South Korea is an advanced country in East Asia, located on the Korean Peninsula.
It borders North Korea to the north and is surrounded by the sea: the East Sea (Sea of Japan) to the east, the Yellow Sea to the west and the Korea Strait to the south.
South Korea’s economy is considered one of the strongest in Asia, with an emphasis on industry, technology and exports of electronics, cars and cosmetics.
Its location gives it a temperate climate, with cold, dry winters and very hot, humid summers, sometimes accompanied by monsoon rains.
When to Visit?
South Korea is always fascinating to visit.
Each season has its own magic and character.
In winter, Seoul turns white and offers Christmas markets, ice skating and well-heated shopping centers. Ski lovers will find excellent slopes in areas like Yongpyong and Alpensia, just one to two hours from the capital. Temperatures can drop below zero and it sometimes snows, so pack very warm clothes.
In summer, South Korea is especially hot and humid. Temperatures rise above 30°C, and July to August is also monsoon season, with rainy, stormy days. On the other hand, it’s a great time to explore islands like Jeju, take a dip in cool rivers in the national parks, or enjoy air-conditioned cafés and huge stores in Seoul.
Note: not all accommodation, especially in rural areas, has strong air conditioning or central cooling. Check this in advance when booking a hotel or guesthouse, especially in summer.
Useful Tips
Local SIM or eSIM?
You can buy a physical SIM at kiosks, convenience stores (like GS25 or CU) or at the airport, but it’s much easier to order in advance an Airalo eSIM, especially if you’re traveling with kids or landing at night.
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An umbrella: a must all year round
Even if you’re visiting in summer, don’t skip the umbrella. July to August is monsoon season in South Korea, and heavy rain can surprise you even on a hot, sunny day. In winter you’ll find dry, freezing weather, so a hat, scarf and gloves are a must too.
Public transport: excellent, but don’t rely on Google Maps
Seoul’s subway is one of the best in the world: clean, punctual and convenient.
But: Google Maps doesn’t support full walking or driving navigation in South Korea.
Use Naver Maps or Kakao Maps: both are excellent, available in English and tailored to Korea.
Currency
The local currency is the South Korean won (KRW): and although South Korea is a very high-tech country, there are still quite a few places where you have to pay in cash.
It’s best to come with a mix of credit cards and cash:
International credit cards are accepted in most hotels, chain stores, restaurants and cafés in the big cities.
However, street stalls, small restaurants, taxis and rural shops only take cash.
ATMs are available almost everywhere (including at chains like 7-Eleven), but make sure your card supports foreign withdrawals in Korea.
If you prefer to bring cash, the exchange booths at the airport and in Myeongdong offer good rates.
