Whether your interest in visiting South Korea comes from history or the global impact of K-culture, it is a land that will fascinate you to no end. The country is brimming with rich culture, natural beauty, and amazing food. So, if you are curious, continue onwards with our South Korea travel guide. There are so many amazing things to do in South Korea, like trying traditional Korean food, cycling, and exploring vibrant Seoul. With a number of things to do in Seoul alone, including trying all the delicious street foods, you must be wondering how many days to spend in South Korea.

Depending on your itinerary and plans, you need to spend at least two weeks in South Korea. In terms of the best time to visit South Korea, April, May, September, and October are all amazing options. Read on and get planning your South Korea getaway!

Top Destinations in South Korea

Discover the highlights of South Korea.

Explore the Modern Metropolis of Seoul

Explore the Modern Metropolis of Seoul

With skyscrapers alongside the ancient and beautiful Jogyesa Temple and parks that offer tranquility and relaxation, Seoul is a perfect spot to begin or end your South Korea journey. Jump on this 12-day tour that brings you back to the capital after exploring the entire country. View Tours

Discover the Captivating Sights of Busan

Discover the Captivating Sights of Busan

Uncover the captivating sights of Busan, South Korea's coastal gem. From the vibrant Gamcheon Culture Village to the pristine Haeundae Beach and the panoramic Taejongdae Park, Busan offers a delightful blend of cultural charm and natural beauty. View Tours

Relax on a Beach in Jeju Island

Relax on a Beach in Jeju Island

Board a ferry to Jeju Island, filled with natural beauty and jaw-dropping hiking routes such as Seongsan Ilchulbong also known as Sunrise Peak. Join the all-female divers who will help you uncover the crystal waters and explore the traditional liquor making sites. View Tours

South Korea at a Glance

Quick facts about South Korea.

CAPITAL CITY

The capital city of South Korea is Seoul. Founded in 1384, this historic city is the melting pot between the old and the new. Discover high-tech buildings and architecture alongside traditional temples and parks.

SIZE

100,210 square kilometers. South Korea is pretty easy to navigate with great bus, train, and ferry services.

COUNTRY CODE

+82. If you are calling Seoul add the area code 2 after the country code followed by the phone number. For Busan, the area code is 51.

CURRENCY

South Korea uses the South Korean won. You can use your credit, debit, or prepayment card pretty much everywhere in South Korea. However, there will be international charges. You will also find ATMs at every bank.

MAIN AIRPORT

The main airport in South Korea is Incheon International Airport. It is 48.3 kilometers away from Seoul and is served by a whole host of international airlines. CODE: ICN CLOSEST CITY: SEOUL

VISAS

If you are visiting South Korea as a US citizen, you either need a valid visa or approved Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA). You can fill these out online before you travel. If you are a British national, you can visit South Korea for up to 90 days without a visa, but you need to have an onward ticket. As always, check the travel advisories or visit the nearest embassy and consulate to find out about visa requirements.

LANGUAGE

The official language of South Korea is Korean. However, Mandarin, Japanese, and English are widely understood, especially in larger cities and tourist hotspots.

EMERGENCY CONTACT

The local emergency contact number in South Korea is 112, and that gets you through to the police, fire, and ambulance services.

WHAT'S UNIQUE

Koreans are the largest drinkers in Asia. So, if you are looking to party or let your hair down while you are in South Korea, you will feel right at home here. Try all the local liquors and beers during your trip.

When to visit South Korea

Read the below travel guides to find the best time to visit South Korea.

°C°F
  • Excellent
  • Good
  • Fair
  • Poor
  • JanAvg Daily: 1 ° CAvg Nightly: -9 ° C
  • FebAvg Daily: 4 ° CAvg Nightly: -7 ° C
  • MarAvg Daily: 9 ° CAvg Nightly: -2 ° C
  • AprAvg Daily: 17 ° CAvg Nightly: 5 ° C
  • MayAvg Daily: 22 ° CAvg Nightly: 11 ° C
  • JunAvg Daily: 26 ° CAvg Nightly: 16 ° C
  • JulAvg Daily: 27 ° CAvg Nightly: 20 ° C
  • AugAvg Daily: 28 ° CAvg Nightly: 20 ° C
  • SepAvg Daily: 24 ° CAvg Nightly: 14 ° C
  • OctAvg Daily: 18 ° CAvg Nightly: 7 ° C
  • NovAvg Daily: 10 ° CAvg Nightly: -1 ° C
  • DecAvg Daily: 3 ° CAvg Nightly: -7 ° C
Best Time to Visit South Korea

Best Time to Visit South Korea

South Korea is a unique country. One on hand, its modernization is incomparable to any other country on the planet. On the other hand, it still maintains its age-old traditions and culture, proving that you do not have to choose between one or the other. ...Read more

South Korea in September: Weather, Festivals and Tips

South Korea in September: Weather, Festivals and Tips

Summer heat and humidity give way to pleasant fall weather conditions in South Korea in September. The air is crisp, and the skies are clear, perfect for exploring popular sights and culture. Tour the ancient palaces and temples in Seoul, hike the picture ...Read more

FAQs for South Korea

Read the most frequently asked questions and answers about traveling to South Korea below.

  • How much does it cost to tour South Korea?
  • How many days are enough for South Korea?
  • What is the best time to travel to South Korea?
  • Do I need a visa to go to South Korea?
  • Is South Korea friendly to tourists?

Sustainable travel — How to travel through South Korea responsibly

In line with Bookmundi’s vision, we wish to provide our travelers with a sustainable travel experience through South Korea. As part of this effort, we carbon-offset any South Korea tour that you purchase through us. You can read more details about our carbon offsetting efforts.

Here’s what you can do to travel to South Korea more responsibly:

  • Carbon-offset your transport to South Korea via airlines such as Korean Air. The moment your tour starts in South Korea, and provided that you have purchased your tour through Bookmundi, we will carbon-offset your tour from its starting point to its ending point.
  • With so much natural beauty around South Korea and so much industry, there is often a conflict when it comes to environmentalism. Check out the GKL Foundation, which aims to make tourism sustainable and responsible, so the lands will be enjoyed for years to come. It describes itself as combining sustainability with social responsibility.
  • On an individual basis, travelers can look to travel in groups, carpooling, or taking public transport to reduce their carbon footprint. South Korea has an amazing public transport system. so it is well worth learning more about this green way of getting around the country.

South Korea travel tips and insights

  • It is always a good idea to write down the name of the destination when asking for directions.
  • Avoid large gatherings such as protests and rallies.
  • Always opt for registered taxis or public transport while traveling at night.
  • Since all ATMs do not accept foreign credit cards, have some local currency with you.

Ready to customize your South Korea Vacation

Book your trip when it is perfectly designed and customized, just for you.

  • DaeHee Won
    DaeHee WonTravel Expert in South Korea
  • Nigel Sutherland
    Nigel SutherlandTravel Expert in South Korea
  • Katrina Cao
    Katrina CaoTravel Expert in South Korea & Japan
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