A typical first trip here runs about $725 to $1,000 per person for 7 days at a mid-range style, before flights. Get your own number from the Budget Calculator.
- Korean BBQ (samgyeopsal, galbi), grilling meat at the table is a social ritual
- Kimchi, fermented cabbage served at every meal; hundreds of varieties exist
- Bibimbap, tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and japchae are beloved classics
- Korean fried chicken, crispy double-fried, a national obsession
- Street food culture: hotteok (sweet pancakes), odeng (fish cake skewers)
- Chuseok (autumn harvest) and Seollal (Lunar New Year), the two biggest holidays
- Cherry blossom season (March–April), festivals in every city and park
- Boryeong Mud Festival (July), thousands slide in mineral-rich mud
- K-pop culture and Hallyu (Korean Wave), a global cultural phenomenon
- Lantern festivals at Buddhist temples are visually spectacular
Korean is the official language. English is widely taught but spoken mainly by younger generations and in Seoul.
The Korean writing system (Hangul) is very logical and easy to learn basic reading. K-pop/K-drama fans are warmly received.
- Age-based hierarchy is important, always show respect to elders
- Use two hands when giving or receiving items, cards, or gifts
- Tipping is NOT customary and can cause awkwardness
- Remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional restaurants
Latest for South Korea
Updates for South Korea will appear here as they are published. Every update cites official sources, so you can plan on it.