South Korea

South Korea's transportation network is remarkably efficient, making it easy to explore multiple cities in a single trip. The KTX high-speed train connects major destinations like Seoul, Busan, and Gyeongju with impressive speed and comfort—perfect for longer journeys between regions. Within cities, subway systems are world-class: Seoul's metro is fast, clearly signposted in English, and incredibly convenient for hopping between neighbourhoods like Hongdae, Myeongdong, and Insadong.

For flexibility, consider mixing trains with private drivers or local taxis, especially when you're carrying luggage or want to explore at a relaxed pace. Many travellers blend efficient rail travel with ground transport to maintain that unhurried feeling even when covering significant ground.

Pro tip: Before you arrive, grab an eSIM from Hello to stay connected without roaming charges. You'll need reliable connectivity to book trains, navigate apps, and stay in touch with travel companions—especially useful when coordinating meet-ups across different cities. Download offline maps as backup, and don't hesitate to ask locals for directions; English signage is widespread in tourist areas, and Koreans are genuinely helpful.

Korean food culture is communal, celebratory, and absolutely worth exploring beyond restaurants. Street food is an art form here—wander through markets like Gwangjang Market in Seoul or Jagalchi Fish Market in Busan to experience local energy and grab fresh bites. Don't miss bibimbap in Jeonju, the city most proud of this iconic rice-and-vegetable dish; eating it where it was born feels like a pilgrimage for food lovers.

Most meals are affordable. A satisfying street food snack costs just a few thousand won (under $3 USD), while sit-down meals at local restaurants typically range from 8,000–15,000 won ($6–11 USD). Splurge-worthy Michelin-listed Korean restaurants exist in Seoul's creative districts if you want to elevate the experience.

Money-saving move: Use Hello's expense splitting feature when dining with travel companions—it makes splitting bills painless and keeps everyone's budget on track. Many restaurants offer set menus at fixed prices, which simplifies ordering and budgeting. Always try the kimchi and banchan (side dishes); they're complimentary and tell you everything about Korean hospitality.

South Korea rewards different visitors at different times. Spring (March–May) brings mild weather and blooming temples, while autumn (September–November) offers crisp air perfect for hiking and exploring ancient sites like Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju. Winter transforms ski resorts and coastal areas, though it's cold—pack layers.

For a well-rounded experience, consider a 10–12 day itinerary: start in Seoul exploring royal palaces and design districts, take the high-speed train to Busan for coastal vibes and markets, venture inland to Gyeongju for thousand-year-old Silla history, then finish in Jeju Island for volcanic landscapes and nature restoration. This rhythm lets you feel each place rather than rushing through.

Planning tip: Use Hello's trip planning tools to organize your itinerary across cities, set daily budgets, and track spending in Korean won as you go. This keeps you aware of how much you're spending region by region. Book accommodation slightly away from the busiest lanes in hanok villages for better sleep and a more authentic neighbourhood feel. Whether you're hiking Seoraksan National Park or cycling through tomb-dotted parks, South Korea rewards slow exploration.

Respect matters in South Korea, especially in temples and traditional spaces like Bukchon Hanok Village. This is a living neighbourhood, not a museum—use soft voices, walk slowly, and remember these are people's homes. Remove your shoes when entering temples and certain restaurants; it's a sign of respect that locals genuinely appreciate.

Practically speaking, cash is still king in many smaller shops and markets, though card payments are increasingly common in cities. ATMs are everywhere, and you can withdraw Korean won easily. Hello eSIM connectivity is essential before landing—activate it before you depart so you have immediate access to maps, translation apps, and local services the moment you arrive. This eliminates the stress of finding airport SIM cards and roaming charges.

Learn a few Korean phrases: "Gamsahamnida" (thank you) and "Annyeonghaseyo" (hello) go a long way. Koreans are remarkably welcoming to respectful visitors, and even broken attempts at their language spark genuine smiles. Dress modestly in temples, avoid pointing, and never pour your own drink when dining with others—it's customary to pour for each other. These small gestures transform your experience from tourist to welcomed guest.