Seoul is a mesmerizing blend of ancient palaces and cutting-edge technology, traditional markets and K-pop glam. This 600-year-old capital seamlessly mixes Joseon-era heritage with futuristic architecture, offering world-class cuisine, legendary nightlife, and the epicenter of Korean pop culture. From serene Buddhist temples to neon-lit entertainment districts, Seoul is Asia's most dynamic city.
Quick Facts
Recommended Stay7 days
Budget$70/day
Mid-range$150/day
Luxury$400/day
Known For
seoulkoreasouth_koreakpopgangnammyeongdongkorean_foodbbqskincarebeautytechnologypalacetemplenightlifeshopping
π°π· Country Information: South Korea
CapitalSeoul
CurrencyWon (β©)
Language
Korean ,
English (limited), Chinese (limited), Japanese (limited)
Phone Code+82
Electricity220V (Type C, F)
Tap WaterSafe to drink
Tipping
- Tipping is generally not expected in South Korea, including at restaurants, taxis, or hotels
- Service charges are usually included in prices
- Tipping may be seen as rude or confusing, as it is not part of the local culture
Money & Payments
- ATMs are widely available
- Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in urban areas; some smaller businesses may prefer cash
- Bringing some cash is advisable for smaller shops or rural areas
- No black market for cash
Cultural Norms
- Bowing is a common greeting and sign of respect; deeper bows indicate more respect
- Remove shoes when entering homes, temples, and some restaurants
- It is considered rude to blow your nose loudly in public
- Use both hands when giving or receiving objects, especially money or business cards, as a sign of respect
- Elders are highly respected, and it is customary to show deference to them
- Avoid writing a person's name in red ink, as it is associated with death
LGBTQ+ Information
Exercise caution. While LGBTQ+ individuals are not explicitly protected by anti-discrimination laws, public perception is slowly improving. Same-sex marriage is not recognized.
Alcohol & Drug Laws
- Legal drinking age is 19 (Korean age, which can be 18 by international age)
- Drug laws are very strict, even for small amounts and for foreign nationals
- Penalties are severe
Special Laws
- It is illegal to smoke in most public indoor spaces, including restaurants and cafes
- Jaywalking is illegal and can result in fines
- Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon
- Do not bring durian into public transportation or hotels due to its strong smell
Common Phrases
NoAniyo (ah-nee-yoh) μλμ
YesNe (neh) λ€
HelloAnnyeonghaseyo (ahn-nyuhng-hah-say-yoh) μλ
νμΈμ
Excuse meJoesonghamnida (joh-song-hahm-nee-dah) μ£μ‘ν©λλ€
Thank youGamsahamnida (gahm-sah-hahm-nee-dah) κ°μ¬ν©λλ€
Climate
Four distinct seasons. Summers (June-August) are hot and humid with monsoon rains in July. Winters (December-February) are cold and dry with temperatures below freezing. Spring and autumn are ideal with pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Fine dust (PM2.5) can be an issue, especially in spring.
Getting There
- Incheon International Airport (ICN) is the main hub, 50km west of Seoul
- Connected by AREX express train (43 min) and buses
- Gimpo Airport (GMP) handles domestic and some regional flights, closer to city center
- KTX high
- speed rail connects to Busan (2
- 5 hours) and other cities
Getting Around
- Seoul Metro is world
- class with 23 lines, clean, cheap, and efficient
- T
- money cards work on metro, buses, and taxis
- Taxis affordable and abundant
- Buses comprehensive but Korean
- language heavy
- Walking excellent in neighborhoods
- Uber exists but local Kakao T is more common
Health & Vaccinations
- No special vaccinations required
- Excellent medical facilities available
- Pharmacies common and well
- stocked
- Healthcare affordable even for visitors
- Air quality masks useful in spring
- Travel insurance recommended
- Tap water is safe but most Koreans drink filtered
Staying Connected
- Major carriers: SK Telecom, KT, LG U+
- Tourist SIMs at airport (Korea SIM, EG SIM)
- eSIM: Airalo, Holafly, KT Roaming work well
- 5G coverage excellent throughout Seoul
- Free WiFi very common
- cafes, subway, public spaces
- Portable WiFi (egg) rentals popular
Local Cuisine
Korean BBQ
must_try
Grilled meat at your table is a quintessential Korean experience. From premium Hanwoo beef to marinated pork belly (samgyeopsal), wrapped in lettuce w
Kimchi
must_try
The heart of Korean cuisine - fermented vegetables (usually napa cabbage) with chili, garlic, and fish sauce. Served with every meal.
Bibimbap
must_try
Rice topped with sautΓ©ed vegetables, meat, a fried egg, and gochujang (chili paste). Mix everything together before eating.
Fried Chicken
street_food
Korean fried chicken is famously crispy with sweet-spicy yangnyeom sauce. Best enjoyed with beer (chimaek) while watching K-drama.
Tteokbokki
street_food
Chewy rice cakes in spicy-sweet red chili sauce. Found at street stalls throughout Seoul, often with fish cakes and boiled eggs.
Book in Advance
Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:
π΄ Must Book in Advance
Book 1-4 weeks ahead
Tours to the Demilitarized Zone require advance booking and passport details. JSA tours have strict quotas.
Book when tickets release
K-pop concerts sell out in seconds. Music show tapings require joining fan clubs for tickets.
π‘ Recommended to Book Ahead
Book a few days ahead
Wearing hanbok grants free palace entry. Popular rental shops near Gyeongbokgung book up.
Book a few days ahead
Top-rated BBQ spots like Maple Tree House and meat alleys can have long waits without reservation.
Fun Facts
- 1. Seoul has been Korea's capital for over 600 years and has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times throughout history.
- 2. The Seoul Metro is one of the world's busiest and most efficient, moving 7 million passengers daily with free Wi-Fi throughout.
- 3. South Korea has the world's fastest average internet speed, and PC bangs (gaming cafes) are a massive cultural phenomenon.
- 4. The DMZ between North and South Korea is one of the world's most dangerous borders but has become an accidental wildlife sanctuary.
