Tourist’s Guide to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in Busan

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is one of Busan’s most popular tourist attractions. It’s a gorgeous temple located right along the seaside.

It has breathtaking views and is regarded as one of the most beautiful temples in all of South Korea.

This post is going to give you all the information you need as a tourist to plan your trip to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. We’ll talk about how to get there, the best time to get there, what to do at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, and how to decide if it’s the right tourist attraction for you to visit.

A lot of people only spend one or two days in Busan, so you really need to decide what attractions are the most important to you to see. And what ones you can skip.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple may be one of the attractions you can skip depending on where else you’re visiting in Busan. It’s not like Gamcheon Culture Village, which I think is the number one must do activity in Busan.

But by the end of this article, you’ll have a much better idea whether Haedong Yonggungsa Temple should be added to your itinerary or if you can give it a skip.

top tip

Renting pocket wifi in Korea is cheaper than installing an esim.

Smiling Gold Buddha

History of Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

There is some debate around the history of Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and when it was built.

Most people say that it was built in 1376, but there is growing evidence to suggest that that isn’t true. Unfortunately, the people who claim that the temple wasn’t built in 1376 haven’t come out with a new suggested date of building just yet. So we don’t quite know it’s origin story for sure right now.

What we do know is that during Japan’s occupation of Korea from 1592-1598, the temple was destroyed.

The temple was left in ruins for hundreds of years until it was rebuilt in the 1930s.

The temple has remained relatively unchanged since the rebuilding in the early 1930s with only maintenance being performed.

So, when you visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, you’re not visiting a very old temple. You’re visiting a reconstruction of a very old temple. The temple you’re visiting is less than 100 years old.

Not that that matters. It’s a beautiful temple with an interesting history and perfect backdrop. But it’s something to keep in mind. You don’t realize you’re visiting a fairly new temple when you’re there. It feels like you’re visiting the original temple that was built hundreds of years ago.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

What to do at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is first and foremost a place of worship. A lot of the people you see at the temple are there to worship.

It’s important for you as a tourist try to stay out of the way as much as possible and respect the people who are there for religious reasons.

I’m not saying don’t explore the temple and have an amazing time. I’m just saying be respectful of the people around you.

Don’t walk in front of anybody worshipping, don’t take photos of people you don’t have permission to take photos of, and if there are spots that say no photos, respect that.

No that we have the basic respect ground rules out of the way, let’s talk about what you can expect to see and do at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.

There are three different sections to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

  • The main temple area
  • The Great Goddess Buddha (up a small set of stairs)
  • Golden Jijang Buddha

All three parts of the temple are worth visiting.

The most famous part of the temple is the Laughing Golden Buddha in the main temple area. It’s a huge golden Buddha with an amazing laughing facial feature. It’s not a super common facial feature to see on Buddha, which is why it’s so famous.

You shouldn’t miss visiting the Golden Jijang Buddha. It’s separated from the rest of the temple. It’s partway up back up the staircase to the exit (we’ll talk about the staircase in the accessibility portion of this article).

The section of the temple that holds the Golden Jijang Buddha gives you the best view of the main temple. You’re able to see how it looks right against the seaside.

It’s the viewpoint that gives you the breathtaking photos that come up when you search for Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.

When to Visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is very busy. It’s busy all day every day.

There won’t be a time you visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple that you’re not fighting the crowds. That’s the major downside of the temple.

That being said, the earlier you get there the less crowds you have to deal with.

I got there around 9am. It was already quite busy, but it was a lot quieter than it was when I left at around 11am.

When I left, there were lines of people at the entrance to the temple waiting to be allowed to go down the stairs to get to the main temple.

I suggest getting to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple between 8am and 9am to avoid as much of the crowds as possible.

You can go earlier, but it would require a very early start to your day unless you’re staying in the Haeundae Beach area.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

How Long Should I Spend at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple?

I suggest planning to spend between 60 and 90 minutes at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.

This gives you time to see everything the temple has to offer without feeling rushed. Some people may get frustrated with the crowds and want to get in and out as quickly as possible, but most people will want to experience everything the temple has to offer.

How to Get to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

It’s always a bit tough for my to give you directions on how to get somewhere specific because I don’t know where you’re staying.

For the purposes of this article, I’m going to assume you’re staying in either Seomyeon or near Haeundae Beach.

Those are two of the most popular areas to stay in Busan. Even if you’re not staying in one of those areas, just pop Haedong Yonggungsa Temple into your Google Maps, and you’ll find the best route.

Note: I know Naver Maps is the best option for people walking around Korea, but Google Maps works perfectly for public transportation. I don’t love Naver Maps and the interface, so I prefer to use Google Maps where I can in South Korea.

Travelling to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple from Seomyeon

There are two ways you can travel to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple from Seomyeon (my preferred area to stay in Busan).

  • Train
  • Taxi

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is only 18km from Seomyeong, but that doesn’t mean it’s quick to get to.

It definitely isn’t. It took me close to two hours to get there because of how long the transfer from the first train to the second train took.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Train

The first thing you’re going to do is jump on subway Line 1 at Seomyeong Station. Ride that all the way to Bujeon Station.

Get off the train at Bujeon Station and transfer to Donghae Line. Ride that all the way to OSIRIA Station.

When you get off the train, you’ll have to walk about 30 minutes to get to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.

Follow the crowd of people because everybody is walking in the same direction.

You’ll walk past Lotte World Busan. Keep walking straight for quite a while. You’ll get to a point where you’ll be facing a bunch of stores/cafes.

Turn left there. Walk for quite a while. Then turn right when you see the sign for Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.

Follow the sidewalk you turn right onto, and you’ll walk directly to the entrance of Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.

Google Maps suggests it takes about 1.5 hours to travel from Seomyeong to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, but that is only if you’re able to transfer immediately to your second train.

If you just miss it like I did, you’ll have to wait another 28 minutes for the next train to show up.

You can take bus 1001 from OSIRIA Station to just outside Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. If you do that, you’ll just have to walk down the last sidewalk path to the temple, which takes about 10 minutes.

Top Tip

Get a T-Money card at the start of your Korean trip to save time and money on public transportation.

Taxi

The quickest way to travel to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is by taking a taxi. Taxis rides are very affordable in Korea, and it saves you a lot of time.

I honestly wish I took a taxi instead of the train. The train was not worth the hassle.

A taxi will take about 20 minutes and cost about $25 to $31 depending on the amount of traffic and lights you hit.

Trust me when I say it’s worth the convenience!

Travelling to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple from Haeundae Beach

Haeundae Beach is only 7km from Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, so it’s much easier to travel between the two.

You can either take a bus or a taxi.

Bus

The bus is the most affordable way to travel from Haeundae Beach to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.

You need to get on bus 1003 at Songjeong Beach Station then ride it all the way to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. No transfer required. You will to walk the last little way to the temple on foot, but it only takes about 10 minutes.

The downside to taking the bus is that it’s about a 30 minute walk to the bus station from wherever you’re staying in the Haeundae Beach area.

It’s a bit annoying, but at least it’s a beautiful walk!

Once you get tot he bus stop, it’s only a 10 minute bus ride to the temple. Buses tend to run every 15 minutes, so you shouldn’t have to wait long to catch a bus.

Taxi

Taking a taxi is going to be the quickest and most convenient way to travel to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple from Haeundae Beach.

It takes less than 10 minutes and will cost you about $15.

That’s very affordable. It’s worth the convenience of not having to take a long walk to and from the bus station in my opinion.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

What Else is Around Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Haeundae Beach

The temple is only 7km from Haeundae Beach, which is arguably Busan’s most famous tourist attraction.

There are countless things to do at Haeundae Beach. The most popular ones are:

  • Haeundae Sky Capsule
  • Haeundae Beach Train
  • Tons and tons of delicious food
  • Beach and water activities

If you want to take the sky capsule, you have to make your reservation online in advance. It sells out super quickly.

You can purchase your ticket at the ticket booth on the same day you want to ride it. You have to get there early in the morning if you do that though. Otherwise it’ll be sold out if you show up in the afternoon.

Lotte World Busan

Lotte World Busan is within walking distance of Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. So, if you’re planning on visiting Lotte World while in Busan, you should lump the two together and do them on the same day.

Unlike Lotte World in Seoul, Lotte World Busan is outdoors instead of indoors.

There are more rides in Busan than there are in Seoul, and the rides tend to be more thrilling. There are still plenty of rides for children as well.

You save money by purchasing your ticket online in advance. You don’t have to book it very far in advance. The night before you plan to visit or even the morning of your visit is good enough.

Is Haedong Yonggungsa Temple Worth Visiting?

This is a bit tough for me to answer because I have conflicting feelings.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is beautiful. It’s one of the most beautiful temples I’ve every seen.

However, it’s also super busy.

Being shoulder to shoulder with countless people and having to shuffle along to find a spot to admire the temple takes a bit of the fun out of it.

I left Haedong Yonggungsa Temple with very conflicting feelings. I was glad I saw the temple, but I knew I’d never be back. Solely due to the crowds. You can’t get away from them no matter when you visit the temple.

My Honest Opinion

So, here are my honest thoughts on whether you should visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.

If you’re visiting Haeundae Beach or Lotte World Busan, it’s 100% worth the time to visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.

If you’re not visiting that part of Busan, I don’t think making the trek just to visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is worth it. Beomeosa Temple is easier to get to and less busy. It’s not quite as beautiful as Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, but I think it’s the best temple in Busan.

Now, just because I don’t think Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is worth the effort of going all the way there just to see it and nothing else in the region doesn’t mean you’ll feel the same way.

The tough part about telling you whether or not something is worth visiting is that it’s a completely personal choice.

Everybody has certain things they like doing and certain things they prioritize over everything else. Visiting Haedong Yonggungsa Temple may be the most important part of your trip to Busan even if you know there will be tons of people there.

The important thing is you know what to expect. Knowing that you’ll be surrounded by lots of people and not have a calm and relaxing experience helps you prepare.

It’s definitely something I wish I knew before visiting Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. I may have left my visit less stressed and with a more positive experience if I knew what I was getting into.

You’re already way ahead of me in that regard!

I knew there were going to be people at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, but I had no idea it was going to be as crowded as it was.

Knowing what to expect helps a lot when it comes to enjoyment levels, so you may find you love Haedong Yonggungsa Temple more than I did simply because you knew what to expect out of your visit.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
Crowds at 9am walking down the 108 stairs to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Is Haedong Yonggungsa Temple Accessible?

No. Unfortunately, Haedong Yonggungsa Templee is not accessible.

You have to walk down 108 stairs from the entrance to the temple to get to the main temple. Then you have to walk back up those 108 stairs to leave the temple.

There is no way around walking up and down the stairs. There is no elevator and no ramp to make it more accessible.

It’s unfortunate that the temple isn’t accessible and not everybody can enjoy it.

There are plenty of older people with mobility issues who visit Haedong Yonggung Temple. They stay to the side of the stairs and take their time walk up and down them.

So, if you’re slower, you’re still able to visit the temple.

But if you have no ability to walk up and down 108 stairs, then you won’t be able to enjoy Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.

When is Haedong Yonggungsa Temple Open?

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is open every day from 5am to 8pm.

Sometimes the hours change slightly on national or religious holidays, but the temple will still be open.

You can pretty much guarantee that if you show up between 5am and 8pm, you’ll be able to visit the temple. It’ll just be quite a bit busier on weekends and holidays.

Is there an Entrance Fee?

Nope! Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is completely free to visit.

There are places where you’re able to make a donation to the temple. It isn’t required, and nobody will pressure you to make a donation.

There are lots of souvenir stalls and food stalls at the entrance to the temple. Bring a little cash in case you want to grab a quick snack or drink after you visit the temple.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Can I Take a Tour to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple?

Yes! There is a fabulous Busan day tour that includes a trip to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.

It’s a very busy tour, so you’ll be tired at the end of the day. But it’s a great way for people who don’t have much time in Busan to experience the city’s highlights.

The tour takes you to:

  • Haedong Yonggungsa Temple
  • Haeundae Beach
  • Gamcheon Culture Village

You even get a ride in a sky capsule included in your tour!

As I said, it’s a very busy day, but it’s worth it if you only have one day to explore Busan. Plus the tour is super affordable and makes getting around Busan way more convenient. Because Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Haeundae Beach, and Gamcheon Culture Village aren’t in the most convenient locations.

The Importance of Internet Safety

You rely on public wifi when you travel, and that puts you at a higher risk of having your personal online information stolen.

Even if you’re using a wifi egg or esim, you rely on public wifi at night at the hotel at a minimum. You’re leaving your online information at risk of being stolen, and this includes your banking information.

Trust me when I tell you that you don’t want the headache of cancelling bank cards while abroad because someone stole your banking information.

The only way to keep your online information safe when using public wifi is by installing a VPN on your devices.

A VPN essentially puts an invisible forcefield around your devices that makes it impossible for prying eyes to see your personal information. It makes using public wifi just as safe as using your home wifi where you’re the only person who knows the password.

I always say that if you can afford to travel, you can afford to protect your private online data with a VPN.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

My Favourite VPN

I’ve used a lot of different VPNs over my many years of travel. I hated most of them.

VPNs are notorious for slowing down your internet speed a lot. Most of the time I would get so frustrated with how slow my internet was and turn off my VPN. This put my at risk of having my information stolen, but I didn’t care because I wanted a decent internet speed.

That all changed when I started using NordVPN.

NordVPN is the fastest VPN on the market, and you can really feel the difference compared to other VPN providers.

I’ve been using NordVPN since 2018 and have never once felt a slowdown in the internet speed. And I put my internet through a lot of tests with blogging and video editing.

You can protect up to six devices with a single NordVPN subscription, so you can secure all your devices with one account.

The best part is how affordable NordVPN is. A two-year subscription costs less per month than a single Starbuck’s latte!

That’s a super small price to pay for the peace of mind you get knowing all your personal and private online information is safe and secure from prying eyes.

Conclusion

Holy moly. This article was way longer than I intended it to be. I guess there is a lot you need to know about visiting Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.

Hopefully I didn’t overwhelm you and you now have a better idea whether you want to visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. And if you do, how to best plan your visit.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is one of the most unique and beautiful temples in all of South Korea.

That’s why it’s so busy, which is also part of it’s downfall. If there weren’t shoulder to shoulder crowds all day every day, I’d have no problem wholeheartedly suggesting you visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.

It’s the crowds that make it harder to recommend that you must add Haedong Yonggungsa Temple to your Busan itinerary.

The crowds and how difficult and time consuming it is to get to the temple with public transportation.

I’m normally a really positive person, but I’m also honest.

Haedong Yonggungsa Temple wasn’t everything I wanted it to be. I don’t want you to trek all the way out there and be disappointed with your experience like I was.

However, now that you know to expect the crowds, you’re better able to prepare for your visit. You’ll have a realistic idea of what to expect, and you can go into your visit with your patience fully loaded and ready to use.

I think if I had been more prepared for the crowds, I would have enjoyed my time at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple way more than I did.

Easily Travel from Incheon Airport to Seoul

If you’re travelling to South Korea, there is a really good chance you’ll land in Incheon and then need to figure out how to travel from Incheon Airport to Seoul.

Incheon Airport is the biggest and busiest airport in South Korea. It handles the majority of the international flights arriving in Korea- especially long-haul international flights. Some shorter international flights to land in Gimpo, Busan, or Jeju, but the majority of flights land at Incheon.

Incheon Airport isn’t anywhere near central Seoul where you’ll likely be staying as a tourist.

That means you need to know how you’re travelling from Incheon Airport to Seoul before you arrive in Korea. Otherwise, you’ll be a bit like a chicken with it’s head cut off trying to figure it out on the fly.

There are four main ways you can travel from Incheon Airport to Seoul. You can take a train, a bus, a taxi, or arrange a private transfer.

All four methods have their pros and cons. I’ve used every option available, so I think I’m in a unique position to help you figure out exactly the best way to travel from Incheon to Seoul for you and your unique travel needs.

Because just because one form of transportation works best for someone doesn’t mean it’ll work best for you.

There are lots of factors to consider, and I’m here to help you figure it out and make the best decision for you and your travel needs and style.

Tourist’s guide to Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul

Seoul, South Korea

General Information About Travelling from Incheon to Seoul

The first thing that’s important to know about travelling to Seoul from Incheon Airport is that none of the options are all that expensive. Especially comparing it to it’s neighbour Japan where your options are limited because taxis and private transfers are super expensive.

Most people who aren’t on a super strict budget will be able to choose whatever option suits them best without too much worry about not being able to afford it.

Even when I was backpacking on a super tight budget, I chose to take a taxi from Incheon Airport to Seoul the first time I visited the city. It wasn’t the best option for my budget, but it was the best choice for me at the time as someone who had never been to Seoul before, was travelling alone, and had only had three or so hours of sleep the night before.

The next thing you need to know is that getting from the airport to central Seoul takes a long time.

Incheon Airport is 48.6km away from Seoul Station. No matter what form of transportation you choose, expect to be on it for a while. It’ll take at least an hour of travel time once you get on the train, bus, or in the car.

I normally recommend that people be prepared to arrive at their hotel or Airbnb three hours after they arrive. Customs normally takes 45 minutes to an hour, then you have to get your bags, and then find your way to your chosen method of transportation.

I guess what I’m trying to say is don’t expect to get to your hotel in Seoul anytime soon after you land in Korea. Give yourself time and be prepared.

The journey to your hotel in Seoul will be easy and painless, but it’ll still take time.

The last thing you need to know is that the airport is very well labelled. There are signs everywhere directing you where to go for each form of transportation.

Even though Incheon is a huge airport, you should be able to navigate it and likely won’t get lost. If you do get lost, there are maps everywhere and information booths that you can ask for help at.

top tip

Pre-order pocket wifi on Klook to save money and quickly pick up your pocket wifi at Incheon Airport!

Travelling from Incheon Airport to Seoul by Train

If you were on travel TikTok in 2022, you probably saw that everybody was taking the train from Incheon to Seoul, so that’s what I decided to do on my trip to Seoul in 2022.

The train is the least expensive way to travel from Incheon to Seoul.

If you purchase your ticket in advance through Klook, you save a little bit of money compared to purchasing your ticket when you arrive at Incheon.

All you have to do is go to a ticket machine near the train station, scan your pre-bought ticket or type in your booking code, select your time (or select next train), and then you’ll get a physical ticket from the ticket machine. Use that ticket to enter the train platform, and you’re good to go!

It’s super easy, and there are tons of employees milling about ready to help if you have any issues. Most people seemed to have pre-purchased tickets when I was there, so it’s very normal and easy to exchange your Klook voucher for a ticket.

How Long Does the Train Take?

Trains from Incheon Airport to Seoul depart every 20 to 40 minutes, and it takes about 43 minutes to arrive at Seoul Station once the train departs.

If you’re lucky and arrive right when a train is leaving, the train is one of the fastest ways to get from Incheon to central Seoul. If you’re unlucky like me and arrive right after a train leaves and have to wait 35 minutes for the next train, it can be one of the slowest way to travel from Incheon to central Seoul.

It mostly comes down to lucky and the frequency at which the trains run at the time of day you’re travelling.

When Does the Train from Incheon Airport to Seoul Operate?

Luckily, the train operates 24 hours a days. No matter when you arrive at Incheon Airport, you’ll be able to take the train to Seoul Station.

I love that the train operates 24/7. It makes the train one of the most reliable ways to travel from the airport to central Seoul. The buses don’t run 24/7, so the train is your only public transportation option you can take any time of day without worry.

N Seoul Tower Seoul South Korea

How Much Does a Train Ticket Cost?

The price you pay depends on where you purchase your ticket.

If you purchase your ticket from the ticket machine, it costs 9,500 won (approximately $7.25 USD) at the time of writing in August of 2023.

If you purchase your ticket in advance with Klook, it costs 7,400 won (approximately $5.50 USD) at the time of writing.

That’s less than a $2 difference, but purchasing your ticket online has other advantages. Some ticket machines and stores in Korea don’t accept foreign credit cards.

Purchasing your ticket in advance will ensure you’re able to get on the train without a headache or trying to find an ATM that will give you Korean won with a foreign bank card.

Side note: getting money out of an ATM in Korea with a foreign card is a headache. Not many ATMs accept foreign cards, and they all have high ATM fees associated with them. I always recommend that people exchange their home currency for Korean won before they leave for Korea.

The other advantage of buying your ticket in advance with Klook is that you can choose to pay in your home currency, which means no currency conversion or foreign transaction fees.

But, mostly, it’s very convenient and who doesn’t like to save a little bit of money.

Where Does the Train Stop?

The AREX Incheon Express train is just that. It’s an express train.

It starts at Incheon Airport and stops at Seoul Station. There are no stops in between. You get on and then get off again when it stops.

There is no chance of getting off at the wrong station, and you’re in the heart of Seoul when you get off.

Where Does the Train Arrive in Seoul?

The train from Incheon to Seoul arrives at Seoul Station.

Seoul Station is the main hub in Seoul, and you can get anywhere you want to go fairly easily from Seoul Station.

Subway lines 1 and 4 have stops at Seoul Station as well as tons of buses that go all over Seoul.

If Seoul isn’t your final destination, you can also jump on a intercity train and go anywhere in Korea including Busan, Gyeongju, Daegu, Daejeon, and many, many more cities.

Seoul Station is basically the heart and soul of the Seoul transportation system and one of the most convenient places to arrive when travelling from Incheon Airport to Seoul.

top tip

Make sure to have travel insurance before arriving in Korea

Tips for Taking the Train from Incheon to Seoul

  • Sit in your assigned seat. You have a seat number on your physical ticket. Sit in it. The train is normally full and everybody sits in their assigned seats.
  • Store your larger luggage in the luggage racks in each compartment and store the smaller bags above your head. There is limited space on the racks so don’t put something small and light that can easily be put overhead on the luggage racks.
  • Don’t talk or listen to music loudly. People don’t typically talk or listen to music loudly on public transportation in Korea. It’s disrespectful, and you’ll get a lot of annoyed looks.
  • There is no eating or drinking on the train.
  • Nobody will check your ticket on the train. You have to scan your ticket to get on the train, so they know you have a valid ticket when you’re on the train.
  • When you get off the train and transfer to the subway, there are only four ticket booths to buy tickets. There is often a long line to get a ticket. It’s a bit annoying, but there isn’t anything you can do about it. You can buy a T-Money card at a convenience store at Incheon Airport or at a vending machine near the train, but most people wait until they’re in central Seoul to do that. Partly because of convenience, partly to get a cuter T-Money card, and partly because the vending machine with T-Money cards is often out of order.

Who Should Take the Train from Incheon to Seoul Station?

Anybody who is staying at a hotel with stops along subway lines 1 or 4 should definitely take the train to Seoul Station from Incheon Airport.

It’s super convenient, and you don’t have to worry about switching subway lines. Just jump on the subway, get off at your station, and walk to your hotel.

You should also take the train if your hotel is within walking distance from Seoul Station.

If you arrive late at night or early in the morning when the buses aren’t running and don’t want to spend money on a taxi or private transport, then the train is your only option.

Finally, if you tend to get motion sick, the train is probably your best option. It’s typically a smoother ride than any of the options that take the road, and you know you won’t get stuck in traffic.

Safety Wing Digital Nomad Insurance

Who Shouldn’t Take the Train from Incheon Airport to Seoul Station

If you’re staying at a hotel that isn’t along either subway line 1 or 4, I think that taking a bus is probably a better option than the train.

Metro stations in Korea are huge. Sometimes it takes five or ten minutes to walk to the entrance gate from the entrance you took down to the station.

There are tons of stairs, and there aren’t always escalators. The subway cars themselves are often very busy. Even in the middle of the day. It can be hard to find a place to put your luggage that isn’t in someone’s way or feeling like you’re taking up too much room.

Plus you’ll probably be sweaty from the whole experience and lugging your luggage around.

Yes I’m talking from personal experience.

I also don’t think the train is the best option for people with mobility issues. Especially if you have to take the subway or bus afterwards to get to your hotel. The bus is more likely to get you closer to your hotel if you’re staying in central Seoul and a taxi or private transfer will drop you off right at the door.

Save money and buy your train ticket online in advance

Travelling from Incheon Airport to Seoul by Bus

The bus is my favourite way to travel from Incheon to Seoul. It’s very comfortable, and in most cases, it will drop you off within walking distance of your hotel. You don’t have to worry about taking the subway or a city bus to get to your hotel after you get off the airport bus.

The convenience of it is why I like the airport bus so much and why I choose to use it even though it is more expensive than the train.

Different Types of Airport Buses

There are two different types of airport buses that take you from Incheon Airport to Seoul. There are the city buses and a private bus company called KAL Limousine Bus.

They’re bot very similar in price.

For example, if you’re taking city bus 6015 from Incheon to Myeongdong, it costs 15,000 won (approximately $11.50USD) at the time of writing. If you take the private bus, it costs 16,000 won (approximately $12.25 USD) at the time of writing.

But, you can save 2,000 won on the price of your private bus if you purchase online in advance through Klook. With the discount, your private bus ticket actually ends up being less expensive than the city bus.

The city bus does go to more destinations than the private bus though. If you decide to use the private bus, be sure that it will drop you off near your hotel.

There are tons of places the private bus drops you off. If you’re staying in one of the most popular tourist areas, there is a super high chance that you’ll be dropped off within a few blocks of your hotel.

The other major difference between the city bus and the private bus is the experience. The private buses are much nicer. They have wider, more comfortable seats, and they hold fewer passengers. It’s a more luxury experience and more relaxing after a long flight.

How Long Does the Bus Take?

This is a bit of a difficult question to answer. Unlike the train, buses go all over Seoul, and where you’re getting dropped off impacts how long your trip is.

Here is an estimate of how long it will take you to get from Incheon Airport to Seoul by bus for the most popular tourist areas.

Myeongdong75-90 minutes
Insadong60-75 minutes
Hongdae55-65 minutes
Gangnam70-80 minutes
Itaewon80-90 minutes
Jamsil90-120 minutes

Buses typically leave Incheon Airport every 20 to 30 minutes depending what time of day it is.

At first look, it may seem like the bus takes longer than the train, but once you consider the fact that you likely have to get from Seoul Station to wherever you’re staying after you get off the train, the times are pretty similar.

top tip

Consider enrolling in Priority Pass to access amazing airport lounges if your credit card doesn’t give you lounge access.

When Do the Buses from Incheon Airport to Seoul Operate?

Unlike the train, buses don’t operate 24/7.

All the city buses start and end at different times. Most start between 5:30am and 6:30am. and end between 10:30pm and 11:30pm. There are a few night buses that run to Seoul Station and City Hall, but they’re few and far between. There is normally at least 2 hours between departures.

If you’re arriving late at night or early in the morning, the train is your best option.

The private bus has similar operating hours. They normally start operating around 5am and end around 11pm.

Seoul, South Korea

How Much Does a Bus Ticket Cost?

We talked about this a bit in the first part of the section on airport buses from Incheon to Seoul, but here’s a quick recap.

City buses cost between 9,000 won and 15,000 won depending on where you’re travelling to in Seoul. The private bus costs 16,000 won (or 14,000 won if you purchase in advance) no matter where you’re travelling to.

Tickets for the city bus can only be purchased when you arrive at Incheon Airport. There are kiosks throughout both terminal 1 and terminal 2. You can either purchase your ticket at a ticket machine or in person with an employee.

Be sure to know what bus number you need to take. Most hotels will say somewhere on their website what bus number you want to take from Incheon Airport to Seoul.

Tickets for the private bus can be purchased in advance. I highly recommend you purchase them in advance. It’s more convenient, and you save a little bit of money.

Where Does the Bus Arrive in Seoul?

Unlike the train, the bus makes many stops. Each bus is dedicated to go to a certain area in Seoul. It’ll drive straight to that area and then start making stops in that neighbourhood.

You have to ring the call button for the bus to stop. It doesn’t stop at every single stop.

I highly recommend you pre-purchase a pocket wifi egg rental that you can pick up at Incheon Airport and then use either Google Maps or Naver Maps to track your progress on the app to make sure you get off at the right stop.

If you don’t have access to the internet, it makes it difficult to know exactly where to get off. Especially if it’s your first time in Seoul or are arriving when it’s dark out.

I like renting pocket wifi when in Korea. It’s cheaper than installing an esim on your phone (I love esims, but they’re quite expensive in Korea for some reason), and more convenient than getting a local sim card and having to change out your home sim card for a local sim card.

If you’re visiting Busan, be sure to go to Gamcheon Culture Village!

Tips for Taking the Bus from Incheon to Seoul

  • Know what bus number you need to take before you arrive in Seoul. If you’re taking the private bus, know where to meet it and head right there. There will be clear instructions on your confirmation on where to get on the bus. Once there, you just scan the ticket on your phone and get on the bus.
  • Wear your seatbelt on the bus. The bus driver has always walked through the bus and checked that everybody has their seatbelt on when I’ve taken the bus in the past.
  • Don’t tip your driver. Tipping is common in a lot of countries, but tipping isn’t a part of Korean culture. It can actually be seen as rude. Just politely thank your driver when you get off.
  • Be sure to ring the call bell when you want to get off. The bus doesn’t stop at every stop along the route. It only stops when someone asks to get off the bus.
  • Buses will advertise that they have wifi on the bus, but from my experience, it isn’t reliable and often doesn’t work. I suggest picking up pocket wifi at the airport before getting on the bus and using it to make sure you get off at the right stop.
  • Keep the luggage tag the person who loads your luggage into the bottom of the bus gives you. The driver will confirm you take the right luggage when you get off the bus by checking the tag.
Seoul South Korea

Who Should Take the Bus from Incheon to Seoul?

I know that this isn’t the most popular opinion, but I think taking the bus from Incheon Airport to Seoul is the best option for most people.

It’s a little bit more expensive than the train, but it drops you off within walking distance of your hotel most of the time. That’s a convenience I’m willing to pay for. Especially after a long flight when I’m flying from North America.

The buses are comfortable, your luggage is stored underneath the bus, and I find the seats more comfortable than the train.

I think the bus is worth the extra money compared to the train just because it is so convenient.

Who Should Not Take the Bus from Incheon to Seoul?

I know I just said that the bus is the best option for most people in my opinion, but there are some people who are better off taking a different form of transportation.

If you’re staying within walking distance of Seoul Station, take the train. If you’re travelling from Seoul directly to another city, take the train.

I would even say that if you’re hotel is along subway lines 1 or 4, you can choose whether you want to take the train or the bus. It’s your preference since it’s so easy to take the subway from Seoul Station on lines 1 and 4.

I would still personally take the bus, but it’s really your preference and budget at that point.

If you’re arriving at Incheon Airport late at night or early in the morning, the bus isn’t the best option for you. Take the train or a taxi/private transfer.

Finally, if budget isn’t a concern or you have mobility options and want to be dropped off right at your hotel door, take a taxi or private transfer.

Pre-book your KAL Limousine Bus ticket to save money

Travelling from Incheon Airport to Seoul by Private Transfer or Taxi

I’m lumping the next two options together since they’re very similar.

The final way you can travel from Incheon Airport to Seoul is by taking a private transfer or taxi.

They’re very similar in both price and convenience, but I tend to lean towards a private transfer when deciding between the two.

Seoul, South Korea

Private Transfer

The reasons I like private transfers is the convenience. You pay up front, so you know the price. You don’t have to worry about being stuck in traffic and the taxi meter running up.

The other thing that’s nice about private transfers is that someone will meet you right when you walk out of the luggage collection area. All those people you see holding signs that have names are people who are providing private transfers.

You don’t have to worry about navigating the airport and trying to find where the taxis pick you up. You just find the person holding your name, walk to them, and they’ll guide you the rest of the way.

Private transfers also typically have nicer and newer cars than taxis. They also often provide you with water.

If you’re looking to start your trip to Korea off in style a luxury, a private transfer is the way to go.

Another reason I like private transfers is because of the flat rate. No matter where you’re staying in Seoul, you pay the same price. This is a great deal if you’re staying somewhere like Itaewon or Gangnam that are a bit further away from Incheon than Myeongdong or Insadong.

Private transfers aren’t outrageously expensive compared to a typical taxi fare. Sometimes private transfers are wildly overpriced, but that isn’t the case in Seoul. You’ll probably pay a little bit more than getting a taxi at the airport, but you’re also getting a more luxurious experience and being picked up inside the airport.

You also don’t have to worry about having cash or worrying about whether your foreign credit card will work in the taxi.

You don’t need to tip your driver when you arrive at your destination.

Book your private transfer here

Taxi

Taking a taxi in a foreign county can sometimes be stressful. You never know if the driver is going to try to scam you or charge you more than they should.

Luckily, that isn’t something you need to worry about in Korea!

Korean taxi drivers are some of the nicest and most honest people. I’ve used taxis quite a bit in Korea and have never had an issue.

One time I even had a taxi driver call the hotel front desk and have someone walk to the taxi and then walk with me back to the hotel because the hotel was in an area where cars weren’t allowed, and the driver didn’t want me to get lost.

There are foreigner exclusive taxis at the airport, so you’ll want to watch out for the signs for that when in the taxi area. There are lots of people who are there to help you and make sure you get to where you need to go.

The foreigner exclusive taxis are known to be honest and have a very good reputation. They’re also there because foreigners cannot use the app locals use to call a taxi.

The prices are the same, and you’re not being charged more to use the foreigner exclusive taxi. They’re there to make the lives of tourists easier and for foreigners to have a good experience when they first land in Seoul.

Just be sure to watch and make sure the fare goes up when you start driving. I’ve never had a taxi driver in Korea not start the meter, but it’s good to just make sure and double check.

You don’t need to tip your driver when you get out of the taxi.

Seoul South Korea

Final Thoughts

This post has become rather lengthy. I wanted to make sure you have all the information you need to make the best choice for you.

Here’s a quick summary of the article to help you out:

Train43 minutes9,500 wonBuy ticket in advance to save
City Bus60-120 minutes9,000-15,000 wonBuy ticket only on arrival
KAL Limousine Bus60-120 minutes16,000 wonBuy ticket in advance to save
Private Transfer45-60 minutes68,000 wonBook here
Taxi45-60 minutes65,000-90,000 wonOnly on arrival

I’ve tried all these methods on my various trip to South Korea. I prefer taking the bus because it drops me off super close to my hotel.

That being said, you can’t go wrong with any of these options. Seoul and Incheon Airport have put a lot of thought and effort into making getting from Incheon Airport to Seoul easy and convenient.

A Tourist’s Guide to Gamcheon Culture Village

Gamcheon Culture Village is one of my favourite things to do in South Korea. That’s right. It isn’t one of my favourite things to do in Busan but one of my favourite things to do in the entire country!

Gamcheon Culture Village is so bright and colourful. It’s one of the most unique things you can do in Korea. I’ve been to hundreds of cities around the world and never experienced anything quite like Gamcheon Culture Village.

It is the top thing to do in Busan in my opinion. In fact, it’s the main reason I took my parents to Busan in 2023 when I took them on a three week tour of South Korea.

In this post, I’m going to give you all the information you need to plan a trip to Gamcheon Culture Village as a tourist.

There are definitely some things you should know before visiting this tourist attractions that will help save you time and possibly frustration.

Gamcheon Culture Village

What Exactly is Gamcheon Culture Village?

Gamcheon Culture Village is a small area of Busan known for it’s bright colours, winding streets, and copious amount of stairs.

It’s been a fixture in Busan for many decades. It used to be known as a poor area where a lot of people didn’t want to go.

However, in the 1990s, the residents of Gamcheon Culture Village and the Busan government put in a lot of effort to revitalize the area and make it a desirable place to go. In 2009, there was an art contest, and that’s when the area became the bright, colourful place we all know and love today.

That little history lesson is interesting, but it doesn’t really answer the question what is Gamcheon Culture Village for tourists.

Today it’s a huge tourist attraction.

Tourists get to walk through the village and explore the artwork and vibe. There are tons of cafes, shops, art instillations, and street food.

It’s honestly one of the best places to buy typical tourist souvenirs in Busan in my opinion.

Gamcheon Culture Village is more or less a really cool neighbourhood that tourists explore. It’s unique and has a great tourism infrastructure around it.

Safety Wing Digital Nomad Insurance

How Long Should I Spend at Gamcheon?

The answer to this question really depends on what you want to get out of your visit to Gamcheon Culture Village.

If you’re sticking to the main tourist walking path and not doing much shopping or eating, you will probably need 60-90 minutes.

If you’re doing the full scavenger hunt, doing a bit of shopping, and snacking on street food, you’ll probably need 2-2.5 hours. I’ll talk more about the scavenger hunt in the next section!

If you want to do everything there is to do in Gamcheon Culture Village and explore every inch of it, dedicate at least half a day to it. Most people don’t need that long, but if you have the time, it is definitely worth exploring the area as much as possible.

I think most people can experience the Gamcheon Village and not feel like they missed anything in 2 hours. That’s how long I would personally recommend you allot yourself to spend there.

This, of course, doesn’t include however long it takes you to get there or to your next destination. I’d give yourself about three hours total including transportation time.

What is There to See and Do?

There is a surprising amount of things to see and do at Gamcheon Culture Village. They’ve done a really good job at creating a place tourists and to go and keep coming back to.

Here are a few of the top things to do in Gamcheon Culture Village:

  • Enjoy coffee with a view at one of the many cafes in Gamcheon
  • Fill up on delicious street food (including the famous toasted marshmallow ice cream)
  • Shop till you drop. You can find the biggest selection of souvenirs at a fair price
  • Enjoy the view at one of Gamcheon Culture Village’s many scenic viewpoints
  • Wander around hunting for street art
  • Take part in the scavenger hunt
  • Enjoy the modern art instillations scattered throughout the village

My favourite thing to do in Gamcheon Culture Village is the scavenger hunt. It’s so much fun, and I do it every time I visit.

You purchase a map right at the entrance of the village. It’s only 2,000 Won as of mid-2023 and makes your visit to Gamcheon so much more fun.

The scavenger hunt is actually a map of Gamcheon Culture Village, which is quite useful because it’s super easy to get lost in the neighbourhood. There are different places in Gamcheon marked on the map, and that’s what you’re hunting for.

The map takes you all around the village and helps guide you through the more narrow places where most of the residents live.

You get to stamp your map at each location, and it makes for a very fun souvenir.

Three of the locations on the scavenger hunt are the “big” locations. When you collect your stamp at those locations, you’re given a small prize!

top tip

Purchase a scavenger map when you enter Gamcheon Culture Village to add a little extra fun to your day!

Do People Live in Gamcheon Culture Village?

Yes! Lots of people still live in Gamcheon Culture Village. I couldn’t find an exact number online. There was a lot of contradicting information. Some places only count the people living in what the tourists call Gamcheon Culture Village, some count everybody who is in that small area, and some places count the people living in the whole district.

I don’t know what the right number to use is, and it’ll probably be outdated by the time you read this anyways!

But there are anywhere between 120 and 3,000 people living in Gamcheon Culture Village.

That means as a tourist you’re walking around and exploring a normal neighbourhood where people live their daily lives.

This means you have to be respectful.

There are signs around the neighbourhood that remind you to keep your voice down so please respect them.

There are also many signs as you get deeper into the village that tell you that someone lives there and to please not enter. Please, please, please respect those signs.

You wouldn’t want countless strangers walking on your front step and looking into your house every single day. So don’t do it to the people who live in Gamcheon.

You may accidentally stumble into a place that’s clearly someone’s front porch. It’s easy to do. I’ve done it before. As soon as you realize, turn around and go back to the main route.

People are understanding if you make an innocent mistake but please respect all the signs and anything you’re told by the residents or people who work at Gamcheon.

It’s their home. You need to be super respectful.

Gamcheon Culture Village

How Do I Get There?

Telling you how to get to Gamcheon Culture Village is a bit more complicated than it appears at first glance. Because I don’t know where you’re staying in Busan!

So, I’m just going to give you a brief overview of how most people get to Gamcheon. In all honesty, I recommend you just pop Gamcheon Culture Village into your Google Maps or Naver when you’re ready to visit. That way you’ll know exactly where to go from wherever you’re staying.

Just in case you’re looking for a general idea of how to get to Gamcheon Culture Village, here are the two main things you need to know:

  • You want to take either bus Seogu 2 or Seogu 2-2. These are small little green buses that take you up the winding road to Gamcheon Culture Village. You can pick this bus up at Seomyeon or closer to Gamcheon.
  • That brings us to important information number two. If you’re grabbing the bus closer to Gamcheon, you should take metro line 1 and get off at Jagalchi Station. Leave via exit 1, which is the closest exit to Gamcheon Culture Village and the bus stop.

You can also walk to Gamcheon Culture Village from Jahalchi Station. I’ve done it and don’t recommend it.

It’s quite a steep climb and takes close to an hour to walk from the metro station to the entrance to Gamcheon. Google Map will suggest that it is only a 30-40 minute walk, but it is longer in my experience.

Are There Other Tourist Attractions Nearby?

Not really. Gamcheon Culture Village is kind of out on it’s own. No other major tourist attractions are nearby. You’ll have to catch a bus or the metro to get to your next destination.

Gamcheon Culture Village

When is Gamcheon Culture Village Open?

Gamcheon Culture Village is open 7 days a week from 9am to 6pm for tourists.

Please be respectful of these hours and don’t stay after 6pm. As you know, people live in the neighbourhood, so you need to respect when it is their time to have their neighbourhood to themselves and not share it with tourists.

top tip

Rent pocket wifi to pick up at the airport to easily stay connected and online while in Korea. It’s cheaper than getting an esim in Korea.

Is Gamcheon Culture Village Accessible?

Accessibility means a lot of different things to a lot of people. I’m going to try to answer this question to cover the most common physical disability accessibility questions people have. I’m sorry if I don’t answer your specific question!

Unfortunately, Gamcheon Culture Village is fairly inaccessible.

If you have a wheelchair, you’l find visiting Gamecheon quite difficult.

There are a lot of steps and walking at Gamcheon. The walkways get quite narrow the further into the village you go, and the spaces can get quite small.

I’m not blind, but I imagine it would be a very difficult terrain to navigate as a blind person unless you have a sighted person assisting you.

If you use a mobility aid, there may be parts of the village you’re not able to go to because your mobility aid doesn’t fit.

If you have a disability that makes walking or doing steps difficult, Gamcheon Culture Village will be a challenge.

That being said, if you have a mobility aid or trouble walking or doing stairs, that doesn’t mean you can’t visit Gamcheon.

It just means that your experience will be limited.

The main part of Gamcheon Culture Village is where most of the shops and cafes are. It’s also the widest and most accessible part of the neighbourhood.

You should be able to navigate the first little bit with most mobility aids. Including possibly a wheelchair.

There are a few areas where you can choose to go up stairs, but it is completely necessary. You’ll just miss out on a couple viewpoints.

You will eventually need to turn around and go back out the way you came instead of continuing to walk along the path like most people do. But you’ll be able to experience the most vibrant and active part of the neighbourhood.

You’ll probably need 30-45 minutes to explore the top part of Gamcheon Culture Village if you have a mobility aid and are only exploring the wide part of the neighbourhood.

Please also note that you have to take a small bus up to Gamcheon Culture Village. I’m not sure how accessible the bus is. It’s quite small, so I imagine you wouldn’t be able to get a wheelchair on it.

There is a metro station close(ish) to the neighbourhood. You have to go up quite a large hill to get to the entrance of the village though. It is about a 45-minute walk and can be quite strenuous. You’ll have to consider whether you’re wheelchair (and possible friend or family member who is walking) can make it up the hill.

I’m not sure if there are accessible buses or taxis in Busan. I did some Googling and didn’t find very good answers. I apologize for not being able to help you in that regard!

Gamcheon Culture Village

Other Top Busan Attractions

top pick

Busan Night Tour

relaxation

Haeundae River Cruise

top day trip

Day Trip to Korea’s Ancient Capital

skip the line

Busan Cable Car Ticket

skip the line

Lotte World Busan Skip-the-Line Ticket

must have

Pocket Wifi Rental

The Importance of Internet Safety

You will be relying on public wifi when in Busan. If you have rented pocket wifi or have an esim, there will still be times when you rely on public wifi. Mostly at hotels.

Pretty much anybody can access hotel wifis in Korea because most hotels don’t put a password on their wifi. This makes you even more susceptible to having your online data stolen than you normally are when using public wifi.

When you use public wifi, all your private online data is out there for someone with bad intentions to steal. Trust me when I tell you that you don’t want to be dealing with the headache of having to cancel all your bank cards while abroad because someone stole your banking information!

The only way you can keep your private online information safe while using public wifi is by installing a VPN on your devices.

A VPN essentially puts an invisible forcefield around your devices that makes it impossible for prying eyes to access your private information. It make using public wifi just as safe as using your home wifi where you’re the only one who knows the password.

Installing a VPN is one of the easiest ways you can keep yourself safe while travelling. You take precautions to make sure you’re physically safe while travelling, and you need to do the same for your online safety.

I always say that if you can afford to travel, you can afford to keep your online information safe with a VPN.

NordVPN

My Favourite VPN

I’ve used a lot of different VPNs during my years of travel. Most of them, frankly, suck. VPNs are notorious for slowing down your devices. Most VPNs I’ve tried are so slow and frustrating that I end up turning them off and putting my online data at risk. Not smart, I know.

That all changed when I started using NordVPN. It’s the fastest VPN on the market, and I never notice any internet slow down when using it. I can browse the internet just as quickly with my VPN activated as I can without it.

You can install your VPN on up to six devices, so you can easily keep all your devices safe from prying eyes with one subscription.

Plus you can cloak your location, which allows you to watch Netflix and sports from different countries.

The best part about NordVPN (other than it keeping you safe) is that it’s super affordable. A two-year subscription costs less per month than a single Starbuck’s latte.

It’s a small, small price to pay for the peace of mind and security you get from knowing that your online information and data is safe from prying eyes.

top Pick
NordVPN

NordVPN

The fastest and most reliable VPN for travellers.

Get the lowest price

Conclusion

Gamcheon Culture Village is truly a must-do activity while in Busan. You haven’t experienced Busan if you haven’t explored Gamcheon.

I hope this article has helped you plan your perfect day at Gamcheon Culture Village and helped you understand what to expect while you’re there.

Most importantly, I hope you have an amazing time at Gamcheon Culture Village and fall in love with it just like I did!

PS- Don’t forget to make sure you have travel insurance before arriving in South Korea!

What I Wish I Knew Before Backpacking Korea Alone

South Korea is one of my favourite countries, but there are a number of things I wish I knew before backpacking Korea alone.

And for simplicity’s sake, I may use South Korea and Korea interchangeably. Obviously, I’ve never been to North Korea and do not support anybody paying to visit North Korea. There are horrendous human rights abuses, and all the money you pay ends up going into the pockets of the few elites.

Anyway, back to the topic at hand.

South Korea is the second country I visited in Asia. The first time I visited I only spent a week in Seoul.

I thought I had learned a lot about the country during my time in Seoul.

But, when I went back in 2018 and did a more extensive Korea backpacking trip, I realized I didn’t know as much as I thought I did.

I definitely made a number of faux pas both times I visited South Korea.

I want to share all my knowledge with you, so you hopefully don’t make the same mistakes while backpacking Korea alone that I did.

South Korea is an amazing country, and I encourage everybody to visit it. There are a few things you should know before arriving in Korea though.

Especially if you’re backpacking South Korea alone!

Plan the perfect solo trip to Seoul

1. You May Not Get Served When Eating Alone

Eating is a very social activity in Korea, and not many people eat alone at restaurants.

That is changing as the years go by, but there are still some instances where you find you won’t be served if you’re dining alone.

This has only happened to me once, and it was at a small, local restaurant in a small town.

From my experience (and from talking with other solo travellers), if you aren’t served as a solo diner, it won’t be explicit or rude. It’ll come in the form of someone not seating you or not taking your order if you seat yourself.

If you notice you’ve been seated and ignored for an overly long time, politely get up, walk out, and find somewhere else to eat.

Not being served when eating alone used to be a bigger issue than it is now.

Tips for eating alone at restaurants

Nowadays, you likely won’t run into this issue unless you’re in a rural area. If you’re sticking to the major cities like Seoul and Busan, you won’t have any issue eating alone.

While it isn’t something you’re likely to face on your solo trip to Korea, I wanted to bring it to your attention just in case it does.

It is definitely something I wish I knew before backpacking Korea!

It can be a bit uncomfortable to not be served at a restaurant, and I wanted to let you know that there is a small chance this may happen to you on your trip.

The odds are slim that it will happen, but at least you’re aware of it now and know to simply leave if this happens to you.

There are lots of places that will serve you, lots of yummy street food, and don’t underestimate the cafés in South Korea.

There is a huge coffee culture in the country, and you can find surprisingly delicious food at cafés.

food lovers

Seoul Nighttime Food Tour

Bibimbap South Korea

2. Google Maps Isn’t Your Best Friend

I’m in a very dependant relationship with Google Maps. I adore it and rely on it heavily whenever I travel.

Unfortunately, Google Maps in South Korea doesn’t work as well as it does in most other countries. This is one of the biggest things I wish I knew before backpacking Korea alone!

Google Maps works great if you want to use public transportation. I’ll give it that.

However, if you’re like me and walk everywhere when you travel, Google Maps falls short of expectations in South Korea.

My Korean friend recommended I use Naver Map the first time I visited Seoul. The app is entirely in Korean, which made it difficult for me to not only read but also input where I wanted to go.

The reason why Google Maps doesn’t work very well in Korea is because the government says information mapping the country needs to be stored on servers within the country. That means Google Maps doesn’t have access to the data and can’t update the walking paths.

Top cultural things to do in Gyeongju

My Process

But just because Google Maps doesn’t think you want to walk around Korea doesn’t mean there isn’t a way you can still use Google Maps to walk around.

I’ve found the best way to use Google Maps in South Korea is to input where I want to go. It’ll find your route via public transportation even if you’re in the walking section of the app.

I simply use the public transportation route as a guide on how to walk to wherever I’m going.

Obviously, this involves some common sense.

You’re not going to want to walk the exact same route as the public transportation. That’s often inefficient and takes a lot more time.

Instead, use it as a guide.

See what direction you need to go and then follow the public transportation path until you see you need to turn in a different direction to get where you want to go.

It may sounds a bit annoying, but it is actually pretty intuitive.

Most cities in South Korea (especially Seoul) are really easy to navigate by food. You just need to find the main roads you need to be walking down.

Most tourist attractions are close to main roads, so it won’t be much of a hassle to figure out where you need to be going even though Google Maps isn’t your best friend in South Korea.

I know that’s a fairly large chunk of text talking about Google Maps, and you may think I’m being ridiculous. But, I always feel slightly betrayed when Google Maps doesn’t work flawlessly, and I want you to be prepared for the disappointment.

3. Renting Pocket Wifi is Cheap and a Must

One of the biggest things I wish I knew before backpacking Korea is that pocket wifi is super affordable and is a great addition to any trip.

Pocket wifi is a small device you can put in your purse or pocket that gives you access to the internet as long as you’re connected to the pocket wifi.

You can access the internet anywhere you are even if there is no public wifi available in that location.

I love pocket wifi. I even purchased my own Solis device, so I can have access to the internet anywhere I am and not have to worry about renting pocket wifi in every location.

But, because pocket wifi is so affordable in South Korea, it’s actually cheaper to rent pocket wifi at the airport than it is for me to use my Solis.

I recommend you pick your pocket wifi up at the airport rather than have it delivered to your hotel or picking it up in the city.

It’s super easy and quick to get your pocket wifi device at the airport.

I rent my pocket wifi in Korea through Klook.

Just beware that you need a credit card with you to rent pocket wifi in Korea. If you don’t have a credit card, they, sadly, won’t be able to rent you a pocket wifi device.

This is a brief overview of pocket wifi. For a more detailed explanation of how pocket wifi in Korea works, how to rent it, and whether it is the right choice for you, read my detailed guided here.

Seoul, South Korea

The Important of Being Internet Safe

While we’re on the topic of accessing the internet in Korea, now is probably a good time to tell talk to you about the importance of being internet safe whenever you travel.

When you travel, you rely on public wifi networks a lot. While they’re very helpful, they can also put you at high risk of having your online data and information stolen.

Everybody and anybody can access public wifi networks, and all it takes is for one person with bad intentions to access your device and steal your personal, private online information.

Including your banking details!

The only way you can be safe while using a public wifi network is by installing a VPN on your devices.

It essentially puts a forcefield around your devices that makes it impossible for anybody wanting to access your information to do so.

It makes using a public wifi network as safe as using your home wifi where you’re the only person who knows the password.

Installing a VPN on your devices is a small, easy step you can take to protect your online information and keep prying eyes away.

I use, love, and recommend NordVPN.

It is the fastest VPN service on the market, and that’s why I love it. It doesn’t slow your internet speed to a snail’s pace like every other VPN does, which is important when you’re travelling.

The cost of a two-year subscription is less per month than a single Starbuck’s latte. It’s a small price to pay for the safety and peace of mind a VPN brings you.

I always say that if you can afford to travel, you can afford to protect your online data and privacy with a VPN.

4. ATMs Don’t Like Foreign Cards

I definitely learnt this the hard way my first trip to Seoul and is probably the number one thing I wish I knew before backpacking South Korea.

Most ATMs in Korea don’t accept foreign debit cards.

The only ones I’ve found that do are the ones at airports. I randomly stumbled on a few ATMs that would accept foreign credit cards. That’s not very desirable though since you’ll be paying cash advance fees on the money you withdraw.

The fact that Korean ATMs don’t like foreign cards can be very stressful.

Like panic-inducing stressful. Or at least it was for me.

The first time I went to Seoul, it was the last stop on a four month backpacking trip, and I showed up in the country with no local currency.

That isn’t uncommon for many long-term backpackers, and I never had an issue with showing up without money before.

Luckily, I had to take money out at the airport, and the ATM took my money.

I know that oftentimes the ATMs at airports charge a higher fee, so I only took out a little bit of money thinking I would find another ATM in Seoul and take out more cash.

Well, you’re probably not surprised to learn that I didn’t find another ATM that accepted my Canadian debit card.

I spent hours walking around central Seoul trying every single ATM I could find. Inserting my debit card and then my credit card until one finally accepted my Mastercard.

I could have cried I was so happy and thankful.

How to Not Get into the Same Situation

Okay. Now that you know that you can’t count on a Korean ATM to accept your debit card, there are a few things you can do to prepare.

  • The first thing you can do is to get some Korean Won in your home country and have cash on hand before you arrive in Korea. It’s the easiest way around the ATM issue.
  • If that isn’t an option, the next best thing you can do is to take as much cash as you think you’ll need out of an ATM at the airpot.
  • Finally, you can find an in-person currency exchange location or a local bank and exchange your money there. This is a bit of a hassle in my opinion, and I see it as a last resort.
N Seoul Tower Seoul South Korea

The Good News

The good news is that you can use your foreign credit card pretty much anywhere in South Korea without any issue.

You won’t need to rely on cash in the country and can get away with only having the bare minimum amount of cash on hand.

You can pay for any restaurant meal, souvenirs (unless it is a small rolling stand), transportation, and attraction entrance fees with your credit card.

You’ll want to make sure you have enough cash on hand to pay for street food, street vendors, and for super small purchases that are only a few dollars.

I would suggest that 15, 000 to 20,000 Won per day is the minimum amount of cash you should have on hand.

I prefer to have about 25,000 Won per day on hand, but I’m a bit of a worry wart.

5. Korea is Super Affordable

When I told people that I was visiting Korea, everybody told me oh gosh that’s expensive. You’ll break the budget.

I think it has something to do with its modern technology and proximity to Japan that gives South Korea the reputation of being expensive.

And while it is certainly more expensive that countries in Southeast Asia, South Korea is way more affordable than you may think.

And way more affordable than Japan!

I spent significantly less when backpacking Korea than I thought I would.

You can find a delicious meal for less than $10USD, hotels are a decent price, and I was shocked at how affordable the entrance fees for attractions (especially Gyeongbokgung Palace) are.

All things considered, I would say that South Korea is the cheapest country in eastern Asia (excluding China). And even then South Korea isn’t that much more expensive than China.

Tips for flying alone

6. There are Rules and Customs You Should Follow

South Korea is a culture built on rituals, customs, and respect.

I think it’s important for tourists to know a few of the local customs. And to respect them and engage in them as much as possible.

As someone backpacking Korea alone, you probably won’t run into many of the social customs since you’re alone, but there are two in particular I think you should be aware of.

The first is how to properly exchange cash or your card when purchasing goods. And how to properly receive your goods from the person helping you.

You should give and receive things with both hands.

This means if you’re giving a 5,000 Won note to a store teller, you should hold one side of the note with each hand and give it to the teller with both hands.

They will receive it with both hands and return any change with both hands.

They will then give you your package with both hands. You should receive the package with both hands.

It can be a little bit difficult to get used to at first if you come from a culture like I do where everything is done with one hand. It doesn’t take long though, and the locals will really appreciate the effort.

The other custom you should know is there is a deep respect for older people.

If you’re on a bus or train and see an older person standing, offer then your seat.

If you find yourself at a group dinner, you shouldn’t eat or drink until the oldest person at the table has taken the first bite.

It’s all about respect.

Nobody will get upset with you or even point it out if you don’t navigate these local norms. However, they will notice and be appreciative.

Busan, South Korea

7. South Korea is Extremely Safe

South Korea is one of the safest countries in the world and tourists don’t have to worry about their safety while exploring the country.

Even solo female travellers don’t have to worry about their safety! Even at night.

There is barely any crime in the country, and you can feel safe walking around at night alone.

And that’s coming from me someone who hates walking alone at night even at the best of times. I felt extremely safe walking alone at night in Korea when coming home from evening events.

Just like in Japan, you can leave your bag unattended at a café table while you use the washroom and not have to worry about someone stealing it.

There also isn’t much petty crime.

Pickpocketing isn’t common, so you don’t have to keep a close eye on your bags like you have to in lots of European cities like Paris.

If you’re new to travelling alone or are a bit nervous about travelling alone, South Korea is a great country to visit.

It’s extremely safe and will help you get your solo travel skills up to speed before you go to a different destination.

8. There is an Unspoken Dress Code

This is one of the things I really wish I knew before backpacking Korea.

The first time I visited Seoul was in mid-June, and it was extremely hot. I wore my normal clothing I had packed and didn’t think anything of it.

Until I realized after my trip that I was breaking an unspoken dress code for women in Korea.

I didn’t realize that it was taboo for women to show their shoulders, and I was wearing tank tops most days. They had thicker sleeves, but my shoulders were still showing.

Nobody said anything to me, but I felt really bad when I found out that shoulders weren’t normally showed by women in South Korea.

I like to respect local dress codes and customs as much as I can when I travel.

Short skirts and shorts are okay. Showing shoulders or too much cleavage is not.

That’s basically what you need to know when packing for your trip to Korea as a woman.

9. Don’t Buy the First Thing You See

This is definitely something i knew before backpacking Korea, but it is easier said than done.

There are so many goods screaming for your attention in Korea, and it is hard to say no to any of them.

I had no interest in skincare before I arrived in Seoul the first time and came home with basically an entire suitcase filled with skincare products.

Temptation is everywhere, and everything is super cute.

Whether you like skincare, socks, stationary, or local crafts or souvenirs, it is extremely hard to say no.

Even though it is difficult, you need to walk past and not purchase the first thing you see. There are tons of stores selling the same thing, and you can often find a better price at a different store.

For example, there are many different Etude House stores in Myeong-dong. One may not be offering a sale and another may have 10% off.

It is worth it to resist, have patience, and shop around before you make any purcahses.

The same advice goes for anything you’re looking to buy while in Korea. Take a look around first and then go back to wherever you decide to make your purchase from.

You may think this is odd advice to be including in an article about backpacking Korea but just wait until you land and see all the lights and sounds and excitement.

Click here and use code TRAVELSWITHERICA for 10% off my favourite travel Instagram presets

Seoul, South Korea

My Favourite Things to do in Korea

seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

seoul

Everland Theme Park

seoul

Evening Sightseeing Bus Tour

busan

Haeundae River Cruise

busan

Gamcheon Culture Village

gyeongju

Seokguram Grotto

jeju island

Manjanggul Lava Tube

Conclusion

Whew. That was a longer article than I was planning. But there is just so much I wish I knew before backpacking South Korea.

I want to share as much as I can for you, so you can have the best trip to Korea as possible.

South Korea is an amazing country. It’s so special and deserves to be explored by more people.

I hope this article helps you decide if backpacking Korea is right for you and helps you plan your trip.

You’ll have an amazing time in South Korea and want to keep going back.

I sure can’t wait until my next trip!

10 Things to Know Before Travelling to Seoul Alone

Seoul is one of my favourite cities in Asia! It is an extremely underrated solo travel destination, but it shouldn’t be. The best part about travelling to Seoul alone is that it is so easy!

Anybody can have a successful solo trip to Seoul.

No matter how experienced or inexperienced a solo traveller you are!

Travelling to Seoul alone is a great starting point for any solo traveller visiting Asia for the first time. Seoul is easy to navigate, modern (but still full of history), has amazing food, and is less expensive than you may think. Seoul is 100% safe for solo travellers- even at night! I highly recommend a solo trip to Seoul for anybody even remotely considering it!

But there are definitely some things you need to be aware of before your solo trip to Seoul!

This post has you covered!

I’m going to share my top tips and tricks for travelling to Seoul alone.

These are tips I picked up during my multiple solo trips to Seoul. I definitely wish I had known some of these things before my first solo trip to Seoul!

PS- check out all my articles about South Korea here!

1. Seoul is Less Expensive than You Think

When I planned my first solo trip to Seoul, I read blog after blog and heard person after person say that it is expensive to visit South Korea.

I think that narrative has to do with how close South Korea is to Japan. Korea gets lumped into Japan and thought of as an expensive country, but that isn’t the case at all!

I was shocked at how affordable Seoul is!

It is less expensive than Hong Kong, which is not what I expected when planing my trip.

You can get a restaurant meal for 10,000 won (about $9 USD), get tickets to a baseball game for the same price, and visit the most popular attraction Gyeongbokgung Palace for just 4,000 won (approximately $3.50 USD).

Pretty good prices for an East Asian country hey!

The two things that tend to be expensive are inter-city travel and hotels.

PS- learn how to travel from Seoul to Busan the easy way!

But even those aren’t unreasonably expensive.

You can find a good hotel for about $100 USD per night!

If you’re holding off travelling to Seoul alone because you want someone to split the costs with, you don’t need to!

South Korea is far more affordable than you’re led to believe.

The best part is if you’re travelling to other parts of the country, they are even more affordable!

I highly recommend you visit Gyeongju. It is one of my favourite cities in the entire country!

Seoul, South Korea

2. Seoul is Safe for Solo Travellers- Even at Night

Seoul is one of the safest cities in the world.

There is hardly any crime. Including petty crime!

Of course, there is still crime that happens in the city, but it is significantly less than in other countries around the world.

I’m normally very weary of being out and about when I travel alone.

I feel jumpy, on edge, and sweat more than I want to admit.

But, surprisingly, I do not feel that same level of anxiety when I’m alone in Seoul at night.

There is still some heart racing- especially if I’m walking alone down a dark street-, but it is so much less than I experience even in my home town.

Maybe it is because I know how safe it is when I’m there, how friendly the locals are, or how brightly lit and busy the main streets are.

No matter the reason, walking alone at night in Seoul is not an issue.

The city is completely safe any other time of the day as well!

Unlike some other cities around the world, you’re not a target just because you’re a solo traveller!

PS- check out the 10 things nobody tells you about solo travel.

3. Be Careful Where You Stay

Okay. This definitely contradicts my last points, but it is important you stay in the right areas.

I had the mistake of staying not quite in the right area the first time I visited Seoul (and Gyeongju and Busan for that matter), and I don’t want you to make the same mistake as me!

When you Google where to stay in Seoul, there will be a number of neighbourhoods that my fellow bloggers recommend.

My personal favourite neighbourhood to stay in is Myeong-dong btw.

Then you go to your favourite hotel website (mine is Hotels.com) and start searching for hotels in that area.

It won’t take long to notice a pattern.

The hotels in the heart of said neighbourhood are more expensive than the hotels at the outer part of the area.

So being the frugal-minded person you are, you try to find the best deal on a hotel in a good neighbourhood.

Wrong!

That is what I’ve done every time I visit a new city in Korea, and it has always turned into a regret.

You see, the least expensive hotels near the popular neighbourhoods look good but oftentimes are not what they seem.

Seoul, South Korea

My Experience

The first time I visited Seoul, I stayed in a hotel on the outskirts of the Myeong-dong area.

The hotel looked fine from photos, and it was half the price of other hotels in the district.

Turns out there was a reason for that!

It was located down some sketchy alley, and it just had a scummy vibe to the hotel.

That particular hotel was fine. Decently clean and a nice place to sleep at night.

It could have been much worse though! My experiences in Gyeongju and Busan taught me that!

In both those cities, I stayed at hotels on the outskirts of the most popular tourist neighbourhoods, and both times the hotels turned out to be (how to put this delicately) the type of hotel you can rent by the hour.

It resulted in terrible sleeps with people being loud in the rooms above and beside me. Plus the whole vibe of the hotels deeply changed after my first night and the sounds I heard.

I don’t want to say that every inexpensive hotel on the outskirts of the popular tourist neighbourhoods is like this.

That wouldn’t be fair, and it would be wrong of me to slander businesses I haven’t actually stayed at.

But I do want to warn you that it is probably worth paying a little bit more for a hotel in the heart of the popular areas.

That way you know you’ll be comfortable and won’t feel uneasy in your hotel.

That is, of course, extremely important when travelling to Seoul alone.

4. You Need a Wifi Strategy

Almost every blog you read about South Korea and Seoul will tell you that there is free public wifi all over the place, but that hasn’t been my experience in the country.

You need a wifi plan when travelling to Seoul alone because it isn’t as easy to find reliable free wifi as the internet would allow you to believe.

I have a in-depth post about wifi in Seoul you can read here, but I’ll give you a basic run down of your wifi options right now!

Essentially, you have three options when it comes to wifi in Seoul:

  • Rely on public wifi at cafés, restaurants, museums, and hotels
  • Rent pocked wifi at the airport (my recommendation)

If you don’t already have a Skyroam, I highly recommend you rent pocket wifi when you land in Seoul.

It is super affordable and only costs a few dollars per day!

A pocket wifi device allows you to connect to the internet no matter where you are. You don’t have to rely on free public wifi (and the effort it can take to find it!).

I love being connected to the internet all the time when I travel alone. It is freeing to know I can always connect to Google maps, message my mom, or post on social media whenever I want.

And not be limited to just when I’m at a café or someone else with public wifi.

If you don’t want to rent a pocket wifi device, then your best chances at finding public wifi that actually works is at cafés, restaurants, museums (which are normally free to enter), and hotels.

It isn’t terribly common to be able to access wifi when you’re just out and about walking around, but it can happen.

No matter what your internet preferences are, it is best to have a plan before you arrive in Seoul.

You don’t want to be like me my first solo trip to Seoul where I was expecting for there to be wifi everywhere when there actually isn’t.

Seoul, South Korea

You Need to be Internet Safe

I preach this in almost all of my posts, but you need to be internet safe when you travel.

Especially when you’re a solo traveller.

You will be using public wifi at some point during your solo trip to Seoul.

Yes. Even if you rent a pocket wifi device or use your Skyroam.

Eventually, your wifi device needs to be charged, and you will be using the public wifi at the hotel.

Even if a wifi network has a password, it is still a public wifi network. Anybody who knows the password can access it, and it isn’t a secure network.

You leave yourself vulnerable when using a public wifi network. Anybody else who uses that network (and wants to/knows how to) can access your online data.

And steal it.

I don’t know about you, but it sounds like a nightmare to try to cancel your credit cards because someone stole your banking information while you’re alone in Seoul.

The only way to keep your online data safe when using a public wifi network is by installing a VPN on your devices.

A VPN essentially puts a forcefield around your phone that keeps unwanted eyes from seeing and stealing your personal information.

It makes using a public wifi network just as safe as using your home wifi where you’re the only person who know the login information!

My Favourite VPN

As you can imagine, I’ve used multiple VPNs in my travel career. I cancelled every single one of them after the first year because they slowed down my phone to the point where I got so frustrated and stopped using the VPN.

That is until I found NordVPN.

It is the quickest VPN on the market and blows the competitive away speed wise.

One of my favourite features of NordVPN is that they have a strict no logs policy. This means they do not collect or share your private information!

They are based in Panama, which does not require them to collect logs like many other countries do.

Your data is 100% safe with Nord!

My other favourite feature (and one that is arguably more sexy) is the ability to cloak your location.

You can choose for it to appear like you’re in a different country than you actually are.

This means you can access that country’s Netflix library and watch shows that may not be available in your area!

There is no better way to pass the evenings when you’re alone in Seoul than watching a lot of Netflix!

All this for a very low price.

The monthly cost of a NordVPN subscription is less than the price of a Starbuck’s latte!

Plus you can connect up to six devices on the same subscription, so all your devices are covered for one low fee.

There is no excuse not to protect your online data and privacy with a VPN!

I always say that if you can afford to travel, you can afford to protect your online information!

Seoul, South Korea

5. Koreans Can be Blunt

I learnt this that hard way when someone in a skincare store I was wandering through was visibly horrified by my acne-riddled face and told me that it had to be fixed.

Another time, a lady commented on my weight.

I was so nervous about how blunt Koreans can be that I lost 20lbs before my next solo trip to Seoul. I met up with my Korean friend one evening for dinner, and she said “you look better than last time I saw you”.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with Koreans being blunt. It is part of their culture, and they don’t mean it in a mean way.

In fact, their compliments are often disguised as backhanded ones.

Like my friend’s comment the second time I was travelling to Seoul alone.

I’m telling you, so you know what to expect.

If you know that you may possibly encounter bluntness or a backhanded compliment, then you’re prepared when they happen.

You don’t end up taking it the wrong way and feeling bad about yourself.

Or going back to your hotel to cry like I did after my interaction with the lady in the store.

You probably won’t experience any bluntness when travelling to Seoul alone unless you’re befriending some locals or something along those lines.

So don’t let it impact your decision on whether or not to visit Seoul alone!

6. The Café Culture is Strong

I’ve never seen so many cafés as I have in Korea.

They are literally everywhere!

Seriously! You can’t walk a block without there being at least one and probably two or three cafés!

An essential activity when alone in Seoul is visiting cafés and people watching!

It is so much fun. Especially in Myeong-dong and Insadong where there is lots of stuff going on!

A lot of cafés are on the second or third story of buildings, so you get a great bird’s eye view the area.

It is the perfect way to relax and have an afternoon break.

Plus the tea, coffee, and snacks at Korean cafés are delicious!

Seoul is where my love of matcha originated!

Plus you can find some of the cutest and most unique cafés in the world.

So definitely set some time aside during your solo trip to Seoul to relax, have a cup of tea, and take in the sights and sounds of Seoul from a café.

Innisfree cafe Myeong-dong, Seoul, South Korea

7. Be Careful What You Wear!

This one is more for the readers who identify as female.

Sorry everyone else!

For the most part, there isn’t much of a dress code for women in Korea.

You can wear short skirts, shorts, tight clothes. Pretty much anything is okay.

And people in Seoul are stylish!

The only thing you want to avoid is bare shoulders.

No tank tops and no strappy dresses. Unless you’re wearing a sweater over them.

You won’t be asked to leave an establishment, and nobody will say anything to your face.

But you will get some weird looks.

Trust me, I wore a tank top on my first solo trip to Seoul, and you definitely notice people staring. And it isn’t because I was white. It was because of my bare shoulders!

Again, nothing will happen if you choose to show your shoulders, but you will definitely feel like the odd one out!

8. Street Food is Your Best Food

Seoul has some of the best street food around, and you don’t want to miss out on it!

Plus it means you don’t have to eat at a restaurant alone. I know a lot of new solo travellers are very nervous about eating alone, and this takes that worry away.

There is street food all over Seoul! Even in quiet side streets you wouldn’t expect have a vendor or two.

The best places for tourists to find street food is at Myeong-dong or Insadong. They are popular tourist areas, and street vendors know that is the place to set up shop!

You can find pretty much any type of street food in Seoul!

There are traditional Korean foods, ice cream s’mores, potato spirals, porridge, and so much more.

There are literally streets lined with street vendors, and you can find anything you’re craving (for the most part).

Seoul, South Korea

One area where the street food lacks is in vegetarian options. 🙁

You can still find plenty of vegetarian options, but you have to look a little harder! Also, if there is a sauce be sure to ask the vendor if there is fish in the sauce. That is quite common.

Oh. Did I mention that the street food is quite affordable too!

You can get a number of different items and have it cost less than a sit-down restaurant meal.

Yum. Yum!

I love that street food allows you to try a number of different items and experience different traditional dishes without committing to a large portion of it.

Pick an evening and dedicate to exploring Myeong-dong and trying all the street food.

It will be one of the highlights of your solo trip to Seoul!

9. Have a Plan for Myeong-dong

Speaking of Myeong-dong, you need to have a plan before you arrive.

There is temptations everywhere, and before you know it, you’ll have blown your budget and have to buy an extra suitcase for your flight home because you have so many skincare products!

You have nobody with you to reign in your spending, and things can get out of hand quickly because there are so many temptations!

That is why you need a plan before you visit the shopping district.

Even if you’re not a skincare lover.

It will suck you in!

Set a budget or have a list of items you are going to purchase before heading to Myeong-dong.

It is one of the best tips for planning a solo trip to Seoul I can give you!

Having restraint is easier said than done in such a busy and exciting area!

Seoul, South Korea

10. Koreans are Friendly but Reserved

But, Erica, you said Koreans are blunt!

Yes, yes I did, and it is true.

Koreans are both friendly and reserved but can also be blunt.

For the most part, Koreans won’t approach you and strike up a conversation. You will mostly be left alone to do your own thing.

If you choose to strike up a conversation with someone, they will likely be reserved and friendly to you.

Your attempts at conversations probably won’t go beyond small talk, but that’s okay!

If you’re lost or need assistance in any way, the locals are more than happy to help you!

There are even tourist booths set up in the major tourist locations where volunteers answer questions and help tourists when they are lost.

Expect all your interactions with the locals to be friendly!

Yay! We love that as a solo traveller.

Solo Travel Myths

Conclusion

Are you ready for your solo trip to Seoul yet?!

I truly believe travelling to Seoul alone is one of the best decisions you can make! It is such an amazing city with a mix of modern and traditional wrapped into one bustling city.

I hope these tips and tricks help you plan your solo trip to Seoul and convinced you that it is a great destination for solo travellers.

Seoul is such an easy city to get around. The transportation system is a breeze, and you can walk to a lot of the major tourist attractions.

Plus now you know that the rumour that Seoul is an expensive city is false! You won’t break the budget when travelling to Seoul alone, so you don’t need to worry about saving up thousands of dollars for your trip.

And the food is to die for!

So what are you waiting for? Seoul is waiting for you to explore it!

Tourist’s Guide to Wifi in Seoul (It May Surprise You!)

Seoul is one of the most amazing cities in Asia. It is full of culture, history, and an unbeatable vibe. You’ll want to share every moment of your trip, so you need to learn all about Wifi in Seoul.

Public wifi in Seoul isn’t as easy to find as many people suggest. There is no city-wide wifi network, and you can only connect to wifi in Seoul at restaurants, cafés, hotels, and some tourist attractions. Renting pocket wifi in Seoul is affordable and a great alternative to relying on public wifi infrastructure.

This post breaks down everything you need to know about wifi in Seoul, so you can choose what the best option for you is.

We discuss public wifi in Seoul, renting pocket wifi, Skyroam (a wifi alternative for avid travellers), and how to protect your online safety with a VPN.

There is a lot you need to know before you arrive in Seoul.

I made the mistake of assuming that Seoul had a good public wifi system the first time I visited the city. Boy was I wrong.

Don’t make the same mistake I did!

Even if you plan to rely on public wifi in Seoul, you need a basic understanding of the best places to find it.

This will make navigating Seoul a lot easier!

Public Wifi in Seoul

Seoul has a reputation for being a technological city, so it is easy to assume that there will be a great public wifi system.

Unfortunately, that isn’t the case.

Most people living in Seoul rely on phone data or pocket wifi, so there isn’t a need for the city to develop a strong public wifi system.

It isn’t ideal for tourists, but you can find ways to work within the public wifi system in Seoul.

The most important thing you need to know is where you’re most likely be able to access complimentary wifi.

Also, please be sure you protect your phone, tablet, and laptop and install a VPN on all your devices.

It is so easy for hackers to access your online data when you’re using a public wifi account. Installing a VPN is super easy and an essential thing to do before you travel anywhere!

N Seoul Tower Seoul South Korea

Tourist Attractions

There are a few tourist attractions that offer guests free wifi.

Most of the attractions that do offer free wifi are museums.

Outside of museums, most tourist attractions in Seoul don’t offer free wifi to guests. This includes Gyeongbokgung Palace and the other royal palaces, unfortunately.

Because so few tourist attractions have free wifi, you shouldn’t rely on them to provide you with access to the internet throughout the day.

You need to have a more in-depth plan and strategy if you plan on relying on public wifi in Seoul.

Restaurants and Cafés

Pretty much every café in Seoul provides guests with complimentary wifi. The passcode is normally written at the bottom of the receipt, so only paying customers can access the internet.

Cafés are the best place to go in Seoul to access free wifi.

The wifi is really quick, and there normally isn’t a limit on the amount of time you can access the internet. You can stay in a café for hours using the internet as long as you purchase something.

Seoul has an amazing coffee culture, so you are never more than a few steps away from a café. There are literally coffee shops wherever you look! Be sure to look up because a lot of cafés are located on the second or third floor of buildings.

Cafés are the best place to access public wifi in Seoul, but you can also find free wifi at some restaurants.

Not every restaurant offers guests free wifi, and most of the small, local restaurants don’t offer wifi.

Your best bet is going to a chain restaurant. You’re more likely to find free wifi there.

If push comes to shove, there are a few places you can always find free wifi. You won’t be surprised to hear that they are fast food restaurants like McDonald’s, Starbucks, Pizza Hut, and Subway.

But, overall, you’re far more likely to find free wifi at cafés than restaurants.

Plus you get to indulge in the incredible coffee and snacks that Seoul is so well known for! Seoul is the place I fell in love with matcha lattes, so this is the place to give them a try if you’re interesting in matcha at all!

Hotels and Airbnb

Without a doubt, the most reliable place to access free wifi in Seoul is at your hotel or Airbnb. It is extremely rare for a hotel/Airbnb to not offer free wifi to guests.

It is an expected feature of any accommodation, and I don’t think anybody would survive in the accommodation business if they didn’t offer free wifi!

The problem with relying on hotel wifi is that you can only access it when you’re in your hotel, so you’re quite limited. You probably only have access to it in the morning and evenings. The rest of the day you’ll be out exploring Seoul.

Hotel wifi is useful because you can download Google maps offline to make it easier to navigate your way through the city.

Just be sure to have a VPN on your devices to protect your online safety! Even if the hotel wifi has a passcode, it is still a public network that pretty much anybody can access!

The situation at Airbnbs is more promising!

The majority of Airbnbs in Seoul provide guests with a wifi egg!

You can take the wifi egg from the apartment and use it while you’re out and about in the city.

This means you have access to the internet wherever you are!

Getting a wifi egg as part of your Airbnb stay is amazing! It makes connecting to the internet seamless, and you don’t have to find the nearest café if you are lost and need to access Google maps to get home.

Gyeongbok Palace Seoul, South Korea

Renting Pocket Wifi in Seoul

Renting pocket wifi is the best way to access internet in Seoul.

A pocket wifi device is small portable wifi router that allows you to access the internet no matter where you are as long as you are in range of the device. The device normally has a range of about 100 feet, and you can easily fit it in your pocket or purse.

Pocket wifi costs dollars per day, so it is an affordable addition to your trip!

The freedom you get with having access to the internet no matter where you are in incredible! You can look up restaurants nearby to see who has the best food, post on social media, and easily navigate with Google maps.

It is an unbeatable feeling!

I always rent my pocket wifi through Klook. They have really good prices, and you can cancel up until the day before you’re scheduled to pick up your device if your plans change.

Where to Pick Up and Drop Off Pocket Wifi in Seoul

It is super easy to pick up and drop off your rental pocket wifi device.

You can pick up and drop off your pocket wifi device at Incheon International Airport.

There are locations in both terminals right outside the secure area. They are near the exit door straight in front of the doors you walk out of after gathering your luggage.

It is impossible to miss it!

There is a drop off location in both terminals before you enter the secure area.

You get a map of the airport showing the return location as part of your pocket wifi rental, so you’ll have no problem finding the drop off booth.

You can also return your pocket wifi at Gimhae International Airport (Busan) or Busan Harbour if you’re travelling throughout South Korea.

PS- check out my guide on the best way to travel from Seoul to Busan!

No matter where you choose to pick up and return your pocket wifi, the process is incredibly easy and smooth.

It only takes a few minutes, and you can start using your pocket wifi right away!

Gyeongbokgung Palace Seoul

Other Things to Know About Renting Pocket Wifi in Seoul

There are a few more things you need to know before deciding if renting a pocket wifi device is the right option for you.

You Need a Credit Card

You need a credit card to rent pocket wifi in Seoul. There is no way around it!

An Interact debit card doesn’t cut it either.

You can pre-pay for your pocket wifi rental with an Interact debit card, but you need a credit card when you pick up your device.

The employee charges a small amount to your credit card (and immediately reverses it) to ensure there is room on your card.

Then the credit card information it put on your file, so they can charge your card in the event of the device being lost or damaged.

It is the company’s way of protecting themselves in case you run away with the device or ruin it.

If you don’t provide them with a credit card when you pick up your pocket wifi at Incheon International Airport, you will not be given the device.

Your Whole Group Can Use It

Most pocket wifi devices allow 6 to 10 devices to connect to it!

This means you can connect all your devices and the devices of your travelling companions (if applicable) on one device.

Your pocket wifi device becomes even more affordable when you share it amongst your group!

You Can Extend Your Rental

One of the cool things about renting pocket wifi through Klook is that you can keep your pocket wifi if you spontaneously decide to extend your trip.

You simply pay for the extra days you kept the device when you return it!

The Battery Has a Decent Life

The listing on Klook claims the battery lasts 8 hours, but that isn’t the case in my experience.

In my experience, the battery lasts way longer than 8 hours!

One time I forgot to charge it over night after using it all day, and I was still able to use it for the majority of the next day until it finally died!

I only had one device connect to it, so I image the battery would deplete quicker if there were multiple devices connected.

Even if the battery does only last 8 hours if there are multiple devices connected to it, that is a fairly long time!

It easily lasts you the majority of the time you’re out exploring the city.

I’m very impressed by the battery life of pocket wifi devices, and I highly recommend you look into renting one next time you’re in Seoul!

A Wifi Alternative for Serious Travellers

The final option for accessing wifi in Seoul is purchasing a Skyroam.

It is your own personal pocket wifi that you can use everywhere and anywhere in the world (with a few exceptions like Cuba).

I purchased my Skyroam in 2019 and am so glad I splurged on it. It has made my travels so much more enjoyable. I love being connected to the internet and the freedom it gives me.

You use the Skyroam as you would with any other pocket wifi device. You have an app you download on your phone that has your profile and wifi passes, and you simply click “activate”, and it connects you to the internet.

It can connect up to 6 devices, and it is small enough it can fit in your pocket.

You have to pay a one-time cost for the device, and then you own it outright forever.

After you purchase the device, you have to pay to access the internet. This is where things can get a bit expensive.

Read my full Skyroam review here!

Seoul South Korea

I personally think the day passes are a bit overpriced, but there are ways to get around that.

You can purchase a monthly pass that costs about the same as 10 day passes. This is the best option if you’re travelling for more than a week.

The other option is to wait until Skyroam has a sale on day passes and stock up on them then. They do have an expiry date so make sure you have enough travel planned in the near future to use all the day passes you purchase.

Only day passes purchased on a sale have an expiry date. Day passes purchased at full price don’t expire.

Skyroam has multiple day pass sales throughout the year, so there is a pretty good chance there will be a sale that works with your travel schedule.

I love my Skyroam and think it is worth the investment. Especially if you travel more than once or twice a year!

How to Protect Your Online Information

Not enough people take their online safety seriously, but you should.

Connecting to a public wifi network puts you at risk of having your online data stolen. This includes hotel and café wifi networks that have a passcode on them.

You’re still at risk of being hacked and having your data stolen!

It is easier than you think for hackers to get your online data and passwords. It happens everyday, and it has ruined a lot of traveller’s vacations.

There is hardly anything worse than having your banking information stolen while you’re on holiday and trying to sort it out while you’re abroad.

Your debit and credit cards are frozen, and you’re stuck in a different country trying to figure out how you’re going to pay for the rest of your trip.

It isn’t a pretty situation.

The only way to effectively protect your devices from prying eyes is to install a VPN on them.

A VPN cloaks your online activity and makes it so no one can see your online data. It is as safe as using your home wifi where you’re the only person who knows the passcode.

Every travellers needs a VPN. No excuses!

My Favourite VPN

I’ve used a lot of different VPNs over my years of travel.

Most of them slow down your devices to a crawl. It becomes so frustrating to use them that you end up turning off your VPN and exposing yourself to potential danger.

All that changed when I started using NordVPN. I discovered them in 2018 and haven’t looked back!

They are fast, ultra-secure, and one of the top rated VPNs in the world!

You can protect up to 6 devices with one subscription, so it is super affordable to protect all your devices.

One of the best parts on NordVPN is that you can cloak your location through the app, so it looks like you’re in a different country all together.

This is amazing because it lets you access the Netflix catalogue from the country you’re cloaked as being in. You can binge watch shows you wouldn’t have access to if you didn’t have your VPN on!

Overall, I couldn’t be happier with NordVPN. I made my parents get a subscription and raved about it all my friends and other family members.

NordVPN is super affordable, and they’re almost always running a sale to make it even more affordable for you!

You can often get a two-year subscription for 68% off!

The price of your subscription works out to less than one latte from Starbucks.

It is a tiny price to pay to protect your online data and privacy!

Conclusion

As you can see, there is a lot you need to know about wifi in Seoul.

Seoul is a technologically advanced city, but it still has a ways to go before it has an extensive wifi network that tourists can take advantage of.

There are ways to connect to free wifi in Seoul, but you have to rely mostly on cafés and chain restaurants.

Museums are the only tourist attractions that offer free wifi to guests.

The best way to work around the lack of public wifi in Seoul is to rent a pocket wifi device.

It costs just dollars per day and gives you 24/7 access to wifi no matter where in Seoul you are!

The freedom renting a pocket wifi device gives you is worth the small rental cost!

The other alternative is to purchase a Skyroam pocket wifi device. This option is for serious travellers only.

I don’t want you to spend money on purchasing a pocket wifi device if you rarely travel! That wouldn’t be worth the money!

If you travel multiple times per year, you may want to consider purchasing a Skyroam. It may save you money in the long run, and it is definitely the most convenient way to access the internet!

No matter how you choose to get your wifi in Seoul, you need a VPN to protect your online privacy and data.

As long as you have a VPN and a wifi plan, you’ll be off to the races when you land in Seoul! It is a spectacular city, and I know you’ll love it!

10 Cultural Things to do in Gyeongju, South Korea

Gyeongju is the ancient cultural capital of Korea, and it is one of the most beautiful place in the entire country. It is filled with culture, nature, and delicious food. There are so many things to do in Gyeongju, but these are the top things to do in Gyeongju.

Gyeongju has a unique vibe and culture to it that I haven’t seen anywhere else in South Korea.

The city is laid back and feels more rooted in the traditional aspects of Korean life.

Probably because the entire city is one outdoor museum, and you stumble across ancient tombs and structures wherever you’re walking.

Gyeongju may be more traditional than big Korean cities like Seoul and Busan, but it is still a fairly modern city.

It is full of technology and innovation. The city just doesn’t have the skyscrapers you normally associate with a modern city.

And that adds to the charm of it!

A lot of people visit Gyeongju as a day trip from Busan, but there are so many things to do in Gyeongju that you should spend at least two days in the city. Three is better!

Check out my 72-hours in Gyeongju itinerary if you’re trying to figure out the best way to see everything Gyeongju has to offer in a short period of time!

And be sure to read my how to travel from Seoul to Gyeonju article if you’re planning to visit Gyeongju after Seoul!

But enough with the fluff!

You’re here to learn about all the amazing things to do in Gyeongju, so we’re going to jump into that right now!

PS- Don’t forget to check out my wifi in Korea article.

The wifi situation was nothing like I imagined it to be, and I don’t want to you make the same mistakes I did the first time I visited!

1. Bulguska Temple

Bulguska Temple is one of my favourite things to do in Gyeongju, and I make sure I visit it every time I’m in Gyeongju.

The temple was built in 528 BC and is one of the largest and most beautiful relics from the Silla dynasty.

The temple was built by King Beop-heung as a wish to his people for peace and prosperity.

Unfortunately, Bulguska Temple caught fire during the Imjin War from 1592-1598 and become a popular target for theft and vandalism.

Reconstruction began on the temple in 1920, and it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.

Bulguska Temple and Seokoguram (coming up next on this list!) were two of the first three Korean sites ever designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

That makes visiting Bulguska Temple even more special and incredible.

Bulguska Temple is not just one temple but a series of temples that you can visit. The ground are quite large, so you can easily spend half a day at this one attraction.

There are seven Korean national treasures located in the Bulguska Temple complex, so you know you’re seeing some incredible history when you walk through the ground.

The entrance fee is 6,000 won for adults (about $5USD), and there are small discounts for children and groups.

The temple is open to guests every day, but the opening hours vary depending on the season.

From March to September, it is open from 9am to 5pm, and the rest of the year it opens at 7:30am and closes between 5pm and 5:30pm.

I recommend you get to Bulguska Temple as early as possible.

It is one of the most popular things to do in Gyeongju, and it gets quite busy during peak hours. I normally arrive right when it opens, and it is starting to get quite busy when I leave 3 or 4 hours later.

Bulguksa Temple Gyeongju South Korea

2. Seokguram Grotto

Seokguram Grotto is located walking distance from Bulguska Temple. It is the perfect afternoon adventure after spending the morning at the temple.

Of all the things to do in Gyeongju, Seokguram Grotto was the one that surprised me the most.

I wasn’t expecting much from this attraction, but it blew me away.

Seokguram Grotto is a temple built during the Silla dynasty from 751 BCE to 774 BCE.

It is home to the second most beautiful Buddha statue I’ve ever seen (second only to Fo Guang Shan’s Big Buddha).

Seokguram Grotto’s Buddha statue is built in a chamber underneath a stone dome that was carved to hold the statue. It is a sitting Buddha statue and is over 3.45 meters tall.

The Buddha statue is surrounded by 41 figure sculptures that are arguably the most beautiful in all of Korea.

There is some controversy surrounding Seokguram Grotto though!

The sight was reconstructed by the Japanese during the 20th Century (when Japan occupied Korea), but many Korean scholars say that the Grotto was not reconstructed to reflect the original temple’s design.

Even worse, since the reconstruction, Seokguram Grotto has suffered from humidity problems, and the sculptures are being damaged from that.

There have been protections put in place to limit the damage being done to the carvings.

There is a glass wall separating guests from the Buddha statue and carvings and only a certain number of people are allowed into the enclosed space at one time.

You also aren’t allowed to take pictures of the inside of Seokguram Grotto.

The entrance fee to view Seokguram Grotto is 5,000 won (approximately $4USD), and there are discounts for young people and children.

I can honestly say that this was the best 5,000 won I spent in Gyeongju.

Seokguram Grotto is absolutely incredible, and no trip to Gyeongju is complete without visiting it!

In all the things to do in Gyeongju, this is without a doubt my favourite and the one thing I would recommend everybody do no matter how long they’re in the city for!

Seokguram Grotto Gyeongju South Korea

3. Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond

Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond is one of the most beautiful places in Gyeongju.

Especially when it is lit up at night!

It was used as a secondary palace by the crown prince of the Silla dynasty, and banquets were frequently held there.

Interestingly, the sight used to be called Anapji. The name changed when excavators found a piece of pottery with the work “wolji” carved into it. Wolji means “a pond that reflects the moon”, which is exactly what the pond at the palace does.

Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond is absolutely gorgeous!

The palace itself isn’t anything spectacular, but the nature surrounding it is. The greenery and pond are breathtaking. It is especially gorgeous at night when the palace lights reflect on the pond.

By the way, did you know that the pond is man made?!

The entrance fee is 3,000 won (approximately $2.50USD) for adults. There are small discounts for teenagers and children. Groups also receive a small discount.

Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond is open year round! It opens at 9am and closes at 10pm with last admission 30 minutes before closing.

This is the most popular thing to do in Gyeongju at night. It gets very busy, so you’ll want to arrive early in the evening to avoid the huge crowds.

It is well worth fighting those crowds though! This is for sure the most Instagramable place in Gyeongju!

Donggung Palace and Wolji Pong Gyeongju South Korea

4. Mount Namsan

It is well known that South Korea is home to a lot of gorgeous nature and hiking trails. There are hikes near pretty much every city, and Gyeongju is no exception!

Mount Namsan is inside Gyeongju National Park and is the perfect thing to do in Gyeongju if you’re looking to get away from the city and explore some nature.

Gyeongju National Park is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to seven different mountains, but Mount Namsan is the most famous and most popular one.

Mount Namsan is not your ordinary hike.

It is home to over 100 temples, 80 Buddha statues, and 60 stone pagodas. The mountain was an important part of the Silla dynasty, and you can see relics from this period nearly everywhere you look.

It truly is an open-air museum!

The most popular thing to see on Mount Namsan is the Seven Buddha Hermitage.

It is located at the top of Bonghwa Valley. This hiking route takes you past a number of stone Buddha carvings and ends at a very small temple.

The monk who runs the temple is very friendly, and he often invites hikers to enjoy a cup of tea with him before they continue on their way. His English isn’t the best, but you don’t need to be able to speak to feel his warmth and kindness.

The hiking paths on Mount Namsan are well marked and well maintained.

They are easy to navigate and safe- even if you’re a solo traveller.

Mount Namsan is one of the few free things to do in Gyeongju, which adds to its appeal.

You may be asked to provide your name and phone number before you start hiking as a safety precaution in case of wild fires and other potential unforeseeable events.

It is so nice to get out of the city and take in the fresh mountain air. Mount Namsan is the perfect combination of nature, history, and culture all packed into one amazing day!

Mount Namsan Gyeongju South Korea

5. Tumuli Park

Tumuli Park is one of the most fun things to do in Gyeongju. You can’t miss it!

Tumuli are small hills that are deceiving because they aren’t actually hills.

They are graves.

And not just any graves. They are the graves of the most prestigious men and women from the Silla Dynasty.

If you didn’t know the mounds were graves, you would just think Gyeongju has some weird hills. And a lot of them.

You can find graves all around Gyeongju, but Tumuli Park is the only place you can go inside a tomb!

Cheonmachong tomb is one of the most famous tombs from the Silla Dynasty, and it is open to the public to enter.

What you encounter inside the tomb is seriously surprising!

I certainly didn’t expect it to be as large as it was or as intricate.

I’m not going to spoil anything, but going inside this tomb is an essential activity when you’re in Gyeongju!

There are tons of other things to see in Tumuli Park outside of Cheongmachong tomb.

There are gorgeous walking paths through the park, a few praying areas, and some lovely flowers and green spaces. You can easily spend two or more hours wandering through the park and experiencing all it has to offer!

Please be respectful of the rules when you’re visiting Tumuli Park.

You’re not allowed to walk on the graves, and it is best to stay on the marked path. This goes for anywhere in Gyeongju you see a grave.

There is a small entrance fee of 1,500 won (approximately $1.30USD).

It is a small price to pay to go inside an ancient tomb.

Tumuli Park and Cheongmachong tomb are two of the most unique things to do in Gyeongju!

Tumil Park Gyeongju South Korea

6. Indulge in the Local Food and Drink

South Korea is known for its incredible food, and Gyeongju is no different.

In fact, Gyeongju takes the delicious tastes one step further because it has its own regional bread.

It it absolutely delicious and not to be missed when in Gyeongju.

The bread is commonly referred to as “Gyeongju bread”, and you can find it pretty much anywhere in the city.

This yummy treat is more of a small pastry than it is bread, but no matter what you call it, it is the perfect afternoon snack.

Outside of the famous Gyeongju bread, there is tons of delicious food to be had.

There are traditional Korean restaurants, pizza and tacos restaurants, over-the-top cafes, and a couple of vegan restaurants.

Korea has an amazing coffee shop culture, so you need to stop by (at least) one cafe for quick break from exploring all the things to do in Gyeongju.

I’m personally obsessed with matcha lattes and find myself in a cafe people watching pretty much everyday when I’m in Korea.

No regrets!

No matter what your food and beverage preferences, I guarantee you’ll find something delicious you fall in love with!

Bibimbap South Korea

7. Gyeongju National Museum

I’m a sucker for museums and tend to visit nearly every one I encounter on my travels (especially when entrance is fee!).

I’ve been to hundreds of museums around the world, and the Gyeongju National Museum is one of the ones that surprised me the most!

It is incredibly well curated and super interesting. You learn so much without getting that bored museum you can get after reading one too many dry descriptions written in tiny font.

(Even this museum lover feels that way fairly often.)

The Gyeongju National Museum walks you through ancient Korean history with a heavy focus on the Silla Dynasty. Makes sense since Gyeongju is the ancient capital of the Silla Dynasty!

The museum also discusses the excavation process and touches on more modern Korean history.

There is also an outdoor display where you can view relics from the Silla Dynasty that are too large to be held inside!

The best part of the museum is that it is free to enter!

A lot of the things to do in Gyeongju come with a (small) entrance fee, so it is nice to be able to visit the Gyeongju National Museum without having to pay.

It is is the perfect activity for people on a tight budget or on days when the weather is less desirable.

Gyeongju National Museum

8. Woljeonggyo Bridge

Wolijeongggyo Bridge is one of less than a thousand covered bridges remaining in the world. It is truly an incredible sight to see and not something you’ll commonly come across in your travels.

The bridge is located right next to Gyonchon Traditional Village, which was a contender to make this list but just missed the cut.

You should stop by the village when you visit Woljeonggyo Bridge! It is a traditional village where you can see how Koreans lived in the past. It is really cool but not as elaborate as the traditional villages in Seoul and Busan.

The bridge was originally constructed in the 19th Century, but it, unfortunately, didn’t survive. It was rebuilt quite a few years later based on extensive research to ensure the reconstructed bridge is as true to the original bridge as possible.

The best part of Woljeonggyo Bridge is that you can climb up the four towers that anchor it to the ground.

There is a staircase in each of the four towers, and you get a great view of Gyeongju and Gyonchon Traditional Village.

The bridge is lit up at night, so that is the best time to go if you’re looking for the perfect Instagram photo. There is a stone pathway in the water under the bridge where you can get the best photos.

Just be sure you don’t fall in the water when walking between the stones!

There is no entrance fee to visit the bridge, and it is open daily from 9am to 6pm if you want to climb the towers.

Gyeongju is full of unique things to do, and visiting a covered bridge of this size (it is massive) is definitely on that list!

Woljeonggyo Bridge Gyeongju South Korea

9. Vist an Excavation Site

Gyeongju is known as an open-air museum. Everywhere you turn you stumble on something historical you didn’t expect.

There are so many ongoing excavation sites in the city that you’re bound to stumble on one or two when you’re walking around the city centre.

Most excavation sites have viewing areas where you can walk up some stairs they set up, so you can see over the barrier around the excavation. A number of the most important excavation sites have information on a sign where you can read and learn about what they are unearthing!

You literally get to watch history being uncovered in Gyeongju!

You never know what you’ll see when you’re walking around Gyeongju. The last time I was there they were working on uncovering an ancient king’s small palace.

There are even tombs being excavated where they set up a dome around it, and you can view the tomb from above.

It is an incredible experience!

When you’re wandering around Gyeongju and come across something that looks interesting, take the time to stop and learn about what it is.

You never know what you’ll come across, and it may be one of the best parts of your trip!

Excavation Site Gyeongju South Korea

10. Cheomseongdae Observatory

Cheomseaongdae means stargazing in Korea, and the observatory in Gyeongju is the oldest exciting astronomical tower in Asia! It may even be the oldest existing astronomical tower in the world, but that hasn’t been confirmed 100% yet.

And it is just sitting in the middle of a park filled with tumuli graves.

You could easily walk past Cheonmseongdae Observatory and not realize and appreciate its historical importance. It is truly a no-fuss tourist attraction!

The observatory was constructed during Queen Seon-deok’s reign from 632BCE to 647BCE. The exact dates aren’t widely known, but we do know that it is hella old and incredibly important historically.

Cheomseongdae Observatory stand just over 9 meters tall and is 30cm in diameter. It isn’t huge, but it is an important sight to visit in Gyeongju nonetheless.

The observatory has 27 levels inside, but the first 12 are filled with soil.

You can’t go inside the observatory (for obvious reasons), but you’re able to walk around the exterior and take photos of it.

You’re bound to naturally stumble on the observatory when you’re visiting all the other things to do in Gyeongju, and when you do, be sure you take the time to marvel at it!

Cheomseongdae Observatory Gyeongju South Korea

A Quick Note on Internet Safety

No matter where you are in the world, when you connect to a public wifi network, you’re opening yourself to having your data stolen.

And nobody wants to deal with the consequences of having their online data stolen and sold.

It could be as harmless as getting targeted ads that make you feel spied on, but you could also have your banking information stolen.

That happened to a friend on mine when she was travelling, and it is no fun trying to cancel all your bank cards when you’re outside your home country (or city).

The easiest way to prevent having your data stolen is to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network).

A VPN puts up an invisible forcefield around your data, so you’re the only one who can see what you’re doing online.

It is the only way to keep your data 100% private when you’re using public wifi.

That includes hotel wifi that is password protected too!

I personally use NordVPN and have been using them for years now. They are the only VPN that doesn’t slow down your device to a crawl while keeping your data secure and private.

NordVPN often (basically all the time!) has huge sales, and you can get your VPN for up to 70% off.

With the inexpensive prices that NordVPN offers, there is no excuse to not have a VPN protecting you and your online data wherever you are in the world!

Don’t forget to check out my wifi in Korea post to learn everything you need to know about using wifi in Korea as a tourist.

It may surprise you!

Conclusion

As you can see, there are a lot of cultural things to do in Gyeongju. I would argue that Gyeongju is the place to visit in Korea if you’re looking to learn about the country’s ancient history and get a better understanding of how Korea became the nation it is now.

There are many other things to do in Gyeongju, but I think the items on this list are the most important things to do if you want to appreciate the city’s history and culture.

I wasn’t expecting to fall in love with Gyeongju, but I did.

It is now one of the cities I recommend everybody visit in Korea. You leave Gyeongju with a deeper appreciate of all of Korea, and it is unlike anywhere else in the country.

How to Travel from Busan to Seoul (The Easy Way!)

Seoul and Busan are the two most popular cities in South Korea for tourists to visit. It is incredibly easy to travel from Busan to Seoul, so there is no excuse not to explore both these beautiful cities!

The easiest and most popular way to travel from Busan to Seoul is on the KTX high-speed train. It will get you from Busan to Seoul in under three hours, but it is the most expensive option. If you’re on a budget and can’t afford the KTX, the next best option is taking the slow train, but you’ll arrive at a train station outside of central Seoul and will have to take public transportation into the city centre, which will take upwards of 30 minutes.

You also have the option of taking a bus or flying from Busan to Seoul, but they are less popular and less convenient than taking the KTX or slow train.

No matter what transportation method you choose, it is easy and straightforward to travel between Busan and Seoul.

Busan Gamcheon Culture Village

My personal preference is to take the KTX from Busan to Seoul. The convenience of the high-speed train is worth the additional price tag. Plus it drops you off in the heart of downtown Seoul, so it is super easy to get to your hotel or Airbnb.

But everybody has their own travel style and transportation preference, so this post is going to cover every transportation method you can take from Busan to Seoul.

It also discusses the pros and cons of each transportation method, so you can make an informed decision about what is best for you!

By the end of this article, you’ll be fully knowledgable about how to travel from Busan to Seoul and will be able to choose the best transportation method for you!

Before We Get Started

One of my least favourite parts of travel planning is figuring out how to travel from one city to another.

I normally find it difficult to find all the information I need in one place and have to spend way too long scouring the internet to put together a travel plan.

That’s why I love writing these transportation guides for you!

They contain all the information you need to plan you’re journey from one city to another.

If you’re travelling throughout South Korea, you may want to check out some of my other South Korean transportation guides:

Option One: Taking the KTX from Busan to Seoul

The KTX is the most popular way to travel between cities in South Korea.

It is quick, efficient, clean, and comfortable. The only downside to the KTX is that it is the most expensive way to travel throughout Korea.

The convenience and efficiency of the KTX often makes it worth the higher price tag. Especially when you’re travelling across long distances like the journey from Busan to Seoul.

How Long Does the KTX from Busan to Seoul Take?

As mentioned in the introduction, the KTX journey from Busan to Seoul takes less than three hours!

That’s incredibly fast considering the two cities are 329km apart!

KTX trains depart from Busan to Seoul once (and sometimes twice during peak times) per hour and are direct.

You don’t need to worry about transferring trains! You get on in Busan and off in Seoul.

It doesn’t get any easier than that!

How Much Does a KTX Ticket Cost?

The price of a KTX ticket fluctuates.

It depends on what time of day and what day of the week you’re travelling. Tickets will cost more during peak times on the weekend and less on off-peak times on weekdays.

In general, a KTX ticket from Busan to Seoul will cost you between 53,000 won and 60,000 won. That is approximately $44USD to $50USD.

They certainly aren’t cheap, but they are oftentimes worth the splurge!

Gyeongbok Palace Seoul, South Korea

Where to Purchase KTX Tickets

You can purchase KTX tickets either online or in person.

No matter how you choose to purchase your tickets, I recommend you purchase them at least 24 hours in advance.

The earlier the better, but a day in advance is the latest I would leave purchasing KTX tickets. Especially if you’re travelling on the weekend or during a holiday!

You can purchase your tickets up to a month in advance if you’re really planning ahead!

Online

Purchasing your tickets online is the easiest way to get your KTX tickets.

You can purchase your tickets through the Korean Rail website. They have an English version of their site and accept foreign credit cards, so it is super easy to get your hands on a KTX ticket!

The website will tell you that you need to print out a hard copy of your ticket before boarding the train.

That is what I always personally do because I’ve always had access to a printer.

I’ve heard from many people that you don’t really need to have a hard copy of your ticket and that an electronic copy of the ticket on your phone will suffice.

If you have access to a printer, you should definitely print out your ticket and take it with you on the train, but I wouldn’t stress out too much if you don’t have access to a printer.

Just make sure you have a copy of your ticket on your phone that can be enlarged. That way the ticket agent can easily scan and view your ticket.

In Person

The other option you have to purchase a KTX ticket is going to the train station and getting your ticket in person.

You can either purchase your ticket from a teller at a ticket booth or at an electronic ticket machine.

The tellers are the only place you can pay for your ticket in cash, so if you are looking to pay with cash, you’ll have to go to the station and purchase your ticket from human ticket salesperson.

I personally think purchasing your ticket online is a better option than buying it in person. It isn’t really the best use of your time to trek all the way to the train station, stand in line, buy your ticket, and then continue on with your day.

Where Does the KTX Depart from in Busan?

All KTX trains depart from Busan Station.

Busan Station is located along metro line 1 and is just seven stops away from Seomyeon, which is the most popular area in Busan for tourists to stay.

It is super central and super easy to get to!

Where Does the KTX Arrive at in Seoul?

The KTX arrives at Seoul Station.

This is super convenient because Seoul Station is located in the heart of central Seoul. You can easily jump on the metro or bus and get to where you’re staying quickly and easily.

The KTX is the only form of transportation from Busan to Seoul that drops you off at Seoul Station.

If you’re staying in central Seoul, the convenience of arriving at Seoul Station is unbeatable!

Pros of Taking the KTX from Busan to Seoul

  • Quickest way to travel from Busan to Seoul
  • Comfortable and clean with lots of luggage storage
  • Drops you off in central Seoul

Cons of Taking the KTX from Busan to Seoul

  • The most expensive form of transportation
Seoul South Korea

The next best option is to take a slow train from Busan to Seoul.

The slow train takes quite a bit longer than the KTX, but it is significantly more affordable and still a fairly comfortable experience.

This is definitely the option to choose if you’re on a budget!

How Long Does the Slow Train from Busan to Seoul Take?

The travel times vary quite a bit with the slow train.

The journey takes longer during peak times and on weekends because the slow train needs to keep stopping on the tracks to let the KTX pass.

A slow train from Busan to Seoul will take between 4.5 and 5.5 hours on average.

There are a very few occasions where the slow train will take about as long as the KTX, but those are few and far between.

They also tend to be during very off-peak times when the tracks are quiet. We’re talking middle of the night and wee hours of the morning.

Not the times of the day most people choose to travel, so your slow train from Busan to Seoul will most likely fall into the 4.5 to 5.5 hour category.

If you choose to take the slow train, you’re probably looking at spending your entire day in transit so don’t make any plans for the day you arrive in Seoul!

How Much Does a Slow Train Ticket Cost?

Just like the travel time, the cost of slow train tickets vary significantly.

A ticket from Busan to Seoul on the slow train will cost you between 28,000 won and 52,000 won. That is approximately $28USD to $43USD.

The cost of your ticket directly correlates to how long the journey.

The longer the journey the cheaper the ticket.

The shorter the journey the more expensive the ticket.

Some of the slow train tickets cost almost the same as a KTX ticket. In those cases, you should seriously consider spending the extra money on a KTX ticket to save time and arrive in central Seoul.

But if you don’t mind spending 5.5 hours on a train, getting a ticket from Busan to Seoul for only 28,000 won is a pretty sweet deal and is about half the price of a KTX ticket!

Where to Purchase Slow Train Tickets

You purchase slow train tickets exactly the same way you purchase KTX tickets.

They can be purchased online through the Korean Rail website or in person at the train station.

Both methods work equally as well- although I still favour purchasing my ticket online in advance.

It is less important to purchase your slow train tickets in advance because they don’t sell out like the KTX sometimes does, but it is still a good idea to get your ticket a day or two in advance to ensure you get a seat you like!

Slow trains don’t depart as frequently as the KTX, so if you have a specific train you need to catch, you’ll want to book your ticket as early as possible.

Ticket sales open up a month in advance just like the KTX.

Busan, South Korea

Where Do Slow Trains Depart from in Busan?

Slow trains depart from Busan Station.

Busan Station is the main transportation hub in the city, so it is where nearly all forms of transportation depart from.

This makes it super easy to ensure you’re going to the right place. It is pretty hard to go to the wrong station when there is only one to choose from!

Where Do Slow Trains Arrive at in Seoul?

There are three different types of slow trains in South Korea: ITX, SRT, and Mungunghwa.

Each train type arrives at a different location in Seoul, so you’ll need to pay attention to that when you book your ticket.

You’ll either arrive at Yongsan Station, Suseo Station, or Yeongdeungpo Station.

A few ITX trains arrive at Seoul Station. Those trains are few and far between, so you’ll most likely arrive at one of the other three stations.

All three of the main stations the slow trains arrive at are outside of central Seoul, so you’ll have to figure out how to get to your accommodation on public transportation from these stations.

It takes at least half an hour to get to central Seoul from all of these train station and can take up to an hour.

Be sure to take that into consideration when you’re deciding what mode of transportation to take from Busan to Seoul.

Pros of Taking the Slow Train from Busan to Seoul

  • Affordable
  • Comfortable and clean
  • Nice to be able to get up and walk around during the journey

Cons of Taking the Slow Train from Busan to Seoul

  • Takes quite a bit longer than the KTX
  • Most trains arrive outside of central Seoul
  • Not as much luggage space as the KTX
N Seoul Tower Seoul South Korea

Option Three: Taking the Bus from Busan to Seoul

The third option you have is to take a bus from Busan to Seoul.

Buses in South Korea are actually quite nice and comfortable. They are large coach-style buses with luggage storage under the bus.

So you don’t have to worry about finding a place to store your luggage like you do on the KTX and slow trains.

I’ve ridden a number of inter-city buses in South Korea and have always had an excellent experience.

The downside to the buses is that they are a bit slow, can get stuck in a traffic jam, and arrive outside of central Seoul.

How Long Does the Bus from Busan to Seoul Take?

The bus ride from Busan to Seoul takes approximately 4 hours assuming there isn’t a ton of traffic.

You probably won’t have an issue with traffic on the highway, but you may run into heavy traffic when you get closer to Seoul.

Buses often have a dedicated driving lane, so they aren’t as susceptible to traffic jams as a normal car. But they can still happen!

I don’t recommend you make any plans for the first few hours after you’re supposed to arrive in Seoul.

That gives you some wiggle room in case the bus is delayed!

How Much Does a Bus Ticket Cost?

A bus ticket from Busan to Seoul will cost you between 23,000 won and 37,000 won. That is approximately $19USD to $30USD.

The variation in the ticket price comes down to the bus company you use and whether you’re on an “express” bus or not.

There isn’t a huge difference in the ticket prices, so I wouldn’t worry too much about getting on the “cheapest” bus.

Where to Purchase Bus Tickets

Just like the KTX and slow train, you can either purchase your tickets online or in person.

I recommend purchasing your tickets online in advance because they offer a slight discount.

Busan, South Korea

Online

You can purchase your bus tickets online through the Korean Bus website.

Just like the Korean Railway website, the bus website has an English version and accepts foreign credit cards.

It is super simply to use, and you can use an electronic version of your ticket unlike the KTX or slow trains.

You also get the following discounts if you purchase your tickets online:

  • 10% off if you purchase your ticket at least 48 hours before departure
  • 10% off if you purchase a roundtrip ticket
  • 10% off if you reserve one of the 4 seats at the very back of the bus

These discounts definitely make it worthwhile to book your ticket in advance!

Who doesn’t want to save 10% just by buying a ticket 2 days in advance?! I sure do!

In Person

The other option you have is purchasing your bus ticket in person.

There aren’t ticketing machines that sell bus tickets, so you’ll have to purchase your ticket from a teller. If you want to use cash, this is the method for you!

Buses don’t tend to sell out, so you can easily show up a few minutes before a bus departs and still get a ticket.

It is perfect for spontaneous people!

Just be sure to leave yourself a few extra minutes in case there is a line at the ticket booth!

Where Does the Bus Depart from in Busan?

I doubt you’re surprised to learn that buses depart from Busan Station.

It really the transportation hub in Busan!

Where Does the Bus Arrive at in Seoul?

All buses arrive at Seoul Gyeongbu Bus Station. It is also commonly referred to at Seoul Express Bus Station.

They are one in the same, but it can get confusing when the station has two common names!

Seoul Gyeongbu Bus Station is located on the opposite side of the Han River from central Seoul, so you’ll have to use public transportation to get to your accommodation.

It takes approximately 30 minutes to get from the bus station to Seoul Station, and you can use either the metro or city bus to get there.

It is a bit of a pain, but it is your only option if you’re taking the bus from Busan to Seoul.

Pros of Taking the Bus from Busan to Seoul

  • Least expensive mode of transportation
  • Super easy luggage storage
  • Has window shade to block the sun

Cons of Taking the Bus from Busan to Seoul

  • Fairly long journey time
  • Bus arrives outside of central Seoul
  • Can be delayed due to traffic
Seoul South Korea

Option Four: Flying from Busan to Seoul

Your final option is flying between the two cities.

Flying is not recommended.

It is the most expensive, time consuming, and environmentally damaging way to travel from Busan to Seoul.

How Long is the Flight from Busan to Seoul?

The flight itself is only an hour.

However, you have to take into consideration everything else that comes along with flying.

You have to arrive at the airport early enough to check in, go through security, and board the plane.

Then you have to fly to Seoul.

Finally, you have to wait for the plane to taxi, wait your turn to get off the plane, get any baggage you checked, and navigate your way into Seoul and wherever you’re staying.

The flight might not be long, but the entire process of flying is a time suck.

Flying is easily the most time consuming way to travel from Busan to Seoul.

How Much Does a Plane Ticket Cost?

The cost of plane tickets vary drastically.

It depends on how close to your date of departure you purchase the ticket, what day of the week you travel on, what time of day the flight leaves, what airline you fly, and so much more.

It is impossible for me to give you an accurate plane ticket price since there are so many variables.

What I can tell you is that you can find some great flight deals within Korea.

In some cases, you can get a one-way flight from Busan to Seoul for less than the cost of a KTX ticket!

Where to Purchase Plane Tickets

I always like to start looking for flights on Skyscanner and then compare their price with the price listed directly on the airline’s website.

This way you know you’re getting the best ticket price!

Where Do Flights Depart from in Busan?

All flights in and out of Busan depart from Busan International Airport (Gimhae).

Busan International Airport is super close to downtown Busan, and it doesn’t take long to get to the airport.

I always take a taxi from my hotel to the airport. It has never cost my more than 10,000 won (about $8USD).

It is way more convenient than taking public transportation. You’ll have to transfer lines at least once if you take the metro and airport buses stops are fairly spread out around the city.

Bulguksa Temple Gyeongju South Korea

Where Do Flights Arrive at in Seoul?

You will land at either Incheon International Airport or Gimpo Airport.

Both airports are located a fair way outside of central Seoul, so you’ll have to use public transportation to get wherever you’re staying.

It takes about an hour to get to Seoul Station from Incheon International Airport and about 25 minutes from Gimpo Airport.

Flights that land in Gimpo Airport will be less expensive than flights that land at Incheon International Airport, so you’ll likely be landing at Gimpo Airport.

Just jump on the metro at the airport, and you’ll in downtown Seoul in less than half an hour!

If you land at Incheon International Airport, you can either take the metro or an airport bus.

I prefer taking the airport bus because it is more relaxing, and I’m guaranteed a seat. The bus is slightly more expensive than the metro though. Keep that in mind when choosing how to get from the airport to Seoul!

Pros of Flying from Busan to Seoul

  • Can be less expensive than the KTX
  • Convenient if you’re flying out of Seoul on the same day

Cons of Flying from Busan to Seoul

  • Very time consuming
  • Not good for the environment
  • Have luggage and liquid restrictions
Gyeongbokgung Palace Seoul

Conclusion

As you can see, there are a number of different ways you can travel from Busan to Seoul.

They all have their unique advantages and disadvantages, and it is up to you to choose which method is best for you and your travel style.

My personal preference is the KTX. I like how quick it is and that it drops me off at Seoul Station. I’m a sucker for little conveniences like that!

But you may be on a tight budget and choose to take the bus or slow train even though the arrival location isn’t the most convenient.

That’s the beauty of having so many transportation options!

If you’re wondering how to pass your time while travelling from Busan to Seoul, be sure to check out my in-depth post all about wifi in Korea for tourists!

It has all the information you need to navigate the wifi situation in Korea.

And don’t forget to use a VPN to protect your online data when on the road!

You never know who’s looking at your online activity without your consent!

Wifi and online safety aside, Busan, Seoul, and South Korea as a whole are amazing! You’ll have a great trip, be immersed in an incredible culture, and eat delicious food.

There is hardly a country in the world I love as much as South Korea, and I hope your trip makes you love it as much as I do!

The Ultimate Guide to Wifi in Korea for Tourists

South Korea is quickly becoming a more and more popular destination for tourists (and rightfully so because it is an amazing country). One of the things I Googled in advance of my first trip were things like “wifi in Korea”, “is there free public wifi in Korea”, “pocket wifi Korea”, and on and on.

I got a lot of conflicting information, and a lot of the information I got wasn’t super accurate.

I didn’t end up renting a pocket wifi the first time I went to Korea, and I quickly regretted it.

But just because I regretted not renting a wifi egg in Korea doesn’t mean that you will too.

This post will walk you through everything you need to know about wifi in Korea, so you can make an informed decision that works best for you and your travel style.

By the end of this post, you’ll have a better idea of whether you want to rent a pocket wifi in Korea or not.

I’m also going to discuss one of my favourite travel gadgets in case you’re looking for an alternative to renting pocket wifi in Korea and relying on public wifi in Korea.

I’ll discuss it more at the end of this post, but it is absolutely essential that you use a VPN when accessing public wifi or using a pocket wifi device.

I rely on Nord VPN to protect my devices from prying eyes, and I highly recommend you use it as well!

They normally have amazing sales, so it is extremely affordable!

N Seoul Tower Seoul South Korea

Public Wifi in South Korea

When I planned my first trip to South Korea in 2017, I read a ton of blog posts that said that there was oodles of public wifi all over Korea.

These posts made it seem like I could get free public wifi anywhere and everywhere I went. It sounded like an absolute dream for travellers!

Unfortunately, those blog posts over exaggerated the reach of public wifi in South Korea, and you aren’t able to get nearly as much free public wifi in Korea as they lead me to believe.

In reality, public wifi in Korea is pretty much on par with other countries around the world.

You can most often get free public wifi in cafes, many restaurants, some museums and tourist attractions, and, of course, your hotel or apartment.

But beyond those common places, free public wifi isn’t all that widely available in South Korea.

It definitely isn’t like Taiwan where there is an entire network of free public wifi that you can connect to basically wherever you are.

Tips for Using Public Wifi in Korea

  • Download your maps or screenshot any addresses you need, so you have them offline and don’t have to stress if you don’t have access to public wifi
  • You can use Google Translate offline so be sure it is downloaded on your phone. Google Translate used to be horrible offline, but they’ve made improvements. It is much better now than it used to be, but it isn’t perfect.
  • Pop into a cafe to get quick and easy access to free public wifi in South Korea. Korea has an amazing coffee and cafe culture, so be sure to grab a drink while you’re in there. I’m a sucker for a matcha latte!
  • Use a VPN! Public wifi networks aren’t super safe, and they put you at risk of being hacked. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) helps keep your data safe and secure when you’re on public wifi. I love Nord VPN. They often run 70% off deals, so they’re super affordable too!
Gyeongbok Palace Seoul, South Korea

Renting Pocket Wifi in South Korea

If you want to have more consistent access to wifi than relying on public wifi, renting a pocket wifi (otherwise known as a wifi egg) is the perfect solution.

I’m always blown away at how affordable renting a pocket wifi in Korea is.

I rented a pocket wifi in Korea for two weeks, and it cost me less than $35USD! It is such a deal and well worth the convenience of having access to wifi no matter where you are.

I always book my pocket wifi in Korea through Klook.

It is super affordable, easy to get the pocket wifi device, and Klook is very reputable and reliable.

Where to Pick Up and Drop Off Pocket Wifi in South Korea

Picking Up Location

Most pocket wifi rental companies in Korea use Incheon International Airport as the pick up location.

There are pick up locations in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, so you can get your pocket wifi easily no matter what terminal you land in!

The pocket wifi pick up locations are located outside of security.

You need to go through customs and immigration and exit the secure part of the airport before you can collect your pocket wifi.

The pick up location is super easy to find. It is basically straight ahead once you exit the secure area and is near the main exit doors.

Pick Up Process

The best thing about renting pocket wifi in Korea is that the pick up and drop off process is incredibly easy.

Like way easier than I ever imagined.

Here are the steps you need to take to collect your pocket wifi in Korea:

  • Show the person at the pocket wifi desk your reservation code (a screenshot works just fine)
  • Confirm that dates you are renting the pocket wifi
  • Fill out a few forms (basically if you lose the wifi egg, you’re on the hook for replacing it)
  • Write down the cities you’ll be using the pocket wifi in (no need for dates you’re in each city)
  • Give them your credit card. They will put a small charge on your credit card to confirm there is space on it and then immediately reverse the charge. This ensures the credit card they have on file works in case you lose or ruin the wifi egg.
  • Test the wifi device with the employees
  • Tell them where you’re dropping your pocket wifi off at
  • Thank them for their help and head into Seoul!

I know that seems like a lot of steps, but it isn’t.

The entire process takes about five minutes!

Gyeongbokgung Palace Seoul

Drop Off Location

There are a number of drop off locations you can choose from.

This is perfect for people who are travelling all around South Korea and aren’t departing from Incheon International Airport!

You can drop your wifi egg off at any of the following locations:

  • Incheon International Airport (Terminal 1 or Terminal 2)
  • Gimpo Airport
  • Busan Gimhae International Airport
  • Busan Harbour

Being able to return your pocket wifi device at both Seoul airports, the Busan airport, and the harbour is incredible and super convenient.

Last time I rented a wifi egg in Korea, I picked it up at Incheon and returned it to Gimhae and had no issue with picking up and returning my device at different locations.

Drop Off Procedure

I wasn’t sure what to expect when returning my pocket wifi in Korea because it was first time renting pocket wifi anywhere.

The return procedure was even quicker and smoother than the pick up process!

Here are the steps you need to take to return your pocket wifi in Korea:

  • Go to the pocket wifi company’s booth
  • Tell them you’re returning your device and give it to them
  • They will scan the code on your pocket wifi
  • If you kept the wifi egg longer than you pre-paid for, pay for the extra days
  • Say goodbye and thank them for their help

Yes. It really is that easy!

It takes less than a minute assuming you don’t need to pay for extra days and didn’t damage the device.

Busan, South Korea

Other Things to Know When Renting Pocket Wifi in Korea

You can only rent a wifi egg in Korea if you have a credit card

You’re not able to rent a wifi egg in Korea if you only have a debit card or a debit credit card.

You need a traditional credit card or charge card to rent pocket wifi in Korea.

This is because the pocket wifi companies test to make sure there is space on your credit card before they let you leave with it. They do this to ensure they will be able to recoup their money the event you lose or damage the wifi device.

It is essentially an insurance mechanism for them.

You can book your pocket wifi and pre-pay for it using a debit card or a credit debit card, but you must have a traditional credit card when you show up in South Korea to collect your pocket wifi rental.

If you don’t have a traditional credit card, you cannot rent a pocket wifi device in Korea (unfortunately).

Side note: it is always wise to book travel on a credit card rather than a debit card. Most credit cards come with some travel insurance, and it is easier to get your money back if something is cancelled through your credit card than your debit card.

You can connect multiple devices to one wifi egg

One of my favourite features of pocket wifi devices is that you can connect multiple devices to a single wifi egg.

This is perfect for families or friends travelling together.

You can connect anywhere between 3 and 10 devices to a single wifi egg. The number of devices you can connect depends on the wifi egg itself, but the website you book your pocket wifi through should include that information.

I believe most wifi egg companies in South Korea allow you to connect up to 3 devices, but you should confirm that when booking.

Busan Gamcheon Culture Village

The charge lasts a surprisingly long time

I was blown away by how long the charge on the pocket wifi device I rented in Korea lasted. I had used a wifi egg in Japan that was included in my Airbnb rental, and its charge barely lasted for the 6 or 7 hours I was out exploring Tokyo.

The wifi egg in Korea, on the other hand, lasted for upwards of two days!

I was in the habit of charging it every night, but there were a number of times where I forgot to charge it.

Even if I forgot to charge it, the wifi egg would last me the entire day.

That means the wifi egg had enough charge to last me the first day I used it, all night, and then the entire next day without having to be charged.

That is mind blowing.

I was travelling alone and only had my phone connected to the wifi egg, so the device may lose battery quicker if there are more devices connected to it.

I’m not sure if that is the case or not, but it is something to keep in mind!

Would I Recommend Renting Pocket Wifi in Korea?

Yes. 100% without a doubt.

Having access to wifi no matter where you are adds so much to your experience in South Korea.

It makes so many experiences more accessible.

  • You can eat at local restaurants that don’t have an English menu (gotta love Google Translate!)
  • It is easier to use public transportation because you don’t have to rely on their English translations (if there are any)
  • You can use Google Translate to have a conversation with a local who might not speak English
  • If you’re travelling from city to city, it makes your train/bus ride go by way quicker
  • Easily find out what attractions are near you and how to get to them
  • Update social media throughout the day
Seoul South Korea

Having access to wifi is such a luxury, and I certainly don’t take it for granted!

The fact that pocket wifi in South Korea works so well and is so affordable makes it a no-brainer for me.

I always find that I have a much deeper experience with a country when I have access to wifi everywhere. I’m not held back by not being able to speak the local language and can be more spontaneous because I know I won’t get lost (I really owe a debt to Google Maps for keeping me safe).

Pocket Wifi for Frequent Travellers

There is one final option, but it is only for the most serious of travellers.

You can purchase your own pocket wifi device through Skyroam.

I purchased my Skyroam in 2019 after much deliberation and absolutely adore it. I take it on all my travels, and it has made my trips so much smoother and free.

Buying a Skyroam device (I have the Solaris) is an investment. It is not cheap, but if you travel a fair amount and want to have access to wifi anywhere, it is the best solution.

Even though the device itself isn’t inexpensive, the wifi plans themselves are really flexible. You can find a wifi plan that works for you and your travel style!

You can pay for wifi on a day-to-day basis, on a monthly basis, or based on the amount of wifi you use.

I buy day passes for my Skyroam if I’m on a shorter trip or monthly passes if I’m on an extended trip.

One of the best parts of Skyroam is that they often run sales, and you can get a bunch of day passes for a fraction of their normal price.

I personally think the regular price for the day passes is a bit steep, but I’ve never had to pay full price for one.

You often know when you’ll be travelling in advance, so you can easily wait until there is a wifi sale and pick up some discounted day passes to cover your for your entire trip.

You can also rent a Skyroam just like any other pocket wifi rental company, but I don’t think it is as good of value as renting wifi in Korea through a local company.

Skyroam Pros

  • Access to reliable internet wherever whenever
  • Can connect up to 10 devices
  • Easy to use app that show how long you have left on your day pass, how many day passes or credits you have, the ability to track what countries you’ve been to, and the ability to purchase credits directly in the app
  • Has a built-in camera you can remotely operate with the Skyroam app. This is great for solo travellers like me!
  • Flexible plans, so you only pay for the wifi you need
  • I probably shouldn’t tell you this, but I’ve had success in lending my Skyroam to another person. They simply download the app, enter my login information, and use it as if they were me (using my credits). This probably isn’t the most ethical thing to do, but it nice to be able to do it if you have a friend or family member travelling when you’re not using it

Skyroam Cons

  • It is a financial investment. You definitely have to think about whether you’ll get your money’s worth out of it or not
  • The charge doesn’t last as long as I would like. I have to charge it every night. It isn’t a big deal, but if I forget one night, then it is dead in the morning

You Need a VPN!

The last thing I want to discuss when it comes to wifi in Korea is the fact that you need a VPN.

This is non-negotiable!

A VPN (a.k.a. Virtual Private Network) gives you the protection you need when you’re using public wifi or a rented pocket wifi device.

No matter where in the world you are, there are always people looking to hack into devices that are connected to public wifi.

And as a traveller, you’re pretty reliant on public wifi and are putting yourself at risk of being hacked if you’re not using a VPN to hide your internet activity from prying eyes.

Rented pocket wifi devices are less likely to be hacked, but there is still a risk there.

Bulguksa Temple Gyeongju South Korea

I always travel with a VPN on all of my devices.

Cell phone, tablet, laptop. They’re all at risk when connected to public wifi.

Even at hotels!

It is actually pretty scary once you learn about hacking and how common it is!

I’ve tried three or four VPNs, so I have a fair amount of experience about which VPNs are quality and which ones underperform.

I love Nord VPN! I’ve been using them for ages and don’t plan on switching anytime soon.

The best part about Nord VPN is that they often run sales where you get 70% off if you purchase a multi-year subscription.

It literally costs less than $50 to protect your data for an entire year!

And you can connect multiple devices with the same license, so there is no excuse not to protect yourself online!

Conclusion

As you can tell, there are a few different options in terms of accessing wifi in Korea.

If you’re on a super tight budget, don’t use the internet much, or have a great sense of direction, then you may be alright using public wifi in Korea.

That’s what I did on my first trip to Seoul. It worked out pretty well for the most part.

The only times I really needed wifi and had to use my phone’s data plan was when I was meeting up with my local friend, and she didn’t turn up at the metro station (a mix up on what exit she would be at) and when I got off on the wrong metro station on my way home from a baseball game (a must-do activity if you’re going to be in Korea during baseball season).

Those two instances did cost my more than $50 in data charges though, so I would have been way better off renting a wifi egg.

For most people visiting Korea, I think the best option is renting pocket wifi. It is super affordable, easy to use, and gives you the freedom to use the internet as much as you want wherever you are.

If you’re a frequent traveller like me and loath the hassle of getting a local SIM card in every new country you visit but still want access to wifi constantly, then Skyroam might be the right option for you.

I love my Skyroam and am extremely happy that I purchased it. It is without a doubt on the best travel gadgets I’ve ever bought.

No matter what wifi option you choose while in South Korea, you’re going to have an amazing trip.

Korea is full of some of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen, amazing food, and incredible people.

It is one of my favourite countries in the world, and no matter how many times I visit, I keep itching to go back as soon as possible.

How to Travel from Seoul to Daejeon (The Easy Way!)

Let’s talk about how to travel from Seoul to Daejeon. Lucky for you, it is super easy to travel from Seoul to Daejeon, so there is no excuse not to make the trip!

Daejeon is South Korea’s 5th largest city and is home to arguably the most gorgeous bridge in the entire country.

It isn’t the most conventional city to visit while in South Korea, but that is what makes it so special! You’ll be away from all the other tourists and get to experience a more authentic, less touristy side of South Korea.

Daejeon is a gorgeous city, and you should seriously considering visiting it if you have an extended period of time in Korea.

There are a number of different ways you can travel from Seoul to Daejeon. You can take the high-speed KTX train, a slower local train, the bus, or fly. The quickest way to travel from Seoul to Daejeon is the KTX. Your two best options are taking the KTX or slow train from Seoul to Daejeon.

This article is going to cover all the different ways you can travel from Seoul to Daejeon, include all the information (e.g. price and departure/arrival locations) about each form of transportation, and give you the pros and cons of each.

It is a one-stop, in-depth analysis of how to travel from Seoul to Daejeon.

After reading it, you’ll have all the information you need to decide what form of transportation makes the most sense for you and your way of travelling.

Before We Get Started

I love writing these transportation guides for you. I loath trying to figure out how to travel from one city to another and really appreciate when a blogger makes it really easy and breaks down all my options.

That’s what I try to do with these transportation guides!

I’ve written a number of transportation guides for South Korea. If you’re touring the country, you may want to check some of my other transportation guides out.

They might make your travels through South Korea a little nicer and the planning a littler easier!

N Seoul Tower Seoul South Korea

Option One: Take the KTX from Seoul to Daejeon

The high-speed rail system in South Korea is called the KTX. It covers basically the entire country and is normally the quickest and most efficient way to travel between cities.

I love the KTX system, and in most cases it is how I get around South Korea.

The downside to taking a KTX train is that it is normally the most expensive way to travel in Korea. Some of the prices are quite expensive (like travelling from Seoul to Busan).

You need to weigh the pros of getting to your destination quickly with the cons of paying a higher price to see if the KTX is worth it for you.

The KTX from Seoul to Daejeon runs basically all day every day. The first train leaves at 0:00 and the last one leaves at 11:45.

There are 57 departures per day, so you’ll easily be able to find a KTX train that suits your schedule and travel needs.

How Long Does the KTX from Seoul to Daejeon Take?

The average travel time on the KTX from Seoul to Daejeon is 50 minutes and the longest is 1 hour and 15 minutes.

That is pretty impressive considering the two cities are located over 160km away from one another!

KTX trains reach a top speed of 300km/hour, which is a super fun way to travel. I never get tired of racing through the country.

So. Much. Fun!

How Much Does a KTX Ticket from Seoul to Daejeon Cost?

The cost of your KTX ticket depends on a lot of things:

  • What time of day you’re travelling
  • Whether you’re travelling on a weekday or weekend
  • If there is a public holiday
  • What class you’re travelling in

Because of these reasons, it is difficult to nail down exactly how much your KTX ticket will cost.

Second class tickets start at 48,000 won (approximately $40 USD), and first class tickets start at 65,000 won (approximately $54 USD).

Prices go up from there.

You probably won’t get the very lowest price possible, so you can expect to pay a little bit more than the prices listed above.

Or a lot more if you’re travelling during a peak time on a weekend that happens to be a holiday.

In terms of deciding what class to book, you don’t need to book a first class ticket.

The seats in second class are super nice, very comfortable, and quite spacious.

First class is not worth the extra money- especially on such a short ride!

Where to Purchase KTX Tickets

You can either purchase your KTX tickets online or in person.

Online

I always purchase my KTX tickets online.

It is super easy and convenient. The website easily translates to English and accepts foreign credit cards.

It doesn’t get better than that!

If you’re interested in purchasing tickets online, be sure to go through the Korean Railway website. It is the official rail website in Korea, so you know you’re getting a legit ticket at a fair price.

The website will tell you that you need to print your ticket before you get on the train. This is what I personally do since I normally have access to a printer.

However, I’ve heard from many other travellers that an electronic copy of their ticket worked just fine.

Just make sure your electronic ticket or screenshot shows the entire ticket and can be enlarged in order to be scanned.

My recommendation is to print out your ticket if you’re staying at a hotel or apartment that has a printer. It is better safe than sorry!

If I didn’t have access to a printer, I would take the risk and have an electronic ticket. You can always play the part of naive tourist if you need to!

In Person

The other option you have is to purchase your tickets in person at the train station.

You can either purchase your tickets in person at a ticket booth that is manned by a human or at a ticketing machine.

Both options are great, and it just depends on your travel style.

If you want to purchase your ticket with cash rather than card, your only option is to purchase your ticket in person at a ticket booth.

Purchasing your tickets in person is the perfect option for people who are spontaneous and don’t want to pre-plan when you’ll travel from Seoul to Daejeon.

It can be a little bit limiting to purchase your ticket on the day of departure though.

You may not get exactly the train you wanted and may have to wait for the next train. It isn’t a big deal though since trains depart so frequently.

Where Does the KTX Depart from in Seoul?

The KTX departs from Seoul Station.

Seoul Station is an ideal departure station because it is the heart of Seoul. It is easily accessible by metro, bus, taxi, and foot.

I normally stay on the outskirts of the Myeong-dong area when I visit Seoul, and I normally walk to Seoul Station. It doesn’t take me more than 20 minutes and would be significantly quicker if I took public transportation.

Taxis are super inexpensive in Korea, so they are a good option if you have a lot of luggage.

It is best to pre-arrange your taxi rather than trying to hail one on the street. Some taxis won’t stop for you on the street and only pick up pre-booked guests.

Where Does the KTX Arrive at in Daejeon?

There are 2 KTX stations in Daejeon. Your KTX train will either arrive at Daejeon Station of Seodaejeon Station.

Daejeon Station is the main station in Daejeon, and Seodaejeon Station is located on the west side of the city.

The distance between the 2 stations is approximately 700m, so what station your train arrives at isn’t make it or break it.

The best station for you to arrive at depends on what part of Daejeon you’re staying in.

If you’re staying in the heart of Daejeon, you should try to pick a train that arrives at Daejeon Station. If you’re staying on the western side of the city, Seodaejeon is the station for you.

A lot of the KTX trains from Seoul to Daejeon stop at both stations, but it is a good thing to keep in mind when booking your ticket.

Pros of Taking the KTX from Seoul to Daejeon

  • Very quick
  • Clean and comfortable trains/seats
  • Has lots of luggage storage that doesn’t require you to lift luggage overhead
  • Departs from Seoul Station, which is centrally located
  • Have choice of getting off in the centre of Daejeon or on the western side of the city

Cons of Taking the KTX from Seoul to Daejeon

  • Quite expensive for such a short journey
Seoul South Korea

Option Two: Taking a Slow Train from Seoul to Daejeon

The next option you have is to take a slow train from Seoul to Daejeon. This is a great option for people on a budget, but you sacrifice the speed of the KTX.

The slow train is one of the best ways to travel from Seoul to Daejeon. It is significantly less expensive than the KTX; however, it leaves from a number of different train stations, and many of them aren’t in central Seoul.

It takes twice the time as the KTX, but the decrease in ticket price makes it worth the extra travel time.

How Long Does the Slow Train from Seoul to Daejeon Take?

The average journey time for a slow train travelling from Seoul to Daejeon is 2 hours.

Some trains are as quick as 90 minutes, but they are few and far between. You can expect your trip will take 2 hours.

How Much Does a Slow Train Ticket from Seoul to Daejeon Cost?

There are two types of train tickets you can purchase: reserved seating and standing/non-reserved seating.

Again, it is a bit difficult to give you an exact price because there are so many factors that go into what a ticket costs.

The average reserved seating ticket will cost an adult 11,000 won (approximately $9 USD). The average standing/non-reserved ticket will cost an adult 9,000 won (approximately $7.50 USD).

The biggest factor you should consider when deciding what ticket type to get is when you’re travelling.

If you’re travelling in the middle of the day on a weekday, you can probably get by without a reserved seat. If you’re travelling on the weekend or holiday, you should probably get a reserved seat.

You don’t want to be standing for 2 hours if you don’t have to!

I think the significantly cheaper ticket is worth spending an extra hour on the train. Yes, the travel time is technically twice as long as the KTX, but 2 hours is still super quick.

You could even manage a day trip from Seoul to Daejeon with taking a slow train. You would just have to be sure to get on a morning train and take an evening train back.

Where to Purchase Slow Train Tickets

You have the same 2 options as you did with the KTX.

Tickets can be purchased online through the Korean Rail website or in person at the train station.

Th choice is yours, but I always recommend booking your tickets online through the website.

Where Does the Slow Train Depart from in Seoul?

The major problem with taking the slow train is that they often don’t depart from Seoul Station. They tend to depart from lesser known train station that are outside of central Seoul.

Slow trains depart from the following stations:

  • Seoul Station
  • Yeongdeungpo Station
  • Suseo Station
  • Yongsan Station

Of these stations, Seoul Station is the most convenient station for tourists to depart from.

The other stations 30 to 60 minutes to get to by public transportation from central Seoul.

This means you’re adding a lot of extra time to your journey by taking a slow train that doesn’t depart from Seoul Station. If you choose to take the slow train, be sure to book one that is departing from Seoul Station.

It may cost a few extra dollars, but it is worth it. You will save a ton of time by departing from Seoul Station, and it is well worth spending a few extra dollars for the convenience.

Where Do Slow Trains Arrive at in Daejeon?

Most slow trains arrive at Daejeon Station and a few arrive at Seodaejeon Station. Some stop at both stations.

Just as with the KTX, choose the arrival station that suits you best.

You want to get off at Daejeon Station if you’re staying in the heart of the city and Seodeajeon Station if you’re staying closer to the western side of the city.

Both stations are convenient and good options, so choose what works best for you!

Pros of Taking a Slow Train from Seoul to Daejeon

  • Significantly less expensive than the KTX
  • Clean and comfortable seats

Cons of Taking the Slow Train from Seoul to Daejeon

  • Travel time is twice as long as the KTX
  • Many trains don’t depart from Seoul Station
  • Overhead luggage compared to luggage storage areas on KTX
Gyeongbokgung Palace Seoul

Option Three: Taking the Bus from Seoul to Daejeon

The next option is taking the bus from Seoul to Daejeon. This isn’t a very popular option, but it can be quite handy for people who flying into Seoul and want to travel directly to Daejeon.

There is a direct bus from Incheon International Airport to Daejeon, and I would recommend using the bus in this situation.

If you’re traveling from the heart of Seoul to Daejeon, I think either the KTX or the slow train is a better option than the bus.

How Long Does the Bus from Seoul to Daejeon Take?

The bus ride from Seoul to Daejeon takes about 2 hours and the bus from Incheon Airport to Daejeon takes about 3 hours.

As you can see, the journey time for the bus and slow train from Seoul to Daejeon is essentially the same.

How Much Does a Bus Ticket from Seoul to Daejeon Cost?

The bus costs pretty much the exactly the same as the the slow train.

The average bus ticket will cost you between 13,000 won (approximately $11 USD) and 21,000 won (approximately $18 USD).

Buses are a great, affordable option!

Where to Purchase Bus Tickets

You can purchase bus tickets either online or in person.

Online

You can purchase tickets online through the Korean Bus website.

The website is easy to navigate, has an English translation option, and accepts foreign bank cards.

There are a few extra advantages and perks to booking your bus ticket online:

  • 10% discount if you purchase your ticket more than 48 hours in advance
  • 10% discount if you purchase a roundtrip ticket
  • 10% discount if you book one of the back 4 seats on the bus

If you know when you want to travel from Seoul to Daejeon, it is definitely advantageous to book your bus ticket online in advance.

I mean who doesn’t want to save 10% just because you booked a ticket more than 2 days in advance? I sure do!

In Person

The other option you have is purchasing your bus tickets in person right before departure.

You can easily arrive at the bus station whenever you fancy and purchase a ticket for the next available bus.

This is the perfect option for spontaneous people or people who want to pay with cash.

Just be sure you leave yourself enough time to potentially stand in line to get a ticket. I recommend arriving at the bus station at least 15 minutes before your bus departs if you don’t have a ticket.

Where Does the Bus Depart from in Seoul?

Buses depart from Seoul Express Bus Terminal. There is also a direct bus that departs from Incheon International Airport.

The Express Bus Terminal is located outside of central Seoul and takes about 30 minutes to get to on public transportation.

You should definitely keep that in mind when you’re deciding whether to take the bus or the slow train.

If you can get a slow train that departs from Seoul Station, that is your best option.

Where Does the Bus Arrive at in Daejeon?

Buses from Seoul arrive at Daejeon Express Bus Terminal.

The Express Bus Terminal is located on the eastern side of the city and is a fair distance from central Daejeon.

It takes about 35 minutes to get from Daejeon Express Bus Terminal to Daejeon Station. It takes about 45 minutes to get to Seodaejeon Station.

So it isn’t the most convenient option.

The good news is that there is a metro line that connects the bus terminal to Daejeon Station, so it is super easy to navigate your way from the bus station to central Daejeon.

Pros of Taking the Bus from Seoul to Daejeon

  • Inexpensive
  • There is a direct bus from the airport to Daejeon
  • Very comfortable seats

Cons of Taking the Bus from Seoul to Daejeon

  • Arrival and departure stations (minus Incheon Airport) aren’t all that convenient
  • Similar price and journey time to slow train that offers a departure from Seoul Station
  • Can be delayed due to traffic
Seoul South Korea

Option Four: Flying from Seoul to Daejeon

Your final option is flying from Seoul to Daejeon.

This isn’t a great option, and I don’t really recommend it to anybody. Even people who are flying into Seoul and want to travel directly to Daejeon.

There are a number of reasons I don’t recommend flying:

  • Most expensive option
  • Can take a long time if you don’t have a direct flight
  • Are limited in terms of baggage and liquid
  • Not environmentally friendly
  • Have to travel to and from airports, which takes a long time

How Long Does a Flight from Seoul to Daejeon Take?

Your flight time will vary depending on your layover time. If you have a favourable layover, your trip will take just under 3 hours. Your trip could be a lot longer if you have a longer layover.

You would think there would be a direct flight from Seoul to Daejeon, but they are few and far between.

Most flights require you to fly to Jeju Island then connect to a flight to Daejeon.

It is a bit of a pain.

How Much Does a Plane Ticket from Seoul to Daejeon Cost?

I’m sure you’re well aware of how fickle airline tickets are and how much they vary.

Sometimes you could be lucky and find a flight for less than $100USD, but it is normally more expensive than that.

I’ve even seen flights that are over $300USD!!!

It just isn’t worth the time or price to fly from Seoul to Daejeon when there is a direct bus that departs from the airport.

Where to Purchase Plane Tickets

I normally start searching for flights on Skyscanner.

From there, I go to the airline’s website to see what their price is. If it is a better price, I book with them. If not, I book through the third-party site.

Where Do Flights Depart from in Seoul

Flights depart from both Incheon International Airport and Gimpo Airport.

You’re most likely to find a cheaper flight that departs out of Gimpo rather than Incheon.

But, again, I don’t recommend flying from Seoul to Daejeon.

Where do Flights Arrive at in Daejeon?

Flights arrive at Cheongju Airport.

It is about 30 minutes outside of Daejeon, but there is a direct bus that takes you from the airport to central Daejeon.

It is quite easy to navigate, but it is a pain to have a half hour bus ride into Daejeon from the airport.

Pros of Flying from Seoul to Daejeon

  • None

Cons of Flying from Seoul to Daejeon

  • Expensive
  • Most likely have a connecting flight
  • Long(ish) bus ride from airport to Daejeon after landing
  • Luggage and liquid restrictions
Gyeongbok Palace Seoul, South Korea

Conclusion

I think the best way to travel from Seoul to Daejeon is on the slow train as long as you depart from Seoul Station.

If you can’t get a ticket for a slow train that departs from Seoul Station, I recommend taking the KTX.

The extra money is worth the convenience of not have to spend over half and hour getting to your train or bus station in Seoul and potentially having to get from the bus station into central Daejeon.

If you’re on a really tight budget, can’t afford a KTX ticket, and can’t get a ticket for a slow train departing from Seoul Station, I recommend taking a slow train that departs from the closest station to where you’re staying in Seoul.

I prefer that over the bus because you’ll likely get a train that arrives at Daejeon Station, and you don’t have to worry about getting from the Daejeon Express Bus Terminal to central Daejeon.

No matter how you choose to travel from Seoul to Daejeon, you should definitely considering visiting Daejeon while in South Korea.

It is a super cool city with a great vibe. It also gives you the opportunity to get out of Seoul and experience a different side of South Korea.

Even if you don’t have a ton of time in South Korea, you can easily visit Daejeon on a day trip from Seoul.

It is well worth the trip!