South Korea has become a major travel destination in the past few years. Here are ten tips for first-time visitors before booking a trip to Korea.
Over the past years, South Korea has become a significant tourist destination. Many attribute the increase in international tourism to the Chinese term Hallyu or the “Korean Wave.” Hallyu refers to the global recognition and popularity of Korean media, music, dramas, movies, celebrities, idols, and popular culture. Over the past few years, groups such as BTS and BlackPink have gained a substantial international following and fan base, putting South Korea on many people’s bucket lists.
From its history to its culture to its landscapes to its delicious cuisine South Korea is a place everyone should visit once in their life. However, there is much to know before booking a trip to Korea since Korean culture can be much different from Western culture. From checking visa requirements to social etiquette to respecting cultural differences, it is essential to take notes before booking a trip to South Korea. Here are ten tips and things to know before traveling to South Korea.
1. K-ETA Visa
Before booking a trip, it is essential to research the visas, Covid restrictions, and airport transfers in South Korea. The K-ETA Visa is an electronic visa that gives travel authorization to non-Korean visitors. It is essential to obtain this visa before entering the Republic of Korea; it can take up to 72 hours to get the visa. Travelers can get more information and complete the form online at the official Korea Electronic Travel Authorization site.
2. Q-Code
With the pandemic, the world has changed, and so has how countries regulate immigration. We can learn a lot from how South Korea handled Covid-19, and one of the ways they keep track is the Q-Code. The Q-Code is a QR code that holds vaccination information for travelers to South Korea. This is a Covid related code needed to scan during immigration upon entry. Downloading the QR code will ensure more efficient access to South Korea. However, a yellow slip will be passed out to fill on the plane for travelers who still need to fill out the Q-code in advance. Travelers can access the Q-Code on the official application portal to fill out the registration.
3. Learn Basic Words In Korean
There are many things to know before visiting South Korea. However, before visiting any country, it’s essential to research and learns keywords to communicate with locals, but also out of respect by not assuming everyone speaks English. Generally, most visitors will be able to communicate in English, so learning basic vital phrases, greetings, and essential phrases to share will be extremely useful in Korea.
4. Download KakaoMap Or Naver Map
One of the crucial tips before traveling to Korea is to download one navigation app widely used in the country. Many travelers will find that Google Maps is not commonly used in South Korea, where many locations are not marked on the app. Downloading apps such as Kakao and Naver will be very useful for navigating South Korea. KakaoMap will show the fastest routes to attractions, restaurants, shops, and more. Naver Map is great for looking up transportation directions such as public transportation, biking, bus routes, walking, etc.
5. Take Off Your Shoes
It is essential to research etiquette tips before traveling to South Korea. Generally, before entering someone’s house in South Korea, one must take off one’s shoes regardless of who they are. This is also something practiced in some establishments, such as restaurants with floor seating where guests must remove their shoes before entering. Before dining or visiting a particular, it is essential to research and respect the culture by learning about South Korean etiquette.
6. Tipping Is Not Necessary
Many travelers from the United States may be surprised that not all countries have the same tipping culture. It is almost expected in most establishments to leave a tip in the States. However, it is not required nor expected to leave a tip in South Korea. This is true for most restaurants, bars, hotels, taxis, etc. It is important to note that insisting on tipping may be considered rude in Korea.
7. Best Time To Visit Korea
For most travelers, the best time to visit South Korea is during the spring and autumn seasons. This is primarily due to the weather, giving visitors a more comfortable setting. There are many stunning places to visit on vacation in South Korea, and choosing the right time to avoid extreme cold and heat will be beneficial before booking a trip to Korea. One of the best reasons to visit South Korea in the spring is to see the pink cherry blossoms bloom all around!
8. Get A Korean SIM Card
Before traveling to any Country, it is a helpful trick to check if all SIM cards work in that country. With limited service, using one’s SIM card while traveling in South Korea may be challenging. Getting a prepaid SIM card will be very useful before taking a trip to Korea for access to the internet, maps, phone calls, texting, and much more. In Korea, roaming costs can get very pricey, so investing in a prepaid SIM card will be very beneficial. However, it is essential to note that a phone must be unlocked to use a different SIM card.
9. Go Hiking
Most travelers visiting South Korea for the first time primarily plan a trip to Seoul and explore all the city has to offer. However, one of South Korea’s many beauties is its vast mountainous ranges, making it the perfect place to go hiking. Experience South Korea’s beauties and picturesque outdoors by making time to go hiking. It will be an unforgettable hike, from volcanoes to green landscapes to breathtaking sunsets!
10. Papago App
Language barriers while traveling may make it hard for many travelers. When traveling to Korea, the widely used Papago app will be handy when communicating with locals. It is an excellent resource for translating texts, images, websites, and more. It has an easy-to-use design and will be very helpful while traveling in South Korea.
