Money in Korea: A Traveler's Guide to Using Credit Cards vs. Cash

Money in Korea: A Traveler's Guide to Using Credit Cards vs. Cash (2025) Money in Korea: A Traveler's Guide to Using Credit Cards vs. Cash Figuring out the money situation is one of the first things every traveler does. Will my card work? How much cash should I carry? You'll be happy to know that South Korea is a highly advanced, tech-savvy country where plastic is king... most of the time. The currency is the South Korean Won (KRW or ₩) , and while you'll be swiping your card for most things, cash is still absolutely essential for some of the best travel experiences. This guide will break down exactly when to use each. The Power of Plastic: Using Credit Cards in Korea As a general rule, South Korea is a credit card paradise. The country has one of the highest credit card usage rates in ...

Navigating Korea's Public Transport: T-Money Card, KTX, and Subways Explained

Navigating Korea's Public Transport: T-Money Card, KTX, and Subways Explained (2025) Navigating Korea's Public Transport: T-Money Card, KTX, and Subways Explained South Korea's public transportation system is a traveler's dream: it's clean, safe, incredibly efficient, and one of the most extensive in the world. While a subway map of Seoul might look like a complex web at first glance, getting around is surprisingly straightforward once you understand a few key components. This guide will be your all-in-one resource for mastering the T-money card, conquering the subways, and crossing the country in a flash on the KTX. The T-money Card: Your Golden Ticket Before you do anything else in Korea, get a T-money card. This rechargeable smart card is the single most essential tool for getting...

Understanding Korean Etiquette: 10 Essential Do's and Don'ts for Tourists

Understanding Korean Etiquette: 10 Essential Do's and Don'ts for Tourists (2025) Understanding Korean Etiquette: 10 Essential Do's and Don'ts for Tourists South Korea is an incredibly welcoming country, and locals are generally very understanding of tourists. However, taking the time to learn a little about Korean etiquette will elevate your travels from a simple vacation to a truly respectful cultural exchange. Korean culture places a strong emphasis on respect, harmony, and social hierarchy. Following a few basic customs will not only help you avoid accidental offense but will also earn you smiles, appreciation, and a much deeper connection with the people you meet. Here are the 10 essential do's and don'ts to keep in mind on your trip. 1. DO Use Two Hands ...

For K-Pop & K-Drama Fans: A Guide to Seoul's Hallyu Hotspots

For K-Pop & K-Drama Fans: A Guide to Seoul's Hallyu Hotspots (2025) For K-Pop & K-Drama Fans: A Guide to Seoul's Hallyu Hotspots Have you ever watched a K-Drama and thought, "I want to walk down that exact street"? Or felt a thrill just thinking about being in the same city as your favorite K-Pop idols? If so, then a trip to Seoul is more than a vacation—it's a pilgrimage. The city is the real-life, sprawling film set for the Hallyu (Korean Wave) that has captivated the world. From iconic filming locations to the hallowed grounds of agency buildings, this guide will help you turn your fan dreams into a real-life itinerary. The K-Pop Pilgrim's Trail For K-Pop stans, Seoul is the center of the universe. While you probably won't bump into your bias on the street, visiting these spots is a rite of passage tha...

Everything You Need to Know About Renting a Hanbok in Korea

Everything You Need to Know About Renting a Hanbok in Korea (2025 Guide) Everything You Need to Know About Renting a Hanbok in Korea Imagine strolling through the grand courtyards of a 600-year-old palace, the silk of your elegant dress rustling with every step. Renting a Hanbok (한복), Korea's beautiful traditional clothing, is more than just playing dress-up; it's a wonderfully immersive way to connect with the country's rich history and create truly unforgettable memories (and photos!). Plus, there's a huge perk: wearing a Hanbok grants you free entry to Seoul's five Grand Palaces! For any first-time visitor, this experience is a must-do. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from choosing a shop to striking the perfect pose. Where Are the Best Places to Rent and Wear a Hanbok? While you can find rental s...

A Beginner's Guide to Korean Drinks: Soju, Makgeolli, and Chimaek

A Beginner's Guide to Korean Drinks: Soju, Makgeolli, and Chimaek (2025) A Beginner's Guide to Korean Drinks: Soju, Makgeolli, and Chimaek In South Korea, drinking is rarely just about the drink itself. It’s a social ritual, a way to bond with friends and colleagues, and an essential companion to the country’s incredible food. The clinking of glasses, the lively calls of "건배!" (geonbae! - cheers!), and tables laden with food and drink are the soundtrack to any Korean evening. For a first-time visitor, the world of Korean alcohol can seem vast, but there are three quintessential experiences that form the "holy trinity" of the drinking culture: Soju, Makgeolli, and the modern phenomenon of Chimaek. This guide will introduce you to all three. Soju (소주): The Iconic Green Bottle You can't talk about Korean drinks wi...

The Ultimate Guide to Seoul's Street Food Markets: Myeongdong vs. Gwangjang

The Ultimate Guide to Seoul's Street Food Markets: Myeongdong vs. Gwangjang (2025) The Ultimate Guide to Seoul's Street Food Markets: Myeongdong vs. Gwangjang The heartbeat of Seoul can be found on its streets, amidst the steam, sizzle, and chatter of its legendary food markets. For any traveler, diving into this vibrant scene is a non-negotiable part of the experience. But with so many options, where do you start? This guide will take you through the two titans of Seoul's street food world: the dazzling, modern Myeongdong Night Market and the chaotic, traditional Gwangjang Market. Each offers a completely different atmosphere and a unique menu of must-try delicacies. Let's dig in! Myeongdong Night Market: Trendy Bites Amidst Neon Lights As the sun sets over Seoul, the main streets and alleyways of the Myeongdong s...