South Korea Vacations

South Korea's culture is like a vibrant tapestry woven with ancient traditions and modern excitement. It's a place where the old meets the new in a harmonious dance. Imagine walking through bustling streets in Seoul, the capital. Neon lights and towering skyscrapers share space with historic palaces and bustling markets. This mix of old and new gives the country a unique flavour.

Art and history are celebrated too. Ancient palaces, like Gyeongbokgung, and timeless art forms like calligraphy and pottery reveal the country's rich past. Namsadang Nori, a travelling performance troupe, is a cultural treasure. This country is like a storybook where each chapter is filled with new adventures and experiences. From the polite greetings on the streets to the spicy flavours on the table, South Korea's culture is a fascinating tale waiting to be explored.

What is the visiting etiquette in South Korea?

South Korean culture is steeped in traditions and respect for etiquette. A polite bow, accompanied by a warm annyeonghaseyo for hello and annyeonghi gaseyo for goodbye, is a customary greeting. Respect for elders is deeply ingrained, and honorific language, like jondaemal, is used when speaking to them. Take your shoes off inside any home, temple, or guesthouse, give a small, short bow when greeting someone, and give and receive objects using both hands.

What is South Korea best known for?

South Korea's cultural exports, particularly K-pop and Korean dramas, have captivated global audiences. The "Hallyu" wave showcases the nation's entertainment prowess. In modern South Korea, technology shines. It's a place of high-speed internet, innovative gadgets, and futuristic cities. South Korean food has also become a popular staple worldwide.

What are some South Korean traditions?

Korean festivals like Chuseok (harvest moon festival, similar to Thanksgiving) and Seollal (the lunar new year) celebrate ancestral heritage. Folk games, rituals, and traditional dishes are part of these festivities. Traditional clothing such as the "hanbok," is donned on special occasions. South Koreans embrace modern fashion trends, but you'll find a blend of traditional and contemporary styles in many parts of the country. Pottery and fine ceramics are also well-respected art forms in Korea.

What are South Koreans like socially?

Family and hard work seem to dominate Korean culture, especially in Seoul. Social interactions are rooted in Confucianism, so Koreans tend to care a lot about the shared social order, proper behaviour and honouring and protecting family. They also take great pride in dressing and presenting well. South Koreans however are generally friendly and welcoming to foreigners, without being intrusive. They are proud of their culture and heritage, and the world’s ever-increasing interest in it.

What language do South Koreans speak?

Korean is the dominant, official language of South Korea, and the first language of about 81 million people worldwide. Language is fundamental to South Korean culture, with Hangul being the script. Various dialects, like the Gyeongsang and Jeolla, add local flavour. English and Mandarin are widely understood too, or at least studied by younger people.

The best time to visit South Korea is like choosing the sweetest fruit from an orchard. Each season offers a unique flavour, and the best time depends on your preferred taste.

Spring is like a colourful dream. Imagine cherry blossoms painting the landscape in soft pink and white. It's the time for picnics beneath the blooming trees and strolling through charming gardens. Spring, from April to June, is perfect for mild weather and beautiful blossoms.

Summer, from June to August, is like a sizzling barbecue. It's hot, and the cities pulse with energy. This is when South Korea's beaches come alive, and festivals fill the calendar. The Boryeong Mud Festival, for example, is a messy, exhilarating summer extravaganza where you can frolic in the mud. It's ideal if you love the buzz of the urban jungle and don't mind a bit of heat.

Autumn, from September to November, is when the leaves turn brilliant shades of red and orange, and the air turns crisp. It's an excellent time for hiking through forests and exploring historic sites. Nature is at its most colourful, with places like Seoraksan National Park boasting breathtaking autumn foliage.

If you adore the magic of snow and the thrill of winter sports, winter, from December to February, is the season for you. South Korea's ski resorts are famous for their powdery slopes, and, you can warm up with hot bowls of hearty dishes like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and sundubu jjigae (soft tofu stew).

Just match your tastes with the season, and you'll discover South Korea's charms in every way. Whether you seek the delicate beauty of spring blossoms or the thrill of winter adventures, South Korea has something to offer every traveller throughout the year.

What is the ideal time of the year to visit South Korea?

Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November) are generally the best times for a trip to South Korea, both for the weather and the beauty of its flowers or foliage. Winter can be beautiful as well, but expect things to be cold and snowy and probably wet.

When is South Korea’s peak tourist season?

South Korea’s high season is its summer, when tourists both domestic and international flock to popular destinations around the country. The season also offers higher prices and sweltering heat throughout Korea, so unless you want to join the mud-slinging fun at the Boryeong Mud Festival (or celebrate another summer tradition), it’s best to visit Korea another time.

When is the most affordable time to visit South Korea?

Winter is the cheapest time to visit South Korea, and it can be one of the most beautiful, if you don’t mind things being a bit chilly or damp. A good compromise is autumn, which is generally more affordable than spring, but doesn’t come with winter’s low temperatures.

How long should I plan to visit South Korea?

Most South Korea tours last around eight to 11 days. If you don’t have time to go beyond Seoul, five days can be enough to explore, and treat yourself to a day trip.

How long can you vacation in South Korea?

Visitors can stay in South Korea without a visa for up to 90 days.

What is the average cost of a trip to South Korea?

A South Korea vacation can be very affordable, or very expensive, depending on your tastes and interests. For first-class accommodations, train tickets, private guided touring and transfers, and some meals, expect to pay around US$550 per person per day. You can lower that if opting for a group tour, or raise it to see more remote parts of the country, or take a more specialized South Korea tour.

What currency does South Korea use?

South Korea uses the won, which trades at around 1,360 to $1 USD.

Is it better to carry cash or card in South Korea?

It’s good to carry a little cash for small transactions and street vendors, but card payments are now accepted most everywhere in South Korea.

Do I need to tip in South Korea?

No. In fact, offering to tip might embarrass your server/driver/host, etc. Tipping simply isn’t part of Korean culture.

What is the best way to travel in South Korea?

South Korea’s larger cities have excellent subway systems, and taxis are safe and affordable. The rail system connects just about all major parts of the country, making a car largely unnecessary. A flight to Jeju Island takes less than an hour, even from Seoul.

Where to go in Korea if you are a K-Pop fan?

Seoul is the centre of the K-Pop universe. A specialized K-Pop South Korea tour package is a great way to explore South Korea’s booming pop culture industry and visit locations related to K-Pop, along with Korea’s movies and television shows.

Is South Korea LGBTQ+ friendly?

There are no laws against homosexuality or changing gender in South Korea, and foreign same-sex marriages are recognized. However, Korean culture has been slow to embrace LGBTQ+ identities. Protections against discrimination vary across the country and while it’s not censored, there is little LGBTQ+ representation in South Korean media. Younger Koreans are generally far more accepting. Hongdae is one of two LGBTQ+ nightlife districts in Seoul, but some gay bars in the city restrict access to foreigners. Its sister hub, Itaewon is generally more foreigner-friendly. Both these districts are popular with locals and can get rowdy, so stay vigilant and trust your gut when meeting strangers.

Is it safe to walk around in South Korea?

For the most part, South Korea, including Seoul, is a safe destination for tourists. This includes public transit and walking at night. Petty crime and harassment can occur however, particularly in nightlife districts, where drink, food, gum, or cigarette spiking have been reported. Trust your instincts and be vigilant if exploring the nightlife.

Can I drink the tap water in South Korea?

Tap water is safe to drink in just about every part of South Korea, and is usually marked if there is cause of concern.

Can you go from South Korea to North Korea?

No. It is not possible to legally travel across the border between the Koreas. A visit to the Korean Demilitarized Zone, however, is a popular day trip from Seoul for those curious about South Korea’s enigmatic neighbour.

In South Korea, food is not just sustenance but an art form, a cultural treasure, and a means of bringing people together.

At Korean cuisine’s heart is the famous kimchi. This fiery fermented cabbage, seasoned with garlic, ginger, and chilli pepper, is a staple at every meal. Its tangy, spicy punch awakens the taste buds, and it's a testament to the country's love for bold flavours.

A sizzle and a burst of flavour await at the bulgogi barbecue. Thinly sliced marinated beef or pork is grilled at the table, filling the air with mouthwatering aromas.

For those seeking a comforting bowl, bibimbap is the answer. This hearty dish features a colourful mix of vegetables, meat, and a fried egg on a bed of rice, all topped with a spicy sauce. The flavours and textures combine in perfect harmony, creating a satisfying meal.

Seafood lovers will revel in the haemul pajeon, a savoury pancake filled with a medley of fresh seafood and green onions.

Korea's street food culture is a story of its own. Stroll through busy markets, and you'll encounter tteokbokki, chewy rice cakes bathed in a spicy red sauce, and odeng, fish cakes skewered on sticks, perfect for on-the-go snacking.

The art of Korean cuisine extends to presentation as well. Dining is not just about taste but also aesthetics. Colourful dishes are served in beautiful, traditional ceramics, enhancing the overall dining experience.

In South Korea, food is a celebration of life, a gateway to culture, and a journey for all the senses. It's an invitation to explore a world where flavours are bold, traditions are rich, and every meal is an opportunity to savour the heart and soul of this remarkable country.

What is South Korea’s traditional cuisine?

Foodies around the world have fallen in love with the humble fermented cabbage side known as kimchi, but this is just the entry point into Korean cuisine. From Korean barbecue to bibimbap to gamjatang…we could go on, but Korean food is hugely diverse. Be sure to try a samgyeopsal (pork belly) restaurant, where the atmosphere is as exciting as the mix of flavours. Chimaek may just look like fried chicken and beer, but the combination of the two is a Korean weekend institution. Though born out of meat scarcity, army stew is now a beloved dish around the country, while spicy tteokbokki blends rice cakes and fish cakes in one delicious street food.

What is the dining etiquette in South Korea?

Korea’s deep respect for its elders shapes the dinner table. Younger members of the household are expected to sit closer to the door, then wait for more senior diners (either in age or status) to sit down first. You should also wait for older diners to start eating before you begin. It’s also polite to roughly keep up with the other diners, as rushing dinner or taking too long can both be seen as rude. Koreans also typically share all the food at the table, rather than ordering individual meals. The meal begins with the word meokgesseumnida, which translates to “I will eat well.” Hold your spoon in one hand and your chopsticks in the other, and unlike in many Asian countries, don’t lift your bowl off the table. Koreans also eat rice with a spoon rather than chopsticks. 

What is the drinking etiquette in South Korea?

Pouring your own drink in Korea is thought to bring bad luck. Instead, use both hands to handle a glass, including when you pour for someone. Make sure you turn away from elders and cover your mouth when drinking, wait for them to drink first, and make sure your glass is just a little lower than theirs when "clinking." Be sure to finish your drink, and offer to refill someone’s glass if it’s nearly empty. On that note, traditional Koreans may take offense if you refuse a drink, so if you’d rather abstain, simply thank them and accept an alcohol-free drink instead. This obviously does not extend to strangers in bars, clubs or restaurants. Drink spiking is sadly common in Korean nightlife, and your safety always comes first.

Does South Korea cater to dietary restrictions?

South Korea is eagerly expanding its culinary scene, with ever-increasing options catering to vegetarians and vegans, as well as allergies or restrictions related to health or religion. You’re unlikely to have any problems finding options in large cities like Seoul or Busan, though as you get into the smaller, more remote towns, options might be more limited. Despite its reputation for barbecue, Korea’s vegetarian options are flavoursome and delicious!

What do meals typically cost in South Korea?

In Seoul, a cheap, filling meal can be had for as little as US $9, while a three-course dinner for two costs around US $50. Outside the capital, expect things to be about 10 to 20 percent cheaper. You may of course pay extra in more isolated spots like Jeju Island.