It is famous for its traditional architecture, world heritage sites, K-Pop, and Kimchi!

This country consists of 9 provinces and 7 metropolitan cities. The capital of South Korea is Seoul. This city has many temples and palaces to explore such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, where visitors can watch changing of the guard ceremonies and explore the history of the ancient palace. Although Seoul is a vast and modern city, there are also plenty of traditional villages throughout this metropolis. Bukchon Hanok Village is a traditional Korean village located on a hill between Gyeongbok Palace and Changdeok Palace. Here visitors can experience authentic Korean culture while shopping in traditional shops or relaxing over tea in many of the tea rooms here. While in Seoul, make sure to take a trip to Gangnam-gu, the district Psy refers to in the iconic Gangnam Style song!

Busan, the coastal city, is known for its incredible beaches, mountains, and colourful houses. This city is perfect for those who want to enjoy scenic views. There is plenty of food markets here, especially fish markets, as Busan is one of the largest seaports in South Korea. Busan International Film Festival is held here annually and is one of the most major film festivals in Asia.

Jeju Island is the largest island in South Korea. Located off the coast of South Korea, Jeju is known for its beaches, volcanic landscape, and lava tubes. This island is a perfect place for relaxation and escaping reality. Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as ‘Sunrise Peak’, is a UNESCO World Heritage site situated on the eastern coastline of Jeju Island. Seongsan Ilchulbong was formed by hydrovolcanic eruptions upon shallow seabeds around 5 thousand years ago. Jeju Island is a popular domestic holiday destination, honeymoon destination, and a perfect place for anyone who loves the outdoors!

• The official language of South Korea is Korean.
• The official currency used is the South Korean Won (₩).
• Major airports include Incheon International Airport (RKSI), Gimpo International Airport (RKSS), Gimhae International Airport (PUS), and Jeju International Airport (RKPC).
• In Seoul, pay for public transport with a T-Money card. These cards can be purchased at most convenience stores (CU/ 7-Eleven). They can be topped up at ticket vending machines at train and subway stations and at newsstands near bus stops and convenience stores.
• Make sure to take off shoes before entering a Korean home and other buildings, as it is a sign of respect.
• In Seoul, summer months average at daily highs of 27°C/81°F and lows of 20°C/68°F. In winter months there are average daily highs of 3°C/37°F and lows of -7°C/19°F.
• In Jeju Island, summer months average at daily highs of 28°C/82°F and lows of 26°C/78°F. In winter months there are average daily highs of 10°C/50°F and lows of 8°C/46°F.
• Tipping is not necessary for South Korea; this includes hotels and restaurants.
• South Korea drives on the right side of the road.
• Most convenience stores stay open 24/7!
• The drinking age is 19 years old.
• Power plugs are of type C, and F. Voltage is 220 V and frequency is 60 Hz.

DMZ Tour

North Korea is known for being a secretive country. Visitors are forbidden to travel outside designated tour areas without a Korean guide, which makes this country somewhat of a mystery.

Although you may not be able to easily explore North Korea, there are a few Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Tours operating in South Korea. Here you can look through binoculars to the other side of the demarcation line and see daily life in a small North Korean village nearby at the Dora Observatory.

These tours bring you from Seoul to the DMZ, where you can learn about the fascinating history between North and South Korea. The 3rd Infiltration Tunnel will also be seen on these tours. This tunnel was built by the North Koreans to invade South Korea. In 1974, South Korea found 4 tunnels that were built by North Korea near the border. The North Koreans claimed that they were for coal mining purposes but instead they were military invasion routes!

So, if you are looking for something different and unique to do in South Korea, this is the perfect tour for you!

Dora Observatory

Address: 310 Je3ttanggul-ro, Paju, South Korea

Coordinates: 37.9090, 126.7049

Third Tunnel of Aggression

Address: Jinseo-myeon, Paju, 413-920, South Korea

Coordinates: 37.9164, 126.6987