Ranging from tranquil islands to preserved historic villages that transport you back in time, these easy excursions provide a compelling taste of Korean history, culture and natural beauty. This list of the 25 best day tours from Seoul will ignite your exploration outside the capital and show you many of the wonderful sights Korea has to offer. There’s definitely a day trip that will suit you here.

All of the day trips from Seoul covered in this article are accessible within a day, meaning you can travel out for an action packed day of exploration and return to your hotel in Seoul. Several of these locations can be combined into one day trip, such as Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm, and Alpaca World. I’ll include tour links to combined tours when they are as they’re a convenient way to see more.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Why Book A Day Tour From Seoul?

Embarking on a day tour from Seoul is a must when you visit Korea as it offers you a unique opportunity to explore the country’s rich heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant local culture beyond the bustling capital. I think these Seoul day trips will provide deeper insights into Korea than you’ll find in the capital and leave you with a better understanding of what Korea’s really like.

These day trips give you a way to discover historical sites like the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, natural wonders such as Nami Island, and unique attractions like the DMZ, showcasing the poignant history and beauty of Korea. These destinations, which are all accessible in a day, give you the chance to contrast Seoul to other parts of Korea and I’m sure you’ll notice some big differences.

Whether it’s indulging in traditional Korean experiences at the Jeonju Hanok Village or exploring the enchanting Gwangmyeong Cave, these day tours from Seoul cater to a wide range of interests, ensuring memorable experiences from your journey. Moreover, they offer insights into Korea’s diverse regions, making them essential for those looking to experience the country’s cultural charms.

Quick links: Looking for a certain type of day tour from Seoul? Use the links below to jump straight to the section that interests you, or keep on reading to discover all of these tours.

How To Book Day Tours From Seoul

The most convenient way to book a day trip from Seoul is through user-friendly online platforms like Klook, Viator, Trazy, and Get Your Guide. These sites make exploring beyond Seoul simple by aggregating reliable tours complete with reviews, easy online booking in your chosen currency, e-tickets, and even transportation coordination from central pick-up points. I use them to book tours myself.

I recommend booking day tours in advance when visiting Korea (especially if you’re travelling in spring or autumn) for these reasons:

Learn more: Paying in your home currency is often easier and cheaper than converting money into Korean won. Booking ahead is one of the tips included in my guide to paying in Korea, which covers ways to save on travel money in Korea and alternatives to relying on exchanging cash to travel.

Where To Stay For Seoul Day Trips

Tour companies offering day trips out from Seoul might collect you directly from your hotel, but more often they prefer to arrange pickups in these three popular districts:

• Myeongdong
• Hongdae
• Gangnam

If you’re planning to take some day trips while you’re staying in Seoul, then I recommend staying in one of these locations as you’ll find it easier to arrange tour pickups. There are some excellent hotels in Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Gangnam and these are the most popular areas to stay. To learn more about Seoul’s districts, check out my guide about where to stay in Seoul.

Using Public Transport In Korea

Public transport in Seoul and Korea in general is amazing and services run frequently, actually turn up on time, and cost little. You can travel between cities for less than $10 and tickets cost the same regardless of when you use them. Transportation in Seoul is provided in multiple languages and is easy to use. While it’s great in Seoul, relying on public transport beyond the city can prove challenging.

Destinations outside Seoul may not be well connected, especially in the Korean countryside. Infrequent services, complex transfers and language barriers leave DIY day trips prone to confusion and wasted time, even for experienced travellers. Booking a guided tour ensures stress-free travel to and from Seoul on comfortable buses or vans, direct to each location with expert commentary, too.

It’s certainly possible to use public transport for some destinations, such as Nami Island, but for a hassle-free day trip from Seoul, tours are much simpler than using public transport, which requires research and planning. If you want to use public transport for your day trips, I recommend Naver Map or Kakao Map for directions, along with Papago to help translate Korean to English as you travel.

Top 10 Seoul Day Trips For Sightseeing

With endless fascinating sights and experiences to discover beyond the capital, narrowing down the most celebrated Seoul day tours offers a great starting point to explore more of the country. These ten destinations repeatedly rate as top favourites amongst both Korean and international visitors seeking to unlock the cultural, historical and natural highlights waiting beyond Seoul’s borders.

1: Nami Island

Nami Island, located in Chuncheon, is a half-moon shaped isle known for its breathtaking landscapes and cultural attractions. Established as a tourist destination in 1965, the island covers an area of 430,000 square metres and is renowned for its tree-lined walking paths, making it a picturesque escape from the urban hustle of Seoul and one of Korea’s best day trips.

What to see and do: The island offers a variety of attractions, from its beautiful tree lanes, such as Ginkgo Tree Lane and Metasequoia Lane, to cultural sites like the UNICEF Charity Train. You can enjoy cycling, zip-lining to the island, traditional Korean foods, and seasonal events. The island also features art galleries, performance stages, and water sports during the summer.

Suitable for: families, couples, and nature enthusiasts.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

How to get there: If you want to make your own way to Nami Island, check out my guide about how to get to Nami Island from Seoul by car, tours, and public transportation.

2: Garden Of Morning Calm

The Garden of Morning Calm is a serene botanical garden located in Gapyeong County. Established in 1996, it spans 30,000 square meters and features Korean traditional garden concepts. The garden is a tranquil retreat showcasing Korea’s natural beauty through its diverse plant species and landscaped gardens. One of the most beautiful of these Seoul day trips, especially in spring and summer.

What to see & do: You can explore themed gardens, scenic walking paths, and seasonal festivals, including the Spring Garden Festival and the Winter Illumination Festival. Highlights include the Wild Flower Garden, Pine Garden, and the picturesque Pond Garden. The garden also offers cultural experiences and workshops, making it a place of learning and relaxation.

Suitable for: nature lovers, families, and photographers.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

3: Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) Area

The DMZ, or Demilitarised Zone, separates North and South Korea, extending 250 kilometres across the peninsula. This buffer zone, established in 1953, is a significant symbol of the Korean War’s cessation (but not end). It offers a unique insight into the geopolitical tensions and history of the region, making it a compelling destination for Seoul day trips.

What to see and do: Tours from Seoul to the DMZ allow you to explore observation posts, tunnels dug by North Korea, and the Joint Security Area (currently unavailable). The area also hosts exhibitions and historical sites, providing educational insights into the Korean conflict. These tours often include visits to key landmarks, such as the Freedom Bridge and the Third Infiltration Tunnel.

Suitable for: history buffs, political enthusiasts, and modern history lovers.

Current DMZ tour issues: Due to the recently increased tensions with North Korea, as well as a swine flu outbreak in the area, the Joint Security Area is currently closed to tourists.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

4: Suwon Hwaseong Fortress

Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a late 18th-century fortification in Suwon, South Korea. It represents the pinnacle of 18th-century military architecture, combining Eastern and Western design principles. The fortress encompasses a wall stretching nearly 6 kilometres, featuring four gates and numerous defensive structures, making it a standout destination for Seoul day trips.

What to see & do: You can explore the fortress walls, offering panoramic views of Suwon city. The site includes impressive gates, watchtowers, and pavilions. The Hwaseong Haenggung Palace, within the fortress, showcases royal residences and administrative buildings. Cultural events, martial arts performances, and traditional archery experiences are also available, enriching tours from Seoul.

Suitable for: history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and families.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

5: Yongin Korean Folk Village

The Yongin Korean Folk Village is a living museum located in Yongin that recreates traditional Korean life from the Joseon Dynasty. Spanning over 243 acres, it features over 260 traditional houses, offering a deep dive into Korea’s cultural heritage, making it a popular choice for day trips. This tour from Seoul is often combined with the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress and other attractions nearby.

What to see & do: Witness traditional Korean crafts, such as pottery and weaving, watch folk music and dance performances, and explore a traditional marketplace. The village also offers hands-on experiences like traditional games and seasonal activities, including farming. Attractions include martial arts demonstrations and traditional wedding ceremonies, providing a look into historical Korean culture.

Suitable for: cultural enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in Korea’s traditional lifestyle.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

6: Jeonju Hanok Village

Jeonju Hanok Village, located in the heart of Jeonju, is a vibrant cultural district renowned for its 800 beautifully preserved traditional Korean hanok houses. This picturesque village serves as a living museum, encapsulating the essence of the Joseon Dynasty’s architectural and cultural heritage.

You are transported back in time, as you wander through narrow alleys lined with tile-roofed houses, artisanal workshops, and quaint tea houses. The village’s commitment to maintaining traditional Korean crafts, cuisine, and culture makes it perfect for those seeking an authentic tour from Seoul.

What to see & do: You can explore traditional tea houses, artisan workshops, and cultural museums. The Jeonju Hanji Museum, dedicated to traditional Korean paper, and the Jeonju Korean Traditional Wine Museum are highlights. Traditional Korean dress (hanbok) rental is popular, along with sampling authentic Jeonju bibimbap, making it a vibrant mix of cultural exploration and culinary delight.

Suitable for: cultural enthusiasts, photographers, and foodies.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

7: Alpaca World

Alpaca World is a scenic area within easy reach from Seoul and one of the best places to see cuddly critters in leafy surroundings. This expansive park is not just about alpacas; it’s an animal haven set against the backdrop of Korea’s beautiful natural landscape. You have the chance to interact closely with alpacas, deer, and other animals in an environment that prioritises their wellbeing and freedom.

What to see & do: Beyond feeding and walking with alpacas, you can try activities such as horse riding, exploring the ecological forest, and crafting. The park also features thematic gardens, picnic areas, and walking trails, making it an ideal spot for leisure and learning about animal care and nature conservation. The hands-on interactions with the animals provide a memorable experience for all ages.

Suitable for: families, animal lovers, and nature enthusiasts.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

8: Gangchon Rail Park

Gangchon Rail Park offers you an outdoor adventure combining scenic beauty with physical activity. The repurposed old railway tracks allow you to pedal rail bikes through tunnels, over bridges, and along rivers. Covering a distance that showcases the stunning rural landscapes of Korea, it’s an innovative way to explore the countryside, making it a popular choice for day trips from Seoul.

What to see & do: The main attraction is the rail biking experience, where you can pedal along old railroad tracks while enjoying the surrounding nature. The course includes features like tunnels, adorned with lights and music, and panoramic views of the river and countryside. Additionally, the park offers rest areas with scenic photo spots to witness the beauty of the Korean landscape.

Suitable for: active travellers, families, and groups seeking a unique experience in nature.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

9: Petite France

Petite France is a French-themed village that stands as a beacon of European charm within Korea. This cultural village is designed to emulate the atmosphere of a quaint French town, featuring brightly coloured buildings, cobblestone streets, and a collection of European dolls, antique musical instruments, and French literature. It’s a eccentric enclave that offers a uniquely European escape.

What to see & do: Within its boundaries, you can explore a variety of attractions including the Saint-Exupéry Memorial Hall dedicated to the author of “The Little Prince,” puppet shows, and street performances that capture the essence of French culture. The village also offers workshops on French crafts and cooking, making it a place of both entertainment and learning with lots of photo opportunities.

Suitable for: families, couples, and Francophiles.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

10: Gwangmyeong Cave

Gwangmyeong Cave is a former gold mine transformed into a cultural and recreational space. This subterranean complex is a fusion of historical, cultural, and entertainment elements, offering a unique experience beneath the earth’s surface. It boasts illuminated caverns, underground lakes, and themed exhibitions, making it a great destination for those seeking an adventurous day trip from Seoul.

What to see & do: In Gwangmyeong Cave you can explore a variety of interesting attractions including the Wine Cave, where Korean wines are showcased and available for tasting, and the Golden Road, which tells the history of the mine’s gold extraction era. The cave also hosts art installations, a concert hall, and an aquarium, providing diverse entertainment options.

Suitable for: adventurers, families, and those interested in geologic phenomena.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Korean Culture Lovers Day Trips From Seoul

These day trips from Seoul are for the K-culture lovers, both modern and traditional, who want to spend a day away from Seoul to see unmissable destinations from TV, movies, art, and nature. If you’re a fan of BTS or modern K-culture, then you’ll love the BTS tour and a visit to Dae Jang Geum Park. Families and couples will be pleasantly surprised with day tours in Pocheon and Gangneung, too.

BTS ARMY Fan Tours From Seoul

BTS-themed tours from Seoul offer fans of the global K-pop sensation a unique journey through the places associated with BTS’s rise to fame. These tours cover iconic sites outside Seoul that hold significance to the band’s history, such as music video locations, favourite hangouts, and significant locations in their career. It’s an immersive experience that brings fans closer to the footsteps of BTS.

What to see & do: Participants can visit sites inside and outside of Seoul, like the BTS bus stop at Hyangho Beach from the “Spring Day” music video, Yongin Daejanggeum Park where Suga recorded “Daechwita”, and Seoul sights such as Hakdong Park, Yoojung Sikdang, and the old Big Hit headquarters. Some tours offer exclusive merchandise and photo shoots at famous BTS-related spots.

Suitable for: ARMYs, K-pop enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the cultural phenomenon of BTS.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Yongin Dae Jang Geum Park Tour

Yongin Dae Jang Geum Park, previously known as MBC Dramia, is an expansive outdoor film set. This site is famous for being the filming location of numerous popular Korean historical dramas, including “Dae Jang Geum.” Tours from Seoul offer fans of K-dramas and K-movies a behind-the-scenes look at the settings of their favourite productions, showcasing traditional Korean architecture and culture.

What to see & do: You can explore the meticulously constructed sets that replicate historical palaces, villages, and landscapes from various periods of Korean history. Tours provide insights into the filming processes and stories behind the scenes. There’s the opportunity to dress in traditional Korean costumes, and occasional reenactments and performances really bring the drama to life.

Suitable for: fans of Korean dramas, history buffs, and those interested in traditional Korean culture.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Pocheon Art Village And Herb Island

Day tours from Seoul to Pocheon Art Valley and Herb Island offer a blend of natural beauty, art, and aromatic experiences. Pocheon Art Valley, a transformed granite quarry, now serves as a cultural space featuring sculptures, an art museum, and a picturesque lake. Herb Island, focusing on Mediterranean herbs, lights up with fairy-tale illuminations at night, creating a magical atmosphere.

What to see & do: In Pocheon Art Valley, you can enjoy scenic landscapes, explore art installations, and take part in craft workshops. The monorail provides easy access to stunning views. Herb Island gives you a chance to wander through lavender fields, participate in soap-making classes, and explore themed gardens and greenhouses. Visit at night to see the entire island aglow with decorative lights.

Suitable for: art lovers, nature enthusiasts, and families looking for a creative day of delights.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Gangneung K-Culture Day Trip

Gangneung is a beautiful beach city on the east coast of Korea accessible from Seoul in under 2 hours by KTX high speed train. Known as a city of coffee, nature, and culture, the city boasts festivals dedicated to coffee (Gangneung Coffee Festival), cherry blossoms (Gyeongpo Cherry Blossom Festival), and beach life (Gyeongpo Beach Beer Festival & Gangneung Gyeongpo Summer Festival).

What to see & do: Day trips will take you to some top cultural destinations in the area, including Jumunjin to see the filming location of the popular Korean drama “Goblin”. Nearby, K-pop fans can visit the bus stop featured in BTS’s “Spring Day” music video – a must-see for diehard A.R.M.Y fans! The area also offers new attractions like the immersive light and shadow art experience – ARTE Museum.

Suitable for: art lovers, culture vultures, and those interested in modern K-culture.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Family Friendly One Day Trips From Seoul

If you’re looking for a family-friendly break from Seoul, then these theme parks and attractions will provide a whole day of outdoor fun for all. While Seoul offers great theme parks like Lotte World Adventure, the destinations outside Seoul are bigger and have more to see and do – making them worth a visit. Here are some fun day trips from Seoul to enjoy during summer and other seasons.

Caribbean Bay Water Park

Caribbean Bay Water Park, part of the Everland Resort in Yongin, is one of the largest water parks in the world. Offering a tropical Caribbean theme, it features a wide range of water-based attractions, including wave pools, water slides, and a lazy river. Tours from Seoul to Caribbean Bay provide a refreshing escape from the city, allowing visitors to enjoy thrilling rides and relaxation in a picturesque setting.

What to see & do: You can experience exhilarating water slides of varying heights and speeds, the expansive wave pool capable of generating artificial waves, and the relaxing lazy river that meanders through the park. The Aqua Loop, a high-speed slide with a 360-degree loop, is a must-try for thrill-seekers. If you’re just looking to relax, the spa and sauna facilities offer a serene retreat.

Suitable for: families, groups of friends, and anyone seeking fun and adventure in a water park setting.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Everland Theme Park

Everland theme park, also in Yongin, is Korea’s largest theme park and offers a diverse range of attractions across its zones – Global Fair, American Adventure, Magic Land, European Adventure, and Zootopia. Combining thrilling rides, themed areas, and a zoo, tours from Seoul to Everland provide a day of adventure and fun, making it a top choice for those seeking excitement outside the city.

What to see & do: Visitors can enjoy high-speed roller coasters, such as the T-Express, family-friendly rides, and seasonal festivals. Zootopia offers close encounters with animals, including a panda habitat and a safari ride. The park’s beautifully landscaped gardens and parades add to the festive atmosphere. For those looking to cool down, check out the aforementioned water park, Caribbean Bay.

Suitable for: families, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking for a fun-filled day out.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Legoland Korea

Legoland Korea is a newly opened theme park that brings the iconic Lego brand to life. This family-oriented park features over 40 rides, shows, and attractions across various themed zones, each dedicated to the creativity and fun of Lego building blocks. Day tours from Seoul to Legoland Korea offer an immersive experience into a world of imagination and innovation for Lego fans of all ages.

What to see & do: The park is divided into themed areas, including Miniland, where iconic landmarks from around the world are recreated in Lego form. Visitors can enjoy interactive rides, build and test their own Lego creations, and watch 4D cinema presentations. For younger guests, Duplo playgrounds provide a safe and exciting environment. The park also hosts seasonal events.

Suitable for: families with children, Lego enthusiasts, and those looking for a creative day out.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Day Trips From Seoul To See Nature

Some of the most-loved day trips from Seoul introduce you to the abundant green sights you’ll find outside Korea’s capital, including the aforementioned Nami Island, Garden of Morning Calm, and Pocheon Art Valley. There are plenty more natural wonders awaiting you in the Korean countryside, with massive mountains, serene rivers, picturesque forests and gardens, and more, to discover.

Seoraksan National Park

Seoraksan National Park is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, including rugged mountains, narrow valleys, and dense forests. It’s a UNESCO Biosphere Protection site, offering an escape into nature’s tranquility. Day tours from Seoul to Seoraksan allow you to explore Korea’s natural beauty, with the park’s changing seasons offering many wonderful sights, especially during autumn.

What to see & do: The park features a range of hiking trails for all abilities, from easy walks to challenging climbs, leading to stunning vistas and natural landmarks like the Ulsanbawi Rock. Don’t want to hike? Take the cable car to Gwongeumseong and see panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. You can explore Buddhist temples in the park, including picturesque Sinheungsa Temple.

Suitable for: nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat into natural beauty.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Hwadam Botanical Gardens And Forest

Hwadam Botanical Garden is a meticulously designed ecological space that combines traditional Korean and modern landscaping techniques. This self-sustaining garden is known for its extensive collection of native and exotic plants, making it a haven for botany enthusiasts. Day tours from Seoul to Hwadam Botanical Garden offer a serene escape into nature and a literal breath of fresh air.

What to see & do: Meander through themed sections, including a conifer garden, medicinal herb garden, and a wetland ecosystem, each offering unique plants and educational insights. The garden’s walking paths and scenic bridges over ponds create a peaceful environment for your to relax and take photos. Visit for seasonal events, such as the spring cherry blossom festival and autumn foliage viewing.

Suitable for: nature enthusiasts, families, and photographers looking for a tranquil day out.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Namhansanseong Fortress

Namhansanseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to Korea’s historical military architecture and strategic significance. Located on a mountainous terrain south-east of Seoul, this fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Tours from Seoul provide insight into Korea’s rich history, with well-preserved fortifications that date back to the 17th century.

What to see & do: The fortress encompasses several walking trails leading to historical sites, including ancient gates, command posts, and Buddhist temples like the Sudoksa Temple. You can explore the Emergency Palace, which served as a refuge for kings during invasions. The combination of natural beauty and historical discovery waiting to be found here makes for a fulfilling experience.

Suitable for: history enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone interested in exploring Korea’s cultural heritage.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Yangpyeong Dumulmeori

Yangpyeong Dumulmeori is famed for its picturesque natural landscapes that have inspired countless photographers and filmmakers. This tranquil spot, easily accessible via day tours from Seoul, is named ‘Dumulmeori’ for its water’s resemblance to a ‘head of two waters’. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat into nature, with its stunning vistas and serene atmosphere.

What to see & do: You can enjoy leisurely walks along the riverbank, take memorable photographs of the traditional Korean boats and the iconic willow trees lining the water’s edge, or explore the nearby Semiwon Garden. Seasonal changes bring a dynamic beauty to the area, with lush greens in summer, vibrant blooms in spring, and fiery colours showcasing gorgeous autumn foliage.

Suitable for: photographers, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a day of scenic beauty.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

One-Day Tours From Seoul With A Difference

This final set of Seoul day trips offer a chance to see more offbeat sights, join in exciting outdoor activities, and visit other notable cities in Korea. There are lots of extreme sports and cities you could visit on a day trip, which will be covered in other articles. These four destinations will give you a chance to get away from the main tourist areas, see some unusual sights, and try fun activities.

Danyang Paragliding & Sightseeing Tours

Danyang paragliding tours offer an exhilarating escape into the skies, showcasing some of Korea’s most breathtaking landscapes from a bird’s-eye view. Danyang is renowned for its scenic beauty, including lush mountains and clear rivers. This tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of flight, making it a popular choice for adventure seekers looking to get away from the urban jungle.

What to see & do: You can soar above the picturesque landscapes of Danyang, taking in views of the winding rivers, rugged cliffs, and verdant forests. The experience is made safe and enjoyable under the guidance of experienced instructors, ensuring a memorable adventure. Besides paragliding, you can explore the local attractions, such as the Gosu Cave and Dodamsambong Peaks.

Suitable for: thrill-seekers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience an adrenaline rush.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Jebu Island Marine Cable Car

Jebu Island (Seohaerang) Marine Cable Car offers a unique vantage point to explore the natural beauty and coastal landscapes of Jebu Island. This is a great opportunity to experience this island’s scenic views from above, including its famous tidal flats, surrounding waters, and the impressive Siwha Sea Barrier. The cable car ride presents panoramic vistas that will surely captivate you.

What to see & do: The cable car journey allows you to witness the dramatic changes of the tide at Jebu Island’s mudflats, a phenomenon that reveals the seabed at low tide and hides it beneath the waves at high tide. Additionally, you can explore the island’s attractions, such as the Jebu Island Lighthouse and various coastal trails, offering leisurely walks with stunning seaside views.

Suitable for: families, couples, and photography enthusiasts interested in Korea’s coastal landscapes.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Day Trip To Busan By KTX Train

As the country’s second-largest city, Busan offers a diverse array of attractions, from ancient Buddhist temples to modern skyscrapers that line the waterfront. Day tours from Seoul to Busan are an excellent way to experience the unique blend of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty that this city has to offer. However, as this is a large city, I would recommend staying at least 1 night to see the sights.

Although there aren’t really any guided tours to Busan from Seoul, it’s easy enough to get to Korea’s second biggest city and back in a day thanks to the KTX high speed train network that links the two cities. This is a good way to use the unlimited Korean rail pass. Once you’re in Busan, the main sights can be accessed by public transport or a city tour that starts once you arrive.

What to see & do: Highlights of a Busan tour include Haeundae Beach, renowned for its scenic beauty and festive atmosphere; Gamcheon Culture Village, with its brightly painted houses and artistic vibe; and Jagalchi Fish Market, where you can taste fresh seafood. The Haedong Yonggungsa Temple offers spiritual serenity by the sea, and Taejongdae Park presents panoramic ocean views,

Suitable for: beach lovers, cultural explorers, and food enthusiasts keen to try culinary delights.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Day Trip To Incheon City

Incheon City is Korea’s third-largest city and known for its historical significance, modern landmarks, and cultural diversity. Incheon blends history with modernity, featuring attractions from its time as a major port during the late 19th century to its current status as a global city. A day trip to Incheon offers an insightful journey into the city’s rich heritage, vibrant markets, and scenic coastal areas.

What to see & do: Explore Korea’s first Chinatown with its colourful streets, traditional architecture, and authentic cuisine. The Songdo district showcases futuristic urban planning and green spaces. Historical sites like the Incheon Landing Operation Memorial Hall offer a glimpse into Korea’s modern history. For a relaxing end to the day, Wolmido Island provides seaside attractions and amusement parks.

Suitable for: history enthusiasts, foodies, and urban explorers looking for a mix of cultural experiences.

Recommended day tours from Seoul:

Seasonal Day Tours From Seoul

There are various day tours from Seoul that only run during certain seasons and will whisk you away to gorgeous destinations that only dazzle for a short time. These day tour destinations shine bright and bold during their respective seasons, but often don’t offer much during the rest of the year, or at least not as much. Below are some of the best tours from Seoul that you can take in each season.

Spring Day Tours From Seoul

Spring is all about nature and beautiful blossoms, which you can see across the country with tours to cherry blossom festivals, flower festivals, and areas of natural beauty. Spring is a wonderful time to travel in Korea thanks to the warm weather and clear skies, as well as the many spring festivals that are on. April is one of the best times to visit Korea, and May is also really good.

Here are some of the best spring destinations with tours from Seoul:

Summer Day Tours From Seoul

Summer in Korea is hot and wet, but there are loads of fun festivals and events happening across the country, including a giant mud festival that embraces the rainy weather. It’s also a time when nature is in full flow and there are many lush forests and parks to walk through, as well as rose gardens and tea plantations. Trips to the beach are popular and Seoulites will flock to the east coast for summer sun.

Here are some of the best summer destinations with tours from Seoul:

Autumn Day Tours From Seoul

Autumn in Korea starts from September and runs until early November and is arguably the best time to visit Korea, thanks to the many Korean autumn foliage spots that begin showing their colours from early October, and the weather is great. Besides autumn leaves, there are also harvest and culture festivals going on and tours to farms and countryside towns to try local produce are popular.

Here are some of the best autumn destinations with tours from Seoul:

Winter Day Tours From Seoul

Winter in Korea is not the easiest time to visit, but it’s a season packed with fun winter activities and snowy sights. You will find dozens of winter festivals in Korea to enjoy on day trips from Seoul, including ice fishing festivals, snow and ice festivals, and winter illuminations. Winter sports lovers and families looking for snowy sights in Korea will love the many ski resorts accessible from Seoul.

Here are some of the best winter events with tours from Seoul:

Best Time To Take Seoul Day Trips

While remarkable sights encircle Seoul in every season, temperate spring and autumn offer ideal weather for day trips. Summer is hot, so being outside can be difficult for long periods of time, the same can be said of winter as it’s so cold. However, you shouldn’t let the weather put you off as the right clothes and frequent indoor breaks can solve most problems from the adverse weather conditions.

Not only are spring and autumn warm and sunny, they’re not too wet. It mostly rains in Korea from June to August. Winter in Korea is very dry, making it a good time to take day trips out to the aforementioned winter destinations, as long as you’re wrapped up warm. Summer rains aren’t that bad though as the weather is a bit cooler when it rains, although it’s not good for the beach.

I recommend booking day tours on weekdays as these are less busy and you’ll encounter fewer local tourists. Koreans make the most of their free time and weekends and public holidays are a time to get out and enjoy popular sights outside the city (and in). If there’s a festival on then definitely visit during the week as some of the big festivals can see over 100,000 people per day on weekends!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about day tours from Seoul. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article. If you have any more questions about this topic, please feel free to post a comment at the end of this article.

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Korean Travel

This river boat service in Seoul will allow easier access to riverside destinations for locals and tourists alike, helping them get between some of the most popular destinations in Seoul, such as Yeouido and Jamsil (home of the Lotte World Tower). Seoul’s river bus service will allow people to cross the city’s mighty Han River, which is currently a hassle to do, with ease and speed.

The Seoul river bus service hasn’t started yet, and some of the details in this article may change by the time it launches in October 2024. I will continue to update this article before and after the river boat in Seoul begins operation so you have the most up to date information available. Read on to discover more about Seoul’s latest innovation, which prioritises accessibility, sustainability, and tourism needs.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

What Is The Seoul River Bus Service?

The Seoul river bus service is an innovative new river-based transportation service being launched by the Seoul government to promote sustainability as well as tourism and accessibility around the Han River area. It will allow people to travel between various destinations on the Han River for a small fee and save time and effort vs. current methods of travelling between Han River locations.

There will be a total of 8 eco-friendly vehicles to carry up to 199 passengers, bicycles, and wheelchairs at a time along the length of the Han River in central Seoul. The boats will move at 17 knots (31 km/h), which will make them faster than rush-hour traffic. It will run from Magok in the west of the city (close to Gimpo Airport) to Jamsil in the east – home of the Lotte World Tower and Seokchon Lake.

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-Hoon stated the electric vessels will offer a climate-friendly transit option for 2.5 million citizens and visitors alike by 2030. He envisions the service as both a practical mobility solution and tourism draw, showcasing the innovative attractions of Seoul while addressing environmental issues through green transportation infrastructure enhancements along the iconic river.

When Will The Seoul River Bus Service Begin?

The metropolitan government has stated that the Seoul river bus service will begin in October 2024, as long as the construction of river bus terminals meets the expected schedule. The service will connect seven terminals along the Han River at first, but could be expanded to other parts of the city at later dates. I will add updates about extensions to this article when announced.

What Hours Does The Seoul River Bus Run?

The river bus service will run during the following hours:

The earlier hours during the week are to allow commuters to travel along the river instead of using congested road and public transportation routes. This should make travelling in Seoul during rush hour less stressful (it’s really busy now) and save commuters a lot of time in some situations.

How Often Will The River Boat In Seoul Operate?

The river boat in Seoul will run at different frequencies depending on the time of day and week:

The Seoul river bus service takes up to 75 minutes to travel the full route between Magok and Jamsil, or 54 minutes between these two destinations if you use the express service that only stops at Magok, Yeouido, and Jamsil.

What Are The Seoul River Bus Stops?

The Seoul river bus service will stop at the following locations (as shown from left to right in the map image above) along the Han River:

You can see these destinations with this Seoul River Bus Locations Map from Google Maps. These destinations were chosen based on a number of factors and provide services to residential, commercial and tourist areas. The most popular areas for tourists on the Han River are Mangwon, Yeouido, and Ttukseom, but each area has attractions and services that travellers are likely to travel to.

What Can You See Near These Stops?

As mentioned, the most popular stops on the river bus in Seoul for tourists are Mangwon, Yeouido, and Ttukseom, as these stops are home to popular Han River parks and other tourist attractions. If you’re planning to ride the Seoul river bus service when you visit Seoul, this table shows you some of the key attractions and areas you’ll find near each stop. This will help you plan your Seoul itinerary.

Future Terminals On The Han River Boat Service

Besides the original 7 stops on the Seoul river bus service, the city government has announced plans to add more destinations to help increase convenience for commuters and to make Seoul more attractive for tourists. The line might extend past Magok to the Gimpo Ara Han River dock, which is close to Gimpo Airport hotels and duty free shops. There may also be more stops between terminals.

As well as the river bus, the Seoul government has a number of other future attractions in the works, such as the world’s first twin ferris wheel and an aerial gondola connecting various cultural and tourist hotspots along the river. These are part of Seoul mayor Oh Se-Hoon’s “Great Han River Project Plan” that will transform the capital’s riverside area in the next few years.

How Much Does The Seoul River Boat Cost?

The Seoul river boat service will cost ₩3,000 (about $2.25) per ride, which is more expensive than the current price of subway rides and bus rides in the capital, but offers a convenient method of crossing the river which will certainly save a lot of time. You should be able to use transportation cards such as the T-Money Card to pay for the rides, although this is still to be confirmed.

Seoul’s public transportation network currently allows free transfers between buses and subways within 30 minutes, as long as you touch out with your transportation card when leaving the bus or subway. It hasn’t been confirmed whether the Seoul river bus service will also feature free or discounted transfers between journeys with other methods of public transportation.

How To Get Discounted River Boat Rides In Seoul

As part of the Seoul government’s push to reduce commuting costs and encourage people to use more public transportation, people with a Seoul Climate Card will also be able to ride on the Han River boat service for free. The Climate Card, which launched in January 2024, offers unlimited public transportation within the city for a monthly fee starting at ₩62,000.

What To See And Do On The Han River

The Han River offers an abundance of attractions for visitors to Seoul to enjoy. Travellers can explore lengthy riverside parks perfect for cycling, jogging or leisurely strolls, with scenic stretches like Yeouido Hangang Park and Ttukseom Hangang Park. There are also swimming pools, sports facilities and performance venues situated along the shores, and various festivals throughout the year.

Here are 15 top sights along the Han River in Seoul:

With so much recreation, entertainment and sightseeing available along the banks of the river, the Han River area promises appealing destinations for any visitor to Seoul, which will only be enhanced with the forthcoming water bus service. The natural scenery, historic landmarks, and wealth of activities offer compelling reasons for travellers to explore this iconic river and its parks.

Han River Night Cruises In Seoul

When the sun goes down, the Han River comes alive with illuminated cruise boats that provide a magical way to see Seoul’s skyline. The Seoul Hangang River Cruise is a popular way to see the sights of Seoul along the river at night. Lasting about an hour, the river cruise brings passengers past the glittering Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain, city landmarks, and picturesque parks after dark.

Gliding gently down the river, the evening cruise allows visitors to view Seoul’s vibrant energy from a unique vantage point amid the glistening reflections of a capital that truly never sleeps. As well as night cruises that show you Seoul’s vibrant city lights under moonlit skies, you can also take a Han River cruise during the day with regular departures daily. Book online or buy tickets on the day.

Other Ways To Get Around The Han River

The Han River encompasses some of the most beautiful parts of Seoul, with 12 riverside parks, attractions, and areas of natural beauty to enjoy throughout the city. Besides taking a river bus in Seoul to see the Han River, here are some other ways you can explore the waterway.

By Bicycle: The Seoul Public Bike rental service provides people the chance to rent bikes and cycle along the long stretches of the river’s edge. Popular areas for cycling are around Yeouido and in Seongsu-dong between Seoul Forest Park and Ttukseom Park and beyond. This is one of the best places to ride a bike in Korea, with 240km of cycle routes along the Han River.

By Foot: Along with cycle paths that run along the Han River’s shore, there are also walking paths in similar areas. The walking path around Yeouido is especially beautiful and home to several spring flower festivals, including one of Seoul’s largest cherry blossom festivals. Walking between the two banks of the river has been hard until the introduction of the river bus in Seoul, which will making exploring easier.

River Cruise: As mentioned, a river cruise is a great way to see the sights of Seoul, both during the day and at night. Even though the new Seoul river bus service might reduce people’s desire to pay for a cruise, the fact that you can travel in peace and pass under the many beautiful bridges at a slow pace will keep the cruise popular.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Seoul river bus service. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article. If you have any more questions about this topic, please feel free to post a comment at the end of this article.

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This article covers the benefits of a Wise account, including how you can send money internationally, spend in Korea by card, and how to receive payments from abroad. There’s also information about who can get a Wise account, what currencies you can use, and how to spend and send money.

I’ll also share the best ways to send money from abroad to Korea (including the US and UK) and how to send money out from Korea to other countries, too. These include Korea-based banks and banking apps that you can use as an expat in Korea to send and receive money with lower fees than banks charge.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

What Is Wise And How To Use It In Korea

In the words of Wise, their service is “an international money transfer service designed to make cross-border transactions more affordable, transparent, and efficient.” Wise utilises peer-to-peer technology to offer the mid-market rate for international transfers and currency exchanges, which helps to reduce currency conversion costs for you. Revolut offers a similar service.

Basically, you can send, receive, and spend money internationally at rates that are better than what you’d find at airport money exchanges and offered by banks for international transfers. You can use the app or website to send and receive money internationally and also get a physical or digital card to spend in shops, restaurants, hotels, attractions, and elsewhere.

Here are some of the benefits I’ve discovered of having a Wise account and getting a Wise card:

How To Use Wise In Korea

If you want to get a Wise account to spend money in Korea or make international transfers, you’ll need to make sure you sign up for a Wise account before you travel to Korea. Unfortunately, you can’t create a Wise account from inside Korea. You’ll need to confirm your identity by phone when you create an account, therefore, do it in your home country before going to Korea.

Once you have a Wise account though, you’ll discover a world of international banking that is much easier than using local banks in each country and, in my experience, much cheaper, too. If you travel internationally a lot, or visit other countries on holiday from time to time, you’re sure to find that a Wise account can make spending your money more convenient and less risky.

There are several ways you can use Wise in Korea as an expat or traveller. I use Wise to do all of these things and more, as I’ll show you in the following sections.

Learn more: For full details about how to use Wise and the many benefits of using a Wise card to pay for things in Korea, check out my article all about how to use Wise in Korea. For details about how to plan your travel money and what methods of payment are accepted in Korea, check out my article about ways to pay in Korea and you’ll discover the best travel money mix for you.

If you’re interested in getting a Wise account, you can use these links below to find your local Wise site:

How To Use Wise To Send Money To Korea

This section will show you how to use Wise to send money to Korea in two different situations, based on who is sending the money and who is receiving the money. The first situation deals with how to transfer money to Korea from your own account using Wise, while the second details how someone else can send money to Korea from other countries into your Wise account.

1 – How To Transfer Your Own Money Using Wise

This situation is for expats living in Korea or people travelling to Korea. It assumes you already have a Wise account that you created before going to Korea to live or travel. You need to open a currency account in Wise for whatever currency you want to transfer into Korean won – this is really easy and you just have to select the currency in the app and choose ‘open’. It takes ten seconds.

Step 1 – Add money to your Wise account in your own currency: I have a UK bank account, so I add money from my UK bank account to Wise. You can add funds by credit card, debit card, bank transfer, or Swift transfer. To add money, select the currency you want to add in the app and click on the big green button that says ‘Add‘ and follow the instructions. The money usually transfers instantly.

Step 2 – Convert your currency into Korean won: You can convert money into Korean won in the Wise app in two ways. Firstly, click on the button that says ‘Convert‘ in the currency you just added (GBP in this case) and choose to convert to Korean won. Secondly, go to your Korean won account in the app and select ‘Add‘. There’s a small fee to convert money, as shown in the image above.

Step 3 – Spend the money in Korea using your Wise card or withdraw cash from an ATM: Once you’ve converted your money into Korean won, you can use your Wise card to spend in Korea at most shops, restaurants, hotels, etc., or withdraw cash from a ‘Global ATM’. I recommend using the card as there’s no fee to pay by card but the Korean ATMs will charge a fee to withdraw cash.

2 – How To Send Money To Wise For Someone Else

This situation is for people outside of Korea who want to send money to people in Korea who have a Wise account. You (the person sending the money) don’t need to have a Wise account yourself, but the person receiving the money should have a Wise account. You will be sending money in your own currency and shouldn’t have to pay any fees to transfer the money.

Step 1 – Ask for the Wise account details of the person you want to send to in Korea: When you create a currency account in Wise (e.g. GBP or USD), you will receive a bank account number, along with details including your Sort Code, IBAN, SWIFT, or BIC numbers. You can find these account details by going to that currency in your Wise app and clicking on the account number (as shown below).

Step 2 – Send money to the Wise account from your own account: For this example, I will assume that my mum wants to send me £100. I provide her with my Wise account details for my GBP currency account that is shown in the Wise app. She can make a bank transfer from her bank to Wise in the same way she’d transfer money to anyone else in the UK. I receive the money in my Wise account.

Step 3 – Convert the money you received into Korean won: After my mum has kindly sent me £100 to my Wise GBP currency account, I can now convert that money into Korean won and use my Wise card to spend it in Korea to buy myself a new pair of shoes or a fancy meal out. Thanks, Mum! The transfer didn’t cost my mum anything and I now get to spend the money in Korea as I like.

Can You Transfer Directly To Korean Won With Wise?

Unfortunately, as Wise doesn’t allow people in Korea to sign up for a Wise account (I suspect this is due to strict Korean banking regulations), you won’t be assigned a Korean bank account when you create a Korean won currency account. That means you can’t transfer money directly from one country into Korean won and will need to choose one of the methods shown above.

Simply put, to transfer money to Korea with Wise, you need to transfer money to another currency account in Wise and then convert that into Korean won. Even though there’s no Korean won bank account, you can still spend money in Korea with your Wise card without any extra fees or hidden conversion costs after you’ve converted money into Korean won in your Wise app.

Transfer Money From Wise To A Korean Bank Account

You can transfer money from your Wise account directly to a Korean bank account in the Wise app. Select the Korean won currency account in the app and click on ‘Send‘. Enter the details of the recipient (bank account, name, etc.) and select the amount of Korean won you want to send. Alternatively, you can share a payment link and send that. There’s a fee of ₩1,450 to make a bank transfer.

Currencies That Offer Bank Accounts With Wise

Although it’s not possible to get a Korean bank account with Wise, you can open bank accounts in the following currencies and make transfers or receive deposits in those currencies:

AUD / CAD / EUR / GBP / HUE / MYR / NZD / PLN / RON / SGD / TRY / USD

You can also add money to your Wise account in the following currencies:

AUD / BGN / BRL / CAD / CNY / CHF / CZK / DKK / EUR / GBP / HUF / IDR / JPY / MYR / NOK / NZD / PLN / RON / SEK / SGD / TRY / USD

Please note: There are some exceptions and conditions for certain currencies based on the country you’re in. Check the Wise website for more details about money transfers in your desired currency.

Why I Use Wise For International Banking

As an expat who works online, I receive and spend money in various currencies (USD / GBP / AUD / EUR / KRW) and use my Wise account to manage and convert them as I need. I can receive money into my USD account on Wise and use the app to convert that into Korean won to spend in Korea, as detailed previously. Wise allows me to manage my international banking needs in one app.

Not only do I use Wise to spend my USD / GBP money in Korea in Korean won, I also use my Wise card when I travel internationally. I recently travelled to Thailand and used my Wise card as my main payment method when cards were accepted. I converted USD and other currency balances to THB in $200 batches and then spent with card or withdrew cash from Thai ATMs as needed.

Another reason I use Wise for international banking as an expat in Korea is that it allows my family to send money to my Wise account (or UK bank account which I then transfer to Wise) that I can spend in Korea. The alternative to using Wise for this would be to receive money into my UK bank account and then withdraw cash in Korea or pay by card – both are expensive options due to bank charges.

Sometimes I need to receive money in currencies that aren’t KRW or GBP and, thanks to Wise, I can do that without having to do a complicated or expensive international transfer between another country and the UK. It’s free to add extra currency accounts in Wise and you don’t need to go through the long, complicated process of setting up a foreign bank account. It’s so simple and quick.

How I Send Money From Korea To My Wise Card

As mentioned, Wise doesn’t allow you to create a Korean bank account, so you can’t send money directly from a Korean bank account to Wise. Fortunately, there are other ways to send money from Korea to other countries. My favourite way is with SentBe, a Korean FinTech company providing international money transfers for a low fee (₩2,500). You need a Korean phone number to use SentBe.

To transfer money from your Korean bank to your Wise account using SentBe, you will need to enter your international (Global) account numbers provided in the Wise currency account of your choice. For example, I would enter my Wise GBP currency account details into SentBe and send money from my Korean bank account to my Wise account. The money is converted into GBP, not KRW.

Alternatively, you can send money from Korea with SentBe directly to your home bank account if you don’t plan to use that money with your Wise card. If you need to send large amounts of money from Korea to other countries, please note that there is a limit of 50,000 USD per year that you can send. I believe this is being increased to 100,000 USD in the future. There are daily limits, too.

There are other apps and websites that provide international transfers from Korea, such as WireBarley, Western Union, and MoneyGram. I haven’t tried any of these options, but from my own experience and feedback from other expats living in Korea, SentBe seems to be the cheapest and most used method.

Other Ways To Transfer Money To Korea

Apart from using Wise to transfer money to Korea, there are some other methods you can use.

Bank Transfer (Remittance): Send money to Korea by entering in the Korean bank details of the person you’re sending money to in Korea. This is how I used to transfer money, but the fees for doing this can be high and the exchange rates can be bad.

International Remittance Provider: You can use companies like Western Union, Currency Fair, or Remitly to send money to a Korean bank account or (in some situations) to be collected in cash at an approved location. Be careful with this method as some frauds are conducted through international remittance providers. Only send money to accounts you trust.

Based on my experience as an expat for more than 13 years in Korea, Hong Kong, Japan, and Australia, I can say that using Wise in combination with my home bank account, Korean bank account, and SentBe has been the best option for sending money to Korea and transferring money out of Korea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about how to use Wise to send money to Korea. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article. If you have any more questions about this topic, please feel free to post a comment at the end of this article.

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By the time you finish reading this article, you’ll have an extensive list of free Seoul attractions and activities to fill your schedule from morning to night. Whether you want to explore Seoul’s history and culture, sights, nature, or entertainment options, there are plenty of free places in Seoul for you to discover, such as the Bukchon Hanok Village, Namsangol Park, and Jogyesa Temple.

In this article, you’ll discover thirty of the very best free things to do in Seoul that I want to share from my experience exploring Seoul without spending any money. There are also many of my personal tips about ways to save money in Seoul, where to get cheap food and souvenirs, and how to get more for less. To make life easier, there’s also a handy interactive map of Seoul with all these free places.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

The Best Way To See Free Things In Seoul

Seoul is a city blessed with many free sights and activities for travellers and locals to enjoy. Whether you’re in central Seoul or staying on the outskirts of the city, you’ll be able to find parks, gardens, mountains, historic temples, palaces, and lots more to explore, all for free. However, the most convenient way to see all of these is free sights is with a tour. Of course, a free tour is the best kind!

There are two main ways to get free tours of Seoul’s sights, both are open to travellers to Korea:

1: Free Transit Tours From Incheon Airport

If you have a layover of less than 24 hours in Seoul, you should definitely take advantage of the free transit tours offered from Incheon Airport to better acquaint yourself with the capital upon landing. These complimentary shuttles takes travellers into Seoul for guided tours of top sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace or insider neighbourhood walking tours full of history and culture appreciation.

With experienced multilingual volunteers leading the way across language or mobility barriers, these 3 to 4 hour excursions introduce the best free things to do in Seoul in a quick and easy tour. Sadly, these free tours are only available to transit passengers, so if you’re staying in Seoul for longer, then you should check out the second free tour type – walking tours of Seoul.

2: Free Walking Tours of Seoul

No trip to Seoul is complete without understanding the storied history and dynamic culture found on every street corner. Bring the city alive through your eyes and ears by joining a free Seoul walking tour. Knowledgeable volunteer guides versed in Korea’s complex past weave intriguing narratives while leading you to top attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and more.

With tantalising insights of Seoul from locals, the free walking tours of Seoul allow visitors an insiders’ perspective of Seoul through thoughtful talks and unforgettable experiences without any fees.

Please note: While these tours are free, you may be required to pay entry fees to some attractions.

Free Sightseeing Activities In Seoul

With palaces that transport you back in time, parks emanating tranquility, and lively cultural districts fuelling the future, Seoul overflows with exceptional sights to take in absolutely free of charge. This first section covers some of the best free things to do in Seoul that should be on any visitors’ bucket list. From historic hanok villages and fortress walls to modern design, there’s plenty to see in Seoul for free.

1: Bukchon Hanok Village

Nestled between two royal palaces, Bukchon Hanok Village allows visitors a glimpse into historic Korea. This beautifully preserved neighbourhood contains over 900 Korean hanok houses that date back 600 years. As you explore the winding alleys, you’ll feel transported back in time to the Joseon Dynasty while witnessing Korean cultural heritage continuing into modern everyday life.

Visitors can pick up a free walking map and tour the narrow cobblestone streets lined with tiled-roof houses, peaceful temples, tiny museums, craft workshops, galleries, and cafés at their leisure without tickets or tours. With its old-world charm and residents wearing traditional dress, Bukchon Hanok Village offers a free, living history lesson you can’t find anywhere else in Seoul.

2: Seoul’s Royal Palaces

Slip into the silhouette of Korea’s past by wearing Korean hanbok, the flowing traditional attire, for free entry into Seoul’s most storied sites – the sprawling royal palaces. Built during the imposing Joseon Dynasty, elaborate complexes like Changdeokgung, Gyeongbokgung, Changgyeonggung, and Deoksugung transport you centuries back in time once adorned in vividly-hued hanbok.

Stroll through ornate gates guarded by stoic royal guards and traverse serene lotus garden ponds and ornate pavilions, which look beautiful in any season. These royal palaces are great places to photograph yourself alongside colourfully costumed palace actors and feel like Korean nobility yourself.

Please note: Free entry to Seoul’s palaces is only available when wearing hanbok, as well as special dates such as Seollal, Chuseok, and the last Wednesday of each month, which is Culture Day.

3: Cheonggyecheon Stream

After strolling the bustling streets of downtown Seoul, find your inner peace again while wandering the Cheonggyecheon Stream. This oasis of gurgling water winds through the concrete jungle, with paved embankments, public art installations, and stone block bridges crossing its path. It’s one of the best ways to explore downtown Seoul without crossing roads and dodging cars.

Locals and travellers alike come to this urban waterway to rest their feet, have a picnic, and soak in Korean history from the informative plaques along the way. As a free refuge from the city’s chaos, Cheonggyecheon Stream lets you relax and recharge without spending a cent. If you visit during Christmas, you’ll be treated to lantern displays, while night markets are held here in summer.

4: Insadong Art Street

For creative spirits and art aficionados, a must-do free activity in Seoul is wandering Insadong Art Street. This quaint area explodes with inspiration down every alley from galleries showcasing traditional paintings and calligraphy to indie craft shops brimming with pottery and handmade knickknacks. Street culture dazzles with impromptu dances, music, chalk art, and graffiti murals colouring the walls.

Let Insadong ignite your imagination with its eye-popping art that spills onto the streets and inspires at every turn – all free for visitors to glimpse. My favourite spot in this area is the Ssamzigil art mall, which has loads of creative shops and the strangely delicious Poop Cafe on the top floor.

5: Gwanghwamun Square

At the heart of Seoul lies Gwanghwamun Square, a public space with free access offering glimpses into Korea’s dynastic history through art and artefacts. Visitors can explore the plaza’s statues of Admiral Yi Sun-sin and King Sejong the Great while learning about their leadership legacies. Wander through the on-site exhibit displaying parts of a former royal palace.

With cultural shows, temporary art installations, and city views surrounding this downtown square, Gwanghwamun provides free entertainment and education for travellers of all ages to better understand Seoul’s storied past. In winter, this area is home to the Seoul Winter Festa, a dazzling display of lanterns and light installations, while in other seasons you can find free markets to explore.

6: Banpo Rainbow Fountain Bridge

As the sun sets over Seoul, head to the Banpo Rainbow Fountain Bridge to witness its nightly rainbow fountain show lighting up the river, absolutely free. This 10-minute spectacle projects arcing jets of water in sync with a captivating LED light display. The colourful, dancing fountain against the city skyline creates an almost magical illusion not to miss.

From late April through mid-October, the dazzling rainbow fountain performances occur multiple times per night. With different themed multimedia shows featuring music, images, and lasers, visitors never see the same program twice. An iconic Seoul attraction, the Banpo Rainbow Fountain Bridge is a free, family-friendly evening activity perfect for making vacation memories along the Han River.

7: Deoksugung Stone Wall Road

Explore the exterior of one of Seoul’s four grand royal palaces, Deoksugung, on an intimate scale by taking a peaceful walk along the complex’s Stone Wall Road. As a lesser-known alternative to the main gate entrances, this tree-lined pathway hugs the palace perimeter wall giving unique angles gazing into traditional buildings more closely.

Built during King Seonjo’s era when Deoksugung became a primary royal residence in the late 1500s, these historic stone barriers now offer poetic scenery for peaceful palace strolls utterly free of charge, unveiling new beauty found only with adventures off the beaten track when discovering Seoul. It’s a popular location in K-drama’s and you might recognise it if you’re a fan of Korean shows.

8: Myeongdong Cathedral

Rising distinctly above the gleaming high-rises and congested alleyways of Myeongdong’s busy shopping district, the late 19th century Myeongdong Cathedral stands as an elegant heritage landmark open freely to visitors. Marvel at its vaulted Gothic spires, intricate stained glass, and historic pipe organ inside this Anglican church serving Seoul’s community since 1898.

Attend English language masses or benefit concerts within this cultural icon. For a brief reprieve from the consumer chaos of Myeongdong outside, find sublime solace appreciating this architectural beauty as one of the city’s most photographed sites and Korea’s oldest Anglican place of worship, with no admission tickets required. Please be careful not to disturb ceremonies when you enter.

9: Seoul’s Fortress Walls

One of my personal favourite free things to do in Seoul is walking along the many miles of ancient fortress walls that still exist in many parts of the city’s centre and surrounding mountains. The freely accessible fortress walls and towering gatehouses, which date back through the centuries and once protected Korea’s capital from foreign invaders, stretch over 18 kilometres around the city.

Much of these monumental battlements still stand today with scenic hiking trails following their path. Wander past ancient mountain gates, watchtowers, beacon mounds, and signposts guiding wayward travellers. For unparalleled views into the fortress and the city it shields, the Seoul City Wall Museum also provides a free observatory deck overlooking iconic sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace.

10: Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Rising in dramatic curves from Seoul’s central district, the contemporary Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) serves as an iconic exhibition centre and architectural work of art with 24/7 free access to its outdoor spaces, including the plaza’s lawns, rooftop park, and lotus pond. Designed by Zaha Hadid, DDP’s flowing metallic facades encapsulate a creative complex of galleries and event halls.

From experimental art displays wrapped around the structure to dynamic light shows like Seoul Light illuminating DDP in technicolour, this urban design destination dazzles the senses with visionary design open to the public day and night. Explore the free night markets held here during the summer and use some of your saved money to buy yourself some artistic souvenirs.

11: Namsan Mountain Park (N Seoul Tower)

While the observation decks of N Seoul Tower come with admission fees, exploring the surrounding Namsan Mountain Park area is completely free. Ride the cable car up to the tower and then set off walking along the many scenic trails crisscrossing the mountain. Leafy paths snake up to panorama viewpoints, traditional pavilions, and even quirky attractions like the “Locks of Love.”

After exploring all the free things to do in Seoul’s Namsan Mountain Park, work your way down nearly 100 staircases back to downtown. Under spring’s cherry blossoms or fall’s fiery foliage, a trek around Namsan Mountain lets you enjoy the sights of N Seoul Tower’s perch amid nature without opening your wallet. I recommend walking up in the afternoon to enjoy sunset views of Seoul at night.

12: Namsangol Park And Hanok Village

Escape Seoul’s bustling metropolis back in time with a stroll through Namsangol Hanok Village’s tranquil grounds. Within this historic enclave beside Namsan Mountain rest five traditional Korean houses from the Joseon era for visitors to explore the preserved architecture. Surrounding the hanoks, the sprawling Namsangol Park bursts with lovely ponds, gardens, and walking paths underneath tree canopies.

From classic concerts at its outdoor stage to glimpsing folk arts like kite-making demonstrations, you can enjoy free cultural experiences in this area. An oasis in the city, Namsangol Hanok Village and scenic Namsangol Park offers peaceful, educational escapes into old Korea completely gratis. There are some lovely teahouses here which, although not free, offer great views, teas, and tranquility.

Cultural Activities In Seoul That Are Free

Immerse yourself in Seoul’s dynamic culture with an array of superb free experiences across this cosmopolitan capital. From centuries-old traditions to trendsetting pop culture, Seoul overflows with opportunities to tap into its cultural heartbeat. These free things to do in Seoul are perfect for those who want to learn more about Korea’s rich and varied culture, both traditional and modern.

13: Cheong Wa Dae (The Blue House)

Understand Korea’s complex democracy by joining a free tour of Cheong Wa Dae, the presidential palace with abundant history as both a royal and colonial site now open to the public. Walk among lotus ponds, through regal meeting halls, over stone bridges previously reserved for private walks by the president, and inside dozens of unique buildings that were previously hidden from public view.

With limited tickets available each day, this opportunity unveils the behind-the-scenes inner workings steering modern Korea from this historically significant landmark free-of-charge to those eager to learn. The Blue House opens at 9am each day and, as this is one of the most popular free places in Seoul since opening in 2023, I recommend being there just before to make sure you get a ticket.

14: K-Star Road For K-Pop Fans

Along Apgujeong’s stylish Rodeo Street lies K-Star Road, letting Hallyu fans glimpse their favourite actors, K-pop idols, and Korean celebrities along a stretch of sidewalk absolutely free. Hundreds of stars’ handprints are immortalised in stone next to bronze name plaques that comprise this unofficial walk of fame. There are also life-sized bear statues of the most popular K-culture icons.

Spy on Korea’s biggest record labels like JYP, SM, and YG in towering company buildings looming nearby as you meander past luxury designer boutiques. For spotting Korea’s rich and famous, this free attraction in Seoul offers the best chances of a celebrity sighting while learning about viral Korean entertainment sensation’s impact nationwide. Don’t expect the rest of this area to be cheap, however.

15: Jogyesa And Bongeunsa Temples

Transport back through the centuries by visiting Jogyesa and Bongeunsa, two of Seoul’s most prominent Buddhist temples open freely to visitors. Built in the 14th century, these serene complexes house preserved relics and serve as urban sanctuaries where monks perform daily rituals. Tour ornamented main halls, join in chanting ceremonies, sample vegetarian Temple cuisine or try meditation with monks.

For authentic cultural experiences, you can learn about traditional tea ceremonies, make lotus lanterns or try on traditional hanbok during workshops on certain days. These free activities in Seoul give you a wonderful insight into Korea’s Buddhist traditions. An oasis amid skyscrapers, these historic temples offer charming glimpses into Korea’s ancient past and Buddhist traditions.

16: Ihwa Mural Village & Naksan Park

Discover quaint cafés, boutique galleries, and explosively colourful street art woven along the sloping hillside neighbourhood of Ihwa Mural Village, open freely for aimless wandering without tickets. Winding pedestrian pathways full of trendy shops and cafes covered top-to-bottom in vibrant murals lead up to the equally stunning Naksan Park perched high above.

Follow the park trail to panorama viewpoints gazing across Seoul’s vast skyline or relax under blossoming fruit orchards blanketing the mountainside from spring through fall. With artistic flair painted everywhere you look, Ihwa and Nakasan beckon the curious to explore their beauty hiding just above the city streets. I recommend following the fortress walls from Naksan Park to Dongdaemun Gate.

17: Seoul’s Traditional Markets

Venture beyond Seoul’s glitzy malls to wander its traditional markets for an authentic look into Korean shopping culture, entirely free. Browse curb side food stalls serving beloved street eats like tteokbokki smothered in fiery sauce. Snake through vibrant Korean markets like Gwangjang’s towering alleys teeming with tempting snacks or Dongdaemun’s endless urban maze packed with fashion bargains.

Haggle with ajummas peddling ginseng, handmade hanji paper, and other unique souvenirs as you immerse in the colourful chaos. For unraveling Seoul’s shopping DNA through loud bartering, intoxicating sights, and tantalising smells, traditional markets promise a sensory experience. These markets offer lots of cheap things to do in Seoul, such as trying street food and buying souvenirs.

18: Royal Palace Changing Of The Guard

Witness Korean military pageantry at the changing of the guard ceremony held at two of Seoul’s royal palaces multiple times daily, the first at 10:00am and the last at 2:00pm. Both Gyeongbokgung and Deoksugung open their gates for crowds to watch guards in traditional costumes marching with military bands playing as symbolic sentinels switch shifts protecting Korea’s cultural treasures.

Hear commands echo as rows bow synchronised on cue to entertain visitors of all ages while learning about dynastic defence tactics and regal rituals. For traditional Korean fanfare infused with modern discipline that makes history come alive through sights and sounds, catching the changing of the guard ignites patriotic pride and is a great free thing to do in Seoul any time of year.

19: Oil Tank Culture Park

Once an oil depot from the 1960s, the Oil Tank Culture Park is now an elevated grassy recreation space open for Seoul residents and tourists alike to enjoy modern art installations and city views absolutely free of charge. Stroll between 15 repurposed fuel tanks decorated vibrantly by local artists then climb outdoor staircases to rooftop lookout plazas guiding eyes across Seoul’s sea of buildings.

Kids will love the Children’s Gallery building offering hands-on learning fun from robots to workshops. Atop four iconic oil tanks, this cultural playground brings together art, technology, and breathtaking vistas. There are cafes, art shops, and occasional markets here, offering plenty of cheap things to do in Seoul besides the aforementioned free activities. Soon to be accessible by the Seoul river bus service.

Seoul’s Best Free Natural Sights

Beyond dynamic cityscapes, Seoul overflows with natural splendour from windswept parks to guardian mountains shielding the capital that visitors can walk through free of charge. These green getaways will take you across the rivers and peaks enveloping central Seoul for serene escapes back into nature and sweeping metropolitan panoramas, as well as offer gentle strolls through beautiful downtown areas.

20: Bukhansan National Park

Escape Seoul’s concrete landscape for pristine wilderness less than an hour away at the stunning Bukhansan National Park. Only a metro and quick bus ride north, its granite peaks offer challenging yet accessible hikes with breathtaking rewards of towering mountain temples and panoramic views across the entire city. The hike to Baegundae Peak offers incredible views over Seoul all for free.

With diverse wildlife, autumn’s scarlet foliage, and one of Korea’s most sacred sites, this easily accessible natural wonderland promises exhilarating treks tailored for all difficulty levels. It’s absolutely free to enter Bukhansan and you can explore at your own pace. There are valley paths to wander along slowly, or various hiking routes that will take you up into the lofty peaks.

21: Seoul Forest

Escape Seoul’s concrete jungle into nature’s tranquility at Seoul Forest Park, an enormous green space featuring flowerbeds, forests trails, a cultural art park, children’s playgrounds, an insect botanical garden and more – all freely open to the public. See native wildlife like storks and herons landing in a lake dotted with blossoms, and cute critters like deer, rabbits, and sheep in the petting zoo.

Renting a bike and riding through the park and along the Han River is one of the best cheap things to do in Seoul during summer and is very popular with locals and tourists alike. If you prefer to walk, it will take a few hours to explore this large green area, more if you have children and they discover the many play areas with slides, swings, etc., that they can enjoy endlessly.

22: Seokchon Lake (Near Lotte World Tower)

Nestled at the foot of Jamsil’s Lotte World Tower lies the tranquil Seokchon Lake, a serene urban oasis offering free lakeside walks and downtown views across this artificial reservoir. Stroll around the long lakeside walkways and marvel at the lazy ducks floating through the pond, the abundant nature, and the cute swan-shaped paddle boats you can rent nearby. At night there are neon-moon boats, too.

Just steps from the bustle of Jamsil, this hidden eco-park promises Instagram-worthy moments beside its undisturbed waters at no cost, with the stunning Lotte World Tower in the background. Seokchon Lake is one of Korea’s most popular places to visit during cherry blossom season and is home to the Seokchon Lake Cherry Blossom Festival, a must see free festival in Seoul!

23: Han River Parks

Escape the hustle of Seoul by visiting the Han River Parks, an interconnected 12-mile riverside greenway open 24/7 for pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy absolutely free. This urban waterfront oasis features landscaped lawns, wooded areas, and cycling paths dotted with unique attractions like public swimming pools, performance venues, and museums. Perfect for a cheap day out in Seoul.

From rollerblading under blooming cherry trees in Yeouido Park to catching golden hour along the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain, visitors of all ages can bask beside the gentle Han River year-round, making it one of the best free options in the city. Definitely visit during cherry blossom season and autumn foliage season, although expect millions of other people to do the same!

24: Seollo 7017 Nature Walkway

Soar across Seoul for stunning skyline panoramas along Seollo 7017, an overpass reinvented into a 983-meter long elevated park trailing through central Seoul. The name comes from the year this section of the highway became pedestrianised (1970) and the year it became an innovative green walkway between Seoul Station and Namdaemun Market near Myeongdong (2017).

The free footpath now connects people walking to and from Seoul Station, allowing them to pass through charming greenery, elegant footbridges, and contemporary pathways instead of busy city streets. Seollo 7017 is best visited during spring and summer when the trees and plants on the bridge are in full bloom and people come to play the pianos dotted along the pathway at night.

25: Gyeongui Line Forest Park

One of my favourite green areas in central Seoul, the Gyeongui Line Forest Park is a set of public parks that were created from an abandoned railway line that used to cut through central Seoul all the way to Seoul Station. Stroll through contemporary art installations, discover Seoul’s passion for reading in green spaces, and find respite in the 17 unique parts of this urban oasis near Hongdae.

Each section comprises colourful murals, whimsical sculptures, and rotating public exhibits by Korean artists and designers. Kids can play in interactive fountains while adults peruse the outdoor galleries during a walk between buzzing Hongdae and Yeonnam-dong neighbourhoods. Showcasing rising talents and revitalising forgotten urban spaces, these avant-garde parks offer freely accessible art to all.

26: Seoul Grand Park

Reconnect with nature and spend a day seeing the sights at Seoul Grand Park, an enormous green space filled with botanical gardens, forests trails, a zoo, and a children’s theme park. While the zoo and theme park have entrance fees, you can see most of the park for free, including the cherry blossom trees that line wide walkways, making this park an incredible free place to visit in spring.

Have a picnic under flower arbors in the themed gardens blooming seasonally then hike through ginkgo tree forests as your faces brush against golden leaves in fall. For families and nature lovers alike, roomy Seoul Grand Park provides free outdoor adventures found few other places in the city. There are discounted entry tickets for Seoul Zoo online which you can use to save money on your visit.

Free Museums And Galleries In Seoul

Beyond royal palaces, Seoul overflows with exceptional museums and galleries that open their world-class collections to the public completely free-of-charge. Enrich your mind through history, art, science, and creativity without spending a single won with these fascinating cultural repositories. These free things to do in Seoul are just a sample of the free cultural wonders awaiting you in Seoul.

27: Seoul Museum Of Art

For fine art free of charge, visit the elegant Seoul Museum of Art showcasing 7000 years of Korean aesthetic heritage across seven floors of galleries tucked behind Deoksugung Palace. Explore one of the most comprehensive Asian art collections in the world spanning ancient religious works through modern multimedia pieces.

Don’t miss the museum’s highlight – a complete handwritten book of Buddhist scriptures dating back to the 700s considered a national treasure of Korea. Special exhibits also focus on aspects of Asian art history, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s creative roots.

28: War Memorial Of Korea

Pay homage to Korean veterans and fallen soldiers with a free self-guided tour of the mammoth War Memorial of Korea, the country’s only state-run national museum overlooking sprawling Yongsan Park. Hundreds of aircrafts, tanks, and artillery greet visitors outside while expansive exhibit halls detail intense battles fought across oceans through extensive dioramas and documentaries.

29: National Museum Of Korea

Journey through Korea’s expansive history spanning ancient kingdoms to thriving modern society free-of-charge at The National Museum of Korea, the nation’s largest repository safeguarding over 150,000 artifacts. Wander massive exhibition halls displaying age-old pottery, calligraphy scrolls, and Buddhist sculptures while exploring chronicles of cultural milestones and ancient dynasties.

Don’t miss King Sejong’s original Joseon canon inscribed on UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register for its global significance. Offering indoor and outdoor venues with rotating traditional performances on weekends, this world-class museum unveils Korea’s storied past completely gratis.

30: National Folk Museum Of Korea

Delve into Korea’s cultural roots spanning dynasties and generations with a free trip to the National Folk Museum of Korea, perfectly placed within the Gyeongbokgung Palace grounds. Three exhibition halls brim with over 4,000 artefacts from ancient to modern times depicting lifestyles in both rural villages and royal courts through authentic clothing, housing models, spiritual symbols and hands-on activities.

Map Of Free Things To Do In Seoul

To help make it easier for you to check out all of these free things to do in Seoul, I’ve placed markers on Google Maps which you can use to navigate to each destination. Use the map below or open and save the details to Google Maps on your phone or browser to check later on. I’ve also added in some extra free or cheap things to do in Seoul that are close by the other attractions.

Money Saving Tips For Seoul

From public transportation to sightseeing, Seoul overflows with money-saving opportunities for budget-conscious travellers able to uncover the city’s generous free offerings. Here are some of my top tips about how to see Seoul for less and save money on your travels. For more tips, check out my Seoul money-saving guide.

Buy a transportation card: Seoul’s public transport system is amazing, cheap, and user-friendly. Take advantage of discounted fares by picking up a transportation card when you arrive at Incheon Airport or at convenience stores across Korea.

Eat Korean street food: Seoul is blessed with lots of incredible cheap street eats that you should try regardless of your budget as they’re absolutely mouth-wateringly tasty. If you want to save money, snack outdoors instead of lunch or dinner and you’ll save lots.

Explore Seoul’s traditional markets: Not only do Seoul’s traditional markets offer the chance to try cheap street food snacks and some of the best traditional dishes in Korea, they’re also full of bargain souvenirs.

Try hanbok for free: Although hanbok rental in Seoul isn’t that expensive (and certainly worth it), you can save some money by trying hanbok for free at cultural and tourists centres in Seoul, including the Seoul Global Culture Centre and the Myeongdong Tourist Information Centre.

Rent a bike to see more sights: Seoul has a great bike rental system that’s cheap and conveniently located throughout the city. This is one of the best ways to explore the long stretches of Han River parks and get some exercise while you move from sight to sight.

Pick up a Seoul city pass: City passes for Seoul allow you to visit some of the most expensive and exciting attractions for one set price and can save you a lot of money vs. paying for each attraction separately. The Discover Seoul Pass and Go City Seoul Pass are two of the best.

Book hotels in advance: Seoul has a wealth of cheap places to stay, but prices always increase the closer you get to your stay. Book ahead and you’ll get the best prices. Not sure where to stay in Seoul? Check out my guide to Seoul’s best districts for travellers.

Claim your tax back: A great way to save money in Seoul, especially if you plan to do a lot of shopping, is with tax refunds on eligible purchases. You can claim up to ₩5,000,000 tax back.

Visit the Jeong-dong Observatory by City Hall: I didn’t include it in this list, but there’s a place in Seoul to get free sights of Deoksugung Palace, as shown in the cover image of this article. On the 13th floor of the Seosomun Building near City Hall is the Jeong-dong Observatory, which offers views of central Seoul from the cafe. However, you kind of have to buy a coffee to enjoy them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about free things to do in Seoul. These answers are based on my own experience and from research conducted to write this article.

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This article will cover the most popular methods of payment, like cash and credit cards, as well as other methods, such as mobile payment apps, Korean debit cards, and transportation cards. From street food to shopping, sightseeing, and singing rooms, spending money in Korea doesn’t need to be difficult.

I’ve lived and travelled in Korea since 2015 and helped hundreds of people plan their trip to Korea through this website and social media groups. I want to share all of my best tips to help you save money, avoid problems, shop, and spend in Korea more easily and to help you plan your Korean adventure.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Cash Or Card: What’s The Best Way To Pay In Korea?

Which is better, cash or card when you want to pay in Korea? Well, it depends on a number of factors, such as what you’re buying, where you’re buying it from, and which country you’re visiting from. You might use cash to pay for small purchases in stores, traditional markets, or for street food, but as all merchants in Korea are required to accept credit cards by law, the need for cash is shrinking.

Using a credit card is the best payment method in Korea and will allow you to pay safely and conveniently for tours, hotels, meals, coffee, and more. Visa and Mastercard are accepted widely for payments in Korea from small purchases in shops to large payments like hotels and tours. However, using a foreign credit card isn’t 100% reliable for payments, so taking cash is a good backup.

Korea is fast becoming a cash-free society with a strong push for digital payments through apps, as well as the use of credit cards and mobile payments. Public transport has long rewarded travellers who don’t use cash with discounted fares available through transportation cards. These days, many buses are cash-free and won’t accept cash in cities like Seoul (20% of buses) and Daejeon (all buses).

If you don’t want to pay with your credit card when travelling in Korea, an alternative is a multi-currency travel card, such as those offered by Wise and Revolut, as well as payment apps such as Apple Pay and Samsung Pay. These are becoming more common as a means to spend money when visiting Korea and a way to possibly save money vs. exchanging cash.

Recommended Money Mix For Visiting Korea

What payment options would I recommend for Korea? From my own experience of travelling abroad for over 20 years, I recommend a mixture of cash and card, as well as paying for as much as you can before travelling so you can pay in your home currency. Booking hotels, tours, and attractions through sites like Klook.com can potentially save you money and avoid exchange fees.

Here’s a suggested money mix for visiting Korea:

• Bring 20-30% of your budget in cash (Korean won or your own currency).
  • You can withdraw extra cash using a credit card or multi-currency card if you need to.
• Bring a credit card or multi-currency card for the other 70-80% of expenses.
  • Alternatively, get a WOWPASS when you arrive in Korea and bring more cash to top it up.
• Book as much as possible online before you travel.
  • Online prices for attractions are generally much cheaper than the gate prices.

Despite Korea being card-friendly, there are still times when you need cash, so definitely bring some with you or withdraw it from a Global ATM in Korea. I suggest using a card for most of your spending as it’s quick, convenient, and increasingly the only option due to Korea’s move away from using cash.

Which card you bring depends on what you’re comfortable using. I travel using a Wise multi-currency card to make payments and receive money in Korea from my own account and other sources. When I travel to other countries in Asia, such as Thailand, I don’t use my UK credit card as my bank charges me an exchange fee. It’s much cheaper for me to transfer money to my Wise card instead.

Another option that I would recommend to travellers, especially those from other parts of Asia, is bringing cash and loading it onto a WOWPASS, which is a Korean debit card. The WOWPASS allows you to exchange money from 15 foreign currencies into Korean won and load it onto the debit card, which you can use to pay across Korea.

I’ll cover each of the payment methods discussed above in the following sections so you can get a better idea of the pros and cons of each and whether it’s the right way for you or not.

Disclaimer: This guide is intended to provide you information about payment options in Korea and the practicality of using each. I don’t think there is one payment option that is suitable for all travellers and I recommend you look at your own situation and determine what’s best for you based on exchange fees from your country, fees charged by your bank, and whether your credit card works overseas.

Paying By Debit And Credit Card In Korea

Credit cards from Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Korea and will work in most locations, including tourist attractions, hotels, shops, department stores, and restaurants. American Express is also accepted, but not as widely. Using your credit card in Korea can be a great way to build up points / miles and your card may have other benefits, such as travel insurance.

While larger businesses are likely to accept foreign credit cards, you might find that smaller ones refuse to accept them or are unable to process them, which is why I recommend bringing some cash or getting a Korean debit card just in case. However, in most places, especially in tourist-friendly places like Seoul, Busan, and Gyeongju, international credit cards should be accepted without any problems.

Here are some considerations when deciding whether you should pay by credit card in Korea:

Foreign Exchange Fees: Your bank may charge you a fee when you use your credit card overseas. Be sure to check with your bank before travelling so you don’t find unexpected costs when you return.

ATMs: Foreign credit cards should work at ‘Global ATMs’ in popular tourist areas like Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Gangnam, as well as at Incheon Airport. However, other ATMs in Korea may not accept non-Korean credit cards. There is usually a fee to use a Korean ATM of around ₩3,600 (about $3). Also, Korean ATMs don’t operate 24 hours a day and close around 11pm at night.

Chip & Pin Use: Card payments in Korea are done by touching the card to a card reader or inserting the card and signing for the payment if it’s over ₩50,000. Chip & Pin isn’t commonly used in Korea.

Blocked Cards: Your bank may block your credit card when travelling as a security measure. It might be necessary to tell your bank that you plan to travel to Korea so they don’t block it later on.

Fraud & Card Security: Credit card fraud against tourists in Korea isn’t a serious issue, although it can still happen. Phishing is a growing problem in Korea, but usually against Koreans instead of tourists.

Pay Before You Travel: You can book tours, hotels, attractions, and lots more online before you travel and pay with your credit card. These will charge you in your own currency, so there’s no exchange rate fees and you also have peace of mind that everything is booked before you arrive in Korea.

Debit Cards: If your debit card is from Visa, Mastercard, or American Express, you should be fine using it to pay in Korea in the same way you can a credit card, as long as your bank allows it. However, the same issues will apply when trying to withdraw money from an ATM – you’ll need to go to a ‘Global ATM’ to withdraw cash. Also, you’ll need to check if your bank allows you to use it internationally.

Multi-Currency Cards: Wise And Revolut

I know many travellers feel comfortable using their own credit card due to the various benefits their credit card might offer, but there is another way to pay in Korea that could lower the fees you pay. This alternative is a multi-currency travel card, which allows you to convert money from your home currency to Korean won online and then use that balance to pay by card in Korea.

There are many companies that offer multi-currency travel cards, including Wise and Revolut, which are available to residents of the USA, Canada, UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and many other countries. Starling Bank (UK), YouTrip (Singapore), Chime (US), N26 (Eurozone), and KOHO (Canada) also provide multiple-currency travel cards.

The main benefits of these cards can include:

• Top-up from your home bank account.
• Only spend what you need.
• No transaction fees when you pay by card.*
• You get the mid-market exchange rate.*
• Withdraw cash from ATMs.
• Track your spending with the app.
• Instantly freeze and replace your card.
• Digital payments through Google / Apple Pay*
• Can be used in dozens of countries.*

*depending on the card and the terms and conditions of that card

What’s good about these cards? Multi-currency cards offer a lot of flexibility and cost savings when travelling as you can get the mid-market exchange rate on currency exchanges, which is typically better than the rates offered by money exchanges. It’s easy to control your spending in the connected app and you can transfer more money to the card when you need it. Any leftover money can be refunded, saved for later, or converted into another currency. You can also use them in other countries.

How do these cards let you pay in Korea? The process is really simple. First, apply for the card before you travel and download the relevant app that goes with it. Transfer money from your bank to top-up the card balance in your home currency and then convert that into Korean won (or other currencies you might need). When you arrive in Korea, use the card as you would a regular credit card.

My experience using Wise in Korea: I’ve tested out both the Wise card and Revolut card in Korea and they both worked with no real problems. I tested them in restaurants, shops, cafes, attractions, and other places tourists are likely to visit. The only time they didn’t work was at an automated kiosk for train tickets in Seoul Station. I use the Wise card to spend my UK money in Korea or when I travel.

Learn more: This article about using Wise in Korea shows you how to get a Wise card, how it can save you money as you travel (in many countries), how to activate the card in Korea, and lots more.

WOWPASS Korean Debit Card

An alternative to using your own credit card to pay in Korea is to get a local Korean debit card called the WOWPASS. The WOWPASS has two great functions that make it a practical solution for travellers to Korea, especially those from countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand.

Debit Card Function: The main feature of the WOWPASS is the ability to pay like a local in Korea with a debit card issued by a Korean company, which is accepted in most locations. You can exchange 15 currencies, including PHP, IDR, MYR, THB, into Korean won to top-up the debit card (up to a value of 1 million won) at the WOWPASS terminals found across Korea. This helps you to avoid exchanging cash elsewhere and you can withdraw cash from the card in Korean won, too.

T-Money Function: The WOWPASS comes with a built in T-Money transportation card, which means you can use it to travel on Korea’s buses and subways. This makes it really easy to travel around Korea and you can simply touch in and out of buses and subways as you travel and the fee will be automatically deducted.

My experience using WOWPASS in Korea: I wrote an article about the WOWPASS and tried using the card in loads of locations in Seoul, Incheon Airport, and Daejeon. It’s very easy to use and the app helps you find the WOWPASS machines where you can recharge the card and exchange money. I still use the card now and I would definitely recommend it as an option for people visiting Korea.

Learn more: Read my guide to the WOWPASS to see how to get one, where it works, how to top it up, ways it can save you money, and my experience using the WOWPASS in Korea.

Cash And Traveller’s Cheques

South Korea’s currency is called the Korean won (₩) and comes in ₩1,000, ₩5,000 ₩10,000 and ₩50,000 notes as well as coins in ₩1, ₩5, ₩10, ₩50, ₩100, and ₩500 denominations. The value of the Korean won can be confusing to travellers from countries where the numbers of the currency are much smaller, such as in the USA, Europe, and the UK.

To understand the value of Korean money, I find it easier to remember what each one will buy you in Korea. A bottle of water costs around ₩1,000, a coffee costs about ₩5,000, a Korean meal costs around ₩10,000, and a budget to mid-range hotel costs about ₩100,000 per night, depending on the season and location.

Paying with cash in Korea is becoming more difficult as restaurants, supermarkets, public transportation, and attractions are moving towards automated kiosks that only accept card or digital payments. However, you will need some cash to pay to top-up transportation cards, such as the T-Money card, which is why it’s useful to have cash before you travel.

Cash is still important and it will certainly be useful to carry it with you as you explore Korea’s markets and food stalls, which should be happy to accept cash. However, as a tipping culture doesn’t exist in Korea, you don’t really need to worry about keeping small bills with you to leave tips. Koreans won’t expect tips in almost all situations.

Where To Exchange Money In Korea

The best place to convert your foreign currency into Korean won is at a money exchange in Seoul, especially in popular tourist areas such as Hongdae and Myeongdong. The aforementioned WOWPASS machines are also great for converting foreign currency into Korean won (to pay by debit card) and both rates are better than airport exchange rates.

As research for this article, I visited money exchanges in Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Incheon Airport, as well as checking the rates given at WOWPASS machines. Overall, the rates were worst at the airport and best with WOWPASS. Here are the rates offered on this specific day (June 29th, 2023) for converting USD to KRW:

• Airport exchange rate: $1 = ₩1,249.00
• Seoul money exchange: $1 = ₩1,287.80
• WOWPASS exchange rate: $1 = ₩1,302.81

Potential savings with Seoul exchanges: If you were to exchange $500, the difference between the airport exchange rate and the WOWPASS exchange machine is ₩26,905 (roughly $20). Depending on your budget, this might not be enough of an incentive to wait to find a money exchange in Seoul instead of changing money at the airport, but if you want to cut costs, there are cheaper options available.

There are money exchanges near subway stations in Myeongdong and Hongdae where you can get competitive exchange rates in Seoul. WOWPASS exchange machines are located across Seoul.

Which currencies can be converted in Korea? Foreign currencies that can be converted into Korean won at the airport and in money exchange machines typically include USD, JPY, EUR, VND, CNY, THB, PHP, AUD, GBP, CHF, SGD, NZD, CAD, HKD, and TWD. WOWPASS exchange machines also accept MYR and IDR.

Global And Local ATMs In Korea

You can withdraw cash from ATMs in Korea using a debit card, but not all ATMs will accept international cards. Look for a sign saying ‘Global ATM’ or ‘Foreign Currency ATM’ to withdraw cash in Korea, like those pictured above which are located in Hongik University Station in Hongdae. You can also withdraw cash using a credit card, but it might be more expensive due to cash advance fees.

ATM fees: Whether you use a debit or credit card, an ATM is likely to charge a fee to withdraw money using a foreign card. The last time I withdrew cash using a foreign card at a Korean ATM, the fee was ₩3,600 (about $3). Your bank or credit card company may also charge a fee on top of that or give you a bad exchange rate when converting from KRW. These costs can add up a lot if you withdraw regularly, so try to make fewer withdrawals.

Where to find Global ATMs: You can find Global ATMs in popular tourist destinations such as Incheon Airport, Myeongdong, Hongdae, Gangnam, and Jamsil.

Are Traveller’s Cheques Accepted In Korea?

Yes, traveller’s cheques can be exchanged at Korean banks or currency exchange offices in Korea. You might also be able to exchange them at certain hotels. I haven’t used traveller’s cheques in Korea so can’t say how easy it is to exchange them, but large banks in central Seoul are probably your best option. You can ask at your hotel, too.

Currency Restrictions For South Korea

If you plan to bring cash to Korea and exchange it into Korean won, or even if you’re bringing Korean won, please note that there is a limit of $10,000 USD that can be legally brought into the country. This figure includes travellers cheques. The limit of $10,000 can be exceeded, but you must report it to customs when you arrive.

Korean Public Transportation Cards

If you want to travel on Korea’s excellent public transportation network, then you should pick up a transportation card when you arrive at Incheon Airport or from other locations across the country. The best part about these cards is that they not only allow you to pay for transport in Seoul, you can use them for the whole country and to pay for small purchases, too. Some even give discounts.

Here’s a breakdown of the main transportation cards in Korea and where to buy them:

• T-Money Card: This is the most popular transportation card and can be used on buses and subways, as well as to pay for items in shops, cafes, vending machines, and even tickets for attractions. These cards are available from convenience stores nationwide and come included with the WOWPASS.
• Korea Tour Card: This is a tourist-only transportation card that can be bought at airports and harbours in Korea. It uses the T-Money system to pay for public transport and make payments. You can also get certain discounts when you show this card.
• Cashbee Card: The Cashbee Card by Lotte can be purchased and used in most of the same locations as T-Money. You can purchase a Cashbee Card at convenience stores and subway stations across Korea.
• Rail + Card: The Rail+ Card is sold at train stations across Korea and is run by the national train network. You can use it to pay for train services, including Korea’s high-speed KTX trains, which the other cards can’t.
• Namane Card: The Namane Card by KB Bank uses the Rail+ Card system and can be used in the same locations. However, this card allows you to create personalised card designs.
• Creatrip X Bellygom Card: The Creatrip X Bellygom transportation card is a travel card from Creatrip and features a popular character from YouTube, Bellygom.

Price differences: These cards all cost around ₩3,000 to ₩10,000 for the card, depending on where you buy it, what features it comes with, and whether it has a personalised design or not.

Benefits of transportation cards: These cards offer discounted rates on bus and subway fares (varies by city) and allows you to travel cash-free and conveniently.

Learn more: I’ve written about Korean transportation cards a lot as they’re really useful for travellers coming to Korea. Two of my favourites are the Korea Tour Card, which is a tourist-only transportation card, and the T-Money Card, which is the most popular transportation card used in Korea.

Apple Pay And Samsung Pay

Apple Pay has been available in Korea from March 2023 and can be used in locations that come equipped with NFC enabled payment terminals. There are over 100,000 shops that have NFC terminals in Korea right now, but that number is growing since Apple Pay’s introduction.

Samsung Pay can be used widely in Korea as it doesn’t require NFC terminals to operate and so Korean establishments didn’t bother to install them. Korea is home to Samsung and its payment options have been widely integrated into the Korean payments system.

Can you use Apple Pay or Samsung Pay in Korea? Yes, you can pay with Apple Pay and Samsung Pay if you’ve registered a credit card to either service in your home country.

Will I pay a fee to use Apple Pay? Apple won’t charge a fee to use Apple Pay internationally, but the credit card that you’ve registered with Apple Pay may charge you. If your credit card doesn’t charge a fee to make payments when travelling, then you shouldn’t have any problems paying with Apple Pay in Korea. The same applies to Samsung Pay.

What exchange rate does Apple Pay use? Apple’s exchange rate is whatever rate the credit card issuer is using. The same applies to Samsung Pay. The Wise multi-currency card, in comparison, uses the mid-market rate, which could give you a better rate when you pay in Korea.

What places in Korea accept Apple Pay? It is mostly small and medium sized businesses that have embraced Apple Pay in Korea, such as cafes, restaurants, convenience stores, and shops. Online apps such as Baedal Minjok (food delivery) accepts Apple Pay, but only with Apple Pay accounts registered with a Korean credit card. Samsung Pay is accepted much more widely across Korea.

Korean Mobile Payment Apps

Korea is one of the world leaders in mobile payment apps, which allow you to use your smartphone to make payments as if you’re using a credit card, both online and offline. These are really useful services for foreigners living in Korea and I use Kakao Pay regularly to book train tickets, send money to friends, pay for food deliveries, and more.

Can tourists use Korean mobile payments? Unfortunately, apps such as Naver Pay, Kakao Pay, and Payco, require a Korean phone number and Korean bank account for you to register due to tough banking rules in Korea. The other issue is that these services usually require some Korean language skills to use. Therefore, these aren’t really options for short term travellers in Korea and although they’re useful, I wouldn’t recommend trying to use them.

Learn more: Even if you can’t use Kakao Pay to pay in Korea, you can use services like Kakao talk and Kakao Taxi by creating a Kakao account. This article about Kakao Taxi will show you how to do that.

Problems Paying In Korea

As mentioned, travellers may have some problems when they try to pay in Korea due to certain Korean regulations and policies, especially the no-cash buses and automated kiosks that are increasingly common these days. Here are a few issues tourists to Korea might have regarding making payments.

Online payments: Spending money online in Korea as a foreigner, even when you live here, is frankly a hassle and one that can cause real headaches. Korea has a lot of regulations about online payments, including security checks where you have to provide a Korean phone number to prove your identity to make a payment. Not to mention everything is done in Korean, too.

Most of the time only Korean bank accounts or mobile payments are accepted (which require a Korean bank account) for online transactions in Korea and those are a problem for foreigners even when you have a Korean account and live in Korea. Booking flights using my Korean bank card has been so difficult that I usually end up using my UK card instead and going through a non-Korean website.

Automated kiosks: I see automated kiosks appearing in more and more places these days, including popular attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul. They’re also prevalent in cafes and chain restaurants as it saves money on staff (don’t get me started on the robot waiters!). These machines mostly don’t accept cash payments. Fortunately, they usually come with multiple language options.

Non-staffed convenience stores: Another trend that has been growing, but isn’t too big yet, is non-staffed convenience stores where you enter by swiping your credit card, pick what you want, scan everything at the checkout, then pay with your credit card. As far as I know, these don’t always accept cash and cards are preferred.

Booking rail travel: Korea has a great rail network that’s really well run, is cheap, and covers a lot of the country. The big downside is that you might have trouble paying for tickets online through the official Korail website – letskorail.com – as all payments require 3D Secure verification. An alternative is to use sites like 12Go to book train tickets in Korea, but you’ll pay a slightly higher price.

Similarly, tourists might have trouble booking train tickets at station ticket machines as they require a Korean debit card, as shown in the image below. You should be able to pay at a ticket office in cash or with a credit card, as long as these tickets offices are available and open.

Tips To Save Money In Korea

Here are a few tips I want to share with you to help you save money when visiting Korea.

• Book attractions and tours online: I know I’ve said it several times before, but it really is a lot cheaper and more convenient as you can guarantee your booking. Especially useful during peak travel times like spring and autumn.
• Get tax back when shopping: Korea has increased the tax-free shopping allowance for travellers to ₩5,000,000 (about $4,000) and it’s really easy to get your tax back when shopping in certain stores. Eligible tax-free shops and department stores offer instant tax refunds (up to ₩1,000,000 per transaction) or you can keep your receipts and get your tax back at Incheon Airport and other departure points.
• Use a transportation card: This is a no-brainer. It’s not only cheaper to pay by transportation card, it’s also a lot more convenient and will save you fishing in your pocket for small change.
• Don’t eat or drink at hotels: Korean hotels are reasonably priced, but I find their food and drink offerings are really expensive and, worse, not that delicious. There are so many great cafes and restaurants you can visit to get a meal in instead and you can eat much better traditional Korean meals instead of Western buffet.
• Take advantage of free things: There are loads of free things to do in Seoul and other places, from walking tours to free attractions and street performances. And if you’re visiting a Korean supermarket or department store, eat your fill of free samples!
• Buy souvenirs from Hongdae or traditional markets: Hongdae has loads of snack shops where you can fill your suitcase with gifts for friends and family back home. Traditional markets also offer lots of interesting souvenirs at lower prices than expensive museum gift shops. Insadong is also good for bargain souvenirs.

Learn more: I’ve a whole article dedicated to money saving tips in Seoul that have ways to help you get more from your travel budget. It includes more details about tax-free shopping, discounts, and special days like Culture Day where attractions are free or discounted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions you might have about travel money and how to pay in Korea. This information is from my own experience and from research conducted to write this article.

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As a frequent traveler, I know that having reliable connectivity is essential as you travel. We use apps to navigate, communicate, upload pictures, and to find out what to see and where to go. And to check this blog for the latest travel tips, I’m sure. That’s why having the best SIM card is really important.

Check out this SK SIM card review to learn whether this tourist SIM is perfect for you. I’ll cover the convenience of getting set up, the different plan options, data speeds and coverage, pros and cons, FAQs, and ultimately whether it’s the right pick for your upcoming Korea trip.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

4G SK SIM Card Review Summary

If you just want the quick facts about the SK 4G SIM card and to know if it’s the best option when you visit Korea, this summary will cover a few of the pros and cons and my overall feelings about the SIM card. Please read through the whole article if you want a more detailed review of the SIM card.

I purchased a tourist-only 4G SK SIM card at Incheon Airport and used it for 5 days as I travelled across Korea to write this review. The SIM gave me high-speed data everywhere I went and I could receive calls and texts without any problems. It took about 3 minutes to install and start using this SIM.

I chose a SIM card from SK Telecom as they have the biggest, most reliable network in South Korea and their tourist SIMs are really popular and offer great service when travelling in Korea. Their prices are the same as the other operators and their SIM card will fit most phones from the last decade.

SK tourist SIM cards are convenient to purchase at Incheon Airport and activate in minutes. You can order them online at a lower price, too. You get unlimited data which you can use across Korea, as well as a Korean phone number and free incoming calls and texts (but not outgoing).

Compared to the SIM card I purchased the last time I visited the UK, which often lost connection and only worked half the time, the SK tourist SIM card is an absolute dream! It might even be better than your home service and a cheaper, more reliable alternative to expensive roaming charges.

Pros And Cons Of The SK 4G SIM Card

I think it’s always best to summarise by looking at the pros and cons before going into more detail in the rest of the article. So, here’s a run down of the good and bad things about the SK 4G SIM card for tourists to help you decide whether it’s something you might want to get.

Cheapest Place To Get The SK 4G SIM Card

I preordered my SK SIM card online and picked it up at Incheon Airport as many tourists would do. You can purchase the SIM card online before you travel and collect it when you arrive, or you can wait and purchase it when you arrive at the same location. Both options give you the same SIM card.

As you can see from the table below, there is a discount for buying the SK 4G Tourist SIM card online through online sellers such as Klook, Trazy, or KKDay. If you plan to book tours online through one of these operators, I recommend preordering a SIM card at the same time to save money.

Why Get A SIM Card In Korea?

Being able to access the internet through a local SIM card, like the 4G SK SIM card, is definitely a top priority when travelling to Korea. As a regular traveller, I always make getting a SIM card one of the first things I do upon arrival in any country and Korea would certainly be no exception.

Although free WiFi is available in public places in big cities such as Seoul, it’s not so easy to connect when you’re out and about on the street, which is when you usually need it most. Public WiFi can also be insecure, so having your own SIM helps keep your data safe, giving you peace of mind

Having mobile data through a local SIM is crucial for using apps that provide maps, translations, travel bookings, taxi-hailing apps and more. A local SIM allows you to use the internet without running up a huge bill and paying expensive roaming charges from your home provider.

There are alternatives to a Korean SIM card, such as a portable WiFi router or your home provider’s roaming service, which you might find more suitable. In this article I’ll share my experience using a 4G SIM card from SK Telecom and explain why a SIM card might be the best option for you (or not).

A Quick Overview Of SK Telecom

SK Telecom is one of Korea’s big three mobile operators. It has been in the Korean telecom industry since 1984 and continues to be the largest mobile provider in Korea today with over 30 million subscribers locally, far more than 2nd place KT Telecom, which has fewer than 9 million subscribers.

SK Telecom built and owns the country’s top mobile network that has excellent connectivity across Korea. They operate 4G LTE-Advanced nationwide and were the first in Korea to launch 5G in 2019 and rank first in many categories in the Mobile Experience Awards, as shown below.

Like all three major Korean mobile operators, SK Telecom produces SIM cards specifically for foreign travellers, allowing them to connect to their network for up to 30 days. SK Telecom’s prepaid tourist SIM plans leverage the company’s excellent network to provide fast speeds and reliable service.

With widespread coverage across Korea, easy setup, and competitive rates for data and calling, SK Telecom visitor SIM cards are a great option for seamlessly keeping connected on your Korea trip through a highly reputable provider. They’re arguably the best SIM cards for tourists in Korea.

It’s because of the high reputation and many awards that I decided to choose the 4G SK Telecom SIM card to review. I want to provide information about the best SIM card options to travellers to Korea and starting with the most popular and best ranked SIM in Korea is the obvious place to start.

SK SIM Card Options For Foreigners

Travellers to Korea have a wide range of SIM card options that can be purchased online or in-person at Incheon Airport and other entry points into Korea. I’ve covered those in detail in my guide to Korean SIM Cards, which you should definitely check out for a more detailed look at SIM options in Korea.

This article will only look at SIM cards offered by SK Telecom for tourists in Korea, which are different from the long-term plans available to Koreans and expats living in Korea. There are special plans only available for tourists in Korea that allow them to use the Korean mobile networks for up to 90 days.

There are basically two choices for SK SIM cards for tourists:

1: 4G SIM Cards For Tourists: These are regular SIM cards that come in ‘normal’, ‘nano’, and ‘micro’ sizes, as shown in the picture below. They fit in most phones made in the last 10 years.

2: 4G eSIM Cards For Tourists: For phones that are eSIM compatible, SK Telecom also offer a digital version of their tourist SIM card that is downloaded to your device instead of inserting a SIM.

Both of these SIM cards:

• Use SK Telecom’s 4G LTE network.
• Cost the same amount of money
• Last for the same number of days
• Provide the same great service

I’ll provide more details about my experience buying, installing, and using the regular 4G SK SIM card in the next few sections, as well as my review of the process and how tourist-friendly it is.

What’s The Availability Of SK SIM Cards?

As SK Telecom is Korea’s largest mobile operator, it’s really easy to find a shop or booth selling their SIM cards at entry points into Korea like Incheon Airport. Tourists who want to buy a SK SIM card can either preorder a SIM card online to collect on arrival, or buy from a shop or booth in Korea.

Here’s a quick overview of the two ways to get a SIM card.

1: Preordering A SIM Card: You can buy a Korean SIM card online from tour operators such as Klook and Get Your Guide. You can compare SIM card periods and prices and there are exclusive offers that might not be available when purchasing at the airport.

• Benefit: Preordering a SIM card online is cheaper than buying on arrival, gives you a chance to check reviews, and allows you to pay online in your home currency.

2: Buying A SIM Card At The Airport: This is the easiest option for many travellers to Korea as the booths selling SIM cards at Incheon Airport are directly outside the arrivals hall. Simply approach the booth, ask for a SIM card, and the staff there will help you set it up.

• Benefit: Getting your SIM card when you arrive saves time looking online and allows you to ask questions and check your phone’s compatibility with staff at the airport booths.

As well as dedicated booths by the 3 major Korean operators, you can also buy a SK SIM card from convenience stores at the airport, such as CU, 7/11, and GS 25. However, I recommend either buying online or direct from booths as it’ll be more convenient and trustworthy.

Features & Benefits Of The SK SIM Card

Here’s a quick overview of the features and benefits of the 4G SIM card from SK Telecom so you can see why it’s really useful for travellers to Korea. These are some of the things that I experienced when I used the SK SIM card for 5 days while moving around Korea.

High Speed Internet Access: Browsing the Internet with the SK SIM card was an absolute joy. Pages and apps load quickly, there’s no delay when playing a video, and using the network connection to make calls and video calls within Korean caused no problems at all.

No Data Limit: The SK 4G SIM card comes with unlimited data, which means you can browse the web, watch videos, and use apps freely. SK guarantees that the data speed won’t be slowed down no matter how much you use it, which is really reassuring as some SIM cards come with limits.

Korean Phone Number: Mobile phone numbers in Korea start with ‘010’ and with a 4G SK SIM card, you will get a number that starts with 010. This means that you can use your SIM card to receive calls and texts and to make reservations / bookings online.

Free Incoming Calls & Texts: Even though this SIM card doesn’t come with calls and texts, although you can add them on, you’re always able to receive calls and texts for free. This lasts as long as the SIM card is valid and you won’t be able to get them after the period has expired.

Coverage: I tried the SK SIM card while I was in Seoul and Daejeon and never had any connectivity issues. The coverage was always great and I had full signal the whole time, even when I was in a lift or underground. This is usual for Korean mobile coverage, which is really good.

Works Instantly: After I inserted the SK SIM card into my phone and turned the power on, the SIM card connected to the SK Telecom network and I was able to use it immediately. This is really useful for people who need to connect to the Internet to navigate from Incheon Airport to their hotel.

Can Be Activated Later: If you don’t plan to use your SIM card immediately, you can keep it with you and activate it later on. This is useful if you plan to use free WiFi in the city but want to have a reliable network connection if you’re visiting locations outside the city.

Which SIM Card Has The Best Features?

I have used both a KT Telecom SIM card (my regular SIM card) and this SK Telecom SIM card while visiting different locations in Korea. Which SIM card has the best features? That’s hard to tell as they both offer great coverage, network connection, data speed, and are very reliable.

I use KT as I’ve had it since I moved to Korea and don’t see the need to change mobile provider (I get a big discount for staying loyal). However, if I was to change company, I would certainly consider SK as the experience I had during the 5 days when I was testing the SIM card was perfect.

For tourists, I don’t think there’ll be much difference, but the fact that SK Telecom has won so many awards for its excellent network and service, as well as its leading position in the Korean market, makes it a safe bet. If you have to choose a safe, reliable SIM card with great coverage, choose SK.

What Plans And Prices Are There For SK SIMs?

In this section, I want to share some basic information about the SK SIM card plans for tourists and give some insights into how it compares to other phone companies.

SIM Card Plans: There are 6 basic SK 4G SIM card plans available at Incheon Airport, as you can see in the picture above. These plans all come with unlimited data, which is not capped, as well as ‘free’ incoming voice calls and text messages. The plans range from 1 to 30 days.

SIM Card Costs: SIM cards from SK start at ₩6,600 for one day and go up in price to ₩71,500 for a 30 day plan. The cost-per-day of each plan drops, giving you lower prices with longer plans. The 30 day plan has a cost-per-day of just ₩2,383.

Outgoing Calls & Texts: The big let-down with the 4G SK SIM card is that you can’t make outgoing calls and texts with this SIM plan. You can receive incoming calls and texts from within Korea.

Cost To Activate: There is no cost to activate the SK 4G SIM card and no unexpected costs.

SIM Plan Extension: Unfortunately, it seems that the SK Telecom SIM card can’t be extended beyond 30 days. This shouldn’t be a problem for most tourists, but if you plan to stay in Korea for more than 30 days, it might be worth considering a KT SIM card which goes up to 90 days.

SIM Card Vs. Portable WiFi Router: The cost of a portable WiFi router is ₩3,200 per day, which is cheaper than the daily cost of any SK SIM card under 20 days. SIM cards become cheaper per day when you use them for more than 20 days, but offer different benefits than you get with a router.

Discounted SK SIM Cards: There are ways to get a discounted tourist SIM card when you visit Korea by buying them online. For example, the WOWPASS Airport Package offers the SK 4G SIM card as part of a bundle that includes a WOWPASS, T-Money Card and Airport Express Ticket.

Overall, the price of the tourist SIM card from SK is pretty decent in a country where mobile phone costs are high. As an expat in Korea, I pay around ₩50,000 for unlimited data, which is a low price compared to some price plans which can go up to ₩100,000 per month for 5G services.

SK SIM Card Prices Vs Other Companies

The SK SIM card and SIM cards from KT Telecom and LG U+ are all priced exactly the same if you purchase the SIM card from Incheon Airport, as you can see in the table below. These prices apply for both physical SIM cards and eSIMs and both SIM types come with unlimited data from all companies.

Please Note: I’ve added links for these SIM plans so you can buy them online. The online price is lower than the price at Incheon Airport so the prices won’t match what you see below.

I think the SK SIM card offers the best value for money due to it’s excellent service, network coverage, and reliability across Korea. The price of 1/3/5/10/20/30 day SIM card plans are the same for all networks and therefore it makes sense to go with the mobile operator with the best service.

However, if you want a 7-day or 15-day SIM card, these are only available from LG U+ and can provide better value for money vs. getting a longer SIM plan than you need with SK. Tourists to Korea who want a SIM card for exactly 1 or 2 weeks would be better off getting the LG U+ SIMs.

The KT and LG U+ SIM cards also have the extra benefit of offering a 60-day and 90-day SIM plan, which makes them more suitable for longer-term travellers to Korea who will need a SIM card for up to 3 months. If you’re visiting for 30 to 90 days, I would recommend a KT or LG U+ SIM card.

How Easy Was It To Set Up?

Purchasing and installing the SK 4G SIM card is really easy and I had no problems setting it up. The instructions for setting up the SIM card are clearly displayed at the SK Telecom booth at Incheon Airport and there are instructions in multiple languages, including English.

Whether you purchase your SK tourist SIM online (to collect at Incheon Airport) or buy it in person at Incheon Airport, there will be someone available to help you install the SIM card in case you have any problems. The small pin needed to remove your existing SIM card is included with the SK SIM.

The pictures below show the process of how I setup my SK SIM card with my phone. I opened the SIM card and took the metal pin out, used that to open the SIM card tray in my phone, then replaced my existing SIM card with the SK SIM card. My phone uses the micro SIM card size.

Please Note: You’ll need your passport to collect your SIM card and the matching credit card if you ordered it online. When you arrive at the booth at Incheon Airport, you should get a ticket and wait to be served if it’s busy. Otherwise, go to the counter to get your SIM card.

How Do You Activate The SK SIM Card?

As with installing the SIM card, activating the SK SIM card is really easy and can be done in the following ways, depending on whether you’re using an Android or Apple.

How To Setup For Android:

1. Turn off your mobile device and place the SIM inside.
2. Turn on your mobile device, then disable airplane mode and activate the data network.
3. Check if the phone is displayed as “SKT”

How To Setup For Apple:

1. Set Wi-Fi and Airplane mode OFF, and cellular data ON.
2. Turn off your mobile device and place the SIM inside.
3. Check if the phone is displayed as “SKT”

The SK website offers troubleshooting tips if you have any problems activating your SIM card. If you’re at Incheon Airport, you can also ask the staff for help. The customer service from the booths are very good and when I picked up my SIM card, it was really fast and effortless.

Activating the SIM was simple and all I had to do to activate it was turn the phone on after installing the SIM card. It worked first time for me, but I’ve heard it may take a couple of times for some phones.

Conclusion: Is It The Best Korean Tourist SIM?

Is the SK 4G SIM card the best option for tourists and travellers to South Korea? Honestly, I don’t think there’s much of a difference between the 3 major mobile operators in Korea, but SK is the best of the bunch and their tourist SIM is definitely great value for money, therefore it’s the best.

The network connection from SK is amazing, one of the best I’ve used in any country that I’ve visited, and the service is reliable, meaning you’ll always be connected. The browsing speeds are fast and you can easily watch videos and access the Internet as you travel across Korea.

The user reviews of the thousands of other travellers who have purchased the SK SIM card speak volumes for how good the SIM card is. Everyone agrees that as a pick-up-and-go SIM card, the SK SIM card is easy to install, simple to use, and provides a reliable service.

Here’s a small selection of reviews from the Klook page for this SIM:

Highly recommend! Easy to get SIM card & they will activate for you!

This 4G Sim Card was easily redeemable at the Incheon Airport. This kept us connected during our stay in South Korea without interruption.

Great value and superb reception. Useful if you’re in Korea on a business trip or visiting family, unlimited data and great coverage all at a very economic price.

However, there are some downsides that might put you off SK’s offering vs. those from other Korean mobile operators. The main downside is the length of the SIM card, which is only 30 days vs. 90 days for other operators. You can’t extend the SIM card (as far as I can tell) past the original 30 days.

The other problem is that you can’t make outgoing calls and texts. This probably won’t be an issue for the majority of travellers, but if you are in a situation where you need to make a call, this SIM card has no options for you. Other networks allow call add-ons, but not the SK Telecom network.

I can understand why they don’t offer calls and texts. It’s probably not a feature many people use. It’s easy enough to send messages through the Internet via Messenger, Kakao Talk, WhatsApp and similar apps. I don’t make that many calls with my own network and I live in Korea, so I understand.

Should you get the SK 4G SIM card? Absolutely, if the price is right for you and you need an easy to use mobile Internet option when visiting Korea. There are cheaper options, such as getting a global roaming SIM that you can use in other countries, but they might not have the same service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions that you might have about the SK tourist SIM card that will help you figure out if this SIM card is right for you or not. This information is from my own experience and from the help page of the SK Telecom website.

Can you refund the SIM card? Once the case is opened, you can’t request a refund. Refunds can’t be processed after 30 days from when you bought the SIM card, either.

Can this SIM card be used on phones with a country lock? No, this SIM card will only work with unlocked phones. Contact your mobile provider to check if your phone is unlocked or not.

Can you receive calls and texts? Yes. The SK SIM card comes with a Korean phone number which can receive calls and texts.

Can you make calls and texts? No, you can’t use the SK SIM card to make outgoing calls and texts.

How long is the SIM card valid for? The prepaid SK SIM card is valid for 1 year after purchase and can’t be used after that.

Does the plan start immediately or from midnight when you activate? The SIM card works immediately and will expire 1/3/5/10/20/30 days from the moment you activated it based on your chosen plan. If you activate the 1 day SIM at 1pm on Monday, it will expire at 12:59pm on Tuesday.

Does the SK 4G SIM card limit data? No, the SIM card comes with unlimited 4G data that you can use continuously at a speed of 20Mbps.

Does the SIM support NFC? No, the SIM doesn’t support NFC functions.

Is this SK SIM purchased online the same as the one sold at Incheon Airport? Yes, the SK Telecom 4G SIM sold through online tour companies is the same as the one sold at the SK Telecom booths at Incheon Airport. You need to collect SIM cards purchased online at the airport booths.

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As you explore the labyrinthine alleyways, you’re not just walking on cobblestone streets but on layers of history, each stone whispering tales from bygone eras. Beyond its architectural allure, Bukchon is a treasure trove of cultural experiences, delectable culinary delights, and unique shopping opportunities.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culture vulture, or simply looking to escape the urban jungle, Bukchon Hanok Village promises to be an experience like no other. Let the magic of this majestic district envelop you in this guide to the best things to do in Bukchon Hanok Village.

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Why Should You Visit Bukchon Hanok Village?

Nestled amidst the bustling streets of South Korea’s vibrant capital, Seoul, lies a hidden gem that’s captured the hearts of travellers and locals alike – Bukchon Hanok Village. Stepping into this timeless neighbourhood is like taking a journey back in time, where the past melds with the present, offering a unique experience that’s enchanting and enriching.

Here are some reasons you should definitely visit Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul:

1. Preserving Tradition: Bukchon Hanok Village is a living testament to South Korea’s rich cultural heritage. Here, you’ll find a cluster of beautifully preserved traditional Korean houses, known as ‘hanok’ dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. Walking through the narrow alleyways, you’ll encounter the exquisite architecture, wooden beams, and graceful rooftops that transport you to a bygone era.

2. Historical Significance: This village, nestled between two iconic palaces – Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung – holds immense historical importance. It once housed aristocrats and high-ranking officials during the Joseon Dynasty, making it an ideal place to delve into the country’s royal history.

3. Picturesque Views: Bukchon Hanok Village is not only a haven for history buffs but also a paradise for photographers. As you stroll through the labyrinthine streets, you’ll be greeted with stunning vistas of traditional houses set against the backdrop of modern Seoul’s skyscrapers. Capture the blend of old and new, creating a mesmerising juxtaposition. You’ll also find famous K-Drama scenes here.

4. Cultural Immersion: Beyond the charming facades, Bukchon Hanok Village offers immersive cultural experiences. Visitors can partake in various activities like traditional tea ceremonies, calligraphy lessons, and even dressing up in hanbok, allowing you to step into the shoes of the locals.

5. Art and Crafts: For art enthusiasts, the village is home to numerous galleries and workshops where you can witness and purchase intricate Korean crafts, pottery, and artworks. It’s a fantastic opportunity to take home a piece of Korean culture. In the heart of bustling Seoul, Bukchon Hanok Village offers a serene escape, a slice of history, and a cultural journey rolled into one.

Whether you’re a history buff, a culture seeker, or simply someone looking to escape the urban chaos, a visit to Bukchon Hanok Village promises a memorable and enriching experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left its charming streets.

Join in and uncover the hidden treasures as I share my insider tips on what to see, do, and buy in this enchanting enclave. Find out all the best things to see and do in Buckhon Hanok Village, where to eat and drink, and lots of reasons why this should certainly be on your Seoul itinerary.

Where Is Bukchon Hanok Village?

Tucked away in the heart of Seoul, Bukchon Hanok Village is a serene haven just north of the bustling Insadong district. This historic neighbourhood is conveniently located between two of Seoul’s most iconic palaces, Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, making it easily accessible by foot.

Nearest Subway Station: Anguk Station (Line 3 – Orange). Use exits 1 or 2 to get to the Bukchon Hanok Village. The village spreads out to the north-east and north-west of this station.

If you want to take a taxi or plan your way to Bukchon Hanok Village, copy and paste this address into Kakao Taxi or Naver Map to help you get to the heart of Bukchon.

Address in Korean: 서울 종로구 북촌로 39

When you arrive at Bukchon Hanok Village, there are maps available from Anguk subway station or from tourist information stands in the village. There are also maps of the village with key areas to visit highlighted. The maps also come with recommended walking paths around Bukchon.

Bukchon Hanok Village Opening Hours

Bukchon Hanok Village is open all day, every day, so plan your visit at a time that suits you best and uncover the magic of this historical gem in the heart of Seoul. However, as this is an occupied neighbourhood, please be considerate of making noise, especially at night.

Unlike many other attractions, this charming neighbourhood never closes its doors, allowing you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Whether you choose to bask in the morning serenity, immerse yourself in afternoon culture, or embrace the enchanting night ambience, Bukchon Hanok Village is always ready to offer its timeless beauty and cultural treasures.

How Long Do You Need In Bukchon Hanok Village?

While the time you spend in Bukchon Hanok Village largely depends on your interests, a few hours are typically sufficient to capture its essence. You can leisurely explore the winding alleys, visit museums, sip tea in traditional houses, and even take a hanbok photo shoot within this timeframe.

For a more in-depth experience, consider dedicating half a day to thoroughly soak up the culture, engage with artisans, and enjoy a meal at one of the cosy eateries. Whether you have a brief window or a leisurely schedule, Bukchon Hanok Village offers a memorable experience that you won’t forget.

Bukchon Hanok Village Entrance Fee?

There is no entrance fee to explore Bukchon Hanok Village as this area is a residential area and open to the public. However, some of the museums and other attractions in the area may charge a fee to enter, so be sure to check when you go into one of the hanok houses.

What To See And Do In Bukchon Hanok Village

Step into the timeless embrace of this ancient neighbourhood and you’ll find yourself spoiled for choice with an array of captivating things to do in Bukchon Hanok Village. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or a curious traveler, there’s something for everyone in Bukchon Hanok Village.

Here are 10 of the best things to see and do in Bukchon Hanok Village:

1. See Hanok Architecture: The very essence of Bukchon lies in its traditional hanok houses. Wander through the labyrinthine streets to admire these beautifully preserved structures, each with its unique charm and history. Be sure to visit the Bukchon Traditional Culture Center, where you can learn more about hanok architecture and its significance.

2. Wear Hanbok: Embrace the spirit of the past by donning a hanbok, Korea’s traditional attire. Numerous rental shops offer a wide selection of vibrant hanboks. Once dressed, explore the village like a Joseon-era noble, capturing timeless photos against the backdrop of historic hanok. You can rent Korean hanbok from many places in Bukchon Hanok Village or reserve hanbok online.

3. Visit The Bukchon Traditional Culture Center: The Bukchon Traditional Culture Center serves as an excellent introduction to the village’s history and culture. Here, you can enjoy informative exhibitions, cultural workshops, and guided tours that provide insights into the heritage of Bukchon.

4. Explore Galleries and Workshops: Discover the artistic side of Bukchon by visiting the numerous art galleries and craft workshops tucked away in the village. These spaces showcase local talent and offer opportunities to observe artisans creating traditional crafts like pottery, calligraphy, and more.

5. Check Out The Gahoe Museum: This museum is a hidden gem within Bukchon. It features exhibitions and displays that delve into the history and culture of the area, providing valuable insights into the traditions that have shaped Bukchon Hanok Village.

6. Dine At A Traditional Tea House: Sip on traditional Korean tea in one of Bukchon’s serene tea houses. These cozy spots provide a tranquil escape where you can enjoy not only aromatic teas but also the ambiance of a bygone era. If a cup of tea isn’t your cup of tea, there are plenty of cafes, too.

7. See The Sights From The Bukchon Observatory: For panoramic views of the village and its traditional rooftops, head to the Bukchon Observatory. This spot offers a unique vantage point to appreciate the hanok architecture and the charming alleys that wind through the village.

8. Buy Unique Souvenirs: The streets of Bukchon Hanok Village are home to aspiring and master artisans creating wonderful Korean traditional crafts, which are perfect gifts and souvenirs from your time in Seoul. Craft shopping is one of the most fun things to do in Bukchon Hanok Village.

9. Stroll In Samcheong Park: North of Bukchon Hanok Village, Samcheong Park provides a serene natural escape. Stroll through lush greenery, discover beautiful ponds, and enjoy a leisurely picnic while surrounded by nature’s tranquility. You should visit here for autumn foliage sights in October.

10. Take A Bukchon Hanok Village Walking Tour: Embark on a walking tour of the village to explore its hidden gems. Knowledgeable guides will lead you through labyrinthine streets, sharing captivating stories about historic hanoks, former residents, and the village’s transformation over time.

If you’re interested in taking a tour of Bukchon Hanok Village during the day or night, then check out these Bukchon Hanok Village tours. Alternatively, you can make your own way around the area, but you’ll miss out on the interesting insights provided by the guides and hidden areas they can show you.

These top attractions within Bukchon Hanok Village promise a diverse array of experiences, ensuring that you can find something captivating and memorable in this unique enclave of Seoul.

What’s The Best Way To Explore Bukchon Hanok Village?

To truly savour the essence of Bukchon Hanok Village, it’s essential to embrace a leisurely and immersive approach. I recommend that you start your exploration early in the morning or during the late afternoon to avoid the crowds and experience the village at its most tranquil.

Begin at the Bukchon Traditional Culture Center, where you can gain insights into the village’s history and architecture. Meander through the maze-like alleyways at a leisurely pace, allowing curiosity to guide you. Don’t be afraid to get lost; unexpected turns lead to the most delightful discoveries.

Visit the various galleries, workshops, and hidden museums that beckon along the way, and engage with local artisans whenever the opportunity arises. Savour a traditional Korean tea or snack at one of the charming tea houses and cafés, where you can rest and absorb the atmosphere.

Finally, ascend to the Bukchon Observatory for stunning panoramic views. To capture the village’s timeless beauty, keep your camera handy, as every corner reveals a picturesque scene. Consider joining a guided night tour to witness the village’s enchantment under the soft glow of lanterns.

Cafes And Restaurants In Bukchon Hanok Village

Culinary Delights in the Heart of Tradition: Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s also a haven for food enthusiasts. While exploring this charming historical neighbourhood, you’ll find an array of delightful cafes and restaurants that cater to a variety of tastes.

From traditional Korean teas and delectable dumplings to modern fusion cuisine, Bukchon offers a diverse culinary landscape within its centuries-old hanok walls. This section introduces the best places to savour traditional & contemporary flavours, ensuring a treat for your taste buds and senses.

Here are 5 of the best cafes in Bukchon Hanok Village for you to relax and unwind in:

1: Drawing Tree Café

In the heart of Bukchon lies Drawing Tree Café, a gem that perfectly encapsulates the blend of traditional charm and modern elegance found in this traditional area. As the name suggests this café is not just a place to savour a drink, but an experience in itself. You can see the stunning grounds of Changdeokgung Palace from the windows of this cafe.

Why Visit: Apart from its enchanting setting and delightful menu, what truly sets Drawing Tree Café apart is its commitment to preserving the Bukchon Hanok Village’s legacy. Many ingredients are locally sourced, and traditional brewing methods are employed, ensuring an authentic Korean café experience.

Address: 서울 종로구 창덕궁길 35 3층

Korean Name: 회화나무

2: Cha Masineun Tteul

Cha Masineun Tteul, translating to “A Garden Where One Drinks Tea”, resonates deeply with what the café represents – a peaceful haven amidst the urban hustle. Apart from being a café, Cha Masineun Tteul occasionally hosts traditional tea ceremonies. These ceremonies, led by tea masters, provide insights into the age-old Korean rituals and the art of tea appreciation.

Why Visit: This cafe isn’t just a place to drink tea; it’s an experience that nourishes the soul. It’s a gentle reminder of the beauty in simplicity and the deep-rooted traditions of Korea. Each visit promises a journey of introspection, relaxation, and authentic Korean hospitality.

Address: 서울 종로구 북촌로11나길 26

Korean Name: 차마시는뜰

3: Cafe Knotted Anguk

Cafe Knotted Anguk emerges as a beacon of contemporary cafe culture seamlessly woven into the traditional tapestry of the Bukchon area. Cafe Knotted Anguk doubles as a gallery space, showcasing works from emerging local artists. This initiative not only supports the art community but also enriches the cafe experience, offering patrons a visual treat to accompany their gastronomic journey.

Why Visit: Cafe Knotted Anguk is more than just a cafe; it’s a testament to Seoul’s evolving cafe scene, where the boundaries between the past and present blur. It provides a canvas where traditions meet trends, and each sip tells a story of this convergence. Also, there are some really sweet, delicious donuts here.

Address: 서울 종로구 북촌로 6-3 1층

Korean Name: 노티드 안국

4: Osulloc Tea House Bukchon

Originating from Jeju Island and renowned for its premium teas, the Osulloc Tea House from Osulloc, provides a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. Expansive windows allow guests to gaze out into the scenic vistas of Bukchon, enhancing the tea-drinking experience. This tea house occasionally hosts traditional tea ceremonies, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Korean tea culture.

Why Visit: The Osulloc Tea House offers an enriching journey through Korea’s esteemed tea culture. Whether you’re a tea enthusiast or a curious traveler, this establishment promises an experience of relaxation, discovery, and a deep appreciation for the intricate art of tea.

Address: 서울 종로구 북촌로 45 오설록

Korean Name: 오설록 티하우스 북촌점

5: Low Roof Café

Low Roof, true to its name, is a cozy, intimate space with minimalistic decor, characterised by muted colour palettes and warm wooden touches. The low ceilings add to the cafe’s intimate feel, creating an environment where visitors can easily relax and feel connected to the surrounding heritage. One of the unique features of Low Roof is its rooftop seating area. Overlooking the picturesque Bukchon Hanok Village, this space allows visitors to take in panoramic views of the area, making the coffee experience even more memorable.

Why Visit: The cafe offers more than just culinary delights; it promises moments of reflection, relaxation, and a profound connection to the soul of Bukchon. Let the aromas of freshly brewed coffee guide you, and indulge in a multi-sensory experience that pays homage to both the contemporary and the timeless.

Address: 서울 종로구 북촌로 46-1 1층

Korean Name: 로우루프

Bukchon Hanok Village is a gastronomic haven that tantalises the palate with traditional and modern Korean flavours. The restaurants here are nestled amidst centuries-old houses, offering diners an experience that’s as much about the ambiance as it is about the traditional Korean food.

From royal cuisine in historic settings to modern eateries that infuse contemporary flair into classic dishes, Bukchon’s dining scene is a delightful exploration of Korea’s culinary heritage. As you wander through its meandering alleys, let the aromatic scents lure you into an dining adventure.

Here are 5 of the best restaurants in Bukchon Hanok Village to try delicious dishes:

1: Ggul Bap-Sang

As the lanes of Bukchon Hanok Village unfurl tales of history and heritage, Ggul Bap-Sang emerges as a beacon of traditional Korean cuisine, drawing both locals and travellers into its comforting embrace. Synonymous with authenticity and culinary excellence, this restaurant is a testament to Korea’s rich gastronomic legacy and stands as an example of Korea’s commitment to preserving its culinary traditions in beautiful surroundings.

Bap-Sang (Traditional Set Meals): This restaurant takes pride in its meticulously crafted set meals, where each dish complements the next, resulting in a harmonious culinary symphony. From flavourful main courses to vibrant side dishes, each plate promises a unique taste sensation.

Address: 서울 종로구 삼청로 101 1층

Korean Name: 꿀밥상

2: Eunseol Seolleongtang

Eunseol Seolleongtang stands out as an ode to the timeless appeal of Korean broths. It’s a place where each simmering pot narrates tales of traditional Korean kitchens, where patience and passion were key ingredients. In the heart of a village that celebrates heritage, this establishment offers not just a meal, but a momentary retreat into the comforting arms of tradition. While seolleongtang is the star dish, the menu doesn’t shy away from presenting other variations, celebrating different cuts of beef and unique seasoning profiles. You’re sure to love whichever dish you try here.

Seolleongtang: A heartwarming, milky-white broth made from slow-cooked ox bones, this is Eunseol Seolleongtang’s signature dish. The broth’s depth of flavour, achieved through hours of simmering, beautifully complements tender slices of meat and soft rice.

Address: 서울 종로구 북촌로5가길 44-6

Korean Name: 은설설렁탕

3: Samcheong Sujebi

Samcheong Sujebi, listed in the Michelin Guide 2023, serves as a culinary bridge between the bygone eras and the bustling modernity of Seoul, evoking the warmth of a Korean family home and beckoning guests to unwind and relish the moment.

Sujebi (Hand-torn Noodle Soup): A dish that will warm your heart. The chewy noodles, immersed in a comforting broth, tell tales of culinary traditions passed down over centuries.

Seasonal Banchan: Accompanying the main dishes is an array of banchan (side dishes) that change with the seasons, showcasing the freshest ingredients and intricate preparations.

Address: 서울 종로구 삼청로 101-1

Korean Name: 삼청동수제비

4: Hwangsaengga Kalguksu

A trip to Hwangsaengga Kalgusku, another entry in the 2023 Michelin Guide, will be a treat for lovers of authentic Korean noodle dishes. This restaurant, steeped in tradition, is a culinary journey that transports you to the essence of Seoul’s rich gastronomic history. Hwangsaengga Kalguksu offers you the chance to enjoy a heart-warming bowl of one of my favourite Korean dishes – kalguksu. If you’re visiting Korea in winter, then you’ll really appreciate the energy these thick, knife-cut noodles provide.

Kalguksu (Knife-cut Noodles): The star of the menu, this dish showcases noodles that are hand-cut, boasting a unique texture and freshness. Submerged in a rich, aromatic broth and accompanied by an array of ingredients, it’s a testament to Korea’s culinary craftsmanship.

Address: 서울 종로구 북촌로5길 78

Korean Name: 황생가칼국수

5: Kkangtong Mandu

Within the historic corridors of Bukchon Hanok Village, Kkangtong Mandu is a gastronomic delight for those yearning for genuine Korean dumpling flavours. The restaurant’s interior, while echoing hints of Bukchon’s architectural beauty, is both cozy and authentically Korean. Aside from the classic dumplings, Kkangtong Mandu offers an array of signature dishes that highlight Korea’s culinary richness. The steamed buns and noodle soups are must-tries, each dish exuding a unique flavour profile

Mandu (Dumplings): The pièce de résistance, these dumplings are a flavour-packed marvel. These bite-sized delights are filled with a mix of succulent meats, vegetables, and seasoned to perfection, promising a symphony of textures and flavours with each bite.

Address: 서울 종로구 북촌로2길 5-6 1층

Korean Name: 깡통만두

Cafe and restaurant image credits: Naver Map

Museums And Galleries In Bukchon Hanok Village

No visit to Bukchon Hanok Village would be complete without checking out one of the many art galleries and museums inside the historic hanok buildings. These small treasure troves of Korean culture and history offer a glimpse into life in Joseon-era Korean that you won’t find elsewhere.

Here are 5 must-visit museums and galleries in Bukchon Hanok Village for culture vultures:

1. Bukchon Traditional Culture Center: A pivotal starting point for any visitor, the Bukchon Traditional Culture Center showcases the rich history and culture of Bukchon Hanok Village. It offers exhibits on the village’s evolution, traditional architecture, and the lifestyle of its early inhabitants.

• Highlight: Don’t miss the traditional craft workshops where you can experience and learn age-old Korean artistic techniques.

2. Han Sangsu Embroidery Museum: This museum is dedicated to the intricate art of Korean embroidery, celebrating the legacy of Han Sangsu, a renowned embroidery master.

• Highlight: Be captivated by the exquisite details of traditional garments, screens, and accessories, each telling a tale of dedication and craftsmanship.

3. Kumho Museum of Art: Positioned in a beautifully restored hanok, this museum is a haven for contemporary art lovers. It hosts rotating exhibitions, featuring new and established Korean artists.

• Highlight: Explore the juxtaposition of modern art set against the backdrop of traditional architecture, creating a unique and immersive experience.

4. Gahoe Museum: Dive deep into the world of traditional Korean paintings and amulets at the Gahoe Museum. It boasts a collection of over 1,500 artifacts, including folk paintings and talismanic images.

• Highlight: Join the museum’s hands-on workshops where you can try your hand at creating traditional Korean paintings or crafting personal amulets.

5. Dong-Lim Knot Museum: A testament to Korea’s intricate art of decorative knotting, the Dong-Lim Knot Museum unravels the history, techniques, and evolution of maedeup (Korean knotting). Founded by the master knot-maker, Sim Yeong-mi, the museum offers a deep dive into this unique craft.

• Highlight: Engage in interactive workshops where you can learn the basics of maedeup, crafting your own decorative knots to take home as treasured souvenirs.

Exploring Bukchon Hanok Village is like stepping into a living museum where every alley, door, and stone carries a story. But to truly grasp the cultural depth and artistic vibrancy of this enclave, a visit to these museums and galleries is a must. Just be careful not to accidentally enter someone’s house!

What To Buy In Bukchon Hanok Village

Souvenir shoppers or those looking for a memento from their time in Seoul will love the various traditional gifts for sale in Bukchon Hanok Village. The streets pulsate with the vibrant energy of local artisans and vendors, each stall offering a piece of Bukchon’s soul at great prices.

From handcrafted jewellery and traditional Korean clothing, like hanbok, to intricate wooden crafts and artisanal ceramics, Bukchon’s shops are a treasure trove for those seeking authentic souvenirs. Delicate Korean fans, decorative knots (maedeup), and hand-painted scrolls are popular finds.

As you stroll, also indulge in local delicacies and teas, adding flavours to your Bukchon memories. The street markets here aren’t just about shopping; they’re about immersing yourself in a rich cultural experience, bringing home tangible memories of a place where tradition meets the present.

Beyond the architectural gems and scenic views of Bukchon Hanok Village, visitors can find a unique shopping experience, encapsulating the essence of traditional Korean culture. If you’re not sure what to bring back for your friends and families, these suggestions will help you out.

Here are the top 5 stores selling gifts and souvenirs that every visitor to Bukchon will love:

1. Hanbok Boutiques: Embrace the elegance of Korea’s traditional attire at various hanbok boutiques dotted across the village. Must-buy: Purchase or rent a vibrant hanbok, adorned with intricate designs, and roam the streets of Bukchon for an authentic Korean experience.

2. Traditional Craftwork Stores: These artisanal hubs showcase Korea’s rich heritage of crafts, from woodworking to pottery. Must-buy: Hand-carved wooden trinkets, ornate ceramic vases, and delicate fabric crafts make for timeless souvenirs.

3. Local Tea Houses: Snuggled within the historic nooks of Bukchon are quaint tea houses that offer an array of traditional Korean teas and brews. Must-buy: Packaged traditional teas like green tea, ginseng tea, and herbal blends. Also, don’t miss out on beautifully crafted tea sets.

4. Artisan Jewelry Shops: Craftsmen in Bukchon take pride in crafting exquisite jewelry pieces that marry traditional motifs with contemporary designs. Must-buy: Unique handcrafted necklaces, earrings, and bracelets adorned with Korean symbols and patterns.

5. Korean Paper (Hanji) Stores: Hanji, traditional Korean paper, is both durable and versatile. Bukchon’s Hanji stores offer products ranging from stationery to decorative items. Must-buy: Handmade Hanji notebooks, lanterns, and wall hangings.

With its harmonious blend of history and commerce, Bukchon Hanok Village provides a shopping experience like no other. As you walk the ancient pathways, let the artistry of traditional Korean craftsmanship captivate you, and ensure you carry a piece of Bukchon back home.

Whether it’s the rustle of a hanbok, the warmth of a cup of traditional tea, or the intricate details of a wooden artefact, each souvenir is a memory etched in time from this mesmerising village.

Hanok Stays In Bukchon Hanok Village

if you really want an authentic Korean experience, why not book a stay in a traditional Korean hanok? Some of the hanok in Bukchon Hanok Village have been converted into hotels or hostels and will provide you with the chance to sleep and relax as Koreans did many years ago.

Korean families traditionally slept on futons on the floor and used a system of underground heating (ondol) to keep warm in winter. This system is still in place today and you can experience it with a hanok stay. Don’t worry, rooms come with modern conveniences, so life won’t be as hard as before.

From the quaint courtyards of traditional guesthouses to the inviting ambiance of local hostels, Bukchon Hanok Village offers an array of hanok accommodations that promise not just a place to rest, but a cultural immersion into Korea’s storied past. You’ll also get a delicious traditional breakfast.

Here are the top 5 hanok accommodations in Bukchon that promise a memorable stay:

1. Rakkojae Seoul: This luxury hanok guesthouse immerses its guests in Korea’s rich cultural heritage. With traditional wooden interiors, ancient ondol floor heating, authentic tea ceremony, and a tranquil courtyard garden, the ambiance is a step back into Korea’s Joseon dynasty era.

2. Moon Hanok Guesthouse: A delightful blend of the historic and the contemporary, Moon Guesthouse offers the charm of living in a traditional hanok with modern amenities. Participate in Korean cultural activities organized by the guesthouse, from craftwork to culinary sessions.

3. Bukchonmaru Hanok Guesthouse: Reflecting Bukchon’s timeless beauty, this guesthouse provides a panoramic view of the village and Seoul’s iconic Namsan Tower from its rooftop. Wake up to a sumptuous traditional Korean breakfast, prepared with seasonal ingredients.

4. Cheong Yeon Jae Hanok Stay: This beautifully preserved hanok allows guests to experience Korean culture intimately through charming woodwork and papered windows. Enjoy a serene morning in the guesthouse’s quaint courtyard garden, a perfect spot for relaxation and meditation.

5. Hanok 24 Guesthouse: Hanok 24 presents a harmonious blend of traditional architecture with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay for travellers. The guesthouse often holds traditional music nights, letting guests experience the melodic beauty of Korea’s musical heritage.

Let the whispers of the past lull you to sleep and the melodies of the present greet you each morning as you immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Bukchon Hanok Village. In case these aren’t to your liking, there are plenty of other great hotels in nearby Myeongdong.

Places To Visit Near Bukchon Hanok Village

While Bukchon Hanok Village itself is a mesmerising tapestry of history and culture, the surrounding areas of Seoul also hold many treasures waiting to be discovered. If you’re looking to broaden your itinerary and explore beyond the village’s boundaries, why not add these hot-spots to your plans.

My personal recommendation for visiting Bukchon Hanok Village as part of a 1-day trip around central Seoul includes visiting at least one royal palace, Insadong Art Street, Jogyesa Temple, and the Cheonggyecheon Stream. You can easily see all of these in one day at a slow pace.

Here are 10 nearby attractions to Bukchon Hanok Village that are simply unmissable:

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace: A shining example of Joseon Dynasty architecture, this sprawling palace complex once served as the royal residence. Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony at the main gate, which happens several times a day. You get free entry if you’re wearing hanbok.

2. Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon (Secret Garden): Another Joseon Dynasty marvel, this palace is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The adjoining Huwon (Secret Garden) is a serene oasis in the heart of the city and one of my top recommendations for autumn leaves in Seoul.

3. Insadong: A vibrant neighbourhood known for its traditional crafts, tea houses, and art galleries. Perfect for picking up souvenirs and experiencing Korea’s artistic spirit. Be sure to check out weird and wonderful places like the Poop Cafe and fun attractions like the Dynamic Maze.

4. Samcheong-dong: A harmonious blend of the traditional and the modern, this area is filled with cafes, boutiques, and art galleries, all set against a backdrop of beautiful hanok. A favourite of mine is the Owl Museum, a quirky museum dedicated to sharing owl souvenirs from around the world.

5. Jogyesa Temple: A symbol of Korean Buddhism, this tranquil temple offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city and boasts beautiful lotus lanterns, especially during the Buddha’s birthday celebrations. There are often flower displays throughout the year and cultural attractions to marvel at.

6. Seoul Museum of History: Dive deep into the city’s past and explore exhibits detailing Seoul’s transformation from a historic capital to a modern metropolis. If it starts raining in Seoul, this is a great place to stay dry and also learn about local history at the same time.

7. Cheonggyecheon Stream: Once a neglected waterway, it’s now a rejuvenated urban park, perfect for leisurely strolls and evening walks amidst light installations. Head to the start at Gwanghwamun Station and you’ll find a bizarre giant shell statue. This area hosts night markets in the summer.

8. Unhyeongung Royal Residence: Once home to a Joseon prince, this residence provides insights into royal life during the 19th century. During spring and autumn, this historic site hosts a reenactment of King Gojong and Empress Myeongseong’s royal wedding, which was held in 1866.

9. Tongin Market: This traditional market boasts an array of stalls selling delicious Korean street food, produce, and trinkets. A highlight is the “Dosirak Cafe” or “Lunchbox Cafe,” where visitors can use old-fashioned Korean brass coins to buy local delicacies and create their own custom lunchbox.

10. Jeongdok Public Library: A sanctuary for book lovers, this public library, set amidst lush green surroundings, is a great spot to unwind and delve into Korean literature. Grab a takeout coffee from one of the nearby cafes and relax here with a book or plan the next stop of your Seoul adventure.

Expanding your journey around Bukchon allows you to truly capture the multifaceted beauty of Seoul. From royal palaces echoing tales of yore to urban escapes offering solace in the midst of the city, the attractions around Bukchon promise a rich tapestry of experiences you’ll never forget.

Tips For Visiting Bukchon Hanok Village

I’ve explored Bukchon Hanok Village dozens of times in all different seasons. It’s the kind of place that draws you to it’s beautiful streets even when you’ve seen them before. I want to share some tips to help you get the most out of your visit. I hope they help you.

Here are my 5 essential tips for visiting Bukchon Hanok Village

1. Respect the Residents: Remember, Bukchon Hanok Village is not just a tourist attraction, it’s a living community. Many of the hanok are private residences. Avoid loud noises, don’t intrude on private properties, and always be respectful to the local inhabitants.

2. Wear Comfortable Footwear: The village is characterised by its winding alleyways and hilly terrain. Make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes to easily navigate the cobblestone streets and steep inclines. This applies to your whole trip as you’ll find you walk a lot more than normal.

3. Visit Early or Late: Bukchon Hanok Village can get quite crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. To truly appreciate its serene beauty, try visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon. This way, you can avoid the peak tourist hours and enjoy a more peaceful exploration.

4. Participate in a Hanok Experience: There are several places in the village that offer cultural programs where you can experience traditional Korean activities such as tea ceremonies, calligraphy, or wearing a Hanbok (traditional Korean attire). Participating will provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of Korean culture and offer you some amazing photo opportunities, too.

5. Guided Tours Are Available: To gain a comprehensive understanding of the village’s history and architecture, consider joining one of the many guided tours available. Some are even free! They provide invaluable insights that you might miss if exploring on your own.

Whether you’re wandering the streets or diving deep into Korea’s rich cultural history, keeping these tips in mind will ensure your visit to Bukchon Hanok Village is enjoyable and respectful. Embrace the village’s timeless beauty and let its tales of the past whisk you away on a captivating journey.

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Navigating the vibrant streets of Seoul, ordering mouth-watering Korean dishes, and translating tricky Hangul signs, become a breeze if you can connect to the net. Use essential travel apps like Papago, Naver Map, Kakao Taxi, and Seoul Subway to communicate, navigate, and get around.

This article will guide you through the process of purchasing a Korean SIM card at Incheon Airport. It will explain about tourist SIM cards, including eSIMs, what the cheapest SIM card options are, and provide you with lots more really useful tips about connecting to the internet in Korea.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Korean SIM Cards For Tourists: Summary

This detailed article to buying a Korean SIM card for tourists at Incheon Airport will cover lots of topics, including Korean mobile operators, Korean SIM card options, how to buy a SIM card, Korean eSIM cards, and alternatives to SIM cards, such as WiFi and roaming. There are also lots of my own tips.

If you don’t want to read through everything, this section of the article provides a short summary of why you should buy a tourist SIM card at Incheon Airport, how much tourist SIM cards cost, and whether you should book online or buy on arrival. I hope this summary helps you with your Korea trip planning.

Why Purchase A Korean SIM Card At Incheon Airport?

As a tourist traveling to South Korea, purchasing a SIM card at Incheon Airport can be a convenient and efficient way to ensure you stay connected during your trip. Most travellers to Korea arrive at Incheon Airport and having a SIM card from the moment you arrive can be really useful.

Here are some reasons why you might want to buy a SIM or eSIM card at Incheon Airport:

• Convenience: Upon arrival at Incheon Airport, you’ll find several telecom providers offering SIM cards with a variety of plans. This means you can start your trip with a working phone, without the need to search for a store in the city.
• Tourist Friendly: Incheon Airport sells tourist SIM cards, which are designed for travellers to Korea and are valid from 1 to 90 days. These are easier to get than regular Korean SIM cards.
• Language Issues: Staff at Incheon Airport are used to dealing with customers in English and a range of other languages. It’ll be much easier to ask questions and solve issues at the airport.
• Variety of Plans: Whether you need a data-only plan or one that includes voice calls and text messages, you’re likely to find a plan that suits your needs. All providers offer unlimited data plans, which can be very useful if you plan to use map or translation apps extensively.
• Ease of Use: Once you purchase a tourist SIM card, all you need to do is insert it into your phone, and you’re good to go. Most providers will offer assistance if you’re unsure how to install the SIM card. If you want an eSIM, the staff can also show you how to set up that.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

• Phone Compatibility: Your phone needs to be unlocked in order to use a Korean SIM card. If your phone is locked to a specific carrier, you won’t be able to use the SIM card. It’s best to check your phone and provider before travelling to Korea.
• Cost: While buying a SIM card at the airport is convenient, it might not always be the most cost-effective option. It’s worth doing some research beforehand to compare prices and plans. You can often save money by ordering online and collecting at the airport.
• Duration of Stay: If you’re only staying for a few days, it might be more economical to use international roaming or rely on Wi-Fi hotspots or routers instead of buying a SIM card.
• Number of Travellers: SIM cards only allow one phone or tablet to connect to the internet, but if you’re travelling in a group, that means getting one for each person. A portable WiFi router might be more convenient in Korea for large groups vs. separate SIM cards.

These issues, and more, will be discussed in this article. Overall, there are many benefits of getting a SIM card or some other method of connecting to the internet. Planning ahead and being prepared, such as by reading this article, will help you get the best deal and avoid any headaches on arrival.

How Much Does A Korean SIM Card Or eSIM Cost?

Here’s a cost comparison of prepaid Korean SIM cards with unlimited data at Incheon Airport and from Klook, one of the best tour operators in Korea, as well as eSIM prices. The highlighted options are the best prices available for each period from any of the three major mobile operators in Korea.

As you can see from the information below, prepaid data SIM cards for 7 and 15 days are only available at Incheon Airport and can’t be purchased online. Prepaid data SIM cards and eSIMs are typically cheaper when bought online, but you might also consider getting a pocket WiFi router, too.

Please note: The cost of SIM cards and eSIM cards from the 3 major Korean mobile operators at Incheon Airport are the same. Both physical SIM cards and eSIM cards at Incheon Airport come with the same network and security guarantees, so you can use either one when visiting Korea.

Should I Book Online Or Buy At Incheon Airport?

The simplest way to get a tourist SIM card in Korea is to buy one when you arrive at Incheon Airport. There are 24 hour desks run by all three major mobile operators in Korea who sell Korean SIM cards at similar prices and all with unlimited data as a standard option. ESIMs are available, too.

However, there are advantages to booking a SIM card online and collecting it at Incheon Airport from the same booths that sell tourist SIM cards. Booking online is usually cheaper, as SIM card resellers offer an incentive to book through them. Furthermore, you can research about which SIM you need.

Researching before you travel, such as by reading this article, will help you know which companies offer the best service, where to get the best price, which SIM card has the best reputation, and if there are any alternatives available. You might also want to get a global eSIM if you plan to travel more.

Therefore, I recommend researching online first, then booking online to save money and to choose the best tourist SIM card that’s right for you. For people who want to travel to other countries after Korea, such as Japan or Taiwan, I recommend looking into global eSIMs as these may save you more.

If you do want to book a Korean sim card online, here are some of the sites I recommend. You can order online and collect the sim card at Incheon Airport.

• Klook
• Get Your Guide
• KKDay
• Trazy

For those who want an eSIM instead, you can get those at Incheon Airport, or book local, roaming, and global eSIMs from these sites:

• Airola eSIMs
• Ubigi eSIMs
• Nomad eSIMs
• Klook eSIMs

Whatever you choose, I’m sure you’ll be able to easily and conveniently connect to the internet in South Korea. Incheon Airport is a great place to get a SIM card or portable WiFi router and the helpful and friendly staff can assist you in many different languages.

Korean Tourist SIM Card Providers

In South Korea, there are three major mobile operators that provide SIM cards for tourists: KT, SK Telecom, and LG U+. These major mobile operators essentially offer the same service and have great coverage across the country. They also have similar plans with similar prices for tourists.

• KT (Olleh): Korea Telecom (KT) is one of the largest network companies in South Korea. They offer a variety of prepaid SIM cards that can be pre-ordered and picked up at the airport. They also offer a Voice & Text SIM card which can be topped up with credits for voice calls.
• SK Telecom: SK Telecom is ideal for customers with small usage amounts and short-term visitors to Korea. Their rate plans include basic charge, voice service fee, VAT, and subscription fee. Pre-paid additional services are charged on a daily basis.
• LG U+: LG U+ offers physical SIM cards and eSIMs for tourists. They provide unlimited data and phone calls, Wi-Fi and Phone rental services. Their eSIM can be used on any device that supports eSIM technology. LG U+ offers extensive network coverage across South Korea.

Mobile phone connections in Korea are always good (especially compared to my home country of England!). Whichever phone provider you choose, you’ll experience great connectivity and coverage wherever you are in Korea. That’s true even when hiking in Korea’s national parks!

If you want to know what the SK Telecom’s SIM card is like, check out my review of the SK 4G SIM card that you can buy at Incheon Airport. I talk about the SIM price, coverage, service, reliability and other factors that are all really important when considering which SIM card to buy in Korea.

Personally, I use KT mobile services in Korea and haven’t had problems with connecting to the internet or making calls. According to the 2022 mobile experience awards, SK Telecom was the clear winner with the best overall experience, 5G experience, and consistency, as shown in the image below.

Korean SIM Cards For Tourists In 2024

The type of SIM card plan you get as a tourist in Korea depends on what you want to use your phone for. As with any SIM card plan, there are a number of options you should consider when making your choice, such as if you get calls with data or just data, and whether you have unlimited usage or not.

Prepaid Korean SIM Cards With Unlimited Data

A SIM card with unlimited data is the standard option for tourists travelling to Korea and is an easy and convenient SIM card option that will allow you to connect to the internet whenever you like and for as long as you like. These SIM cards will allow you to receive calls for free, but you can’t make calls.

Prepaid Korean SIM cards with unlimited data are priced per day, with various fixed-period SIM card options available. Not all companies provide sims for the same number of days, but the prices for data-only SIM card plans for 30 days or fewer are the same for all phone companies in Korea.

These are the SIM & eSIM card prices you’ll pay if you buy them at Incheon Airport:

See these prices at Incheon Airport

To show that these are the correct prices (at time of publishing this article), here are the pictures I took from Incheon Airport of the tourist SIM and eSIM prices by the 3 major mobile operators.

Prepaid Korean SIM Cards With Data, Calls & Texts

When you purchase a Korean SIM card with data from Incheon Airport or online, there is an option to add-on the ability to make outgoing calls and to send text messages. Unlimited data SIMs typically only allow incoming calls and text messages, but for a small fee you can add calls and texts.

To request the ability to make calls and to send texts with your Korean prepaid SIM card, you should top-up the SIM card. Please note: You must state that you want to get calls and text messages when you collect and install your sim card at Incheon Airport.

The cost to add-on calls and texts to your SIM card package for all mobile operators is as follows:

• ₩5,500 for 20 minutes of calls (some operators have a minimum add-on of ₩11,000)

Personally, I think most tourists to Korea won’t need call services and there are lots of ways to make calls without this add-on. You can download apps such as Kakao Talk, Messenger, What’s App, and other messaging services that allow you to talk using data instead. It’s much cheaper.

The main benefit of a Korean SIM card with calls is to use it to call Korean phone numbers, which could be useful to book meals out, reserve tickets, and use certain Korean apps. However, I believe the majority of tourists to Korea will be able to travel perfectly fine without this feature.

90 Day Korean SIM Card Plans

If you plan to stay in Korea for longer than a week or two, such as to study, visit friends or family, or travel across the country, then a 60 or 90 day Korean SIM card plan could be a good option for you. Purchasing a 60 or 90 day SIM card is cheaper and easier than buying multiple 30 day SIM card plans.

How To Extend Tourist SIM Plans

For those travellers to Korea who originally purchased a 30 day SIM card plan from one of the major mobile operators, but want to use these services for longer, it’s possible to extend tourist SIM plans beyond the original 30 days. Tourist SIMs can be used for a maximum of 90 days in total.

Extending a tourist SIM card is simple and can be done online through the relevant mobile operator’s website. All you need to do is enter your phone number and agree to pay for an extra 30 days of service. This renewal fee is typically cheaper than the cost of the original plan, up to 50% cheaper.

Please note: You must extend your SIM plan before your current plan has expired, otherwise you’ll need to sign up for a new SIM card and won’t get any discounts for extending. Monthly extensions aren’t available on tourist SIM cards that were originally valid for under 30 days.

How To Buy A Tourist SIM Card At Incheon Airport

Buying a tourist SIM card at Incheon Airport is really easy. Whether you preordered a SIM card before you travelled, or you want to buy one when you arrive, the process is more or less the same. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to purchase a tourist SIM card at Incheon Airport:

1. Arrival at Incheon Airport: Once you arrive at Incheon Airport, proceed to the arrival hall after clearing immigration and collecting your luggage. This is the same process for either terminal.

2. Locate SIM Card Booths: Look for the SIM card booths of the three major Korean mobile operators: SK Telecom, KT, and LG U+. These booths are located in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. You might need to take a waiting ticket if it’s busy when you arrive.

3. Choose a Plan: Review the different SIM card options available, including the length of the prepaid SIM contract and cost. All of the SIM card plans at Incheon Airport come with unlimited data allowance. If you’ve preordered a SIM card online, you can collect it at the relevant booth here, too.

4. Phone Compatibility: Before purchasing a SIM card, make sure your phone is completely unlocked with your mobile provider. This is especially important if your phone is from The United States, Canada, Japan, or The Philippines. Korean tourist SIM cards are Normal, Nano, and Micro sized.

5. Purchase: Once you’ve decided on a plan that suits your needs, you can purchase the SIM card at the booth. Some operators also offer the option to include a T-money Transportation Card, which is a public transportation card that you can charge and use to take subways and buses in Korea.

If you purchased a SIM card online before travelling to Korea, such as those from Klook, you will need to show your voucher to the staff at the relevant booth to collect your reserved SIM card. You will also need to show your passport in both situations to prove your identity and register the SIM.

6. Installation: After purchasing, you can ask the staff at the booth to help you install the SIM card in your phone. There is also a small table near the SIM card booth where you can eject your current SIM card using a small metal tool to release it from your phone.

7. Activation: Once the SIM card is installed, follow the instructions provided to activate it. You should now be able to use your phone to make calls and access the internet in Korea. If your phone doesn’t connect to the internet at first, try turning the power on and off and checking again.

Incheon Airport SIM Card Booth Opening Hours

There will be at least 1 SIM card booth at Incheon Airport for each Korean mobile operator that is open 24 hours a day from Monday to Sunday. No matter what time you arrive at Incheon Airport, you will be able to collect or purchase your SIM card and start using it straight away.

The SIM card booths near gate 10 on the 1st floor Arrivals Hall of Incheon Airport are open 24 hours. This is for KT, SK Telecom, and LG U+. Other booths are available from 6am until 10pm daily.

How To Preorder A Korean SIM Card Online

Preordering a Korean SIM card online through agencies such as Klook can not only save you money vs. SIM card prices at Incheon Airport, you can also get some added extras included, too. Here’s a step-by-step guide about how to purchase a tourist SIM card online for South Korea:

1. Choose a Provider: There are several websites where you can purchase a SIM card for South Korea, such as Klook, Get Your Guide, Trazy, and KK Day. I’ll provide more details about these later.

2. Select a Plan: Search for ‘Korean SIM card’ (or use my direct links) on your chosen site and you’ll see various options available. These may include unlimited data plans, plans with limited data, and plans that also include voice calls and text messages. Choose the one that best suits your needs.

3. Enter Your Details: After selecting a plan, you’ll need to provide some information. This includes your full name, passport number, and arrival date, as well as the location you want to collect the SIM card. Don’t forget, you’ll need your passport to collect and activate the SIM card when you arrive.

4. Make a Payment: Once you’ve entered all the necessary information, proceed to the payment section. Most websites accept international credit cards and PayPal and some, such as Klook, might offer reward points or discounts for using their services.

5. Confirmation: After payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email or voucher with details about your purchase. This email will also include instructions on where and how to pick up your SIM card at Incheon Airport. Show this voucher or email when you arrive to collect your SIM card.

6. Pick Up Your SIM Card: Upon arrival at Incheon Airport, head to the pick-up location mentioned in your confirmation email. Don’t forget to bring your passport and confirmation email for verification.

Remember, before you preorder a SIM card, it’s important to check if your phone is unlocked and compatible with the Korean network before purchasing a SIM card. You can find out more about that in the ‘What to check before you buy a SIM card‘ section later in this article.

Where To Preorder Korean SIM Cards Online

There are lots of websites that offer discounted SIM cards to use in Korea and it can be hard to know which ones to trust and which have the best prices. To make it easier to choose the right SIM card for you, here are 4 of the best SIM card resellers that I recommend when travelling to Korea:

Klook SIM Cards

Klook is one of the best tour operators in Korea and has a reputation for offering a wide selection of services, including tourist SIM cards and WiFi rental. Their easy-to-use website and booking system makes it fast and simple to preorder your SIM card for South Korea. You can reserve your must-do tours at the same time, too.

Get Your Guide SIM Cards

Get Your Guide are arguably one of the biggest and best global tour operators that has a significant presence in Korea. They offer a combined SIM and T-Money Card package that’s really useful for first time travellers to South Korea. If you’ve booked through Get Your Guide when travelling to other countries, you know you can trust their services.

KKDay SIM Cards

KKDay is a growing Asia-based tour operator that offers a range of SIM card options for travellers to Korea, including one SIM card plan with international delivery. If you want to try a Korean SIM card not from one of the 3 major Korean mobile operators, you can get them from KKDay. They’re usually cheaper than the SIM cards you’ll find at Incheon Airport.

Trazy SIM Cards

Trazy is a Korea-based travel booking site with lots of unique activities and experiences that you won’t find on other sites. There are lots of great SIM card options on Trazy, as well as packages that include transportation cards, that can be collected at Incheon Airport or in other parts of Seoul. You can also book SIM cards with voice and SMS credits included.

Preordering SIM Cards Vs. Buying At Incheon Airport

Whether you preorder a SIM card online or buy one at Incheon Airport, the service you receive from the 3 major Korean mobile operators will be the same. The main difference between these options is price, with preordering about 10% cheaper vs. tourist SIM card prices at Incheon Airport.

Here’s a quick overview of the main benefits of both processes, followed up by a comparison between the two options so you can see why you might want to consider preordering a Korean tourist SIM card when you travel to Korea instead of getting it at Incheon Airport.

Preordering Online: Preordering a SIM card online allows you to compare different plans and prices at your own pace, matching them to your own needs. You can also check out reviews from other customers and see what their experience was like, which will help to reassure you about your choice.

Once you’ve made a decision, you can make a purchase from the comfort of your home and in your own currency. Upon arrival in Korea, simply pick up your SIM card at the designated counter at Incheon Airport. This saves you time and potentially money, as online platforms often offer discounts.

Buying at Incheon Airport: Purchasing a SIM card directly at Incheon Airport is straightforward and convenient, especially if you didn’t have time to preorder online. There are several counters selling SIM cards, each offering different plans. You can ask the staff any questions and they will help you activate the SIM card on the spot. However, prices at Incheon airport are higher compared to online.

Here’s a comparison table to summarise the differences between preordering a SIM card and buying one at Incheon Airport when you arrive:

Korean ESIM Cards At Incheon Airport

A popular alternative to physical SIM cards for travellers to Korea is an eSIM. An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a relatively new technology that has the same benefits of a physical SIM, without needing one. Instead of inserting a physical SIM card, you download a “software SIM” from a network provider.

For tourists traveling to South Korea, using an eSIM can be a convenient option as you don’t need to remove (and risk losing) your home country’s SIM card. Depending on your eSIM, you can also use the service in other countries without the need for another SIM card.

The potential benefits of using an eSIM in Korea include:

• Convenience: No need to physically swap SIM cards when you travel.
• Cost: Some eSIMs offer cheaper rates than regular SIM cards, however, be sure to check the conditions, data limits, and reviews when booking a low-cost eSIM. Some plans allow you to pay only for the data you use, which could be cheaper than unlimited data plans.
• Environmentally Friendly: Less plastic waste is produced without physical SIM cards.
• Future Travel: Some eSIMs provide roaming services, so you can use the eSIM in other countries, which can save money when visiting multiple countries.

However, there are some potential disadvantages of eSIMs that you should consider:

• Compatibility: Not all devices support eSIM yet.
• Limited Data Allowance: Some eSIMs may throttle data speeds after a certain amount of data has been used. Be sure to check the daily allowance.
• Swapping Providers: If you frequently switch between carriers, using an eSIM can be more complex than simply swapping physical SIM cards.
• Activation: You may need to activate the eSIM as soon as it’s installed, which means you’ll either need to download and install it before you travel, or wait until you land at Incheon Airport.

Overall, there are many benefits to eSIMs and tech-savvy travellers will be fine using these alternatives to physical SIM cards. However, I recommend carefully checking the terms and conditions of eSIM plans to make sure you’re getting a good deal and can use an eSIM with your phone.

How To Use eSIMS In Korea

Using an eSIM in Korea isn’t really any different from using a physical SIM card, except for the installation. Once the eSIM is installed, you should be ready to browse the web and receive phone calls and texts. Here’s a basic overview of how to use an eSIM when you travel to Korea:

1. Check Device Compatibility: Ensure your device supports eSIM. Many newer smartphones and tablets have this feature, particularly those made after 2020. Check this list of eSIM compatible devices to see if your phone can accept an eSIM or not.

2. Choose a Provider: Search for providers in Korea that offer eSIM services. All 3 major mobile operators offer eSIM cards online and at Incheon Airport. Some international providers also offer global eSIM plans which can be used in other countries, too.

3. Purchase and Download: Once you’ve chosen a plan, you can purchase it online and download the eSIM right onto your device. However, check the conditions of your eSIM as it may be activated the moment it’s installed. Some eSIM providers might also require you to download an app.

4. Activation: Follow the provider’s instructions to activate your eSIM. This usually involves scanning a QR code or entering a confirmation code. Be sure to check the instructions carefully.

Each eSIM company will have their own rules and instructions for using an eSIM in Korea. I recommend thoroughly checking the instructions provided by your chosen provider before signing up

Physical SIM Cards Vs. ESIMs For Korea

Whether you choose to use a physical SIM card or eSIM card when you travel to Korea is really down to your own personal preference. The price for both physical SIM cards and eSIM cards from Korean mobile operators at Incheon Airport is the same and the data plan for both is unlimited.

However, there are more options for eSIM cards than just those offered by Korea’s mobile operators. Global eSIMs allow you to route through the phone networks of other countries, such as from Hong Kong, to access the internet in Korea. These typically won’t give you a phone number, though.

Global eSIMs can be cheaper to use in Korea than local (Korean) eSIMs and they can be used in other countries too. This can be really useful if you plan to travel to multiple countries and only want to get one phone plan. Again, check eSIM card reviews to find out which plans are the best for you.

Here’s a comparison between physical SIM cards and eSIM cards for travellers to Korea:

Where To Buy Tourist ESIMs For Korea

The 3 major Korean mobile operations all offer eSIMs at Incheon Airport and the price for physical SIM cards and eSIM cards are the same. They offer unlimited data eSIMs for fixed periods that have the same coverage and reliability as a physical SIM card. The price for these eSIMs are as follows:

It is also possible to buy Korean and global eSIMs online before you travel to Korea. As with physical SIM cards, buying an eSIM online is often cheaper than buying it at Incheon Airport and you gain the benefits discussed previously, which you can see in the drop down box below:

To save you time searching for the best Korean eSIMs from the many online companies offering local and global eSIMs, here are 4 companies that I recommend for reliable network connections, good prices, strong customer reviews, and availability in Korea and abroad.

Airalo ESIM

Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving you access to 200+ eSIMs (digital SIM cards) globally at affordable prices. The Airalo Korean eSIM operates through the LG U+ network and is available in 10 or 30 day packages. They also offer Global eSIMs that can be used in 130 countries.

Ubigi ESIM

Ubigi offers eSIMs that you can use in your phone, tablet, laptop, and even connected cars. Simply get an Ubigi eSIM plan for mobile data and save money. Prices start at $5 for a 7-day eSIM that gives you up to 1GB of data. Perfect for people who don’t plan to use their phone a lot but still want to stay connected. Local, regional, and global eSIMs available with various levels of data.

Nomad ESIM

The Nomad eSIM is designed for people who like to travel and stay connected. You can travel to over 165 countries with one Nomad eSIM and pay almost local rates in each. For travellers to Korea, there is a 5GB / 10GB data plan for 30 days which starts at $12 / $20 and gives you access to either KT or SK Telecom’s local mobile network. This eSIM would be ideal for tourists who want to use their phone a lot.

Klook ESIM

As mentioned, Klook is one of the best tour operators in Korea and have a reputation for offering a wide selection of services, including tourist eSIM cards. Their easy-to-use website and booking system makes it fast and simple to preorder your eSIM card for South Korea. They offer eSIMs from local mobile operators, as well as from other providers.

Alternatives To Buying A Korean SIM Card

There are several alternatives to buying a tourist SIM card when you visit Korea, including WiFi routers that connect to the same networks, free WiFi access from local access points, and using your home phone plan in roaming mode. Here’s a brief overview of each of those options.

Portable WiFi Routers

Renting a portable WiFi router from Incheon Airport is one of the most popular alternatives to buying a Korean tourist SIM card for several reasons.

First, portable WiFi routers can be used by multiple devices, which means families only need one router instead of multiple SIMs.

Also, a router has a lower cost for short-term travellers (under 2 weeks) with WiFi routers starting at ₩3,200 per day.

Furthermore, you can use routers for longer than planned and pay the excess when you return it at Incheon Airport.

Portable WiFi routers have near-perfect coverage across Korea and use the same secure networks as local SIM cards.

Free WiFi In Seoul & Korea

Korea, especially in cities like Seoul and Busan, has great public WiFi that is available for free and you can definitely travel Korea using only free WiFi. Most cafes, restaurants, public transport, and public places offer free WiFi that’s easy to connect to and has high-speed internet access. Subway stations, buses, and train stations all offer free WiFi, which makes them practical places to plan your day’s travelling and check your location. Hotels also offer free WiFi.

Home Mobile Service Provider

Many mobile operators offer roaming services that allow you to use your own phone plan overseas, such as in Korea. This may be a simpler and still cost-effective way of using data and making calls while you’re abroad, especially if you don’t want to deal with installing a new SIM card when travelling. The price and services will depend on your phone service provider, so you’ll need to contact them to see if it’s a good option for you.

Best Option For Staying Connected In Korea

What’s the best way to stay connected in South Korea? There are several options to get connected when you visit Korea, including SIM cards (physical and eSIM), WiFi routers, free WiFi, and roaming services from your home mobile operator. Each have their own benefits and disadvantages.

Based on my experience travelling in Korea and using SIM cards, WiFi routers, and free WiFi to connect the internet, I recommend a combination of SIM card and free WiFi. Having internet access while you walk around Seoul and other places is extremely useful, especially to check directions.

However, you’re not likely to use large amounts of data while you’re looking around palaces or seeing the sights like the Seoul Sky Observatory. The times when you’re likely to use lots of data are often in places where you can access free WiFi, such as in your hotel, in a cafe, or on a bus or train journey.

Therefore, I recommend a SIM or eSIM card that has enough data for apps like Naver Maps or Kakao Taxi, but not more than you need as you can use free WiFi to stream videos, download books, etc. When I travel to the UK, I get a SIM card with a couple of GB of data and use free WiFi for streaming.

This 2GB Global eSIM from Airola is only $17 and lasts for 15 days, covering 130 countries (including Japan), so you can use it even if you have a layover in another country or plan to visit other countries. It has 2GB of data, which is usually enough if you use free WiFi for big data demands.

What To Check Before Buying A SIM Card

Whether you plan to buy a Korean SIM card, eSIM card, or a global eSIM card, you should check if your phone is compatible or not. Korean tourist SIM cards work on the 4G network, so you should check your phone is capable of handling 4G, which most phones made in the last 5 years will do.

Before purchasing a Korean SIM card or eSIM card, there are several things you should check:

• Phone Compatibility: Ensure your phone is compatible with the SIM or eSIM. For eSIMs, this typically means having a latest-generation phone.
• Sim Card Size: Korean tourist SIM cards are available in Normal, Nano, and Micro sizes, which should fit most modern phones. Check your phone if you’re not sure of your SIM card size.
• Locked phones: Some operators lock phones so they only work with their own network, meaning you can’t add a Korean SIM. However, this is less common these days and was banned in the UK in 2021. If you’re not sure if your phone is locked, contact your operator.
• Data Speed: Some operators advertise unlimited 4G internet access, but the speed may drop to 128kbps after a certain amount of data is used. Make sure to check the details of the data plan.
• Duration of Stay: The duration of your stay in Korea will determine the best option for you. There are options available from 1 and 90 days. If you buy a plan for fewer days than you need, it’s not possible to extend the SIM contract, except for plans that are 30 days or more.
• Number of Devices: If you’re traveling in a group and need to connect multiple devices to the internet, a pocket WiFi might be a better option. Portable WiFi is often cheaper for groups vs. buying multiple SIM cards, but the downside is that everyone will need to be in the same area.
• Activation Process: For eSIMs, you’ll typically receive an activation QR code via email. You’ll need to scan this code and follow the on-screen instructions to activate the eSIM.

If you plan to use an eSIM card in Korea, you will need a more modern phone, typically something made since 2020, such as a Samsung Galaxy S20 or iPhone 11 or newer versions of these devices. Some phones with dual SIMs, such as the Chinese iPhone Max, can’t accept eSIMs.

To check if your phone can accept eSIM cards or not, this article about how to check if you phone supports eSIM lists all the models that accept eSIMs. It also details how to install an eSIM in different situations. Sites selling eSIMs, such as Klook, will also include detailed instructions.

Travel Tips For Visiting South Korea

This site has lots of useful practical, informative, and inspiring articles that I hope will help you discover the best that Korea has to offer. If you’re planning a trip to South Korea, here are a few of my personal tips to help you travel safely and easily around the Land of Morning Calm.

• Download useful apps to help you travel in Korea, including Naver Map (more reliable than Google Maps), Kakao Taxi (Korea’s Uber), Seoul Subway, Papago (Korean translation), Agoda (for hotel bookings) and Klook (for tours).
• Get a transportation card: Save money on buses and subways in Korea with a transportation card, such as a T-Money card or Korea Tour Card. Korean payment cards, such as WOWPASS, come with T-Money functions and some of the SIM cards mentioned include a T-Money card.
• Don’t exchange money at the airport: Exchanging money at Incheon Airport is one of the most expensive ways to get holiday money. There are much better ways to spend in Korea, such as by using a WISE travel money card or WOWPASS, a local debit card for tourists.
• Check the weather: Spring and autumn are lovely times to visit Korea, while summer (hot and wet) and winter (cold and dry) can be challenging. Read about Korea’s seasons to help you figure out the best time to visit Korea, as well as what to see, do, eat, and experience.
• Book ahead: This is especially true if you’re travelling in cherry blossom season or autumn foliage season, when tours, festivals, and hotels are often sold out in advance. It’s cheaper to book ahead, too, especially for flights to Korea and for hotels in Seoul and other cities.
• Eat local food: If you’re travelling all the way to Korea, you should definitely not miss the chance to try authentic Korean dishes such as samgyeopsal, kimchi jjigae, or tteokbokki. Discover the best Korean dishes and street foods in my articles about Korean food and drinks.

Above all, the best advice I can give you about travelling to Korea is to be open minded and try as much as you can, even if it looks a bit unusual or scary. There are a lot of unique experiences awaiting you in Korea, some you may miss out on if you don’t take a few chances. Travel safe and travel well.

Korean SIM Cards For Tourists FAQs

Finally, here are a few FAQs about buying a Korean sim card for tourists at Incheon Airport, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you. If you have any other questions you’d like to ask, feel free to leave a comment.

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This article will explain where and how to buy a Korea Tour Card, how to add credit to it, and where you can use it to get discounts on popular attractions, shows, shopping, and more. Not sure if you need a transportation card? This article will also explain the benefits of these essential travel cards.

If you’re travelling to Korea and plan to use public transport to get around, which I’d really recommend as it’s amazing, then you’ll definitely want to pick up a Korea Tour Card. Find out why below.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

What Is The Korea Tour Card

The Korea Tour Card is a pre-paid transportation card with T-Money functions that is exclusively available for tourists to South Korea. Tourists can use the Korea Tour Card to pay for public transportation on Korea’s subways and buses, as well as to receive discounts at attractions and shops.

Here are the key details of the Korea Tour Card. Details about how and where to buy the Korea Tour Card, how and where to use it, and further information will be provided throughout this article.

Korea Tour Card Vs. T-Money

T-Money is the main rechargeable transportation card in Korea and is found in the T-Money card and other prepaid cards, including the Korea Tour Card. It is used to pay for public transportation in Korea.

The Korea Tour Card includes T-Money functions, including paying for public transportation, but also provides exclusive benefits for tourists in Korea.

With The Korea Tour Card, tourists can gain discounts on hundreds of attractions, shops, hotels, and restaurants. A regular T-Money card costs ₩2,500 and the Korea Tour Card costs ₩4,000.

Korea Tour Card Vs. Discover Seoul Pass

The Discover Seoul Pass is a city pass that provides free or discounted entry to dozens of premium attractions in Seoul. The Discover Seoul Pass is valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours. Like the Korea Tour Card, the Discover Seoul Pass includes T-Money functions to pay for public transportation.

Both the Discover Seoul Pass and Korea Tour Card offer discounts to tourists, however, the price and value of those discounts are significantly different. The Discover Seoul Pass starts at ₩50,000 for a 24 hour pass and gives you free or discounted entry to top attractions.

Where To Buy The Korea Tour Card

The Korea Tour Card is exclusively designed for tourists to Korea and can be purchased at most points of entry into Korea, including major airports and harbours. You can also preorder a Korea Tour Card online and collect it at one of the following locations, which is also where you can buy them in person.

Korea Tour Card purchase locations:

• Incheon Airport, Terminal 1
• Incheon Airport, Terminal 2
• Gimpo Airport (Seoul)
• Gimhae Airport (Busan)
• Jeju International Airport
• Daegu International Airport
• Busan Port Passenger Terminal

Buying A Korea Tour Card At Incheon Airport

Most travellers to Korea arrive at Incheon Airport near Seoul. You can purchase a Korea Tour Card from the transportation centres inside Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 of Incheon Airport. The Korea Tour Card is sold from a vending machine (pictured) near the entrance to the subway that connects Incheon Airport to parts of Seoul.

Please note: You will need cash to purchase the Korea Tour Card (₩4,000) and cash to top up the T-Money balance so you can use it for public transport. Details about how to top up later in this article.

Korea Tour Card Designs

There are several designs of the Korea Tour Card that depend on where you purchase the card. These are the main designs you can see in Korea now:

Regular Korea Tour Card

The regular edition of the Korea Tour Card has a blue and pink design and the T-Money logo in the bottom corner. This is the Korea Tour Card design that’s sold at Incheon Airport and most airports, except on the south coast of Korea.

The Korea Tour Card offers T-Money functions as well as discounts in over 200 locations across Korea.

Southern Coast Edition (Busan)

The Southern Coast of Korea edition of the Korea Tour Card, also known as the Namhaean Coast design, is sold in the southern regions of Korea, which stretch from Busan all the way to Mokpo.

There are over 40 exclusive benefits for tourists visiting this part of Korea with this version of the card, as well as the regular benefits of the Korea Tour Card.

Visit Korea Year Limited Edition

The Visit Korea Year Korea Tour Card is a limited edition version of the card that celebrates the Visit Korea project, which runs from 2023 to 2024. There are two designs of the Visit Korea Year edition of the Korea Tour Card – a dark background card and a light background card.

This version of the Korea Tour Card is the same as the regular version and comes with all of the same features and benefits.

How To Top Up The Korea Tour Card

The Korea Tour Card is the tourist version of a T-Money card and can be topped up in the same way a regular T-Money card can be topped up. You can top up the Korea Tour Card at convenience stores in Korea and at subway stations in major cities, as well as at the T-Money head office in Seoul.

Convenience store chains in Korea include GS25, CU, Emart 24, Story Way, 7/11 and Ministop. There are fives areas in Korea with subway systems, these are the Seoul Capital Area (which includes Incheon), Busan, Daegu, Daejeon, and Gwangju. You can top up at thousands of locations in Korea.

Remember, you will need to have Korean won to top up the Korea Tour Card. All transportation cards in Korea can only be topped up using cash and can’t be topped up using credit or debit cards. The only exception is the mobile versions of these cards, which can be topped up with card payments.

Top Up In Subway Stations

Topping up the Korea Tour Card T-Money balance at a subway station is the easiest option as the top up machines usually have English instructions. Here are the steps to top up at a subway station:

1. Select ‘recharge card’ on the screen.
2. Select the value to top up.
3. Confirm the top up value.
4. Insert cash into the machine.
5. Place your card on the card reader.
6. Wait for the card to recharge.
7. Take the card and use it.

Top Up At Convenience Stores

Topping up the Korea Tour Card at a convenience store is the most convenient option as there are thousands of these stores across all of Korea. Here are the steps to top up at a convenience store:

1. Go into a convenience store.
2. Ask the cashier to top up the card.
3. State your desired top up value.
4. Pay cash to the cashier.
5. Place your card on the card reader.
6. Wait for the top up.
7. Collect your card and use it.

Where To Use The Korea Tour Card

There are dozens of places you can get discounts on a range of things, including attractions, shopping, services, restaurants, cafes, hanbok rental, river cruises, and more. Discounts are available at popular tourist destinations such as N Seoul Tower, Lotte World Adventure, and the COEX Aquarium.

You’ll find discounts in the major cities of South Korea – Seoul, Incheon, Busan, and Daegu. Also, there are select discounts in major tourist areas, such as Jeju Island, Gangneung, Gangjin, and the Namhaean Coast. Use the Korea Tour Card website for a full list of available benefits and locations.

Below is a summary of some of the best benefits available with the Korea Tour Card for each of the different categories (attractions, experiences, shopping, etc.).

Tourist Attractions

Tourists can get discounts at more than 30 popular tourist attractions across Korea with the Korea Tour Card. Here are some of the best attractions benefits:

• N Seoul Tower (20-30% discount)
• Busan X The Sky (10% discount)
• Gwangmyeong Cave (50% discount)
• Korean Folk Village (₩10,000 off)
• Jeju Folk Village (10% discount)
• Nami Island (₩1,000 gift coin)
• Petite France (₩11,000 discount)

Entertainment

The Korea Tour Card offers a range of discounts on family-friendly entertainment options in Seoul and across Korea. Here are some of the best benefits:

• COEX Aquarium (20% discount)
• Everland Resort (30% discount)
• Caribbean Bay (30% discount)
• Hanbok Day (50% discount)
• Lotte World Adventure (30% off)
• Seoul Sky (10% discount)
• Sea Life Busan (30% discount)

Performance / Exhibition

Save money on cultural performances, museums, and exhibitions while you travel in Korea, including family-fun places. Here are some of the best savings:

• Museum Kimchikan (20% discount)
• Brick Campus Jeju (10% discount)
• Animation Museum (20% discount)
• World Doll Musem (20% discount)
• Alive Museum (₩2,000 discount)
• Gangneung Coffee Museum
• Hahoe Mask Museum (10% off)
• Robot Studio (20% discount)

Shopping / Duty-Free

The Korea Tour Card has been designed to allow tourists to Korea to save more when shopping. Here are some places where you can get benefits when shopping:

• The Shilla Duty Free Seoul
• Shinsegae Duty Free Seoul
• Lotte Duty Free
• Hyundai Department Stores
• Hyundai City Outlet Mall
• Gyeongbokgung Duty Free
• Doota Mall

Korean Experiences

Experience more of Korea than just the main sights and attractions. Here are some of the best discounted experiences you can try with the Korea Tour Card:

• Eland River Cruise (10% discount)
• Hwagyesa Templestay (10% off)
• K-Pop Central (20% discount)
• 3355 Hanbok (20% discount)
• Canoe Kayak Experience (10% off)
• Dynamic Maze (₩2,000 discount)
• Grande Bleu Yacht Tour (30% off)
• Incheon City Tour (20% discount)
• Hyanggyo-Pottery (10% discount)

Namhaean Coast Benefits

If you’re visiting Korea’s southern coast, you can get 40 more discounts across this area with the Namhaean Coast version of the Korea Tour Card. Popular attractions in this area that are discounted include:

• Aqua Planet Yeosu
• Tongyeong Cable Car
• Lotte Water Park
• Skyline Luge Tongyeong
• Geoju Blue City Tour
• Yeosu Cable Car
• Suncheon Filming Locations
• Blue Marina Yachts Tour
• Busan Museum Of Movies
• Geojedo Sea Spa

Korea Tour Card App Mobile Version

There is a mobile version of the Korea Tour Card available to Android users. This version of the card is free and comes with the same T-Money benefits as the regular card (through your phone’s NFC function).

The main difference between the mobile and card versions of the Korea Tour Card is that you can top up using a credit card with the mobile version, whereas the card version can only be topped up with cash.

Should you get the mobile version of the Korea Tour Card instead of the physical version? Personally, I wouldn’t recommend it. Although the mobile version is free, the reviews of the app are not good (2.2 / 5) and to use the card you need an active Internet connection to use your phone’s NFC function.

The card version of the Korea Tour Card is easier to use and topping up in cash isn’t a problem once you have some local currency. There is no risk of the card not working, unlike the app, and it’s also faster as you don’t have to wait for anything to load (a big problem according to reviews of the app).

Alternative Korean Transportation Cards

Transportation cards are a hassle-free and money saving way to travel on Korea’s public transportation and can double as nice souvenirs when you get one with a nice design. Besides the Korea Tour Card, here are a range of other Korean transportation cards that provide the same or similar functions:

T-Money Card

The T-Money card is the most popular transportation card in Korea and is cheaper than a Korea Tour Card. You can buy, top up, and pay for things with a T-Money card at the same locations as the Korea Tour Card, but it doesn’t any offer discounts. The T-Money card can be used to pay for small purchases in shops, restaurants, and cafes, including McDonalds and Starbucks.

WOWPASS

The WOWPASS card includes T-Money functions, but is more versatile as it is also a Korean debit card. You can top up the WOWPASS card and use it to pay like a local, not just for transportation, but for all your shopping and spending needs. Add up to ₩1,000.000 with 16 different currencies. Check out my guide to WOWPASS to learn more about how to use this useful card.

Cashbee Transportation Card

The main competition to T-Money is the Cashbee transportation card, which can be purchased from convenience stores and subway stations across Korea. Like T-Money, you can use Cashbee to pay for public transportation and small purchases. Cashbee, by Lotte, can also be used in Lotte locations, including Lotte Department Store and Lotte Cinema.

Railplus Transportation Card

The third option for transportation cards in Korea is the Railplus card, which is provided by Korea Rail. These cards are available through Namanecard vending machines in train stations and department stores across Korea. These allow you to personalise your transportation card by uploading a picture which is printed onto the card. Railplus cards can be used on Korea’s train network (unlike other cards).

Is The Korea Tour Card Worth Buying?

Should you get the Korea Tour Card when visiting Korea? I would definitely recommend getting a Korean transportation card to make travelling in Korea easier, cheaper, and more convenient. Whether you get a Korea Tour Card or one of the other transportation cards depends on how you’ll use it.

The price of the Korea Tour Card is ₩4,000, which is only a bit more expensive than a regular T-Money card, but the discounts of the Korea Tour Card can easily save you more. If you plan to visit premium attractions such as the N Seoul Tower, COEX Aquarium, or Lotte World, it’s certainly worth it.

Finally, the Korea Tour Card is available at convenient locations, such as Incheon Airport, which makes it useful for travellers arriving in Korea who want to use the all-stop train to get into Seoul. As public transportation is cheap, effective, and widely available, buying a Korea Tour Card is worth it.

Does The Korea Tour Card Offer The Best Savings?

I wouldn’t rely solely on the discounts of the Korea Tour Card when planning what to see and do in Korea. There are discounted tickets online that might save you more, such as those offered by Klook, Viator, and Get Your Guide. Sometimes the Korea Tour Card is cheaper, sometimes not.

The table below will show you a comparison between the prices you’ll pay with the Korea Tour Card and Klook, which offers the widest range of discounted tours and tickets in Korea. As you can see, the Korea Tour Card is cheaper only when visiting the N Seoul Tower, otherwise Klook has better prices.

Korea Tour Card FAQs

Finally, here are a few FAQs about the Korea Tour Card, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you. If you have any other questions you’d like to ask, feel free to leave a comment.

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Find out how to visit Busan X The Sky, including details of where it is, how to get there, how to book tickets, what to see there, and when to visit. There’s also lots of useful information about the Sky 99 Grill and Pasta restaurant and why it’s one of the best places in Busan for a romantic dinner for two.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

What Is Busan X The Sky?

Busan X The Sky is an observatory on floors 98 to 100 of Landmark Tower in Haeundae, part of the Haeundae LCT The Sharp complex of towers that stand at the corner of Haeundae Beach in Busan. As well as offering views over Busan, there is also a fine dining restaurant on the 99th floor called Sky 99.

At 411.6 metres, Busan X The Sky is the tallest building in Busan and the second tallest in Korea after the Lotte World Tower in Seoul and home to the highest Starbucks in the world. Visitors to Busan X The Sky can experience panoramic views of Busan and the East Sea at day or night from each floor.

Built in 2019, this is Korea’s largest observatory and besides offering breathtaking views all around, there are a number of other attractions to see in Busan X The Sky. Stand on the Shocking Bridge – a glass floor 98 floors above Haeundae Beach and pose for pictures on the Sky Gate steps.

At Busan X The Sky you can watch the sun set over the city, explore three floors of sweeping city views, relax in the world’s highest cafe, buy memorable gifts, and enjoy a fancy meal out. Here are a few pictures of what you can see and discover at this fun attraction in Haeundae, Busan.

Getting There & Buying Tickets

Busan X The Sky is located on Haeundae Beach, a popular place to stay and visit in Busan, making it a convenient location for visitors and easy to access. The observatory is open year round from 10:00am each day. You can book a ticket on the day or online in advance (which is cheaper).

This section provides information about how to get to Busan X The Sky, how to buy tickets, how to book a table at the Sky 99 restaurant, and some tips about the best time to visit.

Busan X The Sky Details

Busan X The Sky is in the Landmark Tower of Haeundae LCT The Sharp.

Opening Hours:
10:00 – 21:00 daily
(last admission 20:30)

Ticket Prices:
Adults (13+) – ₩27,000
Children (3+) – ₩24,000
Under 3 years – Free

Address in Korean:
부산 해운대구 달맞이길 30

How To Book Tickets For Busan X The Sky

Entrance tickets are required to access the observatory on floors 98 to 100 or to eat at the Sky 99 restaurant. You can book tickets at the 1F ticket office inside the Landmark Tower. Look for the signpost at the end of Haeundae Beach to see the entrance.

Tip: Save time & money by booking Busan X The Sky tickets online – you’ll save 30% vs. buying the tickets at the ticket office.

How To Get To Busan X The Sky In Haeundae

Busan X The Sky is inside the Landmark Tower – the largest of the 3 towers that loom over Haeundae Beach, so it’s not hard to see how to get there. From Haeundae Station, walk towards Haeundae Beach and then turn left. Follow the beach until you reach a stone pier and the entrance to the tower is there. There’s a large signpost outside and plenty of advertising and welcome signs.

When To Visit Busan X The Sky For Blue Sky Views

I recommend visiting Busan X The Sky in autumn or winter for the best chance of clear skies. There is bad air pollution during spring and summer is the wettest time of the year, meaning there’ll be many clouds.

However, I visited in July and there were perfect blue skies, so check the weather as you travel and book accordingly. Busan is a coastal city, so the weather is often unpredictable and changes quickly.

Reserving A Table At Sky 99 Grill And Pasta Restaurant

The Sky 99 Grill and Pasta restaurant is a great place in Busan for a romantic lunch or evening meal with spectacular views. Reservations aren’t always necessary for the Sky 99 restaurant, but they can help you secure the window seats instead of interior seats. If you can understand Korean, you can reserve a table at the Sky 99 Grill and Pasta restaurant with Naver. Alternatively, you can contact the customer service number, which is 051-731-0098.

Available Facilities

On the 1st floor of the Landmark Tower, you will find lockers to store your goods, self-ticketing machines (multi-language) to print or buy tickets, a ticket desk to pay in person, and toilets (there are more at the top). Once you’ve purchased your tickets, you should make your way to the Sky Cruize, which is the elevator that will whizz you up to the 100th floor.

What To See And Do At Busan X The Sky

Busan X The Sky is one of the hottest attractions in Busan and provides many activities and attractions for you to enjoy. You can spend an hour or two walking around the three floors of the observatory, or more if you plan to eat at the Sky 99 Grill and Pasta restaurant or get a coffee at Starbucks.

There are many temporary exhibitions that come and go depending on the season, such as the Baby Shark exhibition that was on when I visited Busan X The Sky. Blackup Coffee on the 98th floor has closed down and has been replaced with another temporary exhibition, leaving only Starbucks.

Here are all the things to see and do at Busan X The Sky (besides looking out the many windows).

Sky Cruize (Elevator)

The Sky Cruize elevator whisks you up from the 1st floor to the 100th floor in under a minute and provides a beautiful display on the walls and ceiling. On the way up, you’ll follow hot air balloons rising over Busan’s shoreline and high into the sky. When you head down again, the lift shows you plunging into the sea with fish and sharks swimming past you.

Shocking Bridge (Glass Floor)

The Shocking Bridge at Busan X The Sky is a glass walkway on the 100th floor that looks directly down to the waves crashing onto Haeundae Beach. This is certainly not for the faint hearted and it’s understandable if visitors here hug the rails as they pass over this jaw-dropping walkway. The Shocking Bridge is a great place for a selfie, looking down from above all the way to the ground below.

Sky Gate Photo Zone

The Sky Gate photo zone is a set of steps on the 98th floor that looks over Haeundae Beach and the East Sea. These steps are popular in Korea and can be found in beachside locations, providing an interesting perspective for photos and for the people at the top. It looks like a stairway to heaven as you’ll standing up high with only clouds or blue skies behind you.

Sky Wave Light Show

In the evenings, when it starts to get dark, the Sky Wave light show begins, displaying colourful patterns on a set of hanging blocks that resembles a stairway in the sky. The digital light show paints various scenes and displays on these blocks, accompanied by music. The light show occurs every hour at 6:30pm, 7:30pm, and 8:30pm and there’s an announcement to let you know when it’s due to begin.

World’s Highest Starbucks

Busan X The Sky has the honour of hosting the world’s highest Starbucks, which is located on the 99th floor. The views from this cafe look out in three directions and there are lots of window-side seats to sit at and take in the view with a cup of coffee. You can also buy souvenir Starbucks goods with unique Korean designs here.

Please note: There was a cafe called Blackup Coffee in Busan X The Sky. However, this closed in 2024.

Sky 99 Restaurant

A real highlight of a trip to Busan X The Sky is eating at the Sky 99 Grill and Pasta restaurant. This restaurant, located on the 99th floor, has the most incredible views you’ll find while eating out in Busan. There are window seats that face outwards, overlooking the Dalmaji Hill area with views to Songjeong Beach and beyond. Discounted couple and group deals are available that include entrance to the observatory. More details about dining at Sky 99 later in this article.

Line Light Isle

The Line Light Isle is a pretty glasswork installation that hangs above the stairs leading down from the 100th floor to the 99th floor in Busan X The Sky. Set against the background of blue skies and seas, this artwork of shimmering glass beads by artist Park Sun-Gi captures the light beautifully and is best appreciated from various angles as you walk downstairs. Watch it change shape, like waves crashing on a shore.

Sky Garden

The Sky Garden is the only part of Busan X The Sky where you can go outside and take pictures. This open-air photo zone in the south-eastern corner of the observatory has high walls with no ceiling, so you’re perfectly safe from everything but the rain. Take a picture with the X The Sky sign or one of the many photo zones in this area, or take a rest on one of the benches and take in the high altitude air.

Toilets With A View

The toilets at Busan X The Sky are some of the most unique toilets in Korea due to the remarkable view on offer while you do your business. Inside the cubicles, you will be treated to a view of Busan from the 98th floor, looking far and wide. The sign on the window recommends putting down the blind while using the toilet, which is certainly a good idea when visiting at night. Are you brave enough to try this toilet?

City Night Views

The best part about visiting Busan X The Sky for me was waiting until the sun set and seeing Busan’s night lights appear. The night time views of Busan from up high are really incredible and you can see how the dark mountains burst through the bright lights in many places, leaving hidden domes of darkness. On a clear day, you can see for miles and spot ships bobbing along on the sea below.

You can see night views in all directions from the Busan X The Sky observatory, but the best direction is looking over Haeundae Beach and along the coastline. You can spot famous sights such as the Gwangan Bridge, Dongbaek Island, The Bay 101, and Oryukdo Skywalk. The other two towers of Haeundae LCT The Sharp complex are very impressive, with digital displays lighting up the sky just below (pictured).

Popular Activities In Busan

Busan X The Sky

See the sights of Busan, including Haeundae, from 100 floors up at the highest building in Busan.

₩ 18,000

Visit Busan Pass

Get free access to a selection of 30 of the hottest tourism attractions in Busan for 24 / 48 hours

₩ 49,000

Busan Air Cruise

Hop on a Busan Air Cruise cable car and enjoy a thrilling ride across stunning Songdo Beach

₩ 16,000

Busan Spa Land

Relax and unwind at Spa Land Centum City, one of the best sauna and hot springs in Korea!

₩ 20,000

View More activities

Dining At The Sky 99 Grill And Pasta Restaurant

Located on the 99th floor in the Busan X The Sky observatory is a fine dining restaurant called Sky 99 Grill and Pasta that serves steak and pasta dishes for lunch and dinner. The main selling point of this exclusive restaurant, besides the delicious food, is the breathtaking views while dining.

Hallyu fans might recognise the Sky 99 restaurant as the location in ‘Now, We Are Breaking Up‘ where Song Hye-Kyo and Jang Ki-Yong have dinner together while staying at the Signiel Hotel (also in the Landmark Tower). At the Sky 99 restaurant, you can recreate you own K-Drama moment.

To eat at the Sky 99 restaurant, you will need to pay to enter the Busan X The Sky observatory. You can either book observatory entrance tickets and order from the a la carte menu, or you can book a lunch or any time package that includes entrance tickets for Busan X The Sky, which can be cheaper.

Here are the latest Sky 99 lunch and any time specials, as of summer 2023:

Sky 99 Lunch Specials

There are three lunch special offers for Sky 99 Grill and Pasta which include entrance to Busan X The Sky. These three lunch special offers are for 2, 3, or 4 people and include food and drinks. Time in the restaurant is limited to 2 hours and diners can eat at 11:00, 13:00, or 15:00.

Lunch Special Times:
Daily from 11:00 to 16:50
(last order 15:00)

Sky 99 Lunch Special Prices:
2 people: ₩109,000 (total)
3 people: ₩164,000 (total)
4 people: ₩219,000 (total)

Sky 99 Any Time Specials

There are two any time special offers for Sky 99 Grill and Pasta which include entrance to Busan X The Sky. These any time special offers are for 2 people and include food and drinks, including wine and dessert. Time in the restaurant is limited to 2 hours and diners can eat at 11:00, 13:00, 15:00, 17:00, or 19:00.

Sky 99 Any Time Special Times:
Daily from 11:00 to 20:50
(last order 20:00)

Sky 99 Any Time Special Prices:
Sky Set (2 people): ₩169,000 (total)
Ocean Set (2 people): ₩149,000 (total)

The Sky 99 lunch and any time special meals come with a range of steak and pasta options, including steak (tomahawk steak at lunch), shrimp bisque, spicy tomato pasta, bread, soup, salad, and soft drinks. The any time special comes with desserts and a glass of wine or vin chaud, too.

Considering the entrance fee for Busan X The Sky is ₩27,000, the lunch and any time sets can be great value. When I visited Busan X The Sky, I ordered the Ocean Set (₩149,000 for 2 people), which worked out as under ₩50,000 per person when you exclude the observation entrance fee.

The price for a steak and pasta meal with wine and dessert in a fine dining restaurant in Korea would normally cost around ₩50,000 per person. However, when you consider the spectacular views available at the Sky 99 restaurant, as well as the great service, this meal out was a bargain.

If you want a romantic meal out in Busan with fine dining and unbelievable views, the Sky 99 Grill and Pasta at Busan X The Sky is one of the best options available. After eating at this restaurant with my girlfriend and seeing the views, I would wholeheartedly recommend it.

To see both day and night views, I recommend booking a meal at 17:00 or 19:00 so you can see day views, watch the sunset, enjoy dinner, and then see Busan’s night views. In summer, the 19:00 dinner time would be best, while at other times of the year you should choose 17:00.

What To Do Near Busan X The Sky

Busan X The Sky is located on Haeundae Beach and is close to many of Busan’s most popular attractions. If you visit the observatory, here are some other attractions and activities you can enjoy nearby, including cliffside temples, family fun attractions, cafe streets, and a cute coastal monorail.

Here are some of the attractions and sights near Busan X The Sky:

Haeundae Beach

Haeundae Beach is Busan’s most famous beach and a popular place for tourists and locals to visit, especially during summer in Korea. This wide, sandy beach hosts thousands of beachgoers and is very convenient as you can rent all you need from the beach supply stores. At night, there are live performances by buskers which you can sit and enjoy while listening to the sound of the surf.

Haeundae Sky Capsule

Located close to Busan X The Sky, the Haeundae Sky Capsule and Haeundae Beach Train are an amazing way to see the coast and sights beyond Haeundae Beach. The Sky Capsule allows a group of people to leisurely travel above the shore, heading around the wooded slopes of Dalmaji Hill all the way to Cheongsapo Station, while the Beach Train takes you all the way to Songjeong Beach, a popular beach for surfing and watersports.

The Bay 101

Located at the end of Haeundae Beach behind the Westin Josun Busan Hotel, The Bay 101 is a yacht club that operates regular yacht tours around Busan’s harbour. As well as yacht tours, the Bay 101 is a fun place to eat and drink, with outdoor dining overlooking the towering skyscrapers on the other side of the harbour. If you’re not taking a cruise, visit at night for the best views of night lights reflecting on the water.

Haeridangil Street Cafe Area

North of Haeundae Station is Haeridangil Street – a cafe area that’s very popular with locals, but often overlooked by tourists. You can find award-winning restaurants and beautiful cafes in this area that serve up some of Busan’s best coffees and desserts. This residential area is very different from the developed parts of Haeundae and has a lot of charm that really needs to be seen to be appreciated.

Busan Sea Life Aquarium

The Busan Sea Life Aquarium is a great place to visit on Haeundae Beach and perfect if it’s raining in Busan. There are lots of fun fishy sights to see from around the world. Top sights in the aquarium include The Mermaid Show, the ocean floor glass tunnel, shark zone, and animal feedings (sharks, penguins, and otters).

Check Tickets

Centum City Spa Land

Described as one of the best sauna and hot springs in Korea, Spa Land in the giant Centum City department store is a great place to relax, unwind, and rest your body after exploring Busan. Located a short subway ride from Haeundae, this luxurious (yet very affordable) spa has 18 different hot springs and 13 theme spas to choose from, as well as spa treatments, massage chairs, restaurants, and more.

Check Tickets

Busan Lotte World

A family-fun theme park just a short bus or subway ride away from Haeundae Beach, Busan Lotte World is packed with thrilling rollercoasters, water rides, attractions, sights, and places to explore. See the themed attractions at Wonder Woods, Joyful Meadow, Underland, Rainbow Springs and other fun areas in the park.

Check Tickets

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is one of the most popular attractions near Haeundae Beach and is located close to Busan Lotte World. This historic temple is one of Korea’s only cliffside Buddhist temples and offers stunning views inside and out. Explore the many temple buildings and attractions and look out over the coast.

Check Tours

Where To Stay In Haeundae

Haeundae is one of the best places to stay in Busan for several reasons. Haeundae subway station and many bus connections make it easy to travel across Busan. There are many sights and attractions in and near Haeundae. Furthermore, there’s a wide selection of hotels available for all budgets.

Travellers love Haeundae for its blend of traditional and modern Korea. Enjoy Korean street food at the traditional market and explore the beach and natural areas, such as Dongbaek Island and Dalmaji Hill. There’s also loads of great restaurants, cafes, bars, and nightclubs in Haeundae.

Whether you want to stay in a backpacker hostel, budget hotel, or five-star luxury, there’s somewhere perfect for you in Haeundae. If you’re only visiting Busan for a few days, then Haeundae is definitely the most convenient place to stay to see many of the city’s top sights and to see local culture.

Here are some of the best hotels in Haeundae:

★★★★★

Signiel Hotel

Conveniently located in the Landmark Tower, looking out over Haeundae Beach, this 5-star hotel offers one of the most luxurious stays in Busan. This modern, clean, and high quality hotel has both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a fitness centre, and spa. There are a wide range of rooms, including lavish suites with views almost as good as the observatory.

Check Prices

★★★★

LCT Residence

If you want to stay in Haeundae but need more room than a standard hotel, then the LCT Residence in the Landmark Tower could be just what you’re looking for. These spacious suites are certainly not cheap, but they provide you with a magnificent home away from home. These 2 & 3 bedroom apartments are perfect for families and groups travelling to Busan.

Check Prices

★★★★

Ramada Encore Haeundae

The Ramada Encore in Haeundae is a clean and conveniently located hotel outside Haeundae Station. This mid-range hotel has budget prices and is a great base for people who want to stay in Haeundae and also travel to other parts of the city. A good choice for couples, solo travellers, and families, the Ramada Encore is a popular option for people staying in Haeundae.

Check Prices

★★★★

Shilla Stay Haeundae

The Shilla Stay Haeundae is part of the Shilla group of hotels, which provides luxury hotel rooms in Korea at affordable prices. This hotel is very clean and you’ll always find good service at this chain. It’s a great option for couples looking for a romantic hotel in Busan. Located right next to the beach, you can relax and unwind on the sand or in the hotel’s outdoor pool.

Check Prices

★★★★

SFX By Felix Hotel & Suite

The SFX By Felix hotel is conveniently situated right outside Haeundae subway station and the 1001 bus stop from Busan Station. This towering hotel looks out over Haeundae Beach and also the mountains that surround Busan. This tourist-friendly hotel offers a range of rooms, from budget-friendly doubles up to family-friendly suites. There are restaurants, cafes, and a cinema on the lower floors of the hotel.

Check Prices

★★★

Toyoko Inn Haeundae 2

The Toyoko Inn Haeundae 2 is a business hotel that has some of the best prices in the area and is in a quieter area just off the beach. If you just need somewhere to sleep that’s close to the beach, then this hotel will be perfect. Free breakfast is included and washing machines are available for guests. Cheap and basic, but good quality and always reliable.

Check Prices

Busan X The Sky FAQs

Finally, here are a few FAQs about visiting Busan X The Sky, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you. If you have any other questions you’d like to ask, feel free to leave a comment.

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WOWPASS is a new type of travel card and truly one-of-a-kind. It allows you to pay in local currency in Korea, but can be topped up using 15 different foreign currencies. Because it’s issued in Korea, it’s more reliable and is accepted almost everywhere that local Korean bank cards are.

What’s more, there’s a package designed for tourists to Korea that offers not only a WOWPASS travel card, but also an extremely useful Korean sim card and 10,000 KRW T-Money balance, which is perfect for getting around Korea on day 1 of your journey to Korea. Full details in this article.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

What Is A WOWPASS Card?

The WOWPASS card is an all-in-one prepaid Korean travel money card that allows you to pay like a local in Korea and pay for public transportation using foreign currency or Korean won. The WOWPASS allows you to avoid expensive fees or bad exchange rates from using your home bank card in Korea.

One of the biggest benefits of the WOWPASS is the ability to top it up in one of 15 foreign currencies and use it straight away to pay for things in Korea with no fees. The exchange rates are better than you’ll find at the airport and you can avoid the problem of having to carry loads of cash with you.

Here are some more benefits of the WOWPASS card:

How much does the WOWPASS card cost? Only 5,000 KRW. That’s less than $5 USD. WOWPASS includes a T-Money card, which can cost 4,000 KRW alone. If you use an invitation code (such as INMYKOR1) you’ll get 0.5% cashback when you top-up your WOWPASS with a foreign currency.

As you can see in the pictures below, Korea is fast becoming a cash-free society with more places only accepting card payments, including buses, restaurants, cafes, and attractions. The need for a travel money card in Korea has never been stronger and the WOWPASS is an answer to this issue.

WOWPASS Airport Package: Saving You More

As well as all the great benefits of getting a WOWPASS card, there is also a special package for tourists to Korea called the Airport Package. This complete package includes a WOWPASS, 10,000 KRW T-Money balance, and a discounted uSim or eSim with unlimited data to connect to the net.

The Airport Package is great value for money as it offers all of those benefits but at a lower price vs. buying them separately at the airport. Here’s what you get and how much you can save:

*The price of the WOWPASS Airport Package depends on the cost of the sim card you get and all of them are cheaper than what you’ll pay at the airport counters. The sim cards are available for 3 / 5 / 10 / 20 / 30 days so there’s something to suit you, however long you plan to travel in Korea.

A regular WOWPASS card doesn’t come pre-loaded with a 10,000 KRW T-Money balance, so the Airport Package allows you to jump straight onto the subway from Incheon Airport into Seoul. Use the WOWPASS from the Airport Package and touch the barriers at the subway station to travel.

A T-Money card is an essential purchase for any traveller to Korea. Getting a tourist sim card is also really useful for staying connected so you can surf the web, use apps, and check the weather. The WOWPASS Airport Package gives you both of these at a discount and a WOWPASS card, too.

In the rest of this article, I’ll tell you about how to issue a WOWPASS card and how to get the Airport Package, as well as provide details about where and how you can use WOWPASS in Korea. I’ll also explain some of the key benefits of the WOWPASS app and share my experience using WOWPASS.

How To Issue WOWPASS At A WOW Machine

Getting a WOWPASS card is really simple for travellers to Korea. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you download the app, collect your WOWPASS and start using it when you travel in Korea. That’s why I recommend it in my South Korea Travel Guide, which is full of essential Korean travel tips.

How To Issue WOWPASS In Korea

1: Download The WOWPASS App

The WOWPASS app is available for Android and Apple and is essential for using your WOWPASS in Korea. You’ll need to download the app to be able to issue the card.

2: Create A WOWPASS Account

To use the WOWPASS app, you’ll need to create an account. This is simple and all you need to do is enter an email address, password, select your preferred currency, and accepts the T&Cs. Click ‘Finish Sign-Up’ to complete your account and confirm your email address.

3: Enter Your Invitation Code

Open the WOWPASS app and there is an option to enter an invitation code at the top of the screen. If you enter an invitation code, you will receive up to 0.5% cash back on foreign currency top-ups worth a maximum of 1,000,000 KRW. Invitation Code: INMYKOR1

4: Go To A WOW Exchange Machine

Bring your passport and phone with the WOWPASS app installed to one of more than 90 WOW Exchange machines across Korea, including at Incheon Airport inside the Airport Express non-stop train terminal. Select your preferred language and touch the start screen. Select the service ‘WOWPASS Card’ to issue your WOWPASS.

5: Select ‘Get A New Card’

After reading about the benefits of the WOWPASS card, select the option to ‘Get a New Card’ on the WOW Exchange machine.

6: Select The Currency You Want To Top-Up With

To issue a new WOWPASS card, you need to add credit to the card. You can do this in 16 different currencies, including Korean won. If you registered an invitation code when you registered your app, you will get 0.5% cash back when adding credit with a foreign currency.

7: Scan Your Passport

Before you actually add any money to the WOWPASS card, you first need to validate your identity by showing your passport. This rule applies any time you exchange money in Korea, whether it’s at a WOW Exchange machine, a money changer, or in a bank.

8: Agree To The WOWPASS Membership Agreement

After you confirm your identity, you need to confirm one last time that you accept the WOWPASS terms and conditions. You can view these on the WOW Exchange machine and they’re also stated in the app. Select ‘Agree All’ to continue to

9: Deposit Cash Into The WOW Exchange Machine

Add cash in your selected currency to the WOW Exchange machine. You need to add each bill separately. The screen will show you your current balance as you add more notes.

10: Confirm The Deposit And Get WOWPASS

Once you’ve finished adding cash to the WOW Exchange machine, your WOWPASS card will be issued. Please note, the 5,000 KRW fee for the WOWPASS will be deducted at this stage. Press ‘Get Card’ to receive your WOWPASS card from the machine.

11: Insert The WOWPASS Card To Activate It

Collect the WOWPASS card from the WOW Exchange machine and insert it into the card reader slot at the front. Make sure to push it in firmly. Once the card has been inserted, it will be active.

12: Withdraw KRW To Top-Up T-Money (Optional)

After you activate the card in the WOW Exchange machine, it will ask if you would like to withdraw KRW to top-up the T-Money balance of the WOWPASS. The T-Money feature of the WOWPASS doesn’t come with any preloaded balance (unless you buy the Airport Package) and needs to be topped-up in KRW. T-Money balances can only be topped-up in cash. This is an optional step.

13: Remove Your WOWPASS Card From The Machine

When you have finished topping-up the WOWPASS and withdrawing cash (if needed), select ‘Finish’ on the WOW Exchange machine and withdraw your WOWPASS.

14: Register Your WOWPASS With The WOWPASS App

After issuing your new WOWPASS card from the WOW Exchange machine, you will need to register it in the WOWPASS App. Select the ‘Add Card’ button and it will request permission to access your phone’s camera. This is to allow it to scan the barcode on the WOWPASS.

15: Scan The Barcode On Your WOWPASS

On the back of your WOWPASS card is a barcode, as well as your card’s account and T-Money card details. Register your WOWPASS on the WOWPASS app by moving the barcode into the camera window. The app will read the barcode and register your WOWPASS.

16: Start Using Your WOWPASS Card In Korea

Now that your WOWPASS card has been topped up and activated, you can start using it throughout Korea. You don’t need to activate it or top it up at Incheon Airport, you can activate it and get the card at any WOW Exchange location in Korea.

The regular WOWPASS card doesn’t come with any T-Money balance (the Airport Package does). You will need to add money to the T-Money balance on your WOWPASS to be able to use the T-Money functions. I’ll explain more in the section about How To Use WOWPASS T-Money Features.

As you can see from the guide to getting a WOWPASS card above, it is necessary to use your phone to get a WOWPASS, which means you’ll need an active Internet connection. There is free WiFi available in Incheon Airport, but getting a Korean sim card is a more convenient option when in Korea.

That’s one of the reasons why a WOWPASS Airport Package is a great option for travellers to Korea. You can activate the sim card straight away at the airport and use your phone instantly.

How To Pre-Order WOWPASS Airport Package

The WOWPASS Airport Package is a great deal for those who want to start their Korean journey with a pre-loaded T-Money card, a discounted sim card, and their own WOWPASS card to spend like a local in Korea. It’s available at 5 locations in Korea, including Incheon Airport and Busan Harbour.

Here are the steps required to pre-order the WOWPASS Airport Package from the WOWPASS app. Don’t forget to enter your invitation code before you sign up. If you don’t have an invitation code, you can enter mine – INMYKOR1 – or you can ask if any of your friends have a code.

1: Select ‘Airport Package’ In The WOWPASS App

To reserve the WOWPASS Airport Package, open the WOWPASS app and click on the blue banner.

2: Confirm The WOWPASS Membership & T-Money Costs

The next step of reserving the Airport Package is to accept the WOWPASS & T-Money Costs.

3: Choose Your Sim Card

Choose the sim card you want to use. Both USIM and ESIM have the same costs.

4: Select Your Pickup Date

After choosing your sim card, select the date you will arrive in Korea and collect your package.

5: Choose Your Pickup Location

Choose the collection point from one of the five available locations, including Incheon Airport.

6: Enter Your Personal Details

Enter your personal details, including your email address and name as per your passport.

7: Choose Your Payment Method

Choose your payment method (JCB, Visa, Mastercard, AMEX, or UnionPay) and currency, then agree to the terms and conditions.

8: Reservation Successful

After entering your payment details and paying for the Airport Package, you will receive a voucher code and confirmation email.

You can reserve the Airport Package any time before you travel to Korea. I recommend doing it at the same time as you choose your flights to Korea so you don’t forget later on. The next section of this guide will show you how to issue your WOWPASS when you arrive at the airport.

How To Issue WOWPASS Airport Package At Incheon Airport

As long as you’ve reserved the Airport Package in the WOWPASS app, you can quickly and conveniently collect your WOWPASS card with built in T-Money and your discounted sim card at your selected airport or port. It took less than 3 minutes to issue my WOWPASS Airport Package.

Here are the steps required to issue the WOWPASS Airport Package at Incheon Airport:

1: Open The WOWPASS App

Open the WOWPASS App to check your Airport Package voucher code. You will need to show this to the staff at the SK Telecom counter.

2: Go To The SK Telecom Counter

Go to the SK Telecom counter in Terminal 1 of Incheon Airport. You can check the location of the counter in the WOWPASS App.

3: Take A Waiting Ticket

Take a waiting ticket to join the queue at the SK Telecom counter. If there is no one waiting, you can go straight to the counter instead.

4: Provide Passport For ID Check

Show your Airport Package voucher code and provide your passport to confirm your identity. The staff at the counter will check it quickly.

5: Sign For The Airport Package

You will be asked to sign your name on an electronic signature machine to confirm that you have received your WOWPASS Airport Package.

6: Receive Your Airport Package

The staff will hand you your WOWPASS Airport Package, which includes your chosen sim card and a WOWPASS card with T-Money credit.

Once you’ve received your WOWPASS card, you can top it up at any WOW Exchange machine locations, including the one inside the Airport Express terminal. You can add cash the same way as you would when you issue a regular WOWPASS card (step 6 onwards shows you how to top up).

One major benefit of the WOWPASS Airport Package is that it comes with 10,000 KRW in T-Money credit which you can use right away to take the All-Stop train to Hongdae or Seoul Station. The next section will explain how to use the T-Money function of WOWPASS to travel in Korea.

How To Use WOWPASS T-Money To Travel In Korea

The T-Money card is an essential purchase when you travel to Korea as it allows you to pay for buses, subways, taxis, and more across Korea. WOWPASS comes with T-Money functions, which means you save money and wallet-space as you don’t have to buy a separate T-Money card.

Please note: The WOWPASS Airport Package comes with a pre-loaded 10,000 KRW T-Money balance. However, the regular WOWPASS doesn’t, so you will need to top-up before using it. That’s why I strongly recommend getting the Airport Package if you’re flying into Incheon Airport.

Travel From Incheon Airport To Seoul With WOWPASS T-Money

There are several options for getting from Incheon Airport to Seoul, including trains, taxis, buses, and private airport transfers. There are two trains that go to Seoul – the Airport Express (non-stop) and the All-Stop train, which stops at several locations, including Hongdae subway station.

The All-Stop train accepts T-Money, so you can use your WOWPASS from the Airport Package to ride this train into Seoul. Unfortunately, the Airport Express train doesn’t accept T-Money, so you’ll need to buy a separate ticket to ride that. It also only stops at Seoul Station.

Here’s how to ride the All-Stop train from Incheon Airport into central Seoul:

1: Go To The All-Stop Terminal

You can take the All-Stop train to Seoul from Terminal 1or 2 from Incheon Airport. Go to the transport centre on floor B1 of the terminal.

2: Use Your WOWPASS To Enter

Place your WOWPASS on the card reader to enter the All-Stop train platform. The cost will be deducted from your T-Money balance.

3: Ride The All-Stop Train

Enter the All-Stop train carriage at Incheon Airport and ride the train to your desired stop. The journey to Hongdae takes about 50 minutes.

4: Exit With Your WOWPASS

When you leave the train, you will need to place your WOWPASS on the card reader again to finalise your payment through T-Money.

The process of using WOWPASS T-Money is the same when riding the subway in Seoul and other cities in Korea. For buses, tap the WOWPASS to the electronic card reader when you enter the bus, and again when you leave the bus. When you transfer, you’ll get a discount on your next ride.

If you are staying in Hongdae (there are some great hotels in Hongdae), then you can get off at Hongdae subway station and top-up your WOWPASS inside the station or at one of several hotels in the area. Use the WOWPASS app to check WOW Exchange machine locations near you.

How To Top-Up The WOWPASS T-Money Balance

The WOWPASS Airport Package comes with 10,000 KRW T-Money balance, which is enough to take the All-Stop train to Seoul and ride the subway or buses several more times. A one-way subway ride starts at 1,250 KRW and short journeys on buses and subways in Seoul will be the same price.

You can check your T-Money balance on the WOWPASS app by using your phone’s NFC reader to scan your WOWPASS. You can also top-up and check your T-Money balance at ticket machines in train stations, as well as convenience stores across the country.

Here’s how to top-up the T-Money balance on your WOWPASS at a subway station:

1: Go To A Subway Ticket Machine

Go to any subway ticket machine in Seoul or other cities. The machine should say ‘Card Reload Device’ at the top.

2: Select Recharge The Card To Top-Up

Change the language settings as you like, then select ‘Recharge the card’ to top-up the T-Money balance on your WOWPASS.

3: Place WOWPASS On The Card Reader

Place your WOWPASS on the electronic card reader. This will be a flat area with a picture of a card, it changes depending on the machine.

4: Add Cash To Top-Up T-Money Balance

Add cash to top-up the T-Money balance. You can only use cash to top-up a T-Money card, which is standard for any T-Money device.

Once you’ve added the desired amount of cash to top up your T-Money balance on your WOWPASS, select finish and the card balance will be electronically adjusted. Make sure you don’t remove your WOWPASS from the card reader until the machine has finished topping up the balance.

If you’re not close to a subway station and you want to top-up or check your T-Money balance, you can also go to any major convenience store (GS25, CU, 7/11, Emart 24) and do it there.

Here’s how to top-up the T-Money balance on your WOWPASS at a convenience store:

1: Go To A Convenience Store

Go to any major convenience store in Seoul or other cities across Korea.

2: Ask To Top-Up T-Money

Show your WOWPASS and ask to top-up T-Money. Use Papago to translate into Korean.

3: Give Cash To The Cashier

You can only use cash to top-up T-Money balances, so make sure you have cash available to pay with. Give it to the cashier.

4: Place WOWPASS On Card Reader

Place the WOWPASS on the electronic card reader and wait for confirmation from the cashier that the balance has been updated.

Whenever you use your WOWPASS T-Money balance to travel on buses or subways, you should see the fee for the ride and also your remaining T-Money balance. This is the easiest way to check how much you have left to spend and how expensive each journey is.

How To Pay With WOWPASS In Korea

You can travel Korea conveniently with a WOWPASS and T-Money. WOWPASS can be used to pay for street food, souvenirs, attractions, shopping, and everywhere else you’d normally use a card. T-Money can be used to travel on Korea’s amazing public transportation, including subways and buses.

When you want to pay with the WOWPASS, for example in a shop or restaurant, you only need to insert the card into the card reader and it will deduct the payment in a few seconds. When paying with T-Money, simply tap the WOWPASS to the electronic card reader and the payment will be done.

With WOWPASS you can pay like a local in Korea as the card is issued by a Korean company. It will be accepted in locations where regular Korean cards are accepted and paying with WOWPASS is really simple. I’ve used the WOWPASS in lots of different locations across Korea, as shown below:

You can use WOWPASS to pay for entry to attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, to pay for goods in shops, souvenirs, snacks, meals, coffees, taxis, train tickets, and lots more. With the T-Money function, you can also pay for bus and subway rides, too.

Paying with WOWPASS is really simple. Most payments in Korea are made by inserting your card into a payment terminal or on a card reader. WOWPASS can be used in both of these situations and the card was never rejected when I went to pay. It’s so easy and convenient using WOWPASS.

Get Cashback When Using WOWPASS

There are extra benefits from using WOWPASS in certain shops in Korea, including cashback when paying with WOWPASS. When you use WOWPASS in Starbucks, for example, you’ll get 10% of the value of your purchase back to your card. That means you’re getting 10% off your coffee fix.

Here are some of the other great cashback and discount offers currently available with WOWPASS:

CU Convenience Store:
20% cashback*

Olive Young:
1,000 KRW cashback*

Lotte Duty Free:
20,000 KRW discount and 10% cashback*

Starbucks:
10% cashback*

BBQ Chicken:
1,000 KRW cashback*

Seven Luck Casino:
60,000 KRW Casino chips*

*Terms and conditions apply.
Some cashback may only be eligible after spending a certain amount.

How To Withdraw Cash Using WOWPASS

Most purchases in Korea can be made by card, which is why WOWPASS is so helpful for travellers to Korea. However, sometimes you’ll also want to use cash to make small purchases at food stalls, leave a tip for a tour guide, or to give as spending money to children.

You can withdraw cash from your WOWPASS to spend in Korea using a WOW Exchange machine. Here’s how to withdraw cash using your WOWPASS app and a WOW Exchange machine:

1: Go To A WOW Machine

Use your WOWPASS app to locate the nearest WOW Exchange machine. There are more than 90 in Seoul and other parts of Korea.

2: Select ‘Withdraw Cash’

Choose your desired language and then select ‘Withdraw Cash’ from the 4 options on the WOW Exchange machine home screen.

3: Insert Your WOWPASS

Insert your WOWPASS card into the WOW Exchange machine so it can check your balance. Make sure to push it in firmly.

4: Open Your WOWPASS App

Open your WOWPASS App and go to the settings (cogwheel). Select ‘Manage Card’ and then ‘Verify PIN at Machine’.

5: Authenticate Your Transaction

On the WOWPASS Exchange machine, you will be asked to authenticate the transaction. Enter the PIN from the machine into your app.

6: Withdraw Cash From WOWPASS

Select the amount of cash you want to withdraw (max 100,000 KRW at once). 1,000, 10,000, and 50,000 KRW bank notes are dispensed.

Please note: There is a 1,000 KRW fee to withdraw cash from a WOW Exchange machine. This is a flat fee for each withdrawal, regardless of how much you withdraw. Global ATMs can charge considerably more for cash withdrawals from other credit or debit cards, often up to 4,000 KRW.

Learn more: Discover more options for exchanging money and ways to pay in Korea with this article about travel money in Korea and whether you should bring cash or card with you. There’s also details about alternative payment methods, including mobile apps and multi-currency cards.

How To Use The WOWPASS App

The WOWPASS app is key to using WOWPASS, from registering your card to checking balances, tracking your spending, and protecting your WOWPASS. You can see the latest exchange rates for the 16 currencies the WOWPASS accepts and see how much cashback you’ve earned.

Using The WOWPASS App To Track Your Spending

Staying on top of your spending when you’re on holiday can be really hard, especially if you’re using a foreign currency that’s very different from your home currency. Thankfully, it’s really simple to check your spending history and see your current WOWPASS balance, both in KRW and your own currency.

The WOWPASS app not only shows your current balance and transaction history, it can also show you more details about where you’ve spent money and whether the transaction was successful, refunded, or cancelled. You can also see where you earned cashback from certain vendors.

Using The WOWPASS App To Protect Or Replace Your Card

Problems can happen at any time and should the worst happen, you’ll be happy to know that you can protect and replace your WOWPASS card at any time by using the app. In the ‘Manage’ section of the app, you can see options and instructions about how to pause your WOWPASS and how to reissue it.

Pausing your WOWPASS means that the balance will be protected and no one can spend the money you put on there. If you find your card later, you can unpause your card and use it normally. If you need to reissue the card, you can do so at a WOW Exchange machine by following the instructions.

Using The WOWPASS App To Invite Your Friends

Help your friends discover the benefits and savings of WOWPASS by inviting them to join through the WOWPASS app. Both you and your friend will benefit. If your friends use an invitation code, they’ll get 0.5% cashback when they top-up. You’ll receive 1,000 KRW in WOWPASS credit to spend in Korea.

My Experience Using WOWPASS In Korea

For this review, I ordered the Airport Package with a 10-day 4G SK Telecom sim card. The sim card works really well and SK Telecom are one of the main phone companies in Korea. You can always rely on their sim cards to provide great coverage and secure network connections across Korea.

I signed up for the WOWPASS in summer 2023 and have been using the card since then to purchase goods, meals, snacks, and lots of coffee in various cities in Korea. The card has worked everywhere I’ve tried it, just the same as my regular bank card and T-Money card, which is awesome.

The WOWPASS app is convenient for checking my balance and I get a notification every time I spend money with the card. I can keep track of my spending and top it up when I need to at a nearby WOW Exchange machine. If I lose the card, I know that it’s safe as I can pause and reissue it, too.

My only criticism of the WOWPASS is it’s convenience outside of Seoul. Most of the WOW Exchange machines are located in Seoul, with a few in a couple of other major cities. However, if I am travelling outside of those locations and need to top-up, then I won’t be able to. I wish there was another way.

However, that’s not a major issue and one that I think can best be avoided by topping-up with your planned spending money when you first issue the card. I saw plenty of people adding 1,000,000 KRW balance to their card (the maximum allowed) at the airport. This seems like a sensible idea.

I hope to see more WOW Exchange machines in the future, along with more cashback opportunities for using the card in various shops. I think the WOWPASS card can be a great asset for travellers to Korea and can make their life easier. It can certainly save them some money, too.

WOWPASS Korea FAQs

Finally, here are a few FAQs about WOWPASS and how to use it in Korea, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you. If you have any other questions you’d like to ask, feel free to leave a comment.

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Korea’s restrooms are a mixed bunch and include everything from high-tech heated toilet seats to traditional squat toilets that might make some people uncomfortable. This article covers all there is to know about going to the toilet in Korea, what to watch out for in public restrooms, and lots more.

If you want some interesting cultural insights about Korean toilet culture, then check out the ‘insights‘ section or use the links in the table of contents below. Otherwise, I hope this article will provide lots of useful information about Korean public toilets, including how to find them and what they’re like.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

What Are Public Toilets In Korea Like?

What are public toilets in Korea like? Are they clean and luxurious or dirty and disgusting? Are Korean toilets the same as in other countries such as the USA or Singapore, or modern marvels like you’ll find in high-tech Japan? Well, they’re all of the above and generally not too bad. Mostly.

This article introduces you to the different types of toilets you’ll encounter in Korea, show where to find public toilets in Korea, prepare you for likely toilet surprises, offer some toilet etiquette tips, and give you insights into using public restrooms while travelling in Korea. Essential reading for sure.

Travelling to another country, especially one that might be in a different continent, can be exciting and daunting in equal measures. You’re about to discover a world of new experiences, places, tastes, sights, sounds, and faces, but also a world of surprises that come with a unique culture.

You’ve planned out what to see and do in Seoul and beyond, but one thing you might not have considered is what to do when you need the loo. Or perhaps you have, which is why you’re reading this guide to Korean public toilets. Either way, going to the toilet in Korea is going to be an experience.

Different Types Of Korean Toilets

Toilets in Korea fall into one of three different categories, ranging from heated seats that you won’t want to leave (especially during winter), to knee-aching holes in the floor that will test your yoga poses. Here are the different types of toilets in Korea, all of which can be found in Korean restrooms.

Luxury Electric Toilets: The king of toilets. This is a wonderful modern toilet that originated in Japan in the 1980s. This toilet features an electronic bidet that has a range of functions, including various sprays for cleaning certain areas, a fan for drying those areas, automatic flushing, and heated seats.

Standard Flush Toilets: The most common type of toilet in Korea’s public restrooms is the standard flush toilet that is used around the world. This is what many people have in their homes if they haven’t splashed out on an electronic bidet. Almost all public restrooms in Korea will have one of these.

Basic Squat Toilets: These are the traditional squat toilets that are basically a ceramic hole in the ground that you do your business into. These toilets don’t have a seat, hence the name. You can find squat toilets across Korea and they’re still used in many countries in Asia and other places.

Which Toilets Are Common In Korean Public Restrooms?

Korean public restrooms mostly have flush toilets with a seat and flush (handle or button) in a stall. For male restrooms, urinals are the same as you’ll find in other countries. Some public toilets may have electronic bidets, but these are usually reserved for disabled toilets and some wealthier areas.

Squat toilets are also still common in public bathrooms in Korea, although they aren’t as common as flush toilets. Public toilets in Korea will usually have one squat toilet for every two or three flush toilets. Electronic bidets aren’t common in public restrooms, but you might find them in department stores.

Public toilet stalls in Korea usually have a sign outside to show you which type of toilet is inside. The picture above shows the sign for a squat toilet (sometimes called an oriental water closet) at a subway station in Daejeon. Standard toilets and electronic bidets will have a picture of a flush toilet.

I’ll provide more information about what Korean toilets are like inside later on in this article. I’ll explain more about Korea’s toilet hygiene, safety, convenience, and comfort so you know what to expect. The first challenge, however, is being able to find a public toilet in Korea, which is covered next.

Where To Find Public Toilets In Korea

If you need to find a public toilet in Korea, the best option is to head to a train or subway station and use the facilities there. These public toilets are cleaned regularly, are free to use, and have a large enough capacity to handle many people at once. They are open as long as the station is open.

Public restrooms in Korean train or subway stations will have a mixture of squat and flush toilets, as well as disabled toilets. The stations in large cities, such as Seoul, Busan, Incheon, Daejeon, and Gwangju, will have perfectly acceptable toilets that are fine to use. Toilet rating 4/5.

If you’re not near a train or subway station, here are some other places you can find a public toilet in Korea. Some of these aren’t open to the general public, but you can get away with using them anyway and people in Korea will do so if they need to. Some toilets will have a pass-code.

Shopping Malls: High-end shopping malls in Korea have the best toilets and if you’re near one, this is the best place to go to the toilet. Department stores such as Shinsegae, Galleria, Lotte, or Hyundai usually have toilets with electronic bidets, regular cleaning, and great facilities. Toilet rating: 5/5.

Tourist Attractions: Travellers in Seoul can breathe a sigh of relief when planning a busy day out sightseeing. Tourist attractions, including Seoul’s palaces, museums, and galleries, generally include clean and modern toilets. If you pay an entry fee, there’s usually a toilet. Toilet rating 4/5.

Bus Terminals: Like train and subway stations, bus terminals are equipped with restrooms that can handle a large number of people. However, in my experience travelling in Korea, bus terminal toilets aren’t as nice as train and subway station restrooms and are typically older. Toilet rating 3/5.

Cafes: Cafes in Korea will either have toilets inside the cafe (if it’s a standalone building) or there will be toilet access in the building (more common). These toilets are locked and you need a code to enter them, which is usually on the door, on the counter, or printed on your receipt. Toilet rating 3/5.

Restaurants: As with cafes, restaurants usually have shared toilets with the rest of the businesses in the building. This is common in Korea and they require a passcode (4 digits) found inside the restaurant. Beware, you might need to ask for toilet paper for these toilets. Toilet rating 3/5.

Public Parks: In case of an emergency, head to a public park in Korea and you should be able to find a toilet (pictured above). However, public restrooms in parks are a gamble and can range from clean and modern to… not so clean. They’re generally safe and have all you need. Toilet rating 3/5.

Car Parks: Another last resort, car parks in Korea might (not always) have a public toilet available for people using the car park (or passing through). The cleanliness and comfort of these toilets depends on the location and countryside car parks can be rather basic. Toilet rating 2/5.

Travellers to Japan may be aware that Japanese convenience stores have toilets that customers can use when they visit the store. While Korea has many thousands of convenience stores, none of these offer toilets. They offer almost everything else, but you can’t rely on them when you need to go.

How To Use Naver Map To Find Korean Public Toilets

The most reliable way to find a public toilet in Korea is to use Naver Map. Use the search function at the top of Naver Map to search for 화장실 (hwa-jang-shil), the Korean word for restroom. You can also search for ‘toilet’ in English. Both searches return the same results (see pictures below).

However, it’s important to note that these toilets aren’t all public toilets and you may not be able to use them. As mentioned, some Korean toilets are available for everyone, but some may have door codes or be inside cafes. The toilet in ‘A Twosome Place’ (below) is likely to be closed to non-customers.

Can you use Google Maps to search for toilets in Korea? Unfortunately, Google Maps isn’t very effective in Korea and often returns unreliable data. It doesn’t show subway lines and the display is not as user friendly as Naver Map, which is why I recommend Naver Map for directions in Korea.

The screenshot below is a search in Korean for toilets in the same area (Myeongdong) as the Naver Map searches above. As you can see, not only does the map look more basic and less useful, there are also far fewer search results available. It doesn’t even show the Myeongdong Station toilet.

To be able to use Naver Map and other Korean applications as you travel in Korea, you’ll need to have access to the Internet. There is lots of free public WiFi in Seoul and other cities, which is really useful, but if it’s an emergency, you might not want to wait to find a good signal.

I recommend getting a Korean sim card for your phone and installing it when you arrive at Incheon Airport. This will allow you to use Korean apps, make reservations (phone numbers are required for these in Korea), get food delivered, book and pay for taxis with Kakao Taxi, and more.

Where To Find Public Toilets In Seoul

The best place to find public toilets in Seoul are at major train stations or subways stations. These are spread out across the city, so you should be able to find one nearby. If you plan to use the subway to travel in Seoul, I recommend using the toilets during your journey while you have a chance.

Tourist attractions such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower, Lotte World Tower, and Jogyesa Temple will also have restrooms which are open to visitors or people passing by. It’s not easy to find public restrooms in areas such as Bukchon Hanok Village, so you may need to go to a cafe.

If you’re exploring popular districts in Seoul, such as Hongdae, Gangnam, or Myeongdong, head to a shopping mall, department store, or subway station to use the public bathrooms there. When you stop for a coffee or meal, use the facilities there as you won’t be able to find them on the street as easily.

Public Toilets Outside Of Seoul

In Korean cities outside of Seoul, the same rules apply for locating a public toilet. Head to a train or subway station for the most accessible public restrooms. Daejeon, Busan, Incheon, and Gwangju all have a subway system in the city and a train station in or near the centre.

Less touristy cities, such as Daejeon and Gwangju, may not have as many public toilets as they’re not used to catering to large numbers of tourists. In areas such as Haeundae Beach in Busan, there will be more public restrooms as there are more visitors, both Korean and foreign tourists.

The quality of restrooms in Korean cities will vary depending on the overall level of development in that city. For example, in central Daejeon, there are typically well maintained public toilets, but on the outskirts of the city, particularly in less wealthy neighbourhoods, the facilities aren’t as modern.

As for the Korean countryside, you may have a hard time finding public toilets. The best options are bus terminals, cafes, and restaurants, as well as any shopping or outlet malls that might be around. Be sure to use facilities when you can, especially if you’re walking or trekking in rural areas.

Public Toilets In Korean National Parks

Korea’s national parks are a great place to enjoy hiking and to see some of the amazing scenery that Korea has to offer. When you enter a Korean national park, there are usually well maintained public toilets that you should definitely use. However, as you hike higher, toilets are more limited.

Some Korean national parks will only have toilet facilities near the entrance and along trekking courses before the main hiking routes begin. For example, at Gyeryongsan National Park near Daejeon, the last toilets are found just after Donghaksa Temple before the main ascent begins.

Toilets are not usually indicated on hiking route maps inside national parks, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any. If you pass a Korean temple or a restaurant area on the way, they might have toilets available for you to use. However, if you’re getting into rocky hiking areas, expect no toilets.

For more useful hiking advice, check out my guide to hiking in Korea. It’s packed full of other practical hiking tips such as how to plan your hike, where to go, when to travel, how to deal with the weather, what to pack, and lots more. It even has more information about toilets.

What Is The Korean Word For Toilet?

The Korean word for toilet is 화장실 (hwa-jang-shil) and is used to describe a toilet, restroom, bathroom, or similar place to do your business. The actual toilet itself is called a 화장 (hwa-jang) and 실 (shil) is a Korean word that means ‘room’. A shower room in Korean is called a 샤워실 (sha-wa-sil).

When you travel in Korea, you will notice that a lot of signs have at least English translations and sometimes also Japanese or Chinese, too. Toilet signs usually include an English translation so you shouldn’t have a hard time finding them. Sometimes signs are only in English (as pictured below).

How To Ask Directions To A Toilet In Korean

If you need to ask directions for a toilet in Korean, you can say the following (please note that I’ve removed a particle to make it easier to pronounce, but the meaning won’t be lost):

화장실 어디세요? (Hwa-jang-shil o-di-se-yo?)

This translates to ‘bathroom, where is?’. If you use this phrase, you should be understood in Korean. If you just say ‘hwa-jang-shil‘, I’m sure any Korean would understand that you need to find a bathroom. Learn how to ask where things are and more in my list of essential Korean travel phrases.

Insights Into Korean Public Toilet Culture

This section of this guide to Korean public toilets covers some of the biggest questions people have about using toilets in Korea. This includes questions about the safety and hygiene of public toilets, whether toilet paper is provided, if there are disabled toilets, and how much they cost.

It also provides insights into cultural differences between Korean toilets and those found in other countries. Do you know why there are metal bins in toilets, or why the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympics changed toilet culture in Korea? Find out all the answer to all these questions right here.

Are Korean Public Toilets Clean And Safe?

Korean public toilets are safe to use, are mostly cleaned often, and won’t pose any health or hygiene problems for travellers to Korea. Korea in general is a very safe country to travel to. In fact, Seoul ranked as the 5th safest city in the world to travel to according to a 2023 BHTP survey.

I’ve used public toilets in Korea with no problems beside a lack of toilet paper or an unflushed toilet or two since I moved to Korea in 2015. My experience with Korean public toilets ranges from relieving times on a cosy heated seat to stinky festival-like temporary toilets at beaches and concerts.

However, bad smells aside, I’ve never felt like Korean toilets are dangerous or disgusting. The biggest danger is using a toilet during summer when mosquitoes make their home in the bathroom. That makes going to the toilet more of an active sport. An unheated toilet seat in January is also not fun.

Korean toilets are cleaned regularly, especially in busy tourist areas such as Seoul Station and Gyeongbokgung Palace. If you’re using a Korean public toilet in a popular area of Seoul or another large city, you shouldn’t have issues with cleanliness besides any mess the last person made.

One recent introduction to Korean public restrooms are displays to show available toilet stalls before you enter. The picture below shows a smart toilet sign with the availability of toilet facilities at a subway station in Daejeon. There are also occupied (red) or unoccupied (green) lights outside stalls.

Is There Soap In Korean Public Restrooms?

A culture shock you might have in a Korean public restroom is the type of soap there. Korean soap is either liquid hand soap from a dispenser or a blue ‘rotating’ soap that sticks out from the wall on a metal pole (pictured above). The rotating blue soap is the one that people might have an issue with.

Is the blue rotating soap found in Korean toilets hygienic and should you use it? Generally speaking, it is not recommended to share soap with other people to prevent skin infections and the risk of such infections is much higher when dozens or hundreds of people share one single bar of soap.

However, the alternative is to wash your hands with only water if there is no liquid soap available. This is not recommended and the benefits of washing your hands with soap vs. not using soap are higher. Of course, the safest option is to bring some compact travel soap with you and use that instead.

A physical bar of soap is cheaper than liquid soap so you usually see these in areas that are not as frequently visited or in less well-off areas. You’ll likely find rotating soap in the same areas that have toilet paper outside the stall. However, this isn’t a general rule and many public toilets have this soap.

The Dark Side Of Korean Public Toilets: Spy Cameras

Unfortunately, although Korean toilets are generally safe and hygienic, there is a serious issue with spy cameras being placed in toilets to record people. A survey in 2019 showed that 69% of Seoulites were concerned about being filmed in secret while using public restrooms. This includes in hotels.

The Korean government promised to crack down on people installing spy cameras in toilets in hotel bathrooms and public bathrooms. However, as recently as May 2023, an Australian living in Korea who shared her stories of spy cameras in Korea on TikTok gained international media attention.

She told the media that the issue of hidden spy cameras in Korean toilets in hotels, public restrooms and even workplaces, is still a very serious issue. I recommend being careful when using a public or private bathroom in Korea and to check for any suspicious looking holes or gaps in the wall.

If you want to know more about the Korean spy camera situation and about the topic of unauthorised filming in Korea in general, this article by Time explains the issue well.

What Are The Metal Bins In Korean Toilets For?

In Korean public toilets you will probably notice a small metal or plastic bin sitting beside the toilet with an open top. The purpose of these small bins in Korean toilets are to dispose of toilet paper instead of flushing it down the toilet, a practice that started in the 1980s to stop people flushing unwanted items.

During the 1980s, people would, apparently, flush all kinds of things down the toilet, resulting in blockages. To avoid embarrassment during the 1988 Seoul Olympics, Korea decided people should instead dispose of their toilet paper and any other unwanted items in a small bin next to the toilet.

The logic of this move was that it was less embarrassing to have a bin full of soiled toilet paper than it was to have toilets that kept getting blocked. Officials also blamed low water pressure in toilets for the problem, saying that toilets didn’t have enough force to flush the paper away, but this was an excuse.

Ironically, the practice of putting small bins for toilet paper in Korean toilets was reversed by another Olympic event, this time the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics. The Korean government said all toilet paper bins would be removed from public toilets in Korea, which started in January 2018.

The reason for this change was to stop Korea feeling shamed by the smelly, dirty toilet paper bins in toilets. Miraculously, Korean toilets were now able to flush toilet paper, which they apparently couldn’t do before. Waste bins for sanitary products and barriers between urinals were also added in 2018.

Unfortunately, despite the Korean government’s claim that these toilet paper waste bins would be removed from public toilets, many toilets in Korea still have them. It isn’t easy to enact societal change overnight and considering people spent 30+ years using the metal bins, it’s not surprising.

So, the metal bins in some Korean toilets are to dispose of toilet paper. Do you have to use the metal bins to dump your dirty bog roll? Find out in the next section.

Can You Flush Toilet Paper In Korea?

You can flush toilet paper in Korean toilets and it has been a mandatory requirement to flush toilet paper since toilet paper bins were removed in 2018. As shown in the sign above, helpfully in several languages, you are expected to deposit your dirty toilet paper in the toilet.

Travellers from countries with reliable sewage systems, particularly Europe and the USA, should be careful when flushing toilet paper in Korea. Korean toilets do get blocked easily and they can’t accommodate as much paper as other toilets might be able to. Basically, flush more often.

The sign above tells you to use the bin and not the toilet, contrary to the normal rules. This was a beachside cafe and I assume they had pipe problems. This sign is a classic example of English not being used correctly in Korea, which you can see more of in my article about funny Korean signs.

While discussing Korean toilet signs, a topic that deserves an article itself, here are a few other signs that I’ve spotted while doing my business in Korea. The first one helpfully shows you how to use a toilet in Korea, while the second has an interesting description, telling you to rush the toilet paper!

Do Korean Public Toilets Have Toilet Paper Inside?

Korean public toilets usually have toilet paper in the stall, but now always. The toilet paper in some restrooms in Korea may be placed outside of the stall in the main area in a large dispenser. You are expected to take as much toilet paper as you think you’ll need and bring it into the stall with you.

This is not common in Korean public toilets, but is most noticeable in areas that are less affluent or a bit more run down. Older bus terminals are an example of toilets that have toilet paper outside the toilet. The city I live in, Daejeon, is a large city, but the main bus terminal has toilet paper outside.

Other areas where the toilet paper is outside the stall include small towns and rural areas, some train and subway stations, some toilets in national parks, and public park toilets. I highly recommend checking to see if there is toilet paper in the stall before you commit to your time in the toilet.

The practice of selling toilet paper outside of restrooms doesn’t happen in Korea. Either there will be toilet paper inside the stall or outside of it. You shouldn’t have to bring or buy your own toilet paper in Korea. It may be useful to keep some in your bag in case the toilet is out of stock, however.

Does Korea Have Disabled Public Toilets?

Korea has disabled toilet facilities in most major train and subway stations, as well as in large tourist attractions and some indoor venues. These disabled toilets are usually located before the main toilets in an easy to access location. Disabled toilets should cater to most needs, but be sure to check.

To find out more about disabled-friendly toilets and other services, check out the Accessibility page of the Visit Seoul website. Here you can find out about accessible features in Seoul, including specially designed taxis and rental equipment. Please note that older stations may not have disabled toilets.

Are Korean Public Toilets Unisex?

The majority of Korean public toilets aren’t unisex and are split into male and female sections. In some instances, such as toilets inside a cafe or restaurant, there will be only one toilet available for all customers, which means both men and women may enter. Be sure to knock in this situation.

Are Korean Public Restrooms Free To Use?

Korean public restrooms are completely free to use as long as they are in a place where the public has access, such as a train or subway station, bus terminal, or park. Toilets in private locations, such as cafes and restaurants, will be free. Generally, you never have to pay to use the toilet in Korea.

The only time you really have to pay to use a toilet in Korea is if you want to use the toilet facilities provided by a cafe or restaurant. You might buy a coffee or some food as an excuse to use their facilities, which is sort of a fee. Or you could try asking if it’s OK to use their toilet, that might work.

Etiquette Tips For Using A Korean Toilet

There are several Korean etiquette rules for using a public toilet, including disposing of toilet paper in the toilet, putting other wastes in a bin, and not smoking. These are general etiquette rules that you’ll find in public toilets around the world. If you wouldn’t do it at home, don’t do it in Korea.

As discussed, the practice of putting toilet paper in a metal bin next to the toilet is one that has been criticised and changed in Korea since 2018. Please don’t put your toilet paper in the metal bins, but also be careful not to flush too much toilet paper at once as it may block the toilet.

Smoking is not allowed inside public buildings in Korea, including inside restaurants and cafes and their toilets. Therefore, it is not only bad etiquette, but also prohibited, to smoke in a public restroom in Korea. However, you may find some Koreans do it regardless, even when they shouldn’t.

When using a toilet inside someone’s house or sometimes in restaurant toilets, you may see a pair of plastic slippers at the entrance. These are toilet slippers and should be worn inside the restroom to keep your feet clean and dry. Just remember to take them off when you leave the bathroom!

Korea’s Unusual Toilet Culture

Having lived in Korea since 2015, I’ve come to notice a lot of toilet-related cultural oddities, including many things related to the act of pooping and poop itself. Did you know Korea has a whole museum dedicated to toilets, a cafe that sells poop bread, and you can get a latte in a toilet bowl cup?

If you want to know more about Korea’s unusual toilet culture, then Mr. Toilet House is the best place to start. Known as Haewoojae in Korean, which translates to ‘a house to relieve your concerns’ – something you definitely do in a restroom – the actual museum is shaped like a giant toilet bowl.

The creator of Mr. Toilet House built the unique building in Suwon to celebrate the foundation of the World Toilet Association. It opened in 2007 and has become an unusual attraction for Koreans and foreign tourists alike. Check it out to see statues, exhibitions, and to learn about the world of toilets.

For gents, a worrying trend with Korean toilets is to have the door open right into the urinals, offering passers by a side view of guys shaking their snake. This happens in both public toilets (usually at bus terminals) and private toilets in offices and schools. Be sure to check the door is closed.

Another toilet-related oddity I’ve noticed in Korea is the habit of putting toilets next to windows. Fortunately they’re normally on higher levels of buildings, but still it can feel a bit uncomfortable (or free) sometimes. The best places to experience a toilet with a view is at Busan X The Sky in Busan (pictured is the toilet on the 98th floor), the Lotte World Tower, or the N Seoul Tower.

One of my favourite poop-related and uniquely Korean places to visit in Seoul is the Ddong Cafe (Poop Cafe) in the Ssamzigil Mall in Insadong. Here you can try a chocolate poop bread with a foamy latte in a toilet-shaped cup. There’s also curry served in a porcelain squat toilet bowl. Yummy.

Working with school children during my time teaching on EPIK, I learned that Korean children have a strange obsession with sticking their fingers in people’s bums. This is called ddongchim (literally ‘poop needle’) and involves poking someone in the poop hole when they aren’t expecting it.

Korean children learn about the world of poop from an early age, thanks to a popular children’s book from Germany, which is translated into Korean as ‘Who Pooped On My Head?’. If you teach at a Korean elementary school, you’re sure to see this book available for the students to read.

Toilets In Korea FAQs

Finally, here are a few FAQs about Korean public toilets and how to find them, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you. If you have any other questions you’d like to ask, feel free to leave a comment.