Travel landscape in South Korea
South Korea flagRoutaya · Country guide

Travel guide to South Korea

South Korea is a vibrant country blending ancient traditions with modern technology. It offers rich culture, diverse landscapes, and renowned cuisine.

Photo by Henry Acevedo · Pexels

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Altitude 580 m

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Information is provided as a travel-planning aid. Confirm entry, health and safety requirements with official authorities before departure.

Quick facts

Official languages
Korean
Time zones
UTC+9 (KST)
Electrical outlets
220 V / 60 Hz, Type C and F plugs
Climate
Temperate with four distinct seasons; hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters

Health

Modern medical facilities are available in urban areas. Travel health insurance is recommended.

Travel health advice

  • Drink bottled water
  • Use sun protection in summer
  • Avoid undercooked street food

Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A; Typhoid; Measles

Required vaccines:

Money

Currency: South Korean Won (KRW)

Exchange rates vary; changing money in cities or airports is advised.

International credit cards are widely accepted in big cities. ATMs are common.

Safety

South Korea is generally safe. Follow local guidelines and avoid protests.

  • Do not display valuables
  • Watch for pickpockets in tourist areas
  • Follow safety instructions near border regions

Areas to check before travel: Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between North and South Korea

Regions

Seoul Metropolitan Area — travel guide
Region

Seoul Metropolitan Area

Political, economic, and cultural center with many monuments and vibrant districts.

South Gyeongsang — travel guide
Region

South Gyeongsang

Historic region with ancient temples and traditional festivals.

South Jeolla — travel guide
Region

South Jeolla

Famous for its cuisine, green countryside, and beaches.

Chungcheong — travel guide
Region

Chungcheong

Area between Seoul and Busan with natural heritage and cultural sites.

Gangwon — travel guide
Region

Gangwon

Mountains, ski resorts, and national parks ideal for outdoor activities.

Southeast Islands — travel guide
Region

Southeast Islands

Archipelago offering relaxation, marine landscapes, and seafood specialties.

Cities

Seoul — city guide
City guide

Seoul

Dynamic capital blending ancient traditions and ultra-modern architecture.

  • Gyeongbokgung Palace
  • Insadong District
  • N Seoul Tower
  • Namdaemun Market
Busan — city guide
City guide

Busan

Port city famous for its beaches and film festival.

  • Haeundae Beach
  • Jagalchi Fish Market
  • Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
Gyeongju — city guide
City guide

Gyeongju

Former capital of the Silla kingdom, rich in historical sites.

  • Royal Tombs
  • Bulguksa Temple
  • Cheomseongdae Observatory
Jeonju — city guide
City guide

Jeonju

City known for bibimbap and traditional hanok village.

  • Jeonju Hanok Village
  • Bibimbap Museum
  • Traditional Market
Incheon — city guide
City guide

Incheon

Port city hosting the main airport, connected to Seoul.

  • Chinatown
  • Songdo Canal
  • Eurwangni Park
Daegu — city guide
City guide

Daegu

Industrial and cultural center with temples and festivals.

  • Palgong Mountain
  • Textile Museum
  • Bongsan Mask Festival
Sokcho — city guide
City guide

Sokcho

Gateway to Seoraksan National Park.

  • Seoraksan National Park
  • Sokcho Beach
  • Fish Market

Highlights

Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) — travel guide
Must-see

Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

Historic border between the two Koreas with secure guided tours.

Gyeongbokgung Palace — travel guide
Must-see

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Symbol of Korean royal history in the heart of Seoul.

Bulguksa Temple — travel guide
Must-see

Bulguksa Temple

UNESCO World Heritage site and masterpiece of Buddhist architecture.

Jeonju Hanok Village — travel guide
Must-see

Jeonju Hanok Village

Exceptional preserved traditional Korean neighborhood.

Namdaemun Market — travel guide
Must-see

Namdaemun Market

Largest traditional market in Korea for shopping and culinary discovery.

Seoraksan National Park — travel guide
Must-see

Seoraksan National Park

Spectacular mountain landscapes, hiking, and ancient temples.

Nature & other places

Mount Seoraksan — travel guide
Mountain

Mount Seoraksan

National park famed for peaks, diverse wildlife and flora.

Haeundae Beach — travel guide
Beach

Haeundae Beach

Popular urban beach in Busan with fine sand and water activities.

Jeju Island — travel guide
Island

Jeju Island

Volcanic island with waterfalls, beaches, and hiking trails.

Jirisan National Park — travel guide
Mountain

Jirisan National Park

Mountain area ideal for hiking and nature observation.

Han River — travel guide
River

Han River

Flowing through Seoul with parks along its banks, perfect for walking and cycling.

Oedo Botania Islands — travel guide
Botanical Garden

Oedo Botania Islands

Lush maritime garden on an island, reachable by boat from Busan.

Travel conditions can change. Always consult official government travel advice and health authorities shortly before your trip.

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