10 Travel Tips Need To Know Before Visitting South Korea

South Korea, a modern and ancient country which belongs to East Asian nation on the southern half of the Korean Peninsula, shares one of the world’s most heavily militarized borders with North Korea.

Seoul’s attractions include futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a curving convention hall; Gyeongbokgung Palace, which once had more than 7,000 rooms; the ritzy Gangnam neighborhood; and Lotte World, an indoor-outdoor amusement park.

To the north lies the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) buffer zone where visitors can feel Korean War and visit political facilities which hold official meeting between government of South, North Korea

In the south, the city of Busan is known for the high-rise-lined Haeundae Beach and mountainside Beomeosa Temple. The city of Gyeongju features royal tombs and an observatory from the Silla dynasty. Jeju Island is a honeymoon destination of beaches, waterfalls, volcanic craters and lava caves.

1. When To Visit South Korea 

Most visitors arrive in spring (Mar–May) due to South Korea’s cherry blossom season.

Summers (Jun–Sep) are hot and humid, a popular time for the beaches of Jeju Island. Korea’s ski season typically runs Dec–Mar, when temperatures are cold in most of the country (Source: Google Travel Guide)

2. What To Do In Gyeongbokgung Palace

When you are going to visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, remember that this place is open everyday except Tuesday and be sure get there before 10:00 AM unless you want to stand in long line. You must try to observe the Palace Gate Opening Ceremony and the Guards Changing since they are quite fascinating to watch

 3. Always Bring Camera With You In Nami Island

Walking path is covered by yellow leaf trees

Escape the noise of city to truly enjoy fresh air and miracle landscape at Nami Island. this island has risen in popularity, attracting visitors by the millions due to development of Korea entertainment industry. If you are a fan of K-Drama, Korean movies, you are easily able to recognize this place has became ideal choice of many film directors.

You will be wowed by how this small island is able to have all you can possibly wish for a destination. Remember to bring a digital camera with you, because you surely do not miss the chance creating your very delightful selfie photos.

4. Comply The Rule When You Are In DMZ & JSA

No matter what occasion is, which tour you are taking, remember that you are entering the most dangerous place on the world.
Dress code is also crucial when you visi DMZ & JSA. So keep in mind not to wear ripped jeans or sandals or even unkempt hair. Always ask for permission before taking a photo or doing any suspicious actions

Interestingly, the DMZ, an area that has sparked numerous conflicts has become top tourist destination in every Korea travel

5. A Land Of Wifi

There is wi-fi coverage relatively everywhere you go in Korea, in shops or even on the metro system. The fact that South Korea posses the fastest Internet connection in the world and most of time, it is free Wifi.

6. Don't Be Offended By The Elbow

There will be time when you are pushed or shoved in your travel time in Korea. Do not be frustrated as this is a really common reaction here, a fast-paced country of hasty and diligent workers. In fact, there are even situations that tests their patience further. Having said that, Koreans are generally kind, polite and respectful towards others, especially the elderly.

7. It's Good To Learn Some Korean Phrase

'gomabseubnida' (thank you), 'yeoboseyo' (hello)

The locals will truly appreciate if you can use a few phrases in their language, like 'gomabseubnida' (thank you), 'yeoboseyo' (hello). If you speak in a foreign language to a man, you speak to his mind. But if you speak his mother tongue, you speak to his heart. It is also best to bring with you your phone or a phrase book as the majority of signs are written in Korean.

8. Bring Comfy Shoes

There will be walking involved during your trip in Korea. So many walking paths and hiking may be the most holiday activities in this country. Even in modern cities like Seoul, Busan, Korean people choose walking as their hobby and transportation instead of vehicle.

Photo by Alexandre Chambon on Unsplash

9. Use Metro System

If you are not ready walking during your trip, utilize metro system here is a wise choice in case you want to save money.

Even though there are taxis ready at any intervals, the underground metro system is still the most feasible way to explore modern Korea.Give yourself enough time to learn and understand metro network map to make sure you are not arrive wrong station.

Furthermore, you can also purchase metro card for easy access the subway train system

10. Tip In Korea

You do not have to leave a tip in Korea. Korea is basically a no-tip culture. Cab drivers don't expect any reward for their services and it's pretty much the same for staff in local restaurants as well as hotels. Even porters and bellboys don't expect a tip (Read more)