Travel information about South Korea is always one of the attractive issues that many travelers are interested in. The allure of the land of Kimchi is undeniable, but Vietnamese tourists may encounter quite a few difficulties, especially on their first visit. 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 choose for traveling to South Korea?
To ensure a complete journey, travel information about South Korea with the appropriate timing to determine the itinerary is always important. So, which month is the best for traveling to South Korea?
Choosing the right time to travel to South Korea.
- From March to May: South Korea is in spring, with warm weather, no rain, and warm sunshine. You can travel early in March to participate in a series of beautiful flower festivals.
- From June to August: South Korea enters summer with temperatures ranging from 19 to 27 degrees Celsius. The weather is quite hot and rainy, but beach tourism in South Korea during this time is incredibly beautiful.
- From September to November: Autumn in South Korea is pleasant and cool, very suitable for leisurely journeys. Traveling during this time is very convenient for you to experience many choices of cuisine and products while also easily accessible.
- From December to February: According to the latest information about South Korea travel, this is the winter season, so there may be snowfall and low humidity, so you need to prepare warm clothes. You can enjoy various 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 current travel information about South Korea, there are 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 will take about 5 hours with an average round-trip fare of $260.
With travel information about South Korea, airlines such as AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines fly to Seoul with a stopover in Kuala Lumpur, while China Southern and Air China will fly via Beijing.
VietJet Air, Jeju Air, Vietnam Airlines, Asiana, and Korean Air offer direct flights from Hanoi to Seoul lasting over 4 hours. And these airlines have an average round-trip fare of $300.
3. Travel information about South Korea regarding transportation
3.1. Train
When visiting South Korea, trains are the most comfortable and efficient means of transportation. According to travel information about South Korea for easy conversion, you should purchase KORAIL tickets before starting your journey.
Admire the romantic scenery through train journeys.
If you want to travel to Busan from the capital city of 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 travel more convenient than ever thanks to the extensive railway network throughout the country.
According to travel information about South Korea, if you want to buy KTX tickets, you should follow 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 you choose to travel for short distances or when traveling nearby.
Convenient South Korea travel information by bus.
In South Korea, buses usually run on schedule, with comfortable seating and well-maintained bus facilities. In particular, 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 a means of transportation. According to travel information about South Korea, if you don't plan your itinerary 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 can't speak Korean because signs provide explanations in English.
Travel information about 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 Korea for more than a week or even a month, you should purchase a T Money subway card in advance at convenience stores or stations.
According to travel information about South Korea, this card can be used not only on the subway but also with the bus system and convenience stores.
4. What Korean dishes should you enjoy?
4.1. Affordable Korean Restaurants
Korean cuisine is probably not unfamiliar to Vietnamese people anymore. Nowadays, there are many delicious and cheap street food stalls in Korea. You can easily find them at convenience stores such as 7 Eleven, GS25, which serve a variety of delicious food at reasonable prices.
Choose affordable eateries to enjoy local flavors.
You can spend the whole day enjoying Korean cuisine without getting bored. Not only can you enjoy the food, but you can also stroll around in the chilly weather, which is incomparable.
That's why it's no exaggeration to say that Korea is a paradise for foodies. One South Korea travel information you should note is that Korean dishes are quite spicy. You can ask for less spicy if you're not used to it.
4.2. Famous dishes in the land of kimchi
4.2.1. Korean Bibimbap mixed rice
When it comes to Korean cuisine, everyone knows about the famous mixed rice dish. Bibimbap, a perfect combination of rice, egg, meat, kimchi, carrots, bean sprouts, greens, and traditional sauce at each restaurant, is renowned.
Enjoy the famous mixed rice dish of the land of kimchi.
All blended together create a dish with a very unique flavor. And part of the popularity of this dish is its convenience. With South Korea travel information, you can enjoy this dish anywhere, but the taste at each place is different.
4.2.2. Kimbap
Besides bibimbap, kimbap is also one of the popular dishes in Korea. According to South Korea travel information, you can enjoy this dish in many places, from street vendors to high-end restaurants.
The neatly made kimbap rolls are enticing to diners.
The main ingredients to make this dish are seaweed and white rice. Along with that are stir-fried vegetables, fried egg, beef, sausage, and many other ingredients. All wrapped in seaweed sheets and cut into bite-sized pieces.
However, despite its simplicity, this dish 'rolls' many food enthusiasts passionate about Korean cuisine. That's why kimbap has made its way onto the list of iconic Korean dishes.
4.2.3. Seolleongtang Beef Soup
According to South Korea travel information, when you visit this country, you must try the beef dishes here. And one of them is the Seolleongtang beef soup. The dish is made from meticulously simmered beef broth 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 experience, you can have it with a bowl of hot rice. During cold weather, savoring the beef soup will warm your soul immensely.
4.2.4. Naengmyeon Cold Noodles
If you've only ever tried hot noodles or regular mixed noodles before, when you enter the paradise of noodle varieties, you'll get to enjoy another delicacy: cold noodles. These noodles are quite different from the usual types you're accustomed to.
Unique cold noodles exclusively found in 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. What to Prepare for Traveling to South Korea?
5.1. Prepare Your Visa
According to South Korea travel information, you should prepare a reputable and complete South Korean tourist visa. If you don't have one, you'll need to register with supporting parties or thoroughly research the information. Since this process takes time, it's best to plan your South Korea trip as early as possible.
5.2. Learn Basic Communication Phrases
You should also learn some basic conversation phrases in Korean. While you may be confident in your English skills, not all Koreans are fluent in foreign languages.
Prepare communication phrases to comfortably explore the markets.
For countries like Japan or South Korea, English isn't commonly used in everyday communication. Therefore, learning some conversation phrases in advance will greatly benefit you during your trip.
5.3. Arrange Services
Planning is crucial when traveling to South Korea. A detailed itinerary will help you arrange 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 essential to prepare clothing, personal hygiene items, and necessary medications. While some hotels or guesthouses may provide these items, it's not guaranteed everywhere or at a significant cost.
Choose warm and suitable attire for your South Korea exploration.
Given the current chilly weather in South Korea, opt for warm attire to protect your body throughout the trip. For a complete South Korea travel experience, it's advisable to exchange some Won currency in advance for convenient purchases and payments when needed.
6. Some Must-Visit Tourist Destinations in South Korea
6.1. Seoul
Seoul stands as one of the most vibrant and sophisticated capitals in Asia. Despite its modernity, the city preserves its communication network through palaces, maintaining its historical charm. Being a major fashion hub of the country, encountering stylish individuals on the streets is a common sight.
Exploring the vibrant capital of South Korea: insights into Seoul.
According to South Korea travel tips, there are several night markets selling anything from clothes, wallets, cosmetics, and shoes to various types of cuisine. Additionally, there are modern retail complexes with many famous brands where you can shop comfortably.
With the insider's guide to South Korea travel, you should visit these spots while touring the capital: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, Namsan Seoul Tower, Bukchon Hanok Village, Gwanghwamun Square, Myeongdong shopping district, Hongdae, and various markets.
6.2. Busan
Has anyone watched the movie 'Train to Busan' yet? It's a touching family drama that you should experience at least once in your lifetime. In the movie, Busan is a city in Gyeongsang Nam 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 beautiful beaches, where many exciting activities are held.
To enjoy the second largest city in the land of kimchi, you must visit these famous spots: Beaches in Busan, Busan Tower, Yongdusan Park, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Busan Aquarium, Dalmaji Moonlit Path,...
6.3. Gangwon
The northeastern province of Gangwon in South Korea is blessed with countless magnificent natural landscapes that captivate travelers from all corners of the globe when they set foot in the land of kimchi. According to South Korea travel information, Gangwon is a popular destination for international students due to its excellent economic prospects and high-quality education system.
Marvel at the pristine white beauty of Gangwon's snow.
And prominent among them is Chuncheon, the capital of Gangwon, a province in northeastern South Korea. This is a popular destination for many tourists during the winter, when snow blankets the area thickly and people enjoy skiing. Seoraksan in Sokcho is the most famous skiing area in the region.
6.4. Gyeongsangbuk
Tourists visiting South Korea may be familiar with Seoul, Busan, Jeju, or even Gangwon, but 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 region.
The traditional culture and Confucianism of South Korea are magnificent. Andong, in particular, is the cradle of literature and Confucianism under the Joseon dynasty and is a wonderful visit for anyone interested in culture and history. Gyeongsangbuk is another province in eastern South Korea, close to 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 popular tourist attractions here.
Andong is a city in Gyeongsangbuk Province with traditional Hanok houses combining modern and ancient elements. Among these are UNESCO World Heritage sites recognized as Hahoe and Yangdong. Exploring Andong's history is an essential part of the experience in Andong.
6.5. Jeju
Jeju is known as the 'island of love,' a setting in Korean romantic films that captivates many. People are enchanted by the fresh air, tranquil beauty, and romantic atmosphere of this land. Visiting this beautiful island is a must-do on life's checklist.
A location often seen in famous Korean films.
Jeju is the smallest province in South Korea, consisting of several other small islands. According to Mytour's travel information about South Korea, this is a volcanic island surrounded by the highest peak in South Korea, Hallasan (1950m). Known as the 'Hawaii of Korea,' you can admire the raw and tranquil beauty at various locations: 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 region attracts a large number of tourists each year.
The lush green tea hills make your soul serene.
This location is also known for its endless green tea hills, especially Boseong and Daehan-dawon tea plantations. As a result, you can indulge in various foods and drinks made from green tea. Moreover, the 2000 islands of Jeollanam-do province attract a large number of tourists.
6.7. Daegu
Daegu is one of South Korea's ancient cities, famous for its picturesque landscapes, enticing areas, and long-standing cultural traditions. When visiting the land of Kimchi, you must visit this city because if you're lucky, you'll get to participate in Daegu's characteristic beer and fried chicken festivals.
The sparkling beauty of Daegu at night.
Exploring Daegu, you'll experience various fascinating places such as 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 originated. Additionally, there are other notable spots like Apsan Daegu Park, Daegu National Museum, Kim Gwang-suk Road, and Dongseongno Shopping Center.
With the complete travel information about South Korea provided by Mytour, you'll have a trip more beautiful than youth itself. If you're unsure about any details, feel free to contact the hotline Mytour for immediate advice on a 4-day, 3-night South Korea tour!