Plan
your journey with this detailed South Korea travel guide - covering
essential facts, travel tips, visa info, and cultural insights to
help you explore the country’s highlights with confidence and ease.
Country: South Korea (Republic of Korea)
Continent / Region: Asia / East Asia
Capital City: Seoul
Government Type: Presidential Republic
Population: Approx. 52 million
Official Language(s): Korean
Percentage of Population Who Speak English: ~20% (high among younger generations)
Currency: South Korean Won (KRW)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT+9
Driving Side: Right
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type C/F – 220V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers require a plug adapter
Emergency Numbers: 112 (Police), 119 (Fire/Ambulance)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 11–12 hours (direct to Seoul)
Best Time/Months to Travel: April–June & September–November
Main International Airports:
- Visa Requirements: Varies by nationality
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: K-ETA required
- Visa Duration / Cost: 90 days; approx. 10,000–11,000 KRW
- Vaccinations Needed: Routine vaccines; consider Hepatitis A & Typhoid
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in South Korea):
Average Daily Costs: £30 / £60 / £140+
Tipping Culture: Not customary; some restaurants add service charge
Public Transport Options: Metro, buses, taxis, high-speed rail (KTX)
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: KRW 1,250–1,450 (metro)
Internet / SIM Availability: Outstanding 4G/5G; KT, SK Telecom, LG U+
Main Climate Type: Temperate with four seasons
Average Temperature: Winter −5–5°C; Summer 25–33°C
Major Cities: Seoul, Busan, Incheon, Daegu, Daejeon, Gwangju
Natural Attractions: Mountains, islands, beaches, national parks
Popular Destinations: Seoul, Busan, Jeju Island, Gyeongju, DMZ
Main Religions: Buddhism, Christianity, Confucian traditions
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Bibimbap, Korean BBQ, kimchi, tteokbokki, kimbap, fried chicken
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Gyeongbokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower, Bukchon Hanok Village, Haeundae Beach, Jeju Hallasan
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Common Scams: Minimal; tourist shopping scams occasionally
Health Risks: Air quality fluctuations; strong summer humidity
Recommended Clinics: International clinics in Seoul & Busan
Insurance Recommendation: Recommended due to medical costs
Internet Speed: Among the fastest in the world
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Myeongdong, Haeundae Beach, Jeju waterfalls, Nami Island
Unique Experiences: Hanbok dress-up, jjimjilbang spas, K-pop shows, temple stays, street food tours
Hidden Gems: Boseong tea fields, Jeonju Hanok Village, Ulleungdo Island, Seoraksan’s quieter trails
Popular Areas to Stay: Seoul Myeongdong/Hongdae/Gangnam, Busan Haeundae, Jeju Seogwipo
Average Hotel Prices: £35 / £70 / £150+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Hongdae, Itaewon, Gangnam, Busan Seomyeon
Local Drinks: Soju, makgeolli, Korean beer
Entertainment: Karaoke, K-pop venues, late-night cafés, rooftop bars
Car Rental: Not necessary; public transport excellent
Trains: KTX high-speed rail (Seoul ↔ Busan)
Buses: Reliable intercity network
Taxi / Rideshare Costs: Affordable; KakaoTaxi widely used
Best Markets: Namdaemun Market, Myeongdong, Insadong, Busan Jagalchi Market
Popular Souvenirs: K-beauty products, tea, pottery, K-pop merch, snacks
Local SIM Card Providers: KT, SK Telecom, LG U+
Typical Business Hours: 10 a.m.–10 p.m. (daily)
Tap Water Safety: Safe to drink
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
South Korea has over 3,000 islands and is the global epicentre of K-pop and beauty culture.
