Seoul 2026 Guide: Must-see attractions, local cuisine, and practical tips! | Trip.com

Explore Joseon Dynasty History

Walk through Gyeongbokgung Palace or Changdeokgung Palace, grand Joseon-era palaces, and see Gyeongbokgung's guard-changing ceremony (10 AM, 2 PM). Stroll Bukchon Hanok Village, where hanoks—traditional Korean houses with tiled roofs—line alleys; keep voices low to respect residents. Sip tea in a hanok cafe or visit Bukchon Museum for Joseon artifacts and history.

View Seoul from High Above

Climb N Seoul Tower on Namsan Mountain to see Seoul's skyline; add a padlock to the Locks of Love fence. Visit Seoul Sky at Lotte World Tower (floors 117–123), the city's tallest lookout—Hike Inwangsan Mountain moderate trails to find temple ruins. Rest at a pavilion or photograph skyscrapers from rocky outcrops. Explore a hillside shrine for a historic touch.

Enjoy Han River Activities

Bike along Han River parks, passing families eating fried chicken, a local picnic favorite. Picnic or board a cruise to see Banpo Bridge's fountain glow (April–October evenings)—paddle boats at Ttukseom Hangang Park. Jog on riverside paths or grab a corn dog from a food cart while watching street musicians play Seoul's riverfront.

Watch a Modern Stage Show

Enjoy Nanta, Seoul's longest-running show, a nonverbal comedy in which performers bang kitchen tools like pots to create Korean rhythms. See The Painters, a wordless show with graffiti, dance, and lights that bring paintings to life. Watch actors juggle glowing props in theaters like ones in Myeong-dong. Try a drumming workshop after the show or pose with colorful stage props, diving into Korea's blend of comedy and art.

Experience K-Pop Culture

K-Pop, born in Seoul, is a global hit. Visit Gangnam's K-Star Road to see statues of stars like BTS. Shop for posters in themed cafes or learn idol choreography in Hongdae's dance studios. Sing K-Pop hits at a noraebang karaoke room. Paint a fan sign at a craft booth or join a street dance battle, immersing in Korea's music craze.

Taste Market Street Foods

Stroll Gwangjang Market, eating tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), mayak gimbap (addictive mini rolls), or sundae (blood sausage). Order bibimbap (mixed rice with meat and veggies) at a stall or sip soju with marinated crab. Try hanjeongsik, a multi-course Korean meal, in a diner. Grab hotteok (cinnamon-sugar pancakes) from a cart, surrounded by Seoul's food stalls.

Shop in Trendy Districts

Browse Myeong-dong for K-beauty and clothes or Hongdae for vintage street fashion. Visit Insadong's Ssamziegil mall for quirky crafts like pottery. Explore Dongdaemun's Doota Mall or APM/Hello APM complexes for affordable outfits—shop luxury in Gangnam. Try on hats in a vintage stall or pick up a hand-painted bookmark, finding souvenirs in Seoul's fashion streets.

Wear Traditional Korean Clothing

Rent hanbok, Korea's traditional clothing with long robes and bright colors, to wear at Gyeongbokgung or Bukchon Hanok Village. Hanbok, worn for centuries, is welcomed by locals as a respectful nod to culture. Walk stone paths or pose by palace gates. Try on a jeogori jacket and flowing skirt at a rental shop, snapping photos in Seoul's historic settings.

Visit Cafes and Bars

Drink coffee in Hongdae's cafes with comic book decor or Samcheong-dong's traditional houses. Explore Hongdae and Itaewon's bars for live guitar music and soju cocktails. Eat grilled skewers at a pojangmacha stall with beer. Try makgeolli, a fizzy rice drink, at a wooden table or dance to a DJ set, enjoying Seoul's cozy and lively hangouts.

Relax in Korean Bathhouses

Soak in a jjimjilbang, a Korean bathhouse with hot pools and saunas. Try pinewood, charcoal, or salt saunas, then chill in ice rooms. Eat baked eggs or drink sikhye, a sweet rice beverage, from a snack bar. Play board games in shared lounges or stretch on heated floors, joining locals in Seoul’s social spa culture.

Walk Along Cheonggyecheon Stream

Follow Cheonggyecheon, a restored downtown Seoul stream with stone paths and waterfalls, starting near Gwanghwamun Square. Once buried under roads, it now has bridges and benches. See November's Lantern Festival for iconic photos. Watch office workers share lunchboxes or kids splash in shallow pools. Grab snacks from nearby markets, enjoying a calm break in Seoul's urban core.

See Spring Cherry Blossoms

In April, cherry blossoms bloom in Seoul’s parks. Walk Yeouido's Han River Park to see pink flowers along paths. Visit Kyung Hee University's campus or Gyeongbokgung’s courtyards, framed by blooms. Eat hotteok (sweet pancakes) from a cart under trees. Join locals taking selfies by flowerbeds, surrounded by Seoul's springtime colors.

Hike Bukhansan National Park

Trek Bukhansan National Park in Seoul, with rocky trails and mountain views. Climb Baegundae Peak, a 3–4-hour hike, to see Samgaksan Doseonsa Temple in the valleys. Visit Bukhansanseong Fortress's stone walls or walk paths by streams. Watch hikers share kimbap snacks or visit a shrine with prayer flags, exploring Seoul's nature and history.

Seoul is a dynamic South Korean capital with historical and modern attractions, including the panoramic N Seoul Tower, the thrilling Everland theme park, the bustling shopping district of Myeong-dong, the culturally rich Gyeongbokgung Palace, and the traditional Bukchon Hanok Village.

N Seoul Tower, also known as Namsan Tower, is a prominent landmark and cultural symbol of Seoul, South Korea, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks. As the first general radio wave tower in the country, it has historical significance and continues to broadcast for major Korean media outlets. The tower is divided into sections including the N Lobby, N Plaza, and the N Tower, each offering various facilities and attractions. Visitors can experience the digital observatory on the third floor, which presents Korea's history through LCD screens, and participate in the "Locks of Love" tradition on the Roof Terrace. The tower's LED illumination at night enhances its beauty, making it a picturesque sight from afar. It is a year-round destination, with the observatory providing a unique vantage point to witness Seoul's changing seasons.

Everland in Seoul is a vibrant and diverse amusement park that offers a plethora of experiences for visitors of all ages. As Korea's largest theme park, Everland features five distinct zones, each with its own unique attractions and ambiance. The park is renowned for its thrilling rides, including the T-Express, which is not only Korea's first wooden roller coaster but also one of the world's top ten fastest, boasting a 77-degree drop and reaching speeds of up to 104 km/h. Animal lovers can immerse themselves in the Zootopia Zone, where they can encounter over 2,000 animals from around 200 species in environments like the Lost Valley and Safari World. Seasonal festivals throughout the year, such as the Tulip Festival and Rose Festival, ensure that each visit to Everland is a unique and memorable experience.

Myeong-dong in Seoul stands as a vibrant hub of commerce, fashion, and culture, attracting both locals and tourists alike. Known for its historical significance dating back to the Joseon Dynasty, Myeong-dong has evolved into a bustling shopping district, renowned for its array of department stores, boutiques, and beauty outlets. Shoppers can indulge in a diverse shopping experience, from luxury brands to trendy fashion items, while beauty enthusiasts will find a paradise of Korean cosmetic shops. The area is also celebrated for its street food, offering traditional Korean snacks and delicacies that provide a taste of the local cuisine amidst the shopping spree. Myeong-dong's cultural landscape is further enriched by the Myeongdong Cathedral and the Myeongdong Theater, adding a touch of historical charm to this dynamic neighborhood.

Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces from the Joseon Dynasty, is a historical gem in Seoul that offers visitors a glimpse into Korea's royal past. With its origins dating back to 1395, the palace has been the focal point of restoration efforts to revive its former glory after destructions during the Imjin War and Japanese occupation. Today, it houses the National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum, showcasing artifacts spanning from prehistoric times to the end of the Joseon Dynasty. Visitors can experience the royal changing of the guard ceremony, explore the throne hall, the floating pavilion, and the royal living quarters, and even try on traditional Korean clothing for a memorable photo opportunity. The palace's architecture and the surrounding gardens offer a serene escape, reflecting the ancient Korean architectural principles and the natural beauty that once surrounded the royal family.

Bukchon Hanok Village, nestled in the heart of Seoul, is a picturesque enclave that transports visitors back to the Joseon Dynasty. This historic neighborhood, once the residential quarter for high-ranking officials and nobility, is renowned for its beautifully preserved hanoks—traditional Korean houses. These hanoks have been carefully maintained or restored, offering a glimpse into the architectural elegance of Korea's past. Visitors can immerse themselves in the cultural heritage of the area by participating in various activities such as traditional Korean workshops, donning hanbok attire, and exploring the quaint craft stores and galleries that dot the village. The village's unique blend of historical charm and living tradition makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the soul of Korean culture.

Seoul's food scene offers a rich tapestry of flavors and cultural experiences, from the communal grilling of 'samgyeopsal' at Korean BBQs and the revitalizing 'samgye-tang' soup, to the diverse tastes of 'bibimbap', the crunch of Korean fried chicken, and the historical comfort of 'budae jjigae' stew.

Korean Barbecue is a social and dining experience deeply rooted in Seoul's culture, where etiquette and cooking methods are integral to the enjoyment. Renowned dishes like 'samgyeopsal' and 'galbi' are grilled at the table, often wrapped in lettuce with 'banchan' for a blend of flavors and textures. With a plethora of restaurants like Wangbijib and Maple Tree House offering premium cuts and authentic sides, Seoul's BBQ scene caters to all, from solo diners at Baetjang to groups at WooSung Galbi, ensuring a memorable culinary adventure.

Samgye-tang is a traditional Korean ginseng chicken soup that has been a staple in Seoul since 1973, offering a revitalizing meal to those weary from the heat. This dish is not only a culinary delight but also a cultural experience, with variations including pine nuts, mung bean, and mugwort, each bringing a unique flavor to the table. At 3Daesamgyejangin, a restaurant spanning three generations, diners can enjoy this nourishing soup alongside a sous vide chicken stir-fry, embodying the essence of Korean comfort food.

Bibimbap is a beloved Korean dish that combines mixed rice with assorted vegetables, often found in Seoul's culinary scene. Originating from Jeonju, South Korea, bibimbap has made its way to the capital, where restaurants like Gogung and Jeonju Jungang Hoekwan offer their own delicious versions. While the dish is traditionally served in a hot stone bowl that crisps the rice at the bottom, variations can be found across Seoul, providing a taste of Korean culture in every bite.

Korean fried chicken is a crunchy and crispy delight that has become a symbol of Seoul's culinary scene, often enjoyed with a cold beer or soju. Originating during the Korean War and popularized in the 1990s, this dish is known for its double-frying technique that ensures a less greasy texture. With variations like "yangnyeom," "dakgangjeong," and "dakbal," each offering a unique blend of flavors from sweet and savory to spicy, it's a savory experience that reflects the evolution of Korean culture.

Budae jjigae, a spicy Korean stew from Seoul, is a beloved comfort food and a symbol of the country's history, often served as an accompaniment to drinks. Originating during the Korean War, it was created from surplus food from US army bases and includes diverse ingredients such as Spam, instant noodles, and American cheese. For an authentic taste of this dish, Budaejjigae Street in Seoul is the go-to destination, with numerous restaurants like Odeng Sikdang offering their own versions of this hearty stew.

Seoul, a major Asian hub, is well-connected internationally and domestically.

By Air

Incheon International Airport (ICN): Seoul’s primary gateway, approximately 50 km (31 miles) west of the city, serving global airlines and budget carriers. It’s one of Asia’s busiest airports, handling flights from Europe, North America, and Asia.

AREX Express Train

 The fastest option to Seoul Station, with non-stop service. All-stop trains are cheaper, stopping at Hongdae and Gimpo. Book via KANSAI MaaS or at ICN terminals. 

Airport Limousine Buses

Comfortable buses to major areas like Myeongdong, Gangnam, or Hongdae. Tickets start at ₩17,000 KRW and are available at ICN counters or online. Pay with a T-Money card, cash, or most credit and debit cards.

Taxis

Standard taxis to central Seoul cost ₩60,000-80,000 depending on traffic conditions; deluxe (black) or international taxis (English-speaking) are pricier. Use Kakao T for bookings. Ideal for groups or late arrivals.

Gimpo International Airport (GMP): Closer to central Seoul, approximately 16 km (10 miles), mainly for domestic flights and select regional routes (e.g., Tokyo, Shanghai).

AREX Train

Connects directly to Seoul Station or Hongdae.

Metro

Line 5 or 9 to the city center; pay using a T-money card.

Buses

 Airport buses reach central areas like Myeongdong or Gangnam.

Taxis

A  taxi costs approximately ₩26,000-₩49,000 depending on traffic and the exact destination in the city.  

By Train

KTX (Korea Train Express): High-speed rail connects Seoul Station or Suseo (SRT) to cities like Busan, Daegu, or Gwangju.

The Korail Pass (KR Pass) is a travel pass that allows unlimited train travel on most KORAIL (Korea Railroad) trains within South Korea. It's a convenient and cost-effective way to travel.
 
By Bus

Express buses from Busan or Jeonju arrive at Seoul Express Bus Terminal (Gangnam) or Nambu Terminal. Book via Trip or the KOBUS apps. Budget-friendly but slower than KTX. 
 
By Ferry

International ferries from China and Japan arrive at Incheon Port, approximately 40 km (25 miles) from Seoul. Book via Ferry Korea.

Purchase a T-money card at convenience shops (such as CU or 7-Eleven) or at subway stations for hassle-free payments on subways, buses, and certain taxis. You can top it up at machines or in stores. As another option, consider the Seoul Climate Card Tourist Pass; it allows you to recharge the card and choose your duration package (2, 3, 5, or 7 days).

Subway: 

Seoul Metro’s 23 lines cover the city extensively, connecting Myeongdong, Gangnam, and Hongdae. Fares are distance-based, paid via T-money or Climate Card Tourist Pass.

English signage, maps, and announcements make navigation easy.

Trains run from 5:30 a.m. to around midnight. 
 
Buses:

Buses are color-coded and serve all areas of the city, complementing the subway system. English route information is limited, so it's advisable to use Naver Map for real-time schedules. Express buses provide faster travel for cross-city routes, such as from Gangnam to Hongdae.

Taxis:

Standard (orange,silver, or white), deluxe (black), and international taxis (English-speaking drivers) are widely available. Kakao T app simplifies bookings. Ideal for late-night trips or heavy luggage. 
 
Bicycles:

Ttareungyi bike-sharing system is tourist-friendly and easy to use. Download the Ttareungyi app for rentals. Helmets are optional but recommended. 
 

Seoul is a city with a diverse array of accommodation options, catering to the needs of every traveler. The city's hotels are spread across various districts, each offering unique experiences and amenities. From the bustling shopping districts to the trendy cultural hubs, Seoul's accommodation scene is as vibrant and dynamic as the city itself.

Myeong-dong is a premier shopping and cultural district in Seoul, teeming with luxury department stores, boutiques, and street vendors. The area is pedestrian-friendly, with main streets closed to traffic during the day, allowing easy access to shops and attractions like the Myeong-dong Market.

Visitors can indulge in a variety of cuisines at nearby restaurants, and the district is well-connected by public transport, with Myeong-dong Station on Line 4 providing easy access to other parts of the city. The proximity to cultural landmarks and the vibrant atmosphere make Myeong-dong a top choice for travelers seeking a lively urban experience.

Gangnam-gu is synonymous with luxury and modernity, offering an upscale experience with its high-end shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The district boasts excellent transportation links, including a well-developed bus system and subway connectivity, making it easy to explore.

Attractions like COEX, Bongeunsa Temple, and the trendy Garosu-gil are located here. Gangnam-gu's diverse offerings cater to those seeking a blend of contemporary culture, shopping, and nightlife in one of Seoul's most affluent areas.

Sinchon and Hongdae are the heart of Seoul's youthful energy, known for their vibrant nightlife, indie music scene, and cultural events. The area is a hub for local youths and tourists alike, with a plethora of shopping streets, cafes, and restaurants. Hongdae, in particular, is a cultural and arts special tourist zone, offering unique experiences like amateur busking performances, art markets, and street art murals.

The district is also home to Hongik University, which contributes to the area's creative and free-spirited culture. With excellent public transport options, including the subway, Sinchon and Hongdae are ideal for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Seoul's dynamic youth culture.

Seoul’s four distinct seasons offer unique experiences, with weather and events shaping the ideal time to visit. Spring and autumn offer the best balance of weather and cultural vibrancy, ideal for sightseeing and photography.

Spring (March-May): Ideal for its mild weather (10-20°C) and cherry blossom viewings (early April) in Yeouido Park and Seoul Forest. Perfect for outdoor exploration, like palace tours or Han River picnics. Crowds peak during blossom season; book accommodations 3-4 months ahead. 
 
Summer (June-August): Hot and humid (25-35°C) with monsoon rains (July-early August), best for indoor attractions or museums. Festivals like Seoul Water Gun Festival (July) and Seoul Fringe Festival (August) draw crowds.  
 
Autumn (September-November): Prime season with cool, crisp weather (10-25°C) and vibrant fall foliage at Bukhansan National Park and Namsan Mountain. Less crowded than spring, making it ideal for hiking and cultural events like the Seoul Lantern Festival (starting first Friday of November) or Chuseok (September). 
 
Winter (December-February): Cold (-5 to 10°C) with occasional snow, perfect for festive lights at City Hall, ice skating at Seoul Plaza, or cozy jjimjilbangs. Fewer tourists and lower hotel rates (except during Seollal, late January/February). Bundle up for outdoor sites like Gyeongbokgung. 
 

1. Prepare for Seoul Entry
Starting February 24, 2025, you must submit an e-arrival card online at k-eta.go.kr within three days of arrival. Visa-free travelers need a K-ETA. Declare cash over $10,000 at Incheon Airport to avoid fines. If you are arriving after 10 PM, the currency exchange counters may be closed. Use Uber for reliable rides, as it accepts cards, or pre-book airport taxis or hotel shuttles.

2. Pay with Cash or Cards
Carry small Korean won (KRW) bills for street markets, small cafes, or public facilities, as cash is often required—exchange currency at city banks, such as Shinhan, for better rates than at airports. Most merchants accept contactless Visa, American Express, or Mastercard; however, Apple Pay is rarely accepted.

3. Get a Prepaid SIM Card
Buy a prepaid SIM card (1–30 days, data-only) at convenience stores like CU or GS25 for navigation and bookings; note that airport SIMs are more expensive. Insert the SIM upon arrival for instant connectivity, as public WiFi is spotty outside malls or stations.

4. Use the T-money Card for Public Transport
Purchase a T-money card at metro stations or convenience stores (CU, Mini Stop, or 7-Eleven) for Seoul’s metro, buses, and some taxis. Top up with cash or cards at station machines, convenience stores, or T-money stands near bus stops and subway exits. Tap the card when boarding and exiting buses or the metro to deduct fares. Press red stop buttons on buses to signal your exit. Save receipts for transfers within 30 minutes. T-money is cheaper than single tickets, streamlining city travel.

5. Get Around Seoul with Uber, Taxis, and Kakao Taxi
In taxis, confirm the meter starts (point to it if needed); cash is preferred, though some accept T-money or cards. Short trips may frustrate drivers, so secure your rides via Uber or KakaoTaxi (needs a Korean phone number for verification).

6. Download Local Navigation Apps
Install Naver Map or KakaoMap before arrival, as Google Maps often provides inaccurate routes in Seoul, ignoring pedestrian paths or transit schedules. Search destinations in English or copy Korean names from websites. Download apps via the App Store or Google Play, and use offline maps for spotty connections. These apps pinpoint stations, restaurants, and attractions, saving time in Seoul’s bustling streets.

7. Download Local Translation Apps
Get Papago or Google Translate to navigate Seoul’s English-limited signs, menus, and conversations, especially in smaller restaurants or markets. Download Korean language packs for offline use and utilize text and photo translation for menus or signs. Practice basic phrases like “hello” (annyeonghaseyo) via app tutorials to show respect. Apps bridge communication gaps, ensuring smoother interactions with locals or staff.

8. Respect Transport and Social Etiquette
Pink seats are reserved for pregnant women, and red seats are designated for elderly passengers. These seats should never be occupied on Seoul’s metro and buses, respecting local norms that prioritize the elderly and those in need. Stand right on escalators, leaving left for walkers, and use crosswalks to avoid jaywalking fines. Accept food or drinks from elders with both hands and do a small bow to show gratitude, reflecting Korea’s cultural respect for age. Keep your voices low on public transport.

9. Follow Drinking and Dining Etiquette
At Seoul’s restaurants, share banchan (side dishes) and soju before mains; press table buttons or wave staff to order—it’s standard, not rude. Use metal chopsticks for food and spoons for rice, waiting for the eldest to start. Avoid sticking chopsticks into rice, as it is considered a disrespectful gesture, often likened to funeral rites. Accept drinks with both hands, turning slightly when drinking with elders, and keep glasses filled.

10. Understand Seoul’s No-Tipping Culture
Tipping is not expected in Seoul’s restaurants, cafes, or services, as it’s considered impolite; service charges are included in bills. Pay the exact amount shown, whether in cash or by card. Offering tips may confuse staff, so save the gesture for home to respect local norms and avoid awkwardness.

11. Sort Garbage Carefully
Sort Seoul’s garbage into designated bags (available at convenience stores): white for general waste, yellow for food waste, and blue for recyclables. Fines for improper sorting are high. Public bins are scarce, so carry a small trash bag and dispose at hotels or stations.

12. Smoke Only in Designated Areas
Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is banned in Seoul’s restaurants, parks, stations, and streets. Use marked smoking zones at stations or cafes, identified by signs or ashtrays.

13. Plan Around Attraction Closures
Book tickets for Gyeongbokgung (closed on Tuesdays) or Changdeokgung’s Secret Garden (closed on Mondays) a week in advance via the official sites or Trip for peak seasons (April–October). Visit early (9 AM) on weekdays to avoid crowds. If you wear a hanbok (a traditional Korean garment that offers a cultural experience open to all and celebrated by locals), entry to Gyeongbokgung is free.

14. Save with Tax-Free Shopping
Spend between ₩15,000–₩1,000,000 per transaction at “Tax Free” shops like Olive Young or Lotte Mart for tax refunds. Show your passport for instant 6% discounts on cosmetics or snacks, or save receipts for airport refunds on clothes/electronics at Incheon’s tax counters. The total amount of your goods for the entire trip should be less than ₩5,000,000.

15. Research Korean Cosmetics Brands Beforehand
Seoul’s cosmetics stores, such as Olive Young, offer vast selections that can overwhelm even the most seasoned traveler. Research popular brands (e.g., Laneige, Dr. Jart+) online before your trip to prioritize purchases. Note best-sellers like sheet masks or sunscreens, and check prices at duty-free shops or Myeongdong outlets to save time.

16. Bring a Plug Adapter and Toiletries
Pack a Type C or F plug adapter for Korea’s 220V outlets, as hotels rarely provide them. Bring travel-sized toothpaste, a toothbrush, and slippers, as budget hotels may not provide these essentials; purchase extras at convenience stores if needed. Ensure devices are compatible with 220V to avoid issues.

17. Save Emergency Contacts
Save Korea’s emergency numbers: 112 for police, ambulance, or fire; 119 for medical emergencies. Keep your hotel’s address in Korean handy for quick assistance.

Korean is the official language, using the Hangul alphabet. Seoul’s dialect is standard, widely understood across South Korea.

English Usage: English is prevalent in tourist areas like Myeongdong, Gangnam, and Hongdae, with signage, menus, and guides in English at major attraction.

Younger locals and staff in tourist hubs often speak basic-to-fluent English, but proficiency drops in less touristy areas.

Basic Korean phrases like “Annyeonghaseyo” (Hello) or “Gamsahamnida” (Thank you) enhance interactions and are appreciated.

Apps like Papago or Google Translate are essential for navigating smaller restaurants or local interactions.

Naver Map: The top app for Seoul, offering real-time subway, bus, and walking routes. More accurate than Google Maps locally.

KakaoMap: A strong alternative to Naver, with English support for transit and driving routes. Integrates with Kakao T for taxi bookings.

Kakao T: Books taxis or bikes in Seoul with an English interface. Offers “International Taxi” for English-speaking drivers. 

Papago: Korean-developed translation app for text, voice, and image (e.g., menus). Essential for non-tourist areas.

T-Money: Manages T-money card balances for subways and buses. 

KorailTalk: Books KTX and local trains, including Korea Rail Pass. 

Subway Seoul (Kakao Metro): A popular navigation app for Seoul's subway system. It provides real-time information, including route planning, estimated travel time, transfer information

Pre-book eSIMs or Wi-Fi for airport pickup to stay connected on arrival. 

eSIM: Providers like KT, SK Telecom, or Airalo offer prepaid eSIM plans (1-10GB, 7-30 days). Purchase online or at the airports, convenience stores (CU, GS25), or booths like Trazy. 
 
Physical SIM: Available at airports, 7-Eleven, or carriers like KT. Tourist SIMs from SK Telecom or EG SIM are popular.

Pocket Wi-Fi: Rent online or at the airport for unlimited data, ideal for groups or heavy users. 
 
Public Wi-Fi is available in Seoul’s cafés, hotels, and public spaces, often free with registration. 5G is robust in central areas; 4G covers suburbs.

South Korean Won (KRW) is the official currency, used for all transactions in Seoul.

Seoul is increasingly cashless, with cards and digital payments dominant in tourist areas. Cash is handy for markets and small vendors.

Cash: Useful for small purchases at street markets or vendors in Insadong (under ¥10,000). Tipping is not customary. Carry small denominations (¥1,000, ¥5,000) for convenience. 
 
Card Payments: Widely accepted at restaurants, shops, and most major attractions. Visa, Mastercard, and UnionPay are universal; American Express is less common at smaller venues. Contactless payments are standard, including at subway turnstiles. Some markets or small cafés may have a minimum amount spending requirement for cards. 
 
Digital Payments: Apple Pay and Google Pay are not as widely accepted as Samsung Pay. KakaoPay and Naver Pay are popular locally but require a Korean bank account. 
 
ATMs: Plentiful at banks, subway stations, and tourist areas. Global ATMs (marked with a “Global” sign) at Shinhan or Woori Bank accept foreign cards with English instructions. Notify your bank of your travel to avoid card blocks. 
 
Currency Exchange: Available at ICN/GMP airports, banks, or authorized bureaus in Myeongdong. Airport rates are less favorable; use banks or Myeongdong exchanges for better rates. Cards and digital payments reduce the need for large exchanges.