8 South Korea Travel Hacks to Know Before You Fly

18 September 2023

This article is brought to you by Klook. 

Head to Korea and go Sarang-YAY! 

Planning a trip and wondering how to travel in South Korea? Look no further, chingu! ✈️ From transportation tips to translation apps and budgeting strategies, we've got you covered. When it comes to Korean transportation, we'll share the fastest (and cheapest!) ways to get from the airport to your hotel with minimal hassle. Say goodbye to long queues and hello to seamless transfers! 🚕 

Korean transportation is also super friendly to the use of transit cards! So, we’ll also give you the lowdown on how to effortlessly hop on and off public transportation like a local. 🚌 Also, you don’t want to be THAT tourist carrying tons of bills in envelopes! For that, we'll reveal the secrets of cashless payments using cards, so you can explore Korea without worrying about carrying loads of cash. Read on and let's dive into how to travel in South Korea to have a memorable trip filled with convenience and savings! 💳

1. Go cashless

Source: Klook

Say goodbye to fumbling with loose change! Trust us, going cashless is how to travel in South Korea! From street food vendors to trendy boutiques, most places accept card payments. Just whip out your credit or debit card and tap away. 🛍️ It's quick, hassle-free, and gives you more room for those irresistible shopping finds! Plus, going cashless provides added security, as you don't need to carry large amounts of cash with you. So, wave goodbye to the hassle of counting bills and coins, and enjoy the seamless experience of going cashless while exploring all the amazing things Korea has to offer! 🇰🇷

2. Master Korean public transportation

Source: Klook

Get ready to navigate Korea like a pro! 🚆Tourists like yourself will be glad to know that the Korean transportation system is efficient and extensive (and super affordable if you get the transit card!), making it a breeze to get around. Familiarize yourself with the subway and bus networks, and don't hesitate to ask for help if needed! Grab a transportation guide or use helpful apps like KakaoMap to learn how to travel in South Korea, planning your routes and finding the quickest way to your destination. If you plan to go to Seoul, consider avoiding the rush hour crowds, especially on weekdays. With a little bit of preparation, you'll be zipping around the city like a local in no time! 🚀

Enjoy fuss-free bus transfers between Everland theme park and Seoul!

3. Download Naver Papago

Source: Papago Facebook

Naver Papago is a handy translation app, a local favorite in Korea! 💬 It offers real-time translation for conversations, menus, signs, and more. Just type or speak your desired phrase, and let Papago work its magic. Ask the right questions and you’ll be learning how to travel in South Korea in no time! And thanks to its advanced language processing technology, you can confidently communicate with locals, order delicious dishes, and navigate unfamiliar places with ease. Don't let language barriers hold you back — let Naver Papago be your ultimate language companion in Korea! ✨

Explore the best of Seoul with the Discover Seoul Pass!

4. Get a T-Money card for public transportation

Source: Klook

Streamline your travel experience with a T-Money card! 💳 This reloadable card allows you to conveniently pay for subway rides, buses, and even taxis (basically all of Korean transportation!). Just tap your card on the designated readers, and you're good to go. Plus, it saves you from the hassle of purchasing single-use tickets. Learning how to travel in South Korea has never been easier! The T-Money card not only offers seamless payment options but also provides discounts and benefits for frequent travellers. Oh! And, don't forget to personalize your T-Money card with cute and colorful designs to add a touch of fun to your transportation adventures! 🌈

Hop on public transportation with ease using this T-Money card

5. Install iTranslate

Source: iTranslate Facebook

Need a pocket translator? Download iTranslate! 💬 This nifty app helps you communicate effectively by providing translations in multiple languages, such as Korean! Whether you need help ordering food or asking for directions, iTranslate has got your back! It offers text translations, voice recognition, and even offline mode, ensuring you're always prepared to overcome language barriers. With iTranslate, you can confidently navigate your way through Korea and engage with locals whether in markets, restaurants, or even on Korean transportation. So, say goodbye to awkward language struggles and embrace the pleasure of seamless communication! 🗣

Klook Tip: Traveling on a shoestring budget? Embrace street food galore! From savory tteokbokki to crispy hotteok, indulge in affordable and delicious (and super safe and clean!) treats at bustling food stalls. Your taste buds will thank you, and your wallet will too! 💰

This express train will take you from Incheon Airport to Seoul!

6. Walk through university neighbourhoods

Source: Yonsei University Global Facebook

Dive into Korean youth culture when you walk through university neighborhoods! 🎓 From Hongdae to Sinchon, these areas are brimming with energy, trendy shops, and mouth watering street food. 🌭 Take a leisurely stroll, explore the bustling streets, and soak in the youthful vibes. It's the perfect way to experience local culture while keeping your budget intact. Indulge in cheap eats, browse unique boutiques, and catch live performances by talented street artists. Let the lively ambiance of these neighborhoods ignite your senses and create lasting memories. Chat up any of the local students and get some great tips on how to travel in South Korea!

Get your Korea Unlimited Data SIM here!

7. Get a prepaid SIM Card

Source: Klook

Always online? Yup, we are too! Stay connected wherever you go in Korea by getting a prepaid SIM card. With a local phone number and data plan, you can navigate maps across Korean transportation, stay in touch with friends, and share your travel adventures on social media. 👫 Feeling lost or bored? Just use some data and learn about how to travel in South Korea. A local prepaid SIM card is a reliable and cost-effective way to stay connected throughout your Korean journey. No need to worry about expensive roaming charges or relying on Wi-Fi hotspots. Simply pop in the SIM card, and you're ready to explore and stay connected on-the-go! 📱 

Klook Tip: Try walking! Discover hidden gems by exploring local neighborhoods. Step off the beaten path and wander through vibrant streets like Hongdae or Insadong. From trendy boutiques to quirky cafes, you’ll discover things you can find only on foot🚶

This customisable pre-paid travel card will be your travel bestie!

8. Check out all the free attractions!

Source: Klook

If you’re wondering how to travel in South Korea without breaking the bank, look no further! 🇰🇷 Discover the country's wealth of free attractions and unlock a world of incredible experiences without breaking the bank. From stunning parks to bustling markets and iconic landmarks 🏰, South Korea offers a treasure trove of memorable adventures for every traveler. Visit must-see places like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Park, or Bukchon Hanok Village, and let their beauty and charm leave you in awe. Hop on Korean transportation and take snapshots of the city skylines and other attractions! 📸 You can definitely create unforgettable memories in Korea without splurging! 

Your Seoul-ful adventure starts here!

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