Explore Korea Now

 If you're planning a trip to Seoul in 2025 , you may have heard about a new public transportation update called ‘GO SEOUL.’ This rebranding of buses, subways, and bike-sharing services is designed to make transit more seamless—but does it change how tourists get around? This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Seoul’s transport system , including subway tips, bus routes, and money-saving hacks to help you travel efficiently. What’s Inside This Guide? 🚇 How Seoul’s public transportation works in 2025 🚍 Do you need a special pass for ‘GO SEOUL’? 💳 Best ways to pay for transit (T-Money & alternatives) 💡 Money-saving tips for tourists using public transportation 🚇 How Public Transport in Seoul Works (2025 Update) Seoul’s transportation system is one of the best in the world , offering a network of subways, buses, and public bikes that make getting around effortless. What is ‘GO SEOUL’? ‘GO SEOUL’ is not a new service but rather a rebranding of the existin...

 Spring in South Korea is a breathtaking season , with the country covered in pink cherry blossoms, vibrant azaleas, golden forsythias, and delicate magnolias . If you're planning a trip between March and April 2025 , this guide will help you discover the best flower viewing spots, peak bloom dates, and must-visit spring festivals. 📌 What’s Inside? ✅ Cherry Blossom Forecast (벚꽃 개화 시기 2025) – Best places & full bloom dates ✅ More Than Cherry Blossoms! – Where to see azaleas (진달래), forsythia (개나리), magnolias, and canola flowers ✅ Spring Festival Guide 2025 – The best seasonal events across Korea ✅ Travel Tips for Spring in Korea – When to go, what to pack & how to avoid crowds 🌸 2025 South Korea Cherry Blossom Forecast (벚꽃 개화 시기) Cherry blossoms in Korea will start blooming in mid-March in southern regions and reach Seoul by late March to early April . Below are the expected bloom dates for each region in 2025: Jeju Island (서귀포): March 15 Busan (부산): March 17 Daegu (...

Planning a week-long trip to South Korea? Whether you love bustling cities, scenic coastal views, or cultural gems , this guide ensures you maximize your experience with a balanced itinerary, minimal travel fatigue, and seamless transportation . Having traveled across Korea multiple times, I’ve fine-tuned this 7-day itinerary to give you the best mix of must-visit landmarks, hidden gems, and delicious food stops. Whether it’s Seoul’s historic palaces, Busan’s breathtaking beaches, or countryside escapes , you’ll find the perfect adventure waiting for you! 🏙️ Day 1-2: Exploring Seoul – The Heart of Korea ✈ Arriving at Incheon Airport? Grab a T-Money card for easy transportation. [ Full guide here ]. 🚆 Take the AREX Express Train to Seoul Station (43 minutes). 📍 Day 1: Culture & City Vibes in Seoul ✔  Morning: Gyeongbokgung Palace & Hanbok Experience 👑 – Nothing beats walking through Korea’s grandest palace in a traditional hanbok. Bonus? Free entry if you wear on...

I came to Seoul expecting temples, food markets, neon signs—and I got all that. But what I didn’t expect? That I'd fall head over heels for its hiking trails. It started one chilly spring morning when I randomly followed locals in hiking gear onto a subway car. I ended up on a short, surprisingly peaceful trail on Inwangsan, with the entire city below me glowing under the sun. That single moment—wind in my hair, silence in my ears, and a 360-degree view of Seoul—changed everything. Since then, I’ve been chasing that feeling. If you’re craving a breath of fresh air (literally) on your Korea trip, here are 5 trails that gave me more than just great photos—they gave me stories. 1. 🏞️ Inwangsan (for Sunset and Shamanic Energy) Ever wondered what Seoul looks like at sunset from a mountaintop just 20 minutes from downtown? Inwangsan is your answer. 🕓 Time: ~1.5 hours round trip 🎒 Difficulty: Easy–Moderate 📍 Start Point: Dongnimmun Station (Line 3) I’ll never forget watching the sun d...

Thinking about traveling to South Korea but unsure about the budget? While South Korea isn’t as cheap as Thailand or Vietnam, it’s not as expensive as Japan or major U.S. cities either. In 2025, the cost of living in South Korea has risen slightly compared to previous years, but travelers can still explore Korea affordably with the right strategies. This guide breaks down real travel costs, comparisons with U.S. prices, and tips on saving money , so you can plan an amazing trip without overspending! 1. Korea vs. U.S.: 2025 Travel Cost Comparison How much does South Korea cost compared to major U.S. cities? Here's a direct cost breakdown for 2025: Expense Seoul, Korea      New York, U.S.      Los Angeles, U.S. Hotel (3-star) $80 – $150       $150 – $250 $140 – $220 Coffee (Latte) $4 – $6       $5 – $7 $4 – $6 Fast Food Meal $6 – $8        $10 – $15 $12 – $18 Public Transport (Subway, Bus) $1.20   ...

If you're planning a trip to South Korea and considering renting a car to explore the country more freely, you're not alone. While Korea has one of the most efficient public transportation systems in the world, driving can offer the flexibility to go off the beaten path—think remote mountain temples, coastal villages, and scenic countryside roads that buses rarely reach. But before you jump into the driver’s seat, there are a few things every international tourist should know to drive safely and confidently in Korea. From essential documents to road rules and unspoken etiquette, here’s a no-fluff guide based on real traveler experiences. 1. Do You Need an International Driving Permit? Yes. Most foreign visitors need an International Driving Permit (IDP) based on the 1949 Geneva Convention (not the 1968 Vienna one—important!). You must also carry your home country driver’s license. Both documents are required when renting a car and during police checks. 🚫 Tip : U.S., Canada, Au...

South Korea, known for its dynamic culture, global entertainment exports like BTS and 'Squid Game,' and modern infrastructure, recently witnessed an unprecedented event—a brief but shocking military martial law declaration. Although it lasted only six hours and was swiftly overturned by civilian resistance and democratic institutions, it has left many foreign travelers questioning the country’s current stability. Now that one month has passed since the lifting of martial law, many visitors are asking: Is South Korea safe to visit now? Have tensions fully subsided? This guide provides an objective analysis of South Korea's current safety situation, highlights areas to avoid, and recommends alternative locations for a smooth and enjoyable trip. 1. Understanding the Recent Martial Law Incident On the night of the incident, the unexpected military action led to concerns about democracy and governance in South Korea. However, the event was not an indication of long-term instabi...

Many first-time visitors to South Korea are surprised to find that Google Maps does not function as accurately as in other countries. Due to local security regulations , Google Maps cannot provide real-time navigation within South Korea. Instead, locals rely on Kakao Map and Naver Map , which offer more accurate and detailed information . If you’re planning a trip to Korea, here are the essential apps you should download before you arrive. 🚖 1. Kakao T (Kakao Taxi): The Best Alternative to Uber in Korea If you’re familiar with Uber or Lyft , you’ll find Kakao T (Kakao Taxi) a convenient way to get around Korea. Why Choose Kakao T? ✔ Reliable and Affordable – Taxi fares in Korea are relatively cheap compared to major cities like New York or London. ✔ Easy to Use – The app is available in English , and you can set your system language accordingly. ✔ Multiple Payment Methods – Pay via credit card, mobile payment, or cash directly to the driver. ✔ Safe & Regulated – Licens...

South Korea is a fascinating destination that blends modern cities, deep-rooted traditions, and an efficient public transportation system. However, many foreign travelers are unfamiliar with key aspects of daily life in Korea, leading to avoidable inconveniences. As a local who has spent years abroad, I want to share practical tips to help visitors navigate Korea more smoothly and enjoy their trip to the fullest.  🚇 1. Understanding Korea’s Public Transport System: Free Transfers & Smart Payments** South Korea has one of the world's most efficient and affordable public transportation systems. However, many tourists are unaware of the **free transfer system** that allows for seamless travel within cities.  **How Free Transfers Work** ✔ When transferring between buses or from a bus to the subway, **there are no extra charges if the transfer is made within 30 minutes**.   ✔ This **free transfer system applies up to three times** during a single trip.   ✔ To qual...