korea tourist visa how many days

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South Korea Tourist Visa: Requirements and Application Process

Published: March 27, 2024

A South Korea tourist visa is required for all nationalities that are not visa-exempt. The official code for the ordinary tourist visa is C-3-9. You can start the visa application online but you must visit a South Korean embassy in person to submit the documents.

Quick summary:

• Who requires it: All nationalities that are not visa-exempt (or not eligible for K-ETA)
• Validity: 3 months for single-entry; 6 months for double-entry
• Allowed stay: up to 90 days for single-entry; up to 30 days for double-entry
• Processing time: 4 to 14 days
• Fee: 40 USD for single-entry; 70 USD for double-entry

Applications are reviewed by the specific embassy, hence the requirements, costs, and processing time differ significantly between countries.

Read the South Korea Visa Guide for general information on various visa options for tourists, requirements, eligibility and application process.

Table of Contents

Understanding south korea tourist visa.

Tourist visa validity

The single-entry tourist visa is valid for 3 months from the date of issue.

The double-entry tourist visa is valid for 6 months.

The multiple-entry tourist visa can be valid for up to 5 years but has additional requirements including prior travel history to South Korea and as such isn’t an option for first-time travelers.

Duration of stay

Single-entry visas allow up to 90 days but double-entry visas only up to 30 days at a time.

Allowed number of entries

There are three types of South Korean tourist visas – single-entry, double-entry and multiple-entry.

Allowed ports of entry

You can enter South Korea from any international airport or seaport with a tourist visa.

When to apply

The processing time varies greatly between South Korean embassies. In general, allow at least a few weeks for the issuance of a tourist visa after your first visit to the embassy. 

• Earliest: 3 months before traveling
• Latest: 3 weeks before traveling

Tourist visa extension

Extensions to the tourist visa are possible but not easily granted. You must apply in person at the Seoul Immigration office. Extensions are approved only on a case-by-case basis.

Tourist visa benefits

South Korean tourist visa also offers VISA-FREE travel to 7 other countries. Read the  VISA-FREE countries for South Korea visa  for more details.

South Korea Tourist Visa Requirements

Who requires a tourist visa

All non-visa-exempt nationalities require a tourist visa for South Korea.

If you are visa-exempt, you do not require a tourist visa instead you require a K-ETA to travel to South Korea.

Documents required

The following documents are required for the tourist visa.

• Passport valid for more than 6 months
• Completed Visa Application Form (Form #17)
• Two passport-size photos (1 digital photo for online form)
• Bank statement for the last 3-6 months

Depending on the nationality and the embassy where you apply, you may be required to submit additional documents such as the below.

• Proof of employment (employment letter, salary slips, etc.)
• Income tax returns (1-3 year ITR depending on whether employed or self-employed)
• Proof of long-term residence (if applying from a country other than the country of citizenship)
• Proof of property ownership
• Family book or marriage certificate

Photo requirements

The photo for the tourist visa must meet the following requirements. 

• Must be of size 35×45 mm, with the face taking 25×35 mm
• Must be against a plain, evenly lit and light background, without any marks or creases
• Must have taken within the last 6 months
• Mist be looking directly at the camera
• No sunglasses or hats, except for medical/disability reasons
• Facial features are not covered from the bottom of chin to the top of forehead
• Full face is visible without any shadows
• Full face, eyebrows, eyes, nose, or mouth must not be covered, but covered ears are permitted.

The visa fee varies significantly depending on the type of visa, the location where you apply and your nationality.

In most general cases, the single-entry visa fee is 40 USD, double-entry is 70 USD and multiple-entry is 90 USD. The fee is payable in local currency in cash.

In some countries, South Korea has outsourced visa processing to Visa Application Centers such as VFS Global. Visa Application Centers charge their own service fee for handling the visa applications.

The fee is higher, lower, or exempted for certain nationalities. You can find the complete list on the Korea Visa Portal . 

Processing time

Applications are reviewed by a particular embassy so processing time is not universal. Some embassies process tourist visas in 4 days, others in 7 days, some in 14 days or more.

The official guidance is to apply at least 3 weeks in advance of traveling to allow sufficient time for the issuance of your tourist visa.

In countries where the application process is outsourced to Visa Application Centers, express processing is available for an additional fee.

Tourist Visa Application Process

How to apply for South Korea tourist visa

South Korea’s tourist visa application process is partially online. You will have to fill out an online form but you will have to visit the embassy in person after to submit your documents. 

Below is the general process of applying for a South Korean tourist visa at the embassy. 

• Step 1: Complete the e-form online

Step 2: Visit the diplomatic office

Step 3: wait for visa processing, step 4: receive visa issuance email/collect passport, step 1: complete the e-form online.

Follow the below steps to fill out the e-form online.

• Go to the Korea Visa Navigator page and select your country. Pick “Short Term visit” and “90 days or less”.
• Scroll to the bottom and select “Ordinary Tourist C-3-9”.
• You will see multiple streams. The first stream on the list is for travelers visiting South Korea for tourism. Click on “e-Form (Visa Application)”.
• Read through the procedure guidance page and click “Fill out the e-Form”.
• Select the South Korean diplomatic office that you intend to visit, upload a face photo and complete the form.

After you complete the form, print the file with the barcode on it. You will receive an email with your application number. If you displace the barcode file, you can find it by entering your details on the Check Application Status page .

Prepare the printed visa application form (the one with the barcode) and attach copies of the other required documents. 

Visit the South Korean embassy or consulate that you picked during the application.

Formally submit your application in person at the embassy. Pay the visa fee in cash.

Check your email regularly in case the embassy requests additional documents. The visa process can take anywhere from 4 to 14 working days depending on the embassy. 

Receive Confirmation of Visa Issuance or Visa Grant Notice. Retrieve it online and print it before traveling to South Korea. 

If the embassy or consulate of South Korea still issues visa stickers in your country, you will have to collect your passport or request to mail it to you.

NOTE South Korean embassies no longer issue visa stickers inside passports. Stickers are still being issued in countries where visa application centers handle the process but this is going to be phased out soon.

Entry Procedure at the Border

Before going to the immigration counters, make sure to complete the paper Arrival Card. The airline staff will give you one onboard or you can grab one from the immigration. 

Present your passport along with the Visa Grant Notice and the Arrival Card to the immigration officer. Get stamped in and enter South Korea.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the minimum bank balance required for south korea visa.

There is no official statement regarding the minimum bank balance by South Korean immigration. It will depend on your circumstances and nationality.

That being said, anything less than 2,500 USD may be considered too low to sustain a trip to South Korea. 

Can I apply for South Korea tourist visa online?

You can begin the application process online by filling out the application form (form #17). However, the next steps require you to visit a South Korean embassy in person. Applications completely online are not possible.

Is a cover letter required for South Korea tourist visa?

A cover letter is not required for the South Korea tourist visa. But you can still submit one if you need to explain your circumstances in detail.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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• Korea Visa Application Center

e-Visa Application via the Visa Portal

Visa application via korean diplomatic missions abroad, confirmation of visa issuance application via the visa portal.

• Confirmation of Visa Issuance Application via Korean Immigration

1. Application Process

Select “Application” >> “E-Visa(Individual)” on the Visa Portal (www.visa.go.kr)

2. Applicant

Application must be submitted by a foreigner or the sponsor on behalf of the foreigner

3. Applicable Status of Stay (as of Dec.8.2014)

• Professor (E-1), Researcher (E-3), Technical Instructor/Technician (E-4), and Professional (E-5) Visa for the applicant and Dependent Family (F-3) Visa for his/her accompanying family members.
• Foreign Notional of Special Ability (E-7) visa for the applicant and Dependent Family (F-3) Visa for his/her accompanying family members. - Qualification : the applicant must be an expert in advanced science and technology and have an official employment recommendation letter (a.k.a. GOLD CARD)
• Short-term General (C-3-1) Visa for a prospective investor invited by a promotion agency of the Immigrant Investor Scheme for Public Business and his/her accompanying family members
• Short-term Group Tourist (C-3-2) Visa for Chinese group tourists who can apply for their Visa through a designated travel agency
• Short-term Medical Tourist (C-3-3) or Recuperation & Treatment (G-1-10) Visa for foreign patients and their caregivers who are invited by an ‘outstanding medical facilitator’ designated as e-Visa agency.

- Qualifications : A foreigner who has entered Korea 3 times or more with a Short-term (C-3) Visa since the implementation of the fingerprint confirmation system for foreigner on Jan. 1, 2012, and who has no history of illegal stay or criminal cases

※ Please refer to the Visa Navigator for more details.

4. Required Documents

• Visa Application Form (electronic form on the Visa Portal)
• Scanned image files of passport pages
• Digital Photograph (in natural color, size: 3.5cm x 4.5cm)
• Fee (credit card for e-Payment)

- Please refer to the guide on required documents for each type of visa on the Visa Navigator or to the Visa Information on the website of a respective diplomatic office.

5. Procedure

Application by the applicant

• 1. Applicant - Completion of Application Form (Visa portal)
• 2. Applicant - e-Payment (Visa portal)
• 3. Applicant - Submission of Application (Visa portal)
• 4. sponsor (corporation/individual) - Confirmation Invitation (Visa portal)
• 5. Visa official - Reception & Review
• 6. sponsor, Applicant - Confirmation of Results (Visa portal)
• 7. sponsor, Applicant - Printing & Sending confirmation of E-Visa Issuance (Visa portal)
• 8. Applicant - Arrival in Korea

Application by the sponsor (inviter)

• 1. sponsor - Login (Visa portal)
• 2. sponsor - completion of Application Form (Visa portal)
• 3. sponsor - e-Payment (Visa portal)
• 4. Visa official - Reception & Review
• 5. sponsor - Confirmation of Results (Visa portal)
• 6. sponsor, Applicant - Printing & Sending confirmation of E-Visa Issuance (Visa portal)
• 7. Applicants - Arrival in Korea (Visa portal)

1. Application process

Select “Application" >> "Confirmation of Visa Issuance” on Visa Portal (www.visa.go.kr)

Application must be filed by the inviter (sponsor)

3. Applicable status of stay (as of Dec.8.2014)

• Professor (E-1), Foreign Language Instructor (E-2), Researcher (E-3), Technical Instructor/Technician (E-4) Professional (E-5) for the applicant and Dependent Family (F-3) Visa for his/her accompanying family members.
• Foreign National of Special Ability (E-7) Visa for the applicant and Dependent Family (F-3) Visa for his/her accompanying family members. - Qualification : the applicant must have an occupation under category 1 (executives) or 2 (professionals or related) of the Standard Classification of Occupation announced by the National Statistical Office
• Short-term Medical Tourist (C-3-3) or Recuperation & Treatment (G-1-10) Visa for foreign patients and their caregivers who are invited by an ‘outstanding medical facilitator’
• Business Visitor (C-3-6) visa for an invitee of a VIP corporation
• Student (D-2) and Korean Language Trainee (D-4-1) visa
• Non-professional(E-9) and Maritime Crew (E-10) visa

※ Please refer to the Visa Navigator for more detail.

• Application form for Confirmation of Visa Issuance (electronic form on the Visa Portal)

- Please refer to the guide on required documents for each type of Visa on the Visa Navigator, or to the Visa information on the board of the respective website of the Diplomatic Office.

• 2. sponsor - Completion of Application Form (Visa portal)
• 3. Visa official - Reception & Review
• 4. sponsor - Confirmation of Results (Visa portal)
• 5. sponsor, Applicant - Download Visa application Form (Visa portal)
• 6. sponsor - Submission of Visa Application & Payment
• 7. Visa Consul - Visa issuance (Diplomatic Office)

6. Check the Result of Your Confirmation of Visa Issuance Application

You can check the result of your application – through “Application Status” via the Visa Portal, ARS (02-2650-6363), text message or e-mail address you gave us.

7. Visa Application

• The sponsor (inviter) must download Visa application form (for the applicant) from “Application Status” on the Visa Portal, and send it to the applicant via email, or inform him/her of the number and expiry date of the confirmation of visa issuance.
• The applicant must receive Visa application form for the confirmation of visa issuance or its number (expiry date) from the sponsor in Korea in order to apply for his/her visa at the Korean Embassy or Consulate General.

Confirmation of Visa issuance is valid for 3 months, and is effective for visa issuance just for once. For any other inquiries, please contact the Immigration Contact center (+1345 without an area code or +82+1345 if you are calling from abroad).

1. Location of Application

Korean Embassy or Consulate in the applicant’s country (or area) of residence.

Application must be submitted by a foreigner or a visa agency on behalf of the foreigner

• A single-entry or multiple-entry visa for eligible applicants of Diplomat(A-1), Government Official(A-2) Visa
• A single-entry visa (with 90 days of duration of stay or less), for eligible applicants of - Short-term News Coverage (C-1), Short-term General (C-3) and Short-term Employee (C-4)
• A multiple-entry visa (with 90 days of duration of stay or less) for eligible applicants of Short-term News Coverage (C-1) and Short-term General (C-3) Visa who are citizens of countries that have multiple-entry visa agreements with Korea.
• Visas issued at the discretion of the head of a Korean diplomatic mission abroad, such as single-entry visa (with 90 days of duration of stay or less) for eligible applicants of Korean Arts and Culture (D-1) Visa who are planning to engage in cultural arts activities upon invitation of the Korea Foundation or from Korean Culture and Arts Committee

※ Please refer to the Visa Navigator for more details

• Visa Application Form (application form No.17, or please click the ‘Application’ menu on the Visa Portal >> Fill out the electronic form)
• Photo (natural color, 3.5cm x 4.5cm)

- You can pay the fee in the currency of your own country only if you receive permission from the head of the Korean diplomatic mission in your country.

The required documents mentioned on the Visa Navigator are of the minimum requirements. Depending on the circumstances of one’s country, the head of the Korean diplomatic mission may request/exempt additional documents for further evaluation. Therefore, in the case that required documents on the Visa Navigator do not match with those of the diplomatic mission, please follow the instructions and requirements provided by the respective diplomatic mission.

• 1. Applicant - Submission of Application
• 2. Visa Consul - Reception & Review (Diplomatic Office)
• 3. Visa Consul - Visa Issuance (Diplomatic Office)
• 4. Applicant - Arrival in Korea

※ For any other inquiries, please contact the consular affair Korean diplomatic missions in your country of residence.

Confirmation of Visa Issuance Application via Korean Immigration Offices

Korean Immigration Office that has jurisdiction over the area of inviter’s residence

2. Applicants

Application must be submitted by a foreigner or the sponsor/agency (E-9, E-10) on behalf of the foreigner

• Long-term Korean Arts and Culture (D-1), Student (D-2), Industrial trainee (D-3), General trainee (D-4), Long-term News Coverage (D-5), Religious Worker (D-6), Intra-company Transferee (D-7), Corporate/Foreign investor (D-8), International Trade (D-9), Professor (E-1), Foreign Language Instructor (E-2), Researcher (E-3), Technical Instructor/Technician (E-4), Professional (E-5), Artists/Athlete (E-6), Foreign National of Special Ability (E-7), Non-professional (E-9), Maritime Crew (E-10), Family Visitor (F-1), Dependent Family (F-3), Miscellaneous (G-1), and Work and Visit (H-2) Visa for eligible applicants
• Long-term Visa for citizens of countries with no formal diplomatic relations with Korea, or just specific countries (i.e. Cuba, Syria, and Macedonia) designated by the Korean government.
• Other people recognized by the Minister of Justice as needed
• Confirmation of Visa Issuance Application Form (Form No.21)
• Photocopy of passport pages
• Photograph (in natural color, size: 3.5cm x 4.5cm)

- The required documents mentioned on the Visa Navigator are of the minimum requirements. The head of the immigration office may request/exempt additional documents for further evaluation.

• The employment certificate and a copy of the representative’s ID, and a letter of attorney are required if the representative applies on behalf of the applicant. (Representative’s application may be restricted when further evaluation is required)

5. Procedures

• 1. sponsor - Completion of Application Form
• 2. Visa official - Reception & Review (Jurisdiction office)
• 3. sponsor, Applicant - Sending Confirmation No
• 4. Application - Submission (Diplomatic Office)
• 5. Visa Consul - Visa Issuance (Diplomatic Office)
• 6. Applicant - Arrival in Korea

6. Notification of evaluation results

7. Visa Issuance

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• Travel Destinations

How Long Can I Stay In Korea As A Tourist

Published: November 19, 2023

Modified: January 3, 2024

by Sandra Wooten

• Plan Your Trip

Introduction

South Korea, with its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities, has become an increasingly popular tourist destination in recent years. Whether you’re planning a short vacation or a longer stay, it’s important to understand the visa requirements and regulations that apply to tourists visiting the country.

Korea offers a range of visa options for tourists, depending on the purpose and duration of their visit. Understanding these options will help you determine how long you can stay in Korea as a tourist and ensure that you comply with the visa regulations.

In this article, we will explore the different types of visas available for short-term visitors, the maximum stay allowed, visa extension possibilities, and the consequences of overstaying. We will also discuss visa runs and changing visa types, as well as any restrictions that may apply to tourists.

Whether you plan to explore Seoul’s bustling streets, hike the scenic trails of the Korean countryside, or immerse yourself in the country’s unique cultural heritage, knowing the ins and outs of the visa requirements will ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to Korea.

So, let’s dive in and discover how long you can stay in Korea as a tourist!

Visa Exemption

South Korea has visa exemption agreements with several countries, allowing citizens of these countries to enter Korea for tourism or short-term visits without a visa. The visa exemption period varies depending on the nationality, so it’s important to check the specific requirements before your trip.

Currently, citizens of 118 countries can enter Korea for tourism or business purposes without a visa for a period ranging from 30 to 90 days. Some countries have bilateral agreements with Korea that allow for longer visa-free stays. For example, citizens of the United States and Canada can stay for up to 90 days without a visa, while citizens of Japan can stay for up to 90 days for tourism or up to 30 days for business purposes.

It’s important to note that visa exemption only applies to certain purposes, such as tourism, visiting friends or relatives, attending conferences, or engaging in short-term business activities. If you plan to work, study, or engage in any other activities not covered by visa exemption, you will need to obtain an appropriate visa prior to your arrival in Korea.

Upon arrival, passport control officers will stamp your passport with the permitted duration of stay. It’s important to adhere to the specified period and not overstay, as doing so can result in fines, deportation, or bans from reentering Korea in the future.

While citizens of visa-exempt countries can enjoy the convenience of entering Korea without a visa, it’s still crucial to check the specific requirements and conditions to ensure a hassle-free entry into the country.

For visitors who are not eligible for visa exemption or plan to stay in Korea for longer than the permitted visa-free period, there are several visa types available to choose from based on the purpose of your visit. It’s important to select the right visa category that aligns with your intended activities in order to stay in Korea legally. Here are some common visa types:

• Tourist Visa (B-2 Visa): This visa is suitable for those who wish to visit Korea for tourism purposes. It allows a stay of up to 90 days. To apply for a B-2 visa, you will need to submit relevant documents, including a completed application form, a valid passport, proof of financial stability, and hotel reservations or an invitation letter from your host in Korea.
• Business Visa (C-3 Visa): If you plan to visit Korea for business-related activities, such as attending meetings, conferences, or exploring potential business opportunities, you should apply for a C-3 visa. The duration of stay depends on the specific circumstances, and you will need to submit supporting documents, such as an invitation letter from a Korean company or organization.
• Student Visa (D-2 Visa): If you plan to study in Korea, you will need to obtain a D-2 student visa. To apply, you must be enrolled in an accredited educational institution in Korea and provide proof of acceptance. The duration of stay will depend on the length of your academic program.
• Work Visa (E-2 Visa): If you have been offered a job in Korea, you will need to apply for an E-2 work visa. This visa is specifically for English teachers, and you will need to meet certain requirements set by the Korean Ministry of Education. The duration of stay will be determined by the employment contract.
• Other Visa Types: There are various other visa categories available, including visas for journalists, artists, religious workers, and more. Each visa type has its own requirements and limitations, so it’s essential to thoroughly research and consult with the Korean embassy or consulate in your home country to determine the right visa for your specific situation.

It’s important to apply for the appropriate visa type and provide all necessary documents to ensure a successful visa application. Failure to comply with visa regulations can result in refusal of entry or legal consequences. Therefore, it’s advisable to seek assistance from the relevant Korean embassy or consulate and allow ample time for the visa application process prior to your intended travel date.

Short-term Visitors Visa

If you’re planning to visit Korea for a short period, such as for tourism or temporary business purposes, the short-term visitor visa is the most common option. Also known as the C-3 visa, it allows you to stay in Korea for up to 90 days.

To obtain a short-term visitor visa, you will need to apply at a Korean embassy or consulate in your home country. The application process usually involves submitting required documents, including a completed application form, a valid passport, proof of financial stability, and an itinerary of your planned activities in Korea.

It’s important to note that the short-term visitor visa is only suitable for activities that fall within the allowed scope, such as tourism, visiting friends or relatives, attending conferences, or engaging in short-term business activities. If you plan to work or study in Korea, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa category.

Keep in mind that the 90-day period is calculated based on your date of entry. Once you enter Korea, passport control officers will stamp your passport with the permitted duration of stay. It’s crucial to comply with the specified period and ensure that you do not overstay, as it can result in penalties, deportation, or bans from reentering Korea.

If you need to extend your stay beyond the initial 90 days, you may apply for a visa extension at the local immigration office in Korea. However, extensions are subject to approval and are typically granted for specific reasons, such as unforeseen circumstances or valid personal reasons.

It’s important to plan your stay in Korea accordingly and ensure that you have the necessary documentation and any required visa extensions in place to avoid any disruptions to your travel plans or potential legal issues.

Visa Extension

If you find yourself needing to stay in Korea beyond the permitted duration of your visa, you have the option to apply for a visa extension. This allows you to extend your stay legally without facing any penalties or overstaying your visa.

To apply for a visa extension, you will need to visit the local immigration office in Korea. The specific process and requirements may vary depending on the immigration office, so it’s advisable to check with the office beforehand or visit their official website for detailed information.

When applying for a visa extension, you will typically need to provide a valid reason for the extension, such as medical treatment, family emergencies, or other unforeseen circumstances. You may also need to submit supporting documents, such as a letter explaining the reason for the extension, updated financial documentation, and proof of your travel or accommodation arrangements during the extended period.

It’s important to note that visa extensions are not guaranteed and are subject to approval by the immigration office. It is advisable to apply for an extension well before your visa expiration date to allow sufficient time for processing. If your extension is approved, you will receive a new duration of stay indicated on your visa.

Keep in mind that visa extensions are typically granted for a specific period and are not unlimited. If you need to further extend your stay beyond the approved extension period, you will need to reapply for another extension and provide valid reasons and supporting documentation once again.

It’s crucial to comply with the visa regulations and not overstay your visa. Overstaying your visa can result in fines, deportation, and bans from reentering Korea in the future, which can have serious consequences for your travel plans and future visits to the country. Therefore, if you anticipate needing to stay longer in Korea, it is advisable to explore the visa extension option to ensure a legal and hassle-free stay.

Maximum Stay

The maximum stay allowed on a visa depends on the type of visa you hold. For most short-term visitor visas, such as the C-3 visa for tourism or temporary business purposes, the maximum stay is 90 days.

It’s important to note that the 90-day period is calculated based on your date of entry into Korea. Once you enter the country, immigration officials will stamp your passport with the permitted duration of stay. It’s crucial to adhere to this timeframe and ensure that you do not overstay your visa.

If you overstay your visa, even by just a day, you may face penalties, fines, deportation, or even bans from reentering Korea in the future. It’s essential to be aware of the expiration date of your visa and make arrangements to leave the country or apply for a visa extension well before your visa expiry date.

While a 90-day stay is the maximum for most short-term visitor visas, there are exceptions and variations depending on the specific visa type and purpose of visit. For example, individuals holding a D-2 student visa for studying in Korea may be allowed to stay for the duration of their academic program, which can extend beyond 90 days.

Similarly, work visas such as the E-2 visa for English teachers typically allow for a stay determined by the duration of the employment contract. It’s important to consult the specific guidelines and regulations for your visa type and ensure you comply with the maximum stay requirements.

If you wish to stay longer in Korea beyond the maximum stay period allowed by your visa, you will need to explore options such as visa extension, changing to a different visa category, or applying for a new visa that aligns with your desired duration of stay.

Overall, understanding the maximum stay permitted on your visa is crucial for compliance with Korean immigration laws and to avoid any legal issues or consequences during your stay in Korea.

Overstaying

Overstaying a visa refers to staying in a country beyond the permitted duration of your visa. In the case of Korea, overstaying your visa can lead to serious consequences and legal ramifications.

It’s crucial to adhere to the expiration date of your visa and make arrangements to leave the country or apply for a visa extension before your visa expires. Overstaying is considered a violation of immigration laws and can result in penalties and negative consequences, including fines, deportation, and bans from reentering Korea in the future.

The penalties for overstaying in Korea are strict. If you overstay your visa for a short period of time, you may be required to pay a fine for each day you have overstayed. The amount of the fine can vary depending on the length of the overstay.

Additionally, if you overstay your visa for an extended period or engage in activities that are not permitted under your visa category, you may face more severe consequences. This can include being detained, deported, and banned from reentering Korea for a specified period of time, ranging from one year to indefinitely.

It’s important to note that ignorance of the visa regulations is not an acceptable defense for overstaying. It is the responsibility of the visitor to understand and comply with the visa requirements and make timely arrangements to leave or extend their stay legally.

If you realize that you have overstayed your visa, it’s advisable to take immediate action to rectify the situation. Contact the local immigration office or seek legal advice to understand your options and the necessary steps to resolve the issue.

It’s important to note that overstaying a visa can have long-lasting consequences, including potential difficulties in obtaining future visas, negative impact on travel plans, and potential challenges in entering other countries.

To avoid legal and immigration issues, always ensure that you understand the expiry date of your visa and take proactive measures to depart or extend your stay in Korea before it expires. Compliance with immigration laws is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable experience during your visit to Korea.

For those who wish to stay in Korea for an extended period but are unable to obtain a long-term visa, one option that is sometimes considered is a “visa run.” A visa run involves leaving the country, often for a short period, and then reentering with a new visa or a fresh period of stay granted upon entry.

It’s important to note that the effectiveness and appropriateness of visa runs can vary and may be subject to changing regulations. While visa runs have been used by some individuals in the past as a means to extend their stay in Korea, it’s essential to understand the potential risks, limitations, and legal implications associated with this approach.

While leaving the country and reentering may grant you a new period of stay, Korean immigration officials may become suspicious of repetitive visa runs and may deny entry or grant shorter periods of stay. Additionally, immigration policies and regulations can change, and what may have been possible in the past may not be feasible or allowed at present.

It’s important to keep in mind that visa runs should not be used as a way to continuously stay in Korea for an extended period without appropriate long-term visas. Engaging in this practice is not only legally risky but can also negatively impact your travel plans, and may result in penalties, deportation, or even bans from reentering Korea in the future.

If you wish to stay in Korea for a more extended period, it is highly recommended to explore legal options such as applying for a visa extension or transitioning to a visa category that aligns with your intended activities, such as a work visa or a student visa, depending on your situation.

It’s important to consult with the appropriate authorities, such as the Korean embassy or consulate in your home country, and seek professional advice to ensure compliance with Korean immigration regulations and to find the most suitable and legal solution for your stay in Korea.

Remember, it’s always better to abide by the visa regulations and maintain legal status to fully enjoy your time in Korea without the worry of potential legal repercussions.

Changing Visa Types

If you find yourself in Korea with a specific visa type but wish to engage in activities that are not permitted under that visa category, you may have the option to change your visa type to align with your intended activities. Changing visa types is a process that allows you to transition from one visa category to another while staying in Korea.

The process of changing visa types can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the visa categories involved. In most cases, you will need to submit a new visa application to the local immigration office in Korea.

When applying to change your visa type, you will typically need to provide supporting documents that are specific to the new visa category you are applying for. For example, if you are changing from a tourist visa to a work visa, you will need to demonstrate a job offer and meet the requirements set by the Korean Ministry of Employment and Labor.

It’s important to note that the change of visa type is subject to approval by the immigration office. The specific requirements, processing time, and fees may vary depending on the visa categories involved.

Changing visa types allows you to legally engage in activities that are permitted under the new visa category and ensures that you comply with the immigration regulations of Korea. It’s crucial to ensure that you have the correct visa and adhere to the conditions and restrictions associated with the new visa type.

Before initiating the process to change your visa type, it is recommended to consult with the local immigration office or seek advice from a professional, such as an immigration lawyer or a visa specialist, to understand the specific requirements and ensure a smooth transition. They can guide you through the process and provide the necessary guidance based on your circumstances.

Remember, it’s essential to apply for the appropriate visa type and abide by the immigration regulations to avoid any legal complications or potential issues during your stay in Korea.

Visa Restrictions

When applying for a visa or entering a foreign country, it’s important to understand the restrictions and limitations that may apply to your stay. Korea has certain visa restrictions in place that visitors should be aware of to ensure compliance with immigration laws. These restrictions vary depending on the visa type and purpose of visit. Here are some common visa restrictions in Korea:

• Employment Restrictions: If you are in Korea on a tourist visa or any visa type that does not permit employment, it is important to adhere to the restriction and refrain from working illegally. Working without the proper visa authorization can lead to severe consequences, such as deportation, fines, and bans from reentering the country.
• Study Restrictions: Visitors on a tourist visa or other short-term visas may be restricted from enrolling in full-time education programs in Korea. If you plan to study in Korea, it’s essential to obtain the appropriate student visa and follow the regulations set by the Korean Ministry of Education.
• Residence Restrictions: Certain visa types may have specific residence restrictions, such as requiring visitors to reside in a designated location or specific region within Korea. It’s important to understand and abide by these restrictions to comply with the terms of your visa.
• Activity Restrictions: Each visa type has specific permissions and limitations on the activities you can engage in while in Korea. It’s crucial to understand and adhere to these restrictions to avoid any violations of your visa conditions.
• Duration of Stay Restrictions: As mentioned earlier, each visa carries a maximum stay limit. It’s important to comply with the permitted duration of stay and not overstay your visa. Overstaying can result in penalties, deportation, and bans from reentering Korea.

It’s important to thoroughly review the restrictions that apply to your specific visa type and ensure that you comply with them during your stay in Korea. Violating visa restrictions can have serious consequences and negatively impact future travel plans or opportunities to visit Korea.

If you have any questions or concerns about the visa restrictions, it’s advisable to seek guidance from the local immigration office or consult with a visa specialist or immigration lawyer to ensure a clear understanding of the regulations and requirements.

Remember, abiding by the visa restrictions contributes to a positive and legal experience during your stay in Korea.

Employment Restrictions

When it comes to working in Korea as a foreigner, there are specific rules and restrictions that must be followed to ensure legal and compliant employment. Understanding the employment restrictions is crucial to avoid any violations that may have severe consequences. Here are some important points to know:

Work Visa Requirement: To work in Korea, you must have a valid work visa. The most common work visa category is the E-2 visa, which is specifically for English teachers. Other professions have their own designated visa categories with specific requirements.

Job Offer Requirement: To obtain a work visa, you must first secure a job offer from a Korean employer. The employer will usually sponsor your visa application and provide the necessary documents to support your application.

Work Contract: You will need a legally binding employment contract with the employer that outlines your job responsibilities, working hours, compensation, and other relevant details. This contract is essential for the visa application process and ensuring your rights while working in Korea.

Restricted Industries: Some industries in Korea have restrictions on employing foreigners. These industries prioritize hiring Korean nationals or have specific requirements for foreign workers. It’s important to research and understand whether the field you wish to work in has any restrictions.

Age Restrictions: For certain professions, such as English teaching, there may be age restrictions for obtaining a work visa. These restrictions vary depending on the visa category and the requirements set by the Korean government.

Hours and Rights: Once you have the appropriate work visa, you are subject to Korean labor laws and regulations. This includes regulations on working hours, leave entitlements, minimum wage, and other labor rights. It’s important to familiarize yourself with these regulations to ensure fair treatment and compliance.

Change of Employer: If you decide to change employers while in Korea, you will need to obtain a new work visa sponsored by the new employer. The process may involve canceling your existing visa and applying for a new one. It’s crucial to follow the proper procedure to avoid any issues related to your legal status in Korea.

Understanding the employment restrictions and following the required procedures is vital to work legally in Korea. Engaging in unauthorized employment or violating the employment restrictions can lead to serious consequences, such as fines, deportation, and bans from future entry into the country. It’s always advisable to consult with the Korean embassy or consulate in your home country or seek legal advice to ensure compliance with the employment regulations in Korea.

Understanding the visa requirements and regulations for visiting Korea is essential to ensure a smooth and trouble-free stay in the country. Whether you’re planning a short vacation or a longer visit for business, education, or other purposes, knowing the ins and outs of the visa system will help you navigate the process and stay compliant with Korean immigration laws.

Visa exemption agreements allow citizens of many countries to visit Korea for tourism or short-term visits without a visa. However, it’s essential to check the specific requirements and limitations based on your nationality to ensure eligibility.

If you’re not eligible for visa exemption or plan to stay longer than the permitted visa-free period, there are various visa types available. The most common is the short-term visitor visa, which allows a stay of up to 90 days. Other visa categories, such as student visas, work visas, or business visas, have specific requirements and restrictions that must be followed.

It’s important to remember the maximum stay allowed on your visa and not to overstay, as this can lead to penalties, deportation, and even bans from reentering Korea. If you need to extend your stay, it’s possible to apply for a visa extension at the local immigration office.

Visa runs, the practice of leaving and reentering the country, should be approached with caution as they may not always be a reliable or sustainable solution. It’s advisable to explore legal options like visa extensions or changing visa types to ensure compliance with immigration regulations.

Finally, it’s crucial to be aware of visa restrictions, such as employment restrictions or study limitations, and adhere to them to avoid legal issues. Understanding and following these restrictions will help you have a positive and authentic experience during your stay in Korea.

If you have any questions or concerns about visa requirements or procedures, it’s recommended to consult with the relevant authorities, such as the Korean embassy or consulate, or seek professional advice from immigration specialists or lawyers.

By staying informed and complying with visa regulations, you can make the most of your time in Korea and create lasting memories of this beautiful country.

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Everything you want to know about South Korea

How long can I stay in South Korea as a foreigner?

Introduction.

As a foreigner, it is important to know the duration of your stay in South Korea. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of how long you can legally stay in the country and what factors can affect your stay.

Types of Visas

The type of visa you have will determine how long you can stay in South Korea. There are various types of visas, including tourist, student, work, and permanent residency visas. Each visa has its specific duration, and you must adhere to the regulations that come with your visa.

Tourist Visa

Tourist visas are valid for up to 90 days. You must apply for this visa before entering South Korea, and it cannot be extended once you arrive in the country. If you overstay your visa, you may face hefty fines or deportation.

Student Visa

Student visas allow foreigners to study in South Korea for up to two years. It is essential to ensure that your visa is valid throughout the duration of your studies to avoid any legal issues.

Work visas are valid for one year and can be extended upon renewal. You must have a job offer from a South Korean employer to apply for this visa.

Permanent Residency Visa

If you have lived in South Korea for five years or more, you may be eligible for permanent residency. This visa allows you to stay in the country indefinitely.

Visa Exemptions

Some countries have visa exemption agreements with South Korea. If you are a citizen of one of these countries, you can stay in South Korea for up to 90 days without a visa.

Overstaying Your Visa

Overstaying your visa is illegal and can lead to fines, deportation, or even a ban from re-entering South Korea. It is important to ensure that you have a valid visa and adhere to its regulations.

Extending Your Stay

If you need to stay in South Korea for longer than your visa allows, you can apply for an extension. The process can be complicated, and it is advised to seek professional assistance from an immigration lawyer.

Factors That Can Affect Your Stay

Various factors can affect the duration of your stay in South Korea, such as changes in visa regulations, political situations, and personal circumstances. It is essential to keep up-to-date with any changes that may affect your stay.

Leaving and Re-entering South Korea

If you leave and re-enter South Korea within the validity of your visa, it will not affect your stay. However, if you leave after your visa has expired, you will not be allowed to re-enter unless you obtain a new visa.

Knowing how long you can stay in South Korea as a foreigner is crucial to avoid any legal issues. Ensure that you have a valid visa and adhere to its regulations to make your stay in South Korea comfortable and stress-free. If you have any questions or concerns about your visa, seek professional advice from an immigration lawyer.

Can a foreigner permanently live in Korea?

To obtain permanent residency in South Korea, individuals must apply for the F-5 visa, which requires a significant investment of nearly 600 million KRW (500,000 USD) or more in a Korean business and the employment of five or more locals.

How can I stay in Korea for longer than 90 days?

If you plan to stay in South Korea for over 90 days after entering the country with a visa, you must register your stay at a local Immigration Office. You will need to provide necessary documents, including your passport and a completed application form available for download online.

Can an American move to South Korea?

Preparing properly prior to arriving, moving to South Korea is relatively uncomplicated. Despite past reluctance toward foreign migration, attitudes have shifted as the country has become more welcoming to international companies.

Can I move to Korea without a job?

If you are interested in relocating to Korea without a job, you can obtain a D-10 Job Seeker Visa.

How many days can US citizens stay in South Korea?

A United States citizen who holds a valid passport can travel to South Korea with K-ETA for a period of 90 days for the purpose of tourism or visiting.

What happens if you overstay in Korea?

Individuals who exceed the expiration date of their South Korean visa may face penalties in the form of daily fines, which can vary in amount and accrue until the fine has been paid and the visa issue resolved.

Renewing Your Visa

If your visa is expiring, and you wish to stay in South Korea for a longer period, you can apply for a renewal. The process can be lengthy, and it is essential to apply before your current visa expires. You will need to provide relevant documents to support your application.

Visa-Free Transit

If you are transiting through South Korea and have a layover of up to 24 hours, you may be eligible for visa-free transit. This means that you do not need a visa to leave the airport and explore the city during your layover.

Working Holiday Visa

South Korea has a working holiday program for citizens of certain countries. This visa allows you to work and travel in South Korea for up to one year. The program is designed for young people aged between 18-30 years old.

Family Visas

If you have family members living in South Korea, you may be eligible for a family visa. This visa allows you to stay in the country for up to three years and can be renewed upon expiration.

In conclusion, understanding the duration of your stay in South Korea is essential for a hassle-free experience. Ensure that you have the appropriate visa for your visit and adhere to its regulations. Keep yourself updated with any changes that may affect your stay, and seek professional advice if necessary. With proper planning and preparation, you can enjoy your time in South Korea without any legal issues.

Related posts:

• Can I live in Korea permanently?
• Can you just move to South Korea?
• What qualifications do I need to work in Korea?
• Is Korea a good place for foreigners to live?

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BEST First-Time Visitor’s Seoul Itinerary (3-7 Days)

Last Updated: Nov 11, 2023 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · 2 Comments

South Korea is a land of mountains, palaces, and busy streets, and this 3 to 7 day Seoul itinerary will put you right in the middle of it all. With the city’s futuristic architecture and state-of-the-art technological advancements, people sometimes get culture shock when they see how integrated they are into more traditional lifestyles.

Everywhere you go, there’s always an event happening or a festival on, and there are plenty of surprises in store – especially if you visit any of the Seoul hotspots detailed below. But while Korea is truly a magical place, it’s far from what we see in the K-Dramas.

Fans often come here expecting to meet a dashing chaebol randomly in the streets (which is highly unlikely), and are disappointed when they’re not hit on in the nightclub. Dramas and idols are just a small fraction of Korean culture .

To truly experience it for yourself, you’ll have to immerse yourself in Seoul for 3 days or more, before heading further south. That way you’ll get to try everything Korea has to offer; from delicious food to astounding historical landmarks.

So if you’re figuring what to put in your Seoul itinerary, let us help you plan how many days in Seoul you should spend, and what to do and where to go during your South Korea vacation. Use the 'Jump To' box below to go to a specific section.

Basics of Travel in South Korea

How to maximize your seoul experience, faq about seoul, where to stay in seoul, seoul itinerary 3 days, seoul itinerary 7 days, tips for visiting seoul.

Visa: Most travelers will need a K-ETA ( Korean Electronic Travel Authorization ), applied for at least 72 hours before departure. If you needed a visa before, you'll need a K-ETA now. Note that from April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, passport holders from 22 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and several EU nations, can visit visa-free – no K-ETA required!

Currency: South Korean won ( KRW or ₩ )

Arrival in Korea: all international flights arrive at Incheon Airport (ICN), one of the best-rated airports in the world. It usually takes about 1 hour to get through security & pick up checked bags.

Getting Around: Korea has an extensive & reliable public transport system. A refillable T-Money card is your ticket to buses and trains across the country; you can buy and refill yout TMoney card at any subways station or convenience store in Korea.

Internet & SIM Cards: Rent a Wi-Fi egg or purchase a prepaid Korean SIM card at the airport, available for up to one month of connection.

Travel Insurance: always recommended, though some credit card companies offers limited coverage when booking.

How many days should I spend in Seoul? While most guides will tell you that three days in Seoul is enough, we recommend that you stay in Seoul for a week.

But for those with tight budgets, we can help maximize your Seoul itinerary for as many days as you have, and thanks to the advanced metro system in Seoul, you’ll jump from one place to another without issue.

That being said, Seoul at night is a treat for the eyes, and most of the attractions in Seoul occur when the sun begins to set. Banpo Bridge, for example, has an incredible fountain show and the title of the World’s Longest LED-light display.

Around the same time each evening, stalls are set up where people enjoy delicious foods while waiting for fireworks to decorate the sky. The best part is, there’s a way to do all of these things in Seoul for free.

Simply purchase a Discover Seoul pass before your trip, and you can get into most of these attractions (once each) without worrying too much about your budget. There are three kinds of passes you can choose from (24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours), and even if you run out of hours, you can still use it to avail of discounts in any of the partner tourist attractions.

Other sites that provide discounts are kkday , Trazy and Klook .

Unfortunately, each attraction’s opening hours may change due to public holidays or unforeseen events. So if you follow this Seoul itinerary, please develop a habit of checking attractions’ schedules first if you don’t want to wait hours for a show that has already been cancelled.

For a solo traveler, a vacation in Seoul may cost between ₩1,000,000-2,000,000 ($800-1,600USD). This takes into account 3 meals a day, a public transport card, and a week in a hotel, which can all vary widely in price. The rest of your money will go to experiences and souvenirs.

The best time to visit Korea is from May to June and September to October, since this is the best time to see the cherry blossom trees bloom or watch the fall colors in the mountains. Moreover, the weather at this time is generally pleasant for locals and foreigners alike, making walking around more pleasant than in summer or winter.

Three days should be sufficient for a first trip to Korea, especially if you have a Discover Seoul pass , though one week is ideal. The pass enables you to visit key locations once for free, and best of all, get discounts on other destinations and experiences.

Here are the essentials to pack for Seoul: passport, credit cards, and travel medical insurance, as well as shorts, a sun hat, and tops with sleeves. Moreover, certain cellphones do not work in Korea, so you need to check if your phone is not region-locked or that it is equipped to intercept the networks provided in Korea, and possibly rent a phone for your trip.

Seoul is known for having culturally diverse neighborhoods, full of history, good food, and memorable experiences. There are several fantastic neighborhoods I'd recommend staying in when you visit Seoul.

There’s always something that will pique your interest, but you have to make sure that the neighborhood matches your preferences - since you might choose to add to your Seoul itinerary by experiencing the bustling Seoul nightlife .

Specifically in Ichon-dong, this is probably the most convenient place to look for accommodation, especially if you want something quick and cheap. This is also a convenient location if you want to visit the most popular areas in Seoul for free , like the National Museum of Korea, Yongsan Family Park, and Ichon Han River Park.

Creatives and digital natives love coming to this hub because this neighborhood is panned towards the younger crowd. If you’re reminiscing about your college days, this is the neighborhood in Seoul for you.

Cafés regularly host language exchange parties, coffee and pub crawls , and art appreciation guilds. Sometimes buskers hold small concerts in the streets, from late afternoon into the wee hours of night.

Rub elbows with the rich and famous by staying in this Seoul neighborhood . With large-scale suites with spectacular views of the Seoul night sky, this area boasts popular attractions for those with luxurious tastes.

Apgujeong-dong and Garuso-gil, for example, hold multiple high-end luxury chains with clothes made by internationally renowned designers, and worn by the famous K-Celebrities we know and love (like Lisa of BLACKPINK and V of BTS).

This is the city where tradition meets modernity, and you deserve to experience both sides during your 3 days in Seoul. This itinerary covers the basics and the must-sees of the city if you have limited time, with an optional extension to 7 days below.

Seoul Itinerary Day 1: Embracing Korea’s Traditional Side

Note: If your first day falls on a Monday or a Tuesday, you’ll want to move this day’s schedule to a later date— most of the palaces are closed on both those days.

Did you know that entry to any of the five Grand Palaces in Seoul is free when dressed in a hanbok ? Be sure to reserve a full day’s use online ahead of time to avoid the stress of long lines on the day of. The best thing about reserving online is that it also comes with a hefty discount.

Try checking the massive selection provided by the Hanboknam Gyeongbokgung Store , which actually has a Korean hairstyling service too! 

Stop 1: Gyeongbokgung Palace

Time: 9:30AM

Address: 161, Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Fee: Adults: ₩3,000, Children: ₩1,500; Groups have a discount, with ₩2,400 for Adults and ₩1,200 for children; It is free if you come wearing a hanbok.

The best way to start your day is to arrive at Gyeongbokgung Palace 30 minutes before it opens. That way you get to see the Opening Ceremony of the Palace Gates, and the procession that takes place as the guards shift their duties.

As you enter, the first thing you should do is fall in line to see Geunjeongjeon Hall. It’s quite a bit of a walk, and you’ll initially pass by the pumgyeseok (the markers court officials used to indicate where they should stand if the King calls for a meeting) before reaching the steps.

However, the view of the majestic ancient Korean architecture and the people wearing hanboks will make you feel like you have time-traveled all the way back to the Joseon Dynasty. As soon as you get to the red throne, you only have a few minutes to admire its splendor, so make sure to bring your camera with you.

If you’re able to join an English-language tour, your guide will certainly point out the parts of the palace that were heavily influenced by Chinese architecture , a fact quite revealing of the times.

Other notable parts of the palace are the Gyeonghoeru Pavillion, or what used to be the setting for lavish official banquets, and the beautiful Hyangwonjeong, a small temple-like structure on top of an artificial island on Hyangwonji Lake. 

There are plenty of things to do at Gyeongbokgung, but there’s a special tea ceremony that lets you drink the tea that delighted the King and Queen back then, and I’d highly recommend it. You’ll feel like royalty after just one sip. 

Stop 2: Hwangsaengga Kalguksu

Address: 78, Bukchon-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03053 South Korea

Prices: ₩₩-₩₩₩

Notorious for being the “best noodle and dumpling shop” near Gyeongbukgung Palace, expect long lines of people dying to have a taste. Since these dishes don’t take long to cook, people don’t have to wait long to try some of their most famous offerings, like the cold soybean soup or the rich ox bone noodles. 

Stop 3: National Palace Museum of Korea

Time: 2:00 PM

Address: 12 Hyoja-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Nearest Metro Stop: Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3, Exit 5)

Once you’ve enjoyed your meal, head back to the steps leading to the museum and walk further on in. This facility has everything you need if you wish to know more about Korea’s glorious and often difficult past.

Fourteen of Korea’s ‘National Treasures,’ including recovered pieces from the Joseon Dynasty and the Korean Empire, are housed in this free museum . Periodically they even host events to educate the people who come, usually involving activities like calligraphy, tea ceremonies , and even Korean traditional dance lessons.

Stop 4: Gwanghwamun Square

Time: 4:00PM

Fee: Adults: ₩3,000, Children: ₩1,500; Groups have a discount, with ₩2,400 for Adults and ₩1,200 for children.

This wide park is actually a huge commemoration site for the military strategist that led Koreans to victory during the Japanese invasion, Admiral Yi Sun-sin. His statue stands proudly next to the water fountain which entertains local kids every summer, and may be even more famous than the statue!

But this installation actually has a meaningful story behind it, because the water jets shoot exactly 18 meters high, with 300 smaller jets to symbolize the battles the Admiral fought on sea.

Meters away from the great admiral’s statue, an intimidating gold statue of Sejong the Great watches over you, perfect for taking selfies and startling visitors.

Stop 5: Cheonggyecheon Stream and Cheonggye Plaza

Time: 5:00PM

Address: 530 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul

Just a 10-minute walk from Gwanghwamun Square is a long man-made stream that doubles as a public recreation space. I recommend coming here in the late afternoon because the sunset view is legendary; you can rest your weary feet in the stream as you wait for the night to come.

By then, the lights will turn on, illuminating the traditional lanterns above and the long strip that makes the stream sparkle below. This makes for a beautiful sight, most especially if you look at it from above.

If your trip hits around summer, the sunset may come around 8PM, and the wait can get quite hot & sweaty. So if you have plans to really see the sunset, swing by Cafe imA, a coffee shop next to the Ilmin Art Museum. Visitors rave about their Hamburg Steak (₩13,500), but you can also try their desserts and waffles (₩6,500-₩8,000).

There’s also Dal.Komm Coffee on the other side of the stream, near the starting point. Most of their coffee, juice, and tea selection ranges from ₩4,100 to ₩6,100, but their Real Strawberry Lemonade (₩5,300) is the best drink to beat the summer heat.

Stop 6: Deoksugung Palace

Time: 7:00PM

Address: 99 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul

Fee:  Adults: ₩1,000, Children: ₩500; Groups have a discount, with ₩800 for Adults and ₩400 for children; It is free if you come wearing a hanbok.

Cap off your first day by visiting Deoksugung , or the small palace that used to be the residence of Korea’s Royal Family. Unlike the other Five Grand Palaces , this one has the Seokjojeon , a building that features a more prominent modern & western style that King Gojong would use to enthrall the diplomats who came to visit Korea.

It’s also a beautiful sight at night, and if you arrive before 7:30 PM, you should sign up for “Seokjojeon at Night.” This is an evening tour program that lets you stroll and observe Deoksugung’s highlights, enjoy tea at the terrace, and watch a musical performance at the reception area (where the King used to meet with important figures in history).  

Seoul Itinerary Day 2: Feel Young Again in Hongdae

Stop 1: Thanks Nature Cafe 

Time: 8:30 AM

Address: 29 World cup buk-ro 4-gil, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Fee: ₩₩-₩₩₩

For breakfast , there’s a famous cafe nearby that lets you make friends with two massively fluffy and docile sheep. You can mingle with them in the playpen while waiting for your breakfast, or watch from afar if you’re just there for the pics.

They have a wide selection of coffee, smoothies, and breakfast waffles; you have to try the latter, as they only use seasonal fresh fruits on the waffles. Unfortunately, breakfast in Korea is always enjoyed at home, so not many spots are open super early.

An alternate nearby recommendation for vegans or vegetarians is Salad Brothers , a fantastic salad bar that lets you put as much dressing as you want. Their Cobb Salad is a crowd favorite because it packs quite a punch, even though the portions are small. Plus, the food is just as photogenic as their menu.

Stop 2: Coconut Box – formerly known as the Trick Eye Museum

Time: 10:00 AM

Address: 20 Hongik-ro 3-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Fee: ₩23,000  

I was sad to learn that they closed the Trick Eye Museum in Seoul; I had many fond memories there. Still, the replacement attraction of Coconut Box is a worthy visit— they reinvented the entire place into a Southeast Asian beach, with sand on the floor and wooden huts you can sit in.

You can pretend that you’re vacationing in a tropical island garden, but the real highlight of the visit is the “metaverse play” in one of their bungalows. Getting there at 10am, shortly after they open, will guarantee you’ll have the chance to enter & interact in one of the most famous paintings in the entire world: Vincent van Gogh’s Starry Night.

Stop 3: Abiko Curry

Address: 25, Hongik-ro, Mapo-gu Hotel Seokyo Annex B106, Seoul

Fee: ₩-₩₩

If you’re craving a good Japanese curry, Abiko Curry lets you enjoy variations of this dish at a reasonable price. Sure it’s a little cramped, but if you don’t mind that, I swear their tonkatsu is to die for, and Koreans basically consider it a local dish at this point. Set meals are also good for sharing, and the servers are kind to foreigners. 

Stop 4: Caface Seoul

Address: 20 Hongik-ro 3-gil, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Near Abiko Curry stands Caface Seoul. This popular spot is one of those ‘only in Korea’ kind of things, that lets you have your face printed as latte art. This is also the perfect way to commemorate your day in Hongdae, and then bring your masterpiece on a stroll around the neighborhood.

Just give them any of the selfies you took earlier, hand over ₩2700, and you can have a “face latte.” I know you’re too pretty to drink, but their coffee definitely tastes better warm – so drink it while it’s hot!

Stop 5: Hongdae Shopping Street

Time: 3:00 PM

Address: 365-8 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

In any trip, it is important to have a bit of time to do some quick retail therapy. In Hongdae, where the hip, young, and fashionable gather, most of the clothes for sale are aimed at the younger crowd.

But it’s amazing how much branded stuff has heavy discounts here, albeit mostly ‘free size’ (generically large or stretchy clothes), and there are a lot of ‘2 items for $8’ offers.

Stop 6: Mapogalmaegi

Time: 7:00 PM

Address: 14 Hongik-ro 5an-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Expect lots of young women in here, because this restaurant is located close to Ehwa Women’s University. I’m a meat-lover, so I can’t let you vacation in Seoul without eating in at least one typical barbecue-type restaurant.

All Korean BBQ spots are best enjoyed with a group of people due to the layout, but most places will accept a single person unless they’re packed. Aside from meat, this spot offers soju or beer, and you can try a variety of delicious banchan to go with your meats of choice.

Another option is the Analog Garden, a charming coffee house that serves delicious salads. Though most of their dishes have meat and egg in it, a there's a vegan-friendly option called the "Falafel Wrap" worth ₩7,500.

If that is too small for you, get the "Falafel Plate" instead for ₩11,000. But what people actually come for is a homemade fake-meat set meal (soy-based), that’s said to go well with their roasted coffee.

Stop 7: Come back to Hongdae Shopping Street

Time: 9:00 PM

Come back here after dinner, because this is when the buskers come to perform. Around the performance areas are food stalls packed with delicious Korean foods for a couple bucks each; if you couldn’t or didn’t want to eat KBBQ for dinner, you can find something here.

The beauty about this place is that you can stay out late and still spot people roaming around, browsing and entering restaurants and bars. This is why most shops close past midnight here.

Seoul Itinerary Day 3: See Iconic Locations in Seoul

Stop 1: K-Pop Square

Time: 10:30 AM

Address: Right outside Samseong Station, Exit 5

K-Pop Square is a large public area in Samseong, featuring a massive LED-screen that promotes show-stopping performances from the past. This is an ode to K-Pop, which is responsible for a large portion of the country’s tourism, and why Korea is so well known across the world.

Fans will also be happy to know that somewhere in the area is a wall that lets them hold hands with their favorite idols. Also known as the “K-Pop Handprint Wall,” big stars like BTS, Shinee, and even EXO are among the artists featured here.

Stop 2: Statue of Gangnam Style

Time: 10:45 AM

Address: 524 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

At first I just thought this was a strange gold installation of two hands shielding you from the sun, but when I finally got close to it, I knew immediately who it was: Psy oppa !

Though this ‘Gentleman’ has been relatively quiet since his 2012 hit, the song Gangnam Style remains in the Youtube hall of fame as one of the fastest to hit a billion views. If you know how to dance Gangnam Style, this is the perfect location for you to shoot a dance cover of the video. 

Stop 3: Bongeunsa Seoraewon ( 봉은사 서래원)

Address: 531 Bongeunsa-ro, Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Imagine enjoying a warm meal inside a small Korean temple, without ever leaving Seoul. Bongeunsa Seoraewon lets you have that experience in the heart of the city, and the noodle prices are affordable too; most especially the sets.

After your meal, you can just walk outside and visit Bongeunsa Temple directly. What’s cool about this place is that it also has options for vegans (ask for their Bongeun Tofu).

Stop 4: COEX Starfield Library

Time: 1:30 PM

Address: 513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

This is by far the most famous library in Seoul. It’s a real operating library, located inside the largest underground shopping mall in all of Asia: CoEx Starfield. Book lovers will cry at the sight of tens of thousands of books filling the 13-meter shelves.

Visitors also come to watch famous authors do book signing events, and famous poets visit to motivate young children to write.

The downside about this place is only that it is always crowded and noisy – it’s hard to appreciate the rare book you found if there are couples chatting on either side of you. But did I mention that this space is free? This is why people often try to sneak out the books, which I discourage you from trying. 

Stop 5: COEX Aquarium

Time: 5:00 PM

Address: 513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam-gu, 서울특별시

Fee: Adults: ₩28,000; Children: ₩24,000; Senior Citizens: ₩20,000

CoEx Aquarium in Seoul is for those who want to see marine life up close, with more than a hundred display tanks and over 40,000 sea creatures in various themed zones. Shark lovers will be thrilled to know that this is the aquarium that houses the highest number of sharks in Korea.

Touch pools also let you feel the fish (like the manta ray), allowing you to have a healing experience with nature in a safe setting.

Stop 6: Gosoo Dalgalbi Gangnam

Time: 7:30 PM

Address: 20, Teheran-ro 5-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Fee: Adults: ₩-₩₩

For dinner, you should definitely try the tastiest dakgalbi in Seoul. This is a famous Korean dish not common internationally, but very popular domestically. The dish consists of loads of chopped cabbage with tender bits of chicken rib meat, stir-fried in a thick, spicy sauce (that tastes so much better with cheese, in my opinion!).

What’s so wonderful about this place is that their special, the 치즈모듬사리 ( Cheese Modeumsari ), is a party plate full of cheesy rice cake and glass noodles that is perfect for sharing.

For a fun vegan option, come to Veg Green, a delicious vegan buffet that has a homey vibe - the staff will still smile at you, even if you come late at night for dinner. At just ₩12,000 per person, it’s full of options for those who enjoy large mixed salads, including fruits and jam in a cozy ambiance.

Stop 7: GSM Terrace

Address: 327-45 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul

Fee: Adults: ₩10,000 for unlimited drinks

Friends are important, and meeting fun people from diverse, cultural backgrounds may also make your stay in Korea a fulfilling one. Sure, it’s an activity for international people, but you may spot some Koreans who are seeking places to practice their English.

Additionally, you can play all sorts of games with them if you run out of things to talk about. Everything comes easy and natural here, and all people are welcome to join in the fun.

If you find that 3 days in Seoul is not enough, you’re not alone. Most visitors spend 5-7 days in Seoul to get a taste of the culture, nightlife, and food in Korea.

The suggestions below are ideal for people who are looking for other things to visit on their Seoul vacation, since the first three days have pretty much hit all the popular places. A good alternative to Everland is Lotte World.

Seoul Itinerary Day 4: Everland Theme Park

Everland is a popular theme park in Seoul, perfect for people who just want to have a magical day with their date, family, or friends. With over 40 attractions scattered across five different themed areas, it might take an entire day or two to exhaust all of the attractions.

What I love about this place is that it always has festivals and seasonal events to entertain guests of all ages.

Operating Hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Address: 199 Everland-ro, Pogog-eup, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do

Fee: Adults: ₩54,000 to ₩64,000; Children: ₩43,000 to ₩51,000; If you want to skip the line, you can buy the tickets ahead of time . There’s also a fun option of wearing a Korean school uniform, which you can rent online or on-site.

Stop 1: Global Fair

If you’ve always wanted to travel to far-flung destinations, this fair lets you see the world all at once. Historical structures, both existing and ancient, line one area of this zone - and here you can see various architecture from different points in time, instantly turning you into a time traveler.

Stop 2: Live Hologram Adventure (Global Fair)

Time: 11:00 AM

Never been to a K-Pop concert before? That’s okay, because the Live Hologram Adventure lets you experience a 30-minute snippet of a K-Pop concert in high definition.

If you also decide to take pictures and videos, it’d look so realistic that you can trick your friends into thinking that you actually went to a BIGBANG concert.

Stop 3: Snack Buster for Lunch

When you’re in a theme park , you need a lot of grub to keep your energy levels high. Unlike other theme parks with food in small, reduced servings, Snack Buster has generous servings of high-quality Korean foods sold at an affordable price.

I highly recommend their Korean fried chicken with french fries and tteokbokki, because it’ll come in a plate that’s big enough to share with your family or friends.

Stop 4: Carnival Square (European Adventure)

Time: 2:30 PM

Around this time you should join the people gathering by the Carnival Square, because this is when you get to witness a spectacular event only seen in Everland.

Here they’ll launch flowery floats with vivacious dancers and mascots, all inviting you to come join their party. Imagine being in Rio de Janeiro, but when you leave, you’re back in Korea.

Stop 5: Panda World (Zootopia)

Time: 3:15 PM

Need I say more? Pandas are such gentle creatures, and imagine entering a world full of these adorable bears. Everland’s Zootopia should be in your Seoul itinerary for this very reason. If you don’t like pandas and prefer a different animal, then next to this enclosure is the Friendly Monkey Valley.

Stop 6: Lost Valley (Zootopia)

Enjoy zipping through a safari, riding a tram that crosses difficult terrain dotted with real animals. To enjoy this experience, then join the queue at the Lost Valley, where you’ll find your ride crossing the stream.

The trip will take you  into landscaped enclosures full of large animals including elephants, giraffes, camels, and rhinos. And then, if there’s still time, your guide will let you hand-feed these animals, giving you a chance to interact with them up close.

Step 7: Thunder Falls (Magic Land)

Time: 6:00 PM

Speaking of getting wet, there’s a fun flume ride in Everland that features backward drops and steep falls. It’s such a thrill to be on this ride, and the danger can be so exhilarating! But if you need more adrenaline rush, see if you can queue for the T-Express (aka. Everland’s Scariest Ride).

Step 8: Robot VR and Gyro VR (American Adventure)

Have you ever fantasized about channeling your inner Han Solo? These rides let you pilot a futuristic spaceship and navigate the stars. Sci-fi fans love this ride because the effects feel so real— the ride itself even follows the joystick you’re controlling!

Step 9: Four Seasons Garden & Rose Garden

Time: 8:00 PM

When the sun sets, this is the best area to end your day in Everland.  There’s always a light show with fireworks around this time, and a variety of performances that go along with it.

Seoul Itinerary Day 5: Feel the National Pride

As a tourist, one of the best ways to experience Korea is to visit the location where they played host to countries from all over the world. Coming here, you’ll see the effort Korea puts forth in promoting peace and harmony, as well as soak in the welcoming spirit. Plus, Olympic Park is 100% free to visit!

Stop 1: World Peace Gate

Time: 9:30 AM

Address: 424 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul

The World Peace Gate is a marvelous winged structure that reveals a beautiful painting of a phoenix, tiger, turtle, and a dragon if you stand beneath it. This is called “A Painting of Four Spirits,” signifying the desire of Korea to be friends with everybody in the world.

As you stand underneath, it’s like a gate that genuinely welcomes you to enter and experience Korea. I’ve always thought it was a beautiful place to stand and reflect on your experiences in the country.

Stop 2: Olympic Museum

Learn more about the athletes that represented Korea in the past Olympic Games! Documentation about Korea’s best athletes, their training process, and even their histories are comprehensively explained here. Also, thanks to this museum, you’ll get to closely observe the gear used in the recent 2018 Winter Olympic Games in PyeongChang. 

Stop 3: Olympic Park’s Peace Square

Address: 326, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul

If you time your visit around the last week of September to the first week of October this year, there will be a grand festival called the Hanseong Baekje Cultural Festival in the Olympic Park’s Peace Square.

Coming here lets you experience the rich Hanseong era in Korea, featuring food tastings, tea ceremonies, parades and performances, and even a demonstration of a hawk-aided hunting!

Moreover, the reason why they’re holding it here is because the Mongchontoseong Fortress area is known to be a remnant of the Baekje capital. Hopefully you’ll get to see this festival in person, because it truly is a fascinating way to learn more about Korea’s fascinating past.

Stop 4: Bukchon Hanok Village

Time: 4:00 PM

Address: 37, Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Perhaps one of the oldest villages in Seoul, this area dates back all the way to the Joseon Dynasty. Also called the “northern village,” this is also where two significant Seoul landmarks, Cheonggyecheon Stream and Jongno, are located.

What’s admirable about this area is that people hold traditional events here, giving curious tourists an opportunity to get to know the Joseon dynasty even better. Fun activities such as hanbok wearing, etiquette demonstration, and even tea ceremonies are hosted by the people here, and all of these usually occur in the afternoon.

Stop 5: Insadong Street

Address: Insadong, Jongro-gu, Seoul

One of the popular destinations in Korea, Insadong Street has a long array of lively stalls and shops to give you something to look at everywhere.This is also the best place to grab a quick snack, because they serve a variety of Korean foods you should make it a point to try.

If you’re interested in trying something new and enjoy green tea , track down O’Sulloc Tea House and order their matcha cake. Since this is one of your last days in Seoul, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that Insadong is one of the best places to buy souvenirs for your family and friends!

Stop 6: Noryangjin Fish Market

Address: 674 Nodeul-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul

I know that capping your day in a fish market is unusual, but after you swing by Insadong Street, head to the Jonggak Station and ride the subway to Noryangjin , because this is where people can eat the freshest seafood in Seoul.

You can even try the unique dishes they serve, most especially try delicacies that you definitely haven’t before - like the penis fish. You should come try the small octobps, king crab, and hwe (sliced raw fish) here, for example.

Don’t be shy if you can’t speak a lick of Korean because the people are so used to seeing foreigners that they have devised a way to make things easier and enjoyable for you.

Seoul Itinerary Day 6: See Korea’s Highest Point

Stop 1: Namsan Park

Address: 231, Samil-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul

This public park is a nature-friendly rest area smack in the middle of the city. It has clear walking trails leading to Namsan Seoul tower, but I’d encourage you to take your time appreciating this quiet, vast expanse, because it has more facilities than your average park.

Aside from seeing gardens and free physical activity facilities, there’s also a library, a botanical garden, a memorial hall, and a culture center. 

Stop 2: Mok Myeong San Bang

Address: 71 Toegye-ro 20-gil, Namsandong 2-ga, Jung-gu 1F, Hannam Building, Seoul 04629 South Korea

People might have a hard time locating this place, but keep your eyes peeled for a hanok within Namsan Park. Mok Myeong San Bang is a vegetarian-friendly, healthy, traditional lunch restaurant that serves authentic Korean cuisine.

In fact, they pride themselves as chefs who never use artificial seasoning. I highly recommend their bibimbap , which is known to be the best in Seoul, but you should explore dishes like the crispy cheesy pancake and the yukhoe (raw beef).

Stop 3: Namsangol Hanok Village

Address: 28 Toegye-ro 34-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul

After a savory lunch, walk to Namsangol Hanok Village on the north side of Namsan Mountain. Here you get to see homes that were restored to their original form to give tourists a sense of how people in the Joseon dynasty used to live.

Sometimes you may chance upon demonstrations that show people how to play a traditional board game ( yunnori ) or fold a traditional paper called hanji . Sometimes there’s also a fun segment on how traditional herbal medicines are made and used.

Stop 4: N Seoul Tower

Time: 4:30 PM

Address: 105, Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Fee: (Observatory) Adults: ₩11,000; Children: ₩9,000

Also known as the second highest tower in Seoul, Namsan Tower’s Observation Deck provides an unobstructed view of the whole city. There’s also a powerful telescope available for use that lets you have a high quality LCD view of wherever you’re pointing it at. 

Aside from museums and exhibitions, what people really come here for is attaching their own lock to Love Lock Bridge. This is the infamous site in Seoul where couples fasten a lock to symbolize their everlasting love— hence why there’s an area full of locks, and a booth that lets you customize your own to add to the bridge.

Stop 5: Lotte World Tower

Address: 300, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul

Fee: Adults: ₩27,000; Children: ₩24,000; Fast Pass for all ages: ₩50,000

After seeing the second highest point, go to the tallest building in the entirety of Korea! Lotte World Tower, just 55 minutes away from Namsangol Hanok Village. Sleek and slender with a gentle curved design, you can end your evening in a fantastically fast elevator, taking you directly to the highest point in Korea.

The ride also allows you to take great photos, because you get to see the entire city transition to night time as you arrive. Inside you can also test your courage as you walk through the highest indoor glass floor, giving you perspective of how high up in the sky you are (and how teeny every person looks from above).

Seoul Itinerary Day 7: Enjoy the Night at Dongdaemun

Stop 1: Dongdaemun Seonggwak Park

Address: right outside Dongdaemun Station Exit 1

If you feel like doing a bit of walking in the afternoon, this little tourist trap has an uphill road that takes you to a nice park. It’s not as pretty as the other ones, but it has everything you need, and it's very conveniently located for a chill afternoon out.

Since it is a little bit elevated, you get to have a clear view of Dongdaemun , which lets you see the fusion of traditional and modern elements scattered around the city. Moreover, this is where the beautiful Heunginmun gate is located, perfect for pictures on your last day in Seoul.

Stop 2: Heunginjimun (Dongdaemun Gate)

Address: 288 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Don’t skip this gate before you leave. This is an ancient monument which used to stretch longer, as it used to be a fortress with three other gates. All four gates apparently have a meaning attached to their name, and Heunginjimun is loosely translated as “benevolence, with good energy.”

There’s also a semi-circular ongsung inside, which is a pagoda-like traditional structure that makes it stand out compared to the existing gates in Seoul. Plus, the reason we’re coming to see it at 6pm is because it lights up beautifully against the backdrop of cars.

Stop 3: Bulgwangsikdang ( 부광식당 )

Time: 6:30 PM

Address: 207-26 Sungin-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Not many are comfortable in crowded places, but for this one, most will surely make an exception. If you feel like eating a proper home-cooked meal for dinner, this is the best option in Seoul. Since this is more frequented by the elderly and locals, most of the meals are made to appeal to their taste.

But who knows, you might find your favorite Korean meal here! Plus, the owners are kind and friendly, making it a less intimidating place for foreigners to try. Vegans might want to swing by Vegan is Hip (비건이즈힙), a wide sandwich and waffle bar that offers choices that range from sweet potato, tofu salad, fruits, and vegetables.

Their waffles are super delicious, even if they are made with rice flour and plant-based cream, a combination that most non-vegans find challenging to like. If you choose to come here, try their apple jam whipped cream waffle, and you won’t regret it.

Stop 4: Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Address: 43 Eulji-ro 45-gil, Sindang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul

See that majestic neon embryo thing? That’s Dongdaemun Design Plaza. This huge building is absolutely worth seeing at night, since it glows brightly and makes for a good aerial photo. There are lots of free things to do inside since this also doubles as a museum and an exhibition center.

Speaking of which, there’s a large LED screen that allows you to relax your eyes with soothing colors that dance along to therapeutic music. Take your time strolling around inside. There are plenty of fun things you can do, like browse inside for things to buy or check out the books on the shelves.

You can even play on the funny chairs that let you spin without falling! There are also rest areas that let you charge your phones while you sip the coffee from the food carts outside. If you’re a K-Pop fan and you like artists from SM Entertainment, you’ll be happy to know that SM Town is inside.

Stop 5: Dongdaemun Night Market

Time: 10:30 PM

The reason you should come here late in the day is to experience one of the best night markets in Seoul . Known as a fashion destination throughout Seoul, plenty of people frequent Dongdaemun Night Market to shop, play, and eat. The best part? Most of the stalls are open until as late as 5am!

So you’re finally coming to Korea. Your bags are packed and your ticket is ready. Congratulations! But before you leave, here are helpful tips for visiting Korea that you might want to read before you arrive.

• Learn some key phrases in Hangul – or download Papago

While most of the buildings and public spaces in Seoul provide English translations for foreigners, it is rarely enough to travel without learning a few key phrases . Trust me, you’ll want to know what to say if you need to know where the nearest station is or the cost of something.

If you cannot cram these many Korean phrases into your memory, I can relate, and I recommend that you have the Papago translation app ready to assist you just in case.

• Learn basic etiquette 

Of course people don’t expect you to bow everywhere, but you should show them respect. One way to do this is, when you are giving or receiving things, you use both of your hands. As a foreigner, never call strangers ‘ahjussi’ or ‘ahjumma’ if you happen to talk to them, and most of all, learn how to respectfully address people in Korea .

• You can connect to the internet almost everywhere in Korea, but get a Korean SIM card or wifi egg just to be safe 

Don’t assume that everywhere you go, the Internet will always be with you; most Koreans have cell phones with unlimited data now, so wifi is ironically harder to access. One of the hacks I’ve used to be able to connect while on the go is to find a metro station and connect to the free Wi-Fi in there.

But in cases where a station is quite far from you, and you need to use apps like KakaoMaps to sort out your route, it’s best to have a Korean sim card handy.

• Bring a power bank!

You never know when you’ll run out of battery, and Korea is a big city. Even though cafes let people stay for a long time, you may happen to come on days when most are either closed or crowded, so you can’t count on that.

Sometimes you can visit a convenience store and ask if they have ports to charge your phone, but if you don’t want a dead battery to ruin your trip, take a power bank with you (or buy one when you arrive).

• Don’t rely on Google Maps

I cannot stress this enough! Google Maps doesn’t work in Korea, and what’s worse is that what they tell you is rarely accurate. Instead, download Kakao-brand apps when possible. Even though KakaoMaps is made primarily for Koreans in Korea, it is foreigner-friendly and even has an English version.

• Ride public transportation instead of taxis

Taxis are expensive, but Seoul is even more expensive. Also known as the 7 th most expensive capital in the world, most of the fun things to do require you to shell out more money than you might want to.

So to save on your vacation to Seoul, when you can, choose to ride the subway or the bus. Both systems are very clean, extensive, and reliable.

• Carry your own trash

Bring your trash back home with you. Unlike other cities where you can freely throw garbage in any bin, Seoul has very few public trash cans and a very specific system for sorting their waste.

In South Korea, there’s actually a national Zero Waste Policy which has resulted in 5 different types of trash and recyclables, each of which warrant a separate type of bin (I got a stern talking-to a few times over the years for using the wrong types of bags to toss my various types of trash).

I know this has been quite the Seoul travel guide, but that’s just proof that there’s plenty of things to do in Seoul. So whether you’re in Seoul for a week or just three days, I hope this Seoul itinerary can help you make the most of your trip.

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vincent Liptrot says

July 13, 2023 at 2:57 am

great info in here about Seoul. As you can see many fun places are in small allies and harder to reach places. it can be tricky to navigate on your own an tiring by foot to get between sights, though have a wonderful time in Seoul and enjoy this excellent blog!

July 16, 2023 at 10:05 am

Thanks, Vincent!

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How to Plan Your Trip to South Korea 2024/2025 (6 Easy Steps)

South Korea is a popular destination for many travelers, especially for families with teenagers and couples. Besides its history, nature, and modernity, South Korea offers unique and lively experiences, such as K-pop, the hanbok, Hanok hotels, bibimbap, and more, which continue to draw travelers from all over the world.

In this article, we'll explain everything you need to know to plan a wonderful trip to South Korea, including the top places to visit, how long you should spend there, the best times to visit, and the costs.

• 1. Do I Need a Visa to Visit South Korea
• 2. Top 4 Places to Visit in South Korea
• 3. Best Times to Visit South Korea
• 4. How Many Days to Spend in South Korea
• 5. How Much Does a Trip to South Korea Cost
• 6. How to Get To and Around South Korea

Do I Need a Visa to Visit South Korea?

Nationals of many countries are exempt from needing a visa to enter South Korea, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Most travelers could stay in South Korea without a visa for 90 days.

Top 4 Places to Visit in South Korea

With so many wonderful destinations in South Korea, we know it could be difficult to narrow down where to visit. Below are some recommended places to visit for your first trip, based on our knowledge and feedback from our clients.

1) Seoul — Capital City with a Perfect Blend of History and Modernity

As the bustling capital city of South Korea, Seoul is a must-see city when planning a first trip to South Korea. It offers plenty of experiences that would enrich your trip.

If you want to explore history-filled attractions to deepen your understanding of South Korea, don't miss a visit to one of the oldest royal palaces, Gyeongbokgung, and the quiet Korean traditional village of Bukchon Hanok.

Beyond the representative attractions, you could also wear a traditional hanbok and stay in Korean-style accommodation to enrich your trip.

If your children are interested in K-pop, you could see the idols at the famous broadcasting buildings and visit the renowned Korean Wave music companies.

2) Busan — Bustling Seaside City

Busan is a charming seaside city known for its glistening beaches. You could enjoy the comfortable sea breeze and feed seagulls at Haeundae Beach and sample fresh seafood.

As well as beautiful sea views, Busan has many culture-rich attractions. Visit Korean Buddhist temples with stunning sea views, such as Haedong Yonggung Temple, and enjoy the unique art of Gamcheon Culture Village with its multicolored houses.

You can just tell us your preferences and requirements, and we will customize a tour for you.

3) Gyeongju — Ancient Capital with a Long History

Gyeongju, the ancient and medieval capital of South Korea , has a rich history that spans thousands of years and has well-preserved ancient buildings. There, you could explore some UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Bulguksa Temple, which has stood for over a millennium, and Yangdong Folk Village, which is home to the largest hanok village in Korea with Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897) buildings.

4) Jeju Island — Formed by Volcanic Activity and Suitable for Relaxation

Known all over the country for its picturesque natural views, Jeju Island is one of the most popular destinations for travelers to escape from the country's larger cities and relax for a few days.

Jeju Island was formed by volcanic activity, resulting in various natural landscapes, such as the Manjanggul lava tube, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

You could enjoy exciting sea outdoor sports, such as surfing, deep diving, and snorkeling. Additionally, you could relax by basking in the wonderful sunrise or sunset on the sandy beaches.

Best Times to Visit South Korea

South Korea has four distinct seasons and it's suitable to visit all year round.

The best times to travel to South Korea are in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) , when you could enjoy pleasant weather, clearer days, and the best scenery. In spring, you could admire the blooming cherry blossoms and in autumn, you could view the vibrant red foliage.

Summer (June to August) is hot and humid in South Korea, and it is the rainy season as well. But it does not rain every day and you could still enjoy a flexibly planned trip. Compared with July and August (the summer vacation months), June is cooler and less crowded, which makes it a better time for families to visit South Korea.

Winter (December to February) is cold and dry in South Korea, making it a good time to bathe in the hot springs. Christmas and New Year are two of the busiest periods to travel so we suggest that you plan ahead at least 3–6 months in advance as hotels are easily booked up.

Just contact us  if you are thinking of a trip to South Korea. We'd like to create a wonderful trip based on your needs and interests, whatever the weather.

How Many Days to Spend in South Korea

For a first trip to South Korea, we recommend a 10-day trip to explore the highlights in the top cities from north to south covering Seoul, Busan, Gyeongju, and Jeju Island.

Below are three well-selected South Korea itineraries ideal for vacations of three popular lengths (7, 10, and 14 days), each offering authentic activities to enrich your trip.

1) 7-Day Essence Itinerary: Explore Seoul and Busan

Here is the handpicked itinerary, for inspiration:

• Days 1–4: Seoul
• Days 5–7: Busan

7 days are enough to explore South Korea's top two cities of Seoul and Busan. You could wear a traditional hanbok to stroll around culturally-rich Bukchon Hanok Village and stay at a traditional Hanok hotel in Seoul, take a day trip to explore well-preserved UNESCO sites in Gyeongju, and relax with the sea breeze in Busan.

2) 10-Day Classic Itinerary: the Most Chosen Korea Tour Plan

• Days 1–3: Seoul
• Days 4–5: Gyeongju
• Days 6–7: Busan
• Days 8–9: Jeju Island
• Day 10: Departure

This 10-day itinerary is based on the 7-day itinerary with the addition of Jeju Island. It's perfect for first-timers to explore the best of South Korea without rushing and to enjoy its natural beauty.

On Jeju Island, you could explore unique volcanic landscapes, enjoy sunrise or sunset on a sandy beach, and enjoy some free time doing outdoor activities such as snorkeling and surfing.

3) 14-Day South Korea and Japan Itinerary

14 days is ideal for a trip to both South Korea and the neighboring country of Japan, spending 1 week in each country. Not only could you immerse yourself in Korean culture, but also you could experience kid-favored anime elements, stay at a ryokan with an onsen, and watch a geisha performance in Japan.

• Days 4–5: Busan
• Day 6: Fly to Osaka in Japan
• Days 7–9: Kyoto
• Days 10–11: Hakone
• Days 12–14: Tokyo

Week 1 in South Korea: Seoul–Busan

Start your wonderful trip in South Korea. Experience traditional activities in Seoul, such as trying on a hanbok to meander around Bukchon Hanok Village, and relax on a sandy beach and feed some seagulls in Busan.

Week 2 in Japan: Osaka–Kyoto–Hakone–Tokyo

Fly to Osaka to continue your trip in Japan. In the impressive medieval capital of Kyoto , you could dress up like a ninja to learn techniques from a ninja master, wear a kimono to visit the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, and feed friendly deer in Nara.

Take the Shinkansen to Hakone , the well-known home to hot springs, and stay at a Japanese-style ryokan with an onsen.

In Tokyo, the capital city perfectly combines history and modernity. You could meander around the Asakusa district with its Edo-era vibe, make sushi with an experienced chef, and buy your favorite anime products at Pokémon Center.

Check more details about plan a 12-Day or 2 Week Itinerary in South Korea and Japan.

How Much Does a Trip to South Korea Cost?

The private tour cost in South Korea is about US$400–500 per day per person based on a family of 3–5 people , including 4-star hotels, a full-day itinerary, tickets for attractions, private cars, and private guides.

Travel costs are typically one or two times higher in peak times such as the cherry blossom season in March to April, Christmas, and New Year. Therefore, we recommend that you plan your trip at least 3–6 months in advance.

How to Get To and Around South Korea

Most flights from international starting points, such as North America, Europe, and Australia, land at Incheon International Airport in Seoul or Gimhae International Airport in Busan . These airports are conveniently close to their corresponding cities and are international hubs for some of South Korea's leading airlines.

Most cities in South Korea are conveniently connected by the KTX (South Korea's high-speed railway) , which is the most comfortable and efficient way of traveling. For instance, the journey from Seoul to Busan takes approximately 2½ hours.

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Frequently Asked Questions (Visa / Entry Requirements)

Frequently Asked Questions

(1) K-ETA (Refer to  K-ETA FAQ page (click)  for more K-ETA FAQ)

1) What is K-ETA?

     ▷ K-ETA is an online electronic travel authorization that visa-free foreign visitors need to obtain before entering the Republic of Korea for the purpose of tour, visiting relatives, participating in events/meetings or business (excluding profit-making activities).

2) Who is eligible to apply for K-ETA?

     ▷ Please visit the official  K-ETA website (click)  and look for your country in the country dropbox. If you are able to locate your country, you are eligible to apply for K-ETA. If you are  NOT  able to locate your country, it means you are  NOT eligible  to apply for K-ETA and would need to apply for visa instead to enter Korea.

3) What is the general processing time for K-ETA application?

     ▷ Please note that assessment can take more than 72 hours depending on the situation (eg. high volume of K-ETA applications, applicant's circumstances...etc). Therefore, you should apply for K-ETA early.

4) What is the validity of K-ETA and do I need to apply for K-ETA every time I visit Korea?

     ▷ K-ETA is valid for 3 years once issued. It can be used multiple times within its validity. However, if you renew your passport, you are required to apply for a new K-ETA.

5) My K-ETA is approved. Do I need to apply for visa separately?

     ▷ If you have K-ETA, you do not need to apply for visa and vice versa.

6) What is the cost for K-ETA application?

     ▷ K-ETA fee is 10,000 KRW (excluding 3% card processing fee). This fee is not refundable regardless of application result.

7) I tried to apply for K-ETA online and was told to pay USD 99. Why is that so?

    ▷ Please ensure that you are applying for K-ETA on the  official K-ETA website (click)  as the fee is 10,000 KRW (excluding 3% card processing fee). The K-ETA Center is not responsible for any application done via unauthorized 3rd party website.

8) I applied for K-ETA a few days ago but have not receive any approval. What should I do next?

    ▷ We wish to  inform you that K-ETA is  NOT  assessed / approved by the Embassy. P lease contact the K-ETA Center via the  online enquiry form . Travellers are strongly encouraged to apply for K-ETA early to avoid unnecessary inconvenience.

9) My K-ETA application has been rejected. I would like to know why and what should I do next.

     ▷ We wish to inform you that K-ETA is  NOT  assessed / approved by the Embassy. As such, we would not be able to advise you on the reason for rejection. If you need to wish clarify further on this issue, please contact the K-ETA Center via the  online enquiry form . Alternatively, please apply for  visa (click)  if you still need to enter Korea.

10) Is K-ETA required for transit at Incheon Airport?

       ▷ In general, K-ETA is not required if you are not required to clear the immigration at Incheon Airport during the transit. You should consult with your airlines on whether immigration clearance is required or if you may remain at the transit area to connect to your next flight.

11) I understand that K-ETA is exempted for certain nationalities and age groups. Where can I find the information?

      ▷You can find the information  here (click)  and  here (click) .

(2) Visa, Passport Requirement, APEC Business Travel Card

1) My passport has less than 6 months remainder validity during entry into Korea. Would this be an issue?

     ▷ You may enter Korea with a passport that has less than 6 months remainder validity as long as your passport remains valid throughout your stay. If you have further questions on this, please contact the Korean Immigration Call Center directly at  +82-2-6908-1345  (multiple language available).

2) Do I require a visa to enter Korea?

    ▷ Please visit the   K-ETA website (click)   and check if your country is listed in the dropbox. If you are  unable  to locate  your  country in the dropbox, please apply for an   appropriate visa (click) .  If you are  able  to locate your country in the dropbox, please apply for K-ETA online if your purpose of entry is tourism, business, short-term study or family visit.  However,  if your purpose of visit is not covered by K-ETA or if your K-ETA application has been denied, please apply for an   appropriate visa (click) .

3) I hold a valid APEC card. Do I still need to apply for visa/K-ETA to enter Korea for toursim/business?

    ▷ APEC card holders may enter Korea without visa or K-ETA .

4) I am a Korean national living/working in Singapore and I would like to apply for APEC card. 

    ▷ APEC card is handled by the Korea International Trade Association (KITA). Application can be done via  KITA website (click) .  Please contact KITA directly if you have further questions (email:   [email protected]  , Tel:  +82-1566-5114 )  

5) Can I apply for visa online?

    ▷ Online application is  NOT  available. Certain visa types are to be submitted through appointed visa agents only.

All other proxy application (i.e friend, secretary, family member) is not allowed. Please refer to the following table for details.

6) I wish to apply for C-3-9 Tourist Visa / C-3-4 Short Term Business Visa. Can I apply directly at the Embassy without going through an agent?

    ▷ No. Personal submission is  strictly not allowed  for C-3-9 or C-3-4 visa.  We do not provide exceptions on this.  

7) I am a short-term visitor in Singapore. Can I apply for C-3-9 Tourist Visa / C-3-4 Short-Term Business Visa here?

    ▷ No. In general, only foreigners residing in Singapore with valid long-term passes may apply here.

8) I am applying for a visa that allows personal submission. How do I make an appointment?

    ▷ Appointment is not required. Please walk-in  between 9am to 11.30am ,  Monday to Friday excluding public holidays  listed  here (click).

9) What should I fill up under "2.2 Status of Stay" of the visa application form?

     ▷ Please write down the type of visa you will be applying for. For example, C-3-9, C-3-4, D-2.

10) What is the minimum balance to be sustained in my bank account in order to apply for C-3-9 Tourist Visa?

       ▷ Please note that the minimum balance requirement can differ among applicants. Therefore, we do not have an amount to provide to you as a reference. 

11) I do not have a Singapore bank acccount. Can I submit my overseas bank account statements instead?

       ▷ No, we do not accept overseas bank account statements for visa applications in Singapore.

12) Do I need to purchase air tickets or book my accommodation before applying for visa?

       ▷ No, air tickets and accommodation bookings are not required for visa application.

13) Is printing or photocopying service available at the Embassy?

       ▷ We regret to inform you that printing/photocopying service is not available at the Embassy. Please prepare your documents prior to your visit.

14) Do you have a photo booth at the Embassy for visa application?

       ▷ No. The photo booth at the Embassy is meant for Korean passport renewal and does not produce physical photos.

15)  What is the processing time for visa application? Does the Embassy offer express service?

       ▷ The processing time for visa application is  4 working days , inclusive of the day of submission by the visa agent at our office (not the day you pass your application to the agent). We do not offer urgent/express service. Please time your application accordingly.

16)   I applied for visa through an appointed visa agent. Can I check with the Embassy on the status of my application?  

      ▷ The Embassy does not provide status updates on visa application via email or phone call.  If you need to know the collection date of your passport, please check with your agent.  Alternatively, you can check the progress of your application online at  https://visa.go.kr/openPage.do?MENU_ID=10301  by keying in your information (see below for details).

17) My visa is approved but there is no visa sticker in my passport.

        ▷   Please note that physical visa stickers are not issued since 01 July 2020. Applicants may visit Korean Visa Portal  (www.visa.go.kr)  to print out the Visa Grant Notice. Please refer to this  guide (click)   on how to print the Visa Grant Notice.

18) Since there will be no visa sticker affixed to the passport, why is my passport being kept at the Embassy?

       ▷ Your passport must be scanned and will go through checks during the processing of your visa application. Therefore, your passport must be kept at the Embassy.

19) My visa has been denied. Can I know the reason for rejection and if an appeal is possible?

       ▷ In general, we do not provide the reason for rejection. In the event if an appeal is possible, it will be conveyed to the appointed visa agent during the collection. Appeal can be done via the same appointed visa agent or by the applicant in person with his/her passport and additional document(s)  within 2 weeks of rejection . The Embassy does  NOT  charge a fee for appeals.

20) I travel to Korea often. Can I apply for multiple entry visa?

        ▷  From 01 June 2022, the Embassy will resume issuance of double entry and multiple entry visas. If you require double entry or multiple entry, please inform your chosen visa agent. Issuance of multiple entry is still subjected to approval.

21) I have a valid multiple entry visa issued previously. Can I use it to enter Korea?

        ▷  Multiple entry visas that are still valid can be used to enter Korea.  Transfer of visa (click)  is required if the valid multiple entry visa is in your old passport. Please note that transfer of visa is  NOT  allowed if the passport linked to the visa is reported lost.

22) Can I travel to Korea with my new passport and old passport bearing the valid visa instead of transferring the visa?

       ▷Please note that the airlines can deny you from boarding due to failure to transfer your visa. Therefore, please transfer your visa as advised.

23) I applied for transfer of visa online but did not receive any status update from the Embassy.

      ▷ Please note that we will  NOT  be contacting you separately to provide any status update on your application unless additional document(s) is required. You can check if your application was successfully submitted by following the steps listed  here (click) .

24)   I applied for a student visa and the programme duration is 6 months. However, I notice that the validity period of my Visa Grant Notice is 3 months. Does it mean that I can only stay in Korea for 3 months?

      ▷ Validity of visa and duration of stay allowed are different entities. Visa is valid for 3 months once issued. This means that you will need to enter Korea within 3 months of its issuance or else the visa will lapsed. On the other hand, the period of stay listed on the Visa Grant Notice is the duration of stay allowed. The period of stay will start to count from the date of entry.

25) Is visa required for transit at Incheon Airport?

       ▷ In general, visa is not required if you are not required to clear the immigration at Incheon Airport during the transit. You should consult with your airlines on whether immigration clearance is required or if you may remain at the transit area to connect to your next flight.

26) I will be taking a direct flight from a 3rd country to Jeju Island without stopping over at other parts of Korea. Can I do so without a visa / K-ETA?

      ▷ The visa-free entry scheme for Jeju Island can be found  here (click)

(3) COVID-19

1) What would be the COVID-19 vaccination requirement for entry into Korea?

    ▷ Vaccination is not a requirement for entry into Korea.

2) How far in advance should I register for Q-Code?

     ▷ Registration of Q-code is no longer required.

3) Is travel insurance required?

      ▷ Purchase of travel insurance would be your personal choice.

4) Am I required to take an on-arrival PCR test in Korea?

    ▷ The on-arrival PCR test requirement will be lifted from 01 October 2022 onwards.

How to Schedule a KOREAN VISA APPLICATION Appointment (Korean Embassy Manila)

One of the countries I’ve been almost desperately wanting to return to is South Korea. So when the Korean government announced it would finally begin accepting tourist visa applications again, I was the first to book flights.

The problem is, Korea is an extremely popular destination, especially among Filipinos. While the Korean Embassy in Manila is still trying to get back to normal operations, visa applications started piling up. But that’s not all. The embassy has also posted a notice warning against submission of falsified requirements like certificates of employment, bank certificates, ITR or other documents, implying a rise in dubious documents it receives. According to travel agents we talked to, it’s because of this that the embassy became stricter and more meticulous in reviewing applications.

All these led to the Embassy limiting the number of applications it accepts per day. Walk-in applicants formed long queues as early as the night before just to make sure they make it to the cutoff. I know this because I have attempted multiple times! I fell in line for hours only to be told that they couldn’t accept my application because they had already reached the day’s quota.

Fortunately, the Korean Embassy recently launched an online appointment system! The good news is, it eliminates the need for applicants to physically spend the night lining up. The bad news is, as with any other new system, it can still be quite confusing. Thankfully, I was able to successfully reserve a slot while documenting the entire process. In this article, I’ll share with you exactly how to secure a visa application appointment with the Korean Embassy.

But first, a few reminders:

• Make sure you have the following with you: – a working e-mail address. You’ll need this to retrieve an authentication code. – your passport details, particularly your name and passport number.
• You can schedule an appointment for yourself and accompanying parents, children and spouse ONLY. Outside these conditions, applying for a group or other people isn’t allowed.
• The best time to book is the morning of the last Thursday of the month, which is usually when the embassy opens slots for the coming week. More info about that in the FAQs section below. “Usually” because this does change in some months. (Sometimes it gets moved to the Thursday before the last.) The Embassy announces on its FB page when there are changes. However, some slots do open up on other days if other applicants or the embassy itself cancels their appointment.
• Use Google Chrome. I find it to be more compatible to the website than other browsers.
• Be quick. The number of slots dwindle FAST and be all gone in a matter of minutes.
• This guide is only for individual applicants. You may apply via a travel agency but they will be following this same process.

Here’s how to get an appointment with the Korean Embassy for visa application:

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

1. Visit the Korean Embassy’s Consular Services website.

You can find it at https://consul.mofa.go.kr/en/main.do .

Under the APPLY FOR A CONSULAR SERVICE tab, click on RESERVATION TO VISIT A DIPLOMATIC MISSION . It’s the first button under this tab.

2. Fill out the non-membership log-in form.

On the next page, a pop up will appear: Please log in as a non-member to access this service. Click OK. Then, follow these steps.

• On the log-in form, click on the CONSENT TO ALL TERMS & CONDITIONS OF USE button. It will display the terms. Read and scroll down, and then click CONFIRM .
• Enter your name as indicated on the passport that you will use.
• Enter your email address.
• Click SEND AUTHENTICATION NUMBER. The system will send a code to the email address you just entered. It usually takes a minute or so, but at peak times, it can take as long as 30 minutes.
• Enter the authentication number you received and click VERIFY .
• Under contact information, enter your phone or mobile number.
• Click NON-MEMBERSHIP LOG IN .

3. Choose the embassy and service type.

Before you reach this type, you might be redirected first to a virtual “waiting room”, depending on how heavy the visitor traffic is at the time. The page will show you how much time (in seconds) you need to wait before it takes you to the reservation page.

Once on the Reservation page, choose the following:

• Under SELECT A DIPLOMATIC MISSION, choose EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA TO THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES. This is the Korean Embassy in Manila. (It’s toward the bottom of the list.) Note that there are two Philippine missions on the list. The other is the Consulate General in Cebu. Make sure you pick the right one.
• Under SELECT A CONSULAR SERVICE, choose VISA (INDIVIDUAL APPLICANTS FOR TOURISM). And then, under it, tick the box next to VISA (INDIVIDUAL APPLICANTS FOR TOURISM). It’s the only selectable box.

4. Select an appointment date.

You’ll see that not all dates are clickable. The grayed out dates cannot be chosen. Pick a date.

After you pick a date, click the radio button beside the time that applies to you. These are the time allocations:

• 08:30 – Visa Issuance Number holders only
• 09:00 – Koreans’ Filipino Family Visit (F6-1, C3-1, F1-5, F2-2)
• 09:30 – Individual Applicants for Tourism (C-3-9)
• 10:00 – Business (C3-1, C3-4, C4-5)
• 10:30 – Official Conference, Study and others (C3-1, C4-5, D2, D4, A1, A2, etc)

Even if there’s only one option, don’t forget to still tick the radio button. You won’t be able to move on to the next step otherwise.

If all dates are grayed out and not clickable, it means there are no more available slots at the time. You can wait and keep on refreshing.

NOTE: The Embassy usually opens slots for the coming weeks on the last THURSDAY of the month. That’s the best time to try to get an appointment. In some months, it gets moved to the second-to-the-last Thursday of the month. The Embassy usually announces changes like this on its Facebook page. However, this doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to find a slot any other day. Sometimes, the Embassy or the applicant themselves cancel their appointment, putting refreshed slots up for grabs.

5. Check reservation details and type your passport number.

‼️ Under NOTES, enter your passport number! If you’re also applying for your parents/children/spouse under this appointment, you should enter all your full names and corresponding passport numbers.

If you don’t fill in the SPECIFIC REQUESTS field, the Embassy will automatically cancel your appointment and you’ll have to find a new slot. I learned this the hard way, so don’t make the same mistake.

Once everything is in order, type in the CAPTCHA code and click MAKE RESERVATION .

A note will pop up. Check if all the details are correct. You won’t be able to modify it afterwards. If you need to change something, you’ll have to cancel and make another reservation. If everything is correct, click OK.

6. Print out your Reservation Confirmation.

You’ll be taken back to the RESERVATION page, which will now display your scheduled appointment. On the far right, under RESERVATION RECEIPT, click PRINT.

It looks like this:

‼️ IMPORTANT! Do not forget to print or save a copy of this receipt. They will check it when you visit the Embassy on your appointment date. Without it, you’ll be denied entry to the premises.

You’ll also receive a confirmation via email.

7. Show up at the Embassy on scheduled appointment date and time.

Bring the following:

• a printed or soft copy of your Reservation Confirmation
• Completed visa application form
• Passport and identification card
• All the other required documents

‼️ IMPORTANT! Only the visa applicants themselves whose names and passport numbers are indicated on the Reservation Receipt will be allowed to enter the Embassy. If you’re caught applying for someone other than yourself, your parents, your children or your spouse, you will be blacklisted by the Embassy.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

I didn’t make an appointment. can i still make a walk-in visit to the embassy.

NO. Walk-in applicants are no longer accepted, regardless of the visa type you’re applying for.

An appointment is required to be allowed entry.

Can I make an appointment for my spouse (husband/wife)?

YES. On October 4, the Korean Embassy published an update announcing that spouses may now be included in group appointments. So now, you can schedule an appointment for yourself, your parents, your children, or your spouse.

Previously, it was not allowed. According to the Embassy’s FB page before, husbands and wives must make a separate appointment.

But the rule has since been changed.

Can I make an appointment for my siblings (brother/sister)?

NO. You may only apply for yourself, your parents, your children, or your spouse.

Siblings are not included in any of the Embassy’s comms, even though they are immediate relatives, too.

The Embassy adds: “Your appointments for your cousins, nephews, nieces and other relatives will be cancelled by the Embassy.”

Can I make an appointment for my friends who will be my travel companions to Korea?

NO, they must secure an appointment slot on their own even though you will be traveling together.

Each applicant can book only for himself alone or for a parent, child, or spouse. If your companion isn’t a parent, spouse or a child, they need to secure a separate appointment.

Can I make multiple appointments under my name?

NO. Only appointments for yourself, spouse, parent or child will be accepted. All of your appointments will be cancelled by the Embassy.

If you’re caught making two or more appointments under one name, you and all the other applicants associated with you will be blacklisted by the Embassy.

When is the best time to book an appointment?

The Embassy only opens slots for the coming two week every other THURSDAY. This is the best time to try to get an appointment. In some months, when the last Thursday falls towards the very end of the month, the opening gets moved to the second-to-the-last Thursday of the month. The Embassy usually announces changes like this on its Facebook page.

Here’s the schedule for the next few months.

For June 2023, it is scheduled on JUNE 22 (the second to the last Thursday), NOT JUNE 29.

However, this doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to find a slot any other day. Sometimes, the Embassy or the applicants themselves cancel their appointment, putting refreshed slots up for grabs.

I keep on getting this error: 시스템에 일시적으로 장애가 발생했습니다. 잠시 후 다시 시도하여 주십시오. What does it mean?

It reads: The system has temporarily failed. Please try again later.

You may just refresh the page because it would keep on giving this error no matter what you click.

Updates Log

2023/4/27 – Reflected 2023 Q2 schedule updates 2023/1/26 – Reflected 2023 Q1 schedule updates 2022/10/11 – Reflected the October 4 update that includes spouse in application appointment. 2022/9/29 – First up Published: 2022 • 09 • 21

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hi, i was able to booked an appointment but i was super “taranta” so i just put my name and passport no. and forgot to put that of my family. when i checked my reservation i was able to edit and put my parents name. question is, do you have an idea if they will accept this or will they forfeit my reservation? thank you

Hi Shelley! I can’t be sure because I haven’t experienced something like this. But I think it’s OK as long as you print the reservation receipt again and their names should be on it.

In my case, when I failed to enter the right details, I was informed the next day that my reservation was cancelled. If you don’t receive any notification that yours has been cancelled, then I think you should be fine. But again, this is just my guess.

How about cebu? Pwde pa ba mag walk in dun?

Im trying to book an appointment for me, my husband, daughter and son…when i was filling up the special request to put all our full name and passport it doesnt fit since only max 100 characters are allowed. Do u think its ok if i just put all our first name without last name then passport number?TIA

Hi, when you applied for your family do they need to be with you sa embassy on the date of the appointment? TIA

May i know if naging ok?

Yes..inaaccept nila ung first name wala na tanong tanong…

Hi, any update on this? did they get your application even first name lang nakareserve? thanks

Hi, so far d naman rejected yung appointment namin.will come to know on 14th only when we go there.i got hard time kasi booking an appointment palaging puno slot.

Hi Sheene, not sure, but I would probably do the same since there isn’t much choice.

Thank you!!!

Hello po. I’m just wondering if applicable pa ba yung BDO/BPI credit card promo when applying for Korean tourist visa? Sabi kasi if mayron nun onte nalang requirements isusubmit? Then the cc site says promo is valid until end of this year.

Hi Cher. Naku, di ko po sure if ongoing pa ung promo now.

Hi, Do they require booked itineraries already once you apply for a visa?

Hindi naman po.

Hello, anytime po ba mag l-login same process po sa number 1 and 2?

Hello, kapag inaapply ko rin ang spouse ko and children need pa ba sila isama sa appointment? Or pwedeng ako nalang pupunta? Nakakuha kasi ako ng slot may pasok ang mga Bata.

Same question here, i tried to search pero wala ako mahanap if ok lang na d na sila kasama.

Can I reschedule my appointment po or hindi?

Ang alam ko po ay hindi.

Hello, can we include grandchild sa special request since minor namn sya, student and i am sponsoring his trip o talagang separate application din sya? TIA

Hi. In the Non-membership log-in, it says there to put name as seen in passport. May I ask if I should include the middle name? Is there a required format ? (surname first then first name or first name, middle name, surname?)

I have 3 previous SK visas but this is the first time that I’m doing the online appointment. Thank you for any input.

Hello! When entering your name as shown in passport, is it in the order of A. [FIRST NAME] [MIDDLE NAME] [LAST NAME] B. [LAST NAME], [FIRST NAME], [MIDDLE NAME] C. [FIRST NAME] [LAST NAME] D. [LAST NAME], [FIRST NAME]

Hope you can help!

I got an appointment last Nov.18 . i suppose to apply just tourist visa. Before i applied business visa 3months With invitation of korean company.

When i’m in the embassy guard instruct me at window 3 i submit all my documents w/o invitation and the person assist me ask the invitation letter if you cant provide it will more chance of deny application.

Next week will arrive my invitation , it is possible to re~consider my appointment last Nov. 18 to re~submit application once my invitation arrive?

Can i represent my daughter at the embassy to submit her application because she must not absent in the school since she is academic scholar.

Hindi po ba instant ung pagkaka-received ng authentication code sa email? im currently applying now, pero hindi pa rin ako nakaka-received ng authentication code.

Sa case ko po, if I remember correctly, a few minutes lang dumating na. Pero sa teammates ko, mas matagal, umabot 20 minutes yata yun. Dun sa isa naman, hindi dumating yung code at all kasi dami nag-aapply at the same time.

[surname, given name middle name] po ba ung format sa online appointment?

Hello po! Thank you for this detailed post. Mas malaki po ba ang chance na ma-approve ang Korean visa if ikaw mismo ang magsusubmit sa Korean Embassy ng requirements as compared to seeking assistance from an accredited agency? Thank you po!

Hi Cza, I don’t think it matters. But ang OK lang when coursing it through a travel agency is you have an extra layer of checks, so if mayroong makita ang agency na kaya mo pang idagdag or alisin to improve your chances, lalo if complicated yung case, they can give advice. But the submission method per se doesn’t have weight, I think.

I tried awhile ago to inquire in an accredited agency. Wala na daw silang slot for visa assistance. A few minutes later, they offered a travel package which includes visa application assistance. I prefer DIY travel ksi. Assistance on visa application lng need ko kasi I’m from South Cotabato.

Hello! Do you have any idea of the time frame for the approval? Back in 2019, it took 30-45 days before you can find out if you got approved or not.

If I applied for my parents and child, do I need to bring them along for the consul appointment or it’s okay showing just by myself?

Hi, Can i ask someone to collect the my passport on my behalf ..ano po yung mga requirements? Individual application not through agency thank you po

How can i book an appointment here in korea embassy in the philippines

Hi! 1st time traveller with my husband pero si husband sa ibang country mag mumula at mag pprocess ng korean pwede. Ano po kaya mga dapat na requirements ko na dala?

Hi! For Nonmembership log in, it says Enter name as shown in passport, is it Surname, Given name or Given name Surname?

Hoping for a replyyy. Thank you!!!

Please indicate your surname, then given name. Kumbaga how Koreans write their name, too. Surname muna.

Hi Yosh. I tried the online scheduling today. But is it normal that i tried several times but its always error. I tried twice and got authentication number sent to my email but everytime I entered it for verification. It always Error. Try again later. Then it will return to WAITINGROOM again which will take 30mins more… How can i really get an appointment if this website always like this?

Hello. They said that travel agencies can no longer process Korean visa,is this true?

The travel agency accreditation system has been abolished, so there are no more “designated travel agencies”. You may still apply via any travel agency but they will have to go through the same process as anyone else, in terms of securing an appointment. :)

If i was able to logged in as non member but have not booked an appointment, is it ok to log in multiple times?

Yep, you can log in naman multiple times.

Hi, how fast do slots for appointment reservation close? I’m supposed to travel first week of May and have yet to secure an appointment slot.

Based on experience, when slots open, they are gone in minutes.

Hi! Renewing my Korean visa which expired in 2020. Can I include my 9 year old grandson’s visa application in my appointment schedule? His single mom is currently studying/working abroad. I have his mom’s notarized Affidavit of support and consent. I want to bring him to Korea for a short vacay.

Hi, I missed answer two questions on Visa App: #8.8 (relatives in Korea) and #11 (assistance w form) and I may hv made mistake in Purpose of trip. Encoding Tourism, while my purpose is Business. Do I need to change the application form? My supposed trip is on Mar 06 2023. What your experience for this kind of tight schedule? Thank You

Hello po . Pag nakabook po ba appointment for visa, may interview po ba or submission lang ng requirements ang gagawin po?

Naka reserved ako ng appointment and unfortunately hindi ko nailagay yung Passport Number ko sa notes sa sobrang taranta, pwede pa ba tong ma update? or ano kaya pwede ko gawin? Should I email them?

Hello, i tried to book for an appointment. i clicked the make reservation na ang clicked ok. wala pa rin siyang lumalabas. And nagkamali ako, naclick ko yung check reservation. tapos bumalik siya sa waiting room. May idea ka po anong meaning nun? hindi po ba yun na get thru? :(

what’s the diff between membership and non-membership login?

Membership: you can log in when you need/want to. Its advantage is that it’s more efficient than the non-membership login. Non-membership: less efficient since you have to wait for the OTP to arrive at your email pa. From what I hear, matagal siya dumating sa email address mo on days that the reservation slots are opened.

I would recommend that you make an account (membership) prior the appointment slot para mas mabilis ka na makakuha ng slot. Hope this helps!

I was able to get an appointment slot, though I don’t want to take a leave on the appointment day due to work. Pwede ba ipalakad yung documents ko sa travel agency?

Di ko po sure ah, pero I think dapat ikaw. Kasi if ipapalakad sa agency, you should’ve chosen Travel Agency dun sa options po.

options po saan?

Naku, March pa po itong reply ko sa kanya. Baka iba na po ngayon.

Hi Yosh! Thanks for replying to my concern. So in my last application, pinalakad ko siya sa travel agency. Pwede naman pala :) My application was also approved.

Hello pag na blacklisted ba sa online appointment may iba pang way para makapag appointment ng visa?

Hi, thank you so much for this very informative content ☺️ may I ask how much is the visa fee? Thank you again ☺️

It’s FREE of charge.

About PSA Birth certificate and marriage certificate okay lang ba na almost 2 yrs ago na kinuha sa PSA, will they still accept as long as galing sa PSA?

Just make sure that it’s still the original copy, and updated ang details.

Are covering letters required or optional?

Cover letter for visa application? Optional.

Hello! I still have a valid visa but will be the one applying sana for my senior father & minor daughter. Do you know if thats possible? TIA and Thank you for the very informative post.

Hi Justine! I’m not sure if it’s possible, but I *think* it is allowed.

Hello, when claiming the Korean Visa in the embassy, do we need to print anything again? And how would we know if our visa already okay for pick-up? Thank you.

Hello po! Mag a-apply palang po kaming passport this Apr. 17 then sa Apr. 27 po open ng slots ng Embassy. Pede po kaya mag sign up na kahit wala pa po passport on hand?

**Additional: May format/ template po ba ang letter of invitation for Korean visa?

Ask ko lang po kujng pano po kapag mag aapointment sana ng date para makpunta sa Embassy para malaman or macheck po kung wala po kami sa list ng BAN For re entry sa korea.. Dto din po ba mag appointment?

Hi,ok lang po ba na ibang email address ang gamitin sa pagkuha ng visa appointment slot? Nag pa book kc ako ng appointment online then email ng setter ang nakalagay pero name ko naman ang nakalagay sa reservation hindi po ba yun magkaka problema?explain ni setter email nya ang nilagay nya to get the authentication code at maka pag pa reserve ng slot.wala daw po yun magiging problema…any adia po?tsaka tanong ko na din po pwede ba include ang name ng mga makakasama ko sa tour like spouse and children with their passport numbers bali 1 family kami 3pax?or need ko sila kuhanan ng separate appointment?pls enlighten me po tsaka pwede ba hindi na isama ang spouse and child kc may work at nag aaral anak ko. ako nalang pupunta sa mismong appointment schedule?thanks po

hello, may nabago po ba dito? pwede po ba walk-in? thank you

Hindi pa po pwede walk in. Need pa rin po ng appointment

Hi po.. when booking an appointment ano po difference between Individual application for Tourism 1 , 2 and 3? thanks po

No difference naman between the three. They just have more slots na ngayon probably due to the demand. :)

Hi! Question, how many days usually ang visa approval? Thanks!

Hi! In my experience, usually a week after mo malalaman if you’ve been approved or not.

For Korean visa, can I make one appointment slot together with 2 adult single children? thank you

Hi may I ask if pinayagan po?

what are the documents needed for my nephew? he’s still a minor (13y/o)? gusto namin siyang isama. pwede bang ikuha ng appointment siyang mag isa?

Applicable pa po ba ang travel agency visa application?

Thank you po sa mga sasagot

Hi Maureen, pwede pa rin yata but need yata nilang dumaan sa same process as normal applicants. To be honest, sa sobrang daming beses nagbago, kahit ako naguguluhan na.

Hi! I’ve been traveling this summer and am not in my home country (USA) but I will be studying abroad in Korea this fall. Therefore, I need a student visa. However, in Japan, I checked the online embassy calendar for visa appointment and it’s full for all of July. I was debating on whether just going to the Korean embassy in August before school starts and getting a visa there. But I was wondering how long it takes for the visa to come… Also I think I would have to reserve a visa appointment at the Korea embassy and not be able to walk up. Is there an online visa application form because I cannot find it.

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South Korea Itinerary: 2 Weeks Or Less (From A Local)

Updated: Apr 5, 2024 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · 50 Comments

This two weeks in South Korea itinerary is based on my three years living in Korea, discovering the country's beautiful places and the people who live there. Since I left, I've also been back to visit several times, most recently last year.

So while I could write a South Korea 10 day itinerary or 14 day itinerary centered only on Seoul and Busan , maybe even Jeju , I'm not going to do that. This country deserves so much more attention to detail, and so do you. So this guide actually covers five different cities in Korea to check out on your visit.

Even though there's no such thing as the perfect itinerary for Korea, the country is small enough that two weeks is enough time to adjust to the culture change and still have time to enjoy most everything. But if you only have 10 days in Korea (or even fewer), then I highly suggest you start in Seoul for 4 days, at least.

Starting with 4 days in Seoul, you can see the basics for tourists & build out your itinerary from there, as I mention in the South Korea sample itinerary section. So let's get to planning!

Buy a PDF Version of This Post!

• 🇰🇷 Planning Vacations in South Korea
• 🛫 Basics of Korea Travel
• 🙋 South Korea Travel FAQ
• 🗺️ South Korea Trip Itinerary Examples
• 🚕 Where To Visit In South Korea
• 🧳 Budget For A Trip To South Korea
• 🚈 South Korea Travel Tips
• ☺️ Basic Phrases For Your Trip to Korea

🇰🇷 Planning Vacations in South Korea

Those of you looking to visit South Korea are probably as confused by all the changes as I was before I visited again post-covid. But as of March 20th, 2024, masks are still required in medical settings like hospitals but are NO LONGER REQUIRED in all other indoor public places, including public transport.

Here are what document you need to visit Korea as a tourist:

• K-ETA ( Korean Electronic Travel Authorization , applied for at least 72 hours before departure) OR Visa to visit Korea (countries which previously had a visa exemption now need to apply for a K-ETA). From April 1, 2023 to December 31, 2024, passport holders from 22 countries will also temporarily NOT need a K-ETA or visa to visit Korea (includes: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Macao, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, UK, US (including Guam)). If you're a valid ABTC card holder (APEC card), you are not required to apply for a K-ETA [excluding Americans & Canadians].
• Q-Code (can also be filled out upon arrival) : visitors need to fill out information for the Korean quarantine system, known as Q-Code . Note that all travelers are now allowed in regardless of vaccination status, but you do need to have filled out your Q-Code before going through immigration.

If for some reason you need to take a covid test in a South Korea airport, the cost of a covid test in Incheon Airport is currently ₩80,000 ($60USD), with some options within Seoul as inexpensive as ₩65,000 ($50USD). There's no testing requirement to leave South Korea.

🛫 Basics of Korea Travel

In Korea we use the Korean won (KRW), written as ₩ or 원 in Korean. ₩1000 is roughly equal to $0.75USD or ₱43. The won used in South Korea is different from the won used in North Korea.

This depends on your style of travel, but a mid-range budget for a solo traveler spending 10 days in South Korea would be about $65USD per day. If you're willing to stay in cheap hostels, stick to more free activities in Seoul, and eat local foods, then you could get it down to maybe $40USD per day. So I'd say that traveling Korea is really quite affordable, though you can always upgrade your trip, and the longer you stay the cheaper it will be per dium.

As you might expect, Korean people speak the Korean language , but many people in more urban areas also speak decent English, especially younger people. But the written language of Korea is called hangeul , and it's similar in number to the roman alphabet, but the appearance and pronunciation is different. You will not be able to read Korean unless you study some beforehand (if you're interested, I recommend Talk To Me In Korean ).

The internet is generally great in Korea. You can find free public wifi in basically every major point of transit, tourism, and general town hub (even in my little countryside area). But if you want to be connected constantly, you can rent a wifi egg as soon as you land at the airport, or buy a pre-paid sim card for trips longer than a week (I recommend KT/Olleh sims; it's what I've used all three years here).

South and North Korea are technically still at war. That said, there is no sense that this is a country at war, as the last few decades have been relatively quiet on that front. In fact, Korea and Japan are two of the safest places I've ever been; the biggest peril I've ever felt is from potential alcohol poisoning (the drinking culture here is insane; the local liquor of soju is the most popular beverage in the world ). I'd feel comfortable telling anyone they could walk around here at night, though unfortunately women should be extra vigilant with their drinking.

I agree with the general consensus that May, September, and October are the nicest months of the year, weather wise. They have nice sunshine, beautiful foliage, and outside of major holidays, they're light on domestic tourism. But if you want to find the shoulder season, come in April or June. They're either a bit colder or warmer than you might like, but the kids are still in school and the pollution will be less heavy than it would be in May or October. However, winter is food festival season in Korea, with coffee festivals and chocolate festivals happening across the country.

🙋 South Korea Travel FAQ

I've included a FAQ section including the most common questions I've been asked in the last 3 years, by friends, family, and complete strangers. Hopefully this answers the majority of your questions!

What should I wear in Korea during winter, spring, summer, and fall?

From mid-November to mid-March, it could definitely snow and you'll want a heavy winter jacket and some heat-retaining leggings for under your pants. From mid-March through early May & early October through mid-November, there's still the possibility of chilly nights. So bring pants and a jacket for the nights, and t-shirts for the days.

Pack more conservative tops to take to Korea, as showing your collarbones can be cause for staring, especially in smaller towns. Respect is very important in Korea. Early May through early October is a toss-up between extremely hot and warm with a breeze, but it will definitely be humid.

What do I need to bring to Korea?

Other than the basics you'd always pack for yourself, remember to bring higher-cut shirts, as Koreans are more conservative in their dress than most westerners. Women should be sure to bring tampons and pads, as there was recently an issue with domestic pads & tampons are extremely hard to come by.

Many readers have told me that purchasing a sim card and attraction pass (like the Discover Seoul Pass ) helped them make the most of shorter visits, and those are simple things to arrange in advance and take to Korea.

Do I need a visa to visit Korea?

While there are still 112 countries whose citizens don't need to apply for visas before visiting Korea for 30 to 90 days, as of September 2021, ALL visitors from those approved countries still need to have an approved K-ETA before arriving in Korea, even if you just have a long layover in Incheon .

K-ETA stands for Korea-Electronic Travel Authorization. You can check if yours is one of those visa-exempt, countries and how long your visa lasts for, here . Common countries: USA (up to 90 days), Canada (up to 6 months), South Africa (up to 30 days), Malaysia (up to 90 days), Singapore (up to 90 days).

But remember, even if you don't need to apply for a visa, from now on you do still need to apply for a K-ETA , which is good for two years form the date of approval. If you already need to apply for a visa, you do not need to apply for a K-ETA .

How can I get to & around Korea?

Since South Korea is on a peninsula off the southern coast of China, you have to fly in. Note that if you have a layover at Gimpo Airport for some reason, the airport closes each night from 12am-4:30am. Theoretically you could also arrive by boat from China or Japan, but that truly sounds awful to me.

As for actually getting around Korea, that's a much easier question. Getting between the cities is best done by bus, or train if it's a very popular route. Some people prefer to fly between Seoul, Busan, and Jeju, though you can also go via bus & boat.

Within the major cities, buses and metro and taxi are all reliable and safe forms of transport (just make sure your taxi uses their meter). In smaller areas, buses and the occasional taxi are the way to go; taxis are very affordable in South Korea.

How many days in South Korea is enough?

I think two weeks in Korea is ideal for getting a taste of the coast, the nature, and the overall urban lifestyle. But if you have less time on you vacation in South Korea, you can get a condensed version of all of that with just 5 days in Seoul (yes, even the beaches!).

If you have fewer than 5 days, I really do think it will be tough to get a good sense of the culture and people and cuisine.

Which apps should I download before visiting Korea?

My most used apps have been: Kakao Talk (like Korean WhatsApp), Naver Maps (Google Maps is trash here, so you'll want to download this local equivalent), Google Translate (the speaking function is a lifesaver; just remember town download Korean offline), and a Seoul Subway App (mine is in Korean, but there are plenty out there in English).

🗺️ South Korea Trip Itinerary Examples

The whole idea of this guide it to give you an idea of where to visit in Korea and how long you want to spend there. Tourism is on the rise in Korea, and having a unique experience is becoming more important than ever for visitors.

So in true DIY spirit, here are some route examples for a 2 weeks in Korea itinerary or less, for each of the following lengths.

South Korea Itinerary 14 Days

• Seoul (Days 1-4)
• Jeju (Days 5-7)
• Busan (Days 8-9)
• Suncheon area (Days 10-12)
• Jeonju (Days 13-14)

See below for more information on each city.

South Korea Itinerary 10 Days

• Suncheon area (Days 8-10)

Click to check current hotel prices in Korea.

South Korea Itinerary 7 Days

• Suncheon area (Days 5-7)

South Korea Itinerary 5 Days

• Seoul (Days 1-3)
• Jeonju (Days 4-5)

South Korea Itinerary 3 Days

Seoul. Just spend 2 days exploring all you can in Seoul, and then spend your middle day doing a day trip from the city, maybe to nearby Chuncheon .

🚕 Where To Visit In South Korea

Seoul : the capitol city, the darling of K-Pop fans, and one of the most populous cities in the world. Seoul is not for the faint of heart, but for those who can handle serious crowds, Seoul can be most anything you want it to be.

Almost everyone planning South Korea vacations will end up either starting or ending here, and they're lucky to do so. It's a great base from which to travel the rest of the country, or even spend a week or so experiencing all of the different neighborhoods & their vibes.

Seoul is great for culture, food, nightlife, and just about anything else you want in a trip to Korea, except for peace and quiet.

Busan : possibly best known outside of Korea for the movie Train To Busan , this port city is thought of domestically as the seafood and cinema capitol of the country.

Even though it's incredibly urban in its own right, people also think of it as more laid back, with beach vibes and ocean views for days. Busan is perfect for seafood lovers looking to spend time at the beach and indulge in some cinematic activity.

Jeju : the Hawaii of Korea, as it's often called, Jeju is known for its beaches and seafood and nature. The entire island comes from a single volcanic explosion thousands of years ago, and you can actually see the peak of that volcano from any point on the island.

Jeju is ideal for those looking to get a taste of Korean culture and cuisine, but with much more tranquility and beach vibes than you'd find anywhere on the mainland.

Jeonju : this lesser-known Korean destination is where Koreans go when they want to experience the "olden times" of Korea. Jeonju is one of the oldest cities in Korea , famous for its spicy bibimbap, traditional hanok houses, and many unique festivals.

Come to Jeonju if you want to soak in a whole city happily dedicated to maintaining traditional Korean culture, one bowl of spicy bibimbap at a time.

Suncheon : truly off-the-beaten path, Suncheon is a gorgeous region full of flowers, agriculture, and stunning natural landscapes. Domestic tourists most often visit in the springtime to see the green tea fields & cherry blossoms, but Suncheon is also a great base from which to explore a few nearby cities.

Visit Suncheon if you want to see a less-touristed side of Korea's natural beauty, with an emphasis on local agriculture.

✈ Seoul

What seoul is known for.

Seoul has everything you could want in a destination. It's one of the biggest cities in the world, and despite being the center of international cultures in Korea, it's still very much culturally Korean. It's for this reason that I think Seoul is the perfect place to put at the beginning of your Korea itinerary.

You'll probably arrive here, anyway, since Incheon Airport is one of Asia's biggest transport hubs. Many people even plan a Seoul itinerary for 10 days for a taste of the Korean dishes which have become so popular around the world.

Others come for the world-class shopping and cosmetics selection, or even for medical tourism . But I think that the most worthy reasons to write Seoul into your Korean itinerary are the natural beauty , historic temples , and little cultural quirks which all add up to an ambiance that's purely Korean.

What To See In Seoul

I won't list out everything you can do or see in Seoul, since that could fill a whole book (and probably has). But here are 7 things you can't miss seeing in Seoul , since 7 is a lucky number here. Click here for more ideas of what to do in Seoul, with entrance fees, Korean translations, and hours .

Go to the spa. The spa, or sauna, is an important pastime for Koreans of all ages, and it's most common to go on the weekends as a family. A Korean sauna, however, is divided by gender and has you completely naked.

While you could visit a sauna in most any city in Korea, Seoul is going to have the most options for different types of baths and treatments, and it's going to be the most foreigner-friendly. I highly recommend Itaewon Land Spa.

Walk to Namsan Tower. This landmark is rather characteristic of Itaewon and the whole HBC area, located in central Seoul and considered the international hub of the city. Namsan Tower is set in a very green park, and right around the tower itself is a temple and a gate with “love locks” attached to it, but the Tower is best known for having an amazing view of the city.

It’s a bit of a walk from Itaewon’s downtown area, but there’s a bus if you get tired, and a cable car to take you to the top. I think the view is just as good from the cafe right before the top floor, so I wouldn't recommend paying for the cable car.

Visit Gyungbokgung , one of the 5 royal palaces in Seoul. Of the 5, Gyeongbokgung is the most accessible by public transportation, located just outside of a subway stop. I also think it’s the most beautiful, but I’ve had the chance to visit in both fall and spring.

Those are the seasons when the colors of the palace grounds come to life; in summer and winter it's a bit less colorful. The grounds of Gyeongbongung are large, but you could spend anywhere from twenty minutes to two hours exploring each corner of the grounds.

Sing in a Noraebang . Literally translated as "song room," noraebang are the quintessential nighttime activity of the Korean public. In English we usually know then by the Japanese name karaoke .

From middle school onward, on any given night you can find a noraebang full of Korean students hanging out with friends, or adults drinking with co-workers or family. In Seoul it's easy to find either coin noraebang, in which you pay per song, or regular noraebang, in which you rent a room by the hour & buy snacks .

Hike Bukhansan. Just a half hour north of Seoul is one of Korea’s many national parks. Hiking is a national pastime, so every day of the week you’ll see groups of older people geared up for a trip up Bukhansan. On the weekends there are visitors of all ages, usually ending their hikes with a picnic and drinks at whichever peak they decide to stop on.

Explore Gana Art Center . Gana is known across Seoul for its beautiful think pieces. Amidst all the traditional Korean food and aesthetics of northern Seoul, walking around Gana Art Center gives you a different perspective on the current events in Korea.

Luckily, you don’t have to speak any Korean to get the gist of real art, though it may be helpful to know some about Korean culture in order to get the full impact. The permanent exhibits are free, but you may have to pay to enter the special exhibits.

Wander Bukchon Hanok Village . A hanok is a traditional Korean house, a small building with a thatched roofs and beautiful painted walls & roof. In the spring and fall the foliage creates a stunning backdrop for photos, so that’s the perfect time to enjoy the village in traditional garb.

Note that Bukchon Hanok Village doesn’t actually close, but between the hours of 11pm and 5am there’s nothing going on.

What To Eat In Seoul

In case you only have a few days in Seoul, this is where you'll get to sample a range of uniquely Korean foods. And hopefully also visit some of Seoul's dozens of delicious chocolate shops . So while you're in Seoul, be sure to look out for these top 5 Korean foods, particular to the country, but not to any specific region.

Japchae (잡채). A noodle dish containing thinly chopped vegetables, sweet potato starch noodles, and sometimes a little bit of meat. It’s great served warm as a main dish, but it’s often served as a side dish, tossed in sesame oil and soy sauce.

Hoddeok (호떡). This cinnamon sugar-filled fried rice cake is my absolute favorite treat. It's one of the few traditional sweets in Korea, but it's most easily found in the colder months, from October to April (I'd recommend you get it in the neighborhood of Insadong).

Samgyupsal (삼겹살). This is Korean pork belly, the most popular meat of choice in the country. It's just one of many types of meat you can have for Korean barbecue , which is basically a particularly communal style of cooking meat in the center of a table. If this is your only trip to Korea, you need to try this before you go!

Mul Nangmyeon  (물냉면) . Translated as "water cold noodles," this chilled dish is made with buckwheat flour, and served with sliced cucumber & half a boiled egg on top. The dish is made with a meat broth and most commonly eaten right after barbecue, preferably with meat hot off the grill.

Samgyetang  (삼계탕) . Quite possibly my favorite Korean meal, samgyetang is basically Korean chicken soup. The main part of the dish, thought be very healthy, is a whole chicken stuffed with rice and a bit of ginseng, jujubes, & ginko beans. You eat these with the side dishes and the meat & soup, after you dip it in the salt they serve on the side.

Where To Stay In Seoul

There are hundreds of lovely guesthouses and hotels throughout Seoul, and there are equally as many crappy ones. Most egregiously, some of them are both expensive and crappy. So here's my selection for the three best places to stay in Seoul . Each spot is centrally located, high quality, and  foreigner-friendly. These are listed in order from least expensive to most expensive.

Budget: G Guesthouse

There's a reason this is always the recommended guesthouse in Itaewon. Not only does it always come in under budget, but the facilities are clean, the staff is helpful but unobtrusive, and the beds are comfortable. They even provide towels, a luxury not as common as you'd like.

Although you can't control what other guests do or what time they come back, my friends & I have always found that G provides a quieter environment for late-night entries than the other hostels in the area. Pro tip: the kebab place just down the street has the best kebabs in Seoul hands-down.

Mid-Range: Solaria Nishitetsu Seoul

Voted a traveler’s favorite in 2017, Solaria Nishitetsu is part of a Japanese hotel chain which combines comfort & convenience at a reasonable price. Guests love the huge rooms and large, firm beds, a real find in the heart of Myeongdong.

Because of its popular with business travelers, there are lots of harder-to-find amenities for digital nomads and other business people on-the-go, like work spaces and less-expensive single rooms.

Luxury: Signiel Seoul

Located in the top floors of Lotte Tower, Signiel is truly in a league of its own. Its sauna, gym, and pool facilities are world-class, with a staff and suites to match. Each room has a spa-style bathroom and a cozy place to rest your head, in addition to their unparalleled views of the city.

There are even free drinks and appetizers for guests in the hotel lounge, at all times of day. The Signiel is truly the place to get pampered, perfect for those looking for a honeymoon hotel .

✈ Busan

What busan is known for.

Even though it's the second-largest city in Korea, and a metropolis in its own right, Busan doesn't get a lot of love from tourists. Most people think of it as a smaller version of Seoul, with a lot of the same cultural attractions but just harder to get to.

They have a point; Busan and Seoul are both massive port cities with cosmopolitan & hipster neighborhoods, alike. However, I'd argue that the feel of a place and its unique natural landscape plays a big role in your experience there.

In that regard, Seoul and Busan are more comparable to LA and San Diego. Seoul has glitz & glamour and a little of everything, while Busan has a more relaxed ocean-side vibe with lots of fresh seafood & quick flights to neighboring Japan .

As one of Korea's most popular weekend destinations, 3 days in Busan is plenty to see the city's highlights and get a feel for the ancient seaside temples , the beaches , and the local importance of cinema .

What To See In Busan

I won't write up everything you can do or see in Busan, since that'd take hours for you to pour through. So here are 7 things you can't miss seeing or doing in Busan (since 7 is a lucky number). Click here for more ideas of what to do in Busan, with entrance fees, Korean translations, and hours .

Lounge on Haeundae Beach. Undoubtedly the most popular beach in Korea, Haeundae is always packed in the summer, especially with families. But public schools don’t actually let out until mid-July, so if you time your visit well, you may just have a patch of sand to yourself.  Note that beaches are only open for swimming from June to August.

Skip down Cheongsapo Daritdol Skywalk. This unique attraction has become quite popular over the last few years. It's basically a see-through bridge out over the ocean, perfect for showing off the ocean without you having to get in it. There’s also an observatory in the area, one of just 3 in the city. The skywalk is located a short walk from Haeundae Beach.

Explore Busan Cinema Center. As home to the Busan International Film Festival, which is held each fall, this is a great introduction to the film culture for which Busan is famous within Korea. The center has 3 buildings containing theatres of varying sizes, each offering daily tours & lectures. There are restaurants and cafes on-site.

Have a photoshoot in Gamcheon Culture Village. Probably the most popular photo backdrop in all of Busan, "GMC" has become known as a sort of Korean Cinque Terre . The calming blue houses look right out over the ocean, and are actually still people’s homes.

You'll see many an older person drying their laundry on their balconies and chatting on rooftops on sunny afternoons, so remember to stay respectful of the residents.

Have a meal at Jagalchi Market. This is the largest open-air seafood market in Korea, often compared to Noryangjin Market in Seoul. It’s actually become so famous that each October the city holds the Jagalchi Cultural Tourism Festival.

But even if you can’t make it on time for the festival, seafood lovers will have a blast walking through the market and exploring the diverse sea life found in Busan’s waters. The entire first floor is a wet market, while restaurants and the like are found on floors 2-7.

Wander the grounds of Taejongdae. Of all the things to do in Busan, this is by far one of my favorites. Equal parts resort & park, Taejongdae has become famous for its beautiful views and colorful tourist train.

The area's temples are accessible within an hour's walk, but even right around the entrance you can hike down and reach the shore in less than 10 minutes. Basically no matter where you go on the grounds, you’ll find a great view. Note that while it’s free to enter the grounds, this is likely to take up half of your day since it's so far south of downtown.

Watch sunrise at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. In case you don't have the time to spare for a visit to Taejongdae, this is your alternative glimpse at Korea's ancient seaside temples. Most of Korea's temples are in the mountains, offering tranquility and spectacular views of life below.

But Haedong offers a broader view of the life going on below, focusing on the deep blue sea rather than countryside valleys. Some people come here to watch the sunrise, which is a spectacular choice considering it's on the east coast & opens at 5am!

What To Eat In Busan

Busan is not a city for vegetarians or non-adventurous eaters, unless you're looking for chocolate in Busan , that is. The region's most famous foods are definitely of the sea variety, and thus, so are most of these 5 foods you should try in Busan. I have included a couple of land-based options for those who aren't into eau de ocean , however.

Sannakji : likely one of the most famous Korean foods, sannakji is often translated as “live baby octopus.” Cut & served immediately after being pulled from the water, sannakji are squirted with sesame oil & acidic fruit juices, making the tentacles continue to move around for minutes after death.

Haemul Pajeon : this is a seafood pancake, basically, but a Korean version (made with rice flour). They usually include tiny octopus, and are especially popular as a drinking snack, though many people come to Busan’s fish markets to enjoy them with family and friends.

Busan Jokbal : I don’t think I’ve ever met a Korean who didn’t like this dish. The jokbal , or pig’s feet, are cooked in a sweet cinnamon & honey mixture which reminds me of spiral-cut ham on Christmas. They're then served cut-up and ready for eating; the meat is fatty and rich, so don’t knock it ’til you try it.

Dwaeji Gukbap : this is a very hearty pork-based stew, prepared by slowly boiling pork bone into a broth & adding tender little pork bits. It’s served with rice and side dishes; you plop the rice into the stew and then eat it with side dishes of your choosing. It’s popular year-round, but is a must-try in winter. 

Mulhoe : hoe literally means raw seafood, while mul means water. Mulhoe is therefore a raw fish soup, served cold & spicy with a variety of noodles and veggies. I'd only recommend it if you're eating somewhere right off the coast, like in Busan's Jagalchi market.

Where To Stay In Busan

Domestically, Busan is just as much of a tourist destination as Seoul is, since most of the people who travel around regularly are actually coming from Seoul. So Busan has hundreds of quality guesthouses, and probably an equal number of not-so-great ones. 

So here's my selection for the 3 best places to stay in Busan , because there's no reason to suffer through a crappy, expensive hotel. Each of these spots is centrally located, high quality, and  foreigner-friendly. These are listed in order from least expensive to most expensive.

Budget: The Bay Guesthouse

The Bay has become my go-to guesthouse in the warmer months, just 3 minutes from the beach & 2 minutes from the metro. It’s centrally located, the beds are large & comfortable, and the style is as a cross between a capsule hotel and a more typical hostel.

Every morning the manager even cooks breakfast for the guests, and there’s coffee brewed in the dining room.

Mid-Range: Stanford Inn Busan

Stanford Inn is a relatively new addition to Busan's "affordable luxury" lineup. But in the few years since it's opened its doors, guests have been very impressed with the high quality of the rooms & breakfast buffet.

Port-side suites garner the most praise, with guests impressed by the view and the proximity to the metro, just a few blocks in either direction.

Luxury: Lotte Hotel

Though best known internationally for department stores & perishables, domestically Lotte is known for offering a variety of luxury experiences; this includes their chain of hotels. Each suite in Lotte Hotel offers big fluffy beds and a spacious bathroom, as well as a bevy of modern furnishings.

Lotte Hotel is especially popular with families, thanks their reputable spa & restaurant facilities.

✈ Jeju

What jeju is known for.

A few days after one of my trips to Jeju, a Korean friend told me he was jealous that I went without him, because Jeju is his "stereotype of a beautiful place." Well to be honest, it's mine, too. Jeju is breathtaking in the spring & fall, and somehow a haven from the mainland's overwhelming weather in winter & summer.

The route from Seoul's Gimpo Airport to Jeju is actually the most traveled route in the world . That's how much Koreans love visiting this idyllic little island off their southern coast. But tourists? Not so much. Every time I visit Jeju, mine is one of the very few foreign faces I see.

But Jeju Island has so much to offer, from gorgeous hikes to unique local foods , that there's no reason it shouldn't be on every South Korea travel itinerary. Jeju is the place for you if you love exploring natural beauty , learning about sea life , and relaxing seaside .

What To See On Jeju

There is such an incredible number of things to do on Jeju, in every season, that you could spend hours researching. But to give you an idea of some of the many things you can do across the island, here are 7 things you should do or see on Jeju Island. Click here for more ideas of what to do on Jeju, with entrance fees, Korean translations, and hours .

Pose in Love Land (erotic museum). This is often one of the most unexpected sites to find in Korea: a park full of penises & other various erotic sculptures. The park was opened in 2004 by a group of art students from Seoul’s prestigious Hongik University, and since then the park has been a surprising success, where selfies abound. Note that you must be at least 18 to enter the park .

Watch sunrise at the top of Seongsan Ilchulbong. Is this in Korea or the Highlands of Ireland? The immensity of the green and the brightly colored flowers that greet you in the spring could very well distract you from ever climbing to the top of Seongsan.

From the hike to the viewpoint, horseback riding, and boating, you could easily spend half a day here. If you’re lucky, this is also where you’ll catch site of some of Jeju’s famous women divers, though you may see some on the walk over.

Hike around Seopjikoji. Just across from Seongsan Ilchulbong is Seopjikoji, an area famous for being the filming location for several dramas, and just a stunning place in general. The stairs built into & walking trails leading along the cliffs can get a bit crowded on weekends in the summer.

But if you get too hot, there's also a sea side restaurant at the top of the climb. Seopjikoji's most gorgeous scenes are in the spring, when the hills are vibrant green and dotted with bright yellow canola flowers.

Stare in awe at Jeongbang Waterfall. Jeongbang’s claim to fame is that it's the only waterfall in Asia to fall directly into the ocean. It's honestly a cool sight to see, basically from the parking lot, making it my pick for the best waterfall in Jeju.

There’s even a tiny beach in front of it, just before the vast ocean extending way beyond. The shops just along the parking lot will also be selling souvenirs, oranges, and Jeju chocolates.

Walk the Jusangjeolli Lava Cliffs. Often compared to Giant’s Causeway in Northern Island, Jusangjeolli is another act of nature bestowed upon Jeju by the volcano from which it was forged. Less than 5 minutes from the parking lot, the cliffs are deep grey rectangular formations jutting out into the ocean.

It almost looks as if they were formed by a child slowly stacking blocks. They’re quite the popular photo spot, and certainly worth a stop, though lines for selfies can get long on weekends.

Bathe in Sanbangsan Carbonate Springs. This will be one of the strangest experiences of your life, if you’ve never been to a Korean sauna. Everybody here is separated by gender, and then strips themselves buck naked. It takes some getting used to, but when you do, it’s glorious. These hot springs are divided by each temperature and healing properties, making for a very soothing way to spend an evening.

Sip on a cup of tea at O’Sulloc Tea Fields & Museum. The museum is tiny, but if you came to the fields for the tea products, then this is your spot. The aforementioned museum is attached to a massive cafe serving up a variety of teas from their farm, plus coffee and desserts .

The entire complex is located next to a cosmetics shop & a second cafe. But the best part for most people will be the tea plantation itself, situated across the street from the museum, and laid out with pictures in mind.

What To Eat In Jeju

Like all other provinces and cities in Korea, Jeju has a few foods it's famous for, but unlike most of those other regions, Jeju is famous for them because they're actually grown there. A few of these products have turned into a whole range of foods, all focused on that one crop. Take a look.

Abalone (Sea Snails). I know the translation doesn't sound very appetizing, but abalone are actually shellfish, more like oysters than snails (but don’t go looking for any pearls). They’re one of the many sea foods caught by the women divers of Jeju, and are caught & served fresh daily. Local favorites are abalone rice porridge and grilled abalone.

Black Pork. This is meat from a specific type of pig raised mainly on Jeju Island , and I find it to be a softer & more flavorful version of the meat found on the mainland. If you’re looking for easy pickings of a variety of black pork restaurants, check out Black Pork Street in Jeju City.

Hallabong (those big oranges grown throughout the island). The season for hallabong is actually winter time, but some of the groves manage to grow oranges year round. So you’ll see these thick-skinned beauties for sale in boxes along the side of the road, and at gift shops in most of the major tourists sites. Keep an eye out specifically for hallabong tea.

Green Tea  Anything . Home to the well-known O’Sulloc tea fields, you’ll see green tea-flavored things for sale throughout Jeju. But nowhere is there a higher concentration of tea-flavored items than at the O’Sulloc tea museum, itself, which is profiled above. 

Peanut Ice Cream. Depending on where you get it from, the cream flavor can be more or less intense, and the ice crystals can be very strong. But peanuts are actually grown on Udo, an island off the coast of Jeju, making it a truly local food. Though honestly, most people just buy it for the cute pictures.

Where To Stay On Jeju

Since so much of the Island's economy depends upon tourism, you'll have your pickings of Jeju accommodation, especially in Jeju City and the southern city of Seogwipo. But there are some hidden gems, so allow me to shine light on 3 of the best places to stay on Jeju . Each spot is centrally located, high quality, and  foreigner-friendly. These are listed in order from least expensive to most expensive.

Budget: Yeha Guesthouse

Seoul is famous for their inexpensive accommodation, but Jeju City really puts up a fight. Yeha is the best choice for backpacking or budget-minded visitors, with a solid 9/10 rating for their dorm beds, and a good connection to island's public transporation.

To top it all off, they’ll happily store your luggage for you if you want to explore a bit before your flight back.

Mid-Range: Color In Jeju

If you’re looking to stay on the eastern coast and want to splurge a bit, Color In is the move. They’ve got immaculate rooms, a small outdoor pool, and the rugged surroundings typical outside of the big cities. Front desk hours are limited, but that’s easily overlooked once you get to the pool.

With just 6 guest rooms in the entire place, odds are good that yours will be poolside.

Luxury: Kensington Hotel Jeju

One of the highest-rated hotels in Jeju, the Kensington contains all the opulence one expects from a 5-star hotel, infinity pool included. If the layers of indoor & outdoor pools isn’t enough, however, consider the superb staff and various on-site restaurants; their breakfast buffet is included in your stay.

Within walking distance of the hotel are a botanical garden and the teddy bear museum.

✈ Suncheon

What suncheon is known for.

Of all the cities in this Korea itinerary, Suncheon is probably the least famous internationally. The city has just a few hundred thousand residents, quite small by Korean standards, but each spring the county is flooded with domestic tourists chasing beautiful flowers and stunning natural landscapes .

But despite its size, I'd recommend Suncheon because of its great potential as a base from which to explore the rest of southern Korea. Just south of Suncheon are Boseong, where most of the country's green tea is grown, and Yeosu, a beautiful island with lots of attractions in its own right.

Northeast of Suncheon is Gurye, whose spring flower festival & fall cherry festival are famously striking. Simply put, people visit Suncheon in order to revel in the beauty of nature , get away from the big cities , and enjoy the festival culture of small Korean communities.

What To See Around Suncheon

As just one of four great cities to explore in southern Korea, it's difficult to distill Suncheon attractions into one post. But in order to lend an idea of some of the things you can do around Suncheon, here are 7 things you should do or see near Suncheon City.

Learn hands-on at Naganeupseong Folk Village. With remaining residents numbering in the hundreds, calling this a village is a bit of a stretch. But Naganeupseong is more like a demonstrative village, offering visitors performances and traditional experiences you couldn't find even in Seoul.

Each region of Korea has their own unique traditions that they've chosen to keep alive and highlight here. This means that for as vast & varied as Seoul is, you won't find as many ways to experience southern Korean culture up there.

This is honestly in large part because most Seoulites see Korea's southernmost areas as countryside and backwards and unworthy of a visit. However, I think that each is gorgeous (including my own countryside town), and this one in particular is worth a trip.

Hike the Suncheon Bay Wetlands. Small crabs reach up at you from the mud, wheat whispers in the wind, and old people are probably yelling from just behind you. So go the wetlands. Starting from the parking lot and continuing on through the carefully-curated gardens, you'll reach the wetlands themselves.

From there you can cross the gardens via a long bridge. On the other side is a small mountain, which you can take about half an hour to hike up, or you could stop and turn around where you are, admiring the other side of the wetlands' natural beauty.

Picnic at Suncheon Bay National Gardens. When I think of gardens, I think of somewhere well-kept and brightly-colored, maintained within a specific small area. Suncheon's National Gardens are a vast and impressive version of that, including not just flowers but also sculptures, a bridge covered in hangeul , and a variety of cafes & eateries on site .

In peak bloom season, from around mid-March to mid-May, you could easily spend a whole day walking across the ponds and admiring the colorful fauna, wondering why you didn't come here sooner.

Relax at Jirisan Spa Land. If you've never been to a Korean sauna, you are missing out. Spas are a national past time here, and they're also quite affordable, and fun in a group, couple, or solo. Jirisan is particularly well-known because it features hot springs-supplied baths. Keep in mind that like all Korean spas, the indoor regions of the spa are separated by gender and have a no-clothes policy.

Do a photo shoot amongst Gurye Cherry Trees. These bright yellow blossoms have taken up root throughout the village of Gurye, bringing hoards of people (& tourism dollars) to town every spring. In the fall, the trees' cherries cover them in color once again, this time a deep red . If you manage to visit in March (outside of festival time), you may even find this to be the perfect spot for a photo shoot.

Ride the Yeosu Cable Car. Especially beautiful around sunset, Yeosu's cable car takes you across the bridge which connects Yeosu to the mainland. From an incredible height it gives you a look at the still-active port area and many smaller surrounding islands. Not to mention it saves you a taxi ride!

Drink up at Boseong Green Tea Fields. The green tea fields of Boseong hit their peak around mid-May, but they start turning a deep green color as early as March, continuing to lighten until late September. Koreans come to visit the main green tea plantation in order to hike up to the top of the hill on which the tea trees are planted.

Most people end up taking selfies and enjoying the view of everyone walking around far below them. At the plantation, other than the tea itself, you can enjoy green tea-flavored churros, lattes, and even a few savoury dishes (though don't expect much tea to be put in those).

What To Eat In Suncheon

Suncheon is often hailed as the foodie capital of the southern part of Korea. Located near the coast, in Jeollanam-do, local restaurants in Suncheon will serve all the classics, but with a southern twist. Popular themes include seafood, fresh local vegetables, and abundant side dishes.

Mudskipper Soup. Arguably the most popular way to consume this local fish, the soup is prepared using boiled fish, radish leaves, and soybean paste. It's a very strong flavor, but all the side dishes it's served with temper it beautifully.

Kongnamul Gukbap . Literally "soybean soup rice," you can find gukbap all over Korea; I actually recommend trying a hearty pork or beef version in Busan. But each region has their own special recipes for the soups and when they add the rice and where they source the ingredients. In the case of Suncheon's gukbap , the soybean sprouts add beautiful crunch to a very traditional Korean dish.

Sannakji Bibimbap. Another dish I sort of recommended in Busan, sannakji is basically the freshest form of raw octopus you could eat, served with lemon juice and seasoned with sesame oil. This iteration is less of a snack and more of a full meal, incorporating fresh vegetables and rice. Look for 산낙지비빔밥 on a menu.

Green Tea Churros. I couldn't recommend visiting the green tea fields of Boseong without also recommending the snacks! Only available on the weekends, these churros are nice when paired with a cup of green tea soft serve ice cream.

Grilled Duck. Suncheon famously raises about half the duck in Korea, meaning that finding a local duck dish is more likely than not. If you can find it, my favorite is Yangnyum Ori (양념오리).

Where To Stay In Suncheon

Suncheon is quite the hot spot for domestic tourism, so most of the places to stay in Suncheon are Korean-style. This means that you sleep on the floor, and usually call to book directly. But there are some nice western-style guesthouses to choose from, three of which I've listed below. If you're visiting Suncheon between April and June, I'd recommend booking a guesthouse in advance!

Budget: Suncheon Namu Guesthouse

You can't get much closer to Suncheon bus terminal than Namu Guesthouse. No matter what time of day or night you arrive (or depart), if you stay at Namu you're just a few minutes from the city's bus terminal.

The beds are pretty standard for Korea, on the hard side, but the shared space is very homey and comfortable. At just $16USD a night for a dorm bed, it's the perfect spot for those planning to stay awhile and do a lot of day trips.

Budget: Baguni Hostel

It's rare to find a hostel with affordable dorm beds and a decent sense of privacy, but Baguni manages to strike this balance with grace. The dorm beds are each in their own little cubbies, with privacy curtains and fluffy bedding.

But the building itself makes use of lots of white and neutral tones, choosing to focus mainly upon providing a clean, comfortable, and affordable environment for guests.

The hostel is located right in the city center, a short walk from the bus terminal, making it a great choice for visitors who can't or choose not to rent a car. Single hostel beds start at $18USD a night.

Mid-Range: Hotel Iam

Every room at Iam includes an en-suite bathroom and complementary breakfast in the dining room. For those looking to upgrade their stay in Suncheon, this is an affordable hotel with comfortable beds, a nice staff, and a central location.

It's family-friendly, but more popular with couples looking to get away from hostels without breaking the bank. Double rooms start at $40USD.

Click here to check out prices for other hotels in Suncheon

✈ Jeonju

What jeonju is known for.

Despite being just 1.5 hours from Seoul, Jeonju rarely features on a Korea itinerary, and that is a mistake. While you can easily visit Jeonju on a day trip from Seoul, I humbly recommend you spend at least two days in the city.

Preferably while staying in one of the historic houses & enjoying traditional Korean dishes in Korea's "Foodie Capital." Unlike Suncheon, most of the things to see in Jeonju are within the city itself, making it walkable and perfect for any wintertime Korea itinerary.

Seoulites tend to visit the city on the weekends, so take a couple of weekdays to discover the city whose name literally translates as "perfect region." While you're there, make the most of your time with visits to local galleries and walks around the city's many parks and green spaces. 

Jeonju is seen as a very spiritual city, a place of historical importance for its maintenance of traditional foods, architecture, and those intangible parts of Korean culture we all strive to experience in a new place.

What To See Around Jeonju

Jeonju is a great place to just walk around, similar to some of the neighborhoods in central Seoul, but it's always nice to have a destination in mind. So in order to give you an idea of some of the things you can do in Jeonju, here are 7 things you should do or see in the city.

Photoshoot in Jaman Mural Village. Somewhat similar to Gamcheon Cultural Village in Busan or Rainbow Village in Taiwan , Jaman has become a symbol of revitalization for older parts of the city.

While the nearby hanok village has become well-known, just beyond the overpass is Jaman, a neighborhood painted up & beautified by local artists. The uphill scene is worth the trip, and makes for some very cute photos, especially for families and couples.

Tour a Hanok . A hanok is a type of small house, traditionally one story tall, which were the main type of dwelling in Korea for centuries. Due to Jeonju's ancient status, it was designated a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, and as a result, the rest of the city has also been well-preserved.

One thing that sticks out in Jeonju compared to Seoul or Busan is the height of the buildings. It can be hard to put your finger on at first, but you'll quickly notice how short most places are, and how it opens up the entire city.

This is due in large part to the city's hanoks . Places feel greener, even when you visit Jeonju in the winter. While you can tour a hanok ( hopefully stay in one, too! ) just by walking by, I'd also recommend checking out Gyeonggijeon Shrine for a more holistic look at how hanok culture shaped contemporary Korea.

Eat Street Food at Nambu Night Market. You can't recommend a visit to Jeonju without also recommending a trip to a night market. Korean night markets are notoriously boisterous affairs, with locals loudly hawking their wares from the safety of their booths, wafting any number of smells your way. The market is open every day, but Fridays and Saturdays are the busiest of all.

Some delicacies to enjoy once you've feasted your eyes are the grilled meat skewers, daepae saewoo (pork-wrapped shrimp), and hoddeok (honey cinnamon-filled rice cakes), though there are many international dishes, as well.

Try Dolsot Bibimbap With Makgeolli . Those little gold bowls full of translucent white liquid have become a staple in my life. Anytime staff at my job went out to dinner together, we always had makgeolli (rice wine), usually served from a big pot in the center of the table.

This is the most traditional way to consume the traditional rice liquor, and it's a great accompaniment to Jeonju's famous version of bibimbap (mixed rice). Try it almost anywhere in the ancient village, and I guarantee a smile.

Wear a Hanbok Amongst Hanok. Similar to the beautiful hanbok (traditional Korean outfits) you'll see in Seoul and Busan, it's almost a rite of passage to wear a hanbok around Jeonju. If you want a more unique experience in the city, this is the move. Rentals start from ₩8,000 (~$7USD), and range from 1-4 hours.

Have Tea in an Ancient Cafe. Or at least in a cafe that looks ancient, as many of the cafes in Jeonju's downtown area have been styled to look.

Some of the cafes are even in a hanok , which makes the tea-sipping feel all the more event-like. Some great cafes in Jeonju are Café Haengwon and Swan Park Cafe, but just remember to have a translation app on hand for the menus.

Admire the Flowers in Deokjin Park. One of the most popular gathering places in Jeonju, Deokjin Park has now become a draw for visitors, as well. In the spring there are flowers everywhere, while the summer sees the lotus blooming on the lake & fall brings changing colors to the leaves.

If you visit from July to August you'll notice crowds of locals taking pictures with the lotus flowers, as the high season coincides with kids' summer break.

What To Eat In Jeonju

Despite the popularity of Suncheon as Korea's underground foodie capital, Jeonju is the official foodie capital of the country. In fact, in 2012 it was named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Domestically, Jeonju is known for its fresh vegetables and locally-grown rice, as well high levels of spice, so prepare your palate.

Legit Choco Pies. The infamous Korean treat of Choco Pies, which my students simply adore, were actually born at a bakery here in Jeonju. The bakery, PNB, has branches throughout the city, where you can find the layered chocolate and marshmallow pastry in multiple iterations.

Grilled Imsil Cheese. Korean cheese is notoriously gross. But many years ago, in a town just outside of Jeonju, one company faced this problem head-on: Imsil. In street food regions throughout the city you can find thick skewers of carefully grilled Imsil cheese, lightly sweet and crispy on the outside, halloumi-like in texture.

The brand also makes some delicious yogurt, and if you took the bus to & from Jeonju, you may even stop at an outpost where you can buy some of their cheese & yogurt. Go for the blueberry flavor; you can thank me later.

Jeonju Royal Court Cuisine. Gung hanjeongsik , as it's called in Korean, is the modern retelling of the special food eaten at the King's palace during the Joseon Dynasty. Even back then it was so intricate to prepare that it was only consumed once a month. One of my friends insisted that we try this type of meal when we went to her hometown, and it does not disappoint.

The setup is basically three tables covered in dozens of side dishes and a few main meals, all emphasizing local specialties from different parts of the country. This special meal is an investment, maybe $45USD per person. But it's seriously worth it.

Ddeok-galbi. Another local recommendation, these short rib patties will make your mouth water. They're prepared using marinated galbi , usually pork, and onion, garlic, ginger, and a umber of other spices. The meat is ground and then reformed into thin patties before being grilled on skewers or back on the bones; they're served with white rice and numerous side dishes.

Dolsot Bibimbap. While bibimbap (rice with steamed vegetables) is common throughout Korea, this version is unique because it's prepared in a piping hot stone bowl ( dol is Korean for "stone"). The rice is allowed to crisp up on the bottom, adding a delightfully different texture to the mix of ingredients.

This mix almost always includes fresh vegetables, kimchi, oak jelly, a small amount of beef, and a raw egg to stir into the steaming hot dish. Jeonju is so synonymous with bibimbap that there's now Bibimbap Festival every year. Just don't touch the bowl!

Where To Stay In Jeonju

One of the main reasons people choose to visit Jeonju over any other destination in Korea is for the hanoks (traditional Korean houses). All of them are now also equipped with ondol , the typical Korean floor heating system, making them quite comfortable even on the coldest of nights.

So most visitors do opt to spend the night in one of these beautiful guesthouses, most all of which are clustered in the famous Jeonju Hanok Village (in the southeastern part of the city).

But I'm not a huge fan of sleeping on thin blankets on a hard wooden floor, despite having done it a few dozen times. So here I've recommended just one hanok -style guesthouse, the two other being more western-style accommodations.

Budget: 24Guesthouse Jeonju

24 is a popular guesthouse chain, and I've stayed in several of their locations throughout Korea. They offer affordable double rooms with en-suite bathrooms, as well as 3- to 4-person hostel-style rooms for some of the cheapest prices around. A simple coffee & breakfast is included.

The guesthouse is a few blocks north of the Hanok Village, allowing you to be near but not right inside all of the action. At just $14USD a night per dorm bed, it's hard to beat the price if you're visiting Jeonju on a budget.

Hanok: Bu Kyung Dang Guesthouse

This is one of the most beautiful and most-loved hanoks in the whole village; no exaggeration. The entirety of the property consists of just 8 rooms, surrounded by greenery, which is found in full bloom if you visit in the spring.

On the outside is the traditional slatted doors with a paljak roof and paper lanterns around the perimeter. But heading inside you'll find a beautifully refurbished stone-tiled bathroom and wide open rooms. Grab a blanket from the stack and settle in for the night. Rooms start at just $32USD per night.

Mid-Range: N Bridge Hotel

Non- hanok accommodation in Jeonju is incredibly hard to come by; most people want to stay the night in the famous Hanok Village, and seem to have no problem sleeping on the floor. But for my fellow non-floor sleepers— at least those not on a budget— I'd recommend N Bridge.

It's got big fluffy beds, 24-hour service, and a fridge in every room. Unlike most of the hanok options, it also has multiple floors and a marble bathroom in every suite. Just be sure you don't book their futon room unless you actually do want to sleep on the floor, Korean-style. Double rooms start at $74USD.

Click here to check out prices for other hotels in Jeonju

🧳 Budget For A Trip To South Korea

Of all the countries in East Asia, I'd argue that South Korea has become the most affordable to visit. There are many extremes to be found in the ROK (Republic Of Korea), a fact which extends to my daily life here over the last few years.

Visitors could stay in super cheap dorm beds booked way in advance for about ₩12000 ($10USD) a night, eat street food for another $10USD a day, and otherwise spend money only on transportation. I wouldn't recommend it, but it's doable.

On the other hand, Seoul is a massive city with plenty of hotels always ready to take your money. $500USD a night hotel rooms aren't the norm, but they're there. The key is to find a balance, and if you're looking to travel Korea on a budget, then make a list of priorities.

Do you most want a nice place to sleep? Fancy meals? Involved day trips? Budget travel in Korea is 100% possible, but it takes planning. So here's a rundown of the costs of traveling in Korea.

Note that this South Korea travel guide covers such a wide range of days that the budget below is a snapshot of how much you could spend in one day. My dad would call them "guesstimates." It also covers the cost of basic activities which most everyone would do. Remember to multiply this Korea travel budget by the number of days you'll be visiting us for!

ESTIMATED COSTS:

• Visa Fee : ₩30000 (to check if you need a visa, click here )
• Day Tours : ₩70000 (some day tours cost more, but these kids of trips include visiting the DMZ , Nami Island, and Jeju tours)
• * Each Trip To A New City : ~₩30000 (one way; this is an average)
• * Round Trip Airfare to Jeju : ₩80000 (if booked well in advance)

Decent Guesthouse : ₩25000

Meals & Snacks : ₩20000

Attractions & Activities : ₩10000

Transportation : ₩5000 (4 trips on the subway or bus)

Souvenirs & Cafes : ₩5000 (coffee or tea)

Average Cost Per Day : ₩ 65000

🚈 South Korea Travel Tips

• Metros aren't very accessible but the buses and taxis are. So if you're in a hurry or disabled, then you should take a taxi. They're very cheap and fast, though during rush hour they'll take as long as the metro. Most shops (like Korean chocolate shops ) are clustered right around metro stations anyway, so even if your driver doesn't speak much English you can tell them the name of the metro station closest to where you're going.
• Korean winters are not for the faint of heart . My friends from Vietnam visited me last winter and spent their first day alone— they were shivering for hours after we came inside. Even my sister was not very happy with all the snow over New Year's when she visited a few years ago. It can get brutal, thanks to winds coming down from Siberia.
• Also not for the faint of heart, entitled old people . They will push you, publicly and without shame if they think you're in their way. I understand that they act this way because they don't think young people respect their elders like they should, and they don't, in my opinion. But no matter how you think, it is something to be aware of.
• Korea is basically a cashless society , except for in the markets. This means that you can use your credit card most everywhere, but international cards aren't always accepted, so still keep some cash on hand.
• Along similar lines, in Korea you should expect late nights and late mornings . Cafes, restaurants, and shops are open very late, usually between 10pm and midnight, but rarely open before 11am. If you want morning coffee if Korea you'll have to either be at the airport or grab canned coffee from a convenience store.

• Even though it's a more developed country, Korea has their share of travel scams. One of the most common is the fortune teller scam , in which a woman stops you on the street and offers to take you to have traditional experiences, only to scam you out of money. Either way, if someone stops you on the street, 95% of the time they want your money or to convert you. NYC rules apply.
• Pollution is horrible. Sometimes the skies aren't as bad, but spring 2018 and winter 2019 were particularly harsh, with many days seeing pollution levels as high in Seoul as in Beijing, China. Bring a mask, or buy one, especially if spending 2 weeks in South Korea, or longer.
• Naver Maps will tell you which door of the subway you should go to for the faster arrival at your next destination.
• If you're a bigger person , look for handicap-accessible or family bathrooms, as Korean public bathroom stalls are made for small people, especially the women's bathrooms.
• Look up . If you're looking for an office or guesthouse or restaurant, and you'd swear you're at the right address, just look up. It's probably just on a much higher floor, like the 11th or 32nd.
• However, when you do look up, don't make eye contact unless you want to start a conversation or get stared at as you walk away (though that might happen anyway, in the countryside).
• Hospitals are for everything , even if you're a visitor taking various South Korea tours and end up with a cold. The hospital is like the doctor's office, and in small towns like mine, they're open 9 to 5 like everything else.
• Always count to 5 before crossing the street , because without fail, at least once a week I watch someone go after the light turns red, be it a car or a motorbike. Better safe than sorry.

☺️ Basic Phrases For Your Trip to Korea

Hello //  An-nyeong-ha-se-yo . (안녕하세요.)

Thank you //  Gam-saahm-ni-da . (감사합니다.)

How much is it? // Eegaw eol-ma-yeh-yo? (이거 얼마예요?)

Do you speak English? //  Yeong-aw jal-hae-yo?  (영어 잘해요?)

I don’t speak any Korean. //  Han-guk-aw jal-moat-hae-yo.  (한국어 잘못해요.)

One of these, please. //  Ee-gaw ha-na ju-say-yo.  (이거 하나 주세요.)

It’s to-go/takeout. //  Po-jahng ee-eh-yo  or  Tae-ee-kow-shi-yay-oh.  (포장 이예요.)

Lesson complete! Now let’s get packing.

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More South Korea Travel and Life

Reader Interactions

Happy Travelers

January 13, 2024 at 4:42 pm

Thanks for creating a 14 day with Jeonju! We will be in Korea feb 7-21 and obviously plan on seoul, busan, and jeju. We really wanted to hit Jeonju but was reading about doing a drive from seoul east and then south to hit Chuncheon, Sokcho, Gangneung, Samcheok, Andong, Gyeongju, Seokguram and skipping Jeonju.

I was wondering since we will be there in the Winter, which would you recommend the Jeonju plan or the east plan?

January 14, 2024 at 2:46 pm

Thank you for the kind words! At that time of year, you'd be better off giving Jeonju a visit since the warm weather that would make the east coast drive so pleasant & beautiful would be nonexistent right then. You'll also be overlapping with Seollal, or the Lunar New Year (weekend of Feb 10), with those dates, so renting a car may be a bit harder and traffic will be CRAZY heading out of the city all weekend (everyone is taking their fmailies back to the countryside to see parents/extended family). However it will be just one weekend out of two, so I recommend you just plan around that, and definitely give Jeonju a few days!

August 18, 2023 at 4:02 am

Thank you for your post. I wonder how to use 'Kakao talk' app during travel in Korea. Is there any way to use it?

August 20, 2023 at 5:55 pm

My pleasure, Kim! You can download Kakao Talk before your trip, but since it's connected to your phone number, if you need to get a local sim card in Korea, you'll just need to make a temporary new account for use in Korea. So unless you'll use your phone's regular sim card while in Korea, I recommend waiting until you're IN Korea to make your account for use during travel in Korea. Then you can use it to communicate with taxi drivers, food delivery, Air BnB hosts, local friends, etc.

August 07, 2023 at 6:14 am

Thanks for your great posts! I used this one (and a few others including the Seoul and Jeju one) to help me when I went to South Korea for two weeks. I read a few blogs on the internet, but your style and interests most closely matched me. Hope you are doing well one your new adventures 🙂

August 10, 2023 at 9:26 am

Thank you for the kind words, Kim! I'm glad you've found it all helpful. 😀

August 04, 2023 at 5:48 am

Hi, we are going to prepare a tour with golfers to Korea and beside of golf your information are very helpful. Do you live in Korea and work as DMC?

August 04, 2023 at 1:36 pm

That sounds like a very fun tour indeed, but unfortunately I don't like in Korea anymore, nor have I ever worked as a DMC. But good luck with your search, and enjoy your trip!

June 13, 2023 at 11:05 pm

What a great post! Thanks for sharing. We are planning to come from June 29th to 9th July. What do you think about the weather? Can we come now or delay due to rain and heat? Also, in Seoul what is a good location for a family stay - Four Seasons and something in Gangham?

June 14, 2023 at 12:40 am

My pleasure, VK! And since it's monsoon season, it's honestly pretty unpredictable as to which days might be nice, but with such a long stretch of time, you're bound to get some good weather days and maybe a bit of rain. I have a post covering 100+ things to do in Seoul , so I recommend looking through that and over the map on the bottom to note some things that look interesting & rain-proof, as well as some options for stuff close to where you choose to stay.

Speaking of, the Four Seasons is lovely, but I was also incredible impressed with VOCO Hotel in Gangnam . It's an affordable IHG property a block or two from the metro, and I felt like royalty for much cheaper than the Four Seasons (like 1/3 of the price)! But it's always worth comparing the two side-by-side, as the Four Seasons would offer slightly different amenities and is in an arguably more central tourist location. Either way, summertime will be warm in Seoul, but everythng is open and tends to have longer hours due to the increase in domestic tourism.

Enjoy your trip!

June 14, 2023 at 8:34 am

@Max, Thank you so much for your kind response and the details provided. I am planning to do 4 nights in Seoul, 2 nights in Busan, and 4 nights in Jeju. Is that plan correct? Given a choice you would me to skip summer and rain and come later or it is still okay to come from 27th June - 7th July? As we don't to come and spoil the trip - I hope you understand :).

The Hotel option you gave is great. I will definitely have a look. Is it better to stay in Gangnam or the area where the Four Seasons are? I know I am asking too much but if you have any recommendations for Busan and Jeju as well - would love to take your feedback.

Thanks so much again.

Regards, VK

June 14, 2023 at 5:24 pm

That's how I'd plan it out! And honestly, you can't predict the weather well enough to say whether it will rain half the days or just one or none. It can be rainy from June to September, and it gets quite cold after that, so sometimes you just have to roll the dice. If given the option, summer would be my pick over winter, but even if I knew the other times you'd be able to go, we'd still be in the same predicament about not being able to know for sure how the weather will be.

If the price difference doesn't matter as much, the Four Seasons would be my pick for a first-time visit, because it's truly in the middle of the touristy area with a large chunk of the museums, hanok (traditional) houses, souvenir shopping, royal palaces, and a ton of restaurants with great Korean food and mostly translated menus. Voco (and Gangnam as a whole) is about a half hour metro ride from that area, and while it's great for fancy shopping, visiting Lotte Tower, and some fabulous meals (if you eat beef then definitely try hanu , or Korean domestic beef, while you're there), it has a few tourist-friendly museums and not so much else. But what you save in staying there would more than pay for taxis all throughout the city! So each has their pros, and you should pick the one that's right for your preferences.

As for the other two, I spent many hours compiling accommodation guides for both Busan and Jeju Island , and you can read about the various neighborhoods/parts of the island in each, and make the best pick for each based on what you plan to do there. Again, since I'm not sure what attractions you're most interested in, I do think it would make more sense for you to look through those for the best picks for you personally, rather than booking only based on my recommendation. And if you do still have more questions after reading through those two posts, just leave another comment and I'd be happy to answer them there.

I never mind answering questions, as frustratingly few bloggers seem to still do so. But if you've found any of the info helpful, I always appreciate it if you book through my affiliate links. I specifically work with Agoda for hotels because I've always found that they have the best prices on accommodation throughout Asia, and always throughout Korea. But if you don't, no big deal; just wanted to mention it as a free way to say 'thanks'! 🙂

June 14, 2023 at 10:02 pm

@Max, Thank you so much for your kind help and answering questions. This really helps a lot. I will definitely use the affiliate links:)

Susan Hughes

February 25, 2024 at 11:01 am

My husband, oldest daughter, possibly a friend of hers and I will be in South Korea, leaving DFW the 9th (not getting there till the 10th at 3:15)-and returning the 20th at 5:25. Trying to come up with a tentative itinerary so we can experience the most of our time there. Seoul, Busan and Jeju Island are my top places to visit. I’m a Korean adoptee and would like to visit an orphanage. If you have information about Holt orphanage that would be wonderful. I was adopted in 1973 which the orphanage was called Livingstone but changed to Holt. Trying to determine if we should stay around Seoul when we get there or when a few days before we head back home. I’m realizing I should have booked 2 weeks which a friend who is living there for a year suggested but i compromised with 10 days. Would love to hear what advice you have to give. I’m just starting to do research so any info other than what you have said in your post would be much appreciated. Wish you were there when we are to be our travel guide😂Looking forward to hearing back from you!

February 28, 2024 at 1:14 am

Hi, Susan! That sounds like a wonderful experience you have planned. I'm sorry I don't know anything about Holt, but I also did my best to include every little detail about visiting in this post - it's over ten thousand words! However, when planning timing, I'd say to know your limits. If you're flying direct from Dallas and know you'd be up for another short domestic flight that would get you to Jeju by 7pm or 8pm, then I'd say to go directly to Jeju, because getting into Seoul formt he airport in Incheon take about 2 hours. It's a trek, and your time is better spent getting your sea legs, so to speak. From a few days in Jeju first, I'd fly from Jeju to Busan, then take the train from Busan to Seoul and leave form there. Lots of options depending on your particular interests!

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How to Fill Out a South Korea Visa Application Form [Step by Step Guide]

One of the requirements in getting a visa is an application form; it may be done electronically, in writing through paper or online submission. Getting things rights in the is the first step in getting your visa approved, the information here should be the same as your submitted documents.

In case you are going to the land of KPop and KDramas, here’s How to Fill up a South Korea Visa Application Form .

The South Korea Visa Application form has a new version deleting the “Details of Visa Issuance Confirmation” section on the second page. You can get a copy of the latest form at the SK Embassy’s website or through here. Ready your information, and let’s do this together!

ADVISORY: As per Embassy of South Korea, starting August 23, 2022 , visa processing is 25-30 working days.  

• Common Reasons For South Korea Visa Rejection and What You Can Do About It
• How to get a South Korea Visa Grant Notice for Philippine Passport Holders
• How To Go To Busan From Seoul [How to Get To Busan, South Korea]
• 10 Best Things To Do in Busan, South Korea [with Suggested Tours]
• How to Get a Five Year Multiple Entry South Korea Visa for Filipinos

Table of Contents

South Korea Visa Application Form

First, you will need to download the form. It’s better to do this electronically and not in writing as you can edit it immediately. It would help if you also wrote as neatly as possible in case you want to write. However, there’s a PDF and Document available, and I highly recommend this. Click the link to download the form. Print it at an A4 sized paper.

• Word Document
• Hangul File
• Please Fill in Block Letters or Capital Letters, make sure the CAPS LOCK is on so that’s easier
• Prepare your Check symbol or simply copy it from the form
• In case you have blank answers, write N/A (Not Applicable)
• As per the examples below, I just used another color so that you will know what to fill up, but make sure you use black pen/ink
• Information provided here is not 100% true as this is just an example; however, you must provide factual information on your application

1. Personal Details

On the first page, ready your passport (s) for the information asked.

• Full name in English or the characters of your passport, in case you have a Middle name, you can skip writing it as Koreans usually don’t have one
• Chinese Name or Chinese Characters of your English Name
• Your gender
• Birthdate using the format given – Year, Month, Day in numbers
• Nationality
• Country of Birth
• National Identity No. – these are mostly for citizens of countries who each have an identity number, for Filipinos as we don’t have one you can put “N/A.”
• In case you have other names used in your previous application or visit to South Korea, enter it, if none, just plainly check “No” and write “N/A.”
• If you are a dual citizen, answer the question “yes” and list the country you are a citizen of, if not check “No” and write “N/A.”

2. Details of Visa Application

This is the newest part of the Visa Application Form. Make sure they are in line with your purpose of visit.

• Period of Stay – you will need to choose if it’s long-term or short-term
• Status of Stay – there are many categories you could choose, here are common ones:

Short Term:

• C-2 Short-term Business
• C-3-9 Tourist
• C-3-1 Short-term (General)
• C-3-3 Medical Tourist
• C-3-4 Business Visitor (General)
• F-1 Visiting or Joining Family
• F-2 Resident
• F-6 Marriage to Korean Citizen

That’s it for page one, don’t write anything under “For Official Use Only.”

3. Passport Information

Let’s go now to the second page, ready your passport again.

• Passport Type – check which category is applicable, we usually have the Regular one
• Passport Number – found in the bio-page
• Issuing Country
• Where the passport is issued
• Issuance Date – you can use the format in your passport
• Expiry date
• If you have another passport, write the information asked

4. Contact Information

• Home Country address or your permanent address
• In case you are currently living in another place that’s’ different from your home address then type it – you can place N/A if it’s the same
• Your functioning cellphone number
• Telephone number
• E-mail address
• Emergency Contact Information

5. Marital Status

• In case you are single or divorced, check the category and type N/A
• Your Civil Status
• Information about your partner
• If you both have children, you answer this question – this pertains to humans, and I would like to answer 6 if cats were included (haha)

6. Education

• The highest degree you have – if you are up to college, then its Bachelor’s Degree, should you be up to elementary – then check other and write Elementary Graduate or up to Grade 10, etc.
• Name of the school – this one is related to the 6.1 question, so basically where you graduated or attended school last
• Address of the school indicated in 6.2 – in city, province, country format

7. Employment

• Choose which category suits you best – if you are a government employee, it’s under civil servant, businessmen are entrepreneurs, freelancers, or digital nomads can consider themselves self-employed.
• Details of employment – Make sure the details here are the same as the papers you are going to submit – Certificate of Employment, Business Permit, School Certificate, etc.

8. Details of Visit

This is one of the most crucial parts of your application

• Purpose of Visit – if you are there for tourism, check tourism, however, if you got invited by a friend it’s better to use visiting family/relatives/friends especially if you are staying in their place rather than hotels. Be careful here as this is one of the most common reasons in getting denied for a South Korea Tourist Visa .
• How many days you will be staying in Korea – your budget must be enough for your stay
• Planned date of entry
• Where you are staying in Korea
• Contact number in Korea – you can use the hotel’s number
• Previous travels to South Korea in the last 5 years
• Previous travels to other countries in the previous 5 years – you can refer to your passport
• Family member – spouse, parents, siblings, or children that are currently in South Korea
• Family member – spouse, parents, siblings, or children that are traveling with you to South Korea – this does not include friends, you must have the same details of visit in the application

9. Details of Invitation

• In case you are invited to Korea by a friend, relative, or family or a company, then you must state their information.

10. Funding Details

• Estimated travel costs, it’s usually days of stay x USD 100
• The one who will pay for your expenses – if you are paying for yourself, then you can put “Myself,” in case another person will then you have to provide their information. You’ll need a guarantee letter also and the financial documents of the person, especially if you are unemployed or don’t have enough funds.

11. Assistance with the form

You can leave this blank as the travel agent who will assess your documents and pass this for you will put in their details here.

12. Declaration

Read the notice before signing the declaration. Make sure to double-check your answers.

There you go! Now you know how to fill up a South Korea Visa Application Form . Check out our other South Korea Visa articles to help you with your application as well as your trip to South Korea. Good luck!

About the Writer

Hey, I’m Lyza! I once was a person who just imagined going to places “one day” but decided to pursue my dreams. My first travel abroad was in Japan, solo, last 2018, and fell in love with the journey since. I’m aiming to visit 10 countries before turning 30 and 2 new places in the Philippines every year. Besides traveling, I love organizing trips, photography, reading, and making new friends. Follow my adventures through my  Instagram .

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16 thoughts on “ How to Fill Out a South Korea Visa Application Form [Step by Step Guide] ”

[email protected]

What to put in employment details if you are a freelancer?

Thank you so much 🙂

Hello, I am a student and planning to pay for the visit myself. I do a part-time job. Do I need to show my part-time job certificate along with my school certificate?

Thank you for this guideline. I followed it and got my visa approved today. God speed.

Your welcome po, enjoy SK!

Hi po regrding po sa funding details, may show money po ba or may kelangan pa pong personal bank acc. At certificate na ipasa? And magkano po?

Is Flight ticket one of the requirement during Visa Application?

Hi Lyza! I just want to ask question regarding “Details of Visit” in the application form. I intended to stay in Busan and Seoul. Do i also have to give both hotel addresses on the application form or just the first one.

Thank you for your help!!!

Hi Lyza, are widows considered single for the marital status? I’m not quite sure what to put on my mother’s application. Thank you for this post. It was very informative

Thank you for this sample! 😄😄 Super helpful!

Hey ! Lyza,😃 Thanks for giving such kind of some idea! I am Planning to go there South Korea easily, I learn from your about.

HI LYZA, YOUR ARTICLE IS VERY INFORMATIVE. ANYWAY, IN REGARD TO 8.4 I DON’T HAVE AN ADDRESS IN KOREA AS HAVEN’T BOUGHT YET MY TICKET AND BOOKED A HOTEL, I HAVE ALSO BEEN TO OTHER COUNTRIES BEFORE, BUT IT WAS 6 YEARS AGO AND I JUST RENEWED MY PASSPORT, SO IT WILL APPEAR THAT I SEEMED TO BE A FIRST-TIME TRAVELER THAT MIGHT AFFECT MY APPLICATION.

You’ll need to book a hotel, you can try checking hotels here: List of the Best Luxury Hotels in South Korea or book one with free cancellation

Hi Lyza, i have read your article regarding SK visa. May i ask, how many days/weeks someone has to apply for travel visa before the travel date? We are planning to travel next year ( feb 2021) and my passort will expire on sept 2021. I am worried about the passport. Thank you in advance

Application was 7 days before but there were months it took 30 days, so it’s better to do it a month before. I also suggest you renew your passport now.

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Two Monkeys Travel Group – Community Travel Blog is a travel blog and website. We quickly grew into a valuable source of inspiring travel stories, advice, itineraries and travel guides, with the aim of demonstrating how to live a sustainable life of travel, whilst living your own definition of success. If you'd like to contribute and write a guest post, contact us at [email protected]

48 Hours in Tokyo – Exploring Japan’s Vibrant Capital

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• Aug 20, 2023

FAQs for Korea Tourist Visa application in Cebu

Planning a trip to Korea? Need a Korean Tourist Visa? Applying for a Korea Tourist Visa can be a bit overwhelming, but worry not! Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers to simplify your visa application process.

What type of visa do I need to visit South Korea for tourism purposes? You will need a South Korea Tourist Visa.

What are the requirements for a South Korea Tourist Visa? The requirements typically include a completed application form, passport-sized photos, passport, proof of employment, bank statements, and other supporting documents. You may refer to this blog post for the complete list of requirements .

How early can I apply for a Korea tourist visa? The validity of the visa is only 3 months fr om the issue date so do not apply more than 3 months earlier than your travel date so you still have a valid visa when you travel.

How long does it take to process a South Korea Tourist Visa? Processing times vary, but it usually takes around 5-10 working days from the date of submission.

What is the minimum validity required on my passport to apply for a South Korea Tourist Visa? Your passport should have at least six months of validity remaining beyond your intended date of departure from South Korea.

Do I need to show proof of funds for my trip? Yes, you will need to provide bank statements or other financial documents to demonstrate your ability to cover your expenses during your stay in South Korea.

Is a personal interview required for the visa application? Interviews are not always required, but the embassy or consulate may request one if they need further clarification on your application.

What are some common reasons for visa application rejections? Visa applications can be rejected for various reasons, such as insufficient documentation, inability to prove ties to your home country, or concerns about the purpose of your visit.

What countries belong to the OECD? OECD stands for Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development and it includes the following countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom, and the United States.

Is travel insurance mandatory for a South Korea Tourist Visa? While it might not be mandatory, having travel insurance is recommended to cover unexpected medical expenses and other emergencies.

Is Wow Travel accredited by the Korean Consulate to process applications for Korea Tourist Visa? Yes, Wow Travel is one of the few accredited travel agencies by the Korean Consulate in Cebu.

Can Wow Travel process the visa application for applicants not based in Cebu? Yes but as of now we can only accept Visayas-based applicants since the Consulate in Cebu only accepts Visayas-based applicants.

Can I process my application directly? Yes, you can apply directly to the Consulate but you'll have to dedicate time to find a slot of the appointment, submit the documents and pick-up the visa during releasing. For your convenience, Wow Travel can handle the hassle of doing all those things by yourself. We also review your documents prior to submitting to the Consulate to reduce the chances of deficiencies and/or disapproval.

Do you also offer tour packages for Korea? Yes, we do. Just send us an email or visit any of our branches to learn more about our Korea Tour Packages.

Remember, visa requirements and procedures can change. It's always best to verify with the South Korean embassy or consulate in Cebu for the latest information before applying.

Got questions? Our Travel Consultants and Visa Specialists are here to assist you with your Korea Tourist Visa application. Contact us at [email protected] or visit our branches.

Also, don't forget to check out this blog post about How to Apply for a South Korea Tourist Visa in Cebu

Why file your Korea Tourist Visa application with Wow Travel?

For a small fee, we will handle the hassle of getting a time slot with the Korean Consulate, submitting the application and claiming the visa once it is released.

We will review the documents before we file them to the consulate to reduce the chances of deficiencies and/or disapproval.

We are an accredited Travel Agency by the Korean Consulate of Cebu for visa processing.

We have successfully secured more than 500+ approved Korean tourist visas for our clients.

We have multiple branches in Cebu which are located in very convenient locations.

You can submit the required documents together with the filing fee payment to any of the following Wow Travel branches:

4F Ayala Malls Central Bloc

3F Robinsons Place Cebu

3F Elizabeth Mall Cebu

LGF Gaisano Mactan Island Mall

GF Gaisano Grand Mall Mactan / Basak

GF Mactan Marina Mall

Poblacion Lapu Lapu (inside Sayaka Copy Center)

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