SOUTH KOREA TRAVEL GUIDE
- berfinozelsel
- Oct 16
- 13 min read
South Korea Travel: Here's All the Information for First-Time Travelers🎒🇰🇷
The mysterious and modern face of Asia; If you're like me and only know South Korea from TV series and K-pop videos and wonder "Is it really like this?", you're in the right place! ✌️
South Korea, located in eastern Asia, is a dynamic country noted for its technology, pop culture, history, and natural beauty. Its capital, Seoul, is a captivating city where modern skyscrapers and historic palaces coexist. The country is renowned worldwide for its high-speed internet, K-pop music, Korean dramas, and delicious cuisine. Furthermore, Jeju Island, renowned for its natural beauty, and historical sites reflecting traditional Korean culture, offer visitors a wide variety of experiences.
In this article, I'll explain everything from visa procedures to where to stay, what to eat, and which street will make you happy when you get lost. Just in case you're packing your bags and suddenly think, "I'm going to Korea!", I'll have a guide at hand. 🚀✨
📌 General Information
South Korea is one of Asia's most dynamic countries. Its high-tech, fascinating history, and popular culture (K-pop, K-drama) have made it a popular destination in recent years. Its capital, Seoul , blends modernity and history with both traditional palaces and neon-lit streets.
South Korea is also a country distinguished by its deep-rooted history. Its history, which began with the ancient kingdoms of Silla, Baekje, and Goguryeo, has evolved into a modern technological and cultural powerhouse. After the Korean War of 1950-1953, it was divided into North and South Korea, and subsequently, South Korea underwent rapid development toward democracy and industrialization.
Traditional culture and modern lifestyles are intertwined. Traditions like Hanbok (traditional dress), Taekwondo, traditional tea ceremonies, and temples still hold a significant place, while K-pop music, K-drama series, and technological innovations represent the modern face of Korea.
The currency of South Korea is the South Korean Won (KRW). Official Language It's Korean, but many young people speak English. It's six hours further than Türkiye and is visa-free for Turkish citizens for up to 90 days. However, you must fill out the KTE-A form before entering the country.
Korean cuisine is known for its spicy, fermented, and balanced flavors. Dishes like kimchi (fermented cabbage), bibimbap (rice prepared with various vegetables and meat), bulgogi (marinated grilled meat), and tteokbokki (rice cakes with spicy sauce) are among the must-try dishes. Street food is also quite popular; you'll find hundreds of different snacks in areas like Myeongdong. Don't worry, I'll tell you all about them.
South Koreans are known for their hard work, their commitment to education, and their ability to quickly adapt to technology. City life is fast-paced, but on weekends, people flock to parks, mountains, and beaches. They have a strong culture of hospitality, and tourists are generally treated with kindness.
In major cities like Seoul, 5G internet, smart transportation systems, and robotics are part of daily life. Airports, train stations, and intercity connections are well-maintained.
The country captivates not only with its city life but also with its magnificent natural beauty. The lava caves of Jeju Island , the mountain views of Seoraksan National Park, and the beaches of Busan are among the must-see destinations.
🏯 Places to Visit
Places to Visit and Things to Do in South Korea 🌸
South Korea is a country that makes you wonder, "Where do I begin?" Every corner has a unique story and a unique beauty. Your starting point, of course, should be the capital, Seoul .
Renting traditional clothing (hanbok) at Gyeongbokgung Palace and wandering around the palace is incredibly fun! It's a dream, especially for those who want to take photos.
Getting lost among the old Korean houses of Bukchon Hanok Village , browsing the antique shops of Insadong , or satisfying your appetite with street food in Myeongdong are all must-sees. And don't leave without climbing Namsan Tower (N Seoul Tower) for a night view of Seoul! Viewing the city from above is a completely different experience.
If you're looking to get out of the city, Busan offers a completely different atmosphere by the sea. Breathing in the sea air at Haeundae Beach and getting lost in the colorful streets of Gamcheon Culture Village should definitely be on your to-do list. Jeju Island is a paradise for nature lovers! Volcanic mountains, lava tunnels, waterfalls... Even just a day here will soothe your soul. Hiking up Hallasan Mountain and becoming one with nature is a legendary experience.
And one last suggestion: If you have time, you can visit villages like Andong Hahoe Folk Village, where you can see the traditional side of Korea, or you can take a short trip to the heart of ancient Korea by stopping by Gyeongju .
Korea isn't just about modern cities; nature, history, and culture all come together, and it's all super easy to get to! 🎒🚇🌸
📍 Seoul
Seoul isn't just the capital of South Korea; it's like another planet! You can stroll through a palace courtyard in the morning, listening to traditional music, and then sit in a robot-made coffee shop in the same city at night. Now, let's take a quick look at the must-see spots in Seoul:
Our first stop is Gyeongbokgung Palace . It's a true time machine! Renting a hanbok, the traditional dress, also comes free. You'll feel like you've stepped into a historical movie. Afterwards, you shouldn't miss Bukchon Hanok Village , just around the corner from the palace. With its narrow streets, traditional Korean houses, and pastel-colored rooftops, it's a perfect Instagram spot!
If you're a shopaholic, let's take you to the streets of Myeongdong . It's a shopping and street food paradise. You could lose yourself in a beauty shop with one hand and a spicy tteokbokki with the other. If you're craving a little more youthful energy, head to Hongdae . Street artists, tiny cafes, and quirky concept stores... It's easy to get lost here!
And of course, you can't come to Seoul without climbing up N Seoul Tower . If you want to see the city from above, you can either take the cable car or walk up. There's also a romantic spot at the top where couples tie love locks together. Don't worry if you're not with your partner; the view will steal your heart anyway!
🛕 Busan: Capital of Sea, Color and Flavor! 🌊🎨🍜
After Seoul, how about some sea air? Then head to Busan! Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, is a true therapeutic retreat after the hustle and bustle of Seoul. First of all, Busan's beaches are legendary. Haeundae Beach , in particular, is crowded with tourists and locals alike during the summer months. You can stroll along the beach and breathe in the seaside scent at the beachside cafes.
But Busan isn't just about the beach. Gamcheon Cultural Village , famous for its colorful houses, is like a fairytale land. Narrow streets, colorful houses, a work of art on every corner... Even getting lost here is a pleasure! And if you're in Busan, you can't leave without visiting the famous Jagalchi Fish Market . If you love seafood, fresh fish, squid, and lobster await you. You can even pick some up at the market and have it cooked right away—an experience guaranteed!
Looking for a moment surrounded by nature? Then you should visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple . Situated right on the seafront, this temple boasts truly captivating views. It's especially captivating at sunrise; if you're up early, don't miss it!
🌸 Nami Island
This island, a frequent setting for romantic Korean dramas, is especially captivating during autumn when the leaves fall.
🏞️ Jeju Island
Korea's paradise, with its natural beauty, waterfalls, lava tunnels, and seascapes. It's about an hour by plane.
Mount Hallasan: A hike to the volcanic summit.
Jeongbang Waterfall: One of the rare places where the waterfall flows into the sea.
Guaranteed to get lost in the tangerine gardens! 🍊
🍱What to Eat in South Korea? The Most Famous Korean Delicacies - Food and Drink🍜
You can't go to South Korea and not try the food! But let's face it, some of them make you wonder, "What is this?" 😄 Luckily, there are many options that are both delicious and appealing to our palate. I've detailed what to eat in Korea in my blog post, which you can check out if you'd like.
First on the list, of course, comes kimchi . This fermented cabbage is a staple in Korean cuisine. It might seem a little thick and strange at first, but after a few days, it becomes addictive—no joke!
Then there's bibimbap : colorful vegetables, rice, egg, and a whole lot of flavor combined. Add a spicy gochujang sauce and stir, and the result is a delicious mess. If you're a meat lover, I highly recommend trying the bulgogi : marinated, thin slices of beef barbecued on a grill that literally melt in your mouth.
And then there's the street food, which is a reason to visit in itself! Tteokbokki , or rice cake with hot sauce, is a classic that you should eat while steaming in your hand, especially on a cold day. You can find fried fish cakes ( odeng ) or filled sweet crepe-like pastries ( hotteok ) at tiny street stalls.
And if you're craving a sweet ending, bingsu , an icy dessert, is perfect for summer days. Topped with a variety of fruits and ice cream, it's a burst of freshness! Korean cuisine is both healthy and diverse. It's full of spicy, fermented, and seafood-based dishes.
🌶️ Kimchi
The signature dish of Korean cuisine: fermented sauerkraut . Spicy and sour, it's a staple with every meal. While it might seem strange at first, after a few meals, you'll be saying, "I can't live without kimchi!"
🔥 Tteokbokki
Rice cake with spicy sauce. It's the queen of street food! It has a slightly rubbery texture, but when combined with that spicy sauce, it creates an epic snack.
🍲 Kal-guksu
Think of it as a homemade noodle soup cooked in vegetable and meat broth. It's both light and warming. It's a treat, especially on a chilly Seoul day! Homemade cut noodles combine with vegetables and meat broth. It's a light, filling, and incredibly delicious soup!
🥟 Mandu
The Korean version of our traditional dumplings. They're usually filled with ground meat, vegetables, and spices. They're served steamed, fried, or boiled. They're a great snack!
🍧 Patbingsu
Good news for dessert lovers! This refreshing dessert, made with ingredients like shaved ice , red beans, fruit, and ice cream, is a Korean summer favorite. It might seem strange at first, but you'll be hooked after the first spoonful.
🥩 Korean BBQ:
It's a wonderful experience where you cook and eat your own meat at the table.
🧊 What to Drink?
Soju : Korea's most famous drink. It's usually drunk neat, but there are also grapefruit, peach, and grape-flavored versions.
Makgeolli : A light, milky white, slightly sweet drink made from rice. It's usually found in traditional restaurants and is enjoyed with meals.
🚆 Transportation - Transportation and City Travel Tips in South Korea 🚇🚌🚖
Getting around in South Korea is incredibly easy, especially in major cities like Seoul. The subway network is so extensive and well-organized that getting lost is nearly impossible. For all the details about transportation, you can also check out my blog post, "Getting Around in Seoul."
Subway stop signs are in both Korean and English, so you don't have to worry. But here's a tip: Some smaller stations may not have English announcements, so be sure to download Naver Map or KakaoMap instead of Google Maps. They're more up-to-date than Korean maps and provide excellent public transportation routes.
If you want to take a taxi, don't be afraid, taxis in Korea are clean and safe.
Intercity travel? That's where the KTX high-speed trains come in! In just 2.5 hours, you'll feel like you're flying from Seoul to Busan. With comfortable seats, silence, and stunning views, it's like a mini-vacation.
For transportation in places like Seoul, Busan, or Jeju Island, the system works seamlessly! If you plan ahead, getting there will be the most enjoyable part.
🏨 Accommodation
Korea offers accommodation options to suit every budget. The most important criteria when choosing accommodation in Seoul are ease of transportation, proximity to attractions, and a safe environment. Seoul is generally a very safe city. The areas with high tourist traffic are particularly peaceful, even late at night. Seoul offers a suitable environment even for female solo travelers . Koreans are quite polite and law-abiding. But as always, it's important to be aware and cautious.
🏙️ Myeongdong – The Best Area for First-Time Visitors
Myeongdong is a great shopping hub and a great transportation hub. It's within walking distance of cosmetics stores, street food, shops, and Seoul's most popular landmarks (like Namsan Tower). Hotel prices are generally moderate. It's crowded but very lively!
🎨 Hongdae – Young, Dynamic and Colorful
If art, music, and nightlife are your thing, this is the place for you! It's full of street artists, quirky cafes, and shops. It's also easily accessible from Incheon Airport by AREX train. It's a popular destination for young travelers and solo travelers. It's a vibrant, young-spirited area. It's a bit more lively due to its nightlife, but there aren't any serious security issues. There may be people who have been drinking alcohol at the bars, so just be careful.
🏛️ Insadong – For Those Looking for Traditional Korean Vibe
If you choose to stay in this area, filled with hanok houses, teahouses, and antique shops, you'll experience a deep sense of Korean culture. It's quiet and peaceful, yet very close to Seoul's historic districts. Boutique hotels and traditional hanok accommodations are prominent here.
One of the quietest and most peaceful areas. You can wander around with peace of mind.
💼 Gangnam – Stylish and Modern
If you're looking for a more luxurious and comfortable stay, Gangnam is the perfect place for you. It's home to shopping malls, skyscrapers, and plenty of cafes. Transportation is excellent, but it's a bit further from Seoul's historical districts. Prices are also higher than other neighborhoods. It's an upscale, clean, and modern area. Security is a concern, and you're unlikely to experience any problems. Even late at night, you can walk around quite comfortably.
🏞️ Itaewon – International and Diverse
If you're looking to try different cuisines, experience nightlife, and connect with world cultures, this is the ideal place. It has a multinational atmosphere, but it's a bit cluttered, and some of the side streets can be a bit unsettling late at night. It's generally safe, but I recommend being a bit more cautious than other areas. It's especially crowded and party-like on Friday and Saturday nights. However, we're not talking about a serious risk; just be cautious.
🛌 Accommodation Tips:
Since you will be going everywhere by metro, proximity to the metro is important.
For price-performance, you can choose 3-star hotels, boutique hotels or clean guesthouses.
You can also have a more local experience with AirBnb or hanok accommodations.
You can find the Airbnb links where we stayed in Seoul and Busan here. Both were great and comfortable in terms of location.
When Should You Go to South Korea? 🌸❄️☀️🍂
Choosing the right time to visit South Korea depends on your preferences. If you're dreaming of a romantic walk under the cherry blossoms, late March and April are perfect for you! Cities are instantly transformed into a pink-and-white landscape, and every corner is a vying for photos. Summer, however, can be a bit harsh; both the heat and humidity skyrocket in July and August, so if you're feeling like you need a shower as soon as you step outside, you might want to skip summer. We went in July, and the heat and humidity can be oppressive, and we also experienced heavy rainfall, so I don't recommend the summer months. In autumn, between September and November, nature is incredibly colorful and beautiful, with parks and mountains, in particular, awash in yellow, red, and orange. As for winter, a snow-covered Korea awaits you from December to February. Furthermore, ski resorts and a hearty street food experience make winter quite appealing. Whether it's flowers, autumn leaves, or snowy landscapes, each season has its own unique flavor in South Korea!
If you want to take a selfie under the cherry blossoms: March-April
Romantic walk among autumn leaves: September-November
Shopping and Souvenir Recommendations in South Korea 🛍️🎁
It's nearly impossible to come to South Korea and not fill your bag with souvenirs! Especially if you're a fan of cosmetics and cute things, your suitcase will be overflowing. I'm warning you in advance.
Let me take you to my very detailed blog post about cosmetic shopping.
First of all, the best place to shop for cosmetics is clear: Myeongdong . You can find Korea's famous skincare products, BB creams, and masks here. What's more, the trial products and promotions are so plentiful that sometimes you'll end up shopping just for a gift!
Hongdae and Gangnam are perfect for fashion enthusiasts. It's filled with shops by young designers and small boutiques that showcase street style. If you're looking for unique, stylish, and affordable pieces, be sure to check them out.
What about sweet gifts? Definitely stop by Daiso Korean stores! This place is a haven selling incredibly cute home goods, notebooks, mugs, and keychains at affordable prices. You can also pick up cute items from Line Friends and Kakao Friends .
Don't forget to shop for snacks! You can pick up plenty of Korean chips , hot sauces , and famous ginseng tea at the supermarket or airport. They make great gifts for loved ones.
Don't forget, there's also a tax refund option when shopping in Korea. If you carry your passport and spend over a certain amount, you can easily get a tax refund at the airport!
Tips You Should Know Before Going to South Korea ✈️📚
If you're going to South Korea for the first time, some quick tips will come in handy!
First of all, we have the right to travel to Korea without a visa (be sure to check the current status based on your travel duration), but you need to obtain an electronic travel authorization ( K-ETA) before you go. You can apply online; it's very simple. To apply :
Internet access is crucial. You can get a local SIM card at the airport. Because in Korea, everything is online: restaurant reservations, public transportation schedules, payment systems...
Be sure to download a translation app . You might not find English menus, especially in smaller cafes and restaurants. The Papago app works perfectly for Korean. Koreans also use it to communicate with tourists; almost all of them have it.
Google Maps doesn't work very well here, so I definitely recommend downloading local navigation apps like Naver Map or KakaoMap.
Don't forget to bring some cash with you. Cards are common, but some smaller shops and street markets still prefer cash. By the way, tipping is not a common practice in Korean culture, so you can rest assured!
The electrical outlets are the same as in Türkiye (220V), so no adapters are a must, but a power bank is a must! Because when you're photographing, mapping, and translating all day, your battery drains like water.
It's important to be culturally respectful: Be extra polite, especially to the elderly, and avoid sitting in seats reserved for the elderly on public transport.
The national flag of Korea consists of a white field with a red and blue circle (taegeuk) in the center and four black trigrams (gwae) at the four corners. The white field symbolizes brightness, purity, and peace. According to Eastern philosophy, the taegeuk represents the harmony of yin and yang, the two opposing energies that create all beings in the universe.
The black lines in the four corners of the flag are symbols called " trigrams ";
Geon (☰) : The sky
Gon (☷) : Location
Gam (☵) : Water
Ri (☲) : Represents fire. Taegeukgi
Finally: People in Korea walk quickly and are generally quiet. Shouting loudly on the phone on the subway or bumping into someone while walking is frowned upon. If you pay attention to small rules of respect, Koreans will welcome you even more warmly.
Now, as you pack your bags, here are some small but life-saving details: Korea has sharp seasons. Winters are freezing, while summers are humid and hot. Be sure to choose appropriate clothing for the time of year you'll be traveling. If you're traveling in the summer, pack lightweight clothing and an umbrella (for both sun and rain!).
And before I forget: Learning a few basic Korean words before traveling to South Korea can be a lifesaver. Expressions like "Hello" (Annyeonghaseyo) and "Thank you" (Kamsahamnida) in particular bring a big smile to Korean faces, I'm telling you!
Finally: Take lots of photos, but also savor the moment. South Korea is a place you should explore not only with your eyes, but also with your heart. 🍀✨
You're ready! Korea is waiting for you! ✈️
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