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Travel information about South Korea is always one of the fascinating topics that many travelers are interested in. The allure of the land of Kimchi is undeniable, but Vietnamese travelers may encounter some difficulties, especially on their first visit here. The following independent travel experiences in South Korea from Mytour will assist you in creating a perfect vacation for yourself!
1. When is the Best Time to Travel to South Korea?
To ensure a complete journey, having the right timing based on travel information about South Korea to determine your itinerary is always crucial. So, which month is the best for traveling to South Korea?
Choosing the Right Time to Travel to South Korea.
- March to May: South Korea is in spring, with warm weather, no rain, and mild sunshine. You can travel early in March to participate in a series of beautiful flower festivals.
- June to August: South Korea enters summer with temperatures ranging from 19 to 27 degrees Celsius. The weather is quite hot, and it often rains, but beach tourism in South Korea during this time is exceptionally beautiful.
- September to November: Autumn in South Korea is pleasant and relatively cool, making it very suitable for leisurely trips. Traveling during this time is very convenient, allowing you to experience many choices of cuisine and products while also being easily accessible.
- December to February: According to the latest information about traveling to South Korea, this is the winter season, so there will be snowfall, and the weather is humid, so you need to prepare warm clothes. You can enjoy snow festivals and participate in many activities such as soaking in hot springs, skiing, snow festivals, ice fishing, etc.
2. Travel Information about South Korea Regarding Transportation to the Land of Kimchi
According to travel information about South Korea, there are currently 18 airports, including 6 major international airports: Incheon and Gimpo (both in Seoul); Gimhae (near Busan); Jeju (on Jeju Island); Yangyang (in Gangwon Province); and Muan Airport (in Muan City).
You can choose the most suitable airport for your travel destination. There are several airlines for you to choose from, including Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines,...
Vietjet Air, T'way Air, Asiana, Vietnam Airlines, and Korean Air currently offer direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Seoul. The travel time takes about 5 hours with an average round-trip fare of around 260 USD.
With travel information about South Korea, airlines such as AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines fly via Seoul but transit in Kuala Lumpur, while China Southern and Air China fly via Beijing.
VietJet Air, Jeju Air, Vietnam Airlines, Asiana, and Korean Air provide direct flights from Hanoi to Seoul, lasting over 4 hours. These airlines offer an average round-trip fare starting from 300 USD.
3. Travel Information for Getting Around South Korea
3.1. Train
When visiting South Korea, trains are the most comfortable and efficient mode of transportation. According to travel information about South Korea, to facilitate easy transfer, it's advisable to purchase KORAIL tickets before starting your journey.
Experience the romantic scenery through a train journey.
If you want to travel to Busan from the central capital Seoul, the KTX (Korea Train Express) high-speed train will reduce your travel time to under three hours. Trains in general and KTX in particular make your journey more convenient than ever thanks to the extensive railway network across the country.
According to South Korea travel information, if you want to purchase KTX tickets, you should keep track of discount programs through the KTX app.
3.2. Bus
According to South Korea travel information for 7 days, buses are the most convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation. Especially when choosing to travel for short distances or when traveling close together.
Convenient travel in South Korea with buses.
In South Korea, buses usually run on schedule, with comfortable seating and well-maintained bus equipment. Especially, Seoul Express and Central City are the two main intercity bus terminals in the country, connecting most of the other bus routes.
However, you should research carefully before choosing the bus as your mode of transportation. According to South Korea travel information, if you don't plan your schedule carefully, your trip will be very unpleasant.
3.3. Subway
According to South Korea travel information, Seoul's subway system is extensive and modern with over 400 stops. The subway connects almost everywhere in the city. Don't worry if you don't speak Korean because signs provide explanations in English.
Traveling in South Korea by subway for quick and convenient journeys.
Not only Seoul but also Busan, Daegu, Daejeon, and Gwangju all have subway systems. If you plan to stay in South Korea for more than a week or even a month, you should purchase a T Money subway card in advance at convenience stores or train stations.
According to South Korea travel information, this card can be used not only on the subway but also with the bus system and at convenience stores.
4. South Korea travel information: What local dishes to enjoy?
4.1.
Cheap Korean Eateries
Korean cuisine is probably not unfamiliar to Vietnamese people. Nowadays, there are many delicious and affordable street food stalls in South Korea. Simple options include convenience stores like 7 Eleven, GS25, which offer a variety of delicious food at reasonable prices.
Choose budget-friendly eateries to savor local flavors.
You can spend the whole day enjoying Korean cuisine without getting bored. Besides savoring delicious dishes, you can also stroll around in the cool weather, which is unbeatable.
That's why it's no exaggeration to say that South Korea is a paradise for food enthusiasts. One South Korea travel tip to note is that Korean dishes tend to be spicy. You can request less spicy if you're not used to it.
4.2. Famous dishes in the land of kimchi
4.2.1. Bibimbap - Korean Mixed Rice
When it comes to Korean cuisine, no one is unaware of the famous mixed rice dish. Bibimbap, a perfect combination of rice, egg, meat, kimchi, carrots, bean sprouts, greens, and traditional sauce in each restaurant, is renowned.
Indulge in the renowned mixed rice dish of the land of kimchi.
All blended together, it creates a dish with a distinct flavor. Part of its popularity is its convenience. With South Korea travel tips, you can enjoy this dish anywhere, but the taste varies at each place.
4.2.2. Kimbap
Apart from bibimbap, kimbap is also a popular dish in South Korea. According to South Korea travel information, you can enjoy this dish at many places, from street vendors to upscale restaurants.
The neatly rolled kimbap is enticing to diners.
The main ingredients to make this dish are seaweed and white rice. Accompanied by stir-fried vegetables, fried egg, beef, sausage, and various other ingredients. Everything is neatly wrapped in seaweed sheets and cut into bite-sized pieces.
However simple the dish may seem, it 'rolls' countless food enthusiasts passionate about Korean cuisine. That's why kimbap has made it onto the list of iconic Korean dishes.
4.2.3. Seolleongtang Beef Soup
According to South Korea travel information, when visiting this country, you must indulge in the beef dishes here. And one of them is the Seolleongtang beef soup. The dish is made from simmering beef bones thoroughly, accompanied by other ingredients such as white noodles, beef, and scallions.
Enjoying the piping hot beef soup in the chilly weather.
With South Korea travel information, if you want to enhance the taste, you can have it with a bowl of hot rice. During cold weather, savoring the beef soup will warm your soul.
4.2.4. Naengmyeon Cold Noodles
If you've only ever enjoyed hot noodles or regular mixed noodles before, when you come to the land of various noodles, you'll also get to taste cold noodles. This noodle dish is very different from the usual noodles you're accustomed to eating.
Unique cold noodles exclusive to South Korea.
This dish is a combination of various ingredients such as buckwheat, arrowroot starch, sweet potato starch, and potato. Served in cold broth, this dish will awaken your senses.
5. Essentials for Your Korea Trip
5.1. Visa Preparation
According to Korea travel information, you should prepare a reliable and complete Korean tourist visa in advance. If you don't have one, you'll need to register with assisting parties or thoroughly research the information. Since this process takes time, it's best to plan your Korea trip as early as possible.
5.2. Basic Communication Readiness
It's also advisable to learn some basic conversational Korean phrases. You may be confident in your English skills, but not all Koreans are fluent in foreign languages.
Prepare some communication phrases to comfortably explore the local markets.
For countries like Japan or Korea, English is not commonly used in communication. So, learning some conversational phrases beforehand will greatly help you on your trip.
5.3. Service Preparation
Planning is crucial when traveling to South Korea. A detailed itinerary will help you book suitable services and avoid surprises. Moreover, booking services in advance can save you some costs. Additionally, consider getting a South Korean 4G SIM card or using WiFi for easier connectivity.
5.4. Prepare Clothing and Personal Items
According to South Korea travel information, it's advisable to prepare clothing, personal hygiene items, and necessary medication. Some hotels or guesthouses may provide these items, but not everywhere and possibly at a significant cost.
Select warm and suitable attire for your South Korea adventure.
Given the current chilly weather in South Korea, it's advisable to choose warm clothing to protect your body during the trip. For a complete South Korea travel experience, it's recommended to exchange some South Korean Won currency beforehand for convenient transactions.
6. Some Worth-Visiting Tourist Destinations in South Korea
6.1. Seoul
Seoul stands as one of the most dynamic and sophisticated capitals in Asia. Despite that, the city maintains a tight communication system through preserved palaces. Being a major fashion hub of the country, it's common to spot stylishly dressed individuals roaming the streets.
Exploring the vibrant capital city of South Korea.
According to South Korea travel information, there are several night markets selling everything from clothing, wallets, cosmetics, and footwear to various types of cuisine. Additionally, there are modern retail complexes with many famous brands where you can shop to your heart's content.
With the insider tips from South Korea travel info, it's recommended to visit the following places when touring the capital: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, Namsan Seoul Tower, Bukchon Hanok Village, Gwanghwamun Square, Myeongdong Shopping Street, Hongdae, and various markets.
6.2. Busan
Has anyone watched the movie 'Train to Busan' yet? A touching family drama that you should experience at least once in your lifetime. In the film, Busan is a city in Gyeongsangnam Province, located in the southeast of South Korea.
Admire the peaceful and vibrant beauty of Busan.
Although not a major tourist destination, it encompasses some cultural and historical features. The city is particularly famous for its stunning beaches, where many exciting activities take place.
To enjoy the second largest city in the land of kimchi, you must visit the following famous attractions: Beaches in Busan, Busan Tower, Yongdusan Park, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Busan Aquarium, Dalmaji Moonlight Road, and more.
6.3. Gangwon
Located in the northeastern part of South Korea, Gangwon Province is blessed with countless magnificent natural landscapes that captivate travelers from all over the world when they set foot in the land of kimchi. According to South Korea travel information, Gangwon is a popular destination among international students due to its excellent economic prospects and high-quality education system.
Marvel at the pristine white snowscapes of Gangwon.
One standout destination in Gangwon is Chuncheon, the capital of the province located in the northeastern part of South Korea. It's a favorite spot for many tourists during the winter season, when thick snow blankets the area and people enjoy snowboarding. Seoraksan in Sokcho is the most famous skiing area in the region.
6.4. Gyeongsangbuk
While tourists visiting South Korea may be familiar with Seoul, Busan, Jeju, or even Gangwon, few may know about Gyeongsangbuk. This is the historical capital of South Korea, where many distinctive features have been preserved.
The romantic beauty intertwined with the tranquility of this land.
The traditional culture and Confucianism of South Korea are remarkable. Andong, in particular, is the cradle of literature and Confucianism under the Joseon dynasty and is a fantastic visit for anyone interested in culture and history. Gyeongsangbuk is another province in eastern South Korea, near the Sea of Japan. The tombs of the rulers of the Silla dynasty in Gyeongju, as well as the Bulguksa temple and Juwangsan national park, are famous tourist attractions here.
Andong is a city in Gyeongsangbuk Province with traditional Hanok houses combining modern and ancient elements. Among them are UNESCO World Heritage sites recognized as Hahoe and Yangdong. Andong's historical sites are two must-visit places in Andong.
6.5. Jeju
Jeju is known as the 'island of love,' a location featured in Korean romantic films that captivates many. People are enchanted by the fresh air, serene beauty, and romantic atmosphere of this land. Visiting this beautiful island is definitely a must in the 'checklist' of life.
A location often seen in famous Korean films.
Jeju is the smallest province in South Korea, consisting of many other small islands. According to Mytour's travel information on South Korea, it is a volcanic island surrounded by the highest peak in South Korea, Hallasan (1950m). When you visit the 'Hawaii of Korea,' you can admire the pristine beauty and tranquility at many locations such as Yusuam Village, Hallasan Mountain, Jusangjeolli Cliff, Seongeup Folk Village, Seongsan Peak, Lava Tube, and Halli Botanical Garden.
6.6. Jeollanam
Jeollanam is a province in the southwest of South Korea. Muan is the capital of the province. With relatively warm temperatures, this area has plenty of fresh seafood, clean air, and is ideal for outdoor celebrations. Moreover, this island attracts a large number of tourists every year.
The lush green tea hills make your soul peaceful.
This place is also known for its lush green tea hills, especially Boseong and Daehan-dawon tea plantations. As a result, you can enjoy various foods and drinks made from green tea. Moreover, the 2,000 islands of Jeollanam-do province attract a large number of tourists.
6.7. Daegu
Daegu is one of Korea's ancient cities, famous for its romantic natural landscapes, appealing areas, and longstanding cultural traditions. When visiting the land of Kimchi, you must visit this city because if you're lucky, you can participate in Daegu's characteristic beer and fried chicken festivals.
The dazzling beauty of Daegu at night.
When you visit Daegu, you'll get to experience many interesting places like Woobang Tower Land, an amusement park with exciting activities for both kids and adults. The Buddhist temples at Donghwasa and Daegu are where the traditional martial art hapkido was originated. But there are also other equally impressive spots like Apsan Daegu Park, Daegu National Museum, Kim Gwang-suk Street, and Dongseongno shopping center.
With the complete travel information about Korea sent to you by Mytour, you'll have a trip even more beautiful than your youth. In case you don't fully understand the information, you can contact the hotline Mytour for immediate advice on 4-day 3-night Korea tours!
