What to know before visiting South Korea: a practical guide

South Korea is an easy country to visit; its transport system is first class and basic English is generally understood. However, it still pays to do some research prior to a visit to the country, which has its own etiquette and a set of public holidays that follows the Lunar calendar and Buddhist tradition. Here’s what you should know.  

Do I need a visa to visit South Korea?

Citizens of most countries, including the US, Canada, the UK, Australia and most European Union members, can travel to South Korea visa-free for between one and six months; the majority are allowed 90 days. However, you may have to show a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) approval to board your flight. Requirements vary by nationality, and the situation has been in flux since the Covid pandemic — check the relevant government’s website for the latest information. If you do need to get one, K-ETAs can be applied for online and cost under £6. While the approval usually comes through almost immediately, it can take up to three days.

How long should I spend in the country on a first-time visit?

Although booking through a tour operator will provide convenience and peace of mind, Korea is a simple country to travel around independently, too. Seven nights would just about give you enough time to chalk off the main draws of Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan and Jeju island. By adding another week, you’ll be able to travel at a more relaxed pace, and add national parks (such as Seoraksan in the northeast), islands (like those around Mokpo) and lesser-visited cities to your itinerary.

Are there likely to be any major language barriers?

Most locals speak at least a little English and many — especially younger folk — are fluent in the language. Koreans use their own alphabet (known as hangeul), but almost all major street and subway signs have English-language translations, as do plenty of restaurant and cafe menus. Announcements in buses and trains are almost always followed by translations in English, too. That said, any attempt to speak the basics is appreciated.

What local etiquette should I be aware of?

The country has a very different social system to the West, and while locals are generally very forgiving of foreign visitors, it’s polite to observe a few pointers, especially while eating or drinking. Chopsticks should be rested horizontally (rather than sticking out of the bowl) and not used for pointing; noses should not be blown at the table if you’re with others; and when drinking alcohol, it’s customary to clink glasses before almost every sip (‘geonbae’ is Korean for ‘cheers’), then turn slightly away from the person you’re with while you do the actual drinking. Some restaurants and guesthouses require you to take off your footwear before entering — this should be fairly obvious if you see a pile of shoes outside a door, but visitors might miss the sign.

What about cultural differences?

Korea has a major Confucian legacy, a system of thought that encourages ancestor worship and values filial piety. Simply being older commands some respect in the country, which is one reason you might be asked your age, even by someone you’ve only just met.

How do I get there?

Seoul’s Incheon Airport is South Korea’s only international airport, with direct services to US and European hubs. The country’s two major airlines are Asiana and Korean Air.

However, it’s typically cheaper to fly indirectly via a Middle Eastern, Chinese or Southeast Asian hub, with local carriers. 

The country’s public transport system is excellent. Limousine buses head to destinations around the country directly from the airport, or you can connect to the national rail network by taking a train from the airport to Seoul Station. Prepaid T-money cards (available at the airport or any subway station) can be used on city transport countrywide.

When should I visit?

Korea’s spring and autumn seasons (April to early June, and September to early November) are particularly good times to visit. Temperatures are mild, with typical daily highs of 15-25C, and rainfall is low. Most visitors come at these times since the summer months can be stifling, often hitting 35C, and humid, with heavy rains. Winters are generally dry, though the mercury can plummet to -15C and lower.

Are there any public holidays I should be aware of?

South Korea has three key celebrations: Seollal, the Lunar New Year, falls in January or February; Chuseok, also known as Hangawi, is a mid-autumn harvest festival; and day-long Dano, also called Surit-nal, is an early summer celebration believed to carry positive yang energy.

The first two involve multi-day celebrations, with locals returning to their hometowns to pay respect to their elders. During these times, traffic between Seoul and the provinces can be heavy, and many businesses close.

However, cultural sites tend to hold events, and visitors can spot traditional hanbok attire, try festive food and join in with folk games. Try tteokguk (soup with rice cakes) on Seollal, or head to Gangneung Danoje, a Dano festival that includes a masked stage play.