Seoul
South Korea
Plan a trip here
Gyeongbokgung PalacePhoto: 서울관광 아카이브, KOGL Type 1, Wikimedia Commons
- CountrySouth Korea
- Official languagesKorean
- CurrencySouth Korean Won (KRW)
- Time zoneUTC+9
- PopulationAbout 9.7 million
- Known forPalaces, street food, K-pop, shopping, technology
AI-generated, may contain mistakes.
- Entry requirementsMany nationalities require a K-ETA electronic travel authorization before departure. Check if your country is eligible for visa-free entry.
- Passport validityPassports should be valid for at least six months beyond your date of arrival.
- Check before you goMinistry of Foreign Affairs of South Korea
Rules change: always check official sources before you travel. AI-generated, may contain mistakes.
- Peak seasonSpring (April-May) for cherry blossoms and Autumn (September-November) for pleasant temperatures and fall foliage.
- Off-peak seasonWinter (December-February) is very cold, but offers fewer crowds and lower prices.
- WeatherFour distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid (25-30°C), winters are dry and cold (-5 to 5°C).
- Big eventsSeoul Lantern Festival in November and various cherry blossom festivals in April.
- Best time to visitSpring or Autumn for the most comfortable weather for sightseeing.
AI-generated, may contain mistakes.
- Gyeongbokgung PalaceThe largest and most iconic royal palace from the Joseon Dynasty. Famous for the changing of the guard ceremony.
- N Seoul TowerLocated on Namsan Mountain, it offers panoramic views of the entire city.
- Bukchon Hanok VillageA traditional village with hundreds of houses dating back to the Joseon Dynasty, showcasing traditional Korean architecture.
- Myeong-dongA bustling district famous for shopping, cosmetics, and extensive street food stalls.
- InsadongA neighborhood known for traditional tea houses, art galleries, and antique shops.
AI-generated, may contain mistakes.
- Myeong-dongBest for first-time visitors and shoppers. Very central with many dining options. Prices about 80,000-250,000 KRW.
- HongdaeBest for nightlife, youth culture, and budget travelers. Lively atmosphere near universities. Prices about 50,000-150,000 KRW.
- GangnamBest for luxury, business, and modern city vibes. High-end hotels and shopping. Prices about 150,000-400,000 KRW.
- Hanok stayExperience traditional Korean living by staying in a renovated historic house in areas like Bukchon.
AI-generated, may contain mistakes.
- BibimbapA bowl of warm white rice topped with sautéed vegetables, chili paste, and often meat or egg.
- KimchiA staple side dish made of salted and fermented vegetables, most commonly napa cabbage.
- BulgogiThinly sliced marinated beef grilled on a stove or barbecue.
- TteokbokkiChewy rice cakes cooked in a spicy, sweet red chili sauce, popular as street food.
- Dining tipIt is polite to wait for the eldest person at the table to start eating before you begin.
AI-generated, may contain mistakes.
- From the airportIncheon International Airport is connected by the AREX train (about 5,000-10,000 KRW) and airport limousine buses.
- MetroThe subway system is extensive, clean, and efficient. Use a T-money card for easy payment.
- TaxisWidely available and relatively affordable. Use official orange or silver taxis.
- TipDownload Naver Maps or KakaoMap, as Google Maps has limited functionality for walking directions in South Korea.
AI-generated, may contain mistakes.
- Is it required?Not required but recommended for all travelers.
- Medical careHigh quality and modern facilities, but can be expensive for non-residents without insurance.
- What to checkEnsure your policy covers emergency medical evacuation and hospital stays.
AI-generated, may contain mistakes.
- CurrencySouth Korean Won (KRW)
- Exchange rateAbout 1 INR = 16 KRW.
- Cards or cashCards are accepted almost everywhere. Carry some cash for small street food stalls or local markets.
- TippingTipping is not expected or practiced in South Korea.
- Mobile dataTourist SIM cards and eSIMs are widely available at the airport and convenience stores.
- Power plugsTypes C and F, 220V.
- Emergency number119 for fire and medical, 112 for police.
AI-generated, may contain mistakes.