Picture yourself standing in the heart of Seoul, where ancient meets modern in a mesmerizing dance of contrasts. The morning sun casts long shadows from towering skyscrapers onto the intricate roof tiles of a 600-year-old palace. The air is filled with the aroma of sizzling street food and fresh coffee from trendy cafes, while the gentle chimes of a temple bell echo in the distance. This is South Korea – a country where decades of rapid development have created a unique harmony between tradition and innovation, where you can experience a Buddhist temple stay in the morning and a high-tech VR gaming cafe in the afternoon.
This carefully crafted 10-day journey takes you through the soul of South Korea, designed to give you the perfect blend of must-see highlights and hidden gems. We’ve balanced the itinerary to avoid the common tourist burnout, allowing time for both scheduled activities and spontaneous discoveries. This route is ideal for first-time visitors to Korea, though seasoned travelers will find plenty of unique experiences as well.
What Makes This Itinerary Special:
– Efficient route planning to minimize travel time
– Mix of popular attractions and local secrets
– Flexible schedule allowing for personal interests
– Cultural insights beyond typical tourist experiences
– Practical tips from experienced travelers
Contents
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May)
✓ Perfect Temperature: 15-25°C (59-77°F)
✓ Cherry Blossom Season (late March to mid-April)
✓ Vibrant Festival Season
– Pack layers for varying temperatures
– Book early – peak tourist season
Fall (September to November)
✓ Comfortable Weather: 15-20°C (59-68°F)
✓ Stunning Fall Foliage
✓ Clear Skies
– Less crowded than spring
– Perfect for outdoor activities
Summer (June to August)
• Hot and Humid: 25-30°C (77-86°F)
• Monsoon Season
• Vibrant Festival Scene
– Good for beach visits
– Pack rain gear
Winter (December to February)
• Cold: -5 to 5°C (23-41°F)
• Snow in Seoul
• Winter Sports Season
– Lower tourist numbers
– Best hotel deals
Quick Overview of Route
Day 1-3: Seoul
– Experience the capital’s dynamic blend of old and new
– Explore palaces, markets, and modern districts
– Base yourself in central Seoul
Day 4: DMZ Day Trip
– Visit the world’s most famous border
– Return to Seoul in evening
Day 5-6: Busan
– Discover Korea’s vibrant port city
– Experience coastal culture and seafood
– Stay near Haeundae Beach
Day 7-8: Gyeongju
– Explore Korea’s ancient capital
– UNESCO World Heritage sites
– Traditional architecture and temples
Day 9-10: Return to Seoul
– Complete your shopping
– Modern Korean culture
– Final cultural experiences
Total Distance: Approximately 1,000 km
Transport Methods:
– KTX (High-speed rail) between major cities
– Efficient subway systems within cities
– Optional bus travel for flexibility
Key Travel Times:
– Seoul to Busan: 2.5 hours (KTX)
– Busan to Gyeongju: 40 minutes (Bus)
– Gyeongju to Seoul: 2 hours (KTX)
This itinerary is designed to maximize your experience while minimizing travel fatigue. Each destination has been chosen to reveal a different facet of Korean culture, from the ultra-modern to the deeply traditional. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, history buff, K-pop fan, or culture seeker, this journey offers something special for everyone.
Remember: While this itinerary is comprehensive, it’s also flexible. Feel free to adjust it based on your interests, energy levels, and any special events happening during your visit. The joy of travel often lies in the unexpected discoveries you make along the way.
Day 1-3: Seoul Itinerary
DAY 1: MODERN SEOUL (GANGNAM & SURROUNDINGS)
Morning: Arrival & Orientation 08:00 – Arrival at Incheon International Airport
- Purchase T-money card
- Exchange money
- Get local SIM card/WiFi device
Transportation Options from Airport:
- AREX Express Train (fastest, 50 mins)
- Airport Bus (economical, 70 mins)
- Taxi (most convenient, 60 mins)
Cultural Tip: Download Kakao Maps before arrival – more accurate than Google Maps in Korea
Morning to Afternoon: Gangnam District 10:30 – Arrive at Gangnam Station 11:00 – COEX Mall & Starfield Library 12:00 – Lunch
Food Recommendations – COEX Mall: Premium:
- Osulloc Tea House
- Famous green tea desserts
- Price: ₩15,000-25,000 per person Mid-range:
- School Food
- Modern Korean street food
- Price: ₩8,000-15,000 per person Budget:
- Food Court
- Various Korean options
- Price: ₩7,000-12,000 per person
Afternoon: Cultural Exploration 14:00 – Bongeunsa Temple 15:30 – K-Star Road 17:00 – Garosu-gil Shopping Street
Shopping Guide – Gangnam: Luxury:
- Galleria Department Store
- Apgujeong Rodeo Street Mid-range:
- Garosu-gil boutiques
- Underground shopping malls Budget:
- Express Bus Terminal Underground Mall Tax Refund Tip: Keep receipts for purchases over ₩30,000
Evening: Night Views & Dining 19:00 – N Seoul Tower 20:30 – Myeongdong Night Market
Dinner Options: High-end:
- N.Grill (rotating restaurant)
- Price: ₩70,000+ per person
- Reservation needed Casual:
- Myeongdong Street Food
- Price: ₩15,000-20,000 per person
- Must-try: Tteokbokki, Korean fried chicken
DAY 2: TRADITIONAL SEOUL
Morning: Palace Circuit 09:00 – Gyeongbokgung Palace
- Watch guard changing ceremony (10:00)
- Rent hanbok for free palace entry
- National Folk Museum
Cultural Tips:
- Bow slightly when greeting elderly
- Remove shoes when entering traditional houses
- Dress modestly for palace visits
Lunch: Insadong Traditional restaurants:
- Sadong Myeonok (hand-cut noodles)
- Gogung (traditional bibimbap) Price range: ₩10,000-20,000 per person
Afternoon: 14:00 – Bukchon Hanok Village 16:00 – Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden 18:00 – Gwangjang Market (dinner)
Shopping Guide – Traditional Areas:
- Insadong: Traditional crafts, tea sets
- Gwangjang Market: Textiles, food
- Bukchon: Handmade crafts Budget Tip: Negotiate prices in markets
Evening: 20:00 – Cheonggyecheon Stream 21:00 – Dongdaemun Design Plaza
DAY 3: CULTURAL SEOUL
Morning: Local Life 09:00 – Hongdae (Youth Culture District)
- Street performers
- Unique cafes
- Artist workshops
Shopping in Hongdae:
- Style Nanda
- ArtBox
- Underground Shopping Price Range: Budget to mid-range
Afternoon: 14:00 – Ewha Woman’s University area 16:00 – Mangwon Market 18:00 – Han River Park
Evening: 20:00 – Itaewon
- International dining
- Nightlife
- Cultural fusion
ACCOMMODATION RECOMMENDATIONS
Luxury: Four Seasons Seoul
- Price: $400+ per night
- Location: Gwanghwamun
- Highlights: Spa, city views
Mid-range: L7 Myeongdong by LOTTE
- Price: $150-200 per night
- Location: Myeongdong
- Highlights: Rooftop bar, shopping
Budget: Kimchee Guesthouse
- Price: $40-60 per night
- Location: Hongdae
- Highlights: Social atmosphere
PRACTICAL TIPS
- Transportation:
- Subway operates 5:30AM-midnight
- T-money card works on all public transport
- Taxis increase rates after midnight
- Shopping:
- Most stores open 10:00-22:00
- Department stores close Mondays
- Tax refund available same day
- Dining:
- Breakfast: 7:00-10:00
- Lunch: 11:30-14:00
- Dinner: 17:00-21:00
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants
- Money-Saving Tips:
- Use T-money card for transport
- Look for “lunch sets” at restaurants
- Shop at underground malls
- Visit palaces on last Wednesday (Culture Day – free entry)
Day 4: DMZ Day Trip
IMPORTANT NOTES:
- Must book tour in advance (at least 3 days)
- Bring passport (required)
- Follow strict dress code (no ripped jeans, sleeveless tops, or sandals)
- Photos only allowed in designated areas
- Tours can be canceled due to military activities
TOUR OPTIONS:
- Full-Day DMZ & JSA Tour (Most Comprehensive) Duration: 8-9 hours Price: $100-150 per person Includes:
- JSA (Joint Security Area)
- Third Tunnel
- Dora Observatory
- Dorasan Station
- Imjingak Park Recommended Tour Companies:
- Koridoor Tours
- VIP Travel
- Seoul City Tours
- Half-Day DMZ Tour (No JSA) Duration: 5-6 hours Price: $55-80 per person Includes:
- Third Tunnel
- Dora Observatory
- Dorasan Station
DETAILED ITINERARY:
Morning: 07:00 – Meet at Seoul City Hall/designated hotel 07:30 – Depart for DMZ 09:00 – Arrive at Imjingak Park
- Freedom Bridge
- Peace Bell
- Various war monuments
10:00 – Third Tunnel
- Watch informational video
- Walk through the tunnel
- Museum visit Cultural Tip: The tunnel descends steeply; wear comfortable shoes
11:00 – Dora Observatory
- View North Korea through binoculars
- Photo opportunities
- Learn about the border region Photography Tip: Photographs only allowed behind the yellow line
12:00 – Dorasan Station
- Last station in South Korea
- Symbolic gateway to North Korea
- Photo opportunities with platform ticket
13:00 – Lunch Location: Restaurant near DMZ Menu Options:
- Traditional Korean set menu
- Western options available Price: Included in most tours Dietary Restrictions: Inform tour company in advance
Afternoon (JSA Tour Only): 14:00 – Joint Security Area (Panmunjom)
- Conference rooms
- Freedom House
- Bridge of No Return Security Note: Follow military escort instructions strictly
16:00 – Return to Seoul 17:00-18:00 – Arrive in Seoul
EVENING RECOMMENDATIONS:
Dinner Options:
- Traditional: War Memorial Area
- Samgyetang Restaurants
- Price range: ₩15,000-25,000
- Recommended: Korea House
- Modern: Itaewon Area
- International cuisine
- Price range: ₩20,000-40,000
- Recommended: Maple Tree House
Evening Activities:
- War Memorial of Korea
- Open until 18:00
- Free admission
- Extensive military history exhibits
- Seoul Station Area
- Shopping at Lotte Mart
- Local street food
- Evening city views
WHAT TO BRING: □ Passport □ Comfortable walking shoes □ Camera □ Cash for souvenirs □ Light jacket (tunnels are cool) □ Umbrella/raincoat (weather dependent)
SHOPPING OPPORTUNITIES:
DMZ Gift Shops:
- North Korean products
- DMZ-themed souvenirs
- Local crafts Price Range: ₩5,000-50,000
Popular Items:
- DMZ chocolate
- North Korean stamps
- Military-themed items
- Local wines and spirits
CULTURAL TIPS:
- Respectful behavior is mandatory
- No pointing or gesturing toward North Korea
- Follow guide’s instructions strictly
- Ask questions respectfully
- Photography only in designated areas
PRACTICAL INFO:
Weather Considerations:
- Tours run in most weather conditions
- Fog can limit visibility at observatory
- Dress appropriately for season
Transport Tips:
- Don’t be late for departure
- Return transport included
- No independent travel allowed
Health & Safety:
- Moderate walking required
- Some steep slopes in tunnel
- Basic medical facilities available
AFTER TOUR ACTIVITIES IN SEOUL:
If Returning Early:
- Shopping:
- Myeongdong District
- Dongdaemun Market
- Underground shopping centers
- Cultural Activities:
- Traditional tea houses
- Local markets
- City walking tours
- Entertainment:
- K-pop performances
- Traditional shows
- Evening river cruises
ACCOMMODATION: (Same as previous night in Seoul)
Luxury:
- Four Seasons Seoul
- Rate: $400+
- Location: Central Seoul
Mid-range:
- L7 Myeongdong
- Rate: $150-200
- Location: Shopping district
Budget:
- Kimchee Guesthouse
- Rate: $40-60
- Location: Hongdae area
MONEY-SAVING TIPS:
- Book DMZ tour in advance for better rates
- Combine with other travelers for group discounts
- Bring own water and snacks
- Look for tour packages including lunch
Remember: The DMZ tour is a unique opportunity to understand Korean history and current geopolitical situation. While serious in nature, it’s one of the most educational experiences you can have in Korea.
Day 5-6: Busan.
DAY 5: COASTAL BUSAN
Morning: Travel & Arrival 07:00 – KTX from Seoul Station
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Cost: ₩59,000-80,000 Travel Tip: Book KTX tickets in advance via Korail website
09:30 – Arrive at Busan Station Hotel Check-in Options:
- Early check-in (if available)
- Store luggage and start exploring
Morning Activities: 10:30 – Gamcheon Culture Village
- Colorful hillside houses
- Art installations
- Local cafes Photography Tip: Best light for photos before noon
Cultural Tips:
- Respect residents’ privacy
- Support local artists
- Many steep stairs – wear comfortable shoes
Lunch Recommendations – Gamcheon Area:
- Gamnae Makguksu
- Local noodle specialty
- Price: ₩8,000-12,000
- Cafe Ante
- Panoramic views
- Price: ₩12,000-20,000
Afternoon: 14:00 – Jagalchi Fish Market
- Korea’s largest fish market
- Fresh seafood restaurants
- Local culture experience
Shopping Guide – Jagalchi:
- Fresh seafood (negotiable prices)
- Dried seafood products
- Local specialties Money-saving tip: Prices more negotiable in late afternoon
16:00 – BIFF Square & Gukje Market
- Street food paradise
- Movie culture
- Shopping opportunities
Evening: 19:00 – Gwangalli Beach
- Gwangan Bridge light show
- Beachfront dining
- Night views
Dinner Options at Gwangalli: Luxury:
- La Vue D’or
- French-Korean fusion
- Price: ₩70,000+/person Local:
- Gwangalli Eomuk
- Famous fish cakes
- Price: ₩10,000-20,000/person
DAY 6: TEMPLES & NATURE
Morning: 08:00 – Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
- Oceanside temple
- Morning prayers
- Rock formations Best Time: Arrive early to avoid crowds
11:00 – Haeundae Beach
- Korea’s most famous beach
- Local restaurants
- Beach activities
Lunch Recommendations – Haeundae: Upscale:
- Paradise Hotel Buffet
- International cuisine
- Price: ₩70,000+ Local:
- Haeundae Market
- Street food and seafood
- Price: ₩10,000-20,000
Afternoon: 14:00 – Shinsegae Centum City
- World’s largest department store
- Luxury shopping
- Spa land (optional)
16:00 – Busan Tower & Yongdusan Park
- City views
- Cultural performances
- Souvenir shopping
Evening: 19:00 – Seomyeon Area
- Street food
- Shopping
- Nightlife
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Luxury: Park Hyatt Busan
- Rate: $300+/night
- Location: Haeundae
- Features: Ocean views, infinity pool
Mid-range: Hound Hotel Seomyeon
- Rate: $100-150/night
- Location: Central Busan
- Features: Modern design, convenient location
Budget: Hostel The Local
- Rate: $30-50/night
- Location: Near Seomyeon
- Features: Social atmosphere, clean facilities
SHOPPING GUIDE
High-end:
- Shinsegae Centum City
- Lotte Department Store
Mid-range:
- Seomyeon Underground Shopping
- NC Department Store
Budget:
- BIFF Market
- Gukje Market
- Nampo-dong Street
CULTURAL TIPS:
- Temple Etiquette
- Modest dress required
- Quiet demeanor
- No photos during ceremonies
- Beach Culture
- Conservative swimwear preferred
- Public changing rooms available
- Beach umbrellas for rent
- Market Etiquette
- Polite negotiation acceptable
- Sample food before purchase
- Cash preferred
FOOD SPECIALTIES
Must-Try Dishes:
- Seafood:
- Busan Fish Cake (Eomuk)
- Raw Fish (Hoe)
- Seafood Soup (Haemultang)
- Street Food:
- Ssiat Hotteok (Seed-filled pancake)
- Bibim Dangmyeon (Spicy noodles)
- Busan-style Odeng
PRACTICAL TIPS
Transportation:
- Busan Metro Card available
- Taxis readily available
- City bus system extensive
Money-Saving:
- Buy day passes for transport
- Eat at local markets
- Visit temples during free hours
- Shop at traditional markets
Weather Considerations:
- Summer: Hot and humid
- Spring/Fall: Pleasant
- Winter: Cool but mild
Day 7-8: Gyeongju
DAY 7: HISTORIC SITES
Morning: Arrival & Ancient Tombs 08:30 – Bus/Train from Busan
- KTX: 30 minutes (₩15,000)
- Bus: 1 hour (₩5,000) Travel Tip: Store luggage at hotel/station
09:30 – Tumuli Park (Daereungwon)
- Royal burial mounds
- Cheonmachong Tomb
- Ancient artifacts museum Entrance Fee: ₩3,000 Photography Tip: Best lighting in early morning
Cultural Tips:
- Walk clockwise around tombs
- Quiet respect near burial sites
- No climbing on mounds
Lunch Options Near Tumuli: Traditional:
- Hwangnam Bread (local specialty)
- Famous red bean pastries
- Price: ₩4,000-8,000 Full Meal:
- Sukyeong Sikdang
- Traditional Korean set meals
- Price: ₩10,000-15,000
Afternoon: 13:00 – Cheomseongdae Observatory
- Oldest observatory in Asia
- Adjacent flower fields
- Photo opportunities Entrance Fee: ₩1,500
14:30 – Gyeongju National Museum
- Silla Dynasty artifacts
- Golden crown room
- Buddhist art collection Free Admission Cultural Tip: Free guided tours in English available
Evening: 17:00 – Wolji Pond (Donggung Palace)
- Evening illumination
- Historic palace grounds
- Reflection photography Best Time: Visit at sunset for photos
Dinner Recommendations: Upscale:
- Gyeongju Kolon Hotel Restaurant
- Royal cuisine
- Price: ₩50,000+/person Traditional:
- Yeongbin sikdang
- Local specialties
- Price: ₩15,000-25,000/person
DAY 8: TEMPLES & NATURE
Morning: 08:00 – Bulguksa Temple
- UNESCO World Heritage site
- Buddhist architecture
- Morning meditation (optional) Entrance Fee: ₩6,000
Cultural Tips:
- Dress modestly
- Remove shoes when entering buildings
- No flash photography inside
- Quiet voices
11:00 – Seokguram Grotto
- Buddha statue
- Mountain views
- Historic architecture Entrance Fee: ₩6,000 Transport: Shuttle bus from Bulguksa
Lunch Options: Temple Food:
- Bulguksa Temple Restaurant
- Vegetarian Buddhist cuisine
- Price: ₩20,000 Local:
- Mountain restaurants
- Traditional Korean food
- Price: ₩10,000-15,000
Afternoon: 14:00 – Mount Namsan Trail
- Historic Buddha carvings
- Nature walks
- Archaeological sites Hiking Tip: 2-3 hour easy trails available
16:00 – Gyeongju Hanok Village
- Traditional houses
- Tea ceremonies
- Cultural experiences
Evening: 18:00 – Downtown Gyeongju
- Shopping streets
- Local cafes
- Night market (seasonal)
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Luxury: Hilton Gyeongju
- Rate: $200+/night
- Location: Lake view
- Features: Spa, pool
Traditional: Gyeongju Korean House
- Rate: $80-120/night
- Location: Historic district
- Features: Traditional hanok experience
Budget: Gyeongju Guest House
- Rate: $30-50/night
- Location: Near bus terminal
- Features: Bicycle rental
SHOPPING GUIDE
Traditional Crafts:
- Gyeongju Traditional Craft Shop
- Items: Pottery, handicrafts
- Price Range: ₩10,000-100,000
Modern Shopping:
- Downtown Shopping Street
- Items: Modern goods, souvenirs
- Price Range: ₩5,000-50,000
Local Specialties:
- Hwangnam Bread
- Traditional teas
- Handmade pottery
CULTURAL EXPERIENCES
Available Activities:
- Tea Ceremony
- Location: Various tea houses
- Duration: 1 hour
- Price: ₩20,000-30,000
- Traditional Crafts
- Pottery making
- Traditional paper art
- Rice cake making Price Range: ₩30,000-50,000
- Temple Stay Programs
- Available at Bulguksa
- Advance booking required
- Price: ₩70,000/night
FOOD SPECIALTIES
Must-Try Local Dishes:
- Gyeongju Bread
- Sweet red bean pastry
- Price: ₩4,000
- Ssambap
- Wrapped rice meals
- Price: ₩15,000
- Temple Cuisine
- Vegetarian Buddhist food
- Price: ₩20,000+
PRACTICAL TIPS
Best Times to Visit:
- Spring: Cherry blossoms
- Fall: Autumn colors
- Avoid summer peak crowds
Transportation:
- City buses available
- Taxi services
- Bicycle rental recommended
Money-Saving Tips:
- Buy combination tickets for sites
- Use public transportation
- Eat at local markets
- Stay in traditional guesthouses
WEATHER CONSIDERATIONS:
- Spring: 10-20°C
- Summer: 25-35°C
- Fall: 15-25°C
- Winter: 0-10°C
ESSENTIAL ITEMS:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Camera
- Sun protection
- Light jacket (temples can be cool)
- Cash for traditional markets
Day 9-10: Back to Seoul
DAY 9: SEOUL HIGHLIGHTS & SHOPPING
Morning: Return to Seoul 08:00 – KTX from Gyeongju
- Duration: 2 hours
- Cost: ₩59,000 Travel Tip: Book tickets in advance
10:30 – Arrive in Seoul Hotel Check-in Options:
- Early check-in if available
- Luggage storage
Morning Activities: Hongdae Area 11:00 – Hongdae Walking Street
- Street performances
- Youth culture
- Unique cafes
Lunch Options in Hongdae: Trendy:
- Thanks Nature Cafe (Sheep cafe)
- Unique atmosphere
- Price: ₩15,000-20,000 Local:
- Hongdae Street Food
- Various options
- Price: ₩5,000-10,000
Afternoon Shopping Guide: 14:00 – Shopping Districts
- Hongdae Shopping:
- Style Nanda
- Kakao Friends
- Underground Shopping Price Range: Budget to mid-range
- Myeongdong (16:00): Luxury Beauty:
- Lotte Duty Free
- High-end cosmetics Mid-range:
- Local beauty brands
- Fashion outlets Budget:
- Street vendors
- Local brands
Shopping Tips:
- Tax refund available
- Bargaining acceptable at markets
- Best deals in underground shops
Evening: 19:00 – Namsangol Hanok Village
- Traditional houses
- Cultural performances
- Night photography
Dinner Options: Korean BBQ:
- Maple Tree House
- Premium meat
- Price: ₩40,000+/person Local:
- Gwangjang Market
- Traditional food
- Price: ₩15,000-20,000
DAY 10: FINAL DAY & DEPARTURE
Morning Options:
- Relaxation Course: 09:00 – Dragon Hill Spa
- Traditional jimjilbang
- Various saunas
- Massage services Price: ₩12,000 entrance
- Cultural Course: 09:00 – Korean Cooking Class
- Traditional recipes
- Market tour
- Lunch included Price: ₩65,000
Afternoon: Option 1: Last-Minute Shopping 13:00 – Express Bus Terminal Underground Shopping
- Bargain shopping
- Local fashion
- Souvenirs
Option 2: Cultural Activities 13:00 – Bukhansan National Park
- Light hiking
- City views
- Temple visits
Pre-Departure Options:
- Blue Lagoon Visit
- En route to airport
- Famous hot springs
- Relaxation before flight Price: ₩55,000
- Traditional Tea House
- Calm atmosphere
- Korean tea ceremony
- Light snacks Price: ₩20,000-30,000
SHOPPING CHECKLIST
Beauty Products:
- Sheet masks
- Korean skincare
- Makeup
Food Souvenirs:
- Ginseng products
- Korean snacks
- Tea sets
Cultural Items:
- Traditional crafts
- K-pop merchandise
- Local designer items
LAST-MINUTE SHOPPING LOCATIONS:
Luxury:
- Shinsegae Duty Free
- Lotte Department Store
- Hyundai Department Store
Mid-range:
- Underground shopping malls
- Local boutiques
- Beauty stores
Budget:
- Street markets
- Subway station shops
- Local markets
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Luxury: Four Seasons Seoul
- Rate: $400+
- Location: City center
- Airport transfer available
Mid-range: Glad Hotel Mapo
- Rate: $150-200
- Location: Near Hongdae
- Easy airport access
Budget: Hongdae Guesthouse
- Rate: $40-60
- Location: Shopping district
- Budget-friendly
PRACTICAL DEPARTURE TIPS
Airport Transfer:
- AREX Express Train
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Cost: ₩9,000
- Airport Bus
- Duration: 60-90 minutes
- Cost: ₩15,000
- Taxi
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Cost: ₩60,000-70,000
Time Management:
- Airport check-in: 3 hours international
- Transport to airport: 1-1.5 hours
- Last-minute shopping: 2 hours
FINAL CHECKLIST:
Documents: □ Passport □ Flight tickets □ Hotel receipt (for tax refund) □ Tax refund papers
Shopping: □ Duty-free pickup □ Tax refund processing □ Last-minute gifts
Personal: □ Currency exchange □ Storage locker keys □ Transportation cards
CULTURAL TIPS:
- Keep receipts for tax refund
- Allow extra time for duty-free pickup
- Check liquid restrictions for beauty products
FINAL TIPS FOR YOUR SOUTH KOREA TRIP
PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS
Seoul:
- Classic Shots
- N Seoul Tower at sunset
- Gyeongbokgung Palace (in hanbok)
- Bukchon Hanok Village streets
- Dongdaemun Design Plaza at night
- Instagram Spots
- Starfield Library COEX
- Common Ground Container Mall
- Ihwa Mural Village
- Haneul Park (autumn)
Busan:
- Gamcheon Culture Village
- Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
- Gwangan Bridge at night
- Oryukdo Skywalk
Gyeongju:
- Bulguksa Temple
- Cherry blossoms (spring)
- Wolji Pond reflections
- Tumuli Park
Photography Tips:
- Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) for best lighting
- Use wide-angle for palace shots
- Portrait mode for food photos
- Time-lapse for city nights
SOCIAL MEDIA TIPS
Popular Hashtags:
- #VisitKorea
- #TravelKorea
- #SeoulLife
- #KoreanFood
- #KBeauty
Instagram-worthy Cafes:
- Seoul: C. Through Coffee
- Busan: Brown Hands Cafe
- Gyeongju: Hwangnidan-gil cafes
Content Tips:
- Share Korean food stories
- Post transit card/tickets
- Document street food adventures
- Capture daily life moments
COMMUNICATION TIPS
Language Apps:
- Papago (better than Google Translate)
- Kakao Talk (messaging)
- Naver Dictionary
Essential Korean Phrases:
- Hello: “Annyeong haseyo”
- Thank you: “Kamsahamnida”
- Excuse me: “Joesonghamnida”
- Bill please: “Gyesana juseyo”
- How much?: “Eolmaeyo?”
Communication Strategies:
- Use translation apps
- Keep hotel card
- Screenshot addresses in Korean
- Learn basic numbers
USEFUL PHRASES
Dining:
- “One person”: “Hana”
- “Delicious”: “Mashisoyo”
- “Water”: “Mul juseyo”
- “Too spicy”: “Neomu maeoyo”
Shopping:
- “Expensive”: “Bissayo”
- “Discount”: “Kaga juseyo”
- “Card”: “Kadeu”
- “Cash”: “Hyeon-geum”
Transport:
- “Where is…?”: “…eodi isseoyo?”
- “Subway”: “Jihacheol”
- “Bus”: “Beoseu”
- “Taxi”: “Taeksi”
PRE-DEPARTURE CHECKLIST
Documentation: □ Passport (6 months validity) □ Visa (if required) □ Travel insurance □ Vaccination records □ International driving permit □ Printed reservations □ Emergency contacts
Bookings: □ Flights □ Hotels □ Airport transfers □ DMZ tour □ Restaurant reservations □ Temple stay (if planned)
Technology: □ Universal adapter □ Power bank □ Camera/charger □ Phone/charger □ Portable WiFi/SIM card □ Downloaded maps □ Essential apps
Personal Items: □ Medications □ Comfortable shoes □ Weather-appropriate clothing □ Basic Korean phrases □ Cash/cards □ Day bag □ Hand sanitizer
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Useful Websites:
- Official Tourism:
- Visit Korea (www.visitkorea.or.kr)
- Seoul Tourism (www.visitseoul.net)
- Transportation:
- Korail (www.letskorail.com)
- Seoul Metro (www.seoulmetro.co.kr)
- Cultural Info:
- Korea Cultural Heritage (www.cha.go.kr)
- K-Performance (www.koreagrandsale.co.kr)
Recommended Apps:
- Navigation:
- Kakao Maps
- Naver Maps
- Subway Korea
- Food:
- MangoPlate
- Siksin
- Korean Food Dictionary
- Shopping:
- Coupang
- Gmarket Global
- SSG
- Transportation:
- KakaoT
- Korail Talk
- T-money
EMERGENCY CONTACTS
General Emergency:
- Police: 112
- Ambulance/Fire: 119
- Tourist Emergency: 1330
Medical Facilities:
- International Clinics List
- 24-hour pharmacies
- English-speaking hospitals
Embassy Contacts:
- Keep your embassy number
- Register travel plans
- Save emergency numbers
Weather Emergency:
- Weather forecast: 131
- Natural disaster info: 119
- Emergency alerts system
Final Safety Tips:
- Keep digital copies of documents
- Share itinerary with family
- Know your hotel address in Korean
- Save emergency numbers
- Download offline maps
