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 ...