Korea is relatively easy to travel around, but there are a few things that can make your trip much smoother if you know them before you arrive.
I live in Korea, and these are the practical tips I would give a friend visiting for the first time.
1. Get a Transportation Card Early
One of the first things you should get in Korea is a transportation card.
T-money and other rechargeable transportation cards can be used on subways and buses and are much more convenient than buying individual tickets every time.
You can usually buy and recharge them at convenience stores and subway stations.
If most of your trip will be in Seoul, you may also want to compare a regular transportation card with the Climate Card, depending on how often you plan to use public transportation.
2. You Do Not Need Much Cash, But Keep Some
Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere in Korea, including convenience stores, cafés, restaurants, and many small shops.
Still, I recommend carrying a small amount of Korean won.
Cash can occasionally be useful at traditional markets, small vendors, or in situations where your international card does not work.
3. Use NAVER Map for Getting Around
NAVER Map is extremely useful when traveling in Korea.
It can help you find subway routes, buses, restaurants, cafés, attractions, and walking directions.
Searching the Korean name of a destination often gives the most accurate results, so saving the Korean name of your hotel and major destinations can be helpful.
4. Public Transportation Is Usually the Best Choice
In Seoul and other major cities, subways and buses can take you to most places tourists want to visit.
Taxis are also widely available, but during rush hour traffic can make a short-looking trip surprisingly long.
For most sightseeing days, I would use the subway first and taxis when they genuinely save time.
5. Convenience Stores Are More Useful Than You Think
CU, GS25, 7-Eleven, and Emart24 are everywhere.
Besides snacks and drinks, many convenience stores sell simple meals, toiletries, chargers, umbrellas, and travel essentials.
Some stores also allow you to recharge transportation cards.
If you suddenly need something late at night, check a nearby convenience store first.
6. Tipping Is Not Normally Expected
Korea does not have the same tipping culture as countries such as the United States.
At ordinary restaurants, cafés, and taxis, you generally do not need to add a tip.
In many Korean restaurants, water and basic side dishes are also provided without an additional charge.
7. Learn a Few Simple Korean Words
You can travel in Korea without speaking Korean, especially in major tourist areas.
But a few simple expressions make everyday interactions easier.
“Annyeonghaseyo” means hello.
“Gamsahamnida” means thank you.
“Juseyo” means please give me, and you will hear and use it often when ordering.
Even a small effort is usually appreciated.
8. Save Your Hotel Address in Korean
Before leaving the airport, save a screenshot of your hotel name, telephone number, and address in Korean.
This is particularly useful when taking a taxi or asking someone for directions.
Do not rely only on remembering the English hotel name.
9. Do Not Plan Every Minute
Seoul, Busan, Jeju, and other Korean destinations have plenty to see, but trying to visit too many places in one day can turn your trip into a transportation schedule.
Choose one or two main areas each day and explore nearby streets, cafés, markets, and restaurants.
Some of the best moments in Korea happen between the famous attractions.
10. Remember 1330 If You Need Travel Help
If you run into a travel problem in Korea, the Korea Tourism Organization operates the 1330 Korea Travel Helpline.
It provides tourist information and multilingual assistance by phone and online chat.
It is a useful service to remember before your trip.
A Local's Final Tip
Korea is easier to travel around than it may look when you are planning from overseas.
Get your transportation sorted out, keep your phone connected, use a local map service, and leave a little room in your schedule to explore.
This site, Korea From a Local, is designed to explain the small practical details that are often missing from ordinary travel guides.
If you are planning a trip to Korea, check back for more local guides about transportation, food, neighborhoods, culture, and everyday life.
Welcome to Korea — from a local.
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