The Korean Peninsula offers a range of phenomenal experiences to its visitors. From breathtaking landscapes to a thousand years of culture, there is a lot to explore in Korea. The culture and traditions of Korea are greatly influenced by China and Japan. Therefore, tourists will realize that Korea is a melting pot of cultures. Korea has outshone other countries in the vicinity and emerged as a nation of modernity. But, if you are planning a visit to this amazing country, then you must note down these Korea travel tips which will help you plan out a smooth and hassle-free trip.
At the end of World War II, Korea dismantled into two nations – South Korea and North Korea. Below is the list of important travel tips related to both South and North Korea. Note down these important things to know before you go to Korea if this place is in your bucket list.
5 Travel Tips For South Korea
We have formulated a list of best Korea tips for visitors which everyone should not down in their planning diary. Go through the list of five main tips for travelers of South Korea.
1. Keep A Track Of Weather
South Korea witnesses 4 kinds of seasons – summer, winter, spring, and autumn. While the summer season causes hot days and winters are chilly, the best time to explore South Korea is during the spring or autumn season. During these seasons, the weather remains calm and pleasant which is perfect for sightseeing. So, if you are planning a vacation to South Korea then this point should be on top of the list of Korea travel tips.
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2. Korean Phrases
Whether traveling to South or North Korea, it is important to learn some common phrases from the Korean language that will help you do some routine work. Moreover, you can learn Hangul, the Korean alphabet. You can watch some YouTube videos or movies to get familiar with the tone and common words of the Korean language. Make sure you do this before traveling to Korea, after all, learning a new language is exciting.
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3. Use KTX
KTX, or Korean Train Express, is the best way to travel in South Korea as it is the fastest way to reach any destination. If you are on a tight budget or in a hurry to reach a destination, opt for KTX trains and save both money and time. Every traveler must include this pro tip in their travel diary while traveling to Korea.
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4. Try Local Food & Drinks
The best way to know about a country is by trying the local food that the street-side stalls have to offer the tourists. There is a long list of popular foods in South Korea that one should not miss on. Every traveler must try their kimchi salad, Korean BBQ, Pajeon, Japchae, and Bibimbap. Apart from this, there are several unique drinks that one can’t afford to miss in this country like Soju, Cider, Hallabong, Omijacha, and Makgeolli.
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5. Fastest Internet Facility
South Korea has recorded to have the fastest average internet which is used by more than ninety-five percent population. Moreover, it is a promise land social networkers as you will find Wi-Fi connectivity almost everywhere. From metro stations to shops, you will get a free internet connection. However, some places do charge for internet access.
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5 Travel Tips For North Korea
If you have chosen North Korea as your destination then take a good look at these useful tips for Korean tourists. There are some strict regulations in this country so take care of particular things while traveling to North Korea.
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6. Tourism
If you are happening to plan a trip to North Korea then you would like to know that traveling in this country is mostly done through local or international guides. This helps to know the country better and you might not face language problems as your guide will provide his or her translational services.
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7. Prohibited Things
Well, you might be unaware of this, but there are certain things that are prohibited in North Korea. The important ones include political material, religious material, pornographic material, and travel guides. Yes, you are not allowed to carry your own travel guide as you will ultimately have to hire a guide for sightseeing. Moreover, telecommunications are always on check in North Korea so you can buy a local sim and surf on the net but the rates are very high.
8. Photography
One of the most useful tips for Korean tourists is to be careful with your camera when in this country. The North Korean government has made some strict rules regarding capturing the photos of military infrastructure, airports, government buildings, and transport hubs. If you want to stay safe then it is better to ask your guide whether you can click a photo or not.
9. Currency
It will be quite shocking to know that local currency in North Korea cannot be used by International visitors. You have to bring Euros, Yuans, South Korean wons or US Dollars for monetary purposes. Moreover, there are no ATMs or currency exchange bureaus in the country so you need to bring enough cash for your whole trip, according to the number of members traveling with you.
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10. Visa
First things first, there are some nationalities that are not allowed to enter North Korea including Malaysians and South Koreans. Further, most visitors are only allowed to come from China. So, if you are planning to visit North Korea then you have to redirect your flight to China first. Moreover, it is better to book your tickets well in advance so as to avoid any mishaps.
Further Read: 7 Incredible Korean Museums You Must Visit To Get A Glimpse Of The Country’s Past
So, now you know all the main tips for traveling to Korea. Both the countries are pole apart while South Korea is modernized and equipped with fast internet, North Korea is way more strict whether in relation to tourism or photography. Whether planning a getaway to Korea for business work or for a vacation, keep these Korea travel tips handy. They will help you plan a trouble-free tour to the Korean peninsula. So, wait no more and plan your sojourn to Japan with TravelTriangle this year.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Korea Travel Tips
What is the best time to visit South Korea?
March to May and September to November is the best time to visit South Korea. The weather is pleasant.
What are the top places to visit in South Korea?
Some of the best places to visit in South Korea are:
1. Seoul
2. Gyeongju
3. Busan
4. Jeju Island
5. Dadohaehaesang National Park
6. Suwon
7. Seoraksan National Park
8. Pyeongchang County
What are the top places to visit in North Korea?
Some of the best places to visit in North Korea are:
1. Heaven Lake
2. Kaeson
3. Wonsan
4. Pyongyang
5. Hyangsan
What are the popular things to do in South Korea?
Some of the most interesting things to do in South Korea are:
1. Korean cosmetic shopping
2. Cable car ride to N Seoul Tower
3. Attend Jinju Lantern Festival
4. Attend a K-Pop Concert
5. Go hiking at Seoraksan National Park
Which is the best shopping place in Seoul?
Some of the best shopping places in Seoul are:
1. Myeongdong Market
2. Dongdaemun Market
3. Apgujeong
4. Hongdae
5. Itaewon
6. Lotte Department Store Myeongdong
What should I buy in South Korea?
Some of the popular things to buy from South Korea:
1. Cosmetics and beauty products
2. Hadong Tea
3. Dried Seaweed
4. Backpacks and accessories
5. Stationary and (hanji) handmade paper
Which are the popular Korean food dishes?
Some of the popular Korean food dishes that you must try are:
1. Bulgogi – Marinated bbq meat
2. Hoeddeok – Syrupy pancakes
3. Kimchi – Fermented veggies
4. Japchae – Stir-fried noodles
5. Bibimbap – Rice bowl
What can you do in Seoul at night?
Here are some of the amazing things to do in Seoul at night:
1. Party in Gangnam clubs
2. Night shopping at Dongdaemun Market
3. Enjoy the view from N Seoul Tower
4. Karaoke night at Noraebang
5. Hangout at 24-hour cafes
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Books, travel, art, music, and dance define Bhawna perfectly. You might find her sitting on a vacant metro platform, engrossed in a book, scribbling something, sipping on some lemon soda or planning an itinerary for her next trip.
