South Korea Travel Guide
Country East Asian country known for technology and culture
South Korea beckons with its blend of ancient palaces and K-pop-fueled modernity. In Seoul, the Gyeongbokgung Palace stands amid skyscrapers, while street vendors dish out spicy tteokbokki. Beyond the capital, Jeju Island offers volcanic landscapes, and Busan’s beaches are a summer escape.
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Why Visit South Korea #
Navigate Gwangjang and Myeongdong markets to sample bindaetteok, tteokbokki and mayak gimbap from bustling stalls. Eating on the go is part of Seoul’s rhythm-follow local queues for the best vendors and try small plates to share.
Fly to Jeju for volcanic landscapes, Hallasan hikes and coastal walks around Seongsan Ilchulbong. The island’s distinct cuisine and slower pace contrast sharply with the mainland, making it an easy single-destination getaway.
Experience K‑Pop culture and lively nightlife in districts like Hongdae and Gangnam, where clubs, live venues and themed cafes run late. If you want a closer look, search listings for small live-house shows and local band nights.
A guided trip to the DMZ offers a rare, regulated glimpse at the Korean divide-observation posts, the Third Tunnel and the vibe around Panmunjom. Expect strict rules and book through reputable operators for the official sites.
Try a temple-stay program at a Korean Buddhist temple to experience silent meals, meditation and monastic routines for a night or two. It’s a restful break from urban life and gives practical insight into Korea’s religious traditions.
Who's South Korea For?
South Korea is great for couples - evening walks along the Han River, cozy guesthouses on Jeju and romantic cafes in Seoul‘s Bukchon or Samcheong‑dong. Late‑night dining and noraebang (karaoke) add fun date options.
Very family friendly: theme parks like Everland and Lotte World, interactive museums, and safe urban environments make travel with kids easy. Public transport is punctual and stroller‑friendly in most metros.
Well served by hostels in Seoul, Busan and Jeju, with reliable trains and intercity buses. Costs are higher than Southeast Asia but efficient transport and signage make independent travel straightforward.
Excellent internet, plentiful cafes and coworking spaces in Seoul and Busan and a tech‑forward environment. Visas for long‑term remote work are limited, so many nomads cycle tourist or business visas and short stays.
Outstanding food culture - Korean BBQ, kimchi, street tteokbokki, seafood in Busan and temple/vegetarian cuisine on Jeju. Markets like Gwangjang are musts for any foodie.
Strong hiking culture with trails like Seoraksan and volcanic landscapes on Jeju, plus rock climbing and water sports on the southern coast. Winter skiing and backcountry options are also accessible.
Lively nightlife in Hongdae, Itaewon and Gangnam with clubs, live music and after‑hours street food. Korea’s late-night culture and frequent festivals make for many good party nights.
Jeju Island, national parks like Seoraksan and the inland islands provide excellent natural variety from volcanic formations to coastal cliffs. Well-maintained trails and public transport to nature areas help accessibility.
Regions of South Korea #
Seoul & Incheon
Seoul is a high-energy mix of cutting-edge urban life, ancient palaces and a superb street-food scene. Use the city as a base for museums, markets and night markets, and hop short trains to Incheon’s waterfront and historic districts. It’s ideal for fast-paced urban exploration with easy transit links.
Top Spots
- Seoul - Palaces, street food and endless neighbourhood variety.
- Incheon - Historic port district and modern waterfront developments.
Busan & Southeast
The southeast pairs Korea’s largest port city with a string of beaches, seafood markets and historical treasures. Busan is a pleasant contrast to Seoul: more relaxed, sea-focused and ideal for fresh seafood. Nearby Gyeongju showcases Silla dynasty ruins and is a must for history fans.
Top Spots
- Busan - Haeundae Beach, fish markets and coastal walks.
- Gyeongju - Ancient capital with temples and burial mounds.
Jeju Island
Jeju is a volcanic island with coastal cliffs, lava tubes and a distinct island culture. It’s hugely popular for weekenders, offering hiking, black-sand beaches and fresh seafood. Rent a car to explore widely: the island’s geological sites and seaside trails are the chief attractions.
Top Spots
- Jeju City - Gateway to volcanic landscapes and coastal walks.
- Seongsan - Sunrise peak and rugged eastern cliffs.
Gangwon & East Coast
Gangwon province is Korea’s playground for mountains and coast: dramatic ridgelines, clear-air hiking and long sandy beaches. Seoraksan National Park is the standout for day hikes and panoramic views, while coastal towns offer seafood, quiet guesthouses and seasonal festivals.
Top Spots
- Seoraksan - Towering peaks and well-marked trails.
- Sokcho - Gateway town with seafood and access to national parks.
Jeolla & Southwest
The southwest is food-focused and culturally rich, known for spicy regional cuisine and traditional hanok villages. Jeonju is the culinary draw, while Gwangju provides contemporary art and modern history. It’s an excellent region for food-focused explorations and slower-paced cultural discovery.
Top Spots
- Jeonju - Bibimbap capital and a well-preserved hanok village.
- Gwangju - Art scene and modern cultural institutions.
Top Cities in South Korea
All Cities ›
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Best Things to Do in South Korea
All Attractions ›
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South Korea Bucket List
- Seoul - Capital blending ancient palaces, ultra-modern skyscrapers, extensive subway network, and diverse street food neighborhoods.
- Jeju Island - Volcanic island with lava tubes, Hallasan summit, coastal cliffs, and a distinct local cuisine.
- Gyeongju - Former Silla capital preserving tumuli, Bulguksa temple, and archaeological treasures across a compact historic landscape.
- Busan - Major port city with Haeundae Beach, Jagalchi fish market, and colorful Gamcheon Culture Village.
- DMZ (Joint Security Area) - Controlled guided tours offer rare glimpses into Cold War history, observation posts, and border landscapes.
- Boseong Tea Fields - Layered green tea terraces near the southern coast, excellent for walks and seasonal photography.
- Andong Hahoe Folk Village - Living folk village preserving Joseon-era houses, mask dances, and Confucian cultural traditions.
- Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve - Expansive reedbeds, migratory bird habitats and boardwalks showcasing coastal ecology near Suncheon.
- Osaek area (Seoraksan lesser trails) - Osaek region offers quieter Seoraksan trails, mineral springs, and alpine valleys off main routes.
- Jeongdongjin sunrise spot - Coastal rail halt famous for dramatic sunrises, seaside cafés, and a relaxed small-town atmosphere.
- Jeju Island ring road - Circular coastal drive around Jeju, roughly 180 kilometres, linking waterfalls, lava tubes and seaside villages.
- East Coast (Donghae) drive - National Route 7 - National Route 7 stretches along the east coast offering ocean vistas, fishing towns and scenic cliffs; ~700-800 km.
- Seoul to Busan (Gyeongbu Expressway) - Classic overland corridor on the Gyeongbu Expressway connecting Seoul and Busan in about five to six hours.
- Jeolla and Boseong tea route - Southern itinerary from Gwangju to Boseong tea terraces and coastal towns, ideal for food and landscape stops.
Best Time to Visit South Korea #
South Korea has four distinct seasons: cold, dry winters; a cool, colorful autumn; warm, floral spring; and hot, humid summers with a monsoon period (jangma) in late June-July. Spring (cherry blossom time) and autumn (foliage) are generally the most comfortable periods for visitors.
January
Winter is cold and dry, especially in the northwest and inland regions; Seoul and the north often see sub-freezing temperatures. Ski resorts in the mountains are active and popular with visitors.
Events
- Seollal (Lunar New Year) - variable - Korea's Lunar New Year (Seollal) typically falls in January or February and is a major national holiday with family gatherings and cultural observances; exact date varies each year.
February
Continues cold winter weather with clear, dry days interspersed with occasional snow; good conditions for winter sports. Cities are quieter outside holiday periods.
Events
No major festivals this month.
March
Early spring with gradually rising temperatures; cherry blossoms begin to appear in southern areas late in the month. It is a good time for city sightseeing with fewer tourists than peak blossom weeks.
Events
No major festivals this month.
April
One of the most pleasant months with warm days, cool nights and abundant blossoms in many cities and parks. Expect increased visitors around peak bloom periods in late March to April.
Events
- Cherry blossom festivals (various cities) - Cherry blossom season and related local festivals commonly occur in March-April, with timing dependent on location and the year.
May
Warm, comfortable weather and long daylight hours; a popular month for travel with many outdoor events and festivals. Park and mountain hiking conditions are generally excellent.
Events
- Children's Day (May 5) - Children's Day on May 5 is a national holiday with family activities and events across the country.
June
Temperatures rise and humidity increases as the East Asian monsoon (jangma) approaches, typically starting in late June. Expect more frequent showers toward the month-end in many regions.
Events
No major festivals this month.
July
Peak of the rainy season with heavy rain, high humidity and possible storms; southern and central regions are especially wet. Travel can be disrupted by intense rain, and outdoor plans should be flexible.
Events
- Boryeong Mud Festival - The Boryeong Mud Festival, usually held in July on the west coast, is a popular summer event attracting many domestic and international visitors.
August
Monsoon influence can continue into early August, followed by hot and humid late-summer conditions. Coastal and island areas are busy with domestic tourism despite the heat.
Events
No major festivals this month.
September
Autumn begins with lower humidity, clearer skies and very comfortable temperatures; a top period for travel due to pleasant weather and fall colours later in the season. Popular for hiking and city sightseeing.
Events
- Chuseok (Korean harvest festival) - variable - Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) is a major national holiday in September or October; dates vary with the lunar calendar and involve family travel and cultural observances.
October
Prime autumn weather with vivid foliage in mountains and parks and dry, stable conditions for outdoor activities. This is one of the most popular travel windows of the year.
Events
No major festivals this month.
November
Late autumn with cooling temperatures and low humidity; clear skies make for good urban sightseeing. Crowds are lower than in peak spring and autumn festival weeks.
Events
No major festivals this month.
December
Early winter conditions return with colder nights and occasional snow in northern and interior regions; ski resorts begin to open in suitable zones. December can be festive in cities with year-end events.
Events
No major festivals this month.
How to Get to South Korea #
Most international visitors fly into Seoul Incheon International Airport (ICN), South Korea’s primary long‑haul hub; Gimpo (GMP) handles many domestic and regional flights, and Busan Gimhae (PUS) serves the southeast. Incheon is well connected to Europe, North America, Australia and other Asian hubs.
- South Korea offers visa‑free entry for many nationalities (including citizens of the USA, UK, EU countries, Canada and Australia) for short stays. Most visa‑exempt visitors must obtain a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K‑ETA) prior to travel.
- K‑ETA is required for visa‑free travelers and should be applied for online in advance. Passport validity should cover your intended stay; check for any additional documentation required for longer visits or work.
- Customs and biosecurity rules apply for food, plants and animal products; travel insurance is recommended.
International Airports
Border Crossings #
South Korea ↔ Japan
South Korea and Japan are separated by the Korea Strait and Tsushima Strait but have frequent short ferry and air services connecting major ports and cities. Regular high‑speed ferry services operate between Busan and Fukuoka (Fukuoka-Hakata area); the historic hydrofoil ‘Beetle’ (JR Kyushu) and ferry operator Camellia Line have run high‑speed services on this route, and conventional overnight ferries also operate between ports such as Busan-Shimonoseki. Multiple airlines connect Seoul (ICN/GMP) and Busan (PUS) with Tokyo (NRT/HND) and Fukuoka (FUK); operators include Korean Air, Asiana, Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways as well as low‑cost carriers such as T’way, Jin Air and Peach.
Visa requirements differ by nationality: many passport holders need a visa for Japan or for South Korea unless they are visa‑exempt; South Korea uses K‑ETA/electronic travel authorisation for many short stays. Always confirm entry rules for both countries before travel.
Crossings
- Busan (KOR) - Fukuoka (JPN) (Beetle / Camellia Line ferry services) (Busan port to Hakata (Fukuoka), Korea Strait) - A very popular short ferry route for tourists and business travellers. Fast hydrofoils and ferries take about 3 hours (varies by service) and run multiple times per day on busy schedules; overnight ferries take longer but can carry vehicles. Good option for travellers who prefer to avoid air travel or carry more luggage, but check seasonal schedules and passport/immigration requirements.
- Air services (Seoul / Busan ↔ Tokyo / Fukuoka) (Major airports Incheon/Gimpo/Busan to Tokyo, Fukuoka and other Japanese cities) - Frequent flights connect South Korea and Japan with many daily departures operated by national and low‑cost carriers. Flights are the fastest and most flexible option - expect immigration and customs on arrival and standard passport checks. Airlines commonly used include Korean Air, Asiana, Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways and regional low‑cost carriers.
South Korea ↔ North Korea
South Korea and North Korea share the Korean Peninsula land border (the Military Demarcation Line and the Demilitarized Zone, DMZ). Civilian crossings are extremely limited and tightly controlled; routine cross‑border travel is not permitted. Tourists can visit designated DMZ areas on organised tours from Seoul - for example, tours that visit Imjingak, the Third Tunnel, Dorasan Station, and (subject to availability and security) the Joint Security Area (Panmunjom). These DMZ/Panmunjom visits require advance booking with an authorised tour operator and a passport for background checks; access is subject to military agreement and may be suspended at short notice.
Any attempt to cross the border outside authorised channels is illegal and extremely dangerous. There is no normal passenger ferry or road crossing for ordinary travellers into North Korea from South Korea.
Crossings
- Panmunjom / Joint Security Area (JSA) visits (organised tours) (Demilitarized Zone (near Paju / Panmunjom)) - Visits to the JSA are only possible via approved tour operators and usually include passport checks and security briefings. Tours may be cancelled or changed at short notice for security reasons; visitors should expect strict rules on photography and behaviour.
- DMZ viewing points and Imjingak / Third Tunnel tours (organised) (Areas along the DMZ accessible from Seoul (Paju / Gyeonggi province)) - These half‑day or full‑day tours allow visitors to see parts of the DMZ and related sites but do not involve crossing into North Korea. They are suitable for travellers who want a controlled, educational visit; carry identification and be prepared for security screening.
How to Get Around South Korea
Domestic carriers and low‑cost airlines such as Jeju Air and other Korean carriers run frequent flights from Seoul to Busan, Jeju and regional airports. Flights to Jeju Island are very frequent and often competitively priced, especially off‑peak.
For long internal distances, flying can save time versus surface travel.
The Korail KTX high‑speed network links Seoul with Busan, Gwangju and other cities - Seoul-Busan journeys take around 2.5-3 hours on KTX. Trains are punctual, comfortable and a popular alternative to flying.
Tickets range from moderate to premium depending on class and advance booking; reserve seats for holiday periods.
Express and intercity buses cover routes to most towns and tourist areas not directly served by KTX, with departures from Seoul’s major terminals like Seoul Express Bus Terminal. Bus fares are generally lower than trains and can be a good budget option for regional travel.
Overnight express buses are common for long distances and are equipped for comfort on multi‑hour trips.
Ride‑hailing and taxi services are accessible via apps such as KakaoT (Kakao) which integrates taxis, designated drivers and navigation. Taxis are metered; fares are reasonable for short trips in cities but add up on long rides.
Apps support English interface and are a convenient way to pay and get fare estimates.
Seoul, Busan and other major cities have extensive metro systems; in Seoul the network is integrated with buses and the T‑money transit card used for seamless payment across modes. Metro trips are frequent, affordable and cover most urban attractions.
Taxis, local buses and subway lines combine to make inner‑city travel efficient - peak hours can be crowded, so plan accordingly.
Ferries connect the mainland with islands such as Jeju and smaller coastal islands; services vary seasonally and by operator. For Jeju, both flights and ferries are options - flights are faster while ferries can be cheaper for vehicle transport.
Check schedules and book ahead in summer and holiday seasons when demand rises.
Where to Stay in South Korea #
Seoul’s hotels concentrate in Myeongdong, Gangnam and near Seoul Station; Busan has many near Haeundae Beach. Business hotels offer compact rooms and reliable service for short city stays.
Hanok guesthouses in Bukchon (Seoul), Jeonju and Gyeongju provide traditional Korean architecture and tatami-like rooms. These stays are ideal for cultural immersion and are near historic neighbourhoods.
Budget hostels cluster around Hongdae, Itaewon and near Seoul Station; many offer private rooms and dorms. They’re convenient for nightlife, cheap eats and meeting other travelers.
Overnight jiminjilbangs (public bathhouse complexes) and capsule inns are affordable options for short overnight stays, especially near transit hubs. Facilities vary, so check sleeping arrangements and gender areas beforehand.
Temple stay programs across South Korea (Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan and mountain temples) offer short residential experiences with meditation, chanting and vegetarian meals. Book through official temple-stay programs in advance.
Staying Connected in South Korea #
South Korea has world‑class connectivity with very high mobile and fixed broadband speeds-average mobile speeds are often above 200 Mbps and fixed broadband commonly exceeds 300 Mbps in urban areas. Networks are dense, reliable, and well suited to heavy data use and low‑latency applications.
Major carriers SK Telecom, KT and LG U+ sell tourist SIMs and short‑term data plans at airports and convenience stores. Prices range $10-50 depending on data size and duration.
eSIM options and pocket Wi‑Fi rentals are widely available for visitors.
SK Telecom, KT and LG U+ offer excellent nationwide coverage and very high mobile speeds-average mobile speeds exceed 200 Mbps in many urban areas. Plans vary from economical prepaid bundles to full postpaid packages.
Expect top-tier performance for streaming and low‑latency work.
South Korea has abundant high‑speed Wi‑Fi in cafés, hotels and coworking spaces; daily coworking typically costs $10-40. Public and commercial networks offer fast fixed broadband-excellent for remote work and HD video.
Pocket Wi‑Fi and eSIMs are convenient for multi‑city travel.
Coverage is excellent nationwide, though remote mountain areas may be weaker; eSIMs, pocket Wi‑Fi rentals and short‑term tourist SIMs are easy to obtain at airports.
Money & Currency in South Korea #
Currency is the South Korean won (KRW). Cards are widely used and often preferred for dining, shopping and transport in cities; cash is accepted but less necessary in urban areas. ATMs are plentiful in cities, though not all accept foreign cards-use bank-branded ATMs where possible.
Approximate mid-market rates · Charts & history
- Tipping: Tipping is uncommon and generally not expected-occasional rounding or a small thank-you is fine, larger tips may be given for exceptional service.
- Cards & Cash: Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most hotels, restaurants and stores; some smaller vendors may be cash-only and American Express acceptance is more limited.
- ATMs & Mobile Payments: Major bank ATMs accept many international cards but check signs for international card support; fees and limits vary by your bank. Mobile payments are very common-Samsung Pay, KakaoPay and Naver Pay (and Apple/Google Pay for supported cards) are widely used.
- Banknotes: ₩1000, ₩5000, ₩10000, ₩50000
- Coins: ₩10, ₩50, ₩100, ₩500
Health & Safety in South Korea #
South Korea is generally very safe with excellent healthcare and infrastructure. Primary traveler concerns are seasonal air pollution, dense urban traffic, and occasional natural hazards (typhoons, earthquakes); geopolitical tensions near the DMZ warrant awareness and following official guidance.
- Air Quality & Health - Seasonal fine-dust (yellow dust) and urban air pollution can aggravate respiratory conditions. Check daily air-quality forecasts, limit strenuous outdoor activity on high-pollution days, and carry masks or inhalers if needed.
- Road & Pedestrian Safety - Traffic is dense in cities; cyclists and motorbikes share roads. Pedestrians should use marked crossings and be aware of turning vehicles. Use reputable taxis or ride apps and avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar districts.
- Scams & Petty Crime - Petty theft and occasional confidence scams target tourists in busy areas. Keep valuables secure, be cautious with unsolicited help, and use hotel safes for passports and excess cash.
- Political Tensions (Northern Border) - Tensions with North Korea can lead to sudden security alerts near the DMZ. Avoid the DMZ area without official guides, follow government travel advisories, and register with your embassy if requested.
- Natural Hazards (Typhoons & Earthquakes) - Korea can be affected by summer typhoons and occasional earthquakes. During typhoon season secure belongings, avoid coastal areas during warnings, and follow evacuation instructions from authorities.
- Drug Laws & Legal Risks - South Korea enforces strict drug laws with severe penalties for possession and trafficking. Prescription medicines should be carried with documentation; check local regulations before bringing controlled substances into the country.
History & Culture of South Korea #
South Korea mixes strong regional traditions and centuries of Confucian influence with rapid modernization and global cultural exports. Travelers notice a pronounced respect for age and hierarchy, vibrant food culture, and a willingness to blend old and new.
History of South Korea
Korea’s history is shaped by long-standing indigenous kingdoms, centuries of dynastic rule, foreign invasions, and rapid modernization. Across the peninsula visitors encounter layers from ancient temples and palace complexes to modern urban development.
In the 20th century Korea endured Japanese colonial rule (1910-1945), liberation and a subsequent division into North and South in 1945, and the Korean War (1950-53), which left profound political and social effects. Since the latter half of the 20th century South Korea has undergone rapid industrialization and democratization, resulting in a globally influential culture and technology sector.
Notable Figures
- King Sejong the Great - 14th‑century Joseon ruler best known for creating Hangul, the Korean alphabet, to increase literacy.
- Admiral Yi Sun‑sin - Famed naval commander of the late 16th century celebrated for his victories against Japanese invasions using innovative tactics.
- Kim Dae‑jung - Late 20th‑century president and democracy advocate who received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2000 for promoting reconciliation with North Korea.
Key Dates
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668Silla kingdom, allied with Tang China, consolidates control over much of the Korean Peninsula.
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918Goryeo dynasty is founded; the name 'Korea' derives from Goryeo.
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1392Joseon dynasty established, introducing Confucian statecraft and many cultural institutions.
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1910Japan formally annexes Korea, beginning a period of colonial rule.
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1945Korean Peninsula is liberated from Japanese rule and divided along the 38th parallel.
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1950-1953The Korean War breaks out, ending with an armistice that leaves the peninsula divided.
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1988Seoul hosts the Summer Olympics, marking South Korea's emergence on the world stage.
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1997An economic crisis prompts major financial and corporate reforms in South Korea.
Korean food emphasizes seasonal ingredients, communal dining, and bold flavors-particularly fermented and spicy elements. Meals often center on rice, soup, and an array of shared side dishes (banchan).
Language
Korean (한국어) is the national language; Hangul, the Korean alphabet, is widely used and relatively easy to learn for basic phrases. English is commonly encountered in larger cities, tourist areas, and on signs, but knowing a few Korean phrases is appreciated.
Useful Phrases
- Hello - 안녕하세요 annyeonghaseyo
- Thank you - 감사합니다 gamsahamnida
- Yes / No - 네 / 아니요 ne / aniyo
- Excuse me / Sorry - 죄송합니다 joesonghamnida
- Where is...? - 어디에요? eodieyo?
- How much is it? - 얼마예요? eolma-yeyo?
- One ticket, please - 표 한 장 주세요 pyo han jang juseyo
- Left / Right - 왼쪽 / 오른쪽 oenjjok / oreunjjok
- Delicious - 맛있어요 masisseoyo
- I'm a vegetarian - 저는 채식주의자예요 jeoneun chaesikjuuija-yeyo
- Check, please - 계산서 주세요 gyesanseo juseyo
- Water, please - 물 주세요 mul juseyo
- Help! - 도와주세요 dowajuseyo
- Call the police, please - 경찰 불러주세요 gyeongchal bulleojuseyo
- I need a doctor - 의사가 필요해요 uisaga piryohaeyo
- I'm lost - 길을 잃었어요 gireul ilheosseoyo
Responsible Travel in South Korea #
South Korea’s dense cities, islands and cultural sites function best when visitors follow local etiquette, recycling rules and use public transport; these practices help preserve heritage and natural areas like Jeju.
- Observe Cultural Etiquette: Show respect at temples (e.g., Bulguksa) and traditional hanok houses by removing shoes where required and speaking quietly; ask permission before photographing people in smaller communities.
- Follow Strict Recycling & Food‑Waste Rules: South Korea enforces detailed recycling and food‑waste separation-observe bin markings and hotel instructions to comply with local systems.
- Choose Sustainable Transport: Use Korea’s extensive public transport network and intercity trains to reduce emissions, and pick accredited DMZ tours with guides that respect sensitive areas.
- Support Local Businesses & Traditional Crafts: Buy from small restaurants, markets and craft studios in places like Jeonju and Insadong to support artisans and regional food producers.
- Protect Island & Mountain Environments: On Jeju Island and in national parks, follow trail regulations, avoid off-route hiking and respect seasonal closures to protect endemic species and volcanic landscapes (Jeju is UNESCO-listed).
Travel Resources for South Korea #
Official
- VisitKorea (official tourism portal) Official Tourism
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea Government
- Korea Immigration Service (immigration.go.kr) Visas / Immigration
Travel Advisories
South Korea Embassies Abroad
News & Media
- The Korea Herald English
- The Korea Times English
- Yonhap News Agency (English) English
Useful Links
Useful Apps for South Korea
- KakaoTalk - Korea's leading messaging app, used for contacts, calls, and payments.
- KakaoMap - Highly accurate local maps, driving and public-transport navigation in Korea.
- Google Maps - Useful for international navigation and offline maps.
- Google Translate - Translate Korean text and speech on the go.