinjuseong Fortress Battle with lanterns floating on the Namgang River. The Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival creates a mesmerizing spectacle of light and history. Seoul Lantern Festival: On the first Friday of November, the Seoul Lantern Festival illuminates Cheonggyecheon with thousands of lanterns. Each year, the festival features changing annual themes, showcasing creativity and artistry in a dazzling display. Busan Fireworks Festival: The Busan Fireworks Festival, held annually, features spectacular fireworks displays over Gwangalli Beach. This dazzling event attracts thousands of spectators, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. Daegu Lantern Festival: The Daegu Lantern Festival is a mesmerizing annual event where thousands of lanterns illuminate the night sky. This breathtaking spectacle captivates visitors, offering a magical experience. Top Things to Do in South Korea Get Naked at a Jjimjilbang Sing in a Noraebang See the Cherry Blossoms in Bloom Explore Jeju Island Eat Live Octopus or King Crab Go for a Hike Get Naked at a Jjimjilbang A jjimjilbang is a great relaxing place, with different hot tubs and saunas to help you unwind after a long day. You can try a body scrub that makes your skin smooth and refreshed. The scrub removes dead skin cells and improves circulation. Jjimjilbangs also have relaxation areas with heated floors, places to sleep, and snack bars, offering a full wellness experience. Sing in a Noraebang A noraebang is a private karaoke room where you can sing your favorite songs with friends. It is a popular social activity in South Korea. Equipped with an extensive song list, comfortable seating, and often snacks and drinks, a noraebang offers a fun way to enjoy music and bond with others. See the Cherry Blossoms in Bloom In April, South Korea becomes a prime tourist destination for its stunning cherry blossoms. These blooms are more affordable to view than those in Japan, offering visitors a picturesque and budget-friendly experience. Explore Jeju Island Famous for its turquoise waters and mountain views, Jeju Island offers a variety of natural attractions. Visitors can swim in natural pools, hike to a volcanic crater, and chase picturesque waterfalls. Eat Live Octopus or King Crab South Korea offers adventurous culinary experiences with live octopus (sannakji) and king crab. Eating sannakji involves freshly chopped octopus that continues to move, providing a unique and exciting dining experience. King crab, known for its large size and sweet meat, is typically steamed or boiled and served with dipping sauces. These dishes can be enjoyed in local fish markets, such as Jagalchi Fish Market in Busan, Noryangjin Fish Market in Seoul, and Pohang Fish Market in Pohang. Go for a Hike Hiking in South Korea is a great way to see the beautiful scenery and varied landscapes. There are trails for all levels, from easy walks to challenging hikes. Popular spots include Bukhansan National Park, which has scenic views and rocky peaks, and Seoraksan National Park, known for its stunning fall colors. On Jeju Island, you can hike Hallasan Mountain, a dormant volcano with amazing views from the top. The trails are well-maintained, and you can often find mountain temples. Hiking in South Korea is a year-round activity that lets you enjoy nature and learn about the country’s culture. Tipping in South Korea Korea has a no-tip culture. Cab drivers, hotel, and restaurant staff don’t expect tips, but that doesn’t mean they won’t accept them. Best Food to Eat in South Korea Don’t get me started. I don’t think you can learn to love food; that’s usually automatic. But you can learn to appreciate something new. That’s me and Korean food. I didn’t think I enjoyed Korean food until I started making this list. But I’ve been eating kimchi since I was a girl. There’s a huge jar of it in my kitchen as I type. There is something for everyone. Just know that meats can be sweet, but dessert probably isn’t. There’s probably corn on your pizza and cherry tomatoes in your fruit cup. You’ll be fine. Try everything at least once. Samgyeopsal (Korean BBQ) Jjim Dak Kimchi Bulgogi Bibimbap Kimbap Samgyeopsal (Korean BBQ) Samgyeopsal, or Korean BBQ, involves grilling thick slices of pork belly, beef, seafood, and chicken at the table. The meat is cooked until crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, then wrapped in lettuce or perilla leaves with various side dishes like kimchi, garlic, and ssamjang (a spicy paste). Jjim Dak Jjim Dak is a flavorful Korean dish made with flat noodles, potatoes, chicken, and peppers cooked in a delicious sauce. For an extra layer of flavor, add cheese. This dish combines savory, sweet, and spicy elements, making it a popular choice in Korean cuisine. Kimchi Kimchi is a staple Korean dish made from fermented vegetables, typically napa cabbage and radishes, seasoned with chili pepper, garlic, ginger, and salted seafood. This tangy and spicy dish is rich in vitamins, probiotics, and antioxidants and offers numerous health benefits. Kimchi is served with nearly every meal in Korea and comes in various regional and seasonal varieties. Bulgogi Bulgogi is a popular Korean dish featuring marinated beef grilled with mixed vegetables at your table. Cooks typically marinate the beef in a savory and slightly sweet sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and pepper. This dish features a tender texture and flavorful taste, often served with rice and various banchan (side dishes). Bibimbap Bibimbap is a Korean dish featuring greens, mushrooms, radishes, carrots, bean sprouts, gochujang sauce, and rice. The ingredients are arranged on the rice and mixed before eating. Kimbap Kimbap is Korea’s version of sushi, great for meals on the go or picnics. It consists of rice, vegetables, and sometimes meat or seafood rolled in seaweed. Currency Matters The currency is the won. As of today, the exchange rate for the US Dollar (USD) to the South Korean Won (KRW) is approximately 1 USD = 1,379.36 KRW (XE). This rate can fluctuate, so it’s a good idea to check it frequently before your trip to ensure you get the best value when exchanging currency. The Korean ₩on consists of coins and banknotes. Coins come in 10, 50, 100, and 500 won denominations, while banknotes come in 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, and 50,000 won denominations. Most major establishments accept credit cards, but carrying some cash for smaller vendors or when visiting rural areas is useful. Banks: KEB Hana Bank, Shinhan Bank, and Woori Bank offer currency exchange services. Banks operate from 9 AM to 4 PM on weekdays and close on weekends and public holidays.. Rules apply for bank and debit card services. Exchange Booths are common in tourist areas like Myeongdong and Itaewon and near major attractions. Exchange booths usually have extended hours, including weekends, making them a convenient option for travelers. It’s advisable to compare rates between booths and banks. ATMs: Many ATMs in South Korea accept international cards, allowing you to withdraw Korean won directly. Look for ATMs in convenience stores such as CU, 7-Eleven, and banks. Be aware of potential international transaction fees from your home bank. Hotels and Department Stores: High-end hotels and large department stores often provide currency exchange services for guests and customers. While convenient, these services may have higher fees or less favorable rates than banks or dedicated exchange booths. Military Installations DOD employees are paid in USD but pay rent in KRW, so they must exchange currencies monthly. Money changers are located outside all military installations in South Korea. These locations often cater to DOD personnel’s and their families’ needs, providing easy access to currency exchange services. However, anyone can utilize their services. Money changers offer better rates when you use larger bills. When exchanging money, it is important to compare rates and fees. Online resources like XE.com can help you check the current exchange rate and find the best deals. Carrying some local currency is always advisable for small purchases and in places where cards might not be accepted. Typical Budget for South Korea Daily Budget Budget traveler: $30 – $40 per day. Mid-range traveler: $50 – $100 per day. Accommodation Dorm bed: $18-$30 Jjimjilbang: $6-$13 Budget room: $40 Mid-range: $60 Luxury hotel: $170+ Food Street food: $1-$5 Restaurant: $5-$17 Local beer: $3-$9 Soju: $1-2 Transportation Train: $6-$7 Subway: $1-$2 Bus: $1+ Taxi: $3-$4 Activities Daegu E-World: $40 Jjimjilbang (Scrub and Massage): $20-$70 Everland: $45 Lotte World: $32 Nami Island: $10 Responsible Travel Tips in South Korea Proper waste disposal: In smaller towns, place trash in piles for street cleaners. Looking at a garbage can drives me crazy, but you’ll get used to it. Recycling: Recycling plays a crucial role in conserving natural resources, reducing waste in landfills, and mitigating environmental pollution. Effective recycling requires proper sorting and cleaning of recyclables, public awareness, and robust recycling programs. Communities prioritizing recycling help foster a sustainable environment, promoting a circular economy where materials are reused, repurposed, and kept in circulation for as long as possible. K-beauty: K-beauty stores in Korea offer a captivating array of skincare and cosmetic products, known for their innovative formulations and high-quality ingredients. Popular stores like Olive Young, Innisfree, and Etude House provide an extensive selection of beauty items, from sheet masks and serums to BB creams and cushion compacts. These stores are often designed with inviting interiors, making shopping a delightful experience—many feature helpful staff who provide personalized skincare advice. Additionally, the products are known for being highly moisturizing, a distinct advantage over many American products, which often focus on astringents and unpronounceable ingredients. Do your research: Before your trip, learn about the country’s culture, religion, language, and rules. Use public transport: Opt for buses, trains, and subways to reduce your carbon footprint. Respect local customs: Follow social norms and etiquette, such as bowing, using two hands, and removing shoes indoors. Support local businesses: Buy from local markets and artisans to help the community. Limit plastic use: Carry reusable bags, bottles, and straws to minimize plastic waste. Cafe Culture in South Korea Cafe culture in South Korea is vibrant and diverse. Cafes range from minimalist coffee shops to themed venues featuring everything from cats and dogs to board games. South Koreans visit cafes to socialize, study, and relax. The emphasis on aesthetics and ambiance is evident, with many cafes offering Instagram-worthy interiors. Specialty coffee and innovative desserts, such as bingsu, are popular. The cafe scene continues to evolve, blending traditional Korean elements with contemporary trends. I have over 100 cafe recommendations, so click here to check them out. K-Beauty You’d be surprised that K-beauty products focus on hydration and skin health despite emphasizing pale skin. These products cater to a wide range of skin tones and types. The simple yet unusual ingredients provide intense moisture, making them perfect for black or dark skin. Brighteners can be beneficial, but always check the ingredients to ensure they do not contain any whiteners. Here are just a few of the brands I have used or are still using every day: Popular K-Beauty Brands Laneige: Known for its water-based products, especially the Water Sleeping Mask. Innisfree: Offers natural products with ingredients sourced from Jeju Island. COSRX: Famous for its acne-fighting and sensitive skin products. Dr.Jart+: Renowned for its innovative skincare solutions and masks. Etude House: Provides affordable skincare and makeup with a fun, youthful vibe. Missha: Offers high-quality skincare and makeup at reasonable prices. Sulwhasoo: Luxurious brand focusing on traditional Korean herbal ingredients. AMOREPACIFIC: High-end skincare with a focus on green tea and other natural extracts. BANILA CO: Best known for its Clean It Zero cleansing balm. THE FACE SHOP: Affordable and natural skincare products. Beauty of Joseon: Utilizes traditional Korean herbal medicine in its formulations. Holika Holika: Fun and quirky skincare and makeup products. Some By Mi: Specializes in miracle toner and acne solutions. Klairs: Offers simple, but effective products for sensitive skin. Saturday Skin: Known for its clean, effective skincare solutions. Belif: Focuses on herbal-based hydration with high efficacy. TONYMOLY: Affordable and fun skincare and makeup products. What to Pack for South Korea Clothing Layered clothing: South Korea experiences all four seasons. Pack layers to adapt to varying temperatures. Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll likely do a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are essential. Rain jacket or umbrella: South Korea can have unexpected rain, especially during the monsoon season. Swimsuit: Bring one to visit beaches, hot springs, or jjimjilbangs. You may be the only one in a two-piece, even at the beach. Modesty: Korea is changing, but you may notice women cover their shoulders and décolleté while wearing short skirts and shorts. Expect some stares, especially if you wear revealing clothing. Toiletries Basic toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, soap, etc. Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun. Bug repellant: Useful, especially in summer. Tampons: These can be difficult to find in South Korea, so bring an adequate supply. Note: If you forget anything or choose to pack light, you can always buy most items once you arrive in South Korea. Especially beauty products. Travel Essentials Passport and visa: Ensure they are valid and packed securely. Travel insurance: Important for unexpected situations. Travel adapter: South Korea uses Type C and Type F plugs (220V). Reusable water bottle: To stay hydrated and reduce plastic use. Reusable shopping bags: These are used to carry purchases and reduce plastic waste. Power bank: To keep your devices charged on the go. Apps to Download Naver Map or KakaoMap: Essential for navigation and public transport information. KakaoTalk: The most popular messaging app in South Korea. Papago is a useful translation app for translating Korean text and speech. KakaoTaxi: For booking taxis easily. Subway Korea: Provides detailed subway maps and route planning. Visit Korea: Offers travel guides and information on attractions. Klook or Trazy: This is for booking tours, activities, and tickets. Google Translate: Another reliable translation app for communication and text translation. Airbnb or Agoda: For booking accommodations. T-Money App: To manage and recharge your transportation card. Like it! Pin it! Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe! Share this:FacebookLinkedInTwitterPinterestThreadsEmailPrintBlueskyXLike this:Like Loading... Related Discover more from Duffel Bag Spouse Travels Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email. Type your email… Subscribe PLACES South KoreaTravel Planning and Tips