Essential Korea Travel Tips
Practical information to help you navigate Korea like a local
6 categories · Apps, transit, Wi-Fi, safety & more
Essential Apps
T-money Card
- Buy at any convenience store (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven) for 3,000 KRW (character designs 4,000–5,000 KRW)
- Works on all subways, buses, and even some taxis
- Tap on and off — transfers within 30 minutes are discounted (60 min after 9 PM)
- Reload at convenience stores or subway ticket machines (1,000–90,000 KRW per top-up)
- Remaining balance refundable (minus 500 KRW fee) at convenience stores — card cost is non-refundable
Subway & Transit
- Seoul Metro runs ~5:30 AM to midnight (last trains vary by line)
- Basic fare: 1,550 KRW (ages 19+), 900 KRW (ages 13–18) with T-money
- Early bird discount before 6:30 AM — 1,240 KRW for adults
- Naver Map or KakaoMap apps give accurate real-time transit directions in English
- Color-coded lines and bilingual signs make navigation easy
- Transfer between lines is free within the same station
- During rush hours (8–9 AM, 6–7 PM), trains run every 2–3 minutes
Wi-Fi & Connectivity
- Free Wi-Fi available in all subway stations and many cafes
- Pocket Wi-Fi rental at Incheon Airport (unlimited data, ~5,000 KRW/day)
- Korean SIM cards available at airport (KT, SK, LG U+)
- eSIM options: Airalo, Ubigi, or carrier eSIM from airport kiosks
- Most restaurants, cafes, and tourist spots have free Wi-Fi
Language & Etiquette
- Most subway stations and tourist areas have English signage
- Restaurant menus often have photos — pointing works fine
- Remove shoes when entering traditional restaurants (ondol seating) or temples
- Bow slightly when greeting — a small nod is sufficient
- Tipping is not expected anywhere in Korea
- Koreans use both hands when giving or receiving items (sign of respect)
Safety & Practicalities
- Korea is one of the safest countries for travelers — low crime rate
- Tap water is safe to drink in Seoul (most locals prefer filtered)
- Convenience stores are open 24/7 and have ATMs, snacks, and essentials
- Emergency number: 112 (police), 119 (fire/ambulance), 1330 (tourism hotline)
- Most places accept credit cards — cash is rarely needed except in traditional markets
- Voltage is 220V with round two-pin plugs (Type C/F) — bring an adapter
Quick Video Tips
Short guides by Imagine Your Korea
T-money Card
How to get & use T-money
Trains & Express Bus
KTX, SRT & intercity buses
Visit Korea App & Taxi
Official app & getting around
Dining in Korea
How to order & eat out
Tax Refund
How to get your tax back