Traveling to South Korea in 2025: Must-See Places, Essential Apps, Itineraries, and All You Need to Know About Transportation

Why Visit South Korea in 2025?

A land of contrasts between ancient traditions and futuristic innovation, South Korea is now one of Asia’s most sought-after destinations for travelers. In 2025, with the resurgence of tourism and a richer digital offering, traveling in South Korea has never been easier. Whether you dream of traditional hanoks, K-pop, sacred mountains, or uniquely designed cafés, this guide will walk you through every step. You’ll discover what to visit in Seoul and beyond, how to organize your travel, which apps to download so you never get lost, and practical ideas to explore the country like a local.

Comprehensive Guide to Visiting South Korea

In Seoul

Seoul in Three Days: Culture, Food, and Shopping

Start with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the lively Myeongdong district, street art in Hongdae, and a stroll along the Han River.

For accommodation, choose Hongdae for its youthful vibe, Myeongdong for its central location, or Itaewon for its cosmopolitan flair.

From Incheon Airport, the AREX train takes you directly downtown. Getting around is easy with the T-Money card, the fast subway, buses, and many neighborhoods are walkable. Don’t miss Samcheong-dong for its art galleries and cafés, and Digital Media City for a dive into Korea’s digital culture.

Seoul’s Unmissable Neighborhoods

Gangnam for modernity, Itaewon for diversity, Insadong for handicrafts, Bukchon for traditional hanoks, and Dongdaemun for shopping.

Stay in Gangnam for a modern vibe, Bukchon for authenticity, or Itaewon for an international feel. The subway efficiently serves all these neighborhoods.

Also, check out Seongsu-dong for trendy cafés and concept stores, and Yeouido for riverside walks and cherry blossoms in spring.

Royal Palaces and Hanboks

To immerse yourself in history, rent a traditional hanbok and visit Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and Jongmyo Shrine. Insadong is ideal for staying near the palaces.

Everything is within walking distance in this area. Don’t forget to visit Deoksugung Palace and watch the changing of the guard for an extra cultural experience.

Seoul’s Most Unique Cafés

Try a café on a bus, a pitch-dark café, or a corgi café, especially in Yeonnam-dong, Hongdae, or Garosugil. Stay in Hongdae to enjoy the creative nightlife.

Every corner holds surprises, and there are also themed cafés around video games or virtual reality for tech lovers.

Night Markets and Street Food

Gwangjang Market for mandu, Mangwon for authenticity, and Dongdaemun for the night atmosphere. Namdaemun and Tongin markets are also worth a visit for culinary specialties and local crafts.

Try hotteok (sweet pancakes), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes).

Nature Walks in Seoul

Hike Bukhansan, climb Namsan Tower, stroll along Seoullo 7017 or Cheonggyecheon. Jongno and Hongdae offer quick access to these green spaces.

Add Olympic Park and Haneul Park to your itinerary for panoramic views and seasonal flower fields.

Beyond Seoul: Authentic Korea and Natural Landscapes

Day Trip to Suwon

Suwon is home to the UNESCO-listed Hwaseong Fortress and a traditional old market. Downtown is ideal if you plan to stay overnight. Visit the fortress museum and explore the ramparts for a full historical immersion.

Visiting the DMZ

Take a tour to the Demilitarized Zone between the two Koreas. Also visit Imjingak Park and the infiltration tunnel for a deeper understanding of the peninsula’s history.

Busan: Port City Between Sea and Temples

Discover Haeundae Beach, the colorful Gamcheon village, and Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. Haeundae is perfect for the beach, Seomyeon for downtown. Don’t miss Jagalchi Fish Market, Gwangalli cultural district, and Yongdusan Park for a complete Busan experience.

Gyeongju, Ancient Capital of Kings

An open-air museum city with royal tombs, temples, and relics from the Silla dynasty. Stay downtown or near Bomun Lake. Don’t miss Bulguksa Temple, Cheomseongdae Observatory, and the Gyeongju National Museum.

Jeonju: Capital of Korean Gastronomy

Taste original bibimbap, sleep in a hanok, and dive into authentic Korean culture. The hanok village is the best place to immerse yourself. Visit the Hanji Paper Museum and explore Jeonju’s artistic alleys.

Jeju-do, the Volcanic Island

Hike Hallasan, visit Seongsan Ilchulbong, and discover southern beaches. Stay in Jeju City (north) or Seogwipo (south). Explore Jeongbang and Cheonjiyeon waterfalls, and Manjanggul lava tubes.

Andong and Hahoe Village

A preserved traditional village with masked dances, mud houses, and Confucian rituals. Stay in a guesthouse in Andong or directly in Hahoe. Visit the Mask Museum and try local cuisine, especially jjimdak (braised chicken).

Hiking at Mount Seoraksan

A national park with cliffs, rocky peaks, temples, and panoramic views. Stay in Sokcho or at the park entrance. Also visit Sinheungsa Temple and stroll on Sokcho Beach.

Temple Stay: Live Like a Monk

Join a retreat in a Korean temple to meditate, cook, and observe silence. Temples like Beomeosa or Golgulsa offer programs for foreigners. Add activities like tea ceremonies and calligraphy for a fuller experience.

Apps to Download Before You Go (2025)

• Naver Map (more accurate than Google Maps in Korea)

• KakaoMetro and KakaoBus for urban transport

• Papago (instant Korean-English translation)

• Klook or Trazy (local activity bookings)

• KorailTalk for KTX trains

• Coupang Eats (food delivery)

• T-Money (transport card management)

• KakaoTalk (messaging app used by all locals)

How to Get to South Korea in 2025

Most international travelers arrive via Incheon International Airport (ICN), one of the world’s most modern and efficient airports.

Direct flights from Anglophone countries via Korean Air and Asiana. Budget flights with layovers via Qatar Airways, Emirates, Turkish Airlines. Direct flights from Southeast Asia with low-cost airlines. Connections also exist via major Asian hubs like Singapore or Hong Kong.

Entry Requirements in 2025

A tourist visa is not required for Anglophone travelers for stays under 90 days, and the K-ETA is not currently mandatory for most travelers from 67 exempt countries until December 31, 2025.

Your passport must be valid for at least six months. Always check if your nationality is on the exempt list before departure.

From Incheon Airport to Seoul

• AREX Express Train: direct to Seoul Station (fast, clean, reliable)

• AREX All-stop: stops at all stations, cheaper

• Limousine bus: serves main Seoul districts

• Taxi or KakaoTaxi: more expensive, ideal late at night

• Hotel shuttles available for some high-end hotels

Getting Around South Korea

South Korea boasts one of Asia’s best transportation networks: fast, modern, reliable, and accessible to foreigners thanks to translated apps.

Public Transportation in Cities (Seoul, Busan, etc.)

T-Money Card
Available at the airport or in all convenience stores (GS25, CU, etc.). Rechargeable and usable on the subway, buses, and even taxis. Also gives access to some vending machines and museums.

Subway
Highly developed, clean, air-conditioned, punctual. In Seoul, 23 lines with English signage and free Wi-Fi. KakaoMetro helps you navigate easily. In Busan, the subway also serves most tourist attractions. Stations have automated luggage lockers for easy travel.

City Buses
Numerous, often faster than the subway during off-peak hours. Color-coded by function: blue (main lines), green (neighborhoods), red (express). KakaoBus is essential for schedules. Buses have air conditioning and English announcements in major cities.

Taxis
Affordable and frequent, pay by card, T-Money, or cash. KakaoTaxi lets you order without speaking Korean. There are also premium taxis for extra comfort and accessible taxis for those with reduced mobility.

Traveling Between Cities

KTX Trains (Korea Train Express)
Ultra-fast, up to 300 km/h, e.g., Seoul → Busan in 2.5 hours. Book on KorailTalk or Let’s Korail. Discounts with the KORAIL PASS for foreigners. ITX and Mugunghwa trains cover cities not served by KTX.

Intercity Buses
Very economical and comfortable, with reclining seats and Wi-Fi. Two types: Express and Intercity. Depart from major terminals like Seoul Express Bus Terminal or Dong Seoul Terminal. Book online via Kobus or Bustago. Premium buses offer sleeper seats for long journeys.

Car Rental
Convenient for Jeju, Seoraksan, or countryside. International driving permit required. Automatic cars common, drive on the right. Useful apps: KakaoNavi, TMap, Naver Map. Highway rest stops offer local food and souvenir shops.

Traveling to Jeju Island
Frequent domestic flights, about one hour. Ferries available but slow. Car rental recommended on the island. Tourist buses run on Jeju, but a car gives you the most flexibility to explore natural sites.

Internet and Connectivity

Tourist SIM cards or eSIMs available at the airport. Recommended operators: KT, SK Telecom, LG U+. Free Wi-Fi in most public places (cafés, subway, buses). Pocket Wi-Fi also available for groups or families.

A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

Traveling in South Korea in 2025 means immersing yourself in a country that blends ultra-modern cities with the serenity of Buddhist temples.

It’s discovering a culture that’s more than just K-pop, experienced in every bowl of kimchi, every hanok, every encounter.

Thanks to local apps, efficient transportation, and a curious, welcoming population, Korea is now one of Asia’s most accessible countries. Whether you stay a week or two months, there’s always a mountain to climb, a dish to taste, a word to learn. So, when are you going?

FAQ – Traveling to South Korea (2025)

What is the best time to visit South Korea?
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the best weather and the most spectacular landscapes.

Can you travel in Korea without speaking Korean?
Yes, but it’s better to download Papago and learn a few basic words. Young people often speak a little English.

Is South Korea a safe country?
Extremely safe, even for solo female travelers. The crime rate is very low.

How much does a trip to South Korea cost?
Expect to spend 900 to 1,500 USD for 10-15 days (excluding flights), depending on your travel style. Accommodation and food are affordable.

Can you use a foreign bank card?
Yes, but plan to carry some cash. Visa/Mastercard work well in Seoul but less so in rural areas.

How is the transportation network in Korea?
Outstanding. Fast KTX trains, clear subways, modern long-distance buses. Everything can be booked online.

Tip: To make the most of Korea’s transport network, plan your routes in advance, locate train stations, subway stops, and bus stops, and download the recommended apps to track schedules and routes in real time.

And more

Travelers interested in Korea’s Korean-style architecture and history should visit Sejong City, home to the government complex, or explore the ancient Joseon dynasty palaces. The Folk villages and traditional markets offer authentic experiences of Korean culture. Nami Island, a popular day-trip destination, is famous for its beautiful tree-lined roads, and is a must-see for tourists seeking natural beauty and cultural charm. The island is accessible via bus service and shuttle-bus from Seoul.

Shopping, Duty-Free, and Modern Attractions

For shopping enthusiasts, duty-free shops at airports and in city malls provide excellent opportunities for souvenirs. Seoul’s city-tour includes visiting Shilla Duty-Free, Gyeongbokgung, and modern shopping districts like Myeongdong and Dongdaemun. Koreans love to visit Koreans’ favorite spots like Lotte World or COEX Mall, and many tourists enjoy the vibrant nightlife and entertainment options. The Korean language is widely spoken, but foreigner-friendly services and English signage make travel accessible.

Transportation: From Airports to Destinations

Travelers can use airport limousine buses or shuttle-bus services to reach city-centre hotels or attractions. The bus service network in Seoul and other cities is extensive, with bus stops near major landmarks and Gare routière (bus terminals) for intercity travel. The public-transport system also includes trains like the high-speed KTX, connecting Seoul to Busan, Gyeongju, and other major cities. Many flights to Korea are coordinated with train and bus schedules, making travel to different regions seamless.

Historical and Cultural Heritage

South Korea’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon or the Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju, showcase the Korean dynasty’s architectural and cultural achievements. These sites are often located near Gare routière or accessible via public-transport routes. The Korean War history is commemorated at various memorials and museums, providing insight into the Koreans’ resilience and the division of the Korean peninsula.

Travel Tips for Tourists

• Use public-transport apps to navigate the subway station and bus stop networks efficiently.

• The Korean language can be challenging, but many signs are bilingual, and translation apps like Papago are helpful.

• When traveling to popular destinations like Nami Island or Sejong, plan your city-tour with bus service or shuttle-bus options.

• Flights to Korea often arrive at Incheon or Gimpo airports, both connected to the city via airport limousine and shuttle-bus services.

• For Korean food, visit local markets or traditional restaurants to enjoy authentic dishes like kimchi, bibimbap, and bulgogi.

Conclusion

South Korea offers a comprehensive and efficient public-transport system that caters to tourists and travellers alike. From the subway station in Seoul to intercity bus service and high-speed trains, to and from airports and scenic destinations, the republic of Korea is well-equipped for seamless exploration. Whether you’re visiting Sejong or the historic Joseon sites, understanding these key words will help you navigate the country’s rich heritage and vibrant modernity with confidence.