South Korea Travel Guide

Language and Communication

Korean is the main language of South Korea. You’ll find most people speak some level of English, plus most big cities, major train stations, and popular tourist locations have English signage. It’s a good idea to carry a Korean phrasebook or translation app if you’re visiting a rural area where English isn’t as prevalent.

To stay connected during your visit to South Korea, you can purchase a prepaid SIM from convenience stores, airports, and phone network shops. Most modern phones are compatible with foreign SIMs – (as long as they’re unlocked, GSM devices and will connect to Korea’s local networks. We’d recommend a KT Olleh prepaid SIM for stays under 30 days.

Alternatively, you’ll find free WiFi available at many cafés and train stations if you need directions or to translate instructions.

Cash, Currency and Tips

During your South Korea trip, you’ll use the country’s official currency: the won (KRW). Bills come in ₩1000, ₩5000, ₩10,000, and ₩50,000 denominations, while coins are available in ₩10, ₩50, ₩100 and ₩500. Note that most ATMs are open 24/7.

Most businesses such as major hotels, general shops, and department stores allow card payments. Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted credit cards, however, you’ll also find that American Express can be used at some premium hotels and restaurants.

You can use your credit card at most Korean stores without limits. You could also get a chargeable prepaid card, such as a NAMANE or T-money card, which can be used at participating stores. Some stores have ZeroPay membership, allowing customers to use WeChat Pay or Union Pay. These payment methods also allow for automatic tax refund services.

We recommend that you carry some cash with you while traveling. You may need this to pay for food at smaller restaurants and for shopping at local markets.

Tipping: Tipping is not part of Korean culture. In fact, tipping waiters, hotel staff, and cab drivers is often considered disrespectful – especially in more rural areas where it is not customary. If you’d like to tip your guide, do this in local currency with a discreet envelope.

Health Information

Currently, there are no longer any rules around COVID-19 testing, proof of vaccination, or quarantining in Korea. Masks are no longer mandatory, although you may still want to wear one while using crowded public transport.

While there are no other mandatory vaccination requirements for traveling to South Korea, some are recommended. This includes hepatitis A and tetanus. If you’re visiting rural areas during your South Korea trip, you may want to consider being vaccinated for Japanese encephalitis and rabies.

Local Customs

Bowing is the traditional greeting of South Korea, typically accompanied by a short handshake if you’re a man. Avoid touching people who are not a relative or close friend. Public displays of affection are also not encouraged.

When in public, never take photos of someone without asking permission first. Additionally, do not speak on your cell phone while on public transport. Koreans don’t like to walk and eat, and you’ll find most will stop and eat street food right next to where they’ve purchased it from.

If you’re receiving a gift, object, or even an item of food, it’s traditional to accept it with two hands. Koreans don’t normally thank each other for small gestures such as holding open doors, so don’t be offended if you experience this.

Getting Around

Korea has an excellent public transport system, making it easy to travel between destinations. Big cities like Seoul and Busan have efficient subway and bus systems. You might want to purchase a smart card, known locally as a T-Money card, to make it quick and easy to pay for any transportation. Taxis are also a safe and inexpensive option.

If you’re venturing further afield, you’ll find regular flights operate between Seoul, Busan, Jeju Island, and beyond. You could also take a high-speed train, including the SRT which connects Seoul to Korea’s southern cities.

If you’re using your phone to navigate around cities, apps like Kakao Map and Naver Map tend to be more reliable in Korea than Google Maps. Most urban areas are very pedestrian-friendly, with special pedestrianized zones and well-maintained sidewalks.

Are you ready to start planning your tailor-made trip to South Korea? Get in touch with our experts today!