SOUTH KOREA

South Korea is a captivating blend of ultra-modern technology and deeply preserved ancient culture. It's safe, incredibly efficient, and a fascinating stop on the Asia circuit, offering a unique experience away from the typical Southeast Asian trail.

Most trips begin in Seoul, a sprawling metropolis that masterfully blends towering skyscrapers (Gangnam) with historic palaces (Gyeongbokgung) and lively youth culture (Hongdae). From there, travellers venture to the historic city of Gyeongju, the bustling port of Busan (known for its beaches and seaside temples), and the volcanic island of Jeju, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique natural beauty.

Getting around is effortless thanks to a world-class network of buses and high-speed trains. While the language barrier can be noticeable outside of major tourist hubs, the kindness of locals, the abundance of delicious and cheap street food, and the overall safety make South Korea a rewarding, if slightly more structured, backpacking destination.

South Korea has four distinct seasons, each offering a different travel experience.

• Spring (April - May): The most popular time to visit. The weather is mild, sunny, and beautiful, coinciding with the stunning Cherry Blossom season. Highly recommended.

• Summer (June - August): Hot, humid, and subject to a monsoon (Jangma) season, especially in July. Expect frequent, heavy rainfall.

• Autumn (September - October): Often cited as the best time to visit. The weather is crisp, clear, and sunny, with low humidity. The mountains are spectacular with rich Autumn Foliage. Highly recommended.

• Winter (November - March): Cold and dry, with temperatures often dropping well below freezing, especially in the north. It’s the least crowded time, and you can enjoy winter sports, but sightseeing can be chilly.

Important Tip: If travelling during the monsoon season, prioritize city activities and be prepared for rain. Book accommodation with good heating/cooling depending on the season.

• Visa-Free Entry: Most developed nations, including the UK, EU, US, Australia, and New Zealand, are granted visa-free entry for tourism for periods typically ranging from 30 to 90 days. Always check the specific duration for your passport nationality.

• K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization): Required for citizens of visa-free countries. You must apply for this online before departure.

• Passport Validity: Passports should be valid for at least 6 months upon entry.

• Onward Travel: You may be asked for proof of an onward or return ticket, though this is not consistently enforced.

Currency: South Korean Won (KRW) 🇰🇷 South Korea is more expensive than Southeast Asia but generally more affordable than Western Europe or Australia.

Best way to access money:

• Card payment is widely accepted in major cities, even for small purchases.

• ATMs are plentiful, but some international cards may only work at specific Global ATMs found in subway stations, convenience stores (7-Eleven, GS25), and banks (Woori, KEB Hana).

• Avoid withdrawing small amounts; withdrawal fees can be high (up to 3,600 KRW).

Typical daily backpacker budget:

• 70,000–100,000 KRW/day ($50–$75 USD) – This budget covers guesthouse/hostel dorms, street food, cooking some meals, and using local public transportation.

Tips:

• T-money Card: Get a reloadable T-money card for effortless use on subways, buses, and even in some convenience stores across the country.

• Street Food & Markets: Eating local food like kimbap, tteokbokki, and dishes in traditional markets is delicious and very cheap.

• Transportation Apps: Use local apps like Naver Map or KakaoMap for navigation, as Google Maps is often unreliable for directions in South Korea.

• Free Activities: Explore the many free-to-enter museums, historical districts (like Bukchon Hanok Village), and enjoy the beautiful urban parks.