Korea At A Glance

What To Expect

Language

The national language is Korean.

Although many Koreans have an excellent grasp of the English language, they can be shy in speaking it due to a fear in making a mistake. Restaurant menus are mostly in Korean so always have Google Translate ready.


I find it is best to learn the local way to say hello, thank you, yes, no, sorry, and goodbye in any country you are visiting.

Most food packages are only in Korean, and although this can be hard at first, using the camera feature on Google Translate was a lifesaver.

Religion

Korea is transforming into a secular society with 50% of Koreans not following any religion. 32% follow Christianity, 17% Buddhism and the remaining 1% spread across other religions.

Currency

The currency is Korean Won.

Credit cards are widely accepted but it is good to carry cash for smaller purchases such as street food, taxis and market stalls.

It is not customary to tip in Korea.

Plugs

Japan uses plug type C and F.
The voltage is 220 volts at a frequency of 60 Hz.

Visa

Many countries are entitled to 90-day entry to Korea. Check here to see if your country is on the list.

If your country is not on that list, check HERE for the entry procedure relevant to your country.

Sim Cards

I find the best option is an e-sim, Airalo never let me down during my time in Japan.

You just download the app, choose the amount of data, and install the sim. It allows you to keep your home sim in your phone.

If you decide to use Airalo get $3 off with my code TARA1104.

Insurance

Do not take a chance, purchase travel insurance just in case you run into any medical issues. Korea has a really good health system, however doctors frequently go on strike making it difficult to get an appointment. Hospitals tend to require a translation service which can work out to be costly.

I recommend World Nomads or SafetyWing for comprehensive and reliable cover.

Travelling Korea

A t-money card or WOW PASS are the easiest way to use public transport in Korea, these cards are loaded with cash and you just tap on and tap off buses and metros. The WOW PASS can also be used as a payment card in shops.

Travelling throughout the country is simple thanks to the well-developed train network that includes high-speed trains of up to 360 km/h. You can book train tickets here.

Apps To Download As A Tourist In Korea

Something super frustrating in Korea is that to use many local apps you need to have a Korean phone number that is linked to your ID / ARC. You can only get this if you reside there so I have listed apps you where you don’t need this.

NaverMaps or KakaoMaps – Google Maps does not work in Korea. Naver or Kakao will give you more accurate directions and many more establishments in the area

Kakao T – this is similar to Uber. You can pay by cash which is convenient if you do not have a Korean phone number.

Klook – best app to book tickets/experience in Korea

Shuttle – a food delivery app, although restaurants are limited you do not need a Korean phone number and it is in English.

Subway Korea – amazing for navigating the subway and it’s in English.

Google Translate or Papago for translating, the camera feature is the best.

T money or WOWPASS – check balance and top up cards online to use on transport and in shops.

1330 – is a travel helpline where you can phone or talk to a live agent via the app.

Odii – free audio guide for popular places around Korea

Emergency Ready – stay up to date with any local emergencies (earthquakes, tsunami alerts, weather)

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